Anticipation: Isabel Marant pour H&M

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The anticipation is building as the eagerly awaited Isabel Marant collection for H&M draws nearer. As we all know, Parisian designer Isabel Marant has teamed up with H&M to create this autumn/winter designer collection featuring clothing as well as accessories for women, men and teenagers.

“I aim to create something real, that women want to wear in their everyday lives, with a certain carelessness, which I think is very Parisian: you dress up, but do not pay too much attention and still look sexy. The collection is infused with this kind of easiness and attitude. Everything can be mixed following one’s own instincts: my take on fashion is all about personality” say Isabel Marant. The collection is available from November 14th 2013 in H&M 250 stores worldwide.

Black Friday Favorites

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For great cardio après-Thanksgiving, tackle the stores or stay inside with great online deals. Whatever you choose, get a jumpstart to your Black Friday shopping with Glow-T’s favorite deals.

Opening Ceremony: Score 30-40% off collections, including Opening Ceremony, Band of Outsiders, Juun J, Mary Katranzou, Carven, Jeremy Scott x Adidas, PushBUTTON, Goen J, and Jean Paul Gaultier.

Topshop: Nov. 23, the retailer is hosting 30% off select merchandise online and in stores. Plus, spend $30 and get $10 off, spend $50 and get $20 off, and spend $100 and you’ll get $50 off your purchase.

Goldyn: From Nov. 23-26, treat yourself with 25% off everything from the retailer’s extensive array of designer goods with special code GIVEANDGET25.

H&M: Find fall fashions starting at just $5, and the first 100 people in line at H&M stores will get scratch-off tickets, valued up to $300.

A-Thread: Nov. 23-26, receive 10% off orders up to $150, 15 % off orders between $151-$200, and 20% off orders $200 or more with the following codes: BLACKFRIDAY10,BLACKFRIDAY15, and BLACKFRIDAY20.

AllSaints: Get select merchandise at 20% off, like biker boots and holiday dresses for $220.

Nordstrom: Not only will you be able to score clothes, shoes, and accessories on the cheap, stop by Nordstrom’s for pre-sales of the latest collections from Prada, McQueen, and Michael Kors.

Saks Fifth Avenue: Stock up on cold weather duds for him and her for 40-50% off and take an additional 50% off sale items. You’ll also receive a $25 Saks gift card if you spend $100 or more in cosmetics or fragrances, and after noon, you’ll get an additional 10% off sale merchandise if you use a Saks credit card.

Rebecca Taylor: Take an additional 25% off all sale items with secret code RTEXTRA2512. This deal is good from Nov. 22-25.

French Connection: From Nov. 21-26, receive free shipping, plus 30% off all orders of $150 or more.

Yoox: Get a deal on top of a deal at this luxury designer outlet on Nov. 23 and get up to 50% off your favorite pieces from the likes of Isabel Marant, Givenchy, and Marc Jacobs.

Mackage: From Nov. 23-26, save up to 25-50% off the brand’s sleek designs online and in-stores.

Bare Necessities: Nov. 22, you’ll score 25 percent off sitewide, but the sale doesn’t stop there — Nov. 23, get up to 40 percent off.

Sephora: Shop Sephora’s $10 One Day Wonders, which include cosmetic packs from brands like Stila, Tarte, Lorac, and Buxom.

Target: Receive special prices on everything, from clothes to electronics, with additional 5% off everything if you use a REDcard.

Seasonal Staple: Sweater Dress

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Nothing marries warmth and style better than a sweater dress. This Fall classic is a no-fail, wardrobe staple that works as office-wear, casual-wear and party-wear.

Perfect for layering, the sweater dress can double as an oversized top. Pair with skinny jeans or leather leggings for additional warmth and style. The sweater dress is easy to accessorize and begs for a great piece of jewelry, rugged leather jacket, faux fur or luxe leather boot.

A great option for this holiday season, the sweater dress will work for any occasion.

Here are a few of my favorites:

C&C California ~ 3/4 Sleeve Sweater Dress: $117.60 (sale)

BCBGMAXAZRIA ~ Knit Lambswool Dress with Tubular Detailing: $218.00

JCrew ~ Cashmere Tee Dress: $278.00

Philosophy Di Alberta Ferretti ~ Long Sleeve Sweater Dress: $695.00

BCBGMAXAZRIA ~ Pailey Sweater Dress: $194.60 (sale)

Spot On: Polka Dots

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Perk up a drab wardrobe with some polka-dots. The playful pattern is flirty, retro, whimsical and befitting at any age.

The classic style has evolved from Minnie Mouse to runways and red-carpets. It’s a style for all seasons, simply because it exudes an undeniably youthful flair, and yet remains an incredibly timeless option for women of all ages. Since the pattern is not restricted to one size, these pieces can be bold and vibrant or soft and subtle. The design adds texture to any ensemble and can be worn in a dramatic or casual fashion. Mix and match with other quirky patterns and prints for a bit of drama or use as the focal piece for casual style. Embrace the spotty trend this season and seasons to come with polka dots.

Spotted… a few of my favorite pieces:

JCrew ~ Polka Dot Dress: $198.00

Madewell ~ Dotted Chambray Boyshirt: $72.00

Madewell ~ Calf Hair Polka Dot Belt: $48.00

Mango ~ TOUCH Polka-Dot Wool Foulard: $69.99

JCrew ~ Polka-Dot Cashmere Sweater: $268.00

Comme des Garçons ~ Polka-Dot Leather Coin Purse: $155.00

Miu Miu ~ Sandali Polka Dot Cotton Sandals: $495.00

Open Ceremony ~ Shirley Polka Dot Haircalf Booties: $506.00

Paige Denim ~ Verdugo Ultra Skinny (selection of colors): $189.00

ModCloth ~  Dash of Dots Tights: $14.99

The Classics: Chanel 2.55

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The Chanel brand has always been associated with classic, timeless elegance. To this day, a Chanel handbag remains one of the most recognized and respected accessories in the world.

Mademoiselle Chanel designed her accessories to be both practical and sensible, and to her accessories signified the true emblem of luxury and elegance. In the 1920’s, Coco Chanel became tired of having to carry her handbags in her arms and decided to update her handbag, for the modern woman. The resulting design was called 2.55 after the date of creation, February 1955.

From the very beginning, Coco Chanel strove for functionality. For this reason, the bag features a double flap with a zip-fastened pocket intended as a secret place for storing a love letter. On the inside of the bag there are three bellow pockets, meant to store a lady’s necessities like lipstick and perfume.

The bag has a quilted diamond or herringbone pattern on the exterior. Using a running stitch, this gives the bag shape and volume. The pattern is believed to have been inspired by several sources: by jockeys’ riding coats, the stained-glass windows of the abbey at Aubazine, as well as by the cushions in Chanel’s Paris apartment. The original 2.55 is lined in a burgundy color which represents the color of the uniform she wore growing up in an orphanage. The famous double C emblem, (“Coco Chanel”) is stitched on the inside flap like a coat of arms. The bag originally came with a front lock called “the Mademoiselle Lock” (in reference to Coco Chanel never marrying). Since the 1980s, versions can also be supplied with a lock in the shape of the double C logo. Both the iconic rectangular clasp that is gilted with gold and the famous leather and chain shoulder strap had never been seen on a handbag before Coco Chanel added them.

Since it’s introduction, there have been several variations of the original design including different colors, leather/fabric combinations, metal and interwoven leather straps and the lock, mademoiselle vs. interlocking CC. Chanel released an exact copy of the original 2.55 in February 2005 in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the creation of the original. Though the name “Reissue 2.55” should apply only to those commemorative handbags it is now commonly used now as a name for all the handbags resembling the original 2.55.

 

Heavy Metal: Metallic Trend

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The runways for Fall 2012 were ablaze with molten-like metals in gold, bronze, silver and jewel-tones. Metallics glimmered in the form of dresses, denim, skirts, shoes and bags. Interpreting runway looks into everyday life can be tricky. Embrace this trend with wearable pieces that will make an impact all season long.

Since metallics create such a bold statement, wearing too many at once can cheapen a look. Choose one key piece (cigarette pant, pencil skirt, statement bag) and let it be the star of the show. Pair these pieces with basic neutrals. Try a cozy knit sweater/slouchy boyfriend sweater for ultimate comfort and understated style. For a dressier look, pair with a structured blazer that will not draw attention from the showcased piece. Keep accessories basic or forfeit them completely.

Metallics offer a fun way to freshen up your look for Fall and update your wardrobe for a new season. Here are a few of my favorite pieces:

J Brand ~ 9202 Low-Rise Metallic Coated Legging: $249.00

Alice + Olivia ~ Connie Metallic Flounce Coat: $798.00

Tibi ~ Lurex Jacquard Strapless Dress: $485.00

AllSaints ~ Metal Pencil Skirt: $95.00

Diane von Furstenberg ~ Tonda Metallic Clutch: $395.00

Jimmy Choo ~ Anouk Metallic Leather Pumps: $650.00

Topshop ~ Jacquard Metallic Shorts: $60.00

Beauty Royalty: AERIN Beauty

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This week Aerin Lauder, granddaughter of Estée, launched her own cosmetics and lifestyle brand, AERIN. The brand kicked off the debut with it’s first line of cosmetics, AERIN Beauty. In the future, plan on appreciating new collections of accessories, sunglasses, shoes and home decor.

Stepping down from her role of Senior Vice President and Creative Director of Estée Lauder, Aerin plans on holding a less demanding consulting role. Speaking of consulting… helping her build the brand are Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour and former NBC head Jeff Zucker.

AERIN Beauty is nothing short of elegant and feminine. Inspired by Aerin’s own beauty secrets, the lovely range aims to create a daily beauty routine that easily fits into a stylish lifestyle. A delicate signature Rose scent threads through the collection and is all bundled up in pretty pink and gold packaging. The collection features simple, everyday-wearable products that look and feel luxurious.

Shop Your Closet: Beach Cover-Up

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Cover-ups keep you comfortable and stylish on the beach. If you do not want to bare all in swimwear, throw on a simple piece for a walk on the beach, dining al fresco or party/BBQ. You can invest in items created specifically as a cover-up, or find pieces in your closet that serve double duty on the beach.

As the sun goes down and it starts to get chilly, cover-up with a light oversized or cropped knit sweater or chambray shirt. The knit sweater will keep you warm and cozy with effortless style. The chambray shirt looks easy breezy worn open or for a bit more drama tie-up the ends.

For situations where you might need a bit more coverage: dining al fresco/outdoor pool party/beach BBQ, cover-up with a simple slip dress or tunic. These lightweight pieces are easy to slip-on over your swimsuit, and if the material happens to get wet, it will dry quickly. Spice it up a bit with some unexpected accessories that wouldn’t normally be worn in such a casual style: statement necklace, bold and vibrant earrings or stacked multi-textured bracelets.

Wraps are the most versatile way to cover-up your swimsuit. Usually made of a lightweight fabric, wraps come in solid colors and a variety of bright prints. Scour your closet for your favorite lightweight scarf. These are great alternatives for wraps and available in a wider variety of prints, patterns and colors. Simply wrap the scarf around your waist for a skirt cover-up or transform into a strapless tube dress by wrapping it like a towel. Safety pin to secure.

Repurpose these pieces found in your closet for a great day at the beach:

Brandy Melville ~ Kayla Sweater: $60.00

Calypso St. Barth ~ Castaway Cotton Tunic: $99.00 (sale)

T by Alexander Wang ~ Matte Jersey Crossback Maxi: $156.00

Gap ~ 1968 Chambray Tunic: $54.95

Juicy Couture ~ Chevron Striped Scarf: $23.40 (sale)

Summer Favorite: White Maxi Dress

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The versatile white maxi dress is a summer essential. Worn day or night, these dresses are light, breezy and comfy.

For daytime, play with some detailed sandals and fun accessories. Gold looks great with white – try-on a ton of gold bangles or bracelets. For nighttime, switch it up with some wedges and a statement accessory. A bold necklace or vibrant earrings will shine against the all-white canvas.

To avoid looking matrimonial, accessorize wisely. Add some color or texture with a belt or scarf. Try to steer clear from head-to-toe white.

Ella Moss ~ Havana Voile Convertible Maxi Skirt/Dress: $168.00

Splendid ~ Maxi Dress: $128.00

Haute Hippie ~ T-Shirt Dress: $195.00

Young Fabulous & Broke ~ Sydney Strapless Dress: $145.00

Mara Hoffman ~ Embroidered Maxi Dress: $192.00 (sale)

Summer Must-Have: Crochet

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Crochet is one of this summer’s hottest trends. Available in an array of eye-catching tops, dresses, bottoms, swimwear and accessories, the look reflects laid-back summer months and bohemian style.

No longer personified by sweaters knitted by grandmothers, the art of crochet has evolved to the runways. Used by many top designers, the fashion reflects a 1970’s revival with a modern aesthetic. One cannot discuss crochet and knitwear without mentioning Missoni (pants shown above). Missoni has elevated knitwear to an artform. One of the first to graduate from the heirloom to the use of technology, Missoni designs are not only universally recognizable but perennial.

To keep your crochet look fresh, find pieces that can be layered with modern favorites. Try pairing an adorable crochet mini dress with some ankle boots. Or add a distressed tee or tank to a pair of crochet shorts, skirt or pants. Or add a little edge by replacing the plain tee with a vintage rock band tee.

Crochet pieces can be extremely versatile. A loose-fitting crochet top or tunic can be layered over a camisole, bikini top, body-con dress or maxi. Instantly providing weeks of wear.

During the warm summer months we often seek-out effortless fashion. Become a crochet-convert with a few of my favorite pieces:

Free People ~ New Romantics Crochet Variety Dress: $69.95 (sale)

Nightcap Clothing ~ Tribal Fringe Tunic: $275.00

Missoni ~ Phyliss Crochet-Knit Wide-Leg Pants: $516.00 (sale)

Free People ~ Crochet Monokini: $168.00

Urban Outfitters ~ Tallow Crochet Tote Bag: $49.00

Girl. By Band of Outsiders ~ Cleo Crochet-Knit Shorts: $469.00 (sale)

5 under $50: Summer Dress

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Take the guess-work out of summer outfits. With the simple summer dress, one can quickly and casually throw it on all summer long.

Look for universal prints and colors. If you choose a more trendy version, i.e neons and/or bold prints, it will be more recognizable and you will not get as much wear out of it. Let the summer dress be the base of any ensemble and change it up with different pairings: jackets, scarves, layers (crop-tops/slouchy tees) and accessories. These dresses will be in your closet for numerous summers to come. Here are five favorites all under $50.00.

Volcom ~ Festivus: $45.00

Element ~ Robin Striped Dress: $44.50

BB Dakota ~ Dora Stripe Dress: $49.00 (sale)

Hive & Honey ~ Floral Blousant Dress: $39.99 (sale)

Forever 21 ~ Casual Chambray Dress: $15.50

5 under $50: Party Dress

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New Years is right around the corner. A fun party dress does not have to break the bank. Play with colors and textures, accessories and shoes – to complete your perfect outfit. Pair these dresses with a rugged leather jacket or sparkly sequin blazer to add a little something extra. Try a pair of ankle boots or wildly bright pumps – just don’t skimp on shoes, dancing all night in cheap shoes is never fun.  From form-fitting cut-outs to leopard print, here are a few ideas all under $50.00.

Lulu’s ~ Sail the Universe Little Black Dress: $43.00

ASOS ~ Exclusive Peter Pan Collar Open Back Dress: $43.63

Forever 21 ~ Love 21 Leopard Woven Dress w/Belt: $29.80

ASOS ~ Dress with Fringing Drop Hem: $32.72

Mango ~ Straight Cut Dress – Caspio: $49.90

Black Tie on a Budget: Rent the Runway

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Badgley Mischka

Holiday Partys, New Years Eve, Black Tie… Oh My!

This season, when overwhelmed with celebrations, there are only so many party dresses to buy. On that special occasion when you want to look your best, Rent It!

Rent the Runway is an ingenious site that provides designer dresses for every occasion. From Proenza Schouler to Helmut Lang, the mail-order service supplies dresses for one-tenth of the price. From $50 – $300, one can rent a couture gown or party frock for a four-night loan. The dress is shipped directly to your doorstep. After wearing the dress, simply place in the provided prepaid envelope and drop in the mail.

Rent the Runway also provides gorgeous rentable accessories. From Erickson Beamon bib necklaces to Vintage Chanel jewelry and bags, RTR makes accessorizing effortless.

Rent the Runway makes high-end fashions more accessible. Next time you see your favorite celebrity in a beautiful Hervé Legér dress or dream of a Thakoon design in the pages of a magazine, check Rent the Runway, it might be waiting for you.

Glow-T Gift Guide: Accessories

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Glow-T’s Holiday Gift Guide continues with accessories. Accessories are a great way to personalize gift-giving. The gift-giver can add a bit of their own style into an item that will be cherished for years. From trendy cross-body bags to classic sunglasses, here are a few accessories ideas for that special someone in your life.

Zara ~ Sash Belt: $19.90

Ray-Ban ~ Wayfarer: $145.00

Bloomingdales ~ MARC BY MARC JACOBS Henry Rose Gold Watch: $225.00

Rebecca Minkoff ~ Mini M.A.C. Clutch: $195.00

J.Crew ~ Hearthstone Infinity Scarf: $68.00

Brighten Up! J Brand 1046 Cut-Off Short

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J BRAND

Each season, J Brand creates new and trendy denim styles. This season’s focus is haute hues.

The 1046 cut-off shorts are vivid in color as well as comfortable in fit. They provide a classic style, sit high on hips and never loose their shape. Perfectly frayed and distressed, these shorts cut-off perfectly at the leg, complimenting any body type.

Already planning for 4th of July, I purchased the J Brand 1046 cut-off in red, but now need all of them. Due to the intense colors, pair these shorts with neutrals items. A white-tee or tank will bring focus to the shorts, and leave room to have some fun with accessories. Play with fun colors and textures and try a flashy summer scarf, turquoise jewels or beaded fringe necklaces and/or bibs.

Show your true color this season in J Brand 1046 cut-off shorts.

Weekend Ensemble: Diane von Furstenburg Jhumpa

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Diane von Furstenberg Jhumpa

Keeping with the romper theme, this weekend throw on this Jhumpa by Diane von Furstenberg. This silk jumpsuit is a fun and playful option for weekend festivities.

The golden amber color is novel and exotic. The silk fabric is delicate and feels like butter on the skin. The shape is flowing and comfortable, perfect for a warm day.

Wear the Jhumpa on it’s own with flats or wedges or pair with a silk cardigan and chunky heels. This beautiful burnish color creates a great canvas for accessories. Style with a ton of gold necklaces and/or bracelets or plant a pop of color and with turquoise stones or red-beaded earrings.

Rompers are a versatile one-piece outfit that is great for weekend wear.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Ashling