Sometimes Naughty Feels Good

This year I refused to let Spring catch me off guard and neither should you. By that I mean, getting so comfortable with my winter boots that when the random day of 50+ degree weather hits, you're not scrambling for shoes to put on. Not this year.

I started the search for cute/stylish/semi-sexy flat shoes that will go with about anything and have some personality. You should do the same. Try to break away from the standard colors and go for umph.

As I browsed Macy's (yes it's worth the crowds because of the coupons you get to use), I came across the Nine West section and right there was the perfect flat - they call it Naughty.

It comes in a bunch of colors and styles. I highly suggest the Black/White Fabric which is really that with a touch of color in the form of a watercolor like floral design. Super comfortable and the busy design let's you get away with not having an abundance of accessories. Economical and chic. You can find the shoe at Zappos. You can definitely elect for the bronze and silver colors; they have a classy sparkling touch.

Definitely try to get at Macy's so you can use their coupon. It was recently on sales as their Everyday Value.

Happy Shopping!

Colorful Strides

It's amazing how when you cut back on shopping it forces you to really re-look your wardrobe and make it happen.

Accessorizing has been the cure to stay fashionable and economical. What a necklace; bracelet; pin and even stockings can do is life saving for any shop-o-holic.

Try this: Revisit your skirts and dresses and say goodbye to the black and flesh tone tights/stockings and get some color in your life. Don't even put a lot of thought into it.

Most retailers like Gap and Ann Taylor are selling some fun colorful and/or interesting design tights to bring life to an ordinary outfit.

But you don't even need to go there. Try your major department store where the prices are cheaper and the selection is larger. My favorite is Macy's Herald Square. Go to the 1.5 floor and right there it is like stepping into tights wonderland. There is one line called Hue and they have every color and design under the sun. Use your Macy's coupon if you can. Just grab 2-3 of your favorite color tights and it will all come together. If you are scared take small steps with these colors 1) Blueish/gray; 2) brown with textured design and 3) dark purple/magenta

On a not so bad winter day I have worn opague colored tights with stack heel platform sandals from the summer. It works!

Go step it up a bit!

ALERT: Alexander McQueen AFM, 2 Day's Only!!!!

The super-creative and at times controversial, Alexander McQueen has finally joined the Affordable Fashion Mania (AFM) bandwagon with the McQ Collection for Target. A former courtier for Givenchy and head designer of his own collection, Alexander has been dazzling the runway with his over the top and overly expensive collections for over 2 decades. Several lucky New Yorkers will get a chance to shop his Target collection today and tomorrow at an exclusive location. While the collection will be available online March 4th 2009, I guarantee not all of the good stuff will make it. (Trust me, the same happened to the Proenza Schouler collection I raided). So get up get out and get some McQueen!!

Alexander McQueen Runway

Exclusive Alexander McQueen: Target McQ Market

February 14th and 15th ONLY!

12pm-10pm

330 West Street

New York, NY 10014

Click for Directions

1-on-1 With your favorite designers!

The French Institute Alliance Française presents Fashion Talks with Pamela Golbin . An intimate speaker series with 3 fabulous female designers. Fashion Talks
French haute couture meets New York style during FIAF's Fashion Talks, hosted by Pamela Golbin, Curator in Chief of Twentieth-century and Contemporary Fashion at the Musée de la Mode et du Textile in Paris.

Donna Karen 2/9/09
Catherine Malandrino 3/20/09
Diane Von Furstenburg 3/23/09

Did I forget to mention the tickets start at $20!!! You couldn't even get into their Fashion Week Collections with that price. Hurry and get your tickets! You know I have my tickets ready to go. Ooh La La!

AFM: Thakoon

In our next round of Affordable Fashion Mania, fashion designer Thakoon is front and center with his line of Target. The Thakoon for Target online store is open for business today and stocked with it's first round of looks. The collection is primed with the florals, prints and cardigan-like embellishments you would expect to see based on his Spring 2009 Ready-To-Wear Collection. Happy Shopping!!

Tide-to-Go is Good-to-Go!

I totally vouch for this product. It saved my cream cashmere sweater from a pasta sauce disaster. I heart tide for making this! It also comes in a mini version to fit in your cute little clutch.

Tide-to-Go Mini 2-Pack
$5.99

A Thrifty Shopping Exerience...and Marc Jacobs was in attendance.

People, we are in a damn recession! As much as I have fought it, I have resorted to vintage (a.k.a thrift) shopping. Don't get me wrong, I'm not too proud to wear a used piece of clothing but vintage shopping requires more effort and patience than shopping retail. With this crappy economic crisis we are in, I decided that forgoing some extra time to get some worthwhile vintage finds is worth keeping some extra loot in my pocket. Vintage shopping for the friends of fashion should come with a very strict set of rules. Here are my rules:

1. If you feel like you are paying to much then you are! If you find yourself trying to negotiate with yourself why paying that price is OK for secondhand or consigned new goods then that is a telltale sign of buyers remorse once you get home.


2. Remember cost includes tailoring, cleaning, hemming, re-buttoning, etc. If you start to add the costs of updating the garment before use and it is more than its worth...see Rule #1.


3. Aim for labels! Big labels! The ones you probably couldn't afford retail (even on sale). Some vintage stores recognize fashion labels and will hike up prizes but if you are patient you will find one or two high-end labels in mixed in the the $10 - $20 pile.


4. See The Budget Fashionista's rules on shopping and cleaning.


5. Last but not least - Be patient...very.....very....very patient. It may take a couple of days of checking in with stores and hopping around the city until you find something that appeals to you and your wallet. Remember, giving up your extra time is that price you pay to keep cash in your pocket.

My latest awesome find is a Marc Jacobs coat for $150 at the Angel Thrift Store Coat Sale. All I need cute bag to match!

Funky Fresh Fingers For Fall-Winter

Here is the skinny on the polish trend for upcoming cold months: Go Dark. Go Metallic.
Blacks, purples, blues, browns....Very dark polish is no longer just for punk rockers and goths. Take a look around on the train tomorrow morning, women of all ages and professions are embracing this powerful fashion statement in the boldest of colors with a splash of metallic shimmer. I stopped one fabulous 40-something on the 3 train last week wearing a striking yet feminine blackish-purple and asked her "where did you get the polish?". Her response was Essie - Sexy Divine. Essie is a very respected brand on the manicure circuit..now would they (or I) steer you wrong? Of course not! The economy sucks...if you can't spruce up your wardrobe just yet, get your nails a new doo!

Essie-Sexy Divide $8

TIP: I've been a huge on DIYmani/pedicures after I discover the secret to professional manicures at home....Step-by-Step buffers. They start you off with course buffer until you end on a smooth side to give your nails a natural high gloss shine. No matter how much of a rush I'm or if I screw-up my polish, a well buffed nail will ALWAYS look salon finished. I bought one at CVS for $3 and it has 7 steps. Also, I received Obey Your Body Nail Kit as a gift which has a great buffer,but is more costly.

Obey Your Body Buffer - $14.99

"Anya" wouldn't belive who I saw in Target today...

Do the words "I'm not a plastic bag" ring a bell? Of course they do. You remember the craze that plauged Manhattan Whole Food stores that faithful rainy July morning last year. So many wanted that bag and who wouldn't...uber-affordablity, eco-friendly, well-made, designer label all rolled into one cute shopping tote by an awesome handbag designer fairly unknown to Americans before "INAPB" took us by storm. For her encore, Anya created an affordale collection of her chic handbags with that preztel-knot logo we've come to adore. Anya Hindmarch for Target is available online for (2-6 weeks delivery). My pick is below. But before you snub at the $50 price tag for Target bag, let me let you in on a secret. My Proenza Scholer for Target handbag from March of last year is still holding strong and continually collects a healthy set of compliments on a daily basis. I don't expect disappointments here!

Anya Hindmarch® for Target®
$49.99

Shh....I have a fab SATC secret.....shhhh

I love Sex and the City...no big secret. Chances are you do to and you bought the extended cut of the Sex and City Movie DVD. One of the several bonus scenes has Carrie using a payphone with a fabulous set of gloves - the too cute (and 10 time more practical then its awkward 4 finger predecessor) 5-Finger Leather Half Glove!!! Now here is the secret...after being sold out for the umpteenth time...Patrica Fields will have these in stock Nov 1st in her Manhattan shop. Shh...don't tell anyone until I get my pair!

Patricia Fields - $48

Express Yourself - Must Have Shirt

Ruffle tops are obvious a major trend this year but it is also a timeless style because of its classic feminine appeal; also because my mom is wearing her ruffles from the 80s and getting many compliments.

If you are in need of a a ruffle shirt that you can wear to work and out (yeah for multipurpose use) then definitely run over to your nearby Express and grab their Sleeveless Ruffle Blouse that was originally $49.50 and is now $24.50 (NYC = no tax). The colors they have are literally gems. Besides the basic black and cream they have a rich blue, pink and green. Hues from this past Fall's jewel colors but with enough punch that you can certainly where during all seasons (yes another score for multipurpose use - the best way to stretch the dollar in these here recession times).

My favorite Express location to grab sales items is the one near Union Square: 5th Avenue bet 18th and 19th street. Also you can try the two at 34th street/Herald Square (one in the Manhattan Mall and the other on 34th street bet 5th and 6th Aves - if one doesn't have it you can walk 3 minutes to the other).

Happy shopping!

Old Gravy - A 2nd Serving

Months ago I talked about how Old Navy has its moments of providing basic to key fashion pieces at very reasonable prices. Some of you all might avoid this brand because of the family-esque feel it has. Don't be shy or shame to check out the latest collection. One thing that seems to be top of mind is feel good clothes. I noticed several basic tops with slight detail to lessen the blandness, but the fabrics were super soft and the prices (under $25) fit right in with a recession budget.





Cowl neck top for $14.50
Knee length dress $24.50
I thought these were cute and they are just $7.00!!!! online

ALERT: J.Crew Sales Ends 5/2

J. Crew is taking 20% off their current spring sale items. Offer expires May 2nd at 9:59PM EST.

The clothes are so so but it looks like a good deal to grab some cute espadrilles or so some stylish yet functioning flats. For the espadrilles, they are all cute, but I will share with you my thoughts on which colors to pick.: If you are looking for these shoes to be worn past this summer I say go for one where the strap and fabric are in close color to the wicker-like sole. I say this because it creates a one shoe look. Also, depending on where you are wearing them, for instance a summer Friday at work - the look of one color looks a bit more classic. Just my thoughts.

ALERT - Sample Sale End Tomorrow

I haven't gone to this one and may not get a chance to, but just passing along the info of this sample sale that features fun cute designs - including our darling Mackage.
See below image for details:
It is located at 275 West 39th Street (bet. 8th and 7th (Fashion Ave)) closest train station is Time Square - so you have to walk a few blocks. Enjoy!

Alerts! J.Crew Ends Soon & More...

Hi All,

The below images of the J.Crew sale (ends Friday) and Sephora Promotion (for Sephora if you can't see the promotion code is "HONEY" are self-explanatory). I won't waste your time with creative narrative:

Your Online Sample Sale

There are a ton of sites out there like Bluefly that boasts great deals. But the quest continues to get those high-end designs at a much lower price.

Two sites to bookmark and add to your favorites: Gilt.com and Ideeli.com

These sites sell luxury brands at relatively low costs. So for example you an score a Tracy Reese dress for $182 that was originally $600+. The other plus is that the items for sale are not two or three years old, but current trends.

What is great about such sites is that you get the sample sale prices without having to rush during your lunch hour and clash with other desperately-seeking-good deals women and men.

I haven't bought from them, but am registered with Gilt.com and I love that you are notified in advance by email on when the sale will begin and can plan accordingly.

The catch with these sites is that they are invite only. So you can't just log-on and register. No fear KC did some digging:

Addtional Info/Resources:
- If you go to Ideeli.com you can enter the invite code CNET; it seems to be currently working. If that doesn't work then google "Ideeli invite code" and something will come up.
- For Gilt.com you need to be invited. BUT you can click here to register.
- The local ABC Philadelphia station just did a segment on these sites and you can check it out here. This station also has links and codes to these sites since doing the story. Scroll to the bottom of this page. The provided codes are good until 2/17/08
- If you are experiencing any issues email TellMeKC@gmail.com and we will send you an invite as we are registered users of both sites.

Enjoy!

TellMeKC @ Fashion Week

Great News! TellMeKC got accepted as press for New York Fashion Week. We are very excited to share all what we see, smell, touch, hear and even taste.

Note we are doing this along with our full-time careers so what we can attend is limited, but you can catch a great deal of useful and current info online at American Express Fashion Network

Today we were SO very close to getting a standing position in the Iodice show but got the no-go when the room met its capacity level. Anyways we watched the show from the pop-up Expresso Bar and noticed the following:

- The line was definitley about black with pastel highlights
- Cynched waists - go out and get those belts
- Beautiful backless tops and dresses - get your bottle of Neutrogena body scrub if you have backne or a salt scrub for any skin condition. You are gonna need a beautiful clean back for some of his designs - or affordable designs influenced by him.. You can grab a Grapfruit Chamomile salt scub from Tader Joe's for $5.99 - a really good price.

See more of Iodice here, and learn more about him here.

Hunter Classic In MANY Colors

There is something about the Hunter Wellington Rain Boot I always loved. It has this classic feeling of a brand from back in the day, but able to make the female version in just the perfect amount of femininity. It is basic but yet girly and sexy and the same time - all in the details.

In my opinion it is worth to get these or something very close in version as the basic style and non-glossy shine, like many wellies we see out there, will transcend time.

I have always searched to see if these bad boys will ever go on sale. Currently I had no luck but I know there still must be a way. The typical price for these wellies is $98.

Right now ShopBop.com has them in a plethora of colors - I counted 11. Personally if there is a color you see that is not a common one to find such as Black, Green and Navy Blue, you may have to just go ahead and grab them while you can.

...plus if you buy through ShopBop.com they are offering free shipping and a free pair of welly fleece socks.

Stack Up on Sacco - IF you can

There is a very good reason I don't frequent Sacco Shoe stores - the prices.

But this past weekend I learned why they can charge such high dollars. Their shoes are super comfortable and and are the cutest. The designers definitely have a way of mixing current trends with timeless designs, so you can easily walk out with $200+ shoes that are very comfy and wearable for the next 10+ years.

SALE - Go Now If You Can!

They are having a decent sale, my friend just score two boots for a bit over $400. Definitely not cheap, but for someone like herself who has been in search for boots that fit her tiny tiny calves - no way could she pass up the two pairs of best fitting boots.

The online sale is not as good as the in-store. Also if the sales person says the shoe is not available elsewhere, I recommend to call or visit another location on your own. Sales people, they want the commission.

The big "IF" in the if you can means you should definitely have the disposable income necessary for such a splurge.

There are 5 Sacco locations:

324 Columbus Ave at 75th 212-799-5229

118 E 59th St bet Park & Lex 212-207-3151

Opening Soon!6 E 23rd 212-777-3414

14 East 17th off 5th Ave 212-243-2070 (we went to this one and they were super nice - take the train to Union Square and walk over)

94 7th Avenue at 16th 212-675-5180 111

Thompson Street at Prince Street 212-925-8010

Observed Sacco Benefits:

- Soft comfortable and quality Italian leather

- They stretch your boots for free (calve area and the actual shoe width)

- For other shoe services like taps, they have a cobbler to recommend

Store hours Mon – Fri 11:00 am - 8:00 pm Sat 11:00 am - 7:00 pm Sun 12:00 noon - 7:00 pm

Knowledge is Power - Info on the Sacco owners and their vision

Thanks to JS who originally recommended this place for those with smaller legs:)

ALERT! Getting Pass J.Crew Final Sale

So by now a good number of you have been watching/stalking the jcrew.com final sale. The problem is no one wants to a make a purchase they can't try on, touch or feel and on top of that can't exchange or return later.

GREAT NEWS!!! I found a way around it. As I went to clean out my online shopping cart I noticed that items that were "not available" in the current final sale listing were still listed as available in my shopping bag.....that made me go hmm.

So this is how you can buy a Jcrew.com final sale item with out the red tape:

• Get the exact name of the item you want ex: "Solid merino boatneck sweater dress."
• Take that style name and Google it just as it is written. Don't add additional words like J.Crew to the search terms.
• The first link you see will be a Jcrew.com link - click it.
• This link will take you to the site and the exact page of the item you are looking for AND it will list it at the sales price. The best part you may even see sizes and colors you thought were sold out.
• Select the size and color and add to your shopping bag. What you will notice is the ship date is much later. Most will say available in early March
• Better yet - you will see that that small red writing of "Final sale, no exchanges or returns" is NOT THERE.

Verification - I called a customer service person and said that I had an item in my shopping cart from before the final sale, although that item is currently listed as final sale, can she confirm I won't have any problems returning or exchanging and she said - YES!

What's happening? - Looks like most of jcrew.com items are on sale but not on the current site pages. You will have to know what you are looking for and Google it. Also it seems many items are being reproduced or being brought out of inventory for a major March availability.

Good luck and if you have any successes please do share.