ShopMartins Blog

Spring Plaids from Foxcroft!

2010-02-08T15:52:00.004-06:00

As you probably noticed, plaids were a huge trend for fall and continued to gain momentum during winter. They continue to be a big trend in the upcoming season, exchanging the dark colors for fresh spring ones. You can find them in a variety of body styles, colors and brands, but our favorite is the easy to wear looks from Foxcroft.

This spring Foxcroft has introduced several new button front plaid tops that will fit seamlessly into your existing wardrobe. Our current selection has a blue and white version as well as several black and white tops. Both are easy to pair with basic pants, capris or skirts and come in a flattering fitted 3/4 sleeve silhouette.

Other new arrivals from Foxcroft include beautiful pastel tops with both long and 3/4 length sleeves. You'll love the new light blues and pinks, buttercup yellow and periwinkle. They also have a pretty pink blouse with a white and gray floral print. Any of these tops could be worn with a white or denim capri and most of them would pair nicely with khaki. Visit our Tribal Sportswear line to find great fitting capris, pants and denim to coordinate with these Foxcroft tops.

Look for more Foxcroft spring tops to be arriving soon!

Just Arrived- The Perfect Match Group from Alfred Dunner!

2010-02-08T14:31:00.002-06:00

Days are getting a little warmer and we will soon start to see the first promising signs of spring, but winter could surprise us again at any moment. This makes it difficult to decide what to wear during this weird time of year between February and April when you are tired of your winter clothes, but are not quite ready to pull out your bright spring colors and sandals.

The solution is to incorporate lighter weight neutral items like those available in Alfred Dunner's Perfect Match Group. Neutral colors, like the black, tan and cream combination used here, carry you seamlessly from season to season which is why you often see them popping into store windows a few days after Christmas. They're easy to wear and perfect for most occasions.

Alfred Dunner's Perfect Match Group starts with their basic two pocket pull on pant in your choice of tan or black. From there they add 3/4 length tees, beaded tops, floral jackets and sweaters and simple layering pieces. Many of these items can be mixed and matched to create several looks and are available in both Misses and Petites.

You can also find a beautiful selection of neutral spring pieces from Karen Kane and Tribal. With these three brands, you're certain to find that perfect between seasons outfit for nearly every age , style and size.

Spring 2010 Tribal Sneak Preview!

2010-01-18T15:37:00.005-06:00

The much anticipated spring collection from Tribal Sportswear is starting to arrive at ShopMartins.com! As our #1 brand, Tribal offers tried and true fits that are translated into the season's hottest fashions and colors.

What can you expect from Tribal for Spring 2010? You can look forward to updates to all of the basic bottoms- capris, pants, shorts and skirts. New fabrics, bright, fresh colors and seasonal details have been added to their selection of year round, basic fabrics and colors. This allows you to break out of the rut of wearing the same black pants or capris over and over without sacrificing the reason why you're wearing them- the fit.

To update your basics and coordinate with Tribal's spring bottoms, they have designed several stylish new groups of tops. They started out the season with a transitional black and white group of tops that are always chic. Then they start adding punchy colors like waterfall blue, key lime and hot pink. Later, earthier hues like earth (brown), rose, stone and butter add a nice contrast to the bolder shades.

Their tops have details unique to this season like the addition of lightweight, coordinating scarves and feminine ruffles. In addition to solids, Tribal has made a variety of trendy prints that can be worn alone or layered under one of Tribal's spring jackets in cooler weather.

We're confident you'll enjoy all of the mix and match possibilities this season with Tribal's coordinates! You can try a few styles now and then come back every few weeks to add new pieces. Before long, you'll have built a stylishly affordable spring and summer wardrobe that can be assorted into dozens of outfits!

New Wind & Willow Cheesebake Mixes

2009-12-31T20:08:00.003-06:00

We'd love to share with you the newest addition to the delicious family of Wind & Willow products, the Cheesebake Mix! Available in Chocolate Amaretto, Key Lime Strawberry and Caramel Butter Rum, these desserts are bound to wow your guests and leave them begging for the recipe. Only you have to know how easy it is. We won't tell. As with Wind & Willows other mixes, you will find alternate recipes for each mix that have been tested and approved by the Wind & Willow test kitchens.

Watch the video by the Wind & Willow Company below to find out more about

New Town and Country Group from Alfred Dunner

2009-12-28T18:47:00.000-06:00

Alfred Dunner's winter collection is a fresh mix of pastels and earth tones which are deeply heart warming during the harsh, cold months of winter. You'll find pretty plums, alluring aquas and bolder blues mixed with black, brown and denim.

While most of the winter groups are more casual, the new Town and Country group is perfect for work, church or dinner with friends. For example the jacket to the right is an ethnic print in seafoam, latte brown and cream that could really be dressed up with a nice blouse and coordinating jewelry.

The Town and Country group also mixes in unique textures like faux leathers and suedes. Their chic faux suede jacket in seafoam would work for women of just about any age due to its simple, fitted design. You could buy it as a separate and where it with your favorite black or chocolate brown pants. In contrast the faux leather version has a metallic sheen with aged brass buttons that you could pair with the coordinating latte pants or even with dark denim.

You'll also find some fun tops to wear with the solid pants when you don't want to wear a jacket. We especially like the 3/4 sleeve peacock print top. It's the perfect match for either of the bottoms in this group. The short sleeve striped top is a good choice for layering under any of the jackets.

No matter how you mix it, the Town and Country group by Alfred Dunner is perfect for winter, but will definitely transition easily into spring for more bang for your buck!

New German Shepherd Signature Webkinz

2009-12-21T17:31:00.000-06:00

Webkinz Signature series is currently our most popular type of Webkinz. They are usually a little larger than regular Webkinz and have more intricate details like shading around the eyes and ears and softer fur in several tones. Webkinz greatly limits the production of their Signature pets so it becomes a race against time to order your pet. They typically sell out within a week.

The new German Shepherd is the perfect remake of one of America's favorite dogs. The dark, sweet eyes make you want to cuddle with this little guy on the couch. German Shepherds are friendly dogs that love to run and play, so be sure that you have plenty of time, energy and love to give your new friend. He will reward you with loyalty, protection and friendship. His pet specific item is the Puppy Patrol Command Station and special pet food is signature schnitzel.

Take home a German Shepherd Signature Webkinz soon before it's too late!

A Sneak Peak at Spring Fashions

2009-12-18T15:23:00.000-06:00

Early deliveries from our popular Ruby Rd. line have given us a sneak peak at what lies ahead for Spring 2010! First we'll take a look at the inspiration for the Spring 10 color wheel.

Pantone, which sets the color standards for the global fashion industry has chosen their top ten colors for Spring/Summer. You will see these colors used in fashions for all shapes and sizes.

The colors this spring will be vibrant and rich, but grounded in earthy neutrals. The palette of neutrals include a classic light olive green (Dried Herb), Pink Champagne which reminds me of Crayola's flesh colored crayon, a gray clay color (Eucalytus) and a warm, medium brown (Tuscany). The brights are Turquoise, Tomato Red (Puree), Fusion Coral, Violet, Golden Yellow (Aurora) and a rich bright blue called Amparo Blue. These colors will be used alone or will be mixed together in a million different ways this season.

Adding a bag, tank or scarf in one of these hues is an inexpensive way to update last year's wardrobe. Ruby Rd. is also an inexpensive choice. Their mix and match pieces highlight this season's best while going easy on your wallet. Their blue group incorporates the Amparo Blue and Dried Herb. In contrast their coral group uses the Fusion Coral color and Eucalyptus to play up basic navy.

Browse the new rest of the new arrivals from Ruby Rd. or visit the first shipment of Tribal due to arrive any day for more examples of what's on trend for Spring 2010!

Super Slimmer Tank Keeps Tummies Under Control

2009-12-15T13:03:00.005-06:00

Bloating, weight gain or flabby abs are just a few of the many things that make women feel self-conscious or even self-loathing. Seeing that "muffin" appear over the edge of our pants or feeling our stomachs buckle over our belt as we sit, just suck the confidence right out of us.

What can we do about it besides pulling out the ab machine or giving up and eating more chocolate? Several manufacturers are offering slimming solutions, but one of my favorites is the Super Slimmer Tank by Karen Kane. It comes in a variety of colors including basics like white, black, chocolate or nude as well as fashion colors, so you can easily have enough to make it through the week. (Believe me, once you try this treasure, you won't want to go a day without it!)

The super stretchy nylon/ spandex blend is soft to the touch and supportive of your curves. The secret to the super slimming fit is the double lined middle panel that gives your mid section the extra support. It smooths love handles and softens cellulite, but the real benefit is in the way that it lifts your mood and boosts your self-esteem. Layer it under your favorite tops to instantly remove a few pounds.

If you need more than just tummy coverage, you might prefer Spanx which offers a range of supportive undergarments. They have basics like control top tights (with extra control than regular control tops), Power Panties that smooth your thighs, behind and tummy and Hide and Sleek Slips. Yummie Tummies and Euro Jeans also offer slimming tanks in a variety of styles and lengths. With all of these brands and styles from which to choose, you are sure to find a slimmer compatible with your needs. If you need assistance, call us 1-800-952-2251.

Six Degrees Handbag by Tano Provides Style and Durability!

2009-12-11T15:25:00.003-06:00

Tano continues to grow and develop it's line of higher end leather handbags and wallets that appeal to women of all ages and styles. Somehow they manage to create on trend bags that become the "new classics." Many companies have tried their hand at creating "cheap" Tano knockoffs, but no one is able to capture the beauty and richness of the Italian leather or the superb craftsmanship of each individual bag.

Tano's new Six Degrees handbag is a midsize bag with plenty of room and extra pockets to hold all of your necessities. It is available in garnet which is a beautiful reddish brown that goes with just about any color. Chocolate brown trim brings out the red in the leather adds a contemporary touch. The use of silver hardware keeps the Six Degrees handbag looking casual, yet polished and contrasts nicely with the darkness of the leather. On the front of the bag, the pockets provide easy to reach places for stashing keys, phones or your favorite lip gloss.

One of the best things about this Tano handbag as well as many of their other bags is the versatility that it gives. The two tones of brown make it a cinch to wear footwear and accessories in any shade of brown, but it doesn't limit you to just brown. It has a casual look that compliments denim or twill. However, you could try it with mix and match suiting pieces or a printed skirt and blazer. Now matter how you wear it, you will love the quality, durability and most importantly the style of Tano's Six Degrees handbag!

Alfred Dunner's Black Tie Optional Group is Holiday Ready!

2009-11-25T16:05:00.003-06:00

If you're looking for something simple, with clean lines, a classic color pallet and a little holiday shimmer, then you'll love Alfred Dunner's Black Tie Option Group. This holiday group is a chic collection of mix and match separates in black, gold and champagne. By using these sophisticated color choices, you will be well-dressed for the season without looking like a Christmas tree!

To help you shine at all of your holiday parties, Alfred Dunner has incorporated lurex and sequins, adding just the right amount of Christmas sparkle! One example is the their black 2-4-1 jacket which is full of black sequins. Alternate pieces like the crushed zip jacket to the left are more simple and can be worn year round. Other fun items include a satiny blouse with an oversized houndstooth print and a unique color block sweater that uses all three colors.

This entire group matches back to black pants and skirts. You could probably mix the multi colored tops in with items you already own, but we'd suggest ordering coordinating pants or skirt for the solid black tops to get the best match. This group also offers a patterned pant which is a nice change from Alfred Dunner's typical solid pants!

If you like this group, but are prefer a little more color in your holiday look, you might like the World Market Group which is available in misses and petites. It is a spicy mix of red and black that can be worn for any occasion where you want to look your best!

Update your look with a moto jacket!

2009-11-23T15:01:00.002-06:00

One of my favorite new looks this year is the leather moto jacket with its sleek lines and sharp details. It's such a classically chic item, that you'll be able to wear for years on end without the fear of it fading into fashion oblivion.

This easy to wear fashion looks stylish no matter what you wear it with! Try it with a pair of Kut jeans and a basic tee or with a dressy pair of Tribal pants and a textured tank. The moto jacket gives you the versatility of wearing it while shopping, going out to dinner or meeting a special client for work.

Tribal's version of the moto jacket is an animal-friendly version made from a blend of polyurethane and rayon instead of animal skin. This fabric blend also gives this jacket the look and feel of leather without the price tag! All of the added details on Tribal's fitted moto jacket like the pockets, snaps and cuffs give it a polished finish. Because of this finish, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing that everyone thinks you spent a fortune even though you didn't!

Don't forget the bling this holiday season!

2009-11-19T16:23:00.002-06:00

Although this year has been difficult for many people, we all still have blessings to county a bounty of reasons to celebrate the holiday season! What better time is there to let loose and put our temporary trials on the back burner than the Christmas holiday season?

One of my favorite ways to perk myself up and spread a little holiday cheer is to add a little bling to my wardrobe. Personally, I'd rather spend my some of my decorating budget decorating myself instead of the house However, it doesn't have to be expensive to add a little bling, and you may even find everything you need right in your own wardrobe!

Designers have attempted to take advantage of the current bedazzled trend by adding rhinestones and glitter to tops, jackets, shoes, bags and jewelery like this jacket from Ruby Rd. You'll find a lot of inexpensive bling filled tops and jackets with Ruby Rd. in just about every color that you can imagine! Karen Kane is also another great source for bejeweled items.

You can always add your own bling by scouring your jewelry box and pulling out several necklaces for layering or a variety of bangles. Look for different textures and sizes, but stick to an overall theme to keep the look cohesive. Also, a large brooch can be added to jacket, shawl or handbag for a touch of glam.

As you can see, it doesn't matter how much or how little money you have to spend, you can still glam up your holiday look with a little sparkle and shine!

Shana K. Shaws and Shawls Make Great Gifts!

2009-11-16T13:58:00.003-06:00

Give the gifts of warmth & style this season with a Shana K. shawl. Your loved one will know that you put a lot of thought into their Christmas gift this year when they slip their plush cape over their shoulders and take in its bold hue.

Shana K.'s beautifully made capes and shawls come in a variety of pleasing colors like rich red, calming teal, bright magenta, deep purple and a classic black. You should be able to find a color that will delight everyone on your list and add a little sparkle to their wardrobe.

Some styles have ruffles and others have fringe, but the all ring in under $40! We would suggest the ruffles for the younger age 20-45 and the fringe for those over 45, but of coarse, you know best! However, we're confident that women of every age will enjoy a Shana K. shawl! These capes and shawls look fabulous over a tunic dress, with a long skirt and boots or thrown over a long sleeve tee and denim trouser pants.

So spoil someone special in your life without breaking your budget by giving this classically stylish gift. They will be able to enjoy it for years on end, whether they use it simply to add a burst of color to an outfit or wear it for warmth in the theater or workplace.

Gooseberry Patch cookbooks are perfect gifts for any chef on your list!

2009-10-29T14:28:00.004-05:00

A new addition to ShopMartins.com has just arrived and we are so excited! Gooseberry Patch cookbooks are here and are already flying off of our shelves! The Gooseberry Patch brand has been around for a while and continues to add new collections of tried and true recipes to their assortment.

One of the best things about this brand is that they offer cookbooks that specialize in just about any type of cooking that you can imagine. You can find Christmas cookbooks, slow cooker books, appetizer books, dessert books, healthy books, easy cookbooks, and my favorite- chocolate cookbooks! These are just a fraction of the offerings from Gooseberry Patch.

As an added bonus, each book also offers tips and advice from cooking to entertaining to craft projects. Some of the books have entire chapters devoted to crafts and how to prepare and package gifts from the kitchen.

Besides offering a variety of cookbook themes, they also have different sizes available. The smaller books retail for $7.95 making them perfect for slipping into a Christmas stocking or a gift basket for the newlyweds. The larger books are twice the size and retail $16.95. You could give these to a favorite teacher, a secret pal or any special cook in your life that needs a pick me up. Don't forget to grab one of yourself too. You'll enjoy hours of fun looking through the pages of your Gooseberry Patch cookbook and trying out the amazing recipes!

To view more Gooseberry Patch cookbooks, click here.

Stay warm and stylish this season with a knit cape!

2009-10-29T13:15:00.002-05:00

When the weather turns cold, the sky turns gray and the first snowflakes of the season start to fall, I reach for my warmest, softest for comfort. Unfortunately, its use is restricted to home only!

So what's a girl to do when she needs that extra piece of comfort, but doesn't want to sacrifice style? Reach for a knit cape! A simple sweater cape is a stylish topper to any outfit and will keep you warm and cozy on a cold winter day. These knit capes, like the one shown here from Tribal, are also fantastic for keeping the chill off of you in drafty offices , damp movie theaters, and cold church buildings!

You can choose from patterned capes, shorter caplets, and a variety of solids. Add a punch of color to your outfit with a brightly colored caplet. Capes can be worn with slacks, jeans, leggings, etc... It just depends on how dressy you want to look and what cape style you choose.

For more cape and sweater selections click here.

Harvest Moon Group by Alfred Dunner Puts Us in the Mood for Fall!

2009-10-08T14:37:00.002-05:00

Farmer's markets filled with bright pumpkins and fresh apples, the smells of changing leaves and hot cider and a distinct crispness in the air are all signs of my favorite time of year. I love fall because I get to pull out my favorite pants, sweaters, jackets and boots! It feels amazing to wrap myself in layers of soft cottons and chenilles like the ones in Alfred Dunner's Harvest Moon Group!

These classic Alfred Dunner styles revolve around a soothing peacock blue and creamy oatmeal color palette. This group has a simple charm, reminiscent of an autumn county fair. A sporty zip up vest matches a variety of the patterned Harvest Moon tops. You'll find comfort and style in their fuzzy sweaters and feminine, floral jackets. All of these tops complement the moleskin pants and denim pants available with this group, but you could also wear them with dark denim pieces in your own closet.

Currently, you can save 20% off of the new Harvest Moon Group by Alfred Dunner. Other gorgeous new groups include the World Market Groups and Comfort Zone Group.

Seeing Red- This Season's Hottest Color!

2009-09-30T15:47:00.002-05:00

One of the most exciting things about this season is the reintroduction of RED into the fashion industry. Red is back in a HUGE way. You can find it in stores and your favorite fashion magazines in the form of jackets, sweaters, shoes, purses, dresses, jewelry, etc...We've noticed a trend towards more blue based reds instead of the orangy reds. These beautiful reds are flattering on the skin and give you a stylishly rosy glow!

My favorite red piece is Tribal's Garnet Military Jacket. This gorgeous wool blend jacket has an off-center zip closure and mandarin collar. The pockets on the side also have zip closures, giving this style a little edge. You could wear this to work, on a date or even to a holiday party. It's the jacket that you'll want to grab when you need that extra boost of self-confidence!

Another favorite are the new ruby red Tano bags like the Strictly Sauvage. Tano's version of red is classic red that is perfect for every day wear. It's a subtle red with brown undertones. A handbag is a great way to add a burst of a color to your outfit when wardrobe consists mainly of dark or neutral pieces.

Other ways to incorportate this season's top shade into your look can be as simple as adding a red cardigan, a ruby red necklace, a red patterned scarf, or red leather shoes. You can spice up an existing outfit with one of these simple additions. They're inexpensive and you might find that you already own a few of these items.

Whether you buy something new or rediscover a vintage item, make sure you add something red to your wardrobe this year. The flattering hue will put you in a great mood and earn you an abundance of compliments!

Denim- a huge trend for fall!

2009-09-24T16:39:00.000-05:00

Denim is a HUGE trend this fall and winter. Because there are many new ways to wear denim this season, you have no excuse to pass on this trend. It's so versatile and easy to wear, and we will show you just few ways to bring it into your wardrobe.

Denim Jacket- one of the most versatile items you could own. Here we show a denim trench style that is a little dressier and great for work. The enamel buttons and belted waist give it something special. A basic denim jacket is a good choice that can be worn year round, over dresses or with a skirt and blouse.
Denim Vest- so simple, yet so chic. A denim vest could be layered under a suit for an unexpected touch. Try it with a pair of wide leg, higher waisted pants.
Denim Shirt- a oldie but goody that is back again this season. We love a classic denim shirt over a white tee and a mini skirt. You could also dress it up with feminine jewelry. Longer versions can be worn with leggings.
Denim Jeans- a dressy pair can be stylish enough for work or to go out on the town. Jeans may seem like an obvious choice, but they are also a fantastic investment. A good pair of jeans will slenderize your body and give your confidence a boost. Look for dark washes and a leg opening that compliments your body type . Don't be afraid to spend a little more money to get the perfect fit.

Whatever you choose, we suggest looking for quality versions of the timeless classics and look for less expensive choices for the fashion pieces.

Whoo Pig Sooie! We love our Razorback tees and gifts!

2009-09-22T15:47:00.003-05:00

Whoo Pig Sooie! Our Razorback Shop is now open and slowly getting stocked up for the football and basketball seasons ahead. We are very excited about the new merchandise and can't wait to share those Hog items that are waiting to be added! We're die-hard Razorback fans ourselves, so we are pretty picky about the items that we carry. You can feel confident you're getting fan approved merchandise!

Wearable items include long and short sleeve tees, tanks, hoodies, sweatshirts and lounge wear. Our best sellers have been the camouflage Razorback items and the heart shaped Razorback tee. We also have Razorback Crocs and hats so you can be outfitted in Hog clothing from head to toe.

Fun items for the home and dorm room include Razorback and fan verbiage pillows, cutting boards, pitchers, coasters, cups, clocks and more! You'll also find gift ideas for your favorite Hog fan like pens, dominoes, can coozies, baby items and stuffed Razorback bears. At the Razorback Shop, you can find something for just about anyone on your list who loves their Hogs!

For more hog items, click here.

2009-09-18T12:43:00.001-05:00

Each season Tano brings out a variety of innovative, new bags and wallets in a fresh color palette. They are made from the same gorgeous Italian leather for which Tano is known, but are updated for the current season.

One of our favorite new styles is the Texas Fold Em Wallet. It's an update to the Chicklit that everyone flipped over last season and continue to love this year. It has a little more storage than the Chicklit wallet with 2 outer zipper compartments. It also has more credit card slots on the inside. The Texas Fold Em opens flat and has a magnetic closure.

With all of the handy storage, you can carry the Texas Fold Em as a clutch or a wallet. There's enough room in the side to stow a small compact, a lip gloss and car keys. As a casual clutch, it's perfect for an evening out to dinner with the girls.

The new garnet color, shown here, is a really pretty red with a brownish tint. The Texas Fold Em is available in several other new fall colors including black, espresso and violet. You can coordinate them with some our favorite Tano bags- Social Primer, Boogie Bucket and Model Citizen.

Faux Leather Pieces Are Must-have Items for Fall!

2009-09-16T09:52:00.002-05:00

Leather looks are everywhere this season and we can't get enough of this stylish, easy to wear trend! With faux leathers you get to indulge in luxe pieces while going easy on your wallet and saving the lives of a few furry critters. These faux leathers are not the same plastic like materials that we wore 10 years ago; their quality has improved so much that most of the time it is difficult to separate the real from the artificial leathers.

Tribal has chic aviator vest in a rich brown that is perfect for layering over tops of just about any color. The simplicity of pairing the faux leather vest with a cream or spicy orange mock neck top and a pair of Tribal's dress pants is so chic! The knit waistband allows for a more comfortable fit and a more tailored look. Bronze accents and stylish front pockets really add to the vintage aviator feel of the vest. Tribal also offers this fabric in a moto style jacket which looks twice as expensive as it actually is! Like the vest, it can also be worn with just about anything.

Other options in the faux leathers include Ruby Rd.'s selection of metallic jackets. They are in this season's hottest bronzed and copper tones and are embellished with studs . Ruby Rd. also has coordinating pieces to go with their jackets making it sooo simple to put an outfit together! What can be easier than having someone do the hardest part for you?

No matter, what kind of faux leather jacket or vest you choose, you definitely don't want to go without one in your closet this season!

Vintage Tees for Women Are Fun & Easy to Wear!

2009-09-11T16:08:00.004-05:00

Vintages tees and hoodies are everywhere this season! This trend is so easy to wear and no longer restricted by size to just the junior crowd. We can all indulge in this trendy, super fun look!

Some of our favorite styles come from brands like DB Sport, Carrie Allen, Zashi and Emma. You'll find short sleeves, long sleeves, 3/4 sleeves, hoodies and sweaters. There is something for everyone and any time of year. Layer the short sleeve tees with bright long sleeve basic tees in the winter for another look.

We love to wear these retro gems with jeans, but you could also wear them with a short skirt, shorts, or twill pants. When you want to dress them up a little, add a fitted jacket like one from Live A Little. If you're feeling adventurous, try a colored denim pant or a bright miniskirt. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination with these colorful tops.

As for accessories, a bright bag like a Latico handbag will play well off of bright colors, adding an extra pop of color. Longer styles look stylish when belted with a chain belt or grommet belt. For the darker styles, a dark, studded bag and calf high boots would add a little edge.

Now that you know how to wear them, you can add a little excitement to your wardrobe with one of these "new" vintage tees. The hardest part now is choosing the perfect one!

Born Ballerina Flats Combine Comfort and Style for Fall!

2009-09-11T11:08:00.002-05:00

There are few shoe brands that are both as comfortable and affordable as Born. Constructed with soft leathers, cushioned insoles and comfort driven outsoles, Born knows when you are on your feet every day, you need a shoe that feels so good, you forget you are wearing them. They believe that shoes that feel good on your feet should also look good on your feet!

One of our favorites for fall is the new Adele ballet flat which is available in both brown and black. Adele has a simple rounded toe structure, but is kicked up a notch with a leather overlay, giving it a "wrapped" look, like a pretty little gift. The gathering at the toe adds another feminine touch.

You'll be amazed by the number of ways that you can wear the Adele flat. They are a stylish accessory to your favorite tunic/ legging combo, but you can easily wear them with jeans, bootcut pants or a casual skirt. Our favorite combo is a timeless look- casual khaki skirt, DB Sport graphic tee, Live a Little fitted jacket and the Adele in brown. Anyone can wear this look and add their own twist with their choice of tee and jacket or sweater.

No matter how you wear the Adele, we're confident you'll wear it often. It combines all of our favorite things into one fashionable package!

Decorative Measuring Cups and Spoons Make Great Gifts for Brides and Cooks!

2009-08-31T13:46:00.000-05:00

There are times when we all have to buy gifts for a friend, bride, mother-in-law, cousin, etc... who has everything imaginable. Out of desperation to get them something, you buy them new kitchen towels (at the last minute) only to go to their house and find 3 drawers full! Well, we've found something unique and original that will make you look like a star!

Ganz Queen of the Kitchen Measuring Cups

Ganz has an affordable collection of measuring cups and spoons that our customers love with choices including crosses, queen of the kitchen, cupcakes, teapots, flowers and more! They also have matching salt and pepper shakers and olive oil bottles that, with little effort, can be put together into a fun gift basket. Just add colorful filling and maybe a few Wind & Willow mixes to give it a little pizazz.

Each piece has an incredible amount of detail. The hefty measuring cups have decorative handles while the spoons have fun details throughout the entire piece. There are much more expensive designer versions available, but why buy a pricey version when you could buy several sets instead! Plus, at $20-40, you can give these away as "just because" gifts or stocking stuffers! Don't forget to treat yourself to a set as well!

To see more measuring cups and spoons by Ganz, click here.

The perfect sweater...

2009-08-28T08:15:00.006-05:00

Do your coworkers keep the thermostat on "frigid" all day forcing you to put on bulky layers of old sweaters and jackets? It's time to break out of the rut! Take your wardrobe up a notch this season with a few new sweaters and jackets. You make these changes even on a tight budget if you follow these rules.

1. Look for neutral colors like this charcoal gray sweater from Focus 2000. You will get a lot more mileage out of your grays, blacks, beiges and browns because they will work so well with many items in your wardrobe. You can keep a dark gray one like this tie front design on the back of your chair with the confidence that it will go with just about anything you wear to work.

2. Look for high quality at a low price- examine fabric content and construction. Polyester blends have more durability while acrylic blends tend to pill and age prematurely. Cotton is the natural choice, but expect some shrinkage. Cashmere is great, but can be pricey. If you have the room in your budget, the investment is worth it. Focus 2000's tie front sweater is only $54, but it's a good weight and has stylish details. Tribal also has some fantastic tie and button front sweaters checking in at less that $100.

3. Don't be afraid to get the same sweater in multiple colors. If you like cardigans and your favorite store is having a buy 1 get 1 half off sale, then stock up! There's no shame in having the same sweater in more than one color as long as it isn't a Christmas sweater with appliqued elves and reindeer!

Every woman should have at least 2-3 reliable sweaters! Treat yourself to warm, cuddly sweater this season!