I was super excited to shop at the Piperlime Pop-Up Store when I visited NYC.  Piperlime was been an online-only retailer since  opening in 2006 – that was until September 9 when they opened their Pop-Up location in Soho.  Intended to align with fashion week, it’s only open for 25 days…I’ll save you the math, it closes on October 3 (this Sunday).  If you’re in the area, I would encourage to you *pop* in for it’s final weekend.  No word on where it might *pop* up next, if at all…but it’s worth keeping an eye out!  Okay – enough pops for one post.

So the store had a pretty good selection of it’s online styles – for instance the Sam Edelman boots I’ve been eyeing (that’s right, I haven’t pulled the trigger yet) and the Marc by Marc Jacobs wine colored tote (even more beautiful in person).  My good friend and shopping buddy for the day found a number of great purchases – I know because I waited in the 20 minute dressing room line.  Lucky for me, they had a couch for while I waited.  They also had quite a bit of “styling” assistance including late nights with celebrity stylist, Rachel Zoe.  If you can’t visit the store while it’s around, definitely check out their website!  Rachel Zoe has her favorite picks for fall which are labeled throughout the site.  Here are some of my favorites from Miss Zoe’s picks:

Coats by BB Dakota
Boots by Sam Edelman

BB Dakota Sweater in Sandstone $88, pair it with leggings and boots, you’re ready for a night out or a trip to the mall!

Jack by BB Dakota Romaine Plush Coat.  Collared, belted, silver buttons = always chic…day, night, whenever.  For $70, we all need this jacket.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Baby Aiden for $458 (wah).

So…stop by Piperlime’s store if you can, but if you can’t – don’t fret!  Shop 24 hours a day online.  And really…who needs a stylist when you have the famous Rachel Zoe (and me) working for you.

Wherever you are, I hope it’s drier than where I am.

shops love!

Before my trip to NYC, I had been advised to stop at TopShop in SoHo.  So on Saturday, I did as I was told and stopped at TopShop on Broadway.  Just a little background – TopShop is a London based retailer with stores internationally, including its US flagship store in NYC.  TopShop has been around since the ’60s and includes some in-house designers as well as partnerships with the likes of Kate Moss.  One might compare TopShop to H&M in terms of their style and delivery, but I found the store to scream London fashion and was priced a little higher and perhaps better quality.

The store was huge and crowded, but I was determined to find something to bring home with me!  I bought this rose colored sweater ($70) that looks super cute with a cami underneath paired with anything denim.  I was also eyeing these other two pieces: the grecian dress ($54)  that would look HOT with black tights and the black dress ($118) which is adorable for any evening.  Unfortunately for me, I have no reason to shop for dresses right now.

If you decide to check them out online, be sure to switch to the US region (they will ship to the US for $10 flat rate and no tax)!  If you don’t switch regions, I hope you know how to covert pounds to dollars – I would’ve never known that 35 pounds would buy my $70 sweater!

I hope you enjoy TopShop – I’m happy to have another store on my radar!

shops love!

The winner of Tales and Sales’ first ever giveaway is….GREER BERK!!!!  Thanks to Greer – and everyone else who participated – Tales and Sales has over 50 new facebook fans/readers!  As a big THANK YOU, Greer will be receiving a brand new Lia Sophia necklace, the Nottingham, which retails for $118.  Greer – please send me your home address and I’ll get it to you ASAP – congrats!!!

I would like to thank everyone who participated in this referral giveaway and I hope that all of my new readers are enjoying Tales and Sales!  Please continue to read and refer…the next giveaway could be announced at any time

shops love!!!!

I visited Manhattan for the weekend and feel like I am back home in the blink of an eye.  Such a whirlwind – four hours driving both ways (not to mention stopping at the outlets both ways).  I love to visit the city, but I’m so not a city girl…I’m happy to be home with my big closet and backyard (I realize they have no relation to one another, but they are two things I appreciate about my house in the suburbs).  BUT, it’s fun to shop and people watch and see the latest trends walking the streets of Manhattan.

Normally, I would say the key to looking fabulous in NYC would be to look really put together without looking like you spent anytime on yourself.  In reality, that hardly relates to the fashion trends that I’m seeing right now.  So much is haute-hippy – people are spending so much money trying to look like they don’t care – oxymoron because they obviously do!  It was really warm on Saturday, and I met a great friend for lunch and shopping in SoHo…I saw lots of jean shorts with little shorty boots and baggy tops with cross-body bags.  Very California-esque.  Today the weather was much cooler, so I saw a few scarves.  I actually picked one up -  a black, chunky knit cowl loop.  Easy way to keep warm while looking chic with only a long-sleeve tee under.

I will post more of my weekend and my NYC fashion finds, but I am beat!  Even a Shopaholic gets tired…not from shopping, but from walking!  I’m used to doing everything from the convenience of my chair on my laptop.

Don’t forget, I’m announcing my first Giveaway winner on Monday evening!!!!!  Tune in to see who’s won the beautiful lia sophia necklace!!!!

shops love!

We’ve already established two ground rules for traveling to the city: layering and accessorizing.  The next big thing which will make or break your trip is your shoes!  It’s so easy to look into your closet and throw all of your favorite shoes in the suitcase, but don’t do it!  Pack them carefully and think about only bringing the most versatile shoes.  It’s always nice if you can pack in somewhat of a theme – for instance, I try to pack only things that I wear with my black shoes so that I don’t have to worry about bringing two pairs of pumps, etc.

Forecast this weekend in NYC – 80s in the daytime and 60s in the evening.  Sounds perfect to me!  I’m skeptical though and I think the city always feels cooler because the buildings keep the street covered in shadows.  Lots of walking, too, so I have to pick only my most comfortable shoes – I’ll save my heels for dinner only.  Based on all of the *shoe criteria* that I must follow, I’ll most likely wear my Frye boots to shop.  The great thing about them is that I can wear them with skinny jeans or pair them with a cute skirt!  Regardless of the temperature, a riding/walking boot will serve your purpose.

Here are two that I like: the first is my Veronica Slouch Frye Boot $328 (you’ve seen them before, I know, but they are appropriate today as well).  Second is the Steve Madden Smyrna $149 in black – I love this boot on so many levels – it goes with everything, can be dressed up or down (PERFECT for the city) and the solid colored wedge heel is going to make your legs appear even longer (a HUGE bonus for a shortie like me).

Most of the time when we travel for a weekend, we have dinner out.  This is your time to kick it up a notch!  For me, heels are a must for dinner, so I always make room for one *special* pair of pumps to wear for dinner.  I can sacrifice in the clothing department to make room for one extra pair of shoes (no more than 3 for the whole weekend).

Michael Kors, how did you do it?  Perfection in a ($195) Pump with your metallic glitter shoe.  I heart you.  If you want a similar *wow* effect, but need more cash for weekend activities, check out Nine West’s Red Hot Studit ($98).  Red is such a great fall color, and studs are all over the place these days!  If you just don’t have the room in your luggage, you can’t go wrong with this Nine West “Rocha” pump in a neutral shade.  Neutral, leather, pump…what’s not to love?

So in sum – I love shoes, but have to be mindful when packing for a trip.  I pack shoes that can go with multiple outfits and then break the rule for one evening out!

shops love!

ps…don’t forget about The Shopaholic’s giveaway!!!  Please continue to refer your friends until Monday, September 27th!

I am so excited to finally announce my first giveaway!!!!  I’ve been writing for 8 fantastic weeks and I’d like to thank you, the readers, for keeping me motivated and inspired. One lucky reader will receive the Lia Sophia “Nottingham” necklace – which retails for $118 – absolutely free!!  The Nottingham necklace is the perfect piece to transform your look from simple to chic!  It is loops of textured matte-gold interlocked with a 36-39′ necklace and a lobster clasp.  Wear it long or double it up to create a totally unique look!  Also, feel good about wearing this necklace because Lia Sophia gives a portion of the proceeds to the non-profit, Dress for Success!

Now to the important stuff…like how to win! The person who refers the most new readers to Tales and Sales will win the stunning Nottingham necklace – so simple!  There are two ways that I can track your entries:

1. The new reader can “like” Tales and Sales’ facebook page and post a comment that you referred them (on the fb page)

OR

2. Leave a comment on this post stating they are new to my blog and that they were referred by you!

I need to know the first and last name of the referrer (you) so that I can keep track of your entries.  The person who refers the most new readers will win!  (I will ship to anywhere in the US).

I hope you are as excited as I am!!!  I will announce the winner next Monday, September 27, 2010!!!!!  Start referring…now!

shops love!

So there are two really important things to consider when traveling to a big city: pack light and be ready for anything!  You need to pack light because the hotel rooms tend to be smaller, your mode of transportation may require that you carry all of your belongings, and you want to resist the temptation to spend too much time in your room.  The third reason leads me to my second important factor: be ready to anything!  When I visit Manhattan, I normally get up for breakfast and don’t get back to the room until evening because there is so much that I want to pack into my short weekend.  That being said, it’s super important that your look can easily go from day-shopper to bar-hopper (no bar hopping for me this weekend, but I still want a simple way to get ready for dinner without spending hours in my hotel room).

My biggest tip would be to accessorize!  Pack some essential pieces that you could re-wear (jeans and shoes) and bring neutral tops.  It’s so simple to transform your look by throwing on a statement necklace or swapping earrings.  Never underestimate the power of some bold jewelry.

This evening, I’m hosting a Lia Sophia Jewelry Party.  Lia Sophia is a direct sales jewelry company and they make beautiful pieces for a good price.  Think of them as a “Luxe-for-Less” line.  I went to my first party a couple months ago, and when my friend said she was going to start selling, I quickly signed up to host!  Besides the fact that it’s fun, you get sooo much free stuff when you host a party.  Feel free to check out the site and place an order if you’d like!  I’ve seen their jewelry in some of the gossip mags lately too.  LS makes just the pieces to turn your look around!

So next time you’re packing for a big city, think carefully before packing.  Most likely, you will wear less clothes than you anticipate and being able to throw on a new necklace, earrings, and pumps will make your life easier!

shops love!

The Shopaholic is off to Manhattan this weekend…it will be a quick trip, but filled with get-togethers with friends and family!  I am so excited, however the packing always gets me a little stressed.  Everything is dependent upon weather – the most I can ask for is no rain.  This week I will post exclusively on tips to city trips…from packing, to walking, to layering.

I foresee my wardrobe for the days consisting of jeans, comfy shoes, a layering tank, sweater, and perhaps a jacket of some sort.  I need to tell you about my favorite layering tank.  Snug Camisoles – if you’ve never heard of it, go there now, buy one, and thank me later.  They have about 4 different styles, each in approximately 30 colors.  I only have the ‘Camisole’ but I will definitely go for the ‘Wide Strap Camisole’ next.

Before I found Snug – well let me back up – My mom actually bought me my first snug (and 3 since my first).  She said the store owner said they can’t keep them in stock and I didn’t understand the hype.  I always loved my j. crew under-tanks and didn’t foresee something to sway me.  My first snug was purple, so I didn’t have too many chances to wear it – but it didn’t take long to realize why the store owner couldn’t keep them in stock!  When my mom went back and asked me which colors I wanted, I replied “black, white and tan.”  Ask and you shall receive!  Thanks mom

So anyways, check them out…they are $38 but they hold up really well.  After months of wearing/washing, mine still have the same shape, have not shrunk and continue to keep me happy.  I plan to pack all of my Snugs for my trip this weekend since I can wear them under my sweaters, jackets, etc.  Snugs are intended not only for layering, but they also make the half-tanks if you just need some “coverage” for the ladies, if you know what I mean.

So that’s my first tip for city trips…layering.  I can discuss the rest of my layering later on, but for now, check out Snug!

ps…I was NOT paid to write this, I just love my Snugs that much!

shops love!

We love our troops so much that they’ve influenced an entire trend this fall season.  I’ve seen military-inspired cargos, jackets, handbags, and boots!  Not much more to say other than that it rocks!  I love the details: zippers, buttons, leather – gives an edge to an otherwise laid back look.  Here is just a sampling what can be found in stores now!

Free People Skinny Military Cargos – $98

Sanctuary Uniform Belted Jacket – $158 (Nordstrom)

Roxy New Autumn Cap – $36 (Nordstrom)

Miss Sixty Blair Boot – $189 (Zappos)

And for the Camo Ladies…Michael Kors Camo Tote – $328 (Ebags which has 25% Off 1 Item! Hurry, ends Sunday 9/19)

Like always…I encourage this look in moderation – perhaps you could choose one of the above items and pair it with your favorite jeans, or throw on a simple white tee with the cargos and Michael Kors bag.  Whatever you do…don’t forget about the men and women who inspired this AMAZING trend.  Wear it with honor

Happy Weekend!

shops love

The sun has stopped shining and the temperatures are continuing to drop – in just a couple of short months, the ground will be covered in white snow.  Until then, the forecast is rain….cold and rainy…how depressing?!  Well…rather than focus on the negative, let’s look on the bright side, we can buy cute rain gear!  By *gear* I’m talking adorable rain boots to slosh around in while sporting the cutest of anorak jackets.  Pop open your cutest umbrella and voila!  You’ve suddenly become the goddess of rain and people will be wondering why you’re so happy.

Must have for rainy days…Hunter boots.  They come in a variety of colors and sizes (short or tall) [retail for $150-$200], and you can even buy cute welly socks to make them appropriate for the colder days (socks are $30).  I have shiny black, tall Hunters that I like to wear with black welly socks – so I’m not the most adventurous when it comes to color, but regardless they are so comfortable and chic.  Go basic with shiny or matte black and then you can add a pop of color with the welly socks!

Next up on your rainy day checklist…Raincoat!  My raincoat is North Face because they are a reliable and trusted brand when it comes to being covered in inclement weather…oh, and they are super stylish as well.  During the summer and warmer fall days, I like my “Venture” jacket which is lightweight and $99.  For the cooler fall days, they have a more insulated version.  For those of you who want a more ladylike raincoat, Betsey Johnson is your gal!  Her Flounce Hem jacket ($138) has all the right features including the zipped pockets and water repellent material while maintaining some frill and gathering in the waist.  With the stow away hood, you can wear it even after the rain has stopped!

Lastly, your umbrella.  Opt for something that is portable that you never have to be left without.  Nothing is worse than being caught in a rainstorm without an umbrella.  Pick a color/design that screams YOU.  This is your chance to show some personality on a rainy day…mine is black/white polka dots.  Whatever your style, make sure it’s small but sturdy – it would be so embarrassing to have your umbrella flips inside out!

So maybe we’re not going to HOPE for rain, but at least now we can survive it – and look cute at the same time.

shops love!