The Real Deal

Has everyone heard about the Coach Vs. JoAnn Fabric's lawsuit that's going on? Apparently, JoAnn's had produced a fleece fabric (on the bottom right in the picture) that looks very suspiciously like the signature Coach "C's" pattern. Yes, a fleece. I was really hoping to make a home-sewn Coach Snuggie, so I guess since its been pulled from stores I'm out of luck! Anyway, there is now a huge lawsuit going on involving copyright issues.

I can't count the number of times I've spotted fake designer bags. Most often its a bad Louis Vuitton, Coach, Fendi or Prada. I "purse-sonally" do not understand why people would buy a bag that is obviously a fake, because its really not fooling anyone, and the market for fakes is laden with all sorts of shady activity(which one supports if they buy from it, not the designer who deserves the credit).

I would must rather purchase a quality item that is more individual than something that is mass produced, either fake or real; pieces that not everyone can have, but won't break the bank are ideal. So, I've posted a few examples of bags from Cheap Thrills that first of all, aren't fake, and secondly, have lots of personality.

Pictured:

The Ice Cream Bucket purse is an adorable and unique small carrier that is made of wood and is great for someone who really wants something different.

The Dark Red embossed leather piece in the center is a great piece that will transition well from daytime at the office to a relaxed evening out with friends.

The brown leather shoulder strap bag with mushroom motif is so funky and unique, its great for casual days when one needs a little more room to carry around their belongings.

Stop by the store to see more truly unique bags.

What do you think? Is it okay to buy a designer fake? Will Coach or JoAnn's win the lawsuit?

Goodbye, Mom Jeans.

Our model is wearing a high waisted leather pencil skirt with a shrunken maroon blazer with two front pockets. The skirt is really versatile and could be worn with a crisp white shirt for work, and the blazer could be worn with a variety of skirts, jeans, trousers or even a cute pair of shorts.

Goodbye Mom Jeans, hello stylish ladies!

I've heard a lot of women say that they don't like high waisted styles because they're afraid of looking outdated, and think that high waisted styles won't flatter them. Fear not! I've shared some tips here that should help you conquer high-waist-phobia and look good while doing it.

High waisted styles are really in right now, so here are a few ways to wear them well!

• Pick a fabric that glides against your skin, but doesn't stick or cling to it.
• Make sure it fits regardless of what number size it is. No one can see that except you.
• Opt for darker washes of jean and darker colors if you're worried about accentuating your hips.
• Choose a style that doesn't have a lot of added fabric bulk at the pockets or around the waistline. I've heard that a lot of women actually sew down any pockets and physically cut out the pocket lining so it looks like there is a pocket, but there isn't any added bulk.
• Stay away from styles that have a lot of buttons on the front, as they look bulkier. Stay away from shorts or skirts that are fitted if they are made with ribbed knit. The knit often looses its shape.
• Choose a length that is most flattering to your legs. If you're short, don't pick a style that cuts off your calves and swallows your body up in fabric, but try for an at the knee or above length. If your tall, don't opt for something extremely short or you will look disproportionately long-legged.
• When choosing high waisted skirts, don't limit yourself to one style. People often immediately think "pencil skirt" when thinking high waisted. But there are so many different drapes and styles that can flatter every figure, try different things and see if any of them work for you.
• If you're self conscious of the angular difference between your hips and waist, try pairing your high waisted style with a cardigan almost the same length as your hemline, but a few inches shorter. The high waistline will still be shown off, but there won't be a huge visual difference between the hips and the waist. You can belt your cardigan, button a few buttons, or leave the buttons undone for a more casual feel.

Get Waisted!

Since we've been discussing high waisted garments on the ole' Facebook page, I thought I'd post this skirt and sweater combo we have in store right now. High waisted skirts and trousers are really of the moment, actually quite versatile, and can flatter many different figure types. On Friday I'll be posting a few tips on how to effectively wear them to flatter your figure and feel confident while doing so.

The top is actually a sweater vest, worn without the typical under layer but more as a shirt. I love how this sweater-and-pencil-skirt combination give off a slightly preppy vibe, yet are so different from anything classically "preppy". We also have a sweet matching fringe vest that goes with this leather skirt, but you'll have to come in the store to check it out.