May 1, 2008

Go Summer Skirt Surfing Here

Lately, the skirt has been getting the short shrift.

Mainly due to the mega wattage of her sexy sister - the dress.

But for spring and summer, swingy print skirts are sitting pretty.

There’s so much to love about these saucy and short (not Mariah Carey short, though) numbers. Pair with a tank and flat sandals for play or wear with a slim blouse, shrunken blazer and wedges for work; swap out the blouse for a sultry top, and, presto, you’re ready for a mojito.

Start skirt surfing here:

French Connection’s Under the Sea Floral Skirt is chic, and a tad cheeky, with a black-and-white print, hidden pockets and wide (and flattering) waistband.

Evoking a Mondrian-ish vibe (in green apple, brown, white and lemon hues), the lightweight cotton Campaigne Print Skirt, with ribbon trim around the waist, is a stylish option for those who want a subtle swish.

The Silk Charmeuse Pencil Skirt has a perfect pattern to lighten up any professional outfit. Pair it with a white jacket and heels and you’re good to go for hours.

Zip up the happy Marc by Marc Jacobs’ Geo Gems Shantung Skirt in yummy shades of raspberry, chocolate and tomato, and prepare to wreak skirt envy.

May 2, 2008

Heat Up 9 to 5 in One of These Hot Little Numbers

Whether buttoned-down or just plain clowning around, there is something appealing about sporting your man’s clothing.

It could be the looser fit, the sexy front buttons, or even the feel of the fabric. Yet we usually end up rocking that look in only two safe places:

In front of the stove or under a nice down-comforter.

But not anymore!

This season there’s a hip, stylish way for you to mirror a man’s class and comfort between 9 and 5.

The shirtdress.

See and be seen in one of these hot numbers:

Laundry by Design has a V-neck Wrap Shirtdress which could be slightly shorter than the office standard, but paired with leggings or even skinny jeans, this collared, cargo-styled dress offers a spicy choice for casual Friday.

Wanna keep things spicy? Try Ann Taylor’s Notch Collar Shirtdress. This cotton sateen shirtdress offers a crossover bodice and ties that flatter the waistline and compliment any body style.

If you are going for extra caliente, try this Charter Club Floral Belted Shirtdress or the Sleeveless Shirtdress by INC. Sporty and trendy, both looks give a smart girl like you that bold exclamation point you need to finish any statement.

May 5, 2008

The Best in Click-spiration

Oh no. It’s Monday. Again. How did that happen already?

No doubt you’re in need of something to provide a bit of an escape from this morning’s doldrums. Yes?

Well, then, make haste to the AOL Coaches page for some click-spiration.

AOL Coaches offers coaching in all sorts of categories.

But since you’re a super smart woman in business, let’s go straight to the Business & Career section and then the Money channel (notably skipping right past the Diet & Fitness channel – thereby feeling zero guilt as we all grab another latte and settle in).

Here’s a few worth checking out:

Jack Canfield: Listening to the founder of the ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul’ series is like popping open a can of optimism. Somehow everything he says sounds so...good.

Tory Johnson: She’s the hottest expert around on working from home. (Sounds pretty good, too, huh?) Check out the excerpt on “How to Ask For Telecommuting” from her latest book (co-authored with Robyn Spizman) Take This Book to Work.

Jean Chatzky: This ever popular (and so real you never get tired of her) Money Coach talks you through simple ways to be smarter about money. (Consider it done. So, does that mean we can go shopping now?)

May 6, 2008

A Whole New Look For You – and Your Books

Some women have a thing for shoes. Others have a weakness for books.

(Well, ok. Shoes, too. But today we’re talking books.)

Novels. Meaty bios. Chic-lit. Spiritual. (Self-help. No need to broadcast that though, is there?) Business.

So many books. So little time.

But how to carry all your favorites around with you? Certainly not in one of those little tote carts on wheels. Handy, yes. Stylish, definitely not.

Instead, streamline your act with one of these electronic book readers.

Trust us, once you go portable, you’ll never go back. Here’s the latest in these trusty little contraptions:

Amazon’s wireless reading device Kindle uses a high-resolution display technology that’s easy on the eyes. Its “Whispernet” technology allows you to shop for and download a book the minute you have a craving for, say, a British romance novel.

The size of a paperback, the Sony Reader Digital Book holds about 160 eBooks at a time. It works with the Sony Connect store, where over 20,000 eBooks await your download.

The ultra hip are opting to read on their BlackBerry’s or smartphones. Download the free Mobipocket e-reader to your BlackBerry or do a Web search for “download e-books to (insert your PDA here)” to get started.

May 7, 2008

Discover (and Design) Your Inner ‘Gal’

You’re known for your impeccable style... and the fact that you dash off around three dozen sticky notes daily.

Some for your co-workers, some for yourself – always leaving them in super-obvious hard-to-overlook locations.

Like smack dab in the middle of their computer screens.

Looking for an even better way to make your notes stand out?

Consider designing your own personal note cards with an illustrated “you” printed right on them.

Designhergals.com lets you design (and outfit) working girls who resemble you in every way, from your chicly shod feet to your spectacular specs.

Once your Gal is designed, stick her image on stationery, little note pads, stickers, personal note cards, etc. Add your name, email address, favorite catch phrase or whatevs to it, and you’ve got personalized paper products.

What’s handy about the site is that you can order products individually, or you can sign up for a “Gal to Gal Membership” for a nominal fee and print all the paper products you want for a full year.

At last. The perfect excuse to write even more notes.

P.S. While you’re discovering your inner Designher Gal, feel good knowing that 5% of every purchase goes to support Stage IV breast cancer patients.

May 8, 2008

Cocktail Couture: Fab Glassware to Imbibe By

Yes, you’re all about planning ahead. The early bird gets the worm... and all that.

So, let’s review the facts:

a) Spring is in the air
b) It’s almost Friday
c) It’s 5 o’ clock somewhere

Clearly it’s time to begin thinking about... cocktails!

Whether you’re a martini maven, vodka and tonic vixen or wine-of-any-kind-is-wonderful woman, when absorbing your elixir of choice, sipping from a pretty glass only sweetens the experience.

So when planning a Mexican fiesta, drinks with your gal-pals, or a relaxing night for one after a hard day’s work, serve in scrumptiously stylish glassware to add an extra shot of zing to a party of any size. Get your gulp on one of these:

Decorated with colorful hand-painted flowers, Anthroplogie's Florid Martini Glasses are ideal for toasting at a sunny soiree or girly gabfest.

Guests will feel like royalty while sipping sangria—or soda—from Gump's gorgeous Gilded Glasses. The set of made-in-the-USA clear glasses come in shimmering 22-karat gold with jewel-colored paisley prints.

These hand-painted wine glasses by Lolita are sure to get the conversation going in the right direction. Choose from an array of fun designs like “Who Needs a Man” to “Kind of a Diet” or the one-size-fits-all “Shopaholic”.

Cheers!

May 9, 2008

Heed the Call of the Wild: Go Shopping

Monday through Thursday, you just can’t help it. Your animal instincts take over and you’re constantly on the prowl. Stalking big business – hunting down one achievement after another.

But now it’s Friday – enough of the work week already. Let’s turn our attention to tracking down some fun in the fashion jungle – the latest in pick-of-the-litter prints.

From zebra and tiger stripes to leopard and cheetah spots, animal prints are everywhere, on everything.

Whether it’s a frock, jacket or accessory, every smart girl needs at least one animal print piece --guaranteed to make her style roar.

Echo’s Reversible Cheetah Print Lined Cape is ideal for pretty kitties who want the option of going demure or dangerous.

Following the laws of nature, Lauren Merkin’s Cassie Tote in Zebra is targeted as primo prey by discriminating divas.

The claws will most certainly come out in order to snatch up this Ruche Leopard Print Tank. It goes purrr-fectly with designer jeans, or underneath a preppy cardigan.

These Boutique 9 Python open toe platform shoes will subtly show them that you have a wild side – capable of swallowing the competition in one, large bite.

May 12, 2008

Get the Latest in Success NOW

When was the last time you took the time to figure out your natural, inherent strengths? And then improve your ability to put those strengths to work? (And, no, that pilates class you’re thinking about taking doesn’t count.)

We’re talking strengths like your amazing aptitude to strategize. Or your incredible persistence. Or your natural talent for motivating others.

OK. We know. It’s been a long time.

Need a little motivation to get going? How about this:

1. On demand (as in whenever you want) online workshop.
2. Easy worksheets.
3. Cute guy teaching.

Thought you’d be interested...

Tune into a little Marcus Buckingham. You know, the “First, Break All The Rules” guy and strengths-extraordinaire guru?

His three-hour workshop, available on Oprah.com (or iTunes) is broken up into eight manageable sessions, and you’ll be joined by a small group of women (including Oprah) who are all on the same journey to self-discovery.

He hits on some big questions: Are you stuck in a job you hate? Have you lost the passion you once felt for your field? Do you feel like, no matter how much coffee you drink, you still feel drained of energy?

Lucky for us, Buckingham’s strength is in explaining exactly what to do about it.

Here’s to a new – and strengths enhanced – you.

May 13, 2008

Get Back to Your Dreams with Cool Hook-Up Books

Ahhh, summer is just around the corner, indeed.
And there’s no better time to kick back, grab a cold drink, and spend some time getting reacquainted with old friends.

Namely those dreams and aspirations you so neatly tucked away last fall.

Lazy, hazy days of summer are the perfect time to dream - to fantasize, draw, sketch, tear out pages from magazines, write down favorite quotes, collect inspiring photos, scribble ideas...

And to be sure you properly capture it all, use a Start Here NY Linkable Notebook (or two..or ten) to keep everything neatly organized.

These very cool hook-up books have pockets on the covers to allow for infinite expansion. Simply slide the back page of one into the crisp, white front cover of the other. Start a new one (using a different paper color) each time you have a new brainstorm, without losing any of your old notes.

Tip: For the most note-taking space, try the three-level notebook, which includes blank sheets, lined paper and grid paper.

Now nothing stands between you and that masterpiece, invention, bestseller......... Let the good dreams roll.

May 14, 2008

Restore Some Order AND Give Back at the Same Time

Did you hear that?

That was the sound of thousands of women throwing open their closet doors this morning – sighing in utter disbelief at the chaos within.

Judging from the mountains of shoes and rods bulging with hangers, you’d think your closet was a long-forgotten stock room. (“Um... could I get a stock boy in here?”)

Time for action.

And, as luck would have it, a few do-good organizations are standing by to route your old shoes, dresses and other unwanted things to other less fortunate (but equally fashion-conscious) women:

• Let your gently worn shoes walk a mile on someone else’s feet by donating them to Share Your Soles, a fabulous group that puts shoes on the feet -- and joy on the faces -- of thousands.
  
  
• Donate your glam gowns, so a financially strapped prom-bound girl can feel gorgeous on her big night.
  
  
• Send your wedding gown to Brides Against Breast Cancer, and make a cancer patient’s wish come true.
  
  
• Finally, now that you can see a little more clearly (a la less clutter), clear up someone else’s fuzzy vision by donating your glasses to New Eyes for the Needy.

Ahhh. Restoring order and giving back at the same time. Brings new meaning to the definition of multi-tasking.

May 15, 2008

Sizzling Summer Chic: Minis Are Major

Calling all who love to shop (and are forced to work to compensate for it).

Time to get your mini on -- with a may-ja shopping spree.

Yes, there's nothing that sets your strappy-sandal-clad feet afire more than an outfit that's easy -- and comfortable -- and spotlight stealing.

And this season, achieving that ultimate style trifecta is a breeze with a killer crop of mini dresses.

Go soignée, girly glam, or urbanista hip. It all depends on fabric, color, print. And, duh, accessory choices.

The perfect frock is out there just waiting for you to find it. Start here.

The epitome of boho-luxe, the Alexandra Dillon Babydoll Minidress is elegant without an ounce of haughtiness. The interesting print (in bold green and white geometric) make this a must-have-now.

Channel an edgy Aphrodite in a gorgeous slate gray Studded Sleeveless Dress with Pockets by MK2K. With a smocked bustline, funky stud neck detailing and flirty welt pockets, be prepared to unleash the goddess within.

This Karina Grimaldi Zuni Silk Mini is one of a kind. With long sleeves and grey feather pattern, this retro inspired beauty is fit for any occasion.

Ulla Johnson's Ynez Dress in Fuchsia proves the designer knows how to please a woman. Can you say knockout?

May 16, 2008

Poolside Perfect Style Revealed: the Latest in Cover-Ups

Disguise your fabulous self to fit in with the crowd? Never.

Hide your smarts to make a man feel brainy? Not on your life.

Do a little covering up when trotting around poolside or seaside? Oh, yeah.

Because, really? You don’t need to share everything with dozens of complete strangers, thanks very much. (Or even you’re family, for that matter.)

Just make sure you cover up with something that’s every bit as adorable as the swimsuit underneath. A few that fit the bill:

A lemony yellow printed ruffle shift from J Crew is a sweet take on a classic shape. And those ruffles are just the right amount of cute.

Shoshanna’s sexy lace cover-up lets plenty of you peek through. The perfect match for a petite bikini.

An embroidered tunic by Gap is stylish and versatile. Simply add leggings to take your act indoors.

And how about this for convertibility: The swingly, strapless Sanur dress by J Crew works as a midlength strapless dress, short strapless dress, swing top or a skirt.

May 19, 2008

Stunning Elegance Meets Success

With your not-a-hair-out-of-place coiffure, those oversized sunglasses, and that to-die-for bag on your arm, you’re the spitting image of classic Hollywood chic.

OK. Let’s get real. It’s Monday.

The last time you had not-a-hair-out-of-place coiffure was... well, actually, never.

And the oversized sunglasses are there because.. well, once again, you were short on sleep and long on play over the weekend, and have dark circles to show for it.

But the to-die-for bag on you’re carrying? Why, girlfriends, who would have ever guessed that handy dandy arm candy is actually a supremely elegant -- file tote.

Yes, you’ll definitely be amazingly Hollywood chic with the gorgeous Audrey Tote from russell+hazel.

With just the right touch of classic design coupled with a nod to contemporary couture, this beauty comes in matte white or glossy black, with detachable leather handles.

So much style for the ordinary task of schlepping files around.

Welcome back, elegance. May we be together, always.

May 20, 2008

Entrepreneurs Click Here: This Class Is Totally In

There are times to wing it.

Like, when you’re asked to make an impromptu toast or when your laptop blitzes out in the middle of a big presentation.

But when it comes to starting or building a business, well, you try to be a tad more methodical.

So here’s a grand resource, to that end: Bank of America’s small business resource center. Unlike some freebie sites, this one will keep you clicking for more, thanks to page after page of smart content.

The lineup of animated, interactive workshops -- starting with “Developing a Business Plan” (found in the Starting Your Business channel) -- are anchored in real-world case studies. (Yep, just like real business school.)

For example, in “Building Your Brand” (found in the Growing Your Business channel), you’ll learn how brand equity may be your most valuable asset. And just how do you build brand equity? Take a look at how a tiny yogurt company called Stonyfield Farm became a $70 million-a-year player then went on to sell to Group Danone for $200 million.

A series of worksheets lets you apply case study lessons to your business idea.

So sharpen your pencils, girls. Class is definitely in.

May 21, 2008

Geena Davis Scores One for The Girls

Growing up, you may have loved those leopardy getups worn by Josie and the Pussycats. And you no doubt tried a neck scarf or two thanks to the meticulously kerchief’ed Daphne from “Scooby-Doo.”

Watching TV as a kid certainly taught you a thing or two about style.

But did girlhood tv and movies teach you what you really needed to know?

Things like perseverance, ambition, success. And, as a female, you can do anything you put your mind to.

Fast forward, and today, years later, Academy Award-winning actress Geena Davis is on the case. She is the founder of See Jane, a program designed to raise awareness that kid-oriented TV shows and movies are still using age-old female (and male) stereotypes. And that male characters far outnumber females.

That’s dangerous, she says, because media teaches kids what they should expect from themselves. And if girls don’t see enough of what they could be, well, they may not rise to achieve their full potential. (See the full report.)

See Jane has goals to significantly increase the percentage of female characters and reduce gender stereotyping in media made for children under 11. Anyone can get involved.

Now this is a cause worth watching.

May 23, 2008

Style Trend – Maxi Dresses are Hot For Summer

Memorial Day Weekend is here signaling the unofficial start of summer, and baby, it’s going to be hot. Consequently, you’ll feel hott, and you’ll want to look hottter, all the while staying totally cool.

So, while it may be tempting to pull out that mini dress that you spent the entire winter working-out to wear, depending on the occasion, due to the length (or lack thereof) a mini may not be the best option.

Instead, opt for one of the season’s hippest trends -- a long and flowing Maxi dress.

Free that fabulous style of yours in one of these:

This Paisley Halter Maxidress from Victoria’s Secret will be perfect for a Saturday night outdoor cocktail party and Sunday brunch followed by an afternoon concert in the park.

For a more casual look, try the French Connection Betty Block Jersey Dress or the Deanna Floral Maxi by Elie Tahari. Pair with a thong sandal or low wedged heel for casual Friday at the office or to be cute and comfy at the company summer fling.

Finally, if you’re looking to light his fire, you’ll love the Long Chiffon Print Dress by Diane von Furstenberg.

Now that’s hottt.

May 27, 2008

Modern Monograms on the Market

You’re all about getting personal.

Good thing, too. Because out-with-preppy and in-with-chic monograms are popping up everywhere – and in places far hipper than on your towels.

With spunky lettering and fresh takes on a classic motif, monogramming has become one of the hottest ways to display that signature style of yours. Go custom with one of these looks:

Shop L.A.’s high-end Monogram Market where everything is unique. Need a cool new piece for your desk? The custom tray with nail head trim can be put to work as in-box. Or select a small suede journal with your initials embroidered on the spine. Maybe the Striped Pam Tote is just what you’ve been looking for. The best part: plucking your very own monogram style from the dozens of options.

Red Stamp’s personalized paperweight makes a lovely addition to your office. Its smaller size makes it petite-chic, while its flat top makes it entirely modern.

Need a great hostess gift? Horchow’s monogrammed coasters or monogrammed dotted silk photo albums will have her gushing “Oh, you shouldn’t have...but I’m so glad you did!”

May 28, 2008

Buy a Skirt, Save the Planet

We know. You woke up this morning just looking for a good excuse to go shopping.

So imagine this – what if every time you swiped your credit card, a few dollars went to the charity of your choice?

When you do your online shopping through GoodShop, up to 30% of your purchase price goes straight to a charitable cause or school.

For example, the ASPCA has earned over $14,000, thanks to all the do-good shopping on GoodShop.

It’s so simple, it’s almost silly not to shop this way. So here you go:

1. Visit GoodShop.
   
   
2. Select the charity or school you want to support. (And if you have time for a diversion, spend a few minutes eavesdropping on what celebs are supporting. Drew Barrymore, for example, antes up for the United Nations World Food programme.)
   
   
3. Use the drop-down menu to select the store you want to shop. A bridge page shows you what percentage of your purchase will be donated to your charity. Choose from Amazon, Gap, iTunes, J.Crew, Macy’s, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue and eBay – just to name a few.

The next thing you know – voila! – you’re shopping like usual. Except that you’re also doing good. (Definitely qualifies as a great excuse to shop.)

May 29, 2008

Shoe Alert - Let Your Passion for Patent Run Rampant

One would think “Happy Feet” is just a cute little movie about a dancing penguin.

But we Uptown girls know “Happy Feet” has a meaning entirely unto itself. Namely, that giddy “Life Doesn’t Get Any Better Than This” sensation we feel when slipping our feet into a brand new pair of s-h-o-e-s.

And this Summer it’s all about patent s-h-o-e-s.

Yes, flip-flops may win on comfort, but a feisty flash of patent -- with a heel -- takes the style cake, hands-down.

By the way, go ahead and ‘brighten up’ while you’re at it. After all, summer was made for bold colors and ultra-bright whites like these:

Aldo Hien in White: Sleek, stark white patent gives this statuesque peep-toe pump a glam-meets-mod appeal.

The Nickels Soft Jaguar Demi Wedge in Pink will have you purring for more.

Chloe Patent Leather Sandals in Blue: This splurge-worthy sandal charms with its chunky straps and ocean blue hue.

BCBGirls Annie in Yellow or Pink: Go cheerful in bright yellow or girly in pale pink with this button-detailed heel.

Patent Crisscross Sandals in Red: Liven up your LBD by pairing it with these red-hot-for-summer delights .

May 30, 2008

Summer’s Coolest Cashmere is Hot

Figures.

You’ve finally packed up your sweaters in anticipation of summer, and now all you see are oh-so-covetable cashmere cardigans in enough bright colors to rival a Skittles bag.

And though your stash of cardigans is sitting in a mothball-secured storage facility somewhere, we’ve found a few hot numbers to help you get in on the trend.

Add your own cami, slim-fit white jeans or trousers, and loafers for the ultimate casual-chic summer look.

J.Crew Cashmere V-Neck Cardigan: Reveling in this luxuriant Italian cashmere is the easy part. Trying to decide which brilliant hue to get—sweet orange, kelly green, bright papaya, etc.—however, is a tougher task.

Tory Burch Emelda Cardigan: Available in navy or rose, this lightweight cardy boasts an intricate and exotic cut-out design that makes it stand out from the pack.

Victoria’s Secret Silk & Cashmere Cardigan Sweater: This bold button-down packs maximum style for minimum bucks, and is a steal on price.

Banana Republic BR Monogram Cashmere Ribbed Cardigan: Flirt with this season’s huge neon trend by picking up this textured cardigan in neon pink, lime green, or intense blue.