Swim Suit Season

The hot blast we had yesterday had fashionistas out in tanning positions all over the metro.

I've not had the pleasure putting myself thru much swim suit searching yet so I've been prowling the net for ideas.

InStyle has a great section about figure-flattering suits. Check it out and leave a comment if you find a great style around town!

Cheers!

Save the Date

It's Friday, YAY! Get your calendar out because I have some great dates for you.

Next week:
Two Chic Blvd. is moving the Girls' Wearhouse to 151st & Metcalf. Actually, it's two blocks east. (Does anyone remember the Conveyor Coffee Shop? It's that fabulous building!)
The Girls' space is the entire second floor and to celebrate, owner, Missy Hutton, is throwing a huge Grand Opening Sales Event, May 3-5th.
Thurs. night 5-9pm.
Friday 10am to 6 pm.
Saturday 10am to 4 pm
Several other vendors will have their fabulous products there as well. Visit the web site for more details.


Looking ahead:
June 28th is the next Haute Market party. Make sure you are on the newsletter mailing list to get updates and maybe event a VIP ticket discount!

Skin-tastic

If you were one of the hip fashionista's at the Spring Fashion Fling event, chances are you have a swag bag with one fab gift certificate for Bella Skin Professionals' fabulous collagen building facial. Make sure you use that certificate, valued at $50!

Bella has a long list of services from facials, to hair removal to cellulite removal. I can't wait to get in to Bella and get my facial! Have you tried it yet? Let us know. Post your comments right here on the blog, or email us. We want your feedback!

The Morning After

Wow...what a turn out for the Spring Fashion Fling at the Wine Bar last night. I'm glad I have some samples of Nutrisoda drinks left this morning to kick my system back into gear after having several samples of X-Rated Fusion Liqueur! :)

See photos of the party on our event page. Stay tuned for loads of great info about the June event.

If you want to be a vendor in our events, please check out our vendor page for more info. June is full but we're working on scheduling a fall event soon.

Thanks to everyone who braved the weather and came out for a great night of shopping, eating and sampling. It was fun to see so many smiling faces! Cheers!

PJ's for Kids!

Join us in helping the Pajama Program collect new pajama's and books for children in need. Helping is easy! Just purchase a new pair of pj's (even include a book if you can for the whole bedtime package) then take the pj's to a drop off location.

The Haute Market shopping party, tonight, will be a drop off location. Guests are encouraged to come with pj's in tow.

1000 Nights of Comfort:
The Pajama Program is new to our area, but known nationwide and was even on Oprah this month. To launch the program in K.C., Chapter President, Kristeen Jones, has set a goal of 1000 pj's and books collected in 30 days.

We can do it!
Many children go to shelters only with clothes on their backs. That means they sleep in those same clothes. And chances are, they don't have a bedtime routine to settle their minds and ease them after their ordeals. A cozy set of PJ's and a book can help warm their hearts and minds for a peaceful sleep.
Ask your neighbors to collect, or your co-workers. Your childrens' school could help. Get creative then come with arms full of PJ's to one of the drop off locations listed on the 1000pjs.com web site.

Bring It On

Tomorrow is the big day...or night. The Haute Market shopping party is going to be one fab fiesta! Complimentary snacking - including a chocolate fountain. Free drink samples from X-Rated Fusion Liqueur and Mad Housewife wines. LOADS of fab products to help you bring out your inner fashionista. You must have advance tickets - TICKETS WILL NOT BE SOLD AT THE DOOR - SOLD OUT!

Check out these great new clothes just in at Frankie & Jules:
Tunic's are "in". I think this is a great item for our finicky weather. Light enough to wear on a warm day, but still a bit cozy for when the wind and the chill kick up outside.

If you want to make a statement this season, medallions are your answer! This top is great for women who don't like to think about adding accessories to an outfit because this top does it all. Black Medallion Tunic, $49.95.

Frankie & Jules has a cute new silver and gray tunic-style dress. At this price tag, you should definitely have one as it's so versitile, you'll definitely wear it a lot. Just $29.95.

Another fabulous piece for Spring, sure to turn heads...this brown and turquoise Dip-Dyed Dress, $59.95. Dresses are huge this Spring and with this unique dip-dyed dress you can look fabulous and be comfortable at the same time. Also, it has adjustable ties on the sides which allow you to cinch the sides up if you prefer to show more leg. Ooh la la!

Weekend Ticket Update

As of 5pm today, the Wine Bar has five regular admission and five swag tickets left.
I now have a few more General Admission tickets left at Haute Market central. But no swag. If you want to go to the party and don't mind about the swag, go to the site and order now. :)

Faboo Friday Announcement

Haute Market is proud to be sponsoring the Pajama Program and it's new Kansas Chapter! New to the area, but well-known in other parts of the country, the Pajama Program collects new pj's and books for kids awaiting permanent homes.
Founder, Genevieve Piturro, was interviewed on Oprah a few weeks ago to promote this fabulous cause. (See clips)

Please help us collect 1000 pj's in 30 days!
Coming to the Spring Fashion Fling next Tuesday?
Bring a new pair of pj's to the shopping party for a free entry ticket to a special prize package drawing worth over $100!
Visit our site for other drop-off locations.

Fab Finds at Haute Market

The Spring Fashion Fling VIP party is just days away and I have more teasers for you.
Fabulous handcrafted hand bags from Spoiled Diva.

I love these wristlets. Wallet-sized wristlet perfect for a night out. Accented with wrist bracelet and glass bead clusters. I would also keep this in my regular bag and pull out when I need to run quickly into a store.

How about the sassy Canga Tote? Over-sized shoulder bag in animal print, detailed with faux leather trim, beaded fringe and ribbon rosettes, $67. This would be a great every-day bag. Every girl needs a bag with attitude. Spoiled Diva definitely has attitude! See these styles and more at the Haute Market shopping party Tuesday!

FAQ about the party:
Can I get tickets at the door?
Sorry, no. This is an advance ticket engagement. We have a more intimate party location and have to cap the number of guests at 200.

Do I have to get there at 5:30 to get the goodies?
Nope, just be there by 8pm to claim your swag bag if you upgraded. Otherwise, take your time.

Did I hear that you have chocolate and free samples?
Oh yeah baby! A chocolate fountain, free samples of X-Rated Fusion Liqueur, free samples of Mad Housewife wine, plus more complimentary snacking!

Any tickets left?
The Wine Bar has some left. You can go by there and grab yours today thru Saturday.

Spring Fashion Fling Week

It's a quickie blog today. I've found a great, quick video about Spring colors. It's great for showing you the bold colors and styles available this season.
Have a great day. I'm off to see the Bella Skin Professionals and pick up their swag bag goodies for next week's party.

Go Colorful

Spring is about new, fresh colors so I was very excited to get these pics in my inbox this morning from Two Chic Blvd.

If you add one fab item to your wardrobe, it must be a great jacket. A well-fitted jacket can bring a drab look to a fantastic, completed outfit.

Two Chic Blvd. has a few of these fabulous coral jackets left in stock, $60 each. I love the bit of girliness in the slight poof to the sleeves! It looks great over a tank top with jeans. Oh, and a little secret...their Miss Me jeans are 25% off this week at the Girls' Wearhouse!

Another fab find...this totally hot, pink top. This is sexy and oh-so cute with jeans and shorts. I would love to see this with a simple, sharp jacket for day-time, then shed the jacket for meeting the girls after work for happy-hour. You will definitely be happy with all the attention you'll get wearing this top fit for a siren.

Remember girls...fit. If it don't fit, don't buy (unless you have a fab alterations expert). Color...get a pop of color in your wardrobe for spring. Lastly, go crazy with jewelry. Pink top? Grab a bright orange bracelet with big baubles. Try a different splash of color for an extra fab look!

Week of Shopping

This week is full of great shopping events and trunk shows.
Here is the quick list:

Tues & Wednesday - Girls' Wearhouse, 10 am to 2 pm. Shop from Two Chic Blvd., Vintage Moon, and more! Just a few blocks west of 162nd & Metcalf on the north side.

Thursday - Blue Valley Spring Boutique, one block north of 151st & Metcalf on the west side in the education building. 9am to 5 pm. Dozens of great vendors selling apparel, accessories, candles, home decor and more. Benefits Blue Valley School District.

Of course next week is the Spring Fashion Fling, Haute Market shopping party. This is a fabulous girls' night out event at the Wine Bar. Wine tasting, FREE samples of X-Rated Fusion Liqueur and Mad Housewife wines, a chocolate fountain for yummy snack dipping, massages, make-overs and so much more.
Seriously...there are very few tickets left for this shopping party. Tickets WILL NOT be sold at the door because we will be sold out! Order online today or buy from the vendors in our show. Tickets also available at the Wine Bar, open Tues-Sat.

TGIF

A few quick Friday mentions and I'm off to get swag bags ready for the April 24th shopping party.

We have a new survey and we need your info. Our sponsors are always asking questions about who our readers and shoppers are. Please take a moment to tell them. Survey

A fab sale was just sent to my inbox:


Thousands of styles on sale. A few examples:..
Aerosoles - Women's Thready Bear Reg. Price $69.99 Sale Price $34.99
adidas - Women's Dragon Reg. Price: $59.99 Sale Price $35.99

Get some comfie shoes so you can shop 'til you drop at the Spring Fashion Fling event!

More Shopping!

My friends at the Girls' Wearhouse have their monthly Girls' Night Out shopping tonight from 5-9pm. Check out the web site for the scoop.
Fabulous new spring items: very cute tops, shorts, and more!
Two Chic Blvd.
Vintage Moon
plus several other vendors.
Bring your gal pals and your credit cards!

Annoucing the Diva Makeover!

Haute Market is excited to be a part of the most fabulous makeover project in town!
Are you feeling a little drab lately? You might be the lucky diva to go from drab to fab in the Diva Makeover: Bella B's Style.
We have partnered with Bella B's and several other local businesses to bring one lucky diva the chance to transform her look.
Free clothes and styling assistance,
a tanning package,
a personal trainer,
and so much more!
Prizes total over $7,000!!!

Check out the fabulous new Bella B's website and apply for the makeover. You must be 21 or over to win.

P.S. Haute Market designed the Bella B's site, so feel free to tell them that it kicks A$$! ;)

Do Something X-Rated

It's only two weeks away! The Spring Fashion Fling is Tuesday, April 24th and we are inviting only 200 guests! Do you have your tickets? If not, get them today. I'm running low here at Haute Market Central so get moving if you want to order online.

Perks of the party:
~FREE makeover's by COLOROOM
~FREE samples of X-Rated Fusion liqueur
~FREE samples of Mad Housewife wines
~Discounted shopping
~Speak with the Bella Skin Professionals about hair removal just in time for swimsuit season!
~Free Spring hair cut consultation - find out which new look is right for you.
~Complimentary hors de'voures

Other ticket locations -
The Wine Bar, 135th & State Line
The Girls' Wearhouse, 162nd & Metcalf
Also available from any of the vendors in the show.
More info:
The Event, The Scoop, The Tickets, The Vendors

Coming this week on the blog...Two fabulous announcements:
A super moving sale with huge discounts
A makeover will be done on one lucky local Diva, worth over $7000 in prizes!!

Sandal Saga

The shoe store, my Mecca. I made it to DSW last week as promised, and, of course, bought more shoes. Which is exactly what my hubby said when he came home to the big bag sitting in the middle of the floor (Oops, I usually remember to hide it).
"More shoes?!?" he exclaimed?
"Yes, but these were a great deal AND so so so cute on me!"
I pulled out my high heeled numbers with some sassy beaded embellishments, grinning with pride.
He says to me, "Don't you have a green pair just like it in the top of the closet?"
"Um, do I?" "Oh yeah...but they are green....what is your point?"
I have to give him credit for having a better shoe memory than I do. But still! What exactly is his point? These are pink with white and black beaded designs. Those have a plain green strap and a higher, chunkier heel. Duh.
Guys don't get it. Girls must accessories.
They have a pair of brown shoes, a pair of black shoes, and some running shoes. That is all they need, therefore they try to impose this ridiculous non-accessorizing rule on us girls. They just don't get why each month we need to have the hottest new top, sassy shoes and jewelry/handbags to coordinate.
This is why Haute Market happens 5 times a year. Just enough time goes by that he'll have forgotten your last shopping party excursion. You will come home with such hot new goodies that he'll be excited to see how great you look in all your new clothes and accessories.

Speaking of which, make sure you get tickets this week. I'm nearly out here ad Haute Market central. The Wine Bar has a handful and all of our vendors were given a few. Tickets will NOT be sold at the door. Get yours today.

Also, make sure you make the Fashion 411 your home page. You don't want to miss the big announcements I'll make this week!
Just go to the Tools button up above, choose Internet Options, and click the "Use Current" button.
Cheers!

Happy Feet

I only watched some of the movie, so I'm not doing a review. It reminded me to get on my soap box and remind you girls to take the earliest opportunity you have to get your feet in a glorious state of happiness. If I see another funky foot in sandals I think I'll start handing out fines.

Ooh, that reminds me - where is everyone getting their cute sandals lately? I tried "tar-jay"...nothing chic and comfy for me there. I think I'd better take my seasonal trip to DSW. I love that place! (No, they are not paying me to say that)

I don't recall ever NOT finding a pair of faboo shoes on a trip to DSW. Of course I'm on their rewards program. Sadly, their web site does not show current inventory. That settles it. My duty as your Fashion Maven MUST be fulfilled. I will drag my two little monsters to DSW this morning, find some fab shoes and post a photo of my find.

Ooh...and another thought. (my adult ADHD is showing, huh?) I have the most fabulous pair of sandals I got as a demo pair from Mohop Shoes, out of Chicago. Annie Mohaupt hand crafts these shoes and they are FAB! Check out her site and tell me what you think. I think I should carry these at the Haute Market events!

Send me your comments and maybe we can get Mohop shoes in KC!

Wrinkle Reducer

I find myself squinting from the sun throughout the day, made worse now that the days are longer. It occurred to me that each time I squint, I make deeper those two little lines between my eyebrows. Oh no! Not to say that scowling at my boys as they run through the house terrorizing each other doesn't also make those lines more like chasms - it's just that I don't have a solution to that situation as shipping them off to their grandparents overseas was already voted down by said grandparents and hubby. (Chickens)

I do, however, have a non-surgical, non-putting gooey stuff on your face, plan of attack. Sunglasses. Well duh, right? Not only are sunglasses a fabulous accessory, they are fighting my signs of aging (and signs that I have 3 very young, very energetic, very busy boys).

I cannot afford, and would never risk, having this totally chic pair of rhinestone, cats-eye sunglasses by FrancisKlein. Not only would the $700 price tag set me back and keep me from buying anything else for months...but the previously mentioned little people in the house would have them destroyed by playing catch with them (keep-away from baby brother) or my favorite, putting the sunglasses on their butts and then wiggling back and forth. It's quite hilarious with a $10 pair of sunglasses.

Under $20 is more my style of sunglasses. There are loads of fabulous sunglasses in this price range and we'll have some at the next Haute Market. They'll be clearanced at just $10 each. Get there and grab yours. Feel free to show us pictures of your fab finds! I have to go wipe the banana of my Louis Vuitton look-alikes now.

Guy Gifts

A friend asked me, just the other day, how I still find gifts for my hubby after all these years. I must admit, I first leave it to the last minute, because unlike most women, I forget our anniversary - I have an good excuse, but it's a long story. Anyway...
I directed my gal pal to the Wine Enthusiast site because our hubby's both love wine and especially the cool refrigeration systems.
I opted for a cheaper price range and found this nifty gift. Cork Pops Legacy Wine Bottle Opener . No more busting the cork and sloppiness. Just pierce and press. He'll love it, and you'll get your wine just a bit more quickly and with no cork bits floating around!

This next idea has an alterior motive. Guys usually stick to one cologne their entire lives so it's not so hard for them to just go online and buy a new bottle. So a gift certificate to Perfume Emporium online is an easy one. Here is the "motive" part. If he forgets he has the certificate and it lies around the house for 6 months or so, he'll not notice when it disappears completely and you turn up with a new bottle of perfume. Aren't I wicked? No, that's resourceful.

It's Chrissy!

National chain hires new (and slightly stoned) buyer for women's fashions:

I was strolling through "tar-jay" last night then WHAM...I was thrown back to the seventies as right there in front of me was surely the same yellow, terry cloth one-piece that Chrissy and Janet wore on Three's Company.

I know it's hard for designers to constantly come up with new and innovative designs, and that they often look to the past to inspire future looks...but come ON. Do we really need to relive the 70's or 80's? Yuck.

Where exactly did the inspiration for this disaster come from? Maybe they had a buyers retreat. They were told to dig up something they still owned from the 70's to help inspire them on their 3-day design workshop.
You know how you take out a coat from storage and find a rolled up $20 bill inside? I think they found something else rolled up in a pocket of an old pair of short-shorts, then decided it would be a good idea to smoke it - as if it, like wine, gets better with age.

There are so many cute cover-ups this season that it is not necessary to be a Three's Company cast look-alike. The moral for this story...few things get better with age, wine is one of them. Even Suzanne Sommers. But rompers and onezies are for babies and toddlers.

Eye Candy

I found some great sale items at Couture Candy. I love this feminine top reflecting the romantic spring trends. Simple, sassy and great for a casual jeans look. Or dress it up with a skirt. Either way, you're sure to turn heads.
Couture Candy is known for their boutique-style service and high end designs. Fabulous brand-name jeans can be found, as well as trendy accessories and tops. Check out Couture Candy today and let me know what fab finds you score!