Don't Brown Bag It

It's easy to fall into the trap of buying black and brown accessories and clothes again this season. It's everywhere, it's easy, and a brown or black bag would match everything you have. Right?
I say BORING! Get out of your matchy-match rut and start making a statement. I don't expect you to wear a right red dress with purple shoes like dear little miss Katie (I'm not a prisoner in my own home) Holmes.
Take baby steps. Start with a bag that really stands out. It's not that difficult. Seriously, you can hardly get this trend wrong thanks to those crazy girls in Hollywood.

For comparison sake, I found two fabulous bags on opposite ends of the price spectrum. This fabulous blue handbag by Fendi made my pulse quicken and my mouth water. At nearly $1800 it makes my wallet cry. Though you can get it at Bag Borrow or Steal for about $275 a month.

Or try this very inexpensive pop of red from our friends at Target.com. Just $24.99. The fashionable buckles are reminiscent of the designer styles and the deep red color is luscious.

Of course you could wait until the October 3rd Haute Market and have your choice of dozens and dozens of bags under $100. ;)

Speaking of bags...half of the goodie bags are already sold. If you want one at the next shopping party, you'd better order your tickets today friends!

Get Air-brushed!

So many exciting activities will be going on at the next Haute Market shopping party that there isn't room on the web site to describe them all! Each event gets bigger with more vendors and more perks.

Have you ever wanted to be air-brushed like a model? The closest thing to it that we can do at the next event is spray tanning by Electric Sun Tanning. I like this idea better than the automatic spray in the booths because a live person actually sprays you to give you the best, most even tan.

Electric Sun will be doing live demo's of the spray on tan at our next shopping party and several guests will win the chance to be the models!

What is an air-brush tan?
A spray on sunless airbrush is sunless solution that is sprayed evenly onto your skin for a flawless looking tan. Unlike a spray booth, the sunless is applied by a certified airbrush consultant. The whole process takes about 30 minutes and does require an appointment.

Prior to the application of sunless spray, your skin is sprayed with a PH balancing spray to insure a even, uniform color that isn't orange. Prior to arriving, prepare your skin for your sunless application by exfoliating your skin, shaving legs and do not wear any makeup, deodorant, moisturizer or cologne. Your skin needs to be as clean as possible.

You will simply be amazed at the results. To schedule your airbrush session, contact Teresa at 913-856-8268 (Gardner location) or 913-248-1074 (Shawnee location).

Make sure you visit the Specials page too!

Put Together

It's sometimes difficult to have time, to not only shop and find all the pieces for a great outfit, but then to have time each day to continually create something new and exciting to wear. Haute Market puts pieces together for you and makes it easy to buy, right online!

Get connected to your stylish side with this large satchel from Kimora. Allover signature logo adorns this synthetic leather bag with rhinestone details and textured insets. Link Me Signature Large Satchel by Baby Phat, just $85.

These fantastic jeans should be a staple in every Fall wardrobe. Joes Jeans at Couture Candy. High Waisted denim in Jett. Great fit, great color. $174.

Next you need great layers. Two Chic Blvd just received a fantastic shipment of long jackets that are chic beyond belief! I love this one with the faux fur collar. It is light enough to wear in the Fall, but can carry you through the cold winter months with some layers underneath.

Now you have the stylish tips for some great pieces to freshen up your Fall wardrobe. Shop on fashionistas!

Have a HOBO?

The HOBO style bag is still as popular as ever. I love that the spacious interior is not as deep as my arm. Much more easy to reach all the stuff I lug around with me every day.

Check out all the great HOBO's at COACH.

Many of these similar styles can be found at the next Haute Market event. Buy your tickets today and save. $10 in advance, $15 at the door!

Meet The Mavens

It's time to meet more of the Haute Market mavens who will be bringing the chic fashions and latest trends to you at the next shopping party.

If you want fun and fashionable clothing at a reasonable price, visit Frankie & Jules. I love that the are a range of sizes and fits for every body. Frankie & Jules has a top for almost any occassion and a price range that fits my bargain-style.

I recently bought this top, which we featured on our Haute Market fashion show on KC Live a while back. Lightweight to wear now, plus will carry you thru the Fall. Be sure to stop by the

Another fab product is the Lano Company's line of lip balms, massage oil candles and, soon to be released, lip scrub. I love the LanoLight Lumière de l'Amour, accentuated by Roman chamomile, patchouli, eucalyptus and lemongrass oils to stimulate the senses and provide powerful aromatherapy benefits.

Hey Bookworm

My friends ask me all the time "how do you have time to read?". I wonder how people can NOT read. It's my only escape and usually the only way I can fall asleep. I have a treasure trove of books and have to hire a moving van to take them into the book store to trade (I LOVE that concept!).

If you know me a bit, you know I can't NOT buy a Janet Evanovich book. Even if it's one of the old one's they re-released and I know it's going to be crap...I'll still read it because it's better than nothing. Her humor is right up my alley - a bit off, and sometimes politically incorrect.

The Stephanie Plum novels make me laugh out loud. The last one, Lean Mean Thirteen, was no disappointment. Still up to her hilarious foul-ups and back in sexy man, Ranger's, apartment because she has to hide out from someone who is out to get her, again. Pick up anyone of the Stephanie Plum novels you find. You don't have to read them in order, but it is more fun that way.

My latest read, Vanishing Acts, was fantastic. I read it all last weekend because I could not stand to put it down. Author, Jodi Picoult, has an amazing way of telling the story through the eyes/voices of 4 different characters. She pulls you in, wraps you up in her engaging style and doesn't let you go. This story is an amazing tale of being lost, being found and what you find along the way. Truly fantastic, as are most of the books I've read by this author. I've already picked up two more of her novels.

Now you have a few great reads to pick up and curl up with this weekend. Enjoy!

Creature Comforts

Sometimes we don't know how good we've got it until something until one of our everyday conveniences is gone. For me, that's my air conditioner. There are a lot of things I could do without. I would be cranky, but I could forego my daily pot of coffee, my hair spray, my occassional nightcap, even TV. Take away my a/c and there's going to be a fight.


(Here is where I pimp out a friend:)
I have been dealing with Mechanical Services for almost 10 years. If you ever have anything wrong with your heating or cooling, this is who you should call. (677-2226) Cliff, the owner, is just one of the best darn human beings I know. I can't hurt that he reminds me a bit of my grandpa. ;)


We've known for about a week that the a/c isn't at peak performance. Monday, Cliff called me and gave me another price quote for a less expensive a/c, then proceeded to talk me out of buying the more expensive a/c that I wanted and told me to try tinting my windows first. What kind of businessman talks you out of a $4000 sale and into a $0 sale? An honest one. That's Cliff.
I told him I'd think it over and maybe we'd see if we could get through the summer on our clunker.

Yesterday at about 4pm, right when the sun starts baking my kitchen (that's the only thing ever baking in here), the a/c goes out. I panic, call Cliff, and start thinking of hotels I can stay in with my three boys...to add to my panic, hubby is out of town. Long story short, they check it out, give me an option to fix for about $500 and get me through the summer. I opt for the new a/c.
I can tell that they feel bad for me. That's just how these guys are. For years they have kept my family safe, cleaning our furnace every year. Cliff is one of the "good guys". The least I can do is tell everyone I know about him and support his business. Cliff: 677-2226

I'm heading out with the kids and the computer to find anyplace cooler than my house, which shouldn't be difficult to find. I can't wait to come home this afternoon to a new a/c and a cool, comfie house!

Sex Addicts Celebrate!

Strap on your Manolos girls. The fab foursome is back! Well, not quite yet. But it has been officially announced that the fab four from Sex and the City will be doing a film soon. Hopefully shooting starts as soon as next month! All four fab gals will be back, as well as Chris Noth playing Mr. Big.

Can things possibly get better for Sarah Jessica Parker? She's just celebrated her 10th anniversary with hubby, Matthew Broderick, although they've been together for 15. Their adorable little creation, James, is now four. She has her own clothing line. And now she's got a high-paying gig being Carrie Bradshaw again.

Oh what I wouldn't give for five minutes in Carrie's closet. Can you imagine thumbing through rows and rows of those fabulous clothes? Trying on those magnificent shoes? Borderline orgasmic.

I can't wait to find out if Charlotte and Harry get their baby. If Samantha and Smith really make it - because let's face it - that guy is the only real piece of eye candy they have on there besides Choo and Manolo.

Let's hope the script is fantastic because recreating the dynamics and placing them into a 2 hour film is not going to be an easy task!

The Big Cover Up

Something over the weekend snuck into my senses and dug up a memory of crunching leaves, a college campus and football. That can only mean that my favorite season, Autumn, is just around the corner. Far too brief in this part of the country, Fall is certainly the catalyst for good things to come...namely...Fall Fashions!

I absolutely adore the new styles, the layers and the miriad of colors that this season brings to my wardrobe. Take, for instance, this fabulous coat. Now that I've found it, I don't know how I'd live without it.

Havana Coat in Mint N' Chip Their use of vibrant colors and unique designs explains precisely the reason why the designers behind Biya are known for creating a line that is anything but ordinary. This is shown more specifically in The Havana Coat in Mint n Chip with its playful color and detailed stitching along the trim. This knee-length collared coat is also accented with three hidden buttons along the front opening. Buy Now

Then again...when I need to get "back in black" I could really use this black wrap coat.

Wrap Coat with Belt in Black

Ziji designs feature luxurious fabrics with casual elegance and feminine silhouettes that are carefully balanced with masculine details. The Wrap Coat with Belt in Black is the perfect winter garment. This gorgeous coat is comforting for cold weather and has finished hems for a clean look.

The pockets are flush with the side seam and the coat features a loop in center back for the belt attachment. The collar is thick and scarf-like with a button closure. This is a great polished black coat for any occasion.

Buy Now


Good luck finding your perfect cover-up for Fall!

Meet The Mavens

It's body time. Taking care of your outside from your head to the tips of your toes with today's featured Haute Market Mavens.

New on the scene in K.C. but getting around is LOVER Cosmetics. Noticing the need for a local cosmetic maven, owner Ashley Maurin set out to find some fab colors for your face and founded this French inspired line.
This matte lipstick in matador red is a flashy and fun, great for an evening out with your main squeeze.

LOVER Cosmetics will be featuring the new fall color line for the first time at the October 3rd Haute Market!

Next Maven founded the company Nature to Nurture and features Aroma Squeeze, therapeutic aromatherapy dough.

A bit stressed? Open a tub of dough, take out a handful and squeeze. Really work it and take your frustrations out on it. While squeezing you will be releasing therapeutic oils your nose will love and your brain will chill out on. Plus the essential oils and other ingredients will give you some moisturizing benefits.

So don't be tempted to wring the neck of your most annoying co-worker, just have a tub of Happy Aroma Squeeze in your desk and give the dough a good squeeze.

Meet these fabulous gals and see their great new lines at the next Haute Market. Tickets go on sale next week!

We're back!

We've had some blogger troubles lately so it looks like we've not been posting blogs, even though we have. Darn technology :)

Tuesday night Haute Market helped make TV history right here in Kansas City. The fabulous up & coming late night show, After Hours, was taped Tuesday night and we were part of the audience! It was SO much fun to be part of the launch of this TV show.

Hosts, Darron Story and Cara Khan, are fabulous together. The sense of humor, fun banter and fabulous personalities of this duo will surely make this show hit the big-time here in K.C.

Join their friends list on MySpace and watch for the video release of the taping.

A big thanks to The Drop for hosting the After Hours after party. It was an absolute blast to do a little salsa dancing - or at least attempt it.

Cheers!

Fresh Faces

Is beauty really in the eye of the beholder, or is it right at my fingertips if I only knew the correct way to apply? With a cabinet full of beauty "essentials" I'm determined to discover what exactly I am expected to do with the plethora of brushes, pencils, and powders.

Lancome has an educational area to help you learn which tools to use and how to apply. I like the look the backstage artist used for the 2007 Fashion Week, Proenza Schouler models. Light, modern and fresh. Click here to get the scoop.

I'm a bit challenged in the application area, so I prefer a video to show me exactly where, how far up the lid, and at which angle to hold the brush. Much easier were the days when a tiny little tear-drop shapped applicator would do. But the Lancome site is at least helpful and even contains a fun area to customize your own look based on your skin, hair and eye color. Day looks, night looks...many many looks.

To a Tee

As usual, I did just fine on my shopping excursion at the Girls' Wearhouse. I was a good girl and only bought a few things...this time.

Pictured is this fitted tee in the most fantastic turquoise blue color. My friend, Laura, of Vintage Moon Creations, carries this fab shirt for just $36. She said it matched my eyes so I melted like putty in her hands and bought it. It's worth it to have a well fitted, comfortable top that looks great on me. And maybe you if you hurry before she sells the last few left!

I also stumbled across some fabulous lip stick. My best friend hasn't sold Mary Kay for a while, so I'm out of the loop on that. But last night there was a great MK gal named Tracy who let me in on the most exclusive little lip stick secret. Exclusive because the product was a limited edition item and she's nearly sold out. It's the Matte Lip Color Stick and the color stays on for a really long time!

I was telling her how I have a ridiculous amount of lip sticks, and that none of them stay on long for me. She pulled out this beautiful Berry Silk color and I was hooked. The lip color stick is a fat looking lip liner. It works for lining and filling. A two-in one! I top coated it with my clear lip plumper. The color stayed on for hours while I talked, sipped some liquid pleasures and snacked. I bought two since they can't be ordered any more. Email Tracy if you want to try it out.

Happy Friday, Fashionistas!

Dior Glamour

Everyone wants to know "what is the new look for Fall?". Dior has a great web video to feature a few fab looks and how to create them. It's flashy and fun and nearly makes me want to get up and start practicing my smokey-eye look.
Just visit the link and click the Fall Look 2007 button to check it out.

Another fab web find: Free Stuff at Allure.com. They are giving away over 20,000 freebies! Just check it out and register at the right time each day.

That's it for today. Short and sweet because I have to get ready for Girls' Night Out. I already snuck in to the Girls' Wearhouse yesterday morning for a quick peek and grabbed a fabulous new ocean-blue top that is so darling and perfect for this hot weather!

About 12 vendors will be there selling there wares tonight. See you there!

Disney Couture

The good folks at Disney always come up with pretty fab ideas:
Johnny Depp in a pirate suit, rats whipping up delicious treats...and now this.
Disney Couture is nothing new, but the lavish line of accessories looks like it's received an upgrade.

This stuff is definitely not your little girl's jewelry! Sure, pieces like the Alice Blue Bracelet might send young hearts all aquiver with delight, but it's really mommy and big sis who'll revel in all that sparkle and shine. And you may have cried during Bambi (your secret's safe with us), but the enigmatic Bambi and Flower Chain Necklace is guaranteed to make you smile.

Sure, none of this jewelry is exceptionally elegant – eveningwear, it's not – but you'll get some mileage out of select pieces. They're whimsical and youthful, harkening back to those days when all you needed was a cartoon and a Coke to make you happy. Nowadays, it takes something a little more stylish to capture your attention.

A little tip: the Pocahontas Wrap Leather Bracelet is surprisingly sexy. Who knew?
~by East Coast Fashionista

Meet The Mavens

Haute Market is filled to the brim with fabulous designers. We'll be bringing you into our Haute little circle by introducing you to the designers right here on the blog. Get to know these fabulous local business women and find out why Haute Market loves their goodies!

Lisa Burton has a beautiful story to tell about her meaningful boutique goodies. Pink Ribbon Connection was started in honor of Lisa's mother and her battle with cancer. Lisa's cute boutique has expanded over the years and now branched off to Ribbon Chick. Fashionable awareness items that help you "show you care by what you wear", her fabulous tag line.

Apparel, crystal jewelry, even a moving cookbook/story book, dedicated to celebrating those who have lost their lives to breast cancer.
Check out Ribbon Chick today!

Jewelry is certainly an obsession I enjoy. Designer Shara Collins was so obsessed that she named her boutique Obsessions -Unique Designs in Jewely. Creatively mixing natural stone beads with beautiful pendants and quirky clasps, her designs show her immense talent and eye for fashion.

Browse thru her online boutique for a taste of what is to come at the next Haute Market event. Born from a desire for more unique jewelry that coordinated with her every day wear, it's no wonder Shara has been featured in the news and her designs coveted by local fashionistas.

Stay tuned to the Fashion 411 Blog for more designer profiles!

Sideswiped

When the thermometer creeps upward, tempting me to move to regions where snowshoes are in style 9 months out of the year, I'm relieved to find something tolerable to do with my long, thick hair that doesn't involve a quick twist and a large hair clip.

Check out Nia Long and her fresh and flirty side ponytail. What a great way to look stylish and still survive the triple digit thermometer readings.

And I'll share a little tip I received my my personal hair stylist, Vilma, at Xiphium Salon: those totally cute styles the stars wear that look impossible for us Jane's to duplicate because we do a bit more moving around than just walking down the red carpet.....Hairpins. Yep. Loads of them if needed. You simply secure them by placing pairs of them in an "x" shape. Locks it up like Fort Knox.

Try the sideswipe of locks and enjoy the heat ladies!

Photo: Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic

Kitchen Things

Hot off the press from our East Coast Fashionista:

As anyone who has known me for at least the past three years will tell you, I've been undergoing a bit of a kitchen revamp of late. That's putting it mildly, but while they take their time doing their thing, I'm taking some time out to do what I do best – accessorizing.

Some things seem charming at first glance, but probably aren't very practical otherwise. This Bistro Leon wall rack, for example, is chic in an old world sort of way, but would look rather out of place in my modern abode.

However, I do plan to employ this beyond adorable pink butterfly towel, simply because, well, it's pink.




Completing the girly theme is this high-heel cake server, which I was recently gifted with. Apparently the giver was under the (100% accurate) impression that I'm as girly as a gal can get. Yet even I have no use for this goofy utensil, so for now it sits daintily on the side, looking just about as cute as a cake server can look (except for that hottie at the bakery...but never mind).

Fab Feet

It's still open season for open toed shoes and I have a super easy recipe to keep your feet soft and sweet and perfectly primed for your fabulous summer sandals.

Fab Feet Recipe by jennyLou Spa:

Immediately after bath or shower, use foot file on heels, balls of feet or other parts of feet to remove dry skin.
Yes, immediately. Not 5 minutes after.
Indulge your feet in the soothing ingredients of the Footsie Butter.
Put on your Moisture Lock Foot Socks and prepare for your day, or go to bed with them on.
Later, use the toe separators to apply your favorite nail color. Repeat these steps several times a week for softer feet.

Join jennyLou Spa at Bella B's Boutique tonight, along with Jenny Matthews of Mix 93.3 and the Wizards Starting 11 Girls, and of course the Haute Market girls, as we celebrate the launch of the new, indulgent, body product line by jennyLou Spa.
Tonight, 6 to 8pm.
Drinks, food and fabulous door prizes!

Shopping Diva to Mom Mode

I hope you made it to the Summer Blow Out Sale yesterday and grabbed some 50% off goodies. it was nutty! Women scrambling for the best pieces of jewelry, hottest handbag and coolest clothes. I bought a new top from Frankie & Jules, among other things that depleted my bank account yet again. I'm such a sucker for sales!

Today it's "Mom Mode" now. School is starting in just two short weeks. What the heck happened to summer? Now that we'll have a grade-schooler, pre-schooler and toddler all busy with activities, I'm looking for shortcuts.

I don't know how you gals that work out of the home do it. How do you get everyone ready in the morning and get all of you out of the house, to school and to work? Not that working from home is a cake walk. It has taken me an hour just to type this much on the blog between breaking up fights, getting breakfasts, and urging the toddler to keep his diaper on.

Whether you work out of the home, in the home, or your sole job is the house and kids, it's going to be easier to get it all done if we share some tricks of the trade. Email me or post a comment to share your great tip.

Here's my one and only: we have a hanging closet organizer for the older boys. Each compartment is labeled with the day of the week. When I fold laundry (ok, when my hubby folds laundry) I take the clothes and divvy up their outfits for the week. It helps the boys get dressed in the morning in something that matches, plus the pre-schooler learns days of the week and a bit of a reading lesson.

That's the extent of my mom-wisdom. I can give you lots of shopping and beauty tips, but I'm not great at the mom thing. Please help me! After all, it takes a village to raise a child.

Happy hump day!

Cockadoodledoo

Wow, it's very early! I'm up at and at 'em getting ready for the big blow out sale today. I don't think the roosters even get up this early.

I'm sneaking in a quick blog to remind you of the sale and give you some tidbits about the upcoming Haute Market event. I know that October seems miles away, but it will creep up before you know it (much like school starting in a few weeks).

Reminder: Summer Blow Out sale TODAY! You'd be crazy not to check this out. Every vendor will have everything at 50% off or more!

Announcement: I am so excited to announce that Aestheticare Medi Spa has joined Haute Market for the Oct. 3rd event to bring you live demonstrations at the event! YOU may be a lucky gal who gets to try a demo treatment.

Ok, so some of you don't want to admit to Botox or other "enhancements". I'd happily be a poster child if someone can get rid of my forehead wrinkle induced by repeated scowling at naughty little boys who practice artwork on my walls, leave bugs in their pockets and other mischievous doings.

At the Oct. 3rd event, you'll be able to talk to highly skilled and knowledgeable personnel about all the fabulous services offered by Aestheticare Medi Spa. I've already been inquiring about laser hair removal - I'm so sick of shaving.

More info to come. Keep checking back. Make the Fashion 411 blog your home page and stay in-the-know!

50% Off Sale!

Hey fashionistas, the biggest sale of the summer is almost here! Tomorrow is the big Summer Blow Out Sale.
Summer dresses, tank tops, jewelry, handbags, sunglasses, giftables and more!
Everything is at least 50% off!
Many of the vendors in this show have been in past Haute Market shopping parties, so you know it's going to be great stuff!
Free Entry.

Two convenient show times:

Tuesday, July 31st

9am to 1pm

6pm to 9pm

at the Blue Hills Country Club

777 W. Burning Tree Drive, KC, MO. (map)

Burning Tree Drive is about 1/2 way between 135th and 119th off of State Line Rd. West on Burning Tree to the sale!

Bring some friends and your comfie shopping shoes!

Flyer

Look to Fall

It seems like fashion shows are going on every week around the world. In my quest to find out what is hot for Fall 2007, I'm finding that the search is narrowed if I take the opposite approach and ask, "what is NOT hot this Fall?"


An array of cliche's come to mind:
Everything changes yet everything stays the same.
Look to the past to determine the future.


Trends for Fall 2007 are definitely reminicent of every era for the last century.
The space age look of sleek fits and metallic shimmer.
The feminine lacy looks of long ago.
It's all here, just in a newer version.


Colors are not quite the same natural hues, but some much more intense, color-rich choices. According to Pantone, we can look forward to Chili Pepper red, Lemon Curry, and Purple Wine to tempt our taste buds and our shopping cravings. While Green Moss is your typical sage-green sort of color, Stargazer is a beautifully rich, dark teal-like color that sounds perfect for a holiday dress. So don't wimp out and go all black again this year.


In a nut shell, it's pretty tough to put your finger on a single look that is IT for fall. The good news is that there are some fantastic new designs out there for us fashionistas to choose from. The key, for now, pick one look at a time. Don't try the metallic, with the lacy, with the sequins, with the deep teal blue, etc, etc. Find what works for you. Just make sure it doesn't include the same pair of jeans you've had since high school. Let go and let's go shopping!

Starring Fragrances

Ashley Peldon is more than just an actress – she's a gal with a serious nose for scents. When it comes to sniffing out the best of the best and concocting fragrances that are unexpected and irresistible, Ashley does it better than anyone else. Her latest endeavor is Starring...! Fragrances, the company she founded in 2006. The lineup includes everything from playful, dessert-inspired scents to sexy, attention-grabbing florals.

Ask anyone who's spritzed on The Child Star, the genius bouquet of yellow cake, cookies and graham crackers, and they'll tell you they can't get enough of Ashley's glorious creations. Or just ask me! Upon my request, Ashley whipped together a delicious blend of Pink Sugar (you know the one – the über-sweet scent that stole a million hearts when it debuted two years ago), amaretto syrup and whipped cream. The result? Fabulous, of course.

Starring...! Fragrances make awesome gifts, but they're ideal for a pick-me-up, too. Ashley also offers a custom blend service, featuring a variety of seasonal options tailored to the unique preferences of each individual. So whether you love hot fudge or strawberry sauce on your ice cream cone, or you just love a great lemon-citrus blend, you'll have no problem deciding on the scent of your dreams.

~by East Coast Fashionista

About Town

Correction on yesterdays newsletter:
The Lenexa Spinach fest is Sept. 8th, not Aug. 4th. (Sorry, I was lacking coffee at the time)

Here is a list of unique some shopping events around town:

July 31st ~ Summer Blow Out sale. Blue Hills Country Club. Tues. 9-1 & 6-9. Flyer

Aug. 2nd ~ jennyLou Spa launch party at Bella B's Boutique. Thurs 6-8pm. Invitation

Aug. 9th ~ Girls' Night Out at the Girls' Wearhouse Thurs. 5-9

Sept. 7 & 8 ~ Old Settler's Craft Fair -downtown Olathe near the library. Fri. & Sat 9-9

Sept. 8 ~ Spinach Festival - Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park, Lenexa. Sat. 9-5

Haute About Town

Haute Market doesn't just put on a kick-booty shopping event several times a year. Here at Haute Central, we love helping to get the word out about other sales, shows and up-and-coming designers.

First, if you didn't get the chance to purchase our logo t-shirt, they are on SALE now in our Haute store! Over 40% off this great tee!

If you've been listening to Mix 93.3 lately, you may have heard that we are a sponsor for the Bella B's Diva Makeover winner's Reveal Party. Nancy Ross, of Shawnee, won the $11,000+ prize pot full of great things to get her from drab to fab. We're helping to throw her a great big party and YOU could be invited. We'll have a very limited number of invites to bring along a few Haute fashionistas. Keep checking back for info on how you can score an invite!

We're also sponsoring the Summer Blow Out Sale where you can score goodies from many of our past vendors at 50% off. Everything in the event will be at least 50% off! View the flyer for more details.

Stay tuned for more hot events and cool sales!

Dress It Up

Summer dresses are a must in this humidity and heat. The chic ladies of Hollywood can be found wearing long casual dresses. I went browsing the web for some good deals to share with you today.

Last Thursday I went to the open house for Aestheticare MediSpa and I wish I had a dollar for everyone who said "I LOVE that dress!". So I'm letting my secret out: Target, my friends. I was trying to find some inexpensive tank tops at Target one day and saw these beautiful, long knit dresses and tried one on for fun. It was so pretty! I snatched up a black and white version of the one pictured here. Now on sale for under $20! I love being a bargain shopper.



Overstock.com has a plethora of choices to keep you cool. This jersey knit dress features an embellished band and empire waist. This is a thin little number as it's jersey, so you may need a slip. Just $39.99 at Overstock.com

Great Skin, Great Party

Last night we did a little partying with the Aestheticare Medi-Spa group as they celebrated their 6th Anniversary with their annual open house. These folks know how to throw a good party! Catered by Dean & Deluca, music by our good friend Drew and loads of great demo's.

I watched a demo of the IPL Photo Rejuvenation. Very cool. I'm almost getting brave enough to start trying some of this stuff (I have a very low pain threshold). The gal having the procedure done only flinched a tiny bit each time the light flashed. Her skin was barely pink when it was finished. She had already done 3 procedures, this was her fourth. Her skin definitely had a more even skin tone and few sun spots that so many people have this time of year.

I saw my favorite aesthetician, Claudia, who just started at Aestheticare just a few months ago. She's thrilled to be on board with them and I was thrilled to see a familiar face. Even if she used to make my cry when I had my legs waxed. Note: probably not a great idea to try waxing while your pregnant if you get sensitive skin. Ouch! Again..I've got a low pain threshold. I could have used the epidural for the waxing.

So I'm really considering having laser hair removal on my legs. It can't hurt worse than waxing, surely. And once you've done a few treatments, you don't have to keep going back every six weeks to start all over. Think of the savings on no more treatments and no more painful waxing! Plus no more razor cuts because I'm rushing to shave all the time.

Yep, I'm nearly convinced that my birthday present this year should be some laser treatments. Hmmm...now if I can just move that November birthday to July so I can get started.

You know when your kids say "Mom, why are your legs always scratchy?" that you need to make some improvements. ;)

Them There Eyes

I found this great tutorial to show us all how to create that sultry smokey-eye effect. Watch and learn my fashionista friends.

What the???

Can you believe I got locked out of my own blogger account today? Ridiculous! Something about testing to prevent spam blogging. Like I have time to learn what that is and how to do it. Sheesh.

Ok, so while I'm griping...
"HEY LADY! Yeah you...the loud mouth on the cell phone. SHUT UP!" Can you believe that I went to the pool to chill out with the kids and had to listen to some gal yelling at someone on her mobile phone for a good 20 minutes?! All the while her kids are..um...underwater for all she knows. Geez people. Put the cell phone down and slowly walk away.
I know, I'm the pot calling the kettle black. But at least I realize it and put the phone down today.
I left it in the car while in the store with my kids even! God forbid someone gets my voicemail.
So this week try detaching the phone from your ear because it is not an accessory to your wardrobe. Nope, not even if you have it blinged. Nice try though.

Tomorrow we'll be back with your regularly scheduled program! :)

Rockin' Rings

From the desk of:
East Coast Fashionista

A couple of friends have dubbed it "elegant and feminine." A few others have looked at me like I'm crazy. Most seem to agree, though, that my new flower ring rocks in its own unique way. You can see that it's massive, but that is actually what makes it special. Kenneth Jay Lane is no stranger to stuff like this – his jewelry is extravagant but affordable, showy but realistic. And with no other rings to show off (take note, prospective suitors), this one easily takes pride of place and steals the show.

I've taken to wearing it on weekends with flirty skirts and dresses, but surprisingly it doesn't look out of place at the office with a crisp pantsuit. This is available in just about every color of the rainbow, and there's even a more costly pavé version that outshines just about everything in the room. This white version is just the thing for these sublimely hot months, though. You'll have to pick up the black or red version if you want something to wear as it cools down.
Be forewarned: It's one of those accessories that tends to cause envy amongst friends and stares from passersby. Both good things, of course. (At just under $90, it's also pretty easy on the bank account!)

Save The Date

Are you ready for another Haute Market? It's about 2 1/2 months away now and we are busy little bee's at HM central lining up great vendors, fabulous sponsors, and great goodies just for you fashion mavens.

What to expect at the next shopping party?
Well, the point is shopping and we'll have about 30 vendors - some returning with great new Fall lines, and many new vendors as well.
A fabulous DJ spinning tunes to keep us in the shopping mood.
Prize drawings.
A great night out with your gal pals!

Make sure you are receiving our e-newsletter because early bird specials may be coming shortly!

Fab Friday

Fabulous sales to get you through the weekend:

Beauty Brands is having their liter sale! Go load up on your favorites.

Enjoy a great discount for shopping online at Couture Candy. 20% off all French Fifty wear. Expires July 31, 2007, so get there quickly if you need a last minute swim suit that is hot and sexy!


Shoes.com is having a fab sale as well. If you are a Fashion 411 regular, you know I'm a shoe whore. I'll do anything for a shoe sale. And it's like those potato chips...I can't stop at just one. So when I find a sale, I get a little cooky.
This sale expires Aug. 6, 2007.
I'm wary of ordering shoes online because I'm not an easy fit, but the return policy is so great! I love that I can shop from home instead of wrestle with my three wild boys while trying on shoes. If I'm not watchful, you'll find my boys on another aisle prancing around in high heels. A proud father this does not make.

Hanging Out

I know, I'm totally late on posting the blog. I have a friend's daughter over playing with the boys to keep them out of my hair a few hours a day. Instead of really working hard and making the most out of my babysitting budget, today I'm enjoying coffee before it turns to sludge, catching up with gal pals and thinking up new ideas for our next event.

I'm so excited to announce that Xiphium has signed up as a Platinum sponsor for our next event. They will again be providing fabulous hair do's and expert make up applications for some lucky guests.

A tip for you...be sure that you're not only on our e-newsletter list, but that we have your mailing address so you can get a special surprise soon. Just open one of our newsletters, click the PROFILE link towards the bottom, and fill in the blanks.

Stay tuned for more surprises and announcements!

Hairy Affair

Are you as tired of shaving as I am? It just takes up so much time. Time that many of us don't have due to work, kids, and the fact that the maid never shows up. ;)

A few days ago I received a free razor from Venus as part of a test panel I'm on. I already use one of their razors, but apparently they have to have twelve different designs and a new one each month to keep you guessing. This new deal, called Venus Breeze, has some sort of rubberized contraption on either side of the blades for moisturizing. Looks strange but I gave it a whirl.

First off, I did not cut myself which I often do when using new blades. Hooray!
The moisturizing doo-hickies were pretty slimy at first, once mixed with the shaving cream, but it was tolerable.
My legs turned out pretty good. Nice and smooth.
Underarms was another story. There was so much bulk to this razor that I couldn't get it close enough to my skin to shave - so luckily I had my other razor still in the shower with me and used that.

My vote: I like using this new Venus Breeze, but not enough to stop using my plain old Venus razor.

On another note...should you be so fed up with shaving, there is always hair removal. My list of things to do today includes calling my friends at Bella Skincare and setting up some appointments to laser zap my underarms.

Let us know what works for you, what has not. Post comments right here on the blog and share your thoughts. You might even win a prize for doing so!

No girl can say she's going at it alone in this big world because surely she has a great gal pal or two backing her up. Haute Market is no exception. I have been so fortunate this past year and often refer to Haute Market in the "we" sense. We wouldn't be a "we" if it weren't for some fabulous friends volunteering to help with the events. So I'm always on the prowl for great girl friend gifts and little surprises.

Bigg Eye Creations has been a huge supporter of Haute Market and we're so excited that you can now purchase the Sassy Susie cards (and friends) online! Even more exciting is the exclusive discount we've been given! Buy any pack of cards and receive a FREE mixed 1/2 pack (5 cards) of Sassy Susie greeting cards and coordinating envelopes! Just mention Haute Market when completing your order!

Did you attend the last Haute Market event? Check to see if we caught you on camera. Purchase a print of you and your gal pal from our photographer, Simply Images Photography. Send a photo with your note card and you're all set and looking like a fab friend!

Staying cool in this heat is no small task but you can certainly do it in style with the fab fashions and cool summer dresses.

This sassy little number can be found at Frankie & Jules, often a vendor at the Haute Market shows. Owner, Julia Morgan, has an eye for what's hot and brings some of the best styles to us each season. Frankie & Jules has several dresses and cool summer tops to choose from.

The Gap has several dresses on sale through their online store, sure to fit your style and budget. This jersey knit halter-style dress would be great for a backyard BBQ or dining out on the town.

Don't forget to wear a sassy pair of strappy sandals with a bit of a heel for that extra feminine kick. You're sure to turn a few heads!

Haute Body

Yes, yes, yes...I know the recipe to the Haute Body drink that was featured at our Haute Market shopping party last week. It was torture having to try out different drink mixes and sample them all, but I finally concocted my favorite blend of our two sponsors' drinks: X-Rated Fusion Liqueur and Nutrisoda.

The Haute Body:
1/2 can of Slender Nutrisoda
1 shot of X-Rated Fusion Liqueur
top with OJ to taste.

Enjoy responsibly. This one's strength sneaks up on you the next morning if you aren't careful.

Cheers!

Haute Dior

Dior kicked off the fabulous week of fashion at Versailles Palace, giving A-list fashionista's a first look at Fall 2007 styles. Inspired by some of the most talented painters, such as Picasso, John Galliano crafted a colorful line of couture fashions and received a rare standing ovation. With beauties like Naomi Campbell and Gisele Bundchen wrapped in his beautiful creations, how could the crowd not love this new line? (Photo: Rex USA).

I certainly wish I was partying on the manicured lawns and luscious gardens at Versailles. This 60th Anniversary party was fit for a king complete with flamenco dancers, fire eaters and fabulous eats.

On the Ready-To-Wear scene, Zac Posen did not disappoint with his sillouetted creations full of femininity. I was surprised by all the black (hoping for more color this fall), but Posen adds texture and layers that make you just want to touch. (Photo: Marcio Madeira)

Posen says that as he's matured, his ability to appreciate and design for a woman's body has matured as well. Maybe he should teach classes on that for the rest of the men in the world ;)

Stay tuned to Haute Market and be in-the-know for the Fall Fashions just around the corner!

Haute Goes Def

Every girl deserves a little reward for her hard work, so I took my right-hand (and best addition to Haute Market), Michelle, to the Def Leppard concert last night. We rocked OUT! Can you imagine how many calories you burn by dancing for an hour straight?

The venue was absolutely packed and full of fun people all around us. Of course most of them were in diapers when the majority of the Def songs were first released, but they boogied with us none the less.

Pour Some Sugar On Me was definitely the highlight of the night and it induced a little dirty dancing from us all. Definitely a night to remember!

I hope you all have a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July! Cheers!

In Other Words

Hey ladies! We want to hear from you. It's easy for us to write all about our Haute shopping party and how great last Thursday night was for the gals of Kansas City. But it would be much better coming from you!

Post your party review right here on the blog and you could win a prize. Each person who posts a review is entered into the prize pot: free jewelry, note cards from Bigg Eye Creations, pampering kit from jennyLou spa, gift certificates and more!

Just use the link below to post your review to let us know what you and your gal pals loved about the Haute Market birthday party. With over 600 women in attendance, there have to be a few of you with something to say.

Cheers!

Recap

There have got to be so many hot chicks in Kansas City after the shopping frenzy last Thursday night at Haute Market!

I would love to hear from you gals that received the FREE massages from Infinite Fitness. Tell us how it was!
Also, there were a lot of ladies getting new hair-do's and make up applications FREE from Xiphium Salon. Give us the scoop! The rest of us have inquiring minds.

October 3rd is the next Haute party. It seems so far away, but we'll be doing lots of great things and Haute surprises until then. So stayed tuned to your fashion connection in Kansas City for the best in shopping, sales and fabulous fashions!