Spring Style

Looking for some nice Spring looks and good deals, as usual. I stumbled across this Kensie Girl Dress at the Buckle for $68. Fully lined, stripes and polka dot dress with hidden side zipper, junior sizes 3-11 available online. I like this updated version of a vintage style.

The Buckle also features Sugar cosmetics now if that floats your boat.

Fashion Disaster

Oh My GAWD!!! I am so glad that I'm heading back home today because I cannot sit through another fashion show this week. Last night's St. Louis Fashion Week show had so many designers showing that it was passed most of the models' curfews by the time the show was over.
It doesn't help that the shows all start late, but when one tries to cram more than a handful of designers in a single night, you are setting yourself up for disaster.
What is really unfortunate is that a large part of the crowd just up and left! There were a few fantastic, up and coming, designers that were showing toward the last half of the show and I think they really got gypped.

Jamie Phyl and I got to talk briefly before the fashion show . What a great young lady and fabulous designer. She told me that her inspiration for some of the collection showing at St. Louis Fashion Week was the fabulous Jackie O. And oh my...it certainly showed in this fabulous yellow ensemble, complete with large, fabric-covered buttons. It's easy to see why Jamie is gaining notoriety very quickly around the country!

I also loved designs by ZETO, English Clientele and Sohung Designs. Photos, video and hopefully some interviews will be ready for you next week on the Haute Market Style File page.

My sources tell me that backstage was an unorganized mess with too many inexperienced interns trying to run things. Other than the tardiness of the show, you could not tell that things were amiss because what the designers sent down the runway was, for the most part, executed flawlessly. The models rocked the catwalk! Those poor girls were hungry, tired and walking in shoes that did not fit. Several fell out of the shoes but those pro's kept on walking like nothing happened. Kudos to them all!
Designers...my heart goes out to you. I can only hope that the trunk shows you are holding this week give people a chance to really see your designs and appreciate your efforts.

If you are in St. Louis today, make sure you stop by The Time Boutique from 12-4pm to see the work of Phyl Couture, ZETO, Sohung and many others.

I'm heading home to KC now. Hopefully I'll be back to visit you soon, St. Louis. Haute Market is hot to get here and show the St. Louis fashionistas a good time!

Fashion Week Scoop

My mission today...to find these shoes shown on the St. Louis Fashion Week runway last night. Love them!

The runway shows last night were pretty decent. Some of the designs were a bit of a bore, but at least the show seemed well executed. A double runway was used, allowing more guests a front-row seat and longer look at the designs. Three large screens for closer look at the show for those in the cheap seats. They were even kind and accommodating to us press peons. Not always the case when you are covering an event.

It was a bit of a long travel to get from the VIP reception area to the runway show area. I guess you do what you can with the space you have...but obviously no one was thinking of how cranky all these fashionistas would be when their feet started hurting. :)

I loved the Black Halo line. For me, it was the most practical and wearable. Designer, Laurel Berman, definitely knows her stuff and how to design for women. Fabulous!
I'll have video soon!

Today I spend the afternoon with local designer, Lesley Timpe, Squasht by Les. She's already excited about participating in the summer Haute Market event and I'm so excited that she'll be returning to KC for the show. She's made several appearances at the Wearhaus shows downtown...somehow I've convinced her to come to the 'burbs! Stay tuned for more from St. Louis Fashion Week!

The New Fashion Capitol?

Good morning fashionistas. I am reporting to you from St. Louis Fashion Week.
Last night was the kick-off evening featuring fabulous local designers at the Contemporary Art Museum. The lighting wasn't great but I did get a bit of footage to share with you.
The designs sent down the runway were very impressive and I even purchased a dress of my own after the show from Squasht by Les. Lesley Timpe has traveled to KC a few times to bring her designs to us and I hope she'll be returning. (Just need to up the limit on my credit card first).

I'll check in tomorrow with more runway news.


My new dress from Squasht by Les

Pack Up & Go!

You would think that packing for a St. Louis Fashion Week would be easier than packing for New York Fashion Week. While this is true in theory, I didn't know what I was up against in New York and was mostly there to work and be comfie on my feet anyway. New York Fashion week is back-to-back runway shows from 9 in the morning to 9 at night, for seven days. You need long-wearing shoes, and an umbrella. Unless you have a limo waiting outside for you to go freshen up, you may most likely look like complete rain-soaked crap when you get a photo op with Niki Taylor. Lesson learned.

It's not that I think any celebs will be gracing the venues this week, the shows are only at 7pm and are followed by chic after-parties at some of St. Louis' hottest clubs. And since the runway shows take place in the hotel/casino where I'll be staying, I can run to my room, freshen up, and even change outfits! I will most definitely be making use of (finally) many of the cute outfits that normally do not see a world outside my tiny closet.

I finally have all my fab new spring shoes packed, my dusty outfits....then I needed some jewelry. Haute Market has kept me so busy that I've stopped my 4 year old jewelry design business. But that doesn't stop me from designing for myself. I needed some fabulous BLING for this event. Who do you turn to for the best bling? Swarovski, or course! As luck would have it, there was a small bead show in town over the weekend. I was privy to the secret-stash of mega bling. 18mm crystals! 25mm is an inch, so imagine the size of these beads. At about$10 a bead, you don't find these often. I was in love!

I also found some beads to finish my Channel look-a-like charm bracelet. if I'm going out of the biz, I must do it in style.

I'm off to shuttle the kids around, grab my rental car, get nails done and go storm St. Louis. I'll blog from there after I sleep-in for the first time in 9 years.
Fingers crossed - I might find some great venues to take Haute Market on the road to St. Louis for all you St. Louis fashionistas!

Cheers!

Season Confusion

I feel a rambling bunch of babble coming on so I apologize in advance. It's just that this daily switching of temperature and seasons has me so dizzy and confused that I'm at a loss for what to blog about. Do I give you more fall/winter tips and styling advice? Do I finally get to talk about spring-wear? I don't know! Yesterday, on Easter, it was snowing! What the...???? It may NOT snow on Easter. Plain and simple, we must not allow it. How on earth can one be expected to dress the children in those horrible polyester costumes full of ruffles and too-big bows to traipse around the yard picking up eggs that are sinking in the mud and collecting snow flakes?!?!?
Something must be done.

In the mean time...wear whatever the heck you want. Snow boots, open-toed sandals, leggings or halter top. You just never know. Since a large portion of the population is still trying to wear clothes left-over from high school and/or college days (obviously not Fashion 411 blog readers), you probably don't have to worry about the fashion cops just yet. After all-they are still home having bouts of seasonal bi-polar symptoms as they turn circles in their closets trying to decide what to wear.

Tomorrow I will be off my soap box and in a better frame of mind to toss out advice. For now I'm too dizzy to move.

Here is a little something to spice up your life and help out with that spring fever buzz...Great deals at Frederick's of Hollywood.

If you have some great dresses with a low dip for cleavage, might I suggest the Triple Feature Bra? The Triple Feature is the first and only bra of its kind to offer the three most sought-after elements in one bra. Smooth, triangle-shaped cups provide a barely-there look, foam bump pads with gentle underwire provide natural lift and a deep plunge design allows the bra to be worn with the lowest-cut fashions. It comes in eight colors with matching panties.

I am not a regular at Frederick's, or any lingerie store for that matter, so I did not know that they now carry shoes, dresses and more. No, not stripper clothes. These are tasteful and cute. Look at these block color shoes I spied. Very trendy and "now".
I wish I could wear tube dresses because they have some colorful strapless numbers that would be perfect for an evening out. Unfortunately you have to have a "rack" for the dress to set itself upon.


I also found a panty sale burb in my inbox and wanted to pass it along to my fellow fashionistas. It's tricky to buy undies online but I found a 90 day return/exchange policy on the Frederick's site. Just make sure it applies to your purchase.
Happy Friday!

Shoe Whore

She's back. The wicked shoe whore took over my senses and sensibility yesterday and forced me to buy more shoes! She'll do almost anything to get a fab new pair of shoes. And with all the amazing new spring styles and colors, how is a girl to resist?

The bargain fashionista in me just cannot pass up double points week at DSW. And with the grip of the shoe whore so tight I find myself slipping my feet into every brightly colored shoe I can find. It's a tremendous rush and I can feel the inner struggle tugging me in both directions. practical voice: "you have a pair of black shoes with a rounded toe", fashionista voice:"but the one you have is matte finish and these are shiny!"
Must buy shiny black shoes.

I adore these patchwork-like shoes but the toe was too long and pointy for me. Could someone please go buy these shoes so I can adore from afar?

I browsed the clearance section where I'm always sure to find great deals. My last trip to the "aisles of discount & drooling" resulted in two pair at about $20-ish each!

Ths time I food the cutest pair of brown shoes with a chunky heel and a little bit of light blue trim, and a rounded toe. Perfection! Except I rarely wear anything brown. I did what any good gal pal would do. I called a friend to see if I could buy them for her.

On making by way toward the front to check out, I realize there is a small section I did not feast my eyes upon. Probably not much there...but let's have a look-see. After all, it's on the way to the handbag section.
And to what to my wandering eyes do appear? The most luscious little pump and it comes in pair!

What can I say? It was lust at first sight. The inner struggle was painful, but brief. I cannot resist anything BCBG.
Heck yeah I took these babies home! But not before I searched for a complimenting bag.
I suck in my breath as I see, hidden behind some cheap knock-off bags, something large and silver...The SAK! I grab it before any prowlers can snatch my find.

I safely manage my way out the door, positively beaming. I have a fabulous new set of accessories, hundreds of new DSW points and know a reward check will be coming my way soon. Victory is sweet (and slightly expensive).

It's a sunny day in Kansas City. I wonder how many of you will storm the doors of DSW today. Shop quick. Shop smart. Shop for color.

Can't make it out to the stores thanks to all the monsters being out of school for spring break? Check out some little treats I found at Overstock.com:

This colorful and happy polka-dot shoe by Betsey Johnson. The 'Lanica' strappy sandals feature bold polka dot print. Just $72.99 at Overstock.com, unfortunately only red is available in sizes 5.5 or 6.5 at the moment.



These colorful pumps don't look too comfortable to me and they only have white available, but the colors are fabulous and will at least give you an idea of the trends to look for.




If you want a real bargain on fabulous designer shoes (and wear a size 8) these are definitely one's to lust. Stunning hot pink patent leather open-toe pumps with black piping. Authentic Prada sandals feature an open toe and a closed heel with an ankle strap. Was about $528, now $351.99. Yum yum.

Search Overstock.com for:

Great deals

It looks like it might be a sunny, dry day here in Kansas City so I searched for a great savings event to get my blood pumping.

A 25% discount on make up? Yeah...that's a good start to the day.

Are you a member of the DSW rewards program? If not, sign up. Head on over to get double points on your shoe purchases thru March 22nd.

I found the most fabulous pair of bright orange, high-heeled shoes there a few weeks ago. The spring trends have definitely arrived and are eager to see your tootsies!

The FAQ on our events

It's no secret that the Haute Market events are the cat's meow, but it's still new to some so we're breaking it down for you here so you know what to expect out of us and our fab events!

Who is behind Haute Market?
One woman started Haute Market in June '06 (that's me). A year ago I brought on a sales rep and over-all fab helper so that Haute could grow and grow. We're two moms, like many of our readers, who need something more than the love and attention of our children to get us through each day.

What is Haute Market?
Haute Market is two-fold.
A fabulous shopping party held several times a year in the KC metro area (and soon expanding to other cities).
It is also an online mini-magazine focused on fashion and beauty, plus covering related events around town and the nation, like local fashion events and major fashion week shows. We want to be your source for quick and up-to-date fashion and beauty information.

What are the shopping events like?
-It is NOT like a craft fair! There is fabulous music by our DJ who also acts as MC to keep the crowd energized and having fun.
-We give away LOTS of prizes.
-The boutiques and designers are hand picked based on their product quality and ability to provide guests with fashion-forward designs.
- the shopping is intense as it's only a 4 hour event. Women get in, grab a drink and get shopping.

Are children allowed?
No. I don't know about you, but I am with my children (3 boys) nearly 24/7. I want to get dressed up, fix my hair and go out with my girlfriends to do something just for me.
Haute Market events are 21 & over so we can have a kid-free environment and sip some grown up drinks.

What else besides shopping?
If you've bothered to get dressed up, fix your hair, put on make up...do you really think we'd let you just shop? No way...besides fab shopping Haute Market has complimentary beauty services: massages, makeup touch up, and more. Each event might have different services offered, but there are always wonderful things going on to make you feel pretty and feminine.

Other perks:
Each event will feature the Grand Makeover - one guest is plucked from the crowd and given a new look!
We have also teamed up with Mix 93.3 and Escape Limousine to bring 8 ladies to the event in style. Complimentary admission, goodie bags and limo ride to and from the event! (Registration starts soon on the Mix web site)

Haute Market is a destination for women. We want you to escape the daily toll of working, taking care of kids and let you enjoy just being you. Enjoy the company of girlfriends you've lost touch with, shop for something fresh and new to add to your wardrobe, and relax while you're pampered by our many complimentary services.
Like I said...it's the cat's meow. :)

Macy's Sales

Gearing up for spring at one of my favorite haunts, Macy's has two sales coming up that I'm saving my pennies for.

Macy's One Day Sale. Step into Spring and Save 20-50% + Values & web busters! Valid 18-March through 19-March, 2008. I do hope this fabulous coat dress by Michael Kors is part of the sale!

Next on the Macy's calendar is their Easter sale March 20-23, 2008. Save 10-50%.
See site for restrictions and terms.

The Vanity Fair

I hope you have your tickets to the first Vanity Fair by Haute Market. An entire shopping event dedicated to beauty and fashion.

Shop the latest spring fashion trends from some of the Midwest's most fabulous designers and boutiques.

Beauty products and services from local vendors, salons and spas. Loads of complimentary services to pamper yourself.

Get your tickets and mark your calendar for the Vanity Fair, Wednesday, April 16th, 5-9pm.

Runway Finale

Last night I finally watched the Project Runway Finale. Unfortunately I already knew who the winner was so it was not as exciting as it could have been. I won't spoil it if you haven't learned who the big winner is, but I will show you a few outfits I found recently online that reminded me of fashion week styles.

This dress struck me right away and gave me this blog idea. I reminded me so much of runway items and although it's black, it's still going to be on my shopping list if I can just find an occasion appropriate for such a beautiful piece.

Anne Klein Tiered Dress with Belt. This is when it's good to be in tiers! The little black dress, redefined with a sheer panel at the shoulders and rows and rows of flirty tiers. $218 at macys.com

At Overstock.com I found this wrap-style vest that reminds me of the layers and draping for fall, but in a great Spring-like style. To The Max Draped Knit Vest with Belt. Be careful if you are a "hippy chick" because the shape toward the bottom of the shirt go outward and could make a wide hip area look bigger. Pair with some skinny jeans and that should help slim the look. Was $78, now just $43.99. New Customers – Save $10 off Purchases of $150 or more at Overstock.com. Expires 3.31.08 at 11:59pm MST
Enjoy your shopping. Check back each weekday for your dose of fashion and beauty tips!

Spring Color Fling

Looking for a little color this spring? It's everywhere and ripe for your picking. Get a bit bold with color this year. Make sure it's a good color for you, don't just buy it because "orange is in" for example. Just try to get something besides black.

I've rummaged the web this morning and picked a few bits to show you to help jump start your shopping.

Spice things up a bit with this flirty halter top in a fun geometric print. New from TOMMY HILFIGER, $79.50 at Macys.com .


Need just a slight bit of color to ease you into the color-mania? Let the flower-power flow over you. Smooth and soft tunic drapes you in a 60's style floral print. Peasant sleeves have elastic cuffs with velvet-trimmed single button closure. Scoopneck. $58 at Lucky Brand Jeans online.

Looking for a bit of bling for your spring attire? Check out this top with a jewel-lined collar. Diaphanous elegance adds romantic style to any outfit. Henry New York Pleat & Bead Detail Sleeveless Top at ShopNBC.com for $79.99. Starting with a soft silk-like fabric that floats over your body, the scoop neck is sprinkled with beaded floral embellishments. This sparkling touch makes jewelry almost optional. The flattering silhouette is created with petite pleats front and back, for an airy gracefulness you'll adore.

Groovy With the Juve'

Today's blog is short and sweet because I am heading over to Aestheticare Med Spa to try out the Juvéderm™ treatments. Juvéderm™ is an injectible filler used to plump lips and fill crease lines in order to reduce them.

As described on the Juvederm site:
"Juvéderm™ is a smooth consistency gel made of hyaluronic acid—a naturally occurring substance in your skin that helps to add volume and hydration. Your healthcare professional eases Juvéderm™ injectable gel under the skin to instantly restore your skin's volume and smooth away facial wrinkles and folds, like your “smile lines” or “parentheses” (nasolabial folds—the creases that run from the bottom of your nose to the corners of your mouth)."

My treatments will be video taped today. I've already gone for the consultation and that was taped too. Soon we'll have a video so you can see me receiving the treatments and get a good look at what really happens.

Fashion LA

It's Fashion Week in LA. The Fall 2008 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at SMASHBOX Studios kicked off yesterday afternoon. What I wouldn't give to be in LA this morning, soaking up the sunshine, versus being here bundled up in wooly winter coats!
Especially since tonight Jenna Jameson unveils her PETA ad. Hopefully that's all she unveils. If you don't know who Jenna is, ask your hubby. And if he knows, then you'll probably want to smack him. ;)

Also on the schedule is San Francisco based designer, Joseph Domingo. Joseph Domingo's namesake custom couture for men and women is a fan favorite at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week and has been worn by many Hollywood Starlets including Shakira, Beyonce, and Kelly Carlson. The inspiration for the collection this year is VIXEN - Eartha Kitt as catwoman, Alexis from Dynasty, etc. His show should be quite a celebrity filled event with guest confirmations from Apollonia, Brenda Song, Shar Jackson, Cindy Margolis, Jimmy Jean Louis from Heroes, Ana Ortiz, and Sprague Hayden.

It seems appropriate that Fall fashions are being shown this week since it's still clearly winter here in the lovely Midwest. Oh well...I wasn't looking forward to swimsuit shopping anytime soon anyway.

Interview with Alison Kelly

Project Runway Season 3, may have rid itself of designer Alison Kelly just a bit too quickly because she's one to watch in the design world, in my humble opinion. I had an informal interview with Alison to get to know her a bit better.

What age were you when you knew you loved fashion design and how did it come about? Was it a big revelation or gradual progression?

Since I can remember, clothing has been very important to me, important in the sense of how it fits and falls across the body. Growing up in the mountains of Vermont and beaches of Cape Cod we
were less exposed to avant-garde fashion but more to trends and commercial chains. I was never happy with what I was supposed to wear so my mother helped me manipulate the trends into my own expression of style and taught me to sew my own innovations.

What is your favorite type of clothing to design?

I am primarily inspired to design for myself and can never seem to have enough dresses, which are
certainly my favorite pieces to wear and to design. Dresses are my bread and butter, you can so easily dress them up with stockings and fancy shoes, or dress them down with leggings or jeans. People always comment on how light I pack, but actually, 10 of my dresses rolled up in a bag hardly take up any room.

What is a fashion tip you always share with friends/clients? (my new one is – never say never until you've tried it on with Spanx!)

You can always wear it with leggings!What was your favorite part of NYC Fashion Week last month?

I participated in an event which was hosted by Barneys New York, Pure & Natural and Earth Pledge. I designed a bag from recycled paper which you can bury in the ground and baby's breath will bloom! There was a fashion show, showcasing an array of designers, Stella McCartney, Rodarte, Martin Margeila, Givenchy and more. The designers were to use an organic, recycled or natural fiber textile to create a look, it was stunning.

What are some of the fashion shows you loved & why?

I loved, vicariously through, the Paris & London shows especially Vivienne Westwood. If you look at the Central Saint Martins' grad show on that site you will see some of the most inspiring and avant-garde looks of the decade.

What trends did you see that you want to carry over to your upcoming designs?

I am very much inclined to start using organic bamboo and an incredible textile called Abaca,which is made from banana leaves. As a designer, I am in the beginning stages of gathering inspiration for my next collection, which is Spring-Summer 2009, which in some ways forces
us to define the future of fashion. I have an image now of a floor length dress that is decadentyet casual and will be using some of my own prints.

Where do you see yourself in a year? In five years?

Within the next year, I see myself appearing not only as a fashion designer, but as a mentor to
others, to help build confidence in yourself and your wardrobe, whether this will be through television or online, you shall have to see. In 5 years, I would like to have a large Dahl empire. Or at least not be so broke anymore and be able to afford meals! What is your favorite piece of clothing that you wear all the time?

A dress. I don't have just one, I have 100s, but here is an example (pictured left).

Do you have any fashion shows coming up?

I have a rep who is working on circulating my line into boutiques across the country. You have to build up steadily, which is why I have done exclusives for shopbop.com. It is a huge task to undertake to produce & distribute a wholesale clothing line and I want to know where everything is coming from, where it is going, and how it will be represented. I want to feel full of confidence that my work, which is so dear to me, is being seen and exposed in a thoughtful & inspiring way.

Find Alison Kelly designs at http://www.alisonkellyny.com/ and http://www.atelierdahl.com/atelier

Thank you Alison. It was such a pleasure and I hope we'll see much more of you and your designs in the near future!
photos courtesty of Alison Kelly

For The Babes

Bored, not sure what you'll do today? Do something fabulous, exciting, exhilarating. My friends at Mix 93.3 here in Kansas City are doing a great radio-a-thon for the local children's hospitals.

We all waste money on coffee, or eating fast food at lunch time. Donate just that much. It makes a difference. It helps pay for the movie nights they provide for the kids at the hospital. For the crayons and markers and craft projects that keep the kids busy instead of sitting alone and afraid in a hospital room.

I look at my donation as future investment. I have three boys and miraculously have only been to Childrens Mercy one time when my first baby was just a week old. However I figure that I'll get a return on my investment with my third boy because he's climbing on the countertops, jumping off the backs of the couches and off the side of the stairs. It's only a matter of time. :) Hopefully we'll never have to use the hospital, but maybe my friends or neighbors will.

Check out the Mix 93.3 web site and how you can donate. Call, text or donate online. Do it today. It's a good thing for our city and our children.

Playing Dress Up

Today, in hopes of more warm weather and sunshine, dresses will be featured here and with a little twist.
Our online shopping tour starts at Nordstroms and ends at a more budget conscious retail store.

This sunny shift dress by Nicole Miller is a perfect start to our tour. It's light-weight silk/spandex, and lined. I love the long sleeves, especially with the slow start to our spring. The color is such a refreshing change.

The dress can be found online at Nordstroms for $365. The only fault I find with it...it's dry clean only. But I can live with that in this case.

So as not to be accused of label-snobbery, we take our tour to the bargain side to find some similar styles that are more budget friendly. Honestly, I could not find anything as bright and beautiful yet, but I did find this geo-print wrap dress by Isaac Mizrahi at Target for $39.99. It's a bit more figure flattering with it's v-neck and wrap style.

While these styles are very different, they still give great options for colorful spring dresses. They would be great for work and meeting after for happy hour.
Happy shopping fashionistas.

Stunt Lashes

It seems that I could theme the entire first quarter of 2008 to lashes because I've tried so many formulas and have so many more to play with. The last few days I've been testing what LORAC dubs it's "new breakthrough mascara", Publicity Stunt Lashes Long-Wearing Mascara. Yeah, that's a mouthful.

What it is: Long wearing mascara.

What it claims to do: create long, lush lashes that are gym-proof, cry-proof and Red Carpet beauty-proof. It's ultra lightweight formula is loaded with natural ingredients that create a long-wearing, innovative new technology, allowing you to take a break from re-applying your mascara every day without it smudging, budging or flaking for up to 3 days.

How do they do that?: the formula includes a plant cellulose that is combined with volcanic ash from an island chain in the South Pacific. The pulverized ash mixed with the cellulose and other ingredients produces a water impervious substance that bonds to hair, elongating the lash and increasing the wear due to it's water-repelling qualities.

The product (which costs $18 online at Sephora) comes with a handy instruction guide for applying and removing the mascara. Starting at the base of the lashes, wiggle the brush back and forth and up to the tips of the lashes. It's recommended that you apply at least two coats, which I did.
I found that the formula was so light-weight that it was difficult to get a lot of coverage. It took a long time to achieve what I thought was a good coverage for my lashes.
Next, while lashes are still wet, use the attached lash comb. This tool was helpful in separating the lashes but it was difficult to comb the lashes at either end of my lid due to the shape of the comb.

I applied this on Sunday. The first night I slept with this on, I woke with some crazy lashes. I know that I should sleep on my back but I often sleep front down which means part of my face is mashed into my pillow. Not good for preventing face lines or for long-wearing mascara.
I had some bits of the mascara still on this morning. Washing it off was no simple task. The instructions do let you know that if you want to remove on day 1, you'll need oil make up remover and warm water. If removal is done on day 2, apply warm water to the lashes with a cloth and make downward strokes.

I tried a non-oil make up remover just to see what day 3 would hold. The lashes held. I eventually removed all of the product per the instructions.

My recommendation: there are a lot of great mascaras that last long enough for me. This 3 day stuff is not for me. I don't want to worry that the lashes have bent and stuck that way. I want it to come off when I want it off. I think this does what it says, but is a bit extreme. I don't know anyone that needs mascara to last 3 days. I got this product for free in my goodie bag from last week's NYC beauty event...had I paid $18, I'd be taking it back to the store.

Want to score some of my swag for yourself? Just email me and let me know why you should be a guest blogger and test out some of my goodies. info@hautemarket.com

Penelope

Goodie Bag holders from the last Haute Market event were treated to a complimentary screening pass to the new movie Penelope before it was out in theaters. I have not had the chance to see the movie but did a little snooping around to see how it is doing. Not as well as a prior fairytale-type movie, by far.

Opening weekend for Penelope was a dismal 4 million, compared to Enchanted which opened at Thanksgiving and pulled in a whopping 34 million.
I'm more likely to see Penelope than Enchanted mainly because Reese Witherspoon and Christina Ricci are some of my favorite young female actresses, and because I had enough of Disney fairy tales to last a lifetime.

The moral to the story of Penelope is that inner beauty is more important than outer beauty. Yeah...that's true in the real world..HA! While it's true that young girls should be encouraged to find what's beautiful within themselves and build upon that...you know damn good and well that if you gave birth to a child a pig nose, you'd be consulting the plastic surgeon before you were decently dressed or ran a comb through your hair. Which, I believe that the story does include such a consult, but the doctors say the nose job isn't possible. Obviously or there would be no story.

Penelope is a sweet fable with some actors that I consider fun to watch. Plus it's an underdog at the box office and I like to support the underdog when I can.
If you took advantage of the pre-screening pass, let us know what you thought of the movie!

Where Do You Keep Your Money?

Start saving your pennies now because there are so many fabulous fashions coming this fall that not getting at least one will leave you feeling sad and alone.
I've been browsing pictures of Stella McCartney's Fall 08 line and I just have to have the felted wool wrap coat. I don't even want to know what it costs. I just want to hand over my credit card and what will be, will be.
Of course I can't wear it much because anyplace you go out in this city people think they need to smoke! ARGH! What is it with this metro area? Can we please just go smoke free like the cosmopolitan cities so that we can actually WEAR our fashionable frocks and designer doo-dads? why do you think the men and women of places like NYC always look so good? They can safely wear their goods.
Thankfully, down here in the 'burbs, I no longer have to request non-smoking sections in which to enjoy my meals. But every time I leave my little haven to cross the border and venture downtown, I have to carefully chose my outfit, not so I can look as chic as possible, so that I can look chic in one of my B or C list outfits that I won't be in tears over if it's forever carrying the stench of second hand smoke.
Whew...I feel better with that soap-box-moment having been said and done.
For now, I follow the lead of Ms. Carrie Bradshaw, for I like my money right where I can see it, hanging in my closet.
Happy Friday Fashionistas.

Playing Dress Up

I used to be the ultimate tomboy. I used to race my banana-seat bike against the neighbor boys on their dirt bikes, use a slanted tree stump as our ramp and still have the scar on my chin from wiping out in the middle of the street after using said tree stump. I'm sure that I wore dresses as a little girl, but I don't recall that and I'm guessing that I fought it a bit.
Maybe it's because I now live in an all male household that I'm asserting my independence and embracing my girliness. Whatever the reason would be (I find that wine is a better option than sorting all that out with a shrink) I now love dresses, dressing up and even looking feminine!

As I review the Spring 2008 fashion shows held last September in New York, I see oodles of dresses. This carried over to the Fall 08 shows as well. There were a surprising number of light, flowy dresses that can also be expected for this fall.

What can you expect and search for now? It's almost easier to tell you what not to wear because there are so many new ideas out there, and definitely some old things that need discarded.
No more shapeless women walking around town please! The tunic dress is done. The only way to salvage it if you have one is to find a way to belt it. Shape and fit are in. There is room for a lot of individual style, but the common element is that it's shaped to fit a female body and show some curves.

Bill Blass showed a collection of dresses that either stopped just below the knee, or went to the floor. Everyone of them showed off the waistline.
While Anne Klein has several looks showing off the knees as well as the waistline.
Even Betsey Johnson, with her flouncy skirts and bright colors, showed the waistline and were even accentuated with a wide sash.

I suppose that brings me back to the one fashion tip I always harp on...fit is it! Show your curves. If you're not very curvy, use a belt to accentuate the waist and give yourself some shape.

Don't miss our fun survey about the Oscar ladies and their dresses. Vote for your favorite.

Goodies Up For Grabs

Good morning! I have more goodies for fashionistas interested in testing some of my beauty product swag and being a guest blogger to tell us all about it.
Just email me at info@hautemarket.com.
Give me your name, age and why you should be a product tester and guest blogger for the Fashion 411 blog.

Now for a recap of bare minimum products several of my fashionista friends use. I think it's interesting to know what other women are using and loving. Especially those products that are their "essentials". I want to make sure I'm not missing out on some fab beauty secret!

Allyson, Director of Advertising/435 South Magazine, says:
What is your bare-minimum make up? - Bare Escuentals Bare Minerals foundation, Arbonne mascara, eye liner and lip gloss.
What products do you use no matter what?
I don't really have any no-matter what products. I am always open to trying new things.
Is it mascara that you won't go out without? Maybe just a quick powdering?
Always mascara - always foundation

"I'm in love with Bare Essentials-it all looks natural! I also can't go without my Mary Kay lip gloss-current color of choice is Cinnamon Raisin."
Jennifer-3rd grade teacher

My NYC gal-pal Sarah, works for L'Oreal in marketing - so I guess she can't go super bare. She says: "powder (Smashbox) a little shadow and blush (Lorac) and gloss (Vincent Longo) oh and mascara (Lancome)...and concealer (Smashbox)".
Ha ha...I don't see any L'Oreal mention here, Sarah. I know she washes her hair with it though, so she's safe :)

"My bare minimums would be my Neutrogena Visibly Firm foundation (20 SPF)– in the winter I like more of a cream–definitely my Almay eyeliner pencil and then Jane Iredale lip gloss in Cosmopolitan for light color. I ALWAYS have my MAC Studio Fix compact!"
Stephanie Chiles of S. Chiles Design/Graphic Design & Visual Communications

"My bare minimums are: under eye concealer, mascara, and eyebrow liner."
Michele - Office Manager/Development Associate, SAFEHOME

Score My Swag

Hopefully you're an avid reader of the Fashion 411 Blog here at Haute Market. It might help you win some fabulous swag I brought back from my trip last week to a huge beauty product event in New York. I cannot possibly try all of these products, especially since it can take 4-6 weeks to truly see results of anti-wrinkle creams, acne treatment gels, face scrubs, etc.

One product I tried and loved is the Dr. Michelle Copeland Ageless Skin Foundation. Recognize that name? If you scored a goodie bag at the Feb. 10th event, then you received some products from the doc too.

I was surprised that the light feeling foundation worked for me because my skin seems resilient to keeping foundation in place. It's as if it evaporates away. I usually use a very thick foundation. I'm alternating primers to see which works best for me. One is the Smashbox primer which has a thicker consistency due to it's silicone base. The other is Lorac which feels more like water, but in a good way.

Let's back up and I'll give you the complete regime. Normally I'd never do this much...but I'm not getting younger and it's here for the testing.

Face wash - Mary Kay Velocity. My skin tends to dry so after a while I have to use something without the scrubbing beads inside, just for a few days.
Next I'm experimenting with another swag item: Lancome Absolue Ultimate, replenishing and restructuring serum.
Next, La Roche-Posay Biomedic Facial Shield for moisturizing.
I let this all sit a while before I put on make up.
Next is the primer, either Smashbox or Lorac until I determine which helps my foundation stay on longer.
Foundation by Copeland.
I have bronzer and highlighter powder from Lorac that I'll use if going out.
Finishing powder is whatever I can find. I honestly have so many and need to pay attention because that can make a difference in staying-power too.

So now you have my regime. And last week I posted some faves of some of our fashionistas. You should have plenty of recommendations for your next shopping trip!

Now for the 'score my swag' part. I have two products from Garnier Nutritioniste-TM. Skin Renew moisturizer ($11.99 at drugstore.com) and Ultra-Lift-TM anti-wrinkle firming cream ($13.99 at drugstore.com).
I need two different ladies willing to test these and report back to be a guest blogger. You have to commit to using it every day for at least 4 weeks. I'd love before and after close ups of your skin too!
Email me your name, age, which product you want to test and why you should be picked to be my tester and guest blogger. Helps if you have wrinkles that need smoothing if you want to test the anti-wrinkle cream. :) I will pick based on best case pleaded to me. Winners will be picked and notified by this Thursday morning and swag will be mailed to you. info@hautemarket.com

Oscar and his Ladies

The ladies of Oscar night must have been planning these gowns for months in anticipation of this grand Hollywood ceremony.
My favorite is a tie between Jessica Alba and Penelope Cruz.
Jessica (glowing mother-to-be) in her merlot-colored Marchesa gown. The gorgeous feather bustline and demi-train gave her a goddess quality. All that was missing - a few cascading curls falling from her beautiful up-do hair style.

Penelope Cruz, also following the feather trend looked incredible in her gown. What I really loved was the way the back of her hair fell just to the top of the gown's back. Like it was cut "just so" to start the flowing look at the top of her head down to the end of her amazing train.

Obviously the weather wasn't cooperating (a tent was erected to keep the arriving stars dry) and the many buns and other up-do's were probably a result of that, and that is the easy way out. The few who let their hair down, literally, had a much tougher job of achieving the soft hair look. Kudos to the loose-haired ladies!

A quick glance at other blogs and I find a lot of people bagging on the feather dresses. I love them. Especially after seeing the Fall 08 Fashion Week runway shows. There were feathers here and there.

Vote for your favorite now. Vote for best dress then view the results of our reader survey.

Fab Friday

I swear that ULTA must plan their mailer for my Fab Friday chats. It always arrives just in time. ULTA has a free gift with purchase offer in the store, several buy two get one free products and sales. Check it out on this cold, cold Friday.

I'm still exhausted from my quickie with the big apple. And still pouting about not getting to shop. What was most agonizing is the cab ride down Madison Avenue. Passing all those fabulous designer boutiuqes at 9:01pm....it was killer.
But the huge goodie bag was so fantastic and provided me with dozens of products to review and share with my fashionistas! So keep an eye out for upcoming product test reviews and some contests to win some of my swag!

Happy Friday!

Good morning from NYC, again...

Hello fashionistas and good morning. It's 6am here in the fashion capital. I arrived last night at dusk, and I'm leaving when it's still dark. This is not a life I would want to live. Oh well...New York is most beautiful at night.
With no time to shop except running into a TJ Max to buy another piece of luggage, I feel like quite the jet-setter.
Why the extra piece of luggage then? Last night was the demo night for the CEW (Cosmetic Executive Women) Network, and that means a HUGE goodie bag packed so tight with beauty products. I had to buy luggage to check all the lotions, perfumes, and other goodies.

Demo night is an evening in which all the fabulous brands we know, plus some newbies to the market, come together to show off their latest and greatest products so that we'll vote for them as the best in their categories.

Some women think Haute Market events are crowded. Holy cow. This was only two hours long, the aisles were about 5-6 feet wide, and tables for the demos were side by side as far as the eye could see. I didn't make it to 2/3's of the demo tables but I did score some fantastic freebies and great contacts in the industry. This means more fabulous swag for Haute Market goodie bags in the future! (don't you love the balloon wall?!)

And now for another installment of the bare necessities women we know use before heading out the door each day:
My bare minimums would be my Neutrogena Visibly Firm foundation (20 SPF)– in the winter I like more of a cream–definitely my Almay eyeliner pencil and then Jane Iredale lip gloss in Cosmopolitan for light color. I ALWAYS have my MAC Studio Fix compact!
Stephanie Chiles of S. Chiles Design/Graphic Design & Visual Communications

Thanks for reading and I'll see you in KC. We're boarding now!

Bare Necessities

I am a bit tardy posting today. So sorry. I was sure I could get dressed, get kids out the door, pack and have plenty of playtime. Wrong. I'm sitting here at our beloved KCI watiting to fly to NYC for a fabulous beauty-industry event. I'll get to sample new products on the market and even bring home a great goodie bag!
In honor of my beauty-related day, I'm posting the bare essentials that many area women use for their beauty regime.
Some make me laugh because they aren't very bare. You're lucky to see me at Walmart or Target with foundation and mascara on my usual days. :)

My friend Allyson, Director of Advertising/435 South Magazine, says:
What is your bare-minimum make up? - Bare Escuentals Bare Minerals foundation, Arbonne mascara, eye liner and lip gloss.
What products do you use no matter what? I don't really have any no-matter what products. I am always open to trying new things.
Is it mascara that you won't go out without? Maybe just a quick powdering?- always mascara - always foundation

My NYC gal-pal Sarah, works for L'Oreal in marketing - so I guess she can't go super bare. She says:
powder (smashbox) a little shadow and blush (lorac) and gloss (vincent longo) oh and mascara (lancome)...and concealor (smashbox).

More bare essentials from "real" gals about town, coming tomorrow!

The Vanity Fair Event

Good morning fashionistas!
I hope you are on the Haute Buzz newsletter list because today's issue comes with a fab coupon and great announcement.
The next Haute Market shopping party is..
the Vanity Fair, Wed. April 16th from 5-9 pm at the Ritz Charles.

The Vanity Fair will be a haute shopping party with a twist.
One area dedicated to beauty, pampering and vanity: The Beauty Bar, will surely be a destination for you to visit and indulge in some of your beauty wishes.
Plus some of our favorite designers and boutiques who focus on fashion. Women's apparel, handbags, and loads of handcrafted jewelry designs.

Learn about Botox, Restalyne, microdermabrasion, laser hair removal and more from three of our favorite med spas in Kansas City.
Treat yourself to a make-up or hair touch up, maybe enjoy a massage.
There will also be vendors specializing in beauty and body products. You an purchase make up and body cream developed by women right here in the KC Metro!

Shop with your girlfriends, support local businesses and designers, and allow yourself to fulfill a few of your own beauty wishes at the next Haute Market shopping party!