Last Summer Vacation Days

I don't know about the rest of you fashionistas but I am counting down the days until school starts. Of course I love my boys, but I think absence can make the heart grow fonder. And they haven't had much absence from me in the last few weeks resulting in frayed mommy nerves.
(need retail therapy!)
I hunted for a few ideas to pass the time and make the remaining days more memorable.
I know...what's the kid/family post all about? Well never fear dears....this still involves shopping and fashion!

The Legends at Village West in KC has a great incentive to shop:
if you spend $75 or more at any Legends store or restaurant, you can turn in a coupon for one free Schlitterbahn water park ticket.

You can do a bit of back-to-school shopping (for which mommy does also get something new for August) then take the rascals to the water park and wear them right out.
Head to the Legends to shop on Saturday and enjoy the free concerts too!

Of course my fave store at the Legends is BCBG.
I did major damage at the BCBG outlet in Napa a few months back, then later visited the Legends to find they also had some of the current trends, not just two season old frocks like outlets tend to carry.
So scoot on over and find something like this embroidered eyelet dress ($99 at bcbg.com).
This is a versatile dress to get some mileage out of. Dress it down for casual day, or grab some heels and bling for a night out.

We usually hit Old Navy for the boys. They wear out their clothes so quickly so at least Old Navy isn't expensive and yet trendy enough that the boys are sure to find something donning a guitar or skull.

For tonight:
Planet Beach in Olathe and Haute Market are giving a fabulous spa party! One spot may still be open. If you want to join us call Planet Beach 913-397-0158 for details.

Two Chic Blvd in Overland Park, KS is having their monthly Girls Night Out with fun, fashion and major discounts! 50% off clothing, jewelry and shoes.

Shop & support local businesses!

KC Model Call

Haute Market announces another fabulous shopping party in Kansas City with the addition of the 2nd Annual Why Pink Fashion Show, for which we need models!

Why Pink is a fabulous Breast Health Awareness campaign that uses photography to capture memories, while supporting breast health charities. Over $4000 was raised for the National Breast Cancer Foundation in 2008 through portrait sessions and various events. One of the premier events was the fashion show at Haute Market.

For 2009, Why Pink is partnering with the Greater Kansas City Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

The 2nd annual Why Pink fashion show at Haute Market will be a runway celebration of those who have successfully battled breast cancer. If you want to strut your stuff to celebrate you, let us know! Email to let us know you are interested and for the model requirements.
We will also have a few models walking in honor of someone they have lost to breast cancer, but who still deserves celebrating.

If your company would like to donate to the event in some way, let us know! There will be a silent auction and raffle. Haute Market will sponsor the fashion show so that all of the funds raised can be donated to charity!

For more event info visit www.hautemarket.com/events.shtml
Tickets will be available for purchase by Aug. 15th.

Guest Blogger: On lashes

Welcome to this week's guest blogger: Donetta Taylor, Kansas City Skin & Cancer Center, Licensed Aesthetician

Thick, long, dark, gorgeous eyelashes are in!
I just love long eyelashes, turn green with envy when I see those butterfly wings on those teenage boys who could care less...its just not right!

But finally there is an innovation in the lash market and we are hooked. It does not require messy glue, no special tweezers and even worse are those scary vibrating wands next to your beautiful peepers.

Its Latisse!! And does it ever work. It is the only FDA approved prescription treatment that will make all of your friends gawk at your baby blues.. and it is so simple...just once nightly you apply your Latisse with the sterile applicator and WOLA in 2 months you will be the hit of the party.

To find a doctor near you who is familiar with Latisse use Find A Doctor at Latisse.com or just give me a call at Kansas City Skin & Cancer center at 816-584-8100 and see if Latisse is right for you..

Until later,The Queen of Creme

Donetta Taylor
Kansas City Skin & Cancer Center
Licensed Aesthetician

Botax? The new circus...

There is much buzz about a proposed tax on elective cosmetic procedures. Depending on what you read, you may or may not believe it or support it.

Here is the lowdown on our research in the wee hours this morning:

FOX News says "Off the table"

...reports that while the 10% tax on cosmetic enhancement type procedures was indeed a real proposal thought up by some moron (my word) in the treasury department as a way to pay for the $1 trillion dollar health care reform circus (again, my word)... Trish Turner, contributing editor, says "most members of the finance committee have not heard of it" and therefore is assuming the proposal is off the table.

Ms. turner also writes that a Senator she interviewed also had not heard of it and laughed while discussing it.

Yeah...that was pretty much my response too.

Other interested parties in this supposed proposal would have you believe that this is a current government issue and is cause for immediate action, outrage and temper tantrum throwing.

There is even a petition "Stop Bo-Tax!" if you feel so compelled.

The writer of the post regarding the petition claims the medical aesthetics industry is under attack.

Really? I'm sure the government has that on top of the list of things to do today.

So, if I go get my Botox refreshed for approximately $150, does someone out there really think I'll squeal about an extra $10.50 on top? I won't like it, but not going to make me show up on Senate steps or sign a petition.

If one can afford the $5000 procedure, will the $500 tax really make a dent? Perhaps, but that's the price you pay, as they say.

Now what may get an even bigger stink from our fellow Americans who don't even have the right to vote is that there may be a proposed tax on video games to "discourage inactive lifestyles".

Hmmm...I wonder if they will tax my computer or internet access more as I sit here only excercising my fingers....

or my books as I sit on my (getting larger) derier on the deck of my house which too is taxed...or take away the tax relief I get from those three little hooligans I'm watching from my post run around on the rest of my property, which is taxed.

It never ends..

Wow, there really could be a new circus coming to DC.

Sex and the City Casting Call

OPEN CASTING CALL
Grant Wilfley Casting is holding an open call for background performers for
SEX AND THE CITY 2.

Seeking SAG and NON SAG to play:

Fashion Models, Celebrity types, Upscale socialites, Urban Club goers, Gays and Lesbians, International types (Middle Eastern, Arabic, Asian, European, British), Professional Soccer Players.

Open Call:Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Metropolitan Pavilion
125 West 18th Streetbet 6th & 7th Avenues.

SAG: 10am- 12:30pm
NON-SAG: 1:30p-4:00p

“au naturel” foot boost

Flexyfeet is the new flip flop is taking women everywhere a step in the green direction.

Flexyfeet are 100% vegan and 100% recyclable footwear so lightweight and airy, they'll feel better than bare feet on a warm summer day.

Designed by a foot pro, the innovative design utilizes an anatomic footbed and heel cup to improve posture while the toe crest help toes grip so you can strut confidently through your day. Matte insole reduces friction to stop feet from sliding, preventing blisters.

The Haute girls were given a pair to try out and we can say that they are definitely comfortable and easy to clean too! Absolutely ideal for hot summer days to keep your little piggies cool.

“I created Flexyfeet because women need supportive, breathable footwear for summer,” says Tina Aldatz, founder of Foot Petals. “Flexyfeet are flip flops with built-in Foot Petals, ensuring the wearer is both comfortable and stylish”.

Staying true to Foot Petals tradition, Flexyfeet are made with antimicrobial material to resist odor, an effect of sweaty summer soles.

Availble at www.footpetals.com for $22.95 in threee color choices.

Back to School Beauty

Getting ready to move back into your college dorm this August? Here are some affordable back to school essentials that fit anyone’s back to school budget!

Danielle Compact Mirrors When you need to take a quick look on the way to class or out with friends, whip out your fashionable Danielle mirror with real Swarovksi crystals. Available online at http://www.uppercanadasoap.com/ and http://www.amazon.com/ for $20.00-$25.00

SensiClear Acne Treatment Kit
Be sure to have clear skin this semester with the three step acne treatment kit available online at http://www.skinstore.com/ and http://www.sensiclear.com/ for only $19.95.

Simple Facial Cleansing Wipes
For those late nights when washing your face isn’t an option, grab a Simple face wipe for a quick clean before bed. I love these wipes for their pure freshness. I even use them on my boys. Great for removing the sunscreen.
Available at NYC Duane Reade drugstores for $5.99. Log on to http://www.duanereade.com/ for store locations.


Foot Petals Killer Kushionz
Stay comfortable when you’re on your feet all day and night with the Killer Kushionz foot insole from http://www.footpetals.com/ for $12.95 a pair. Foot Petals has loads of foot pampering products for just about any need. Makes staying on your feet a treat!

A deal for you....

Lilly's giving surfboards!

SURF’S UP on the LILLY PULITZER FACEBOOK PAGE!

Launching this today and taking place throughout the summer, Lilly Pulitzer will be giving away printed surfboards at random to fans on our brand’s facebook page!

To enter the contest, become a “fan” on the Lilly Pulitzer facebook page! They will be encouraging people to spread the word because the more friends you have enter the contest, the greater your chances will be to win!

To visit the Lilly Pulitzer facebook page, please visit the following link: http://www.facebook.com/lillypulitzer
The custom Lilly Pulitzer printed surfboards will be given out in a variety of different prints!

Twisted Metal Mama

TWISTED SILVER SHIMMERS WITH AUTHENTIC METALS

Miami, FL– July 2009 – Twisted Silver dives in with the sleek Montreal-based designer Aqua Di Lara swimwear line to heat up the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week runway in Miami on July 17th.

Classic trademarks of Twisted Silver’s attention gathering designs include eclectic and un-traditional designs, abundant and confident use of natural brass, and indulgent detailing in each individual piece. Boutique brand at its funky best. The natural blend of Aqua Di Lara and Twisted Silver is sure to create drama on the catwalk, poolside, and shores. The combination of swimwear and accessories doesn’t end on the runway with modern lifestyles inviting the oversized ring, multi stacked bracelets, or long and lean necklaces.

The cult favorite indie-line has the Blogosphere and Twitterland buzzing: Twisted Silver is creating and leading the fashion trends with their unconventional approach to jewelry design. Twisted Silver, Above and Beyond the Call of Jewelry.

Maybelline sponsors NY fashion week

Cosmetics leader, Maybelline New York, along with sports, entertainment and media company IMG, announced that the beauty brand will serve as the official cosmetic sponsor for IMG Fashion’s Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York City’s Bryant Park.

Maybelline New York will support a selection of well-established as well as up-and-coming designers including Charlotte Ronson, Tracy Reese, Michael Angel and Erin Wasson x RVCA. The makeup teams will be led by Charlotte Willer, the brand’s Global Makeup Artist.

“Solidifying a partnership with Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York is truly exciting for us, and even more so as we have already been sponsoring similar events in Amsterdam, Berlin and Moscow,” said Cyril Chapuy, Global General Manager of Maybelline New York. “As the #1* makeup brand worldwide, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with the world’s most respected fashion platform, which happens to be in our home town.”

“Through this amazing platform, we look forward to bringing our vast beauty expertise and inspired creativity to the exciting world of fashion and of course to our consumers,” said David Greenberg, President of Maybelline New York-Garnier USA.

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome a global brand of the caliber of Maybelline New York to our lineup of sponsors,” said Peter Levy, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of IMG Fashion Worldwide. “With the obvious brand association and the endemic nature of the businesses, we couldn’t have hoped for a better fit.”

shopping and pampering and massages OH MY!

Tomorrow night in Overland Park, Kansas (KC metro) Haute Market takes on the fashionistas. This all out night of fabulousness and fun for the girlfriends starts at 4:30pm Thursday, July 16th.

Fashion show featuring the REAL women of Kansas City,
chance to win a trip for two to New York during fashion week this September.
Plus enjoy massages, makeup and hair style stations. Shop trendy maxi dresses, hot handbags and so much more at Haute Market tomorrow night.
Goodie bags are sold out but admission tickets are still available online and from our participating vendors.

Get it now baby!

About friends

What is it to have a good friend? Someone to chat with when you're blue? Someone to shop with and who will tell you if those jeans actually look good, or honestly make your behind huge?

You've had, and hopefully still have, a friend or two that you can always run to.

It's possible that it's your turn to return the favor or perphaps just gather all the girls for a great girls night out.

Well, you're in luck. Haute Market is this Thursday and it's the best girls night out event going on. Tickets are still available online, but hurry. We are getting close to a sell out and you do not want to be left out of this shopping extravaganza.
The event admission gives you access to over 30 boutiques, designers and vendors selling just about anything a fashionista desires.
There will be a hair and make up station, massages, a fabulous fashion show and so much more.
Call your girlfriends, set it up, get the tickets and be there!

Another Haute shopping party July 16

Just one week from our third birthday celebration and another fabulous Haute Market shopping party. We're even planning a fabulous fashion show featuring some of Kansas City's "real" women and housewives!
These are no ordinary models...they are our newsletter subscribers, readers and guests! Nearly 20 models ages 18 to 50+. All regular women with enough moxy to strut down the runway in front of their friends. Gotta love it!

Oh yes...can't forget this little tidbit...this fashion show features some men' wear and some fabulous men wearing them! ;)

Also featured at the July 16th Haute Market in Overland Park:
The Last Tangle Salon (95th & Antioch)
Complimentary dry-styling and makeup touch-ups.
Stylists from the Last Tangle have recently done work for local magazine shoots, and have been tapped for a national magazine. Nice!

At the Last Tangle you can enjoy more than a fabulous cut and color. Relaxing spa pedicures, waxing treatments, eye enhancing last extensions, expert makeup services and more.

http://www.thelasttangle.com/

Get tickets now for the July 16th Haute Market shopping party in Overland Park, KS. $10 in advance, $15 at the door while supplies last. Join the hundreds of women who know what a great girls night out shopping extravaganza is all about!

Featured Boutiques

The Haute Market shopping party is just around the corner so we thought we'd share a few boutiques with you to wet your appetite for shopping!


What’s a Happy Hour without some drinks, fun gifts and a friendly game or two?
Have a wine lover in your life? Want something new, fun and reasonable to give as a gift or make yourself? Then you are in luck! Simply blend wine glace with your favorite wine to create a fun and delicious frozen wine beverage. All you need is a blender, ice and your favorite wine.

With drink mixes like "CosmoRita", "Wine-a-Rita", and "Peach Bellini"...what's more to love?

Do you feel like getting your cowgirl on? Try some chic pink skull boots from Longhorns & Lace, a cowgirl-chic shop in Paola, KS.

Both of the above boutiques will be at the July 16th Haute Market shopping party!

Rockin' the shoe

Last week the New York Historical Society hosted the Independent Handbag and Shoe Awards highlighting emerging talent and accessories icons.

Tina Aldatz, the creator of Foot Petals announced the winner of “Best Shoe in Overall Design” with Libby Edelman. The winner, Rafael Young will be collaborating with Sam Edelman shoes and Foot Petals to design a limited edition pair of shoes to be sold exclusively at Verve in New York City and http://www.footpetals.com/.

I, for one, cannot WAIT to be able to purchase this shoe and the limited edition set coming soon. However as Rafael has a price point of $400-1000, it may be off limits for this fashionista. His rock couture edge makes these shoes irresistible masterpieces.

More about the award winners here:http://www.hbd101.com/awards/winners_2009

Block it

Ok girls...seriously. The sunscreen needs to be applied every day, no more excuses.
For the last few days we been at the pool so as not to melt nor be forced indoors with three fighting boys.
What my eyes have been treated to are so many crimes against the epidermis that it makes me want to petition for sunscreen to be right up there with seat belt laws.

Check out my recent sunblock article for some tips and reviews. And please...apply some sort of sunblock today!

This Week

A few things going on this week that you probably don't want to miss:

Thursday - Olathe, KS - Planet Beach's Spa night! Bring a friend (or 3) and try out a service at the beach. I've tried the aqua-massage (which does NOT require getting nekked), spray tan, cyber chair massage, and the luminous facial. Actually I did the facial while doing the chair massage. It's a lovely treat!
Check it out at 119th & Blackbob, SE corner

June 25, 26, 27 - Kansas City, MO - Quixotic's Lux Esalare performance by Kansas City's Premier Dance & Aerial Performance Ensemble. Starts at 8pm at Spencer Theatre UMKC Performing Arts Center.
Buy tickets here: http://www.umkc.edu/adminfinance/businessservices/cto/Quixotic.asp

Enjoy!

Dad Gifts, better late than never

Father’s Day is Sunday and we all know there are a handful of us who haven’t gotten dad that perfect gift yet. I could use a few more items for the gift bag for sure.

Aromatherapy Sleep Collection Black Chamomile Pillow Mist ($10.00) – This limited edition formula is infused with Chamomile essential oil for an enhanced, restorative sleep. I like that it's priced low so that the kids can buy it themselves (with my money).

Of course I like and added deal... Buy 2 Select 2 Free Body Care Mix & Match. Sweet! BathAndBodyWorks.com

Jack is back...

Award-winning fashion designer and Project Runway star Jack Mackenroth recently took part in Adam Bouska's famed "NO H8" campaign, a silent photographic protest created in direct response to California's passage of Proposition 8, which banned gay marriage throughout the state.

Jack was in Los Angeles filming a new, design-based TV pilot, and is currently training for the Outgames 2009, scheduled to take place in Copenhagen in August. http://www.jackmackenroth.com/

Made for Shades

According to the New York Times, and several designers, round sunglasses are the IN thing. Unfortunately for fashion followers, this round trend is not a great shape for all faces. Personally I think it's a bit bug-like, but Lennon pulled it off, as did Harry Potter. Maybe you can too.

My preference is round-ISH. I went for a bit of an off-shape and retro-styled wavy arms recently (when my hubby wouldn't cough up the cash for a handbag) in Prada. I had to settle for sunglasses.

By the way girls...if you are near San Francisco, Prada was having a 40% off sale on select handbags.

I thought I'd DIE walking out of there without one. Luckily the sunglasses purchase kept me among the living so that I could enjoy the vacay.

Prada Wavy Temple Oval Sunglasses - at Nordstroms.com. Or members can rent for $70 a month at Avelle (Bag Borrow or Steal).

Personal Charm

One of my latest addictions is finding unique charms and pendants for my existing necklaces and bracelets. I love creating my own personal pendant-collage out of a mix of vintage and new. This great new personalized creation makes another addition to my growing collection of charms:

Rich in one-of-a-kind craftsmanship, this unique initial necklace features two sterling silver circle charms, each embellished with your choice of 10K yellow gold lowercased letters.
Each unique charm necklace is handcrafted by Los Angeles based designer Jemma Rane.

- Sterling silver necklace measures 16" with circle clasp
- Your choice of two lowercased 10K yellow gold initials on two silver circle charms
- Large pendant measures 7/8"
- Small pendant measures 5/8"

- Handcrafted in Los AngelesNote: All Jemma jewelry pieces are hallmarked with 999 FS (Fine Silver), the artist's name, and cooresponding gold classification (10K). Allow two weeks for order processing.

Fab Friday - on the road

Catch the Hauteness this weekend in Omaha. We're making another trip up beautiful I-29 to host a tent sale at Runway Boutique, near 132nd & Center.

Our ever-faithful drink maven, Holly Hauteness, secured the sangria ingredients yesterday. The bus is nearly loaded and ready to roll.

Runway Boutique is a chic little shop with very trendy, yet affordable, women's apparel. Owner Nicole Brown is truly a unique fashionista and it shows in her fabulous selections.

Also in stock are some of the greatest handbags and hot Hessica Simpson shoes.

Just look for the white tent, pink balloons and loads of fashionistas. Hope to see you there!

Dad's rock

If Dad is a bit of a traveler, perhaps he could use a spanking new travel shave kit like this one by Kenneth Cole. Find it at Wilsonsleather.com


Does Dad like to rock out to his favorite tunes on the ipod? Make sure he has equaly rockin' listening devices: the Rockbuds retractable earbuds. Just $29.99 at Rockbuds.com




Salute fatherhood with great gift ideas for deserving dads at ShopNBC.com! 6.6.09 - 6.12.09
Invicta Men's Swiss Corduba Chronograph Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch

Choices:

White or black

Inspired by the modern elements around us! Solid silver-tone stainless steel confidently forms the square, four piece cradle style case. Four functional hex-head screws on all sides paired with a perlage textured bezel fuels this watch with architectural grandeur. Impressively shatter resistant mineral crystal protects the dial set with luminous hour markers, sub dials near 3:00, 6:00 and 9:00; with a big date window below 12:00. Completing the large scale design is a black techno-fiber strap with white contrast stitching. All dial and chronograph hands are luminous

KC for great men's clothes

There are a lot of great boutiques in town.
Two of my faves carry women's and men's apparel and have loads of new inventory just delivered!
Denim Couture at 135th & Quivira
Two Chic Blvd at 162nd & Metcalf

Check them out for fabulous new t-shirts for the guys, beautiful button up shirts and more. Score something great for Dad. While you're there, pick up your Haute Market shopping party tickets for the July 16th event in Overland Park, KS.

Deal for Dad (sort of)

This is the kind of deal that I love.
Buy something for me and get something free for someone else!
Ok...so it's not exactly the ideal gift-giving sentiment. But I'm not trying to beat out Gift of the Magi either.

Free 14 piece Men's Skincare and Scent sampler with any online order! Valid while supplies last.
This means you can stock up on your regulars AND get Dad some great goodies as well.


This is a great offer the daddy in our house would have received it he'd not already went out and bought it for himself. Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue Pour Homme Gift Set ($106 Value), just $70.

I highly recommend a gift set AND the sampler for Dad. After all, he's either bailed you out, jump-started your car or had the very difficult task of "giving you away". He deserves a little something in return (yes, I know...Dad has done all three of the above for me-thanks Dad).

Good deals for Dad

Wondering what to get dad this Father’s Day?
Look no further, Rue La La has done the thinking for you.


RueLaLa.com will launch their first multi brand event especially for dad on June 8th at 11:00am EST featuring a mix of great brands and experiences every dad is sure to love. Score fabulous gifts from Tumi, Cuisinart, Rosie, Frette, Rabbit, Tommy Bahama, Hickey Freeman and more at 50%-80% below retail price.

Want to shop for dad now or plan to procrastinate?

Rue La La has it all covered! Check out the site for a cool new men’s boutique launching everyday between now and Father’s Day where you are sure to find the perfect gift.

Visit Rue La La on June 8th and you will find these fantastic steals as well as many more!

For the dad that spends his summer grilling…
Rosie Grill Tool Set
Original Price $99.00
RueLaLa Price $59.00


For the dad that enjoys a nice glass of wine…
Rabbit VIP Edition Wine Opener & Leather Case
Original Price $100.00
RueLaLa Price $65.00

For the dad that loves to entertain…
Cuisinart Wine Cellar
Original Price $279.00
RueLaLa Price $179.00

Get on the wait list for your free membership or just use this link and we can get you through the doors!

Top handbag designer at Target

Target is partnering with acclaimed handbag designer Carlos Falchi to launch a limited-edition handbag collection, Carlos Falchi for Target. This collection is the eighth handbag launch in a series of limited-time-only accessories designers at Target.

The Carlos Falchi for Target collection will be available at most Target stores and at Target.com November 1 through December 27, 2009.

All above are currently available for rent at Avelle!