TOPSHOP Takes Manhattan

My much anticipated shopping experience at TopShop in New York was a disappointment. All the hype of the store did not deliver. I walked into sensory overload: loud music, bright lights and overcrowded with masses of people. As soon as I entered, I began my photo session and was immediately informed by security that photos were not allowed in the store. Of course, that didn't stop me, as I snapped away when the guard wasn't looking.

Topshop is one step above an H&M. In my words, it's a glorified H&M like store brought to the states which originated in the UK. Although the clothes are slightly edgier, unique, fashion forward, and made with higher quality fabrics than H&M, the prices are too expensive for the quality of their merchandise. The accessories and shoes were the highlight of the store. Although most of the shoes at Topshop are similar to Steve Madden, they are decently priced. I was impressed when I found a couple of handbags that were fashion savvy and not overpriced for the quality. Hey, I even bought a black leather messenger style bag.

Where were all the unique statement pieces I see in all the fashion magazines? I thoroughly scanned the store a few times, and never did I find any of the vintage style pieces I see the celebrities wearing. I was expecting  to find the diverse and high end designer wear that I have seen so heavily advertised , but those hopes were proven to be unrealistic for this well known street store in New York City. Sadly, it was an anticlimactic experience.

NEW YORK STATE OF MIND

NEW YORK......here I come, both in style and with an illuminating presence. It has been over 3 years since my last visit, and I am so excited to embrace the vibe and culture once again. My visit will mark an impression on Manhattan as the city always seems to do to me upon departure.

Being an avid Gossip Girl fan, I want to enhance my NYC experience and walk in Gossip Girl's shoes. I will mirror their style, represent their creativity and do my best to emulate their fashion.  I will be having dinner on Saturday evening at the Empire Hotel, Gossip Girls' landmark, where I will exude daring behavior as I embrace the ambiance.  Okay, well not exactly, but I had to just write down my thoughts.

My trip will be complete with visiting one of my closest friends, being in great company, eating amazing food and exploring what one of the most vibrant cities in the world has to offer.

Will blog from there!!! Oh and I am so excited to visit Top Shop.

Until Than,
The Fashionista Extraordinaire
XOXO

The Allure of Magical Scents by Voluspa

Voluspa Home Fragrances

I love walking into a home, mine in particular, where I can smell the aromas of freshly burnt candles upon entry .What a delight it is to walk into a soothing ambiance with a subtle touch of fragrance. These candles are concentrated in scent which makes all Voluspa's 12 unique and fresh aromas appealing to the smell. They are long lasting candles making them worth every cent.

The Voluspa lines offers luxury fragrances at affordable prices. Their collection includes: candles, aroma sprays, incense and diffusers. They also have great gift sets using creative packaging making them the perfect gift choice. After you experience the wonderful smells of Voluspa's collection, you will be running out to get some of your own.

Gift Sets

Avaliable at:

candleluxury.com

KRAZY FOR KAIN LABEL TEES

It's impossible to imagine a fashionista's wardrobe without a back-to-the-basics kind of tee. Perish that thought.....Kain Label is here.

The Kain Label is seen on many celebrities

The Kain Label started as a call back to vintage tees. When the Kain Label line first launched, they were famous for their signature pocket tee. Today there are many styles and colors to choose from.....a true fashionista's haven!!!  Kain's tee-shirts have a sexy sheer flair while representing a unique style. They are made from a cashmere/modal blend fabric and  have a loose fit to enhance comfort. Kain Label tee's are the obvious choice as the perfect tee-shirt to maintain a classic and stylish look.

To purchase Kain Label Tee's, please click on the link below:

Kain Label Tee Shirts

Spring Nail Candy By Essie-Enter to Win A Free Polish From The 2010 Spring Collection

NAILS BY ESSIE COSMETICS

I am my nail salon's best customer (Is that something to brag about or to keep to myself?). Why? Because I am a mani/pedi addict and visit my salon at least once if not twice a week,. I am greeted at the door and than escorted my own designated chair. Rather than selecting from their color collection, I bring my own bag filled with a variety of polish colors. Although they have many of the same colors I own, I am very particular of the color I use each week, and fear that another customer may be using it at the time of my visit. Yes, I buy my own polish so I am assured that it is always available when needed. I never need to wait for any color.....who likes waiting anyways!!!  Diva or not....you decide!!

My favorite polish line is by Essie Cosmetics. With over 200 colors in their collection, each and every color represents elegance and sophistication. These polishes are all chip resistant and high quality with fashionable colors. New hues are introduced every season to add to their ever growing classic polish line. Each color has it's own unique and fun art movement inspired names like BFF Best Friend, Pillow Talk, Main Squeeze and Van d'go. Just the names alone can enhance a cheery mood on any dreary and rainy day.

I am giving away 2 bottles of polish from their new 210 Spring collection. A bottle of red nouveau (fourth bottle from the left) and a bottle of van d'go (last color from the left).  To enter, please comment below and let me know which color you desire and why you should be given a free bottle of polish. I will decide the two winners by April 13th. Please make sure to leave your email address.

Essie Nail Polish  $8 per bottle. To buy please click the link below.
 
Essie Nail Polish

Dazzling Espadrilles by Michael Kors

MICHAEL Michael Kors "Juniper" Espadrilles

Two weeks ago I went to the Century City mall intending to only buy my face products. No other shopping was on the agenda. I decided to take a peek in Bloomingdale's. Of course, not to buy anything (should have known better). Instead I left the store clutching onto my over sized Bloomie's brown bag with my new pair of shoes. I skipped with excitment in route to purchase my face products.

,

These ultra chick espadrilles are a must have for the season. You can maintain your stylish attitude with theses affordable white gold espadrilles by making them an addition to your footwear collection.  They are a perfect combo of sophistication and playful glamour for any Diva. Oh, and make sure to have a nice pedicure so your step will be eye catching in these dazzling espadrilles.

These sandals have a 5' natural woven wedged heel, with golden hardware with an adjustable ankle strap. The available colors are: white gold, peanut and black patent. Price: $140.00

To purchase these shoes please click the link below

Michael Kors Espadrille

Medium Class Coated with Extra Sass: Linea Pelle Large Lola Tote

LARGE LOLA TOTE by LINEA PELLE

From the high end handbag designers to the no name designers, this handbag connoisseur knows it all. I have  purses that cost more than a monthly mortgage in my handbag closet and bags that I have purchased at
Target that are just as stylish and fashion savvy as the designer's high end creations.  One of my most favorite bags is the large lola tote by Linea Pelle. It's the perfect style steal tote, made from lambskin with a buttery feel, offering plenty of room and enough sass to embrace your casual chick style. The Linea Pelle line provides affordable prices for top quality items including handbags, woman's and men's belts, and accessories.

Linea Pelle handbags are fashionable and original with a unique and distinctive vintage flair. Because of their consistent detail to design and their distinctive style, The LP Collection has earned the loyalty of fashion icons and celebrities including: Jessica Simpson, Lauren Conrad and Paris Hilton



Price : $495

Linea Pelle Large Lola Tote