Must Have Wedge

While working on a Resort piece for NMdaily, I found myself wondering over to Shopbop just to browse for a minute at the new resort looks.  Somehow I started looking at wedges (my latest obsession).  But, instead of looking at booties, I started looking at sandals.  Makes sense, right?  Winter just started yesterday after all.

Well, wouldn't you know that I found the most amazing pair of wedges!  The best part is that they are gorgeous and affordable... love!  Anyway, I had to share...

Boutique 9 Linya T Strap Wedge Sandals

                                                                                                  - Allison

The Holiday Challenge

Has this ever happened to you?  While efficiently Christmas shopping online, my eye may have wandered  a time or two to look for something fun to wear during the holiday festivities.  Then I find it, the perfect dress/skirt/blouse!  I come back to purchase a few hours later to find out that the item has sold out (or is on backorder until 2.6.12)!  Seriously?!  When I start to browse around for a replacement item, I realize that the entire web is backordered until February and I have nothing to wear!

At this point I start to wonder (just like I do in all fashion emergencies)... what would Carrie do?  The answer comes almost immediately... head back to where it all begins... my closet.  Carrie Bradshaw was a mix master.  Always pairing the most unexpected pieces, and it always (just about every time) worked!  Why can't I do the same thing?  My wardrobe is not as diverse as Carrie's but there has to be something good in there, right?

I can guarantee that we all have great pieces tucked away that we don't wear on a day to day basis.  Or, wear something in a way that you haven't worn it before... pair a sparkly sweater with a cute dress and voilà... a new skirt!  Or take a cute dress and tuck it into a great full skirt... a new top!  Layer a lace tee under a sleeveless top, or stick a sequin dress or tank under something sheer.  The options are endless!

Browsing online at streetstyle blogs or images of your favorite celebrities can also be a great source of inspiration.  These images of Carrie have been burned in my brain... they define my style to a T.

My holiday challenge is this... get your creative juices flowing and mix and match what you already own.  I am betting that you will be amazed at the fabulous ensembles that you create without buying a thing! This is the perfect time of year to really have fun with your outfit and make a statement.

Let me know how it goes...  

                                                                                                - Allison

Behind the Seams: Project Runway All Stars Austin Scarlet & Elisa Jiminez

What could be better than Project Runway?  That's right, Project Runway All Stars... 13 of our favorite Project Runway alums competing for the biggest prize in the show's history!  And, the style will be stepped up a bit with Neiman Marcus as the official sponsor of the Accessories wall.  The winner's collection will also be featured in select Neiman Marcus stores and online at neimanmarcus.com.  Plus, my favorite fashion director, Ken Downing, will be appearing as a guest judge!  This is going to be a great season!

As the publicity train begins to roll, All Star contestants Austin Scarlet and Elisa Jiminez stopped by the Paramus Neiman Marcus.  They had two of their original designs on display, signed autographs and posed for pictures with some very lucky fans.  I had the opportunity to chat with these amazing designers... there is so much more to them than their "characters" on the show.  Check out my post on NMdaily to read all about it!

                                                                                                   - Allison