JCREW Factory Store Online Opens

My inbox was abuzz this morning with news of JCREW's newest venture - opening up their Factory Store Online - but opening on weekends only. It's a website, isn't it easy for it to be open all the time? Yes. . .but that would not make it is exciting now would it?

I've popped into the JCREW Factory Store from time to time when I'm up that way, as most of them are usually off the beaten path. . .and have always been rather disappointed. I've found that the pricing isn't really that great, and the clothing isn't made as well as it's pricey partner.

Many of you might already know, but JCREW Factory is not just last seasons JCREW on sale, it is cheaper replica's of JCREW favorites that are mass produced to be sold exclusively at the JCREW Factory. This means not only cheaper materials, but also poor fit.

This is not to say I write the Factory Store off completely, from time to time I have found a great swimsuit or coat on sale, or found a silk top that I had yearned for at JCREW before it was discontinued. . .but more often than not they don't have the correct sizing either.

So now onto the Factory Store Online - I must say I was rather disappointed. It wasn't even cheaper than JCREW's sale! I found a shirt on there (the tissue tiers tank), which I purchased at JCREW in July on sale for around $15, it's on the Factory Store for $26, in the same exact color!

Check out this comparison below:















above: Kelsey JCREW Blouse - $39.99 below: Kelsey JCREW Factory Blouse - $48.50

Both blouses are the Kelsey ruffle blouse - now the one on sale at JCREW Online are more of summer colors, but with a blouse like this there is nothing wrong with buying off season, it will come back around in spring. Or you can match it with dark cardigans for fall.

The one from the Factory Store Online comes in more fall related colors, but is actually MORE expensive than it's better made counterpart at JCREW.

I did see a few cute jewelry items all under $20, which would be worth purchasing, but other than that I was left underwhelmed by the Factory Store, and when I'm looking for a deal from JCREW I'll stick to their Final Sale.

Stay Tuned. . .

After a busy and exciting summer I am back from an extended hiatus from blogging. No matter how hard I try, it seems that the summer months tend to get away from me and like the French, I take a vacation from my blog.

This summer has given me some time to reflect on the direction that I am going, and the direction that I want for this blog. I knew when I came up with the name, The Style Maison, that it was style, and not fashion I wanted the emphasis to be on. It started out as a fashion blog, however, I have made a decision to now include all things fabulous and stylish.

Some days this may mean a stylish bridal shower, others it might be serving dinner in style - the root of the blog will most likely remain fashion, but you will begin to see a lot more lifestyle content show up.

I am also working on changing up the layout a little bit. These changes will take place over the next few weeks, so please continue to check back to see the new and improved format.

I also wanted to announce an exciting new venture for me, I am now one of the writers for AskMissA.com - a national lifestyle e-magazine that provides heartfelt rather than commercial content for women's well-rounded lifestyle interests: cultural, political, and social issues; art and literature; design and entertaining; style and skincare.

Andrea Rodgers, founder of AskMissA.com is featured in the September issue of Vogue, on news stands now. I am so honored to be a part of her fantastic site!

Please go check out my very first post - How to Travel Light and Avoid Baggage Fee's.

I'm a _______!

The long awaited premier of Sex and the City 2 finally came Thursday night, and for a select few, Wednesday night. (Photo's and Details from the SATC2 Pre-screening Premier at The Bridal Bar to come!) I was so busy with the premier party and family in town that I haven't had the chance to see the movie yet. . .however, I have heard some interesting reviews.

One thing that SATC never fails to deliver is amazing fashion inspiration. Thanks to wardrobe stylist Patricia Fields, each character has their own unique personal style, which is expressed through over the top fashions.

Check out these fabulous middle eastern inspired ensembles representing each of the girls.

Carrie -- Click here for details

Samantha - Click here for details

Charlotte - Click here for details

Miranda - Click here for details

Be the FIRST to see SATC2!

The four women who captivated the hearts of millions of women, and even a few men, are back and ready for more. Miranda, Samantha, Charlotte and Carrie made us fall in love with them as we laughed, cried, loved and lost right beside them. Sex and the City 2 premiers Thursday, May 27^th and tickets are selling out fast. Be one of the few who gets to see the girls on the big screen again the night before it all happens. 

Table 6 Productions, ellyB events and The Bridal Bar host Manolo's and Mojito's, a private cocktail party and screening of SATC 2 the night before everyone else. Walk the pink carpet in style, sip cocktails from Sinless Cocktails and smile with friends in the SmileBooth! Dress to impress in your best Sex and the City outfit to win a $100 gift certificate to fab'rik and other fabulous give-aways! Then pile into limo's and head over to Regal Cinemas Perimeter Point for a private screening of SATC 2 starting at 9pm.

$25 ticket: Gets you admission to the cocktail party at 7pm including cocktails, swag bag, limo and movie ticket.

$75 VIP ticket: Gets you admission to the cocktail party at 6pm, also Includes VIP Swag Bag, champagne toast, cocktails, limo, movie ticket and $10 donation to Wish Upon a Wedding.

BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW BEFORE THE SELL OUT! CLICK HERE.

I Want It and I Want It Delivered!

I thought that this white dress was fabulous enough to earn it's very own post. I am a sucker for anything sparkly, shiny or sequined. . .and this dress certainly has some bling. A completely crystal encrusted bodice is off-set by soft, romantic layers.

Rachel Gilbert

For a bride-to-be looking for a fun dress to change into for a reception, this one is the perfect choice. . .but for those who don't have upcoming nuptials, fret not, because this dress is sure to dazzle at any event.

White Noise. . .

A constant topic of debate in fashion is the age-old rule of "No white before Easter or after Labor Day." Regardless of your personal opinion on the matter, it is after Easter, therefore everyone can enjoy a new spring dress in white!

A white dress is one of those staples that every woman should have in her wardrobe. You can wear it bare, or layer it up with different colors and textures depending on the weather. White offers up a blank slate for accessories and color, or looks crisp when worn alone.

1. BCBG 2. Calvin Klein 3. French Connection 4. Torn by Ronny Kobo 5. Diane Von Furstenberg 6. Carmen Marc Valvo 7. See by Chloe 8. D&G 9. Halston Heritage 10. Gestuz 11. Nicole Miller

Wear for work: 1, 6, 7

Date night: 2, 5, 8

Casual Cool: 4, 7, 9

Trendy Textures: suede: 10 leather: 3

Favorite colors to try with white:

1. Black: When in doubt, black & white is always a fashionable and chic combination.

2. Metallic: Gold and silver look great which white in the summer.

3. Turquoise: Love this color mixed with white.

4. Coral: Another fun color to warm up a white ensemble on a warm summer evening.


A few rules to follow when donning a white frock:

1. Watch the undergarments: some women don't realize that it is nude under garments that should be worn under white clothing, and not white undergarments. Furthermore -- if you are wearing a tight white dress, where Spanx to hide any unflattering bulges or, eh hem, cellulite.

2. If you think it might be too see through, it is - and there is nothing that cheapens a look faster. Easily solve this problem with pant pockets by having them cut out and sewn shut.

3. Keep it crisp and wrinkle free. Be-friend your dry cleaners.

4. Get a tan. . .but not a fake one. Self tanner + White = potentially embarrassing situation. If you have fair skin, wait until a little later in the season and be sure to sweep some bronzer on your cheeks, collar bone and shoulders.

Working Girl

The days are getting longer and the weather is heating up. . .to me this means one thing: Spring Dresses! After months of winter full of dark colors and heavy clothing I anxiously await those first few warm spring days when I can step out sans tights in a floaty spring dress. In honor of the warming weather and impending Easter, I am dedicating this week to dresses. Each day I will highlight some of my favorite dress choices this season for a variety of needs. Then check back next week to see how I turn some of my favorites into an entire outfit!

Today I will start with dresses for work. With more and more offices turning to a more casual look, women have a much larger selection of clothing to choose from for the office. It is important, though, no matter how casual your office might be that you do remain work appropriate. This can be done through choosing appropriate fabrics, fit and cut.

Row 1: Eliza J, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Julie Brown

Row 2: DVF, Eliza J
Row 3: BCBG, Anthropologie

Wide hips? Try: Yellow Eliza J, Red Marc Jacobs
Straight Figure? Try: DVF, Print Eliza J, BCBG
Belly? Try: Julie Brown

Fabrics: Choose more sophisticated fabrics, such as silks, structured cottons. . . .even a jersey fabric can be great in a structured wrap dress, especially for those who travel.

Fit: Nothing too tight, too short or too low cut are all obvious. But what about nothing too loose? Wear your dresses fitted, even a floaty style should graze your curves, not swallow you like a trash bag.

Cut: Think tailored, structured and sophisticated.

Keeping Green Glam

In honor of St. Patrick's day I thought I would continue with a post celebrating the color green. Whether celebrating St. Patty's, or just wanting to add a splash of color to an ensemble, jewelry is a perfect way to brighten up your look. With springs list of neutrals, adding some delicately crafted jewels in shades of green will keep with the earthy, neutral look while adding a touch of glam to any outfit.



Jewelry designer Anna Balkan launched her line in 2006 and has already attained red carpet status. Her designs have been featured multiple times in publications including InStyle Magazine, Lucky Magazine and People.

Balkan’s jewelry is composed of the finest natural semi-precious gemstones and pearls from around the world, sterling silver, and 14kt gold fill. Her designs showcase unique color combination's and each piece makes a distinctive fashion statement. Particular attention is paid to the way the colors and textures work together and how the light plays and reflects among the stones.

I can't get enough of her unique designs that are unlike any other designs you can find in stores. Check out her website to view her newest Spring collection, purchase her designs and check out upcoming events.

Green with Envy

St. Patty's day is just around the corner, and before the festivities begin you better make sure that you have your green on. Just because it is a holiday doesn't mean that you have to be so desperate to find green that you wear something you would otherwise never leave the house in.

Avoid looking like a leprechaun this year with these chic green choices:

1. Anthropologie Dress 2. Dell Laptop 3. Tory Burch Flat 4. ASOS Blouse 5. Old Navy Ring 6. Anthropologie Cardigan 7. See by Chloe Dress 8. Twelfth Street Top 9. Etsy Earrings 10. Maggy London Dress (LOVE this one!)

The Glamourous Life

Hollywood came alive Sunday night with remarkable creations from some of the worlds leading fashion designers. The average ensemble from head to toe on Oscar night is valued anywhere from $117,000 into the millions, though most of the gowns and jewelry worn for the red carpet is borrowed.

So who got it right, and who missed their mark? My favorite gown of the evening was Cameron Diaz in Oscar de la Renta. The glitzy and floaty creation was a change from Cameron's normal tight or short numbers, and it was dazzling. Honorable mentions also go to Sandra Bullock, Queen Latifah, Meryl Streep and Miley Cyrus (who needed to stand up straight).

Although Miley is often criticized for dressing too old for her age, I have to say that I much prefer this to the like of teeny bopper Brittany Spears who more often than not showed up on the red carpet sporting not much more than lingerie.

And now for the disappointments: Although, sadly, there was no one whose ensemble was just over the top ridiculous this year, there were several gowns that fell short. Carrie Mulligan in Prada and Charlize Theron in Dior tie for worst dressed. Up close, Carrie Mulligan's "sequins and sparkle" were really miniature forks and knives, which don't have much place on the red carpet.

Also deserving a worst dressed mention are Amanda Seyfried and Diane Kruger. Kate Winslet and Kathryn Bigelow aren't quite worst dressed, but did wear gowns that were quite underwhelming.

So who earns your pick for best dressed female at the Academy Awards?

Give Back and Win

READ ALL THE WAY THROUGH TO SEE HOW YOU CAN WIN A $25 GIFT CARD TO BIG PEACH RUNNING CO!!!

We are halfway through the second month of 2010 and with the New Year comes new resolutions. Some of the more popular resolutions are to lose weight, adopt a healthier lifestyle, and give back to those in need.

Team in Training (TNT), The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's (LLS) groundbreaking charity sports training program, offers a way to do all of these while having fun and meeting new friends. TNT is the world's first, best and largest charity sports training program - and the only one to offer a full complement of exciting, sports training options.

* Katie Cyphers (on bottom right)

I have written today’s post to help raise money in support of my best friend, Kathryn Cyphers who has joined TNT and will participate in the San Diego Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon in order to raise funds to help stop leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma and myeloma from taking more lives. I encourage everyone to find even just an extra $5 to make a donation because every little bit helps.

Jessica Shrader

Katie is running in honor of Jessica Shrader, a beautiful 22-year-old woman who has recently been diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia. Jessica began her first round of chemotherapy on January 22, 2010 and so far has had no adverse reactions. She continues to keep her spirits high and has the support of her many family and friends. Visit Katie's TNT page to read more about Jessica's story, and to donate in her honor.


SO, now that you’ve made the resolution to get in shape it’s time to find the correct apparel to do so in. For this portion I turned to the experts at Big Peach Running Co, who know everything there is to know about running gear!

Big Peach - bottom right: video running analysis to determine best running shoe for you

Below tips from the experts at Big Peach:

1. The most important thing to consider when looking for workout wear is to avoid cotton clothing. Technical, synthetic materials help keep sweat and moisture on the outside of the clothing, keeping the runner dry and helping to better control body temperature.

2. Socks: when it comes to socks, once again avoid cotton. Cotton sucks will hold in moisture and are more likely to cause blisters.

3. Safety: Be sure to wear some sort of reflective gear when running at night. Also, running ID bands and dog tags are available and are important to wear when running alone.

4. Sports bra: Finding a comfortable sports bra can be quite a challenge, but the experts over at Big Peach can be a lot of help. They also have a few tips for finding the best fit for you: First , if you have a large chest you should really look into an under-wire sports bra. Next, compression and encapsulation are important things to look for. If you are having to wear multiple sports bra’s at once, chances are you aren’t wearing the correct one for you. Finding the right combination of fit, encapsulation and compression will allow you to wear only one bra, instead of two or even three.

• Big Peach has a variety of sizes ranging from 32A through 44DD and everything in between.

5. Shoes: When it comes to running, finding the correct shoe for you is crucial to comfort, safety and speed. Big Peach uses special video analysis to help determine the correct fit based on bio-mechanics.

HOW TO WIN

Big Peach Running Company has been gracious enough to donate 2 $25 gift cards to give away to two lucky readers. Here is how you enter to win:

1. Make a donation in any amount to TNT through my friend Kathryn Cyphers, or any other member that you choose to support.

2. Leave a comment on this post with a link to the members’ page where you made a donation.

3. Tweet, Facebook, or promote through email or any other media form about this contest to help raise even more money to support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

4. Check back on Monday, March 1 to see if you are a winner!

Buckhead Bargains and The Style Maison

I am so honored to have been invited by Bargains in Buckhead to participate in their "Buckhead Betty for a Day Makeover" contest! The winner of the makeover will be enjoying a day of luxury and pampering without spending a dime. I can't give away too many details as Bargains in Buckhead will be revealing them over the next few days or so.

Bargains in Buckhead is an awesome website which brings you some of the best deals Atlanta, and now beyond, has to offer. From real estate, to shopping, to food, Bargains in Buckhead covers it all!

I can tell you that this is one contest that you don't want to miss out on! To learn how to enter and find out what the package includes pop on over to Bargains in Buckhead.

Vote The Style Maison "best of" Jezebel 2010

It's that time of year again to vote for your favorite businesses in Atlanta for Jezebel's annual "Best of." From the best new restaurant to best weather person, Jezebel covers it all.


Be sure to vote for YOUR favorite Atlanta businesses before voting closes. While you're at it, be sure to vote The Style Maison for Best Personal Stylists in the Get Organized category! :)

Thank you for your support!

Big Bird at the State of the Union?

Who knew that Hillary Clinton would be such a trend setter on Capitol Hill? Famous for her collection of yellow suits, it seems that although Hilary was nowhere to be found, her suits did make an attendance at Tuesday nights State of the Union Address.

While I applaud the women of DC for attempting to break out of the uniform of a black or navy suit, with pantyhose and closed toe pumps, no one ever suggested that canary yellow was the answer. A boring, boxy suit in yellow, or even purple or red for that matter, is still no more flattering than a black one.

I can admit that their are still many careers that require a polished, professional suit to be worn, but fashion designers have become wise to this and created many figure flattering, detailed suits that are still somewhat fashionable. So, women of Capitol Hill, in a city that is quickly turning into a fashion focused one, please heed this advice and invest in some of the suits pictured below.

1. D Squared 2. Albert Nipon (no number). Kay Unger 3. Just Cavalli 4. Zoda Women's 5. Tahari 6. Albert Nipon 7. Piazza Sempione 8. Adrianna Papell

Suit Tips:

1. Suit jackets should hit no lower than your hips. Anything longer is reminiscent of the suits worn by Lisa Turtle on 90's sitcom "Saved by the Bell."

2. If you are petite, a cropped jacket that is a little shorter in length will lengthen your leg line, making you appear taller.

3. A swing jacket is a great alternative to your standard blazer, and adds interest to an otherwise boring suit.

4. Look for suits that "nip in" at the waist to give you more shape.

5. Consider purchasing suit separates, they often have a better fit, and you can mix and match pieces together, creating a more modern take on the suit.

6. When wearing a neutral suit add a pop of color with a silk blouse or button up shirt.

7. If you are busty a 3-button jacket it the best option for you, anyone else will be more flattering in 2- and 1-button jackets.

8. If you must wear stockings with your skirts please DO NOT wear sheer panty hose in tan, white, or any other light color. Instead opt for an opaque tight, or a black sheer or patterned pantyhose.

8. 2 chic ways to update a suit: belts (thick or skinny), skinny pants

A Toast to Taupe

In the past few seasons, nail color has been just as important as any other fashion element. In '06 there was the gothic movement with shades of black, then '08 brought a slew of neon nails in electric pinks, yellows and oranges. Most recently for '09 was a surprising twist with an unexpected shade of jade green.

It's time to get sophisticated with this year grown up shade of taupe polish, the perfect compliment to springs subtle neutrals, pretty pastels and soft tones. Taupe has a way of blending in to any outfit, while still adding an element of sophistication, more than, say, the basic light pink polish.


As with most nail polish trends, this one debuted on Chanel's Spring 2010 runway show, with models showing of this mushroom-y shade. Other nail polish brands have taken note, and now there are variety of options to chose from.

Top Row: Chanel Particuliere, Sally Hansen Commander in Chic
Bottom Row: OPI Over the Taupe, RGB Toast

Pantone is the world leader for colors, not just for fashion, but for graphic design and interiors as well. Fashion designers use Pantone's color system to specify colors they use in their collection. Each season Pantone releases color swatches of the selected colors for the upcoming season.

From Pantone comes the color forcast for Spring/Summer 2010:

Designers bring splashes of sunshine to the runway for spring 2010. Vibrant brights add a sense of excitement to the color palette, while practical neutrals provide a safety net for cautious consumers.



“Now more than ever, women are vigilant when it comes to spending,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “Instead of reinventing their wardrobe at the start of each season, consumers want pieces to complement what they already own. Pairing a bold color with a basic piece or freshening up their look with bright accents addresses the need for practicality, as well as fun.”

Spring and summer naturally evoke feelings of calm ocean waters and tranquil beach vacations in cool, vibrant, tropical Turquoise. This soothing hue from the blue-green family conjures feelings of escape, especially when paired with Amparo Blue. With more warmth than the typical spring navy, this particular shade of blue is extremely appealing because of its brighter, more energetic attitude.

Like the scent of a blossoming flower, Violet lends a romantic air to the warm-weather palette. This intriguing purplish hue is a distinctive addition to any wardrobe.

Yellow has made its mark on fashion and spring will further this trend with gleaming Aurora. Reminiscent of the first glimpse of yellow as the sun begins to rise over the horizon, this shimmering, slightly greenish yellow adds a bold infusion.

Energy continues to surge throughout the warmer hues of spring, leading to provocative Fusion Coral. This inviting orange connects directly to tangy Tomato Purée, this season’s classic red. Pair it with Turquoise for a retro look.

Thoughtful, cautious neutrals provide a dependable backbone to the brights of spring. Kick back and enjoy the bubbly luxury of Pink Champagne. This delicate, wispy tint is the season’s newest neutral. The melding of Pink Champagne, Tomato Purée and Amparo Blue is a refreshing take on the classic springtime combination of red, white and blue.

Three additional neutrals round out the palette. Tuscany, a warm beige hue, provides the perfect backdrop and works well as a solid base color with dynamic accents like Fusion Coral or Violet. Dried Herb is the ultimate green neutral, pairing well with all other colors. Ideal for bigger ticket items, cool Eucalyptus is the eternal, practical gray. Choose this nuanced neutral and add brightly colored exclamation points in shoes, jewelry and handbags.

The Style Maison on Groupon!!

I could not be more excited for the new year! I think it will bring many changes to me, which I am so excited about.

First I'm excited about my brand new website for personal shopping and fashion styling, The Style Maison. I had an amazing web designer, Florie Coggins, who surpassed my expectations for the site.


Now, since Thursday, The Style Maison is being featured on Groupon, an awesome site for local discounts. Through tomorrow, Sunday January 10, you can purchase a $300 gift card towards my services for just $100!! This is a 67% discount! This is a great way to treat yourself for the new year, or a perfect gift for anyone. Visit my website to see all of the various services I offer.

Click here if you are not already a member of Groupon, and get in on their amazing deals!

* Also, thank you to Jennifer over at Atlanta on the Cheap for her comical write up about the deal! Look forward to working with you Jennifer!

** ALSO, thank you to Bargains in Buckhead for their fabulous write up as well!

Questions? Feel free to contact me!

10 Trends for 2010

While many parts of the country are experiencing the lowest temperatures in decades, it is already time to look ahead towards Spring fashions. In fact, the fashion industry has already turned it's eyes towards Fall fashion. . .giving new meaning to the phrase "that's so last year".

So what does Spring fashion hold for us? What trends will linger, and what new trends will surface? Keep reading below to find my 10 trends for Spring 2010. Then continue to check back weekly to find each trend explored in more depth with examples of my favorite finds.

10 Trend for Spring 2010

1. Lusty Lingerie - Lingerie isn't just for the bedroom. . .this sassy trend makes it appearance every few years, but it takes careful planning to pull of the underwear as outerwear trend.

2. Peek-A-Boo - Perfectly placed cut-outs, mesh and sheer fabrics dominated runways, making for a PG-rated peep show.

3. Short Shorts - just when we thought hemlines couldn't get any shorter. . .they did. Now more than ever it is crucial to hit the gym and get those gams ready for short season.

4. Metallics- Sequins, paillettes and metallic sheen are on the menu for spring. Careful of quality to keep this look luxe instead of cheap.

5. Structured Ruffles - This girly trend has been one that keeps finding it's spot in fashion. This season look for more controlled, manicured ruffles.

6. Feathers - Another trend from fall, feathers make a bigger splash this season. Wear with care to avoid adding bulk to areas that might not need it.

7. Jewelry, Jewelry, Jewelry - The perfect, easy way to update any ensemble, bigger and bolder jewelry can make the simplest of outfits stand out.

8. Slouchy Trousers - High-waisted, belted and loose is the way to wear pants for Spring. Gauzy fabrics give this look movement.

9. Prints - Tribal, abstract, floral and graphic. . .prints are the fabric of choice for Spring.

10. Neutrals - A refreshing change from the dark colors of fall, light neutral shades of nudes, grays and whites dominate Spring.