It's almost time for pretty dress season and Fredflare has a ton to choose from

Do you dream of being a fashion stylist? Here is a contest for you.

There are already 974 entries as I write this:

Dress Bergdorf Goodman's Linda Fargo for Fashion Week

Style Linda's front row look for a chance to join her at a show and win a $2500 shopping experience.

Here's how to enter:

Beginning today until Monday, January 31, the challenge encourages Polyvore users to style Linda using two pieces from Linda's 'closet' - not only will Linda wear a look inspired by the winning set to one of the shows, the winner will be right by her side. In addition, Polyvore will fly the winner to New York a day early for a Personal Shopping appointment. A $2,500 Bergdorf Goodman gift card will be waiting for our winner as well a hair appointment in the John Barrett salon and a makeup session with our experts at Trish McEvoy.

The two H&M pieces I want, but can't find...

First, there was the pleather circle skirt that I spotted on JAZZI McG's blog...I still haven't found it yet...but, I haven't give up...it's too cute!  Don't you agree?

Then, there is the fab peachy blouse I just spotted yesterday on my new fave DIY blog, beVain or DIY.

I can't complain...at least I have a H&M in my town now...but, it's sad since we don't get the "trend" items that have the rose label.  Can't they just have it ALL available online:(

ManRepeller: Boyfriend Breakup | RACHEL Rachel Roy

ManRepeller: Too Many Men | RACHEL Rachel Roy

ManRepeller: Blind Date | RACHEL Rachel Roy

Payless keeps stepping up on their trend quality

Do you remember when it used to be "hush, hush" that you were buying shoes from Payless...kind of like how shopping at the thrift store used to be...But, not anymore...I am proud when I share my find...because I know I paid a great price and apparently the style is on point since someone is acknowledging it...Recently, I've been seeing a lot of styles outside of the designer collabs that I had to share.  Great styles, great prices and BOGO!  You can't get any better than this!

*Fioni is my new fave Payless brand!  I've mentioned them before because I have seen great styles at the swap party I go to and they usually resemble Prada looks to me:)  (I have another swap coming up in Feb and I can't wait to share my finds...I know they will be good!:)

I've been seeing versions of this peep toe everywhere...so, I'm not mad to find this at Payless for $35!

Who would have known that this is from Payless?!  I NEED these!!!

New line, Z London...I want them all!!!!  I don't want to put EVERY Z London style on here...so check them out...you are sure to like one of them and they are all great prices!

These are soo funky fresh!!  I need them for this spring!  I'll probably wear these over and over!

These remind me of some Steve Madden's I saw...but, for a fraction of the price...sparkle is always fun to add to any look:)

These are NO JOKE...I wouldnt' have even thought they were from Payless...I don't live in a cold climate...but, if I did...I would def rock these!

Boot by DEXTER.

I LOVE high waisted styles!

Even though I saw that high waisted trousers and jeans were OUT recently (it was one of those articles that show what's "in" and what's "out") I've noticed a couple of styles out that have caught my eye.

MOTHER denim
Style: The Drama Flare

Madewell
Style: The High Riser Jean

Day 1: The CINCH diet

Sadly, I won't be able to do the 5 day fast forward where you lose 8 pounds because I am breastfeeding and could tell last night that Sahara was not getting the amount she needed while feeding.  The sad part is I lost 2 pounds in 1 day!  So, I have a feeling it would work!

The only bad thing I could say about my one day doing the 5 day fast forward was not running.  You are supposed to not workout the 5 days of this part of the plan.  I guess it's because you are already having a limited amount of calories and if you burn those you will just get more hungry and break the plan.  But, I felt like I was missing something.  The author actually thinks that walking is just as good...so, I am going to try walking 4 miles today and compare the calories lost on my Nike + GPS app.  I usually run 3 miles.  Anyone who does do the full, 5 day fast forward...let me know how it goes!

Now, my reason for doing this is to get back into all of my clothes pre-pregnancy and to just be healthy.  Although people say I'm fine...I wont' settle for less.  I researched my BMI and I'm definitely not in the positive weight bracket.  I want what is healthy for me so my daughter will see what is right as she grows up.  Ok, and I also need to get ready for a wedding I'm going to in March and May:)  But, I plan on sticking with it.

So far, the book has been really informative.  The author and nutritionist, Cynthia Sass shares more than just a diet, or a "lifestyle."  She shares research on how each food will affect your body.  I love how just adding these fruits and veges to your diet your skin will change and get a glow:)  I'm all about a glow so this is perfect for me.  She also shares 100 easy, healthy recipes that anyone can make and items that aren't expensive.  She gives you the reasons why you should go organic if that is what she recommends.  But, says that if you don't have the budget to go organic the diet will still work.  This is supposed to be a guideline to use anywhere: home, vacation, going out to dinner and anywhere else you go to eat:)

The basics to the diet:
*Lots of veges and fruit
*No red meat
*Eat an hour after you wake up
*Eat every 3-5 hours
*Drink H2O 8-10 cups, and stick to the drinks she lays out for the diet (basically no SODA)
*Enjoy!

Since I can't do the 5 day fast forward, I have jumped into the rest of the plan and will do this for the month and see what happens.  I'll share along the way, but, I think that this is a really great diet option for those that don't want to count points or calories.  Or, just want to eat yummy food that doesn't make you feel deprived.  By the way, the diet has you eat 2 pieces of chocolate a day!  How could you say no to that!?

Find the author on her twitter page, facebook page and website.  She is very involved and will answer any questions you might have.

My favorite looks from The Fashion Show last night

There were 2 looks that I am inspired from and will take styling cues from.  I personally can't believe that House of Emerald didn't win:(  I totally feel like they are both (Cesar and Jeffery) the stronger designers.  Oh well...we shall see who wins in the finale...

I am LOVING this look!  I'm planning on recreating this with my maxi dress from H&M and my silk, flowy tunic from India.

I don't usually like high/low dresses...but, I like the idea of adding leggings to this...I will have to try this...

Freebies at Sephora right now

1. Show your Sephora iPhone app and get a free cover!
2. Buy anything in the store and get a free mini Bare Minerals GWP! It's perfect for touch-ups during the day.
3. Anytime you buy online get free samples.
4. Sign up for the beauty insider program and get free gifts on your birthday and gifts every time you hit a set amount of points.

Out and About in Scottsdale

Stripe tee: Old Navy (sale for $2)
Skirt: D Squared (scored at a garage sale in Scottsdale)
Ballet flats: Old Navy ($20)
Rose gold watch: ASOS

The new it shades: Oversized Cat Eye Glasses

I'm totally living the remixes cat eye glassed one because I love any pair of oversized glasses and two because Cat Eye styles were starting to look really dated.
I got my pair last year at Walmart of all places from the Miley Cyrus line...but, this year they are everywhere and I really want them all:)

House of Harlow 1960 Chelsea Sunglasses being worn by none other than Nicole Richie are a must! $138 *ships late Feb.

Betsey Johnson has 2 color options selling on Rue lala (sell ends today) for only $29.99.

Black eyewear is a line from England that I've just learned about that Lilly Allen has been seen wearing. They cost from around $140-300.

And then, of course there is Michael Kors (my new favorite.). I spotted a pair that weren't online called, Shetland that were Cat Eye style with rose gold at the edges! Divine! When I did look on the MK site there were some oversized Cat Eye for only $85!! Such great prices!

Just saw today:
Gucci, Tom Ford and Marc by Marc Jacobs have some fab versions too!!

It looks like denim maxi skirts are back

I remember rocking denim maxi skirts in the 90's. When I saw the shopbop email today featuring a denim maxi my first thought was thrift store run! And then, of course take the great styling cues from the image. Will you be rocking the denim maxi skirt this spring?

My love affair with Michael Kors has begun

I am truly in love with my new Sicily (they are rose gold and tortoise trim) shades that have been selling out in AZ.(They were only $98!) I also saw another pair I'll be sharing in another post. But, the store had my heart pounding!!! I NEED the Hamilton tote in camel with gold trim. I also spotted really cute iPhone cases for only $58!! Needless to say...it's not over with MK for me:)

P.S.
I signed up for the catalog and can't wait to start getting it and be inspired! I think I need MK to have an app.

Payless has an amazing giveaway for fashion week you won't want to miss!!

Here's the info from the publicist:

Starting today, your readers can log onto the Payless’ Facebook Fan Page to enter the “VIP in NYC” Sweepstakes. One lucky Grand Prize winner will win a trip to NYC and to attend the Fall 2011 Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. More information about the sweepstakes is detailed below.

Just seen on the Glamourai and found at Pier 1 Imports for Less

I saw this glass head on The Glamourai and she said it was purchased in Spain...but, I remembered seeing them at Pier 1 and they are only $20!  This is a must-have for any fashionista's closet or room!

Home Must-Have: Mirrored Accents

Since I am now home with my daughter during the day I now watch shows like Martha Stewart and Nate Berkus (might I add, women LOVE him!!:) and I've become addicted to home decor on another level:)  I also LOVE to read online magazine Lonny Mag and Rue Magazine which inspire me even more...even bloggers like The Glamourai, B Jones Style, Emily from Cupcakes and Cashmere and Love Maegan share pictures and DIY's from their home that I also look to get help from.  Finally, catalogs like West Elm, Jonathan Adler and Pottery Barn also make me so excited to get the mail.

I say all of this to share that the home trend that Nate Berkus shared that I have to have is the mirrored tray (which I'm showing here from Target for only $17.99). To be honest...I want all five of them, which you can find out here.  But, I am just really digging all things mirror in my house right now.  And the fun thing is you can add it to your home regardless of the style of your decor, genius!

Beauty Find: Oprah's makeup artist, Reggie Wells new line, Hissyfit

I have to be honest besides Reggie Wells being Oprah's makeup artist, the only other thing that really made my eyes POP was the makeup lines case-it's my favorite, ROSE GOLD:)  I am truly addicted.  GENIUS choice for him and his marketing team:)  Besides that, I haven't seen the line in person, but I saw him working on "real people" on Rachael Ray today and got curious...it seems like everyone who touches Oprah is doing really well now...Her hair stylist is also now selling hair products too:)

The info:
From what I see on the site, there are 3 clockpot options: face (usually $65, but used promo code: RACHAEL and get it for $40) , eye (usually $60, but used promo code: RACHAEL and get it for $35)  and cheek (usually $60, but used promo code: RACHAEL and get it for $35).  The site offers directions for how to find the right color for your skin tone which seems pretty easy.

Tip (from Reggie Wells on Rachael Ray today):
For any of these, you can look at the colors like a clock...the colors you need for the time of day are 12, 3, 6, or 9...so, you are ready to go no matter where you are going!

I LOVE that he calls brushes 'Finger Feathers:).'

Here are more items from the line:

My new "IT" shoe: The Wedge

I've gone from wearing over-the-top 5" heels to flats during pregnancy and up to now.  I used to NEVER wear flats!  Never...but, now it seems the safe and smart thing to do when carrying around my daughter.  TODAY, I decided to start wearing wedges at least:)  So, in honor of getting back to moi...as much as I can as a new mommy...here are some wedges I'm considering...

Wedge Shoes by Fashionalities featuring wedge shoes

Chloé Suede multi-strap wedge sandal
$945 - net-a-porter.com
Slim shoes »

Christian Louboutin Panier 120 wedge sandals
$545 - net-a-porter.com
Christian louboutin shoes »

See by Chlo
$250 - net-a-porter.com
See by Chloe pumps »

TOMS 'Calypso' Wedge
$69 - nordstrom.com
Toms shoes »

Merona Myka Suede Wedge Shoes - Taupe (Target)
$30 - target.com
Suede shoes »

Old Navy Womens Knotted Jersey Espadrilles
$30 - oldnavy.gap.com
Wedge shoes »

Womens - Montego Bay Club - Quentrel Strappy Zipper Wedge - Payless...
$27 - payless.com
Wedge shoes »

Womens Fashion Shoes: Runway by Kmart.com
$22 - kmart.com
Qupid shoes »

Womens - American Eagle - Kendal Knot Wedge - Payless Shoes
$25 - payless.com

Great beauty tips from the Nate Berkus show that are natural and/or reusing items

Some of these I didn't even know so I had to share!  Tips for teeth, nails, shoes, and more!  Here is the link for the information.

Fashionalities Q & A

Q.
Hi there! Would you happen to know of any styling assistant opportunities? Do you have any contacts/connections you can share? Thank you!
A.
I would say check on craigslist, ask local fashion schools in your area and contact the stylists you see in the mags..if you google them they usually have websites now-a-days.

Tips I will use to organize my closet

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

One night out:

I don't go out much now. So, when I get the chance I go all out and wear something I've been playing with in my closet that fits:). I'm still loving the monochromatic neutral palate so tonight I went all out and took advantage of the cooler weather in AZ and also wore my go to item, the faux fur vest. The tights were also a big plus for the weather now.

Thoughts:
This dress is an in between length which I have been seeing everywhere, but I was thinking of shortening the length. Thoughts???

FOUND: The dream shoe: The clog

*I like the brown over the black.

I was surprised when I opened my email from Payless and saw the open-toe clog that is vintage inspired for ONLY $29.99.  It was the exact style I was looking for in a look I wore about a month ago, here.  This is a seasonless style that can be worn with anything from dresses to jeans and a tunic.  This is at the top of my must-have list for 2011.

My AMAZING Buffalo Exchange finds this week

I've been holding on to trade credit for so long at Buffalo because I was preggers and after having Sahara I just wasn't wearing too much:). But, recently with working out and all I was in the mood and found some great items!!

Grey Ant dress only $35

H&M dress $14

Latitude Femme Shoes $16

Not bad I'd say:)

Norma Kamali maxi dress for $11 at Walmart!

This dress is only online, but S&H is only 97 cents.  Maxi lenghts are still everywhere for spring so get this great deal from Walmart now!  Normal Kamali is wanting to do a cheaper line with eBay...but, I haven't heard what has happened with that and I'm not sure if that means that she will stop collabing with Walmart then...so, check out the line now...great prices and really great style that is combined with comfort...which I know a lot of people are looking for:)

I like the styling ideas in this WWD article: cropped sweatpants with chunky heels

From WWD:

"The collections will contain Eshaya staples such as sweatpants, T-shirts and roomy sweaters. He said a key look from his collection entering Hot Topic is a printed loose jersey tank top and wrap jacket combo that customers can wear with jeans, and a key look from the Torrid collection is cropped sweatpants that can be paired with chunky heels."

I really feel like if you aren't wearing your sweats to workout in or go to bed then this is how you should rock them! This seems like a great idea for mommy's and I'm going to take styling cues from it...

Here's the rest of the WWD article on the design collaboration with Hot Topic (which my niece shops at) and Torrid, and designer John Eshaya.

Sidenote:
I went to get my niece a gift card for Christmas and fell in LOVE with the jewelry selection at Hot Topic...now I know where to go for my frienship bracelets and more to edge up my styling.  Plus, great prices and everything was buy 1 get 1 half off!

Here are some looks I found on the net where cropped sweatpants were paired with chunky heels:

Here's a notehr way to style this pant from Net-a-Porter...plus, they are on SALE!  Still over $500 though:)

Whitney Eve's Spring 2011 line...I will definitely be doing this middle look!

J. Crew knows how to do it of course!

And, really great images from the Stylista Diaries!

I'm going to try this new diet I just heard about...it sounds like a CINCH

As many may know...my main focus since having my baby is to get back into all of the clothes in my closet.  If you have seen my closet, you know why.  It's a walk-in filled with everything from Indian clothing to waist-conscious clothing.  I am determined to get back into my loved wardrobe.  I've been working out since week 6 and now I'm doing P90X with the hubby...but, this morning I heard about the CINCH diet on Rachael Ray and I have to try it...it sounds genius...and just losing 8 pounds in 5 days really gets me:)   So far, I've lost 38 pounds since having Sahara...but, I still have at least 30 pounds to go...so, lets see how this goes:)

Thank you to Robert Verdi for my giveaway!

I was so surprised and excited about this win!! Since being preggers I haven't had a job so I was worried about gifts this year...and, even though I know it's not all about giving...it's still honestly really fun for me. So, when I won this fab prize (which I only thought would be one thing) I was floored! And my family wasn't mad at their gifts either:).

Make sure to stay tuned for Robert Verdi's twitter parties and giveaways! He has the best tips, and he's hilarious! I'm sad his show isn't coming back, I loved watching it!

Looking back, what I wore Christmas Day

Me:
American Apparel sheer maxi skirt I got with the fab Groupon, Cashmere sweater from Buffalo Exchange, Necklace gifted from sister-in-law, from Banana Republic

*I have an AZ version once it starts to "warm-up" here.:)

Inspired by:
January 2011 Marie Claire magazine

J. Crew Head of Women's Design Offers Best-Dressed Advice

J. Crew Head of Women's Design Offers Best-Dressed Advice