CAMUTO GROUP and Ownership of SOLE SOCIETY

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Camuto Group today announced the acquisition of Sole Society.  As part of Camuto Group’s focus on digital innovation, the company has acquired the majority stake in Sole Society with the strategy of enhancing category offerings and continuing to build on the strong accessories platform through extensions in apparel and other key classifications.  In addition, the Sole Society brand will be developed for global wholesale opportunities in several categories.  The acquisition will also expand Camuto Group’s ecommerce footprint across a variety of brands. Nordstrom (NYSE: JWN) will continue to carry Sole Society merchandise at Nordstrom stores and Nordstrom.com and will remain a minority owner.

Alex Del Cielo, Chief Executive Officer of Camuto Group, says: “We are excited to be growing the Sole Society brand platform and creating opportunities through digital innovation and category enhancements.  The team at Sole Society continues to be industry leaders in customer satisfaction and we plan to leverage their expertise to provide today’s consumer with the best experience in all channels, both online and in-store.  Furthermore, we are looking forward to working closely with Nordstrom to develop the business as part of our joint strategic efforts.”

As part of a continued focus on growth, Blake Nordstrom, Co-President of Nordstrom, Inc. said: “We applaud the job Andy Solomon and the team at Sole Society have done and think the long-term partnership created with Camuto Group is a terrific next step. Our focus is to offer customers highly relevant and differentiated product and our customers continue to respond favorably to the on-trend style Sole Society offers. We think Camuto Group is a great organization and we look forward to continuing to carry Sole Society’s product.”

Sole Society Chief Executive Officer, Andy Solomon, comments: “We are thrilled by the transaction and look forward to building brands with the Camuto Group team.  We anticipate accelerated growth through enhanced resources and the expansion of distribution that will fuel our continued development and evolution.  We look forward to incorporating the knowledge and brand building prowess of Camuto Group to create a global brand and a powerful, multi-branded ecommerce business.”

 

The partnership marks the first digital acquisition for Camuto Group and underscores the company’s commitment to strategic growth through innovation and progressive partnerships.

 

About Camuto Group 

Camuto Group is an international company that designs, develops and distributes fashion footwear, accessories and apparel. The company was founded by fashion legend Vince Camuto. Renowned for its ability to develop lifestyle brands on a global scale, Camuto Group builds on the success of the Vince Camuto® brand—extending to collections that include Louise et Cie®, Two By Vince Camuto®, Vince Camuto™ Men’s, Imagine Vince Camuto® and 1. STATE®. Camuto Group also holds the footwear licenses for Jessica Simpson®, BCBGeneration®, BCBGMAXAZRIA®, and both the footwear and handbag licenses for Lucky Brand® and ED Ellen DeGeneres™. Camuto Group acquired Bernard Chaus Inc. to expand Camuto Group’s platform and develop apparel opportunities for partners. Most recently, Camuto Group entered into a partnership with Mercedes Castillo to launch an advanced contemporary lifestyle collection. Camuto Group and its partners operate 120 retail locations globally and products are sold in more than 5,400 doors worldwide.

 

About Nordstrom

Nordstrom, Inc. is a leading fashion specialty retailer based in the U.S. Founded in 1901 as a shoe store in Seattle, today Nordstrom operates 329 stores in 39 states, including 121 full-line stores in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico; 200 Nordstrom Rack stores; two Jeffrey boutiques; and one clearance store. Additionally, customers are served online through Nordstrom.com, Nordstromrack.com and HauteLook. The company also owns Trunk Club, a personalized clothing service serving customers online at TrunkClub.com and its five clubhouses. Nordstrom, Inc.’s common stock is publicly traded on the NYSE under the symbol JWN.

About Sole Society

Sole Society is a lifestyle brand of women’s shoes, bags and accessories dedicated to thoughtful and easy style for every day. Launched in 2011, Sole Society’s mission is to teach women how to start their look from the shoes up. Sole Society is committed to providing quality on-trend shoes, bags and accessories at surprisingly affordable prices. Sole Society is available at www.solesociety.com and www.nordstrom.com as well as select Nordstrom stores nationwide.  The product can also be purchased on QVC, www.qvc.com and select boutiques around the country.

Responsible Spending Guide – Travel and Investments

Whether you have won the lottery, earned a huge bonus or left with some money, what to do with it could be the hardest question to answer. A substantial amount of money can have a huge impact on your life. It can make things easier; allowing you to explore things you never thought was possible. You may enter into a more luxurious way of life which is exciting. While all of that can be amazing, what you don’t want to do is waste the opportunity. This reason alone is why I thought it would be nice to share some of the ways to make the most of an injection into your finances.

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Travel the world

 

It’s obvious. We have a huge passion for traveling. So if money wasn’t so much of an issue (anymore) I have no doubt that we would take advantage of this and see as many countries and parts of the world as possible. Having already seen over 65 countries money would make it possible to increase this list. So it’s no surprise that traveling would be the first thing we would advise you to consider.

The money would mean that you could expand on your culture and experiences. It will allow you to visit different places and see many different sites. Perhaps you will want to take in the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia. Or eat pasta in Rome. Maybe you want to check out the Hollywood Hills in Los Angeles. The chances are there will be places you have always wanted to see, and experiences you will have always wanted to do. Investing money into travel is not a waste. What you receive is the chance to make some amazing memories.

Invest in property at home and abroad

When it comes to having money, you can either spend it on things that depreciate. Or invest it in something that will be longstanding and worthwhile. Perhaps even make you money. Property is one of those things. Of course, the first thing you could consider is investing in a property at home. Buying a house that will then become a home. This is where you want to put your roots down. For many people in this day and age, buying a property can seem like a distant dream. It’s hard to save up for a deposit, especially when mortgage companies are wanting as much as 10% of the purchase price. It means many people are priced out of property. So buying something could be a worthy investment.

On top of that, a more luxurious way of doing thing would be to invest in a property abroad. When buying property there are many different types you could consider. Maybe an apartment in a bustling city like Paris. Or a villa with a blue swimming pool somewhere warm like Spain. This is something every traveller would dream about. Except they would possibly want a few different options dotted all over. Having a home abroad is an amazing opportunity. It gives you the chance to holiday often, in a place that is luxurious and your own. What more could you want?

Consider where you put your money

Coming into money can leave you with a lot of questions. Many people don’t want to waste this golden opportunity. The chance to have a more luxurious lifestyle. But don’t rush and make any rash decisions. This is when considering financial options could be a great move. Perhaps investing in overseas accounts, or even in long term savings accounts.

Do something spontaneous

Money makes things a little easier on you. Which means that you may get the chance to check off some of those things on your bucket list that you hadn’t ever thought possible. Are you one of those people who want to turn up at the airport and just get on the next flight? Not knowing where it is going to take you? Being spontaneous isn’t always possible without having a financial backup. While it may feel like you are just spending the cash, what you are actually doing is buying the experience. Which is priceless.

Indulge in all the fine luxuries

Those finer luxuries in life are more in reach now. Which means you could invest in the best jewelry and fine clothing. Perhaps kit out your new homes, the one at home and abroad with the best interior design and furniture. It’s buying the finest ingredients and not worrying. It’s booking the best places.

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Eat in the best restaurants

Travelling abroad, or even just staying at home, allows you to seek out some of the best eateries the country has to offer. Having the money to indulge in those fine dining experiences is amazing. It means that when you go to some of those amazing places the world has to offer, that you can experience all the food delight that can come with it. Imagine having a place you desperately want to go. Then imagine going and knowing that you don’t have to worry about where to eat and sticking to a budget. It’s the stuff of dreams.

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Take action with your bucket list

Finally, coming into money means you can take some action with your bucket list. Everyone will have some sort of list of places they want to go, things to experience and what they want to do in life. We all have hopes and dreams after all. Now is the time to put those dreams into action. Tackling your bucket list could be a real revelation. I know I still have many places and things on mine that I would like to see and do. It’s about investing in you and your life going forward. For many people you work hard and save. Coming into money means you have been given an opportunity to do something amazing with it. How you choose to spend it, is down to you.

I hope this has inspired you to make the most of any money you come into. Whatever the situation make sure that travel and good investments are at the top of your list.

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Dryel Wardrobe Solutions – Saving Money At-Home

There are so many reasons why purchasing the right fabric cleaning products will save you money.  Number one, it helps to retain the color density of your clothes. Number two, it preserves the garment from everyday wear and tear. Number three, you have the freedom to wear an outfit without saying, “This blouse should go to the dry-cleaners.”

All of the reasons listed are very simple solutions when purchasing a Dryel Kit.  It’s easy to use and can be found at a local drugstore or Target.

Dryel not only saves money but it also saves time!  The directions for using the kit includes: treat stains with the booster spray, place the garment inside of the bag with an ultra cleaning cloth, and put the bag inside of the dryer for 30 minutes. Afterwards, remove from the dryer and place on a hanger.

What an easy process to help us with our wardrobe needs! Check out the price comparison below:

Dry Cleaner Price List [ Per Item]

Dry Cleaners

Pants – $3.25

Shirts – $3.95

Suits – $6.95

Winter Coat – $7.95

Dryel | At – Home Dry Cleaner  [ Use with 4 Loads]

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Cleaner Starter Kit $9.99

Stain Pen $2.95

* Garment Bag holds up to 4 items per Load*

Dryel adds moisture to clothes, making them wrinkle-free with a chemical solution for cleaning fibers.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Dryel. The opinions expressed are from the author.

Spa Day at Home – Beauty Favorites

Treat yourself to a spa day at home with beauty favorites ranging from skincare to hair and everything in between.

Hop in the shower with Lavanila Laboratories’ Healthy Vanilla Bean Cream Body Scrub. Blended with whipped shea butter and five nourishing essential oils, it whisks away dead skin cells—revealing soft, hydrated and, glowing skin ($40; Lavanila.com).

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Wrap up your wet hair with DreamDry’s Dream Turban™, and cut drying time in half. Made from an incredibly plush, extra-absorbent fabric, the Dream Turban™ gets the job done, leaving your hair healthy and shiny ($30; DreamDry.com).

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Keep your skin looking and feeling great with KORRES Body Oils. They come in an assortment of scents that will leave your skin feeling it’s best. Moisturize with a spritz after showering for smoother looking skin. This lightweight body oil provides a soft glow and fresh scent. With an easy-to-apply spray, it’s perfect for trouble spots and dries quickly so you can get going on your day ($28; HSN.com).

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Treat your feet with PediSpa by Look Beauty Gentle Exfoliating Foot Mask. This non-traditional masque contains a foot exfoliate plus treatment filled in a pair of wearable socks. Found in the Pharmacy Foot Care Aisle, the effective treatment contains key ingredients like chamomile and natural botanical fruit extracts to help control callus build-up for visibly smooth feet within two weeks ($9.99; Target in the Pharmacy Foot Care Aisle and Target.com).

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Talk of Alabama Lifestyle Segment – Summer Beauty on a Budget

I was thrilled to visit Talk of Alabama and share beauty tips on a budget.  With so many products in stores one has to ask, “are they budget-friendly?”

There’s also a misconception that one must spend hundreds of dollars to look amazing.  This is not a true statement!

Beauty can be accomplished with a $10 purchase; we must use self-awareness and research our individual needs. For example, I suffer from eczema and constantly seeking products that will retain hydration and reduce skin irritation.

The products I shared on ABC 33/40 included Remington Electric ShaverBanana Boat Summer Color Self-Tanning LotionRevlon Pedi-Expert Pedicure KitSelf-Tanning TowlettesEOS Evolution of Smooth Lip Balm, Spa@Home Oxygen Bubble Sheet Mask, ORLY Breathable Treatment + Color, Aquation Gentle Moisturizing Cleanser, Aloe Glow Organic Water, Coconut Beach Water, Brahmin Travel Tote, and Clear Cosmetics Bags.

All of the beauty products listed can be purchased at Ulta, Amazon or a local drugstore.

Personally, my favorite product is the Revlon Pedi-Expert Pedicure Kit. This is a must-have item and I will explain more during the lifestyle segment.

Here’s the breakdown:

FACE

Spa@Home Oxygen Bubble Sheet Mask

EOS Evolution of Smooth Lip Balm

Aquation Gentle Moisturizing Cleanser

Aloe Glow Organic Water

Coconut Beach Water

BODY

Banana Boat Summer Color Self-Tanning Lotion

Self-Tanning Towlettes

Remington Electric Shaver

HANDS/FEET

Revlon Pedi-Expert Pedicure Kit

ORLY Breathable Treatment + Color

TRAVEL

Clear Cosmetics Bags

Brahmin Travel Tote

Summer Beauty on a Budget Segment

Book Signing at Sobe Restaurant and Lounge

Ironically, August is National Romance Month and contemporary romance novelist, Keesha D. Fox, is aiming her cupid’s bow in the greater Washington Metropolitan area. On Thursday, August 18, Ms. Fox will hold a book signing event for her latest novel, Unthinkable, located at Sobe Restaurant and Lounge (10621 Greenbelt RD, Suite 201) in Lanham, MD from 4 PM – 8 PM.

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The signing will consist of conversations surrounding love, relationships and its boundaries. Those in attendance will be treated or teased by the cocktail of the night, Cointreau Teese – known as the seductive mistress. Guests will be served complimentary passed hors d’oeuvres and delectable desserts throughout the evening.

When asked about love, romance and Unthinkable, Ms. Fox states, “Love is a feeling that grows over time. Love can be lost if not watered by romance, honesty and communication. However, the act of being romantic has to consist in one’s day-to-day relationship. Something as small as opening a car door or leaving a note can maintain a spark that’ll nourish a love affair for a span of over 20 years. I should know, I’ve been with my husband since I was 16 years old. Writing the Unthinkable series is a new affair, one with myself and my unapologetic and sometimes crazy thoughts.”

Unthinkable explores the life of Keena Robinson after her world is threatened by her overzealous co-worker and her loveless marriage begins to fall apart. To help distract Keena from the tragedies happening on the home front, her two best friends, Lisa and Jasmine, planned a two-week vacation to Sin City. Keena caught the eye of her celebrity crush, Chase Parker, on more than one occasion. What happens in Vegas does not always stay in Vegas, at least not this love affair.

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To attend the signing, please RSVP at RSVP@CLHCosmo.com. To alert your friends you’re attending, please use the hashtag: #UnthinkableByKDF

ABOUT KEESHA D. FOX: Keesha D. Fox is an author and owner of J.A.K.A.B. Publications. Fox’s verse collections – Life and Love From My Eyes and Me:Naked – explains the emotions and mental growth a young women experiences when searching for true love. A few years later, one night’s dream ignited the salacious amorous story that would become her first contemporary romance novel trilogy. In 2015, the genesis, Unthinkable, was released. The second installment of Keena and Chase’s love affair, Unbreakable, will be unveiled in early 2017. Fox currently resides in Maryland with her husband and four children.

ABOUT SOBE RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE: SoBe Restaurant and Lounge offers an atmosphere that is always sexy and sophisticated.  Whether you are having a relaxed dinner in the elegant dining room or mingling in the stylish, well-appointed lounge, SoBe will satisfy all senses and exceed your expectations.  From the aroma of fresh, flavorful food to the sound of contemporary music, SoBe promotes the mutual enjoyment of fine dining, social interaction, and making personal connections.  The food, service, and ambiance are unparalleled, making Sobe the hottest reservation in town.

Park Hyatt Washington DC Celebrates 30th Anniversary

On Monday, August 15, 1986 Park Hyatt Washington DC first opened its doors to Washingtonians and visitors to the nation’s capital. In celebration of its 30th anniversary, the iconic luxury hotel, located at 1201 24th Street, NW, will display an eye-catching six-foot tall birthday cake, prepared by Pastry Chef David Collier, on the corner of 24 & M St. NW, next to the hotel’s landmark fountain. As an added bonus, guests will have the pleasure of enjoying complimentary cupcakes from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.  Passersby can partake in over 300 cupcakes, while supplies last, with two tempting flavors, Vanilla Citrus Sponge with cherry blossom buttercream and Chocolate Cake with caramelized milk and chocolate buttercream.
WHEN: Monday, August 15th from 12p.m. To 1 p.m.
WHERE: The Park Hyatt Washington is located at 24th and M Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20037.  For additional information please call 800 778 7477 or visit www.parkhyattwashington.com
About Park Hyatt Washington
Park Hyatt Washington combines dynamic modernism with classic American style.  Located in the fashionable West End Georgetown neighborhood, near Embassy Row and the Smithsonian Museums, Park Hyatt Washington affords guests convenient access to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions of the nation’s capital. With 216 guestrooms and suites, a Tea Cellar offering rare and vintage tea selections, and an intimate Spa Room, Park Hyatt Washington provides a truly unique experience.  The hotel is home to the award-winning restaurant, Blue Duck Tavern, an elegant neighborhood tavern offering menu selections focusing on the freshest ingredients available from regional purveyors. Park Hyatt Washington offers flexible meeting and event space, The Gallery, with seasonal catering by Executive Chef Franck Loquet. To make a reservation for Park Hyatt Washington in the U.S. or Canada, please call +1 800 778 7477 or visit www.parkhyattwashington.com.
About Blue Duck Lounge
Blue Duck Tavern’s 60-seat Lounge offers guests an oasis in the nation’s capital with comfortable seating and “Capitol Hill” glass-enclosed booths flanking a distinctive marble and glass bar.  A unique lounge-style power breakfast is served here each morning, followed by a full lunch menu and evening fare ideal for pre or post-theater dining. There is also a nightly cheese presentation showcasing artisanal cheeses by the ounce. Tempting seasonal cocktails, classic martinis and an extensive wine list, with many special by-the-glass selections complement these offerings. Adjacent to the Blue Duck Lounge, is the Tea Cellar, which features more than 50 rare and limited production, single-estate teas from remote regions around the world.
About Blue Duck Tavern
Located in the Park Hyatt Washington, at the corner of 24 and M Streets, NW, the dining room of Blue Duck Tavern is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily – breakfast from 6:30 am to 10:30 am; lunch from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm; dinner from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm on SundayThursday and 5:30 pm to 11:00 pm on FridaySaturday; and Saturday and Sundaybrunch from 11:00 am to 2:30 pm. The restaurant has seasonal outdoor seating for 45 guests, a semi-private dining room for up to 12 guests, and a Chef’s Table situated adjacent to the open kitchen seats up to 20 guests.  Reservations for Blue Duck Tavern may be made by calling +1 202 419 6755 or by visiting www.blueducktavern.com.

Osi Mizrahi’s Life in Balance Retreat – Florida Keys

Join Osi Mizrahi’s Life in Balance Retreat in the beautiful Florida Keys, at Largo, a private sanctuary, Sept. 26-30th. .  Largo is one of the most unique and truly private Retreat Destinations, enveloped by mahogany, palm, buttonwood trees, on the Gulf of Mexico. Largo is the all-inclusive perfect, private site for the Life in Balance retreat. The walled and gated estate, which boasts a Sunset Pier, ensures complete privacy that ensures an exclusive, relaxed luxury, eco-friendly experience yet just an hour south of Miami. This private sanctuary is the perfect destination to find balance in your life!

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“We chose Largo for its privacy, luxury and its serene location,” said Tammy Petersen, Founder of Retreats Unlimited.  “Largo is a gated luxury residence where a group can really connect and learn without the distractions of other resort guests.  We are thrilled to be representing this hidden gem.”

Presented by Retreats Unlimited, Mizrahi brings together Ayurveda, yoga and meditation in her powerhouse Ayurveda Oils and Yoga Retreat.

The retreat is designed to teach participants how to live an Ayurveda lifestyle in order to create a life filled with joy and vibrancy. They’ll learn what their Dosha is and how to optimize it through food, exercise and other self-care practices.

Days will be filled with learning rituals to take home, from morning and evening yoga and meditation to how to use Ayurveda oils to calm the nervous system to promote better skin and hair, less chronic pain and better sleep.

Mizrahi studied with Ayurveda master Dr. Lad at the Ayurvedic Institute and is a certified Kundalini, Hatha, and Anusara Level 500 Yoga instructor and certified Shambhala meditation guide.  She used the practices she teaches to cure herself of 15 years of digestive issues.

The retreat is 5 day/4 nights and includes all meals, shuttle service to and from the airport, all taxes and tips, and a daily gift bag. Early bird promotional pricing for the Largo Retreat is in effect until Aug. 26th and is $3850/double occupancy or $5350/single occupancy. Airfare isn’t included, but can be booked through Retreats Unlimited.

Food & Beverage will be prepared fresh by Bill Hansen Catering, the exclusive caterers at Largo. During the past 35 years, Bill Hansen has served four U.S. Presidents, Pope John Paul II, Bill Gates, top professional athletes, singers, and hundreds of Fortune 500 firms

Off The Record to Partner with Nordstrom for Event

Off The Record, an exclusive fashion and music event, has announced that one of this year’s partners will be Nordstrom.  The retailer will present the latest collections from top American and European designers during a runway fashion show on Saturday, October 29, 2016 at The Factory at Franklin.  Tickets are now on sale to the public at www.OffTheRecordNashville.com.
The fashion show will feature world-renowned designers such as Naeem Khan, Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen, Dries Van Noten, Chloe, Isabel Marant, John Varvatos and more.
“We’re excited to announce our partnership with Nordstrom, a leader in retail renowned for its ability to spot the hottest trends in fashion and design,” said event Executive Producer and President of New Heartland Group, Paul Jankowski. “We both share a vision to deliver a high energy event that will blow people away.”
The exclusive event will include red carpet arrivals, a cocktail reception, special musical performances and an intimate viewing of select designers’ looks prior to the fashion show. The complete 2016 lineup of designers and entertainment will be announced in the weeks ahead.
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Last year’s sold out event included a high energy runway fashion show featuring collections from top designers including Gucci, Kaufman Franco and John Varvatos as well as professional models and stylists from around the country.  The evening also included performances by artists The Cadillac Three, Maren Morris, Kaleo, Old Dominion, Phil Vassar and Tommy Shaw of Styx.
Tickets are on sale now ranging from $300 to $1,000 to include the cocktail reception and fashion show.  A few sponsorship opportunities are also available.
Visit www.OffTheRecordNashville.com for details, sponsorship opportunities and ticket information.