The Saddle Bag by Ann Taylor

Jumpstart your fall wardrobe with the coming season’s new it-bag: The Saddle Bag

Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor offers the crossbody saddle bag in shades of sumptuous suede that are versatile for any ensemble. Whether you’re running errands in your favorite pair of skinny jeans or heading to the office in a midi dress, this bag will carry you through the day with confidence, down to the very last detail.

Ann Taylor’s saddle bag is currently available in stores nationwide and online in dark ruby and black for $118.

The Saddle Bag by Ann Taylor

Striped Knit Top and Jeans – Chic Look

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Sunglasses: Ray-ban| Striped Top:  Target | Watch:  Michael Kors

On this particular day I didn’t know what to wear; I grabbed my blazer, big earrings, and pumps.  I’m not sure if it’s the back – to – school rush or post vacation hustle but I just couldn’t pull it together!

When all else fails (and my brain’s on overload) I lean towards a chic look.  You can’t go wrong with a striped knit top, fitted jeans, pumps, and classic watch.  Don’t forget to throw on your sunglasses, fluff your hair and hold your head high because confidence is always in style.

This is not a sponsored post – 

The links in this post contain affiliate links and I will receive a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking on my link.

Macys Westfield Annapolis: Personal Style Session and Photos

Macys has always been one of my favorite retailers.  For me, it’s more than just the mere act of shopping but I lean towards the overall experience.  I like the store layout, they carry my favorite brands, and the prices are affordable (and the coupons) are amazing!

One hidden secret that many shoppers may not know is that Macys has an in-store styling consultant.  This is a wonderful service at specific stores (nationwide) that can benefit any busy mom, professional, or lady on the go!

My on-site store was located in Annapolis, Maryland where Teresa Borradaile assisted me in selecting a few items. The process began with a simple phone call; Teresa asked me a series of questions about my size, personal style, and favorite colors.  From there, I arrived at her office where she pulled together several looks and accessories. Some of the brands included Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, INC International Concepts, and Vince Camuto.

I was pleasantly surprised because we only had a 10 minute conversation and Teresa narrowed down my personal style with about ten looks!  She also explained the process of scheduling time with her consulting service which is Monday – Friday during the store hours. Clients can enjoy refreshments, try on garments, and purchase items in her office.  Another fabulous tip, she also assists with wedding registry from selecting gowns and tuxedos to bridal party gifts.

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Overall, this was an amazing experience and I truly encourage everyone to schedule time with a Macys Personal Stylist.  Last note, if you’re like me and can’t make a final decision about a product, your personal shopper can hold items and allow you time to make a purchase.  Visit www.macys.com and schedule time to enjoy this VIP Service at Macys Westfield Annapolis.

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First Lady Michelle Obama – We Day on ABC

Tune in to watch the first-ever national U.S. broadcast of We Day, featuring First Lady Michelle Obama, Selena Gomez, Nick Jonas, Jennifer Hudson along with inspiring young Americans celebrating the ‘We’ Movement

We Day airs commercial-free on ABC, Friday, August 21, 2015 at 8pm ET/7pm CT 

We Day, in collaboration with ABC, invites families to tune in to the first-ever U.S. national broadcast of We Day, airing commercial-free on August 21, 2015 at 8/7pm CT.

Selena Gomez, Jennifer Hudson, Common, Tyrese Gibson, Nick Jonas, Demi Lovato, Jennifer Aniston, The Band Perry, Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Rico & Raini Rodriguez, Paul Rudd, Josh Gad, Colbie Caillat, Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, Macklemore, Lupe Fiasco, Shay Mitchell, Dennis Haysbert and Kid President will come together to encourage young Americans to be engaged, active citizens and make a difference in their local and global communities. The First Lady will also share an inspiring message to young Americans; watch Michelle Obama’s video here.

Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama

The broadcast, timed just as kids in the U.S. are heading back to school, is meant to bring families across America together for the most important conversations they’ll have all year to explore and discuss social issues faced by today’s youth and how they can take action on the issues they care about. Bullying, struggles with body image, the environment, inner-city violence and literacy are only a handful of the social issues that will be covered in We Day, which features international activists and We Day co-founders, Craig and Marc Kielburger along with iconic celebrities, international activists, and inspiring young Americans that have dealt with these issues first-hand. We Day challenges families to tune in and become a part of the growing movement that is motivating students to take action on issues and create systemic change in communities around the world.

“I am so proud to be part of We Day.  Connecting with hundreds of thousands of youth that are determined to make this world a better place is so inspiring,” said Selena Gomez, Host of We Day. “By coming together, young people are empowered to take action on issues they care about and make an impact – We Day is the movement that sparks inspiration and leads to action. I believe that this is the generation that will change the world, and I can’t wait to see what they do next.”

“Today’s generation of young people have the power to create and lead real systematic change,” said We Day co-founder, Craig Kielburger. “From bake sales and coin drives, clothing drives and awareness campaigns, youth across America are taking action on local and global issues they care about, and are being caring global citizens in the process. We’re so excited to lead the conversation on August 21st and help families discuss issues that have an effect on such a large part of our youth population. We are all about encouraging youth to take a stand for their passions, and we hope our message will shine through to the whole family and leave a lasting impression.”

We Day is made possible by national title sponsor Allstate, presenting sponsors Unilever and Microsoft YouthSpark, and supported by Walgreens and ABC. Click here to watch the PSA.

What is We Day?

On August 21st at 8/7pm CT tune in to ABC to watch the first-ever U.S. commercial-free, one-hour broadcast of We Day. Celebrating a generation committed to changing their world, We Day features inspiring stories of young Americans. Joined by host Selena Gomez, Jennifer Hudson, Nick Jonas, Common, Tyrese Gibson, Demi Lovato, The Band Perry and more. We Day is made possible by national title sponsor Allstate, presenting sponsors Unilever and Microsoft YouthSpark, and supported by Walgreens and ABC. Check out we.org for more information. You won’t want to miss it!

About the We Day Movement

We Day is the movement of our time – a movement of young people leading local and global change. We Day celebrates and inspires this generation’s shift from me to we – towards acting with intention, leading with compassion, and a belief in the power of community. We Day is one of the world’s largest registered charities on social media, with more than five million followers. This year alone over 200,000 young people will come together in 15 stadium gatherings across the U.S. Canada and UK to take part in this unprecedented educational initiative.

More than a one-day event, We Day is connected to a year-long free educational program, which provides educational resources and campaigns to help young people turn the day’s inspiration into sustained action. We Day and the year-long educational program are cause inclusive, empowering young people to find their passion and create the change they want to see. Together they are a blueprint for building the next generation of global citizens.

Join the We Day movement today at www.we.org.

Ashley Stewart Plus Size Clothing: Fall 2015 Trend Report

Every woman should look and feel fabulous at any size.  Below, we have the Fall 2015 Trend Report from Ashley Stewart, Plus Size Clothing.  With retail stores across the country, and a popular online shop, the brand is making waves on the plus size fashion scene.

Trend-essentials that stand the test of time are offered by Ashley Stewart for unbeatable prices of $30-$150

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Military Pieces

You won’t be incognito as you march into fall wearing deep olives and camouflage, but who really wants to be in the background anyway. Ashley Stewart’s bold prints and rich neutrals are perfect for pairing with denim, bright pops of color, and metallic details.

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Fringe

Instantly glam up your look for a night on the town with this season’s must have essential, fringe. Make a statement whenever you walk into the room with show stopping dresses and vests from Ashley Stewart. It’s the perfect way to instantly amp up your look when you get that great last minute invite for a night on the town.

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Day to night

No wardrobe change needed, thanks to these ultra-versatile outfits! Why plan a daytime and evening outfit when Ashley Stewart has foolproof pieces convenient a.m.-to-p.m changes? Plus, it’s the chicest way to save time and a bit of cash. Combining the looks of sweaters and mixed media serves is the best way to go about the fall and winter looks. Ashley Stewart’s classy cuts and great colors take each piece from cute to fabulous in no time.

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Denim

Whether its denim on denim or denim and a pop of color, Denim makes a huge return this season. Dress it up or dress it down and look effortless wherever you go. As a curvy girl no need to worry about if those jeans will fit your curvy figure, Ashley Stewart makes sure that all styles are made to flatter everyone.

About Ashley Stewart:

A pioneer in plus, Ashley Stewart launched in the early 1990’s, capturing the hearts and minds of curvy women throughout the New York area offering inspiring, fashion-forward, affordable clothing in an easily accessible and welcoming environment.  Today, the brand has 90 stores in the U.S. and a growing international presence through www.AshleyStewart.com. As a leading retailer of plus Ashley Stewart continues its heritage of uncompromising style and flattering fit for the curvy, sexy, fashion forward woman.

Whether its last minute short lead fall fashion stories, or Holiday/ Winter Fashion editorials we have an array of coats, jackets, sweaters and more available. Let us know if you would like to call in samples, request additional information or imagery. We would be happy to supply them. We are looking forward to working with you on an amazing fashion story!

Wrapurse | The Handbag Protector

Small Wrapurse in Merlot
Small Wrapurse in Merlot

 

 Wrapurse is a product of convenience, reusability, versatility, and protection. It folds into a small, lightweight carry case, so it can go wherever you go. The high-quality, water-resistant fabric allows you to easily wipe off any dirt or hand-wash the whole thing.
Available in four different sizes, it will fit any purse, tote, or diaper bag. By keeping them clean, dry, and germ-free, Wrapurse will improve the longevity of your handbags!

 

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Medium Wrapurse in Merlot

 

Indiegogo is a website that offers a new way to fund creative, independent projects. You can become a backer by pledging money or simply posting their link online and on social media. You can find their campaign at https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/save-the-purses-wrap-it-right-with-wrapurse#/story.

Pat McGrath Transforms Kim Kardashian West into Cleopatra

Today, on the latest cover of The Violet Files, the editorial site of Hollywood insider and beauty guru Cassandra Grey, Kim Kardashian West is transformed into the iconic Elizabeth Taylor in Cleopatra through the artistry and makeup design by Pat McGrath.

“I would have done anything—I would have trusted Pat’s vision no matter what she wanted—but I was really excited that it was the Cleopatra vibe,” says Kim Kardashian West of the collaboration with makeup artist Pat McGrath.

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“Elizabeth Taylor’s makeup in Cleopatra has been re-created countless times, but for Kim I wanted to create an interpretation that has never been done before, a futuristic 3D version,” Ms. McGrath explains. “I wanted to portray a luxurious decadence by using elements of ornate facial jewelry constructed into shapes that pay homage to Egyptian culture, and of course to the rich exotic character that Taylor portrayed in this role.”

“Her eyeshadow was made from ground lapis stone and gold pyrite flecks,” notes Ms. McGrath. “Incorporating three-dimensional gold metal into the makeup design explores the concept of makeup as jewelry. I wanted the images to be luxurious, evoking a modern take on the opulence associated with Cleopatra’s makeup.”

The images, shot by Ben Hassett, are the first installment in a series for VIOLET GREY in which Ms. McGrath will reimagine paragons of old Hollywood glamour with new faces.

Violet Grey Editorial Credits (@violetgrey)

Makeup: @patmcgrathreal

Model: @kimkardashian

Photography: @benhassett

Talk about this story:

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Madonna Collaborates with Designers for Wardrobe on Rebel Heart Tour

Madonna

Madonna today unveiled the fashion designers with whom she is collaborating for her costumes on her highly anticipated Rebel Heart World Tour. The list includes Alessandro Michele for Gucci, Alexander Wang, Fausto Puglisi, Jeremy Scott for Moschino, Nicolas Jebran, Miu Miu, Prada and Swarovski. Costume designer Arianne Phillips will be overseeing the wardrobe for the Rebel Heart Tour and will also contribute designs, marking her sixth tour with Madonna.

 

The Rebel Heart Tour will kick off on September 9th in Montreal, Quebec at Bell Centre and visit cities throughout North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Since the tour was announced this past spring, due to overwhelming demand, multiple shows have been added in cities across the world including: Montreal, New York City, Toronto, Miami, Koln, Turin, Barcelona, Berlin, Sydney, Melbourne, Manila and more. Diplo will open the Rebel Heart Tour in Montreal on September 9th and 10th, and Amy Schumer will open the two dates at New York’s Madison Square Garden and the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. A full list of tour dates for the Rebel Heart World Tour can be found below.

 

NORTH AMERICA 2015
Date
City
Venue
Sept. 9 Montreal, QC Bell Centre
Sept. 10 Montreal, QC Bell Centre
Sept. 12 Washington, DC Verizon Center
Sept. 16 New York, NY Madison Square Garden
Sept. 17 New York, NY Madison Square Garden
Sept. 19 Brooklyn, NY Barclays Center
Sept. 21 Quebec City, QC Centre Vidéotron
Sept. 24 Philadelphia, PA Wells Fargo Center
Sept. 26 Boston, MA TD Garden
Sept. 28 Chicago, IL United Center
Oct. 1 Detroit, MI Joe Louis Arena
Oct. 3 Atlantic City, NJ Boardwalk Hall
Oct. 5 Toronto, ON Air Canada Centre
Oct. 6 Toronto, ON Air Canada Centre
Oct. 8 St. Paul, MN Xcel Energy Center
Oct. 11 Edmonton, AB Rexall Place
Oct. 12 Edmonton, AB Rexall Place
Oct. 14 Vancouver, BC Rogers Arena
Oct. 17 Portland, OR Moda Center
Oct. 19 San Jose, CA SAP Center at San Jose
Oct. 22 Glendale, AZ Gila River Arena
Oct. 24 Las Vegas, NV MGM Grand Garden Arena
Oct. 27 Los Angeles, CA Forum
Oct. 29 San Diego, CA Valley View Casino Center
UK/EUROPE 2015
Date
City Venue
Nov. 4 Koln, Germany Lanxess Arena
Nov. 5 Koln, Germany Lanxess Arena
Nov. 7 Prague, CZ O2 Arena
Nov. 8 Prague, CZ O2 Arena
Nov. 10 Berlin, Germany Mercedes-Benz Arena (O2 World)
Nov. 11 Berlin, Germany Mercedez-Benz Arena (O2 World)
Nov. 14 Stockholm, Sweden Tele 2 Arena
Nov. 16 Herning, Denmark Jyske Bank Boxen
Nov. 19 Turin, Italy Pala Alpitour
Nov. 21 Turin, Italy Pala Alpitour
Nov. 22 Turin, Italy Pala Alpitour
Nov. 24 Barcelona, Spain Palau Sant Jordi
Nov. 25 Barcelona, Spain Palau Sant Jordi
Nov. 28 Antwerp, Belgium Sportpaleis
Nov. 29 Mannheim, Germany SAP Arena
Dec. 1 London, UK O2 Arena
Dec. 2 London, UK O2 Arena
Dec. 5 Amsterdam, Holland Ziggo Dome
Dec. 6 Amsterdam, Holland Ziggo Dome
Dec. 9 Paris, France Bercy
Dec. 10 Paris, France Bercy
Dec. 12 Zurich, Switzerland Hallenstadion
Dec. 14 Manchester, UK Manchester Arena
Dec. 16 Birmingham, UK Barclaycard Arena
Dec. 20 Glasgow, Scotland The SSE Hydrom
NORTH AMERICA / PUERTO RICO 2016
Date City Venue
Jan. 20 Atlanta, GA Philips Arena
Jan. 23 Miami, FL American Airlines Arena
Jan. 24 Miami, FL American Airlines Arena
Jan. 27 San Juan, PR Coliseo de Puerto Rico
Jan. 28 San Juan, PR Coliseo de Puerto Rico
ASIA / AUSTRALIA / NEW ZEALAND 2016
Date City Venue
Feb. 24 Manila, Philippines Mall of Asia Arena
Feb. 25 Manila, Philippines Mall of Asia Arena – On sale Aug. 02
Mar. 5 Auckland, NZ Vector Arena
Mar. 6 Auckland, NZ Vector Arena
Mar. 12 Melbourne, AU Rod Laver Arena
Mar. 13 Melbourne, AU Rod Laver Arena
Mar. 19 Sydney, AU Allphones Arena
Mar. 20 Sydney, AU Allphones Arena
Mar. 26 Brisbane, AU Entertainment Centre
Mar. 27 Brisbane, AU Entertainment Centre
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Miss Black USA 2015 Crowned

Sunday evening at UDC Theater of Arts Building Miss Black USA 2015 was crowned in front of a sold-out audience. The winner is Miss North Carolina Madison Gibbs. Madison is a native of North Carolina and an alumnus of North Carolina A&T. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta and will begin her first year of law school at Howard University this week.
During her reign, the two platforms that she will be focusing on are as follows:
  • Heart Truth Campaign– Bringing awareness of heart disease to Women
  • Are You Ok?– Platform to bring awareness about mental illness with Contemporary Family Services, Inc. (This platform is new and was launched this year)
The newly crowned Madison Gibbs made an appearance on News Chanel 8 “Let’s Talk Live” yesterday, and will be seen on WTTG Fox 5 Good Day DC today, August 11th at 10:30 AM.  For more information on Miss Black USA, please visit www.missblackusa.org, and to schedule an interview with Miss Black USA 2015 send an inquiry to Candice@CandiceNicolePR.com.
Miss Black USA 2015 Madison Gibbs being Crowned by Miss Black USA 1996 Dawn Moss
Miss Black USA 1996 Dawn Moss, Miss Black USA 2015 Madison Gibbs & Miss Black USA 2007 Dr. Kalilah Harris
Miss Black USA 2015 Madison Gibbs Taking in the Moment

Ann Taylor Bohemian Trend

Bask in the beauty of romantic lace, exquisite embroidery and flowy silhouettes as the bohemian trend is here to stay throughout the fall season.  Ann Taylor has an array of soft patterned apparel in rich hues that will help you embrace the trend as the summer fades and the fall comes sweeping in.

Suede Booties

Be a bohemian beauty in a floral midi dress or lace skirt topped with a flowy blouse.  Complete your intriguing look with a pair of suede ankle booties and cross-over bag, paired with a delicate necklace.

Ann Taylor