6 Last-Minute Shopping Hacks for Holiday Procrastinators

If you’ve waited until the eleventh hour to wrap up your gift shopping, you may be feeling anxious and a bit panicked over you ability to get it all done in time. Unfortunately, this combination could cause you to make poor purchasing decisions and lead you to overspend.

1. Shop in the wee hours.
Save your sanity by taking advantage of extended store hours and shop during the less busy times of day. Many stores will be keeping their doors open past regular hours for straggling shoppers. For instance, Babies ‘R Us will stay open until 2am through Friday, Macy’s and Target will be open until 12am all week long, and Kohl’s will operate around the clock through Friday. Know when to shop by reviewing the comprehensive list of store hours from DealNews.

2. Know where the sales are.
Save time and money by using the Steps Away app, which offers hyperlocal, real-time offers and promotions from nearby retailers so you know where to find the best sales and deals instantly. It is now available in over 150 malls in 40 states and 20 major metro areas. Don’t forget to download Coupon Sherpa’s free coupon app which provides coupons to stores based on your location so you never miss an offer. You’ll find offers such as 15% off with a Famous Footwear coupon or 20% off from Kohl’s.

3. Find gifts in unexpected places.
You don’t have to shop at traditional retailers to find gifts for everyone on your list. Save time by picking up presents in unexpected places while running errands. If you’re heading to the drugstore for prescriptions and gift wrap, look for beauty sets, fragrance and even toys for the women and children on your list. The warehouse store is the perfect place to stock up on groceries for guests and cleaning supplies while offering a wide selection of potential presents like small kitchen appliances, gadgets and even chocolate and cookie tins that make great hostess gifts. And if you’re on the way to the airport, look for a Best Buy kiosk for affordable headphones and bluetooth speakers.

4. Opt for an experience gift.
Experiential gifts are the ideal last-minute gifts because they’re quick and easy to procure and offer the recipient a lasting memory. Print certificates to various experiences like wine tasting, race car driving and hot air balloon rides instantly from your computer. Get creative with packaging by combining the certificate with a coordinating item like a bottle of wine with a wine-making experience, for example. Check out eBay experiences or Groupon for an endless list of ideas!

5. Make something.
Making a gift may sound time-consuming and complicated, but there are several homemade items that are cheap, easy and quick to make. For example, you can put together a festive cookie mix gift by layering ingredients from your favorite cookie recipe in a mason jar or try this DIY Peppermint Sugar Scrub, it’s simple to make with just sugar, coconut oil, food coloring and peppermint essential oil. If you’re feeling crafty, make a painted or glitter ornament by following instructions here.

6. Regift.
Regifting is a controversial practice, but when executed thoughtfully, it can be a great alternative to traditional gift giving. There are definitely do’s and don’ts for regifting, including using only new or like-new items and being honest about whether the recipient wants the item. Unused candles and accessories like scarves make great gifts for coworkers and neighbors. You can even regift a favorite book with a note letting the recipient know why you enjoy it so much, and why you thought they would, too.

Feel free to share “6 Last-Minute Shopping Hacks for Holiday Procrastinators” with your audience, giving proper attribution to the source.

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Andrea Woroch is a money-saving expert who transforms everyday consumers into savvy shoppers by sharing smart spending tips and personal finance advice. As a sought-after media source, she has been featured among such top news outlets as Good Morning America, Today, CNN, Dr. OZ, New York Times, MONEY Magazine, Consumer Reports, Forbes and many more. In addition, Andrea’s stories have been published among leading publications and sites such as Yahoo!, AOL Daily Finance, CNN Money, Huffington Post, LearnVest and New York Daily News. Check out Andrea’s demo reel or visit her website at AndreaWoroch.com for more information about booking an interview or requesting an original written article. You can also follow her on Twitter or Facebook for daily money tips.

Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Hair, Beauty and Skincare

With the holidays quickly approaching I wanted to provide a list of all-encompassing holiday gift items including: luxury items, holiday sets, stocking stuffers, gifts under $50 and hostess gifts.

STOCKING STUFFERS

jane iredale BeautyPrep™ Minis: This holiday season, treat your skin on the go with travel-ready minis from the BeautyPrep™ collection. (Sold separately at janeiredale.com)

BeautyPrep™ Face Cleanser Mini – Infused with our own micellar water and dual cucumber extracts ($8.50)

BeautyPrep™ Face Toner Mini – Refreshing, pH balancing, and pore-refining ($10)

BeautyPrep™ Face Moisturizer Mini – Locks in hydration for smooth makeup application ($18)

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jane iredale Hydration Spray Minis: Take a mini break to condition, destress, and protect skin with purse-sized hydration sprays that tackle every skin concern. ($10 each, sold separately at janeiredale.com)

Balance Hydration Spray Mini – Controls oil production

POMMISST™ Hydration Spray Mini – Disguises pores and fine lines

D2O Hydration Spray Mini – Plumps skin and sets makeup

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HOLIDAY SETS/HOSTESS GIFTS

jane iredale Champagne On Ice Kit: A set of sparkly mini-glosses in three sheer shades to perfect your pout for any occasion ($35 for the set, janeiredale.com)

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Skin Research Labs Envious Beauty Set: The leader in effective beauty enhancing treatments, brings the ultimate holiday kit this season with the launch of their limited edition Envious Beauty Set. The luxurious cosmetic bag contains full sizes of the award-winning neuLASH® lash enhancing serum as well as the newest addition to the neuLASH family, neuENVY peptide enhanced mascara. The set is the perfect pair of products to improve the appearance of natural lashes.($150 at skinresearchlabs.com or Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s).

Set Includes:

  • neuLASH® lash enhancing serum

Transform the appearance of brittle and thin lashes with this nutrient-rich formula. Engineered to address the weak appearance of lashes caused by aging and everyday beauty routines, this serum delivers benefits beyond conditioning, dramatically improving the appearance of eyelashes within 30 days.

  • neuENVY™ peptide enhanced mascara

Acting as a daytime complement to neuLASH lash enhancing serum, neuENVY is boosted with a proprietary blend of peptides to help strengthen, condition and hydrate. The buildable formula wears well all day without smudging or flaking and features an exclusive asymmetrical brush designed to wrap and define every lash, top and bottom. It can also be used to extend the life and lushness of lash extensions, conditioning and protecting the lashes between trips to the salon.

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UNDER $50

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The Mane Choice Easy On The CURLS & Soft As Can Be Trio (Shampoo & Conditioning Set: a set of revolutionary hair products for curly hair. ($36.97 for the set, at TheManeChoice.com, select Target, Sally Beauty Supply and Rite Aid stores)

  • Easy On The CURLS Detangling Hydration Shampoo is an advanced shampoo which cuts your wash days in half. Infused with Biotin and Vitamin E to nourish, grow and hydrate your hair. Easy On The CURLS leaves the hair feeling soft and shiny, while eliminating the dry and stripped feeling.
  • Easy On The CURLS Detangling Hydration Conditioner is a cutting-edge conditioner which makes the detangling process much easier! Infused with Biotin and Vitamin E to nourish, grow and hydrate your hair. Easy On The CURLS leaves the hair feeling soft, clean and conditioned which is essential to the perfect healthy hair growth regimen.
  • Soft As Can Be is a 3-in-1 conditioner formulated to revitalize and refresh the hair instantly. An advanced conditioner that can be used as a Co-Wash, Leave In, and Detangler. Adds shine, softness and manageability. Stops breakage during the detangling process. Leaves the hair softer and more elastic.

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Borghese Fango Introductory Kit: Give the gift of radiant skin and create a true Fango aficionado. This essential introductory kit gives the perfect treatment regimen with a Fango for every need. Detoxify, hydrate and firm for smooth and glowing skin. The Fango muds provide mineral nourishment and special absorbing action which rids skin of impurities while hydrating and firming dry, delicate skin. The muds also help firm and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin with Wheat Protein. ($35 at Macy’s and Macys.com)

Set Includes:

 

  • Fango Active Mud for Face and Body
  • Fango Delicato Active Mud for Delicate, Dry Skin
  • Fango Brillante Brightening Mud Mask for Face and Body
  • Fango Ferma Firming Mud for Face and Body

 

LUXURY

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The Mane Choice SIGNATUREPRO – Comb Infused Talking Flat Iron: A state of the art, healthy hair straightening tool. Combines the technology of comb infused ceramic & tourmaline dual action plates. Engineered to provide longer lasting straightening styles in a fraction of the time. One pass technique. Heats in 30 sec. ($99.95, at TheManeChoice.com, select Target, Sally Beauty Supply and Rite Aid stores.)

Features and Benefits:

  • FREE heat-resistant mat included
  • Cased in a high quality reusable magnetic protective storage box
  • Infused with a combo to aid in a silky sleek finish and to minimize the amount of heat passes
  • Short and sweet verbal greeting and safety cues
  • 180-450 degrees
  • LED Display
  • Adjustable shut off time
  • 1.5 inch plates – for all lengths and textures
  • Dual Voltage 100-200V

How To Wear The Statement Choker – Fall 2016 Trend

My mind raced back to the 90’s fashion culture when I saw this season’s choker trend.  Beverly Hills 90210, Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Blossom were icons from this time era and avidly promoted the necklace.

Since that time it has resurfaced and the question is, “How do I wear a choker without feeling like a flashback of Hilary Banks?”  The answer lies in the design, metal, or fabric of the accessory; which is now considered to be The Statement Choker.

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Photo Credit: Elle Magazine

One option is to layer with another longer necklace. The other alternative is to select a denim jacket or oversized cardigan and let the necklace stand alone. Last choice is to wear with a delicate dress and play up the silhouette for a sleek look.

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The Statement Choker is a versatile accessory and can update any style!

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Startraks Photo/REX/Shutterstock (5618088d) Kendall Jenner Kendall Jenner and The Estee Edit at Sephora, New York, America - 22 Mar 2016 Kendall Jenner Kicks-off the Launch of The Estée Edit by Estée Lauder @Sephora Fifth Avenue Nyc
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Startraks Photo/REX/Shutterstock (5618088d)
Kendall Jenner
Kendall Jenner and The Estee Edit at Sephora, New York, America – 22 Mar 2016
Kendall Jenner Kicks-off the Launch of The Estée Edit by Estée Lauder @Sephora Fifth Avenue Nyc

Click on the link: Sexy Smile Kit

Macy’s – Power of Pink During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

This October, Macy’s is once again inviting customers to “think pink” and show their support in the fight against breast cancer through an inspirational and fashionable campaign that heightens awareness and turns the fundraising focus on a disease that affects not only women, but those who love them. Throughout the month of October, the power of pink will prevail with exclusive merchandise, including fashion, cosmetics and items for the home, in addition to Ralph Lauren Pink Pony apparel. And, for the first time, those united in the fight will be able to show their support through a new, limited edition Pink Pony Bracelet that benefits the Pink Pony Fund of The Ralph Lauren Foundation (available in store only from Sept. 28 to Oct. 10). With a plentitude of pink, Macy’s celebrates Breast Cancer Awareness Month with style and strength.

“Macy’s long-standing commitment to the breast cancer awareness movement is incredibly inspiring” states Holly Thomas, Macy’s group vice president of cause marketing. “Our ongoing dedication to charitable causes makes an even greater impact with the support of our employees and our terrific partners, such as Ralph Lauren, who join forces toward a common goal. And, of course, we are so grateful to our customers who continue to show their generosity by shopping at our stores and in our dedicated online “Pink Shop” in a quest to raise awareness and champion the fight against breast cancer.”

Pink Pony

For the fourth consecutive year, Macy’s has joined forces with the Pink Pony Fund, Ralph Lauren Corporation’s worldwide initiative in the fight against cancer. This year, the Pink Pony Campaign is launching for the first time, a limited-edition Pink Pony Bracelet which will be exclusively sold at most Macy’s full-line stores across the country. The bracelet is made of pink adjustable cord, decorated with a pink enameled iconic polo player charm and engraved with Ralph Lauren script on the back. The bracelet will be available in-store for $5 ($4 of which benefits the Pink Pony Fund of The Ralph Lauren Foundation) from September 28 through October 10 and customers who purchase it will also receive a special discount up to 25 percent on a wide assortment of merchandise at most full-line Macy’s stores nationwide (with applied exclusions). Also new to the campaign this year is the Pink Pony Limited Edition fragrance “Ralph Lauren Tender Romance” of which 15% of the purchase price* will be donated to the Pink Pony Fund of The Ralph Lauren Foundation. And finally, a special collection of t-shirts and active wear will transform Polo Ralph Lauren shops into Pink Pony destinations in 16 Macy’s locations across the country and online at macys.com/ralphlauren. Twenty-five percent of the purchase price of all other Pink Pony products sold in the United States will benefit the Pink Pony Fund of The Ralph Lauren Foundation for causes devoted to cancer awareness, education and research. Since its launch in 2013, this exclusive partnership has raised more than $5.5 million for the cause.

Pink Shop at macys.com

Macy’s online Pink Shop at macys.com/pink will also offer a specially curated collection of incredible fashion and home brands including Coach, Carolee, Charter Club, Guess, Ideology, KitchenAid, Material Girl Active, Movado, Sunglass Hut, Thalia Sodi and Under Armour with each donating a portion of the sale of special pink merchandise to various organizations such as the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF). And this year, Macy’s Ideology brand is pleased to have made a $100,000 donation to BCRF and to have created a special collection of active wear that promotes Breast Cancer Awareness. From hoodies and tank tops, to graphic-t’s, sweatshirts and leggings, these special items spark inspiration to “Fight Like a Girl” and look good while doing it. To learn more visit macys.com/ideology.

Shoppers will even have the opportunity to freshen up their fall beauty routines with finds from the industry’s most sought after cosmetic and fragrance brands such as Bobbi Brown, Clinique, Conair, Estee Lauder and Origins. The complete assortment of passionately pink items that support the cause will be available online at macys.com/pink beginning September 26.

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BCRF Beauty Box

Because big things really do come in small packages, Macy’s is proud to join The Estée Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Awareness (BCA) Campaign to support the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) through the sale of the BCRF Beauty Sampler, available in select Macy’s locations. Macy’s will donate 20% to BCRF from now until Dec. 31, 2016 for each sampler box purchased for $20. Each BCRF Beauty Sampler contains eight travel-size samples from The Estée Lauder Companies’ favorite beauty brands.

According to the American Cancer Society, more than 200,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer (Stages I-IV) are diagnosed among women in the United States in a year, resulting in approximately 40,000 deaths. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, after lung cancer. Through various partnerships and joint efforts, Macy’s maintains a steadfast dedication to finding a cure. This year’s program is targeted to reaching customers in every aspect of their lives.

 

*Ralph Lauren Fragrances will donate to the Pink Pony Fund of The Ralph Lauren Foundation 100% of the profits equal to approximately 15% of the purchase price for each “Ralph Lauren Tender Romance” Pink Pony Limited Edition fragrance purchased in the 50 United States, Puerto Rico or DC through authorized distributors from October 1, 2016, to October 31, 2016, with a minimum guaranteed donation of $100,000 from the sale of these products. No portion of the purchase price is tax-deductible.

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About Macy’s

Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE:M), delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at 734 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, as well as to customers in the U.S. and more than 100 international destinations through its leading online store at macys.com. Via its stores, e-commerce site, mobile and social platforms, Macy’s offers distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy’s is known for such epic events as Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Macy’s flagship stores — including Herald Square in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, State Street in Chicago, and Dadeland in Miami and South Coast Plaza in southern California — are known internationally and are leading destinations for visitors. Building on a more than 150-year tradition, and with the collective support of customers and employees, Macy’s helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities giving more than $69 million each year to help make a difference in the lives of our customers.

 

What To Wear – Fall 2016 Coat Trends

Yesterday marks the first day of Fall and I have selected a few stylish (affordable) coats to assist with cold weather layering.  From a practical sense, we shop during this time of the year to stay warm but there’s also a fashionable purpose.

Retailers provide stylish outerwear because this is the first wardrobe piece that’s visually seen during the brisk season.  Friends, family, and co-workers will notice your coat before any additional clothing item. Personally, I like to purchase outerwear for various social occasions such as Business Meetings, Football Games, Shopping Events, and Formal Affairs.

Fashion designers also suggest that coats should be paired with trendy accessories including a wide belt, knee boots, plaid scarf, or bohemian hat.

The options are endless when shopping for outerwear and don’t forget to purchase in various colors, designs, and textures.

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Jessica Simpson

Asymmetrical Button-Front Wrap Coat

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Wildflower

Faux-Fur Coat, Only at Macy’s

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Tommy Hilfiger

TOMMYXGIGI Wool-Blend Military Cape

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Macy’s Fall Fashion 2016 Lookbook

Macy’s Fall Fashion 2016 Lookbook –

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This fall, Macy’s is helping kids kick the school year off in high style. With throwback 90s looks ruling the runways, Macy’s is offering returning students a nod to old school trends, along with incredible savings on clothing, accessories and dorm items to make this year’s start to school the most anticipated yet.

“The excitement of heading back to school is punctuated by the art of back-to-school shopping,” said Cassandra Jones, Macy’s senior vice president – fashion. “Macys aims to make that the ultimate experience, offering the latest styles and trends in everything from the right outfit to the right dorm accessories, ensuring students can head back to class in style.”

Back-to-School Fashion

Junior girls channel the 90s, sporting casual looks with plenty of attitude, inspired by the grunge style of plaid shirts, distressed denim and overalls. Denim in all silhouettes is bigger than ever this year, from dresses to shirts to wide-legged jeans. Paired with chunky platforms and booties, these iconic 90s pieces get a fun and fresh update perfect for the classroom.

For young men, the 90s comeback continues with denim styles from classic to distressed. Cuffed jeans are paired with high-top chukkas, which are given a trendy update with athletic soles. Tees with graphics of classic 90s video games, TV shows and witty memes give the old school t-shirt and jeans uniform a modern and quirky bent.

The 90s craze applies to fashion for kids, as well, but in a more scaled down version. Young girls sporting flannel dresses or cuffed denim will rock the halls, while boys in graphic throwback tees with gaming and skateboard images will rule the school in comfort.

 

Back-to-School Deals

Shoppers will have the best selections to choose from at Macy’s, the back-to-school destination for savings and style. Find all the go-tos they can’t live without—tops and tees, rompers and dresses, pants and jeans—even the true essentials like uniforms. Also, add in all the finishing touches—from hoodies, sweaters and jackets down to underwear, socks and shoes. Brands including Levi’s, Betsey Johnson, Benefit, Martha Stewart Whim, American Rag and Epic Threads have some of the best deals to match every kid’s preferred school day look. Visit your local Macy’s store and macys.com for savings throughout the season.

Dorm

Whether a first year away or packing it up for the last time, college living is cool and trendy with lifestyle essentials from Macy’s. Whim comforter sets in fresh new patterns offer options to fit each student’s personal living space. Studying is stylish with Poppin desk sets and accessories. Colorful letter trays and pencil pouches make organization fun. A Joy Mangano mini steamer is easy to store in a small dorm living space and keeps wrinkles away and help show off new, flawless threads on campus.

Love Bravery

Macy’s partnered with Grammy®, Tony® and Academy Award®-winning legend Sir Elton John, along with Grammy and Golden Globe®-winning icon Lady Gaga to create Love Bravery, a high-spirited, limited-edition line of clothing and accessories that inspire compassion and combat prejudice. Perfect for anyone heading back to school, Love Bravery includes shirts, sweats, outerwear, clutches, backpacks, scarves, beanies, keychains, pins and even speakers, water bottles and skateboards, all rendered in vibrant graphic prints and designs that fuse both artists’ renowned musical talent and revered inimitable style. Love Bravery is sold exclusively at select Macy’s stores and on macys.com/lovebravery, with 25 percent of the purchase price benefitting Born This Way Foundation and the Elton John AIDS Foundation, and will be available globally later this year. All donations from the limited-edition line, on sale through Aug. 30, 2016, will be made to Born This Way Foundation, which will use 50 percent to support the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

In-Store Celebrations Nationwide

Macy’s is throwing back to the 90s through in-store themed events nationwide that prove everything old is cool again. On Saturdays from Aug. 6 to 27 at select stores, Macy’s will host throwback-themed shopping parties with awesome activities, including styling tips and fashion must-haves, photo booths with totally 90s props, and a DJ spinning old school beats. Cosmetic outposts with makeup artists will provide 90s-inspired beauty makeovers to show how to flawlessly achieve a throwback look with a modern twist. To add to the excitement, actresses Katie Cassidy and Ashley Rickards will be making several store appearances for a photo-op and meet and greet with customers. For the 4*1*1, visit macys.com/events.

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About Macy’s

Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE:M), delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at approximately 734 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, as well as to customers in the U.S. and more than 100 international destinations through its leading online store at macys.com. Via its stores, e-commerce site, mobile and social platforms, Macy’s offers distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy’s is known for such epic events as Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Macy’s flagship stores — including Herald Square in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, State Street in Chicago, and Dadeland in Miami and South Coast Plaza in southern California — are known internationally and are leading destinations for visitors. Building on a more than 150-year tradition, and with the collective support of customers and employees, Macy’s helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities giving more than $69 million each year to help make a difference in the lives of our customers.

 

Angela Simmons High-Low Shift Dress – Maternity Style

Angela Simmons has truly embraced becoming a new mom.  Her maternity style is cute, flattering, and playful.

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This is an example of embracing your curves and change of womanhood.  Here, she’s seen wearing a high-low (babydoll) shift dress.  The cut and ruffle hem of the dress takes away from her growing abdomen, showcasing her legs.

To duplicate this maternity style, I would suggest purchasing a shift dress one size larger and altering according to your figure.  For added height wear comfortable heels and don’t forget to pack your ballerina flats in your handbag!

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Vince Camuto Printed High-Low Trapeze Dress

 

Iris Apfel x INC at Macy’s – Launching September 2016

I.N.C International Concepts, available exclusively at Macy’s, has announced a partnership with style icon Iris Apfel launching September 2016. For the aptly named “Iris Meets INC” campaign, INC teamed up with Apfel to develop a collection of “must-have” clothing and jewelry centered around this fall’s mod trend. Apfel will also star in a creative advertising campaign for the brand, which will break in early August.

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As an anchor to the campaign, I.N.C will launch a limited edition keyboard of Iris-themed emojis this fall. The emoji graphics will appear throughout all elements of the “Iris Meets I.N.C” campaign, including product hangtags, digital advertising and direct mail.

The collection itself is comprised of approximately 40 pieces that play into fall’s “mod” trend revival. Apfel consulted with I.N.C’s design team and provided creative direction before curating her final selection of items which were chosen for both style and versatility. The collection focuses on key wardrobe staples like shift dresses, A-line skirts, flare leg pants, and statement jackets. In keeping with her signature style, Apfel also included a wide array of black and white bangles in various patterns and sizes.

“Macy’s was my very first department store and we used to always go there on shopping trips,” said Apfel. “I’ve always thought very kindly of Macy’s and I never planned on any of this. How many 94-year-old cover girls do you know?”

Nancy Slavin, senior vice president, marketing, of Macy’s Merchandising Group said “Iris is a perfect partner for I.N.C. Not only does her style resonate with multiple generations of I.N.C shoppers, but there isn’t a more iconic personality to show off the new ‘mod’ style for fall.”

The Iris Meets I.N.C collection will be available exclusively at Macy’s stores and on macys.com starting early September 2016.

Iris 1

About Macy’s

Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE:M), delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at approximately 730 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, as well as to customers in the U.S. and more than 100 international destinations through its leading online store at macys.com. Via its stores, e-commerce site, mobile and social platforms, Macy’s offers distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy’s is known for such epic events as Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Macy’s flagship stores — including Herald Square in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, State Street in Chicago, and Dadeland in Miami and South Coast Plaza in southern California — are known internationally and are leading destinations for visitors. Building on a more than 150-year tradition, and with the collective support of customers and employees, Macy’s helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities giving more than $69 million each year to help make a difference in the lives of our customers.

 

For Macy’s media materials, including images and contacts, please visit our online pressroom at macys.com/pressroom.

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LADY GAGA AND SIR ELTON JOHN PARTNER WITH MACYS: LOVE BRAVERY COLLECTION

Macys has partnered with Grammy® and Golden Globe®-winning icon Lady Gaga, as well as Grammy-, Tony®- and Academy Award®-winning legend Sir Elton John to create Love Bravery, a high-spirited, limited-edition line of clothing and accessories that inspire compassion and combat prejudice. Available as part of Macy’s American Icons campaign, Love Bravery spans several categories, including shirts, sweats, outerwear, clutches, backpacks, scarves, beanies, keychains, pins, and even speakers, water bottles and skateboards, all rendered in vibrant graphic prints and designs that fuse both artists’ renowned musical talent and revered inimitable style.

“It’s an honor to team up with Sir Elton John to create this line with Macy’s,” said Lady Gaga. “We need to make the world a kinder and braver place where men and women everywhere are empowered to live with compassion. That’s what Born This Way Foundation is all about, that’s what the Elton John AIDS Foundation is all about, and that’s what Love Bravery is all about.”

Love Bravery Lady Gaga and Elton John

“I love the idea of fusing who you are on the inside – your passions and dreams – with what you wear on the outside,” said Sir Elton John. “Love Bravery is about the compassion on the inside to understand someone’s fears, and the bravery on the outside to stand up for them, and for yourself: to accept others for who they are and to be who you want to be. It’s what I‘ve tried to do in my life, my career and with the Elton John AIDS Foundation, and it’s a passion Lady Gaga and I share. So I’m thrilled we are collaborating on this project and delighted Macys understood our dream to connect with people this way.”

Created in collaboration with Lady Gaga’s sister, Natali Germanotta, and designer Brandon Maxwell, the limited line boasts fresh crop tops and sleeveless tees in stark black-and-white, while heather sweatshirts with tonal graphics and tops with metallic lettering are edgy updates to the athleisure trend. Oversized scarves with piano key prints and artistic interpretations of Lady Gaga’s face are stylishly offbeat, and neoprene backpacks that say “LOVE” and also have piano key prints are super cool must-haves. With enamel pins and patches in the shape of moto jackets, electric guitars, microphones, platform shoes and Lady Gaga’s infamous claw, the options to show off your inner little monster are endless. Clutches in the shape of sunglasses, pianos and hearts are unapologetically fun and sassy.

Love Bravery Shop

“In addition to being deeply talented musical artists, Lady Gaga and Sir Elton John are champions of self-love, courage, empathy and kindness, and Love Bravery represents all of those tenets,” said Martine Reardon, Macys chief marketing officer. “We are so proud to present a line that is not only fun and bold, but also stands for something so meaningful and important. The work they do through Born This Way Foundation and the Elton John AIDS Foundation is invaluable and truly changes lives, and Macys is honored to partner with them to spread the message of love and acceptance.”

Born This Way Foundation is committed to supporting the wellness of young people and empowering them to create a kinder and braver world by shining a light on real people, supporting quality research, and fostering meaningful partnerships focused on social emotional learning (SEL) and mental health awareness and resources. The Elton John AIDS Foundation raises much-needed funds for evidence-based programs that give people the information and tools to protect and care for themselves and those they love – challenging stigma, reducing the spread of HIV and preventing people from getting sick or dying of AIDS.

Love Bravery Clutch, $59, Only at Macy'sLove Bravery Skateboard, $99, Only at Macy's

The foundations brought together a diverse array of young people to showcase the Love Bravery apparel and will be sharing content from that campaign this spring. The limited-edition line with Macy’s is the first in a series of activations which are planned for the coming months to make people feel proud of who they are.

Love Bravery will be sold exclusively at Macys this spring, with 25 percent of the purchase price benefitting Born This Way Foundation and the Elton John AIDS Foundation, and will be available globally later this year. All donations from the limited-edition line, on sale through Aug 30, 2016, will be made to Born This Way Foundation, which will use 50 percent to support the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

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About Macys

Macys, the largest retail brand of Macys, Inc. (NYSE:M), delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at approximately 730 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, as well as to customers in the U.S. and more than 100 international destinations through its leading online store at macys.com. Via its stores, e-commerce site, mobile and social platforms, Macys offers distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macys is known for such epic events as Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® and the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Macys flagship stores — including Herald Square in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, State Street in Chicago, and Dadeland in Miami and South Coast Plaza in southern California — are known internationally and are leading destinations for visitors. Building on a more than 150-year tradition, and with the collective support of customers and employees, Macys helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities giving more than $69 million each year to help make a difference in the lives of our customers.

 

About Elton John AIDS Foundation

The Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF) is dedicated to reducing the spread of HIV/AIDS through innovative HIV prevention programs, eliminating the stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS and supporting direct care for people living with HIV/AIDS.

Sir Elton John created EJAF over twenty years ago, first in the United States in 1992 and then in the United Kingdom in 1993. Since then, the two organizations have raised nearly £220m (over $350m) and reached over 150 million people across four continents.  We work with local, national and international organizations to provide non-discriminatory HIV information, testing and treatment services that stop people becoming infected with HIV or getting sick and dying of AIDS.  This has meant funding some 1,500 programs including providing HIV tests to over 20 million people, and treatment prevention for more than 800,000 pregnant woman living with HIV so that they could protect their babies from the HIV virus.  The Foundation also prioritizes those who are highly vulnerable to HIV and the stigma that surrounds it in many parts of the world such as men who engage in male-to-male sex, people who use drugs and people who sell sex. Our work with Love Bravery will go towards prevention and treatment programs for adolescents living with HIV. AIDS is the second leading cause of death for 10-19 year olds worldwide.

www.ejaf.org/London

 

About Born This Way Foundation 

Led by Lady Gaga and her mother Cynthia Germanotta, Born This Way Foundation was founded in 2012 to support the wellness of young people and empower them to create a kinder and braver world. Born This Way Foundation achieves this by shining a light on real people, quality research, and authentic partnerships. Working with more than 50 non-profit organizations, Born This Way Foundation has connected more than 150,000 young people with services and programing in their communities. The Foundation has also partnered with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the National Council for Behavioral Health, and the National Association of School Psychologists to collect data from more than 2,500 young people. This research, presented before the American Psychological Association, improved our understanding of young people’s views of mental-health services and delivery methods.

Visit us at bornthisway.foundation.