Sunday, July 31, 2011

For the Home: Simon Pearce Hartland Candlesticks

What better for a Sunday afternoon than a wonderful recommendation For the Home?

Hartland Candlesticks
Hartland Candlesticks
The Online Shopper is crazy for Simon Pearce.  The blown glass designer, based in Vermont, creates gorgeous and understated pieces for your home - or for your next gift recipient's home.  Really, you cannot go wrong with any of the glassware, but The Online Shopper loves these best selling Hartland Candlesticks ranging from $115.00 to $195.00.  These are perfect for sitting atop a mantle, or on a dining room table.  Any color candle will work with the clear glass, but The Online Shopper loves the clean look of white candles as the photo here displays.  That said, the best part about this great decor is that you can use any color candle to compliment your decor or even the the season/holiday.     

Monday, July 18, 2011

Wear it to Work Monday: Brooks Brothers Classic Single Breasted Blazer

An essential in pure Italian wool from Loro Piana®. Perfectly finished with darted front and seamed back for shaping. Appointed with gold-toned buttons. Single-breasted. Flap pockets. Fully lined. 27" center back length. Dry clean. Imported. Also available in Petites.
 Brooks Brothers
Classic Single Breasted Blazer
The Online Shopper's Wear it to Work Monday focus on work attire.  The styling recommendations are geared towards a professional environment.

Now, for just one moment, let's all get past the terrible styling in this picture.  Once we do that, we can see that a classic Brooks Brothers classic single breasted blazer on sale for $348.00 is a must for a professional woman's wardrobe.  The Online Shopper would wear this (not with a baby blue collared shirt and khakis, which is a look so WASPy, it can hurt one's eyes), but over a sheath dress, or atop a patterned skirt.  This will compliment turquoise or pink tones.  As the Brooks Brothers hardware stands out in gold, be sure to accent your professional outfit with simple gold studs.  The traditional and summery look, styled properly, will take your professional look to the next level.       

Sunday, July 17, 2011

For the Home: Jonathan Adler 'Coral' Porcelain Vase

What better for a Sunday afternoon than a wonderful recommendation For the Home?

Jonathan Adler 'Coral' Porcelain Vase (Nordstrom Exclusive)
Jonathan Adler 'Coral'
Porcelain Vase

Flowers (including Hydrangeas, this Online Shopper's favorite) are in full bloom.  The Online Shopper thinks that bringing fresh flowers into your home is absolutely a necessary design element.  Putting fresh flowers on your dining table, kitchen table and bedroom dresser, adds color, texture and life to your room. 

The Online Shopper believes that this Jonathan Adler 'Coral' Porcelain Vase for $51.90 at Nordstrom is a wonderful way to hold your flowers.  The striking white porcelain will add a pop of white to your room, and its decorative shape and design will look lovely standing alone or filled with flowers.  However, Online Shoppers beware: please do not, under any circumstances, put silk flowers in this vase (or any vase for that matter).  As tempting as a well made silk flower may look, they are not sophisticated and will detract from your room's aesthetic, not add to it.

Enjoy your Sunday -- enjoy your home.    

Saturday, July 16, 2011

Deal of the Day: Kendra Scott 'Tera' Nugget Stone Ring

The Online Shopper's Deal of the Day brings you stylish steals to ramp up your lifestyle -- without depleting your bank account!

Kendra Scott 'Tera' Nugget Stone Ring
Kendra Scott 'Tera'
Nugget Stone Ring
Look at these Kendra Scott 'Tera' Nugget Stone Rings for $37.90 per ring (also part of the famed Nordstrom Anniversary Sale)!  What beautiful accessories?  Although both are lovely, The Online Shopper is drawn towards Green Onyx and thinks that it could serve as a pop of color to an otherwise neutral outfit.  They are reminiscent of Angelina Jolie's emerald earrings at the Oscars a few years back.  The cocktail ring look is best saved for weekend wear, or nightlife (as they are a bit excessive for a professional, corporate environment in This Online Shopper's opinion).  Cocktail rings have a risk of looking tacky (think on their worst day, home shopping network, or on their best day Real Housewives of New Jersey), but when made beautifully and styled appropriately they can be utterly fabulous. 

Online Shoppers, what do you think?

Weekend Warrior: Workout in Lucy

Weekends are for expressing ourselves! Get casual, but stay stylish with Saturday's post for the weekend warrior in us all.

Lucy LogoOnline Shoppers, you can run, but you cannot run in dowdy old clothes from high school...or college.  Just because you are working out, does not mean that you should give up on looking good.  The gym is not only an opportunity to burn "cals" and work off some stress, but you may actually network a bit, meet your next date, or make a friendly acquaintance. 

In that regard, The Online Shopper recommends checking out Lucy.  Lucy explains the problem precisely in describing their store:
  • "In 1999, women’s workout wear was well overdue for a makeover: by the end of the eighties, leotards and legwarmers had given way to baggy shorts and ill-fitting college t-shirts. Why, we wondered, would a fashionable and put-together woman dress for the gym like she’s going to a ninth grade PE class—for boys? Didn’t a store exist that sold a wide array of attractive and athletic apparel for active women in a fun, friendly shopping environment?"  About Lucy. 


















Lucy hit the nail on the head by identifying a serious problem and gap in the market.  Lucy's philosophy is one that this Online Shopper cannot help but buy into.  Accordingly, for today's Weekend Warrior, The Online Shopper recommends trying this lovely set.  The Sculpted Power Top in midnight/bright magenta mosaic print for $55.00 along with the Lucy X-Training Capri for $79.00 in the same color. 

Online Shoppers do you share a similar philosphy when it comes to working out, or do you take an "anything goes" approach to workout attire?

Friday, July 15, 2011

Deal of the Day: Me Too Paige Flats


Me Too 'Paige' Patent Leather Flat
Me Too Paige Patent Flats
The Online Shopper's Deal of the Day brings you stylish steals to ramp up your lifestyle -- without depleting your bank account!

At the risk of Nordstrom overkill - The Online Shopper is just not done with the Anniversary Sale quite yet.  These are the shoes: Me Too Paige Patent Leather flats.  Nude - yes, pointy - yes yes, embellished toe - yes yes yes!  The best part is the anniversary price.  Priced at $88.95, you can snatch up these versatile flats $59.90.  The Online Shopper purchased these lovely flats this morning, and plans to wear these as stylish "commuter shoes" and with jeans on the weekend. 

All too often ladies make the mistake of wearing flip flops as commuter shoes.  Flip flips are unflattering and utterly lack style.  Online Shoppers, you can do better!  Try these Me Toos or another pair of embellished flats.  Nordstrom has a great selection.  Happy Shopping. 


High Fashion Friday: McGinn 'Elizabeth' Boucle Jacket

Mcginn 'Elizabeth' Metallic Bouclé Jacket
McGinn 'Elizabeth' Boucle Jacket
Fridays are for fashion...no not just fashion, high fashion!

Happy High Fashion Friday - and Happy Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!  Nordstrom is offering a wonderful fall pieces on sale starting today.  The Online Shopper is just in love with this McGinn 'Elizabeth' boucle jacket.  The jacket's original price is $375.00, but with the anniversary sale, you can snatch it up for a mere $229.00.  Woohoo.  This jacket, which is featured in Nordstrom's recent catalogue, reminds The Online Shopper of a Chanel design, and finds it appealing because it can be paired with other suit pants, skirts and even jeans on the weekend. 

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Deal of the Day: SR Squared by Sondra Roberts Clutch

The Online Shopper's Deal of the Day brings you stylish steals to ramp up your lifestyle -- without depleting your bank account!

SR Squared by Sondra Roberts

Hello Online Shoppers. Here is your deal of the day - SR Squared by Sondra Roberts purse for [insert anticipatory drum role here] $31.99 at Piperlime!  Wow - this is a lovely little structured piece that will work fabulously for a weekday networking event (who else hates standing around engaged in small talk with a purse that feels more like a travel-on suit case?).  The perfectly sized clutch allows you to either toss it over your shoulder with the convenient shoulder strap or tuck in the strap for a sheik way to hold your credit cards and cell phone.  Although one of Piperlime's reviewers commented that the purse looks cheap, it is a Rachel Zoe pick.  If it is good enough for Ms. Zoe - then Oh-My-God, The Online Shopper will go bananas for it. 

Online Shoppers, what do you think?

Gifts Galore: Papyrus Greeting Cards

Thursday's post, just in time for the weekend shopping rush, is dedicated to gift recommendations.

Multicolor Fuchsias
Multicolor Fuchsias
Blank Greeting Card
A gift is not complete without a beautiful handwritten card.  The Online Shopper almost always goes to Papyrus, a retailer with a beautiful and original assortment of greeting cards.  Currently, Papyrus is offering 20% off 4 or more cards, 25% off of 8 or more cards and 30% off of 12 or more cards.  With this deal, it makes sense to stock up on a few blank cards, like the blank multicolor fuchsias card for $6.95, pictured to the right,  so you have them at the ready when the time is right.  

   

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Deal of the Day: Calvin Klein Tie Front Shirt Dress

Calvin Klein Tie Front Shirtdress
Calvin Klein Tie Front Shirt Dress
The Online Shopper's Deal of the Day brings you stylish steals to ramp up your lifestyle -- without depleting your bank account!

Today's Deal of the Day is this Calvin Klein Tie Front Shirt Dress on sale today for $64.90 at Nordstrom.  Although The Online Shopper certainly prefers sleeves on a professional dress, because this dress has an ever-so-slight cap sleeve, it is professional for the office absent the addition of a cardigan or blazer. 

The grey color is a blank canvas for your accessories, so get creative!   The Online Shopper would liven this dress up with a lively, hot pink statement bracelet and dark grey pumps. 

Online Shoppers, what are your styling suggestions? Comment below. 

Wednesday is for the 'Fellas: Thomas Pink Warren Check Woven Tie

Girls do not need to have all the fun.  Wednesday's post is for the 'fellas (or the fella in your life).  
Warren Check Woven Tie
Thomas Pink
Navy/Pink Warren Check Woven Tie

Thomas Pink has an extraordinary array of ties and dress shirts for the 'fellas.  The Online Shopper enjoys this navy and pink Warren Check Woven Tie priced at $105.00.  It comes in varying color combinations, but The Online Shopper is struck by this Navy/Pink Check pattern.  The Online Shopper would put this tie alongside a sky blue shirt and a navy or grey suit.  Mighty stylish, gentlemen Online Shoppers! 


Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Deal of the Day: Mango Meeting Skirt

The Online Shopper's Deal of the Day brings you stylish steals to ramp up your lifestyle -- without depleting your bank account!

Mango Women's Skirt Meeting2, 14, Ice
Well, you may have noticed that it is hot out today (at least in this Online Shopper's world).  The heat provides us with a perfect excuse to wear a feminine skirt to work.  The Online Shopper likes this Mango Meeting Skirt for only $53.99 at Amazon.  Although The Online Shopper is not overly familiar with the brand "Mango," the picture reveals that this skirt is an appropriate length and a  feminine shape.  To counter the flouncy skirt, The Online Shopper recommends pairing this skirt with a structured top (either cardigan or button up depending what is in your closet). 

Tuesday's Tip of the Week: Shopping Online for a Vacation


Tuesday's Tip of the Week is a guide for navigating the vast world of e-commerce.  Tips and Tricks from The Online Shopper for Online Shoppers!
tropical female by *michael sweet*
tropical female, a photo by *michael sweet* on Flickr.
It is summer vacation season!  Kids are out of school, the office slows down a bit and the weather is ripe for taking time off and traveling somewhere new.  With that in mind, The Online Shopper thought it prudent to consider how to shop online for a vacation.  There are many options for booking your next trip online.  For instance, you could go directly to the respective hotel and airline websites and book your trips directly.  Or, you may decide to book your trip with one of the popular travel websites like Expedia, Hotels.Com, or Travelocity (to name a few). 

However, The Online Shopper recommends using Bing Travel.  It is in so many ways a one-stop-shop for searching for great rates and then booking your travel arrangements.  Like all travel sites, Bing allows you to input your To/From information, the dates of your travel.  However, where Bing gets good is that it allows you to conduct a "Compare search" that opens in a new window and lets you search hotel and flight information from Expedia, Travelocity, Priceline, BookingBuddy and AA.com.  After you click "search" approximately eight (8) windows will pop up offering your complete options.  How convenient? 

Online Shoppers, do you have any tips for booking vacations online, or otherwise?  Where do you plan on heading this summer?  Post your comments, below.

Monday, July 11, 2011

Wear it to Work Monday: Nine West Puff Sleeve Suit

The Online Shopper's Wear it to Work Monday focus on work attire.  The styling recommendations are geared towards a professional environment. 

Nine West Suit, Puff Sleeve Jacket & SkirtNine West is expanding into suiting.  Traditionally, a shoe and handbag designer, Nine West is a great brand that offers the latest fashion trends at reasonable prices.  The Online Shopper always strives to buy "trendy" pieces from reasonably priced brands, like Nine West.  Whereas, The Online Shopper is more than willing to spend a few more pennies on the classics like a simple black interview suit, a black pencil skirt, and a trench coat.  You know that you will have these classic pieces for years.  Think of them as investments. 

By way of a trendy look, The Online Shopper found this Nine West Puff Sleeve Suit at Macy's.  Originally $240.00, the suit is marked down to $119.00.  Sizes 6, 8, 10 and 12 remain.  The Online Shopper appreciates the dark grey color, which is less severe then black, and its feminine shape and puff sleeves.  Although with the short, puff sleeves, this look may be less than appropriate for court, it is a great summer suit for a meeting, presentation or for the office (if you work in a professional/corporate environment).   

Online Shoppers, do you love it or hate it?  Post your comments here.   


Sunday, July 10, 2011

Deal of the Day: Gerard Yosca Chain and Pearl Bracelet

The Online Shopper's Deal of the Day brings you stylish steals to ramp up your lifestyle -- without depleting your bank account!

Gerard Yosca Jewelry Chain & Pearl Bead BraceletAre you familiar with Last Call by Neiman Marcus?  The Online Shopper only recently learned of the site - and was pleasantly surprised by its steals and deals.  For today's Deal of the Day The Online Shopper recommends this Gerard Yosca Jewelry Chain & Pearl Bracelet that The Online Shopper spied at Last Call.  Originally $150.00, the bracelet is marked down over 50% at $60.00!  Summer is certainly here, and it is more likely than not that you will wear your sleeveless tops and t-shirts.  With your arms out and bare, what a lovely statement bracelet to accent your arm?  You could match the bracelet with some pearl or diamond studs, but because this is a sizable bracelet, The Online Shopper would wear this without any necklace or statement earrings. 

What do you think Online Shoppers?  You can post your thoughts by clicking here.

For the Home: Anthropologie's Paisley Reef Rug

Paisley Reef RugWhat better for a Sunday afternoon than a wonderful recommendation For the Home? 

Anthropologie has the most gorgeous selection of carpets.  The Online Shopper thinks that any of their carpets could liven up your home, but this Paisley Reef Rug is a real stand out.  The pricing ranges from $78.00 for the 2x3 to $1,098.00 for the 9x12.  As we can all see, the pattern and colors are lively and unique.  The Online Shopper would put this carpet in a casual living room with neutral sofas and dark wood furniture.   Be sure to measure your space before making the purchase.  The Anthropologie reviews are incredibly favorable and inform us that the carpet is not as thick as a traditional Oriental rug, but boy, it is beautiful!  

Saturday, July 9, 2011

Deal of the Day: Banana Republic Silk Blouse

The Online Shopper's Deal of the Day brings you stylish steals to ramp up your lifestyle -- without depleting your bank account!

The Online Shopper's eye was caught today by this pretty silk button-back blouse on sale for $54.99 at http://www.bananarepublic.gap.com/ today.  The Online Shopper enjoys the idea of a silk top rather than wearing a "plain old t-shirt."  The fit is ever just as comfortable, but the fabrication shows that you take pride in your appearance.  This vibrant pink will compliment all skin tones (even this model who is quite fair) but sizing is limited. 

Weekend Warrior: Five Tips for What to Wear to a Summer Wedding

Weekends are for expressing ourselves! Get casual, but stay stylish with Saturday's post for the weekend warrior in us all.

"Duh-duh-duh-daaaa" wedding season is is full force and effect.  It is likely that you will attend at least one, or perhaps more, this summer.  You receive that fancy invitation in the mail, and naturally, you start contemplating what to wear.  You are not the bride this time, phew, but you still want to look amazing!  Will you sport a dress that you already have? Something new?  What is appropriate?  There is a lot to consider, so The Online Shopper has some recommendations for finding your perfect look.

1. The Invitation: The first indicator of what you should wear comes from the invitation itself.  Is it a double envelope, thick stalk, formal invitation, or a handmade print out from the maid of honor's computer?  Although not entirely determinitive of what you should wear, the style of the invitation provides the first indicia of the wedding's tone and style.  Keep this in mind as you choose your look.

2.  Where is the Wedding Reception?  Is the reception in a backyard, at a city hotel, or somewhere stylistically inbetween.  Where the wedding is, is the single most important factor for choosing your look.  In the Online Shopper's opinion, a city hotel wedding warrants the fanciest wedding guest look.  Think of the fancy lobby and the stylish travelers that come through.  By selecting a city hotel for their special day, the couple sets a certain tone and expectation for what they want you to wear. 

Tahari by Arthur S. Levine Ruffle Trim One Shoulder Chiffon Dress
The Most Casual:
Try a Short Chiffon Dress

Ivanka Trump Women's Bindy Ankle-Strap Sandal,Silver,8.5 M US
Wedges for Outdoors
Conversely, a backyard shindig trends towards the casual. For a backyard wedding, The Online Shopper likes this Tahari by Arthur S. Levine Ruffle Trim One Shoulder Chiffon Dress pictured, left.  The Online Shopper likes this pick because of the light weight, but fancy fabric and the pretty print.  This dress would also work for a beach wedding.  Lovely!  If you are outside, also keep in mind your footwear selection.  You either need to wear flats, or better yet, a wedge like the Ivanka Trump Bindy Wedges, pictured right, so that your heels do not sink into the earth.  This would not only seriouly impede your dancing skills, but it would ruin your shoes.


3. What time of day is the Wedding?  The later in the day the wedding, the fancier it is.  Likewise, the earlier in the day, the more casual the wedding is.  Traditionally weddings starting at 5:00 p.m. and later are the fanciest, and may even be black tie. The invitation should designate if the wedding is black tie and requires that the men wear tuxes and the women wear evening gowns.  What fun? 

Nicole Miller cobalt stretch silk ruffle detail strapless gown style# 315015903
The Fanciest:
For Black Tie Go Long

When shopping online for a black tie wedding, you should focus your search on "evening" attire, or narrow the produce search to "long" dresses.  For a fancy evening wedding, The Online Shopper likes something like this Nicole Miller Cobalt Stretch Silk Ruffle Detail Strapless Gown available at http://www.bluefly.com/ for $329.00.  This dress is great because it has a classic silhouette, a vibrant color for summer, and is stylish enough that you will not look like a bridesmaid.  
    
Depending on the location, a 2:00 p.m. wedding can still be pretty fancy, but is probably something short of black tie.  In this case, you can pretty much count on wearing a basic cocktail dress.  Your online search should focus on "short" or "cocktail" dresses.  Something like this, Adriana Papell Shirred Bandage Dress available at http://www.lordandtaylor.com/ for $140.00 is perfect.  This beautiful color and body hugging look is sure to look great on you regardless of your shape.  In fact, this type of dress should be your go-to look when you are uncertain about what to wear.  Additionally, you can count on wearing this more than once and you will be able to "dress it up" or "dress it down" with your accessories (shoes, clutch and jewelry).   
 
Shirred Bandage Dress
Inbetween:
Cocktail is the
Go-To Wedding Look

Cover your Shoulders
In a Church or Synagogue
4.  Consider the Location of the Ceremony When Accessorizing:  Now your shoe, clutch and jewerly will be dependent upon your dress selection.  The Online Shopper tends to select nude and muted metalic accessories so that they can be worn over and over again.  Yet, when accessorizing, your first questions should be where is the wedding ceremony?  If the ceremony is in a church or synagogue, you need to dress somewhat conservatively, in that your shoulders should be covered.  Of course this does not mean that you need to wear a dress with long sleaves, but it does mean that you should wear a capilet, shrug, or shawl over your shoulders.  The Online Shopper suggests a lovely, lightweight cashmere wrap like the one pictured to the right from http://www.nordstrom.com/ for $98.00.  Depending on the accompanying dress, The Online Shopper would tie this shawl over her shoulders and likely pin this shawl with a vintage costume jewelry brooch to add some style and finish off the look.  It would come off for the reception, but you can always wear a shawl like this again (even as a scarf for the winter if you are so inclined). 

5. Don't Wear White. Or Beige. Or Tan.  Ladies, it is the bride's day.  If something could be construed as white (light grey, beige, tan, etc.) pick something else.  No matter how lovely the dress is, if it is white, or a shade of white, you will be entirely inappropriately dressed.  This is a traditional rule that you must stick to!

Hopefully you will have fun at the wedding, but more fun Online Shopping for what to wear to the wedding! 

Friday, July 8, 2011

Deal of the Day: Poplin Stretch Dress Shirt

The Online Shopper's Deal of the Day brings you stylish steals to ramp up your lifestyle -- without depleting your bank account!

Everyone should have at least one crisp white shirt in their wardrobe.  Whether for work, or on the weekend with jeans (like the J Brand jeans pictured below).  The Online Shopper thinks that this Poplin Stretch Dress Shirt from http://www.oldnavy.com/ is a great buy for only $22.50.  You are sure to get a lot of wear out of this top.  It comes in the pink, pictured here, but The Online Shopper would pick it up in white.  It is 100% cotton and machine washable, but The Online Shopper would absolutely dry clean this button-up shirt, or any other, to keep a crisp, pressed and professional look.  All sizes remain - so you can order yours today.  Also note that Old Navy offers free shipping on any order over $50.00 with no code necessary.  Fabulous.   

High Fashion Friday: J Brand 811 Skinny Jeans

Fridays are for fashion...no not just fashion, high fashion! 

OK, so The Online Shopper, like most of the world at this point, has a slight obsession with Princess Kate a/k/a The Duchess of Cambridge.  Accordingly, The Online Shopper absolutely must recommend these J Brand 811 skinny jeans, that the Duchess has been seen wearing on at least three occasions!  These jeans are so incredibly high fashion that The Online Shopper can hardly stand it.  Sizing is somewhat limited, but sizes 24, 25 30 and 31 still remain.  For your information, according to the J Brand size guide 24 = Size 2, 25 = Size 4, 30 = Size 10, and 31 = Size 12.  These will obviously look amazing on the thin girls, like the Duchess, everything does, but The Online Shopper also thinks that the form fitting nature of these pants will also really compliment curvy girls, though shape wear may be appropriate to help achieve that hourglass shape.  Pop these on with some pumps, boat shoes, flats, sandals or espadrilles and you will look like a princess, even if you are not.  Happy High Fashion Friday, Online Shoppers! 

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Gifts Galore: Philosophy's Gift Sets

Thursday's post, just in time for the weekend shopping rush, is dedicated to gift recommendations. 

congratsThe Online Shopper thinks that Philosophy's gift sets make wonderful gifts.  The various sets, including this "congrats!" box containing Flowers, a 3-in-1 (shampoo, body wash and bubble bath) are available at Philosophy's website http://www.philosophy.com/.  The products come in a range of prices for every gifting need and include sets like "just because," "with gratitude," and "birthday girl."  The Online Shopper's favorite is pictured to the left because at only $16.00, what a wonderful and original way to send a box of "flowers?"  This "congrats!" box may work well for someone expecting a new baby, or perhaps for someone who just landed a new job.  The recipient will say "congrats" to you for picking such an amazing gift.  Happy Shopping!     

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Deal of the Day: Ellen Tracy Dress

The Online Shopper's Deal of the Day brings you stylish steals to ramp up your lifestyle -- without depleting your bank account!

Ellen Tracy Dress, Cuffed Short Sleeve BlousonFor today's Deal of the Day The Online Shopper recommends this Ellen Tracy dress available at http://www.macys.com/ for $49.99.  All sizes remain.  The price, vibrant color, side detail make this a great find.  Although the fabrication is Polyester (not The Online Shopper's favorite), The Online Shopper is satisfied by knowing that this dress can easily be tossed in the washing machine.  The Online Shopper is slightly weary of the only Macy's commentator who indicated that the sizing of this dress was off, and that the fabric was too thin.  However, The Online Shopper thinks that the commenter's concerns could be ameliorated by layering some good shape wear underneath the dress.  Overall this is a great deal of the day.   

Wednesday is for the 'Fellas: Jos. A. Bank Natural Stretch Summer Suit

Girls do not need to have all the fun.  Wednesday's post is for the 'fellas (or the fella in your life). 

Natural Stretch 2-Button Poplin Suit
Today is hot hot hot, which inspired today's post for a menswear summer suit.  The Online Shopper really digs this Natural Stretch 2-Button Suit from Jos. A. Bank (http://www.josabank.com/) for a remarkable $99.00 (regulalry $350.00)!  What a great, stylish buy.  The Online Shopper likes this suit in the Natural, but there are several workable color choices including the light grey and olive.  'Fellas when you wear a natural colored suit like this, you can have an abundance of fun in selecting your tie and shirt combination.  The sky blue, pictured here, looks great but really anything will work!  Stay cool and hydrated Online Shoppers. 

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Deal of the Day: Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation

Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation SPF 15 1 Warm IvoryThe Online Shopper's Deal of the Day brings you stylish steals to ramp up your lifestyle -- without depleting your bank account!

The Online Shopper is crazy for Bobbi Brown's skin foundation, available at retailers like http://www.nordstrom.com/ and at Amazon.  The foundation offers ample coverage light enough for everyday summertime wear.  The reason that this makeup is today's deal of the day, is because of the sun block.  Spending $45.00 to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays, and prevent wrinkles is well worth it.  Although buying makeup online can be challenging, The Online Shopper thinks that this is an excellent opportunity for online shopping to meet an in-person shopping trip.  The Online Shopper, for instance, first purchased this in the store, learned that her color (and more importantly to you, that *most people's* color) is "warm ivory."  Whether it is this Bobbi Brown SPF or another brand, please protect your skin this summer so that you can stay fabulous!  

Tuesday's Tip of the Week: Five Tips for Shopping Etsy

Tuesday's Tip of the Week is a guide for navigating the vast world of e-commerce.  Tips and Tricks from The Online Shopper for Online Shoppers!

The Online Shopper hearts Etsy.  If you have not heard of Etsy before, it is a site whose mission is "to enable people to make a living making things, and to reconnect makers with buyers."  This is exciting for an Online Shopper, but navigating the extensive inventory of handmade and vintage items on the site can be daunting.  Thus, The Online Shopper has pulled together five tips for shopping http://www.etsy.com/.  [Drum roll...] In no particular order:

DELLA
Della T-Shirt from Alis
  1. Focus your Search:  With so many items on Etsy, it is absolutely necessary to go to the site with a clear vision of what you want.  For instance, if you search "t-shirt," you will end up with 124,745 hits. Yikes!  However, if you search "white t-shirt flower applique" you end up with 96 results, including this cute Della t-shirt from Alis.  The "categories" section on the left-hand side of the homepage is a great place to start, and be sure to select whether you are looking for something "handmade" or "vintage" in the button next to the search text box. 

2. Communicate with the Seller:  One of the greatest parts about Etsy is that the seller is a *person* not just Mr. Gap.com!  What a great resource.  You may email the seller, ask questions about their policies and/or products, and ask for something custom made if you do not see it listed on their page.  The Online Shopper had a great experience like this with the vendor of OhReallyBecky.  On the market for an ivory woolen caplet and after emailing with the seller, learned that OhReallyBecky had the perfect option.  The Online Shopper could not have been happier.  Communicating with the seller also gives you an opportunity to ask for a discount.  Sometimes a discount is not an option, but sometimes it is, and you will feel better after you asked (try that with a major retailer and you will get nowhere, fast).

Romantic Wrap Top With Short Ruffled Sleeve  Coral/ Pink Sweatshirt
Lirola's Romantic Wrap Top
 3. Pay Attention to Feedback: Feedback is incredibly important when shopping on Etsy.  If other Etsy shoppers have had a positive experience with a given seller, it is likely that your experience will be similar, and vice versa.  One of the Online Shopper's favorite stores is Lirola.  Lirola's handmade clothing like the Romantic Wrap Top, pictured right, is unique and beautiful, but better yet, the retailer has an abundance of Feedback with insightful comments and 100% positive review.  This is music to The Online Shopper's ears.  On the other hand if a seller does not have a lot of feedback, it may be because the seller has not made a lot of sales, but buyer beware.  In that case, pay with Paypal or even a credit card, instead of a debit card linked to your personal bank account.  If the seller's feedback is predominately negative, stay away altogether. 

4. Set up and Utilize Your Account: Etsy has recently revamped its account section to allow shoppers the opportunity to identify their "favorite" items and stores and create a "circle" of your friends.  The Online Shopper has added a number of items and shops to her favorites (like Lirola above) for ease in reference on future shopping visits.  These resources will help you navigate the various shops and items and can serve as a great starting point and a way to keep track of the stores from which you have made a purchase. 

A Maine Sunrise
A Main Sunrise by LovewithKatie
 5. Have Fun: With so many wonderful artists and objects to explore, have fun with Etsy!  The Online Shopper recommends going to Etsy first, before your local super store to try something new and original.  By way of example, The Online Shopper was recently on the market for some original art work.  Rather than scooting over to the local Home Goods chain to pick up a mass produced print (which would have done the job in an unoriginal way), The Online Shopper perused Etsy.  After going to Etsy, clicking "Art" underneath "Categories" on the home page, and then "photography" The Online Shopper was flooded with an abundance of beautiful photographs.  How about this lovely photograph, A Main Sunrise by LovewithKatie?  At $15.00, this is a must buy.    

Online Shoppers, do you have any other useful tips for shopping on Etsy? Post your advice here. 

Monday, July 4, 2011

Deal of the Day: Vintage Brooch

The Online Shopper's Deal of the Day brings you stylish steals to ramp up your lifestyle -- without depleting your bank account!

Bling Jewelry Art Deco Vintage CZ Diamond Wedding Brooch PinAs of late, The Online Shopper has been crazy about vintage brooches.  In a recent realization, The Online Shopper surmised that the brooch is one of the most underrated fashion accessories.  Brooches are fabulous.  They can sit on a top, outwear, or a suit jacket, and are a great way to add style to an otherwise simple outfit.  Even Duchess Catherine has recently been spotted wearing a Canadian Leaf brooch on her Canadian tour.  The Online Shopper has found a number of stylish vintage brooches at http://www.ebay.com/, http://www.etsy.com/ and at http://www.amazon.com/, like this Vintage Brooch for $29.99 available at http://www.amazon.com/.  Just enter "vintage brooch" into the search feature of any of these websites and you will get a slew of fun and fabulous pins.  For the record, The Online Shopper also tried searching "vintage rhinestone brooch" and "Eisenberg vintage brooch" (Eisenberg made costume brooches back in the 1930s and 40s - they are fabulous but tend to cost a bit more than today's deal of the day.)  Selecting your unique vintage piece is fun and after you receive compliments, it is even more fun to respond, "oh, thank you, it is vintage!"  The Online Shopper would pin this brooch to a crisp white blouse and a summer tweed skirt.  This Brooch makes a statement, so be sure to take in light on your other jewelry.  Small studs, no necklace, and a simple bracelet, if any.  Stay fabulous Online Shoppers! 

Wear it to Work Monday: Marc by Marc Jacobs Ozzie Lucy Tote

The Online Shopper's Wear it to Work Monday focuses on work attire.  The styling recommendations are geared towards a professional environment. 

Every professional woman needs a professional and stylish purse.  The Online Shopper tends towards totes rather than traditional brief cases because totes are just as practical without the dowdy connotation that some briefcases carry (pun intended).  Keeping with her theme, The Online Shopper is crazy about this Marc by Marc Jacobs Ozzie Lucy Tote available at http://www.piperlime.com/ for $398.00. The tote is wonderfully sized at 12" by 16" by 6".  Large enough for a sales file or legal pad, but small enough to toss over your shoulder to strut around the city.  OK, so this price tag - at the equivalent of a car payment - is a commitment, but when you consider that you will carry this tote daily, for months, the cost averages out and is well worth it.           

Sunday, July 3, 2011

Deal of the Day: J.Crew Summer Straw Hat

Summer straw hatThe Online Shopper's Deal of the Day brings you stylish steals to ramp up your lifestyle -- without depleting your bank account!

Loving this summer straw hat at only $34.50 from http://www.jcrew.com/.  At only $34.50 there almost nothing (other than perhaps a business suit) that this hat will not compliment.  The Online Shopper has this hat and wears it constantly, for what it is worth.  Not only can you look fabulous, like Samantha in the Sex and the City movie, but you can preserve your skin by shading it from the sun's harmful rays.  Stylish, practical and at an amazing price point, Online Shoppers this is the deal of the day.    

For the Home: Martha Stewart Living Patio Charlottetown Wicker Woven Loveseat

What better for a Sunday afternoon than a wonderful recommendation For the Home? 

Summer is upon us and time to put down our lap tops and step away from our computers (even if only momentarily) so that we may go outside!  With that in mind, The Online Shopper is enjoying this Martha Stewart Living Patio Charlottetown Wicker Woven Loveseat available at http://www.homedepot.com/ for $282.00 (with free shipping).  This adorable little piece will certainly encourage you to enjoy your yard or embrace your porch.  Sorry city dwellers - as you know, the Boston Common and Central Park unfortunately are not equipped with these little numbers.  The Online Shopper envisions sitting on this Loveseat and taking in some morning coffee.  

In researching outdoor furniture for this blog post, The Online Shopper was surprised to learn that Home Depot's website actually has a number of stylish outdoor furniture pieces, pillows and cushions, flower pots and even flowers - all available online.  What a great resource!  Take a look around and post any good finds, below.         

Saturday, July 2, 2011

Weekend Warrior! A-Bit Unruly Top from Anthropologie

A-Bit-Unruly TopWeekends are for expressing ourselves! Get casual, but stay stylish with Saturday's post for the weekend warrior in us all.

With Fourth of July barbecues a-plenty this weekend, let's get patriotic!  The Online Shopper likes this A-Bit Unruly Top from http://www.anthropologie.com/.  Priced at $48.00, the blue stripes are nautical and summery. Though if blue is not your color, the top is also available in a number of cute color combinations including green and brown motif.  The Online Shopper would pair this elegantly cut top with a pair of white skinny jeans, but thinks that the top would also work well with blue jeans or perhaps even a pair of navy, high waisted suit pants for the office.  The Online Shopper was also happy to read the favorable feedback from Anthropologie's Online Shoppers.  Enjoy your holiday weekend!     

Friday, July 1, 2011

High Fashion Friday: Oscar de la Renta Peep-Toe d'Orsay Pumps

Fridays are for fashion...no not just fashion, high fashion! 

Oscar de la Renta Two-Tone Peep-Toe d'OrsayWell, all that The Online Shopper can say to these lovely Oscar de la Renta Two-Tone Peep-Toe d'Orsay pumps available at http://www.neimanmarcus.com/, is wow!  These gorgeously designed d'Orsays are such a stylish way to walk through summer.  In fact, The Online Shopper could imagine Princess Kate (a.k.a. The Duchess of Cambridge) strutting around in this pair on her Canadian tour. 

Although not only is the 4 1/4" covered heel high, but at $785.00, so is the price!  High fashion comes at a cost, but if you cannot afford this high fashion footwear, The Online Shopper thinks that they would serve as a great inspiration for a more affordable pair (How about these Nine West d'Orsays?).  Happy Fourth of July Online Shoppers!