Ask Allie - Winter Wool Coats

Hey Allie, I am from the warm south but will soon be moving north. I am also very petite. I know nothing about wool coats. Do you have any suggestions for good retailers? Or a list of characteristics to look for? Thanks, Carrie

Hi Carrie:
I think a wool coat is a great investment. Coat trends do not vary as much as other wardrobe pieces; so a well-made wool coat can really last you for several years (even decades) of stylish wear.

Finding a Wool Coat
First, look at fabric. Often times cheaper wool coats will be a wool blend, mixing this natural fabric with a synthetic like polyester or nylon. Polyester may help with durability, but it won’t help with finish or warmth. Wool blend coats are more likely to collect lint and fuzz, and won’t keep you as cozy on a blustery day. If you want a very warm wool coat, I recommend you find one that is 100% wool.

Second, check out the lining. Your lining is dependant on your locale. Here in the Nation’s Capital I find a basic silk acetate lining is enough for car commuter wear (dashing from house to car and car to building), but a lining with Thinsulate or some other thin warm fabric is better for city commuters (those who spend more time outside). Companies like Lands End and J. Crew often offer varying linings for one style of coat so you can get the combination that is perfect for your lifestyle and environment.

Third, consider your lifestyle before picking out a silhouette. Are you looking for a coat for running errands around town? For work? For evening? One that can do double (or triple) duty? I have found the most flattering and versatile style of wool coat is one that is single breasted, nips in at the waist a bit to follow your shape, and hits between low hips and above the knee. This style of coat can work with jeans, pants and skirts and is long enough to keep a good amount of you protected from the chill. A shorter jacket like a peacoat is great for day errands as that it’s a boxier style that goes on with ease over chunky sweaters and winter layers. A winter coat may have a faux fur collar, belt, decorative buttons or a longer length to create a sense of drama.

Now consider color. Black is always a safe bet – it works day or night, is eternally stylish and easy to find accessories to compliment it. However black can be boring and dreary on gray winter days. Colors can often times be just as versatile as black and far more exciting and true to your personality. Mallard blue, plum, dark red, camel, mustard, pumpkin, brown, berry, hunter green are all great colors that won’t look dated by next snowfall. Ivory is always elegant but do keep in mind that lighter colors are more likely to show dirt.

What About Accessories?
Accessories make the outfit and they also make the winter coat. Find a color that brings you happiness on a gloomy day and don’t be afraid to mix up colors. Make your navy coat pop with apple green, your camel coat stand out with turquoise, your plum coat with candy pink. I love replacing classic scarves with pashminas – they completely cover the neck opening, can be wrapped across the body for additional warmth, and can be used as a shawl once inside if there is a draft.

As for gloves, be they knit, leather or suede, make sure they are in good condition and compliment the whole ensemble. Unless you are shoveling snow, you don’t need giant padded ski mittens; purchase some well-fitting gloves that let you drive, hold handrails and pull your wallet out of your bag with ease.

When it comes to hats, this winter is the perfect time to find a favorite. All sorts of hats are in style, and everywhere from chic boutiques to big box retailers have a great selection. As with gloves, there is no need for a pom-pom topped ski cap that envelopes your entire head; you can gain just as much warmth from a tam, beret, sleek cap or even a wool fedora or other structured style.

Accessories can be useful as well as elegant. You are not 14 any more, and those ear flaps, Freaky Freezies, and rainbow scarves are not doing you any favors. You can have cheer and fun in your winter wardrobe through color and small details. I saw a woman on the train in a bright pink crocheted cloche with a crocheted flower on the side, same color scarf and gloves. The flower was so sweet and unexpected, and the happy color really brightened up her gray coat. Though my husband calls me Monica Lewinsky, I have been sporting a fun wool beret with my apple green pashmina, black leather gloves and black wool peacoat. My coworker has a simple black wool coat, but unexpected electric blue leather gloves and a blue and black scarf that really adds her flair to the ensemble. Take the time to find warm accessories that maintain style but show your personality – they can be find at any price range.

Camel coat by Lands End, ivory coat by J. Crew, green coat by Boden, red coat by Larry Levine. Click on links or images to be sent directly to the shopping page.

J. Crew - Save Up to 30%

The more you spend, the more you save at J. Crew!

Spend $150, save 20%; spend $200, save 25%; spend $250 save 30% off your entire order!

Promotional code: TURKEY
Valid Until Saturday, November 29th, 2008


*Offer valid at jcrew.com only until Saturday, November 29th at 11:59pm ET. Offer not valid on telephone orders or in any J.Crew retail or Factory store. 20%-off discount applies to purchases of $150 or more before shipping, handling, and taxes are added, 25%-off discount applies to purchases of $200 or more before shipping, handling, and taxes are added, 30%-off discount applies to purchases of $250 or more before shipping, handling, and taxes are added. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. Offer does not apply to previous purchases, alterations or the purchase of gift cards.

H&M: 20% off Black Friday

This Friday, November 29th (AKA Black Friday), early birds will get 20% off their entire purchase of $50 or more from store opening until 10am at all H&M stores in the United States.

If you're more of a night owl, the following stores will begin this offer at 12:01 AM on Friday, November 28th:

Milpitas, CA: The Great Mall at Milpitas
San Francisco, CA: 150 Powell Street
Gurnee, IL: Gurnee Mills
Hanover, MD: Arundel Mills
South Portland, ME: The Maine Mall

All stores will have extended holiday hours. Please call your nearest store for exact hours.

H&M Store Locator

I have never had a ton of luck in H&M outside of their accessories department, but I have tons of friends and readers who show of their stylish and budget-friendly scores from this store (and it always makes me jealous!).

I will be near the Arundel Mills mall area that day anyway, so will most likely stop in to find some great wardrobe (and accessories wardrobe) additions. Happy shopping!

DUO Boots - Half Price Shipping & Save Up to 25%!

Right now, the US dollar is strong, so the prices at DUO boots and shoes are actually cheaper for us Americans NOW than they were this past summer. You could save up to 25% on boots from DUO!

This link will take you to a currency converter to see the price in USD versus GBP.

On top of this opportunity, DUO is offering half-price shipping to the United States!

Code: US08
Expiration: November 26, 2008


*Terms & conditions: Prices shown are indicative and may not represent the actual prices that will be paid or have been paid in the past in the checkout at http://www.duoboots.com/. The above quoted prices do not constitute a promise of any kind to set the price of any product as shown in the example used.

Source for the US Dollar to British GBP exchange rates is www.x-rates.com and DUO take no responsibility for the accuracy of the information received from this website. The following dates and exchange rates have been used in the above examples: 17th July 2008: 2.0038 and 12th November 2008: 1.5012.

Half price shipping applies to any purchase of any DUO full price products and does not apply to promotion price products. Code US08 must be entered online at http://www.duoboots.com/ in order to redeem this offer.

The half price shipping offer applies to outbound international shipping only, and only to delivery addresses in the USA. This does not apply to exchanged goods. Offer ends Midnight Wednesday 26th November 2008. This code cannot be used in conjunction with any other DUO offer and no cash alternative is offered.

Ann Taylor & Loft: Friends & Family - 30% Off!

Save 30% at all Ann Taylor brand of stores!

Valid: Thursday, November 20 through Sunday, November 23

Promotion: 30% off every purchase at Ann Taylor stores, LOFT stores, Ann Taylor Factory stores, LOFT Outlet stores, ANNTAYLOR.COM and anntaylorLOFT.com

Online Code: FRIENDS
email me if you would like a copy of the email to take into stores.

Enjoy!!

Offer valid November 20, 2008 through November 23, 2008 at Ann Taylor stores, LOFT stores, Ann Taylor Factory stores, LOFT Outlet stores, ANNTAYLOR.COM and anntaylorLOFT.com. Offer may be used more than once. To receive 30% discount in stores, print this email and present at time of purchase. To receive 30% discount online, promotion code FRIENDS must be entered during checkout. Taxes, shipping and handling fees, purchases of gift cards, charges for gift boxes and payment of an Ann Taylor or LOFT Credit Card are excluded from any discount. Not valid on purchases of gift cards, on payment of Ann Taylor or LOFT Credit Card accounts or in conjunction with any other offer. Reproductions of offer are not valid. No adjustments to prior purchases. Not valid for cash.

Ask Allie – Weekend Shoes

Reader Laurie asks:

When I wear jeans, I quite often reach for the athletic shoes simply because they are so comfortable. I know this is not the most stylish choice, but I'm not quite sure what to substitute. My standby ankle high boots look great with the jeans, but are really not comfortable enough for me. Any shoe suggestions (need to be comfortable enough for walking) for a casual jeans/sweater outing?

Hey Laurie:
For years I have gotten by with my black ankle boots for this situation, but lately (especially with this extra baby weight on my knees and feet) I desire an alternative. Like you, I need what I call a “weekend shoe”, footwear that is more stylish than sneakers, but can be worn all day.

Flats seem like a likely choice, but are often more uncomfortable than heels. Flats force your foot into an unnatural position – a foot will be most comfortable with arch support and a tiny bit of lift at the heel. To have comfort while walking, it’s nice to have decent structure around the foot and padding on the foot bed. Flats rarely have all of this.

Flats like this one from Privo take athletic styling and support and add it to the trendy silhouette of a flat. The perforated leather keeps your foot comfortable all day, and this styling could be worn with “no-see-um” socks, trousers socks or with bare feet and still look polished. I love the purple color – it is an unexpected neutral that can go with denim, neutrals, warm as well as cool tones. Pair with pumpkin, green, red or teal for a beautiful contrast. $84.95 at Nordstrom.


A loafer-style shoe is great with jeans and cords – easy to slip on and off, more refined than a sneaker but often just as comfortable. Having a wedge or athletic-inspired sole will make it far more wearable for long days than one that has a separate heel.

This loafer from Naturalizer has been rated often as being comfortable for walking and standing all day. The contrast stitching and athletic sole makes it a bit funky and artsy, and the blue color is another one of those unexpected neutrals. $59.98 at Macy’s.


A boot is far more comfortable if it has a wedge heel. The wedge helps disperse the weight, and if the wedge is of rubber you have extra cushioning and shock absorption.

This ankle boot by Rockport is sleek, stylish but far kinder to your tootsies than a classic ankle boot. Rockport has been creating innovative and comfortable footwear for men and women since 1971 and I have always had luck finding great walking shoes from this brand. $119.95 from Endless.

Hope that helps!

Gap - 25% off Sale Items

Save an additional 25% off already reduced items at The Gap! Promotion valid online and in stores. Enjoy!

Valid Until November 11, 2008

Promotional Code: EXTRA25

*Offer valid on Gap sale merchandise only from November 6, 2008 at 12:01 am ET through November 11, 2008 at 11:59 pm ET in the US (including Puerto Rico) at Gap stores and online. Not valid at Gap Outlet. Not valid on regularly priced merchandise. Not valid on Gap (Product) RED™, Junk Food™, Converse®, Robeez®, Medela®, CHARM IT!®, or babyGap home merchandise. Discount applies to merchandise only, not value of gift cards purchased, phone orders placed in stores, packaging, applicable taxes or shipping & handling charges. To redeem online enter code at checkout. Online code is limited to one time use only. No adjustments on previous purchases. Not valid for cash or cash equivalent. Gap Inc. is not responsible for lost or stolen coupons. Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts including Gap Inc. employee discount.

Why I Care

It’s Saturday morning, and I am having a mild panic attack. My father-in-law’s memorial service is in less than two hours and I am the officiant for the service. The idea of speaking in front of hundreds of people while trying not to sob was not causing my anxiety… my wardrobe was.

I couldn’t find my black dress. Okay I could find one black dress - the matte jersey one with the tie-belt and the polo collar, but I couldn’t find THE dress, the one I imagined wearing. Lightweight black jersey, surplice neckline, empire waistband, blouson sleeves. Appropriate for an outdoor memorial service, but still stylish and flattering to my 32-week pregnant frame.

“Who cares what you’re wearing,” my husband said. “People won’t expect you to be stylish, you’re in mourning.”

But it’s not about what other people think, it is about what I think, and how I feel.

I put on the dress with the polo collar, tied the belt in a bow, untied it and did it in a knot. I hated it. The collar was limp, the belt hokey, my breasts looked strange, and the hem was now a bit too short this late in my pregnancy. I did my hair and makeup, hoping it would improve my reflection in the full-length mirror. I felt tacky, I felt awkward, and I felt wrong. I added black hose and the only black shoes that fit at 32 weeks – my Naturalizer flats. I didn’t look like myself. My husband came by the door, “you look beautiful Alison.” I knew he meant it, but I didn’t feel it. I got on my hands and knees and dug through the closet, hoping THE dress fell off a hanger and was hiding behind some shoe boxes or suitcases. No such luck.

Time was running out, so I wore the dress with the polo collar. I jazzed it up with a skinny croco belt with a pave buckle and my large silver cuff bracelet. A feeble attempt to make it more “Allie” of a look. I arrived at the service where friends and relatives greeted me, telling me I looked so lovely, and they were so sorry for my loss. I tugged at my hem, wishing it was closer to my knees and looked down at the swollen masses that used to be very cute feet.

I attended my 15-year high school reunion this summer. At the restaurant, I went to greet a fellow classmate who I hadn’t seen since graduation. I asked her how she was and how her life had been the past decade and a half. She told me about her travels and job and then said, “Well I already know how YOU have been doing.” I asked her how; she replied, “[Fellow classmate] sent me your blogs. Some days your hair is curly, some days your hair is straight. Not much else going on, huh?” She smiled and walked away. My first feeling was embarrassment. Then I stopped and thought, why should I be embarrassed? The only difference between me and she is that I put my daily look on the Internet. I looked at her sculpted hair, her lined lips and bold earrings – she had to spend at least as much time as I did this evening to look good for the reunion. How dare she belittle me for doing the same darn thing she does? I then felt pity for her – for someone to be so snarky to a person she hardly knew in high school and hadn’t seen in 15 years… well she must have some issues with her self worth, her self esteem or her placement in this world.

I am often teased for caring about how I look, and I get more emails and comments than I can count where people blast me for being superficial, for being clueless, and as one email said, “for killing everything women have fought for the past few decades.”

I don’t do these blogs to gain fame, to force my views on others, or to try to make Allie clones. I do these blogs because for me, clothing is armor. When I feel good in my skin and in my attire, I gain strength. I can stand in front of large crowds and officiate my father-in-law’s memorial service. I can feel pity, not fear for the classmate who teases me after all these years for caring about my hair. I can work harder, care more, and do more because my appearance is one thing that I know I have control over. I cannot control the weather, I cannot control other people’s actions, but I can control the armor I put on each day. I can walk, can talk, can smile and feel good about myself and concentrate on other things such as my thoughts, my beliefs, and how I interact with the world.

I cared about what I wore this Saturday because I didn’t feel confident I could get through that service. I loved my father-in-law terribly so, and it hurt so much to see my beloved husband hurting so much. I knew I would be surrounded by people hugging me, kissing me, feeling for me and I needed that armor to get through it all, to present a service, to present a strong face for my husband and his family. Some drink, some smoke, some get angry, some withdraw, some make jokes. I find it far more healthy and intelligent to spend a little more time smoothing my skirt and fluffing my hair to gain that strength to get through it.

Women are amazing creatures. We are often portrayed as the softer sex, but studies have proven that we have a higher pain tolerance than men, we live longer than men, we are able to create human beings, feed them from our bodies, care for our loved ones while being able to manage multi-million dollar companies and even countries. Women are beautiful, and work so hard, they deserve to feel beautiful, know their beauty on a daily basis.

Beauty doesn’t come from having the perfect little black dress or pair of pumps. It doesn’t come from finding that perfect foundation that hides imperfections and is invisible on your jawline. Beauty comes from loving yourself, being proud of whom you are, and having comfort in your own skin. It’s finally falling in love with your crazy curls, getting off the diet train and understanding that maybe you are most wonderful at a size 14 instead of 4, respecting the heritage that gave your porcelain skin, and knowing that nurturing your body and it’s appearance is just as important as nurturing your soul and your mind.

And what’s wrong with a little armor to fight through the battle which is Daily Life? My goal with these blogs is to help every woman realize her immense beauty, and help provide her with a little armor to maintain that confidence and self-love. I blog because I care. I care about women, I believe in our worth, our strength, and that we are capable of anything we set our minds to.

Today I did a deep cleaning of my bedroom, and did all the laundry. It felt good, to wash away all the stress and anxiety and sadness of this week; to prepare my armor for the upcoming week where I have to return to the Real World, still mourning the loss of a very special man. I already feel the confidence as I look as my organized closet and neatly folded drawers; knowing I have what I need to go into Monday’s battle.

However I still can’t find that darn dress…

Away for a Bit

My father in law passed away yesterday. I will be taking a break from the blogs while I care for my family. I thank you for your understanding. :)

See you soon,
Alison

Kiyonna - Save 25% off EVERYTHING!

I adore Kiyonna, they have really fabulous and stylish clothing in larger sizes.

Unlike a lot of plus sized retailers, Kiyonna gives a woman feminine, classic and stylish pieces that are of quality. Gorgeous colors, great fabrics, and silhouettes that compliment a woman's figure and will be stylish for seasons to come.

Well through November 1st, Kiyonna is offering 25% off EVERYTHING!

Yes, their classic pieces, their new arrivals, sale pieces, adorable LBDs, premium denim and more. Kiyonna offers $8 standard shipping on all orders and have great customer service.

So stop by their site and check it out!

Coupon: 25% Off Everything at Kiyonna
Coupon Code: TREAT08
Expiration: 11/03/2008



Enjoy! :)

Zappos Keeps Getting Better!

This article is a repost from my other blog, My Wardrobe Today. Since it has received lots of questions, comments and emails from readers, I decided to do a PSA and post it here as well.

Some answers to questions - yes, I was offered a discount through Zappos to provide this review, but was asked to be blatantly honest with my experience in return. Completely honest, this is how pleased I was with the experience. I did not get free overnight shipping because I was part of this promotion, I received an upgrade email (I and friends have received similar ones from previous shoe purchases). The item came in the famous Zappos box, was in the traditional sealed clear plastic shipping bag (same with other online retailers) and the return policy is exactly the same as it is with Zappos shoes. Interested? Keep reading! :)

I think I am with most women in ADORING Zappos. I can find styles and brands I can’t find anywhere else, free super-fast shipping, free returns and the reviews are so incredibly helpful in making purchase decisions! Many a time I had wished there was a Zappos for clothing – could search by size, color, style and come up with hundreds of options.

Zappos, have you been reading my mind? For now if you visit their site, you will see they do in fact carry clothing! Same great shipping and return policy, and a constantly growing selection of small brands and covetable labels. Zappos contacted me and asked me to try out their clothing department.

As with the Zappos shoe department, one can search clothing by gender, size, color, style and price. Once you have entered these search features, you can then organize your selections by popularity, how new the item is to the site, brand name, and price. You can also use the search function at the top to find a specific brand or style name. Though the clothing department is still new, many customers have already provided reviews which make it far more helpful than department store Web sites offering the same brands. Finally, Zappos’ Live Help is available for their clothing as well as their shoe department.

I love all this, because I often go to Zappos to find a specific item I saw on a celebrity or on the pages of a magazine. I usually have brand and style name, but little else. The Zappos site makes it easy to quickly find items like this.

The first time I visited their clothing department, I took a quick look but left because they didn’t have maternity. A week later, three pages of maternity fashions (and as of today a fourth page!). Really shows how quickly this branch of Zappos is growing! Checking out this list, you can see how extensive Zappos’ clothing department is.

Searching the maternity department, I was impressed by the brands available – high-end department store and boutique lines like Olian, Japanese Weekend, Chiarakruza, Liz Lange, Chip and Pepper, and Theality. They offered not only separates, but all levels of dress, as well as some maternity and nursing lingerie and sleepwear.

I did find that the size selection was a bit limited, but attribute that to the department being so new. I liked that I could break down my search by style (was really looking for either a long-sleeved dress or a sweater for the upcoming colder months).

When looking at specific styles, I ADORE the multiple-view photographs. You don't just see the garment on a perfect mannequin or model (and possibly pinned and clipped in back to flatter), you see close-ups of the fabric, the front, the back, the side, the closures, and more. This really assisted me in finding a style that I knew would work with my figure and lifestyle.

I ordered the Olian Nicole Side Tie Dress on Monday afternoon and received it before dinner on Tuesday. How awesome is that? As always Zappos packed my order carefully and send just the right amount of emails to let me know the status of my package. Searching online, I found the price to be competitive with department stores and boutiques.

All in all, I have been very impressed with the Zappos clothing department and keep coming back to see what new brands and styles they have to offer!


P.S. You guys KNOW I love Ebates… well if you visit the Zappos site through Ebates, you can can get 5% cash back on your entire order. Haven’t signed up for Ebates yet? What’s stopping you? It’s free, it’s easy and it’s money in the bank from online shopping!

Ask Allie: Comfy and Stylish Shoes

I have previously written about comfortable and stylish shoes, but each season new styles come out and readers come to be with new needs.

Dear Allie: I am at a loss w/ regards to finding cute but comfy everyday shoes- I am not a tennis shoe person. Most cute flats really aren't supportive enough to walk around in while carrying a baby, etc. I am ashamed that I love my Crocs- but now that I am no longer pregnant and my daughter is not a newborn I feel there is no excuse for me to wear them anywhere than around the house, in the rain, etc... What are cute, supportive yet somewhat attractive shoes I can wear all of the time?

Dear Allie: I’m sorry, but I just can’t wear pumps. I am a BBW and I love to look stylish for work, but anything over a 2” heel is murder on my feet, my knees, my hips. Also my workplace is the government and pretty conservative. However I don’t want to wear granny shoes and I agree with you – us BBW look stupid and top-heavy in ballet flats (not like they have support any way). Where can I find comfortable work shoes that will work all day?

Dear Allie: You rarely mention animal-friendly or eco-friendly options for footwear. I believe you are a vegetarian so this surprises me. Would you let your readers know about some shoes that are vegan and kind to the earth? There are many comfortable and fashionable styles available.

Allie - I was hoping I might ask you a question about shoes for wide feet? My feet are wider than most womens across the toes and I really struggle to find quality shoes that are also comfortable and don't leave my poor toes screaming for mercy by the end of the day. Do you happen to know of any good brands of shoes for girls with wide feet??

Hope these options will assist many of you in finding comfortable, well-made shoes that will care for your feet and your personal needs. I usually try to find low-cost options for my suggestions; many of these are over my standard $100 price point. The reason is your feet are the hardest working part of your body, and it’s near impossible to find comfortable, supportive, well-made shoes at bargain bin prices. I am all for checking out outlets for these brands, but I do stand behind my belief that shoes are something you should spend money on. A couple pairs that are good to you will last you for years and be very worth your money.

Eco-Conscious
It really is possibly to find shoes that are friendly to animals and the environment while being comfortable and cute.

Simple is a brand that marries all of these with some terrific footwear. Their Women’s Jumper Certified Leather Mary Jane is made for walking with a technologically-advanced foot bed, plenty of arch support, and a cushy sole that will deflect hard and bumpy surfaces. The classic style will work with skirts, shorts and pants easily and can be worn through most any season. In brown, black and merlot red.

Earth carries many vegan shoes that are comfortable and cute. The Inhale is a casual flat with breathable microfibers and mesh uppers that will keep your feet cool and comfortable. They have included Negative Heel ™ technology which helps keep your body properly aligned, and it contains an anatomic shock-absorbing foot bed. In black.


Corporate-Conscious
You may have to walk many city blocks or fight public transportation for your commute, but that doesn’t mean you have to wear clunky clogs or corny Crocs to keep your feet happy. There are many shoes out there that are sleek, professional, suit-worthy and still kind to your tootsies.

ECCO is a company that makes well-made, supportive shoes in classic styles. The silhouettes are feminine and elegant while still considering foot health. Podiatrists often say a bit of a heel is actually healthier for the foot arch than a completely flat shoe. The Durango pump by ECCO has a wedge heel which distributes weight, eliminating hot spots on the bottom of the foot. Rounded toe gives plenty of room, and the subtle details make it elegant and a great choice with skirts or trousers. Available in black or whiskey.

Aerosoles is a great company that offers comfortable styles, many widths and sizes, yet has professional and stylish choices. The Ballistic slip-on is a classic office style with a low wedge heel, elegant hardware detail, and a nice range of colors that will add pizzazz to any conservative office attire. In black, tan, gray or dark red.

The Princess suede pump from Perlina is stylish, feminine, in fun colors and so nice to your feet. Shock absorbing outsole, leather sock lining wicks away moisture and allows the shoe to mold to the natural contours of the foot, and cushioned, leather-lined foot bed features latex foam padding for extended wear. In black, blue, brown, graphite, burgundy and pistachio suede.


Style-Conscious
Looking for a way to merge current trends and happy feet? There are many brands out there that slightly modify the trends so that they can be a podiatrist’s fave.

Dansko is known for having comfortable, well-made shoes that last for years. They also have really brought on some hip styles over the past few seasons. The Delilah Boot takes the current riding boot trend and makes it comfortable and supportive. Podiatrist-friendly heel height, flexible sole and removable leather foot bed adds to comfort. Available in black or chocolate.

Get on the Mad Men trend with these lady-like pumps with vintage styling from Sofft. The Kensington pump has a healthy heel height, rounded toe for tootsie freedom, and a cushioned foot bed. Available in black, brown, caramel and a gorgeous blue.

Booties and heeled oxfords continue to be the rage this season; Aerosoles has created their version of this trend with an extra cushioned foot bed and flexible rubber sole. Available in green, black, dark red and light brown.


Multi-tasking-Conscious
You need a shoe that can work with jeans, with pants, for the office or the market. Every day is different, and you just don’t have the time or the budget to have a footwear collection that is equally as varied. No problem, there are some wonderful styles out there that will work with all sorts of attire, lifestyles and seasons.

ECCO has created a perennial favorite with their Bouillon Mary Jane. Feminine styling, yet having a rugged and flexible sole that can take miles of walking. The classic look works with jeans, capris, shorts, skirts and more. Always available in black leather, each season they offer more creative of choices such as silver, black patent or red.

I cannot stress the benefits of having a simple city boot in your wardrobe. They are easy to pull on with any pants or jeans, you don’t have to worry about what hosiery to wear, they keep your foot protected from the elements, are easy to polish up or re-heel to look fresh each year, and a simple cut will be stylish for years to come. The Blind Sight boot from Aerosoles fits the bill with sleek styling, a square toe to give toes room to move, foot-friendly heel height and width, and extra cushioned foot bed. In brown or black.

Width-Conscious
As a woman with wide feet, I can relate to this problem. As styles get more pointy, high, and snubbed, feet often get squashed. Here's some great styles and companies that pamper the wider foot.

DUO, a company I adore for custom-width boots also has an extensive line of shoes in wider widths. I adore the Nicole - a wide-fitting low profile pump that comes in black suede or a flirty animal print. Cushioned insole and low heel makes this style chic yet utterly wearable all day. Check out their other styles, there are many to choose from that have wider widths than most brands. Unsure about your size? Contact their customer service to ensure you are getting exactly what you and your tootsies need.

Naturalizer comes in Narrow, Regular, Wide and Double Wide widths for their shoes. Looking at a size 8, I found 12 styles available in WW, one being the Creston Flat. This is a shoe I personally own and adore because it is wide, comfortable, flexible and low-profile. I wear these when assisting my husband on long photo shoots and when day tripping through city streets and museums. Available in red, camelot (camel) and tootsie roll (dark brown).

Ruby & Bloom is a company that offers current styles in Narrow, Regular and Wide widths. The Corrina pump has perforated contrast trim that gives a stylish spectator style, a stacked heel helps with weight distribution, and its height is all-day wearable. In black/dark brown, black/merlot, and black/gray.

Fitzwell is a company known for their extensive sizes (goes up to 12) and roomy wide width. Dozens of their styles are available on Zappos, but I really like the Rayna II wedge. A comfortable height of 2.5", a wedge heel that helps distribute weight better, and a feminine silhouette. Available in black or brown leather, black, wine, or grey suede.



You may also wish to visit:
The Commuter Curse
Comfort and Style CAN Live Together in Harmony

Win a Pair of DUO Boots Every Year for Three Years

Win a pair of DUOs every year for three years!

Win, win and win again with this fantastic competition to celebrate DUO fans getting together in their brand new Facebook community.

For your chance to win a pair of DUOs every year for the next three years, simply send DUO your favorite boot or shoe related story in no more than 100 words to their Facebook Page. (Non-Facebook users may send their story by email to enquiries@duoboots.com with the title "3 boots competition".)

DUO will pick their three favorite stories and the lucky winners will walk away with their chosen pair of free DUOs every year, for the next three years!

Competition closes Midnight Tuesday 28th October 2008.

For more details on this contest, visit this link.

I want to clarify that I am not paid by DUO, I have never received any perks from writing all these posts about them. I just really love and respect this company and wish to share any good deals that I get via email about them. It's pretty awesome when after decades of hating your legs, you can find a company that makes stylish, quality boots that fit and flatter your shape. This blog is about having every woman find style and feel beautiful, a key part of that is finding clothes and accessories that love your body as much as you do. I think DUO makes boots that love you as much as you love them!

Banana Republic - Give Where You Live and Save 30%

Banana Republic - Give Where You Live
Valid October 16 - 26, 2008


Head to your closest Banana Republic with your previously worn sweaters and outerwear, and get 30% off your entire purchase for the day!


All sweaters and costs will be donated to Goodwill Industries, a wonderful organization that provides job training and employment opportunities for people with disabilities and disadvantages through its community-based member organizations around the world.


What a wonderful way to help those less fortunate while building up your winter wardrobe with gorgeous new clothes!

Marshalls Shoe MegaShop Does it Again!

Companies spend so much on advertising and marketing… I love it when they do it well. This time last year I posted about a fabulous truck I saw on the DC streets – Marshalls filled a glass box with tons of covetable shoes. I know it stopped me in my tracks and had me look up the address of my nearest Marshalls location…

Thursday as I was heading home from my job in DC I experienced another brilliant campaign for Marshalls Shoe MegaShop! A giant red stiletto car, and a bunch of cute guys with fab shoes on silver platters! They were all over Connecticut Avenue at every intersection passing out cards where one could win a shoe wardrobe from Marshalls. Brilliant contest cards where you have to visit your closest location to see if you have won.

Click on photos to see them larger...












And so, Allie headed to Marshalls on her way home!

I didn’t win a shoe wardrobe, but I was impressed with the shoe collection in their MegaShop. The perfect shoe for fall – a pointy-toed black patent high-heel pump was available from popular brands like BCBGirls and Impo for far less than department stores. Amazing riding boots from Coach and Cole Hahn, oxford booties from Nine West, round-toe flats from Aerosoles and more were there at reasonable prices (and with plenty of sizes available!). If I was currently plagued with swollen pregnant feet, I would have been grabbing boxes left and right!

It’s awesome to see a company not only get their marketing right, but also their product. I commend Marshalls for a job well done – and an awesome place to find current footwear styles and hot brands for less!

Ask Allie - Bra Tanks for Large Busts

Reader April came to me with a question I have been asked many times:

Just out of curiosity, have you ever found a shelf bra tank top for larger busted women? I like to wear them to bed, so I want something soft with a bit of support. But I can’t find tops with enough “shelf” to cover my larger bust and wide straps like a traditional tank. Is it hopeless?

No April, it’s not completely hopeless, though it is a really tough struggle to find that which is comfortable, attractive and actually does as it claims.

I had a hard time finding classic wide-strapped tanks with built-in bras. When I asked those in the lingerie “know,” I was told it is because wide straps do not support properly. A wider strap does not have the thickness or the proper structure/weight dispersion to offer large-bust shape support. Spaghetti straps, as with bra straps dig in when the bust is not properly supported. If there is no support, all weight is placed on the straps. If the tank, camisole or bra has proper support built in, a thinner strap will not be uncomfortable.

To assist all women who want to comfortably and elegantly (meaning not fall out of one) wear a tank or camisole with shelf bra, here are a few that readers or I have tried, or get great ratings for support, comfort and style:

Bravissimo Strappy Top With Built-In Bra: Bravissimo is an awesome company in the UK, made specifically for women with large busts. Not only do they have a great line of bras, but they carry clothing (including button-down shirts and dresses) made for women who may be large busted yet not plus sized.

This tank is a simple basic that could work around the house with yoga pants, with a little cotton skirt for a beachside barbecue, or even under a suit for work.

Bravissimo’s line is not cheap, but I have never heard anything but the most wonderful reviews for their quality and customer service.


Glamourmom’s Built-in Bra Glamourtank: Glamourmom has been known for a while for a company that sells stylish and well-fitting nursing tanks. Due to popular demand, they have now come out with a non-nursing tank with some of the great features from their classic tank.

The tank has a soft cup bra and an elastic shelf to provide more support and shape than a classic shelf bra, adjustable straps, and even mesh pockets if you desire more enhancement (hello chicken cutlets) or help (hello nursing pads or pads to cover “highbeams.”

Glamourmom is offering 10% off if you purchase two or more tops and they always have a money back guarantee.


Soft Surroundings’ Cotton Underwire Cami: Underwire can often be seen as painful, but reviewers have told me this tank is really comfortable while giving a decent amount of support, shape and coverage.

Adjustable straps mean you won’t be hanging to your belly button or pouring out of the neckline. The built-in underwire bra goes completely around the torso, offering good and even support and a smooth line.

As with regular bras, this garment should not be tossed in the wash and dryer with other casual knits. Best to wash in a lingerie bag on the gentle cycle or hand wash, and let air dry. This will help it keep its shape and elasticity.


All American Comfort ™ Bra Tank from Woman Within: Hailed as a great lounge tank by those with larger busts, this bra comes in fun colors, a broad range of sizes and is a really great price.

Some say quality is equal to it’s $14.99 price tag, but for a casual lounge tank, you usually will find the same quality at your local Big Box retailer.

The top is made for the larger busted woman, so it provides far more coverage than a classic bra tank. Many use it as a cami under lower-cut tops to provide cleavage coverage.


Valmont Lace Trim Bra Camisole from JMS: Pretty, supportive, colorful, great range of sizes. I have friends who own literally a dozen of these tanks and consider purchasing more because they are so comfortable and supportive.

The tank runs snug in the torso, so it’s most popular as a base layer, under a jacket, or for those with a true hourglass frame.

Old Navy's $14.92 Sale

In honor of Columbus Day, Old Navy is offering hundreds of styles for just $14.92 this weekend (October 3-5, 2008).

I love Old Navy for really basic wardrobe staples like knits, weekend jeans and workout gear. Old Navy has also been a lifesaver this pregnancy, offering budget-friendly and fashionable maternity wear.

Ways to get this great deal on clothing AND save even more???

1. Use Ebates before heading to Old Navy. Ebates is a site that gives you a percentage back in cash from your purchases. Ebates is free, you visit their site and through Ebates you visit your favorite online retailers. Ebates tracks how much you spent at the retailer and gives you a cash back "rebate" of up to 25% of the purchase. You will receive a check once a quarter for your "rebate." Last quarter I received a check for over $100 from doing the majority of my online shopping for my business and home through Ebates. Old Navy offers a 3% cash back rebate through Ebates - it's like saving 3% on your purchase!

2. Google for coupons. The Gap family of stores (Old Navy, Banana, Gap, Piperlime) aren't big on doling out the coupons, but if there is one in the stratosphere, you can bet it's being discussed online. I enter a company's name and "CODE" into the search engine and spend a couple minutes searching for a decent and valid promotional code or coupon. One site I end up visiting time and time again is RetailMeNot.com. This site is well organized, you don't have to click to retailer through their site, and users rate how successful different codes have been for them. It's a great site to bookmark for an easy promo code search.

Some of my favorite looks that are part of this Old Navy sale:
Women:
Perfect Fit Tee - I adore these tees. They are a comfy knit that holds its shape pretty well, and they always have a great variety of colors. Best yet - I find the white to usually be opaque enough to hide a tee shirt bra, and the black takes many many washings before it starts to fade. $7.46 each if you purchase two or more.

Organza Puff-Sleeve Dress - I have had years of success with this silhouette from Old Navy. In linen, matte jersey, cotton or poly silk, it's that little shift with a pop of whimy (this one is with the sleeves) that can be tossed on last-minute for a date, drinks with the gals, a holiday party and more. Tis the season for holiday parties, and no better time to prepare than when you can find a cute little number for less than $15. Black or Bordeaux, this dress can be paired with strappy heels or classic pumps, a long sparkly chain or simple stud earrings and be quite the head-turner!

Women's Plus:
Perfect Scoop-Neck Tees - I an such a fan of this cut of tee shirt. It's basic enough to work with blazers or yoga pants, has a feminine silhouette that flatters curves and lengthens the neck, but is conservative enough to be wearable in any situation. If you purchase two or more, they are only $7.46 each. Careful, these are 100% cotton so they should be hung to dry or purchase a size knowing it very well may shrink up to a half a size after laundering.

Color-Block Tank - I love this top in the Monaco Plum - a style that can work year round, with jeans or black trousers. The back is feminine and unexpected and the color combination is refreshing without being gaudy. Only $9.99, an awesome price for a nice happy hour top!

Maternity:
Classic Ribbed Turtleneck - what a great wardrobe staple. Pair with jeans or work trousers for a comfy, warm and classic look. The sweater is only 60% cotton so it should retain its shape and color through the season. Two for $14.92 - go with chic black, and consider the color Baby Spinach - an unexpected hue that looks amazing with denim, ivory, camel, navy and eggplant.

Pleated Empire Waist Dress - A soft jersey with a hint of Lycra and sheen, this dress can be worn with a cardigan to work, with slingbacks to a wedding or even your shower, and for the price can be a great lounge dress for weekends at home. I like the colors Dark Night and Deep Chocolate because they are colors that can work through the seasons well, dress up or down, and I find the contrast color band on the other dresses to be a bit more casual. The Jade is also nice, but might not work with all skintones.

Maternity Nursing Camis - I ordered one of these and was pleased that it could be unhooked with one hand and had a nice shape, length and quality of knit. However it is a relatively traditionally shaped and sized shelf bra inside - best left to those who are smaller busted than I. At the price of two for $14.92, you can't find a better deal anywhere. Wear them now as a basic cami under clothes, and have them at the ready post-baby for easy nursing, comfort and style!

Attention Old Navy & Banana Republic Card Holders...

The Gap is offering those with Old Navy and Banana Republic cards 30% off regularly priced items, and 15% off sale items from October 2-5. This is only on Gap merchandise, not from the other two retailers.

10/2/08 - 10/5/08
Online Code: GAPSTYLE2

Not valid on GAP (PRODUCT) RED, Converse, Junk Food or babyGap Home merchandise. Only valid on one order per person. Discount only on merchandise, not GiftCards or previously purchased merchandise. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

NOTE: I am anti-credit cards except when they end up benefiting me. I have had a Banana Republic card for about a decade and pay it off almost every month. About a year ago, it changed to become a Visa - I still get my amazing coupons and deals with Banana, but can also accrue points towards BR deals when shopping elsewhere. The majority of what my husband and I wear come from Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy; I have control over this card and don't rack up a balance, so it has been valuable to me. Do not see this post as me condoning or encouraging anyone to open a credit card they do not need or already have. :)

I Hate Style Books

I hate style books.

I have dozens at home, and almost every time I purchase one I want to kick myself. Yes, there are a few out there that offer some worthy and unique advice, but the majority are utter crap and cruel.

Cruel?

I said this to a friend today and she thought I was being harsh. Well let’s take a portion from a new book, Nina Garcia’s