Summer Fashion Trends

“I like my money right where I can see it: hanging in my closet. “
– Carrie from Sex and the City

SUMMER 2011

Postcards from Summer. Wish you were Here.  The Weather is Here…Wish you were Beautiful.  Everything’s trendier, tastier, brighter. We’re all set to take-off, go barefoot, don fresh prints, dip into fruit-punchy colors, glitter by day and do balmy nights right.

1.   GLAM-TO-GO

Time to take off. Travel light. Pack a lot of style into one small suitcase (See, I’m learning)!  With go-to looks that couldn’t be trendier, tastier, brighter.  Tweedy suiting, downtown denim, easy shifts, breezy shirtwaists, pretty skirts and the sexiest floral sheath on the planet.

2.   NEARLY BAREFOOT

Drifts of fabric. Delicate prints. Drapey cardis, mini sarongs, white shirtwaists, ruffle-necked shifts, ankle-grazing columns of baby-fine mesh and flowered cotton toile. Everything you love about summer. Light, airy, like running barefoot on the beach.

3.   FRUIT PUNCH

Drink deep from delicious summer coolers. Colors of sunshine over crushed ice. Sweet cantaloupe, ripened pomegranate, splashes of hot pink, hot shots of chrome yellow, the bright icy green of a melon martini. Done singly or in zesty combo.

4.   HOT FLASH

Glitter by day is an absolute must. Sequins on animal print netting, the shine of barely there satin. Gold threading through knits, jacquards, basketweaves; the guilty pleasure of a gold lamé motocross jacket, metallic twins, skinny ankle pants.

5.   FRESH PRINTS

Tie-dyes, washes and watercolors. To live in and love. Pick up the must-have maxi dress in bare-backed cotton toile; skirts gathered, smocked, faux-saronged, nailhead-trimmed; and a tie-dyed cardi to toss on anytime, anywhere, over anything.

Now, I do find the above shorts, Quite short…but I do love the top, and paired with a pair of vintage jeans, or white shorts, would be a fabulous summer look!

Color:

Delicious summer coolers, hot flashes of bright, some guilty pleasures and lots of black and white.

Standouts:

spa blue côte basque aqua

café au lait sweet milk chocolate

pomegranate hot reddish-pink

black everyday, everywhere

white city, witty, sexy, wow

Source:  Etcetera

And, in keeping with my equal opportunity blog, Here is what Nordstrom forecasts as the 2011 Summer Fashion Trends:

1.  Make it Maxi – talking about longer skirts, ladies.   Pair it with a simple white t-shirt, tank top, or white blouse with the sleeves rolled up to your elbows.

2.  Colorful Carryalls – Bring a Pop of color to your look, with a colorful handbag.  I love this Red Patent Leather Handbag.  And the yellow wicker handbag is a must-have!

3.  Embellished Sandals!  Love these – bring bling to your feet.   In my case, hopefully this will detract from my unfortunate-looking feet, while focusing on the jeweled sandals.

4.  70′s tops – the 70′s trend is not going away.  I just choose to keep it away from me, however.  ;)

5.  Bold Bangles – I’ve been talking about these for months.    And my friend “D” gave me a set of these bangles 2 years ago…always leaps and bounds ahead of the trend.

6.   Vintage denim – comfortable, worn out jeans.  Never leave home without ‘em.  No need to post a pic, as we all know what these are.

7.  The On-Edge Wedge - The Wedge shoe really does help distribute your weight, and helps save your feet.  And with Any summer sandal, break them in around the house, on carpeting for a few days before venturing out.  When your feet sweat, this can cause blisters.  Remember my tip about putting Gel deodorant where the straps on your sandals hit your feet.   For trendy sandals, check out Target or TJ Maxx.  The Nordstrom Women and Children’s sale is going on now…I buy most of my shoes, On Sale, from Nordstrom.  No need to break the bank in order to wear stylish, trendy shoes!

8.  Aviators – These sunglasses, reminiscent of Tom Cruise in Top Gun have made a Huge Comeback.  They look good on everyone.  And look especially great on Meredith!  (I apologize now to her, as I’ll hear about it when she wakes up at noon and reads my blog).

9.  Beach to Bar Cover-ups.  Been doing this for years.  Wear a casual, cotton dress to the pool or beach, then head out for apres-sun cocktails.  And my friend Carol suggested,  wearing a Men’s White Dress shirt, works perfect as well!  Pair them with a great pair or wedges or blinged-out sandals!  Leave the pumps at home!!

10.  Sun-Kissed Skin.  My personal favorite powder is Benefit Dallas Pressed Powder.   This Rose-Bronze powder is $24. 

Summer is Almost here, weather (pun intended) or not Mother Nature is aware of it.

Thank you Bulls for a Great Season!  Go Mavs!!

Have a Happy and Safe Memorial Day!

xoxo,

T.

We don’t need to be like her…we have lots of options to dress stylishly and comfortably this summer!

Dress your Age Survey…Seriously?

So, there is a little “survey” of 1000 women making the rounds that indicates:

“THE AGE WOMEN BELIEVE YOU SHOULD STOP WEARING”…

• Bikini, 47
• Miniskirt, 35
• Tube Top, 33
• Stilettos, 51
• Belly button piercing, 35
• Knee high boots, 47
• Trainers, 44
• Leather trousers, 34
• Leggings, 45
• Ugg boots, 45
• Swimsuit, 61
• Tight vest, 44
• See-through chiffon blouse, 40
• Long hair, 53
• Ponytail, 51

Ok, all I can say is Poppycock!  That’s total Bunk!  I don’t buy a word of this…and, I, myself, have broken many of these rules, or shall do so in the next few years.    I live in knee-high boots, Uggs, and Leggings.  Belly Button Pierce?  not saying.  I don’t wear leather trousers, but love my leather skirt.  And, looking into the future, I will choose to still wear my hair in a pony tail when I sleep, wear a bathing suit, so I don’t have to swim “au naturale”, and basically wear what I please…as long as I do not offend the masses.  As we know, most fashion rules, in my opinion,  should be thrown out the window.  My rule, if you love it, and love you in it…go for it.

This survey has caused Quite the outrage.  Names like Jane Fonda, Helen Mirren, Demi Moore, Sharon Stone, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Jennifer Aniston  have all been mentioned.   I think these women look pretty sensational breaking these rules:

In this picture of Nicolette Sheridan…is she dressing too young?  Maybe…but you cannot deny she is rocking this look.  She’s in her mid 40′s and looks like this?  We should all be so lucky.  It’s not like most women over 35 are wearing Hello Kitty Flip Flops, Glitter Hot Pants, or are shopping at Limited Too.  Ugg boots are extremely warm and comfortable, and what else are you supposed to wear to a Bears game in mid December?  High heel boots with skirts are a wardrobe staple for many women I know  in the winter.  Plus,  if you can wear a bikini at 47 and look good in it (this is key), why not?

Remember 50 is the new 30, 40 is the new 25, and women of any age can Rock a look.  This is an area where self policing is best.  We all know when something doesn’t look great on us (or at least we should).  Life is short.  Wear what you want, but hopefully love what you wear and love yourself  in it.

Again, I have to say…I never followed the rules anyway…and here’s to me breaking Most of these rules this summer…sans the tube top.  Yeah, never.  And the “trainers”…not sure what those are anyway… Probably wouldn’t wear a tight vest either.  Well here’s to me wearing what I like…and being happy doing so, and hopefully not offending the public…or at the very least my children!

xoxo,

T.

Wardrobe Must-Haves

Yippee Ki Yay!  We are back to Fashion!

There are some items that you absolutely need ready and waiting in your closet. These make up the basis of your wardrobe; they’re the “must-haves” , no matter what your style — the wardrobe essentials. To be considered a wardrobe essential, an article of clothing has to have several important attributes:

It must be versatile. This is the most important quality of an essential piece of clothing. One key factor in versatility is color. Because wardrobe essentials have to go with lots of other clothing, they tend to be monochromatic and neutral in color. They also must work with different outfits. A jacket that you can pair with a skirt, pants, or a pair of jeans is a good example.

It has to be of good, perhaps even exceptional, quality. A wardrobe essential makes a statement, and anyone looking should be able to tell that it’s top shelf. High quality also means that it wears well, and for a very long time — very important for a garment that you’ll rely on again and again. 

It should be in a classic style. You don’t want your wardrobe essentials to ever really go out of fashion.

It must be a 10 or a Wow!  These garments, like everything in your closet, should have all the qualities of a 10, and because they form the basis of your stylish wardrobe, it’s okay to spend a little more for these than you would for  other, less essential, items.

WARDROBE MUST HAVES OR GOTTA HAVE EM:

Black dress – The Little Black Dress (LBD) -  Should classic and  sophisticated (and dare I say teetering on sexy) . It should be well-made and fit like a glove. It should hide your flaws and accentuate your attributes. It can go from day (wear it to the office with a cardigan or blazer and a set of pearls and leather pumps) to night (take off the blazer or cardigan and add some  evening makeup,  funkier jewelry, and heels).

Black pants – A pair of high-quality, flat front, black trousers are a necessity in every wardrobe. Stay away from pleats because they only accentuate an area that no one really needs accentuating! If you can buy only one pair of trousers, select a length that matches the heel height you most commonly wear. And choose a lightweight wool that will work in summer or winter.  Like a great pair of jeans, if you find a pair you absolutely Love, Love, Love, buy a 2nd pair.

White blouse – Think of a white button-up blouse as your upper body’s version of black pants—it’s versatile enough to wear anywhere, with almost anything. Pair your white shirt over a bathing suit for a weekend getaway or with your favorite pants for work.  You can dress it up.  Dress it down.  It’s perfect.

Blue jeans - Whether faded or tailored, the right pair of jeans will make you feel fabulous every minute.  When you find a pair that you absolutely love, and fits perfectly, if you can swing it, but a 2nd pair. My new favorite brand is Kut from the Kloth.  I get them at Nordstrom.  I have the faded, ripped pair, and a darker denim.  Same fit. Different look. Ralph Lauren and Seven Jeans are 2 other great brands that work for me.

Sassy skirt – Every woman should have a knee-length black skirt that fits perfectly and gives her a slim appearance. The particular style is up to you (and what looks good on your body type): It can be a pencil skirt or an A-line skirt.  So that it can go from season to season, look for one that’s a lightweight wool.  I suggest one not too short, and not too long.  Just above the knee.  Pair it with boots, or high heel pumps.  Wear it with a turtleneck, or white blouse, or sweater set, or t-shirt with denim jacket.  Each gives the outfit a new fresh look.  Take it a step further, and make your black skirt, a black leather skirt…Leather is not just for clubbing anymore (not that I would know about clubbing).  I have a black leather skirt , slightly higher than the knee, which I pair with…you guessed it, white blouse, or a turtleneck, or a black suit jacket.  And, I’m able to wear it for work.  It’s a classic look, even with it being a leather skirt.

Flats - Give your feet a well-deserved break and get a fabulous pair of flats; try a knockout color like red. Heels aren’t the only way to fancy up your feet. From preppy-casual to peep-toe sexy, you’ll love the way the right flat shoes look with jeans, dresses and trousers.  These are a recommendation from my friend Donna, who finds Tory Burch flats, the most god-awfully uncomfortable shoes!  Attilio Giusti Leombruni.  And, pricey, yet worth it.  My #1 fashion advice (aside from a fabulous black shawl)…Life is too short to wear uncomfortable shoes.  Find shoes that feel good, and You will feel good.

Boots – According to the laws of fashion, when something has been around for three seasons or more it has the right to declare itself a “basic”.  Wear them with jeans, leggings, or a skirt or dress.   In fact a decent pair of  boots can catapult even the most boring outfit into a ­fashion wow.

Denim jacket  – I wear mine to dress up an outfit, or dress down an outfit.  One of my favorite looks is to pair a dress with a denim jacket.  I love wearing a wrap dress, denim jacket, and boots.  I also wear a black skirt, white t-shirt, chunky necklace and denim jacket.  Or, my black denim jacket, blue jeans, and white blouse, and high heel sandals.  This is the 3rd time I’ve posted this picture, but I just want to drive home my point…you can wear a black denim jacket with just about anything!  (Note…it is very difficult to pair a Blue denim jacket, with Blue denim jeans.  Do Not try this at home).

Wrap dress - I always feel great in a wrap dress.  you can wear it with a camisole  underneath, or skip the cami, and just flaunt what you have (or don’t in my case, and try to rely on your sense of humor).    I wear mine with boots, or high heel sandals, or my black patent leather peep toe pumps!  They’re easy to travel with, because they weigh next to nothing.  And you can dress them up with pearls, or dress them down with a denim jacket!

Cashmere Sweater  - Invest in a classic style in a statement-making, vibrant color to brighten up your wardrobe. A cashmere sweater is luxurious and versatile—you can wear it to the office, for an evening on the town or just chilling out at home.  Choose a v-neck or a sweater set.  You can pair it with jeans, pants, or a straight skirt, or wear it over your LBD.  You can get one in black, cream, or red…or an argyle print.  You can also look for a vintage one.  I have one that is a cream-colored Lacoste that was my Father’s, and I wear it belted with a skirt and boots.  Oh, and there’s always something on the bottom!

 

 

Trench Coat – A basic belted trench coat is versatile and comes in a variety of fabric and color options. To avoid looking like a secret agent, choose a well-tailored option that hits right at (or below) the knee for a polished look.  I like Red, Black or White.  My friend Donna has the most Fabulous Burberry Trench.  That falls under the category “It costs more but it’s worth it”.  That is on my wish list! ( Note to file…don’t go looking for Donna in her Burberry trench, because she really doesn’t wear it, as she’s afraid to ruin it.  Can’t say I blame her. )

 

Signature Scarf or Shawl  – The right scarf  or shawl can add instant impact to a suit, a dress or a crisp white shirt. Pick one in a bold color or vivid pattern; tie it around your neck or onto your purse handle, or twist it and wear it as a simple, but vibrant, belt.  Or wear classic black, and say hello to your new best friend!

 

Sunglasses – The easiest way to class up any outfit—for work or weekend—is with a super-classy (and UV-protective) pair of fashion sunglasses. A general rule of thumb when shopping for the perfect pair: Rounded frames soften a square jaw line, square frames slim cheeks and rectangular frames add width and dimension to your face.  These are my Burberry sunglasses, which I got on sale at Nordstrom www.nordstrom.com for less than $90.  I wear them every single day, and they came with a fabulous  Burberry hard case to protect them.  I Never leave home without them!

Your perfect Handbag - I suggest 2: one large, and one clutch.  I also use my large tote for a laptop bag.  No need to have to carry a boring brief-case to carry your laptop.  I throw my small clutch in the large tote, and use it as a wallet .  I also carry the small clutch on its own.  I make sure my small clutch is large enough to carry what I need to carry:  2 cell phones; lipstick; small (really small) wallet; pen and 5 business cards (which also doubles as a note card).  And, needs to be able to hold my keys, which I do not have tons of keys on my key chain.  Only car and house key.

These are all basics.  I didn’t note any high heel pumps, since I’ve dedicated 3 previous blogs to shoes, my sense if you know my position on fabulous high heel shoes…the More the Merrier!  You can find any of these wardrobe essentials  at Nordstrom, Ann Taylor, Banana Republic,  or Etcetera .   Of course, you can also  just google any of these items.   I do this when I want something specific to ensure I am getting the best possible price.   I have built my entire wardrobe around these staples.  Black, Red, and White works best are the cornerstone of my color palette.  And building a wardrobe around a color scheme will be a future blog.

xoxo,

T.

Spring Forward…fashion trends for the season

With new seasons come new styles…but what to wear, what to wear?  Etcetera has made it easy, so thought I’d share their take on the new trends.  Because it’s not always easy to understand “fahionese”, even for this gal, I’ve included some photo accompaniments.

“Get ready to fall in love with how you’ll look this spring. We’re mad for the minimal, the nautical, the asymmetrical; sheaths, short-shorts, zippers; grooving on the 70s.”

1.  trend: Minimalism

One of the biggest trends to walk the runways. Clean lines.  Pure perfection. Little black dress, trendy pants, killer Capris and the best boyfriend jacket ever.

2.  trend: White Now

Nothing comes close to the whites of spring. Ultra-hip with ruching, rivets, metallic fabrics, corseted waists, rows of boxy pleats, tiers of crepey ruffles and exposed zips where you least expect them

3.  trend: In Neutral

Colors are strictly au naturale. Sands, creams, brimstone mochas, bitter chocolates. Here is a multitude of pieces that melt through your wardrobe with fresh, crisp, witty, feminine, fashion-forward style.

4.  trend: Asymmetry

Modern as it gets. It’s about bare, sexy shoulders, off-center draping, asymmetrical closures, angled tiers, overlapping folds and a little black dress with a little of everything.

5. trend: Zip It

It’s open season on zippers. Definitely edgy but less hardcore. Exposed at pockets, cuffs, shoulders, asymmetrical closures; on a motorcycle jacket, at the ruffles of a trench, tied into a bow at the scoop of a tee.

6.   trend: The Sheath

Long stemmed beauties. Sexy, iconic, an absolute must. The sleekest silo since the 60s. The overwhelming WOW of it all found in luxe fabrics, flawless style and a fit that’s beyond your wildest dreams.

7.   trend: On Deck

Go nautical. Slip into something see-worthy. Find boatloads of ribby, stretchy, spiffy stripes, mad plaids, dress whites. Seaside classics with a whole new attitude. Bye-bye, preppy. Ahoy there, pizzazz.

8.   trend: Short-shorts

The next big thing done in a killer metallic, a white bermuda, a bevy of mini-pleats; a slim-leg cut to here, wide-legs cut to there. Top with a jacket, cardie, floral blouse, one-shoulder tee and voilá! a fashion superstar is born.

9.   trend: Bold & Beautiful

You’ve gotta stock-up on the boldest pinks, greens, oranges, purples and blues. To wear solo or mixed into the most beautiful tapestries, abstracts, colorblocks, botanic and groovy 70s prints.

10.   trend: Seventies

The decade’s back. Big time. More hip than hippie. Retro silos. Fluid fabrics. Vibrant colors. Batiks, mosaics, ikats, florets, animal abstracts; ruffles, sequins, studs. Pick-up something glam to go-with.

And Color:

Look out for extreme color plays. White a must. Natural the new neutral. Bold the best of the rest.

The standouts:

*brimstone iced mocha.

*bitter chocolate bittersweet.

*sandbox cream of the crop.

*wild rose cracker jack fuchsia.

*apricot a pop of pink-orange.

*red where’s the fire.

*asparagus sunny Chartreuse.

*pacific warm turquoise blue.

*daffodil mellow yellow.

*black ready, jet-set, go.

Source:  Etcetera (of course).

And from Nordstrom (courtesy of my fellow fashionista friend Donna), here are their “trends”, with “Terry’s-take” on each.

1. PALE NEUTRALS - what about my standard Black?  Black is the new frugal (for You Cinda)
2. THE FIT-AND-FLARE DRESS – hides what should be hidden.  A girl’s best friend…a flare dress.
3. THE KITTEN HEEL – please don’t.  Not a fan, but the cheetah number below is kinda cute
4. THE ROMANTIC BLOUSE – Love it.  I have several.  You should too.
5. THE FRAMED SATCHEL – like my Glenda Gies favorite handbags!!
6. FLARED- & WIDE-LEG PANTS – love wide leg pants for my wide legs.
7. MAXI DRESSES & SKIRTS  – the Terry jury is still out on these
8. STATEMENT RINGS – look for a future blog on Lord of the Rings (and Kevin is the Lord)
9. THE MINIMAL JACKET – nothing like a minimal jacket to maximize your look
10. MODERN OXFORDS – this, is Not a shirt, but those shoes, that look like bowling or golf shoes.

xoxo,

T.

Because this blog is more “informational” than normal, I thought I’d try to delight my followers with extra Someecard and Bluntcards. 

Enjoy!

And this one has No Fashion correlation, but I find it really funny…and timely as far as cold and season goes…and I do hate when anyone or anything robs me of attention.

Fashionally Fabulous… at Any Age

Dressing Your Age:  Fashion rules for every decade

  

No doubt these thoughts have gone through your mind when you’ve stood in front of the mirror: Am I dressing like my mother? Do I look like I’m wearing my daughter’s clothes? Am I dressing age appropriately?   With all the boundary breaking in fashion today, it is not always clear who should wear what.

First and foremost, style is about inner confidence. If you are 50 and dare to wear a mini, more power to you. (However, be prepared for heads to turn and eyebrows to raise if you don’t get it right.) If you tend to err on the safe side but still like to be in the fashion game, there are plenty of interesting and chic options out there for you, no matter what your age. Find out what’s best for you and you’ll always look and feel poised in your clothes.

What to consider when dressing for your age:

20s: There are no boundaries for twenty-somethings when it comes to fashion. It’s about personal style and adding whimsical touches you can get away with only when you’re younger, whether that means playing with color, mixing and matching, or wearing high heels and high hemlines.  

30s: More pulled-together, serious looks are what your 30s are about, but you don’t have to be a total square. The trick is to experiment with fashion-forward styles while maintaining a level of polish.

 

40s: Classic silhouettes and colors may start to dominate your wardrobe, but each piece should be full of personality. Think interesting embellishment, feminine volume, and bursts of rich color and pattern.

50s: Refined, tasteful choices are the foundations of age-appropriate dressing. Tailoring and structure are key, as are clean lines and fuss-free pieces in a simple palette.

 

60s: Elegance is the idea, and so timeless, traditional pieces are the mainstays. Tweed suits, trousers, and coatdresses dominate the closet. Contrasting hues — black, white, and red — are the most chic.

70+: Looking dignified and distinguished is of the utmost importance — and that means splurging on a little luxury. Fabrics should be of the highest quality, and tailoring should be precise.

And always with Do’s, come Don’ts.  and let’s allow our pictures to be worth a 1000 words:

Heidi Klum is beautiful, and it appears she is deserving of her nickname “the Bod”, however, this skirt is really way, way too short.  And I’m sure there are many men out there who will beg to disagree with me.    And I wonder what she looks like sitting…or just she just pose on the red carpet all night long?

xoxo

T.

January Shopping Deals

I know, I know everyone is pretty much “shopped out:, but January can be the best time to shop for the best deals…It’s too bad Christmas isn’t end of January, so we can all take advantage of these screaming deals!

The best prices are found in January and if you can wait on shopping for yourself, gifts or travel, you can potentially save more money,” says dealtaker.com

10 Best Post-Holiday Deals:

·Credit Cards: January means lots of balance transfer and interest rate deals, which means great offers. If you’re not interested in switching cards, call your issuer with a few offers in hand to see if it can meet or beat them. Usually, the threat of transferring your balance to another lender is enough of an incentive.

·Appliances and electronics: There will be plenty of low-priced small appliances left. Major appliances and electronics are also often discounted in the New Year to make room for new models. TVs become cheaper throughout January leading up to the Super Bowl.  Go Bears!

·Last-Minute Travel:  After the heavy travel in December comes a lull in January when most families stay home. During these dead weeks in January, prices drop significantly. Places like ski resorts and the Caribbean offer deals for a fraction of the regular price.

·Gift Cards: In addition to the post holiday sales and gift card redemption discounts, a $100 gift card can carry 25% to 50% more buying power. However, should you receive a gift card from a mom’s and pop’s store, don’t wait too long to use the gift card as the fate of smaller stores is still uncertain as is the unprotected balance of your gift card.

·Sparkling Wine: Partiers  aren’t spending as much money on sparkling wine after the hit their wallets took on New Year’s Eve. With this knowledge, wineries cut prices dramatically through early January to compete for business. Buy now and drink later!  Store the bubbly on its’ side to keep it longer and fresher.

·Anything on eBay: Unwanted gifts are unloaded after the holidays and with the increased amount of competitive listings, buyers can find great deals on the most popular holiday gifts.

·Winter White Sales: Retailers clear out the cold-weather bedding, towels and home goods to make room for spring linens. In the market for a down comforter?  Now is the time to buy!

·Clothes: Look for the best deals at major department stores such as Macy’s, J.C Penney, Lord & Taylor and American Eagle. All winter items will be marked down as retailers want it pushed out.

 

·Chocolate and Candy: Everyone knows to buy candy and chocolate the day of Halloween of Valentine’s Day, but after-Christmas is smart as well. Stores like Godiva have huge sales right after Christmas since all the chocolate has already been made in preparation for the holidays.

·Swimwear: Planning a spring break trip? Now is the time to shop for swimwear.  (UGH).  While it may seem odd, the early deals on next season’s items are here. Buyers will begin seeing promotions on bathing suits in January.

Disclaimer…above photo was shamelessly provided to “shore up” my male “fan base”…:)

Go Bears!

xoxo

T.

The Stockings were hung by the chimney with care…

In lieu of my standard Friday post…I am posting this on Wed, in case you can use some handy stocking stuffer ideas.

In my house, Santa brings the presents under the tree.  Kevin and I fill the stockings.  My kids open the gifts from Santa first, and save the Stockings for last.  That’s a great deal of pressure to put on a weary mother.   I thought I would share what some of our favorite stocking stuffers have been, and one’s that I have researched for your blogging pleasure!

1.  Movies and DVDs – It started with Disney Movies sticking out the top…and now it’s Wii Games, Twilight Movies, and Madden 2011.  Season 8 of 24 would be a perfect stocking stuffer for Moi.

2.  Gift Cards – iTunes; Visa; Target; Nordstrom…fits perfectly into a stocking…a miniature stocking stuffed with multiple gift cards will make a great hit!  Utilize a blank CD jacket by tucking in a music store gift card or iTunes gift card.  Purchase a very inexpensive wallet and slip a gift card or two into the billfold section.

3.  Lip Gloss/Lip Balm  – Bonnie Bell Lip Balm…or good ole chapstick!  Chicago winters require this.

4.  ornaments hanging from the stocking – the kids always get an ornament that’s reminiscent of the year.

5.  Fruit in the toe of the stocking – my Mom always put an apple and orange in the toe of the stocking.  My kids prefer the toe to be filled with more “stuff”…and not fruit.

6.  Mini handheld games – my brothers use to spend hours playing this Mattel Football game…which Patrick received in the stocking several years back as well.

7.  Playing cards – Z Gallerie has Great playing cards.  I gave my friend Cathy some Barbie playing cards that were a scream!  You forget how much fun card playing can be, till you lose yourself in an evening of Kings in the Corner!

8.  Little books – Life’s Little Instruction books fit perfectly into the stockings.

9. Candy – my favorite candy in the world is Pink Ladies from Fannie May…Coconut dipped in Pink Chocolate.  Doesn’t get any better than that!  And you can get small boxes of 4 pieces. 

10.  Sporting Tickets – Go Bears!

11.  Socks – a sock in a sock.

12.  Mini tools – the high heel shoe opener  or the high heel hammer (abernook.com) , fit perfectly into stockings.

13.  Cologne – purse or small little bottles of something that smells fabulous…Amazing Grace by Philosophy is my personal favorite…and some of my dearest friends love it too!

13.  Jewelry – anything will do.  Girls are not picky…and these match my Tiffany snowflake necklace!  What luck!

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

xoxo

T.

Whoever said money can’t buy happiness simply didn’t know where to go shopping.
– Bo Derek

Good Manners are Always in Style!

 

OK – I have a bee in my bonnet.  What is wrong with some people?  Why have good manners gone the way of the covered wagon…I think I’m polite…People even comment on it.  Both my children are polite, and I always receive compliments on how polite they are.   But that is the way it’s supposed to be…We are All supposed to be polite.

Remember Barney the Purple Dinosaur?  How could you forget?  Barney sang a song about saying please and thank you, and I truly think some adults need to listen to that song, and act like little sponges.   I don’t think I could stand to listen to it again, as Meredith’s favorite TV show was Barney, but I’m polite, and do not feel I need this refresher.

Pardon me is one of my favorite sayings.  Instead of saying “excuse me”.  I say pardon me.  I like the words so much, that I enjoy saying them.  Plus, it’s really good manners when you bump into someone, cough, sneeze, pass by someone, interrupt, burp or perhaps let go of other bodily functions. 

I always hold a door open for people coming in after me…Always.  and I sometimes hold it waiting for someone to come in, who is quite a bit away from the door.  More often than not, Women…yes, Women, will saunter in, and not even say thank you.  Hey…I’m a woman too…and I am holding open the door, and you do not bother to say thank you?  Most men insist on taking the door, and always say thank you.  Ladies…put forth the correct example,and when someone holds a door for you, say thank you.

This is a gentle reminder for all of us… but try to return emails and phone calls.  I admit, at times, I am so overwhelmed by phone calls, that I cannot always return a phone call in a prompt manner.  But I really try.  Plus, if I cannot call someone back, I do try to email them to let them know when I can speak to them.  Some of my favorite people in the world don’t always return my call or email as promptly as I would like, and I find it shocking.   I always think, who wouldn’t want to speak to me, or engage in a little email banter? It’s not easy, and everyone is busy, but please try and make an effort.  It’s good manners.  It’s good business. 

Other examples of rudeness that rile us me and my sister Megan (who was kind enough to provide these examples)…People who pull all the way to the front of the line in backed up traffic and then cut in front of everyone else who has been waiting… People who don’t give you “the wave” when you’ve let them in front of you in traffic; people who spill their coffee, creamer, sugar, etc on the communal kitchen counter at work places and don’t clean up after themselves;  We could go on and on and on.

Remember your manners, and you’ll be remembered, fondly.  Watch your words, as they can come back to haunt you.  Be nice to others, and they will be nice to you.  Gosh…I do believe my mother told me all these oh so long ago!  and as usual, she was right.   Mothers usually are.  Just ask Mer Mer and Paddy.

xoxo

T.

The most unstylish Snuggie of All!

I can tolerate lots of behavior at Bears Games…

1.  The Patriots spanking the Bears…and may I just say, “Ouch”.

2.  Sub zero temperatures, which leave your lungs and fingers Frozen.

3.  Blizzardly snow, which smacks against your cheeks, and leaves these irish cheeks (the ones on my face) red for a week

4.  People calling their  QB by his first name, “Tommy”…and while Tom Brady is a Fantastic quarterback, and kinda cute, he really needs to cut his hair.  I’ve mentioned it before, but not digging his long locks.  Who does he think he is, Patrick O’Brien?

5.  Appearing on camera wearing the coat which makes me look like I can take down Brian Urlacher.  Note to self…Stop wearing that coat!

6.  The cancellation of the “half time” show, due to blustery conditions…and I still think we need a Marching Band.

7.  But , under No Circumstances, should I allow my guests to wear a  SNUGGIE of the opposing team…no matter how cute they look!

And a Great time was had by all…Love ya Cathy and Phil!

xoxo

T.

Hmmh…do we think the Snuggie was part of Oprah’s Favorite Things?  I think not!

Air Travel is no longer Stylish!

It’s 2010 and I am here to proclaim, Traveling is no longer glamorous!

Coming home from a recent trip to FL, I have made the following observations:

1. They will allow anyone on a plane.  Anyone. 
2. Your seat number is NOT your gate number.  A female traveler was confused, as our gate was originally C-11, and was changed to C-9…thus she thought her seat also changed… yeah, not really…as the flight attendant had to indicate to her that Gate C-11 on her ticket, was the gate number, while Seat 25-A, was indeed her seat.  She looked confused.
3. Just about Every person from seat 12 and beyond, tried putting their carry on luggage above seats 1-8.   And they don’t take kindly when those around us make snide remarks.  You really need to put your bags near where you sit.
4. Why are dogs and cats allowed on plane, while peanuts are not?  If my son was on a plane next to a dog or cat, he would have the same horrible allergic reaction, as if sitting next to someone enjoying a snicker bar.  I love dogs, but I know Kevin and Patrick have very strong allergies to them, and not sure what I would do if one was in our row.
5. The most useful thing you can bring onto a plane is your shawl.  Our flight was Freezing, but I had my shawl to keep me warm.  I know many airlines sell blankets now for $5, but you would turn into a frozen ice cube while waiting for 38,000 feet while the flight attendants moved throughout the cabin selling their wares. 
6. If you have a cold, with a nasty cough… please bring cough drops.  The sound of a hacking cough, while flying the friendly skies, really takes the fun out of air travel. 
7. If you get on an airplane, wearing a surgical mask… take it from me…every other passenger on that plane thinks you are afraid of each of our germs, and it’s not because you are cautious about sharing your germs with the remainder of the passengers.  The woman above really was terrified of just about everything…surgical mask, eye mask, and a pillow for good measure. 
8. If you are friendly to the flight attendants, there is a good chance they will give you happy hour prices for the several small bottles of vodka you consume .  I have tested this theory numerous times.

9.  4/10 passengers do Sudoku Puzzles…and if you are sitting next to someone who likes sudoku’s, there’s a good chance they will attempt to help you solve your puzzle. 

10.  If you have to go to the lavatory and the flight attendants are in the aisle, it’s not considered good form to ask them to move their cart to the back of the plane, 65 rows back.  Just sayin’.  And, why can’t the passengers in coach use the first class restroom, when the cart is in the aisle?  I’ve been in both first and coach restrooms…and the first bathrooms do not have an attendant handing out mints, hand cream, or hairspray.

11.   While we are dissing first class , it is horribly cruel to serve first class passengers fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies, while coach passengers are sitting in smelling distance.  And we thought waterboarding was harsh!

12 The boarding process should be an efficient, aggressive approach.  Lollygagging about exhibits poor behavior.  And if you are all of 80 pounds, don’t carry on a 50 LB bag, and expect others to help you hoist it above into the overhead.

13.  When you are de-planing, stepping over passengers in front of you declaring, “I have to catch a connecting flight”, does not give you Priority Access to getting off the plane…and furthermore, it’s really not a good idea to be seen at Wolfgang Puck’s, perusing the pizza collection while the passengers whom you knocked over, are walking by staring at you in utter disbelief!

14.  My favorite thing on an airplane is wi-fi!  It’s like I’m sitting on my couch at home checking my emails, my blog stats, Facebook, and shopping at Nordstrom or Abernook.com.

And this all recalls a time, this year when flying to Kansas City on American Airlines and the overhead compartment would not close properly, and you cannot take off  with an unstable overhead compartment…so they called the airline mechanic, and he fixed it.  I took a picture to remember that wonderful moment.  His first effort didn’t work,  and he just needed to apply more Duct tape…it really does fix everything.

Safe Travels,

xoxo

T.