teeshirt and pearls

New Site for Tee Shirt and Pearls

2010-10-12T13:44:00.000-04:00

Hey followers! I just want to let you know that this blog will be disabled because it moved to www.teeshirtandpearls.com , if you are a bloglovin' follower you will need to go to the new site and sign up to follow the new blog, same goes for Google Friend Connect, I would really appreciate if you could take the time to do that! Thanks so much and I will talk to you soon at the new site!

-Ashley

Interview with Kristie Bergey- Executive Director for Philadelphia Fashion Week

2010-09-29T17:23:00.000-04:00

With Philadelphia Fashion Week right around the corner, I thought I might get a little more acquainted with the idea behind this epic artistic movement, and interview Kristie Bergey, the Executive Director of Philadelphia Fashion Week. Kristie was lovely enough to oblige and we had a wonderful conversation about the thoughts and people behind Philadelphia Fashion Week.

My first thought about this event was - Where did this idea even begin?

Kristie Bergey, Charles Smith and Michael Anderer have been in the business of fashion for many years and artists as well. At the age of 15, Kristie started out at Anderson Little in the Montgomery Mall when she decided that retail was everything that she loved about work and decided that it would be her calling. She absolutely loved the sales aspect of the job, and creating relationships with customers and helping them to look and feel great. After working at Anderson Little, she helped open Bath and Body Works first home store. She then became a retail consultant, and is now an event planner for her own company, The KB Experience. Charles Smith is a photographer for his own company, Lucca Photography, and is the co-founder of CMK Entertainment. Michael Anderer is the buyer and manager of Matthew Izzo, and has been for the last 6 years. All of this talent crossed paths to create this fashion event and we are so glad that they did!

When the idea finally pulled together, they decided that fall 2009 would be the first annual Philadelphia Fashion Week. Even though the economy had hit rock bottom that year, Kristie said "it worked out well because it was a good time to barter." 2009's show fashioned off designer brands that local stores carried; the tag line was - 'Who we are, and what we wear'. This year they have decided to bring in designers from all over the world and show local boutiques great brands that they can carry in the future. This event is about three successful business people, and artists, giving back to Philadelphia's artistic community.

Kristie feels that the most anticipated show will be Autumnlin, a haute couturier inspired by dreams and the flow of emotion. Autumnlins’ gowns are reminiscent of the past, but with an interesting edge. The work of Autumnlin is very detailed and absolutely beautiful. Kristie is also very excited for student night, which takes place on Thursday October 7th. Not only will college students show off their work on the runway but high schoolers will as well. Kristie is very supportive of our youth, and does work with groups such as the local Girl Scouts. The little ladies decided to have a ‘Project Runway Weekend’, and Kristie was there with Kristin Haskins Simms to kick it off!

Philadelphia has a tremendous future in fashion with these amazing people at the helm. I am excited to be apart of this fashion forward movement and hope to one day have a stronger influence on it as well. Thanks to Kristie Bergey for taking the time to speak with me, and for being apart of creating this exciting event!

TeeShirt and Pearls Perks.....

2010-09-27T13:16:00.001-04:00

Hey Guys! For all my readers who haven't gotten their tickets for Philadelphia Fashion Week yet, I got you guys a promotional code. When you Click Here for tickets, choose which tickets you want and proceed to checkout, when you get to the promo code box type in TSHRTNPEARLS and receive 20 % off of your general admission tickets. This is a great offer so make sure you get your tickets soon!

Calling all Fashionistas

2010-09-26T18:07:00.000-04:00

For all you fashion lovers out there, our week in Philadelphia is right around the corner! Philadelphia Fashion Week is just a week and a half away! Beginning on Wednesday October 6th, Boutiques in the surrounding areas will be showing off their style and will be paired with awesome musical acts like Sarah Borrello and Self Help Revolver. Thursday night's festivites will be a "School Night," showcasing student work for the surrounding design schools in Philadelphia. Friday and Saturday night will be pretty amazing, as designers from all around the world will be flying in to showcase their fashion for Philadelphia. I'm excited to see these designers because their presence in the area will really help our city to become a Fashion force to pay attention to! I'm also looking forward to Project Runway designer Kristin Haskin Simms' designs for StrangeFruit! Tickets are still on sale, click here to get your tickets now - you don't want to miss it!

NEUW is one of the design labels that will be at the show. They're a jean company developed by three friends Richard Bell, Stephen Little from Austrailia, and Par Lundqvist from Sweden. They developed their product in Nieuwlandstraat in Brussels, where Lundqvist spent a lot of time. Par had a great vintage denim collection from the last 100 years, containing iconic pieces from fashions history. The denim line's concept is using these pieces and altering them using different sewing techniques to develop a new look.

Pamela Ptak is another designer showing her collection at Philadelphia Fashion Week this fall. She is a local designer that has worked all over the world. Her design asthetics play with colorblocking and incredibly archetictual looks. It's a great collection that you should put on your list to check out at Philly's Fashion Week.

I am also looking forward to seeing the Laotian-American designer, Nary Manivong. The New York based designer was voted the "Rising Star for women's ready-to-wear designer" by Fashion Group International in 2009 and 2010. This guy is on the fashion world's radar, and is definitly something to see!

This Fashion Show will be EPIC for Philadelphia. If you are interested in supporting the arts, or just to support Philadelphia in it's efforts to become the next fashion city, you should buy your ticket A.S.A.P.

Menswear for Women

2010-09-23T11:40:00.000-04:00

Menswear for women is my favorite look for fall. This blog is about how to stay fashion savvy while being casual, and menswear for women is the perfect solution for this problem. Not only is it the perfect solution for casual-wear, it's also incredibly comfortable and non-restrictive. My favorite piece is the oversized pant, extremly reminicent of the 1930's and 40's Zoot Suit bottoms with the top of the pant oversized, and the pant legs tapered. It's a really great look!

The Mens Oxford shoe has made a glorious comeback, but this time in women's fashion. It's a great shoe to pair with the menswear pant. The best styling advice I can give you for this look is to tuck and roll the legs a little bit, belt the pant and match it with a sweater of some sort. There should always be feminine touches added to the "menswear for women" look, maybe a headband with a bow or a feminine top.

I have decided that my next task will be a "menswear for women" pant, I have never made a pant before, so this should be fun.

Ashley vs. Ashley- Fun and Flirty, Full-Skirt Cocktail Dress

2010-09-17T00:24:00.000-04:00

Hey Guys! Here is my first Creation. It was inspired by my summers in Cape May, New Jersey. This particular dresses inspiration comes from a beach front Victorian in Cape May. It's my take on the full skirt that has been seen on the runways for fall. It's fun and flirty, beach inspired for this spring!

The First part, the full skirt.

Designing the collar

Working the Back

It's coming together!

The Final Project

The Final Back!

Tell me what you guys think! Be brutally honest, this is my first garment that I created using my own pattern. Also, stay tuned for pictures of it styled on Ms. Kuhns!

All my Single Ladies...Put your Marc Bags UP...(and you know the ones in relationships too)

2010-09-09T16:16:00.000-04:00

My friend Amy and I have been obsessed with Marc Jacobs hand bags for quite some time. When we were both single, our Marc bags were our "arm candy", or maybe even a "special companion". It brought us confidence when we walked into a room alone, it kept us company on our trips to the grocery store, and on those lonely shopping trips when you would have to eat lunch alone, he took the seat right next to you. Now this was obviously a silly little inside joke, but it kept us laughing even through tough times. Amy would love to photograph her bag riding in the shopping cart, or sitting across the table and then send it to me, and we would laugh and giggle. We would joke around with my now boyfriend Matt, who bought me the over-sized Hobo Hillier Bag from Barney's last Christmas, that the bag would be taking the front seat in the car from now on because it was my new love. These fun and silly antics are why I love Marc Jacobs so much, and if you can design a bag that can take on a persona, you may as well be a fashion god in my opinion.

This blog post is a tribute to my all time favorite fashion designer - Marc Jacobs. Today is the kick off for New York's Fashion Week, and the most anticipated show will be his. Taking a look back to early winter 2010 at New York's Fashion Week for the upcoming fall, Marc's show was breathtaking. His idea of menswear for women was my absolute favorite among all of the other designers. Also his metallic dresses at the end were amazing! The show itself was awesome; it took us back to a more simpler time, when women were a bit more conservative and a lot less flashy, when glamor and beauty really emerged... not to mention the nostalgia attached to the tune "Somewhere over the Rainbow" that he had playing in the background! It was one of my favorite fashion shows ever. This leads me to be even more eager to see what he's gonna pull out for Spring!

***This Sunday will be the due date for my first challenge! Tune in to check out what I came up with!***

Ashley vs. Ashley

2010-08-30T21:01:00.000-04:00

I am the Queen of NEVER FINISHING ANYTHING. I have been constructing clothing since I was about 16 and designing even before that. I gave up on my dream of becomming a fashion designer mid-college and decided that I just wanted to make money. Any time you sell out for money, you will always be chasing it and you will never find true happiness. I know that sounds cheesy and it's a huge cliche, but it really is true. This blog has taken me back to the creative part of my life and I am ready to pursue being a designer again - even if it's just for me!

A couple months ago my boyfriend and I flopped on our couch and watched the movie Julie and Julia. The movie wasn't the most amazing thing I ever seen, but it was cute. The movie is about a girl approaching 30 and still no where near where she wants to be in her life. Her boyfriend encourages to write a blog about something she's passionate about - cooking. She finds a world famous cook book by Julia Childs and challenges herself to cook every recipe in the book in 1 year, and then blog about it.

That movie encouraged me.. to make 4 garments, casual in style and current to Fall in 1 month, 1 garment a week for 4 weeks. The first will be a playful party dress, with the current style of the full, flirty skirt. Let the challenge begin! Feel free to give your encouragement and input by commenting on the blogsite!!!!

Destination France - An evening with Kristin Haskins Simms

2010-08-25T13:50:00.001-04:00

Kristin Haskins Simms and I

Last night Philadelphia Fashion Week hosted another wonderful Happy Hour at Le Bec Fin in honor of Philadelphia's own Project Runway designer, Kristin Haskins Simms. Obviously Le Bec Fin was to die for, my boyfriend and I only had drinks, but we took a look at the bar menu and it was intense! It was a very small and intimate crowd which was wonderful, we all got a little time with the woman of the hour and it was an amazing experience!

Ms. Haskins Simms was originally a graphic designer until she stumbled upon apparel designing. She never realized she had a talent for it until she began experimenting with men's t-shirts and created her first t-shirt jacket. She has since then created a label she calls Strangefruit and it is an awesome collection. It's filled with bold and domineering styles. The clothing itself screams strong, fashion-forward woman, and I love it! Ms. Haskins Simms was just recently eliminated from Project Runway in Episode 4, which totally blew me away - she said it was a great experience and we shall see her again on the reunion show! I'm sure we will be seeing tons more from this designer through Strangefruit, so check it out! http://www.bestrangefruit.com/

Matty and I

New Tee Shirt and Pearls Friend!

This Season's Fashion For your Body type

2010-08-24T14:56:00.002-04:00

Body Types can be difficult. Trendy fashions really accentuate tall girls that are skin and bones. Oversized shirts on girls with a big chest really don't work, they just make you look heavy. However, with a little bit of creativity and understanding which part of your body to focus on, you can pull almost anything off!

You can always find those random style guides in magazines that tell you here and there how to work your body type, but my secret is to find a trendy celebrity with your same body type and style-watch her! For example, I style-watch Blake Lively; she is about the same height as me, and we both have a tush, thighs, and some really long legs. Our torsos are on the shorter side and we definitely aren't...overly endowed in the chest area. Magazines are constantly catching that girl in James Jeans and they look perfect on her. So, instead of spending hours in a dressing room at Barney's, trying on every jean in the store to see what works best, I already know because either Blake or her stylist did the work for me - It's genius.

Let's say your 5'1 and EVERYTHING is tiny. Style-watch the Olsen twins - probably more Ashley then Mary-Kate (I can appreciate her rocking the homeless look because we all know she's a billionaire). When you are that small you want to wear more mature things so people don't think your a little girl. Stay away from stores like Holister and Abercrombie and find your way to Urban Outfitters or Bloomingdales. Oversized t-shirts, boyfriend blazers, mini-skirts, skinny jeans - pretty much everything that is trendy you can rock. The exact same goes for 5'10 and tiny... the world really is your oyster.

The hourglass girl: God blessed you with the most feminine figure, I don't know if fashion is jealous of you and they are just being vindictive but you have to watch what you wear when it comes to trendy clothing. All of these oversized trends really don't work for you because they are not acccentuating your waist and that's the key to pulling off your look. This fall, designers are paying attention to the female form again and designing clothes that are reminiscent of the 1950's women. The skirts are long and full, accentuating the waist. This is an incredibly flirty look and also very classy. These types of skirts can be played casually by weaingr a tight little v-neck tee. When it comes to pants and jeans, absolutely stick with skinnys! This really brings out the hour glass. If you are on the shorter side stick with a heel when wearing them. The key to your body style is to stay away from oversized and style-watch Scarlett Johansson - she is 5'4 and the queen of beautiful hourglass shapes, she'll show you the way!

For all you curvy chicas out there, follow Miss Jennifer Hudson. She's awesome, and rocks her figure better than anyone in Hollywood! You might be scared to pull out the skinny jean, but don't be! It looks great on her, coupled with a cute pair of heels, and a flowy blouse that lets your 'girls' shine, you will be knockout gorgeous!

Fall Preview for the Casual Girl

2010-08-19T15:03:00.000-04:00

Fall is my most favorite season for style. It's filled with beautiful colors, lots of layers, and cozy fabrics. This fall we have a lot of continuing styles such as the skinny jean, and the boyfriend look. However, fall has twisted everything up and now what was short is long, what was tight is full, and what was nude and natural is filled with color!

In the past, all colors associated with fall fashion were tones of red, orange and brown, inspired solely by the beautiful colors that fall leaves turn into at the changing of the season. This year, Fall's fabulous color palette are "Jewel Tones". Garnette, Emerald, Ruby, Amethyst, and Sapphire. It's a beautiful and rich color palette - incredibly regal, and I am so excited to start wearing it!

The most important fall pieces are your jackets, coats, blazers, and sweaters. We all know that as the weather begins to change, our wardrobe becomes increasingly larger, and much, much warmer. This fall season we are still seeing leather biker jackets and bomber jackets. Boyfriend Blazers are also a thumbs up for the season as the "boyfriend" trend is still in full swing. Coats are looking very tailored and with very little going on with detail. Sweaters are over sized and heavy. They are very full, chunky knits, not like the cashmere cardigans that we have been seeing in the past. This season, Fall is preparing you for a very warm winter and it's not because the temperature will be higher!

Skirts and dresses have made a complete 180. Last Fall and Spring they were short, tight and high-waisted, this fall a 1950's inspired women will be all the rage. High-waisted full skirts to the knee bring back a more conservative look from the past. It's an incredibly classy and glamorous look - very feminine and flirty.

The fifties are also the inspiration for all the sportswear designed for women this Fall. A baggy, tapered dress pant with rolled cuffs and a sexy heel or boot is one of my favorite looks for the Fall; embracing the idea of the boyfriend style and applying it to work-wear.

The Past is rearing is GORGEOUS head this Fall and I can't wait to go shopping!

Shopping In Philly

2010-08-09T15:10:00.000-04:00

Barney's Co-Op
Rittenhouse Square

Barneys is the magical land of fashion-the mothership, everything that is right with the world. It's not quite Barneys New York, but that just leaves more things I can purchase and less time admiring the unaffordable. When you walk in you can just smell the Marc Jacobs leather, you can feel the fine fabrics of Diane Von Furstenberg, and wrap yourself up in the cozy cottons of Splendid and Ella Moss, mmmm I just love it.

Zara

Walnut Street

Zara is an internationally recognized chain developed in the Southern Regions of Spain. Its European influences make their product stand out in the crowded world of fashion. My first trip to Zara was during my visit to Granada, Spain-even though their was one right here in Philly! I immediately fell in love with the store and I'm still loving Philly's little touch of Spain today!

Urban Outfitters

Walnut Street

Urban Outfitters is Philadelphia's claim to fame. The company was born and raised here and has now expanded all over the United States, Canada and Europe. The hipster-esque designs really represent a large part of Philadelphia Style. Not only does Urban carry clothing, but furniture, fun and quirky gifts / books. Urban Outfitters has become not just a store, but a lifestyle.

Boyd's Department Store

Chestnut Street - Rittenhouse

Boyd's began in 1938 by three brothers and was a men's department store. It wasn't until 1993 that they decided to add a women's department. Now they carry such brands as Just Cavalli, M Missoni, Diane Von Furstenburg, Dolce and Gabbana, Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti, and Catherine Malandrino. It's a great department store and it is ONLY located in Philadelphia.

Just a few amazing stores to check out!

Casual Fashion Icons

2010-07-26T18:20:00.009-04:00

Audrey Hepburn - Casual Fashion Icon

Audrey Hepburn was an amazing fashion icon. She pulled off stylish-casual greater than anyone in Hollywood. We look to her today to set trends and it was clear a few years back that she was the inspiration behind the skinny pant. She always wore pearls and was more fabulous and feminine than any Hollywood starlet.

In 2006, Gap's Advertising campaign for Skinny Pants was Audrey Hepburn's movie "Funny Face" made in 1957. If you plucked Audrey Hepburn out of this movie and put her in the streets of Manhattan, she would fit right in!

Casual and yet extremely Classic-Clearly!

Teeshirt and Pearls loves Audrey!

This is how I do....Part two

2010-07-23T12:07:00.007-04:00

Lesson 2: Don't skimp on the statement pieces.

If your going to wear an outfit only once, don't spend tons of money on it. It's just silly unless you have unlimited funds. For girls who are on a budget, only spend your money on things you can continuously rock. Such as your handbags, shoes, jeans, and accessories.

You should always spend a little dough on a handbag. You take it with you everywhere, not only is it style but it serves a purpose as well. It's the most important part of your wardrobe, and important things should not be shorted.

Your shoes and boots are also something you shouldn't be cheap about. They are a symbol of your style and protect your feet. As a busy working girl you need to be comfortable and stylish, and that doesn't come cheap.

Every girl needs three pairs of jeans to survive. Those jeans need to be trendy and sturdy because they're the most used item of clothing in your closet. Do your research on these so-called "high-end" brands of jeans, because every Seven for all mankind jean that I have ever owned tore within the first week. I don't spend lots of money on jeans for them to tear. I recommend James Jeans because they have great shaping, style and are very well made.

Accessories, Accessories, Accessories, I talk about them way to much, I know-but it's important! A good watch is always needed, and its cool to drop a few bucks on one. Fine jewelery is nice if you like it, but not always necessary. Fun, and funky jewelery designers such as Love Heals, Iosselliani, and Erickson Beamon, design amazing statement pieces. They aren't exactly cheap, but just one great piece of jewelery is all you need.

Save your pennies ladies and really appreciate the important part of your closet.

More lessons coming right up...

SJP in Erickson Beamon

Iosselliani Rings are my Favorite

This is how I do.....

2010-07-21T12:26:00.006-04:00

I am a regular girl. I do regular girl things such as, clean, work, and socialize. I don't have tons of money and I can't go shopping like the Olsen Twins. I have bills that need to get paid and my life isn't a fantasy, fashion dreamworld. I live in the real world, and I am a regular girl. So you may ask, how does a regular girl stay looking like an extraordinary one? I am here to share my secrets, on how to keep it real -for a deal!

Lesson One : Just because it's inexpensive doesn't mean it has to be cheap---and give you hives.

For all the people that keep places like "The Deb" and "Mandee's" still in business, shame on you. I think they stopped following fashion trends in 1998, and the clothing quality is disgusting. There is just no reason for anyone to go into those places when we have fabulous inexpensive stores like H&M, Forever 21, and even Target. All of these stores are filled with fabulous trends at amazing prices. Just the other week I bought 3 hot, cotton, mini-skirts for $18.00-altogether. I bought two amazingly, wild mini-dresses at 12 bucks a pop! How can you beat that?! Let's keep up with our money and stay cool, acknowledge the difference between inexpensive and cheap.

More lessons to follow.....

Roberto Cavalli for H&M, Really? and you're shopping at The Fashion Bug?!

Oh and Alexander McQueen for Target!!!

Philadelphia Fashion Week Happy Hour at the Londonbury

2010-07-19T12:56:00.008-04:00

Thursday evening turned out to be quite the event. Philadelphia Fashion Week hosted a happy hour at the Londonbury in Conshohocken and it was a blast. The Philadelphia Designer brand and boutique, SA VA was presenting fabulous fashions while tons of fashionistas admired the work. It was quite the party with great music, amazing finger-food, and the 'skinny-tinis' were delicious. The ambiance of the Londonbury's banquet room and beautiful pool made it an amazing summer evening we will never forget.

SA VA is located at 1700 Sansom Street in Philadelphia, PA.

Designer Sarah Van Aken began the company in 2005 and has based her business on social responsibility. All products are produced in the U.S.A and are 90% eco-friendly. The brand is centered around community - only hiring locally, and participating in non-profit organizations such as The Career Wardrobe and The People's Emergency Center. As for the fashion itself, it's incredibly edgy and feminine - draping styles, and the female form play a huge role in this collection. Global inspirations combined with Philly's urban style is the beauty of SA VA. Check them out at http://www.savafashion.com/.

We'd like to thank the people of Philadelphia Fashion Week and SA VA for hosting such a wonderful event, and we hope to see more of them in the future!

New Tee Shirt and Pearls Friends

My Friends and Me!

The Casual Evening Option

2010-07-12T14:57:00.003-04:00

Dressy Shorts

Summer is just the time to be overly busy in your social life. It seems that every weekend there is a party of some sort and it’s important to have plenty of evening options in your wardrobe. Just because we are getting all dolled up doesn’t mean we can’t stay a little casual, clearly not recommended for a black tie event, but for just another summer Saturday night out, it will do just fine.

Dressy Shorts are the casual evening option. The shorts can have sequins, ruffles, metallics, and very unique designs. Paired with a fun top, belt and a cool cardigan, you have yourself a look that could take on the night. The more unique your options are, the dressier the look becomes. Wearing just a plain dress short with a plain blouse is boring, but add sequins to the short, a ruffle to the shirt and an animal print cardigan and you’ll look like a rock star. Boyfriend blazers could even take the place of the cardigan to really feel like your rockin’. Let’s not forget about the accessories, every tee shirt and pearls girl knows never to skimp on the accessories. For this particular casual look I would go with a chunky necklace matched with plenty of bangles, and an oversized ring. The heels should be high and you could even throw on some sheer tights to dress it up even more. This is a great casual look that will be cute and cozy.

Casual Girl seeks Casual Bag

2010-07-01T15:37:00.013-04:00

Your handbag is a symbol of your personality. If you care about status symbols, owning an Hermès bag would be the pinnacle. If you want your bag to say something about your creativity, you might choose Marc Jacobs. If you want your bag to say something about your beliefs as an individual you may choose a vegan or organic bag. If you just don't care about your bag, you will most likely purchase a cheap bag that's trendy or an expensive bag that is far from aesthetically pleasing, but sturdy and serves a purpose. No matter which one of these categories you might align with, your handbag says a little something about you.

I have been selling handbags to women for years, and it's definitely the biggest wardrobe decision. Women will ponder for weeks about a handbag because it's the most utilized piece in your closet. It's important to know what you like, and what you need, because each of these play a major part in this particular decision. Here are a few favorites for our fashion savvy casual girl.

Marc by Marc Jacobs
Perfect for running around

Convenient and Cute! Jerome Dreyfuss - Over the shoulder and very exotic!

Derek Lam bucket bag and Alexander Wang's Donna Hobo - who doesn't love a slouchy hobo?

Philly Phashion

2010-06-15T18:29:00.005-04:00

Oh Philadelphia, how I love you. I know... we're obnoxious, loud, and hardly NYC but I can't help but at least hope the situation improves. Philadelphia has so much potential to be great - we're good people and fantastic artists. The ever so close NYC sucks our city dry of successful talent and leaves us looking like Amateur Night while they're headlining. We have some amazing design schools here in Philadelphia. Philadelphia University, The Art Institute of Philadelphia, University of the Arts, Moore College of Art and Design, Drexel, and Tyler School of Art of Temple University. You can't tell me that the thousands of artists that attend these schools every year fail miserably at making their mark in the world. No, they don't - they either go to NYC or fall by the wayside because they have no interest in being just another waiter or waitress in NYC. I tried to research fashion success stories from Philadelphia and all I could find was Tory Burch and Urban Outfitters. These are two very successful, and very powerful companies, but I was shocked to find only two that are at this level of success. This really needs to change. Philadelphia will most likely never be NYC, but it at least needs to try and stand up in the crowded community of the arts.

Northern Liberties is flooded with hipsters and the surrounding neighborhoods of Philly are Urban Wear. Center city and Rittenhouse Square are a bit more fashion forward and are a little more eclectic with their styles. There's also some great shopping in downtown Philadelphia. Walnut Street is great to find all the stores that you know and love like Urban Outfitters, Anthropology, and Boyd's while the side streets of Rittenhouse and Old City have great boutiques with awesome fashion such as South Moon Under, Grasshopper, and Joan Shepp.

Last fall for the first time ever Philadelphia had a fashion week. It's a big step in the right direction for fashion lovers. The 2nd annual show is this October and I highly encourage people to attend. It has entertainment each day, open bar,

great food and of course Philadelphia Fashion, everyone should definitely check it out!

Photo shoot for Philadelphia based stylist Maria Aponte ----->

Sweet Tee Shirt Companies

2010-06-06T21:43:00.012-04:00

Tee Shirts are basically the starting point to a really great casual combination. Their are some amazing Tee Shirt companies out there that really know how to spice it up. It takes a whole lot of creativity to take a plain tee shirt and make it something spectacular, here are a few designers who have mastered it.

Morphine Generation

Created in 2003 by Erik Hart in Hollywood California, Morphine Generation has taken silk screen printing to an amazing creative place. Their edgy tee's are full of art, yet still keep a casual nature to them. They scream rock n' roll, yet have a sense of Romanticism to them. I love the combination of styles and you can't help but feel bad ass in them.

Torn by Ronny Kobo

Absolutely loving Torn, their jungle inspired animalistic prints are so exotic and fun. Their tee shirt designs are very fashion forward, yet easy to wear. Torn is everything that encompasses a teeshirt and pearls girl, casual yet very chic.

Marc by Marc Jacobs is hardly considered a T-shirt designer, but his t-

shirts are still a work of art. His Miss Marc Collection is so fun, flirty, and unique. Marc Jacobs should probably just be recognized for everything because he is amazing.

2010-06-01T20:05:00.007-04:00

Well Memorial Day Weekend was the kick off to summer, and I celebrated in Ocean City Maryland with some super cool people. Apparently OCMD thinks it's the new South Beach by the way that Secrets was decorated with gym rats. I've never seen so much roided out man meat, it was kind of gross. However, word to the wise, if you plan on going out to Secrets day or evening, you'd better go dressed because it's no longer a place to rock out your cutsie little bikini and cover up during the day or your "Vicky's" sun dress at night, it's crawling with beautiful people with some killer combinations. Here are some great tips to do casual at the beach and still get dressed.

THE ROMPER :

This look is super easy and super sexy. The one piece outfit can stand alone, no thinking

involved. Just throw on your accessories and your super hot wedges or cozy gladiators and your good to go.

Nautical :

The most classic summer look is and always will be some type of Nautical fashion. Navy, stars and stripes with detailed anchors and gold buttons are classic signs of the nautical look. Their are so many different renditions of this style, you can really get creative with it. So get your swim trunks and your flippy flops and get on a BOAT.

The Bathing Suit

The most important part of your beach wardrobe.

Eventually it will come down to just the bikini after you are striped of your cover-up and sandals, make sure you don't underestimate the significance of this crucial piece. First of all make sure your buying a bathing suit that fits, don't buy for size, if your not a big girl but the large's fit better then then medium BUY THE LARGE, so many girls get discouraged by size but when it comes down to it you got to buy what looks good, nobody wants a muffin top in a bikini, you can't hide it. You also need to accentuate the positive, if you have a big chest rock the bra top, even if your not a skinny-mini, proportions are everything. If you are flat as a board accentuate your tiny tummy with a tube top bathing suit. If you have a whole lot of back-side boy shorts accent the tush just right. Stay current with color trends and accents, for example this season stripes and anchors are very trendy. If you want to go for the sexy look add some cute wedges and cut out the flip-flops.

Here are some great swim-suits for the season:

Marc By Marc Jacobs Plaid

- Loving Plaid this season

The Betty Page, who doesn't want to be a pin-up girl??

The Nautical Bathing Suit

A little Personal Styling

2010-05-25T00:21:00.016-04:00

A few looks for summer.

Floral Prints, we love them. Long Blouses over shorts really spice up the look.

A basic white tank matched with a fun skirt, this is the essences of casual fashion. Turning anything that maybe plain into something fabulous just by layering is crazy fresh and easy to accomplish. Accessories are everything.

How 'bout them cowgirls....we just went over this, no need to repeat. Just love it.

The Boyfriend Blazer is a fun addition to a cool night. Roll up them sleeves and embrace the better part of 80's fashion.

Ripped up, rolled up and paired with a vest, boyfriend jeans just the way we like 'em.

The Shirt Dress, super sexy and super versatile. Dress it up or dress it down, either way you'll be comfy and stylin'.

Thank You my Amy for being a beautiful model :o)

COUNTRY IS CASUAL

2010-05-19T13:40:00.007-04:00

Country is everything that is casual fashion. Vogue this spring was all over this new trend. With celebrities like Taylor Swift and famous designers like Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, they are showing us how to get down with the hoedown. From French country to American country fashion is jumping on board.

Floral Prints are where we begin with country chic. Pastel colors, with a constant floral print that's soft and sheer for blouses, dresses, and skirts. Chanel is showing a lot of floral as well with French country however, they are showing

individual flowers with lots of detail. Oddly enough red, white, and blue is their color palette.

Summer Dresses paired with cowboy boots are a paragon of country chic. Taylor Swift is known for it and she pulls it off really well. Country chic is all about being soft, charming and delicate, quite the opposite of urban chic which is very edgy. Nothing wrong with a little country charm.

Denim is classic country. Skinnies and denim shorts can be matched with cowboys boots to complete the country look.

Country is comfy and casual with a whole lot of "girly" and a little bit of rock and roll. Take a relaxing venture to the country side, crack open a beer, and party like Swift.

Always remember the southern mentality as spoken by Miranda Lambert "We're just like you, only prettier".

Put your jeans on a diet and get SKINNY

2010-05-18T21:34:00.006-04:00

Skinny Jeans are the absolute coolest. I love everything about them. Paired with an over-sized boyfriend tee, a breezy tee shirt, layered tanks, a boyfriend blazer, the options are endless. Acid or bleached washes are great trends for the summer, I wouldn't spend tons of cash on them though, they will come and then they'll go. White skinnies are also great for this summer, an absolute perfect pairing with the casual wedge. The perfect skinnies for summer are ankle length, check out the "Ritchie" jean from James Jeans, they are ideal.

If your scared of the skinny, don't be. I have seen girls size 2-12 rock them and they all look very stylish. Knowing the most flattering shirt length can work wonders, if your shirt hits you in the wrong place you can kill the look. Working in retail for some time, I have come across many women who loved the way they looked on others but not on themselves. Many women aren't used to the proportions that they reveal. If you are not used to wearing this type of jean of course it will look and feel a little strange at first but once you get used to the look, you will love them! TRUST ME!

2010-05-17T18:34:00.006-04:00

Work the middle, work the middle.

THE BOYFRIEND

Tell your boyfriend to work it for you, because we are stealing his style!!! The boyfriend look is all you need for casual spring style. The idea behind it is that you rolled outta your boyfriends bed, threw on his tee shirt and jeans, completely avoiding the walk-of-shame, add your little touches of femininity and your ready to start your busy busy day! Starting with jeans or jean shorts, you want them to be relaxed and not too tight, you wouldn't want to be the same size as your bf that's just wrong. Ripped up jeans are still pretty cool but let's make sure they are boot cut and not skinny when it comes to this look. We love the skinny, we just hope your bf isn't wearing them, sorry hipsters, dudes shouldn't rock the skinny. The tuck and roll can be used to give excellent detail to your jeans. It absolutely captures the essence of casual. Shorts should be cuffed and located in the middle of the middle of your leg, booty shorts are just skanky, no one wants to see all that. As for the top, everyone loves a white tee, oversized or not, layering is still appropriate, use vests and tanks to help achieve the layering.

As always accessories are a must:

Boyfriend Watch : Large faced gold or silver linked watch, much like a mans watch. The key to the boyfriend look is the small touches of femininity, buy one with diamonds around the face or a funky faceplate.

Pearls: The perfect touch of femininity.

Long Vintage Necklaces : Take a long necklace and add a cameo, or any unique or vintage pendant.

Costume Rings: The bigger and more sparkle the better. (Let's get a little obnoxious)

Remember anything he can do you can do better.

Spice up the Gladiator

2010-05-11T20:33:00.003-04:00

So if your an intermediate to advanced fashionista and this will be your third summer rockin' the gladiator, the traditional styles may not be cuttin' it for ya, time to spice up the Spartan sandals. The newer styles for the season incorporate layering, and more fabric covering the top of your feet. The newer styles are great for wearing over skinny jeans,boyfriend jeans or jean shorts. They are a great fusion of the boot and the gladiator. These gladiators are typically cuffed, folded over or both, denim and suede are the ideal fabrics for these different styles. They are super hot and super slouchy, perfect for our casual girl.

Gladiators: So epic they get their OWN POST

2010-05-10T17:14:00.000-04:00

Spartan Sandals, Gladiators, whatever you call them, they are the SHIZ. There are so many possibilities for the design of these types of sandals and they have really brought casual fashion to a whole different level. Studying fashion history you learn a lot about Ancient Greece; particularly Sparta.

Everyone who has seen the movie 300 knows that they had a powerful government with even more powerful warriors. However, it is the equality between the sexes that has always had me intrigued. Spartan women were educated, athletic, and well respected by their men. They were expected to protect themselves and they were even allowed to own and control their own property. This was so advanced for a civilization to be during this time period. These women were looked upon as strong warriors, athletes, and intellectual companions, much like you would assume women to be like today. So wear your gladiators proudly and remember why we wear them and who we strive to be like. Fashion is no joke - it's symbolic and highly respected and it helps to form the people of our world. Let us be like SPARTA!

Starting from the ground up

2010-05-10T10:15:00.000-04:00

No, No, NO!

Worst possible choice for casual footwear : The Sneaker }:o(

If you are not doing something athletic their is no reason to be wearing a sneaker. The only thing a sneaker is designed to go with is athletic clothing, if your wearing them with jeans, shorts, carpi's , or God help us A SKIRT, you just look like a pubescent 12 year old whose starting to get it but isn't quite there yet. In fact I know some 12 year old's who know better and would even gasp in shame when seeing a chick twice their age doing it. We're all about athleticism here and the sporty trend for spring but let's do it right!

The Clear, Flat Choice

They're comfy, easy to slip on, and incredibly trendy, why would you choice sneakers over them? If your having trouble finding comfy ones go up in size or find flats that are fabric rather then leathers, especially patent, leathers tend to have a more narrow top and can squish your toes. Toe cleavage isn't better bustier :o/

Flip FLOP :o(

Yes I know, I love them too, especially some Haviannas, but flip flops are a no this season. Being casually trendy means paying attention to your accessories, jewelery, handbags, and your SHOES rather then your outfit. If your shoe is practically non-existent its just not special enough, lets leave the flip flops to swimwear, what they were meant for.

Pick your WEDGE :o)

Wedges are back and a great way to make your casual boyfriend jeans a little bit more feminine. They're also a great way to give a lift to your short shorts this summer. The best colors to buy for spring are nudes and naturals, or denim! It's the most comfortable heel and easy to walk in and a great way to spice up your casuals. It's absolute classic '70's so don't be scared to make them chunky or vintage, it will only make it better!

2010-05-09T22:03:00.000-04:00

I wanted to be Carrie Bradshaw. I wanted to prance around NYC in thousand dollar dresses, drink delicious martinis, write about love, fashion, and the love of fashion. I wanted to have brunch in SoHo every Sunday and be able to actually leave work long enough to meet up with my fab friends and have lunch. I mean really who has time for lunch anymore?? I don’t even have time to get dressed!! We are busy hard working girls who just don’t have time to put together a complicated outfit, who gallivants around downtown Philly in a couture dress anyways? No One! Casual keeps us cool and confident, our clothing is our armor let’s learn how to use it! Throw on a tee shirt and pearls and show us your casual side.