Diary of a Labellover By A. Fashionista

Why I love Esquire UK

Listen guys, if there is one website that you need to bookmark (besides mine that is and if you are lucky I will tell you about my secret one), it is Esquire UK.  I have a thing for British men, fashion, culture and vocabulary and eventually I want to move to London. In the meantime, I'm happy to refer my the fashion-challenged men in my life to this site that speaks your language and doesn't try ridiculously hard like every other men's magazine published in the US, save Robb Report.

The UK version is laid out cleanly and simply, covering the topics that are important in any man's life - grooming, style, food, tech and women. What more could you possible ask for?  What is even better is that you get the British perspective on American designers and culture as well as the british culture. 

Now you can be on on the coolest global cocktails, style trends, and tech gadgets that simply not worth living without. 

The Brand That Thought Too Much

Recently I worked on an RFP for a potential high-end fashion client.  It prompted me to write this post because after looking at their site I realized clearly the creators of this brand were in love with themselves.  Don't get me wrong, I am all for creativity and uniqueness in the site experience but when it hampers the ultimate selling proposition then that vision becomes lost in translation.

I believe there is something to be said for a luxury brand creating an online experience that mimics that of the brick and mortar experience.  Whether the site is set up for e-commerce or not, it is critical that the value the brand brings to the consumer be evidenced simply and effectively, whether through a strong mission statement or through demonstrative visuals.

Ultimately,  a better use of that creativity should be spent thinking about communications plan that includes word of mouth, guerrilla marketing, events and strategic partnerships.  Last time I checked, business did exist to serve their customers and turn a profit, right?

Photo Credit:  werner-reiterer

Related articles by Zemanta

• When the Boss Invades Facebook (socialmediatoday.com)

Pitch(er) Perfect

In an age where technology is developing in rapid fire pace, it would seem natural to make the case that people's attention spans are turning over just as quickly.  After all, we have become a "microculture".  Whether we are communicating our thoughts in a 160 character text, a 140 character tweet or in a few lines on our Facebook status, by now we should be masters at our personal elevator pitch. 

Even for the most extroverted person, articulating what the French call your "raison d'etre" or for you non-francophiles "reason to be" can prove to be a daunting process.  One must radiate inner confidence,  passion and poise .  As cliche as it sounds if you believe in yourself, it will shine through and others will believe in you too.

Remember, First impressions can be a game changer at any networking or social event.  Preparation and personal presence are the keys to success.   Ask yourself "what is it that makes me unique?" "what am I passionate about?"  "how can I take those qualities and enrich other people's lives?"  "Can I overcome the failures as gracefully as I envelop my successes?"  I strongly believe that some of the world's greatest leaders and entrepreneurs asked themselves these v. same questions as they set out to craft their pitches. 

Remember, the perfect pitch is a work in progress as people grow and mature from their life experiences.  Just remember the golden rule:  be authentic, let your passion shine through and people will respond with the same energy.

My pitch:  I am a passionate innovator helping lifestyle companies achieve both their aspirational and bottom line goals.

Now that I told you mine, will you tell me yours?

David v. Goliath: The Winning Battle of Startups with More Heart than Cash

 People are getting laid off, our investment portfolios are down xx% , at least the media seems to relish in reminding us of all the negative things occurring in business every day.  However, if you take a closer look, innovation is happening all around us thanks to sharp, gutsy, nimble entrepreneurs who are redefining the term "bootstrapping."    This post is a shout out to the renegade entrepreneur who has more heart than cash...

Aaron Peckham, Founder of UrbanDictionary.com - circa 1999
Vital Stats:  t: @urbandaily (0% follow back, 100% comic relief)
 I had the pleasure of meeting this young buck at SXSW in between panels.  When he told me he was essentially a one man show and that he had approximately 3.5MM visitors in February , my mouth dropped to the floor. Outsourcing when he needs to he keeps his overhead lean and mean - Angels, are you listening? Did I also mention that when I asked him how he markets his site, he responded by saying " I leave business cards in random places - like in gas stations..'  Clearly, with over 65M fans on the site's Facebook page and 7,800 twitter followers, Aaron off-color humor is shared by many as people often come back multiple times to edit a single definition.   Most importantly, you know you are an influencer when people refer to your site not only in every day vernacular but also when in the brand development stage (MissPivot was launched based on the definition provided by urbandictionary)

Chandlee Bryan  - Career Consultant, Best Fit Forward
Vital Stats:    w:  bestfitforward.com  t:  @chandlee

Chandlee Bryan is part of a new breed of career consultants. Utilizing her years of Ivy League career counseling experience coupled with her southern girl charm and  savvy social media kills, Chandlee knew she had the winning formula to strike it out on her own.  Low and behold with the right circumstances (what better time to start a career consulting business but in a struggling economy) and workhorse mentality, things are finally going her way. Taking the bull by the horns is what this girl does best - she started a job seekers meetup group, organized March Career Madness  - a twitter based conversation for other career consultants.  Did I mention she moonlights as a publicist when she is not writing resumes and consulting with aspiring professionals?  Her  writing is often featured in the WSJ, and she was recently interviewed by CBS radio on the current job market.   She recently had a big break, striking a deal with a major brand, I'm feeling that that this could be a turning point for this little southern gal..

Roger Wu - President, Klickable.tv
Vital Stats:  w:  klickable.tv  t:  @rogerwu99

Roger Wu is not your average entrepreneur.  With a background in acting and media but a knack for left-brained activities and an overachieving attitude, he set out to change the consumer's mind about video.  He his proud of Klickable's story - building the site by reading "Learn Flash in 24 hours" while drinking large amounts of tea at local tea shop, Subtle Tea.  His engaging manner makes him a great fit for panel discussion because he can break a v. complicated technology down so that even your mother-in-law could understand it.  Yes, Roger is the rainbow sprinkles on otherwise v. vanilla but albeit thought-provoking panels I have attended.  Klickable was awarded a sem-finalist spot in NYC Ent week.   Of course, don't cry for this company.  They have done amazing things so far- working with Rachel Ray, Tennis Week, and locally-based enterepreneurs, it is only stands as a testament to how much more they are capable of doing. 

A. Fashionista's Top 10 Hautely Dressed Company Founders

Who makes the grade when it comes to their boardroom style?  The list below represents the men and women that I have across personally with the most style and pinache-not only when it comes to their personal style but also how they run their business..

1.  Alec Andronikov - Chief Mobilizer, Movoxx-  With a personal style that can best be described as "preppily laidback" - consisting of blazers and coordinated properly starched button downs, make no mistake, "AA" as he is called by his inner sanctum is anything but "properly starched".  A "work hard, play hard" mentality, Alec  is a chameleon who makes sure the shoe fits for every occasion. If you were to translate that to his business persona, the word  "maverick"  comes to mind.  After all, this guy proved his CEO stripes after selling his first company, inFreeDA, an advertiser-sponsored directory assistance to AT&T.  Naturally, in 2006, he evolved into the mobile space where he founded Movoxx, a mobile advertising network that leverages SMS messaging.

2.  David Birnbaum - President, Takkle.com - What can you expect from a guy who founded a social networking site for high school athletes in 2007? Laidback sophistication.  This Brooklyn born, Wharton grad is rarely seen wearing a blazer, never mind a suit. He still manages to pull it off looking relaxed and cool in jeans or slacks and a open collar shirts.  Rest assured, he's got the brains and marketing prowess to back it up - at least Sports Illustrated seemed to think so when they famously partnered with Takkle for their "Faces in the Crowd" campaign. It was this lucrative partnership that put Takkle on the map.

3. Yuli Ziv - Founder of Myitthings.com - I profiled her company in yesterday's blog post.  Yuli is a champion of user generated content in the fashion vertical.  Her style reverberates many of the trends that she sets.  I would also add that she is  polished and eclectic because you never know what her  mood calls for but somehow she always pulls it off fabulously.  Sharp as a tack and poised for huge growth, Yuli recently began blogging on her namesake site sharing practical but candid advice to the start up community at large.

4.  Melanie Notkin - Founder of Savvyauntie.com.  Melanie is the epitome of the modern woman who refuses to be stereotyped.  She has a chic but modern style that is relatable, a mirror image of her business style.  When she launched her company in 2008 as the first online resource for Aunts, she realized she had honed in on a lucrative, niche market.  Much of her success has been achieved with limited marketing budget but still holding true to her brand message and understanding how to communicate to her audience. 

5. David Levy/Carter Page - Co-Founders of Tigerbow - a virtual gifting company. One of two dyamic duos to make the list.  Why?  Well let's start with David first.  I recently saw a Kenneth Cole ad where  where the guy was wearing a suit and leather converse high tops - almost identical to what David was wearing when I met him (ok, David's were lo-tops). Carter was dressed a little more conservative but to be fair they had just come from an "important business meeting".   The point is, clearly these guys get it - in business etiquette and in company growth.

6.  Isabel Chang- Founder of foxfatale.com, loveinthedumps.com - Isabel is not your average company founder.   Her style is 100% rocker, in fact she could easily fit comfortably on the arm of any 80's rock god.  Brett Michaels are you listening?  Although she defies the unconventional her talent and savvy intuition for predicting trends makes her a sought after creative by many agencies and cutting edge brands. Her most recent venture loveinthedumps, a dating site that celebrates relationship rejects recently launched and is already getting tons of press! 

7. Seph Skerritt - Founder of ProperCloth.  This seemingly mild-mannered MIT grad from Guam had to make the list. After all, he runs a virtual MTM shirt company, right? He is featured on his site as well so judge for yourself if you think he makes the grade. I've seen Seph on a few different occasions and I am convinced that mother nature blessed him with a frame that lets clothes just hang on him perfectly.  He is one of the hardest working guys I know who RARELY complains. Keeping a sense of humor is obviously an essential part of the job..

8. The Darlings -Founders of Smashingdarling.com  No, they are not related (I asked).  Trish Ginter and Julie Rorrer remain true to the brand identity of what smashingdarling is - providing a turnkey solution for independent designers to sell their wares online. Their style is eclectic and funky but polished - just like their business.   Kudos to Maureen Puia, aka MoDarling for doing a smashing job on the marketing and PR efforts!

9. Dina Kaplan - co-founder of blip.tv- a video sharing service with a focus on episodic content rather than viral videos found on youtube.  I had the pleasure of meeting Dina at SXSW this year and this smart and sassy woman is uptown girl trapped in a downtown girl's body.  Her style is oh- so chic and put together, from her head to her designer boots. She holds the title of COO and with the recently hire of a new Director of Ad Sales, is strategically helping to steer her company in the right direction.

10.  Kevin Kennedy - founder of  webgrrls, feminia.com- are international support groups for tech savvy women.  Don't let the red hair and ponytail fool you. Kevin may be in touch with what tech-savvy women want but he is nowhere near metrosexual.  In fact,this tall burly guy has a casual, approachable style that it is not surprising why so many companies approach him for his digital strategic development services.

A. Fashionista's A-List of Startups

I'd like to kick-off the week by recognizing a few start-ups that consider to be A-List.   In order for your company to make the grade you had to fulfill the following criteria:  1) be founded no earlier than 2007  2)product or service had to be within the fashion/tech vertical 3) company vision or product must be truly innovative.  Please note, that I have also not listed the companies in any particular order.

TryMyFashion
Vital Stats: Founded 2008 w: trymyfashion.com t: @trymyfashion
The Skinny: A microblogging service targeted to the fashion vertical.  Partnered with several 3rd party apps (twitterfeed, twhirl, blackbird) to make it easier to post your 140 character updates.  The monetization model will be focused around contextual advertising primarily targeted around fashion and entertainment.  Look for media kits this summer. TryMyFashion is also looking to offer strategic services to help brands connect to consumers on a more personal level...
Why their A- List:  It's a great solution for advertisers who want to break through the clutter of twitter and are looking to target the fashion/luxury niche.  The company's founder, Patrick Phelan, has an extensive consulting background with ad agencies and retailers, making me think he has the chops to keep TryMyFashion around for awhile..

Tigerbow
Vital Stats: Founded 2007, w: tigerbow.com, t: @tigerbow
The Skinny:  Send actual gifts to virtual places.  Tigerbow has brilliantly innovated a way to convert the recipient's virtual address (twitter, facebook, email) to a physical address, never revealing this personal information to the person who sent it. It's completely stalker-free!  Check out their facebook app that pulls in your friends and upcoming events:  http://tinyurl.com/tigerbow .  This is not the only exciting opportunity to come.  Stay tuned!
Why their A-List:  Amazon, who?  They are reinventing gifting.  With the recent news that baby boomers are the fastest growing target of social networks, Tigerbow is poised for unprecedented growth. The Facebook app was a brilliant move and after talking to company founders, David Levy and Carter Page extensively about future plans, I think everyone should use the 'bow!

MyItThings
Vital Stats: Founded 2007, w: myitthings.com, t: @yuliz (founder)
The Skinny:  One of the first and leading online fashion publications for user-generated content. They have revolutionized the perspective of the editorial fashion community by giving passionate writers an Anna Wintour-like power, influencing trends.  Championing fashion for design's sake, in May '08, the first annual "It Designer" contest was held in search of that undiscovered talent.  This contest drew over 100k votes from the community across 5 finalists, eventually launching the spring collection of one lucky "It designer" Wakana Koike. Subscribe to their off-the-cuff  "My It Things" webisodes, free to download from itunes!
Why their A-List:  Founder Yuli Ziv has done a tremendous job in keeping her brand message cohesive, a tall order when running a user-generated site.  I personally am a writer for the site and I enjoy the frequent writing contests and the ability to connect with like-minded individuals, who are as passionate about fashion as I am! I give alot of credit to Yuli for personally changing the way the fashion world views bloggers.

Proper Cloth
Vital Stats:  Founded 2008, w:  propercloth.com  t:  @propercloth
The Skinny:  Took Made to Measure virtual.  Thanks to technology and really smart programmers, Proper Cloth has made it simple to custom make a shirt online. Choose your fabric. Choose your  cuff, collar and pocket. Want to stand out?   Add edge with fabric inside the collar and cuff. Fabrics are imported from Italy but made in the US. Their size database has the largest selection of standard sizes but you also have the option to include your custom size, as well.  Check out their Proper blog for great style advice.
Why their A-List:  The user interface is clean and simple, possibly the best out their for virtual MTM. I am hoping to see more fabric selection soon.   I give founder, Seph Skerritt alot of credit.  He is not afraid to try new things. Proper Cloth is constantly evolving and I really like the direction it is headed.

Smashing Darling
Vital Stats: Founded 2007, w: smashingdarling.com t:  @smashingdarling
The Skinny:  A third party platform that allows independent designers to set up "stores" showcasing their designs-clothing, accessories and jewelry.  They currently have over 300 designers now have a voice and a cost-efficient way to reach consumers.   The site is easy to navigate for e-commerce, shop by Boutique if you are die-hard, or by target audience or specialty.  The Darling founders - Trish Ginter  (trish darling) and Julie Rorrer (Julie Darling) along with Maureen Puia (Mo Darling  are passionate about their business with backgrounds in fashion and arts, respectively so the commitment it takes to cater to the needs of both consumers and merchants is unfailingly.
Why their A-List:  They didn't let a little thing like EBay stand in the way of their dream.  They saw a niche and successfully conquered it.  Kudos for giving indie designers a place to call home. The Darlings are constantly evolving their biz - strengthening and empowering their merchant community by offering social media webinars.  They also give back to the community by sponsoring Charity events, most recently SM4SC, which benefited City Harvest. 

Klickable.tv
Vital Stats: Founded 2008, w:  klickable.tv t:  @klickabletv
The Skinny:  Klickable.tv gives the end user value add in video by essentially making the content within it, klickable.  For advertisers, it increases engagement and interaction within the video and ultimately to conversion.  According to their data, klickable video is 1.4 times more engaging then a flat video which makes sense when you have contextually relevant placement.  Monetization and product cross-sell is possible with klickable video.
Why their A-List:  The co-founders, Roger Wu and Emily Gannett are the dynamic duo ready to change the way people engage with video.  With their film and media backgrounds they understands the struggles of the tv v. video fight and are ready to tackle it head on, providing advertisers with creative and innovative solutions to capture audiences and conversion. For all of you advertising and media junkies, check out the klickable blog where they often hold trivia games and you can win a prize! It's one of my favorite things! :) 

Stay tuned for tomorrow's post where I give you my top 10 list of company founders....

                  

25 Things to Know about A. Fashionista

I have to be honest.  When the "25 Things" note started circulating Facebook and I found myself tagged several times, the idea of participating in it seemed ridiculous.  However, after reading an inspiring piece from female Auntpreneur, the Savvy Auntie, Melanie Notkin, I thought it could be a good way to share a little of myself with my readers. 

Thanks!

   

25.  I owe my love affair with fashion to the folks at Ermenegildo Zegna, for whom I was doing the advertising campaign for from 2001-2003.

24. I own 3 MTM shirts.  I had them made 3 years ago and they still look brand new. Made to Measure isn't just for men!

23.  The only clothing store I shop retail? Uniqlo.  I swear by their tights and heat tech shirts. Otherwise, it's all about designer resale and and vintage stores for this fashionista.

22. I cried the day I bought my Chanel tweed jacket.

21.  I prefer Korres Fig body lotion and shower gel over any perfume.

20.  I confess to being a huge fan of La Perla lingerie and have started a nice collection. I believe every woman should have at least one piece in her drawer.

19.  In 2005 after being laid off from my advertising job at Tribal DDB after 6 weeks of working there, I started a personal shopping service for Men. It was short lived because I found a job 3 weeks later.  However, for select clients, I will still consult.

18.  I love shoes but have a well edited collection. My cobbler is my BFF.  My Sergio Rossi's, Hollywould, Gucci's, Prada's and Givenchy's get taken to their shoe doctor to get resoled and polished, returned to me looking brand new!

17.  I was dumped via text message on my 30th bday.  That same guy tried to get back together with me 2 years later. Karma's a bitch!

16.  After my divorce, I became a regular on the club scene. Dancing, completely sober, for 8 hours straight.   Attending WMC in Miami and meeting famous DJs - Tiesto, Sasha and Armin Van Buuren.

15.  I got my first job in advertising from answering an ad in the newspaper!

14.  I believe a good sense of humor and the ability to laugh at yourself are essential life survival tools.

13.  I am an amazing cook thanks to my ex-husband who helped me hone my skills. I can also set a dining room table like nobody's business

12.  My most overwhelmingly joyful moment was seeing my one and only niece, Lilliana Maria being born. Never met a happier baby. I'm a proud Godmama!

11. I have traveled alone through both Europe and South America but nothing compares to low key weekends at the family beach house in Brigantine, NJ.

10. Thanks to acting and singing classes when I was younger I was able to get up in front of 200 people and sing a solo hymn on my wedding day.

9. Growing older and being single doesn't scare me in the least. It helps to have a fabulous support system of friends and family.

8. I was married at 25, divorced at 29 and living in my home, NYC at 30 without looking back. 

7. I am a karaoke diva. Nobody does 80's rock like me. Bring it on!

6. The biggest heartache I ever suffered was losing my best friend and love of my life unexpectedly of a heart attack at the age of 42.  That was two years ago, and the memories with him will always be cherished ones.

5.  I am addicted to twitter. lol

4. I think cufflinks are the unsung accessory. Extremely sexy.  I have my grandmother's collection and wear them with pride and remembrance.

3. I was born with a seizure disorder. The name for it is really long.  It took 5 neurologists and 20 years to diagnose. I will be on medication for the rest of my life but it doesn't slow me down..

2. I'm passionate about technology and fashion. Currently working on a new project catering to men. Can't wait for the unveil...

1. My dream is to be an entrepreneur and I am currently making my way towards that goal..

A. Fashionista Weighs In: What's More Important in a Man - Looks or Charisma?

The other night over homemade Thai food, with my Yogini ( yes A.Fashionista cooks), we started discussing the v. deep topic of men and what was more important, looks or charisma..As it turns out, it was unanimous - Charisma over looks any day.  After all, sometimes the best looking have absolutely nothing to bring to the table other than their pretty faces and taut bods. Unfortunately, beauty fades....

On the other hand, charisma is often mistaken for charm.  It is not really about charm but more about confidence. The true alpha male has charisma. He is a born leader who people want to follow but at times may not even be sure why..It  is something innate in their beings, their character's, that draws people to them.  It doesn't  mean that you always agree with them, because alpha males don't respect those that just "yes" them, but you want to believe in them, despite their flaws.

In my 33 years, I have been lucky enough to work and play with some v. charismatic men.  Out of respect for their privacy, I won't be furnishing names.  After all, true Alphas, men who with charisma pulsing through their vains, wouldn't necessarily want to be published.  However, I will say this, there is still one person on my v. short list of VIPs that I truly believe are worth a Face to Face introduction..Guy Kawasaki..

A.Fashionista's Holiday Haute List

With only 4 days to go until Christmas I thought I would dedicate my holiday gift guide to all of those last  minute shoppers (as I am one of them!).   According to all the websites, you have exactly 1 Cyber-shopping day left, so I have decided to cut through all the clutter and bring you my Haute list.  Enjoy!

For the Jet-setter in you life:

Flight001 is the only site you need for travel related items.  They have everything for busy traveler from chic and fun passport holders to a  modern weekend SpacePak, perfect for that weekend getaway, no matter how far you are going. For the techies, they even carry the Solio Hybrid charger, so if you are looking for something environmentally-friendly, this charger obtains power both electrically and through solar energy to charge almost any handled electronic product from anipod to a Blackberry, to your digital camera. The best part is Flight001 understands the needs of last minute shoppers, so the deadline for 2-day shipping is 12.22 by Noon.  Of course, if you live in Chicago, LA, NY or San Fran, check out one of their brick and mortar locations. 

For that difficult person to shop for who has EVERYTHING:

Uncommongoods will ease your racking brain.  I just ordered a set of beach-themed toilet handles for my mom since she told me that she is redoing the family beach house bathrooms.  If you have to buy a gift for someone who likes to entertain, the Sake set is a beautiful meld of ancient design with a touch of modernism.  For the oenophile in you life, a sleek wine cooler is essential for any table.    The best part about UncommonGoods?  Order by 5pm on 12.22 and only pay $2.00 EXTRA for expedited shipping by Christmas.

Yes! There is still time to shop for the fashion forward:

It's not too late to go made-to-measure! Proper Cloth a men's made to measure shirt site, now offer gift certificates.  With a great selection of Italian fabrics to choose from, all manufactured in the US, you can guarantee that the man in your life will be the best dressed!

If you are looking for that quintessential culinary gift for the top chef in your life?  Amazon.com has the best options for last minute shopping since their shipping rates are the most reasonable.  My father LOVES to cook so I bought him an ALL CLAD Ltd non stick 11" grille pan since my parents eat nothing but fish and vegetables every night.

I think everyone know someone trying to live the green lifestyle.  Why not help them out by giving them a gift certificate to ecoist? This company has fabulously fashionable green items from bags, to jewelry to home goods - so there is plenty to choose from.  Napkin rings, placemats, award-winning, handbags, all made from recycled materials.  This company's been doing it since 2001, before it was trendy. Need I say more?

Of course we can't forget the baller in your life, that guy who lives by the phrase " go big or go home".  Do you know someone who thinks he is James Bond? The Ironkey Military Strength Flash drive is the perfect gift. This password-protected flash self destructs after 10 failed attempts to access the data.  For the space challenged, these dart coat hooks are a cool option that are a sure conversation starter!  The VholdR Wearable Camcorder is the perfect choice for the extreme athlete who wants to record himself in action.

Do you have a luxist in your life?  Looking to splurge this holiday season? It's ok to admit it.   There are some people still buying luxury goods or else these companies would be going out of business.   For that special lady, you can't go wrong with La Perla. I am huge fan and have a decent collection. Beautiful lingerie truly makes a woman feel sexier and has added benefits for the man in her life as well!  A Chateau Wine Fridge is the perfect alternative to a wine cellar for anyone that loves wine but may spatially-challenged.

Hopefully I have offered a few solid and fashionable last minute ideas to help you survive the 2008 holiday season.  Remember, though as much time as we spend shopping, the holidays really are not about materials things but about family and the people in your life that are most important to you.  Always treasure those memories.

  

 

A. Fashionista's 7 Things

Recently I was tagged by fellow blogger, career curator extraordinare, Chandlee Bryan, of Careers in Context, to play a virtual game of "information share" for which I am supposed to share 7 random facts about myself. 

I thought this would be the perfect outlet to get up close and personal with my loyal readers so enjoy...

7. My parents made the decision to send me to Catholic school, starting in 1st grade because my mother couldn't deal with having a fashion face-off with a 5 year old every day

6. For a select client base, I will offer my services as a personal shopper, specializing in menswear

5.  I can perform a karaoke rendition of Sweet Child of Mine that rivals Axl Rose

4.  A beautiful wardrobe and manicured nails are more essential than food.

3.  I keep my Russian waxer, Yaffa, at Dyanna on speed dial.  She's quick and fast and I refer her to  all my friends who can handle it

2.  I have never paid full retail price for any designer item in my closet and never will thanks to sample sales, gilty pleasures, and designer resale

1. My cell phone is filled with nicknames for the men in my life, both past and present, that sometimes its tough to remember who they are!