ShopTalk » News

Model Erin Wasson Victim of Fashion Crime

Rhonda Reinhart — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 18:08:52 +0000

FrontBurner just linked to this story about thieves robbing Dallas-born Erin Wasson’s L.A. home. Tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of designer jewelry and clothing were taken in the burglary. The saddest part is the list of items recovered: two left shoes.

Well, Color Me Skinny

Rhonda Reinhart — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 22:56:50 +0000

The past few weeks, we’ve done a lot of talking about the holidays—the parties, the sales, the gifts, the parties. But what we haven’t talked about is January 1—that lovely time of year when reality sets in and you realize what all those parties have done to your waistline. Well, if you plan to make weight loss one of your new year’s resolutions, you’ve come to the right place. With a new motivational tool called WeightView, you can upload an image of your current fat self, and within 48 hours, the Photoshop pros at WeightView will send you a picture of a newer, slimmer you (see left). The idea is that if you can picture the results you’re trying to achieve, you will be infinitely more motivated. The best part is that it’s free. I’m doing it right now! On second thought, I’d better wait till all those Christmas parties are over. Sigh.

Item of the Day

Stephanie Quadri — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:17:01 +0000

If you read this blog regularly then you know I am a shoe aficionado. You can imagine my excitement when a co-worker introduced me to Omelle, a new fab luxe footwear line that a friend of hers designs. The architectually inspired styles are truly unique and certain to be a big hit. Featured in this month’s Vogue, these high-design shoes are not available anywhere in Dallas yet (fingers crossed someone will pick up the line), but you can check out the entire collection on their website now and will be able to purchase online come February (gift cards available now). I know what I want for Christmas!

Reality Check: A New Dallas Weddings Show On Its Way?

Rhonda Reinhart — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 19:34:02 +0000

Last night I had the pleasure of dining with a group of Dallas wedding planners, including the ladies from StarDust Celebrations, who told me the WE network has been shooting footage of them for a reality-show pilot all about Texas weddings. If things go well, you could be seeing lots more of Dallas on the small screen. Good luck, girls!

Diane Von Furstenberg Does Wonder Woman

Stephanie Quadri — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 22:56:49 +0000

One of fashion’s most influential women has looked to the iconic heroine for inspiration for her Holiday 2008 collection and a limited edition comic book (pictured at left). Von Furstenberg has collaborated with DC Comics to release “Be The Wonder Woman You Can Be: Adventures of Diva, Viva, and Fifa“. The book, written by Von Furstenberg herself, is available for purchase here for only $25 (fun gift for fashionista’s on your list!). Featuring art by Konstantin Kakanias, the 48-page book includes previous published material from William Moulton Marston, comic historian Les Daniels, television’s Wonder Woman Lynda Carter, and Gloria Steinem. “The collection and the stories that I have created are really about empowerment and finding our inner strength.” says the designer. “The truth is that there is a little bit of Wonder Woman inside each of us.” Bonus: Proceeds from the sale of the book will benefit Vital Voices, a non-profit organization dedicated to emporwering women worldwide. The comic-adorned tote ($165) or tee ($46) also make great gifts.

Do You Like Fun?

Katie McNew — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 22:01:20 +0000

So, this is neither health nor beauty related, but if Rhonda can post about her crushes, I can post about the amazing time I had last night at Shenaniganz, a fun-porium that just popped up in Rockwall. It’s a place for the kiddos and adults and adults who act like kiddos. For example, we (the husband and I) started with dinner at Rozie’s Grill—flank steak with yummy mashed potatoes and perfect thin-crust pepperoni pizza from the wood-burning oven. Adult. Then we moved over to bowling, opting for the family-friendly main lanes as opposed to the private (and swanky) Z Lounge lanes. Kid. But then we had some beers—adult—followed by some arcade games, heart-thumping laser tag deep in the black light-enhanced jungle, more arcade games (had to get that whoopee cushion), then to the Z Lounge, where there are fancy drinks and a list of ales long enough to rival any pub, before we said adieu. Kid, kid, kid, adult. I have to say, it was just plain fun. There was fun in the air. The official grand opening is Wednesday, Dec. 17. Go, and have fun. Unless, of course, you don’t like fun.

Sean Avery: Do We Care?

Rhonda Reinhart — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 20:40:33 +0000

I’ve tried really hard to become interested in Sean Avery and the recent drama surrounding him. The whole thing has all the elements of a good spectacle: trash talk, celebrities, pretty people saying/doing ugly things. But there’s one thing that keeps me from caring: sports. Every time I get into a story about this guy and his troubles, somebody starts throwing out words like “hockey” and “scores” and “NHL” and my mind wanders far, far away. That said, Avery does make some interesting style choices, such as the sunglasses you see here. What do y’all think? Is he a fashion-forward trend setter or an attention-seeking jerk? I would state my opinion, but it would be based entirely on this photograph, and I just don’t think that’s fair. (Photo credit: AP/Frank Franklin II)

More Friday Fun

Stephanie Quadri — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 22:19:26 +0000

This weekend (starting tomorrow) is a good time to get out and shop if you can. Stock up on great gifts and treat yourself to something chic but cheap while you’re at it. Here are a few we have on our radar. Feel free to let us know about others Talkers shouldn’t miss out on!

What: Designer Sample Sale
What you’ll find: Clearance items from local designers Abi Ferrin, Courtney Warren, Sarah Briggs, Eddie Jo Jewelry, and Nest Jewelry. Tons of items only $10-$25!
When/Where: Friday December 5th, 10-8 and Saturday December 6th 10-6 at West Village, 3839 McKinney suite 160 (the old Lucy space at the NW corner of McKinney and Blackburn).

What: The Warehouse Sale
What you’ll find: 80% off premium denim (Frankie B, William Rast, AG Jeans, Rock & Republic, Diesel, and more), tops, dresses, and pants.
When/Where: Friday December 5th, 2-8 and Saturday December 6th, 10-4 at The Dallas Market Center, Freeway Hall, 2200 N Stemmons Fwy.

What: MaryGold jewelry Trunk Show
What you’ll find: 14k gold-filled bracelets, necklaces and earrings that are dripping with colorful precious and semi-precious stones. Full line priced 30-40% below retail for this event.
When/Where: Friday December 5th, 11-6 at Betty Cupcake in Snider Plaza.

DKNY & Levi’s Jeans

Stephanie Quadri — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 19:43:38 +0000

DKNY is teaming up with Levi’s Jeans for their 20th Anniversary. Together they have designed 3 styles: a wide leg jean, a skinny jean, and a boyfriend jean (made popular by stars like Katie Holmes). The jeans come in several washes such as rivington blue, white, black, and dark schiller. Pick up a pair for $225 at Neiman Marcus or Macy’s this January.

The Next Big Thing?

Stephanie Quadri — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:54:38 +0000

The Dallas Market Center has announced the finalists for their “Next Big Thing” contest. They received over 100 entries and have narrowed it down to three, one of which is from Rowlett, TX. Congrats to Renee Williams, founder of SIPATINIZ, a spill-free martini glass (pictured at left). Other finalists include Good For You Girls, a natural skincare line for teenagers and Vintage Hem (my personal fave), slips that add a little something extra to the bottom of skirts and dresses. The three finalists will receive a free booth and travel to the upcoming Dallas FINDS Temp Show January 16–19, 2009. During the show the finalists will be judged based on their product, trade space presentation, and production plan. The winner will be announced on Saturday, January 17, 2009 and will win a prize package worth more than $10,000. Talkers, who do you think should win?

Ready-to-Write Stationery

Stephanie Quadri — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 23:00:09 +0000

Dallas native, and one of my favorite designers, Lela Rose has collaborated with renowned New York stationer Dempsey & Carroll to create a limited edition collection. The stationery set features ecru note cards with a bobbins and thread sketch and envelopes lined with blue tailor’s measuring tape on a gray background. The fashion designer was enlisted to design stationery based on her “chic style and whimsical flair”. The $65 boxed set would make a great gift for any fashionable girl on your list and can be purchased here now. Bonus: It’s a gift that gives back. A portion of sales from the designer collaboration will benefit The Children’s Storefront, an independent, tuition-free school in Harlem.

LFT Closing

Stephanie Quadri — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 23:48:20 +0000

We just received some very sad news in our inbox. LFT, the 30,000 square foot department store at Victory Park, is closing. Owner, Ort Varona states, in the (very short) press release, “Due primarily to the current state of the economy and a yet to mature trade area, we have reluctantly decided to close our doors”. R.I.P. LFT. You will be missed. They will begin the liquidation process tomorrow. Be sure to stop by and shop before they close for good. Store hours will be: Monday-Saturday: 11am-8pm and Sunday: 1pm-6pm.

Tasty Treats

Stephanie Quadri — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 23:01:15 +0000

This doesn’t really have anything to do with fashion or beauty, but these yummy cupcakes are so cute, that I had to share with everyone. Fall flavors have arrived at Sprinkles. The orange cranberry with white chocolate cream cheese frosting, ginger maple with maple cream cheese frosting, pumpkin with cinnamon cream cheese frosting, and Belgian dark chocolate with bittersweet chocolate frosting cupcake combo is a great alternative to your run-of-the-mill pumpkin pie on Thanksgiving. Pick up a box (or order online) of assorted cupcakes adorned with festive decorations, sealed with an “Eat Turkey and Cupcakes” sticker, starting this Friday through November 30 for $36.

Lip Balm to the Rescue

Raya Ramsey — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:15:29 +0000

AIDS kills one child every minute, according to the YouthAIDS website. That’s an absolutely disturbing statistic. But in honor of World AIDS Day 2008, Kiehl’s is providing a way we can help. (And we’ll get beauty out of the deal, too.) During the month of December, 100 percent of the proceeds from the Kiehl’s Lip Balm #1 will be donated to YouthAIDS, an organization whose mission is to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS in young people around the world. So put it in your planner and on December 1 (Worlds AIDS Day), log on to the Kiehl’s website, and purchase a tube. It’s quick and painless, and it benefits an amazing cause.

Biggest Dallas Sample Sale in a Decade

Stephanie Quadri — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 20:03:16 +0000

Or so says the Dallas Market Center about their upcoming annual Sample Sale (yes, it’s open to the public) which takes place at the Market Hall tomorrow through Sunday. Admission is free! Scour women’s, men’s and children’s apparel and accessories, furniture, gifts, toys, home decor, gourmet foods, collectibles, rugs, jewelry, fine art, books and more. Special drawings and product giveaways as well as free photos with Santa will be available during the Sample Sale. Great place to get your holiday shopping started! Go here for more details.

Bag Snob TV Webisodes

Stephanie Quadri — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 20:04:21 +0000

Local fashionista and Bag Snob, Tina Craig, has posted the latest Snob TV webisode on her popular site. The Snobs’ (Craig and her L.A.-based best friend, Kelly Cook) interview fashion designers (such as Diane Von Furstenberg, Devi Kroell, Oscar de la Renta) and insiders and post a new webisode every few weeks. Check out the latest with veteran (since 1981) designer, Michael Kors who chats with Craig about his Spring ‘09 collection, the effects of the economy on fashion, and Project Runway.

Spotted: Minka Kelly and Derek Jeter at Nordstrom

Stephanie Quadri — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 22:50:10 +0000

This doesn’t have much to do with beauty or fashion, besides the fact that I was shopping at Nordstrom at Barton Creek Mall in Austin this past Saturday with a friend of mine, when we spotted a couple that we both recognized. It took us a moment to realize who they were. It was none other than “rumored” couple, Derek Jeter (New York Yankees captain) and Minka Kelly (Friday Night Lights actress), looking quite chummy. So there you have it. What guy would accompany a girl to the mall unless he was forced to or wanted to spend as much time with her as possible? Speaking of Nordstrom, their Half-Yearly Sale for women and kids starts this Wednesday. Save 40% and more on shoes, handbags, clothes and accessories. Earn twice the rewards points if you pay with your Nordstrom card!

Central Market Brings its A Game

Katie McNew — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 17:41:40 +0000

As you know, I went to Central Market last night for what I thought was just a sneak peek at the new cafe and its menu. Instead I got the grand tour (why yes, I’ll try the guacamole from the new Guacamole Bar—sure, ceviche sounds delicious—a little bubbly from the new wine wall? mmm…). De-lightful.

First, I’ll admit my bias. I love Central Market. It’s my second home. I’m there four to seven days a week—sometimes twice a day for lunch and dinner, which is embarrassing when you get the same cashier. I thought it was perfect the way it was and, frankly, was a bit peeved at all the super market shuffling that had been confusing my shopping. But those days are over. Projects are complete. And here are the fruits of their labor, named in order of appearance, not awesomeness. (See map.)

1. Guacamole Bar: Operating Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 7 am to 10 pm. Fresh, flavorful, fantastic!

2. Kit Kitchen: This is what I’ve been dreaming of—a place where all the prep is done for you. Grab a recipe from the rack and get to gettin’. Fresh veggies, cleaned and chopped. Grab-and-go sauces. And the kits, oh the kits! We’re talking everything from Thai Kao Soi to Italian-inspired asparagus and prosciutto. I particularly love that they include the cooking oils and butter, pre-measured for the recipe. It’s a no brainer, and most recipes have speedy chef Rachael Ray beat by 10 minutes.

3. Ceviche: Seven kinds, seven days in a week. Coincidence? I don’t think so.

4. For the Love of Wine: I love the organization. Bottles are grouped by style (do I want a light, bright white or an oaky Chardonnay?), then each bottle is described in greater detail, often with food pairing suggestions. The best part, most bottles are priced below $15.

5. Bath Salt Bar: Mix your own or work from one of their recipes. I’m trying the “Flood of Enlightenment.” Hope it works.

6. Salts of the Earth: This was another highlight of the tour for me, not because I know much about salt, but because I know I want to know more about salt. Get it? There are more than 30 different ones to try. Don’t worry, there’s a chart to help, but I say smell away. Their scent will be enough inspiration. I grabbed an olive-infused variety—it’ll be perfect with a little tomato, mozzarella, and balsamic. (What up, Tom!)

7. Bagels and Flatbread: Now homemade (that’s boiled and baked for the bagels). Now delicious.

8. Salumeria: 21 new salumi offerings at the deli! Who doesn’t love cured meats?

9. Sushi Bar: Now open! You can make your own bento box and choose from more than 30 different sushi offerings. My favorite part is the packaging. It’s all-inclusive. Now instead of flipping the lid to make a tray for your soy, you can use the special compartment that’s built in. Seriously, why didn’t I think of that?

And finally …

10. The Cafe at Central Market: Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, plus brunch (7 am to 3 pm) on the weekends. I sampled two menu items: the Grown-Up Macaroni and Cheese and the Kobe Sliders. The mac was rich and creamy, with a nice pancetta crumb crust. The sliders were juicy at a perfect medium rare, and the chipotle BBQ sauce added some spunk. Indulgent and delicious and hard to believe they’ll be served in a quick-casual cafe setting. And about that setting … The seating downstairs has been swapped, with more indoor and less outdoor. But the upstairs open-air patio makes up for it. After you order, feel free to claim your seat up there. The buzzer you’ll be given has a built-in GPS, so your food will be brought directly to your table with no disturbing “Who got the burger and fries? Anyone? Burger! Fries!”

Two thumbs up from this foodie. I never thought it’d be possible for me to spend more time at the Market, but they make it hard to stay away. Maybe they’d rent me a small space in the Slaumeria.

Big News at Central Market

Katie McNew — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 21:52:05 +0000

My first Dallas love, Central Market, is rockin’ and rollin’ these days. First, the new sushi bar (replacing the sandwich counter, across from the ice cream counter) is opening tomorrow. Yum-o (props to Rachael Ray). Second, the much-anticipated Cafe at Central Market is opening on Monday. I’ll be heading to the sneak preview tonight, and my tummy is rumbling just thinking about it. Or is that from all the Halloween candy I’ve been downing all day? Eh, whatev. I’ll give you an update tomorrow.

Sharing the Love One Giveaway at a Time

Katie McNew — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 15:51:21 +0000

You know we at ShopTalk love giveaways (hello, Friday). Well, so does Josi over at The Daily Beauty Break. Here’s the scoop: Carmindy of What Not to Wear fame has come out with her own makeup line—Sally Hansen Natural Beauty, Inspired by Carmindy—and she sent Josi some products to try. Now Josi’s sharing the love with you! Entering is simple. Because Carmindy is all about accentuating the positive rather than focusing on the flaws (which we all do), that’s all you have to do. Post a comment telling Josi your favorite feature, and you’ll be entered in her drawing, to be held Monday, Nov. 3. Enter here now! Thanks, Josi, for reminding us of this.

Heaven Scent

Stephanie Quadri — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 22:49:08 +0000

I mentioned it was due to open in October and it has finally arrived…LAFCO (Luxury Articles And Fragrance Company) opens it’s doors just in time for Holiday shopping! LAFCO’s New York team (including owner, Jon Bresler) all flew down for the Highland Park Village store’s debut last week and I got a grand tour of the sophisticated fragrance shop. I have never smelled so many savory scents in my life, starting with the Claus Porto soaps (there are 16 scents to choose from) which are made by a century old Portuguese soap making company that is highly regarded throughout Europe. Each bar is milled seven times for the finest finish (lasting three times longer than other soaps the same size). The artful packaging, created using the same paper stock, embossing techniques and screen printing methods from decades ago, makes them great for gift-giving (many on my list will be getting them). Don’t worry guys, you aren’t forgotten. Be sure to check out the Musco Real men’s face and body collection. The shampoo/shower gel is perfect for the man on-the-go and all products are reasonably priced, starting at just $10. The shop is also the exclusive importer of infamous Santa Maria Novella (founded in 1221) products for men, women, children, and more (they even have fragrant fire-starters for the fireplace). Also find candles that are packaged in colorful art-deco glass (that can be recycled), Eau d’Italie fragrances, Linari diffusers, and Arte & Cuoio leather goods.

More Melanie Gayle

Katie McNew — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 20:47:56 +0000

We told you this was coming, and now it’s here. Melanie Gayle has opened its second location at The Shops at Legacy. Plano peeps no longer have to make the drive south to find chic treats from brands like Amanda Sterett, Ali Ro, and Shoshanna. Plus, enjoy Partners Card perks at both locations between Oct. 24 and Nov. 2—that’s 20 percent off clothing and accessories. Fan-tastic.

2008 Dallas Fashion Award Winners

Stephanie Quadri — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 18:40:46 +0000

The 33rd Annual Dallas Fashion Awards gala was held at the Dallas Market Center Saturday night. Max Azria (of BCBG Max Azria) received this year’s Fashion Excellence Award for his Herve Leger collection (which was relaunched in 2007 and has since been seen on many starlets including Lindsay Lohan, Victoria Beckham, Rihanna, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Kate Bosworth) and Gianna Madrini (Style Editor and Executive Producer of Global Fashion News) was the recipient of the Personal Style Award. Other winners included:
Accessories: Sondra Robert
After 5: Marc Bouwer GLAMIT!
Jewelry: Devn Leigh
Contemporary: Kenzie
Casual contemporary: Taka
Modernwear: Lynn Ritchie
Children’s wear: Florence Eiseman
Bridge/Designer: Zelda

Congrats to all!

Shop Stanley Korshak Online

Stephanie Quadri — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 19:32:25 +0000

One of our favorite local haunts, Stanley Korshak recently launched their new website, introducing online shopping. Browse and purchase a selection of jewelry, gifts, home decor, handbags, luggage, and cosmetics at any time of day from anywhere. Seeing as the store only stays open until 6 P.M. everyday, I am sure many Korshak customers are rejoicing. Lines available for purchase online include Yossi Harari, Ted Muehling, Loree Rodkin, Nambe, Baccarat, Agraria, COR, Niven Morgan, Bottega Veneta, Beirn, Jada Loveless, and even some one-of-a-kind items like this Ethiopian Festival Mask. Also find seasonal trends, wedding dress previews, and more. Happy shopping.

Style Network to Fashionable Dallas Families: Bring It!

Katie McNew — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 17:08:34 +0000

Hear ye, hear ye! The Style Network (a.k.a. TV, as in, “Honey, will you turn on the TV?”) is searching for fashionable mother-daughter duos to star in a reality show based on The Fashionistas, a Dallas-based organization devoted to fashion appreciation. Think The Hills-meets-glamorous Dallas fashion philanthropy. Go here if you’re a fashionable young lady age 17 to 23. Go here if you’re that fashionable young lady’s fashionable, hip mom. Send all completed forms, pictures, and inquiries to Fashionistas founder Heidi Dillon at heidi.dillon@thefashionistas.org. And do it all by this Friday or you won’t be considered, thereby having no shot at becoming the next Heidi Montag!

Matt “The Mane Tamer” Taylor Totally Owns

Rhonda Reinhart — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 21:23:03 +0000

Matt Taylor, winner of a 2008 D Beauty Award for his mad hair skills, has some new responsibilities on his plate. The blow-out king is now an owner at Orange salon in Deep Ellum, where he got his start in 2002. Taylor will continue to cut and style at Orange, as will former owner Todd Allen, which means some things will stay the same. Other things, however, will be getting an overhaul. One exciting change is an expanded retail presence in the salon. Jason Lenox of Anteks Home Furnishings—and an Orange co-owner with Taylor—will focus on bringing in new products. Expect candles, cards, gifts, and bath and body goods. Sounds like ShopTalk heaven, doesn’t it?

The Future of Fashion?

Stephanie Quadri — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 19:46:33 +0000

I have to say designer, Hussein Chalayan has a way of getting people’s attention. He’s certainly got a unique point of view and always creates futuristic fashions that somehow relate to what’s going on in the world today. His Spring 2009 collection features hand-painted dresses (some made of silicone) with blurred images of crushed cars. As Style.com reports, “It’s about the speed in our lives and how it can only result in a crash,” Chalayan explained, adding that the prints, which included number plates, car handles, and fenders, were “taken from pictures of car graves.” You can view a video of the show, that concluded with shattered wine glasses, here. I am definitely intrigued.

No More Fish Pedicures!

Jennifer Chininis — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 15:03:45 +0000

You may recall that I recently went out to Zen Luxury Nail & Beauty Bar to experience a fish pedicure–which was fab, by the way. Well, I guess I can count myself among the lucky few who got to experience one before the state banned them due to “health and safety” concerns. Not that anyone has been hurt by them, but as Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation Spokeswoman Susan Stanford said, “It’s within the realm of possibilities.” And I had already bought a gift certificate for my BFF. Alas. At least she’ll get a helluva pedicure. That’s something that will never change at Zen.

Party at Sussie’s October 16

Jennifer Chininis — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 15:39:07 +0000

So I just told you that Sussie’s is joining forces with Pumps to create an in-store shoe boutique. Well, to celebrate this happy union, there will be bellinis and snacks from 11 am-6 pm at Sussie’s on Thursday, October 16. (Sussie’s is located on Preston near Lebanon, in Frisco, just north of Stonebriar Center.) Pumps owner A’Lisa Adams will be there to show off her fab collection of shoes. This all sounds like the perfect excuse to play hooky! And tell Rory I sent you.

The Greenhouse Wins Spa Finder Readers’ Choice Awards

Jennifer Chininis — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 20:37:57 +0000

Just in case you needed a little reminder about The Greenhouse, here’s a bit of news: the totally fabulous destination spa in Arlington recently received two accolades in the sixth annual Spa Finder’s Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers cast their votes for their favorites from around the globe, and The Greenhouse ranked in the top 10 for Accommodations and for Going Solo. Although The Greenhouse doesn’t accept day visitors, packages start at three nights–perfect for a long weekend of pampering or to gather girlfriends for a special treat, such as a bachelorette party. The Greenhouse has been committed to fitness and mind/body rejuvenation for more than 40 years–long before destination spas were all the rage. There’s something to be said for longevity–and for convenience! No plane ticket required.