ShopTalk

Watch Out, World. Welder Is Here!

Rhonda Reinhart — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 00:15:20 +0000

Just in time for the holidays, Welder watches, a new line of men’s timepieces imported from Europe, are now available at Barneys New York. Each watch in the brand, which just launched in the States this fall, is crafted in Italy, and prices range from $700-$2,200. If you don’t have a special man on your gift list, you might want to check these watches out for yourself. I’ve always preferred big, bulky, manly watches over dainty ones. And lots of girls these days are doing the same. Don’t believe me? Then click here. And here. And here.

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.

Milk Does A Body Good, But Free Milk Is Even Better

Rhonda Reinhart — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 23:34:32 +0000

Wanna save a few bucks on your Thanksgiving feast? Just spend $30 at Central Market and you can get a free gallon of CM Organics Milk. The offer is good through November 23. All you have to do is click here for the coupon. I’m thinking if I bring the milk, someone else will whip up the creamy mashed potatoes and the luscious chocolate cake. Who am I kidding? I know they will. I’m not even sure if chocolate cake calls for milk.

Shoe sales and more

Stephanie Quadri — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 23:30:34 +0000

My Mom often likes to refer to me as Imelda Marcos because of my adoration and slight obsession with shoes. So you can imagine how please I am when this time of year rolls around and I hear about sales like these. Linus Lounge, has teamed up with Stylebymail to offer 50% off shoes and handbags today (10 A.M.-7 P.M.) and tomorrow (10 A.M.-5 P.M.) Find shoes by designers such as Barbara Bui, Beatrix Ong, Banfi Zambrelli, Rupert Sanderson, and more. Handbags by Fendi, Gucci, Marc Jacobs, Miu Miu, Elaine Turner, Longchamp, Lodis, Donald Pliner, and more. Don’t miss out on the incredible deals at Gregory’s. Their fall sale started last week: buy 1 pair get another pair at 90% off! Selection includes shoes by Alaia, Sonia Rykiel, Luciano Padovan, Lesilla, Gianmarco Lorenz, and more coveted designers.

F.I.G. Sample Sale

Stephanie Quadri — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 22:51:27 +0000

Tomorrow from 10 A.M. to 6 P.M. F.I.G. will hold a tenant sample sale. Thirteen showrooms will be selling fall/winter samples at 50%-70% of retail. Lines include Poleci, Puma, Garfield Marks, Nancy Rose, White + Warren, Prairie New York, Three Dot, Tommy Bahama, Hanky Panky, Melissa Shoes, Sweet Pea, and more. Admission is free!

The Perfect Mask!

Kristin Hull — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 21:19:05 +0000

No, this isn’t a late Halloween post. It’s a blog about the new 3Lab PerfectMask. However, it might be good to warn anyone in the area before you put it on because it’s kind of creepy in a Jason from the “Halloween” movies kind of way. In fact, I decided to scare my husband with it one night. And boy did it work. I laughed and laughed and laughed. He didn’t. (But he did say my skin was smoother after I took it off so I guess he wasn’t too mad at me.) Anyway, this is the easiest mask I’ve ever used. Just take it out of the package and place it on your face. They say it is “infused with Nano-Claire GY™, the world’s first bioengineered growth hormone.” Whatever it is, it’s supposed to help boost collagen, smooth lines and give you a glow. They come in packets of six ($120 at Barneys) so you can have a beauty night with your girlfriends and try them together. Then you can all go outside and terrorize the neighborhood, or get drunk and watch the Sex and the City movie.

ZO Skin Health Launch at Nordstrom November 22

Jennifer Chininis — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 19:56:26 +0000

Beverly Hills dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi will be at Nordstrom NorthPark this Saturday from 10 am-5 pm promoting his new skincare line, ZO Skin Health. So what’s different about ZO, you ask? Well, Dr. Obagi doesn’t believe in moisturizers, because he thinks your skin becomes addicted to them, which causes them to “become lazy and slow down.” (Bad little skin cells.) Instead, his 11-product system uses the highest over-the-counter concentration of retinol–10 to 25 times higher–which attaches the body converts to retinoic acid, thereby stimulating collagen production. Or something like that. For a better explanation of this out-of-the-box thinking, you can visit with Obagi yourself and get your personal consultation. All you need to do is RSVP to 214-231-3900 x. 1417 by TODAY. The cost is $50, which can go toward purchase. Those who show up will receive a travel-size Oclipse Sunscreen + Primer SPF 30 while supplies last.

Texas’ Next Top Designer

Stephanie Quadri — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 23:34:15 +0000

Calling all aspiring designers in the state of Texas. The search for Texas’ Next Top Designer is on. If you think you have what it takes to become the next Abi Ferrin or Julia Plume (previous TNTD winners), go here to apply now. The winner of the competition will receive a financial reimbursement grant (up to $50,000) of in-kind support for business development. All entries must be received by January 31 (get it together designers)! Winners will be announced in spring 2009. Good luck!

Twice the Feel-Good Factor at V Spa

Raya Ramsey — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 20:32:58 +0000

There sure are a lot of opportunities to do some good while beautifying these days. Here’s another: The V Spa has officially opened at the Hilton Anatole. To celebrate, a portion of sales from every treatment—and gift card purchase—through the end of November will go to Genesis Women’s Shelter, which provides safety for battered women and their children in Dallas. The menu includes manicures, pedicures, organic facials, peels, and scrubs, aromatherapy massages, and an elixir bar, featuring healing teas and sparkling concoctions. Complimentary valet parking is provided. 2201 Stemmons Freeway. 214-761-7800. photography courtesy of David Lyles Photography Dallas

Update: Well, Katie, great minds must think alike. I didn’t, however, think of all the clever V words that you’ve used! ShopTalkers, here’s double the info on V Spa. It’s clearly a trip worth making right now!

V Spa is Very Swanky

Katie McNew — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 20:26:22 +0000

I went to the opening of V Spa last night and was very impressed with the vibe. Offering a variety of services, from massage and skincare treatments to manicures and V-man grooming, V Spa embraces vanity as a mere venial vice. Its versed staff provides the veriest service, and a verily delightful perk to getting any 50-minute spa treatment is a day pass to the recently renovated Verandah Club. So, what’s the verdict? It’s a victory for V Spa!

(That’s 15 Vs in a single post—18 if you count the headline and the one I just used. Call Guinness.) Actual information about the spa here.

Pass the Courvoisier, Big Poppa

Rhonda Reinhart — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 18:41:23 +0000

In the late 1980s, the famed fashion designer and artist known as Erté took his love for cognac to a whole new level. For a limited-edition release, Erté designed the decanters and artwork for a seven-bottle collector’s set of Courvoisier cognac, with each image representing a different step in the cognac-making process. Now, in the spirit of the holiday season, Courvoisier has re-released the collection. And, get this, the whole set can be yours for the low, low price of $10,000. When you consider that individual bottles go for $1,500 a pop, I guess that price ain’t so bad. But 10 grand? If you have that kind of dough, more power to you—reserve your set here. As for me, I’ll have to find the real Big Poppa first. Since learning of his split with Kim—the Real Housewives of Atlanta finale confirmed this glorious news—I’m counting on the fact that the high roller is looking for a new main squeeze. Over here, Big Poppa! Over here!

Save Big at Unique Samples

Rhonda Reinhart — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 16:49:51 +0000

Four times a year, Unique Samples in Bedford throws a wingding of a sample sale. The last one of 2008 is going on right now, and you don’t want to miss it. All merchandise, including brands such as White & Warren, Roxy, Arianne, and Alberto Makali, is priced wholesale, which means you’ll pay at least half of what you would at retail prices. The sale runs through December 5, and the store is open every day—Monday through Saturday from 10 am-8 pm and Sunday from noon to 6 pm, with new merchandise arriving every Monday through Friday. Unique Samples is located at 2816 S. Central Dr., Ste. 152, Bedford. For more information, call 817-267-1617 or e-mail uniquesamples@hotmail.com.

Woo Hoo! Free Misa Nail Polish!

Kristin Hull — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 16:19:33 +0000

You may remember this blog where I told you how much I loved Misa nail polish for its staying-power and its fantastic colors. Well, the fine people at Misa Cosmetics wanted to do something special for ShopTalkers so they have graciously offered to send a FREE bottle of to you if you are willing to pay $3.25 for shipping! Just click on this link, pick out your color, and call them at 1-888-733-6472. Tell them you read about their offer on D Beauty’s ShopTalk blog. Thanks, Misa!

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.

Arts Magnet Fashion Blog Makes Me Feel Old and Uncool

Rhonda Reinhart — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:19:53 +0000

In blog referencing other blog referencing other blog news, cute David Ninh over at the Dallas Morning News tipped us off to something that makes me both nostalgic and jealous: the new fashion blog for the Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. Arts Magnet Style, run by a Booker T. photography teacher, features pictures of the school’s uber-fashionable kids in all their sartorial splendor. White jeans, shrunken blazers, and vintage sweaters all make an appearance. Sure beats the FFA jackets and Rocky Mountain jeans from my rural East Texas high school days. Go Lions!

Free Yoga Tonight at YogaSport

Katie McNew — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 20:15:54 +0000

Get bendy tonight at YogaSport’s free Beginner Power Flow class. It’s the perfect opportunity to give yoga a try. You like it, sign up for their soon-to-begin beginner series (they’re offering a special). You don’t like it, walk away a bit sweaty. You’re not sure, try another of the free classes on Dec. 2 or Dec. 16. Class starts at 8. Register online here.

ShopTalk Crush of the Week: David Cook

Rhonda Reinhart — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 17:44:49 +0000

When it comes to American Idol, I’m about as predictable as a romantic comedy. I tend to root for the rockers, which means I’m usually disappointed at the end of the season. (Bo Bice, you were robbed! As were you, Chris Daughtry!) But I just can’t help myself. A scruffy face and an overly earnest interpretation of a classic rock tune get me every time. But then came David Cook. The Season 7 champ somehow managed to rock his way not only into my heart but also into America’s. The A.I. nation was finally on my side! Today Mr. Cook celebrates the release of his self-titled debut album featuring first single “Light On,” which makes him an obvious choice for Crush of the Week. If his first music video is any indication, D.C. is well on his way to heartthrob status. As iTunes reviewer shadowlovecookie says, “OMG…when David looks into the camera…those eyes melt me.” Couldn’t have said it better, shadowlovecookie.

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.

Girls Night Out, Take Two

Katie McNew — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 21:12:24 +0000

Well, it sounds like last night was a hit for Shecky’s GNO. Here’s the word from one lucky attendee:

It turned out to be a lot of fun. There were a lot of vendors and a lot of them were accessories. There were a few that caught my eye, but I was really excited to get some early Christmas shopping done. Sarah Briggs was there, and she was awesome. … She had several racks of earrings for $25 and $50 that were normally $75.00 to $180.00.

I know. You’re sad you missed it. Lucky for you, tonight’s take two. Head to the FIG between five and ten to get in on the fun.

Meditate Your Stress Away

Raya Ramsey — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 20:05:09 +0000

The economy’s not good. The weather’s making us sick. The holidays are creeping up on us before we’re ready. Do we need any more reasons to get away? And yet, sadly, we cannot take a break. (Not the kind we really want, anyway, which leaves us with a tan and a piña colada buzz.) But what we can do is learn to manage our stress through meditation. Exhale Spa is offering us complimentary meditation classes through the month of November. Every Monday from 1:30 pm to 2 pm, guided sessions will teach us to use acupressure, aromatherapy, and stretching to relieve our stress and worry. Call 214-370-5800 to schedule a reservation. Hotel Palomar. 5300 East Mockingbird Lane. http://www.exhalespa.com/locations/dallas/

Private Botox Party at Regimens November 18

Jennifer Chininis — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:38:33 +0000

Well, I guess it’s not-so private now that I’ve spilled the beans. But why keep a good thing to yourself? On Tuesday, November 18, from 6-8 pm, Regimens in West Village is shutting its doors to the GP to welcome Eterna Med Spa staff for Botox, massage, and giveaways. Eterna is offering a discount rate of $14/unit of Botox for this night only. You can also expect complimentary chair massages, cocktails, and a 20% discount on all merchandise. Only 20 spots are available, so make your reservation now at 214-520-9740. Regimens will charge your credit card $25 to reserve your spot, but that money will go toward your Tuesday night purchase.

Sale at Barneys New York

Jennifer Chininis — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:30:59 +0000

Save up to 40% at the Barneys New York private shopping event. It started Wednesday, November 12, and lasts for a week, so you’ve got five days left to shop. Among the goods to be had are designs by 3.1 Phillip Lim, Alexander Wang, Botkier, Helmut Lang, and Marc Jacobs. We love this Marc Jacobs bag–marked down to $699 from $1,295 (you know, if you have that sort of cash lying around). Oh, and if you order online, you get free ground shipping.

Friday Giveaway: Nude

Jennifer Chininis — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:23:04 +0000

Yes, I know. It sounds racy. But, sadly, it’s pretty PG. Today I’m giving away the Nude Touch gift set–”the ultimate gift of eco luxury,” if you believe the PR hype. The set includes Cleansing Facial Oil, Age Defence Moisturizer, Miracle Mask, Replenishing Night Oil, and Advanced Eye Complex, and it’s available exclusively through Barneys. All of these come tucked inside a super-cool bag made of reclaimed seat belts–the sort of thing you want to hang on to long after you’ve used the products. But here’s the real kicker: this bad boy retails for $280. I’ll notify the winner next week. Ready, set, e-mail!

P.S. Congratulations to last week’s winner of the Soap & Glory swag, Kathy Sievert!

Wipe That Wine Off Your Smile

Rhonda Reinhart — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 22:13:56 +0000

That’s what a handy product called Wine Wipes says it can do. And as much as I enjoy a good red wine while out with pals, that makes me very happy. With these orange-blossom-flavored wipes, you can discreetly remove those très unattractive wine stains from your teeth and mouth. And the wipes come in a cute little compact with a mirror inside. I’m sold. Pick some up at Pogo’s Wine & Spirits for a mere $6.95. That first holiday party will be here before you know it, so now you can go prepared.

Get Behind Your Ballet Tonight

Katie McNew — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 22:01:04 +0000

If, for some reason, you’re not grabbing your girls for this event tonight, head to Fort Worth for the Get Behind Your Ballet Gala. It’s a fundraiser supporting the Texas Ballet Theater, which needs to raise more than $500,000 to help keep the organization afloat. A world without ballet would be too tragic. Don’t act like you don’t watch Center Stage every time it comes on. I know I do. Then I dust off my tutu and practice my plies.

Tickets are $35 ($75 for VIP). It starts at 7:30 at the Scott Theatre.

YouTube Style Analysis by the Indie Guhls

Rhonda Reinhart — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 19:53:18 +0000

D Home’s Laura Kostelny just shared with me something so deliciously disturbing and inexplicably entrancing that I had to pass it on to you, dear ShopTalkers. This ode to Kimberly Stewart—daughter of hot-legs-lovin’ Rod and sister of celebrity rehabbin’ Sean—is, um, interesting, and you must watch it now. Here’s a question: Are the Indie Guhls the new Chris Crocker?

Add a Dash of Sass With Mary Phillips Designs

Rhonda Reinhart — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 19:02:41 +0000

That little ditty on the left really says it all, doesn’t it? And it’s sass like that you can expect from all the goodies put out by Mary Phillips Designs. MPD says a mouthful on every item in the line, from apparel to note cards to great little gifts. I especially like the “I have high heels & low morals” cocktail napkins and the “It’s not me, it’s you” tank. And I’m pretty sure I found the perfect Christmas present for Katie. Buy Mary Phillips stuff online, or check it out in person at a few different places around town.

Get Skinny With Skineez

Kristin Hull — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 17:11:17 +0000

Well ok, they don’t promise you’ll get skinny but they do say that this line of “skincare wear” can reduce the appearance of cellulite, moisturize skin and even serve as a Spanx-type undergarment that will hold in all that jiggly stuff. Skineez comes in several styles to target your problem areas like the Thigh Slimmer and the Waist Slimmer. I’m not even going to try to explain the science behind the product but click on the link above to get the details on their web site. For best results, Skineez are supposed to be worn 8 hours a day for 6-8 weeks. I have been sleeping in mine and they are really comfortable. My skin feels surprisingly smooth when I take them off in the morning. They’re made well too - the top and bottom edges don’t curl up (which is one of my pet peeves - I can’t stand that) and they’re machine washable. The best part is that a portion of every item they sell “funds non-profit efforts to improve women’s health.” I give them a lot of credit for doing that. They certainly don’t have to and since they’re not some giant corporation (as far as I know) I’m sure they don’t have tons of money to throw around. So kudos to them! Skineez can be purchased at Macy’s or on their web site. Oh, and Vanessa Williams, Pink and Lisa Marie Presley wear them so they must be good! Right?

Hot Mama, You Make Me Blush

Katie McNew — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 21:45:03 +0000

I love blush. In fact, I’m somewhat of a blush aficionado. I’ve tried them all—powders, creams, and stains in pinks, peaches, roses, and bronzes—and, like a mother praising her children, I think they’re all special in their own unique way. But this one really is outstanding for a multitude of reasons, which I’ll detail later, but mainly because it looks awesome on me! Woop, woop! Full disclosure: I’m pretty sure it’ll look awesome on you, too.

Hot Mama from theBalm, one of my new favorite makeup lines, reminds me of an old blush standby, the award-winning Orgasm by NARS. (Yes, that’s the name. Yes, you’ll feel weird when you ask your makeup lady for it. I suggest ordering online.) Both are described by their manufacturers as a peachy pink with a touch of shimmer—I describe both as a pinky bronze for that sunkissed look—but Hot Mama beats NARS in price point, $18 to $25. Plus, Hot Mama doubles as a shadow. A two-for! You know I love those. As far as the product itself goes, it’s a soft powder, goes on very smooth, and blends naturally. I can even apply it with my finger, which is helpful because it doesn’t come with it’s own applicator.

A little blush makes a drab face vivacious and young. Ladies (you know who you are), quit neglecting this cosmetic. Pick up a brush, and bring on the flush!

Rocking and Rolling With DanniJo

Rhonda Reinhart — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 21:17:47 +0000

For years and years, musicians of all stripes have been defined as much by their style as their choice of music. And when it comes to fashion, rock-and-rollers have been especially inspirational. I mean, what girl alive in the ’80s didn’t want to dress like Madonna? I know I did. That’s why I was so happy to discover the DanniJo line of jewelry. The two sisters behind the company design all sorts of statement pieces, but it’s their Rock ‘N’ Chains line that has the real rock-star cred. Relying heavily on mixed metals and varying styles of chains, each piece is named for a rock-and-roll great. There’s the Tina, the Etta, the Blondie, and the Cyndi, as well as my favorites: the Rockstar Bangles, the Joan, and the Axl Cuff (pictured left). Buy DanniJo online, or head to Calypso, the only Texas store carrying the line. Your inner rock goddess is waiting.