Trend Tuesday - Going Global Prints

It's no secret we love dresses! One trend we're seeing in dresses this year is the fun, bright, and bold global prints which often inspire a tribal feel to dressing. When wearing a strong stand-out pattern we always advise to keep it simple with the accessories...you don't want to go overboard!

Monica's Faves...

Strapless Smocked Dress from Victoria's Secret

Collective Concepts Tribal Print Romper from Dillards

Cabana Tunic

Jennifer's Faves...

Pueblo Dress from Anothropologie

Art Exhibition Dress from ModCloth

Urban Midnight Maxi from ModCloth

Friday Finds - Shameless Self Promotion

This week's "Friday Finds" is all about yours truly...Why Not and Sweet Emotion Boutique! If you haven't been in the store lately you're definitely missing out. We have some fantastic summer merchandise in!

Monica's Favorites...

Love + Toast  Handcremes:

These yummy scented creams are like candy for your hands!! Seriously they smell good enough to eat.

In store, we have (Clockwise from left to right)

Sugar Grapefruit, Honey Coconut, Mandarin Tea and Gin Blossom

Monica's personal favorite is Honey Coconut it reminds her of a frozen cocktail and conjures up visions of sunny skies, sandy toes and a sweet libation!  A great pick me up in the middle of a stressful day. Need another reason to love them? We have several- they're Paraben free, Phthalate free, Never animal tested, No animal ingredients, No artificial colors,they fit in your purse, the packaging is oh so cute and they're $11 bucks!!

Well its no secret that Monica's favorite designer in the boutique is Veronica M. Her dresses are fabulously flattering and make a statement with  unforgettable patterns. I promise you will get noticed and complimented when you wear one of her dresses! Monica is crushin' on this rainbow maxi dress.

The pattern is so summery a mix of purples, navy and greens in a fan fern like pattern. It is a must for your next BBQ or beach vaca. There is something so earthy sexy about the maxi dress. Pair it with a great wedge and you are a summer goddess!

Both Monica and Jen  love love love Envirosax bags! They are super functional and fun with an assortment of  colorful patterns. We tote everything from lunch to gym clothes to groceries in it. It folds up to fit in your purse and they're a steal at $8.50...

As for Jen....well she loves everything and couldn't pick just a few items...so she picked a whole category..Summer Dresses! Who doesn't love summer dresses?? And the shop has a bunch of cute ones in stock for just about any occasion...here's a few of her favorites...

 

Jen could totally see herself at the beach, shopping, or at happy hour at Datz in one of these dresses!

Happy Shopping everyone!! Enjoy your weekend!

Trend Tuesday - Boho Chic

While there is something to be said about a tailored, put together look, we are totally in love the free spirited and creative Boho-chic trend that seems to re-appear every summer. Characterized by feminine detail and easy flowing fabrics, here are a few ways to embrace Boho Chic this summer...

Ultra Feminine Boho

This boho chic style focuses on clothing that is super girly with accents of lace and embroidery.

This sweet dress by "Lucky Brand" captures the ultra fem boho style with heavy floral embrodiery.

This yellow top by Hazel is uber feminine and bohemian.

Rugged Boho

This look roughs it up a bit but still keeps a easy feminine flowy feel. Throw on a flowy tunic and cutoff or distressed jean shorts or jeans and you've captured the "Rugged Boho" Look.

Wearing a pair of cowboy boots with this boho outfit instantly adds a rugged feeling.

Outfit by J.Crew

Modern Boho

Modern Boho is all about mixing bohmemian styles with modern updates. Its super chic and luxe. Mix modern accessories with maxi dresses for a modern boho feel.

Без названия by nekakona featuring Wet Seal dresses

Lauren Conrad in a Halle Silk Maxi Dress from Gypsy05

Of course, we also love this comfy and stylish Veronica M dress since it's currently one of the newest items in the store right now. The bell sleeves and pretty Missoni print are a classic 60-70s style.

So don't miss your opportunity to channel your inner Boho Girl this summer. Be fun, flirty, and independent!

Happy Shopping!!

Friday Finds - Consignment Clothing Boutiques in South Tampa

Jennifer was in college at UMASS-Amherst the first time she stepped foot into a Salvation Army. Ok...you can stop laughing or gagging or both but let us tell you she found the coolest Mickey Mouse t-shirt there in their little kids section. She wore that thing till there were holes in the arm pits and the color was almost unrecognizable. Since that day, her taste in pre-worn clothing has changed dramatically, sure the Salvation Army is still great for incidentals, but if you're looking for great designer or brand names, the consignment shops in South Tampa are the way to go! Here are a few of our favorites...

4225 W Bay to Bay Blvd

Tampa, FL 33629

Phone: 813.390.5180

Tues- Sat: 11:00 am-6:00 pm

Facebook

Formerly South Tampa Consignment, we love this little gem of a consignment store! Not only is Monica a consignor there but also a very frequent shopper (don't tell her hubby)! Sacre’ Bleu is owned by two savvy young women Amber and Angel who are super friendly and helpful. They focus on contemporary women’s clothing and accessories and they carry anything from department store brands to boutique brands. There really is something for everyone at every price point!!  Right now they have a ton of adorable sundresses and most are under $40. Get in there before they are gone!

Mention this blog and receive 10% off your purchase!!

4230 S MacDill Ave Ste F

Tampa, FL 33611

813.313.7210

M-F 10:00 am -6:00 pm

Sat: 10:00 am -5:00pm

http://www.shopfreshthreads.com/

Facebook

Monica checked out Fresh Threads last week and she was so glad she did! This quaint consignment boutique just opened up at a new location after sharing space with “Blue Moon Trading Company”. The new space is lovely, inviting and cheerful. She stayed for over an hour and sat in one of their big comfy white chairs and chatted with Elizabeth( one of the two owners) who filled her on the inventory. Fresh Threads specializes in women’s contemporary designer and vintage clothing and accessories. Elizabeth told Monica that so many of the items they have in the shop have never been worn before or have only been worn once!  Some of the pieces they currently have on consignment are by well known designers like Ella Moss, Lily Pulitzer, Hale Bob, Plenty by Tracy Reese and Milly. Their shoes and handbag collection varies from Steve Madden to Gucci and Louis Vuitton…Yes ladies we said Gucci and Louis Vuitton!!

Monica's lust items...

Louis Vuitton Monogram Viva Cite GM Shoulder Bag Purse. Approximate retail price $1080. Fresh Threads price $550!

Chanel cork and white patent wedge. New, never worn, in box. Size 37. Retail price $475. Fresh Threads price $356!

And Monica can’t stop thinking about this Ella Moss top! What a great price!

Ella Moss size Medium. Approximate retail price $118. Fresh Threads price $48!

Like these great steals aren’t enough, Fresh Threads has a very giving spirit. Every month they pick a charity and 10% of their profits are donated to that month’s charity. Shopping just got better! Plus they do monthly “Sip and Shops” where they spoil you with wine and munchies!

Become a fan on facebook (they're ALWAYS updating their pictures with new merchandise) or visit them online at http://www.shopfreshthreads.com/ for more information.

4912 S Lois Ave

Tampa, FL 33611

813.805.7600

http://www.triageconsignment.com/

Triage is South Tampa's biggest and oldest consignment store. In fact its as old as we are! It's been serving South Tampa since 1981. With 29 successful years under its belt, Triage definitely knows what they're doing. They not only carry women's clothing and accessories but a huge selection of furniture and home decor.

A trip to Triage won't leave you dissappointed they carry everything from casual wear to cocktail dresses. Their assortment of clothing varies from Ann Taylor to Lily Pulitzer with lots of boutique brands mixed in.  If you have money left over after shopping their clothing side stop over and check out their home section.

Interested in Consigning? Most feature shops are accepting consignors please contact them individually for their policies and procedures.

Personally, we love cleaning out our closets and consigning pieces that don't fit any more, we never wear, or are no longer in style. It’s so fun to pick up a check after our items have sold at our local favorite consignment stores. It’s like free money!! And you know what that means!! Time to shop! Spend your extra mad money with us!! You know you want to!!

Trend Tuesday -Sassy Summer Sandals

This summer, just like every other one, one of the must have accessories is sandals. If you live in Florida, you can pretty much wear them year round, but there's just something about the summer months that brings out some of the cutest and trendiest sandals that you just can't find in January, no matter where you live. So here are our a few of our favorite trends and picks for summer 2010...

Denim:

Denim is no longer just for jeans and jackets! For spring and summer, this versatile material has made its way to accessories in the form of shoes and bags. Denim gladiators are a great addtion to your "everyday shoe" wardrobe. They look great with any color and so many of the styles available are adorned with trendy metal studs or jewels.

These Steve Madden "Devinne" gladiators would look great with short shorts or cropped pants:

Denim Wedges:

Nothing says summertime sexy better than a great pair of wedges! I can't get over how adorable these Steve Madden "Smashh" denim wedges are! The mixing of textures and colors is amazing - the t-strap is a bronze animal print and filled with clear crystals...super sassy!!

These strappy "Sierra" wedges would look great with a crisp solid sundress or skinny white jeans...

Gladiator Glam:

We've mentioned Gladiators before but we love them so much we have no problem mentioning them again and again! Gladiator sandals came onto the sandal scene a few years ago and we are so happy they've stuck around! This season designers have kicked it up a notch by adding sequins, jewels and gleamy beading. The result? A gladiator that carries you into cocktail hour...

Pewter embellished gladiators: Ann Taylor Loft

Pair a shoe like this with a sequin tank and pants or skirt and you are ready for a night on the town!

Metallics:

If you've read the blog before, you know we're simply gaga over metallics this summer (particularly gold). We are loving the bronzy color of this gladiator from Nine West which we think makes it an extremely versatile sandal, but has just a little bit more pop with the reptile detailing on the strap... 

"Mimee" from Nine West

Brights:

Summer wouldn't be complete without a little bit of color! We love fuschias, kelly greens and corals. Wearing bright colors is an instant pick me up...Who can be sad while wearing hot pink? How about a little happiness for your tootsies?!

A summer garden party on your feet:

Disco-fleur sandals from J.Crew

Yellow wedges can add a beachy feel to any outfit...

Gianni Bini "Capri" available at Dillards

Frugal Finds: 

We love a bargain!! We ARE women after all!! We are totally in love with this website: Ami Club Wear! Tons of shoes and with an average price point around $20 and under you won't feel bad picking up a new shoe for everyday of the week!

How about these fabulous summer shoes?! They're sure to draw attention to your toes so make sure they're pretty! Perfect excuse to go and get a pedi!! And since these Flower Shoes are $7.99 there is plenty of money left over to throw in a mani as well!!

Friday Finds - The Dog Days of Summer

It's no secret that both of us love animals. Since there are no human babies in either of our households yet, we both tend to heap all of our love and attention on our "fur-babies."

Jen has a lovable Yorkie-Maltese pup named Chloe and two cats named Chai and Shank. Chloe loves to hang at the boutique. And at the tender age of one, Jen is still enduring the perils of puppyhood!

 Monica on the other hand, snuggles up to a sweet, mature 8 year old beagle named Penny Lane and 2 spunky cats named Dante and Raja. Jen keeps hoping some of Penny Lane's calmness will rub off on Chloe...but no luck so far!!

So this summer if you are looking for some great places to hang with your "fur babies", spoil them with cute pet accessories or need a local place to get them all cleaned up...Read on!

Visit Rickena Perry at Fetch.Fur.Love. for all your pet accesories. This adorable and pet friendly boutique features the latest pet fashions as well as practical items like food, dog leashes, and pet carriers. Located in Soho, Fetch.Fur.Love. is your one stop shop for all things doggie. Check out her cute pet beds - some of them even look like couches! They keep your pet comfy and bring style to your living room. She's having a super sale right now with some great deals! And, if she doesn't have what you're looking for in the shop, she is ready, willing, and able to special order you just about anything! Jen recently special ordered a cute little pink paisley harness for Chloe!

Runinng late or working late and need someone to walk, feed, and cuddle your dog? Call up Dayal Santosuosso owner of South Tampa Dog Walking. She is a tried and true animal lover that will take exceptional care of your dog when you can't be there! Going out of town for a much needed summer vaca and don't want to put your pet in a kennel? Dayal does overnight sitting as well! She's friendly and full of energy. We know your animals will love her just as much as we do!!

We realize and appreciate that not everyone is as fortunate as we are to be able to pop their dogs in the sink or bathtub for a quick rub a dubdub. That's where Green Dog Wash comes in! Located in Soho , GDW is all about turning a routine chore into something fun! They have six stainless steel, self service dog washing tubs and use nothing but eco-friendly shampoos and other doggie products. Prices for a self service bath start as low as $12 - and don't worry - one of GDW's friendly staff will be on hand to show you the ropes and help you when needed!

Need something a little more? Green Dog Wash also has an on site groomer, Leslie, and she is phenominal! She's been grooming Chloe for the past few months and Jen couldn't be more pleased with how super cute her puppy is when she picks her up.

The best part? GDW is cage free, so you drop your dog off at their appointment time and Leslie will call you when she's done. There's no wait time for your dog in a cramped cage surrounded by other barking dogs!

Dogfriendly.com We love this website!! It contains info on local dog friendly restaurants, parks, and lodging. Search any city for a list of places that treat your dog like part of the family. Our local favorite...Cafe Dufrain. A waterside restaurant on Harbour Island, Cafe Dufrain has a great outdoor patio that you can chill with your dog while enjoying delicious food and a view of Tampa Bay.

Dogfriendly.com is also great this time of year for us Floridians planning our hurricane evacuation routes. Just enter in your starting location and your potential ending location and dogfriendly.com will show you hotels and inns along the route that will accept pets. It's important not to forget the fur-babies when planning for hurricane season!

It's going to be a hot one this summer! So don't forget to keep your furry loves cool and well hydrated!

"Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole."

-- Roger Caras

Trend Tuesday - Rising Hemlines

(left to right) Dries Van Noten, Louis Vuitton, Chloe from the Telegraph

This spring and summer short shorts and short dresses have reemerged in a big way. "Hot Pants"  originally emerged in the permissive era of the 1970's and were actually shorts with an inseam of 2 inches or less.

According to blogger Waheeda Harris "Although mainly worn by teens and 20 somethings, hot pants became a favourite for club wear for the girls heading to the disco.

Vintage 1971 Sewing Pattern sold by mysweetiepiepie on etsy

Even fledging airline Southwest adorned its female flight attendants in 1973 in uniforms featuring hot pants suits with go go boots."

These days, the big question is how to wear them with out looking like a streetwalker. Here's our advice - stick to darker colored shorts. Black or a dark denim wash they will make the booty look smaller and hide imperfections..ahem cellulite.

J.Crew Chinos

When going short on the bottom keep the top loose and blousy. We like the trendy boho tops or maybe a loose racerback tank tucked in with a skinny belt.

Victoria's Secret Frayed Twill Short

Short shorts can be a classy addition to your date night arsenal. To dress an outfit up for night, pick a silk short add a cute wedge and metallic accessories and your ready to wow him on a Friday date night.

Amanda Seyfried at the Letters to Juliet Premier. Photo from Elle.com

Just as shorts have gotten shorter so have some of the hottest dresses this season. The bandage dress is a glamourous choice for evening.

Eight Sixty Bandage Dress Dillards.com

A short floral dress is perfect for daytime events.

Garden District Dress at anthropologie.com

With shorter dresses don't go too high on the shoes. Stick to a flat or a low wedge. And if you don't like your legs you can easily wear a short dress like a tunic and layer over a pair of skinny jeans or leggings.

Bailey 44 Butterfly Tunic and Joe's Jeans Leggings at Revolve Clothing

Happy Shopping Everyone!!