Fashion

White Hot Fashions!

January 8, 2008

Nothing says, “sophistication,” or “style” like a timeless, white cotton shirt. Rocking a well-fitted white shirt can take you from meetings in the boardroom to a romantic dinner with your significant other. This always-fashionable staple comes in many variations and styles and can be worn throughout the seasons.

Tucked under a sleek, professional blazer or paired with wide-legged jeans, a white shirt has a unique way of always making you feel chic and pulled together.

Whether you favor a traditional crisp button-down or a sexy wrap-around style with ¾ length sleeves, you can never go wrong when wearing this classic article of clothing (especially if it has a little lycra or spandex blended with it).

Like our favorite Project Runway style guru, Tim Gunn, says, “A white shirt is a must-have for every woman’s wardrobe.”

Check out some of these fashionable styles:

Available at Nordstrom for $163 (for those of you who want to splurge) www.nordstrom.com

Available at Bebe for $69 www.bebe.com

Available at Macy’s for $42 www.macys.com

Available at Macy’s for $59 www.macys.com

Available at Target for $17.99 www.target.com

Available at the Gap for $42 www.gap.com

Available at Bloomingdale’s for $79 www.bloomingdales.com

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Category: Fashion | 5 Comments

BeanpYe Served Fresh & Hot!!

January 2, 2008

I know that many of you had a merry holiday season with a fair share of good food and delicious drinks, but I hope you’re not full just yet. There’s always room for dessert and pie is always on point — BeanpYe that is.

As I surfed the web a few weeks ago, I came across fellow BG Sabrina Thompson’s jewelry line, BeanpYe (www.beanpye.com). I was immediately drawn to her beautiful and ornate bracelets, earrings and embellished blazers. The extremely unique name, BeanpYe, which was actually Sabrina’s childhood nickname reflects her creative and cutting-edge designs.

With stylish, one-of-a-kind hand-made jewelry and custom-embellished blazers, BeanpYe is sure to satisfy your fashion appetite. Check out my Q&A with Sabrina:

Prior to officially launching BeanpYe in 2005, were you working in fashion?
Nope. I was a television producer working with several major networks in NYC.

BGG:What inspired/motivated you to start BeanpYe?
Sabrina: Several things…the fact that I knew I had a God given talent of crafting things with my hands and it was literally sitting there going to waste because I wasn’t using it. Also, the fact that I was tired of shopping and finding the same old generic looks. I don’t shop at the Gap or Banana Republic type of stores because they are ordinary. I feel that no one person is ordinary so why look ordinary? We all have a special spark or uniqueness about us. Why not create something for the people that express that?

BGG:What does the BeanpYe brand include?
Sabrina: Bold and ornate custom designed jewelry is what Beanpye is known for. Also, by special requests I will create custom designed blazers for men, women and children.

BGG:What three words best describe BeanpYe?
Sabrina: Fearless, funky and exclusive

BGG:Describe the BeanpYe customer.
Sabrina: A confident and unconventional person who approaches life with an avante garde, confident and multidimensional outlook on life. They range from industry executives to young college and high school students. My customers simply aren’t afraid to go against the grain and express themselves through the medium of art.

BGG:What gets your creative juices flowing when designing a piece?
Sabrina: A hot track with a dope baseline from any artist who doesn’t sound generic…some examples…Outkast, Erykah Badu, John Mayer, Nina Simone and more. Also, anything that is moving…the sounds or sight of water, a washing machine, subway, kids playing…

BGG:Has making clothes and jewelry always been your passion?
Sabrina: No. Actually it’s tied roughly about 4th or 5th on my list. First comes working with kids, 2nd writing/composing songs, 3rd is sports, 4th and 5th is creating eclectic social events and fashion.

BGG:Is all of your jewelry handmade? If so, what materials do you use? Sabrina: Yes it’s all either handmade or hand painted. I use everything ranging from acrylic paint, feathers, brass, turquoise, ivory, oak wood to indigenous stones from West Africa.

BGG:What fabrics do you use to create your blazers?
Sabrina: Wool, tweed, polyester & silk blends. However, let’s be clear…I only embellish blazers. I will take a blazer that has already been crafted and basically revamp it (changing the lining, buttons, outward appearance) to make it a one of a kind.

BGG: Is any of your merchandise sold in stores/boutiques? If so where? Also, do you foresee opening your own boutique in the near future?
Sabrina: Actually, as for now…it is an online boutique. I am looking into a few stores to showcase it in only for a limited time in 2008 in New York City; however, I have no visions of opening up a boutique. We are living in an age of major technology and many things are done in cyberspace. It’s all about keeping overhead low and keeping the product really exclusive. So far the online access and communication has been working out just great!

BGG:What celebrities have worn and/or requested your merchandise?
Sabrina: India.arie, Alicia Keys, Vivica Fox, Anthony Hamilton, Regina King, Nas, and new pop sensation Keri Hilson. Also, countless news anchors and entertainment correspondents on NBC, CBS, ABC, MSNBC, BET, FOX, E!, Court TV, CNN and HGTV.

BGG:What do you want your customers to feel when they buy your jewelry/blazers?
Sabrina: Energized, youthful and daring…like they are the best thing since sliced bread!

BGG:What advice would you give to a fellow BG who wants to start her own jewelry/fashion business?
Sabrina: Keep it simple and don’t over think it. Also, you don’t need a fortune to start your company. I started with roughly $350 and I learned out to be resourceful, yet creative! Don’t get bogged down with tons of business plans. I’ve never been one to write down my goals. I keep them in my head because while I’m busy writing it on paper…someone is busy physically making it happen. Keep your goals high yet obtainable and chip away at it week by week. Also, give yourself a break when you need it and remember if it’s YOUR business…the only pressure you put on yourself is the pressure you create. Be easy and have fun!

BGG:I noticed on your website that you travel to different cities across the country showcasing BeanpYe, do you have any upcoming events where BGs can find your merchandise?
Sabrina: As of now, I am finalizing my summer calendar. Being that I am an educator in the NYC school system, I leave my summers free to travel with BeanpYe. I am looking to do several festivals and private show-casings around the country in 08. I’ll keep you posted. Thanks for interviewing me!

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Category: Fashion, Interviews | 5 Comments

Glove Love

December 18, 2007

For those BGs who live in warm climates and don’t have to worry about the unfavorable cold, wintry weather, be thankful! It’s December so it’s freezing in both of my favorite cities — Chicago and New York.

That means layering and keeping my body as warm as possible is essential to getting anything done outside of my cozy homes during these long, frigid months.

For me, the first thing on my body that gets cold are my hands; that’s why I have several pairs of gloves to keep in the pockets of each of my winter coats.

A nicely lined pair of gloves can keep your fingers toasty and fashionable!

Check out some of these functional, yet fabulous pairs of gloves.

Coach Leather Gloves Available at www.coach.com for $298

Australian Ugg Sheepskin Gloves Available at www.nordstrom.com for $140

Isotoner Cashmere-Lined Leather Gloves Available at www.isontoner.com for $40

Chain Leather Gloves Available at www.nordstrom.com for $88

Forzieri White Italian Leather Gloves Available at www.forzieri.com for $79

Isotoner Stretch Leather Fleece-Lined Gloves Available at www.isotoner.com for $35

Cashmere gloves available at www.walmart.com for $12

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Category: Fashion | 6 Comments

Iman Launches New Line

December 13, 2007

This seems like a busy week for our BG fashion entrepreneurs. First the Simmons sisters announce the expansion of their line, Pastry earlier this week and now supermodel and fashion icon, Iman, is launching Iman Global Chic, which will include handbags and accessories on Saturday (Dec. 15th) exclusively on the Home Shopping Network.

Her internationally inspired fashion style will definitely be reflected in this affordable line. As we BGs already know, Iman also has a wonderful cosmetic line which she created with us in mind.

Here are a few of her pieces from Global Chic:

Glamourous day planner $19.95

Vintage inspired handbag $54

Gold-toned cuff $49.95

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Saleisha Strikes a Winning Pose!

December 13, 2007

So our BG Saleisha took the coveted spot as America’s Next Top Model 2007. From the very beginning I had a feeling that she was going to win the fashion-focused reality competition. Her bubbly personality coupled with her unyielding drive to succeed made her the top choice for the spot. Although I didn’t like her Bono-esque hairdo, she did have a killer walk that rivaled Naomi Campbell!

If you watched the show, do you think she deserved the title?

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Sweet Treats

December 10, 2007

The Simmons sisters are at it again. This time they’re cooking up tasty fashions to complement their already sweet line of sneakers – Pastry. The extended brand will now include a handbag collection with messenger bags, hobos, bowler bags and duffels as well as junior sportswear.

Ranging in prices from $13-50, the line is sure to be a hit with young girls and women who have a sweet tooth for Pastry.

Next up for the reality-TV stars – lingerie and jewelry. There’s apparently no stopping these entrepreneurial sisters.

The line will be available in stores such as, Against All Odds, Mony, Jimmy Jazz and www.drjays.com starting January 25, 2008.

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Category: Fashion | 5 Comments

Time Out!

December 4, 2007

A watch can say a lot about a person. That’s why every BG should invest in a classic timepiece.

I must admit, when the battery dies in my watch, it might as well be broken or lost because I stop wearing it because I never seem to get around to replacing the battery. I haven’t worn my favorite stainless steel DKNY watch in over a year due to my inability to find the time to keep it ticking.

Due to the fact that I haven’t worn my favorite and only watch in so long, I now feel the need to have a brand new one. I’m not suggesting that you go out and buy a watch if you only need to get a new battery, but I am saying to treat yourself to a timepiece that expresses your personality. I’m hoping to find a beautifully wrapped watch under my Christmas tree this holiday season. Remember, a beautiful watch can act as jewelry and add pizzazz to any ensemble.

Here are a few that tickle my fancy!