Gwyneth is getting a lot of flack about her spring fashion advice. Tooting high-end fashion designers with pricey clothing, this isn’t fashion advice for the masses…or is it?

First let me say, we’re addicted to The Real Housewives of ________(insert city here). While spectators to the drama, we’re also watching women who have lots of cash to spare for grooming, maintenance and their closets. Before that, Sex and The City was a must-watch successful TV show- again drama but ahh, THE FASHION! Fashionistas realized that purse cost $2,500, or how many Manolo Blahniks are priced under $600 a pair? So what’s the difference? Does the drama in these shows diminish the price tags attached?

And what about William and Kate’s shindig? Hats and outfits that carried hefty price tags (the hats alone… yikes), and probably would be worn once? Oh wait, it was The Royal Wedding (of the century), and the British who keep those secrets ….well…under their hats so to speak.

So why do we beat up on Gwyneth? Is it because she’s beautiful, successful, lives a privileged life or has such a cool husband, COLDPLAY’s Chris Martin? (ok a little jealous ).

I believe she’s created a niche market for her website. She’s upfront on her choices and the price tags. While those who can afford and have access to these choices appreciate her style sense, those who are recovering from the economy say “come on now, really?” But being a shopper and blogger, from Saks to Target, Bergdorf to Macy’s, I say – let’s take this a step further.

Years ago I had a persistent salesperson trying to convince me that the $800 LBD (little black dress) was an essential for my wardrobe. A basic I could use for years to come. The cost of the LBD amortized over the number of uses (yes, she was good). But $800 for a LBD  wasn’t realistic for me. And what if the drycleaner ruined the dress or I wanted to change it up after a year or two?  So I took that idea and put it in line of what was in my budget. I bought a LBD for $100 and had several good years with it. My “cost per wear” went from $80 to $10.

So if you’re not offended by Gwyneth’s fashion tips, note her suggestions and take those to the stores that are in your budget. Those items are out there…believe me. Retailers cater to their clientele, whether you have $18K or $200 to spend. I bet you can find a $1,295 Chloe Bow clutch “look-alike” from $25-$50. This is the “hunter and gatherer” in all of us…..oh wait…we call that shopping!

Click

So the message of this Blog is this: If you like it, copy it within your budget. Or just enjoy the eye-candy like we do with our TV shows. Or when the Porsche Carrera or Ferrari go rolling by….geez I don’t have one of those parked in my garage but damn…love the roar of that engine!

GUYS – LISTEN UP…people are sized up in the first 7 seconds (aka The 7-second Rule). Whether for colleagues, present or prospective employers, on-the-prowl mode or having your wife or S.O. proud to be on your arm, here’s a     5 minute read that makes a difference.

You’re home from work and going out for the evening. Change the wrinkled-smelly-worn-all day shirt?  What does it involve – a little effort and maybe $2.00 for dry cleaning?  Don’t be that guy…put your best face forward. I jumped on Bergdorf Goodman’s Style Tip.

Today’s Style Tip

A man’s shirt should always be fresh.

— Glenn O’Brien, How to be a Man

http://blog.bergdorfgoodman.com/mens-style/todays-style-tip-92

We’re gonna talk fresh in two different ways.

To get started, the  ‘get ready for evening out’ time line assumes there are no children involved. If  kids are involved AND home, add 5-10 minutes for hugs, how was   your day, how’s the homework? Even just a minute or two   to ‘touch base’ is a rewarding ritual.

Quick change artist – only 7 minutes at home before your night out: wash face, quick moisturizing, brush teeth, washcloth pit clean and privates, apply deodorant and maybe a little aftershave, comb hair AND put on a fresh shirt!

12 minutes: Change undies and socks and quick shave.

25 minutes: Add a shower. Spend a few minutes enjoying the water and wash away the stress of the day.

45 minutes: Get horizontal, close eyes and put your feet up before the aforementioned routine. Clear mind, breathe deeply. Stress adds years to your face (and wreaks havoc on the body) so let’s de-stress!

60 minutes:  Spend those extra 15 minutes with a beverage, your mail or the newspaper, or planning  for tomorrow. You’ll be more relaxed and feel ahead of the game.

Extra 5 minutes? Do 2-3 sets of push ups and sit ups. ENERGIZE!  It’ll get the blood flowing and lessen the guilt about missing the gym. If you incorporate this into your routine every other day, you’ll soon see results in your arms, shoulders and abs.

So what does this all mean?  You’ll look and feel 100% better. And whomever you’re spending the evening with will REALLY appreciate it.  Little effort for big rewards.

Now let’s really talk fresh…….

A shirt is an easy purchase to bring in a new season. Buy a few new shirts and ties. If you’re feeling especially dapper, add new socks to the mix to coordinate.  The season’s colors will give you a new look. Don’t keep dry cleaning those shirts that have seen a better day and need to move on…. there’s always those clothes you need for tinkering, hiking, home and car maintenance.  And as I always say, I can wear it to take out the trash! (in style!)

STAY TUNED FOR:  WHAT DO THE LADIES REALLY THINK (and talk about)?

If you haven’t heard, Friday Sept 10th is Fashion’s Night Out. Good idea. Why? I don’t know how it came about but I say let’s put a little energy and merriment into our lives as we begin the fall season. Lift our spirits as we remember September 11th. Check your stores for events or click on hyperlinks below. There are several chances to contribute to charities with purchase of particular merchandise. 

Have fun!

Window on 57th & 58th Street

BERGDORF GOODMAN  For events, click HERE

FOR SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, Click HERE

MACY’S  STORES

NORDSTROM EVENTS, Michigan Avenue

BLOOMINGDALE’S EVENTS

Alice & Olivia

Fortune Cookie Dress

A chic, head-turning silk look crafted with wide pleating below the waist that adds dimension and drama to the skirt. Princess seaming adds a tailored finish.

Gals have different needs when it comes to travel and I picked out a few of my favs. If you have an unlimited budget and luggage, go for all five!

This Prada navy shoulder bag is my #1 pick for everyday activity. It will be light-weight on the shoulder, zip top, zip pocket, easy to handle. Navy is good if you don’t want to stand out in a crowd, and with Prada, it’s always a winner.

Prada Navy Shoulder Bag

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This is definitely more fun for daytime adventures. I like the fuchsia color and Dior logo charm. The wooden-silvertone handles add to the bag’s interest. It appears to have metal feet, which is always a plus for keeping the bag clean. The tote shape is conducive to carrying small trinkets you acquire along your way.

Dior Canvas Tote

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This is all about the look and luxury of Lanvin. This is artwork to me and carrying around your essentials is secondary. Beautiful!

Lanvin Satin Cabas Tote

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Valentino gives us beautiful bags. This is a good bag for lunch, shopping afterward, a fun evening out. Great color. Will dress up anything you wear.

 Valentino Lacca Nuage Hobo

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You need the evening bag that will go anywhere.  This is it in my book!  It works for a nice lunch too. And get this: A detachable chain shoulder strap that you can wear as a necklace!  Your shoulder bag becomes a necklace and clutch!  So clever, Miu Miu! 

 Miu Miu Crystal-Strap Shoulder Bag

If I could only take two bags, (it’s tough to choose),  I’d pick the Prada for daytime and casual nights; the Miu Miu for fancy day and night events.

As always, I provide Hyperlinks to take you directly to the site for further inquiry. Left Click on the bag name and drool!  Fun-fun-fun!

Marc Jacobs Side-Ruched Dress

I’m starting to get pumped about the Grammy Awards!  Eight days until I land at LAX!  I’ll need to concentrate on the “wardrobe” and put my outfits together this weekend.  I’ve been mulling it around for a while and I think I have it down.

Here is a great party dress.  Check out the site. Bergdorf Goodman is having a super on-line sale and you may find just what you’re looking for!

JASON WU

Belted Silk Shirtdress at

Bergdorf Goodman

Zac Posen

Colorblock Vector Dress at

Neiman Marcus

Versace

Sleeveless Back Corset Dress at

Saks Fifth Avenue

These dresses are very different but they all say, “Look at me!”  Love it!  I can see myself wearing any one of these and feeling terrific; feeling good that I’m wearing something so pretty to look at.  They caught my eye and I’m bringing them to you to say this: When you see a dress that you can’t forget and gives you a good feeling, don’t ignore it. You’ll always feel great wearing something you love, and that will reflect in your appearance and attitude.  Strut your stuff, girly-girl!  Go for it!

Click on this link, Bergdorf Goodman-The Store-6th Floor-Dresses to appreciate dresses for a special occasion. Piazza Sempione; Etro; Armani; Ralph Lauren Black label, among others, offer beautiful fabrics and designs. 

Can’t find that special top you’re looking for?  Check out Bergdorf Goodman’s suggestions and you won’t be disappointed!