Friday, November 30, 2012

Target + Neiman Marcus: An Unprecedented Partnership

This legendary new collection boasts 24 major designers (everyone from Tory Burch to Oscar de la Renta) in a major collaboration between Target and Neiman Marcus.  The partnership is in-genius since most Neiman Marcus shoppers opt to shop at Target for necessities instead of (gasp!) Wal Mart or just the regular grocery store.

24 designers came up with over 50 items that will be launched on December 1st (that is tomorrow).  The items are all reasonable priced between $7.99 and $499.99 with most staying under $60!  All of the items will be available at all Target and Neiman Marcus stores, online at both websites, and also available at any Last Call locations starting at 8 AM tomorrow morning!  Set your alarm clocks and don't stay out late tonight- this is going to be better than Missoni for Target, I promise!

Here are the items I am picking up from the collection:

Alice + Olivia Bike- I mean it's a no-brainer.  If you are going to ride a bike around town- it NEEDS to be this one

Joseph Altuzarra cocktail glasses and shaker.  I mean HELLO- perfect for the new pad!

Joseph Altuzarra Tray- going to look so chic lying on my coffee table

Lela Rose top- $69.99- I wish Neiman's was always this cheap!

This is the only moment I've ever wanted kids (right now)!  This dress, AH! By Marchesa- is gorg!

Another score for my apt- Tracy Reese Dessert Plates- $39.99 (that is like almost as cheap as Ikea!)


Happy Target + Neiman Marcus Shopping!
XOXO
Little Miss Wade

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Living the Good Life: Moving to Dallas

Hi Friends!

I am so eager to announce I am officially moving to Dallas Saturday! I have been commuting for the past few months and it's just not cutting it anymore.  I am so excited to hang out with all my BFFs over there ALL the time and be in the greatest city in the world (besides Ft. Worth, of course) permanently.  

With moving, comes a lot of freaking trouble.  My closet has grown exponentially in the last few months (thank you Neiman Marcus) and I'm not just talking clothes.  I have so many more handbags and shoes too, since my last move in May.  Packing is going to be a such. a. pain.  

I have gotten to buy basically everything new (furniture wise) which has been SO fun and exciting.  Furniture shopping isn't as fun to me as clothes shopping, most of all because I like instant gratification and my coffee table isn't being delivered till Sunday.  The anticipation is killing me! Also, buying a dress to wear like 1 or 2 times is a no-brianer, but a couch is like a dress I have to wear everyday for the next couple of years, AH!!!

The style I'm going for is rustic shabby chic.  It's a new design style- I thought up in my head.  I bought a shabby chic style couch, chair and coffee table.  I am mixing it with a granite end table and I am on a big hunt for an antelope print rug.  Unfortunately, antelope don't just run freely on the golf course behind my house, so I am going to have to scourer the internet for the perfect print.  I am going to accessorize with various gold baubles.  Pictures to come! 

I am also hoping to pick up this beauty from Restoration Hardware.  This will add just enough rustic, as well.  I have seen this in person in a friend's house and it looks super chic with baubles hanging from it.  


Restoration Hardware Iron Stag Head 
So, whenever you bring over your housewarming gift (I prefer white wine to red) don't forget to bring something that will match my rustic shabby chic apartment! 

XOXO
Little Miss Wade

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

What To Wear To: A Work Holiday Party

Many friends have been asking me what they should wear to their work Christmas events.  Well, easy for me, because I work in a very fashion forward environment where anything glamorous goes.  But, I understand many of my friends are off managing hedge funds, making wishes come true via Make-A-Wish Foundation, and auditing various companies, where sequins and animal print isn't exactly "dress code." Here are my top three picks for dressing cute, holiday-ish, yet professional:


Theory Bonbi Swingy Crepe Dress
DVF Jori Cap Sleeve Dress
Alice + Olivia Victoria Peplum Dress
I would probably add a wrap to the first dress in a fun color.  Feel free to wear fun tights (on trend!) with any of these dresses.  Wear simple pumps to stay sophisticated, but accessorize with fun jewelry to show your personality.  Since your Christmas holiday party is most likely out of the office, cocktails will be served, and this is your chance to have fun with co-workers! 

If you aren't looking to buy anything new, I am sure that you have something in your closet that would work.  Anything can be dressed up with fun shoes or new jewelry.  If you are looking for some new baubles, be sure to check out Charm and Chain (they are offering 25% until Dec. 14 use code: "CC25OFF"). 

Happy Holiday Parties!
XOXO
Little Miss Wade

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

RHOBH Episode 4: RECAP!

We have a lot to get to today, so bullet form it is. Pay attention, this episode was good! 

1. Adrienne and Lisa drama is like as old as Goldilocks and the three bears.  I'm so over it. 

2. Kim has a small heart tattoo on her back, that just made me like her even less (if that was possible). #trashy

3.  YOlanda is suddenly the center of attention- I am not even sure how I feel about this.  Why does she do her own laundry? BTW what the heck is her son's name? Anwar??????

4. Brandi is now writing a book. EW. who is going to read that? No one wants to hear how she's "slept with half of Beverly Hills."  Be a little classier. IS that possible for you?  You could even take advice from Kim... 

5. Alexis (Kyle's daughter) failed her permit test 2 times, one more and you are tied with me, sweetheart.

6. Brandi is now a model? She looks scary.  I think its her stunt double, not actually her.  She needs money? How is she a HOUSEWIFE? Looks like she needs to be on the new CBS show, "Two Broke Girls."

7. Girls trip- this screams the kinda drama I like- Ojai, California: here the witches come!  

8. Every episode where Camille makes an appearance makes me happy. She hasn't been dealt the best hand in the deck of cards and she's way better off than the rest of the loonies in the looney bin. 

9.  5 bedrooms in Ojai- you think that they just told them they were going to have to stay in tents outside the castle.  Share a bed, you spoiled brats. 

10. Kim is seeming more sober in this episode- which is good for her, but boring for us. 

11. I'm not even sure what happened in the last like 30 seconds of the episode but I DO know that Brandi has a major potty mouth and my Mom would have washed her mouth out with soap the instant that little f bomb dropped from her lips.  

XOXO
Little Miss Wade

Monday, November 26, 2012

Star Struck: Victoria Beckham

A few weeks ago, Victoria Beckham popped into the flagship Neiman Marcus store in downtown Dallas for a private event.  I was lucky enough to stop by her photo op and see Mrs. Posh Spice in person.  WOW, she truly left me speechless.  I actually saw her smile! She is so so so tiny in person, not just skinny but very petite.  I think when God made her, he thought, "I'm going to replicate Barbie as close as possible."  (Unfortunately, he did not think the same thing when he made me)

Victoria Beckham hosted 3 events at Neiman Marcus stores across the U.S.  She started her "tour" at the Beverly Hills NM, then hit up the Las Vegas NM, and concluded her big trip at the Dallas flagship NM.  She held a fashion show at each store for a select number of top shoppers.


image via my iphone
Victoria's (yes, I saw her once and we are already on a first name basis) collection launched in 2008 and immediately became a success.  VB isn't just a movie star starting a line and selling it at Kohl's (sorry Paris Hilton), she has been a best dressed star since she was a Spice Girl.  Her body-conscious gowns quickly became a staple on the red carpet and with the introduction of handbags and sunglasses to her collection, there is something for everyone by Victoria Beckham.  See below for my favorite things:


Victoria Beckham Square-Frame Acetate Sunglasses
Victoria Beckham Two-tone Leather Shoulder Bag






the back is the best part!
images via net-a-porter
Victoria Beckham Crossover-back 
twill and scuba dress

XOXO
Little Miss Wade

Friday, November 23, 2012

Black Friday Shopping Time!

Good Morning to my favorite little shoppers! 
Happy Black Friday!!!
I have gathered you a list of the best sales I have found:

  • Kendra Scott (online)- 20% off everything with code "GIFTS20"
  • Neiman Marcus (in stores 8-10 AM Friday only)- take an extra 33% sale items.  Plus, spend $100 or more anywhere in the store and receive a $50 gift card
  • CUSP (online only)- extra 20% off all sale items, no code needed
  • Ann Taylor (online and in stores)- 40% off full price items and extra 25% off sale styles with code "THANKS"
  • Gap (online and in stores)- women's & men's sweaters $19, women's pj sets $19, plus up to 60% through Saturday (online) and Sunday (in store), no code needed
  • Anthropologie (online)- extra 25% off all sale items through Sunday, no code needed
  • Lord and Taylor (online and in stores)- take 20% off everything, use code "THANKS"
  • Bloomingdales (online) - up to 50% through Sunday.  Plus for every $200 you spend you get $25 off.  Free shipping through Christmas, no code needed
  • DVF (online and in stores)- extra 30% off sale items and free shipping with code "HOLIDAYSALE"
  • Saks Fifth Avenue (in store 8-12 PM only)- save up to 60% off select styles, no code needed
  • Hanky Panky (online)- save up to 75% on their Private Sale, no code needed 
  • Bergdorf Goodman (in store and online)- save up to 40% on women's contemporary ready to wear and shoes, no code needed 
  • J. Crew (in store and online)- 25% off everything and free shipping, use code "COLOR25"
  • Piperlime (online) - 20% off everything, use code "ME"
  • Tory Burch (online and in stores) - spend $300 get 20% off, spend $500 get 25% off, spend $750 get 30% off, use code "GIFTFORYOU" 
  • TIBI (online) - up to 60% off ready to wear and shoes, no code needed 
  • Banana Republic (online and in stores)- 40% everything, use code "BRFRIDAY"
  • Calypso St. Barth (online and in stores) - 25% off regular price items, 50% sale items, use code "thankyou25"
  • SHOPBOP (online)- spend $250 get 20% off, spend $500 get 25% off, spend $1000 get 30% off, spend $1500 get 35% off, with code "BIGEVENT12"
I'd love to hear any other good sales you come across on this joyous shopping holiday! 

Happy Shopping!
XOXO
Little Miss Wade

(Please note: in all posts, I link back to each website where I get things, just scroll over the title of the item or designer and it will change colors to show the link.  Simply, click on it to go that website)

Thursday, November 22, 2012

Happy Thanksgiving: Get Your Flu Shot!

Happy Thanksgiving loves!  Unfortunately, I am missing all fun holiday weekend activities (had plans to go to the TCU/UT game today, Thanksgiving dinner Friday night plus my BFF Emmy's bday party) because I have the flu.  I am still running above 101 degree temperature and go between sweating and layering on every piece of clothing I own.  

Note: If you haven't gotten a flu shot yet, please friends, it's a must do. 

BUT, this certainly isn't going to damper my holiday spirit! My favorite Thanksgiving tradition: The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade comes on NBC around 9 am central time and I have a front row seat (via my bed!).  Also- I plan on scoping out all online sales for a big post tomorrow.  There is nothing better than shopping on Black Friday; I love the crowds, the aggression and the excitement to save $!  I've advised all friends (and readers if you live in FW, you too) to bring me any Thanksgiving dinner leftovers.  I have a really cute mask (think: asian tourist afraid to get the bird flu) that I can put on if you want to come over and visit.  

That's all for today little gobblers: get your flu shot and bring me some leftovers!

XOXO
Little Miss Wade

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Do YOU have a shopping strategy?

I feel like we must call it a strategy, because after all it is a sport. Sports have strategies right? Clearly, you are talking to the girl who in-a-really-intense-moment scored on her own goal in high school soccer.  Sorry about that Coach Lawhon. 

Anyways, I really feel like I can’t just walk into a store without an agenda.  However, you can definitely just browse on over to your favorite website and scroll for hours on end, if you don’t have anything else to do.  This is usually how I spend my Sundays.  Ok, and my lunches.  Ok, and most weeknights.  There it is, out on the open, I am a (shopping) addict.  No 12 step program needed here! 

Whenever you walk into a store, you need purpose.  You are (usually) coming to buy a specific thing.  You need a new pair of jeans, a dress for a wedding, a pair of shoes to match an outfit, etc.  So, you know what you are looking for and know what you want.  Sometimes, you are just browsing.  In that case- no game plan needed just a budget.  (AH... the B word…budget…)

I will tell you my strategy.  My GAME PLAN, if you will.  I walk into a store with purpose.  I am going to look for a new something.  I try to always buy something that I can incorporate with SOMETHING else in my closet.  I will usually scout out the entire store.  I will pick up anything immediately I CANNOT AND WILL NOT live without.  Then, on a second trip around the store, I will pick up things I’d love to try on and see how they look.  I almost always try on in store, unless I’m in a big rush.  I scout the store a third time to insure I am not missing anything before hitting the dressing rooms.  While I am trying things on I like to ask myself certain questions like:
  • Do I absolutely LOVE this? Can I live without it? Am I going to dream about it tonight?
  • Is this flattering? Does it accentuate the good things and hide the bad???
  •  Does this go with anything I already own? Will it mix and mingle in my closet?
  • Do I love this enough to wear in the next week?
  • Is it worth the retail price?*
*Very important question.  Sometimes you might like an item a lot, a whole lot.  But if you are on a B word (ekkk...budget!!!) you can't spend X amount on something, sigh.  BUT, don’t get sad! Stores have sales people! They have promotions.  I try not to buy anything full price.  I try to wait until there is a sale or promotion! 

Once I’ve answered these questions, I will know what I am purchasing.  After I try everything on I hit the accessories section.  Whether it be shoes, jewelry, tights, etc. this is the next place I go.  At this point you know what you are buying clothes-wise and can figure out what accessories you are going to need to make the outfit complete.

How do you shop? I would love to hear your strategy! 


XOXO
Little Miss Wade

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Dear Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,

No one watches your show because they enjoy watching a 15 year old learn how to drive and the lamest dinner party I've ever seen.  I taught myself how to drive and ended up right in a pole in my driveway. I'm beginning to think I am more entertaining than y'all.  I'm expecting some good drama this season or else I am going to loose interest quicker than Kim can check herself out of rehab.

Now onto the recap...

Watching Kim on RHOBH is like the worst second-hand embarrassment I've ever had.  You're daughter is going to prom, why are you making chicken salad? No 18 year old girl on the way to prom is craving chicken salad and cupcakes.  She's craving Smirnoff Ice and a diet cherry limeade (from Sonic) spiked with vodka.

YOlanda (that's not a typo, I really feel like it should have the emphasis on the YO) truly has a gorgeous house overlooking Malibu.  However, if I hear how she designed and built the entire house again, I will take back my statement.  Judging by how much help you have at your dinner parties, I can hardly believe you lifted a finger on the production of your billion dollar house in LA.

If there was one thing that really stuck out of this episode, it was a quote by YOlanda, "Theres nothing uglier than a drunk woman."  This chick clearly didn't go to college.  I would have been seriously chugging that wine (Taylor style) if I would have been at the dinner party that was centered around her husbands piano perfomance.  GAG ME.  Also could you be anymore flashy about your husbands's Grammys?

As per usual Lisa is ignoring someone and thinking that she is better than everyone else.  Adrienne and Paul are still together on the show but divorced in real life.  When does this drama hit the show?  I bet soon, after this lame week, because Bravo will need the ratings.   Kyle tries to teach her 15 year how to parallel park in her new Porsche, which seems normal in Beverly Hills.  I learned in Sears Driving School in like a 1995 Toyota Camry (post-pole incident). 

I hope the drama starts rolling soon...this episode was pretty LAME and reminded me more of dinner time at a retirement community.  

Love,
(A very disappointed yet dedicated RHOBH fan)
Little Miss Wade

Monday, November 19, 2012

Second Skin Leather


Recently I attended a presentation by Ken Downing (Neiman Marcus Fashion Director) in which he said, “Leather is the new fabric of our lives.  Goodbye cotton!”  To me, this speaks volumes.  It really is the next huge thing!  I was going to add some leather pieces to last Monday’s post but decided they really need their own column!  Here are just a few of my favorite leather or faux-leather items for Winter.  Keep in mind- they are suppose to be second skin.  Confidence is key! 

YOU NEED LEATHER LEGGINGS.  I don’t care if you are a size 0 or 14, they are a serious winter necessity.  I style mine with a longer sweater/tunic (below left) but feel free to wear a normal top of your choice (below right). 

Neiman Marcus Vince Leather Leggings
Nordstrom's Mimi Chica Faux Leather Leggings


The Vince leather leggings are going you a pretty penny, but being the true shopaholic I am, I have found you a pair that won't cost you more than your weekly Starbucks addiction! I personally own the faux pair and no one can tell the difference! 

I saw this Urban Outfitter's Leather Peplum Top on a friend on Facebook and knew I had to  have it.  Thanks to Kristen K. for finding this gorg top! It looks so great in person and the peplum is so in right now.  


For the daring- this Madewell Zipline Skirt in Leather is HOT HOT HOT.  Leather is going to be huge for spring and I think you will be able to transition this skirt perfectly.  Wear now with: tights, booties and a sweater. Wear later with: black pumps and some fresh-from-the-beach-tan legs.  


I am truly lusting after every piece of Diane Von Furstenburg’s fall/winter collection.  I dreamed about this Medya Leather Dress the other night and was saddened to wake up and realize it wasn’t in my closet.  I am going to have to wait till it goes on sale to purchase, but isn't it so chic! 




XOXO
Little Miss Wade




Friday, November 16, 2012

Making A Statement: Stephen Dweck Cathedral Hoop Earrings



I hadn’t even seen these stunning earrings until they popped up on my Neiman Marcus homepage this past weekend.  Are they not so fashionable and fun? It is truly impossible to pick just one pair but I think that I would go with the green ones below! 


images via Neiman Marcus

TGIF Friends! I have big weekend plans... a welcome home to my BFF Emmy from NYC & my cousin Meredith (my most loyal blog follower!)
AND 
JRU is finally home for Thanksgiving and we have a good friend's wedding Saturday night...Cheers!

XOXO
Little Miss Wade

P.S- I am going to the Fort Worth Blow Dry Bar for the first time Saturday. Has anyone been? I'd love to hear any tips! 

Thursday, November 15, 2012

KARDASHIAN KRAZY!!!

Today, I must introduce you to Rob Kardashian's sock collection: Arthur George by Robert Kardashian.  They are exclusive to Neiman Marcus and they are the perfect gift for any man in your life:
Camo for the hunter
(this is the pair JRU will receive)
Purple Chevron for the TCU fan
Graffiti for the artsy guy
Rugby-stripe for the athletic man
Preppy for the...well...preppy
Zebra print for the animal lover

and my personal favorite- the Zig Zags:

Also happens to be one of the Top 100 gifts by NM- wonder how that happened?

Happy sock shopping!
XOXO
Little Miss Wade 





Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Thank God For Friends and Family (Discount)



I missed out on a really fun weekend trip to the UGA/Auburn game last weekend due to Vertigo.  Has anyone ever had this? Shout out to my BFFS: Sarah, Banks and Marjorie- so sad I missed y’all!

Anyways, I was in need of a major pick me up.  Luckily, Ann Taylor, Ann Taylor LOFT, Banana Republic, and GAP were all having their Friends and Family Discount (30% or more off!!!) this weekend. 

I went in strictly looking for sweaters.  I have really been on a mission for large (inexpensive) chunky sweaters.  I need sweaters that I could throw on with pants for work or jeans for weekend wear.

Unfortunately (for my bank account) but fortunately (for my closet)- I came out with SO much more.  Here are my top three picks from my purchases:

Banana Republic Lily Leopard Tablet Case- I didn’t even know this was a tablet case until I saw it online.  I am totally going to ignore that part and use it as a cute envelope clutch! I am pairing it with a black cocktail dress, gorgeous necklace, and pumps for a wedding I am attending Saturday night. 

Banana Republic Textured Sweater Cape (in snow white)- This fits perfectly.  I have tried on several poncho/cape like sweaters this season and this one is truly a dream.  I wore it yesterday and got a million complements! It is a bit of a splurge- but I definitely think it is worth it! 
Gap Studio Sweater- The color selection for this sweater is truly amazing! 10 different colors to choose from- where will you even begin? I picked out the lush green (for my Foo-Foo as I am her personal shopper).  I really don't think you can go wrong here- as they are ultra comfortable! 

LUCKILY for you, I got a little promo in my inbox yesterday from Banana Republic/Gap/Old Navy to share for 30% off (and 35% off if you have a BR/Gap/Old Navy card) .
Use: GETSTARTED at checkout.  Online only.

XOXO
Little Miss Wade

P.S- get those booties from Banana Republic I posted on Monday! 

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Thoughts on Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (RHOBH)

Okay- let's talk RHOBH.

Last week I went to my BFF Natalie's, aka The Investment Boenker, house for dinner and to watch the premiere.  She made some fab tacos and a great salad.  Last night I watched on TIVO after a yummy dinner with my BFF Christal.  I do love to wine and dine.  

If you don't watch the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills you are missing out on some serious trashy TV entertainment. After the premiere last week, Natalie and I were both a little disappointed.  For one, Camille isn't on the show this season.  She's hot and brings a lot to the table, even if it is her Kelsey Grammer divorce drama.  But, we have faith in our favorite housewives and know they will continue to amaze us with their $25,000 sunglasses, rehab stunts, and plastic surgery parties.  I'm going to go over the first two episodes, because I know you are dying to know my thoughts.

First, let's go over their new tag-lines for the season (and my commentary on each) because it pretty much sums up them up:

Kyle: "I'm born and raised in Beverly Hills; this is my town."
How does that new Maserati drive? I personally thought you should have gotten a Porsche since you named your daughter Porscha.  

Yolanda: "I like to have fun but I don't play games."
You're a foreign model married to a rich guy in Hollywood...you definitely play games.  

Adrienne: "Know your friends, show your enemies the door."
Did your husband show your enemies to the door? Or is that why you got a divorce?

Lisa: "Life isn't all diamonds and rosé but it should be."
All I have to say is: Amen.

Taylor: "I fought too hard for this zip-code to go home now."
You, my friend, seriously need a cheeseburger before you break in half.  

Kim: "Life is a journey and I'm finding myself everyday."
Honey, that is what everyone who goes to rehab says. Be original. 

Brandi: "Money doesn't give you class, it just gives you money."
And Brandi with an "i", you are living proof.  

Additional thoughts:

  • Is Kim really sober?  She's definitely not acting like it.  My dad's golfing buddy used to date her, I have to get the deets.  
  • Lisa's new house is very modern and cool.  I love it.  Especially because that other thing was so gaudy.  (Almost as gaudy as her pepto-bismal pink Birkin.)
  • I feel like we are constantly celebrating something at Villa Blanca.  Will you please go to another venue? You live in Beverly Hills for God's sake.
  • The second episode was practically all about Porscha's birthday party and it looked more like the TX State Fair than a children's birthday party in the 90210.  
What did you think of the madness?

XOXO
Little Miss Wade