NEW YEAR | 7 Ways I'm Preparing for 2012

Happy New Year
Every New Years I make a few resolutions. I make promises to myself to do this, don’t do that, accomplish this and forget about that. And although I create them with good intentions, I sometimes lack the discipline needed to see them through to the next year. So this year I plan to take the pressure off of myself. I don’t think I will be making any new monumental resolutions. But before the clock strikes 12:00 AM on January 1, 2012, here are seven things I plan to have accomplished. Gotta get myself ready for a fantastic year ahead.

1. Complete my 2012 vision board once and for all! (I am just about done with it.)

2. Clean my apartment from top to bottom (There's just way too much stuff around the place.)

3. Purge more shoes and clothing for donation (Ugh! Again way too much stuff in my closet.)

4. Prepare myself for a complete body cleanse (I partied and ate a little bit too much this holiday.)

5. Have a meeting with myself (Time to sit in silence and mentally preparing for all the changes I know are coming in 2012.)

6. Create a monthly budget plan (I definitely have to shop less & save more.)

7. Appreciate what 2011 have brought me! (I can't go into the New Year without giving thanks for the last year!)

Will you be making any resolutions for 2012?

Cheers to a prosperous New Year ahead and making the impossible possible!

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MISHA FILES | My Weekend in Instagr.am

...and now that all the Christmas fun has ended, it's time to prepare for the New Year! I hope everyone's Christmas was just as awesome as mine.

My weekend in Instagram

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GIVEAWAY!! | Iman "Pucker Up Luxury Lip" Palette

Iman-pucker-up-lip-kit
As promised I am giving away this super cute Iman "Pucker Up Luxury Lip Kit" just in time for the holiday season. And since it's not yet available, here's your chance to win one!

Kit Includes:
- 4 Luxury Lipsticks
- Luxury Lip Plumper
- Sheer Luxury Lip Glaze
- 4 Luxury Lip Glosses
- 2 Application Brushes


How to win:
1. Follow me on twitter @TheFabChick or "Like" TheFabChick on Facebook here.

2. Leave a comment telling me what's your favorite lip color to pucker up with. Be sure to include your twitter or facebook name with you comment.

ENTER NOW!! The winner will be chosen at random on Christmas day. Now how about that for a little after Christmas gifting. And if you're like myself, you love getting Christmas gifts after the day as well!
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MISHA FILES | My Weekend in Instagr.am

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This weekend I celebrated the holidays with my bestie and writer Shydel at his annual Christmas party! Fun...fun...and more fun. He really knows how to throw a chic party!

This installment of "My Weekend in Instagram" is dedicated to a long standing friendship I've had with a guy who's always been an inspiration in my life. As we get ready to close out the year, I strongly urge you to surround yourself with friends who will constantly push and motivate you towards greatness. And when you can find friends that lead by example, it's pure awesomeness!

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CHECK IT OUT | Uptown Magazine - Stocking Stuffers : $25 or Less

Keeping in the spirit of giving, check out a few useful and budget-friendly stocking stuffer ideas I came up with over at Uptown Magazine here.

Uptown Magazine-Stocking Stuffer Gift Guide
UPTOWNMagazine.com

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READ THIS | 7 Benefits To Drinking Hot Water

benefits of drinking hot water
For over a year now I’ve been committed to drinking HOT water daily. I start my day with a cup of hot water. Yes I know you’ve seen my daily foursquare check-ins at Starbucks, but before and sometimes after my caffeine fix I consume a cup of hot water.

Of course we all know the benefits of drinking water, but ever since my mom called to tell me about an episode of Dr. Oz where he recommended drinking hot water, I’ve been hooked. Here’s a small list why I’m all about drinking hot water in the midst of my normal water intake.

1. Drinking hot water can be like spending time in a sauna, it purifies your body. As your body temperature rises and you begin to perspire, hot water flushes the toxins out. Add a piece of lemon first thing in the morning and it can assist in daily cleansing—helping prevent constipation.

2. I suffer from sinus and nasal congestion, especially when the air is dry. Drinking hot water helps in clearing your nasal cavity, relieving congestion and sinus pressure.

3. Drinking hot water is a great way to stay hydrated and keep warm. You might say, why not drink tea? Consuming tea with caffeine may keep you alert and warm, but it doesn’t help in hydration. The caffeine element is what can cause dehydration.

4. Hot water can improve your digestion, especially after meals. Drinking cold beverages/water during and immediately after a meal can be dangerous. (I remember my father scolding me about this, giving me an example of what happens when you mix cold water and oil.) Think about it. Drinking cold water solidifies the oil in the foods you consume—harmful for digestion. This can cause the oil in your food to breakdown faster than the solid food you’ve consumed. This lines the intestines turning into fats and possibly cancer.

5. Blood circulation is improved by drinking hot water.

6. And again with some lemon first thing in the morning, hot water is great for getting the metabolism going—perfect as a weight loss strategy.

7. Just as drinking water in general is important to maintaining healthy skin, hot water is excellent for your complexion as well!

Try drinking a daily cup of hot water. Add lemon or natural honey for flavoring if necessary as they both are good for you. And be sure to boil your water and not consume hot tap water. Your hot water should be just as clean as any temperature water you drink.

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CHECK IT OUT | The Hpnotiq Blog - Holiday Office Party Looks : Day to Night

Tomorrow is my holiday office party and I haven't thought about what I'll be wearing just yet. I think I'll take a cue from option #3. Head over to the Hpnotiq Blog to see the three day to night options I came up with here.

HPNOTIQ BLOG-
hpnotiq.com/blog

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OUT & ABOUT | Juicy Magazine Holiday Glam Event - Late Nights, Early Mornings"

Juicy Magazine Holiday Event
In the spirit of the holiday season, Juicy Magazine along with Iman Cosmetics and AMOY Couture Hair held a holiday glam event hosted by recording artist and VH1's Love and Hip Hop's, Olivia. The soiree took place at the upper east side AMOY Couture Salon where invited media guests enjoyed tasty Alizé cocktails, yummy cupcakes by Get 'Em Girls and delicious appetizers (with the best spicy mustard I've ever tasted) while receiving hair and makeup styling tips with Iman cosmetics. Some others in attendance; Yandy Smith and singer Teairra Mari also of Love and Hip Hop, as well as Project Runway's Kimberly Goldson and more.

Stay tuned as I will be giving away this super cute holiday inspired "Pucker Up Luxury Lip Kit" just in time to give yourself the perfect holiday pout.
Iman Cosmetics-Pucker Up Luxury Lip Kit

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TRY THIS | 3 Holiday Theme Cocktails For Your House Party

It’s holiday party time! Are you ready to entertain your guests? Aside from putting together a flawless and festive look, will your party menu shine just as bright as your sequined mini and tree lights?

First things first, let’s get the drinks flowing right! What better way to get your guests in the holiday spirit than with a few tasty and festive spirits of your own? So I asked fab chick and mixologist LaToya Allen for a few creative and delicious cocktail recipes that will be perfect for an elaborate holiday party or simple gathering. She’s got us covered with 3 holiday cocktail options!

The Situation: You’re hosting a Christmas party. While you may have options for beer, wine and basic mixed drinks it’s always a good idea to have at least one holiday themed cocktail.

The Cocktail: Under the Mistletoe
Ingredients:
4 oz VeeV Acai Spirit
2 tsp Cranberry sauce
6 Sage leaves
1.5 oz Lemon Juice
1 oz Maple Syrup

First it’s important to slap the sage leaves a bit. This helps to release their oils. Drop them into the bottom of a shaker, adding all ingredients and ice. Shake well and strain into two cocktail glasses. Garnish with a few sage leaves and cranberries, to your liking.

The Situation: The weather outside is frightful. You’ve invited a few girlfriends over to watch your favorite chick flick, talk men and exchange gifts while enjoying cocktails by the fire—or if your in the city, a space heater.

The Cocktail: Cocoa Loco
Ingredients:
4 oz Flor de Cana Rum
1 oz Godiva Chocolate Liqueur
2 thin slices of habanero chili pepper
4 tsp Brown sugar
4 oz milk
Whipped Cream
Dash of cinnamon

Pour the rum, chocolate liqueur and milk into a small pot. Add the chili pepper slices, brown sugar and a dash of cinnamon. Simmer on low until hot but not to boil. Strain the mixture into your favorite mugs and top with a bit of whipped cream.

The Situation: You’re hosting a New Years Eve bash. While guests may be enjoying their cocktail of choice for the evening, it’s tradition to serve champagne for the midnight toast. Here’s a nice champagne cocktail alternative.

The Cocktail: The Lanesborough
Ingredients:
1.5 oz Grand Marnier
1.5 oz Cranberry Juice
1.5 oz Passion fruit juice
4 oz Your favorite Champagne

Add Grand Marnier, cranberry juice and passion fruit juice to a shaker and fill with ice. Shake well. Strain into two separate champagne flutes. Top with champagne.

Happy holidays and happy drinking! As always please drink and serve responsibly. For more fab cocktail ideas visit LaToya over on fashionandcocktails.tumblr.com and follow her on twitter: @Fashn_Cocktails.

Cheers to a fab holiday season and New Year!

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CHECK IT OUT | Uptown Magazine - Gift Guide : What to Get Your Frenemy

Head over to Uptown Magazine to check out my complete gift guide for items to give that "friend" who just isn't quite a friend in your life. Let me know what you think of my ideas!

Uptown Magazine-Gift Guide

UptownMagazine.com

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LOVE IT | Free People December 2011 Catalog

Free People December 2011 Catalog
As a long time fan of the Free People brand, I always look forward to receiving their monthly catalogs--falling in love with many of the pieces and styling. Last month I loved the layering and knitwear. For the December 2011 issue, my love for all things leather increased. Just check out these cobalt blue leather pants...Love! Here are a few of my favs from the December 2011 catalog.
Free People December 2011 Catalog
(Left to Right)
Aegean Leather Pant
Distressed Biker Jacket
Leather Buttondown
Washed Vegan Leather Short

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ON MY RADAR | Velvet Garments & Details

Aside from sequins, lamé and other fabrics that shimmer and shine, velvet is another great textured fabric that can be perfect for holiday dressing. It is also a great fabric for adding texture to your everyday look --creating a little more dimension to your go-to denims and wools during the cold season.

Velvet Garments

1. Givenchy - Cat eye Velvet Frames $290
2. Alice & Olivia - Gemma Velvet Blouson Dress $369
3. J.Crew - Velvet Schoolboy Blazer $138
4. Anthropologie - Sierra Blouse $188
5. ASOS - Acorn Velvet Ankle Booties $83
6. Club Monaco - Isabella Skirt $170
7. Topshop - Velvet Shorts $50
8. ModCloth - Velvet Wingtips $70
9. Rachel Antonoff - Navy Velvet Leith Dress $350
10. Topshop - Paloma Velvet Platform Sandals $200
11. MARC by Marc Jacobs - Chevron Velvet Bucket Bag $200
12. Zara - Velvet Printed Scarf $50

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MISHA FILES | My Weekend in Instagr.am

Birthdays, friends, family, food, drinks and a little randomness in between.

My Weekend in Instagram

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READ THIS | Mikki Taylor's Commander in Chic

Mikki Taylor-Commander in Chic
Mikki Taylor’s Commander in Chic speaks to the kind of woman I aspire to be—chic, poised, refined and fab in all dimensions of life. And while Ms. Taylor exudes all those things herself, her use of our first lady Michelle Obama as her muse makes a very compelling statement as the book’s subject. It’s an easy to read, step-by-step guide filled with tips, inspirational messages (Mikki calls Mikkisms) and how-to’s for those looking to enhance their personal style.
Mikki Taylor-Commander in Chic
Attending last night’s private book signing at the Bobbi Brown Studios in Montclair, New Jersey afforded me the chance to finally meet Mikki Taylor after being in the same venue as her numerous times. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen her at fashion shows and exchanges smiles without so much as a hello. Mission finally accomplished!
Mikki Taylor-Commander in Chic

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CHECK IT OUT | The Hpnotiq Blog - Gift Ideas For the New Guy

Head over to the Hpnotiq Blog to check out my holiday gift ideas for the guy in your life who might not be your boyfriend just yet.

Gift Ideas For Guys
www.hpnotiq.com/blog

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TRY THIS | Tips For Successful Layering

Easy Layering Tips
Images: Free People's 2011 Holiday Catalog

Layering is not always an easy task. It can be very difficult to create an outfit that allows you to maximize your wardrobe in one complete look. I love to layer my clothing. Not just during the cold months, but I find myself wearing multiple layers year round. For me, it’s a great way to add depth to my look. I like to consider each layer (or article of clothing) as an ingredient for building my personal style recipe for the day. While this may be challenging for many, I’ve come up with 5 tips for you to keep in mind when layering your clothing.

1. Build your look from the inside out. Always start creating your layers from the bottom up until you become a pro.

2. Start with lighter weight fabrics and items on the bottom layer. As you build, your top layer should be of a heavier fabric.

3. Don’t be afraid to play with proportions to create new and interesting silhouettes, hemlines and sleeve lengths.

4. Be adventurous with color and textures. Don’t be afraid to mesh contrasting colors and textures together in one look. Be bold!

5. Equip your wardrobe with easy no-brainer layering items: vests, pullovers and cardigans.

Shop for easy to layer items and you’ll be layering like a pro in no time.
Layering Tip

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SAMPLE SALE | Haute Hippe


Monday, December 12th – Friday, December 16th
9am-6pm daily
up to 70% retail prices

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ON MY RADAR | The Duffle Coat - Toggle Buttons

Rag and Bone Duffle Coat-Royal blue
Placing a style on my radar is as simple as me falling in love with just one cool item. Currently I am all about this Rag and Bone royal blue duffle coat with leather trim. What I love about it? It is created in a traditional British duffle coat style with toggle buttons and front patch pockets but with cool unexpected non-traditional elements—a bright color and luxe details and trims—which makes it that more special.

Although the $1295 price tag may be out of your budget, as it is mine, here are 6 other traditional and non-traditional duffle coat styles I’ve deemed #fabchickapproved—oh and they are more budget-friendly.
duffle coat-toggle buttons-winter coat styles
1. Topshop $178
2. Oasis - $160
3. BB Dakota - $120
4. Penfield - $250
5. Allsaints - $395
6. Quicksilver $135

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Q & A | Get to Know Me on BGKI

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Want to know how I would define my personal style? How about if I've ever tried designing or sewing clothes? Well I was asked and I dished all about that and more on the Black Girl Killing It tumblr site. I love what Neil (a guy) is doing over on that tumblr site for young women of color. Kudos to him for wanting to highlight women in a positive light. Check out the full Q & A here. And check out some of the other interviews here. You might recognize some of the other "Black Girls Killin' It",

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MISHA FILES | My Weekend in Instagr.am

This weekend I added things to my list of wants, (stay tuned for that massive list) mentored a 13 yr old young lady, vintage shopped with Annika, partied it up at Chuck E. Cheese, (oh what fun, not) wore my Naked Heart, and all not before having my daily dose of Starbucks.

my weekend in instagram

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REVIEW | ShoeMint Purchase - My Thoughts

Shoemint pauline wedges wine color
The members-only online shop ShoeMint has officially launched and I didn’t spare anytime making my first shoe purchase –12am November 25th to be exact. Since I fell for the wine colored wedges that co-designer Rachel Blison wore, my choice was a no-brainer. Well, I’ve received my purchase! And I’m sure all of you want to know what my thoughts are right? Well here goes.

For shipping I would have to say was pretty good, standard even. I ordered on Friday, November 25th and received my purchase Thursday December 1st. I’m pleased with the amount of time it took for me to receive my purchase. Thumbs-up for shipping ShoeMint.

Where style is concerned, the images on the website in comparison to what I received was pretty accurate. How many times do you order a particular style of shoe, open your package and the style and make of what you selected is very disappointing in appearance—different in texture and silhouette from what’s shown online? It can be very upsetting. Thumbs-up for style accuracy ShoeMint.

My main concern and issue with ordering from many shoe sites like ShoeMint is always the quality and comfort. ShoeMint urges buyers of premium materials, expert craftsmanship, perfect fit and real leather and suede. The suede wedges I purchased actually feels and looks just like suede. There’s nothing more disheartening to me then thinking you are getting a pair of real suede shoes just to feel the texture of some micro-fiber faux-ness.

As for comfort, considering the extreme height of these wedges, the platform makes it easy to walk in, but I would not suggest for all day standing –at least not for me. Thumbs-up for quality and comfort ShoeMint.

So if you were skeptical like myself about ShoeMint, I can say that out of all the other members-only online shoe sites, this so far has to be the best in quality, which ranks pretty high in my book.

With the debut collection selling out, I am very curious to see future selections. I’ll stay tuned and find a hiding place for wallet. Have you signed up for ShoeMint?

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MISHA FILES | My Weekend in Instagr.am

Here are a few random tidbits of my awesome Thanksgiving weekend. I spent majority of the time with so many of my favorite people. I ate. I laughed. I ate again. And I adored the moments I spent with all my family both old and new. I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving weekend.

my weekend in instagram
PS: Notice anything different about me? :-)

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WATCH THIS | Milk & Honey Web Series : Episode 1 & 2


Episode 1
Last month, the Idris Elba executive produced web series Milk + Honey made its cyber debut. (Elba was featured on the November cover of Essence, which also includes a blurb of yours turly). The online series follows the adventures of a group of women trying to balance life, love and career - a struggle many of us can relate to.

With a bit of time on my hands I’ve been able to catch up and watch both episodes 1 and 2. I appreciate the show’s willingness to create a voice not often seen on television for young African American women. Although I wish the episodes were a tad bit longer, I will continue to support Milk + Honey to see just how both the characters and story lines develop.

Episode 1

Have you watched it yet? What are your thoughts on Milk & Honey?

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ON MY RADAR | Sequin Ornamentation

During this time of the year my eye is attracted to anything shiny and shimmery, sequins being my shine factor of choice. Although including sequin details are common and can be a bit cliché for special occasions, dare to incorporate a bit of it in your everyday look. It's not only festive to wear during the holiday season, but it can also provide that little sparkle or twinkle that your look just might need in the dreary times of winter.

on my radar-sequin-shimmer-sparkle-shine
1. Sequin Sweatshirt - French Connection $128
2. Chained Sequin Bag - Nasty Gal $48
3. Sequin Collar Necklace - Asos $176
4. Sequin Suit Jacket - Mango $190
5. Long Sequined Skirt - L'Agence $350
6. Wallpaper Tank Top - Buckle $26
7. Sequin Bodycon Dress - Topshop $91
8. Sequin Skull Pump - Iron Fist $70
9. Sequin Clutch - Zara $60
10. Floral Sequin Tank - Old Navy $35
11. Black Sequin Brogue - Sam Edelman $115
12. Sequin Trouser - Topshop $235

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SAMPLE SALE | Nicholas K - Fall 2011

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CHECK IT OUT | The Hpnotiq Blog: Get The Look - Rihanna

When it comes to personal style, Rihanna tends to be on the inspiration board for many women. Although a few may feel they are too old or perhaps not fearless enough to pull off the Henry Holland suspender tights look, it can still provide a bit of casual inspiration for women of all ages. Check out how you can get this look from the fashion-forward pop star over on The Hpnotiq Blog here.

PS: What do you think about the pop star's newly released album Talk That Talk? Have you heard it yet?

Hpnotiq blog get the look-Rihanna
www.hpnotiq.com/blog

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MISHA FILES | My Weekend in Instagr.am

Here's tidbits of my weekend highlighted with Instagr.am. Feel free to follow me at thefabchick. :-)

my life

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SIGN-UP | ShoeMint Website Launch

ShoeMint,Rachel Bilson,Shoes
If the wedges Rachel Bilson is wearing in ShoeMint’s latest round of promotions is any indication of the styles to expect from the soon to be launch site, then many of us shoe lovers will be in trouble. BIG TROUBLE.

What exactly is ShoeMint?

Officially launching November 25th, ShoeMint is a members-only online shopping site created by actress Rachel Bilson and her stylist Nicole Chavez in collaboration with Steve Madden. The site promises affordable yet quality trendy shoe options for one price, $79.98 per pair. Shipping fees? Nope, there’s also free shipping! Don't you just love free shipping? I do.
ShoeMint,Rachel Bilson,Shoes
How does it work?

Like many other members-only shoes site, you are required to sign-up for membership; complete a style questionnaire, which will allow ShoeMint to put together a selection based on your personal style each month. If you should find a pair you just have to have, you simply buy them. If the selection is not to your liking, without any extra charges or fees, you just skip the selection for the month.

Simple right? Now go and sign-up. Click here for an invite to sign-up for access to ShoeMint when it officially launches this week.

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RANDOM THOUGHT | How will you leave your mark?

After hearing and reading about Beyonce's new video for "I Was Here" -- a composed highlight piece showing tidbits of her life on and off stage, I finally sat and watched the video. Honestly, I was really just looking for the tiny portions of her life offstage. Oh yes, and I wanted to see that wedding dress of hers.

Of course it's private moments we are all fascinated with the most, self shamefully included. But I tell you what I did take away from the video, well actually the song on in general. I'm starting to question myself more and more about the footprints I'm leaving. When it's all said and done what will others say about me? What impact will I have left in this world? Whose lives will I be able to change or influence for the positive? Hmmmm. Just a random thought.

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NEW STORE VISIT | Joe Fresh New York

Joe Fresh - TheFabChick
Joe Fresh has officially hit American territory. The successful Canadian brand has entered the US –New York, Long Island and New Jersey to share its affordable sensibility with us. The moment I read about the new store openings, I’ve been eager to pay one a visit. And now that I have, I am a fan.

The brand is not only thriving on offering affordable clothing, but they are providing simple basics infused with stylish pieces that will transition effortlessly in your closets as you deal with the ever revolving door of fashion trends. Here's my Joe Fresh wishlist.
Joe Fresh New York Wishlist
My wardrobe is built on basics, so Joe Fresh will definitely see more of me and my wallet. Visit Joe Fresh now and you’re bound to grab a few fall/winter basic must-haves without stepping outside of your budget too much!

Here are my absolute favs you can find in-stores now --two perfect metallic ways to usher in the holiday season. I fell in love with the fringe mini (also available in black) after trying it on. In my closet I can't lose with a cute mini!
Joe Fresh - TheFabChickJoe Fresh - TheFabChick

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ON MY RADAR | Colored Corduroy Bottoms - Corduroy Appreciation Day?

Who knew there could be a day set aside to appreciate the pattern and fabrication of corduroy? And get this, there's even a members only club --The Corduroy Appreciation Club where they "seek to create a community and, in turn, a sense of fellowship rooted in the historic and culturally significant fabric known as Corduroy."

It all sounds pretty serious, no? So with today being 11-11-11, the date that closely simulates the corduroy pattern, corduroy lovers prepare for commemoration. Although I am not throwing confetti in the air nor will I be signing up for membership, I for one have grown to appreciate cords since my days of a corduroy resistant child. I'm glad they can be found in cool colors!

Here are 10 colored corduroy bottoms to wear now!

brightly colored corduroys 11/11/11
(L to R:) By Malene Birger $207, Current/Elliot $188, Sandro $225, AG Adriano Goldschmied $168, Free People $68
brightly colored corduroys 11/11/11
(L to R:) Forever 21 $17, Esprit $80, SONIA by Sonia Rykiel $375, J. Crew $60, Antropologie $30
Check out this New York Times article all about how Courduroy fan prepare for today's Corduroy Appreciation Day here. Hmmmm.

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OUT & ABOUT | Dr. Miracle's Celebrates an "Evolution of Beauty"

Dr. Miracles Relauch #DMRelaunch
The Dr. Miracle’s brand has always provided an array of different products to affordably aid and abet in repairing, maintaining and styling your hair. So last night I was more than willing to attend their "Evolution of Beauty" relaunch held at the Sky Room Times Square.

New from Dr. Miracle's is an improved website, different packaging, new formulas allowing for new hair and personal products—updated styling, cleansing and conditioning products included—as well a new scent. The eucalyptus medicine-like aroma synonymous with many of the products has been replaced. Also new to the brand is an “Ask Dr. Miracle’s” mobile app for Android phones. Although I won't be able to test out the app, I can’t wait to test out the new Acai Thermal Protection Styler in my hair. I'm all about maintaining a high shine factor.

See images from the night over on Wireimage.com.
Dr. Miracles Relauch #DMRelaunch
Me, Dr. Miracle's PR and Promotions Exec. Joelle Sayed & Freelance writer Annika

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CHECK IT OUT | The Hpnotiq Blog - 9 Winter Must-Haves

Don't let the warm temperatures of the past couple of days fool you, winter is definitely on its way. Now is the perfect time to make sure you have the neccessary items to keep you fashionably correct while keeping winter's chill at bay. Check out nine must-have items where you won't have to sacarfice your style to keep warm. Head over to the Hpnotiq Blog now for the complete list!

hpnotiq blog winter must have items
www.hpnotiq.com/blog

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OUTFIT | Casually Cape-ing It Around Town

capes
After many reservations in wearing, I finally broke out my cape for the season. My reservations were more so because of the color not the style. Ugh, one drip of coffee on this thing and I will not be a happy camper.

As one of fall's must-have outerwear trends, the cape is not the easiest garment to wear venturing around town. Let me just tell you that driving while wearing one can be a bit of a task. Not to mention your handbag options are limited --shoulder and cross-body bags for me is a challenge. But needless to say, when you can find a great one and you're able to make it work for your personal style, it can be comfortable and cozy. This one, I LOVE! I think I could sleep in it.

Minor Details:
Cape - Nanette Lepore
Scarf - Nanette Lepore
Pants - Zara
Boots - Steven Steve Madden

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MY BEAUTY STASH | Lip Service

my go-to lip colors of the moment
(L to R:)Make Up Forever - Pearly Violet #15/YSL - Fuschia Pink #19/CoverGirl - Eternal #350/MAC- Violetta/CoverGirl Ruby Slipper #Q430/MAC- Chilli/MAC- Rebel

While going through my make-up stash, I realize I use the same 7 lip colors in my regular rotation regardless of season. They all look the same, no? Well similar in shade and color family. Hmmm. I think I'm ready to introduce some new colors into the lip line up; even though I just can't seem to escape my love for a fuschia lip. I guess it's my safe color. The hunt for something new and exciting in lip color begins.

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RANDOM THOUGHT | Ask Yourself This Question...

Here's a random thought. When was the last time you’ve taken a risk?

While asking a friend this very question, I turned it around on myself and drew the biggest blank ever. I simply could not come up with an answer. I could not figure out the last time I’ve taken any real risks in my life.

I don’t mean risks like jay walking in NYC on a busy street, wearing a bold lip color or mixing patterns and textures to create an outfit. I think many of us have mastered those. I’m talking about risks that could possibly make you happy. Risks like being bored with a monotonous job, drafting a resignation letter, handing it in and just doing whatever it is you enjoy. You know, those real risks that are necessary to assist in achieving ultimate happiness in life. Risks that ignite a passion for something you consider important.

When was the last time you’ve jump out of the window figuratively without knowing quite where you’d land with just a small safety net of, this is what I really want to do, below you? It can be scary --leaving something you've known all your life to be safe. But what if playing it safe just doesn't make your heart beat anymore?

I’ve recently read this quote from James Baldwin.
“You have to go the way your blood beats. If you don’t live the only life you have, you won’t live some other life, you won’t live any life at all.”
These words have stuck with me. And it hit me yesterday that my interpretation of what Mr. Baldwin was saying was about taking risks in life, doing what it is that you love and not being afraid to do so. So often fear of trying something new, trying something we think others might not approve of, or feeling you’re not good enough overcomes us.

Well the funny thing I’m learning about life is that you truly only get one shot at it and we all owe it to ourselves to “go out and grab the world by the labels” just as one of my favorite quotes from Maya Angelou suggests. Risks have to be made for the payoff you might be seeking. It’s time to take some risks in life!

Note to self.

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COLOR INSPIRATION | Fall Foliage

Inspiration can always be found all around you and during the fall season, a cool way to find wardrobe ideas is to take in the different sights of autumn's color change. The foliage provides a great go-to color palette for the fall season. From shades of red to yellow, brown to green and all the likes in between --mix and match them for some fashion foliage of your own.

fall folliage inspiration

1. Fatigue Finery Cape - Anthropologie $80
2. Prairie Boot - Madewell $215
3. Turtleneck Sweater - J.Crew $78
4. Wool-Felt Fedora - Rag & Bone $150
5. Pumpkin Opaque Tights - Topshop $16
6. Corduroy Skirt - H&M $24
7. Madison Leather Jacket - Coach $698
8. Corduroy Pants - J Brand $215
9. Leather Railway Messenger - Madewell $168
10. Glam Suede Court Shoes - Topshop $92
11. Cable-knit wool sweater - MARC by Marc Jacobs $250
12. Moto Skinny Jeans - Topshop $80
13. Corduroy Shorts - MIH Jeans $155
14. Chunky Knit Scarf - Charlotte Russe $12
15. Lita Boots - Jeffrey Campbell $190
16. Duffle Coat - Topshop $178
17. Wood Bangles - Topshop $35
18. Leather Bowling Bag - Zara $129
19. Leather Slouch Boots - Frye $328

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I WANT THIS | Rachel Roy Day-To-Night Palette

Rachel Roy Beauty Day to Night
Rarely do I find an eye shadow palette where I can say I love or even like all the colors being offered. Finally with Rachel Roy’s Day-to-Night new eye shadow palette, I can admit that I like every color. Containing 10 different shades that have strategically been divided into two separate looks for day and night, it’s definitely a palette for every beauty girl.
Rachel Roy Beauty Day to Night
For day you have muted neutral shades while for night the colors are much darker and jeweled toned. Both the day and night colors are very cohesive with my usual eye shadow options –perhaps making this a must have palette for me to purchase. And for only $32 it’s very reasonable. It hits Macy’s store November 14th. I will be adding this palette to my beauty arsenal.

Shop for it on Macys.com or Rachelroy.com.

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