Made in Arizona: Local Gem

I am not much of a mall shopper...but, since it is the Christmas holidays and time to try to find a gift for everyone there comes a time to visit the mall:)  I was at Park Place Mall and decided randomly to walk into Santa Fe Trading Company and I am so glad I did.  I thought that their Turquoise jewelry was amazing!  Especially a great right hand ring that takes up the whole half of your hand...definitely a conversation piece.  The cost was around the low to mid 100's...so, I haven't bought anything yet...but, everyone should visit for some great turquoise pieces. 

Tucson, the Next Hot Spot?

With all of the talk about the next Mall of America being built in the location of my new home in the Vail area I thought I had hit a goldmine. Alas, I have heard that this rumor is merely a rumor and will not be happening. This past weekend I did the research and found that one of the investors had worked on the Mall of America, but is not building a "Mall of America" in Tucson. They will however be building a Hot Spot called Passages of Tucson that will bring together spas that of course are very well-known in the Arizona area and building upon that well-known focus of Arizona and bringing it together with great shops and hotels. Kind of like a Las Vegas where you replace the gambling with relaxing. I love the idea...it won't really be done for another 15 years (I know crazy)...but, I am thinking that it will be open to check out through those 15 years, just not finished.  So, we shall see...keep a look out and lets see if this turns into another Las Vegas. 

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Sex and the City Movie Official Trailer

Get ready! This will be a classic!

Beauty Finds: CVS

I can be lost in a CVS for hours...this past weekend I was there for 1 hour just searching the aisles for interesting products and great deals.  This is what I found and I thought I would share with everyone:

1. *There was a sale buy 1 Cover Girl item, get the other 50% off...such a deal, I decided to try the new Lash Blast that Drew Barrymore is on the ads for.
2. Aveeno Clear Complexion Cleansing Pads-one side has a scrub, the other side has a cleansing pad.  I love these!
3. Nads Hair Removal Strips-AMAZING!  I wasn't sure if this would be too difficult to use, but for $6, I figured we shall see!  It comes with 24 strips and it is so easy to use!  I used it on my lip and chin and saved myself $15-20!  Now, eyebrows, I stick with Anastasia at Nordstrom but, for everything else I can now do it myself.
4. I wanted the Pond's makeup removal cream...but, at about $8, I figured I would try the CVS version (generic brand) and I love it for half of the price!  
5. Rose Water-just smells great and fresh.
6. Mane N Tail Conditioner, it works so great in your hair, makes it nice and soft. 

Beauty Beyond Words, Brushes with Greatness, GWP happy

I used to be in marketing for Saks Fifth Avenue and have personally worked for Brushes with Greatness at the New York store.  It was an event to behold and it was worth the extra hours because I got the coveted gift bag for free!  (And, I still have it!)  This event is worth the money...save up $150 a year to go and get all of your makeup and get a free makeup bag, this year it is a golden tote filled with so many fabulous, might I add expensive samples of products you may not always try or buy for that matter...This event happens should be going on now...I have not found any date that the event starts on. 

AZ Events to Travel For

If you like getting Goodie Bags, check out the following events:

Girl's Night Out

This event takes place on February 28th, 2008 and sounds similar to the Shecky's Girls Night Out that takes place in New York and has goodie bags that are talked about for months...the goodie bags are the size of paper grocery bags full of everything you could think of that will last until the next Shecky's Girls Night Out.  

http://girlsnightout.scheckys.com/NYC/Spring2007/default.asp

Plus, good news, you can experience the Shecky's Girls Night Out this Spring 2008, so get ready for a great bag!

Now, the Tucson version I went to about a month ago had a lot of local boutiques and jewelers...I am excited to see what the Phoenix event will hold...the tickets are only $12.99 (compared to the New York $30) to get the Beauty Gift Bag.  Now the gifts are not as grand as the New York's...but, it is always fun to leave with something and the event benefits Sojourner Center and their shelters for abused Women.   www.girlsnightoutaz.com 

27 Dresses Trailer GREAT QUALITY!

Looks like it could be a mix of My Best Friends Wedding and the Wedding Planner with cute costumes...we shall see on January 11th...From the screen writer of the Devil Wears Prada and with Katherine from Grey's Anatomy...

America's Next Top Model Losses

Sadly Lisa Lost last week...I thought she had a lot of potential and I hope she moves on beyond the strip clubs...but, I really thought she should win...maybe it is the mixed bias there, but oh well:)

But, I can say gladly, Bianca was cut yesterday.  I think that she was ghetto and immature throughout the whole show...when it came time for eliminations I was always rooting for her to be booted, and finally it has happened...I think they only had her stay around so long for the drama.  We will see if she pops up on any ads in the future like we see on those final contestants today randomly in catalogs or on commercials...snaps to the girls!  But, I do have to say, I like how they styled her in this shoot:)

Just Add Bangs

Why get bored with your look or have to go all the way with a real commitment of cutting your hair?  Check out a great hair accessory, clip-on, human hair bangs.  Yes, ladies it is now as simple as clipping in your bangs and you have a new look.  I will be sporting my personal clip-on bangs with my new bob very soon for a new and improved look.   You can find the bangs at hair care stores like Sally's or online at places like:

http://store.baronunlimited.com/bangs

So, go from boring to bombshell without worrying about regretting it ever again...and it is less than $30!  And lasts longer than a cut would:)

Unique Getaways Just Around the Corner in Bisbee

Take Advantage of the Shady Dell Trailer experience that is not only inexpensive but looks like it could be wildly fun and Kate Spade used this location for her 2006 ad campaign...so, why not take advantage of something so close to Tucson?

Fashion Related Event

The Old Tucson Studios is having an exhibit called, A History of the Movies, which tells the story of how the land used to be a popular location for Western films...I am planning on going to see the costumes from the movies...you never know what might be there to inspire.  10 am-6 pm daily, for more information go to www.oldtucson.com 

Sharing is Caring

Use the following code: OOPSE on the Electric Ladyland site to get a 10% discount until December 9th!  The store is all over Phoenix, but, why not take advantage of the great deal online. 

AZ Fashionalities Real Wear on the Streets

It's all about being seen!  Check out these AZ Fashionalities in Tucson!

Get more Fashionalities

Check out Fashionalities for fashion topics ranging from fashion shows to beauty products and more; www.fashionalities.blogspot.com. 

Random Find, Hello Kitty Phone Charm

I have been searching all over for a cute, inexpensive phone accessory...I searched from Target, to Walmart, to the local Malls and found nothing that caught my eye...then, randomly on Saturday while leaving Best Buy I happened to glance at the gum ball machines at the exit and found a Hello Kitty phone charm for only 4 quarters=$1!  I was so excited I had to share with everyone!  (In case anyone else has been looking)  

BTW-I have to add that I love my new phone from Samsung/Verizon.  It changes from a flip phone to a key board pad phone that I can text easily with and of course there is a MP3 player and a camera. 

Fun way to Dress with the Weather in Tucson

Since we are just getting into cool weather in Tucson, I think it is now fun to check the weather everyday to prepare for my ensemble...instead of using the weather channel, use something with a  fashion edge called, Cumul.us for Tucson and predict what people will wear with the weather changes. (select title of blog for URL to site) 

Local Fashion Resources

Sometimes, you just need help finding the necessities...here are  couple fashion resources every girl needs to have...let me know if you know of any others that I have left out...

Tailor: Blanca Ochoa Seamstress (fine sewing and alterations) Found business card at Buffalo Exchange...can use to have items altered to fit you perfect like black trousers; or, to have a great skirt made with a fabric found at an antique store or great fabric store.

Dry Cleaner that is open on Sundays: (Open 7 days a week, that is really hard to find!) Coyote Cleaners 722-3006

Closet Organizer: California Closets (yes, it's in Tucson:)

Nail Salon: Lavender Nail & Spa

Magazine Store: Crescent Tobacco Shop and Newsstand-every fashion magazine you can think of is available here!

Cobbler: Alpine Shoe Repair, great cost and amazing details to keep the shoe looking new.

Wardrobe Consultant: (Whenever you are in a bind or need some fashion direction these are the women, locally, to go to...unless you want some trendy edge, and you can come to me:)  Phoenix: Maggie Heiser and Tucson, Jane Harvey.

Curly Hair Salon:  This salon knows how to work with every type of curly hair and has been recognized on a variety of curly hair sites.  Spiral Salon-worth a visit. 

Great Find

I found an amazing nail salon in town that is worth driving to, Lavender Nail & Spa on 22nd street.  Yes, it is a little far for most, but it is worth it.  The decor, the nail polish selection (they have Essie), and the service is impeccable.  Down to the little details, this is a high class Nail Salon with a perfect price.

I got a pedicure and was amazed by the detail that was put into the service.  It was like going to an expensive salon in New York City or flying out to Korea and getting the little details like cucumbers in the water.  I loved it and I recommend this salon to everyone! 

PS, You will probably deserve something special after the Thanksgiving dinner and or shopping all weekend.

I had my nails painted in the Essie color, Wicked which is a brilliant color for the fall.  It is a dark shade of maroon that is almost black---but, still not that dark. 

Cotton - Goodbye

Real fabrics = comfort and great for the environment!

Outlets you may not have known about

I know everyone is now aware of Off Fifth, the outlet for Saks Fifth Avenue...but, there is an outlet in town that is worth checking out....it is called Posh Too, and no, it is not like the Limited Too for kids...it is the items from the boutique Posh that are on clearance basically. The boutique is a full store of sale items...how can you go wrong...For clearance shoes everyday, go to E & J's Designer Shoe Outlet , there are great discounts on well-known designer shoes that are worth checking out and it is in Tucson!

If you are headed to Phoenix for the weekend, check out:
Last Call, the outlet for Neiman Marcus (Arizona Mills, is where this is at...it is a mall full of outlet stores, full of every store you can think of with AMAZING discounts!)
Nordstrom Rack
Blend, a boutique outlet featuring discounted clothing from the hottest boutiques in Phoenix.

Other well-know options are:
Ross, Marshalls, and T.J. Maxx.

Why wait for sale season if you go to these stores that have a sale everyday.

ECO Trendy Part I

Hopefully the Eco Trend sticks around longer than most fads. Here are some ways that the Eco Trend is reflecting on the stores around you that has become fashionable.

1. Reusable Grocery Bags

Use Trader Joe's $.99 bags in place of paper or plastic...and make worlds of a difference. This fad has popped up everywhere and I think it is catching on with the mainstream which is benefiting our environment and they are cute:) Or you can make your own by buying a LL Bean tote and adding your initials.

2. Resale Clothing

Recycle clothing at your nearby Second Hand Store like:

Buffalo Exchange, Twice as Nice, Class Act Resale Boutique, or Classic Findz Consignment Boutique. Take your clothes and see if you can get money and let someone else enjoy your past loves or trade. Either way you make out with something great and you are not wasting perfectly good clothes.

3. Shop at Eco Friendly stores that sell items that are fab for the environment.

Some that I have heard of and will check out soon are:
Toque de Pasion which sells fair trade fashion and organic cotton-there are a lot of great cultural pieces like wraps, beaded handbags and an array of vibrant clothing.

Fashionable Foods in Tucson

The Unexpected...maybe you haven't heard of that brings something new to Tucson...something different that you could find in LA or NYC.

Sullivan’s Bar Area-Live piano playing
Zivaz Mexican Bisto-great spot to go to when you are on the go and still want a unique meal.
Vin Tabla-Bring variety to your meal with an American tapas menu. Great lounging outside for drinks and appetizers.
Something Sweet Dessert Lounge-Play board games and eat sweets late at night.
Blue Willow-Get that at home feeling at this brunch restaurant.
Crave Espresso Bar-Get a variety of coffees or have them make just want you want here. This place is like no other.
Loews Ventana Canyon Resort Restaurant-great view and superb service.

Fashion=Art

It's always nice to know that there are fashion art galleries or fashion exhibits at museums...and Tucson has it...check them out this month...it seems like these have been ongoing.

• Tiffany and Co.-The Style Makers: Masters of Tiffany Design. This gallery at the Tiffany store in La Encantada will continue until November 25th.
• Zoe Boutique-Gentlemen's Art. The boutique is featuring artwork from local male artists and continues until November 25th.

Take advantage of these local fashion=art events.

Options are Everywhere for Hollywould...

No need to be in Hollywood, or have the money of a super star to get fabulous shoes...In Tucson we have many options starting with:

Off Fifth...which carries a variety of high-end fashion designer clothes and shoes...including Hollywould at great prices. Right now, you can get items for 25-50% off...there is always extra savings and I feel like a lot of people don't know about it. BTW-it's the outlet for Saks Fifth Avenue. Sign up at the Off Fifth store for special discounts and coupons.

Target...is now carrying accessories by Hollywould. My eyes popped out of my face last week when I noticed...I can't wait to buy my signature red shoes for this Holiday season...Hollywould pieces are definitely statement pieces.

Tucson RSVP

FACE ME is giving you an EXTREME MAKEOVER 12/5-6 from 10am to 6pm! (And there will be refreshments) Now is your chance to make an appointment to have Dawn Stultz teach you how to own your look this holiday season. I have never been to a top makeup artist for NARS, but I do know that everyone I have gone to at NARS has given me the best tips, like apply bronzer like an 8 on your face. Start at the tip of the end of your eyebrow, take it to the middle of your cheek, and then scoop it back down to your chin...and there you go you are glowing. My favorite makeup from NARS is the Orgasm Blush...I use it everyday!

CALL NOW 529-4000 TO RESERVE YOUR APPOINTMENT WITH DAWN...SPACE IS VERY LIMITED!

Fall Fashion Tips in Arizona

I have noticed that the weather doesn't seem to drop dramatically (or at all) until after Thanksgiving in AZ...so, I figure we can all pretend it's Fall and use some of the trends in a cooler way...

Wear a leather jacket over a sundress...this way you can take off the jacket during the day and/or wear the leather jacket at night and get some use out of something summer and something fall.

Use a great Indian scarf instead of a jacket to cover up in the crisp evening weather.

Wear short skirts with great boots, why not...it is getting cool enough to work it...go with Uggs, Riding Boots, or the Ankle Boots that are big now.

I know this sounds crazy, but pair socks with your open toe sandals....do this with cropped jeans or knee length skirts.

Use your colors...navy blue and black together is a strong Fall fashion mix and all of the great vibrant colors like Fuchsia and Sapphire that are huge right now.

Wear a great long cardigan with a summer dress...I got mine from Gap and I LOVE it!

Tried And True

I am truly a believer in being a satisfied customer...I say that because I am in LOVE with Stems boutique at St. Phillips Plaza and I am surprised by how many shoe lovers are not familiar with this boutique. Jessica, the owner,knows her customer as well as her product. Every time I step into the shop I know that I am going to leave with something on my wish list or in my hand:) And the prices are reasonable...I have had a shoe party...that is much better than a Tupperware party I must add...and I have attended a trunk show and I was so excited about each...you have to check it out! Plus, the boutique is surrounded by other great boutiques to catch your attention:) This month, check out the boutique for 10% off to celebrate their year anniversary.