Ready for Spring

Express Denim Jacket (similar here), Floral Peplum Top from Nordstrom Rack (similar here), Gap 1969 Legging Skimmer Jeans, Aldo Peep Toe Heels (similar here). 

Aureula Bracelets from AldoShoes.com. Nail Polish from OPI in Hot & Spicy.

Local Designer Spotlight: Rags & Thread

Rags & Thread creator, Ryan Gagliardi is no rookie to the design department. Before starting his own label, he held the title of Head Designer for Philadelphia's own Mitchell & Ness and The Source Magazine named him One of America's Top Urban Designers in 2005. His tees have been seen on celebrities such as actor, Jamie Kennedy, Food Network Star, Duff Goldman, and Mike Richards of the Philadelphia Flyers. You can find Rags & Thread sold in boutiques across the country, major retailers like Urban Outfitters, and online at RagsandThread.com. Check out these tees from Rags & Thread's latest collection.

Daisy Lewellyn is Coming to Philly

Want to know what's trending for Spring? Stop by Macy's today at 5:30 for the Macy's Spring Essentials Fashion Show with Style Expert, TV Personality, and Author, Daisy Lewellyn. The event will take place in the Women's Department on the second floor. Receive an autographed copy of Daisy's shopping guide Never Pay Retail Again, Shop Smart, Spend Less & Look Your Best with your purchase of $75 or more. Have a Wonderful Wednesday Everyone!

RTR Spring into Style Pop-Up Shop

I'm not usually in the mood to try on clothes, but when I walked into the Rent the Runway Spring into Style Pop-Up Shop, mostly everything I looked at screamed, "Pick Me! Pick Me!" So I gladly accepted the offer and from several different racks I picked four that I loved.

I wanted to try on at least one gown, so I picked this Roll Out the Red Carpet gown by Tibi. (Retail: $750; Rent: $125) It was very nice, but super long even with my heels on. My second pick was the Carol Dress by Kate Spade New York. (Retail: $398; Rent: $75) This full skirt dress is cute and very appropriate for spring. It also fit great! My favorite part about the dress was the black piping and zipper in the black, so not expected! The third dress was a LBD by Halston Heritage. (Retail: $425; Rent: $70) I feel like this is a great dress for Friday's! It could be perfect for work when paired with a blazer and afterwards for meeting up with friends or a date.

I would have to say and Instagrammers agree, that this Pele Dress from DVF is the winner! (Retail: $365; Rent: $70) Even though I can't swim, I've always wished I could surf and this dress gave me the impression of a wet suit! Love! I almost felt like this dress was meant for me that day because it went so well with everything I already had on. From the shoes to the bracelets and even my nails. I loved it all!

Another great thing about Rent the Runway, besides carrying beautiful dresses you can borrow from your favorite designers, is the wide selection of jewelry, intimates and other accessories they offer to complete your look. Also if you happen to have a fashion meltdown, you can contact one of their stylist to help you via phone, chat or email.

Check Out What Bloggers Melissa of Ring the Alam and Risa of Really Risa are Saying about Rent the Runway!

Right now is an awesome time to Rent the Runway for that upcoming wedding, graduation, or even prom! If you've used Rent the Runway before, let me know what you thought about the service?

For more information on Rent the Runway, visit RenttheRunway.com

Spotted

I must say, I'm a sucker for street art! It doesn't always have to be a full mural. I could be anything from those clever stickers posted on a newspaper stand or some stencil art on the sidewalk. I recently spotted this piece coming out of the Center City Macy's on the corner of Juniper and Chestnut Street. To me, it's not so much what it is, but where it is, all the way near the top of a building! It takes skill to paint anything, but to place it up high is definitely extraordinary. If you're ever near that location, see if you can spot it for yourself. If you have a favorite hidden gem in the city, share it in a comment below, I'd love to see it.

Parading Around

Friday was a blast from the past with a PIFA Parade of all different characters. Everyone from Ben Franklin to Vikings to an Alien showed up in the City Hall Courtyard portraying themselves to the fullest. The Parade got onlookers ready for the upcoming festival, which starts this Thursday. Passersby were encouraged to take photos with the characters to win some great prizes.

Stay connected to Fashion of Philly for more on PIFA events. This Friday, I'll be trying out trapeze, which I'm super excited about! Of course, I'll keep you posted! Have a great Monday!

Photo Ops with Albert & The Queen

Charlie Chapman Shows Off His Moves

The  Gangs All Here! Who Can You Spot?

Let's Keep in Touch

Click the pic to follow on Bloglovin'

Google Reader or Google Friend Connect will be no more as of this summer, but that doesn't mean we have to lose contact. If you're a member of Bloglovin', (or if you're not, sign up) and never miss a beat. Bloglovin' is an awesome place where you can visit all of your favorite blogs on one site. It's super easy and I love to use it myself. If you've found an alternative, that's cool too! Leave a comment and let me know how you plan on following after the Google Reader shut down.

PIFA 2013

PIFA, the Philadelphia International Festival of Arts, begins next week! The festival is centered around the question, "If you had a time machine..." Everyone is invited to explore specific moments in time with more than 50 projects during this month long festival. Enjoy the arts of music, dance, and theater as well as family-friendly activities, exhibitions and lectures.
This year, Fashion of Philly has been chosen to be a Social Media/Blog Ambassador. I can't wait to share with you a glimpse behind-the-scenes, special discounts and up-to-the-minute updates. Make sure you're following Fashion of Philly on twitter, tumblr, and instgram so you don't miss a thing. To get more information, purchase tickets, or view the calendar of events go to PIFA.org.

Motives Cosmetics Summer 2013 Collection

Motives Cosmetics Senior Vice President and Creator of Motives, Loren Ridinger unveiled a new addition to her award winning cosmetics line, Motives by Loren Ridinger, just in time for summer. The brand has also partnered up with La La Vasquez-Anthony, actress and VH1 reality star, for the Motives for La La Watercolors Collection. The collections include eye shadows and eyeliners to lipstick and lip shines. Both collections are inspired by the hottest Summer 2013 Runway Trends, perfect for any occasion, and affordable for all.

For more information on Motives Cosmetics, go to MotivesCosmetics.com.

Beyonce is the New Face of H&M

Beyonce will be the new face of H&M's Summer Collection. The campaign will include commercials, print, and billboard ads introducing "Beyonce as Mrs. Carter in H&M. The commercials will also feature a new song from Beyonce, "Standing on the Sun", which will be available online and on HM.com at the start of May.

Regarding the collection, the Megastar says, “I’ve always liked H&M’s focus on fun and affordable fashion. I really loved the concept we collaborated on to explore the different emotions of women represented by the four elements – fire, water, earth and wind. It was a beautiful shoot on a tropical island. It felt more like making a video than a commercial."

The collection will include key pieces such as bodycon and sun dresses and of course, bikinis. We can expect to see looks inspired from Beyonce's personal style as she had input on the collection. The Beehive will have to wait until the beginning of May to shop the collection coming to H&M stores worldwide. I can't wait to see more!

Cuff Love

1. Samii Ryan Spike Ear Cuff Available at Nordstrom $28 2. Warrior Ear Cuff NastyGal.com $12 3. H&M Earring $5.95 4. BCBG Leaf Ear Cuff $24 5. Berbere 18 Karat Gold Diamond Ear Cuff from Gaia Repossi Available on
Net-a-Porter.com $13,781 6. Jacquie Aiche from ShopBop $110 7. Urban Outfitters Cape Carol Rhinestone Cuff Earring $14.99

Ear cuffs are so major right now! You can find them at some of your favorite stores in a ton of different styles: edgy, grunge, dainty, or tribal inspired. I recently committed to the trend and pick up one at Aldo for only $12! I couldn't find it online, but it comes in two colors: the clear crystal and a black crystal. I went with the clear because it's a little more spring like. Of course, you can't have just one so I searched the web and found a few to share with you. Which is your favorite?

The Ear Cuff I Got From Aldo!

Designer Meet and Greet

Wow, time flies! Tomorrow is Thursday already and I wanted to let you know about a designer event happening at Neiman Marcus in the King of Prussia Mall. If you're free, come out and meet Black Halo's Creative Director/ Designer, Laurel Berman! She will be doing a personal appearance from 12 p.m. - 2 p.m. and there will also be a presentation. This year is an exciting year for the brand as they celebrate their 10 year anniversary and the launch of their newest collection of evening gowns, Black Halo EVE.

The "Jackie O" Dress

One of their most popular dresses the "Jackie O" is clean cut, sophisticated  and sexy. Many of her other designs have been seen on tons of celebrities from Jillian Michaels to Ashanti to Lauren Conrad and Berman's EVE Collection gained much success during this past award season. I hope you'll be able be make it with me, I'm sure it will be tons of fun!

Presto Chango

Yesterday during my trip to Target, I ran across FlipSide Reversible Denim. Maybe it's just me, but I don't remember seeing these before or maybe I just wasn't paying attention. The concept of having reversible jeans seems interesting. One side of the denim is plain or colored while the other is printed so whenever you want to change your look, you just turn them inside out and presto chango. I guess while this whole printed denim look is hot, you can have fun with the trend and when it's over, just flip them. Target has four styles in reversible skinny denim: Blush to Hearts, Floral to Tribal Stripe, Floral to Indigo, and Camouflage to Green. For summer, they also have Blush to Heart and Floral to Indigo available in shorts. My favorite style is Blush to Hearts, it's so girly and something different than polka dots. The 2 for 1 special will cost you $34.99, so if you think about it, it's like getting two pairs of jeans for only $17.50. Not bad I guess. I really feel like this idea would be great for those about to go away on spring break and want to maximize on their packing space. You just have to be careful you don't make any messes the first day you wear them.

Check out some of the styles below. What do you think? Would you give reversible denim a try? Have you already?

More Clothing...

My Visit to Diesel

If you've been following me, you know that this weekend Diesel celebrated their Grand Opening in the King of Prussia Mall. The event was hosted by my girls from Philly Fabb: Jessie Holeva and Lauren Mantilla. Shoppers were invited to posed for their chance to win tickets plus airfare to Coachella and special congrats to Liz Mucha for winning the awesome prize...I'm a lil jeal btw.

The new Diesel store has a great layout full of their edgy designs and innovative pieces. The store includes men's and women's fashion, footwear, and other accessories to help you get that perfect head to toe outfit.

One thing I loved about the store is their mannequins. That might sound weird to some of you, but check them out. They were standing up or sitting in cool positions and were incredibly styled. Since I've worked in retail, I always felt that mannequin styling is very important. It could make you want to walk in a store, try something on or not interest you at all.

Shopping with Lauren and Jessie!

Okay, now for a little styling. For my first outfit, I tried on a top that is perfect for spring and summer. It was light, airy and could look perfect on any body type. The jeans were super comfortable, not too tight, with just enough stretch. This probably was my favorite!

I loved the fit of this hoodie. It was so loose and versatile. I could see it being used for running to the gym or for everyday looks. The peach colored jegging could almost be looked at as a neutral color. It's a great shade that could be paired with many other colors, but I kept it simple and paired it with this tie-up tank that's so soft and effortless.

Sorry for acting a bit goofy in this pic, but I couldn't help myself. Brianna Hardy (pictured with me below) is one of the stylist there and suggested I try on this awesome jumpsuit which gave me a Charlie's Angel vibe. The back has straps that are adjustable (check that out here) and I decided to layer it with lace tank for a added surprise.The best thing about a jumpsuit is that you can dress it up or down and accessorize in so many fun ways. Brianna gave me this cool wrap around belt that takes away the challenge of figuring out how to layer your belts and creates a waistline.

The last outfit I tried on was a favorite of my girl, Natalie from The Second Best Blog. The blazer believe it or not had a camo print in black and dark blue. This makes it easy to pair with dark blue denim or even black pants to make it work appropriate.

Some of the Ladies of Philly FABB: (l to r) Jessie, Lauren, and Natalia!

Make sure you shop Diesel at KOP to check it out for yourself. Thanks to everyone that came to check it out, my ladies from Philly FABB, and the whole Diesel team. Have a great day!

Dockers x GQ Tour

Dockers® is coming to town as part of a 3 city tour with GQ Magazine. On Friday, March 29 and Saturday, March 30 (see times and location below), visitors can stop by the Dockers® customized Airsteam Trailer and check out the new Spring/Summer 2013 Collection which will be also available for purchase.

GQ’s Executive Stylist, Brett Fahlgren and Philadelphia-based Fashion Stylist, Bridget Marowski will be on hand to provide style advice on the latest khaki trends as guests shop. The first 50 visitors each day will walk away with a free pair of the latest Dockers® khakis. 

16th & Walnut, Philadelphia, PA 
Friday, March 29th 
9:00am - 3:00pm

Saturday, March 30th 
12:00pm - 7:00pm 

Spring Cleaning

It's that time of year again! Time for spring cleaning and what better place to start than your cosmetic bag. I know mine was a serious mess between having lids to my eye shadows breaking and brushes all over. It''s not only unorganized, but it's also not sanitary. Those things go on your face, so clean them often to avoid any extra bacteria. (To find tips on how to clean your brushes, check out my latest pin on my make-up board here.) So whether you need to clean out your current make-up bag or need a little inspiration for a new one, put it on your spring cleaning list and get to it!

-Brittiny

More Lanvin...

Camo Craze

To get the deets on the collage, check out my polyvore page here!

The Camo Craze is picking up big time. From tops, bottoms, and accessories you can find this print on everything. If you like the trend, but don't want to look like your about to go into combat, try introducing it into your wardrobe with accessories. A clutch, a scarf, or even sneaker wedges can easily be added to everyday looks without being over the top.

When certain trends come into play I sometimes think it's tied into other events happening in pop culture. This camo craze could easily be in conjunction with the new movie G.I. Joe Retaliation coming to theaters Thursday, March 28th. To kick-off the new movie and the spring trend Fashion of Philly will be giving away 4 pairs of Movie Passes to the Advanced Screening of Paramount Pictures G. I. Joe Retaliation. The screening is on March 26, 2013 at 7:30 p.m. at the United Artist Riverview Theater (1400 S Christopher Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19147). Please arrive around 6:30. Attention Future Winners: If you win and arrive to the screening looking military chic, you could score a special prize pack! Have fun!

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Twitter Chat Tomorrow

I'll be tweeting tomorrow,

Stop and Smell the Flowers

 

Almost every year my mother, sisters and I take a trip to the Philadelphia Flower Show. My mother decided to skip it this year so it was just the three of us. Each time I'm always amazed of how horticulturalist design such amazing displays. The theme this year was "Brilliant" with pieces inspired by British culture which included everything from icons like The Beetles and Big Ben to childhood favorites, Alice in Wonderful and Peter Rabbit.

My favorite exhibit of the flower show is the jewelry display. Each piece is made with products of nature. The cuff in the top left corner is made with corn husk, millet, Lima beans, raffia, and yellow split peas. The necklace: white peppercorn, reeds, all spice, Japanese lilies, and laquat seeds. The crown: cockscombs, palm, millet, peppercorn, peas, and cotton. For the shoe, I have to apologize because I didn't get what it was made with, but I know it contained leaves. So interesting.

If you haven't experienced the Philadelphia Flower Show, it's a great show. There's different themed days for everyone's personality, food and drinks, and beautiful floral arrangements. Here's some tips to keep in mind for when you go:

1. If you're looking for great deals on flowers and plants to take home, go on the last day of the event. The merchants drop prices dramatically to sell out of their merchandise. You can find things for 50% off, Buy One, Get One or 2 for whatever.
2. Near the convention center, parking and traffic is a nightmare during the show. Plan out your route to the show ahead of time if you're driving. If you're fortunate enough to find a parking spot on the street, be extra sure that you're able to park there. Most of the streets have the metered parking turns into tow away zones and you don't want to end up on Parking Wars. Even if you see other people already parked there, double check and ask a cop or someone of the Philadelphia Parking Authority.
3. Save a few bucks on ticket prices and skip the long ticket lines by picking up tickets in advance. The Acme Market carries tickets at a discounted price that's better than online and at the door. For example, tickets at the gate: $32, tickets purchased online: $27, tickets at Acme: $25. Enough said.

Next year's theme for The Flower Show is ARTiculture. Check out this teaser from their official website, TheFlowerShow.com to get a glimpse of some inspiration.

Did you go to the Philadelphia Flower Show this year? Let me know what you thought.