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Victoria's Secret Silk Ruffle Shorts

 

Victoria's Secret Silk Ruffle Shorts

Sometimes the mere mention of the word lingerie makes us anxious. Are we thin enough, buff enough, brave enough? Usually, not so much! So we're loving these new silk ruffle shorts from Victoria's Secret. The perfect combination of comfortable and cute, we'll pair them with a sexy camisole or a comfy tee with confidence.

Price: $29.50

Purchase here


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McGowan & McClain Necklaces

 

McGowan & McClain Necklaces

We see a lot of jewelry in any given week, so when something catches our eye, you know it's something special. We're hoping someone gives us a McGowan & McClain necklace for Valentine's Day. The raw semiprecious stones are edgy, the organic lines sensual—a killer combo for a day celebrating love.

Price: $63–$375

Purchase here


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Avarose Handbags

 

McGowan & McClain Necklaces

We think everything in life should be fun and funky—as well as functional. So for a Valentine's Day treat, ditch your ordinary makeup case for these from Avarose. We've already ordered Ollie the Owl for ourselves—we're into owls right now—and we know just the person for the blue perforated peace sign.

Price: $48–$65

Purchase here


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Stacey Mayesh Consultation

 

Stacey Mayesh Consultation

What do you, Cameron Diaz and Claire Danes have in common? A killer look from top fashion stylist Stacey Mayesh. For her clients' personal and professional looks, Mayesh will shop with you or for you, streamline your closet, style your vacation wardrobe and more. Bonus: for a limited time, Mayesh is charging 30% less than her standard rate to help you get your year off to a stylish start. After working with Mayesh, you will definitely want to strut your stuff!

Price: $250/hour

For an appointment: Stacey Mayesh Consultation


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Necklace

 

Bib Necklace

Forget deck the halls. Deck someone you love in this necklace that looks like a million bucks, without the matching price tag. Bib necklaces are all the rage this season, and we're drooling over this one—which comes in several glamorous shades—from Candi Stamm, our favorite jewelry source. We may just need to stuff one in our own stocking!

Price: $56.00

Ask Melissa Favicon AskMelissa Special: The necklace is $50 for AskMelissa subscribers.

Purchase: Call Candi Stamm, 917.566.5033, to order.


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Belt

 

Invisibelt Girl

The fashionable yet functional belt for girls ages 5 to 15. The adjustable Invisibelt Girl comes in trendy colors and patterns while eliminating the dreaded buckle bulge. Easy to wear with jeans, skirts, leggings and more, this belt is the perfect stocking stuffer for the young fashionistas on your list!

Price: $16.00

Ask Melissa Favicon AskMelissa Special: Receive a 20% discount with promo code 09ASK20. Valid through December 31.

Purchase Invisibelt Girl


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Shirt

 

Custo Barcelona shirt

Finally, a T-shirt that’ll make you look good and feel good (even more so than the usual comfy tee, that is). That’s because 100% of proceeds will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. The high-end, flashy brand Custo Barcelona triumphs with its savvy combination of style and social awareness. The shirt bursts with bright colors and a funky, eye-catching design that we can’t wait to pair with jeans for day or a under a shrunken blazer for night.

Price: $75.00

Purchase here: Please visit www.custo-barcelona.com and click ‘Store Locator’ to find a store near you


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book

 
Funny Face (1957)

The classic that makes every woman yearn to be a model posing for Richard Avedon—and also to be reincarnated as Audrey Hepburn. The Maggie Prescott character is a wonderful homage to Diana Vreeland. And the songs, by George and Ira Gershwin, aren't bad either.

Purchase here

 

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book

 
The September Issue (2009)

Your September won't be complete unless you see this amazing documentary about the editorial team at Vogue compiling their September 2007 (pre-Recession!) book. As the ad-sales team toasts the biggest issue ever with champagne, you can wax nostalgic about the good old days, but the portrayals of André Leon Talley, Grace Coddington and Anna Wintour are relevant and riveting in any economic climate.

 

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book

 
Ready To Wear (1994)

This biting satire by director Robert Altman takes place during Paris fashion week. You'll spot familiar faces—like Sophia Loren—as the models, designers and stars in attendance bicker over styles and emerging trends. Sound familiar?!

Purchase here

 

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book

 
Lagerfeld Confidential (2006)

This documentary, compiled over three years, offers an insider's view of Lagerfeld's life and philosophy. It will have you considering the influential visionary in a whole new light, as he reflects upon his feud with Yves Saint Laurent and contemplates the enduring power of fashion.

Purchase here

 

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book

 

Men May Come and Men May Go but I've Still Got My Little Pink Raincoat: Life and Love in and out of My Wardrobe by Gigi Anders

These engaging essays are each dedicated to a different glamorous and hard-to-find piece of clothing owned by the narrator. The work begins with the hunt for a pink raincoat that she is convinced will make her increasingly distant boyfriend see her in an entirely new light. She finds it. He turns out to be colorblind. For anyone who ever believed that the right piece of clothing would provide a whole new lease on life.

Purchase here

 

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book

 

Breakfast at Tiffany's by Truman Capote

There is no more iconic fashion novel than Breakfast at Tiffany's, and there is no more perfect fashion icon than the inimitable Holly Golightly. You will want to don a little black dress of your own, perhaps paired with a Tiffany's bauble, as soon as you finish this classic.

Purchase here

 

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book

 

The Beautiful Fall: Fashion, Genius, and Glorious Excess in 1970s Paris by Alicia Drake

Do you think the world of fashion today is decadent? It will seem tame after reading this nonfiction work, which chronicles the adventures of a young Karl Lagerfeld and Yves Saint Laurent as they triumphantly take the reins of Chanel and Dior in the 1970s.

Purchase here

 

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book

 

The Meaning of Sunglasses: And a Guide to Almost All Things Fashionable by Hadley Freeman

This hilarious guide, written by the deputy fashion editor of the Guardian, explains the meaning (hidden and otherwise) behind every chic item in a wardrobe. The dry humor and clever quips will have you looking anew at everything from florals to footwear. And pay particular attention to the short chapters, "Logos: the bleating of the insecure" and "Hair Extensions, and when you realize you no longer understand the young."

Purchase here

 

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book

 

Front Row: Anna Wintour: What Lies Beneath the Chic Exterior of Vogue's Editor in Chief by Jerry Oppenheimer

There are magazine editors, and there is Anna Wintour. This (unauthorized) biography of the famous—and infamous—editrix contains everything that Lauren Weisberger didn't tell you. You'll learn about Wintour's schoolgirl years; her rarely discussed time at Viva (a competitor of Playgirl); and precisely how long she's been sporting her trademark bob and sunglasses.

Purchase here

 

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book

 

A Model Summer by Paulina Porizkova

This debut novel, by the 1980s supermodel and wife of rocker Ric Ocasek, provides a first-hand glimpse into the sometimes shocking world of modeling. You will gasp as the heroine, at age 15, learns to sleep with photographers to secure jobs; wince when the tungsten lights turn her eyes bright red and bloody; and mourn as she loses the few people she trusts. The book is clearly written by someone who knows the industry well. It is also, for all its juicy subject matter, a surprisingly poetic tale.

Purchase here

 

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book

 

D.V. by Diana Vreeland

The autobiography of the grand dame of American fashion—think Harper's Bazaar, Vogue and the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute—is filled with her obsessions in high and low fashion (she loved pink poodles); personal eccentricities (she had her maid iron her money every morning); and classic quotes like, "Blue jeans are the most beautiful things since the gondola," and "pink is the navy blue of India."

Purchase here

 

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Dress

 

Milly Cashmere Drape-Neck Column Dress

Nothing says Fall like cashmere, and no one does fashionable yet flirty like Milly. So we're thrilled for fall if it means we get to wear this sumptuous cashmere column dress. We plan to layer it over a sheer long sleeve t-shirt, opaque tights or skinny leggings, and the draped neckline is perfect for our so-this-season layered necklaces. A bonus—made in the USA.

Price: $315

Purchase here


 

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Necklace

 

Elie Tahari Brie Embroidered Necklace

We gave up our BeDazzler long ago (that's our story, and we're sticking to it!), so we're thrilled to satisfy our dazzle desire with this three-tiered necklace, hand-embroidered with shiny threads, metallic beads and shimmering crystals. It's satisfying weight is secured with a sensuous black satin ribbon so we can adjust the length. It was love at first sight at the East Hampton Tahari boutique, so expect to see us wearing it with everything we own!

Price: $448

Available at Elie Tahari boutiques. Go to www.elietahari.com
for store locations.


 

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Tights

 

DKNY Holiday Openwork Tights

Give your gams a great look with new black tights for fall. These patterned DKNYs are our new favorites because they give a little texture to our look. By day, try them with tall slouchy boots and a long cardigan, by night a hot pair of booties and a dress. You'll want more than one pair.

Price: $20

Available exclusively at Bloomingdales, 800.232.1854



 

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Leggings

 

Daddy Long Legs Denim Leggings

Summer just ended and you're not quite ready for jeans? Say hello to stretchy denim leggings that make our legs look long and lean. In black or blue, we've been pairing ours with tunics, long sweaters and the occasional minidress. Just promise not to call them jeggings (an unfortunate combination of "jeans" and "leggings")—otherwise we can't talk to you.

Price: $38

Purchase here


 

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Belt

 

Through the Loops Flower Buckle Belt

You need to belt it out with some of this seasons hottest trends, and we love this black leather number with its chrome flower buckle. We envision this belt slung low over our hips or slipped through our jeans' belt loops to complete any number of ensembles. Love other belts and buckles from this line? They're all interchangeable. Now, that's flower power.

Price: $165

Available through Deborah Ribner, dzribner@nyc.rr.com or 917.593.2232


 

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Dress

 

Marc by Marc Jacobs Stretch Wool Dress

Channel Audrey Hepburn in this updated classic that will become your go-to dress for day or night. Pair it with any variety of accessories—you'll make the look your own. And the bow detail on the shoulder adds that distinctly feminine touch that Jacobs does so well. We snapped ours up at Bloomingdale's on their fab second floor.

Price: $398

Available at Bloomingdale's, 800.232.1854


 

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Jacket

 

Faux Leather Jacket

Set your inner biker chick free cruising in this motorcycle jacket by Forever 21. With its edgy meets elegant vibe, we pair it with a dress or t-shirt and we're good to go. We're loving the zipper details, dark buttons and recession-friendly price tag. Who could resist?!

Price: $32.80

Available at Forever 21 stores. Go to www.forever21.com
for store locations.


 

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Boots

 

Jessica Simpson Collection Tulip Boot

Get ready for a whole different view of the city when you don these fantastic platform boots with 4½" heels from Jessica Simpson, available through Piperlime. The sky-high heels, fold-over cuffs and pointy toes are irresistible. We loved our black leather pair so much, we couldn't help but order them in chocolate brown as well. Kick up your heels!

Price: $198.00

Purchase here


 

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Bag

 

Tylie Malibu Runaway West Suede Bag

You want to look fashion forward, not fashion victim, right? Then, rock out the stud trend and spice up your wardrobe with this splurge from Tylie Malibu. Made from imported Italian suede, this buttery-soft bag features double shoulder straps, zip-top closure and lots of interior pockets for our oh-so-necessaries.

Ask Melissa Favicon  AskMelissa Special: Receive 10% off with promo code "askmelissa". Only valid Saturday, September 12th.

Price: $460

Purchase here


 

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Scarf

 

Simply Vera Vera Wang Crosshatched Scarf

Always a bridemaid, perhaps a bride, and now you can wear Vera Wang day and night with this crosshatched scarf. We're not fond of sacrificing fashion for warmth, and now we don't have to. Fringe trim makes this piece a chic addition to any girl's outfit, while the soft fabric feels yummy against our skin. Available in grey or purple, there's nothing we can't pair it with!

Price: $16.80

Purchase here


 

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Necklace

 

Textured Chains Necklace

Want to look like a million bucks without spending it? Don't we all! How happy were we to find this mixed-metal necklace from Forever 21. We love the texture of the chains' different lengths and widths coupled with the convenience of the single clasp. And at this price, we grabbed a few for our friends!

Price: $8.80

Purchase here


 

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Earrings

 

True Faith Jewelry Sunburst Earrings

Are you a real NYC housewife with dreams of being a "Real Housewife of NYC"? We can't get you a spot on the show, but with these earrings designed by Ramona Singer from the Real Housewives of NYC, you'll be ready for your close-up. We love their fun yet elegant shape, and the sparkly crystals give the look of real gemstones without the "real" price tag. Now, that's a real Best Kept Secret.

Price: $49.95

Purchase here


 

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Earrings

 

Curations with Stefani Greenfield Butterfly Cuff

You can put the cuffs on us anytime if they're as chic as this one from Curations. The repeating rows of tiny butterflies add a delicate touch to this cuff, which is fashion friendly in silver or gold. And, we're all about the feminine flair of its scalloped edge. Save that layered look for your necklace—less is more with this single stunning cuff.

Price: $69.00

Purchase here


 

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Earrings

 

Nebulous Rose Ring

The ring's the thing with this rhinestone find from Forever 21. (This just might be one of our new favorite stores!) We were really excited when we came across this bargain—an understatement at under $7. The ring has just the right amount of sparkle and style for a night—or day—on the town. Bet Beyoncé would like this ring on her finger!

Price: $6.80

Purchase here


 

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Juliette Longuet Dress

 

Juliette Longuet Exotic Excess Multi Purples Dress

French designer Juliette Longuet has made a stylish dress that is perfect for summer. Pair it with flip flops or heels and jewelry—you can't go wrong. The silk chiffon feels great against your summer skin, and the graphic print adds a funky touch.

Click here for our previous feature on Boutique on 57, one of AskMelissa's Best Kept Secrets.

Price: Normally $365.00, but if you call Boutique on 57 at 212.247.2229 and mention AskMelissa, you will pay $185.00.

Purchase here


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Tory Burch Shoes

 

Tory Burch Jelly Reva Shoes

A vacation essential, the comfortable Reva jelly flat is back, but with a new shape. Choose from orange, pink, yellow or navy. Revas ship free when you order from Tory Burch. And, through June 30th, Tory Burch is offering free ground shipping for online orders of $150.00 or more.

Purchase here


 

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Hidden Message Collar Stays

 

Hidden Message Collar Stays

For the businessman, these hidden message collar stays keep collars perfectly in place. Made of stainless steel, each one contains a sweet, romantic message such as "You Make me Laugh" or "You Smell Irresistible." A subtle yet intimate gift for Father's Day and an Ask Melissa favorite.

Purchase here


 

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Catherine M. Zadeh Cuff Links

 

Catherine M. Zadeh Cuff Links

Featured at Bergdorf's and Barney's, these stylish cufflinks are both made of sterling, and one is designed with ebony horn. Ms. Zadeh's pieces are a favorite among celebrities, and the two styles featured are available at a steep discount when ordering through AskMelissa.com.

Purchase here


 

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Emporio Armani Meccanico Watch

 

Emporio Armani Meccanico Watch

Surprise Dad with this designer find. The stainless steel case and crystal detailed dial are a modern take on a vintage look. The croc-embossed leather strap adds a finishing touch.

Purchase here


 

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Adidas Shirt

 

adidas Golf ClimaCool 3-Stripes Mesh Polo

Take advantage of this early opportunity to purchase the polo Sergio Garcia will debut (in black) on Sunday of the 2009 US Open. The special fabric aids with high breathability, quick moisture evaporation, and easy elimination of roll and curl. Three color choices are available: black, white, and diaz.

Purchase here

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Hanky Panky Lingerie

My favorite lingerie is made by Hanky Panky. They created these Sweet Nothings Gift Sets, perfect for your sweetheart. Choose from The Leopard and Zebra heart boxes with two thongs for $36. The Love Letter set includes a pink and leopard thong with leopard note card for $20.

Purchase here

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Hanky Panky Lingerie

My favorite lingerie is made by Hanky Panky. They created these Sweet Nothings Gift Sets, perfect for your sweetheart. Choose from The Leopard and Zebra heart boxes with two thongs for $36. The Love Letter set includes a pink and leopard thong with leopard note card for $20.

Purchase here

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"Love And Luck" Bangle Bracelet

My new favorite piece of jewelry is this great looking "love and luck" bangle bracelet from Alex and Ani. This bangle set is adjustable to any wrist size and made of recycled materials from local mills in the U.S. $178.

Purchase here

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invisibelt

 

Invisibelt

A clear, black or nude plastic belt that adjusts from sizes 2-14 that eliminates unflattering belt bulge and lays flat under fitted tops

Purchase here

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Carlos Falchi Microfiber Bags

New line of designer bags by CARLOS FALCHI
Available in a variety of styles, colors and shapes
Made of microfiber (a recycled material) so they are lightweight, practical, and affordable.

Purchase here

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Bronze Python image

 

Bronze Python Minaudiere: $500

Santa's satchel will look so last year when compared to this simply stylish minaudiere by R&Y Augousti. The raised python texture is perfectly complimented by the subdued bronze coloring.

Purchase here

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Flower Ring image

 

Two Petal Flower Ring: $215

Ring in the New Year with these gorgeous creations by Kara Ross. Glancing down at such a lovely flower ring will have you looking forward to spring.

Purchase here

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Alexander McQueen scarf

 

Alexander McQueen scarf

An Alexander McQueen scarf is fit for a queen – or any trendsetter in your life. Consider this “hauntingly hedonistic” one made of 100% silk.

Purchase here

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Foot Petals

Tina Aldatz was a fashionista working for BCBG Max Azria, who couldn't resist the urge to strap on a pair of killer stilettos. Unfortunately, like so many other women, Tina had to endure pain for the sake of fashion.

After extensive research, design, and engineering, Tina founded Foot Petals, a company devoted to delivering relief and comfort to women unable to resist the urge to throw on a pair of sky-high heels.

Foot Petals specializes in a variety of shoe accessories. As the original designer shoe cushion, Foot Petals insoles are discreet and invisible in even the sexiest of shoes.

Foot Petals have become a staple in the shoe wardrobes of celebs like Marcia Cross and Justine Bateman.

Below are some of Ask Melissa's favorite “sole-savers.”

Strappy Strips:

For a blister free night, apply Strappy Strips to any thin shoe strap to keep straps in place. Strappy Strips keep feet looking pretty by preventing shoe straps from cutting into feet which can leave unattractive red marks. Strappy Strips are great for sandals, sling-backs, thongs, and flip flops.

Tip Toes:

Tickle your toes with Tip Toes, flower-shaped cushions for the balls of your feet. These cushions stop feet from sliding forward, preventing toe overhang and toe scrunch. They also help to avoid calluses and protect bones and tissues.

Heavenly Heels:

Feel like you are walking on air with Heavenly Heels. These strip cushions keep heels from slipping in and out of shoes, easing friction and preventing blisters. Heavenly Heels can be placed inside shoes anywhere your shoes don't quite fit. Apply them on the inside of a mule, boot, or shoe.

To learn more about Foot Petals: www.footpetals.com

Purchase Strappy Strips here

Purchase Tip Toes here

Purchase Heavenly Heels here

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Mother Daughter ring

 

Kiwon Wang 'Mother Daughter' Ring

This unique and beautiful, one-of-a-kind ring made by designer Kiwon Wang, whose work has been shown in exhibitions throughout the world, is a modern looking design made of sterling silver and fresh water pearls. The Mother Daughter ring makes for a great gift. Mention Ask Melissa to receive a 10% discount.

Order 'Mother Daughter' Ring here

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Alex and Ani earring

 

Alex & Ani Tear Drop Earrings

Web-textured tear drop earrings are made in a fun shiny gold finish. Great style for work or play, day or evening.

Purchase here

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Jill Heller bracelet

 

Jill Heller Abundance Bracelet

The Abundance Bracelet is a great gift for spiritual and hip Moms. Each bracelet promises positive energy and contains a prosperity mantra found on a white paper scroll located inside the link. The bracelet is super chic and available in two sizes, large or small.

First time customers receive a 10% discount when they mention Ask Melissa

*The Abundance bracelets are custom orders and non-returnable/non-refundable

Order Abundance Bracelets here

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Beirn Bag

 

Jenna bag by Beirn

The perfect hobo bag by Beirn is made from watersnake and lined with canvas. Makes for a great gift and wearable every season. These stylish bags come in a variety of bright colors.

Purchase here

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Pulitzer Dress

 

Lilly Pulitzer Mother and Daughter Beach Tunic Dresses

In celebration of Lilly Pulitzer's 50th anniversary, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, celebrity mom, has designed these limited-edition, one-of-a-kind "mommy and me" tunic dresses all for "a colorful cause." This program raises funds for EB, a rare and inherited skin disease which affects young children.

Purchase Mom Tunic here

Purchase Daughter Tunic here

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Urban Zen T-Shirt

Support Earth Day. Ask Melissa loves this series of limited edition eco-friendly t-shirts designed by Tonic for Donna Karan’s Urban Zen. Proceeds of these bamboo and organic cotton t-shirts are donated to both the Urban Zen and Tonic Foundations.

Purchase here

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FENDI PEEP-TOE BOOTIE

The FENDI PEEP-TOE BOOTIE is the 'shoe of the moment' and certainly a fashion statement for spring. Great with jeans and recently seen on the streets of Paris with black leggings. A fantasy shoe priced at $770.

Purchase here

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PLATFORM SLING BACKS BY NA NA

PLATFORM SLING BACKS BY NA NA are stylish, trendy and affordable. They are made of faux python, a hot look for the season. Priced at $79.99.

Purchase here

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GUESS PUMP

Bright colors are a big trend this season. For a splash of color, here is a low heeled pump from Guess priced at $90.00.

Purchase here

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ALICE + OLIVIA WEDGE

ALICE + OLIVIA WEDGE alice + olivia designed these stylish patent leather wedges for Payless. They are extremely comfortable and priced right at $38.

Purchase here

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CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN PUMP

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN PUMP This shoe is a perfect shape and a favorite color for spring. It is designed by the legendary Christian Louboutin and extremely versatile. Priced at $795.

Purchase here

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SAM EDELMAN SANDALS

SAM EDELMAN SANDALS These cute summer sandals from Sam Edelman come in a variety of colors and styles. This simple style (Gigi) is $69 and the gladiator style (Ginnie) is $89.

Purchase here

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STEVE MADDEN PEWTER SNAKESKIN BALLET FLAT

STEVE MADDEN PEWTER SNAKESKIN BALLET FLAT This pewter ballet flat by Steve Madden is a timeless classic and comes in several colors. Priced at $49.95.

Purchase here

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OSPOP. CANVAS TRAINERS

OSPOP. CANVAS TRAINERS These kicks have clean lines, simple design and an ergonomic insole which makes them both supportive and comfortable. ospop. gives back-- a portion of the proceeds help fund education in developing countries. Priced at $76.

Purchase here

   
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