WHIMSY

Even though we’d rather camp out at the beach and enjoy every last minute of the summer sun, fall is fast approaching. Luckily for fashionistas the world over, there’s plenty of fall fashion to look forward to (hello, boots and blazers!), even if we’re not huge fans of the cooler weather to come.

To celebrate the unofficial last week of summer before Labor Day hits, and it’s no longer kosher to wear white (though I hear breaking fashion rules is a new fashion rule…) we here at Style on a WHIM wanted to offer up a HUGE package to ONE reader that’s simply BURSTING with cool products we’ve had a chance to review over the past three sultry months!

Included in the package:

Berry Ball
Tt Collection teal t-shirt
Sunglass Warehouse oversized sunglasses
Absolutely Audrey shoe clips
Crochet Couture Necklace
OKA b. flip flops
KattFive Creations beaded hair tie
WHIMSY ring with Eastern Trading Murano glass bead
Rumba Time watches in light blue and white
Shondra Leigh Repeating Squares metal mesh cuff
Kushyfoot toe cushions
Kushyfoot lace foot covers
Strappys decorative bra straps

The total retail value of all the goodies is approximately $575!! You’re crazy if you don’t enter to win this great box of stylish summer fun!

Here are the rules:

1. MANDATORY COMMENT – Please visit the links above, then come back here and leave a comment below about which item is your fave. (1 entry) Please note: the Absolutely Audrey shoe clips haven’t been reviewed yet, but you can still comment about them — the link is to their website!

2. Subscribe to Style on a WHIM via our brand new Google Friends Connect option, 5 entries (please leave a separate comment for each of the five to let us know)

3. “Like” us on Facebook (5 entries, please leave a comment to let us know)

4. Follow us on Twitter (5 entries, please leave a comment to let us know)

Hurry!! The contest ends Sept. 15 — winner will be announced Sept. 16!!

Already a follower?  Just leave us a comment that you follow. Good Luck!

Also — don’t forget to enter the other Style on a WHIM contests that are running right now!
Shondra Leigh “lace” earrings contest (ends 9/8)
New Standard T-shirt contest (ends 9/3)

-Keri

In case you haven’t heard yet, today is Global Forgiveness Day. The holiday originated in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada and was started in 1992 as a time to forgive and to be forgiven. This is now an international event and I think we all agree that a little more forgiveness will help make the world a better place!

To celebrate this special day I found the String-Ring™. This clever ring is not only a beautiful piece of jewelry, it’s also a constant visual reminder. The ring is designed to be threaded with a colored string, each of which is coded to remind you of a particular act of kindness. For example, blue represents tranquility and reminds you to be patient. Orange represents energy and enthusiasm and reminds you to laugh as often as possible. And silver represents wisdom and reminds you to forgive!

Each String-Ring is crafted from the highest quality silver and comes with 20 replaceable colored strings, a jute bag, and polishing cloth, as well as a list of color meanings. The String-Ring is available in sizes 4 -10 and will adjust up or down to ensure the perfect fit. Retail: $28.95

The String-Ring is the brainchild of artist Tina Mansfield who in 1996 set about to create a kindness program in her son’s classroom. It seemed to Tina that everywhere she looked she came across rude behavior. She decided to find a way to teach the children to be kind and compassionate when aggressive behavior is exhibited everywhere you look. Since tying a string around your finger is an age old visual cue, the symbolism resonated with Tina and the String-Ring concept began to take shape.

So celebrate Global Forgiveness Day in style. You can easily order online for a very thoughtful gift, but you’ll be tempted to keep if for yourself (I’ll forgive you if you do!).

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, entrepreneur and social activist. In addition toStyle on a WHIM Susan also writes for It’s how you play the game! , Success Won’t Wait! and Susan Said What?!

It seems that statement necklaces are here to stay… at least through fall! A quick flip through my new InStyle Magazine confirmed that huge, multi-strand necklaces are still a “fashion do.” From some of my favorite stores like bebe, White House Black Market and Express, with necklaces, it appears that bigger is better!

Much as I love a fabulous necklace, sometime they’re a pain in the neck – literally. Several of my chunkiest, multi-strand necklaces are so heavy that I need to take them off mid-day.

If you “feel my pain” never fear, I recently found a solution that is both smart and beautiful – from Elizabeth Green’s Couture Crochet. These eye-catching necklaces are actually made of colorful and (most importantly!) lightweight ribbon. Plus, the clever design allows you to easily adjust the length to work with any neckline.

My favorite color combination for fall are the brilliant reds, oranges and yellows showcased in the Firefly necklace, pictured. This stunning necklace looks effortless, whether it’s paired with jeans and a tee or a work ensemble.

These great pieces are also quite affordable. The Firefly necklace retails for only $16.00 and all of Elizabeth Green’s lovely pieces are available online at Couture Crochet.

Want to win your own? Contest ends 9/1. To enter:

1. MANDATORY COMMENT – Please visit Couture Crochet and choose your favorite piece. Leave a comment here (1 entry)

2. Subscribe to Style on a WHIM via our brand new Google Friends Connect option, (5 entries)

3. “Like” us on Facebook, 5 entries (please leave a comment to let us know)

4. Follow us on Twitter, 5 entries (please leave a comment to let us know)

Already a follower?  Just leave us a comment that you follow.

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, entrepreneur and social activist. In addition toStyle on a WHIM Susan also writes for It’s how you play the game! , Success Won’t Wait! and Susan Said What?!

It’s that time again!

We’re giving away another beautiful, sterling silver WHIMSY™ ring!

This time, we’re giving away The Sophia, which is crafted using eco-friendly, reclaimed sterling silver and features a feminine rose-shaped endcap. It’s one of WHIMSY’s top sellers!

The Sophia offers timeless beauty inspired by screen siren Sophia Loren. The ring’s threaded center post is easy to use, adjustable and accommodates a range of bead widths.

The Sophia is pictured here with a bead made by Chamilia™, however, posts accommodate beads from most major bead companies including Trollbeads, Pandora™ and more.

Along with the ring, the winner will receive a bead from Eastern Trading Company, for a total retail value of $150!

5 easy ways to win:

1. Leave a comment with this post, 1 entry

2. Subscribe to Style on a WHIM, 1 entry (please leave a comment to let us know)

3. “Like” Style on a WHIM, 1 entry (please leave a comment to let us know)

4. Follow Style on a WHIM on Twitter, 1 entry (please leave a comment to let us know)

5. Click on and read another Style on a WHIM post, 1X (please leave a comment to let us know)

Already a follower?  Just leave us a comment that you follow.

Contest is open until midnight on August 16 and the winner will be notified August 17!

UPDATE 8/18. Scott from Illinois is the winner of the lovely Sophia ring from WHIMSY. Congratulations to Scott!

As part of a longstanding tradition, WHIMSY’s lead designer Craig Whitten and his wife Cynthia were on hand at the annual Miss Delaware Pageant to congratulate the new winner and of course, gift her with some of Craig’s beautiful new designs!

WHIMSY designs are a favorite in the pageant world and have been seen on numerous winners — from opera diva, television personality and Miss America 1981 the amazing Susan Powell, to Miss America 2009, the lovely and talented Katie Stam!

This year, our state representative to the Miss America Pageant is the lovely Kayla Martell, pictured here with Craig and Cindy just after she was crowned. Maybe the WHIMSY tradition will help her become the next Miss America? I sure hope so!

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, entrepreneur and social activist. In addition toStyle on a WHIM Susan also writes for It’s how you play the game! , Success Won’t Wait! and Susan Said What?!

Have you noticed the trend toward what I jokingly call “disposable clothes?” It’s appalling, really. Some of the trendiest stores are offering pieces that literally fall apart in the wash or look so wretched after a few wearings that they end up as cleaning rags.

With the economy still in a slump (sigh), I’ve had to reevaluate some of my more impulsive fashion choices. And now, more than ever, basics like tanks and t’s need to wash well, wear well, and last (at least a full season!).

Lucky for me, I discovered the Tt Collection. In addition to a spectacular line of dresses, tops, leggings, skirts, and even cashmere pieces, Tt has a line of “luxury basics.”  The line is a favorite in Hollywood and has been spotted on some of Tinsel Town’s most stylish celebrities – from Keke Palmer, to Lauren Conrad, Kate Hudson and even Angelina Jolie.

My top three favorites? First, a girl can never have too many tanks in her closet. Alone, with a Henley, or under a sweater or jacket, the Tt Triple Tank is super soft, luxurious, and available in a rainbow of colors. Incredibly well made, the neckline is finished with the Tt signature triple-binding. Retail $60.00

Next, it doesn’t get any more basic than a t-shirt. But just because it’s basic, doesn’t mean that you have to skimp on style. The Tt Triple Scoop Neck T-Shirt offers incredibly flattering styling, and is perfect with everything from a smart suit to your favorite pair of skinny jeans. Made right in Los Angeles, the crafting is superb, and like the TT tank, the t-shirt is finished with the firm’s signature triple-binding. Retail $64.00

Finally, much as I hate to admit it, cooler temperatures are just around the corner. So, it’s time to stock up on Tt Triple Scoop Long-Sleeved T-Shirts. The dramatic scoop neck is the ideal foil for a funky necklace or casual cotton scarf. The long-sleeved t-shirt is also beautifully made and finished with the Tt signature triple-binding. Retail $84.00

So, who’s responsible for these amazing basics? Tt designer Tiffany Saidnia, an LA native, began her fashion career catering to high profile clients of notorious celebrity stylist Jessica Pastor. Later, Tiffany decided to create her own line that has the construction, fabrication, and design quality of a designer brand, but at a contemporary price point.

The essence of her collection is comfortable yet elegant, with timeless appeal—like her luxury basics. Using elements from her background in denim and leather, Tiffany takes an unconventional approach to fashion pieces and everyday knit items.

The result? Tt is classic, functional, and unique – a taste of haute couture for everyday.

The entire line is available online or find a store near you.

The Tt Collection goes beyond basics!

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, entrepreneur and social activist. In addition toStyle on a WHIM Susan also writes for It’s how you play the game! , Success Won’t Wait! and Susan Said What?!

Photos courtesy of Tt Collection.

July is here and that means some steamy nights! Messy up dos, flirty little dresses and some seriously sexy heels are all the weapons I need to face soaring temperatures on those hot Saturday nights.

Recently, I added the most perfect shoes to my summer wardrobe — just right for Saturday night on the town! These “Basket” wedges from Two Lips Shoes are ideal for everything from dinner at a café on the waterfront, to early evening strolling down Philly’s famed South Street, to a summery outdoor concert.

The 4” heels (plus platform) give me a little extra height (A huge bonus since I’ve always lamented my paltry 5’5”) and are simply gorgeous. The upper is vegan-friendly faux leather and is covered with brightly colored sequins and gemstones. The shoes have a flattering ankle strap and a trendy, strappy look. The cork wedge is ultra light and the shoes are well padded, so they really are wonderfully comfortable. Retail $79.99

Two Lips Shoes designs a whole range of chic and comfortable footwear for women. Whether you’re looking for dress shoes, flats wedges, or boots, the Two Lips look is easily recognizable — fashionable, edgy, and most of all – fun!

The line has already been discovered by great stylists everywhere and shoes from Two Lips can be seen featured in major fashion, style and women’s magazines – from Regard, to Glamour, to Southern Bride.

Want to get your own? Two Lips Shoes can be found at retail stores, online stores, fine department stores and specialty stores — including a great range of choices at one of my favorite retailers, DSW Shoes. Or you can see the entire selection at the Two Lips online store .

Now, I just need to convince hubby to take me dancing this Saturday!

Photo courtesy of Two Lips Shoes.

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, entrepreneur and social activist. In addition to Style on a WHIM Susan also writes for It’s how you play the game! , Success Won’t Wait! and Susan Said What?!

The mood of fashion this summer is easy, breezy and comfortable. The thought of ironing makes me swoon in this heat, so I personally tend to gravitate toward easy care fabrics that either shake out or look better a bit rumpled.

Lucky for me, I found the perfect summer go-everywhere dress from Mata Traders. Pictured here in mint green, the Cadeau dress is a knit tank dress with a perky polka dot skirt. The fabric is not only adorable, it also contains a history and preserves an art.  Hand block printed with eco-friendly vegetable dyes, this is an artisan based textile tradition existing in India for centuries.

Ultra flattering, the top has a razor back and the skirt hits just at the knee. I love that this dress does double or even triple duty. Wear it for a fun barbeque or outdoor party, as a quick beach cover-up, or even with a cardi and slides for dress down Friday at work! Retail $52.00

Mata Traders is my new secret style weapon against the ongoing sluggish economy because it’s such a great resource for all sorts of wonderful, fashionable pieces that won’t break the bank. From accessories, to bags, to all types of clothing and even fun jewelry you’ll find it there.

But Mata Traders offers more than just great style. The company actually empowers women around the globe because Mata Traders works with organizations that educate and employ women.

Mata products are original designs handmade in India by women’s cooperatives and artisan groups that practice fair trade principles. This means that their producers are paid a livable wage in safe and fair conditions, and do their work at home and in small workshops rather than factories.  Services like on-site day-care, medical check-ups, and even over-time pay are offered!

Mata also uses fair trade certified cottons, which means that they support small family farms that are paid a fair price for their cotton and follow environmental standards that restrict the use of agrochemicals and encourage sustainability.

For a store near you, visit Mata Traders or see they entire line of beautiful items in the online Mata catalog.

Summertime and the livin’ is easy …

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, entrepreneur and social activist. In addition to Style on a WHIM Susan also writes for It’s how you play the game! , Success Won’t Wait! and Susan Said What?!

EXCITING STUFF!!!

Today, we had a photo shoot with Carlos, our fantastic photographer who took all the images you see on the WHIMSY™ website. We were particularly excited this time around because our new station necklace and matching earrings were the subjects, and we LOVE them! (Although we’re a little biased…)

As you can see in the photo I took, our model, Barbie, continues to help us create beautiful shots that Carlos makes even better with his creative vision.

These two pieces will be the next release from WHIMSY, so stay tuned for the professional photos from the shoot today so you can get an up-close look of what’s new and upcoming!

-Keri

Close your eyes and imagine turquoise. What comes to mind? The sun glinting off of the inviting waters of St. Tropez. A cloudless sky in Hawaii. Or maybe the flash of a tropical bird in St. Thomas. Whatever you envision, turquoise is without question, the color for summer.

Ever since Pantone named turquoise the color of the year for 2010, Keri and I have rhapsodized about this gorgeous shade. Turquoise is one of those perfect colors that just makes everyone look more beautiful. And, it’s so easy to incorporate into your wardrobe – whether it’s a snuggly sweater, breezy scarf or a new belt, the addition of turquoise is an instant update.

I love turquoise throughout the year, but I think it’s absolutely essential for summer. Against bronzed skin, paired with crisp white, or used as an accent, turquoise tops my list of summer must-haves. And of course, I have three of my favorite ways to add turquoise into the mix for you this summer!

First, is a sexy bikini from Voda Swim. This bikini is called the Envy Push Up Aqua Splash String Bikini and is a glorious shade of turquoise. Because this particular color by Voda Swim is also available in several other styles, it was a hard choice. But the simple design of this top will withstand beachside activity a little more strenuous than just sunbathing — from to surfing to volleyball! Retail $110.00

Voda Swim also has a secret!  The magic is in a new patent pending Envy Push Up bikini top which was created by international model Yulia.

The bikini top has a soft enhancer that gives a full, rounded contour with a natural bouncy movement. The Envy Push Up top visually increases bust size by up to two cup sizes and provides great support with a natural lift and flawless cleavage.

The push up pads are made of high density polyester foam which absorbs a very small amount of water. They keep their shape and form when immersed in water, and – best of all – no sagging!

Voda Swim has been discovered by celebs all over the world, and now the rest of us can look that wonderful, too. Check out this month’s magazine covers – from Seventeen to Glamour and see if you don’t agree!

Photo courtesy of Voda Swim.

Next, I absolutely love this wrap watch from La Mer in turquoise. The ultimate summer accessory, this one is appropriately called Turquoise – Gold Seaside and has an extra-long soft leather strap topped with a double chain, plus adorable nautical charms.

All of the La Mer Collections contain classic watch faces designed exclusively by Martine Ilana. These are paired with beautiful leather straps, each of which is hand assembled in the United States. The watches have a Seiko watch movement and are nickel free. Retail $110.00

La Mer was established in 2001 when fonder Martine rummaged through her jewelry drawer and could not find a simple, stylish and feminine watch to wear. Combining her passion for design, love of quality materials and simple beauty, La Mer Collections was born.

Martine’s inspiration is drawn from her journeys: South Africa’s colorful markets, Bali’s lush flowers, Italy’s gorgeous leathers and Thailand’s clear blue ocean. Each season La Mer’s color palette is chosen from these bright and colorful experiences. And, lucky for us, this year’s collection includes stylish turquoise!

Photo courtesy of La Mer.

Finally, my handbag addiction has reared its ugly head once more, because I don’t have a – gasp – turquoise handbag! I found the perfect solution at Rue de Chic. The Turquoise “Eva”" Clutch is sophisticated handbag that I can pair with work ensembles, weekend wear — even a casual sundress! Retail $40.00

Rue de Chic is one of my newest, favorite shopping haunts. For the unique and unexpected with a distinctive European flair, this site is a must-see. In addition to this fab turquoise clutch, Rue de Chic offers a huge array of fashions, accessories, trendy jewelry – just about everything you’ll need to enjoy your summer in style!

Photo courtesy of Rue de Chic.

Susan McNeill is a wife, mother, author, entrepreneur and social activist. In addition to Style on a WHIM Susan also writes for It’s how you play the game! , Success Won’t Wait! and Susan Said What?!