WHIMSY

It seems that every newspaper I open and every television commercial I see lately is touting “back to school” necessities. Not sure about you, but I’m just not ready for back to school yet!

Although I hate to say goodbye to summer, I know I need to at least get started. And this year, back to school for our family means sending our oldest off to – gasp – college. Along with extra long dorm sheets, a coffee maker and a dozen blue books, my daughter needs what every girls needs. Shoes!

Not any shoes will do, however. She has very definite tastes and preferences, so one way we can always agree is to head to Payless Shoe Source. She gets the style she craves and I get a price that I can live with!

Since the University of Delaware has a sprawling campus, she’ll need lots of flats. Stylish, but practical, our top three choices are flats that would be perfect with a short skirt, long skirt, capris, jeans … really just about anything.

First, we both adore the Audrey Knot Flat. This is a fabulous little flat from American Eagle that has a bold, knotted detail. American Eagle flats are really comfortable and have a round toe and padded insole. Pictured here in a soft dove grey the Audrey Knot Flat is also available in black. Regularly $19.99, these are now on sale for only $12.99!

Next, we agreed that the Bloom Flat is the cutest shoe we’ve seen in a long while. This is another flat from American Eagle and features a soft jersey upper and a whimsical fabric flower detail. These are super lightweight and have a flexible outsole — perfect for walking to class. In addition to the choice of black, pictured, the Bloom Flat is also available in lilac. The Bloom Flat is now on sale for only $12.99 (regularly $19.99), so we might just have to pick up both colors!

Finally, the Brice flat is is a slightly dressier flat for sorority mixers and other campus events. This spunky plaid flat by American Eagle has a sturdy canvas upper and a cute strap detail. The Brice flat is available is the purple and blue pattern pictured, and would make the perfect pair of shoes for the transition from summer to fall. Retail $19.99

With so many choices, she might need a bigger closet!

Are you a Payless fan? Now you can win a trip for two to New York City and an All Fashion Pass for a runway show and a personalized tour of Christian Siriano’s design studio in the VIP in NYC Sweepstakes courtesy of Payless ShoeSource.

Enter Once. Some restrictions apply. US only (void AK, HI) 18+. Contest ends 8/15/10, so enter today!

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 Payless Shoe Source.

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

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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.

As July winds down and we face the dog-days of August, my hemlines just keep getting shorter! Maybe it’s to show off the tan I’ve been working on all summer or maybe it’s just too darned hot, but I’ve been absolutely living in little dresses this year. I still love my floaty long skirts or a crisp pair of white jeans, but they have all been hanging forlornly in my closet since temperatures hit 95 degrees – and stayed there!

The perfect solution to looking hot (but not feeling the heat) is a lingerie-inspired, barely there dress by designer Anjai Kumar. Her custom look is achieved with signature details and meticulous hand work – for a unique look that’s a cross between couture and contemporary chic.  And, her line is just filled with fun and flirty pieces that are sure to raise the temperature – his!

Each of Anjali’s pieces exude elegance, but also have a dash of whimsy. I think that her deceptively simply designs are created for the woman who is inherently secure, sexy and confident – someone with no need to hide behind outlandish details, splashy prints, or other forms of “caricature” dressing.

One standout from Anjali’s most recent collection is the Spaghetti Strap Flare Dress. This adorable dress is shown here in a soft blush pink with a delicate and detailed floral inspired print in 100% silk georgette, lined in contrasting taupe silk.

Impeccably tailored, the spaghetti straps are adjustable and the dress has a concealed zipper (a tiny detail that I personally love). This dress is also incredibly flattering – it just flows over the body as if it was custom made just for you.

The Spaghetti Strap Flare Dress is also available in solid silk charmeuse for an evening look. Available in a rainbow of sexy hues from classic black or navy, to icy pink or stunning silver, to delicious chocolate, you’re sure to find just the right shade. Available in sizes XS, S, M, L. Retail $302.00

Although not immediately apparent from her beautiful collections, designer Anjali Kumar’s career in fashion has taken a few interesting turns. Following a successful career on Wall Street from 1992 to 2000, Anjali finally answered the siren call of fashion. And we’re so glad she did!

To pursue her lifelong fascination with fashion, she attended the Fashion Institute of Technology. She simultaneously designed custom clothing for an exclusive clientele, which led to the successful launch of her retail label.

To see recent collections visit Anjali Kumar. Find a store near you in the United States and abroad or you can also shop online.

With a flirty dress by Anjali Kumar, the heat is on!

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?!

Back-to-school shopping time is here and amid groans from my kids, we went on a marathon shopping expedition to the mall for all of those can’t-live-without items. You know, Converse All Stars, Aeropostale polo shirts and anything from Icing!

Since I knew we’d be gone for hours (and hours!) I took my new tote filled to the brim with all the debris necessary for three kids – snacks, water bottles, you name it and I’ve got it in my bag. This often proves hard to handle – literally. My tote sometime weighs so much that I lumber around with it, switching shoulders and generally suffering from an aching back.

So, I was amazed with the way this new tote “Changer” Tote from Meray Arnett changed my experience. The bag is stylish – in satin nylon with a contrasting leather strap – but it’s the functionality that I love! Although it’s sturdy and has a really supportive bottom, the bag itself is so lightweight the extra “gear” wasn’t a problem at all!

Plus, the bag features a slide-thru strap so that you can wear it as a shoulder bag or (later in the day) as a crossbody bag. Sometimes I feel like I look like a pack mule with a crossbody or messenger bag, but this one is so cute (mine is candy apple red with silvertone hardware) that it was just adorable!

In addition to the red, the bags are available in a sweet lavender, sensible grey, brown, or beige, classic black or navy, and a really lovely icy, light blue. They are also available in two sizes. The large (if you have three kids like me!) is perfect (Retail $185), or the smaller (Retail $165), which has the same features, high quality construction and functionality.

All of the bags are fully lined, have a great zipper closure (no more spilled contents) and a zipper on the back (no more lost keys). There is also an interior has zipper pocket, card holder and two phone pockets to help keep you organized.

This is just the perfect bag — for a shopping trip or for everyday. A very chic, functional alternative to a canvas tote or a — horrors! — backpack (Yes, Carrie Bradshaw would be appalled that I even thought it).

You can find a store near you at Meray Arnett or shop online.

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?!

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?!

Summer offers the perfect opportunity to incorporate playful pieces into your wardrobe. At what other time of year can you wear Lilly Pulitzer prints to the office or sandals with huge colorful flowers on top?

For me, jewelry is the easiest way to tap into that mood and my favorite online retailer, Rue de Chic has a multitude of choices! From funky earrings, to statement necklaces, to beautiful bangles, to bold cocktail rings and even brooches, this is my one-stop shop for jewelry with an attitude.

One of the best pieces I found just recently is the Olivine ring, pictured. This is costume jewelry at it’s most whimsical. The adjustable  ring features an adorable owl (I call mine Hedwig!) crafted of sparkling crystals in shades of caramel, lime and jet black. It’s perfect for everything from work to weekend. Retail $15.00

Now, you can win an Olivine ring of your own!

So many easy ways to win:

1. MANDATORY – Follow Rue de Chic (please leave a comment to let us know)

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Contest is open until midnight on July 19 and the winner will be notified July 20!

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?!

UPDATE 7-20-2010 The winner of the Olivine Owl Ring is Nikki I. from Redwood City, CA. Congratulations Nikki!

The warehouse sale you’ve been waiting for is the Kate Boggiano’s Early Bird Sale. You can save big and look fabulous all summer long!

Saturday, July 24th, 8am-4pm, Kate Boggiano is having their semi-annual Warehouse Sale out of their Pilsen Studio: 2150 S. Canalport Ave., 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60608.

60% off, 8:00 am – 9:00 am

50% off, 10:00 am – 11:00 am

40% off, 11:00 am – 12:00 noon

30% off, 12:00 noon – 4:00 pm

Shop early for the best savings and best selection of signature ruffle blouses, tops, dresses, and more. This sale includes: current season, past seasons, clearance, and the famous seamless collection of tanks and leggings! Also, get an exclusive first look at Kate Boggiano’s Fall 2010 line, plus 20% off all Fall 2010 purchases!

Photo courtesy of Kate Boggiano.

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?!