Archive for November, 2010

What goes better with the glittery dresses, jewelry and handbags you’ve accumulated over the past few years? This season, I’m all about the perfect black suede platform pumps. There’s something almost cartoonish or doll-like about them and the bold shape helps flatter your legs while giving you a sturdy thick heel for walking. Whoah, just had a flash back to three years ago where I wore bad shoes to a holiday party, slipped and as I was being introduced, nearly flashed the CEO of my bf’s company at the time. Lesson learned…the hard way.  I’m not sure what inspired my sudden change in mindset from relying on accessories to do the talking to finsing the right pair of black pumps. Maybe it’s the thought of a pair of shoes that can work with all of your holiday looks…that and craving something other than black in holiday dresses.

Every shop from budget-conscious to Bergdorf’s has an option for black suede platform pumps. Some are even hard to tell from one another, as you might have noticed. Here are the ones I pulled, featured above, starting with the top left:

• Nine West, $89 ($62.30 after 30% discount @ checkout; via Nine West) – A classic look with an average height
• Forever 21, $24.80 – A good option if you’re unsure about getting another pair black pumps, but you want to try out the shape
• Yves Saint Laurent, $549.99 (via Bluefly) – Does this shoe even need a description? If they had my size, these would be in my closet
• Dolce Vita, $158.95 (via Zappos) – I’ve been leaning toward these for awhile, but am sort of waiting for Black Friday and Cyber Monday to pull the trigger (love these too; very similar)
• Me Too, $89 (via Zappos) – This brand is known for being comfortable, so if you’re looking for all-day wears, try these

Which are you favorite? Do you have a pair yet? Any other items on your holiday attire shopping list?

Given I’m in the midst of a sleepless night, I felt it only appropriate to write about coffee. I’m going to need a lot of it tomorrow to get through the day…actually wait, make that today. See, I’m already off.

SO…I’ve been a VIA nut since it first launched last year. Starbucks is based in Seattle, so the brand already hits home for me. On top of that, I’ve been lucky enough to get the 411 on VIA from Starbucks PR and even got to taste all of the new flavored options before they hit stores, which brings me to the topic of this post. First, let me clarify up front – I’m not super savvy in coffee culture. It was actually Starbucks VIA that grounded me (no pun intended) into drinking regular coffee as opposed to fluffy lattes.

I’m one of few people that favor the Cinnamon VIA. If you’re a fan of Gingerbread Lattes, Chai Tea Latte and spice, you’ll probably be more like me. The last few times I’ve made it, my colleagues have commented “Wow, it smells like Christmas in here..what is that?”

Chances are, you probably Read the rest of this entry »

Having spent most of my life in the Seattle area, you’d think I have rain gear down. Not the case. I don’t know where the rumors about Seattle being the rainiest city, but that’s another story. New York City beats Seattle by a long shot and when it rains, it pours. I purchased what I thought was a rain coat from American Apparel last year – $100 and leakage through the seams in the chest area made me look…well, like a mom who just finished nursing (no offense moms out there…I’m just not near ready for that). What a waste, right?

A few weeks ago I was on one of my favorite weekend walks along the Upper Westside and made a stop in Lululemon. I wasn’t looking for a rain coat, but $178 later walked out with the most amazing rain and wind resistant, knee length hooded jacket! It’s called the Everyday Yoga Jacket, which doesn’t do it any justice. I purchased the slate grey, but it also comes in black and light grey. It sort of reminds me of The North Face all weather apex jackets, just a little more stylish and flattering. I wore it outside in the rain for several hours last week for a work event and I’m probably the only person on my team who isn’t getting sick. It’s probably not the jacket, but I’d of course, like to think it had something to do with my smart purchase. Anyway, check it out when you get a chance. I’m usually a small or extra small in coats and purchased a size 4 in this one.

It’d be a great thing to add to your holiday wishlist too!

I started a new job almost two months ago, hence my inconsistent posting schedule…but what’s new? I’m a horrible blogger…I know. Thanks for coming back despite all of that. I’m just finishing work for the day and a few minutes ago noticed the amazing view from desk. It took my breath away and gave me NYC butterflies. So…I thought I’d share the photo and encourage anyone who reads this to take a breather…step away from your computer and do something that makes you happy…even if only “looking out your window.”

File under cheesy, sappy, etc.

My geeky background in gagdet obsessions often leads to exciting opportunities to work with technology brands. I also USED to work in consumer tech PR, which has helped feed said obsessions. As I’ve noted time and time again, I’m not an expert, just an enthusiast. With that…today has been awesome! I just dropped by a little meetup for the official launch of Windows Phone 7 availablility and they sent me home with a T-Mobile HTC HD7 to test out including a Zune Pass, a month of mobile service from T-Mobile and a gift card to purchase Windows Phone 7 apps! Here’s a first look…isn’t it pretty!? It even comes with a little kick stand!

More to come in an experiential review…Tonight, courtesy of Windows Phone 7, I’m going to check out a concert by Katy Perry in NYC. They are also doing one in San Francisco with Maroon 5. They have a bunch of cool things going on for the campaign and are also working with Minka Kelly and Rob Dyrdek on a “Really Rally Road Trip.” Check out the videos after the jump! Read the rest of this entry »