The Shopping Bag: Go Pink!

It wouldn't be October without thinking pink. Isn't it wonderful that breast cancer awareness and October are so immediately connected in our minds. Oh how far we have come! There is still much farther to go and it just wouldn't be right to start my October posts off without turning the blog pink with fabulous goodies that support saving the ta-ta's! Not to mention the holiday season has already kicked off in retail stores reminding us that it's not that far away. Why not keep the pink going and make it a pink Christmas this year? Shop now and share awareness and fabulous style! I set out to find the best picks and hottest looks.

Its no secret that I look forward to football season every year so my first pick is all about showing team spirit and support. The NFL shop has an entire section devoted to breast cancer awareness for him and her. Most styles come with logos from all NFL teams and there are many items to choose from. The NFL's "A Crucial Catch" campaign raises awareness and funds to support the American Cancer Society. 

Speaking of holiday sparkle, how about a gorgeous statement necklace and earrings from Loft? Designed by Suzanna Dai with breast cancer survivor and TV personality Giuliana Rancic for the "Live in Pink Movement." Sixty percent of the purchase price will go to Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Skinny jeans are not going anywhere and they have gone from denim to a rainbow of colors. Now, one our favorite, U.S based denim designers, True Religion is making a pink skinny jean. The company is donating ten percent from the sale of these jeans to Susan Komen and has pledged a minimum $35,000 donation.

With October also comes a long list of events, especially runs and walks to benefit breast cancer awareness. Gear up with a cause. These bright pink running shoes by Asics benefit the Christina Applegate Foundation Right Action for Women campaign. Asics will donate $2.00 for every pair of shoes sold during the month of October. Also many other athletic gear manufactures like, New Balance and Under Armor have awesome powerful clothing and shoes for the cause.

Everyone needs a little glam in their day. Pamper yourself and someone you love with these beauty products from timeless brands like Estée Lauder and Bobbi Brown. All of these pink products would make great gifts and give someone special a little pick me up while helping women fight the fig.  

Estée Lauder

Bobbi Brown

Coach

Josie Maran

Dermelect

We recognize the pink ribbon. We see the info graphics. We wear the color. We support the fundraisers. Are your taking action? Don't avoid it. Face it. Fight it. Help find a cure.

I Feel Pretty: Runway Meets Retail

One of my favorite breaks from the winter blahs is NYFW (New York Fashion Week) although in fashion speak spring shows mean fall fashions...it is still a kick to the creative juices to see all the fresh new creations. Then I look in my closet and wallet with disappointment and crawl back in my flannel pants. Not anymore! It seems that those same high-end designers are sharing their talents with us fashion voyeurs on a budget. No more cheap knock-offs. Instead, get the real thing cheap. We have seen the pop-up shops at Target with Prabal Gurung and the long term collaborations with Vera Wang and Kohl's. These co-ops are going to a whole new level. This spring retailers everywhere are pairing up with designers, many who have never been in the mainstream retail market, to bring us fabulous fashion mostly under $100 price point. (squeal.)

Kate Young for Target

Kate Young for Target - One of the pioneers of this marketing strategy, Target is staying ahead of the game by launching the first clothing line by celebrity red carpet stylist, Kate Young. "Kate Young for Target reflects my aesthetic for edgy, sophisticated style and is designed to offer items that are versatile, modern and ideal for special occasion dressing." according to harpersbazaar.com. Kate's pieces will launch in stores on April 14.

Pearl by Georgina Chapman for JCP - If you are a fashion follower then you know the fashion house of Marchesa. Georgina Chapman has created a line of glamorous and flirty cocktail dresses and separates that are true to the labels aesthetic for get this...JCPenny! These pieces are perfect if you are heading to prom, attending a wedding or any occasion to make an entrance. (Love these for possible engagement photo wardrobe or rehearsal dinner.)

  

Derek Lam for Kohls

Derek Lam for Kohl's - Kohl's DesignNation is growing with its second collaboration. This time its designer, Derek Lam. The beach to street looks are inspired by Rio de Janeiro. "I really love the city. The people are wonderful and the setting is amazing," said Lam. The vibe is obvious in his collection. It just looks so comfy and fun!

Milly for Banana Republic - One Kate Middleton's favorite designers  Michelle Smith of Milly is taking her first steps into menswear with her spring line for Banana Republic. According to WWD, a rep from BR says the guys pieces will have "a more muted palette" and "scaled down prints." Its not just for the fellas, the Milly designer includes her signature prints in the ladies line. The entire line is Hamptons inspired and set to launch in late April or May. Did I mention its Duchess approved? Well, kinda.

DVF for Gap Kids and Baby Gap - I don't like to overuse the word "icon" but it is completely appropriate when it comes to Diane von Furstenburg. She is back for a second launch of her designs for Gap in April. Although this is not a new collaboration, it definitely bears repeating. After all, you are never too young for a DVF wrap dress! If I could squeeze into one, I would.

Grab those spring fashion mags and start revamping your closets. Time to make room for all the new wardrobe additions! Goodbye flannel pants, see you next winter. Ta!

Newly Wed-nesday: The Recycled Bride...well it used to be.

Do you have 150 mason jars left over from your wedding and no future plans to put up any peaches? Well, I have found a website that is perfect for you to make a little cash back on your wedding left-overs. The website Recycled Bride is now called Tradesy.com. Originally, it's format was like an online classified to allow newlyweds to unload their used wedding decor and apparel. Now, Tradesy.com has expanded to a full fashion site that allows you to sell clothing and accessories in unlimited posts.  So, whether you are looking for wedding decor or a new outfit for the rehearsal dinner, you can get a super bargain. Not sure if you can afford those Jimmy Choo's for your wedding day? Clear out your closet and list a few items and you just might be able to pay for those glass slippers after all.  If you want to learn more about just how it works, click the link below for a short video! Happy Selling! Ta!

Tradsey.com Video

Newly Wed-nesday: The Borrowed Bridesmaid

Planning a wedding? By now you've rented a venue, rented tables, chairs, decor and maybe even a port-a-potty or two. It may surprise you at some of the other items you can rent. How about your bridesmaids dresses? Yep, sure can. Why not? Men have been renting tuxedos since the dawn of proms.  Just think about it from your attendants perspective. When we recently got married we planned a destination wedding. We kept our bridal party small. I wanted all of our family and friends to be there and enjoy the day with us without breaking the bank. Traveling and even attending a wedding is expense. Asking friends and family to pay for all the costs involved in standing up just seemed a lot to ask of them. Having said that, we all want those closest to us by our side on that special day. So, for your bridal party, no matter what the number of attendents, renting dresses is a long over due idea. Not only is it affordable but it's super easy and convenient. For bridal parties spread out in different areas its a welcome solution. The site I really like is littleborroweddresses.com. Here is how it works.

First, select your dress style and color, and yes, you can choose a different style for each attendant. They will send you a free swatch to ensure the color and fabric is to your liking. Then place your reservations. Next, the dresses will arrive two weeks prior to the event. In addition to your ordered size, they will send you a back up size with every dress ordered. That's genius. The dresses are designed to not require alterations and are quite forgiving. Finally, both the worn dress and the back up dress must be returned the next business day after the wedding. No need to clean. Send it back in their prepaid mailer and you are done. One tip. LBD recommends reserving three months before the event, but can accommodate last minute events. The cost per dress is approximately $50 - $75 depending on length and style. LBD does sell their dresses new if you prefer. Super simple. It's an option to consider. I mean, truly, they aren't going to wear those dresses again. Just sayin' Happy planning! Ta! THM

Miss Mash! Follow ups. Sticky Notes. Randomness.

Follow up! - In my post "Santa Gave Me An Upgrade," I let you know about the trade in program at Best Buy. Well, Score! My gamer hubs took some old Xbox and Wii games in and left with a $68 BB gift card! Also, other options for trade-in are Game Stop stores and online at Usell.com. In fact, Game Stop is offering  (until February 17) additional 25% trade value on games and $50.00 extra in-store credit on select game consoles.

More Rewards - If you have signed up for some of the programs from my "Getting the Most Of Your Healthy Food Purchases" Healthy Choice also has a rewards program. It's available through their Facebook page. This one is through a third party site, so it's not my fav but you can still get perks.

Sticky Note - Stock up. Heading into Super Bowl weekend is the time to grab snacks, frozen appetizers, condiments, deli meats, and Mexican foods. Use in store specials, bundle discounts and your coupons to save big.

Etchings From The Man Cave - Not a big newsflash but the old rule still holds true. The end of January and first part of February are the best time to buy big televisions. Found this deal at h.h.Gregg on a 55" LG for $799.

Stuff From The Closet - Not shy about my love for LC. You know I rave about her jeans. Check out her Spring collection "Paper Crown."

ReCap - New Additions launched last week! "Newly-Wednesday" and "Design Day Friday." Let me know what you would like me to cover.

Plug - I often post additional tidbits on social media so please follow me. Twitter: @The_HomeMaker. Facebook: The Happy Home Maker (make sure Home Maker is two words) and Pinterest: click on the link on my homepage.

Next! - More new features to come. I have some really wonderful interviews, guest bloggers and fun bits.

Thank you for growing with The Happy Home Maker. As with any family, it's good to know that we're in this together. Best to you my friends, THM

I Feel Pretty: Jeans That Make Me Happy

I never watched the "O.C." but I am a huge Lauren Conrad fan. I started wearing her jeans from her fashion label LC® Lauren Conrad and I am addicted to them. They are made really well and cut for almost any shape. Think you can't rock skinny jeans? I am willing to bet if you try these you"ll think differently. Funny story: While visiting my family for the holidays, I was pleasantly surprised that Christmas Day my sister, my niece-to-be and I all showed up unplanned at the dinner table in our LC pants! What's even more cool is that between the three of us there is an approximate 20 years in age difference from youngest to oldest. They looked great and completely appropriate on all of us. What makes them so figure friendly is that they are mid-rise and don't gap in the back, they have stretch woven in so they really feel like leggings and the style is super cute in all the hot colors. Wear them with flats, boots or dress them up with a cute wedge. Look, I'll be honest, working from home these days its easy to fall into the yoga pants (minus the actual yoga part) habit. I get the same comfort and still feel work ready in these pants. Here's a pick of my winter go to's. 

Distressed Denim, Black Floral and Red Corduroys my besties!

The seasons will change before you know it, but a good pair of jeans is a must in your closet anytime. I recommend giving these a chance in your spring wardrobe. Her spring collection is beach inspired and has some pretty tones that will freshen up your look. Her collection is available at Kohl's® and the price point is terrific. They are available in 5 colors and on sale right now for $37.50 plus this weekend Kohl's® has promo codes for 15% off everything(SKATING) or 20% off $100.00 (SLEDDING) and free shipping on orders over $75.00. With that deal, its hard to argue against grabbing a couple pair and maybe a cute sweater to make the outfit complete.

I'm happy when I find something that really makes me feel good about myself. I hope these are a good find for you too. Hit me back with a pic of you and your new bestie! Off to see what I can add to my closet next! Ta!

To Target, To Target

Ah Target, how I adore thee. I have decided to dedicate a regular post "To Target, To Target" to share my finds. Today I made a trip to my shopping playground and discovered some really great bargains. This years joint holiday marketing with Neiman Marcus brought some high end design items to Target stores. In my opinion, they were a little steep for Target but bargain priced for Neimans. You just don't feel like paying $100.00 for a cocktail dress at Target, but hang that same dress in Niemans at that price and the elbows will fly! That said, there are quite a few left overs to snap up at 70% off. Who wouldn't want some rag and bone shot glasses for 5.99 or a Marc Jacobs pouch for 20.99. Great ideas to tuck in your gift closet for last minute hostess gifts. I have found the selection is better in the stores but if you prefer you can still get a few items online. Not only are the bargains hot, but the stores are almost empty in my area and parking is primo! Guess you need to run to Target. Darn, if I have too...

Kitchen Couture

I am known for my collection of aprons. Its a nice pick me up to put on a fun and flirty apron after a long day when you may not be feeling quite so fashionable. Aprons now come in so many beautiful fabrics and with as much detail as a piece from your wardrobe. They are truly a little bit of Kitchen Couture. Some of my favorite patterns such as, Scarlett Blossom and Pink Chocolate are now available for you to purchase in my Happy Home Maker Shop. This one featured in the photo above, is an adorable cant-go-wrong basic in Sassy Black. Yes, it has a cell phone or ipod pocket! Make sure to grab yours or it makes a great Hostess gift.