Map it out! November 18, 2009

Here is a list of the different thrift stores around San Luis Obispo, and the surrounding cities within the county. This map creates a visual for those interested in shopping for the latest fashion in an affordable way. Each thrift store within the county has a different selection of furniture, clothing, household items and appliances. It is a good idea to travel to these stores frequently, as new merchandise is gathered from different families throughout the area. New items come in to these stores on a weekly basis, depending upon the amount of giveaway items each store carries. When shopping at a thrift store, remember to treat the experience as if it were a garage sale, and what is here today may be gone tomorrow.

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SALE SALE SALE!! November 10, 2009

Ok, so it’s that time of the year again when Coverings, San Luis Obispo’s only known retail store that carries items from BCBG, True Religion, Seven Jeans and L.A.M.B. is having their winter warehouse sale. Items will be 50-90 percent off everything, and the sale is located at the Monterey street garage where doors will open Wednesday November 11 at 11:00 a.m.
This year’s sale will offer customers the opportunity to shop for items on sale before the season is over, giving buyers the opportunity to not brake the bank before winter hits full on. This is the perfect time to pick up jackets, boots and sweaters as the tempertaures start to drop, and the latest fall/winter fashion has arrived.
The last sale I attended was well worth my time (and money) but I suggest you bring a friend because there’s not always mirrors available in the make-shift dressing rooms, and it doesn’t hurt to get a second opinion. This sale ususally brings a large amount of people, especially when it comes to shopping, saving anywhere from 50 to 90 percent off designer brands, so be sure to prepare for the madness! Anyone who arrives to the sale with a large handbag will have to check it, so be sure to bring a light purse and wear comfortable clothing that you’re willing to take on and off numerous times since there will be a lot of trying on clothes.
Also, arrive early to increase your chances of winning a $25.00 gift card to the first 100 people in line!
This is also a perfect opportunity to pick out some early Christmas gifts for your friends and loved ones, as the prices will be right and the items will include the altest must haves for winter.
Last year I was able to find this white wool jacket at the sale, (and found a matching hat at a local thrift store) and will be able to enjoy it for seasons to come!

Jimmy Choo Collaborates With H&M November 4, 2009

The famous shoe brand Jimmy Choo is now offering shoe lovers and handbag collectors an affordable line of shoes and bags through H&M. Jimmy Choo shoe designer Tamara Mellon has been working on the collection for six months, and has debuted the collection in Los Angeles last night. The line of shoes and handbags are all under $300, and will enter all H&M stores November 14. The line offers styles from all different colors shapes and sizes to suit any fashion need. Many of the shoes are stilettos with revealing lines and sharp accents. The material is what is most intriguing to me, as Mellon has mastered a way to use suede and patent leather in obscure colors. From buttery yellow, to stark reds and blues, this collection has a unique way of making a Jimmy Choo fashion statement all your own. The collection also includes men’s styles. Take a closer look at the collection here.
Many celebrities came out for the premier event in Los Angeles sporting all the latest looks from the collection including M.I.A., Paris Hilton, Hayden Panettiere.
Read The Los Angeles Blog here

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Unemployed, or Working Harder? November 4, 2009

The economic recession brought one of the largest number of unemployment rates in 27 years. A recent study conducted by the American Time Use Survey compared weekday activities of the employed and unemployed. This annual time use survey according to an article in The Los Angeles Times, asked thousands of residents to recall every minute of a single day. The article also founds out that on an average weekday, the unemployed sleep an hour more than the employed and they also clean their house, do yard work and other chores more than the employed. The study found that “the employed also spend an extra hour in the classroom and an additional 70 minutes in front of the television.”
According to the United States Department of Labor, people who are unemployed are not benefiting from their losing a job and their families and country are greatly affected. “Workers and their families lose wages, and the country loses the goods or services that could have been produced.” Unemployment within a particular industry could also affect the jobs of others, according to the Q&A fact sheet on the United States Department of Labor’s website.

This graphic demonstrates the current rates of unemployment by each state.

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According to the unemployment rates of last year, found at the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state with the highest unemployment rate is Michigan, that increased by 9 percent, 1.0 percent to 10.6 percent Rhode Island is second 10.0 percent, up 0.7 percent, and South Carolina is third with 9.5 percent up 1.1 percent.

The states with unemployment rates at their lowest continue to be Wyoming 3.4 percent, up 0.2 percent, North Dakota (3.5 percent, up 0.2 percent, and South Dakota 3.9 percent, up 0.5 percent.

According to an article written by Bloomberg news California and Nevada have reached record high unemployment rates, where California’s rates were at 12 percent and Nevada is at 13.2 percent.

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Strap Your Boots On! November 4, 2009

The weather is changing here on the Central Coast and that means fall fashion is back, along with unique and alternative styles to add to your wardrobe. The latest trends this fall include a variety of boots to fit every stylish need. Boots offer a stylish accent to any waredrobe and can be re-worn for seasons to come!

Ankle boots are a perfect alternative to wearing high heels for evening and can add the perfect accent and style to an outfit. They look best when paired with dark colored tights or leggings and add great dimension to pencil skirts or even some simple dresses. These stylish ankle boots can even be worn in the winter, and will most likely be a fashion staple for many seasons to come.

Target offers these styles for only $29.99

As the rainy weather approaches creating damper to any outfit, rain boots are a neccessity. These styles are a fun way to add style to an outfit and Target has a wide variety of colors to choose from. These boots are safe for any outfit, and are resonably priced at $19.99.

Another style of boot that is making it’s debut inspired by fashion from the runway and high end brands is the buckled mid-calf boot seen here for only $34.99.

One of my favorite looks for fall is this lace up peek-toe boot, when paired black tights, a pencil skirt a colored top and blazer, this look is perfect for work. It is also a nice alternative to the basic heel, and at only $20.00 anyone can enjoy it!

For a more exensive look on all the latest trends watch this year’s episode of Oprah here and get inspired by the helpful advice from professional fashion editors and experts in the business.

3 Looks Worth A Try November 4, 2009

The latest trend in jewelry are large jeweled necklaces adding a different element and statement to any ordinary outfit. Trendsetters throughout Hollywood are adding these large necklaces that add sparkle to their style, and the look can be found throughout the popular site shop4sparkles.com

Another great place to shop for jewelry is Forever 21 with prices so low, you could afford a bracelet, necklace and a ring!

image source* http://socialitelife.celebuzz.com/archive/2009/11/02/precious_premieres_in_hollywood_with_a_splash.php

Another fashion trend on the rise are leggings, adding comfort versus the typical jean. Leggings also offer a diverse selection depending upon the mood your in whether your going out, or wearing them for a casual weekend, this trend is one to hold to.

The hottest look throughout Hollywood and on the runway are the “wet-look” leggings seen here.

Forever 21 has a wide variety of leggings seen here, and all most of them are priced starting at $8.80.

The leather jacket is a staple throughout any cold season, and trying to find the right one that fits your budge could be tricky. First, look at swap meets and garage sales especially estate sales because you never know when you might find a random item that was barely worn and a reasonable price. This past weekend while browsing through the clothing isle at Wal-Mart, I came across a faux leather jacket that was surprisingly stylish. Also try other retailers such as Marshall’s and Ross to achieve this year’s jacket trend. Here are some styles worn by some famous celebrities that pair well with items in anyone’s closet, and can be found at Urban Outfitters.