Kitten Lounge

Mingling Mondays ~ Introducing Kitten Lounge U.

Kimmie Smith — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EDT

KORS Michael Kors Naples Python Bootie $295 - Michael Kors

Satya Jewelry Turquoise Hand Blossom Necklace $88 - Max & Chloe

7 for all mankind Gwenevere high-waisted legging-style jeans $180 - Net-A-Porter

Slash Back Sweatshirt $59 - Bebe

I graduated from Indiana University 8 years ago - it seems like forever ago but it's times when people ask what I do or try to guess my age (31 in 2 weeks) that they ask if I went to school to do what I do now. Although one of my majors was Telecommunications with a focus in New Media (social media), I didn't do anything in fashion but I grew up in this environment and always had my own sense of style. In fact, my way of dressing in college set up the way that I enjoy dressing now - casual, comfortable and well versed pieces that can go from a variety of situations with dynamic accessories. I came into my own sense of style when I was finally able to buy my own clothes, figure out the jeans that worked best for me (I never really wore jeans until then), my hemlines came up etc. I learned to incorporate many of the classic components of my style via my mom, into my look. So what you see today is a mix of what I grew up with (love of plaid, certain preppy elements, blazers, etc), with my love of casual and easy and once I got to NYC - adding the glam factor to create my nuvo glam look. Of course I enjoyed some items of collegiate fashion that sometimes are best left for campus (never wore my jammies to class but I had oversized sweatshirts that I wore during finals).

I am introducing a segment that is incorporated into our Monday posts on Kitten Lounge called, Kitten U. These are styles that are perfect to wear on campus when you're heading to class and yet - you can go out with friends, have items when your parents visit or wherever you happen to go. The beauty of this feature is that we're also going to highlight great style that's around campuses around the country. The fashions that are presented here are also fab for those that are not on college so you can get in on the fun too! For our college girls we're looking forward to seeing what style you and your friends are rocking so feel free to send pics as we will have a fun giveaway just in time for Fashion Week where we will giveaway fun key looks for the fall. The giveaways that are associated with Kitten U are for our campus readers.

Today's look incorporates the sweatshirt updated in a new way! I'm obsessed with this sweatshirt as it has a great fit (happened to see this in Bebe and couldn't believe how cute it was) but on the back it has the slashed effect that is sexy and casual. This can be paired with jeans, leggings, cute shorts etc. It's fun to grab food across the quad and also to go out in as well. Simply get a great charm necklace, cuff and a pair of booties (great year around) and you're ready to go. This is such a great versatile top that you'll gravitate to. if you feel that you're back is too exposed, you can put a tank under it.

To kick off these posts, we have a few fab beauty Care Packages to giveaway (thanks to Dove, Lush and a super cute chemise from Josie by Natori and more). All you need to do is to Like us on Kitten Lounge on Facebook and let us know what year and school you're going to on our Facebook Page!! This kicks off today and will run through labor day weekend! Keep checking our Fan Page as we will let you know about our clothing giveaway that is coming up in a few days! Follow the #KL31BdayStar picks for our essentials for fall and what's on my birthday list!

Mingling Mondays ~ Introducing Kitten Lounge U.

Kimmie Smith — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EDT

KORS Michael Kors Naples Python Bootie $295 - Michael Kors

Satya Jewelry Turquoise Hand Blossom Necklace $88 - Max & Chloe

7 for all mankind Gwenevere high-waisted legging-style jeans $180 - Net-A-Porter

Slash Back Sweatshirt $59 - Bebe

KORS Michael Kors Naples Python Bootie $295 - Michael Kors

Satya Jewelry Turquoise Hand Blossom Necklace $88 - Max & Chloe

7 for all mankind Gwenevere high-waisted legging-style jeans $180 - Net-A-Porter

Slash Back Sweatshirt $59 - Bebe

Sippin Saturdays ~ Rock the Last Bikinis of Summer

Kimmie Smith — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 14:51:53 EDT

Yves Saint Laurent brown ombre calfskin 'Muse' extra-large tote $1436 - Bluefly

Tiffany Keys Crown key pendant $1500 - Tiffany & Co.

Prada tobacco satin ankle tie platform wedges $448 - Bluefly

Vitamin A New Mondrian Tieside Bottom in Marrakech - $78 - Boutique to You

It's almost official. Next weekend pretty much closes the door on summer and although we have transitioned into fall for the most part on this site, we realize that we can still squeeze out some more summer looks on a case by case basis! This weekend I have been soaking up some much needed sun as most of my summer has been spent traveling. I am obsessed with Vitamin A which has amazing swimsuits (how cute is the model in their campaign) and of course in typical style around Kitten Lounge, it's all about the accessories which can be worn with a number of other looks.

I am not a Prada girl when it comes to their handbags, but I love the shoes and these platform wedges are super cute and have that great aged look. I also love the ombre bag by Yves Saint Laurent which can be worn well into the fall. This is so luxe (imagine it with a fab pair of skinny jeans, booties and large sunglasses) and can fit a number of my items that I bring with me - this screams jetset. I am obsessed with the Tiffany & Co Keys - I love large keys and it makes a fab statement when you're out and about wearing it. I feel that every season, I always feel a little bittersweet at the end of the summer - the days of hanging out on rooftops with perfect weather get less and less, the madness of Fashion Week is only days away, my birthday is on the 12th of next month and yet I'm always excited to begin a number of projects that are focused on the fall and the summer. Because of that, I always get a signature accessory at the end of the summer which bridges into my fall wardrobe. It's a way of keeping a bit of an amazing time with me while I go forward! The key is just a sentimental and huge symbol for me that this is one that I would love to have to remind me of the significance of summer 2010 (all the press trips, becoming a Crest Spokesmodel/Ambassador and so many items that I will begin to share as we roll out over the next few weeks)!

The reality is that as long as the weather feels amazing and we can continue to wear flip flops then the summer continues on if only in our minds! Follow the #KL31BdayStar picks for our essentials for fall and what's on my birthday list!

Sippin Saturdays ~ Rock the Last Bikinis of Summer

Kimmie Smith — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 14:51:53 EDT

Yves Saint Laurent brown ombre calfskin 'Muse' extra-large tote $1436 - Bluefly

Tiffany Keys Crown key pendant $1500 - Tiffany & Co.

Prada tobacco satin ankle tie platform wedges $448 - Bluefly

Vitamin A New Mondrian Tieside Bottom in Marrakech - $78 - Boutique to You

Yves Saint Laurent brown ombre calfskin 'Muse' extra-large tote $1436 - Bluefly

Tiffany Keys Crown key pendant $1500 - Tiffany & Co.

Prada tobacco satin ankle tie platform wedges $448 - Bluefly

Vitamin A New Mondrian Tieside Bottom in Marrakech - $78 - Boutique to You

Treasure Tuesdays ~ Fall Into This Look

Kimmie Smith — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 09:37:49 EDT

Christian Louboutin Armony Ankle Boots With Removable Cuff $1395 - Saks Fifth Avenue

Vince Heather Grey Rib Tank-Top $90 - StyleBop

Adriano Goldschmied Dark Blue Cigarette Leg Jeans Stilt $195 - StyleBop

Tyler Leather Moto Jacket $698 - Coach

We all have that rocker chic style in us and it's super easy to recreate. Last night as I was walking around I could smell fall in the air. Being a girl from Indiana, it's one of my favorite scents no matter where you live! I love thinking about my looks for this time of year as it's a great transitional period that allows you to layer your summer pieces and then eventually bring in the winter ones! So I have the above jacket from Coach which I adore and can't wait to wear it with a number of pieces. I love that the lining is this gorgeous green and it's not even a question that it will be paired with skinny jeans (I know people are talking about the trend going to a bell bottom but I don't see this happening on a large scale and certainly not to a point where people are going to be dumping skinnies right and left).

I love wearing a tank (obsessed with Vince) into this look as it's simple and easy to put on when you have a day that doesn't have a power meeting per se and you're running around getting things done and then meeting up for wine and cheese! What makes this outfit drool worthy are the Christian Louboutin Armony Ankle Boots - with a removable cuff. I adore these shoes and think it adds the perfect rugged edge to this look while keeping it very clean. It's military meets Easy Rider and this is a must for what I want to wear when I'm out and about. In theory this look can be created very easily as it's that classic American style with a few piece that give it a worn look but in a chic way! Follow the #KL31BdayStar picks for our essentials for fall and what's on my birthday list!

Treasure Tuesdays ~ Fall Into This Look

Kimmie Smith — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 09:37:49 EDT

Christian Louboutin Armony Ankle Boots With Removable Cuff $1395 - Saks Fifth Avenue

Vince Heather Grey Rib Tank-Top $90 - StyleBop

Adriano Goldschmied Dark Blue Cigarette Leg Jeans Stilt $195 - StyleBop

Tyler Leather Moto Jacket $698 - Coach

Christian Louboutin Armony Ankle Boots With Removable Cuff $1395 - Saks Fifth Avenue

Vince Heather Grey Rib Tank-Top $90 - StyleBop

Adriano Goldschmied Dark Blue Cigarette Leg Jeans Stilt $195 - StyleBop

Tyler Leather Moto Jacket $698 - Coach

Snazzy Sundays ~ Prepping For Fashion Week Spring 2011

Kimmie Smith — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EDT

Bliss - Neuro

Roberto Cavalli Oversized Sunglasses $340 - Nordstrom

Rebecca Minkoff 'Nikki Python' Microfiber Hobo $395 - Nordstrom

Jimmy Choo Private patent-leather sandals $950 - Net-A-Porter

The year has flown by and a lot has taken place since Feb 28th - a key date for myself as well as for Kitten Lounge! On this date, I hosted a shopping event at Tory Burch in the NoLita store and in many ways it was a turning point as I knew that that day unofficially, allowed Kitten Lounge to evolve along with benchmarks to grow the site! This came in the form of additional collaborations with such brands as Coach in their Fall MYNY campaign, attending some amazing press trips like Schick's Q Squad trip at the Delano in Miami, learning about the world of Maxxinistas, Avon's Lotus Shield and much more. In addition, I was able to take on such opportunities as contributing to Betty Confidential, becoming a spokesperson for a something many of us use every morning (deets soon) and going on HSN next year for a fab footwear brand and dare I say, to also collab with them to make a shoe line. If you asked me could I have planned this positive turn, I don't think that I could have! It takes a lot of people to make this work and with Kitten Lounge turning 3 in Oct, who knows what's around the corner - only my inbox has these secrets!

So it is with all of this that I look at this year's Fashion Week as something a little more special than usual. One, my birthday (Sept 12th) is always during this time and I feel that this portion of the year is when a lot of good things tend to kick in. Yes there is going to be the craziness that usually follows, running around, change of venue etc but I love making my lists. These lists involve shows and parties that I want to attend, coverage that I can provide for brands as well as placements that my site can receive. This year I will have a Men's Editor which is super exciting!

But with all that, my most important list is my personal checklist of what gets me through the day! My musts are my accessories and above are some key ones. First, I'm now obsessed with Neuro which has a super cute bottle but it's water that helps various items that you need whether it's to Sleep (this helped me a lot when I was in the midst of traveling), Bliss (it calms me down although I'm just a wee bit amped always) and much more! I think that I need to stockpile this water!

Beyond that, my necessities are large sunglasses - not only are they great in photo ops but when you hit those early shows and are heading out of the house, this is a must before you take your first sip of coffee! Although I have been sporting Marc Jacobs for awhile, I could definitely consider a pair like the ones from Roberto Cavalli Comfy heels are a must and on a completely not official poll, I've learned this summer that many of my fave editors and myself can't agree on the one heel that's super comfy. Some say Louboutin (not going to lie love how they look), Manolo's etc but I'm a Jimmy Choo girl. When I travel, I have a pair with me no matter what. So, it's a must that I find a pair that will work throughout the week for most of the outfits that I'll sport! Finally, the handbag - I carry a lot my Flip, mini laptop, notebook, etc. Although I may be carrying the amount of a baby elephant, I don't want to look that way. This cute bag from Rebecca Minkoff would allow me to wear it to whatever without any changing, which is a necessity as well!

With Fashion Week being Sept 9 - Sept 16th, you'll hear more about various musts which are not only great for me during this time but are items to think about for your wardrobe as well as we get into the fall! Look out for some of the outfits that I will be wearing, one of them by one of our site partners - APART. You can also follow the madness here and on our social networks as well on Twitter @KittenLounge and my personal account, @Cocoabebe or the hashtag #KLNYFWTweetOut to hear about what I'm wearing, my beauty musts, shows, presentations and parties that are going on! Follow the #KL31BdayStar picks for our essentials for fall and what's on my birthday list!

Snazzy Sundays ~ Prepping For Fashion Week Spring 2011

Kimmie Smith — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EDT

Bliss - Neuro

Roberto Cavalli Oversized Sunglasses $340 - Nordstrom

Rebecca Minkoff 'Nikki Python' Microfiber Hobo $395 - Nordstrom

Jimmy Choo Private patent-leather sandals $950 - Net-A-Porter

Bliss - Neuro

Roberto Cavalli Oversized Sunglasses $340 - Nordstrom

Rebecca Minkoff 'Nikki Python' Microfiber Hobo $395 - Nordstrom

Jimmy Choo Private patent-leather sandals $950 - Net-A-Porter

Wearable Wednesdays ~ Kitten Lounge Adores His Style

Kimmie Smith — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EDT

Volcom Hock Vhenley L/S Tee $48 - Swell

Embossed & Washed Leather Bracelet $45 - John Varvatos

RLX Ralph Lauren Soft Terry Lounge Pant $125 - Bloomingdale's

Superstar 2.0 Shoes $70 - adidas

Kitten Lounge adores men and in particular menswear. One of the best things about this fall season is that we will have quite a bit of changes on the site! One of the things that you can expect to see each Wed is menswear and starting during Fashion Week, we will have our Men's Editor providing his take on this portion of fashion! We wanted to kick off this section in only a way that is fitting with Kitten Lounge, thinking of brunch! We all know with cooler temperatures on its way, it's nice that you can layer up and run out without having to wear a jacket! Just like yoga pants are my go to when I am grabbing brunch with just a few close friends or traveling, this is also something that works well with guys as well.

With simpler being the best way to go sometimes, I love that you can pair a simple henley tee with this terry lounge pant from RLX Ralph Lauren! Now of course, I think accessories are essential for everyone. I love the leather bracelet by John Varvatos but my fave portion of this outfit is the Shell Top Adidas! Just the other week I was in the Adidas Originals Store and saw these shoes and although they are for men's, this is definitely something that I would wear! Together this is such an easy look whether he has to walk your pooch or is running downstairs to the corner bodega to get a NY Post! Follow the #KL31BdayStar picks for our essentials for fall and what's on my birthday list!

Wearable Wednesdays ~ Kitten Lounge Adores His Style

Kimmie Smith — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EDT

Volcom Hock Vhenley L/S Tee $48 - Swell

Embossed & Washed Leather Bracelet $45 - John Varvatos

RLX Ralph Lauren Soft Terry Lounge Pant $125 - Bloomingdale's

Superstar 2.0 Shoes $70 - adidas

Volcom Hock Vhenley L/S Tee $48 - Swell

Embossed & Washed Leather Bracelet $45 - John Varvatos

RLX Ralph Lauren Soft Terry Lounge Pant $125 - Bloomingdale's

Superstar 2.0 Shoes $70 - adidas

Treasure Tuesdays ~ My Fall Classics

Kimmie Smith — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EDT

Ranjana Khan Mandala Bib Necklace $1195 - Kirna Zabete

AE Favorite Shirt $39 - American Eagle

Burberry New Classic Check Kilt $530 - StyleBop

Prada Bi-Color Patent Loafer Pumps $750 - Saks Fifth Avenue

Each year, I have two looks that I go through and within those looks, I definitely show my sense of style in each one. During the spring summer and the spring I love more of that boho chic feel. It's a fun way for me to embrace my inner Ali McGraw in many ways. But in the winter and the fall I love to go back to classics that I grew up on. I love the whole preppy with a twist (my twist being massive accessories). I love plaid skirts, the kilt effect and I love oxford shirts. Growing up, I was all about loafers so when I flipped through Elle's September issue and saw these loafers, I knew that I had to have these as I love the pop factor that's in it. To complete this look, why not an amazing necklace from Ranjana Khan to show that you're not stuffy! Whether you rock this with fun knee socks, stockings or bare legged - how cute will you look?

Where would I wear this look? I would wear this for Fashion Week, Editor's appointments and so much more. It's also perfect to wear when you're going out with friends after work and once again, it's always camera ready. Rock this iconic look and tailor it to your needs but whatever you do, it will look timeless and effortless! Obviously we style a number of looks each day but you should check out a fun styling promotion going on right now on at iVillage! For those who are members, you have the opportunity to Find Your Fall Style with Style Coach, Kim Johnson Gross of Chic Simple. You'll receive daily tips not only in restyling your look but also getting beauty tips from Lauren Luke (we love her vids and adore her book). Upload your pictures and get feedback on what you have going on with your look and your closet. Just for signing up, you will be entered to win a $100 Target gift card to begin putting your fall look together. Follow the #KL31BdayStar picks for our essentials for fall and what's on my birthday list!

Treasure Tuesdays ~ My Fall Classics

Kimmie Smith — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EDT

Ranjana Khan Mandala Bib Necklace $1195 - Kirna Zabete

AE Favorite Shirt $39 - American Eagle

Burberry New Classic Check Kilt $530 - StyleBop

Prada Bi-Color Patent Loafer Pumps $750 - Saks Fifth Avenue

Ranjana Khan Mandala Bib Necklace $1195 - Kirna Zabete

AE Favorite Shirt $39 - American Eagle

Burberry New Classic Check Kilt $530 - StyleBop

Prada Bi-Color Patent Loafer Pumps $750 - Saks Fifth Avenue

Sippin Saturdays ~ Perfect Summer Weekend

Kimmie Smith — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 14:38:37 EDT

Bottega Veneta cigar woven raffia ankle wrap wedges $632 - Bluefly

Alkemie Topanga Leaf Cuff In Gold $210 - Zoe

Alexis Bittar 'Miss Havisham' Oversized Ring $175 - Nordstrom

Vince Degrade Burnout Tee $138 - Neiman Marcus

Although there are those that are going through a heat wave right now somewhere, if you're in NYC, you're enjoying the perfect summer day that's not too hot and not too chilly. In fact, it has you thinking about what we love so much about fall! The fact that you can be out and about without a jacket and wear a mix of fall and summer together - is perfect! So with that, I had to share a fun outfit with you! I'm obsessed with Vince and just got a tee from this brand the other day. I love how it feels on the skin as well as the draping. This is cute with shorts, leggings and so much more. Although I'm a silver girl to be sure, I love the fact that every now and then I like to rock a little gold! This golden effect brings out the inner goddess and when paired with these fab cigar shoes - you could be going out for a fab lunch, dinner or rooftop party! Follow the #KL31BdayStar picks for our essentials for fall and what's on my birthday list!

Sippin Saturdays ~ Perfect Summer Weekend

Kimmie Smith — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 14:38:37 EDT

Bottega Veneta cigar woven raffia ankle wrap wedges $632 - Bluefly

Alkemie Topanga Leaf Cuff In Gold $210 - Zoe

Alexis Bittar 'Miss Havisham' Oversized Ring $175 - Nordstrom

Vince Degrade Burnout Tee $138 - Neiman Marcus

Bottega Veneta cigar woven raffia ankle wrap wedges $632 - Bluefly

Alkemie Topanga Leaf Cuff In Gold $210 - Zoe

Alexis Bittar 'Miss Havisham' Oversized Ring $175 - Nordstrom

Vince Degrade Burnout Tee $138 - Neiman Marcus