With the summer kicking into high gear (although summer technically hasn't started yet), the fashion world is in the midst of production whether it's planning, figuring out odds and ends and more - NYFW is about 12 weeks away at this point and it's crunch time. There are a number of Fashion Weeks that take place within the range (or just a bit on the outside of) Sept 5 - 12th and there are also designers that go solo and create their own show outside of the structured weeks. With that said, each week, you can peek behind the curtain of one of the Fashion Week's (roll your mouse over the above image to learn about weeks that we cover here on Kitten Lounge) which will be in its second season this year - Shoe Week - which I am the Co-Founder and Creative Director of this brand which is footwear forward.

I have receieved questions from people about what it takes to put a week of fashion shows, presentations and more together. Each Saturday, you can see what we're up to and since I'm all about pictures, I'm thrilled that our Behind The Scenes of NYFW for Spring/Summer 2014 (SS2014) as it pertains to Shoe Week, will be shown to you via pictures courtesy of Pentax as we'll be documenting via their Q7 camera which is a great hybrid between a great compact camera along with a DSLR. In addition, you'll see what tech we use in order to stay connected and to get through this process!

In terms of other designers who are working on their NYFW presentations, you can check out what they are up to as we know about it by following @KittenLounge and checking out the hashtag, #BTSNYFW (Behind the Scenes NYFW) so that you can check out their inspirations, planning and so much more!

With the summer kicking into high gear (although summer technically hasn't started yet), the fashion world is in the midst of production whether it's planning, figuring out odds and ends and more - NYFW is about 12 weeks away at this point and it's crunch time. There are a number of Fashion Weeks that take place within the range (or just a bit on the outside of) Sept 5 - 12th and there are also designers that go solo and create their own show outside of the structured weeks. With that said, each week, you can peek behind the curtain of one of the Fashion Week's (roll your mouse over the above image to learn about weeks that we cover here on Kitten Lounge) which will be in its second season this year - Shoe Week - which I am the Co-Founder and Creative Director of this brand which is footwear forward.

I have receieved questions from people about what it takes to put a week of fashion shows, presentations and more together. Each Saturday, you can see what we're up to and since I'm all about pictures, I'm thrilled that our Behind The Scenes of NYFW for Spring/Summer 2014 (SS2014) as it pertains to Shoe Week, will be shown to you via pictures courtesy of Pentax as we'll be documenting via their Q7 camera which is a great hybrid between a great compact camera along with a DSLR. In addition, you'll see what tech we use in order to stay connected and to get through this process!

In terms of other designers who are working on their NYFW presentations, you can check out what they are up to as we know about it by following @KittenLounge and checking out the hashtag, #BTSNYFW (Behind the Scenes NYFW) so that you can check out their inspirations, planning and so much more!

Over the last few weeks, I have been asked about accessories as it pertains to college students from their personal style, decor in their rooms as well as their tech! As you may know, I work with a number of college students on transitioning them into post college - what to wear on their internships, for their first jobs etc and (available in a few weeks), you'll see me quoted on must have items for entering freshman and graduating seniors. I'm even doing some fun things this fall as I travel to a few universities to share my must have tips with them! I think I have a special place for this group of people as I graduated from Indiana University and for 2 summers, I worked as an Orientation Leader which is a group of current students of the university that dedicate their summer to being on campus and prepping incoming freshman and transfer students on what they need to know to be prepared for being a student that fall! It's a great time to give them the necessary tools and info to make them feel comfortable!

Over the next few weeks, I will include fun spreads on what's a must and will keep you up to date on segments I'm doing that tie into collegiate style which is helpful if you're a student or someone who wants to gift their college family or friend with fabulous accessories or tech/electronic accessories.

Over the last few weeks, I have been asked about accessories as it pertains to college students from their personal style, decor in their rooms as well as their tech! As you may know, I work with a number of college students on transitioning them into post college - what to wear on their internships, for their first jobs etc and (available in a few weeks), you'll see me quoted on must have items for entering freshman and graduating seniors. I'm even doing some fun things this fall as I travel to a few universities to share my must have tips with them! I think I have a special place for this group of people as I graduated from Indiana University and for 2 summers, I worked as an Orientation Leader which is a group of current students of the university that dedicate their summer to being on campus and prepping incoming freshman and transfer students on what they need to know to be prepared for being a student that fall! It's a great time to give them the necessary tools and info to make them feel comfortable!

Over the next few weeks, I will include fun spreads on what's a must and will keep you up to date on segments I'm doing that tie into collegiate style which is helpful if you're a student or someone who wants to gift their college family or friend with fabulous accessories or tech/electronic accessories.

It's the summer which makes us more social and want to capture our moments, stay in the loop when we're having a great time as well as to invite those to come out! Our phones mean so much more with our cameras, apps and so much more. For the iPhone users out there, it's an essential to protect your phones (I have heard way to many wompy stories about broken screens after a night out) and as an Accessories Expert, it's always about rocking your look! I have a number of cases in order to reflect my style and to add a bit of sass to the look!

Roll over the above images for more info. Your search just got easier with a number of cases available at Best Buy which will get you the look you want and the added security that you won't have to worry about ending the fun too soon due to recovering and getting a new phone! Best Buy has a fave brand of cases that they suggest - click here for Mophie iPhone cases (select ones) that are available at a 10% discount (from June 14 - June 28).

The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free

It's the summer which makes us more social and want to capture our moments, stay in the loop when we're having a great time as well as to invite those to come out! Our phones mean so much more with our cameras, apps and so much more. For the iPhone users out there, it's an essential to protect your phones (I have heard way to many wompy stories about broken screens after a night out) and as an Accessories Expert, it's always about rocking your look! I have a number of cases in order to reflect my style and to add a bit of sass to the look!

Roll over the above images for more info. Your search just got easier with a number of cases available at Best Buy which will get you the look you want and the added security that you won't have to worry about ending the fun too soon due to recovering and getting a new phone! Best Buy has a fave brand of cases that they suggest - click here for Mophie iPhone cases (select ones) that are available at a 10% discount (from June 14 - June 28).

The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free

It's gorgeous and although I'm out of the city for the moment, I love that one of my favorite shows of the season is Miami Swim Fashion Week taking place in July. With all the swim looks that are coming up on the runway, today's post is all about Aqua Di Lara who has an amazing video that took place in Aruba at the Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino on the fabulous island. Produced by Villa View Cinema, photographed by Anthony Turano, makeup and hair with Olivia Colacci, styled by Alicia Simpson and Wilhelmina Miami model - Samatha.

It's gorgeous and although I'm out of the city for the moment, I love that one of my favorite shows of the season is Miami Swim Fashion Week taking place in July. With all the swim looks that are coming up on the runway, today's post is all about Aqua Di Lara who has an amazing video that took place in Aruba at the Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino on the fabulous island. Produced by Villa View Cinema, photographed by Anthony Turano, makeup and hair with Olivia Colacci, styled by Alicia Simpson and Wilhelmina Miami model - Samatha.

"Do you know what we need to bring back in this house? Cocktail hour." - Harry Goldenblatt to Charlotte in Sex in the City (Season 6, Episode 1)

Happy kick off to Memorial Day Weekend 2013! Huge shout out to the Jersey Shore for officially opening the area yesterday morning after Hurricane Sandy made its presence known! Being someone who is from Indiana but enjoyed the Jersey Shore (along with surrounding areas Long Branch, West Long Branch, Red Bank, Freehold, etc) each summer due to my mom' family living there (now my Mom is back in the area) - it's so good to hear that the area, like many affected by the storm is doing what it does best - rebuilding and getting back into their stride. I look forward to summertime in Jersey this season with all my faves including the boardwalk, Windmill, Carvel, Friendly's and so much more!

I love a good cocktail when I'm out and I definitely love it when I'm home! Just like I believe that I should be dressed well when I'm outside of the house and the same goes for my lounge/sleepwear at home - I share this sentiment with my cocktails as well! I think it's important to have special glasses and barware that make the process of getting a drink to feel special! Maybe it's because I bartended for a small period of time in college or I'm just one for great presentation! I believe having a stocked bar as well as wine cabinet is an essential.

SMIRNOFF has a new collection of vodkas within their Sorbet Light line including Lemon, Raspberry Pomegranate and Mango Passion Fruit. It's like a Sex in the City moment when you're sipping a number of the fun concoctions that can be made with these. This girly approach to vodka definitely had me intrigued as I wondered if there would be an aftertaste - there wasn't! I love that if you're not feeling like being a master mixer you can take a favorite fruit juice and mix it (I love taking my Ocean Spray Cranberry Pomegranate juice with the SMIRNOFF Sorbet Light Lemon - such a fun zing).

Whether Paul and I are staying in OR we're having a cocktail while I'm getting ready to go out, it still means that we're all about the presentation in general as it makes you giddy for having a great evening when you make a production out of it. Roll over the above images to see why Williams Sonoma and Nambe are on my list of must haves for your bar cart as well as a great recipe for each version of the vodkas selected!

"Do you know what we need to bring back in this house? Cocktail hour." - Harry Goldenblatt to Charlotte in Sex in the City (Season 6, Episode 1)

Happy kick off to Memorial Day Weekend 2013! Huge shout out to the Jersey Shore for officially opening the area yesterday morning after Hurricane Sandy made its presence known! Being someone who is from Indiana but enjoyed the Jersey Shore (along with surrounding areas Long Branch, West Long Branch, Red Bank, Freehold, etc) each summer due to my mom' family living there (now my Mom is back in the area) - it's so good to hear that the area, like many affected by the storm is doing what it does best - rebuilding and getting back into their stride. I look forward to summertime in Jersey this season with all my faves including the boardwalk, Windmill, Carvel, Friendly's and so much more!

I love a good cocktail when I'm out and I definitely love it when I'm home! Just like I believe that I should be dressed well when I'm outside of the house and the same goes for my lounge/sleepwear at home - I share this sentiment with my cocktails as well! I think it's important to have special glasses and barware that make the process of getting a drink to feel special! Maybe it's because I bartended for a small period of time in college or I'm just one for great presentation! I believe having a stocked bar as well as wine cabinet is an essential.

SMIRNOFF has a new collection of vodkas within their Sorbet Light line including Lemon, Raspberry Pomegranate and Mango Passion Fruit. It's like a Sex in the City moment when you're sipping a number of the fun concoctions that can be made with these. This girly approach to vodka definitely had me intrigued as I wondered if there would be an aftertaste - there wasn't! I love that if you're not feeling like being a master mixer you can take a favorite fruit juice and mix it (I love taking my Ocean Spray Cranberry Pomegranate juice with the SMIRNOFF Sorbet Light Lemon - such a fun zing).

Whether Paul and I are staying in OR we're having a cocktail while I'm getting ready to go out, it still means that we're all about the presentation in general as it makes you giddy for having a great evening when you make a production out of it. Roll over the above images to see why Williams Sonoma and Nambe are on my list of must haves for your bar cart as well as a great recipe for each version of the vodkas selected!

Roll over the images above to see what 24 Hours in Georgetown was like! This is a new series that I have just launched. As many of you know, I travel quite a bit whether I am doing TV segments or appearances. In many cases, I don't get an awful lot of time to be in a city but I do end up going there quite a bit. So in reality, I have 24 hours to explore an area on my own. I kicked this series off with going to Georgetown as I was going to be in Baltimore the following day to do a segment. I wanted to spend 24 hours in this quaint area of DC to experience shopping, restaurants, bars and to pop in and out! I loved being able to have time in the city and you can see what I was up to! My coverage focuses on Georgetown and specifically M street which was a wealth of treasures (next time I will have to venture out a bit more and also tackle Wisconsin for great finds)! I also loved being hosted thanks to the Tourism Board of DC and the Fairmont Hotel!

Before getting into my stay, I have to say that there were 3 stores I enjoyed popping into that are an absolute must for you when you're in the Georgetown area:

* Wink - this store always has unique of the moment assortments from accessories to apparel.

* Hu's Shoes and Hu's Wear - these are two separate stores but on the same street, I love that in the clothing store there is the cutest dog that was there walking around - obsessed. As a Co-Founder and Creative Director of Shoe Week, there were so many drool worthy brands worth checking out!

* Charm - I love one of a kind items and knowing that what has been selected works together but it is all very unique, you'll find this here within their gifts and accessories!

The Fairmont Hotel is definitelty a luxe hotel that also has a great sense of zen while you're staying there. I truly enjoyed hanging out in the lobby as I held a few meetings and even recouped there. I also loved that there are a number of green initiatives that take place there including having their own bee keeper area upstairs and infusing this within lipbalms, their drinks and foods.The Juniper restaurant makes you feel like you're in the midst of a botanical oasis and with a menu that is locally grown (which is a huge selling point with me) did not disappoint.

I was super impressed by their gym as it was quite a huge space (I mean massive and a number of floors) with their personal gym area as well as Balance Fitness which is not only for hotel guests but also those outside of the hotel who live in the area can have memberships there. This gym is also quite a place for celebs to go to Nicholas Cage worked out there while he was working on the National Treasure movies as well as Arnold Schwarzenegger.

I do come to DC quite a bit now as I do segments in the area so it's important to find a hotel that I can stay in so that I can relax and prep. In addition, the more that I am in this city, I know that I want to learn more about it from shopping, historical locations and more! One of the packages that is taking place at this hotel right now is the Scandal Package (which is definitely a nod to the ABC show and Kerry Washington's character, Olivia Pope! You receive accommodations for two, info on being able to book one or two of the politically scandal focused tours, popcorn and red wine (snack like Olivia), a copy of Good Self, Bad Self by Judy Smith (she inspired the Olivia Pope character by Scandal) and an American breakfast for both of you at Juniper. The tours allow you to explore the juicy history of the Presidency, duels, bigamy, curses and more affairs that have taken place involving the White House each Thursday night at 7pm.

The Concierge will work with you on arranging the tours which are audio based and due to the nature of the topics discussed, I would suggest that it's not child friendly .This offer is available through the end of this year with rates starting at $249 per night and although it's great fun to get friends together to enjoy this with you, this package is not available to group bookings of 10 or more people.

Last night I got home after another successful Style Tweetup at Linea Pelle, hanging out with THE Kitty Bradshaw who came to my event (ps Madison Square Park's open lunch area is a must to go to as we had a GREAT time) - I thought I would curl up and watch what was on my DVR, See Fashion Star and organize for my segment on Fox Baltimore on Tues. As I opened the door, Paul was dressed and said we were heading off to Audi's rooftop to enjoy the launch of the new space (Audi Manhattan has great views and I love that there was such an oasis for the event, fun seating and a taco truck - I even loved that you were able to mingle in the showroom downstairs until the golf carts brought you up to the roof) AND to see The Roots open the space with their music! I'm a huge fan of this group and have seen them live a few times but it was a no brainer, that I would be there. I love that we were standing right at the stage (Paul took some amaze pics) and jamming out (yes I slipped out of my 5" heels and danced with naked feet). Such a good time and yes I am truly exhausted at this point - happy weekend all!

I kicked off May (on the first to be exact), by heading to DC to appear on Let's Talk Live on ABC 7/Channel 8 to talk about Kim K Style, Jessica Alba (enjoy the video here) and fab accessories! What a great topic just in time for Mother's Day and I'm so pumped I'm able to share it with you! I shared some tips on how mom's whether they're mom's to be or post baby can look amazing. I also shared a great way to look slim with AMIA (regardless if you're post baby or just interested in shapewear), Coach, Crest 3D Whitestrips and more!

That day was super busy as I went onto Baltimore the same day to appear on ABC 2 The List to talk summer trends! I'll definitely keep you in the loop and make sure for my Baltimore peeps, to tune into Fox Baltimore 45 as I will be sharing my top 10 Accessories Musts at 8:45am on Tues (May 14th)! Stay in the loop on where you can see me at Accessories Expert.

Click to view Kitten Lounge's Mother's Day Guide 2013 on GLOSSI.COM

Whether you're a mom, you're gifting your mom or you have a mother figure that is in your life, Mother's Day is May 12th (yes next Sunday)! I have picked a number of items that are a must within this season's Glossi including Linea Pelle, Blee Inara, Pura Vida, Curvy Couture, Beautiful Bottoms, Brooklyn Fox, Sholdit, BesoBeso by Luka, The Body Shop, Southern Hospitality, Ellie and Chan Luu.

Click to view Kitten Lounge's Mother's Day Guide 2013 on GLOSSI.COM

Whether you're a mom, you're gifting your mom or you have a mother figure that is in your life, Mother's Day is May 12th (yes next Sunday)! I have picked a number of items that are a must within this season's Glossi including Linea Pelle, Blee Inara, Pura Vida, Curvy Couture, Beautiful Bottoms, Brooklyn Fox, Sholdit, BesoBeso by Luka, The Body Shop, Southern Hospitality, Ellie and Chan Luu.

I am not a stockings girl to be honest unless there is a chill in the air as it's something that I remember my mom telling me when I was younger! Thanks to Hanes sending me a variety of legwear, I selected a pair that was a tonal hue as I wanted my black dress to pop. Hanes has definitely expanded their offerings within their collection as they have footless legwear, convertible legwear (such a smart idea for those who would rather have a legging option), texture, designs and more! In addition to tights being a great look option, there are amazing hidden benefits including - creating a slimming look, keeping dresses down that would tend to ride up if they didn't have something to rub against to stay down as well as to lengthen your look. Regardless of whether you use them all the time or not, it's always good to have these classic staples at the ready in your closet just in case and the fact that they're under $6, it's an easy item to have on hand! Roll over the above images to see what I'm wearing and why I love it!

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective, and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

I think that every well rounded closet needs a day dress! There's something about a fitted bodice that then has a fun full skirt (if there are pockets, it's even better). This is something that can be worn in the day whether it's to work, meetings, a wedding, brunch etc and then goes into night as well. This Preen Line color blocked dress in cobalt and black is a great addition to your collection. Because this is such a classic look, the accessories that you pair with it can go in a number of directions. Roll over the above images so that you can see how I have styled the look in an edgy way including - Nancy Gonzalez, Marni, Givenchy, Rachel Zoe, Jack Vartanian.

I think that every well rounded closet needs a day dress! There's something about a fitted bodice that then has a fun full skirt (if there are pockets, it's even better). This is something that can be worn in the day whether it's to work, meetings, a wedding, brunch etc and then goes into night as well. This Preen Line color blocked dress in cobalt and black is a great addition to your collection. Because this is such a classic look, the accessories that you pair with it can go in a number of directions. Roll over the above images so that you can see how I have styled the look in an edgy way including - Nancy Gonzalez, Marni, Givenchy, Rachel Zoe, Jack Vartanian.

Fri morning, Paul and I left for Philly! This weekend is all about enjoying a number of Philly's cultural spots, checking out amazing designers, doing some retail therapy and taking in some hot spots of Philly as well! Thanks to the amazing team from Visit Philly, they sent me here to enjoy all of this and more! You can follow along with my adventures by following @Cocoabebe or seeing the hashtags #VisitPhilly #PhillyMade or my hashtag #AccessoriesWeekend! Yesterday, I enjoyed browsing in some shops, checking out a number of eateries Marathon (lunch) and The Dandelion Pub (dinner). Of course there will be full posts about everything but right now, I'm off to take in a bit of culture with a viewing of "Come See About Me: The Mary Wilson Supremes Collection" at The African American Museum in Philadelphia.

I always tell people that brunch is the most important meal of the week! It's a great way to touchbase with friends and to chat about what's going on and what you plan to do together. As we continue to transition into spring weather we can wear less outerwear and get back into wearing heels and cycling through a number of fun accessories! Roll over the above images to see how this fun look with a focus on yellow is the perfect look for wherever you're heading off to this weekend. I love Tory Burch, J Brand, Roberto Cavalli, Kimberly McDonald, Rachel Zoe, Will Leather Goods and Alexandra Tempestato.

I always tell people that brunch is the most important meal of the week! It's a great way to touchbase with friends and to chat about what's going on and what you plan to do together. As we continue to transition into spring weather we can wear less outerwear and get back into wearing heels and cycling through a number of fun accessories! Roll over the above images to see how this fun look with a focus on yellow is the perfect look for wherever you're heading off to this weekend. I love Tory Burch, J Brand, Roberto Cavalli, Kimberly McDonald, Rachel Zoe, Will Leather Goods and Alexandra Tempestato.

Last week I had to share one of the favorite looks that was created by Johana from NBC's Fashion Star. This week she was paired with Daniel again as they had to create separate pieces that are meant to be worn together in order to create a cohesive look! Yet again, I was all about Johana's look as her pencil skirt was perfection and I love Daniel's tops! During the show, there were three distinct variations that made it on the runway; however, when it came to production (as Saks actually bought both), you can see that they have a blush/black ensemble as well as a black/white combo. The beauty of this look is that they look fabulous separately but when placed together, it's as if you have a dress!

Roll over the images to see how I would accessorize the above in terms of shoes and handbags! In addition, see how these items are a universal for your accessories and how you can include it within other looks that you plan on wearing during this season and the next! You'll find these accessories consist of Reed Krakoff, Alexander McQueen, Bottega Veneta and Stephanie Cesaire.

Last week I had to share one of the favorite looks that was created by Johana from NBC's Fashion Star. This week she was paired with Daniel again as they had to create separate pieces that are meant to be worn together in order to create a cohesive look! Yet again, I was all about Johana's look as her pencil skirt was perfection and I love Daniel's tops! During the show, there were three distinct variations that made it on the runway; however, when it came to production (as Saks actually bought both), you can see that they have a blush/black ensemble as well as a black/white combo. The beauty of this look is that they look fabulous separately but when placed together, it's as if you have a dress!

Roll over the images to see how I would accessorize the above in terms of shoes and handbags! In addition, see how these items are a universal for your accessories and how you can include it within other looks that you plan on wearing during this season and the next! You'll find these accessories consist of Reed Krakoff, Alexander McQueen, Bottega Veneta and Stephanie Cesaire.

It's not often that I tease you with a brand but today - you're getting teaser. As an Accessories Expert, I'm always checking out new pieces whether it's for this site, styling my clients or even filling my own closets. Love, Alex is a decadently luxury handbag line that is more then an accessory to complete whatever look you're going for. Pictured above are portions of the Spring collection (their first season that they have ever shipped) and I had the pleasure of seeing their fall collection which is PHENOMENAL. With that said, in a few days, I will follow up with another post that will not only share the upcoming Fall collection of python and mink handbags that range from $1,500 and above BUT also an exclusive interview with the designer herself, Alex Clancy (oh yes, this would be author Tom Clancy's wife - she is also the daughter to the iconic J. Bruce Llewellyn who was a prominent business man, one of the founders of 100 Black Men of America and majority shareholder of the Philadelphia Coca-Cola Bottling Company). Since inception, Love, Alex has made significant contributions to Donors Choose.org - a philanthropic organization that supports children's education nationally, and will continue to donate proceeds of sales as the brand grows. More to follow!

It's not often that I tease you with a brand but today - you're getting teaser. As an Accessories Expert, I'm always checking out new pieces whether it's for this site, styling my clients or even filling my own closets. Love, Alex is a decadently luxury handbag line that is more then an accessory to complete whatever look you're going for. Pictured above are portions of the Spring collection (their first season that they have ever shipped) and I had the pleasure of seeing their fall collection which is PHENOMENAL. With that said, in a few days, I will follow up with another post that will not only share the upcoming Fall collection of python and mink handbags that range from $1,500 and above BUT also an exclusive interview with the designer herself, Alex Clancy (oh yes, this would be author Tom Clancy's wife - she is also the daughter to the iconic J. Bruce Llewellyn who was a prominent business man, one of the founders of 100 Black Men of America and majority shareholder of the Philadelphia Coca-Cola Bottling Company). Since inception, Love, Alex has made significant contributions to Donors Choose.org - a philanthropic organization that supports children's education nationally, and will continue to donate proceeds of sales as the brand grows. More to follow!