Kitten Lounge

Treasure Tuesdays ~ Wishing For Warmth

KittenCouture — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 04:00:00 -0700

Pour La Victoire Adriane Bootie in Black $319 - Singer22

Pamela Love Douglas Feather Cuff $575 - Zoe

Joie Jupiter Kimono Jumper $384 - shopbop.com

It's so hard! When the weather starts getting chilly but I'm watching shows like the Hills, I wonder why I couldn't have decided to move to LA as opposed to being in NYC. But then I remember that NY is someplace that I could never be away from and if cold is the tradeoff, then I would need to just deal with it! The good news is, I'm able to travel so I never have to stay in the cold for too long. Thinking of LA makes me remember that I have plans to visit later on this year or as late as Feb and I love the idea of mixing an element of summer with a bit of fall. I'm obsessed with kimono outfits (yesterday I was wearing a kimono top over a pair of jeans) but if I were out an about in LA, I would love this simple Kimono jumper by Joie paired with these booties. I love that they're suede and have a bit of rocker detail. To add to that, the cuff of metal feathers is the perfect compliment and today, I'm including a Mother of Pearl, snail shell, Agate piece from my jewelry line, Kitten Couture!

I could imagine this on a day meeting with showrooms to talk about new collections, meeting with friends, heading out to dinner and more! Just looking at this look makes me want to start planning trips to leave the impending cold! Even if you're not heading anywhere, these are great pieces to begin including within your closet or at the very least, you'll want to click within the spread and check out the fab brands! For those that are fan of Kitten Couture, contact me as I have a special promo that you can use from now to the end of the month to add a little spice into your jewelry collection!

Fashionable Fridays ~ Checkin' in With Kimmie

KittenCouture — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 04:00:00 -0700

Whether you catch me at an event, see me talking to someone on a show or you just happen to catch me out, you know that clearly I'm all about style. When I'm out and about, people will ask what made me think of Kitten Lounge back in 2007 and I always let them know that Kitten Lounge actually originated as an Internet show back in 2004 when it covered my favorite artists and blended my love of fashion but even that is not an accurate description so I thought it would be good to tell you how it came to be and why it is such a driving force for everything that I do. First off, hi - I'm Kimmie, the Editor in Chief of this site and although I'm not really into the whole "Letter from the Editor" setup, it's nice to understand who is bringing you all of this content and why it's all here!

I fell in love significantly twice when I was younger the first time was at the age of 3 when I remember looking through Vogue and loving gorgeous dresses that showed me that you could be a princess everyday. For those that know my love for accessories, only the big baubles caught my eye! I loved going with my mom to fabric stores where she would make items from Vogue patterns into reality and when she later opened a boutique of custom design clothing in Indianapolis, I was in love. My world opened up to gorgeous brides, sequins, shantung, gaberdines and more and I had an AMAZING closet. That love came from my mother.

My father gave me a second love - at the age of 5, he taught me how to use a computer. We had an Apple and I loved it (don't ask me why I have an HP now although I have to give it some love too even though I continue to dream about a Mac book haha). I loved playing games on it and wondered what would the possibilities of that machine be? Who knew that in college one of my majors would be Telecommunications with a focus in New Media? Leaving IU and coming to NYC, I began doing PR for independent music artists who were only available online and I assisted them in getting spins and getting them booked. Why not, my Great Uncle was Joe Henderson, tenor saxophonist with Blue Note, Verve, etc so it was in my blood and I loved it. But then again fashion kept pulling me back in.

Is it true that I modeled (yes lingerie/swimwear), had a fashion line and currently have my own jewelry line Kitten Couture, and also assist firms with their Social Media via my other company Sikara Designs Group - check it all. But is it true that Kitten Lounge has been around more than two years? Absolutely. It initially came on board in 2004 as an Internet Radio show that I hosted daily for an hour each day for 3 years. Then I played DJ's who had crazy mixes and then talked with indie artists about their personal style. I loved it but realized after I began blogging for another site that I wanted to talk about more than just accessories on that site and do more than just host a radio show. The Kitten Lounge became my place to talk about fashion, style, beauty, food, music and travel. I believed that as a whole person all of this was important to me and that I wasn't alone.

I realized that I'm around stylish and amazing people who they need advice on where to go or how to dress when they are not in the settings that tend to go to all the time. People have always gravitated towards the way I present things and what better way then to introduce my world of showrooms, designers, industry shakers and more to you! Where do I go from here? Because of Kitten Lounge, I have been able to attend Fashion Weeks, go to Project, Magic, see private presentations, launches of all kinds and more. But I truly loved it when I made the cross over to personality when I shot an episode of To Be a Star which comes out later this year. Sharing the importance of accessories, finding your signature look and ultimately branding yourself was so important to me and to the 6 aspiring models that I worked with to achieve it, I'm very proud that I could be apart of that experience.

It is my goal and vision to continue to push various themes that are not only keys to my success but are core mental investments: I feel that accessories are an essential way to set yourself apart and that in the vein of Audrey Hepburn, you can take great classic pieces and look amazing. In addition, you can be someone that crosses over into a lot of areas (hello - I run a style blog, have my own jewelry line, create Social Media strategies for fashion/entertainment firms and am a personality as well) and yet still make it truly your own. Finally and most importantly, Kitten Lounge is about community whether it's introducing you to my favorites that you may not be aware of, reaching out via Twitter (@cocoabebe) or checking in with such favorites as the Holiday Gift Guide which launches Nov 1st (I can't wait to share the fab giveaways that we'll have, those who will be in the guide and a list on who to keep an eye out for in terms of industry must knows for your business). The experiences that I have had and those that will come have come to pass as I'm always open to reaching out, learning and helping someone else. In doing so it has created friendship, trust and has allowed me to interact with groups that I would have never come across if I had done it alone. The power of collaborations and having good people as your checks and balances definitely come in handy when you're running 300 miles an hour - no you're not crazy, you just know that you can do 48 hours of work in a 24 hour cycle and still go out to grab drinks and have a little fun! I want to thank everyone that has made this brand successful and who has been with me in each phase of re-invention that I have been through and look forward to sharing a lot of AMAZING items that are coming up soon!

Fashionable Fridays: Fashionably Fun Together

KittenCouture — Fri, 22 May 2009 04:00:00 -0700

The past two weeks have been a blur; however, unlike my normal running around, it's awesome to know that you have someone else who is running a strong race even if you're not doing the same thing! So as you know, I obviously run this site and I am also a jewelry designer of my own line, Kitten Couture (and yes I assist companies in establishing their place within Social Media) and my friend Crystal (who is on the right of the pictures obviously) is the founder and cookie designer of Tasty Morsels Bakery. I feel like we have done so many events and have had so much going on that we stay in contact via email/gchat; however, as we hung out at the Pink & Black Tie Gala hosted by Stacy London for the American Cancer Society in Brooklyn (I covered it and provided a piece for auction while Crystal made over 250 cookies for the goodie bag), we were able to just hang out to eat, drink and dance!

No matter how crazy your days are and no matter how many events you go to for whatever reason, whenever you have the chance, make sure that you go out there and enjoy it with someone when you can! It's amazing how it adds a different perspective and allows you to drink in the moment! I have spent the past few years seriously pushing and moving forward and I'm at the point now where it's fun to be invited somewhere to see familiar faces and of course to bring my friend as well! Always remember to take a moment and of course to do it fashionably - we work hard so that we can truly enjoy our accomplishments!

On The Radar: Episode 1

KittenCouture — Sat, 09 May 2009 18:46:22 -0700

Each week, I will share random facts with you that are way too long for Twitter (sometimes 140 characters isn't enough) and yet a blog post would be too random. So enjoy hearing what's going on and all the events that I attended this week and will go to next week!

Sippin Saturdays: Pink & Black Tie Gala

KittenCouture — Sat, 09 May 2009 18:40:18 -0700

Last Thursday I attended the American Cancer Society's Pink & Black Tie Gala which was hosted by Stacy London and held at Steinner Studios in Brooklyn. All I can say is what an amazing and inspiring event! I love the fact that there were so many items auctioned (I included a piece, Victory which was included from my jewelry line, Kitten Couture) and Crystal Horton of Tasty Morsels Bakery, included her amazing cookies within the goodie bag. Drinks continued to flow and I have to say that the appetizers during the cocktail hour were presented in amazing displays!

I loved seeing that many people who supported this event were not only survivors but current workers of ACS! Stacy London (whose video is posted above) had a moving speech that definitely held everyone's attention. I also loved hearing about the Hope Lodge in NYC (there are other locations within the country as well) which is a place that those who are going through cancer treatments and their families can stay without worrying about paying for temporary housing. Located near Penn Station, this is a great sense of community for them! At this event, I heard about 96 Magnolia which is also a place for those seeking wellness. It is meant to live green, live well and it's also a place for style for those that are fashion and interior designers by including their pieces. I definitely wanted to find out more about this and to assist in fundraising! By the end of the night, over $175,000 was raised! What an amazing night to bring awareness to the fight against cancer, research and funding and finally giving Brooklyn much deserved love!

Fashionable Fridays: Pink & Black Tie Gala

KittenCouture — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 07:34:10 -0700

It's GORGEOUS out in NY and I already have my cocktail plans for tonight and yet I'm not quite sure about lunch! But what I do know is that I am super excited that with May on the way, one of my biggest events this summer is the American Cancer Society's Pink & Black Tie Gala which will be held at Steinner Studios in Brooklyn. I love that it supports an amazing cause and many people in the fashion, music and entertainment communities are coming together to raise funds for the continual support and research of a plethora of diseases that have affected people. Now, I am excited that I will be donating a new lariat necklace from my line, Kitten Couture (pictures to follow in another post) and that my friend and Brooklyn resident, Crystal Horton, will be supplying cookies from Tasty Morsels Bakery for the goodie bag - which is definitely a treat!

In addition, there are additional auctions such as a swim clinic with Michael Phelps, a Vespa and a Private Customized Tour for Six at the Bronx Zoo. These are just some of the items that have been updated recently and people continue to support whether they are including something to be auctioned or something that will be in one of the many goodie bags. Stacy London of What Not to Wear will be hosting and the entire event will feature local entertainment as well. I love that this Pink and Black theme will be amazing to see in person! I can't wait to see how people incorporate these colors into their color schemes and tickets are still available for this event at $250 - you'll enjoy an amazing dinner, meeting others who are committed to the cause and of course it's a night of dancing as well. I will cover the event and continue to share information with you in addition to Twittering live from the event as well!

Fashionable Fridays: Kick off Your Spring With Kitten Couture

KittenCouture — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 04:00:00 -0700

As many of you know, I have my own jewelry line, Kitten Couture which uses natural stones and seashells. Now my pieces are for all seasons; however, now that we are officially in Spring - this is the perfect time to reintroduce you to the collection. I love having pops of color within my jewelry as I tend to wear a lot of solids and simple pieces. This is a great way to change your look and really play up many of your favorite pieces. Above, I have a piece made of Botswana Agate, Mother of Pearl, Carnelian, Tiger Eye and Turquoise. Known as Ariel, this is a great piece that brings in elements of the sea while also being perfect with the addition of neutral tones as well.

Below is one of my other favorites and is also a chunky necklace that contains many of the same pieces that are above. The Alexandra has large Mother of Pearl shells, Carnelian, Agate and Snail Sell as well. Both pieces are done as lariats so that you can choose how many times you like to wrap them around your neck and how you wish to tie them. From now until April 15th, I am offering a special deal via this site where you can receive any piece at 50% off. Simply email me and let me know your piece; however, everyone should have a great piece that stands out or is perfect for a special day. I'll keep you guys up to date on what's going on with Kitten Couture and where you can find us! In the mean time, enjoy our Spring Fling Sale from now through April 15th where each piece has been reduced for a limited time to boost your look!

Mingling Mondays: Pink & Black For a Cause

KittenCouture — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 05:00:00 -0800

On May 7th, Brooklyn will have a huge event that I am very excited about! The American Cancer Society will put on a gala to increase the awareness of cancer. This star studded event will be hosted by TLC's "What Not To Wear", Stacy London! In addition, the attire is pink and black! I think that this will be a fashionable event and one with a very strong message - all efforts will go towards raising funds for cancer research, education/adcovacy programs and services for cancer patients and their families. This event will have silent auctions (Kitten Couture, my jewelry line will have a piece created exclusively for this event), along with many others. If you're a designer and are interested in including your items, please contact me so that I can get you in touch with the amazing organizers of the ACS! In addition, there will be goodie bags and Crystal Horton, Brooklyn based cookie baker will include Tasty Morsels Bakery items which is very exciting.

On May 7th at Stage 6 at Steiner Studios the "Brooklyn Rocks" theme will include music, fashion and so much more. If you're interested in tickets, make sure that you visit the site so that you can be apart of the Pink and Black Tie Gala. Kitten Lounge is committed to keeping you up to date on what's going on as we will continue to provide additional information and to cover the event as well so definitely check back with us as well!

Sippin Saturdays: Rest & Relaxation

KittenCouture — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 08:03:11 -0800

Well I am definitely enjoying the resting part of today as I am working on some projects, I had the second part of my Christmas last night and am already thinking of a few items that I need to pick up later on this weekend. Of course, I am also glued to my laptop today as I continue tweaking a few of my sites and to also include additional components that will be apart of Kitten Lounge as well! Enjoy the day wherever you are! Starting Mon, we will have posts dedicated to New Years Eve and the rest of the week we will start on the new focus of Kitten Lounge - exciting times are ahead!

Fashionable Fridays: Kitten Couture My Jewelry Line

KittenCouture — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 04:57:53 -0800

Today I am doing a lot of work on what Kitten Lounge will be like for Jan 1st and also reworking Kitten Couture (of course when I work on those, I also think about Sikara Designs Group and some of the other sites I have as well)! Kitten Couture is my lariat line of jewelry that includes natural stones and seashells! So there will be some minor dust this weekend and I suppose resolutions will be made from a business stand point! With that said this is the current collection of Kitten Couture so enjoy and I love hearing feedback!

Treasure Tuesdays: My Top 10 Accessories

KittenCouture — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 07:27:33 -0800

Yesterday, Paul started off the concept of a list format as I think it's a great way to look over the past year with that which was amazing! I think it helps you out in terms of where you've been and where you want to go! Of course, my favorite topic is ACCESSORIES! Today I am including my favorite 5 items that I have worn and the 5 that I definitely want to include within my wardrobe and I threw in something that Paul would love as well! These items have been included in previous posts but they deserve another mention before the end of the year!

My Top 5 That You'll See Me Wear:

Orfeo Quagliatoa: I love these large bauble rings that are made out of hand blown glass.

Ted Rossi: I love the cuffs and the clutches that are made out of python!

Kitten Couture: This is my jewelry line that I love and am always wearing these pieces. I am obsessed with the resort lifestyle and bringing in the beach!

Pade Vavre: I love the antiqued look of these pieces and love the sterling silver branch necklace that I wear often.

Moon River Pearls: I was never into pearls but I love how "out of the box" many of these are and feel that it's absolutely necessary to have a pair within your jewelry box.

My Top 5 That I'll Include Within My Wardrobe:

Objet d' Envy: The Swarovski Crystal pieces that are available are perfect for any day whether it's casual or time to glam up!

Hayden Harnett: I love the Wyeth bag and the fact that they have so many other great body styles as well!

Konstantino: Included within the Kitten Lounge Holiday Gift Guide I love their old world style and that you have such an amazing piece on your arm regardless of what outfit you opt for!

Ana Reign: Her large rings are so me that it's not even funny. I will have to have one custom made but it would be worth every penny without a doubt!

Kale Miles: My boyfriend and Food Editor, Paul, is all about jeans and with a belt from Kale Miles, it gives him an interesting way to express his personality through this very necessary accessory!

Treasure Tuesdays: Roundup of My Line Kitten Couture

KittenCouture — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 05:00:00 -0700

Every now and then I like to share what I am working on. Besides putting together content for my blogs and doing PR, I also like to share about info regarding my jewelry line, Kitten Couture. I have to say that wearing it during Fashion Week, I was actually able to get a few orders from people that I just completed. It's nice to know that these lariats made of natural stone and seashell pieces are creating excitement. This summer, I included one of my pieces - Aeryn within the goodie bag of Renee Zellweger's new movie 'My One and Only" out next spring. To know that such notables as Ms Z, Chris Noth, Kevin Bacon and more received these pieces is great! This season I created additional pieces to round out the fall collection and have a few more that will be out this season. In fact, I am currently putting together a fall/resort photoshoot and can't wait to share this with all of you (of course this means new pieces as well). Take some time to check out some fab pieces from Kitten Lounge!

Mingling Mondays: THINK CITRUS ~ Find Your Fav Designers Here

KittenCouture — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 05:00:00 -0700

Today we will do a little mingling online. Nothing is better than having a variety of designers at your finger tips. I love the idea that by visiting Etsy you're supporting indie designers and handmade pieces. I also love that if you set up an account, you'll be able to add favorites whether you like the designers or specific pieces that a designer makes. Mingling Mondays definitely suggests that you take a peek at what is available on this site. You can even pull up information by color as well so in keeping with the THINK CITRUS concept, you're bound to find items within this color scheme.

I have to say that even I have joined Kitten Couture Etsy as well as a seller. What an exciting way to increase your visibility! Take some time to check out my site in addition to others!