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An Accessories Expert who lives an Accessories Forward lifestyle.
February 06, 2013
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Wrist Wednesdays ~ Arm Candyland

I'm so excited to share a new segment on Kitten Lounge as I'm always asked what bracelets I'm wearing and why! As an Accessories Expert, I have a number of bracelets I love to rock from cuffs, wraps and more. With Spring being around the corner, there's definitely a need to start boosting this part of your closet which allows you to dress up bikinis, maxi dresses and so much more. Wrap bracelets beg to be stacked and worn with a number of pieces whether you're displaying an array of colors, going monochromatic or sharing your colorblocked look.

This season many trends will be on display with a number of hues. I'm loving this silver vermeil and vibrant yellow bracelet from Sho London that has great braided detail as well as that charm effect. When it's about keeping it neutral, you have to consider Gorjana's triple sand colored wrap with ring hardware. Blee Inara has a braided bracelet that has a hanging charm which adds a bit of whimsy to the look with a bold turquoise which is always perfect for the spring/summer. Wrap bracelets come in various forms and I love the mixed media of this Venessa Arizaga which incorporates chain and threads. I love that although this piece is edgy, it has a classic look that works with a number of looks from boyfriend cardigans to simple tanks. When it comes to wrap bracelets, I love those that are thin but I also love the ones that have a bit of depth, Linea Pelle has a fan large wrap that can still mix well with other bracelets and has the look of multiple layers which is a great way to accessorize with the nailhead detailing.

Many of the above looks are boho chic and many times, you want to have heritage brands within the mix which are also including wrap bracelets within their collection. Links of London - they bring together roped braiding with sterling silver which definitely makes it a classic. Hermes has a buckled vintage bracelet that can be worn as easily with jeans as well as cocktail dresses. Finally, I'm loving the buckle detail of Balenciaga which is yet another great classic that you will find yourself gravitating towards.

January 22, 2013
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Treasure Tuesdays: What We've Logged In ~ Shays Accessories

At any given time, I'm always waiting for packages whether it's a beauty set that I have been thinking of working into a piece, accessories that I am looking to wear for a number of events and various clothing options for upcoming events. I couldn't tell you how much time is spent logging in items whether it's samples that stay, those that will be here for a set time or "options". All of it gets placed in a spreadsheet so that we can organize when everything will make its way to the site depending on the Editorial Calendar. Our new segment, "What We've Logged In" gives you a peek into what we will be sharing on the site later and what we brought in. Although every item will not be included within this post, I'll select our fave within the past week or a fab piece I've been excited to get!

A few weeks ago I was introduced to Bonfaire and as an Accessories Expert, I can say that if you're looking for a site where your favorite luxe brands or those that you are not familiar with but will grow to be your fave, then this is the site to do it. More importantly, when you order items, you will get to do so in advance and get it at the designated season. In November, I selected a number of items and was eager to get this fabulous Pave Gunmetal bracelet ($495) that has a chunky links which are so trend from Shay Accessories!

As a side note, every so many weeks a number of designers are offered within a window of time. Each designer has a different delivery. A number of designers in November were offering items with a Spring/Summer delivery and yet there are times when something if offered that has a much closer window! After selecting the item you like, you have to pay a deposit of 50% and when the item is available and ready to ship, you pay the other half of the deposit.

I knew this would be a signature piece and you will see it in action later on this week as I will attend a private performance of a play. It's a lot of will power to purchase in November and not to get it until Jan but the day arrived (now I will be anticipating a super cute bag I purchased in Nov with a delivery of March)! As many of us are familiar with subscription boxes and other flash sale sites, I wanted to know what to expect from Bonfaire as this company has only been available since summer/fall of 2012.

As I opened the box, I love that there was a envelope with my name attached to the box with brown tissue paper. In addition, this note was handwritten and also acknowledged that this was the first item that I had received from them. Now many times I receive handwritten notes and there is something personal about me in it; however, these are typically because they are coming from a PR firm. Regardless of whether you're media or not, each person will receive a personal note on their first purchase and I will let you know about the second item and how that is!

My fab bracelet came in a branded brown box with a cream flat bow wrapped around it.

Sitting on its little jewelry pillow (not the technical name but that's what I call it) is my new gunmetal bracelet that I am sure you'll see me wearing!

Such a fabulous piece and I couldn't wait to snap a few pics. This bracelet has a nice wait and although I was taking quick images with my camera phone, when it's directly in the light, it sparkles and definitely has a luxe look.

If you have yet to sign up for this service, you definitely need to check it out and see which designers are there. Visit Bonfaire to set up your account and thanks to the fashionable team there, they will give you $100 credit which you can use towards the purchase of your next treasure! Note that there are a number of items that are always changing as well as brands have various price points so you never know what you will find and at the time of purchase, you are only playing a 50% deposit down. It's a great way to build your accessories wardrobe right in time for the season that you're most likely to wear it in! Since I have another item coming in a few weeks, I will keep you updated - but it's always nice getting something in the mail that you can't wait to wear!

July 04, 2012
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Wearable Wednesdays: His Style ~ Berluti Menswear

Berluti Menswear shoe collection Autumn/Winter 2013

Earlier this year, Berluti presented their menswear shoe collection in Paris for their Fall/Winter collection which will be available in a few weeks. These are shoes that I can definitely see Paul wearing and with the heritage of this brand being around since 1895, this is a classic in your wardrobe!

February 03, 2012
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Fashionable Fridays ~ Behind the Scenes With Theia

I love what I do! It allows me to go behind the scenes months in advance to see lines, their inspirations and more. With Fashion Week being less than a week away, readers always want to get as many sneak peeks as possible on collections. On the day of shows, I get to go to many of the shows prior to them hitting the runway. This allows me to let you know what to expect in terms of hair, makeup and what accessories they will rock on the runway. Theia Couture is one of my favorite designers as I have worn them at events and enjoy seeing this line on the runway! Creative Director, Don O’Neill, has a phenomenal vision that comes to life at every presentation. This year, they will be at the Metropolitan Pavilion as apart of Style 360. What a great space to see these pieces showcased. A show is about putting the best elements from the collection out as well as inspirations.

One of the things about the line that always gets me excited is that inspiration comes from Greek goddesses. For this Fall 2012 collection is Athena who is a deity that is known as a powerful woman who was full of wisdom, the instinct to protect and courage. "In 2012 as we face challenging times, I want to imbue the THEIA woman with this sense of power and confidence that will help her stride forward, feeling brave, beautiful, and strong," said the Creative Director. Above you can see models waiting to be seen during the model call for this show where they select the women who will rock the runway and will ensure that the designated looks make sense for them. In addition, you can see some of the mood boards which lets you know the direction that the brand will design in and includes fabrics.

On the day of the show, you can see the runway show and get a front row seat! As an Accessories Expert, I'm beyond excited that shoes will be provided via Q by Pasquale, jewelry from Ben Amun, gloves from Fratelli Orsini and nails by Dashing Divas.

October 26, 2011
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Wearable Wednesdays: His Style ~ Stadium Chic

So when you see my boyfriend Paul when we're heading to meetings for my brands or to symposiums for his businesses, he's decked out in jeans and a number of blazers (he adores the blazer he got from Cairo) but when we're just hanging out, doing errands, or just relaxing - he loves wearing tees. Now this is something I am a huge fan of as I love relaxing in that as well! So I had to think about Stadium Chic - there is something about chunky scarves, layering and more when you go tailgating that you can bring into the everyday without looking too frat boy!

I'm obsessed with henley's and ADORE grey and when it comes to organic cotton, no one does it better then James Perse which I love wearing their tees so it's perfect on him. Layer that up with a fun graphic tee. Since he loves orange, I'm loving this SuperDry shirt which is fab. Pair it with these fun panelled jeans by Jeckerson which has a slimming fit and fab details. To keep him warm, I want him to rock an edge of hunter with this Barbour x To Ki for J Crew which has a hood and tons of pockets! This will add a nice rustic look to it and then the Johnston Murphy orange and grey scarf will be phenom and his feet always stay warm when he rocks his UGG Australia Ascot Wool shoes which are perfect for walking around the house (he adores them and we have a matching set) or for running out in our market across the street!

July 29, 2011
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Fashionable Fridays: Event ~ Socialista NY UGG Terrace

My travel schedule is all over (not that it's because I write about travel directly but my work takes me all over between design projects, appearances and TV - it's a luxury to definitely be home in NYC) and even when I'm in the city I'm in brand meetings on top of the shoots with all the launches coming up this fall and holiday. So it's not often that I get to be out and about to have fun with people I don't see as often as I would like to! Amy, of Midtown Girl is also the founder of Socialista NY a group that allows fashion influencers and bloggers to come together and engage with one another. Amy's first event took place at the UGG Showroom in the Crown Building and did I mention that they have a fabulous wrap around terrace! This event allowed us to mingle, nibble on fab appetizers and enjoy sangria, margaritas and more. In addition, we all enjoyed getting manis and pedis via Spa Chicks on the Go. It definitely came at a fab time since I had a photoshoot the next day and even as the rain began to fall at the end of the night, we took the party inside! Throughout the night, I took a sneak peek at UGG's Fall 11 offerings. This brand is about much more then the pull on shearling boots that we're familiar with. I am obsessing over many of the handbags, jackets and stacked heels that are available. In a few days I will include info on their new launch since I am attending this in early August but know that it's super cute. It was definitely a fab event and one that definitely sets the tone for future Socialista NY events!

July 28, 2011
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Trendy Thursdays ~ Post Beauty After the Shoot

Thanks for all the positive vibes guys for those that were wishing me well on my first major magazine shoot! It was so much fun to have my publicist and sister there in attendance, to introduce her to the phenomenal magazine that I am so excited to partner up with over the next year (you'll all find out in two weeks), to meet the brand that had pieces are completely swoon worthy as well as to work with a phenomenal makeup and photography team! It was so much fun and I loved getting up early to spend the morning and early afternoon there! I'll be back there next week to do an amazing video with them and then we wait to see what results when it arrives in the October Issue!

I love whether I'm on a shoot or doing something for HSN as I like seeing what the makeup artists use. It's fun to try something new and to get introduced to new brands that I would have never thought about using. But with all the touchups, lights and layers that I end up wearing I'm always happy to get home and do a major spa session! I talk about these products all the time but it's worth sharing again. When you have those moments that you had to be glammed up for an event, did a shoot, segment or even have been traveling all day these are the most necessary to use! I believe in spaing at home as well as at some of my favorite places! I have been using Clarisonic Mia for over a year but having Clarisonic Plus at my disposal is phenomenal. I love that one head can work for my face, and the other works for my body. With all the bronzer on my arms and chest it's nice to know that it's super clean as well as being taken off in a non abrasive way. I have used the gels that it comes with but you can also use your own faves which is great (you can also use exfoliating gels too). When it comes to my face - I do not travel without Lush's Ocean Salt which smells great and makes your face feel like it has never felt better! Of course I also use Ponds Wipes (thanks Carmindy) to start with taking off the main items on your face. Bliss Triple Oxygen is an amazing mask to use that also feels refreshing and of course, you can seal everything with Dior's Capture Totale Intensive Night Restorative which makes your skin feel like it did when you were a baby!

July 21, 2011
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Trendy Thursdays ~ Beauty Prep Your Shoot

As some of you may know, next Wed I will be shooting a campaign for a luxe brand in a fab major magazine! The following week I will also shoot a video as well. As many of you know, I'm frequently on HSN (back next month) as well so the fact is - I'm always prepping for the next shoot. I have a series of items that are a must in making your skin look amazing. Even though I think that you should always treat your skin right, I'm a firm believer that a week prior to any shoot, video or segment you must do a few things a little different. In addition to my increased workout regimen, I step up my beauty game! Below are some fab items that I definitely approve of!

I have been a Palmer's Cocoa Butter girl since I can remember (first memory - being 3 using it and currently, I go through quite a bit of this - no container is large enough to last around me)! It makes sure that you're skin has a fab glow, you smell like a walking cocoa butter ball and your skin is ultra soft - all things that play well for the camera. Over the past year, I have been a fan of my Clarisonic Mia which is perfect for my face, has timed rotations and keeps my face glowing! So when the Clarisonic Plus arrived at my door, I knew that this would be an updated oldie but goodie that I would not want to miss using whether I'm at home or on the road traveling! I love that this is for the face and the body which means super soft skin all over when you leave the shower with heads that are appropriate to use! With all the focus on the skin, I do believe in body scrubs which should be used twice a week. I'm always trying something new but I love Pacifica Kona Coffee & Sugar Detox - smells phenom and it's super invigorating! Finally, it's all about the lips. Philosophy has a Kiss Me exfoliating lip cream that is amazing and using this (I love doing it daily a week prior to an appearance or shoot) will only enhance your pucker, allow your gloss to go on evenly and make you feel better. Protect your lips by constantly moisturizing. I just became addicted to Sally Hansen's Vita B which leaves a nice layer without being crazy. WARNING - it's super addicting and you will go through a tube very quickly!

July 11, 2009
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Sippin Saturdays ~ Avant Coco Chanel

As many of you know, I love knowing what a brand was like before it was something that we all considered drool worthy of being within our closets! I enjoyed reading The Towering World of Jimmy Choo and loved learning about the importance of proper financing and maintaining the creativity of a brand in order to ensure that it can compete effectively amongst companies that have a deep rooted heritage. Another favorite designer of mine is Chanel! I love her timeless quality and of course I have always been curious to know more about what she was like and how she was inspired to create this amazing brand. Soon, many will begin to learn more about her in Avant Coco Chanel which translates to 'Before Coco Chanel'. Prior to being a fashionable force, she was merely Coco who wanted to get out of her day to day job in order to grasp her true passions. Check out the trailer and I'll let you know what I think of the movie!

February 10, 2009
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Treasure Tuesdays: From Miami to Italy

A lot of areas are my weaknesses so it's hard to say which one I lean towards; however, lingerie is my top 5 wothout a doubt! Not only do I love it but I love supporting brands that are based out of Miami! Cosabella is based out of Miami and is made in Italy (I would say this is a luxurious combination)! I love the various collections that really embrace the personalities through women as lingerie is something that definitely says a lot about you or what you're truly thinking. If that doesn't convince you, then you should also know that Cosabella has made various pieces in honor of Sex and the City which is all about 4 personality filled women who learn about their lives and continue to empower themselves. A little birdy tells me that there is a definitely a second movie and that they will be contributing yet again!v This officially puts Cosabella on my radar as I love the brand but I also love its involvement.

Now with it being Valentine's Day soon, it's important to think about a gift to give or something that you want to give yourself! Whether it's meant for another's eyes or something that will make you feel great after a long day, Cosabella is definitely a brand that will work well in setting you apart from others while putting you in the best light possible!

December 01, 2008
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Mingling Mondays: Modelville Picks a Winner

One of my favorite shows is America's Next Top Model. I have had various friends that have appeared on this show and I just love seeing the challenges. My fave challenge - when they were on a building doing amazing shots and the one that skeeved me out, the meat challenge! Anyway, my belief with reality shows in general is that even those that don't come in number one, still win as they have a great opportunity for other companies to pick them up. My other favorite element of ANTM of course is Tyra - enough said! One of the amazing things that she did was create a show within her show The Tyra Show! This show, Modelville allows some of the previous cycle participants to compete for a model contract as a Spokesbeauty for Carol's Daughter. I have been a fan of this beauty brand and as you know, last month, I attended a presentation by founder, Lisa Price. She walked us through the holiday collection and created an aromatic potpurri that arrived just the other day. Throughout The Tyra Show, we have seen Bianca, Renee, Lauren, Dominique and Fatima compete for the $50,000 prize. Today, a winner is chosen! I have to say that Bianca is my favorite! Let me know your thoughts and make sure to tune in!

UPDATE: Dominique won the contract for Carol's Daughter and Renee became the runner up. There is a possibility that she could also work within the brand.

June 05, 2008
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Trendy Thursdays ~ Quattro Women

SqFor the past 2 or 3 years, I have to admit that I have been a huge fan of the Schick Quattro! It may have had to do something with the fact that my sister and I were promo models for a marketing firm and we went all over the city and Connecticut spreading knowledge and love for this razor. At first, I must admit that I thought that the fact that it was a pink beauty product - it was the primary selling point of this razor. But after that summer, I grew to love the four blades that ensures your super soft wherever you shave! I always have this hanging in my shower and ready to use and one if always in my bag for emergencies as well. Since being introduced to this razor, I have yet to put it down and anytime that I am running low, I always have another easy to change head (note that easy to change doesn't mean that the head falls off every time you use it!). This sleek razor is a must for my beauty prep and it has yet to make me have to switch to another brand pr style. Take some time to check out the site to learn more in depth facts about this razor and why you may feel the same as I do! Check out their fun site - Quattro For Women!

April 23, 2008
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Wearable Wednesdays ~ Eugenia Kim for Coach Hats

MaudehatMost people know that I am not really someone who runs after what I call "traditional" luxury brands. It's not that I don't think they are amazing, but I love supporting designers that are indie or strive to make unique piece where you will not find yourself coming and going. Eugenia Kim is one of my favorite designers and she was commissioned to make hats for Coach! This hat, known as the Maude, is apart of this collection and if you would like to see more - visit Coutorture for additional pieces. There are a lot of fun elements that breathe an interesting life into this iconic brand!

April 22, 2008
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Treasure Tuesdays ~ Give my some Skyn

Cherryblossoms I love Cherry Blossoms and I find them to be not only beautiful but relaxing as well! I love this time of year when they're in bloom and seeing the streets lined with the pink trees is absolutely breathtaking. You can have this sentiment year around as a skin for your laptop thanks to Skyn! They have amazing skins that are not only protective but they are also a great way to show your individuality! This bright color turns your favorite piece of technology into something that you'll enjoy looking at even when it is not in use. Of course, there are other skins and I do believe that this makes a great gift! Check out more items from this great brand and see what Skyn shows your personality the best!

Kimmie/KL As Seen On

05.01.13; Click to see Kimmie on DC's ABC 7/Ch 8 ~ Let's Talk Live Talking Accessories & Celeb Mom Style right before Mother's Day!

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Meet Kimmie

Accessories Expert, Founder & Editor in Chief of Kitten Lounge; Co-Founder & Creative Director of Shoe Week; Co-Founder of Style Tweetup, On Air Personality, Stylist and Designer.






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As an Accessories Expert, Kimmie appears on HSN, designs, is quoted/featured in various publications talking about style from an Accessories Forward perspective! To work with Kimmie or to see project portfolio, visit her site here.



Kimmie is the Co-Founder/Creative Director of Shoe Week which launched during NYFW Sept '12 and is styling a number of shows as well as having evening leading up to our second season of shows during NYFW Sept '13.



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