I Am Recessionista ™

Girls Day & Night Out: Sex and The City Tour + Sex and The City 2 Movie

2010-06-17T00:03:00.011-04:00

The Number 2. It represents Sex and the City part 2. It's also 2 people in love - every one of our leading ladies found their other halves in this sequel (with the exception of Samantha of course...1 is never enough for her . 2 - Me & my friend Amy went on the Sex and the City Tour in NYC together...compliments of generous people at Screentours. 2 is also the number of times I watched the SATC2 movie. Most importantly, 2 is the number of SATC characters that exist inside of me - Carrie & Charlotte. Are you a Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte or Samantha?

The tour was very fun & well worth it if you are a Sex and the City fan! The itinerary was great...but the best part was that I got to meet and take a photo with one of the cast of Sex and the City - Steve!!! Yes, you heard it right! Miranda's husband Steve (played by David Eigenberg). Pure coincidence or Deliberate publicity stunt? Who cares. I got to meet a celebrity anyway. Wanna see proof? Scroll down...

Miranda & Steve Sex and the City

Me & Steve outside Buddakan NYC (Why does he have to close his eyes when the camera clicked???)

Me & Amy chilling out @ Buddakan bar

So what did I think of the SATC2 movie after I met one of the cast? It was absolutely entertaining...whether you are a fan like me or not...and you don't have to watch it twice like I did.

LIBERTY OF LONDON FOR TARGET

2010-03-21T01:19:00.010-04:00

My Recessionista Review on the Liberty of London for Target is still work in progress because I have so much to say about this collection. I promise it will be really good and it will be published within the next couple of days.

For now, check out their gorgeous spreads:

Recessionista Review: Jean Paul Gaultier for Target

2010-03-09T21:25:00.013-05:00

The name Jean Paul Gaultier a.k.a JPG has been in my fashion dictionary for a very very long time. I have not personally owned anything from JPG till now. All thanks to Target again! Before I went to Target today, I did my research and there were many pieces that I loved and have a high chance of adding to my wardrobe. Then again, with every Designer for Target Collection, there is a hit or miss syndrome.

My verdict:

1. Pass on all the dresses in this collection unless you have lots of cash to spare. They were all either plasticy, papery, or yucky polyestery material....I don't even know a word that can describe it, but you get the idea. The floral eyelet one here that I loved a lot was also disappointing. If you don't believe me, go see them for yourself.

2. If you have $199 to spend, definitely get the leather jacket. It is comparable to the contemporary labels you see at Saks or Neiman Marcus.

3. Don't just trust the photos you see on Target.com, try it on! That was how I found that this nautical inspired top was a gem! The detailing on it is unique, and the stripes are so JPG! For $19.99, it was a steal! Great with leggings too I must say!

My 2 winning pieces out of the 8 pieces I tried on from this collection. I will not post the photos of the remaining 6 pieces because they were too horrid to be seen by the general public.

Not to be worn together but I did it to save time

So what did I get from the Jean Paul Gaultier for Target collection?
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Jean Paul Gaultier for Target Anchor Braid Knit Top - Navy/Cream $19.99

I will seriously consider getting the leather moto jacket...if they still have any left....which then means that it was meant to be mine, but it was hard for me to swallow that $199 price today.

Stylish Buys Under $10 to Update Your Look

2010-03-07T01:05:00.005-05:00

Forever 21 Hairband $3.80 each

Forever 21 Belt $9.80

NYFW - To Go or Not to Go

2010-02-09T00:03:00.002-05:00

At first I was pondering if I should attend some of the shows I have been invited to by some close acquaintances in the fashion industry. But due to my current commitments, I might not be able to make it to those events. Bummer right? But I will try to provide some coverage on New York Fashion Week.

With the weather the way it has been. Weatherman predicts one thing and another thing happens. I am keeping my fingers crossed for my friends in the fashion industry that they will make it to NYFW safely and timely...and of course good weather in the east coast...which will benefit all of mankind whether or not they decide to sit under tents in a gorgeous gorgeous park. :)

Long Time No Blog

2010-02-08T23:57:00.002-05:00

It's been a long while since I blogged. First, it was because of work, then it was my half-way-round-the-world vacation, then it was work again. No excuses, but I decided to start blogging again. As I sit on my couch now watching Retro TV - Yes, black and white movies like classics from Alfred Hitchcock Presents - I am typing this entry. More to come...stay tuned.

I Am Recessionista MakeUp Spree

2009-12-11T22:29:00.008-05:00

After months of anticipation and being thrifty, I finally gave in today and spent $ on my favorite makeup and fragrances must-haves. It wasn't a planned affair, I was supposed to just get my routine brow wax. My dear eye brow wax girl informed me of a secret - one that I plan to keep and one that benefits me in every way possible! I got them at a huge discount, which is the only reason why I (Recessionista) will be willing to part with the $.

These are just some of the items I got today. There are more, but my fingers are too tired to type. These should be good eye candy.

I Love Boots Part 1

2009-11-18T04:31:00.007-05:00

I don't even know where to start to blog about my obsession with boots. I love boots of all kinds and shades and colors and style....from thigh-highs and knee-highs to mid-calfs and ankle booties. I wanted to announce that these four pairs of boots are my recent acquisitions and also my first time buying boots that are non-leather and non-branded. My oh my, I am totally surprised with their quality. If I didn't tell you this, you probably wouldn't have guessed that every one of these styles cost around $50 or less! My most favorite is the last pair - which essentially can be worn 2 different ways!

Recessionista Review: Carlos Falchi for Target

2009-11-07T12:00:00.009-05:00

The long anticipated wait for cheap designer chic from my favorite store Target is finally here. I am talking about Carlos Falchi. The famous designer known for his exquisite exotic skin handbags that can cost more than your rent. In my previous blog entry, I promised to post photos of the Carlos Falchi for Target photos, so here you go.

I have been eying the little purple fellow in the center, and so I went and checked it out in person. As I walked towards the accessories department, I saw this huge signage and I headed straight for it. From a distance, the purple cross-body bag looked so enticing!

As I leaned forward to grab the purple bag, I realized that I was actually touching a plastic piece of patchwork. All I can is one word - Disappointment.

Maybe I was expecting too much, secretly hoping that this will be a real investment at a steal price of $24.99. I knew it wasn't going to be real snakeskin, but I guess I didn't expect it to be so glossy and plasticy. In my many years of being a Fashionista, I can now say that when it comes to handbags, you get what you pay for. For $24.99, I believe other Fashionistas out there might appreciate it more than I do. Clothing on the other hand, I can still get by with cheaper options of designer couture. Thank goodness! If not, I don't think I can remain a Recessionista.

My Photo Shoot for the Ann Taylor "The New Ann" Campaign

2009-11-06T01:56:00.015-05:00

Ann Taylor, a brand I knew since I was a teen. My Mom and Aunts were patrons of this businessy women's clothing brand. Did you know that the brand Ann Taylor was derived because "Ann" represented a very New England name, and "Taylor" evoked the image of tailored clothing. When I graduated from college, I got myself three suits for interviewing. One of them was from Ann Taylor that I paid $300 for it. I must say it was worth every cent because it was well-tailored and survived many of my business travels. To me, Ann Taylor was where I shopped when I needed a good suit or a nice pair of slacks.

Not until recently during New York Fashion Week, I was approached by an Ann Taylor personnel to do a photo shoot makeover for their new image campaign "The New Ann". The location for the shoot was Union Square where hundreds of passer-bys watched as I posed for the camera.

Picking out outfits for Me

I was quick taken aback when I saw the pieces that Ann Taylor Style Director Kristin Rawson was picking out for me to model. Many of the pieces didn't look like they were from the Ann Taylor that I once knew. Quite honestly, I think some pieces can pass off as Elie Tahari (which I did mention during my interview at the photo shoot).

Ann Taylor Style Director Kristin & Me

After a pleasant surprise from Ann Taylor, I decided to check out their Fall/Winter 2009 Collection, and my oh my, what did I find? Fabulous luxe pieces for under $50! These are just two of my favorites, but they should give you a good idea of The New Ann.

Recessionista's Halloween

2009-10-29T23:01:00.008-04:00

I haven't been blogging for a while due to my busy work schedule, but I decided that a blog post before Halloween is blog worthy. Prior years, my Halloween costumes were Dragon Geisha, Lara Croft Tomb Raider, Alex Munday (played by Lucy Liu) from Charlie's Angels, and the list goes on. All these costumes sit in my wooden chest in storage now.

This is the first year that I decided not spend a dime on my Halloween costume. Prior years since I can't even remember when, I have been going out every single year to shop for a Halloween costume. 2009, I decided to be a good Recessionista and take what I have in my closet, use my creativity and Voila! I have my Halloween costume! I am going to be an Old Hollywood Starlet. My decision was mainly influenced by the Alfred Hitchcock movies and black and white movies I watched recently.

To keep you in suspense, I will post photos of my Halloween costume sometime this weekend. :D Stay tuned!

I Am Recessionista Loves Vintage & Thrift Store Shopping

2009-10-08T11:23:00.016-04:00

This blog entry should have been up on my blog since I started blogging in April considering that this is a blog written by a Recessionista. It has been a best kept secret that many know about but perhaps many others don't know about (yet)! Did you know that you can find one-of-a-kind cool pieces or designer couture pieces at vintage or thrift stores? If you are like me, who is sick of blending in with the crowd or can't afford the fine expensive apparel that designers have to offer, vintage and thrift store shopping may be for you!

Back in the day (which wasn't very long ago actually), I was a Fashionista who rarely shopped at thrift stores. Although I wasn't a huge fan of chain store brands, I still had my share of shopping at major malls, factory outlets and occasionally high-end retailers. Everything I had in my closet was brand new with the exception of a couple of vintage pieces that I picked up during my business travels within the United States and Europe.

My first introduction to vintage and thrift store shopping started in my sophomore year in college when I visited the local Goodwill and several cute eclectic vintage boutiques with my trendy friend Becca. I did grab a couple of cool vintage pieces and a couple of sweaters and jeans that looked almost brand new. After graduation, I dived into the world of Corporate America of crisp black suits, and so my vintage and thrift store shopping discontinued.

Now that I am not working for a global conglomerate, I have more freedom to play dress up. My recent vintage and thrift store shopping with my new friend Susan has definitely awoken my appetite for vintage. In my upcoming blog entry, I will post photos of some of my cool vintage and thrift store finds.

Blogging will resume this weekend

2009-09-30T15:18:00.002-04:00

I just wanted to type a quick blog entry to inform everyone that I am currently working on a work assignment so I can't blog for these couple of days. I still have lots of fashion week photos to edit and also my photo shoot with one of America's favorite brands. Stay tuned. I promise that I will edit them and post them as soon as I can.

Fall 2009 Trends From A Recessionista's Perspective

2009-09-26T02:15:00.049-04:00

Fall is finally here! Luxurious furs, genuine leather, sky-high boots, statement jewelry. As we start to browse the glossy pages of our favorite fashion magazines, our hearts start to race faster with excitement. Then reality kicks in and we realize that owning everything we liked in those pages was nothing but a fantasy. Don't fret girlfriends! The good news is that you can still get those trendy statement looks with well-chosen seasonal staples (chosen by ME). I present to you the splurges versus the steals. Every one of these 6 staples are under $100 except for the pair of boots ($159.95).

Splurge $2,395

Golden Goose Fox Fur Vest BergdoffGoodman.com

Steal $64.99

Just Fur Fun Vest ModCloth.com

Splurge $3,490

Oscar de la Renta Moto Jacket NeimanMarcus.com

Steal $47.80

Studded Leatherette Jacket Forever21.com

Slight Splurge $265

ABS Stapless Brocade Dress from Bloomingdales.com

Steal $67.99
Etched in Stone Dress ModCloth.com

Spurge $1,995

Christian Louboutin OTK Boots BergdoffGoodman.com

Steal $159.95

Lila Over The Knee Boots BakersShoes.com

Slight Splurge $250

Kenneth Jay Lane Black Torsade Necklace Saks.com

Steal $9.80
Two toned beaded necklace Forever21.com

Slight Splurge $320
Vince Scrunch Cardigan Bloomingdales.com

Steal $60

A&F Ainsley Sweater abercrombie.com

There are obviously a lot more trends and outfits that I want to blog about, but that wouldn't be very "Recessionista-like" of me. I have been through the phase of searching for the next big thing, but I am now sick of the chase. It's really hard to keep up with the Jones of the world, but that doesn't mean I can't look as fabulous as them without spending a million bucks. I pride myself in doing that, and you should too!

Review: Anna Sui for Target Inspired by Gossip Girl

2009-09-25T23:47:00.015-04:00

Top Row (L-R): 1 2 3 4 5 Bottom Row (L-R): 6 7 8 9

Here is the long awaited review of the Anna Sui for Target collection inspired by who else but our 4 favorite (or not so favorite) girls of Gossip Girl. I was the guinea pig last Saturday, trying on every single piece of this collection that was available at the stuffy Target store. There were definitely several hits and misses in this collection which I am about to give my 2-cents worth here. Let's start with the 9 outfits shown above. Amongst these outfits, my favorites before heading to the store were 1,2,3,6,7,8.

Top row: The white dress (1) was no where in sight, so disappointment number one as that was my most favorite. Grey dress (2) looked like a piece of gray carpet with shiny spikes on it, so another disappointment, 1 out of 5 stars. Black dot sheer dress (3) was better than what I expected, it is actually cute with leggings, definitely at least a 3/5 stars and worth the $44.99. For sizing, do get at least one size up if you have bigger hips or thicker arms or you will rip the chiffon fabric when you sit. Outfits 4 and 5, don't bother because they are not flattering and the fabric isn't good quality. They both get 2/5 stars from me.

Bottom Row: The sheer black/white/red dress gets 3/5 stars because it has a cute print, but not really worth the $49.99 price tag in my opinion. The sizing runs big though, so do get a size smaller than your normal size. Outfit 7 is a winner, 4.5/5 stars! I loved the leather jacket (which I didn't get to try on because there wasn't any in my size) and the black dress is so Blair and looks well made. See my photo below wearing that black dress. Do get one or two sizes up if you have a smaller waist and bigger hips because this dress is made to fit someone who has a straight figure. I give a thumbs-up for outfit 7! Outfit 8 and 9 are 3.5/5 stars because even though they are cute to look at, they didn't do me justice at all.

Pardon my tummy I just ate a full meal :P

My other favorite from this collection that is worth consideration is this wrap dress below. I didn't get it because I had a budget of $100 and I could only choose 1 dress.

Black Silk Wrap Dress $59.99

So after an hour in the fitting room, I walked out of Target that day purchasing these 2 Anna Sui designed items for under $100.

Black Seersucker Dress with Lace $59.99

Fringe Bib Tee $24.99

As for the rest of the collection that were not mentioned here, I didn't quite care for them either because of the design, the fabric, the cut, or all three. You may like something that I don't, so I hope that this review has helped you in making your purchases from the Anna Sui for Target collection.

Anna Sui for Target Pop-Up Store

2009-09-21T12:00:00.000-04:00

I have always been very on the ball when it comes to Target's Go International or Design Collaborations, but this time I didn't get the chance to check it out till Saturday September 19th...almost 6 days after the collection hit all Target stores. My reviews on this collection is coming in the next couple of days, please be patient because I want to do a good review like the previous one I did for Tracy Feith for Target, which Target loved and retweeted my tweet on Twitter!

I was planning to stop by the Anna Sui for Target Pop-Up Store (which was a private SoHo townhouse) on Crosby Street on Fashion Night Out, but never made it to SoHo from Fifth Avenue. I didn't make it there myself, but that doesn't mean I can't blog about the bohemian-chicness and ultra-coolness of this purple and black color themed pop-up store. Check this out!

Custom wallpaper, ornate chandeliers, antique mirrors

This is so Mod!

Newspaper wallpaper - cheap & chic!

Did you know that our favorite Gossip Girl cast members were also at the Anna Sui for Target Pop-Up Store to check out the collection that was inspired by their own Gossip Girl characters?

NYFW: Style360's Pink Dress Collection Runway Show (Clarisonic, Susan G Komen For the Cure of Breast Cancer)

2009-09-19T12:00:00.000-04:00

My favorite Sexy Mama - Brooke Burke

The Style360 Pink Dress Collection Runway Show may not be the most celebrity-studded NYFW event, but it was the one that I had the most one-on-one contact with celebrities and models. Just look above here. Know who this is? She is none other than the gorgeous Celebrity Mom of 4 kids Brooke Burke! The Pink Dress Show was also a meaningful event that benefits the Susan G. Komen For the Cure. Celebrities, press (like myself), socialites and breast cancer survivors all congregated for this pink runway extravaganza! Sponsor Clarisonic also had a limited edition Pink brush for sale where 50% of the proceeds went to Susan Komen For the Cure.

I took my seat 2nd row and the show began with my favorite Whitney Houston song "I'm every woman". The models cat-walked their way onto the runway with gorgeous outfits donated by some of my favorite designers like Nanette Lepore, Juicy Couture, Tadashi, Luca Luca, Nicole Miller, and Betsey Johnson. Amongst the Ford models were some familiar faces like celebrity blogger Perez Hilton and of course Brooke Burke. I was as excited to see the gorgeous dresses as I was to see Brooke Burke on the runway. There were a total of 29 outfits, and these were my top 3 favorites.

After the show, I had a chance to hang out in the VIP area with the celebrities and models, and enjoyed the free mojitos at the open mini bar. I also hung out with Michelle Burford who writes for AOL Health and "O" The Oprah Magazine. Michelle told Patty who is from the Ford Models Management that I am a Recessionista, and Patty said to me "Oh, my jacket is vintage Chanel!" We all giggled. Patty, I love your red Chanel tweed jacket!

Ford Models posing for Elle Magazine Photographers

Me, Carmen Dell'Orifice (70 Yr Old Ford model), Michelle

Patty VP of Ford Models, Michelle, Me

Besides all the fabulous people I met inside the Metropolitan Pavilion, I also met soap opera star Chrishell Stause who plays Amanda Dillon in ABC's All My Children. I loved her dress! It was so cute! I was chatting so excitedly with her that I forgot to ask her where she got her dress from. Chrishell, if you are reading this, please tell me where you got that gorgeous dress from, please?

Pardon Pink Smiley Face on ME due to my closed eyes (bummer!)

Finally, I want to thank this sweet-looking lady Kate - the unsung hero of PR / Events who invited me to this event.

Me & Kate with Dr. Robb
(inventor of Clarisonic facial brush)
peeking from the back

Start of New York Fashion Week NYFW: Fashion Night Out

2009-09-18T17:37:00.016-04:00

So the fabulous NYFW started with Vogue's Fashion Night Out last Thursday. Since this was Anna Wintour - my fashion idol's idea (plea?), I definitely had to be a part of it. My original plan was to stop by Bergdoff Goodman early to see Victoria Beckham in person then stroll along Fifth Avenue to see what else is up that evening. Well, that evening did not go as planned. I got to Fifth Avenue at 7.30pm and met up with friend Sabina.

By the time we got to Bergdoff, the line to get in was freaking long and so we didn't have the patience to wait 45 minutes to an hour even though we also heard that the Olsen Twins were in there mixing cocktails. Of course, we didn't leave empty handed. For a price of $0, we got a photo of Bergdoff's beautiful store display.

Bergdoff Goodman Store Display

So since the high end is way packed and way out of our budget anyways, we decided to check out Juicy Couture. Juicy Couture never fails to impress. It really felt like I was in a freak show or some circus carnival. The one thing that really stuck was this guy with silver glittery makeup; dressed in a corset and super tall platform heels. Just so you know, he had 5 inch heels in case you think that Sabina and I are midgets.

Moulin Rouge, Mademoiselle?

Yes, that was a guy & he was almost 7 ft with heels

The highlight of the entire Fashion Night Out evening were these beautiful mannequins at Versace. Well, look at them, do you think they are mannequins or real women?

We stood there for about 10 minutes and watched them till they moved. I must say that the gorgeous lady in green didn't move a bit in 10 minutes. The lady in pink moved and blinked after 3 minutes.

So in the end, Sabina and I had lots of fun but we didn't buy anything on Fashion Night Out. I wanted to get the T-Shirt but my size was sold out. At least I tried. The next day I was back on Fifth Avenue again with another group of friends, and this time I did buy a dress from Urban Outfitters. So at the end of the day, I did contribute to the fashion industry.

I Am Recessionista's First New York Fashion Week NYFW

2009-09-17T20:40:00.022-04:00

Ironically, my first year at New York Fashion Week is when I have converted from a full-fledged Fashionista to a down-to-earth Recessionista. I have always been the fashion consumer who sees the collections in magazines and fashion blogs and then in stores when the new season arrives. This year I get a glimpse to see some of the "up-and-coming" designers and the "what's going to be hot Spring 2010" first hand. So, I won't complain, though I wish I had much more discretionary income to spend during this time of economic downturn.

There has been lots of talk in my social circle about the recession and how most consumers (with the exception of the rich and famous) won't throw $3000 on a piece of Spring 2010 clothing item, and I have to agree that most consumers (including myself) are much more cautious with spending. In any case, despite the uncertain speculations and concerns in decrease in consumer spending, fashion designers still put on their best smiles and great collections during this semi-annual Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. And did I mention Vogue's Fashion Night Out last Thursday, in which shops in Manhattan and its surrounding boroughs stayed open late, was an effort to increase sales for the fashion industry. Some frugal beings may view Fashion Night Out as an attempt to induce consumerism and shopaholism.

In the next couple days, I will be posting photos of NYFW events I attended as well as some of the events I didn't attend but some of my lucky friends in the fashion business did. By the way, I was truly entertained by the shows up close and personal in 2nd and 3rd row.

Top Score Purchase from Labor Day 2009: Juicy Couture Multi-Rings Long Necklace

2009-09-08T01:17:00.015-04:00

If anyone asks me these questions: "How do you know if you got a deal?" and "How do you shop smart?", my answers will be listed all in this single blog entry. This Labor Day Weekend was not about shopping, but more about eating. It was so unlike other Labor Day weekends in my teens and adulthood life. As much as I tried avoiding my favorite stores like Juicy Couture, I still couldn't resist popping in to see what's on sale.

Five minutes after browsing through clothing racks, I decided to walk over to the pretty glass display cabinet. There was a sale section and a new arrivals section. The one thing that really stood out was this long stranded cluster necklace. As I asked the sales person to show me that necklace, I had my fingers crossed behind my back that it will be on sale and that it will be within my budget. The original retail price was $138, and guess what's the sale price on it?

Juicy Couture Multi-Rings Long Necklace

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$49.99!

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Plus 25% off the Sale Price!
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$38!!!!!!

It was marked down so many times that I couldn't resist not buying it. Honestly, I would have willingly paid $50 for it. But hey, if Juicy Couture wants to be more recessionista-friendly, then I won't refuse.

What I love about this necklace is that it isn't just a necklace. It is made up of a cluster of 8 separate rings that I can wear separately. Isn't that a deal? My 3 favorite rings of the whole batch is the one with the crown, the Class of 2009 pink ring, and diamond eternity ring.

Close up of the 8 rings

Close up of the Class of 2009 Ring

So back to the questions of: "How do you know if you got a deal?" and "How do you shop smart?" Well, this is how. See marked down prices on the box.

Fashion's Night Out 2009 New York City

2009-09-01T01:08:00.018-04:00

So what is Fashion's Night Out you might ask. It's a late-night shopping event that takes place from 6 P.M. until 11 P.M on September 10th where 700 fashion retailers across the five boroughs keep their doors open enticing Fashionistas to come into their stores and spend some serious money with their creative customer experience concepts. Open to public, no tickets required.

Did You Know?

* Fashion is one of the largest industries in New York City

* Fashion industry hires 175,000 people in New York City

* Fashion industry in New York City generates $10 Billion total wages

* Consumer shopping contributes to the wages of these 175,000 people

I am certainly not one of the 175,000 people who receives a paycheck from that $10 Billion amount, but I am definitely one of the people who contributed to the fashion industry in terms of hard-earned dollars.

My spending limit now may be way lesser than last year and the prior years, but that won't stop me from hanging out with cool friends and designers and models and maybe even celebrities at one of the hottest fashion events in the city that doesn't require special passes or provide VIP velvet rope treatment. Window shopping doesn't cost me anything, but if I do see something I really really really (notice that I said it 3 times, because that is how many times I will consider before getting the item) like, then I might get it. I am definitely going to try and get the T-shirt though. I'm kinda late in the game now as many of the places I checked have sold out in my size - XS. So I am now in search of that T-shirt in my size. Check out these retailers who sell this Fashion's Night Out Tee.

Most importantly, if you are like me who has lots of clothing that you don't wear anymore, give it to charity. There is a clothing drive in conjunction with this event. Participating retailers have bins that you can drop off pieces of unworn or gently worn clothing. Click here for more details.

See you there! Maybe I will get to meet some of you for the first time!

In The Life of A Recessionista

2009-08-31T00:00:00.002-04:00

Perhaps I am not a fashion guru or neither am I the Anna Wintour of Vogue, but in my fashion dictionary, the key to style is imagination and the willingness to seek out a good deal. Aesthetically speaking, who wouldn’t want own a classic 2.55 Chanel, or exotic skin Prada, or a classic Louis Vuiton? I am not generalizing here, but most (not all) people in my social circle would never pass on any of those branded purses. With money (lots of it), anyone can look like a million bucks. I mean seriously! Even Susan Boyle (click on link to see my blog entry on her) whom I have respect for when she was first spotted on Britain's Got Talent looked like a celebrity when she had her makeover with her Burberry scarf and leather jacket.

Although I have been receiving comments and emails from some of my readers with compliments about being a Recessionista, I also received some less cordial ones (of course, there are haters out there!). I mean I don't deny that I love Chanel and Prada, but I don't own everything couture in my wardrobe! Even in my Fashionista days, I always strive to find chic and cheap pieces that will update the look of my more expensive investment dressing pieces already in my wardrobe. Now that I am much thriftier and frugal; shopping a lot lesser than I used to, I go by these rules which has worked well for me. I want to share them with everyone.

I always shun away from risky one-season trends.
I invest a lot in classic pieces like leather boots, leather black purse, little black dress, blazer, wool coat.
I peek into vintage and charity shops to search for unique pieces that bring out my personality and individuality at a fraction of the cost.
I accessorize to add new life into last season's clothes.
If I see something I really like on sale, I will ask myself the question over and over again if I would wear it more than once a month. Read my blog entry on Cost Per Wear.

So, there you go. Another word of advice from a Recessionista (Me!), never ever charge more than what you can afford. It sounds like common sense but it could be a challenge for some. I always make it a point to pay my credit card balances in full and on time; irregardless on how much I spend the month before. Paying with cash is great if you are trying to get off credit card debt. Then again if used correctly, credit cards can offer many benefits like rewards in the form of cash back or gift cards or even free vacations. I'm no financial guru here. All I know is when it comes to credit cards, the word DISCIPLINE is so important. As I always say "There's always a better way to shop and still look like a million bucks!"

Miss Universe 2009 Crown Fell!

2009-08-24T00:06:00.021-04:00

Did anyone watch the Miss Universe 2009 Pageant Sunday night? I sure did. It has been years since I last watched a Miss Universe or any beauty pageant for that matter live on television. I recall my elementary school days when I used to watch these pageants year after year and admire these pretty ladies parading around in swimsuits and gowns with their gorgeous figures. I guess as I mature, these pageants are less entertaining to me.

I recalled trying out for the local Miss Universe pageant when I was 19....didn't make it very far in the competition but still at least I had a slight taste of it. There weren't any cat fights but there were certainly some very mean contestants who were just bullies. They got special attention, the best selection of sponsored clothing, jewelry, swimsuits, make up artists....and the list just goes on. Anyway, that's not what this blog post is all about. It's about the Miss Universe crown falling...check out this video! Click here.

I am thinking now if the funniest part of that evening's pageant was Miss Universe 2008 dropping Miss Universe 2009's crown OR Heidi Montag Pratt prancing around in her nude colored outfit. ~Smiley Face~ What do you think?

iPhone - My New Best Friend

2009-08-19T15:18:00.011-04:00

I was pondering what to blog about today, and the iPhone just keeps popping back in my head. Don't be alarmed my readers and followers, I am still a fashionista at heart but there is probably this geeky tech side of me that has always wanted to be in the limelight.

I am a true fan or the iPhone. I am a proud owner of the new 3GS, and I have been a loyal customer since the 2G was launched 2 years ago. I used to own 4 Blackberry Phones, Nokia Phones, Samsung, LG, you name it. But by far, the iPhone is my most favorite phone. I can watch movies on it, listen to music, play games, take pictures.....the phone features are just endless and the App Store just makes it even better with more features. The price of the iPhone has come down by a lot since its first launch. For $99, you can get the 3G and with $199, you can get a 3GS. Imagine this, you are getting a smart phone that can do so much more than text messages, call people, and email.

Screen Shot of My Current iPhone Wallpaper - Guess what they are?

Answer: Peeled Snow Crab Legs

Screen Shot of My iPhone Screen

If it sounds like I work for Apple or am an Apple Product Evangelist, then the answer is no I am not affiliated with them; though I wish that I am somehow affiliated with them (hint: working for a cool company, staff discounts, better app placements in the app store etc.) The closest affiliation I have with Apple is to find my posed picture with Apple's original co-founder (a.k.a the other Steve and Dancing with the Stars contestant) Steve Wozniak published by a well-known, reputable news site.

My BCBG Runway Dress

2009-08-16T12:00:00.000-04:00

See this BCBG runway dress in the photo? Apparently I am not the only one who loves it and owns it. Ashlee Simpson loved it so much that she bought it right off the runway at the BCBG Spring 2008 Runway show at a mere 500 US dollars. What's 500 bucks to a celebrity right? Well, I got mine from the BCBG outlet a year later at 89 bucks! This is proof that you don't have to be a celebrity or have millions of dollars to your name to own something as chic as this dress. I am planning to wear this dress with my Bakers Rhinestone Gladiator Heels I got at $79.90 (which resembles the Balmain originals that have a 4 figure price tag). That's what I call Recessionista Style, which is why I am Recessionista!