Dallas Shopping, Sales, Fashion and Trends, Home Decor, Beauty Products, and Dallas Weddings and Brides ShopTalk Blog D Magazine

Cushion Your Tootsies With Insolia High Heel Inserts

Kristin Hull — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 23:02:27 +0000

If you knew a world-renowned podiatrist and an MIT rocket scientist had designed high heel inserts would you try them? And what if said design had received the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association? Would that make you want to try them even more? I don’t know about you but I think they sound like something we heel addicts shouldn’t live without. The inserts, called Insolia, are the “only high heel insoles that are proven to shift weight.” And what does that do? Well, in simple terms, it allows us to wear our gorgeous shoes longer and more comfortably. You see, when we walk in our heels we’re taking unnatural toe-to-heel steps which places added pressure on the balls of our feet and causes our body to be out of balance. Insolia reverses this and shifts the weight back so we walk in the natural heel-to-toe stride. I tried a pair in my 3″ booties on my last trip to New York (where I normally walk too much to wear heels at all) and honestly, my feet hurt much less at the end of the day than I thought they would. And testing them on the crowded, uneven, (and that week end) rainy streets of NYC is probably more than was necessary. So I can only imagine how they can help Dallas girls who usually only have to walk from the car to the office, the car to the mall and the car to the bar (you know it’s true – and there’s nothing wrong with it!). At only $19.95 per pair it’s definitely worth giving them a try.

Big Sale at Melanie Gayle

Kristin Hull — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:08:17 +0000

Celebrate the one-year anniversary of Melanie Gayle’s second store at The Shops at Legacy this week end (today through Sunday) with a 25% storewide discount. Owner Melanie Ramon has a great eye for what Dallas (and Plano!) girls like. I never leave her store without coveting at least half her inventory. And if that isn’t enough incentive to check out Melanie’s goods, both her stores (Snider Plaza and The Shops at Legacy) are offering up to 40% off select fall merchandise. Last one there’s a rotten egg!

Friday Giveaway: ANSR Anti-Aging & Acne Therapy Beam

Raya Ramsey — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 06:00:10 +0000

I blogged about this bad boy a while back, so if you want to see why I’m giving one away to you, read it here. Now, fill out the form and good luck!

FGI Dallas Fashion & Lifestyle Awards: A Night of Stars

Stephanie Quadri — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:30:04 +0000

I can’t wait to attend this Friday’s Fashion Group International’s Fashion & Lifestyle Awards that will take place at the W Loft (the old LFT space) at Victory Park. Instead of the traditional seated dinner/awards ceremony (which to be honest, can be quite boring), the cocktail party and presentation will be interactive this year. The purple carpet will be rolled out and famed fashion TV Host, Style Expert and Editor in Chief of PinkMemo.com, Katrina Szish will welcome honorees including Harry Bock, Danielle Teylor, Holly Haber, Rachelle Dauphinee, V.O.D., and Sartel. In addition to the awards and the fashion show of Dallas-based designers (including Abi Ferrin, Geoffrey Henning, L. Weatherread Design, Nha Khanh, Oscar Fierro, Rochelle Rodriguez and more) – produced by the ever-fashionable and imaginative Jan Strimple – the event will be textured with artisans and designers who will be on-hand working their crafts and mingling with guests throughout the evening. Highlights include:

Cassandra MacGregor, designer of House of MacGregor, will be building and shaping some of her hat designs.

Louise Black (yes, the one from Project Runway) will be showcasing some of her prized waist and arm corsets in varying stages of completion.

From Dallas Lace Society: Rita Hansen-Nieuwendijk will make Belgian lace and Patricia Bailey will be doing tatting lace.
Rocio Ildemaro of her namesake shoe collection will have visuals of her design process.

Elizabeth Anyaa, Textile designer will invite guests to try their hand at weaving.

It’s going to be a fun and fashionable night. For more information and to purchase tickets, go here. See you there!

AuctionHaus Open Tomorrow

Peggy Levinson — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:41:23 +0000

As if I weren’t in enough trouble with all the money we’ve spent on Peggy’s Folly – the infamous third Friday AuctionHaus sale will be from noon until 4pm this Friday. The Scott + Cooner Warehouse is packed with modern treasures - including new floor samples, classic iconic pieces, and even a full Pedini kitchen! You can choose from a huge selection of vendors such as Cassina, Flou, Cappellini, and Baleri Italia all at deep discounts – really deep. I swear I won’t be at 2150 Irving Blvd tomorrow.

An Evening with Robert Kuo

Peggy Levinson — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:49:33 +0000

Robert Kuo, one of the great creators of the modern Chinese arts of cloisonne and repousse is at the Baker Showroom tonight. You can see some of his amazing works there and meet the master himself, we featured some of his ceramic pieces in the Sept. DHome I’ve been a huge fan of his for years – used to go to his flagship store in Los Angeles in the 1980s and 1990s every time I went to market there. Just seeing his works gives me a sense of peace and well being. I’ve been studying his biography – background and interests, and am probably going to be best friends with him after tonight.

One Stop Christmas Shop

Kellyn Curtis — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:53:30 +0000

I have to admit, I usually put off all my holiday shopping until the last minute. Trust me, NorthPark on Christmas Eve is no fun. Think long lines and messy, picked over stores. But this year things are going to be different. I plan on avoiding the crowds by doing my shopping early at the Chi Omega Christmas Market. Dallas-area Chi Omega alums have hosted this lux shopping event for the past 32 years in support of local charities. Here you’ll find everything from women’s fashion and accessories to home décor, so you’ll be able to find a gift for everyone (and maybe even yourself). General admission starts today and ends Saturday at the Dallas Convention Center. NorthPark, I still love you. I’ll be back after the holidays.

What are the Fashion Experts Reading?

Raya Ramsey — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:22:13 +0000

Geoffrey Henning, J. C. Penney’s design director, sheds light on his top reads over at the Reading Room. Sneak preview: Twilight!

Assembly + Real Estate Party = Discounts and Free Food, Drinks, and Prizes for You

Raya Ramsey — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:00:44 +0000

Dave Perry-Miller and Associates–surely you’ve seen the company’s signs everywhere–are throwing a little real estate soirée at Assembly in West Village Thursday, Nov. 19 from 6 pm to 8 pm. Here’s what it means to you, my non-real-estate-y friends: 20 percent discounts on Assembly goods, free food from Bella, free drinks, and possible free prizes, including a $200 gift certificate to the store. If you’re into real estate, that’s a bonus. 3699 McKinney Ave. 214-219 9991

“Pamper Yourself Night” at Mockingbird Station Tonight

Raya Ramsey — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:00:39 +0000

As part of the Station’s Cause for Celebration line-up (”community-oriented events every Wednesday evening during the holidays”), Pamper Yourself Night will feature mini-facials, massages, and hand massages, free with a donation to Genesis Women’s Shelter. The masseurs will be lined up near PURE Dental. (If you choose to pay for a teeth whitening special during the evening, PURE will also donate a portion of the proceeds to Genesis.) Billy Jealousy reps will also be at PURE for the mini-facials. The hand massagers will be located at Michael Raymond Salon, where you can also get make-up touch-ups, some hot chocolate or tea, and a free Aveda shampoo sample with a $5 donation. It’s a night full of minis, but your donation can be mini, too.

Hemline, Lou Lou, and Mine Host Some Holiday Shopping

Raya Ramsey — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 06:00:36 +0000

Thursday, Nov. 19 all three stores will be open until 8 pm. Drink a glass of wine, snack on some munchies, and take 25 percent off every purchase you make. 4439 Lovers Lane. 214-559-3600

What are the Fashion Experts Reading?

Raya Ramsey — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:53:26 +0000

Let’s start with Forty Five Ten owner Brian Bolke over at D’s Reading Room. Hint: perezhilton.com’s on his list!

What is the best drugstore powder?

Raya Ramsey — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 23:47:44 +0000

My sister is looking for a new foundation–in powder form–and she wants to stick to the drugstore scene. I must admit, I haven’t used a drugstore foundation in a while. (I’m currently using a mix of MAC and Makeup For Ever.) ShopTalkers, I need your help! What are your favorite foundation products at your local Walgreen’s, grocery store, etc.?

Gotta Get GogoGear!

Kristin Hull — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:41:18 +0000

As you may know, D Magazine recently moved our offices from the Highland Park area to downtown. And many of us are now parking in garages a few blocks away from the office forcing us to re-think our entire morning routine. I, for instance, had to find a way to get my three inch heels, exercise clothes, work documents and various beauty products to and from my car. (Yes, I’ve become one of those people who walks in flats and changes into my sassy shoes once I get to the office. Hey, desperate times call for desperate measures.) For a few days I tried an old stand-by, the backpack. But that just didn’t work. Not only did I feel like a sixth grader but it was too casual and often heavy causing me to awkwardly lean forward as I walked. Are you picturing this? Right. Not pretty. Fortunately, I happened to stumble upon a bag that stole my heart from the moment I saw it. I had been searching for a backpack alternative and focusing on messenger bags when this GogoGear“Sophie” rolling tote came, quite unexpectedly, into my life. It was sheer perfection. It had a retractable handle, two sets of Rollerblade-type wheels, lots of pockets, big interior sections and most important of all, it was fashionable! From quality leather to cute hang tags this bag has it all. Now, I can carry everything I need without fear of losing my mojo, and without looking like I need a walker. I’ve gotten many compliments on it, even from men. Lucky for us several local stores carry various GogoGear pieces - Gigi & Company, Kid Biz, Lou Lou, Mary Beth’s Boutique, Cotton Island, Ten Monkeys, The Fitting Room, The Gypsy Wagon and The Write Invite. These fantastic bags come in a number of sizes, styles and colors. They even have a kid’s line that includes adorable rolling backpacks, lunch bags and messenger bags. Whether we like it or not, we have to admit that image counts. So ramp yours up with a sleek tote that will make you look chic at the office, the airport or on a week end road trip.

Blake of TOMS Shoes Kicked My Butt at Ping Pong

Kellyn Curtis — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:55:59 +0000

I headed over to Neiman Marcus last night to test my ping pong skills against the owner of TOMS, Blake Mycoskie. The challenge: Blake wins, you buy a pair of TOMS; Blake loses, you get a pair of TOMS. After watching him play against a 12-year-old girl, I decided that I had a pretty good chance of winning. Boy was I wrong. He was definitely just taking it easy on her to be nice. The final score of our game was 11-5. Take one look at Blake and you’ll understand why I had trouble keeping my eye on the ball.

After my defeat, I sulked over to the TOMS display to check out the Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman exclusive collection and pick out my first pair. (I had to hold up my end of the deal, of course.) The new line is a bit more high-end than the original. It includes trendy prints like Madras, fancy linings, and silver logo plates. I decided to keep it simple and went for the shimmery linen pair. All I have to say is, the post-match kiss on the cheek made the $80 shoes totally worth it. Plus, a child in need will get a new pair of shoes. I guess it wasn’t a total loss after all.

Lakewood Home Festival Market this Weekend

Stephanie Quadri — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:33:29 +0000

Shop over 60 unique vendors showcasing art, jewelry, children’s items, holiday keepsakes, gourmet foods, and more at the Lakewood Market, which is part of the 33rd annual Lakewood Home Festival – hosted by the Lakewood Early Childhood PTA (LECPTA) – that raises funds for Lakewood Elementary School, J.L. Long Middle School and Woodrow Wilson High School.
When: This Saturday (10 A.M. – 5 P.M.) & Sunday (11 A.M. – 5 P.M.)
Where: Lakewood Elementary (3000 Hillbrook at Sondra)
What: Shop local vendors (such as Yes Ma’am! & APRONanantomy – pictured at left) while you snack and sip goodies from Penne Pomodoro, Paciugo, White Rock Coffee, and Society Bakery.

Architectural Tour at TKO

Peggy Levinson — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 17:23:58 +0000

It’s not exactly what you would think of as a typical architectural tour – it is a display of architecturally sound and design driven gingerbread houses. Also, sustainable. Just kidding – sustainable gingerbread?? Just in time for the holidays, four of our top architects/designers – Paul Draper, Vision Design, Ashley Astleford, and Demarest Architects are being given a plain gingerbread house to design and decorate with their own brand of creativity. So, tomorrow between 4 and 6 come down to TKO in the and check out the houses. I will be judging the contest, and, as always, open to bribery.

Friday Giveaway: Smashbox Photo Finish

Raya Ramsey — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 06:00:58 +0000

This is my absolute, absolute favorite foundation primer. It’s got this slick silicone-y texture that leaves your face feeling as silky as the models look in Sephora ads. Apply it to your whole face to soften the look of pores and fine lines, and as Smashbox says, to “create a perfect canvas for foundation.” Once you add your foundation, you’ll see a smoother finish and longer-lasting results from your makeup. It’s oil-free, $36, and a winner of beauty awards from Sephora, InStyle, and Marie Claire. (Just in case you don’t believe me.)

*Don’t forget: if there’s something you want to see in your Friday Giveaways, send me suggestions. You can send me an email at raya.ramsey@dmagazine.com or make a comment here

*Update: Forgot to list a link to the form. Fill out the form to enter the contest.

*Congratulations to our three winners!

Blake of TOMS Shoes at Neiman Marcus Tonight

Raya Ramsey — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 22:07:33 +0000

Get your rears to Neiman Marcus NorthPark tonight to check out TOMS new Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf exclusive line of TOMS. (Then check out Blake, the owner, left. Not exactly bad on the eyes, is he?) The famous footwear company donates a new pair of shoes to a child in need with every pair you purchase. And there is a very specific need for shoes around the world that, in this country, we don’t really see. As of February of this year, TOMS donated more than 130,000 pairs of shoes. That means 130,000 pairs of kids’ cute little feet are now protected thanks to this company. This new luxury line will include special linings, metal logos, and trendy prints like skulls. They’ll be sold for $78 to $125. If these reasons aren’t enough to join the fun, there will be ping pong. Yes, ping pong. 400 NorthPark Center.

Post-Industrial Rainwear

Peggy Levinson — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 20:18:20 +0000

That’s right, not only is post industrial everywhere in the design world, (you’ll find out more in the 2009 Design Book), it is also showing up in fashion in only the best places. One of my favorite stores Gardens is carrying these raincoats by Mau made of Tyvec – as in the stuff home insulation is made of. Go figure. They are light as a feather, durable, washable and rain resistant. They’re also very cool. Regarded as site specific art rather than straight fashion, they make quite a chic statement. Besides, your Burberry trench is so everywhere now.

Free (well, sort of) Gift Cards at Ylang 23

Raya Ramsey — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 06:00:36 +0000

Ylang 23 is offering a gift card special right now. Every purchase made between now and the end of November will earn a gift card based on the percentage of the total purchase. So, spend $250; get a $25 gift card. Spend $500; get $50. Spend $1,000; get $150. Spend $15,000; get $3,000. You get the point. Only problem is the gift card isn’t available for use until January 2010. But after a whopping jewelry purchase, maybe it’s best to wait anyway. And though it’s true it’s easy to find pieces priced at over $1,000 (like these gorgeous peony hoops in gold and diamonds from Catherine Michiels for $2,970), it’s also pretty simple to find elegant pieces at lower price ranges. For example, the opal pod charm necklace from Ten Thousand Things for $310, a sweet little rose gold feather pendant necklace from Vanessa Jenik for $105, Me & Ro’s heart and sword trinket necklace for $115, or Dogeared necklaces—personal favorites of mine—for as low as $50. Ylang 23, Galleria. 13350 Dallas Pkwy # 1300. 972-980-0819

Is H&M Blowing Us Off?

Raya Ramsey — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 16:51:03 +0000

NBC DFW says maybe.

Elizabeth Carlock Designs Offers Guilt-Free Shopping

Kellyn Curtis — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 23:45:53 +0000

Elizabeth Carlock got right to business after she graduated from SMU in August. Just a month after she received her diploma, she launched her own jewelry company, Elizabeth Carlock Designs. Pretty impressive. The collection includes necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, and hair accessories hand crafted from metal and semi-precious stone. The best part? You won’t feel the least bit guilty after purchasing one of Carlock’s designs. The pieces are reasonably priced, plus it’s for a good cause. Carlock extends funds and support to charities in hopes of making a positive difference in women’s lives. For now, you can get these one-of-a-kind pieces online or via trunk shows.

The Dallas Flea Market Opens Doors Dec. 5

Raya Ramsey — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 23:05:37 +0000

Our very own upscale flea market opens at South Side on Lamar December 5. Made up of rows of Texas-based artists, this flea market will feature all kinds of goodies, like art, home goods, accessories, clothing, furniture, and edible treats. According to the market’s curator, Brittany Edwards, the concept for this flea market was inspired by legendary flea markets in California and New York and will contain a highly edited mix of Dallas’ best jewelry makers, bakers, designers, etc. She’s hoping, she says, to give the public access to some of Dallas’ hidden treasures. So mark your calendars for December 5 and get ready to do some local shopping! Five dollars gets you in the door, and most major credit cards will be accepted. The Dallas Flea. 1409 South Lamar St. www.thedallasflea.com

Fall/Winter Must-Have: Commando Tights

Stephanie Quadri — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:12:20 +0000

Some of you may be familiar with the barely there, panty line-free underwear line, Commando. It’s one of my personal faves. This fall they introduced a line of hosiery, and I was sent a pair of tights to try out. I have worn them a couple of times now and I have to say, they are amazing. Not only do you not get that line that’s sometimes visible through lightweight fabrics, but the elastic-free construction and “dig-free” waistband makes them quite comfortable. I wore them all day and didn’t feel like ripping them off the second I got home. The matte opaque tights come in solid black and solid brown, and retail for around $32-$34. Find them locally at Neiman Marcus.

Big Art Sale at Banks Fine Art

Raya Ramsey — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:38:16 +0000

Banks Fine Art lost its lease and is moving to Slocum Street. (2010 Slocum St. to be exact.) What does this mean for us? Massive sale. Prepare to take 50 to 75% off more than 1,000 original oil paintings. These could make really fabulous, personal gifts, too. The sale will end Dec. 19. Banks Fine Art. 1231 Dragon St. 214-352-1811 or www.banksfineart.com.

Adriana Carador Trunk Show This Saturday

Kristin Hull — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:46:42 +0000

If you aren’t familiar with Adriana Carador’s jewelry line now is the time to check it out – not just online but in person as well. She’ll be having a trunk show this Saturday, November 14 from 3-6:30pm. It’s an invite-only event but if you email Victoria Flores at victoria.flores@adrianacarador.com she can most likely get you in. Sip champagne while perusing Carador’s gorgeous, colorful designs which aren’t sold anywhere else in Dallas. Don’t miss this opportunity to purchase to a piece of jewelry that you will wear (and love) for years to come. Make it an early Christmas present – for yourself. You deserve it!

Hunting for the Perfect Shades with Jennifer Rade

Raya Ramsey — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:31:56 +0000

How do you choose the right sunglasses for your face? We didn’t know, so we asked Jennifer Rade, Angelina Jolie’s stylist and ambassador to new sunglass boutique, ILORI. (She’s pictured left with the head of gorgeous curls.) Here’s what she had to say:

Why did you decide to partner up with ILORI?
I decided to partner with ILORI because the Luxury Sunglass Boutique has its finger on the pulse of trends in both fashion and eyewear, and is a true arbiter of style in both realms. Eyewear is that final piece that finishes off a look, and can be the extra touch of glamour and sophistication, or the edgy accessory that pulls everything together.

What is the trick to finding the right lens shape for your face?
I do feel that analyzing your face shape is a good place for consumers to start when selecting sunglasses, as a more rounded pair of sunglasses can soften a strong jaw line and a more squared style can help add definition to a rounded jaw line. But I don’t feel that face shape is the only factor to choosing the right pair(s) of sunglasses.

The glam Ilori boutique in NorthPark above.

One of the most important things I look for when people try on sunglasses is proportion. Where do the sunglasses lie on the face in relation to the nose, chin, eyebrows and hairline? Are they too wide or too narrow? Do they cover too much of the forehead or not reveal enough cheek bone? The right pair of sunglasses will compliment the face by creating symmetry and not drawing too much attention to any one area.

I suggest using a camera phone and taking pictures of yourself in a variety of sunglasses. That way you can get a more objective view of how they look on your face. I also think it’s important to experiment with different shapes and materials – don’t focus on the idea that only one style suits you. Break out of the rut and try on a bunch of styles!

What are some of the biggest mistakes you see people make selecting/buying/wearing sunglasses?
I have noticed that people have a tendency to just use small mirrors when shopping for sunglasses so people will focus on the face, but ILORI has huge full-length mirrors to help pick out the perfect pair of sunglasses to also compliment wardrobe.

I suggest people try new styles and let go of the idea that there’s just one style or color that will compliment them best. Experiment with color, style and size – you may just surprise yourself. Between wraps, aviators, and over-sized plastics, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to try on a variety of sunglasses when searching for your perfect pair. Have fun and experiment with different colors and shapes. Pick out sunglasses that make you feel your very best, regardless of any rules.

I also suggest that people also consider their skin tone, hair color and even personality when seeking out a new pair of shades.

What is your personal favorite pair of sunglasses?
I am a huge advocate of having a sunglass “wardrobe,” people should own a variety of styles and colors to compliment their outfits, moods and occasions. Plus it’s always great to have one pair for the car, your purse, your briefcase…

My very favorite pairs of sunglasses right now are my grey Chanel and a classic Burberry. I am a big fan of plastics.

Friday Giveaways

Raya Ramsey — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:08:30 +0000

Hey there, ShopTalkers. Just thought I’d check in with you guys. What do you want to see in your Friday Giveaways? I’m taking suggestions. I’m not saying I’ll definitely be able to make it happen, but I want to know what products you dream about at night. (A Louis Vuitton bag’s probably out of the question, FYI.)

Let me hear your thoughts! raya.ramsey@dmagazine.com.

Hand Cream Award: Golden Gloves

Raya Ramsey — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 21:38:35 +0000

I have a new hand cream crush. Now, I call it a “crush” because my infatuation with a hand cream is almost always temporary. I rarely find one to which I feel I can make a long-term commitment. And I think we’re all looking for the same thing in a hand cream, right? Super hydrating. Not greasy. Clean scent. So here’s a winner: Golden Gloves by Billy Jealousy, a men’s beauty line. Or, because men hate thinking they’re involved with any sort of beauty product, we’ll say “grooming line.” The scent is subtle, the formula moisturizing, and there’s no greasy aftermath. Places to purchase are plentiful, including but not limited to Barneys, Face Salon, ZaSpa, and Nordstrom at NorthPark. For more, go here.