Brows, IKEA and a freebie

Neiman Marcus' gift with $250 purchase, Aug. 15-23: a berry-colored PDA/mobile cover.

Here's a few stylish news items that have passed across my screen recently:

• The iconic blue exterior walls are being raised this week at IKEA in University City. “We definitely are on track for a grand opening next spring,” Michael Maier, IKEA real estate manager, said in a press release. “We hope to be enclosed fully before winter, and cannot wait to open IKEA Charlotte in Spring 2009.”
  

• I am horrendously bad at keeping my brow appointments -- I schedule them with the best of intentions, then end up canceling on the infinitely patient Rhonda. Benefit Cosmetics' new Brow Bar at Belk SouthPark is for commitment phobes -- no appointment necessary. A Benefit-trained aesthetician will wax or tweeze your brows into an arch shaped specifically for your face. It's open now, and a grand-opening party is scheduled for 5-8 p.m. Aug. 28, with free brow services with complimentary makeup lessons and champagne & snacks. 704-364-4251, ext 8240.

• Neiman Marcus is giving away a custom berry-colored PDA/mobile cover with $250 purchase as part of the store's fall 2008 trend preview, Aug. 15-23. The top trends for women, according to NM are: berry colors, satin, high-vamp shoes, lace, sleek shapes, romantic blouses, and statement jewelry for women. For men, the focus is on shades of gray, peak lapels, peacoats, cardigans, vests, and exotics.