A message to my readers

A bit of personal news to share today: my last day at the Observer is Friday.

I've had the pleasure of witnessing incredible change on Charlotte's retail landscape since arriving at the Observer in 1998. Concord Mills wasn't around back then, SouthPark was considerably smaller and I used to order my Kiehl's online (or have it shipped by my family in Michigan).

It has changed a lot in the two years I've been lucky enough to be the Style editor.

I'm not leaving Charlotte – my family and I have grown to think of this town as home. I will continue to focus on writing about fashion and beauty, just in a different forum.

Some things, thankfully, will never change. On that list is my appreciation for the readers who took the time to e-mail, call and post on my blog.

We might not always agree, especially when it comes to men's facial hair, but the exchange of ideas this job has afforded me is priceless.

Longtime Observer writer Cristina Bolling will be covering style news. If you have story ideas, e-mail style@charlotteobserver.com.

You can find me at rachelsutherland.net, Twitter, Facebook or send e-mail to rachel@rachelsutherland.net.

Eva Mendes is Tastee

Charlotte-based Tastee Cosmetics is expanding it's reach again. The line debuted on QVC in July.

Now, the line is available at Douglas Cosmetics stores in Westport, Conn., Philadelphia and Center Valley, Penn., Marlton, NJ and Washington, DC.

Founder Jami Svay says the line has also been introduced to celebs, including Eva Mendes, Jessica Alba, Reese Witherspoon, Selena Gomez, Mo'Nique and Kirsten Dunst.

BIG ONE-DAY SALE: Neiman Marcus SouthPark will have a one-day sale, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11. Save as much as 40% off regular-priced merchandise throughout the store for one day only. This includes denim, cashmere, Tory, Ralph Lauren, DVF, Trina Turk, Leifsdottir, Kay Unger, Akris Punto and Armani Collezioni and more. Exclusions will apply.

Cosmetics will be included in this sale for the first time ever at 20 percent off. The following cosmetic lines will be marked down: Shu Uemura, Armani Beauty, La Prairie, YSL, Orlane, Estee Lauder, Sisley, Kiehl's, Laura Mercier, Cle de Peau, ReVive, Lancome, Guerlain, Trish McEvoy, Bobbi Brown, Christian Dior, Amore Pacific, Chantecaille and La Mer.

TRUNK SHOW: Tara Davis, designer of the FLOW by Tara Davis line, will showcase her Fall 2009 collection, 5-9p Nov. 20 at Modern Salon and Spa-Metropolitan. Bring a canned good or non-perishable item for entry, to be donated to City Dive, Inc. The fashion show will begin at 7p.

Free Friday: Alicia Silverstone EcoTools set

Up for grabs this week is the limited edition Alicia Silverstone EcoTools 5-piece brush set. The set includes a hemp bag and four brushes. The lining is made with recycled plastic. The brushes have sustainable bamboo handles and 100% cruelty-free bristles.

• To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
• Your e-mail must contain ECOTOOLS in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
• Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Empowerment, scholarship and beauty

If you're a high school senior with a passion for fashion (design or marketing, merchandising and retail management), you could win a full-ride scholarship to the Art Institute of Charlotte.

The local winner will be entered in the national competition, where prizes include a scholarship to study fashion marketing and management at the Art Institute, a tour of Seventeen magazine, $500 shopping spree, lunch with a style professional and a visit to NYC during Fashion Week.

Deadline for entry is Nov. 20. Complete details for entry can be found here or by calling the Admissions Department of The Art Institute of Charlotte at 704.357.8020.

DOVE REAL BEAUTY WORKSHOP: The 3rd annual Dove Real Beauty Workshop for Girls, hosted by UNCC's Gender Excellence Learning Community, will be 1-4p Dec. 5. How can we encourage young girls, teens and women everywhere to embrace a more positive image of themselves, both inside and out? This awesome event, which fills up quickly, is a great place to start. It is free to girls (ages 10-13) and their female mentors: moms, stepmoms, sisters, friends, aunts, etc. It will be held at Breathing Room Yoga Studio, 214 W. Tremont Ave. Advance registration is required. Send an email to: dovegenx@gmail.com.

BENEFIT FOR YOU: Meet beauty experts Maggie and Annie Ford Danielson, Benefit global trend artists, 11a-3p Nov. 14 at Belk SouthPark. Get expert advice on everything beauty: from how to discover your signature fragrance from the new Crescent Row collection to mastering your perfect makeup look. Along with free cosmetic consultations, there will be a free gift with purchase of more than $55 during the event. Space is limited. Call 704.364.4251, ext. 8240 for reservations.

NCDT Runway For The Ballet

The NC Dance Theatre is staging its third Runway for the Ballet at 5 p.m. Sunday in the Booth Playhouse at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center.

Apparel from Capitol, Scout & Molly's, Black & Blue, ChezElle and E Martini will be featured, interspersed with excerpts from NC Dance Theatre's Innovative Works.

Ramona Holloway of 107.9 WLNK's "Matt and Ramona Show" will emcee. Tickets start at $30, and include complimentary food and wine. Click here for event details.

Free Friday: $100 gift card for Shapes Salon

Up for grabs this week is a $100 gift card for a free massage or facial from Shapes Salon & Day Spa on Providence Road.

• To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
• Your e-mail must contain SHAPES in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
• Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Buff Faye's drag-tastic Halloween

Buff Faye (lower left) and her festive Halloween crew

I finally, finally(!) met Buff Faye.

She's the long-lost sister of Tammy Faye (rest in peace), and Buff's just as fabulous as you'd expect the winner of the Ms. Crown Royal Rugby Pageant 2008 and Miss $1.98 Pageant at the HideAway in Rock Hill, SC, to be. You may also recall she was in the top 25 of RuPaul's national Drag Race competition this summer.

Now, she and her band of divas sing, dance and serve a killer brunch once a month during Buff Faye's Drag Brunch at Hartigan's. I was lucky enough to see the crew in action earlier this month, in full camp drag/Halloween glory.

Here's your chance to check out the special encore: Buff and her crew are doing it one more time at a Halloween event 7-10p Thursday, Oct. 29.

Check it out. And tell Buff I sent you!

Organica Deluxe pop-up @ Poole

Poole Shop and Organica Deluxe recently announced their partnership on a pop-up shop to open Nov. 12 in Phillips Place.

What's a pop-up shop? Comme des Garcons designer Rei Kawakubo is credited with starting the guerrilla retail experience a few years ago -- temporarily setting up shop in an unexpected place.
Organica Deluxe, the Charlotte-based online store for eco-friendly luxe gifts, will set up shop inside Poole's south Charlotte store. On Nov. 12, Organica's entire product line will be in the store.

Through Dec. 24, OD will stock its most popular products in store. And online orders will be available for pickup in the store, with no delivery or shipping charges.

"We are excited to offer Charlotte customers this unique service," Poole Shop owner Laura Vinroot Poole said in a press release. "We love Organica Deluxe's beautiful packaging and especially their delicious ginger cookies. Anyone looking for gorgeous and green gifts will find exactly what they want."

Founded by Jane Hunter and Wendy James in 2008, Organica Deluxe sells home decor, accessories, baby items, flowers, food and wine ($10-$650). The site has been featured on Daily Candy and CNN. Celeb fans include Sigrid Olsen and Constance Zimmer.

Stella McCartney for GapKids in Charlotte?

Is that a real fox he's holding? No matter -- look at that marching band jacket! Too cute!

As the mom of two bebes (well, not really babies anymore -- my son is 6, my daughter 4), I can tell you with authority there is room for improvement when it comes to children's clothing.

There's only so much train/construction theming for boys or pink/purple florals for girls that a stylish mum can take before losing it completely.

Enter Stella McCartney, daughter of Sir Paul, mother of three (Miller, 4, Bailey, 2, and Beckett, 1) and creator of an uber-delicious eponymous line. Now, she's teamed with GapKids for a children's capsule collection that may just send me into fits, in a good way.

Marching band jackets? Tulle skirts? Cozy knits and kid-pleasing boots for stomping around (with trend-perfect neon yellow laces)? I am in.

The collection ($14-$128) should be hitting stores by Nov. 3, and I've been told by a well-placed source the SouthPark location will be one of just a handful of stores in the Southeast to carry the line.

Free Friday: $100 spa gift card

Up for grabs this week is a $100 gift card to Edamame The Maternity Spa at Destination Maternity, which has a location at Sharon Corners in South Charlotte. Edamame The spa offers an extensive menu of luxury treatments for the expectant woman and focuses on the fusion of body, mind and spirit. Treatments include facials, massages and enhancements, all provided by certified massage therapists and estheticians. It's not just for preggos: Many non-pregnant clients return to the spa after pregnancy for post-natal treatments.

• To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
• Your e-mail must contain SPA in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
• Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Get ready for Bags & Baubles

Looking for a nearly guilt-free indulgence? Head over to the Assistance League of Charlotte's fourth annual Bags and Baubles sale, 9a-4p Saturday, Oct. 24 at its thrift shop, 3600 S. Tryon St.

The ALC is a nonprofit volunteer organization that assists children in need through its five philanthropic programs: Operation School Bell, Operation Check Hunger, Mecklenburg County Teen Court, Outreach and a college scholarship program.

And they've got some killer style. They've collected gently used handbags, jewelry, shoes and accessories for the sale. The list of designers is impressive. Here's just a handful of the names that will be on the sales floor: Donald J. Pliner, Dooney & Bourke, Coach, Hartmann, Maud Frizon and Lulu Guinness.

Word on the street is there's some David Yurman and vintage Eisenberg Ice jewelry in the mix too.

Perry's of SouthPark will be on hand for appraisals and gold/silver buybacks. ALC is still accepting donations of gently used jewelry, accessories and handbags for the sale. Click here for more information.

Having shopped the sale before, here are a few things I think you should consider before you go:

• Get there early. Don't arrive at 9a on the nose and expect to walk right in.


• Be courteous. It's just plain rude to sweep up an entire rack of bags on to your arm and cart them off, only to weed through and put the castoffs back. Manners, please.


• Remember it's for charity.

Bob Ellis to close at SouthPark

Sadly, the economy is claiming another Charlotte retail fatality.

The luxe Bob Ellis Shoes in SouthPark mall will close, says store manager Joel Prystowsky. Employees began telling customers late last week. The King Street location in Charleston will remain open.

Christian Louboutin Charme Black suede ankle boot

Bob Ellis has been in Charlotte for more than 11 years, opening first inside Coplon's Phillips Place space, then moving to a spot near Nordstrom inside SouthPark about five years ago.

It is a chic spot to find some of the most fab footwear: Fendi, Jimmy Choo, Christian Louboutin and Yves Saint Laurent are just a few of the lines in the store.

The decision to close was made by owner Barry Kalinsky, Prystowsky says, and came as a surprise to employees.

The timeline for closure (and clearance markdowns) has yet to be determined, he says.

Free Friday: VIP package for Simon Fashion Shows

Today's giveaway is a two-fer. Up for grabs are two VIP packages to Simon Fashion Now, a celebration of style and fashion scheduled for Oct. 23-24 at SouthPark mall. Included in each package: One $150 Simon gift card; two reserved seats for a runway show on Friday or Saturday and dinner for two at McCormick & Schmick's ($50 value, alcohol and gratuity not included).

• To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
• Your e-mail must contain SIMON in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
• Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your contact information in the comments section on the blog.

No sleep for fashion in CLT

ooooohhhhhh.... a pretty Cordani boot.

Fashion and style never sleep in Charlotte. Witness:

DESIGNER VISIT/TRUNK SHOW: Cordani designer and owner Michael Ciccia will be part of a Cordani trunk show 10a-6p Friday, Oct. 16 at Step by Sloan on East Boulevard. If you think fashion means giving up comfort for style, than you need to check out Cordani footwear, which for fall means boots, pumps, flats and clogs.

MAKEUP ARTIST VISIT: Susan Posnick Cosmetics national makeup artist Brandy Nolen will be doing complimentary makeovers at Jeffre Scott Apothecary on Friday and Saturday. Nolen will be at the Myers Park store 11a-4p on Friday, Oct. 16, and the Piper Glen store 11a-4p on Saturday, Oct. 17. Spend $35 or more and receive a free lipstick. Call 704.339.0010 to reserve a spot.

SMILE! The Flock Apparel is holding a public photo shoot project on the corner of Trade and Tryon streets, 5-9p Friday, Oct. 16. The event is an effort to "bring art and life to the city of Charlotte," says founder/designer CiGi.

TRUNK SHOW: Paul Simon for Women will host an Audrey Talbott Fall Sportswear Trunk Show 9:30a-6p Wednesday, Oct. 21 and Thursday, Oct. 22. Details: 704-333-6139.

FASHION NOW: SouthPark mall celebrates fall fashion and trends with this series of fashion shows and interactive entertainment, 5-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23 and noon-5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24. Friday's “Trends & Friends Night” will feature runway shows and more. Details: 704-364-4411.

Fashion Q&A: Leggings age limit?

A reader recently wrote asking for advice:

"I am almost 55 and wondering if leggings are appropriate for women my age? I think they are cute and looks like they would keep your legs warm! I don't want to wear something that makes me look like I'm TRYING to look too young."

I too love leggings. And I also wonder if they are appropriate (I'm in my mid-30s). My answer for both of us is yes, but that's a yes with an *. By styling them and accessorizing properly, you can make leggings look very adult. Here are a few tips:

• Knit leggings are technically pants, but unless you are a toothpick or under the age of 18, think of them more as tights and dress accordingly. Go ahead and use Lindsay Lohan and Lady Ga-Ga as examples of what not to do when it comes to tights abuse or skipping pants all together.


• Pair leggings with tunic-type tops that hit your leg between your upper knee and mid-thigh. Wear leggings under a dress (nothing longer than mid-knee).


• Chose full-length (to the ankle) leggings rather than cropped.


• Leggings worn with a high-heeled boot or shoe can lengthen the leg, especially when when done in monochrome. You can't go wrong with black leggings. You can go wrong with patterns and bright colors. Be mindful.


• The higher the heel you wear with leggings, the more sophisticated your look will be. That's not to say you need to sacrifice comfort for style: instead of ballet flats with leggings (which is cute), swap in a pair of riding boots. Instant chic.


• Regardless of age, resist the urge to wear leggings with athletic shoes/gear. This is not 1984, and despite the ripped sweatshirts making the rounds, you are not in the movie "Flashdance" or a Jane Fonda workout video.


• If you've got ample hips or behind, you can still make leggings work, but you need to watch with what you pair them. As Tim Gunn says, focus on fit. Do not wear leggings with a body-hugging top or sweater unless you want to draw attention to your backside. Instead, work with the boxy-big-shouldered '80s vibe right now. An oversized black jacket adds a stylish layer to leggings and a kicky dress.
  
  Suggestions? Thoughts? Let's hear 'em!

Free Friday: Fierce Style

Up for grabs is a tickity-tack, hot tranny mess of a book: "Fierce Style: How to Be Your Most Fabulous Self," by Christian Siriano. No, actually, it's quite sweet and full of tips on owning your look and "Finding Your Inner Ferocia."

• To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
• Your e-mail must contain FIERCE in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
• Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Project Runway for Macy's

Model Katie Sticksel wearing Irina Shabayeva's INC design

"Project Runway" designer Irina Shabayeva, 27, scored a quite an opportunity with a recent win on the Lifetime show: One of her creations will be sold by Macy's as part of the INC International Concepts holiday collection.

Irina’s dress is made of rayon matte jersey, with an asymmetric hem and a butterfly embellishment. It will be available in sizes small through x-large, retailing for $139.

The dress is up on the Macy's site now, and will be available for purchase in select Macy's stores and online in early December.

Bra-fitting: Get it done.

Seems I've hit a ill-fitted, poorly supported nerve. And I can't wait to spark more discussion on the topic of bras. I wasn't surprised to find that my voicemail inbox was more than half full, or that the e-mailed responses to my bra column continue to pour in to my Outlook.

So, let's continue this dialogue. Here are my answers to a few questions posed by readers. I'll post more answers next week. More questions or comments? Post below!

Where do you get the perfect fit?

I went to the Lingerie Shop near Phillips Place which closed a few years ago. Since then, I've been buying my bras at Nordstrom. I found a sales associate with a body shape that is similar to mine, and I call in advance to make sure she'll be there before I go. I've brought clothing with me (if I'm buying a bra for a specific dress or top), and I don't feel guilty about spending as much time as I need to get the perfect fit.

I can't stress enough how important it is to be sized properly. You'll tend to have the best luck at department (Belk or Dillards) or speciality stores (like IC London or E Martini).

Talk about prices at boutiques and department stores. They seem so high.

Think of bras the same way you think of shoes or handbags. They are investments. When you pay more, they will last longer, wear better and look better. That couldn't be more true with bras.

Sure, $60 for something few people besides you will see seems like a lot, but it's not when you consider this: If cared for properly, you shouldn't need to replace it for 2-3 years.

Lets do the math (please remember, this is an example): Buy four $60 bras once = $240. Buying four $30 bras every six months for 2 years = $480.

Boris & Natasha fetes 10th anniversary

A crazy, curly fist-sized ring from Darrell Roach

Just a few of Elizabeth Cannon's pieces at Boris & Natasha

Boris & Natasha, one of Charlotte's true originals, is celebrating 10 years of business in Plaza-Midwood. The eclectic, tough boutique carries Anna Sui and Tibi right next to accessories from a bevy of local artists, some of whom are exclusive to B&N.

To fete the birthday of the funkiest shop on the block, owner Hope Nicholls is celebrating with jewelry trunk shows every Saturday in October, to give shoppers a chance to meet a few of the local artists.

Up first on Saturday, Oct. 3 is the crazy cool lost wax casting work of Don Grubbs, a baggage handler who creates impressive silver jewelry when he's not at the airport.

On deck for Oct. 10: the incredibly detailed, highly hand-crafted work from Elizabeth Cannon, featuring stunning bib necklaces with suede, felted flowers and hand-crafted glass beads.

Up for Oct. 17 is stunning metalwork of Darrell Roach, who recently showed his work during a fashion show by "Project Runway" alum Korto Momolu and Charlotte's Flow by Tara Davis.

And on Oct. 24, stop by and check out the brilliantly deconstructed/reconstructed vintage jewelry from Mavis Beard.

Trunk shows are 11 a.m. -7 p.m. each Saturday at 1214 Thomas Ave. Call 704.375.0079 for more details.

Free Friday: Breast Cancer awareness

To honor National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we're giving away pink goodies that raise awareness of the disease: Nygard printed jersey top, valued at $34, and a pair of Karen Neuberger KN Cares pink ribbon socks, valued at $7.

• To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
• Your e-mail must contain BCA in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
• Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your contact information in the comments section on the blog.

OMG! "New Moon" gear is here!

"The Twilight Saga: New Moon" apparel and jewelry collection will be available online starting Oct. 1 and in Nordstrom stores on Oct. 15. Pictured: "New Moon Eternal Love" fitted boyfriend tee, $32.

Just because I never hopped on the crazy train that is "Twilight" fandom doesn't mean I don't appreciate a good vampire story. I'm more of a "True Blood" girl.

Regardless, I know a rabid niche market when I see one, and so does Nordstrom. The department store is launching an exclusive fashion and jewelry collection inspired by the upcoming film "The Twilight Saga: New Moon," which is set to debut on the big screen Nov. 20.

The collection, available online Oct. 1 and in stores Oct. 15, includes fitted screen tees, tanks, hoodies, dresses, jackets, as well necklaces, bracelets earrings and key fobs.

Also, in stores now, is the Luna Twilight beauty collection, which includes lip plumpers, lip stains and color palettes that have been created using characters from the movie, including Bella, Alice, Victoria, and Rosalie.

Luna Twilight Cosmetics Collection (from left): Mortal Glow Blushing Cream, $22. First Light Body Glow, $34. Just Bitten Staining Balm in Pink, $18. Femme Fatale Lip Gloss in Rich Burgundy, $20. ‘Rosalie’ Color Palette, $28. Gleam Metallic Mascara in Reflective Black, $22. In Nordstrom stores and online starting Oct. 1.

It's time to tie one on

My computer-savvy colleague asked me for scarf-tying guidance a few days ago, right on the heels of a question from another about scarf shapes and uses.

That's right accessory-fiends, it's time to bust out your favorite scarves! I am so very excited to see the temps dip enough to make scarves comfortable for wear in the Carolinas.

Here are a few tips if you love the look, but don't feel confidant in your ability to pull it off:

• When it comes to scarf length and size, the longer and bigger the better.
• Decide how you want your scarf to look. Long, rectangular scarves are more versatile than squares. But, squares can be easier to tie.
• The key to wearing knit scarves is the casual vibe -- when they're done right, they look effortlessly messy, which works in your favor as a newbie.
• This is less of an issue in the Carolinas (and even then, not until it gets considerably colder), but be mindful of the thickness of knit scarves. Some nubby, chunky knits don't do well when doubled or bunched around your neck.
• There's only one way to build confidence in your scarf-wearing and tying ability. Using a photo of a celeb or someone who's scarf style you'd like to bite, and practice, practice, practice. Set yourself up in front of a mirror and get busy.

What are your scarf-wearing tips? Tying silk scarves are a whole 'nother issue to tackle on a different day ...

Free Friday: Alice + Olivia bag

This weekend (Sept. 25-26) is the HIP Event at Neiman Marcus. Spend more than $500 on any full-priced women's contemporary sportswear or dress collections and you'll recieve a NM exclusive Alice + Olivia bag full of goodies, including a Marc by Marc Jacobs T-shirt and accessories from See by Chloe and Catherine Malandrino. Or, thanks to the folks at NM SouthPark, you can enter to win one of the Alice + Olivia bags on Free Friday.

• To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.


• Your e-mail must contain ALICE in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.


• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.


• E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.


• Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Baby: I'm a Star?

Kellen was one of the winners in the Gap 2008 casting call.

Gap recently launched it's fourth annual Casting Call to find the new faces of the Gap Kids and babyGap lines. Click here for full contest details. Deadline for entry is Oct. 22.

The contest is open to babies (children age four and younger) and kids (ages 5-10). Winners will be featured in Gap's store windows. This year, there's a new fan favorite award, based on votes cast here. Four winners (one boy and one girl in each age category) will be decided by popular vote.

Think your darling son or daughter has what it takes to be a superstar? Here are a few kid-specific photo-taking tips from pro photographer Stefano Azario:

Get Close: Zoom in to get as close as possible to your subject’s face so it’s clearly visible. If your subject’s too far away, they’ll get lost against the background.

Show Personality: Memorable photos let your subject’s personality shine through. Avoid stiff smiles and forced poses as they can come across as artificial and generic. Instead, take your time and follow your subject as they relax in or move through an environment that’s comfortable to them. Also, avoid hats – they’re cute but we want to see faces and hair.

Watch the Background: Shoot the photo against a simple background so your subject really stands out. Don’t forget to move anything nearby that might be distracting.

Try Different Angles: Try angling the camera or shooting from different perspectives to make your photos more memorable. It’s also important to photograph kids at their eye level rather than standing over them.

Use Natural Lighting: Sunlight is much more flattering than indoor lighting. Use filtered, natural light to enhance colors and skin tones. Try not to shoot with the sun behind the camera as it will likely make the subject squint and will also cast strong shadows.

Steve Madden coming to Charlotte

You love his shoes, now meet the man behind those fabulous kicks.

Steve Madden, the man behind the genre-crossing shoe line, will be at Belk SouthPark on 2-3:30p Saturday, Sept. 26, along with BET VJ Julissa Bermudez. There will be giveaways, trend talk and free T-shirts, among other goodies. The party will be on the third floor in the ladies shoe department.

This should come as no surprise, but I have adored his shoes since the mid 1990s, when I was a recent college grad and obsessed with a pair of Spice Girls-esque fat-heeled, platform, ruby-red patent loafers. (Cut me some fashion slack -- that was the look then!)

I still have my suede, wooden-heeled platform Maddens I wore on my first trip to Italy ages ago, and I love them just as much as I do the rad slouchy, buckled-laden biker boots I picked up at the Madden store in Charleston a few seasons ago.

Other happenin' events on the horizon:

ALCHIMIE FOREVER EVENT: Ada Polla, founder and creator of Alchimie Forever skincare, will be on hand 11a-4p Thursday, Sept. 24 and Friday, Sept. 25 for beauty events at Jeffre Scott Apothecary locations in Piper Glen and Myers Park. Both days, there will be complimentary mini facials and a gift with purchase of more than $75.

WAXMAMA LAUNCH PARTY: Celebrate the launch of the daily e-magazine Waxmama.com with a party at 6p Thursday, Sept. 24, at Therapy Marketplace and Café. The first 50 guests will get a free goodie bag. Entry is free, but guests are asked to add their names to a guest list by emailing their party information to info@waxMAMA.com.

FEVER EXTRAVAGANZA: The hair and fashion show starts at 6p Sunday, Sept. 27 at the Blake Hotel. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres and performances by Calvin Richardson and Beverly. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. A portion of the proceeds will benefit RAIN. Tickets and details: Fresh Kutts on The Blvd, 204 West Blvd., 704.347.1891.

Get Brief for charity

Round up you friends and mark Oct. 23 on the calendar -- this promises to be quite an event. It's time for Brief! A Fete for Fashion Benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Dreamed up by the fabulous Dan Mauney, the event will feature male models wearing underwear (and other lounge wear) from Diesel, Theory, Hugo Boss, Armani, 2Xist, Calvin Klein and Hanes, among others.

The party starts at 7 p.m., the show begins at 8:30 p.m. Oct. 23 at Extravaganza, 1610 N. Tryon St. Tickets go on sale Sept .21 and are $200, $50 and $25. For tickets or more information, click here.

Cystic Fibrosis is a life-threatening genetic disease that affects the lungs and digestive systems of approximately 30,000 children and adults in the United States. More than 10 million Americans are symptomless carriers of the defective cystic fibrosis gene. The disease occurs in one of every 3,900 live births and about 1,000 new cases of CF are diagnosed each year.

Free Friday: T3 Featherweight Dryer

To celebrate its five-year anniversary, T3 has offered up a Featherweight hairdryer, valued at $200.

• To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
• Your e-mail must contain T3 in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
• Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Are you open to a peep-toe?

MICHAEL Michael Kors Jamesport bootie

I've been fixated on boots since writing about them in a recent Style section.

But, to tell you the truth, it doesn't take an assignment to make me obsess about shoes, particularly boots. If you were privy to the incessant internal dialogue I have pondering the heel width, height and design elements of footwear, you might think I need help.

The latest source of shoe-specific debate I've been waging with myself was sparked by an honest question from my mom: What's up with peep-toe boots? Her take, based in a Midwestern reality that involves lots of snow, is that they simply aren't practical or even cute.

I love the peep-toe on pumps and even now on boots. It's an unexpected twist on a classic silhouette that adds a bit of edge. And, in places like Charlotte, it's a great seasonal transition shoe.

Without tights, peep-toe boots can work with skirts, leggings and dresses. Once it gets a bit cooler, adding contrasting tights (bright colors are popular, like electric blue and hot pink) will kick up the attitude of your look.

What do you think about the peep-toe boot? A favorite brand or style?

Free Friday: Boots products

This week's giveaway is Boots Original Cold Cream and Boots Original Skin Tonic.

• To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
• Your e-mail must contain BOOTS in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
• Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Kristin Davis, Belk end relationship

"Sex and the City" star (and S.C. native) Kristin Davis and Belk have parted ways, according to New York Magazine.

The Kristin Davis Collection was expansive, and included jewelry, accessories, shoes, intimates and clothing. The line was scheduled to be part of the Style 360 event at New York Fashion Week, but word came from event organizers late last week the fashion show had been cancelled.

It was just about a year ago that I spoke with Davis in Charlotte as she readied to celebrate the launch of her line with a fashion show at the Blake Hotel.

The fall 2009 collection will be the last available in stores.

What do you think of the announcement? Of the line? I never got around to buying anything from it, but did lust after a few pairs of shoes.

Charlotte's got style

Fashionable events continue to bust out all over Charlotte. Here's a few more:

Fashion's Night Out

Neiman Marcus at SouthPark and Lotus boutique on East Boulevard will be participating in Thursday's global celebration.

All 40 Neiman Marcus stores across the country are participating in the initiative to celebrate fashion, restore consumer confidence and infuse the industry's economy. From 6:30-10 p.m. the Charlotte store will host fashion presentations, trunk shows, beauty makeovers, caricature artists, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and more. The exclusive Fashion’s Night Out T-shirt will be available for sale during the event -- 40 percent of the proceeds will benefit the National Sept. 11 Memorial & Museum.

At Lotus, from 7-11p there will be music and drinks and the first 20 people through the door will receive Lotus gift certificates. Morgan Fogarty is scheduled to cover the event live for Fox News Charlotte.

Accoutrement

Potion and Bella Ropa boutiques for a night of high fashion and fab beauty products at Accoutrement, 7-9 p.m. Sept. 24 at Birkdale Village in Huntersville. The style experts will use models to showcase the latest in fall fashion and beauty, including jewelry from Genia of Silver Girl Designs.

Free Friday: EcoTools set

After a brief hiatus (a girl has to use her vacation time or lose it!), Free Friday is back. Thanks to the faithful who let me know I was missed. Or, at least the chance for free stuff was missed. Anywho, this week's prize is a pouch of Ecotools beauty products, including body wash, body lotion, intensive hand cream and body mist.

• To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
• Your e-mail must contain ECOTOOLS in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
• Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Project Runway: Three strikes

Ra'mon! Ra'mon! So glad you ditched that Catwoman suit!

Well, well. Apparently the inability to sew isn't exclusive to Fashion Show designers.

Mitchell finally got was was coming to him for his inability to focus, design, and oh yeah, SEW. First it was the smocking, then the horrid maternity shorts that could easily accommodate a person in each of the legs. Then, he admitted to the camera he chose Ra'Mon as a partner because he expected to be carried through the challenge.

Oh honey, no. If you're going to rock a cocky bravado, please, please have the skills to back it up.

For all the drama that was promised, I was thought it was pretty standard Project Runway fare: lippy designers not wanting to share or collaborate with others. Qristyl and Epperson nagged each other like an old married couple. As much as I want to like Qristyl's work, I am not feeling anything she's done thus far.

And, with each passing week, I'm feeling more confident that Ra'Mon might be the winner, especially since he's showing at New York Fashion Week. I'll be checking out his show (as well as the shows of fellow PR alums Christian Siriano and Malan Breton) during the semi-annual festival of fashion which starts Sept. 10.

Thoughts? Have you been watching "Models of the Runway?" What's your take on that show?

GIVEAWAY! Love Project Runway? Prove it by rockin this American Apparel black hoodie T with an embroidered PR logo. To enter, send an email with RUNWAY in the subject field to style@charlotteobserver.com. Email must include full name, mailing address and phone number. One entry per email address, please. Only the winner will be contacted.

"Real" women cause a stir. Really?

Seems people can't get enough of Lizzie Miller and her "real" belly.

Glamour Magazine ran photo of "plus sized" Lizzie in the September issue and has sent the latest wave of body honesty and adoration through the fashion world. Lizzie -- who is a size 12-14, certainly not plus-size by realistic, American standards -- was featured on morning talk shows, explaining her pooch.

Photo by Walter Chin, Glamour magazine

Now, the New York Post is reporting Lizzie and a band of fellow non-size-two models were seen shooting pics (including buzzed about model/author Crystal Renn) -- gasp -- in the nude in New York recently, supposedly for an upcoming Glamour spread.

I am always on board for honest, truthful discussion of body image and the reality of the American female form, but I am conflicted about this Lizzie/Glamour situation. In much the same way I was when Anna Wintour dressed Adele for the Grammys or the Gossip lead singer Beth Ditto was the darling of Paris Fashion Week.

Is the intent honest or a grab for headlines? Is it more fetishisizing of larger women? Is mainstream fashion really ready to embrace "real" bodies?

Thoughts?

Lucky magazine coming to Charlotte

Lucky Magazine and I.N.C are teaming up for a special event at Macy's SouthPark on Sept. 26.

Wow. A girl takes 2+ weeks off, come back to work and suddenly fall fashion season in the Carolinas is in full swing! My Outlook was packed (no lie -- it was shut down at least once for being too full, and another time there were 450-ish emails waiting on me) with notice of events.

Here are a handful of stylish happenings:

NINA MCLEMORE TRUNK: Paul Simon for Women will host the Nina McLemore Fall trunk Show, 9:30a-6p today, Sept. l and Wednesday Sept. 2 at its Myers Park store. Nina McLemore is known for her classic, colorful jackets for daytime and special events. Each style
is specially designed to flatter a variety of shapes and sizes.

LINDA CUNNINGHAM TRUNK: Coplon's at Phillips Place will host a Linda Cunningham trunk show on Thursday, Sept. 3 and Friday, Sept. 4. The designer, who specializes in custom cocktail and special occasion dresses, will be on hand.

CNCFW: Charlotte Fashion Week returns for a second time with an international designer lineup and a new venue: The Mint Museum. Sept. 10-12, general admission tickets are $35-$50; VIP are $50-$180.

LOOK AT HER POWER: The annual fundraiser for Dress for Success Charlotte and sneak peek of the Southern Women's Show will be Thursday, Sept. 17 at The Park (formerly the Charlotte Merchandise Mart). Among the highlights will be fashion shows and empowering talk from honorary chair Andie MacDowell and keynote speaker Cynthia Marshall. Don't forget the networking, drinks and freebies, too, to benefit a great cause. $40.

FASHION'S NIGHT OUT! Scout & Molly's and Waxmama.com are teaming up for a night of wine, food, fashion, music and deals. 6-9p Thursday, Sept. 17 at the store in the Morrison development. There will be a DJ, freebies and goodie bags.

BELK GIRL'S NIGHT OUT: Fall fashion is the focus of the festivities planned for the semi-annual event at the SouthPark on Wednesday, Sept. 23. Rafaella’s creative director Richard Metzger will also be on hand. More details to come.

LUCKY (FALL) GIRL! Lucky and INC experts will be on hand for the INC Fall fashion preview at Macy's Southpark, 2-4p Saturday, Sept. 26. A professional photographer will photograph customers for feature placement on LuckyStyleSpotter.com. Also, customers will receive a Lucky necklace with any INC purchase of $75 or more the day of the event (while supplies last).

Project Runway: LiLo? Really?

I'm a sucker for a hard work ethic and non-traditional path to success. Christopher from Shakopee, you might just be my favorite!
Oh wait ... it's too soon to call it!

My excitement about the return of Project Runway hit the skids when I saw the guest judge, Lindsay Lohan. Really? That's the best you can do, PR folk?

But my LiLo hateration receded quickly when she became a source for unintentional comedy. Like when she couldn't hide her disdain for Qristyl's suggestion that the designer's flamenco Grimace dress would be a great red carpet look for LiLo.

Or when the stretch-pants enthusiast started lecturing designers on the runway about appropriateness. Hello kettle? It's pot.

Anyway, the designers did fairly well in the first challenge of Season Six. The show took advantage of it's left coast setting, having the designers create red carpet-worthy looks. There were a lot of design missteps, but when the herd is this big, it's to be expected.

Along with watching Project Runway for the first time in almost a year, I was also explaining the show to three newbies - my husband, brother and sister-in-law. Early on, my non-fashiony brother picked the short, sassy look Christopher from Shakopee.

I was pulling for the fab, flowy, old Hollywood look put together by Irina.

And I was a little startled that smocking was utilities so heavily by Mitchell. But, then again, he is from Savannah, and smocking is very beloved by Southerners, but pretty much only on bishops and jon jons.

Perhaps my brother is a fashion savant -- Christopher's "cute" and "edgy" dress won the first challenge. And Miss "I don't sketch" Ari got the boot. Or was she dismissed because she looked freakishly similar to LiLo's on-again-off-again girlfriend Samantha Ronson?

So what did y'all think? Who is a contender? What about Ra'mon? He's showing his line at New York Fashion Week in September. What do you think that means, if anything, given that the time table for this season was so skewed?

I die. She's back.

Oh Rachel Zoe, catch-phrase-happy stylist to the stars, I was wrong. So very wrong.

I couldn't get into the first season of "The Rachel Zoe Project" on Bravo. Why? I dunno.

Distracted by other trash-tastic fashiony reality shows (yes, "Stylista" I'm talking to you)?

Burned out on wee female stylists with big hair and giant Starbucks cups? Perhaps.

Whatever the reason, I am here to confess my RZ sins and proclaim myself a bananas convert.

After watching a screener of the first two episodes of the new season, which debuts at 10 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25, I am programming the DVR. How's that for commitment?

Of course there's drama. Assistant drama with Taylor and Brad, spending drama when hubs Rodger Berman attempts to put RZ on a shopping strike, dress drama when gowns are hard to find for red carpet season. There's also plenty of cattiness and the emergence of Brad as a fierce fashionista.

Oh forgive me! I have misjudged someone who has the stones to ask Uncle Karl to recut a couture Chanel gown to her liking. I die.

Free Friday: Organix products

This week's prize is a selection of Organix hair products, including Revitalizing Pomegranate Green Tea Styling Whip, Shampoo and Conditioner.

• To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
• Your e-mail must contain ORGANIX in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
• Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Rodarte at Target

I was a giddy little Twitterer when I read that the fab Mulleavy sisters (above), designers of the of-the-moment Rodarte line, would be doing a Go International line at Target, due to hit stores in December.

On one hand, I'm geeked thinking about the possibilities (and the prices). Their work manages to be futuristic, chic and relatable to modern women. But I've been trying to temper my expectations and enthusiasm. Not because Rodarte isn't incredible, but because it's hard to make high fashion translate well to a low price point.

I was beside myself to check out the Alexander McQueen Target collection at a warehouse preview party during New York Fashion Week in February. The party was great -- there was a band, lots of champagne -- but the clothing? Not so much.

I so badly wanted to buy something, but couldn't find anything that rocked my world in quality, style or fit. Really? This coming from a man who has never created a pair of shoes or a handbag for which I haven't lusted.

What's been your experience with diffusion lines?

Dreaming of boots

Those killer Hayden-Harnett Madeline riding boots are calling to me from the closet. So are the Frye Ava pumps I picked up at a killer discount. Or that batwing sweater I snatched up recently. Or the black dress that makes me think I'm channelling Vivienne Westwood.

So come on all ready fall! I need some dramatically cooler temps before I can trot out my end-of-season finds.

The thing is, we've got a ways to go. It's hot in Charlotte, so hot that a forecast for 83 seems like a cold front is moving in.

Besides repeatedly trying on your new boots and sweaters in the air-conditioned comfort of your home, what do you do to fight the impatient urge for summer to end and fall to begin?

Free Friday: Jovoy Poudre set

This week's prize is a Jovoy Poudre set, which includes a 1.7 oz eau de parfum and a 2.7 oz perfumed body milk. Poudre is a floral woody fragrance with hints of mimosa, almond and violet. Jovoy Paris, a perfume house originally founded in 1923, was resurrected in 2006. The set has a retail value of approximately $130.

• To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
• Your e-mail must contain JOVOY in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
• Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Local makeup artist is a smash

Charlotte makeup artist Heather Hawkins was recently named one of the winners of the Face of Smashbox cosmetics competition. One model, makeup artist and photographer received an all-expenses paid trip to Los Angeles to work on a Smashbox photo shoot directed by Smashbox chief creative officer Davis Factor. In addition, each walked with $1,000 in Smashbox products and a one-year subscription to Dripbook, a worldwide community of professional visual artists.

Makeup artist Heather Hawkins touches up Conan O'Brien during his visit to Charlotte in February. (TODD SUMLIN - tsumlin@charlotteobserver.com)

THAT'S TASTEE: The national profile of Jami Svay, a Charlotte makeup artist and owner of cosmetics line Tastee, continues to rise. Her organic lipbalms were recently featured on QVC again after making their debut on the shopping network earlier this summer.

ANNIVERSARY SALE: Dot's Women's Wear in Hickory is celebrating 45 years in business with a sale 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7 and Saturday, Aug. 8. Fifty-70 percent off all summer merchandise, 25 percent off fall merchandise. 2105 Catawba Valley Blvd. Hickory. (828) 324-6490

VINTAGE DIY SALE: I am so wishing I didn't already have a full weekend, or you'd certainly find me making the trip to Roulette Vintage in Carrboro. The store is kicking off its second annual DIY Sale with a preview 7-9p Friday, Aug. 7 (sale runs through Sunday, Aug. 9). If you like to craft, can sew on a button, or just have a great seamstress, you'll find clothing, accessories, fabric, patterns, do-dads and buttons on sale. 118 1/2 E. Main St., Carrboro (919)933-8836.

SIDEWALK SALE: Donald Haack Diamonds & Fine Gems will hold its third annual Super Sidewalk Sale on Friday, Aug. 14 and Saturday, Aug. 15 at its showroom SouthPark store. The family-friendly event will feature savings on fine jewelry, giveaways, and free homemade ice-cream from PW’s of Rock Hill (noon-4 p.m. both days). 704-365-4400.

Back to school already?

Girls knit headband, $10.50 (for two); long-sleeve ribbed T-shirt, $12.50; knit skort, $16.50; Mary Janes, $34.50 and tight-fit leggings, $12.50; Lands’ End, landsend.com

A timeless favorite takes center stage this year for back to school fashion. It matches everything and is always a good investment. It’s a budget.

We’re not talking bargain basement cheap type of budget, but the kind that means examining your finances, taking stock of what your children have in their closet and shopping smart.


Once you set the number, make sure you stay committed to meeting it. "Bring your child into the conversation and they’ll really learn," says Michele Casper, director of public relations for Lands' End. "It’s not the sky is the limit this season. … The idea is that kids need to prioritize and parents need to prioritize."

Identify big ticket needs first. Shoes can backpacks can have the highest price tags, Casper says. Are those new sneakers absolutely necessary if it means there will only be enough left for a few shirts?

Involve your children in planning before you get to the store. "Really working together with your children will give them a great understanding," Casper says. "Children will know the value of money, and it helps parents avoid temper tantrums while shopping. When you’ve got a pre-established agreement, children comprehend it."

Pick a color scheme and stick to it. You don’t want your child to end up with a closet full of items that don’t match anything, Casper says. If your daughter likes pink, look for complementary colors in the same family, add in a few prints or stripes, and you’re building an interchangeable wardrobe.


Buy better, buy less. Pay attention to construction and mate-rials and buy the highest quality your budget will allow, says Carole French, owner of children’s boutique Magic Windows. The clothing will wear better longer. Classic silhouettes in natural fibers such as cotton stand the test of time in wear-and-tear and fashion, she says.

Think outside the box. Adding layers over or under clothing is the key to giving a ward-robe legs, Casper says. For early fall, when the weather is still warm in the Carolinas, you could pair a short-sleeve graphic T-shirt with jeans for your son. As the weather cools, put a long-sleeve T-shirt under, a printed woven shirt on top or add a hoodie sweatshirt.


Don’t discount used. Not everything needs to be replaced every year. If you’re looking to eek out a few years wear out of backpacks and lunch boxes, go for solid colors. Sew on character patches or embellishments to personalize. Consignment sales (usually held in the spring and fall) are excellent sources of gently used children's clothing at a fraction of the retail price.

What are your tips for back to school shopping?

Read more about tax-free shopping in the Carolinas in Thursday's Style section.

Free Friday: DKNY Be Delicious fragrance

This week's giveaway is a limited edition Pop Art bottle of DKNY Be Delicious fragrance. The sweet, clean fragrance has notes of apple, cucumber, rose, sandalwood and white amber, among others. It has a retail value of $55.

• To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
• Your e-mail must contain DKNY in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
• Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
• E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
• Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Getting the hang of things

Uh, no.

I shouldn't even admit this. But hopefully my embarrassment will help prompt others into action.

Until recently, that rickety coat rack I picked up at Metrolina about 10 years ago (with intentions of refinishing, you can see how far I got) is what I've been using to store my handbag collection.

Gah! It hurts my eyes to even look at it now! I'm so ashamed. Here I am, climbing on the soapbox to preach the gospel of "quality not quantity" and "care for your high-quality items and they'll last a lifetime" and I've got my leather bags piled on top of each other and hanging by their straps.

Dust, stress on the straps, sunlight, drying of leather -- these are all things that can harm your bag if not stored properly.

I finally got my act together and worked out a storage system (yay IKEA). I went a little crazy with the label maker, but there is now dust-free, stress-free order to my bags. It may not be the prettiest option, but I don't anticipate losing track of any bag again, or frantically throwing all the bags on my bed to get to the bottom of the pile like I did all the time with the elaborate rack "system."

How do you store your handbags? Any tips to share?

Muuuuuuch better!

I am Samantha Baker. No, Baby Houseman.

Oh Baby, you're so chic!

As a rabid consumer of '80s teen movies back in the day, I aspired to have the wardrobes of a slew of my favorite heroines.

Among my top picks: Samantha Baker from "16 Candles," Watts from "Some Kind of Wonderful," Andie from "Pretty in Pink," Cindy Mancini from "Can't Buy Me Love" and Baby Houseman from "Dirty Dancing," just to name a few.

I remember clear as a bell -- it had to have been 7th or 8th grade -- when I found the Camp Beverly Hills red/white striped boat neck shirt and matching red french terry skirt at Jacobson's in Village in Grosse Pointe. I was beside myself: It was as close as I was going to get to the striped shirt Baby Houseman wore in "Dirty Dancing."

I proudly rocked that outfit at a War Memorial Dance with a pair of white Keds (just like Baby wore).

Fast forward more than 20 years. I recently picked up a copy of "Dirty Dancing" in anticipation of a girls weekend trip to Lake Lure (where they shot some of the film).

I watched it again and STILL loved all the clothing. Oooh! Cuffed denim shorts on the bridge when Baby's practicing dancing! A white peasant top with white jeans (and those Keds again)! A crisp white shirt and high-waisted denim shorts!

Not to go too deep, but quite a few of her looks are popular right now. Was Baby a fashion savant, or are we simply in a retro silhouette cycle? Am I the only one who covets clothes of people who don't exist?

All I can say is that if someone has a line on the shredded pink outfit Samantha Baker (Molly Ringwald) wore to the dance in "16 Candles" you must call me. Now.