Monthly Archives: November 2012

Casa Couture’s Holiday Wish List Round Up

30 Friday Nov 2012

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Here at Casa Couture we are all getting excited as the holidays are quickly approaching. From decorating our office to planning our holiday party to working on orders for the holiday season we are busier then ever around here. Nonetheless, we decided to take a quick break and since we are all obsessed with shoes we each made a holiday wish list with a favorite flat, boot, and heel that we’d love to find under the tree this Christmas. Here is a sneak peak of our holiday wish lists, take a look and see which shoes made the cut!

Claudia’s Picks:

“I never met a shoe I didn’t love, but some are just cuter than others. Anyone who knows me knows that I have a weakness for shiny objects, but mostly because I’m a firm believer that a little sparkle can turn the simplest black dress into something special. I filled one particular item on my shoe wish list already, which is this gorgeous pair of glitter Badgley Mischka peep-toe with a hidden platform. I plan to rock these from Christmas through the New Year.”

“Although I’m obsessed with these Yves Saint Laurent mirrored-heel stretch-leather knee boots, I think they will remain on my wish list rather than in my closet. If you can swing the hefty price tag, these boots can be worn casually with a pair of leggings or a sleek pencil skirt for the office. Either way, the mirrored platform gives you an excuse to keep looking down to admire your swanky boots… I mean, you can always say you’re just freshening up your lipstick.”

“I know these are our own designs, but I live in my pair of Charlotte flats. They were my favorites this Fall and I’m adding the Pink Coral to my Christmas wish list for Spring.  The flirty floral embellishment gives a feminine touch to almost everything in my wardrobe.”

Colleen’s Picks:

We’ve been seeing cut-outs everywhere lately in fashion! I really love this different take on a black heel! Black heels are so simple I think every girl owns a pair. These are a little different though so you won’t feel so run of the mill!

I think boots are a wardrobe staple for any girl in the winter. Riding boots are sleek and go great with skinny jeans. These are so versatile you can pair them with just about anything though for a complete and sophisticated look!

I have been really into the spiked look on shoes and blouses this season. It definitely makes a pair of flats more of a statement. The gold spikes are funky and spice up just a regular pair of flats. I know a lot of girls hesitate to wear flats out at night but when they are this cute I think they will reconsider!

Kelsey’s Picks:

“I am loving metallic right now and these pumps would be the perfect shoe to wear this upcoming holiday season, the cap toe is on trend and I am simply obsessed with anything J. Crew which makes them all the more perfect.”

“I’ve seen motorcycle boots all over the city this season and have always wanted a pair, these Jimmy Choo black biker boots are timeless and would be a great addition to my closet.”

“These Kate Spade Carissa flats are just fun- the sequined polka dots add some sparkle to the dark suede and would be the perfect paired with a some boyfriend jeans and an oxford.”

Roisin’s Pick:

“The black pump is a staple in any girl’s closet. The cap toe style is so hot right now, and the gold and black contrast is season-less, versatile and gives any outfit a bit of flash. I can’t wait to pair these with some black skinnies and a sheer blouse for a girls night out!”

“I am a boots girl, plain and simple. I wear them Fall, Winter, Spring and occasionally those rainy days in the Summer. Riding boots are classic and a must have in my day-to-day wardrobe. These boots by Karen Millen are perfect- understated, sturdy and simple.”

“A little cheetah print can go a long way in spicing up an otherwise “blah” ensemble. The smoking slipper trend is one of my favorites for the winter season as it’s chic, exudes effortless style and is most importantly, comfortable!”

Nikita’s Picks:

“There’s something striking about this leather and suede combination, the richness of the black contrasts with the leather causing the heel to pop. This holiday heel would be a great addition to my closet!”

“Many women tend to go with black or glitter heels for the holiday parties. Why not change it up by wearing teal? These booties have killer metal spikes for a nice added surprise without going over the top.”

“If you’ve been wearing your 4” heels from 9-5 and your office holiday party starts at 6, give your feet a break by slipping into these berry flats. Plus, the gold accents bring a subtle touch of holiday spirit to your feet.”

Fashion with Heart: How to Help Hurricane Sandy Victims by Shopping Online

08 Thursday Nov 2012

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While the Northeast is still recovering from Hurricane Sandy, fashion retailers are working hard to do their part to help those affected by the storm. These fashion retailers are encouraging their customers to shop for a cause, by donating a percentage of their proceeds to the relief efforts. Here is a list of companies dedicated to helping storm victims:

Joan Hornig Jewelry: While portions of every purchase from the jewelry designer’s website benefit charities, now the designer is offering 100% of the proceeds of her sterling silver “Build Up The Giving” necklace to a hurricane relief organization of your choice.

Lord & Taylor: Even though no shopping is involved here, funds are still being raised for the New York Red Cross. Simply “like” the Lord & Taylor Facebook page through Christmas, and the department store will donate $1 for each like.

Natori: Through November 11th, Natori will donate 20% of all online sales to The Red Cross, including lingerie, elegant home goods, ready-to-wear looks and more.

Penfield: For every purchase placed on Penfield’s US website, $10 will be donated to the American Red Cross, so check out their latest men’s and women’s collections now.

Theory: Thursday, November 8th –Sunday, November 11th get 20% off men’s and women’s collections in stores and online. 10% of proceeds will be given to Hurricane Sandy Relief efforts. Use the promo code GIVE2012.

Tory Burch: 10% of net proceeds from all purchases at Tory Burch stores and ToryBurch.com will support aid organizations. Up to $250,000 in funds will be equally divided between The Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City, Hurricane Sandy New Jersey Relief Fund, The United Way of Long Island and the American Red Cross.

Here at Casa Couture we are doing our part to help the areas recovering from Hurricane Sandy by partnering with Cuoio Shoes in Boston, MA. We will be hosting a trunk show where customers will receive 10% off all purchases, which will then be donated to aid organizations including Hurricane Sandy New Jersey Relief Fund, The United Way of Long Island, and The American Red Cross.

Check out our event page on Facebook here.

Style Evolution: Aging Gracefully & Stylishly

08 Thursday Nov 2012

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As we “mature” in age, we inevitably see changes in our bodies, our earning power and even social status. We become wives, mothers and CEOs of our companies. Yet we often overlook changes in our wardrobe. We begin to notice that the “trendy” pieces that once worked are no longer appropriate for a day in the life of a successful working mom. Women today want to feel more youthful than ever before and want to remain stylish and on trend like stars including Sarah Jessica Parker, Jennifer Aniston and Halle Berry, who make getting older look so effortless. Can we all pull off the art of aging gracefully while also embracing a style evolution that maintains our sense of style? You can if you follow these easy style tips:

Fit:

Choose clothing that fits correctly. Some styles that used to be essentials in your wardrobe may no longer work for your new and improved mature closet. Avoid too tight or too baggy outfits. Finding and investing in a tailor is also something that should be considered. Focusing your attention on pieces you already have and buy in the future and taking them to a tailor really customizes them and provides you with a fit that you won’t get off the rack. Well-cut clothes can make you look younger, and can empower you to feel more confident and put together.

Update your Basics:

Every woman should have an updated pair of pants and jeans in her closet. So get rid of those mom jeans and look for a pair that flatters your leg shape. If your legs are wider at the calf and ankle, avoid crop styles and wear shoes the same color as your pants to elongate the leg. Slightly flared or bootleg pant bottoms are more flattering than straight pants. But be sure to get rid of baggy, wide, oversized pants.

Also, find a go-to little black dress. Every woman needs a LBD in her wardrobe, as it can easily be worn for multiple occasions.

Footwear:

In regards to footwear choose classic footwear styles that will transcend the fashion fads. Select a few key styles like D’Orsays, round toe shapes, ankle strap or sling back heels. Limit the purchase of styles like platforms, wedges, Mary Janes and mules.

Painful stilettos were the price you paid for style while in your 20’s. However, as you are aging gracefully it is smart to choose heels with a 2.5 to 3 inch heel with a wider base. This will keep you from straining your back and increase stability.

Undergarments:

The reality is as we age we come to rely more on undergarments to help keep everything in the right place, so don’t underestimate the importance of good undergarments. The start of any great outfit is well-fitting undergarments. Get fitted for your correct measurements to make sure you are wearing styles that fit. Dispose of any dated styles you wore in your younger years and invest in quality undergarments to kick start your wardrobe.

Colors:

In your 20’s, you could wear pastels, bright colors or lots of patterns. Now, you should opt for more sophisticated, neutral color palettes. Add pops of color to your outfit through accessories; just be sure to not overdo it! We also love the idea of a monochromatic ensemble; it is simple and easy to achieve and gives the illusion of a slimmer figure.

Hair:

Update your hair. If you have the same hairstyle you had when you graduated high school then it’s definitely time for a change! Take a visit to your hairdresser and get an interesting cut with layers to frame your face.

SHE-RO of the Week : Edna Adan

07 Wednesday Nov 2012

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Edna Adan of Somaliland was the first woman to drive and read in Somali as well as the first certified Midwife. At 75, She is a UN diplomat who is worked to build the first maternity hospital in her country. To add to her accomplishments she has now training Midwives and is hoping to train over 1,000.

We love seeing strong, hardworking women out there looking to inspire!

Michelle Obama and Ann Romney’s Campaign Style

06 Tuesday Nov 2012

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In celebration of Election Day, we at Casa Couture are taking a look back at the campaign styles of the two leading ladies of the election season.

While the road to the presidency may have been filled with talk of jobs, health care, and taxes, Michelle Obama and Ann Romney have been a constant presence and have generated their own buzz with their own unique style on the campaign trail.

These ladies have not only shown us that they know politics, but that they most definitely know a thing or two about fashion.

For Michelle Obama, wearing an array of fresh designer looks was a reoccurring theme. Known for mixing high-end and affordable pieces, Obama’s ensembles garnered a lot of attention, especially when she recycled a previously worn dress for the final debate. The first lady was often seen wearing dresses in vibrant colors and bold prints during this campaign.

For Ann Romney, bold colors and conservative silhouettes were a theme throughout the campaign. Her looks were tailored and sophisticated and she made great use of belts to accentuate her waist and statement necklaces to accessorize her ensembles.

Here are a few of our campaign style favorites from these fashionistas:

Michelle at the pre-DNC festivities in an abstract print

Michelle on the final day of the DNC sporting a plum colored off-shoulder dress

Michelle working the color block trend while giving a speech

Ann at the RNC sporting a red dress by Oscar de la Renta

Ann wearing a tailored piece for the presidential debate at Denver University

While campaigning Ann wore her LBD, paired with a pink cardigan and accessorized with a belt and necklace

Who do you think wore it best this campaign season?

(Images taken from TheFashionables.com)

SHE-RO of the Week: Fulamatu

02 Friday Nov 2012

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If you haven’t already be sure to check out the Half the Sky Documentary on PBS. It is now currently streaming on Instant Netflix as well.

Our SHE-RO of the week is 14 year old Fulamatu of Sierra Leone. She is a victim of sexual abuse who is thrown out of her home. Currently, Fulamatu has received a scholarship from a Half the Sky Movement supporter to complete her education at a boarding school in Freetown, Sierra Leone. Fulamatu is studying hard and working toward her dream of becoming an accountant. She has recently expressed a desire to become a mentor for other young survivors of sexual violence.