S.W.A.G
Spring Break Guide: Staying-In-Place Sales (Local Weekend Deals)
Posted by Hilary Adleberg / Friday, April 6th, 2012
Hello, shoppers!
Take advantage of the last days of your spring break with some much needed spring cleaning. Wait! Before you navigate away from this page in contempt, allow me to explain. To be sure you take full advantage of all the great sales this weekend, rid your closet of expired trends to make room for new fashions!
For amazing discounts on designer fashions look no further than Loehmann’s [7271 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church]. Visit the store this weekend for sales on top of sales! Take 50 percent off of already-reduced, red ticket merchandise and 80 percent off of marked-down, yellow ticket items.
H&M [Tysons Corner Center, 1961 Chain Bridge Road, McLean] is offering 50 percent off a selection of dresses in store. Old Town’s Treat [103 S. Asaph St., Alexandria] is having a dress event just in time for all of the special soirees spring brings; this weekend enjoy 25-percent savings, in-store and online, on dresses perfect for Easter, Gold Cup, spring weddings, graduations and more.
Sales and promotions available in almost all departments in-store and online. (Photo courtesy: lordandtaylor.com)
It’s also time to celebrate with Lord & Taylor’s Anniversary sale ending April 13. Print out the in-store saving pass to save an extra 20 percent off regular and sale-priced items. Don’t feel like leaving the comfort of your home? Shop online with the promo code: SHOP.
But there are plenty of reasons to hit the mall, especially Cusp at Tysons Corner Center’s Spring Fever Sale, with all regular-priced apparel reduced 40-65 percent! Not to mention, Cusp’s sister store, Neiman Marcus (across the street at Tysons Galleria) is hosting a can’t-miss Real Deal Sale, with up to 40-percent savings on contemporary apparel, shoes, bags and more.
Happy shopping!
-Hilary Adleberg
Great Expectations: Lash Genius
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Thursday, April 5th, 2012
Hello there, shoppers!
Anastasia Beverly Hills' Lash Genius, to debut in May at Sephora. Makes any mascara waterproof! (Photo courtesy of PaulWilmot Communications)
Figuring out what to pack for any getaway is a tad stressful. Sure, there’s the anticipation over that long-awaited vacay that has you just about to burst with excitement, but first you have to get there.
And you don’t want to get there and discover you forgot something important.
Well, leave it to SWAG to add another essential to your packing list. But, trust us, you’ll be thanking us later.
Ladies, you may love your non-waterproof mascara for the way it elongates those lashes, doesn’t clump and adds just enough color to make your eye color pop. But don’t even think about wearing it for splashing in the pool or the surf – hey, no judgement, there are all of those vacay pics to consider — because you’ll look like a hot mess.
Wouldn’t it be nice for everyone to have their cake and eat it, too? Come May, get your fill.
Debuting next month at Sephora: Anastasia Beverly Hills’ Lash Genius, a clear topcoat for the lashes that essentially waterproofs any mascara, while providing a soft lacquer finish that lasts and lasts.
The truly genius product wil be $21 for a full-size tube, $10 for mini version, perfect for summer travel.
Can you say stoked?
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
Spring Break Guide: DIY Easter Project Ideas
Posted by Hilary Adleberg / Wednesday, April 4th, 2012
Looking for some creative inspiration this Easter? These clever projects are stress-free and simple enough to DIY or to DIYWF—do-it-with-family/friends. Here are some of our favorite crafts that are fun, functional and family-friendly.
Click the photo to be directed to project page for more details. (Photo courtesy: marthastewart.com)
Save your eggshells and carton and transform them into a dozen little plantpots. These eggshell flowerpots can serve as a nesting place for the begining stages of the plant’s life. Plant seeds according to package instructions and once plants reach about three inches and have at least two sets of leaves they will be ready to be transplanted to a garden.
For detailed directions, a list of necessary materials and more photos click the image. (Photo courtesy: creaturecomfortsblog.com)
This fabric poppy flower may look complicated but believe me, this project is as easy as it is cute! And this accessory can be used to add some oomph to so many things! Add it to a simple pair of flats, a hairclip, a present topper, a pin or a head band—like the one that we feature as our next DIY project.
For step-by-step photos, directions and more click the photo to be directed to project website. (Photo courtesy: bluebirdlucys.blogspot.com)
A super simple project idea, this yarn-wrapped headband requires a headband, scissors, glue and yarn—that’s it! Feel free to customize yarn color and pattern too!
Click photo to find more awesome projects and the complete list of instructions. (Photo courtesy: mermag.blogspot.com)
These bunny candy pouches make the perfect family project that can be saved and used year after year. The pouches are a great treat for Easter egg hunts, a table display or place setting.
Click photo to be directed to host site to download the iron-on transfers. (Photo courtesy: creaturecomfortsblog.com)
Have a boring shirt that needs some décor? Want to put your personal touch on a gift? These iron-on transfers are printable, free and simple to apply. They are adorable on their own and even better with some decorative additions like fabric accessories, rhinestones or beading.
Find where to get supplies and project instructions on creator's website. (Photo courtesy: honestlywtf.com)
Looking for an alternative to the typical Easter basket? This DIY net bag is practical and functional for the Easter egg hunt and for everyday tasks.
Download bunny design from creator's website and feel free to add some glitter! (Photo courtesy: eatdrinkchic.com)
Multi-purpose origami bunny gift tags can be used for presents, Easter basket labels, place settings and more!
Find the bunny box template on the Martha Stewart website. (Photo courtesy: marthastewart.com)
These Easter bunny boxes are the perfect wrapping gifts! They’re simple to make and add some flair to any Easter present. Don’t be afraid to decorate the boxes to create a more personal touch.
Find directions for these buny jars and more creative projects on toriejayne.blogspot.com. (Photo courtesy: toirejayne.blogspot.com)
Recycle used jars in a creative way for Easter this year. Invite some forest friends to your Easter festivities with these adorable bunny jars that are useful for gifting, decoration and to store some Easter treats!
Don’t be afraid to think outside the basket this Easter!
-Hilary Adleberg
Mid-Week Must-Read Shopping Snippets
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Wednesday, April 4th, 2012
Hello there, shoppers! While we’ve been busy filling you in on all kinds of spring break-related fun and fashion, we’ve been busy reading all kinds of other shopping sweets you need to know.
A quick little rundown of what’s new and nice in NoVA retail:
NEW LOYALTY PROGRAMS
There are two new loyalty programs out there just dying to dish out some discounts to loyal shoppers. Express’s new loyalty program Express NEXT is opening up benefits to all Express shoppers; previously, the store’s loyalty program benefitted Express cardholders only. With Express NEXT points are earned both in-store and online at express.com (10 points for every dollar spent, $10 at every 2,500 points earned), and Express NEXT shoppers can accumulate additional rewards points as they visit different Express store locations and engage with the brand via social media platforms. Sign-up is simple; all you have to do is provide an email address and phone number.
Fairfax Corner’s Undeniable Boutique is also helping shoppers get closer to bagging big bennies with every purchase. Stop by the store for all the delightful deets.
GRAND OPENINGS
While you make a point to stop by Undeniable soon to sign up for its loyalty program, also save the date for the store’s grand opening celebration on Friday, April 20, with a special appearance by the Tommy Show from Fresh 94.7 FM, a runway show, food, beverages, giveaways and more. More details soon.
And, just in time to get that beach-ready bod, check out the new Max Muscle Sports Nutrition store to open in Falls Church (6120 Arlington Blvd.) this Friday, April 6, and snag some serious SWAG:
Free Body Composition Analysis
Visitors to Max Muscle Sports Nutrition Arlington/Falls Church are invited to have a free Futrex Infrared Body Composition Analysis done to determine their fat-to-muscle ratio, and schedule a free initial 20-minute nutritional analysis.
Opening Weekend Specials
During the Opening Weekend (April 6-9, 2012), customers who spend $25 or more can select a free prize from an Easter Egg Basket.
Continuing opening specials include:
• 50 percent off all customized nutrition plans, and
• 20 percent off Core 4 products containing vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, glutamine and protein.
• In addition, visitors are encouraged to bring in an empty container of any brand of protein or pre/post workout supplement to receive 10 percent off any Max Muscle product.
The new Kiehl's store in Tysons. Don't miss the Newsbabes Bash Kickoff at the store on April 24 from 5-8 p.m. for all kinds of great giveaways as you shop to help banish breast cancer. (Photo: ohmygoff.tv)
SALES, SALES, SALES
It’s Lighting Sale time at Alexandria’s Red Barn Mercantile; save 20 percent on all special-order and in-stock lights, lamps and shades. Heads up: The store is also hosting a can’t-miss DIY event on April 26 from 7-8:30 p.m. with the Santantonios of the blog Old Town Home, featured in our April issue; if you would like to attend, please RSVP and send your questions now.
While you’ve got your calendar cued up, save the date for Warrenton’s Sidewalk Sale, in Old Town Warrenton, Saturday, April 21, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
And don’t forget to attend the Kiehl’s Newsbabes Event in Tysons, Tuesday, April 24, from 5-8 p.m., when the ladies of local news will be benefiting the Newsbabe’s Bash for Breast Cancer and the DC Mammovan. Not only will your shopping help great causes, but you’ll enjoy free Georgetown Cupcake goodies, and could score a Kiehl’s goodie bag — just be one of the first 100 shoppers to arrive.
OTHER REMINDERS
Thursday, April 12 brings the fashion and shopping extravaganza that is ReadySetDC’s Fashion District to Georgetown.
And Saturday, April 28, from 12:30-4:30 p.m., D.C.’s Hotel George and Natalie Jobity will host to a four-hour interactive “Wowing at Work” workshop on appropriate apparel for your 9-5.
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
Spring Style: Fashionista Geometry
Posted by Geoff Nelowet / Tuesday, April 3rd, 2012
Move over, leopard! Geometric prints are making us purr.
by Natalie Kaar
Arm candy that doesn’t cut corners on style
- 1) Kate Spade New York “Idiom” Medium Hinged Bangle, $128, Nordstrom
All kinds of familiar shapes for showing off your unique one
- 2) Mara Hoffman “Abundant Angles” Bikini in violet, $108, anthropologie.com (not available in stores)
An ethereal number that needs few accessories to have everyone in awe
3) Hot & Delicious One-Shoulder Dress, $62, Undeniable Boutique at Fairfax Corner
April 2012
Spring Break Guide: Sandals That Have Us Smitten
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Tuesday, April 3rd, 2012
Hello there, shoppers!
Gearing up for spring break? Love shoes? Get ready to fall hard and fast. SWAG spies some serious sandals right here in the suburbs that are sure to have you looking downright dynamite in your downtime — no matter your destination.
Bold and bright are big buzz words this spring. Throw in some major height, and these platforms at Ashburn's Misguided Angels totally hit it out of the park. Bronx Sit Still Platform Sandal, $99 (Photo: Misguided Angels)
Talk about height ... this towering Diba Car Laa style with a gorgeous, on-trend geometric print, $78, is sure to turn heads. Plus, could be a great option for those times when the pedi is not so perfect. Also at Misguided Angels. (Photo: Misguided Angels)
Then there's always proof that flats can be the definition of fun. Exhibit A: these colorful lace-up loafers by Restricted Shoes, just $48 at Betsey in Middleburg. Not sandals if you want to get technical, but they're too pretty to not post, not to mention perfect for spring break. (Photo: Betsey)
And for dressier endeavors in your downtime (weddings, anyone?), how killer is this Kate Spade pair, $350 at Bloomie's? (Photo: Bloomingdale's)
And, of course, there are the old standbysthat work overtime when the weather’s warm, like the Sam Edelman Gigi, just $59 at Shoe Hive in Alexandria.
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar
Posted by Geoff Nelowet / Monday, April 2nd, 2012
Standout Relaxation-Ready Merch
by Natalie Kaar
You can never go wrong with aviators, but these beg for attention—the good kind. ($98)
Marc by Marc Jacobs Wide Cateye Sunglasses, South Moon Under, multiple NoVA locations
Takes horizontal stripes from a no-no to “Let’s go!” ($174.50)
Marc by Marc Jacobs “Bella” Striped Halter Bikini, South Moon Under, mutiple NoVA locations
It doesn’t take up much room in a suitcase, comes in a seriously sunny hue and is big enough to carry the essentials during nights out on the town. Love. ($225)
Tory Burch “Amanda” Crossbody in canyon, Tory Burch, Tysons Galleria
April 2012
Spring Break Guide: Adorable Easter Outfits
Posted by Hilary Adleberg / Monday, April 2nd, 2012
Hello, shoppers!
Easter is almost here! And though the holiday itself may not be significant to all S.W.A.G. readers, the fashion should be. Easter celebrates the season of pastels and other light and airy springtime styles. Floral prints and flowy silhouettes that accent the waistline are traditional and always appropriate for Easter time with family and with friends. Here are a few Easter ensembles that intend to inspire some fashion in your springtime festivities.
Some color and lots of class. (Photo courtesy: polyvore.com)
This outfit is perfect for any Easter egg hunt. Floral belted dress from oasis.com, $90. Cropped cardigan from target, $17.99. Leather portfolio clutch with metal tips from ASOS.com, $85.94. Geek chic sunglasses, $28. Swarovski funky flowers ear clips by Kenneth Jay Lane, $170. Green wedge court shoes by Dorothy Perkins, $49.
An elegant look with a suit jacket or a casual cool with a jeans jacket. (Photo courtesy: polyvore.com)
Take one articles of clothing or accessory and shape your outfit around it. For example, in this set the shoe was the foundation. Chloe wedge from solestruck.com, $339.95. Nude shawl collar blazer from misselfridge.com, $70. Jason Wu print short from kirnazabete.com, $695. Sleeveless lace insert blouse from topshop.com, $64. Invitation clutch in cork from J. Crew, $98. Coolibar women’s shapeable poolside sun hat from amazon.com, $49. Dries Van Noten & Linda Farrow printed sunglasses from lagarconne.com, $369. Sweet tarts pink flower drop earrings from 1928.com, $18. Cuff luck bracelet from modcloth.com, $24.99.
Don't be afraid to explore patterns this spring for a comfortable effortless look. (Photo courtesy: polyvore.com)
Mixing patterns is completely acceptable if done subtly. The stiletto cropped printed low-rise skinny jean from net-a-porter.com, $200. Peplum tee from alloy.com, $19. Lanvin petales necklace from barneys.com, $675. Silver crochet women’s classic shoe from toms.com, $58. Cesca braid trim cross body bag from nordstrom.com, $24. Lanvin sunglasses from colette.com, $385.
-Hilary Adleberg
Spring Break Guide: Standout Sunnies
Posted by Hilary Adleberg / Friday, March 30th, 2012
Spring is here! And you know what that means—‘tis the season to embrace your shades. Sunglasses are an instant, effortless way to make your outfit look cool and complete. Don’t feel like putting on makeup? Just throw on a stylish pair of shades and venture out with confidence.
With so many great sunglasses to choose from, these awesome opticals are some of our favorite options for those in need of functional, fashionable and child-appropriate shades.
Fabulous Focal Points
For the classically chic customer.
- Semi-cat eye frames by Marc by Marc Jacobs; $59.99. (Photo courtesy: solsticesunglasses.com)
"The Yves Saint Laurent eyewear collection boasts a mix of cutting-edge styles and timeless, classic shapes;" $119. (Photo courtesy: solsticesunglasses.com)
Nikita, exaggerated cat eye sunglasses by Tom Ford; $360. (Photo courtesy: barneys.com)
Colorful and Eye-Catching
A bright way to shield your eyes from the sun.
- Selima Sun for J.Crew, Sophia sunglasses; $128. (Photo courtesy: jcrew.com)
- These frames from Karen Walker Eyewear give plenty of coverage and the white gives 80s-classified neon orange a fresh look; $220. (Photo courtesy: gargyle.com)
- Get them while they last! These wayfarer sunglasses are now on sale for a whopping $3. (Photo courtesy: forever21.com)
Practical Pairs
Suitable sunglasses for any activity.
- Ray Ban classic wayfarer; $150. (Photo courtesy: nordstrom.com)
Buy one pair of these classic aviator style Toms sunglass and one pair will go to help someone in need; $139. (Photo courtesy: toms.com)
Polarized Oakley Sweet Spot shades; $160. (Photo courtesy: oakley.com)
Child-Proof Profiles
Cute, kid-friendly options to keep you child’s eyes safe from the sun.
- Dot sunglasses from The Children’s place are a great value at $4.50 for one and $6 for two pairs. (Photo courtesy: childrensplace.com)
Part of the Diane Von Furstenberg collection at Baby Gap, $20. (Photo courtesy: gap.com)
Silly Sunnies
Funky options for those risk-taking fashion leaders out there.
Moo Piyasombatkul Bubbly Brows Sunglasses; $455. (Photo courtesy: openingceremony.com)
Heart-er and Heart-er Sunglasses by Joia; $12. (Photo courtesy: tobi.com)
Enjoy the sun!
-Hilary Adleberg
Spring Break Guide: Party-Perfect Apparel
Posted by Natalie Kaar / Thursday, March 29th, 2012
Hello there, shoppers!
Is your dream spring break just as much about celebrating out on the town as hitting the beach? Well, we’re about to take all the thinking out of your packing. NoVA’s amazing boutiques are chock-full of fun dresses and handbags that are nothing short of party-perfect, and practically guarantee you’ll steal the show wherever you go. Now, crank up the Marley, mon.
First, a few fine dresses:
This funky-printed Desigual Cedro Dress, $114, from Ashburn's Misguided Angels says party all over it. (Photo: Misguided Angels)
Turn heads in all directions with this black-and-white-striped asymmetrical dress, $80, from Aryn K. at Old Town's Treat. Really, really get them talking by pairing this stunner with some super-bright soles. (Photo: Treat)
Flirty, romantic, easy-breezy ... so much to love about this Myne "Camilla" yellow print dress, $125, also from Treat. (Photo: Treat)
And you can never go wrong with white, as this short shift by Esley, $64, available at Middleburg's Betsey, illustrates. Add some funky cuffs, and you'll really kill it. (Photo: Betsey)
And, the best part, the bags:
Nautical and almost neon, this cool silk clutch with embroidered anchor, just $42 and also available in turquoise (another winner from Middleburg's Betsey), is classic and trendy at the same time. (Photo: Betsey)
A bag that's the perfect size to stash the essentials and featured in an oh-so-happy hue (other colors are also available) ... gotta love the Rebecca Minkoff Mini Mac, $195, at South Moon Under with multiple NoVA locations. (Photo: South Moon Under)
An envelope bag sure to add punch to your party-perfect outfit without breaking the bank, this First Class Clutch at Francesca's Collections, multiple NoVA locations, is just $38. (Photo: Francesca's Collections)
This pink zippered clutch, $82, from Lou Lou, multiple NoVA locations, is just plain fun. Period. (Photo: Lou Lou Boutiques)
Happy shopping!
–Natalie Kaar