Check out My Scoop

We discovered My Scoop and wanted to give you the "the scoop" on it!

What started a little over a year ago as a small-time style blog, has turned into an enterprise that now brings in over 339,000 viewers a month. With over 7 years magazine publishing experience, entrepreneur Amy Lemley Bailey had always said that the South needs its own style magazine, and with the way the world is going, it only made sense to start a fashion webzine.After seeking the advice of several notable online entrepreneurs and magazine experts before starting the webzine My Scoop www.myscoop.us, Bailey is not surprised it has such an incredibly responsive audience and believes this is just the beginning for My Scoop. “People not only love My Scoop, but use the term addicted to describe their passion for My Scoop,” Bailey says. “I am so proud to be providing such a fashionable media outlet for Southern fashionistas that elevates the style and sophistication of our region.”My Scoop strives to highlight the chic living in the South. And it is working! With a growth rate of 42%, My Scoop is looking beyond the present to their possibilities in the future. “We are getting ready for expansion,” says Jessica Vance, My Scoop’s Marketing Director. “We have had demand from Nashville, Charlotte, Savannah, and the Gulf Coast. We just want to make sure we provide the region with the most up to date, in-the- know information on living stylishly in the South.”Well, mission accomplished. My Scoop sales revenue for 2008 averages $15,000 a month. In addition, with successful events like their “Sex and the City Preview Party” at Saks Fifth Avenue this past May, My Scoop is able to bring the webzine to life. There were over 300 guests who enjoyed the posh event with catering from Whole Foods, drinks from Skyy Vodka, and designer giveaways from Nanette Lepore, Rebecca Taylor, Elie Tahari, Juicy Couture and more.“You can expect sophisticated, cutting edge and fun headlines daily on My Scoop as well as bimonthly e-blasts,” says Vance.

Your source for the best fashion advice in Chicago-Second City Style

Chicago's got it covered with Second City Style!

Pleasure. Luxury. Wit. Second City Style is the award-winning guide to luxury, style and beauty. This weekly published online fashion magazine and daily updated blog has been heralded as a daily must-read for fashionistas everywhere. Published by Editor-in-Chief, Lauren Dimet and Managing Editor, Carol Calacci, Second City Style is a consumer-driven publication. Millions of readers trust Second City Style's daily dose of fashion musings, international headlines and premiere shopping. For more information log on to SecondCityStyle

Click here to see Second City Style's Events

Second City Style is a high fashion, high energy online magazine for and by stylishly savvy women. Published weekly with daily updates SCS was originally created from hundreds of surveys completed by women just like you, providing invaluable feedback on everything from how to wear the latest accessories to where you can find the hottest trends and so much more.With current readership now expanding globally, Second City Style launched their blog to compliment the magazine and provide readers a resource for up-to-the-hour information.Published by Editor-in-Chief, Lauren Dimet Waters and Managing Editor, Carol Calacci, Second City Style is a consumer-driven publication. The online magazine content and design are created out of hundreds of surveys from Chicago-area women. This invaluable feedback provides a one-on-one relationship with Chicago women that inform each editorial choice. Lauren Dimet Waters, Editor-In-Chief with an admitted addiction to clothes, Lauren was destined for a career in fashion. Originally attending the Prince Retail Program at Simmons College, Lauren continued her studies at John Hopkins University, where she earned her MBA. While attending school, Lauren, was able to work her way up through the retail industry, eventually becoming a retail marketer. As such, Lauren was on constant demand for her creative and innovative approaches from some of the biggest names in the business.Lauren recently moved from Chicago to New York where she can keep tabs on the New York fashion industry. It is here, however, at Second City Style, where Lauren looks forward to sharing her experiences and fashionable finds, while creating an environment where women can come and share their insights in today’s hottest trends.Favorite Designers: Giorgio Armani, Chloe, Narciso Rodriguez, Lanvin, and YSLCarol Calacci, Managing EditorHaving earned a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts from the University of Illinois, and Accessory Design at the School of the Art Institute, Carol went on to use her creative abilities in designing and selling a chic line of leather handbags, belts and a line of lambskin halter-tops inspired by Tom Ford for Gucci.As an accomplished graphic artist Carol had opportunities to work as a designer and art director for Chicago advertising agencies and has found success as a principal in the design firm, Parameter Design. At Parameter Design Carol has been able to work with national retail brands such as Target and HartMarx, as well as Chicago-area boutiques. Because of her work with these boutiques, she has become strongly supportive of local businesses.Favorite Designers: Barbara Bui, Wyeth, Gucci, and Sergio Rossi.

What inspires you?

With all the designers and all the styles out there,
the million dollar question is:

Where do they get their inspiration?

Here's what we discovered...

Alexander McQueen's inspiration came from royalty; wanting to portray them as princesses. From the crown on their head to their sparkly slippers he brings an elaborate element to the Paris Fall Runway Shows.

Balanciaga's minimalist yet chic designs bring back the 50's but with an edgy and sexy twist.

Gucci brings back the era of the hippie, but purely in a fashion way.

This can't go unnoticed...fur, fringe, chains, skinny pants, it's screaming hippie and embodies the trends for fall.

With John Galliano behind the designs at Christian Dior you're sure to get a good show. This season was no exception with the Valley of the Dolls inspirations including cat-eyes, bouffant, and retro colors that are sure to go unnoticed.

Let us know what you think!

Enter to win a $50 Gift Certificate to Chic Gems, etc.

Fashion photos courtesy of style.com.

The American Dream

Um....ever wonder what these rings mean?

Here's what we discovered...

The emblem of the Olympic Games is composed of five interlocking rings (blue, yellow, black, green, and red respectively) on a white field. This was originally designed in 1913 by Baron Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic Games. These five rings stand for passion, faith, victory, work ethic and sportsmanship. Upon its initial introduction, de Coubertin stated the following in the August, 1913 edition of Revue Olympique:
The emblem chosen to illustrate and represent the world Congress of 1914 ...: five intertwined rings in different colors - blue, yellow, black, green, red - are placed on the white field of the paper. These five rings represent the five parts of the world which now are won over to Olympism and willing to accept healthy competition.

Information courtesy of http://www.wikipedia.com/

100 bottles of coke on the wall?

34 Coca-Cola art bottles and their creators gathered at the Olympic Green complex. (Photo credit: Li Wei) Thirty-four Coca-Cola art bottles give visitors a taste of China's multi-faceted culture at exhibit in Beijing.

Close to 180,000 entries have been submitted since December 12, 2007, when Coca-Cola invited artists to submit their designs. The designs featured various elements of Chinese culture including: "flying goddesses" from the Buddhist mural paintings of the Dunhuang Grottoes, the famous Tulou residential architecture of Fujian Province; and imagery of the National Stadium in Beijing, affectionately dubbed the "Bird's Nest." Thirty-four works from all over China were selected as the winning designs. They were then used to decorate a set of two-meter-tall soda bottles.

So, like the Olympics life is competitive. For almost a year, designers have competed for this Coca Cola contest. Similarly the Olympians have been working for years for these special moments.

So have many fashion designers...

Ralph Lauren born: October 14, 1939 birth place: Bronx, New York Born Ralph Lifshitz in the Bronx, New York, Ralph Lauren was fashion aware at a very early age. By spending his hard-earned pocket money on expensive suits, Lauren became the best dressed 12-year-old in his neighbourhood. It wasn’t long before the young entrepreneur left his middle class Jewish roots behind him to set out on a quest to establish his very own fashion empire.Rather than study design, he completed most of a business degree and learned his trade through evening jobs. While working at one of these jobs, he began designing wide ties and with a $50,000 loan, Lauren founded the company Polo Fashions in 1968. Polo went on to champion the ‘power suit’ of the early 80's in the face of strong competition from Armani. With expansion firm in his sights, Lauren branched out into women's clothing, sheets, towels and furniture.Through sheer hard work and exacting standards, Ralph Lauren has become the epitome of classic fashion, with brands such as Polo, Ralph Lauren for Men, Ralph Lauren for Women and even Ralph Lauren paint. His company is estimated to be worth a staggering $900 million.

Information courtesy of the http://www.biographychannel.com/

Want to see some of Ralph Lauren's Official Olympic Designs?

Great clothing always needs great accessories!

Now how's that for a story? Talk about the American Dream...

Please tell us who you are rooting for at the Olympics!!!

You will be entered for a chance to win a $50 gift certificate to www.ChicGemsEtc.com

Hey....I want to be a Rock Star!

Some of the hottest trends were born in the 1980's. The music was a big influence on what was hot. We found some of the most extreme trends, but also some new ways to wear it with a modern twist.

Off-the-shoulder oversize sweatshirt? Check. Lace Gloves? Check. Colored leggings? Check. Huge earrings? Check. Leg-warmers? Check.

Here is a modern interpretation of the classic 1980's style. Skinny jeans or leggings with stilletos make this look more modern. Try mixing it with a toned down sweater and top it off with a stylish newsboy cap.


Madonna epitomized all that was 1980's. Her look was part rock'n'roll, part material girl. We love the way she wasn't afraid to accessorize. Layer your chains girls!

Get this Rock Star Look...

For a fashion-forward material girl, dark denim and an edgy vest are key. Amp up the rock with disheveled hair and a signature bracelet. We're sure Madonna would be proud.

Photo Courtesy of ShopBop

Tell us about some of your favorite (or most regrettable) styles from the 80's. Send in a picture and the most extreme look will receive a $50 Gift Certificate to Chic Gems, etc.

Rave Reviews

Here are some rave reviews about Chic Gems, etc. jewelry....

When I met Sarah I couldn't stop looking at her jewelry...little did I know she was the creative force behind it. The stones she works with are simply stunning and the clasp being part of the design, is very unique and a great added touch. Stylish and classic are the best way to describe how you feel when wearing.
Brynn C, Chicago, IL

I would like to tell you how pleased I am with the Rose Quartz bracelet and earrings that I received today, Monday, May 12th. They are beautiful in themselves PLUS they match the Rose Quartz necklace that I already have. It is very important to me to have coordinating/complete sets of jewelry and I like that you offer this. Some people will tell me that jewelry should not match and should be eclectic but I must tell you that I have a very “organized” personality and that I’m not spontaneous or eclectic. Also, thank you for the well-wrapped and secure packaging. I received your $15 “thank you” certificate and will take some time to look at your other items on your website. Whether for me, or for gifts for family or friends, you have beautiful items to share… Thank you again and again and again! Have a wonderful day!
Christina W, Spring Grove, IL

I just wanted to tell you—I am already wearing the sparkly necklace that I purchased yesterday with a black dress, and have received about 10 compliments from people at work. It’s a hit! Thanks again!
Kathleen B, Chicago, IL

Just wanted to tell you that I wore "full oyster pearl set" yesterday with a dress that can best be described as Doris Day meets Shantung silk meets Talbots (think deep blue and taupe polka dotted sleeveless raw silk belted shirtdress with pleats) and got RAVE reviews for the ensemble. Can't wait to see the purple and cranberry pearl sets!
Michelle H, Chicago, IL

Want to read more... Click Here!

Tomorrow....we will give you some more trends for fall!
Until then,
XO,
Sarah
Rockstar Gem Goddess of the Universe

The Fashion Therapist

As fashionista's we can't get enough fashion advice. We love chatting about fashion, reading about fashion, and of course shopping for amazing fashions!
We found someone you may want to chat with if you have some questions.
Here's what The Fashion Therapist has to offer:

*Consultation/In-person or over the phone meeting (Always FREE ): This is the introductory part to my services and no commitments are required. It allows me to get to know you and your goals...and vice versa! Working with me we would build a partnership so before I can offer any services we would need to make sure that I can provide the services you would like and that you are someone that I can provide service to.

*Fashion Re-Mix: Don't know if something will come back in style or how to wear a shirt a different way? Let me show you what to ditch and how to dazzle some of your already existing clothes.

*Fashion Counseling: Let me give you suggestions on what items you should be wearing and what items to steer clear of. What is discussed will help guide you on your next shopping trip.

*Retail Therapy and Mentoring: There's nothing like a little shopping! Sometimes you never really know how something's going to look unless you try it on. Let's go on a shopping trip and pick out the items that would best fit you.

*Fashion Intervention: Love someone too much to let them run around wearing what is clearly the least unflattering thing. Schedule a fashion intervention to help the ones you love!

Happy Shopping!Xo, Sarah
Gem Goddess of the Universe

PS Click here to see what the Fashion Therapist said about Chic Gems, etc. jewelry!

Fall Fashions for Fashionistas!

We picked out our favorite trends for fall.

Plaid isn't just for the country girl anymore. It can be a jacket, shirt, pants, or dress, just don't wear them all at once! Try a bohemian look with a floppy hat and slouchy jeans, or go casual with a plaid jacket paired with dark skinny jeans, boots, and a white tee.

Make a statement this fall with layers of chunky jewelry.

Wear your favorite dresses through fall by adding a cardigan and a skinny belt or just wear it on a chilly night for an easy-going layered look. Add to this delicate look with modern pearl earrings.

Do Not Try This At Home!

We love fashion shows as much as the next girl, but looking at some of these Fall 2008 Ready-to-Wear shows is a little scary...

You've been warned.

We love purple, but mix up your colors, don't wear 5 pieces together!

This is the Wicked Witch of the Purple Oz.

Hey Cyndi Lauper...ps it's 2008

If you're trying to look like a naughty school girl meets Little Red Ridinghood, then you've succeeded. Where's the Big, Bad Wolf?

Photos from style.com.

Need wearable accessories?

Stay tuned for wearable fashion trends next week!

Purple Passion for Fall

We are fascinated by all of the purple fashions for Fall!

Here are some of our favorite purple pieces!

This jersey dress by Dolce Vita is simple, yet sexy. The ruched waistline has a tie for a perfect fit that flatters every figure!

We love these Chie Mihara slouch boots. The purple color is right on trend and what every fashionista needs for fall.

This beautifully detailed blouse by Catherine Malandrino is perfect for a day at the office or a girls night out. This bright purple color will add the right amount of pop to any outfit!

Wear a big purple bauble necklace to add a touch of trend to your look.

All clothing photos courtesy of shopbop.com