Julie Watson Style-As seen in InStyle Makeover Fall 2008 Edition

More about JulieWatsonStyle

After spending 14 years developing collections for some of the country's largest retailers, Julie was inspired to share her professional background with women who need help maximizing their wardrobes.

Julie Watson Style provides a unique consulting service: an industry expert who creates clarity in your closet and brings focus to your shopping by teaching you how to apply the fundamentals of apparel merchandising directly to your wardrobe.

"You'll find that when your clothes are an expression of who you are, getting dressed in the morning is effortless."

Julie has been seen live on ABC7 and In the Loop with IVillage

In the Press: Chicago Sun Times, InStyle, FABSUGAR, TCW, CS, and Time Out Chicago.

Check out:

"Julie, just wanted to say a quick thanks. Yesterday was amazing. I actually feel like I have an entirely new wardrobe! And I didn't realize that throwing away those clothes with the tags on would actually feel good...no guilt! I cannot thank you enough!"

Kathy Hart, Eric & Kathy Show 101.9fm THE MIX

Contact Julie:

info@juliewatsonstyle.com

http://www.juliewatsonstyle.com/

Of course, no perfect outfit is complete without the perfect accessories!

All the very best!

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for the Professional Woman

Check out clothing designs by Anna Fong-the winner of the 2007 AOL Latino Fashionista

Anna FongCollection
Bio-
Guatemalan-Chinese Fashion Designer Anna Fong’s talent, creativity and name is quickly becoming a sensation in celebrity circles and is among the young rising stars of new designers destined for international stardom. Borrowing from her unique heritage Anna is bringing fresh new concepts in the world of fashion that exudes traditional elegance and sophistication with a flare for the international contemporary design that speak uniqueness in a woman’s style. After working in New York at Chaps Ralph Lauren licensee design house, where she gained professional experience in the fashion industry, Fong decided to return to Chicago to pursue her own business.The winner of the 2007 AOL Latino Fashionista, in New York City Anna has dazzled the fashion world with her creations on international stages such as Chicago’s World Fashion Focus representing China (October 2007), Featured Designer at Latino fashion Week (November 2007), Model Shoot for Latina Magazine with Si TV (Los Angeles March 2008), Internationally featured in People en Español Magazine (November 2007), among other prestigious events.This young Fashion Designer from Chicago was first introduced to Fashion at the age of five, making clothes for her dolls. In High School she was enrolled in a fashion design summer course while completing her work- study at Gallery 37. She continued with her fashion studies at Columbia College in Chicago, Illinois completing her BA in liberal Arts with a major in Fashion Design. Anna Fong has dressed celebrities such as Kimora Lee Simmons, Christina Brondo, Nadine Velazquez, Former Miss Universe- Dayanara Torres, comedienne Vanessa Fraction, Ellie Rodriguez, news reporter Tsi Tsi Ki Felix, and radio personanility Bionce Foxx. Her designs have appeared on television on E! Entertainment, Style Network, Si TV, Univision, Escandalo TV, WGN news, ABC news and in fashion Magazines such as People en Español, Splendor, Red Eye, Clutch, Chicago Sun Times, Vibra Latina, Extra, Ndigo. Her designs have paraded across high fashion red carpet events such as Alma Awards, Maxim’s 100 Hottest, and Latino Film Festival.
Anna Fong recently opened her own self-named design studio in Chicago designing for the marketplace as well as custom designs for a legion of private clientele.
Fong is gearing up to launch her new collection for upcoming Fall and Spring 2008 season. The line will have separates and dresses available for both ready wear and couture design. This line will exude the glamour, sensuality, sophistication and “chic-ness” that a woman embodies.

CONTACT:

Studio: 1932 S. Halsted St. Suite 504

Chicago, IL 60651

info@anna-fong.com

http://www.anna-fong.com/

www.myspace.com/annafongcollection

Every fashionista needs the perfect accessories!

Check out what Chic Gems, etc. has to offer!

All the very best!

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for the Professional Woman

VMA Fashion...A Total Miss??

You be the judge...

Sunday's VMA Awards were anything but fashionable.

Here are a few of our favorite disasters.

We love her song, but that's about it. Katy Perry's bathing suit belongs on a beach, not on the red carpet. This is her signature style, but maybe it's time to hire a stylist.

Halloween is still 2 months away Christina! Her choice of a spiderweb inspired gown is anything but flattering. We want the old Hollywood Christina back!



Rat tail, fishnets, thigh high boots? Sounds like a dominatrix to us. Rihanna's performance of "Disturbia" was great, but the outfit was just disturbing.

Finally, we found 3 people that looked great!

Our favorite Gossip Boy, Chace Crawford, and Hills star Lauren Conrad looked like the dream couple presenting at the VMA's. Just one more reason to be jealous of Lauren.



Wow! Britney looked phenomenal starting out the show. This was our favorite of her 2 dresses of the night. She was classy and sexy, let's hope we keep seeing her looking this good.

All the very best!
Sarah Radford
Designer
Chic Gems, etc.
Designer Jewelry for the Professional Woman

Fall Fashion Icons

90210 is the new IT show of the fall!!

With new casts members and old, the scandal, and the fashion......
be sure not to miss it!

The New Girl

Annie Wilson

This is the girl next door. Her usual style is very casual with denim and a fun, flirty top but with the pressures of fitting in she is seen sporting this gorgeous blue dress.

The Queen Bee

Naomi Clark

She would max out her credit cards at Barney's!

It is clear her favorite past time is shopping.

Sexy dresses and sassy jewelry is her fashion flair!


Miss Independent
Silver

This girl struts her own unique style and looks fabulous!

This fall season is all about layering and she exemplifies it, with a scarf, shirt, and dress.

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.

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.

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

Girls Don't Spread Gossip They Spread the News

In anticipation for the upcoming season of Gossip Girl here are some of our favorite fashion moments!

Blair Woodruff and Serena van der Woodsen are making a statement with their dresses that are complemented by their handbags. You can find Serena's eye-catching handbag at Chanel. You can make a statement too by matching from head-to-toe like Blair or mixing it up a la Serena. Accessorize your outfits with classic pearls or big gems!



Look for these fashions and you could have the head-to-toe look of a gossip girl for back to school.



What's your gossip?

"Girl's don't spread gossip, we spread the news" quote by Always a Girl's Girl

Cinderella's Dream Come True...

Kathryn Kerrigan was inspired to create shoes after many years of not being able to find stylish shoes in her size. A local Chicago designer, Kathryn graduated from Lake Forest College and went on to Loyola to get her MBA. You can find her shoes in her store located in Libertyville and in stores nationwide. You can call 847-557-5067 to schedule an appointment with her sales representative. Visit her website to view and purchase these fabulous shoes!

This dark plum open toe pump is one her many designs. All shoes are available in sizes 6-15. Handcrafted in Spain, this pump is a chic, modern design perfect for a night out on the town or a day at the office.

Upcoming Events with Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry

Saturday, July 26th, 2008 –Sunday, July 27th, 2008 11am-7pm
Trunk Show at Malabar Boutique-1880 N Damen Ave Chicago, IL
Join us for a Chic Gems, etc. Trunk Show at Malabar Boutique.
Enjoy special discounts during the Summer side walk sale on Damen Ave.
Find the latest gems from Chic Gems, etc. jewelry and meet the designer, Sarah Radford.


Wednesday, August 6th, 2008 3:30-8pm
Girl's Night Out Party at Red 7 Salon-210 W Kinzie Floor 2 Chicago, IL
Enjoy Girl's Night Out at Red 7 Salon with champagne, complimentary Aveda Rosemary Mint hand treatments, and shop the newest jewelry from Chic Gems, etc. to complete your summer look.
Truffle tasting by Katherine Anne Confections.
http://www.katherine-anne.com/
Enjoy 10% off all jewelry during the event.
Try out a new look from Red 7 Salon while you're here.
Event is open to the public. http://www.red7salon.com/ 312.644.7337
Red 7 Salon has been rated one of the top 200 salons in the U.S. in 2008.


Thursday, August 21st, 2008 6-9pm
Aniko GLAM Chicago at Aniko Salon and Spa-1109 S Wabash Chicago, IL 60605
Join the Aniko Salon stylist team while they glamorize models with hair design and makeup and are fully transformed with body painting. Enjoy cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, live music, red carpet with photo ops, boutique vendors, complimentary glam bags filled with our sponsor¹s gifts and a post-party. 10% of all membership sales, gift certificate sales and services booked atthe event will be donated to the Chicago Fashion Foundation.
Shop Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry and meet the designer.
The mission of the Chicago Fashion Foundation (CFF), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is to provide academic scholarships to Chicago-area college students majoring in fashion related studies and coordinate educational programs for the Chicago fashion community. CFF's goal is to maintain and develop the fashion industry in Chicago through an annual scholarship competition, yearly fundraiser, continuous professional networking events, and mentoring programs.


Saturday, August 23rd, 2008 –Sunday, August 24th, 2008 12pm-11pm
Shop Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry at the Taste of Greece
Halsted Street Between Monroe-VanBuren Chicago, IL
Join us for a celebration of Greek heritage includes food from area restaurants, live music on two stages (5 p.m.), beer and wine, dancing, games and more. With nightly performances by the Macedonian Dance Troupe and Orpheus Dancing Group.
Shop the newest jewelry by Chic Gems, etc. to compliment your fall wardrobe. Meet the designer, Sarah Radford.
We will be featured with Lucky Day Boutique. http://www.luckydayboutique.com/
Free admission, open to the public. Questions? Call 847.509.8050

These are the coolest wallets on the planet!

Check out Oogon Wallets.

They come in 9 colors and are made of aluminum.

Find them online at Lucky Day Boutique

We thought they were by far the coolest wallets!

Enjoy!

Tomorrow, check back for upcoming shopping events in Chicago!

More designers from Chicago that you should know!

Here are some more Designers from Chicago that you simply cannot miss!

Baby Jane Handbag by Diego Rocha

Loungepants by Evlove Intimates.

Can we say comfy?

Tomorrow we will tell you about the coolest wallets on the planet!

Need accessories?

Looking for something unique from Chicago?

We found some of the best designers in Chicago and thought you would want to see why we were wowed by their work!

Above: Handbag by Brynn Capella

Golden Sunshine EDIE carryall. We love it, have it, and it really holds everything!

Vika Brown Signature Stretch Silk Blouse. We love it! Chic, gorgeous, and modern!



Cyndi Chan's Couture Collection is not to be missed. We'd love to have Breakfast at Tiffany's.
By the way, these Pearls are by Chic Gems, etc.

Tomorrow....We have more Chicago Designers in store for you!

What's in your bag?

What's in your bag?

We found this bag at Bess and Loie You'll be stylin' with this hot new phone by LG. Great for texting and jamming to your MP3.

MAC Lip gloss will make your lips look and feel fabulous. No fashionista should leave home without it!!!

Don't forget to try out new 5 Gum by Wrigley. It is delicious!

What is in your bag?

We want to hear your must haves....