Grace Bay Club Welcomes Designer Trina Turk

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Trina Turk, the prominent fashion designer behind the Southern California lifestyle label, recently visited Grace Bay Club in Turks and Caicos to celebrate the success of the Trina Turks & Caicos collection. Known for her bold use of color and chic designs, Trina created a print and limited edition capsule collection inspired by and exclusively for the resort.



“I was thrilled when Grace Bay Club contacted me to design an exclusive print for the resort, and the success of the collection is a testament to the terrific synergy between the two brands,” says Trina Turk, CEO, Trina Turk. “Spending time at the resort and getting to know the team strengthened my view that Trina Turk and Grace Bay Club are a perfect pair: both embody effortless and sophisticated style.”

“We absolutely love hosting Trina. The collection has been such a hit, and we are honored to have her call Grace Bay Club home when she travels to Turks and Caicos”, says Nikheel Advani, COO, Grace Bay Resorts. “Not to mention, there is no better place than Turks and Caicos to get some much needed R&R!”


Trina Turks & Caicos marks the first designer collaboration for Grace Bay Club, and the first time Trina has created a limited edition, signature print and capsule collection for a resort.

With prices ranging from $76 - $204, the nine piece capsule collection features mix-and-match bikini separates, including halter and bandeau styles, and a wrap one-piece swimsuit, as well as a kimono-sleeve tunic and ankle-length maxi dress. The print blends vibrant shades of coral and turquoise that complement both the California and Caribbean style sense, and evokes the tropical color ways found on the resort’s famous 13-mile Grace Bay beach. All swimwear styles in the collection also showcase the Trina Turk brand’s iconic block hardware in gold and white. The collection is available at the Boutique at Grace Bay Club, Trina Turk namesake boutiques and online at Trina Turk.

Turks & Caicos Tri Slider & Tie Side Hipster $170

Turks and Caicos Long Dress $204

Turks and Caicos Tunic $144

Turks & Caicos Bandeau & Buckle Side Hipster $176

Thinking About Prom Dresses? Try a Unique Silhouette!

Prom season is right around the corner – are you ready? With so many colors, styles, lengths, and more to choose from, picking the perfect dress can seem like a real challenge. However, a great on-trend design for spring that you may have overlooked is the one-shoulder style. A happy medium between straps and strapless, the one-shoulder look gives you the comfort and confidence of a dress with straps with a unique architectural twist. Instead of tugging up your strapless dress all night, or worrying about slim spaghetti straps slipping, you can rock these frocks for hours without worrying about how they’re holding up.

Check out this great style with a few unique prom dresses from David’s Bridal. Pictured below are some great options, perfect for every body type!



This gorgeous ombre design is eye-catching and dramatic; it’s sure to be a scene-stealer! It features beads and glitter to keep you shimmering all night long.



Romantic and wistful, their flower-adorned one-shoulder is perfect for those looking to capture simple, stately beauty.



Orange is an extremely popular color for the season, and coupled with the one-shoulder design you are sure to turn heads and set trends. The illusion waist and cut-out back on this dress add perfect details to make it a one-of-a-kind style.

How to Wear Spring's Hottest Trends Mor​e Than Once

Saturday, March 24, 2012

From the west to the east coast — it’s quite apparent that early spring has sprung. With temperatures on the rise, early this year, it’s that time of year again. Time to rid your closet of bulky winter clothing and decorate it with your favorite seasonal red carpet and runway-inspired trends. When shopping for your spring wardrobe, how do you pick versatile items that can last through the season? Fashion Stylist and Designer Claudia Patel and Tamasha Knit Designer Haesu Kwon break down this year’s spring versatile must-have items that can be worn throughout the season in a number of ways.

Bold and Bright Accessories


Bold colors and accessories are big for spring this year. “It’s time to purchase pieces reflecting colors of the rainbow; neon orange or tangerine are great colors for the coming season,” touts Haesu. This spring it’s all about making a statement—in color. Large floral patterns, futuristic prints, and color-blocking are just a few of the many colorful trends you will want to purchase for the spring when it comes to clothing. What about when it comes to your accessories? “A statement belt is a great piece to purchase,” explains Claudia. “Liven up your outfit with a neon belt or a bold bag. Be bold and daring with your accessories. You can easily wear them in the summertime for a fun summer look as well. The same goes for your flats. Experiment with different colors and patterns to spring your basic outfit to a whole new level.”

Spring Cardigans/Shirts


Dress your closet up with cardigans, pastel-colored shirts and feather-weight sweaters in shades of mint and peach. “Though bold colors are in for the spring, you should make some extra closet space for pastels for the season,” suggests Haesu. This is a look you can take with you into early summer. Wear your pastel shirt with a simple pencil skirt. Add some bold or tribal jewelry to make a statement. Versatile cardigans are a must this spring. And if the temperature starts to rise — wear your cardigan as an accessory. Simply wrap your cardigan around your shoulders. “Cardigans are great for layering and can be worn in a number of ways, adds Claudia Patel. “Throw on a cardigan over your dress to add a pop of color. Take your look from day-to-night—dress your look down with a cardigan and remove for a night out with friends. Experiment with different patterns and shades. If a cardigan is not your style, try light spring blazers. Same guidelines, different look!”

Spring Dress


With talk of pastel cardigans and bold accessories — you will need the perfect spring dress. Try a basic neutral dress or a bold simple one. What better versatile piece to use as this year’s spring fashion canvas? “A neutral dress is a fashion staple that can be transformed into a number of looks, ranging from classic to fun,” says Claudia Patel. Basic neutral tones are big this spring. “Pair a basic nude dress with a pop of color, bold colored flats or bright jewelry,” adds Haesu. “There is nothing boring about neutral. Add metallic hardware to make a statement without being too bold. Don’t stick to one trend or restrict yourself. Pair a bold dress with metallic accessories. Mix two bold complimentary colors. Mix trends or change them up with your personal style. It’s all about feeling confident and being you.” Though basics are great, floral prints are also a hot trend this spring. “Wear a floral short dress with metallic pumps, says Claudia. “Pick complementary and contrasting colors to change up your look from week to week. You can wear the same dress and transform your look each time. Throw on a blazer to make your outfit work appropriately. Spice it up with heels and wear it to dinner with friends.”

Nikki Zabicki Giveaway

Monday, March 19, 2012

Prize: Three winners will receive a belt buckle of their choice (a $50 value) from Nikki Zabicki.

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Nikki Zabicki’s grandmother taught her to paint when she was a little girl, and she knew then that art was her calling. The daughter of a public school art teacher, her education and support has been lifelong and unwavering.

She began painting buckles in 2006, and has made thousands since. Her art graces the walls of local businesses, motorcycles, guitars and of course, canvas.



Her belt buckles are one-of-a-kind, hand painted with designs born from the fuchsia depths of her imagination.

She resides in her Albuquerque, New Mexico studio shop with her two tiny dogs, Rata and Leroy.

The giveaway will conclude on April 5th.

Shop Attik Review

Sunday, March 18, 2012

Shop Attik offers the latest styles in fashion for those who have champagne taste on a beer budget. They stay fashion-forward by offering the latest in clothing and accessory trends. Be sure to check their site often since they update it on a weekly basis.





I'm in love with the Cowl Neck Sweater Dress (Regularly: $42 Sale Price: $25.20) that I received. It's ultra feminine and flattering on the figure, and looks even better with the Silver Hook Belt that I also received. They no longer have that particular belt in stock, but their White Clasp Belt ($9) or Leaf Brooch Trim Stretch Belt ($20) would look just as good!

We haven't really experienced much of a Winter for me to wear this dress out and about, but I will definitely be donning this dress when the weather calls for it. For an an even classier look, I suggest pairing this dress with twinkling earrings, solid leggings, and high boots.

I also love the Twist Knot Maxi Dress ($40.50), Trench Coat with Ruffles and Belt ($61.10), and Black and White Sleeveless Belted Top ($30).

Disclosure: The item(s) in this review was provided to the reviewer for keeps and the purpose of writing a review. This in no way effects the quality of the review provided. No monetary exchange occurred in exchange for the writing of the review. The views expressed in this review are strictly that of the reviewer. All reviews provided here are the work of the reviewer and remain completely unbiased.

The Style Aquatic Collection

Tuesday, March 13, 2012



Whatever Suits You


Your precious style and refined tastes dominate every ensemble you wear - even when you're on vacation! You figure a day at the beach is as good of an opportunity as any to show off your enthusiasm for flattering silhouettes and fetching footwear. Modeling a delicately dotted A-line skirt over your glamorously retro bikini, and carrying your red-hot heels in one hand, you exhibit beach-chic style at its finest as you tread toward the ocean.

Bathing Beauty Two Piece in Emerald, $89.99
Bathing Beauty Two Piece in Emerald - Plus Size , Was $89.99 Now $79.99
Gladiolus to Meet You Skirt, $72.99
Crimson and Bow-ver Heel , $47.99
Brolly Time Necklace , $19.99
Shade-y Lady Sunglasses , $11.99

Lively Bubbles

Effervescent, they rise, compelled to break through the water's surface in record time. Your kicking legs stir and multiply them, until the depths are filled with the rocketing orbs, echoing the retro print on your ruffle-trimmed bottoms. And then, you rest. The pool is lulled into a sweet stillness, and there you stand in your white halter top, appearing like a vision ascending from the deep to sunbathing onlookers.



Bathing Beauty Two Piece in White, $89.99
Bow Tide Swimsuit Bottom , $59.99
Today's News Heel in Black , $64.99
For You, Anything Ring , $9.99
New Pal Sunglasses , $11.99

Just Swimmingly

Nothing, no, nothing, can bring you down! Your mood is soaring as high as the gulls winging overhead, and perhaps it has to do with the fact that you have nothing to do today but relax at the beach. But you think your fabulous outfit might also be responsible for just how splendid you feel. Stretched out over your towel in a rosette-adorned bikini and a lacy caramel cardi, you reach into your oversized tote to pull out the latest issue of your fave fashion mag and a tube of sunscreen so you can reapply.



Bathing Beauty Two Piece in Rosebud , $89.99
Bathing Beauty Two Piece in Rosebud - Plus Size , $89.99
Singing Love Stories Sweater , $49.99
Matinee Marathon Sandal , $32.99
Wandering Westward Shoulder Bag , $54.99
Plume of One's Own Bracelet , $15.99
Sensing a Pattern Bracelet , $25.99

Dive Right In

Your best gal pal didn't have to ask you twice to join her for a weekend at her beach house. Packing your go-to bathing suit - a fabulously flattering one piece - along with a pair of floral flats, a sweet sundress, and some fresh, fashionable accessories, you figure you have your bases covered, from morning swimming and afternoon lounging, to dinner at the local bistro.



Beach Blanket Bingo One Piece in Red , $89.99
Beach Blanket Bingo One Piece in Red - Plus-Size , $89.99
Kentucky Blue Dress , $79.99
Studio Tour Sneaker , $44.99
Wait and Seabird Makeup Bag , $29.99
Goldstone Throne Necklace , $16.99
Make a State-mint Headband, $13.99

Basking Beauty

An afternoon of splashing, delighted shrieking, and some serious swimming has left you all but exhausted, with a bad case of fun overload. It's time to let yourself unwind, so you leave the ocean's warm waters, wringing out the skirt of your sweet, ladylike suit as you walk. You locate your strappy sandals on the beach, just where you left them, and slip them on to protect your tootsies from the toasty sand before taking off toward a palm-shaded hammock that hangs picturesquely in the distance.



Pool Party Perfect One Piece in Plum Posy , $89.99
Weave Me in Paradise Wedge , $64.99
Tropical Conversation Necklace , $37.99
Blossoming Romance Bracelet , $29.99

I Brake for Yard Sales



Good Morning America correspondent Lara Spencer is a self-confessed frugalista with a passion for shopping at yard sales, thrift shops, and estate sales, and for decorating her home and friends’ homes with her fabulous finds. In I Brake for Yard Sales: And Flea Markets, Thrift Shops, Auctions, and the Occasional Dumpster, Lara shares her secrets for bargain hunting and tells you where to shop, what to look for, how to pay for it, how to restore it, and finally, where to put it in your house. Looking for the newest arrivals at your local thrift shops? After busy Saturdays and no-pick-up Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are generally the best days to shop for fresh items. Peppered with wisdom from world-renowned appraisers whom Lara knows from her previous work on Antiques Roadshow as well as contributions from well-known designers, this book also features the house of comedienne and good friend Kathy Griffin, which Spencer herself refurbished and decorated.

8 Ways to Save on Your Prom Dress

Monday, March 05, 2012

The official start of spring is just around the corner and though the end of the school season seems far away, prom is on the forefront of every one’s mind. As guys schedule their tux fittings and plan out the stretch limo ride, girls ask themselves that eternal question: what should I wear?

Modern teenagers have a strong grasp of the latest fashion trends thanks to the popularity of television shows like “Gossip Girl.” However,Blair Waldorf is no average teen and living up to her fashion standards would be financially devastating. Thankfully, there are many ways to offset the cost of prom night fashion without sacrificing style. So read on for eight dress-shopping tips to help you start saving.



1. Think Classic
The first lesson in frugality is versatility, meaning the more often you can wear something, the better value you receive in purchasing it. Look for a basic gown in classic colors like black, navy or grey that could be worn to other occasions. Tailor it to prom night with statement jewelry and killer heels in bold hues.



2. Go Consignment Shopping
Lots of young ladies sell their prom dresses through local consignment shops so you have a really good chance at finding a fabulous frock at the fraction of it’s original price. Cut your cost even further by selling clothes you no longer wear to the same second-hand reseller for credit toward a future dress purchase. Chain consignment shops like Buffalo Exchange and Plato’s Closet are tailored to the teenage crowd, so scope out a nearby location.

Note from HilLesha: I recently scored a ABS by Allen Schwartz Silk Strapless Rosette Gown for $15, which was like brand-new, and the original price is $410!

3. Get Creative
By now, you know it’s a good idea to shop sale racks at department stores. But have you heard of discount gift cards? Some sites enable you buy store gift cards to places like Macy’s, Dillard’s and Maurices at less than face value – meaning you can get a $50 card for $45 – yielding 10-percent savings before you even enter the store.



4. Save at Bridal Shops
Though you may want to avoid an all-out wedding dress on prom night, bridal shops carry a variety of colorful bridesmaid dresses perfect for prom. Shop the sale rack and don’t discount floor-length gowns at first glance. You can always get it altered for a shorter look and still come out ahead, budget-wise.

5. Rent Designer Duds
If the realities of designer prices are crushing your dress dreams, consider renting. Some sites offer designer dress and accessory rentals for savings of up to 90-percent off retail prices.

6. Get Employee Discounts
If you’re in the market for a job, consider applying at department stores that carry formal attire since employees usually receive significant discounts off merchandise. Some specialty shops may be willing to provide a free prom dress in return for your part-time assistance, so ask around.

7. Swap at School
Most high schools organize dress swaps to help students cut the cost of formal attire. This is a great opportunity to trade your gently warn dresses for something new at a fraction of the cost for a new dress. Plus, you will be happy knowing someone else feels beautiful in a dress you no longer need.



8. DIY with Duct Tape
When all else fails, where duct tape to the dance. Seriously. Duck Brand’s annual “Stuck at Prom” competition offers eligible couples a chance to win cash scholarships. First place winners receive $5,000, and second and third place winners receive $3,000 and $2,000, respectively. Read the official rules for details (prom-goers in Colo., Md., Vt., Puerto Rico and the Provence of Quebec need not apply), get inspired by last year’s winners and then get quackin’ (sorry).

How to Make Your Wardrobe Last

Sunday, March 04, 2012

Everything is more expensive these days but some items experience higher price hikes than others. To the dismay of fashionistas everywhere, apparel is taking the hardest hit with a whopping 4.7-percent increase in January alone, according to ApparelStrategist.com .

The best way to save on clothes is not to buy any, but that’s easier said than done for most. Carefully selected pieces that are cared for and stored properly can last a long time, however, reducing the necessity for replacement. If you struggle with making your clothes last, consider these tips to promote wardrobe longevity.

1. Follow care instructions.
“Hand-wash only” is just a suggestion, right? Wrong. I’ve ruined many a blouse due to laziness. By following care instructions closely, clothes will last longer and you can enjoy them for years. If you have dry-clean only items, avoid professional cleanings with at-home kits and use mesh bags for delicates to prevent damage from the washer drum or other garments.

2. Invest in classic pieces.
Avoid spending too much on trendy clothes and invest in classic pieces instead. After all, buying $100 worth of cheap, trendy items is no deal compared to a $100 blazer that lasts a lifetime. To reduce the initial hit on your bank account, purchase discount gift cards at sites for places like Nordstrom, Bloomingdales and Neiman Marcus.

3. Wash inside out.
Avoid fading and reduce pilling by turning your clothes inside out when washing. This is especially important for denim and dark articles of clothing. Additionally, search your whites pile for the mutinous red sock before loading it into the washer.

4. Don’t replace, repair.
We all have that favorite pair of shoes we can’t stop wearing and can’t imagine giving up. I wore down one such pair of boots and frantically looked for a worthy replacement. Upon finding nothing that could compare, it occurred to me I could just get them re-heeled. For $15 my faves were as good as new.

5. Hold onto all sizes.
Unless you’re a Victoria’s Secret model, you likely change a size up or down every few years. It’s when that adjustment decreases that we want to find new, smaller clothes and get rid of the bigger stuff, but it’s best to hold onto these pieces for the inevitable. That way, you don’t have to spend money on a bigger size that you’re not too thrilled about purchasing.

6. Hang vs. fold.
Crumpling your clothes on the floor every night requires more turns in the washing machine and leads to faster wear-out. Hang up your clothes the minute you remove them to increase longevity. If space is an issue, double up by placing two blouses or two pairs of pants on one hanger. For knitwear like sweaters, it’s best to keep those folded in a drawer or shelf since a hanger can damage the stitching.

7. Hang with Care
Always remove plastic from dry-cleaned items so the clothes can breathe and toss those wire hangers immediately. Clamp hangers are great for trousers and skirts — just make sure to clamp the closure at the waistband to avoid creasing. Padded hangers with nonslip material ensure suit jackets and pants don’t endure hours and days of creasing. For recommendations on the best hangers, check out Oprah’s picks.

8. Longer lasting shoe care.
Water and dirt can damage shoes over time, especially those made of suede and leather. Apply a protector spray after each wear, and use a wire suede brush to remove dirt and scuff marks. Keep leather shoes looking new with a touch of polish. Place tissue paper in the toes of heels and flats to maintain their shape, and make boot shapers out of cardboard boxes to keep boots from creasing.

Yala Designs Review and Giveaway

Saturday, March 03, 2012

Prize: One winner will receive a $50 gift certificate from Yala Designs.

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Yala Designs offers simple, elegant clothing for women, children, and men. They also have a collection of eco-friendly bedding & bath, accessories, and items for the traveler in mind.

The BambooDreams clothing collection and bedding are Oeko-Tex certified. This certification screens for harmful substances that are present in textiles. It ensures the safety of their fabric and dyes and is an additional assurance that they are using environmentally friendly production methods.

Their fabric is dyed using only low impact, Azo-free dyes. They have seen how the dyed water is cleaned by micro-organisms and, after testing for purity, it is reused by the factory.

Exclusive: 20% off at Yala Designs with coupon code: FLING20 Exp. 3/16/12



Bamboo Dreams® Cleo Pajama Set ($98; Available in Beach Glass, Black, or Lilac) is comfortable and sexy without pushing the envelope. Made with 95% Viscose from Bamboo and 5% Spandex, this pajama set is lightweight yet substantial. The Beach Glass that I received is a beautiful shade of a light aqua. Not only the color is gorgeous, but I also love the fitted bodice and empire waist, making this a feminine yet flattering choice.

Note: Do not use harsh chemicals, bleach, fabric softener, or dryer sheets as they damage the delicate natural fibers. It is recommended that you use Charlie's or a similar silk or natural fiber - friendly pH neutral soap. If the item can be washed in the machine, please use cool water and a gentle cycle. If the item can be dried in the dryer, air or machine dry on low. Remove promptly from the dryer. The heat from the dryer is hard on silk and other natural fibers, so please do not over-dry.

Disclosure: The item(s) in this review was provided to the reviewer for keeps and the purpose of writing a review. This in no way effects the quality of the review provided. No monetary exchange occurred in exchange for the writing of the review. The views expressed in this review are strictly that of the reviewer. All reviews provided here are the work of the reviewer and remain completely unbiased.

The giveaway will conclude on March 15th.

Shop Attik Giveaway

Thursday, March 01, 2012

Prize: One winner will receive the Ruffles Please Dress from Shop Attik.

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Shop Attik is a women's online clothing boutique that provide affordable fashion forward apparel and accessories. Everything in their store is $100 dollars or under! They update their product database every week to make sure that you have current styles to chose from.



Their Ruffles Please Dress ($40) is so beautiful and feminine! It is color blocking at its best with a v-neck bust line and ruffles all around. It is a halter top which shows off enough skin to keep you cool.
The giveaway will conclude on March 9th.