Although this recession has been tough on a Hot Mama’s wallet, that’s no reason to skip holiday gift giving. Actually, it’s a fine time for more thoughtful and unique presents. So when I discovered Lagelle hand-knitted hats and scarves, I had to share.  Every Lagelle item is made by Tahisha Crawford with TLC.
The Pittsburgh-based designer and Brooklyn native has been knitting for seven years and launched her Lagelle accessories line in November 2007.
Tahisha’s inspiration? “Everything,” she says.  ”But I find myself being inspired by vintage fashions.”
The 35-year-old took her line’s name from her mother’s maiden name Laguer.  ”I credit my Mom for …read more

Fashionistas already know that Jimmy Choo’s exclusive, limited-edition line for H&M went on sale today!  Many of you have already battled the crowds for  your piece of the collection.
Alternative hip-hop/dance artist M.I.A. was among the celebs invited to a Hollywood preview of the Jimmy Choo for H&M garb.  The Sri Lankan singer has never been afraid to express herself through fashion as boldly as she does in her kick ass music.  The shark tunic she’s wearing in these photos is no exception.
I like it that M.I.A. takes risks and isn’t afraid to be a rock star.  The shark shirt definitely …read more

Rakia Reynolds has eclectic personal style.  This trendsetter isn’t afraid to mix bold colors, vivid patterns, and designer pieces with vintage finds; she even showed up for a shoot with Lucky Magazine in a pink tutu. As Philadelphia’s 360 Fashion Ambassador, Rakia works with Philly’s tourism corporation (GPTMC) to promote the blossoming local shopping scene.
 
 
I love Philly and met the bubbly Temple graduate during a recent visit for the city’s first Fashion Week.  This busy hot mama — the 30 year-old is a mother of two girls with one on the way — is also fashion editor for the revamped …read more

Take note of the structured shoulders on singer Leona Lewis’ little black dress.   The singer is on trend, as big shoulder pads and exaggerated shoulder shapes are hot for fall.  Think Alexis and Krystal Carrington from the “Dynasty” era, darling.
Leona was wearing the high-fashion look during a book signing for her memoir, “Dreams,” at a London bookstore.  That sounds innocent enough, right?  Well apparently there was a deranged man amongst “The X Factor” winner’s fans, many of whom waited overnight to meet the Brit beauty.
Reportedly when that fan stepped up to have her sign his book, he lunged over …read more

From Earth Footwear to Skechers’ Shape-Ups to FitFlop Footwear, I’m all about comfort shoes with a fitness benefit.  So I was stoked when my friend hipped me to FitFlop boots. 
I bought a pair of FitFlop knock-offs from K-Mart over the summer (I’m a frugal kinda girl), but I’m willing to splurge on an authentic pair of comfy FitFlop boots.
They’re available in several styles including Inuk and Mukluk ($140 – $200), which look an awful lot like UGGs.  The difference is that FitFlop boots will keep your feet warm and your legs toned and energized while you go walkin’ in a …read more

For the first time in a long time, I’m looking forward to fall. Goodbye hot and humid summer and hello crisp weather and pretty autumn foliage.  Most of all, I’m eager to unpack and add some new pieces to my fall wardrobe.  
Here are 4 items that will spruce up every Hot Mama’s fall wardrobe:
 
1) Short riding boots: I recently picked up these calf-high boots from K-Mart and I love the length.  They fit perfectly with the season’s urban cowgirl trend.
 
2) Boyfriend jeans: This jean trend reminds me of junior high school when I used to cut holes in and write on …read more

Doesn’t it feel good to pay less?   It sure does, especially when you can score designer shoes at Payless prices.  Just in time for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, the affordable shoe retailer’s guest designers — Stacey Bendet (Alice + Olivia), Lela Rose, Laura Poretzky (Abaete), and newest guest designer Christian Siriano — unveiled the Payless Fall ’09 Designer Collections in true “high-low” fashion on the runway.
 
 
 
 
“This season presents a range of inspirations from the Egyptian landscape to the enchanted forest — the unique designs from each are truly amazing,” LuAnn Via, CEO and president of Payless ShoeSource said in a press …read more

Before the official start of Mercedes Benz-Fashion Week (today through September 17), I was invited to an exclusive blogger preview of Rachel Roy’s Rachel line for Macy’s.  As I sipped white wine and perused the racks of Roy’s Soho Pop-Up shop, many pretty things caught my eye.  Snakeskin booties. Studded handbags.  Vibrant patterns on tunics, t-shirts, and dresses. Faux leather leggings.  And a pair of “Peace” gold hoop earrings ($40) and a black wrap sweater ($99) I would love to add to my fall wardrobe.
 
 
 
 
The highlight of the evening, however, was when Ms. Roy walked in.  The designer is even more stunning …read more

Target  is one of my favorite places to shop and a department store known for its affordable style. For fall, the retailer has partnered with several top designers on exclusive clothing and accessories’ lines.  Hot Mama Daily got a sneak peak before they hit Target stores.  Here’s the scoop:
 
 
 
Anna Sheffield’s exclusive costume jewelry for Target debuted in stores August 30 and is available until December 30.  The New York-based designer’s edgy yet elegant line offers a mix of vintage and contemporary pieces in an array of stones and sterling silver.  I’m fond of the Charm Hoop Earrings ($39.99) and the …read more

Don’t miss a beat.  Add a rocker tee to your transitional wardrobe.  Whether you fancy ’60s pop and rock idols or ’80s new wave icons, rocker tees are perfect for the last days of summer and ideal for autumn layering.
During a recent trip to H&M I found a fab Madonna t-shirt for $19.95 (click here to see images) featuring the cover of the Material Girl’s “True Blue” album.  I didn’t grab the shirt when I had the chance, and later I read the black-and-white tee is a limited edition.  Don’t you hate non-buyer’s remorse?
Like Madonna 1.0 (the latest Madge model with the fake English accent …read more