Here are some things you can do:

1. Reconsider self tanner – Sure, it made you look sun-kissed during the summer, but think about whether that faux glow is a look you want to continue on into fall and winter.
2. Be careful with the bronzer – Along the same lines of the self tanner, an overuse of bronzer this time of year looks like you’re trying to hard to let go of summer.  A little highlight is one thing, the all over bronzy look is another.
3. Check your makeup – Chances are that you have a few things left over since last fall.  Take a long hard look at these items and make sure that nothing is past its prime.  Toss mascara out after 3 months.  If something smells funky, out it goes.  If it looks like it’s changed colors or is contaminated in some way, toss it.  When applying something to my face, my adage is, if in doubt – toss it out.
4. Check your colors – There are classic eye shadow and blush shades that never go out of style.  That’s why they’re called classic.  Other colors can be combined with new shades to give an updated look.  Some were just mistakes to purchase in the first place.  This is a good time to throw them out.  Make an appointment with your favorite make up counter for a new fall look.  Be sure to bring along any favorites so that you learn how to incorporate them into your look.
5. Take a hard look at your hairstyle and color – Is it time for a change?  How long has it been since you’ve changed (updated) your hair cut or color.  Nothing says old like clinging to a style that looked great – five years ago.  Schedule a consultation with a stylist and get some ideas, and then make an appointment later if you decide to go ahead with the change.
6. Dig out your fall and winter clothes – Try things on, and if they don’t fit, give them to a women’s shelter or back-to-work program.  If things need mending or altering, arrange to have that done.  If you didn’t wear it last fall, you probably won’t this fall either, so save yourself some closet space and give it away.
7. Check your shoes and boots – Get repairs made, heels repaired, new soles put on, or slip guards put on the bottom.  Shine them up.  If they’re too tight, have them stretched to see if they’ll fit.  If they’re uncomfortable, give them away to a new, loving home.
8. Try a new fragrance – You may have loved those floral scents for spring and summer, but try something new for wall and winter.  Go a little woodsier, maybe a bit more exotic.  The weather may be cooling down, but there’s no reason that you can’t heat up the place.
9. Get out the fall handbags – Time to retire the straw and lighter weight fabric bags, and get out the hearty leather for every day wear.  Satchels, bucket bags, slouch bags, and other classic shapes are always a good choice come fall.  Make sure that you take care of any repairs, too.
10. Adopt a new attitude – Be confident, even when you’re not.  Be happy, even when you have struggles.  Give to others, even when all you can afford is a smile.  Be thankful, for every day that you’re given.

Do you have any tips for fall?

Photo credit:

Post from: The List Maven

For that afternoon at least…I walked away empty-handed. I must think about this, I told myself. No sense in rushing into anything when the next best pair could be waiting just a couple weeks away. We’re right in the thick of fall previews and freshly stocked shelves…patience.

After further research, I’ve found the five pairs I want the most. They will be hard to resist, I will do everything I can to add them to my closet, and eventually…(I hope)…they will all be mine.

Simonelli Peep-Toe Pumps
Why I Love It: the multi-colored design makes it flexible for many different outfits and the way the heel is designed is different from anything I’ve see before.
Where I Would Wear It: A night out dancing.

Sicola Flats
Why I Love It: The strong color is always a favorite when I transition to jeans, long sleeve t-shirts and a scarf. Everything else can stay basic and the shoes can carry the outfit.
Where I Would Wear It: Sunday brunch or family dinner.

Arnes Tall Boots
Why I Love It: Soft, slouchy leather and chunky buckles…I can already smell the season change.
Where I Would Wear It: Movie date night.

Auteri Pointed-Toe Pump
Why I Love It: Classic black shoes with a dash of daring? This is my kind of heel.
Where I Would Wear It: E-v-e-r-y-w-h-e-r-e.

Ambrosio Round-Toe Pump
Why I Love It: This heel is both demure and comfortable for long days on your feet. The color is cheerful and just dying to go with a black shirtdress of mine.
Where I Would Wear It: An important meeting.

Images: Aldo Shoes

Post from: The List Maven

By the time you get them home, the shiny allure of the newness is starting to wane…which means that now you have to be extra sure to get your money’s worth and take these puppies for a spin.

Image: Newscom

But most heels weren’t made for walking. Especially when they’re brand new and not so broken in. So after a long day of pretty (albeit unhappy) feet, they deserve some extra TLC.

Here are a few tricks to get you started when apologizing to your poor toes!

Epsom Salt. A quick bath with epsom salt will help your sore, swollen feet. The water should be warm but not too hot.

Peppermint Lotion. There is something totally rejuvenating about the smell and feel of peppermint. Apply liberally and work it into your skin.

Foot Massage. Either gently prod your feet solo or ask your loved one very nicely for a quick rub. Either way this should help unkink some of the extra tender spots.

Yoga. You might find that fifteen minutes of stretching and downward dog goes a long way in helping your feet feel like they are in tip top shape again. Use a mat and go slowly – this is supposed to be a treat, not punishment!

Post from: The List Maven

Clean out your closet – Star listed some great tips about how to clean and organize your closet, and a long weekend sounds like a good time to tackle the project.  I’m embarrassed to admit just how out of control my closets are right now.  I have two walk-in closets, and they are in need of some serious attention.  There will be lots of bags going to charity.

Get rid of old products – Take a look through your makeup drawers and do a similar sorting as you do with your closet.  Toss anything that’s broken and crumbly, smells off, was a mistake to buy in the first place, or, in the case of mascara, if you can’t remember when you bought it.  What will be left are the things that you love and use, along with some samples that you’ve probably picked up.  Now you’ll know what your running low on, as well having room to try some new products or colors.

Clothing storage – Put summer things away (if the weather has already changed) or get them ready.  Bring out the fall/winter clothing, and check everything over before it goes in the closet.  If you did the work when it went to storage, there shouldn’t be anything that needs laundering or mending, but if you skimped on that, take the time to do in now.  And promise that you’ll get your summer things in order before putting them into storage.

Organize your giveaways – Whether it’s going to a friend or family member, or being sent off a clothing bank or charity of your choice, set up some bags or boxes so that you can start dropping things in it.  Since it might take you awhile to complete the organization process, be prepared to have them hang around a bit until you’re finished.  If the clutter bothers you, drop them off as you fill a bag or box.

Clean your shoes and bags – It’s easy to put this off while you’re busy with day to day life, but take advantage of a little extra time to really take a look at everything.  Do your shoes need a shine or a repair?  If a pair you love is looking a little sad, talk with a cobbler to see if re-soling them can give you a little more life.  I did this numerous times with a classic pair, and finally the cobbler had to say no more – I had completely worn them out.  Fix bag straps, replace hardware, get rips stitched up.

Make lists – As your getting everything organize, you’ll undoubtedly come across ideas for things that you’re missing, have run out of, or ideas about how to make the most of what you have.  Create some lists for yourself, such as, things to buy, products to check out, items you’re running low on and need to replace, etc.  Look for ideas where one item will coordinate with a number of things, extending your wardrobe in any number of different ways.

Recycle your magazines – If these have stacked up over the summer, it’s time to recycle them.  Tear out articles or photos that are of interest, and recycle the rest.  If the magazines haven’t been torn up, maybe because you’ve been too busy to read, just accept that you’re not going to get to them and pass them on.  A women’s shelter, doctor or dentist office may love to have them.

Relax a little – After all this organizational work, make sure you take time for yourself.  Have a bubble bath, read a book, enjoy a great meal, or a glass of wine.  You’re off to a great fall season!

Photo credit: SXC

Post from: The List Maven

Sure you can!  And with this selection of fall boots from Nordstrom, all priced under $100, you’re sure to make a fashion statement AND keep on budget.

Row 1:  Børn Somethin’ Bootie, $94.95; Clarks Artisan Collection Diamond Trust Suede Bootie, $94.95; Franco Sarto Artist Collection Ransom Bootie, $79.95.

Row 2:  Harajuku Lovers Packard Oxford, $99.95; Linea Paolo Zackery Bootie, sale priced at $74.90 (regularly priced $149.95); Naturalizer Stunned Wide Calf Boot, sale priced at $72.90 (regularly priced $109.95).

Row 3:  Naughty Monkey D-Ring Boot, $99.95; Pink Studio Jacob Bootie, $99.95; Simple Carry-On Boot, $84.95.

Row 4:  Star Ling Julian Flat Boot, $99.95; Sudini Tessa Bootie, sale priced at $79.90 (regularly priced $159.95); Western Chief Rain Boot, $29.95.

Will you be buying boots for fall?

Photo credits:  All from Nordstrom

Post from: The List Maven

Post from: The List Maven

Growing up, it may have been back-to-school shopping with mom and dad.  In college, it may have been the opportunity to pick up one or two fun pieces for fall.  And for many businesswomen, this is the time to stock up on basic wardrobe items in addition to finding a couple of new fall outfits.

I’m at that in between shopping phase.  I wear a uniform for my day job, so only need to have a minimal amount of business clothes.  So, I get the luxury of finding fun things – both for home, and those that will pack and travel well.

Here’s what I picked up at the sale yesterday:

Pajamas:  I’ve been needing some new PJ’s, and was excited to see a nice assortment from PJ Salvage.  These twill pajamas are a classic boyfriend-style pajamas, made out of super-soft cotton and don’t need multiple washings to be comfy.  They had several fun patterns, and I chose a leopard print and a cherry pattern.  Sale priced $37.90.

I also found another pair of pajamas from Shimera.  I couldn’t find a photo online, but they’re in plum patterned cotton, with a t-shirt top (Sale priced,$15.90) and a drawstring bottom (Sale priced, $27.90).

Pants:  This was all about jeans!  And first off was a look at traditional denim.  I was hoping to find something at an affordable price, as I’ve grown a bit weary of paying close to $200 for a decent pair of jeans.  I found a great choice with the reasonably priced Kut from the Kloth, so chose to pick up two pair.  They were both a boot cut stretch jean, the first in a dark wash with button flap back pockets (sale priced $49.90), and the second in a medium wash with back flap pockets ($59.90).  The rise was a a higher fit, and the inseam long enough, so they fit comfortable and are easy to move around in.  While I won’t put these on my sexiest jeans list, they are comfy and attractive jeans for every day wear.  And at this bargain price, who can pass them up!

The other pair of jeans were the Joe’s Jeans Chelsea skinny pants.  These are out of a stretchy double knit, and look like ankle length leggings out of a heavy material.  These are hip and fun, and finally hitting the US a couple years after I saw them all over Paris.  They fit snuggly, and should be worn with a longer top.  I can already think of all sorts of things that I can wear these with!  Sale priced $79.90.

Handbags & Shoes:  These are probably my two favorite departments in the store!  I saw the Marciano studded satchel in the catalog, and was curious to see what it looked like up close and personal.  I wanted to feel and smell the leather, and see if the larger sized bag looked okay on my arm.  I love the removable chain-link strap, which, along with the triangle studs, gives it a little biker chick look while still maintaining a classic style.  The leather feels wonderful, and the pin-tucked pleats and wide top closure at impressive detailing.  Loved the bag, had to have the bag!  Sale priced $189.90.

Because of the traveling side of my life, I am always looking for comfy shoes that don’t take up much room in my suitcase.  I try to have a couple of go-to pair that I can rotate among, and the Puma Mostro sneakers will be a welcome addition.  The leather and mesh give it a sporty lightweight look, and the off-center Z-strap helps gives you a secure fit.  These aren’t a serious running shoe, but they’ll be great for vacation or general walking around town.  Sale priced $64.90.

It’s likely that I’ll be going back for another pass through on the Anniversary Sale, probably to spend some additional time in lingerie (stocking up on basics) as well as spending a bit more time in the shoe department.  These are good prices, and shopping wisely now means that I can get through a number of months without additional purchases.  (Yeah, right!)

Did you go to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale?  What purchases did you make?

Photo credit:  All from Nordstrom

Post from: The List Maven

It’s been great fun, but I’ve recently learned that it can also be quite expensive.  Here are 10 indulgences that prove my point:

1. I chose to buy an entire set of new makeup (MAC) to go to Europe, and I justify it by saying it’s research for two blogs.
2. I bought two different kinds of mascara, again claiming it was research – making comparisons for an upcoming product review.
3. Sephora has lots more stuff besides mascara, and since I’m here I need sunscreen, something to keep my hair from frizzing, some new perfume, and oh, did you see that lip-gloss.
4. Summer in Seattle, and that means new sunglasses (a pair by Marc Jacobs)
5. Even though the weather is too hot for baths, I can stock up for winter, and everything at Lush smells so good.
6. A new pair of walking shoes for Italy – of course, that’s practical.
7. Shorts, yep, I need several new pair, and they’re on sale (several walking length, and a couple shorter fun length).
8. This sun hat is just so darn cute, and I would look adorable wearing it as I wandered through Italy (from Eric Javits, in photo), and oh look, it squishes for travel.

Every purchase was practical in more than way.  Shopping isn’t a habit, it’s practical research.  And if it is a habit, it’s one that I don’t want to break!

Photo credit: Nordstrom

Post from: The List Maven

Here are two that I plan on using – and maybe you will too!

1. From DSW, one of my favorite shoe stores for fashion and value, is a $10 off coupon on any purchase over $50.  And any gal worth her salt can spend over $50 at a shoe store!  The coupon is valid online or in the stores, giving you two shopping options.  The promotion code is GETTEN, or you can print out the coupon and take it to the store with you.  I just bought a couple pair there last week (okay, it was three pair), but since I had my eye on a couple more, this is a great excuse to go back!  Expires April 20th.
2. The other coupon is from one of my favorite cosmetics stores, Sephora.  This coupon offers 15% off your entire purchase, and again can be used in the store or online.  The offer is for Beauty Insiders only, so if you’re not a member you’ll need to sign up.  Expires April 21st.

These are coupons I can put to good use!

Image credit:  SXC

Post from: The List Maven

Just the term “walking shoes” conjures up some serious ugly thoughts.  But when I discovered Mudd,I discovered all sorts of fun looking and comfortable flats that are perfect for hiking all over a city.  Now, you’re still going to need some serious shoes for hiking in the mountains, but for urban explorers, Mudd offers some great choices.

Here are six great choices to wear for a day trip, most suitable for wearing with skirts, jeans, nice pants, or shorts:

Mudd also offers heels and boots, but I’m more of a fan of their flats.  In fact, I just picked up a couple pair over the weekend to pack for an upcoming trip to Europe.  They pack great, will allow versatility for travel, look fashionable, and still provide great comfort when I’m on my feet all day.

You can find Mudd at stores near you, including major department stores and shoe warehouses.

Photo credit:  Mudd

Post from: The List Maven