Sole Intuition - A Fusion of Insight and Style » The Shoe Box

My Spring Break

Just C — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 14:00:44 +0000

Life has been ridiculously busy for me so I had to take some time out from blogging. I’m not using taking on more projects than I probably should at any one time as an excuse, but it is the explanation of why I haven’t given 100% to my baby over the last few weeks. I’ve missed blogging about the things I’ve found out shopping, giving you the inside peak on items that will keep you on trend and just the overall joy I get from knowing that people actually look forward to reading my blog daily. I guess I’ve taken a Spring Break of sorts, but now I’m back. I will continue to deliver the same level of content as I always have, but I’ll be throwing some new things into the mix like giveaways, Outfits of the Week (or as often as I can get someone to serve as my personal photographer) and Men’s fashion.

I’ve looking forward to getting back into the swing of things, so here we gooooooooo…

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Do You Buy Just Because It’s On Sale?

Just C — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 19:00:17 +0000

One of my tweeps (that’s Twitter friends for those of you who refuse to join or have no knowledge of what is, my opinion, the best social network) sent this picture to me and fellow shopaholic @Candee702 – who was featured just two days ago. The message he included: “this made me think of you two.” The image is completely hilarious and I couldn’t contain my laughter. Afterward, I started thinking about how often I buy things because they’re on sale. Sometimes, it’s something that I wanted anyway and lucky enough to find on sale, but there are plenty of things I buy just because they’re on sale. This is not say I don’t cherish the purchases, but really, exactly how many black tops does one person really need?

How often do you buy things just because they’re on sale? Are you the type who only buys once thing do go on sale? Either way, I’d like to hear your thoughts. Comment and let me know what type of shopper you are.

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Fashion Photography: Where Are The Women Of Color

Just C — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 21:15:56 +0000

Things have been crazy for me the last few weeks that I have so been slipping on my posting. My apologies as I don’t mean to leave any of you all hanging. It’s actually a two fold issue that I have going on: I’ve been crazy busy and I haven’t been all too inspired by any one thing or things as of late. As I’ve mentioned before, I’m a lover of all things art whether on a canvas, photography or performance.

I spent a little time looking at fashion photography this afternoon and it it did re-energize my battery a little. Take a looksie at a few images I uncovered that I found pretty beautiful. I will say this. I’m feeling some kind of way about the lack of women of cover when I did a search of fashion photography. Should I really have to do a narrowed search of “asian fashion photography” or “African American fashion photography” just to find what I’m looking for? Oh and let me just say that a search of “African American fashion photography” didn’t publish any real results. *sighs*

I’m the type of person who believes ALL cultures and nationalities are beautiful (anyone who knows me would vouch for me) so excuse me while I vent… Be sure to comment and express your thoughts on the lack of representation of women of color. I’m not just talking African American women, I mean all women of color.

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Overrated and Underwhelmed: Jean Paul Gaultier for Target

Just C — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 14:30:11 +0000

Even though I made two trips to Target over the weekend, I stayed focus on the items in which I was there to purchase. This meant that I never made it over to the apparel section to check out the latest installment of the designer series, Jean Paul Gaultier for Target. This morning, I spent some time checking out the collection online and let’s just say I’d be lying if I said I weren’t completley disappointed by the collection.

It includes lots of bathing suiting, tops, dresses and even a few jackets are sprinkled in but with each click of my mouse, I found myself slipping into a deeper trance. Can someone please come splash water in my face to wake me from this boredom-induced coma? With the exception of maybe two tops and the red and brown moto jacket, the 52-piece collection isn’t much to write about. I’m curious to see how many people will say they absolutely love the collection just because its Jean Paul Gaultier. Target has had hit after hit with their designer series and Go International campaign so I really expected much more. The designers aren’t too inspiring and quite honestly, I’ve seen them all before.

Be sure to check out the full collection and let me know your thoughts.I want to hear from you – is Jean Paul Gaultier for Target a HIT or MISS.

Jean Paul Gaultier for Target® Cold Shoulder Knit Top $29.00 / Target

Jean Paul Gaultier for Target® Lingerie Dot Print Lace Trim Dress $34.99 / Target

Jean Paul Gaultier for Target® Necklace Sleeveless Top $24.99 / Target

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How Much Are You Willing To Spend In Discount Stores?

Just C — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 18:00:55 +0000

Last night, I went to Ross Dress for Less. I wasn’t going for anything particular as sometimes, I just like to browse to see what they have. Majority of my purchases are home decor and every once in a while I might find a top or dress…never handbags, and I mean never. Their selection as compared to say, TJ Maxx, is unparalleled. I found the Guess Metallic Hobo and contemplated purchasing it, but since I wasn’t really too crazy about the grommets/stones at the top, I decided to forgo the purchase. I was perfectly willing – or at least I thought I was – to spend the $70 because I typically spend more on handbags. Then that question that I always ask myself when I’m in a discount store popped in my mind: “Do I really want to pay that much…in here?”

Why is it that I see no problem with spending $70 – or more – at Belk or a boutique, but when in Ross or TJ Maxx I feel as if they’ve lost their minds because how dare they charge so much? What’s that all about exactly? My bff and I have had this conversation more than once and the only thing I could come up with is knowing that items are typically last season, defective or something and that’s why they end up in the discount chain.

What are your thoughts? Are you willing to spend the same amount regardless of where you are? I’m really interested in knowing your thoughts, so please be sure to comment.

Guess Metallic Hobo $69.99 / Ross

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The Casual Friday Debate: How Casual Is Too Casual?

Just C — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 20:41:07 +0000

Most offices have clearly defined policies about Causal Friday. Some deem business casual as the acceptable appearance while some places basically allow you to wear cut offs and flips flops if you want (trust me, I’ve seen it). Fortunately, I work in an environment without any sort of dress policy. Some business owners may cringe at the thought, because let’s face it, there are people who will always push the limit of what’s appropriate. I could get away with wearing jeans five days a week, but I reserve them for Fridays and days when I have to pretty much throw myself out of the bed. I’ve always felt that the more polished my look is, the more productive I am. It may just be a philosophy that I’ve pysched myself into thinking is true, but I really am more focused on certain days.

I’ve seen women with cleavage out, panty lines showing and worse, which makes me think, “Where does she work?” What’s the casual Friday policy in your office? Are there people who push the limit time and time again? Exactly how much do you think is too much for work?

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The Black Friday Debate

Just C — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 20:00:16 +0000

I drug myself out of the bed at exactly 4:30 this morning. Clothes were laid out as if it were the first day of school and the game plan was mapped out in my head. First on list, Target. I found a few deals there before heading on to Old Navy, Best Buy, Belk and Kohl’s. Factor in a pit stop at Starbucks and I was home around 10:30. Now, a few mimosas and a cat nap later, I find myself sprawled out on the couch wondering if it was all worth it.

I usually shop Black Friday, but this was the first year I was actually there when the doors opened. Fortunately, the shoppers who frequent the Target by my house aren’t the kind who rush through the doors with elbows out ready to jab someone in the stomach to get to that flat screen. Along with a couple of gadgets, I purchased one pair of jeans, a pair of slacks and five sweaters. Yes, I got pretty good deals, but were the deals really worth it?

Either the deals weren’t as great as they usually are or I just didn’t really need anything. Am I the only one that feels this way? Did you get out in the Black Friday madness and find any really awesome deals? Be sure to comment and let me know your thoughts.

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The Shoe Box: Holiday Shopping Countdown Begins

Just C — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:00:43 +0000

When the alarm on my blackberry went off to remind me of my standing hair appointment, I was nearly blown as I stared at the November calendar. Sure, I keep up with the actual calendar days – how can you be a working grown up and not – but I didn’t realize just how quickly the holiday season is approaching. I figure I have about two more weeks – 13 days but who’s counting – to completely immerse myself in self-absorbed shopping.

The holidays seem to always stress people out for one reason or another. Between finding inexpensive, nice gifts for colleagues, a just in case gift for the person who unexpectedly shows up for dinner and trying to find something for the neighbor who put your trash curbside while you were out of town, you can get lost in a sea of corny, cheesy and completely inappropriate gifts.

My mom is the type of woman who stockpiles small gifts and greeting cards for “just in case” moments, so I think I got that trait from her. I visited one of my all-time favorite sites, SupermarketHQ and pretty much was on the verge of loosing my mind. Let’s just say, if you’re into all sorts things from journals to stationary to pretty much everything, visit the site at your own risk. It’s an online “supermarket”, hence the name, that allows you to purchase items straight from the designers…and at very reasonable prices. I found a boat load of “just in case” gifts (and things for myself) that would be perfect for any occasion.

yokomono studio Polopolo Small Tissue Box Cover $30.00 / SupermarketHQ

B&W Lattice Booklet 4pk $14.00 / SupermarketHQ

apmDesign Card No.1 (20 pack) $35.00 / SupermarketHQ

Sub-Studio Catalog Cards (Variety pack, set of six) $18.00 / SupermarketHQ

So, what types of “just in case” gifts do you normally buy? What are your go-to places to find them. Leave comments and let us know.

http://7pqme.th8.us

The Shoe Box: Can Retail Branded Magazines Really Be Successful?

Just C — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:00:13 +0000

So, it looks like more and more retailers are jumping on the “let’s do a magazine – either online or print – to generate more revenue” bandwagon. First eBay launched The Inside Source, which targets fashion forward, trend savvy shoppers who aren’t really into the whole auction “thing”. Since I’m not an eBayer, I’m interested to see where they’re going with this. Only thing is, I can’t say that it would prompt me to purchase anything if I already have a cloudy view of ebay. But who knows.

News broke this week that Forever21 is launching a Fashion/Beauty/Lifestyle Magazine. Their goal in launching the magazine is to reinforce their belief that anyone can achieve a high-end look, no matter what the budget. Sidebar: I think they’ve already achieved this with the Twelve By Twelve brand. I don’t know if it’s the models that put the pieces over the top, but I absolutely LOVE that it. Moral of story – check out Twelve by Twelve.

Each issue of the mag is set to include two or three features, a fashion gallery of looks with styling tips, coverage of trends available at Forever 21, street style, makeup and beauty tutorials, a lifestyle section including the latest in books/art/music, coverage of noteworthy Forever 21 collaborations, and an interview with a notable VIP. Interestingly enough, the seasonal mag, which will be run in print as well as be available online, will be available as a gift with purchase of $40 or more in all Forever 21 stores nationwide. It will also be free to view online at Forever21.com. I must say that the description alone has me intrigued.

The idea of creating retail branded magazines is ingenious, but I’m interested to see how far reaching it will be. I have so many questions. What creative marketing efforts will Forever 21 employ to capture a new audience? After all, they can’t ignore the fact that major, long running publications are folding every day. Conde Nast has put more magazines to bed in the last 2 years than I can remember. Will the publication be considered nothing more than the equivalent of the Elle/Island Def Jam Music Group co-produced mini magazines included with CDs.

Comment and let me know what you think.

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