***Fashion Flash***

Design on a dime is the tune this holiday season! Target launches the best collaboration since Missoni hit the racks of the budget retailer last fall. This holiday season, Target has partnered with luxe department store Neiman Marcus and the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) to bring 50 holiday gifts by 24 of America's best designers. From Marc Jacobs to Tracy Reese and Brian Atwood to name a few, this fantasy collaboration is sure to sell out fast. The collection launches online and in stores tomorrow, December 1st. If this is anything like the Missoni launch, web browsing will be slow, so check out your local Target store. Visit www.target.com to find out more information about this amazing collection!

See you on the front row!!!

Parker S. <3

Best Foot Forward

While browsing Facebook the other day, one of my friends was fretting about what to wear. People were leaving all sorts of comments like, "something sexy" or a "Little Black Dress". Now don't get me wrong, those are great fashion tips for a "Diva in Despair", but the tip that stood out the most to me was "Start with the SHOES"!!!

Really, no truer words had ever been spoken. After shaking your hand and noticing what your nails look like, the next place most people look are your feet.  The foundation of a great outfit are the shoes, so why not start there??? One of the great things about fashion today, is that your shoes are like a wild card. You can be wearing a gold top, and purple skinny jeans and throw own a red pump to amp up your outfit, or hot pink shirt, black leather skirt with a blue suede shoe. The combinations are endless!

Those of you who know me, totally get that I am a shoe-a-holic! I mean seriously, I literally ride around with no less that 10 pairs of shoes in my car. Because shoes can totally transform an outfit, I always like to be prepared. Now, I know that having those many shoes with me at all times sounds 14 karat crazy, but  every fashion maven should have a few key shoes in their arsenal. I like to call them, the "Eight Essentials". If you have the "Eight Essentials" in your shoe wardrobe, you will be ready for almost anything.

1. Basic Black

A basic black pump is a definite in any shoe wardrobe. It can be worn casually with a pair of skinny jeans and a great blazer, to work with a sassy suit or to a cocktail party with a fabulous dress. I prefer a black patent leather pump, because patent can be a little more versatile than a flat leather. The basic black pump I have in my show arsenal is the Kors Michael Kors Glitter Pump from Neiman Marcus. Although they are a bit pricey at $195 they are  totally worth it because they won't have to be replaced that often.

2. Ankle Accent

There really is nothing sexier than a great ankle strap shoe. The right ones can elongate your legs and add a flirty element to your ensemble. I recently scored the Edel pump in Green from ShoeDazzle. You can find this and tons of great styles at ShoeDazzle for as little as $29.95.

3. Lovely Leopard

Now I know you are thinking, Leopard, really??? Yes, a great leopard shoe is an essential. The great thing about it is that it's a neutral. You can pair it with almost anything. I tend to switch my leopard shoes every couple years and this year I happened to grab it in the most adorable booties from Sole Society. I dawned the Lyssa booties at my "Chic in the City" event last month.

4. Pop of Color

OK, so this one is really hard for me to narrow down. My pop of color really depends on what mood I'm in. Also, the pop of color changes each season based on what's trending. Since I had to make a choice for this post, I have decided on the Layla color-block pumps that I again scored from Sole Society earlier this season. Magenta, navy and marigold are really on trend this fall and winter, so this shoe should have you covered for a variety of outfits.

5. Sparkle Spectacle

With the holidays being around the corner, a pair of shimmery shoes is a must have for your holiday season. Last week I scored the Zoe glitter, studded pump from ShoeMint for $40 bucks! They are #haute and I can't wait to wear them.

6. Fancy Flats

Don't get me wrong, I love heels, but a great flat is definitely apart of my wardrobe. As with the "Pop of Color" I change my flats up every season depending on what colors are trending, also because I abuse them and they often look like crap!  This season I chose the Tanya flats from Sole Society in the color Jazzberry. The color is so vibrant and looks great with a variety of things in my wardrobe. Also, the spectator detail gave them a menswear inspired look. 

7. Comfy Cute

One pair of shoes that I can't live without are my comfy, cute Ugg Boots! I wear them all the time during the fall and winter and have several different styles. My favorite by far are my Tall Classic Ugg Boots in chestnut. I scored mine from Nordstrom, but they are available at a variety of retailers. Believe the hype, there is nothing better than an authentic pair of Uggs!

8. Boot Bliss

Finally, rounding out my "Eight Essentials" are a great pair of knee boots. Whether they are riding boots or ones with a heel, a great pair of knee boots are staple in my wardrobe. Because I have wide calves, I find it especially challenging to find a great pair of knee boots. Therefore I spend a lot more money than I normally would on shoes. I have a great pair of Cole Haan riding boots that cost me close to $400 dollars, but I have had them nearly 4 years and they still look great. The Jodphur Boots by Cole Haan are similar to the style I have. With the elastic panels on the side, a normally unaccommodating boot now fits.

There you have it, my "Eight Essentials" for a well balanced shoe wardrobe. If you buy quality from the beginning, you will save yourself money in the long run. Start building your shoe wardrobe today!

See you on the front row!

<3 Parker S. 

Two-Way Tuesday

Two-Way Tuesdays are BACK!! I know they it's been a while, but I wanted to share a look with you guys. I am 100% in love with comfy chic and am a firm believer that the right accessories can transform any look. Recently I scored this great burgundy & white striped t-shirt dress from Boutique Stiletto in Conyers, Ga. Like I said, I love being comfy, and there's nothing better than being able to wear a dress that feels like a night gown. So, today I decided to show you guys how to take this basic cotton dress and make it go from work to play!

The other day for work, I paired the dress with my denim blazer from Talbots, Tom Ford sunglasses, suede pumps from Off 5th (Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet) and a cigar box from WiseAsh Cigars that has been re- purposed to be a clutch. I turned this basic, casual dress into something that was office ready.

Now for the switch... After work, I decided to do a little holiday shopping, so obviously, heels were out. I decided to throw on my #stylesteal jean jacket from Wal-Mart, chestnut Ugg boots, and grabbed my Forever 21 shopping tote! Again, just by switching up the accessories, I turned my work look into the perfect sassy shopping ensemble!

So, the next time you think you can't be comfy & chic, just remember to accessorize!

See you on the front row-

Parker S. <3

Makeup Monday: Beauty Revealed

Saturday I had the opportunity to spend a couple of hours with one of my favorite makeup artists, Shalawn Willis, The Beauty Architect. For those of you who aren't in the know, Shalawn is arguably one the best celebrity make up artists in Atlanta and a consultant for Lamik Cosmetics. I met Shalawn about 3 years ago when she delivered her mobile glam services to my suite at the St. Regis before an event I was attending. Because she is so amazing I try to support her whenever I can. Therefore when I received an email from Lamik about a "How to Wear Red Lips" at Macy's, I knew I had to be there.

When I arrived at the Lamik Cosmetics counter at Macy's Greenbriar Mall, I saw the The Beauty Architect in action very intently transforming and defining a customer's brows. There is nothing I love more than watching makeup being applied because it educates me on my technique and helps me to look photo shoot ready, when I can't afford to pay a makeup artist. As I waited for Shalawn to finish her client, I decided to get a refresher course on Lamik. 

Shalawn Willis in action. 

Lamik is self defined as:

Lamik Cosmetics are all natural and contain vitamins and antioxidants that are beneficial for all skin tones. From facial care, to the actual makeup and everything in between, Lamik believes that "Beauty is revealed, not applied". I really love that mantra, because there is absolutely nothing wrong with enhancing your beauty. After getting my refresher course, it was my turn to jump in the hot seat. 

During this holiday season I will be attending various events, so Shalawn decided to try out a #HauteHoliday look on me. Because I was a blank canvas when I arrived, we started with the Full Coverage Foundation, which is great for covering any blemishes or dark spots,  and Mineral Powder, when applied with a Kabuki brush acts as a finishing powder giving your face a flawless look. After that, it was on to the brows. Thankfully, I have naturally full brows, but the Celebrity Brow Kit, took them to the next level. Shalawn made sure to emphasize not to go overboard with the Purdy Brow Define Powder, only fill in the areas that are lacking. She also highlighted under my brows with the Brightening Cream using the Lamik Brow Brush. 

After finishing my brows, she went on to create a subtle smokey eye using the Dazzle Black Eye Decor and Lamik Eyeliner in Black. Up next was the universally flattering Contour Blush. I don't remember the exact shade she used, but I think it was I-20. Finally, the coup de grâce was my red lips!! To create the bold look, Shalawn used the Really Red Lipstick, which alone has a matte finish, coupled with the Cajun Red Healthy Lip Gloss which gave it shimmery shine. 

My Lamik Look

When I finally took a peek at myself, I was completely blown away. I looked effortlessly chic and not overly made up. My beauty truly was revealed and I instantly remembered why I fell in love with Lamik Cosmetics. To reveal your inner beauty, visit www.lamik-beauty.com. 

"Make the world your personal runway!"

xoxo-

Parker S. 

Me & Shalawn

***Fashion Flash***

Treats for Troops

Last week a very dear friend reached out to me for help. Now, if you knew Alex, you would understand that asking for help is not in his repertoire. He is very focused and driven and usually is able to accomplish things on his own with very little help. Therefore when he told me what he needed, I couldn't help but get involved. Alex is currently serving our country overseas. He, like thousands of men and women, is risking his life so that we may enjoy the civil liberties that make our country so great.

With everything that's happening in the world, many of us have the luxury of waking up in a comfortable home, driving a car to work and being able to freely communicate without the risk of being killed for our beliefs. We are able to practice whatever religion we choose and dress the way we want. We have the right to make our own decisions,  because we live in the United States of America! 

Now I'm not going to go all political on you, but I am going to share with you what Alex wanted me to help him with. He wanted snacks for his troops! How simple is that? Things we take for granted like chips, candy, and kind words of encouragement are a commodity for our service men and women overseas. I was so moved by the stories he shared with me, that I decided to start a project called "Treats for Troops". 

From now through December 15th, I will be collecting non-perishable snacks (chips, cookies, crackers, hard candy, etc.), hand sanitizer, cards and letters to send to my friend Alex and his troops. My personal goal is to send 150 treat bags as well as additional goodies for those who are willing to give up their lives so that I may live freely. 

I know I'm not giving you guys a lot of time, but I'm sure you can help me reach my goal. If you would like to support me in this venture, please bring your donations to my "Haute for the Holidays" events on November 30th at Twelve 24 Boutique or December 14th at Sol Oasis Nail Salon. Also feel free to email me at: Everydayrunway365@gmail.com. Thank you in advance for you help and I know that we can reach our goal!

See you on the front row!

-Parker S.

#nuvonights

Recently I had the opportunity to take a trip with my BFF's. We ventured down to a fabulous mansion on the beach in Hilton Head, SC for the #bffglamgetaway. We had a amazing time lounging by the hot tub, taking strolls on the beach and taking over Tanger Outlet Mall. However, the highlight of the weekend for me was a little session we called Cocktails & Conversations sponsored by Sparkling Nuvo.

@soosootasty, @thegarnercircle, @virturousstyls, @ohnikka, @parkerplays247



Out and about in Hilton Head!


On this getaway, we were honored to have #PRGirl Nicole Garner of The Garner Circle Public Relations Firm, to travel with us. Nicole was also the guest speaker at our Cocktails & Conversations session. While we all changed into our pj's and gathered on the sofas, Nicole mixed up delicious Nuvo Peach Cobbler Sangria's! This delicious concoction was the perfect way to relax after a day of shopping and prepare us for the knowledge that she imparted upon us during her #PrettyPowerful session.

Each blogger in attendance had a rare opportunity to have their blog evaluated by Nicole and her personal feedback as to how we can attain our goals. She also debunked many myths as to what a PR firm is looking for in a bog/blogger and gave awesome tips on how to stand out from the masses. Her session really was #PrettyPowerful and we were all greatly enriched by her.

@beyondgevents #nuvonights, #cocktailsandconversations, (photos courtesy of Nikka Shae)

Girls Night In!!! @beyondgevents

After we finished our session, that's when the real fun began! We finished sipping our Nuvo Peach Cobbler Sangria's and cracked open the Nuvo Red Velvet Cake! From the smooth texture to a hint chocolaty sweetness, Nuvo Red Velvet Cake is a sumptuous treat in a bottle! We had such an amazing time enjoying our cocktails and having the ultimate girls night in!

Whenever you're looking for a great way to unwind either alone or with your girlfriends, make it a #NuvoNight! There's nothing better than having your cake and drinking it too!!!

xoxo-

Parker S.

#FORWARD

Okay guys, I promised you big news today. I know it's late in the evening but I still wanted to go ahead and make my announcement. A few weeks ago I entered the Brighton "Vote" design a charm bracelet contest. The rules stated you had to design a bracelet incorporating red, white & blue beads in support of your favorite presidential candidate.

 I chose Pres. Obama and the basis for my design was to incorporate his 2012 campaign slogan, "FORWARD". My bracelet design is simple and to the point like our President's ideals. By helping to strengthen the majority of Americans (the middle class), we will be able to push our country forward.  It seems like Brighton also agreed with me, because my bracelet was the winning Democratic bracelet design!! Because my bracelet was chosen, it will be featured on www.brighton.com and I also win a trip to President Obama's home state of Hawaii!!!

I am so excited and can't wait to embark on this wonderful journey. I am so honored that Brighton chose my design and I hope to be able to share more of my work with them in the future. For more information about Brighton and their charms, visit www.brighton.com. If you like to experience your baubles in real life, visit any of the Metro Atlanta Brighton stores! My store of choice is at Perimeter Mall. Stay tuned, I am planning an in store event with Danielle and her team.

I hope my early win of a trip to my  President's home state is a precursor to his win on Tuesday, November 6. If you have not voted please do so for President Barack Obama, the only person who will move our country FORWARD!!!