My favorite purchases of 2015

Posted on January 26, 2016 by Gigi in Shopping, Uncategorized 2 Comments

I don’t shop as much as I used to- It’s not as if I don’t like “stuff” but after a while it becomes a question of “do I really need that”? My lifestyle dictates a more relaxed look, when shooting I wear all black, I like dressing up on the weekends occasionally, of course I have my gym clothes and yes I still love shoes, but there is really not much else that I need. Maybe it is part of growing up or getting to a point where you love certain items and you don’t mine wearing the same thing over and over.

I was thinking about what were my favorite purchases of 2015 and here is what I came up with in no particular order…

1. Bernardaud Victoire china- This was my china pattern that I registered for when we got married. I never completed my set and now it is discontinued. So I have been finding pieces here and there on eBay and other antique online stores. I have almost completed my set-and yes I’m not waiting to use them.

Bernardaud Victoire

2. Paul Smith glasses- I confess I need reading glasses- either that or print is getting smaller and smaller! Since I have accepted this fact of life, I have graduated from the drug store reading glasses and I now pick out frames that I like and have them made with my prescription.

Paul Smith Glasses

3. Valentino Rock Stud Pumps- I love love love this shoe! I started to get black or nude, but I decided life is short… get pink instead- I have no regrets.

valentino rock stud pumps

4. Color corrector by Bobbi Brown- I love this product- it corrects those little blemishes, in my case discoloration that appeared out of nowhere in the last few years.

Bobbi Brown color corrector

5. Mui Mui cross body bag- this little colorful bag makes me happy. I love having my hands free, it is roomy and can hold quite a bit.

mui mui

6. Old fashioned champagne glasses, that I found on One Kings Lane. The gold motif looks like leopard print.

glasses

7. Cordless vacuum by dyson- I can’t say enough about this little gadget- I am able to stay on top of kitty hair with this powerful little tool.

vacuum

8. Tom Ford Tobacco Vanilla- I love this spicy scent for winter. My friend Molly gave me a bottle of this for my birthday, when she noticed I was using a little sample. Love my friends…

Tom Ford

9. Sergio Rossi Black sparkle pump- I wanted a classic timeless evening pump and I found one on sale no less!

Sergio Rossi pump

sergio rossi pump

10. Evening gown that I had made- I always buy off the rack, but this time I decided to have a gown made- Emiliano Moreno designed my gown and it was so nice to put something on that fit perfectly…

my gown

11. Cam-ranger -This gadget allows me to shoot and immediately upload to my computer so I can see the image right away. Really works well for self portraits.

camRanger

12. Sevi towel- I picked this towel up at a craft fair, and it is perfect for drying my hair without creating frizz- it is big enough that I can make a turban-after years of wearing my hair natural I have learned that each step is critical to the end result.

What were your favorite purchases this past year? Do you have any vices? Please share- so I know I’m not the only one…

Happy Tuesday,

Gigi

MECCA-Outlet Shopping in Florence

Posted on December 25, 2013 by Gigi in Italy, Shopping, Travel Comments Off

December 23rd Monday

Today our daughter Amani arrived, my son did not know she was coming, we kept it a secret. Initially she was not going to be able to join us and then everything worked out-so we were able to spend Christmas together.

After a late breakfast we ventured out to “Space” the Prada factory store, I love Prada and Mui Mui, so I was excited at the thought of going to “Mecca”.

Prada Outlet

So after about an hour or so of riding through the Tuscany hills, we reached our destination. The parking lot was full, and lots of shoppers mostly foreigners were leaving with large shopping bags, which got my heart rate up a bit at the thought of the anticipated “deals”. The “space” was the size of a small department store, everything was neat and organized and plenty of sales people dressed in black ready to help. Upon entering you were handed a number which I later learned was the number you gave the salesperson who took the items you wanted to purchase to the counter. Knowing that the dollar is not so strong ie. 100 euro equals 137. dollars, so that item that is 200 euros will set you back 274. dollars, kept me with my phone calculator in hand. The best buys were in the shoe department, they had a 100 euro section,in which most of the shoes were a few seasons behind.

prada outlet

(btw, sorry about the poor picture quality, but they did not allow pics, so I had to take these on the down low.)

I tried on a few shoes, but many of them were similar to shoes I already have–how many animal print shoes does one really need? They had a lot of pretty flats, but I have not worn any of the Prada flats I picked up a few years back, the rest were really “out” there even for me ie. odd shapes etc.. I stumbled upon this charcoal grey suede lace up bootie, which was finished with a glitter heel that I liked, and they were in the discount section.

Mui Mui bootie

Amani settled on a classic nude patent pump, that she was very happy with.

Amani’s shoes

Next on to the purses, everything started at 650 euros ie. 900. us, so for me that is still a nice piece of change, so I moved on from the bags. Now if a person had their heart set on a Prada bag this is a good price, since in the states the same bags start at 1400.

Prada outlet

Prada Outlet

I did pick up a Mui Mui wallet, to replace the one I got 3 years ago that was about 1/2 price.

Mui Mui wallet

Next stop was the Dolce and Gabbana factory outlet, now that was literally a drive-by, everything started at 1000 euros! I love D & G, but the few pieces I have, I lucked up on and got at a really good prices in the states.

D & G outlet

Our last stop was “The Mall“, this outlet is the Rodeo Drive of outlets, YSL, Valentino, Burberry, Prada, Gucci, and Dior just to name a few of the discount boutiques here. By now poor Amani was exhausted and opted to stay in the car and the Reggie-s and I went for it, I was OK browsing until I hit the Valentino store, I love the rock stud collection and was thrilled to find this pair in my size and 40% additional off the outlet price. Yes, its a few seasons back, but I loved it then and I really love it now especially for under 200..

Valentino Rock stud bootie

One thing about fashion, it is an universal language- once the salesperson noticed my fondness for the rock stud collection, she then showed me a animal print rock stud bag, that was also an additional 40% off–had to have it!

Valentino Bag

The other thing about these outlets they are not giving the goods away, and unlike at home where there is always a sale, these stores do major markdowns July and January. I also like that the merchandise is not shop worn, and it appears to be stuff from the actual collections, not something made for the outlets. So if you are “balling” in the designer goods lane, this is the place for you, and if your know your stuff there are deals to be had.

reggie getting his “shoe” on

After all the shopping I was happy to come back to the hotel and take a nice hot bath…

love my bathtub…

My days are all mixed up so I will post when I can…

Xoxo,

Gigi

RANDOM-NESS

Posted on November 6, 2013 by Gigi in Shopping, Web 2 Comments

Do you ever wonder why some people do the things they do? Especially when it is not something positive, or uplifting, almost as if they purpose to make life difficult and go out of their way to be hurtful to others. I find this phenomenon prevalent in groups of women, perhaps it is the hormones mixing together that creates an atmosphere of animosity. At my age my patience is not like it used to be, maybe because I know the value of living each day to the fullest and that there is so much in this world that I want to conquer that I don’t have time for craziness. I listen and I observe and wonder what is going on with that pour soul that they are exuding so much anger. I just want to take all of them and throw them in a hot yoga class, so they can sweat together and see that we really are so much alike, when you take away the barriers and melt down the layers and become vulnerable and reveal our hearts to each other.

O.K. enough of that…some fun stuff I discovered …

Holla Doormat

Is this not cute…Available at Nordstrom for 50.00

Every year I send out holiday cards, this year will be my 24th. I am always looking for a new card, the last few years I have been ordering from minted, and since they send me a repeat customer discount card I think I will be ordering from them again. They have interesting designs, good turn around and excellent service. I will be referring clients to them this season as well.

minted foil holiday cards

I do yoga in spurts, I need to be more consistant, but sometimes stuff happens, but I’m back on the wagon and I just splurged and ordered a new mat, how could I resist…

Love these

Available at anthropologie. 98.00

Speaking of anthropologie, I got the cutest “work” boot ever, when I am shooting I need to be comfortable, especially if I am out on location, I’m not the tennis shoe outside the gym type of girl, so when I found this boot online I was thrilled. It reminded me of one I liked by Valentino that was over the top–so this rustic version is perfect and was priced just right compared to the Valentino.

my boots 195.00

Valentino 1795.00

My other good bargain of the week a friend told me about the Trina Turk outlet in Alhambra–never new about this gem. I scored beautiful silk slips for my photo sessions for 10.00 each, I love the softness of sexy slips in my pics, everyone can wear these and they photograph so nicely. I also scored a beautiful Missoni inspired dress that I love for 80.00. Trina Turk Outlet 3025 West Mission Road Alhambra, 91803 626 872-0020 Trina Turk.

my slips…

pretty missoni “like” dress 80.00

And lastly a sort of sad story about the oldest woman to do the NY marathon, who died the next day with her tennis shoes still on…she was 84 years old, and said she wanted to die running…another example of do what makes you happy. read it here.

gigi

Happy Wednesday Everybody,

Xoxo,

Gigi

Black Friday

Posted on November 23, 2012 by Gigi in Shopping 1 Comment

Black Friday

Once upon a time I used to brave the sales day after Thanksgiving, it was a tradition. This was before there were sales every other day, before there were outlets, and the day after sales really made sense. Now Black Friday is a day for me to enjoy being at home with my family without the intensity of the large Thanksgiving celebration. If you are braving the crowds for that special deal, I hope you find what you are looking for, but come back home and do something more low key.

Have a gratitude filled weekend.

Xoxo,

Gigi

TJ Maxx Finds

Posted on November 6, 2012 by Gigi in Shopping 9 Comments

English: Logo of TJ Maxx (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I am always looking for a bargain. TJ Maxx is one of my favorite places to hunt, I always go with an open mind and meander through the store and see what I stumble upon. Today was no different let me share with you some of my discoveries.

Cute Flats for 19.99

I’m a “heel” girl, but sometimes you need a flat to walk around in, these were so cute and reasonable and for the price very cute and similar to than more expensive department store counterparts, like this one from Neiman Marcus by Prada for $470.00.

Prada glitter slipper $470.00

I have always wanted a pair of vibrams, just had not picked a pair up as of yet, but I was surprised to find these there and they fit. In the store they cost about 90.00 these were 39.99. Score!

I have always wanted a pair of these.

Glitter Laptop Bag

I love this glitter laptop bag by Nine West so cute for only 19.99

Laptop Bag

Love this one too…animals are on everything. This one is 19.99.

Wicker Stool 44.00

This was on clearance for 44.00 it will make a nice extra seat in my son’s room and I will also pull it out for an extra outdoor seat when needed.

Garden Stool 39.99

You can never have to many of these, I use them everywhere. This is a good price most are over 100.00.

Cute dress 24.99

This is a cute dress that I would do as a top over leggings with a short leather jacket, or it could work as a holiday dress for a 13-14 year-old.

Lace Dress 24.99

This one is cute too.

dress/top

Would pair this one with leggings too or with a nice strappy sandal.

Black sequin shorts 16.99

I got these for my daughter, I love the look paired with tights and boots.

Green Dessert Stand 12.99

Perfect green that would work for all the upcoming holidays.

dessert Dishes 5.99

I love the concept of small plates, I can think of so many uses for these.

Boot Stands 9.99

This is my favorite purchase Boot Standz- How clever is that? No more falling boots.

Hamper 19.99

I am going to use this for my dry cleaning–so cute.

This is a much needed magazine rack…I have so many and am always looking for a neat way to display them. 19.99

Juicy Couture Tote Bag 79.99

Tote bag can never have to many they always have a nice selection of travel bags and luggage.

Hot yoga towel mat

These are so expensive at the studio around 50.00 this one is 19.99.

Work out Wallet 5.99

Love this…always need somewhere to put keys when on a run.

Leather Jacket 49.99

Leather jacket with distressed finish.

Pleather Jacket 34.99

White jacket 34.99

Gigi in a white pearl finish jacket 34.99 keeper–I will wear this with my white jeans and booties…Love this. Sorry about the blurry pics not supposed to be taking pictures in the store. So take a cruise down to your local TJ Maxx and let me know what you find.

Xoxo,

Gigi

Buttons & Bows- Vintage DTLA

Posted on June 28, 2012 by Gigi in Shopping Comments Off

Back in the day, I did most of my shopping DTLA in the garment district. I remember walking up and down Los Angeles Street with my mom and sisters, always ending the day at Clifton’s cafeteria. This was before the “alley”, Staples Center, and LA Live. So when I read about Buttons & Bows a luxury resale consignment boutique owned by Monique Dillion Delacroix and Karen Marley (daughter of reggae legend Bob Marley) I figured it was time to revisit and see what was going on in my old stomping ground.

Buttons & Bows

Buttons & Bows-carries an eclectic collection of designer pieces, fabulous jewelry, and shoes. My friend Denise was my compadre for the day. We started flipping through the dresses, when I found a cute flirty Dolce dress that unfortunately was not my size, I passed it to Denise and she graciously accepted and skipped to the dressing room. I then came across a sheer ombre blue and brown Betsey Johnson dress that got my attention.

Gigi & Betsey Johnson Dress

Denise & Dolce

Buttons & Bows has an amazing selection of jewelry, really interesting and unusual pieces.

Devon Leigh Necklace

I fell in love with this piece, Devon Leigh is carried in Neiman’s and I got this one for a fraction of what it would have been there. I can’t wait to wear it, the colors are so beautiful, it’s kind of hard to see in this photo, but trust me it is gorgeous.

Devon Leigh Earrings

Earrings

Monique and Leah were so helpful, they gave us suggestions on where to eat and other boutiques in the area. Downtown will definitely be a regular stop, the price points are really good and since I am always trying to make room for the “new” Buttons & Bows will be an option for consignment as well.

Leah & Monique

Buttons & Bows

111 West 7th Street #R11

Los Angeles

213 622 0648

www.buttonsandbowsla.com

Monday-Saturday 11-6

Stop by Buttons & Bows and tell the ladies, Gigi sent you…

xoxo,

Gigi

Style Blog Turns Into Downtown LA’s First Service-Centered Resale Boutique for Vintage & Designer Fashion

Mr. Porter- Father’s Day

Posted on June 12, 2012 by Gigi in Shopping Comments Off

Love these illustrations…Nice gifts for the Dads on your list…

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MECCA-Outlet Shopping in Florence

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