Happy Holidays

From my family to all of yours....Happy Holidays. Wishing you all the very best of the New Year!! See you on Monday -- hopefully we will all find fashionable gifts under the tree!

40% Off

Guess what girls? iniam is marking down this season's holiday best at 40% off! For those of you that are still figuring out what to wear for Christmas Dinner or for New Year's Eve, iniam has beautiful pieces to choose from! Starting today, let iniam spread some holiday cheer by offering you a 40% discount on the pieces you have been coveting! It's never too late to be the belle of the ball. The sale is on till it's all gone...

I Want

There isn't much to say except that I LOVE this Camilla and March hart linen and silk-blended jacket. Ok, I have to say one more thing. The jacket would look killer with a pair of gray jeans and a simple white t-shirt. As for what shoes to wear, it doesn't matter. Everyone will be looking at your jacket!

Don't know about you, but I'm gettin' ready for spring...

Dress

I think it's safe to say that we all have a closet full of dresses in a variety of colors, fabrics and shapes to fit our mood and occasion. Sure we can can pull together a marvelous look for a friday night out with the girls or husband/boyfriend (I've convinced my poor husband that baggy pajamas are hot on the runway for spring '10). But how many of you have the "IT" dress for a New Year's or holiday ball, a charity event, a wedding (as a bride or guest), or damn it you just want to show up at your class reunion cocktail wearing something that will leave both your ex-boyfriend (not that you care) and those jealous (ex) cheerleaders wondering how the heck you look so good. Now here is the thing, you need a gown or a fabulous cocktail dress but not the ridiculous price tag that accompanies a knock out piece by Carolina Herrera or Marchesa.

Well ladies, I have the answer. College Ave is the new home to JaiHonna German owner of a gorgeous new boutique, Dress, that rents gowns and cocktail wear that will have you feeling as if you are walking down the runway. I want the impact of a Giambattista Valli (yup, Dress has it) but at a fraction of the price. Ummmm, and did I mention that the rental price includes the cost of the dry cleaning?

Ok, here is the kicker....twice a year, JiaHonna puts together a blowout sample sale so you can buy that piece you wore and fell in love with.

There are some things in a woman's wardrobe we just have to own. Show pieces that you couldn't imagine living without! But next time you attend the Black and White Ball or the Red Cross Charity Event, you can look like a million bucks without spending it!

Little Goodies

I have a variety of holiday parties to attend over the next few weeks, and I'm not one to show up empty handed. Of course flowers, wine/champagne are always a nice gesture but with the holiday season, it only seems appropriate to "gift" something. We all work with or for people we want to share our appreciation with. Whether it be your your kid's teachers, the nanny, your husband's boss, or even the neighbor who gives you baking soda for the cookies you promised your son you would make (from scratch) -- true story, you need something a little more personal than a Starbucks gift certificate.

The point is there are a plethora of people you want to buy a holiday gift for and you want that something to be meaningful and budget conscious. And let's face it, the Chia Pet and the Snuggie Blanket are just not cool -- it doesn't matter how many times you've seen the commercials!

iniam has a handful of easy and inexpensive gifts you can grab while finding something a little more tailor fit for yourself. While picking up a dress for New Year's Eve and you also grab a pashmina, candles, diffusers, jewelry, beautiful hair accessories, luxurious soaps or even better a gift certificate in any amount you choose. At the end of your shopping excursion, you and the gift you are giving will BOTH make Santa proud!

Day Off

Taking the day off...I need a long weekend. See ya'll on monday!

What's New

Resort wear is starting to trickle into iniam. I typically only buy a small mix of of resort goodies, but it's the season for cruises and travel to seductive beaches so we've put together a nice assortment for the traveling gal. I wish I was somewhere down south sipping cocktails from a pineapple with a little umbrella and a maraschino cherry. Alas, I am here for the holidays and the only cruising I'll be doing is down college avenue to check out sales and events in the neighborhood.

Nevertheless, we have just received our first shipment by Sachin and Babi, also know for there bodacious and jaw dropping home collection, Ankasa. Ankasa is the offspring of husband and wife team, Mr. and Mrs Ahluwalia (Sachin and Babi), who recently launched a fantastic clothing and accessory line that has the same beauty and execution they are know for in their home collection. I am a sucker for the bedding!!

I may not be traveling this season, but there are beaches and pineapple drinks some time in my not so distant future (I hope). I have to keep my resort drawer stocked!

Tuesday Tip

With my increasingly fussy skin, I am constatnly on the prowl for miracle lotions and potions. My skin just isn't as resilient as it once was. I'm definitely showing signs of aging but I refuse to "nip/tuck," and I'll leave the botox treatments for the housewives of the OC. I will however sign up for creams and elixirs that defy aging and ward off wrinkles.

Have you heard of argan oil? Argan oil is "made from the nuts of the argan tree, which grows almost exclusively in Morocco, the oil is said to have restorative and age-defying effects. It is high in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, it is believed to help all sorts of skin conditions: dry skin, acne, psoriasis, eczema, wrinkles." The oil is said have phytosterols, which are great for scar tissue and have a sort of magical effect on the hard-to-define problem of lackluster skin.

I'm not sure what the true effects of the oil will be but I am eager to give it a try.

Old is Gold

Yesterday was the 1st sunday of the month. For many of you, the 1st sunday of the month is no different than the 2nd, 3rd or 4th. For me it's a day that usually involves finding unique treasures at the Alameda Antique Fair. I've mentioned the fair before -- the more sundays I attend, the more things I buy, the more I realize what an amazing opportunity it is to find nuggets of history that have modern day appeal. Of course you have to have an appreciation for antiques or things that look antique, but there is something there for everyone.




It's easy to hop on online or to step into a department store to pick up clothing and accessories, but it's equally as easy, and at times far less expensive, to stumble on statement pieces that can add volumes to your wardrobe. Yesterday's excursion at the fair was undoubtedly my most favorite. I found little must have gems at almost every booth. What I fell in love with the most was my 1940's clutch -- it's in pristine condition and is equipped with a powder compact and lipstick case. I found equally beautiful earrings, brooches and necklaces that would add the perfect finishing touch to a holiday dress or skinny jeans and a tunic.

Yes, one man's junk is another man's treasure but trust me...there are more treasures than junk. You have to be patient and able to enjoy the rush of stuffing your mouth with kettle korn while bargaining down the price of a 100 year old frame from $75 to $60 (yes, I bought the frame and it's GORGEOUS).

My home and my closet have both been the benefactors of my antique fair escapades....yours could be too!

Tomorrow One Day 30% Off Sale

It's THE season to shop. Let iniam treat you to a ONE Day, 30% OFF shopping extravaganza! Find the perfect outfit for your holiday party or simply treat yourself or your loved ones to something unforgettable. iniam is stocked with New Year's dresses, jewels, clutches and a full assortment of sweaters and outerwear. Why wait till the last minute. Come in and take home the best of fall and holiday. With a 30% off, you just can't go wrong!

Remember the sale is ONE day only on December 5th from 11 am to 6pm. You don't want to miss it!

Shuella

We're heading into rain season -- planning my wardrobe around the latest meteorologist report is not the way I like to do things. Rain, whether expected or unexpected, can put a damper on a fashionistas' style . It's one thing to get your clothes wet, but your shoes -- that's just unacceptable. Lucky for us, Shuella, the "shoe umbrella," allows you to wear what you want, when you want, irrespective of what the forecast says. Shuella is durable and convenient and can be carried in your purse or briefcase. There a cinch to put on, and the slip free sole make them strong enough to walk in.

Shuella’s come in sizes just like your shoes and can be worn over any size heel. Strappy sandals, peep toe heels, suede flats...bring on the rain.

Now if I could just find a product like that for my hair. The search continues...

On My List

I can't believe that Thanksgiving is already over and we are staring Christmas right in the face. If I didn't cook and eat the turkey myself, I may have missed Thanksgiving all together. I feel like we were getting ready for Christmas right after Halloween. We're all hoping for great holiday sales, but I never thought playing Jingle Bells in October was the way to inspire people to shop.

In any case, it is THE shopping season (not that I need a season or an occasion), but it does help when I have to explain the credit card bills to my accountant, ahem, my husband. I love a good gift just like the next gal, so I've started my wish list in case "Santa" decides to come down the chimney.

The first two things on my list are both by Phillip Lim. It's been a while since I've bought anything by PL but oh boy, that's about to change. I almost fell out of my chair when I saw this peacoat leather beauty. The detachable hem gives the jacket so much versatility. I have several pieces of Phillip Lim outerwear...by far they are my most favorite. The fit and style are impeccable.

The Phillip Lim lovefest does not stop here. Take a peak at this beautiful sequined silk-chiffon top. The navy chiffon is adorned with gold, silver and bronze sequins giving an urban chic twist on evening wear. Cinch in the black grosgrain belt and layer it over draped pants -- it's a great alternative for cocktail attire.

The holidays are here. Whether you are making a list, buying off a list or just treating yourself, both of these beauties are winners.

Happy Thanksgiving

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and I am thankful for many things this year -- one of which is Whole Foods. I'm cooking for my brood which consists of my husband, kids, and brother-in-law. With the help of good ole Whole Foods, dinner will be more about gin and tonics and dessert than it will be about slaving over a hot stove. Yes, I will do "some" cooking but I'm looking forward to quality cuddle time with my family, a little pecan pie (they don't make 'em here like they do in Texas) and some tivo.

Some time during my kids afternoon naps, I'll be sipping my cocktail and conjuring up outfits to go with my newly purchased Boutique 9 Oxford flats. I've been coveting this style for some time now but hadn't found a pair I loved till I saw this distressed, crackled metallic leather version. My first ensemble includes a Trina Turk jumpsuit and an oversized sweater -- all of which I am also thankful for.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you! Wishing you all a tasty, cozy and loving few days with your families. See you again on Monday.

Tuesday Tip

There are plenty of winter days where gloves are appropriate in the Bay Area. In fact, I will be sporting some over the elbow leather gloves tomorrow night for an evening out with my husband. Gloves are a great accessory for both warmth or fashion. But let's face it -- they aren't iphone or ipod friendly. It wasn't always easy to get your cashmere or wool wrapped little fingers to click the letters or song of your choice, until now.

Echo Touch gloves are cashmere/wool blend gloves that have electromagnetic fabric fingertips that let you type while keeping your fingers warm and toasty.

At $30 a pair, I guess my iphone friends just found out what they are getting for Christmas.

In Houston

Well, I meant to tell you all that I was back home in Texas meeting my, soon to be, brother's fiance. It was a lovely weekend at home. I took the day off friday and well seeing as I just got home, I'm off tomorrow, too.

Please check in on tuesday for new fashionable tidbits!

Jewels By Branjelina?

I've never been a big fan Angelina Jolie. Undoubtedly she's gorgeous and yeah she wants to save the world, but I'm more "team jenn". As for Brad Pitt, I guess he's hunky but I'd take Matthew McConaughey over him any day. Still there is no denying that Brangelina is a power couple with big things on their horizon. One of those things is their new venture in high-end jewelry design with Asprey via a capsule collection of gold jewelry and silver accessories called The Protector — and inspired by the snake. It's a shame that the collection won't have any striking green emeralds similar to what she wore to the Oscars.

The limited edition collection, which was conceived and designed by Pitt and Jolie, has been in the works for more than a year, and will go on sale at Asprey stores in London, New York, Beverly Hills, Tokyo and Dubai later this week, according to Asprey officials.

Prices start at $525 for a silver baby spoon with a curving, serpent-shaped handle, and all net proceeds from sales will go to Education Partnership for Children of Conflict, which was cofounded by Jolie in 2006. The charity raises awareness and funds to educate child victims of war, conflict and natural disasters.

Ummm, what the heck is with the serpent theme? When she was pregnant with their daughter Shiloh, Jolie was given a ring, in the shape of a snake. Since then she’s considered the reptile a talisman and protector of her family.

I wonder if they are doing a "high-end" version of a necklace with a blood filled vile on it?

The "L" Word

The other night it was a marathon round of tv. I'm embarrassed to admit that I watched Oprah (tivo is my best friend) plus Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice. I was able to fast forward through some of the commercials but watched Private Practice, live. I sat on my living room couch, glued to the tv. I justified watching hours of tantalizing fictional story lines as if it were remotely equivalent to reading a book. Normally I flip channels to avoid commercials but suddenly I found myself paying attention. It was a commercial for an "L" plan. And by "L," I don't mean Louboutin or Lacroix. I mean layaway or partial payment as I like to refer to it. At that one moment I realized what an ingenious plan layaway is. For years now layaway has gotten a bad rap. But truth be told, it's a great idea. Especially when it comes to designer goods.

We all know that I fall in love all the time. Though some of my obsessions must be bought as quickly as they are discovered, there are numerous items I could patiently wait for. For example, if I were to break up payments (over a 3 month period) for my beloved Chanel flats...well, let's just say I would do it! PLUS, I would avoid incurring large credit cards bills or having to take all the financial responsibility at once.

Oh, and if you want a handbag but you don't want your husband to know about it, well then perhaps a partial payment plan is the best way to keep those big purchases under the radar. A credit card charge of $1000 requires a lot more explaining than a few $300ish payments per month. Of course they aren't offering this plan at Neiman's or Barney's, though if they did, I would be all over it.

So if you are looking for a creative buying solution or you want to keep your credit cards bills manageable, a partial payment plan is a great option when making a hefty purchase! For now, iniam is figuring out how to offer this service. Stay tuned...

iniam, ila and i, and Kathleen van der Spek Trunskshow

Iniam is joyfully excited to welcome Houston based designer Ila, of ila and i jewels, to share her "naturally elegant" jewelry with all of you. Be ready to adorn yourself in diamonds set in yellow, white or rose gold. But that's not all! iniam will also bring a luxurious collection of apparel and accessories by San Francisco based designer Kathleen van der Spek.

On Sunday November 15th, enjoy 20% OFF on ila and i jewelry, Kathleen van der Spek designs and all regular prices merchandise at iniam!

It's going to be an afternoon you don't want to miss!

Holiday Must Haves

On my day off yesterday, I popped into iniam to drop off a few things. As I arrived, my jaw dropped as I saw the fantastic collections that had just been unpacked. Little by little, amongst all the sweaters and stylish daily wear, we have been receiving bits and pieces of holiday must haves. But yesterday, there was an eruption of beautiful holiday pieces that every girl would want in her wardrobe. Velvet pants and beaded pearl sweater by Milly and a stunning wire wrapped bead dress by Haute Hippie -- both are nothing less than a fashionista's dream. But wait! There is so much more...a chanel inspired cardigan set in a soft grey color palette and chic blouses sure to be the conversation piece at any hoiday party. Oh, AND you don't want to miss the gorgeous new hair accessories. The peacock feathered headbands are my favorite!

It's like Christmas in November...I'm so excited I am shopping I mean working today!

Tuesday Tips

I'm always dragging my feet when getting out of bed in the morning. I'd do just about anything for five more minutes of uninterrupted sleep. Sometimes looking awake supersedes feeling awake.

There are some trends we love because they make us look chic and then there are those trends that do even more than just making us look hip and fashionable. One of these trends is purple and blue mascara. I know violet lashes have a certain retro-'80s feel, "but the blue pigments go a step further, reflecting the whites in your eyes and making you look brighter, bolder, instantly more AWAKE."

I love the gorgeous, sophisticated violet of both Heidi Klum's Extra-Lengthening Mascara from her Exotic Jewels Collection for Victoria’s Secret, and Estée Lauder’s Limited Edition Sumptuous Color Bold Volume Lifting Mascara in Amethyst!

So here's the plan. Tomorrow I'll sleep five extra minutes, skip brushing my teeth and use the time I save to apply violet mascara. I'll look bright eyed and bushy tailed as I'm searching for some breath mints!

Day Off.

taking the day off...tune in tomorrow!

My New Favorite T

I love James Perse tshirts -- all of them. The fabric, fit, and overall life span of these tshirts is nothing less than amazing. I feel a "but" coming on.

BUT, I've also fallen in love with another tshirt. I can't fully vouch for the quality, though so far so good, but the the fit is well....forgiving. The JCrew boyfriend tissue tee is my new BFF. It's long, a little loose and has a great neckline. The tshirt had me at "a little loose". It's great as a stand alone tee or equally as great when layered with a blazer or cardigan.

I haven't had as much luck with other JCrew tshirts, but this one is a keeper.

6 pairs of Shoes

I'm on the hunt for shoes again. My wardrobe could stand to have a few more flats so why do I keep gravitating towards OTK boots? I've always liked them, I just couldn't get myself into a pair, but now I am becoming freakishly obsessed. My Dolce Vita booties arrive tomorrow (I can't wait) and then I'll be on the hunt for some OTK boots. Since I'm off this week-end, I might pop into the city and spend a little time "investigating".

Whether or not over the knee boots or booties are your cup of tea, there are six types of shoes every women needs. I am by no means advocating that any woman should limit themselves to six pairs of shoes. I come from the "more is more" mind set -- at least where shoes are concerned. Having said that, the following are six shoe styles crucial in completing a woman's wardrobe:

1. Two inch kitten heel or wedge
2. Flat
3. Dressy/sexy high heel
4. Kicks -- a pair of sneakers that are fun (keep your Nike's for the gym)
5. Boots
6. All Weather Boots (rain boots)

I'm sipping on my cocktail (who cares if it's a tuesday night) and I'm shopping for shoes. I need a pair or all weather boots. Why the heck do I have a pair of heels in my shopping cart?

Move over Gilt and Rue La La -- you've got some new competition! There is a new sample sale site on it's way: Swirl, Sample Sales by Daily Candy.

The most noteworthy difference is that all the items featured on Swirl will be hand picked by by Daily Candy's editors and overseen by newly named Creative Director, Eve Epstein, who was until now editor in chief over all the Daily Candy properties.

Membership is exclusive to DailyCandy subscribers for the beta launch. So if you’re not currently a DailyCandy subscriber, sign you up to receive the DailyCandy “Everywhere Edition” when you sign up for Swirl.

The site is beta and will soft launch on November 16th. It's first come, first serve to sign up -- the full launch will come in some time in January.

Friday Favorite

Here's a look at my latest obsession. I'm in love with Lulu Frost, a line that includes beautiful, memorable, statement necklaces in addition to many, many other jaw dropping beauties. Lisa Salzer, the 26-year old mastermind behind these one of a kind pieces, combines antiques "including long-lost room numbers from the legendary Plaza Hotel, cut steel shoes buckles from the 1860's, forgotten keys, chandelier crystal, watch fobs, rare Victorian charms and other resurrected finds" which she combines with unexpected modern elements to create art that transcends time and trends.

I could go on but really the necklace says it all.

Only Hearts

Good or bad, I wear my husband's pjs to bed. I feel like I can hear some of you shriek as you are reading this -- it's the truth. His PJs are VERY comfortable, but let's just say they are anything but fashionable. Though I am always on the search for stylish and cozy sleepwear, for one reason or the other I keep coming back to my tried and true...until now.

iniam has started carrying a small group of foundation wear that includes a variety of body shappers and products to help conceal, lift, and smooth your body. It's been a great addition to our clothing and accessories. What I was really hoping to do was also include some sleepwear and a smidgen of of lingerie without worrying about the 34-A, 34-B, 34-C. Next month we will receive the first of several shipments of beautiful and sexy sleepwear by Only Hearts. The fabrics are fantastic and the variety is equally as exciting. We are bringing in sexy negligees and beautiful nightgowns. Best of all, we are getting in pjs that would make any woman FEEL as lovely as she looked!

My husband is in for a treat. Buh-bye fuddy duddy, hello hot mama!

Tuesday Tips

iniam recently received some fabulous new belts. We've got everything from skinny patent belts to studded waist belts that really glam up an outfit. I love accent belts but I hate it when the belt is too long. I have an easy and inexpensive fix. Try Zots by Therm O Web (125 zots for $3.59). They're clear adhesive dots intended for scrapbooking but are now also being used by stylists to keep belts from flopping around. Simply stick a zot on the underside of the floppy part of your belt and then press down to stay in place.

It was a good weekend. I enjoyed some wonderful family time and I also met with some college friends who I have not seen in at least (ahem)....10 years. Normally I would say time with friends and family would equal a great week-end, but Sunday ended with a messy house and two sore backs. We are getting the house painted tomorrow which means that my husband recruited me to join team "manual labor". It seems like my home is an on going project. First the bathroom, now paint, then some reupholstering and then possibly a kitchen remodel. I spent the better part of sunday trying to calm my screaming kids in between lifting the flat screen and pulling down wall art.

The highlight was crawling in bed with my laptop and shopping the net. I like to find and add things to my various wish lists so that if anyone, say my husband, wants to treat me for all my hardwork, say manual labor...then he'll know the right way to let me know I am appreciated. Of course there is so much to choose from! What I really want right now is a coat -- a camel colored coat at that. If it boiled down to one statement piece that I had to have, that would be the one. It's timeless, classy and coordinates with any silhouette in your closet. These days your coat can be your outfit so I feel it's justifiable to spend a little for the perfect one. The only problem is, I am coveting more than one -- decisions, decisions.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Michael Kors Coat
Milly Ruffled Darling Coat
JCrew Cashemere Station Coat
Burberry Prorsum Pleated Skirt Trenchcoat
Derek Lam Casheme Blended Cape


Ok this Burberry beauty is not camel colored but COME ON...yup, it's on the wishlist.

Honey, hope you are paying attention?

Booties Aren't Just for Babies

I really love booties. I don't own a pair. But I want a pair and I actually have clothing that will show them off! My hesitation thus far has been the heel height. The ones I love are quite high and so I find myself gravitating to yet another pair of flats. I keep thinking I can pull off hours standing on skinny little heels, but who am I kidding? Ok, so maybe I can't wear them all day but I can wear them to dinner with my husband or girls night out?

I did find a fun pair of Pedro Garcia booties that seem to have a thicker heel and perhaps might offer some more support. I am the queen of internet shopping so I haven't tried them on yet but they "look" promising and they are available in my size.

On the not so comfortable side and perhaps a style that makes no sense, I find myself yearning for booties with a peep toe. I realize that a peep toe goes against the very purpose of a boot, but mentally I have categorized peep toe booties in a "heel/pump" group-- I have no qualms with the style. In fact, I have gone as far as falling in love with a few pairs. In the end, it's the heel height that gets me.

Booties are a great compliment to a pair of leggings, skinny pants or even a dress and a pair of textured tights -- all of which I have in my wardrobe. I guess the only question now is: How many booties do I need?

I love fall!

My Favorite Outfit

As you know, I'm always on the quest for a great casual outfit -- something that can go from day to night, doesn't require ironing or prep time, and looks great with flats or heels. Of course I'm not about to share anything life changing - the following are all pieces you've seen over and over.

My go to out fit includes the AG premiere -- a skinny straight jean with an 8 inch rise jean that is great for a little belly support, a solid color tshirt or blouse of your choice and for the finishing touch, a long boyfriend blazer. I've tried on several jackets. Most jackets I looked at were going to cost me $500 or more. There are some beautiful options out there. Silk, cotton, wool, dressy, casual...all of them great and open for your personal interpretation. I love JCrew's version. It fits beautifully and is priced at $215. Not bad if you ask me.

First and foremost, the look is slimming. Cuff your jeans, throw on some flats and you are ready to tackle the day. Or...add heels and your ready for dinner with the girls or the date of your choice.

If you really want to make the look shine, add a long layered necklace --mixed metal chains intertwined with a little bling is the way to go. Even mixed pearls will add some va va voom. Add a cocktail ring and a clutch and you'll leave them wondering what you will be wearing tomorrow.

Ewwww

It's bad enough that flu season is approaching and we are worrying about someone breathing or sneezing on us for fear of ending up sick. Who would have thought that your purse may make you sick? Check out this article from Good Morning America....ewwwww!

On the bright side, iniam has purse hangers that you can attach to your table so that your handbag never touches the ground again.