Put this one in the "She's so cute! category

Just received a nice email from Ali Whitt at another great Birmingham fashion blog and we all just LOVED her style. Do me a favor and check out her cute outfit for today. She's rocking some vintage Ralph Lauren pants and an adorable thrift store shirt. And from her mom's closet! Way to go mom! http://felinesandfabric.blogspot.com/ She's on Facebook also if you want to keep up with her cute looks. http://www.facebook.com/felinesandfabric

Guess who's headed to NYC & the Chanel corporate office?

Guess who's headed to NYC & the Chanel corporate office? Ok, not me. I only wish it was me. But one fashionable lady from our fair city will soon be winging her way to the Big Apple and we're delighted to announce who & why.

"Hala Valekis, Chanel Counter Manager at Belk Summit in Birmingham, was recently recognized as the 2011 Chanel Department Store Counter Manager of the Year for the Mid-Atlantic region!  She is one of only 16 Chanel Counter Managers from both Department and Specialty store divisions to receive this recognition.  What is even more exciting is that from among the 16 recipients of this coveted award, Hala has been selected from 735 of her peers to join the prestigious Elite Eight Counter Managers of the Year!

Valekis was elected to the Elite Eight due to her passion for the Chanel brand, excellence in her goal attainment, clienteling and communication skills.  “Hala possesses superior service and sales skills,” said Becky Blair, DMC, “She exemplifies what a Belk Cosmetic associate should be.”  Valekis also stood out for her leadership, team development and overall drive for success.  Valekis has executed all Chanel events “with precision and with results through an extensive clientele list,” said Susan Held, Belk Summit Store Manager, “She has developed a team which has the same drive.”

Hala will be recognized for her accomplishment with a trip to New York City May 15-17 to visit the Chanel corporate offices, a beautiful pair of Chanel earrings, membership into a Chanel Field Advisory Committee and the acclaim of being one of Chanel’s Elite Counter Managers."

Congratulations to Hala from everyone here at the Birmingham Fashion Blog.

Also wanted to mention that Jennifer Puckett, the Bobbie Brown counter manager at Belk Riverchase Galleria has been named one of the top 100 make-up artist in the US by the esteemed Elle Magazine.

Congratulations to Jennifer also!

It's a party at the beach and you're invited! New Pandora opening in Destin

Since so many friends visit the sugar white beaches at Destin every year, I thought I'd mention this great fashion event happening in Destin at one of the BEST fashion shopping places EVER, Destin Commons.

Destin’s Sands Sparkle Even Brighter with PANDORA Store at Destin Commons

New store to bring commerce, heightened fashion upon May 3^rd grand opening

DESTIN, Fla. –April 24, 2012—Destin area jewelry lovers will line up as a new PANDORA store arrives in Destin Commons (Center Plaza) hold its grand opening event on May 3, from 4 to 9 p.m. The 1,115 square-foot lifestyle store has already opening its doors just in time for the summer-season, showcasing the newest designs and collections from PANDORA.

This grand opening has significant meaning for the Destin area, as it will bring new commerce and a heightened sense of style and fashion to the community. The new, sleek environment of the Scandinavian-influenced store creates the ultimate shopping experience for PANDORA enthusiasts as well as those who are new to the brand. Patrons will be able to view the latest PANDORA designs and collections in a store layout that is both welcoming and enjoyable to explore.

 “PANDORA continues to grow in popularity within our community and globally,” said Tonya Flores, store manager of PANDORA at Destin Commons. “We are thrilled to showcase PANDORA’s hand-finished jewelry with all of its latest collections in one beautifully designed store.”

The May 3 grand opening event is open to the public and will introduce shoppers to the PANDORA experience, as guests enjoy hors d’ouvres and refreshments and entertainment. Event attendees will have a chance to win a specially designed PANDORA bracelet.

Give them a call! 650-2090

So much fun reading the ArtBelles today

If you've been reading here for very long you know that not only do we write about fashion, but we also write about people who write about fashion. And that's the fun part of the job! (Not that we get paid for this, but still...)

Today we greatly enjoyed the adventures of two darling ArtBelles, Shermika and Tamika Dunner as they accepted a challenge from Simply Fashion: What spring fashion shopping can you do with $50?

You'll want to read their blog post to find out what they achieved. (Click here.) And as for me, I'm looking for the nearest Simply Fashion!

Check out Katie Frost at Hems for Her & Erica Bunker at DIY style

Loving fashion as we do, it's EASY to love these two fashion bloggers: Katie Frost and Erica Bunker. Katie's a teacher in a nearby high school and Erika's a fashion forward seamstress who actually makes the fierce fashion looks you'll see at her blog.

And in both bloggers recent posts, they really hit it out of the park!

Hem's for Her: Santa Baby

Erica Bunker DIY: Review: New Look 6003 | Red Peplum Skirt!

Fashion Secrets of the South A Southern Designer Spring Fashion, Accessories & Home Décor Trunk Show

You MUST read this article by Birmingham's TOP fashion writer the Birmingham News' own,  CHANDA TEMPLE. 


"On Tuesday, Birmingham-area shoppers can meet Leigh and 19 other Southern-based designers at Aldridge Gardens in Hoover during the “Fashion Secrets of the South,” a traveling trunk show of accessories, clothing and home decor." Complete list here, but designers include: Maison de Papier, Hot to Trot, Mark Edge, Lilly Beck Originals, and Sally B's Skin Yummies


Between Belk bringing famous designers like Sam Edelman & Donald J. Pliner and this event at Aldridge Gardens, Birmingham has certainly upped it's fashionable factor this year!

Fashion AND Fashion writers

Regular readers will remember that not only is the Birmingham Fashion Blog, but we also like to write about fashion writers and other outlets.

Today I'd like to introduce you to B. Positive Magazine. Tiffeny Currier is the editor and she has several great writers on staff.

When you get a chance, check out B. Positive's article on Donald. J. Pliner's recent visit to Belk at the Summit in Birmingham. Written by University of Alabama at Birmingham grad Melanie McCann, it's titled "Green Bottoms: A Fashion Love Story."

I think you'll truly enjoy this peek into Donald J. Pliner's life and his love for his wife Lisa.

America's premiere Christian fashion expert Shari Braendel is headed to Birmingham!

I can't tell you just how excited Birmingham Fashion Blog is to announce that Shari Braendel is coming to Birmingham! You probably know Shari as the author of the style book for women, "Good Girls don’t have to Dress Bad," or as the fashion editor of Susie and WHOA Women magazines. Or perhaps your familiar with Shari through her popular website which offers free color analysis. And now, you can meet Shari in person at the upcoming Women's Weekend at CrossPoint Church in Trussville.

From Shari's website:

The Fashion Meets Faith conference is specifically designed to help women of all ages appreciate their inherent beauty … and view themselves the way God does.

Christian women's speaker - author - fashion coach, Shari Braendel has a message of deep compassion. A fabulous, fun, and refreshing fashionista, her message is inspiring and her testimony, moving as she helps women and girls of all ages to appreciate their beauty, discover their natural assets, and learn what to wear so they can look and feel their best.

Need more info?


Women's Weekend 2012
April 20-21, 2012
CrossPoint Church

8000 Liles LaneTrussville, AL 35173

email: Hope Chastain at HopeChastain{AT}windstream.net or 

Contact: Sharon Tapscott

Phone: 205.655.0364 ext. 12

Email: stapscott{at}crosspointchurch.info Hope to see you there!

Pliner at Belk! So Fab. And now a designer contest sponsored by Belk

We here at the Birmingham Fashion Blog must give high marks to Belk in Birmingham. They bring the most fashionable designers right here.

Last Saturday we had the pleasure of meeting Donald J. Pliner and the Saturday before that it was Sam Edelman. Sam's posted the pictures from his event on his Facebook page so if's you were at the event buzz over and see if you can find your mug in the crowd.

Donald Pliner is just a gem of a guy. He took so much time to speak personally with his fans and even help them shop for the perfect pair of shoes. And oh the shoes! Such beauty and comfort combined. We now know why Pliner fans stay fans for life.

We're sold on Pliner!

Next week we'll tell you about a designer contest sponsored by Belk, so stay tuned.

Fabulous Fashion Event in Birmingham: Renowned Designer Donald J Pliner at Belk

Birmingham, Alabama is a real fashion mecca. Don't believe me? Guess who's coming to town next week?

Renowned designer Donald J Pliner, that's who.

We tweeted Pliner and his beautiful wife Lisa to see if they are also bringing BabyDoll, but Lisa replied that BabyDoll has a play date and won't make it Birmingham.

We'll miss BabyDoll, but it's going to be a huge treat to meet Mr. Pliner.

Already crushing on The YEVA for spring? We are too!

It's just a given that we'd talk about the fashion at the ACM's!

First love: Taylor Swift's dress.
First dislike: Leann Rimes's dress.
First unexpected shoe: Nicole Kidman's red high heeled sandal looks great!
First dishwater colored dress: Kimberly Perry.
First really bad spray on tan: Martina McBride.
First "Um, I dunno": Sara Evans Barker's extremely Pepto-Bismol colored dress.
First really stylish guy: Luke Bryan.

Sam Edelman at Belk - Great Event!

More coming...

Fashion-palooza in Birmingham this Saturday: Tim Gunn at Lucky AND Sam Edelman at Belk the Summit

The fashionable place to be this Saturday in Birmingham, AL? At the Summit of course. Not only will Tim Gunn be making an appearance in our lovely city, but Belk has arranged for the master designer Sam Edelman himself to visit.

Chanda Temple (another favorite Southern fashion writer) did a wonderful article about Edelman and his upcoming visit. He'll be here to mark his 60th birthday by making a donation to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama, which Belk will be matching.

What a guy!

 SAM EDELMAN
PERSONAL APPEARANCE
Where: Belk at the Summit
When: Saturday, 1-3 p.m.
More info:  (205)968-4200

Southern Men, Style Bloggers - the best!

Ok, I have to admit it, I love to read men's style blogs, especially the ones in the South. There is something so cool, crisp and refreshing about them.

I discovered Scott Alexander at The Cable Knit Charlestonian a few weeks ago and I've been meaning to mention him to you. Here's his link, I think you'll enjoy his take on things. http://www.theckcblog.com/

Another Southern Fashion Blogger to check out, another adorable dress

Grab a look at Katie's spring dress, in colorful stripes. She's breaking the fashion rules and it's totally working for her! (The dress is from Old Navy.)

http://www.hemsforher.com/

Check Erica Out!

Honestly, you'll look at this gorgeous dress and say to yourself, "She MADE that??"

Yes she did and isn't it it lovely!

 http://www.ericabunker.com/2012/03/what-im-wearing-colorblocked-shift.html

Need inspiration for Beauty Week? Look no further

Get Gorgeous Now with Belk Beauty Picks for Spring 2012

Belk Spring Fashion - Cosmetics & Beauty

BIRMINGHAM, AL—March 24, 2012— Gorgeous—that’s how Belk is describing beauty this season.
Spring debuts with the newest and very best in skin care essentials (and indulgences) arriving at Belk
cosmetics counters now. Our cosmetics experts have hand-picked each product to embody
“Modern. Southern. Style.” From anti-aging technology to scents that suit every woman, find
everything you need to have a well-stocked makeup bag.


1. Clinique Moisture Surge Intense Skin Fortifying Hydrator -

This rich cream-gel moisturizer
quickly delivers maximum hydration to dry, delicate skin and is oil free and non-acnegenic,
which makes it suitable for all skin types. Barrier repair technology leaves skin comfortable and
plumped 8, 12 and even 24 hours after application. Used over time skin will feel suppler, be less
reactive and it will look younger. The product has amazing texture and delivers instant hydration
when applied. 1.0 oz., $36.00

2. Lancôme Definicil’s Precious Cells Mascara-
This mascara regenerates lash condition to
create visibly stronger lashes and gives lash by lash fullness for a bold look. $29.50
3. Lancôme Absolue Precious Cells Eye Creme-This cream brings the ultimate in skincare that
addresses UV and lifestyle damage. It helps restore density, reduce wrinkles and regenerates
radiance in the eye area. 0.5 oz., $108.00 [Ed. note: Charlotte, NC's style & fashion celebrity T. Strong at StyleMayvin.com recently reviewed the Lancôme Definicil’s Precious Cells Mascara. Check out her review here: Ooooo La La Lashes!


4. “Big Pony” by Ralph Lauren- “Big Pony” rides onto the scene in four amazing scents. All
four colorful fragrances are bright, playful and energizing, and set upon a floral backdrop, yet
each expresses a clear point of view. Based on a duo of ingredients, each fragrance pops with a
unique accent of Citrus, Fruit, Green or Oriental to establish a clear identity with a distinctive
twist.



5. StriVectin-EVTM Get Even Brightening Serum- StriVectin-EVTM bring a highly potent, quick
absorbing all-over face serum for mild to moderate age spots, sun spots and dark spots, it
brightens dull skin tones and visibly diminishes spots for clearer, brighter, younger-looking skin.
Non-comedogenic and paraben-free. 1.7 oz., $89.00








6. Estée Lauder ANR 30 Year Anniversary Bottle- The revolutionary repair serum inspired by
groundbreaking DNA research in a limited-edition 30th Anniversary bottle. Use this age-defying
serum every day and help continuously repair the appearance of past damage caused by every
major environmental assault. Exclusive ChronoluxTM Technology synchronizes to skin's needs
to help support the optimal performance of its natural repair and protective processes. Now see
younger, healthier looking skin today and tomorrow. 1.0 oz., $52.00; 1.7 oz., $80.00


7. Parisian Beauty Brights 5 Piece Nail Polish Set- Vibrant, trendy, and fun! This collection of
must-have brights features a salon quality formula that is always in style. This polish provides
flawless coverage, shine and durability. For best results, apply a base coat before applying color
and a quality top coat for a nice finish. Comes in the colors: Zinnia, Daffodil, Poppy, Viola,

Peony. Set, $20.00


8. Biltmore Bath and Body 20 percent Shea Hand Cream - A super-emollient hand cream
consisting of 20 percent Shea Butter, sunflower seed oil, and sweet almond oil is blended with a
faint but alluring hint of vanilla. Dense and pleasing, this cream absorbs easily, is non-greasy, and
helps to heal and protect dry or dehydrated skin. This formula rejuvenates even the roughest
hands to a soft and smooth finish and is paraben and fragrance free. 1.0 oz., $8.00
-more-





9. Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Premiere Intense Moisture and Renewal Activation Cream
SPF 30- This rich, replenishing day cream provides intense moisture as it renews and helps
protect from future aging signs. It immediately comforts, deeply nourishes, activates cell
metabolism and protein generation while protecting from sun damage. It is clinically proven to
provide intense hydration and optimize surface cell turnover to improve the appearance of age
spots, discolorations and overall radiance using our patented retinyl complex. It also strengthens,
firms and retexturizes skin and provides key nutrients to fortify thin, fragile skin. 1.7 oz., $92.00
10. “Rebelle” by Rhianna- Parlux presents “Rebelle,” by Rhianna, a delightful enticement bringing
to mind the warmth of the Caribbean sun, reflecting Barbados-born Rihanna’s roots, and the
exhilarating whirl of her present-day city life. Strawberries and purple plums are enlivened with a
jolt of ginger to create a harmonious top note. Then the heart opens with notes of tropical
splendor: cacao absolute, vanilla orchid and heliotrope. Base notes of rich patchouli finds
rhythm with the essence of rare coffee beans; creamy musk merges with the aphrodisiac effect
of amber. 1.0 oz., $35.00; 1.7 oz., $49.00; 3.4 oz., $59.00; 6.7 oz. body lotion, $30.00


11. Clarins NEW Extra-Firming Day Cream- Clarins revolutionizes the face of firming with
lifted, toned skin in just 4 weeks. This revolutionary anti-aging treatment, with powerful plant
extracts, rebuilds the bonds between collagen, elastin and cells- strengthening skin's architecture
to firm and tone on every level. 1.7 oz., $80.00. Available in March


12. Benefit Hervana Powder- Seeking a flush of enlightenment? Swirl on hervana... our “good
karma” face powder! Four complementary shades—lucky shell, divine peach, heavenly rose & berry
delight—blend together perfectly for an orchid blossom blush. What goes around comes around!
0.28 oz., $28.00

Altogether lovely, don't you agree? Be sure and keep an eye on Erica Bunker's DIY style blog for some upcoming cosmetics reviews.

Looking for fashionable events in Birmingham?

Looking for fashionable events in Birmingham this weekend? Then I have just the thing for you!

Belk Spring Beauty Event Showcases Latest Trends & Bright Ideas Saturday & Sunday March 24 – 25

Fun, free makeovers, gifts with purchase, tips galore showcase bright, attention-getting colors for spring & summer

– Nothing marks the beginning of spring more than a new look, a new fragrance and a new attitude, which is why Belk is hosting its annual Spring Beauty Event Saturday and Sunday, March 24 – 25, to start spring off right.  To get the party started, a deejay will rock the beat from noon – 3 p.m. on Saturday at Belk at the Riverchase Galleria.

                                                                                                          

All day long, shoppers will be treated to the latest trends, newest colors, freshest skincare tips, hottest products and brightest ideas from top brands including Clinique, Lancôme, Estée Lauder, Bobbi Brown and many more.  

Free makeovers and great gifts with purchase will make Belk’s Spring Beauty Event a must-do for the weekend.

A Few Bright Ideas

Flawless skin is a must-have for spring. Get help from a host of primers and foundations that erase flaws and boost radiance.

A smoky eye is still trend-right. New: the modern cat eye (heavy liner to the outer corner, then a swoop to the left).

Proper hydration (inside and out) will keep skin firm and fabulous.

Bright lips stand up best to spring’s color-drenched apparel. Try a velvety new red, a soft purple, or go bold. Think matte – not gloss.

How to Find Your New Summer Scent

Wear what you like. Citrus, floral, green, woods, rain, aquatic – start with a base note you already love.

Try & travel. Spray a sample on clean skin, then spend some time outdoors. If it still smells good to you at day’s end, it’s a keeper.

Have a favorite eau de parfum? Wear it in a lighter, less concentrated eau de toilette for spring and summer. But what will hubby and the kids do while you shop? Belk has a solution for that also:

Belk’s KidFest to Feature Children’s Fashion Show with Local Child Models Walking the Runway Saturday, March 24  

Sweepstakes Offer Chance to Win Three-Night Stay in Luxurious Beach Cottage  

CHARLOTTE, N.C., March 15, 2012 – Belk will host its annual KidFest in-store event Saturday, March 24 from noon – 3 p.m. at all locations. The event – featuring local child models in a children’s fashion show, complete with runway – will offer Belk’s latest fashions and trends for kids, refreshments, music, games, heart healthy activities, face painting, balloons and prizes.

KidFest attendees at all Belk stores will be eligible to enter to win one of three prizes, including a three-night stay in a luxurious beach cottage, passes to the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, and free ferry rides to see the Cape Lookout Lighthouse and the wild horses on Shackleford Banks.

Children who serve as models during the event will receive a 15 percent off coupon for any purchase in the children’s department. All other participants will receive a shopping pass giving them an extra 15 percent off on purchases of sale and clearance merchandise in the children’s department. Customers can save up to 40 percent off the entire stock of kids’ apparel. Complete details and a list of merchandise exclusions are available from the store.

Don't you just love these shoes!

Check out the ArtBelles new shoe post! 


"These 5 inch heels have a T-strap and are made of pleated chiffon. It’s definitely a call to the wild side! The peep toe makes it a perfect pairing with jeans or a nice dress. The platform heel distributes my weight evently, which makes the shoe extremely comfortable (yeah, I said it!) Take a closer gander at “McKenna–Ivory,” and let me know how much you think she rocks."

http://artblt.com/2012/03/16/shoe-attack-sam-edelmans-mckenna/

Guess who's coming to dinner?

Ok, not to dinner, but to Birmingham? To Belk at the Summit to be exact!

Here's a hint: