Imposter Syndrome, and fixing Perfectionism.

Imposter syndrome? Am, I right?

Who thought of themselves when I posted that question?

It hits you at the worst times, For me, my birthday is tomorrow.

I’ve been working impossibly hard on writing, and editing,

I’ve been raising to new, young fur babies. A German shepherd baby, and fierce, and incredibly sweet cat. I have a large NYC apartment, and husband to care for, and clean. Oh and there’s that disability thing I have. I hit job boards every day. I joined a private freelance writing newsletter for work.

Is it enough? Am I enough?

Murphy Brown (in red jacket above^), said “we can have it all.” Meaning; Life work, family, fun, work/life balance. A huge joke for my Xennial generation. Murphy Brown was lying. Let’s call it black humor.

Truthfully, my age group has been left in a state of anxiety, assuming this is real, through perfectionism. We even shared it with GenZ, Y, et all.

Let’s talk “Imposter Syndrome”

According to Stanford University

“Imposter Phenomenon” (more commonly known as “imposter syndrome”, although some researchers prefer the less clinical connotations of the Imposter Phenomenon”), was first coined by psychologists Pauline Rode Clance and Suzanne Imes (1978) to describe the internal experience of doubting your abilities.

Here I am, breathless, updating my resume, my cover letter, job hunting like mad. I have experience, proof of work, life, I don’t need to lie on my resume. Not good enough.

I feel fruitless, despite mountainous effort to move forward. Is it me? I’ve reinvented myself 3x since my last post, and….I feel I am not good enough. Contrary to popular belief, I feel no need to blame previous generations. No doubt they are caught in this whirlwind too.

How we do we deal with the daunting perfectionism to be better?

How do I start fixing this?

Recognize the problem.

I’m All 5. (cries)

Shaking this is harder than I thought.

According to the American Psychological Association

Up to 82% of people face feelings of impostor phenomenon, struggling with the sense they haven’t earned what they’ve achieved and are a fraud (Bravata, D. M., et al., Journal of General Internal Medicine, Vol. 35, No. 4, 2020).

As I exhale I realize, it’s a mindset. I inherited some of mine. Its a generational thing. Family of geniuses on both sides. Watching others achievements closely, and being a cheerleader in life, often makes you forget to cheer yourself. Tackling the “concept you are less than, in any way will stop you dead in your tracks. If overthinking is your forte. Insomnia, or move forward towards what you fear.

Go. Do.

Had to throw in a little Jedi master knowledge. It’s true.

Let’s all exhale. There are ways to refocus, renew, and reinvent your self, and headspace. We can be honest with ourselves. Focus on YOU.

Here’s a thought.

I said its my birthday tomorrow, again. Lets start with celebrating our accomplishments.

This past year, I have learned to speak decent French, and basic Italian. I am a writer, and editor. I edited an article on marketing. I have created resumes from scratch, for 2 clients. Hooray! Achievement’s. I am proud I did that.

Now you.

There are several ways to stop Imposter Syndrome. This emotional ennui, needs some help.

Here are some ideas;

Please take care of yourself. Taking time to honor your mental, and physical health is and should be a priority. Difficult to think of you first? God yes, but necessary, or you can’t help others.

Please consider talk to your local, or online therapist. This is 2025 and therapy is no longer a stigma.

If you are in crisis, and would prefer to discuss thing anonymously….

Here are some free resources;

Several free online therapy options exist, providing access to emotional support and resources.

For immediate crisis support, the Crisis Text Line offers 24/7 confidential support via text. For more general support, 7 Cups connects individuals with trained volunteer listeners. Additionally, resources like NAMI | National Alliance on Mental Illness can provide information and referrals to free therapy options in your area.

It’s a rough time for many in the employment, and career field. Day to day life is much more intense than it was pre-covid. Imposter Syndrome can cause depression, and self esteem issues. I struggle with this. Especially when job hunting .

Baby steps. Apparently this is process, and may take a while. But….I’m working on it. I hope we all do.

Guest Article; The Art of the Pitch: Marketing to Aspirational vs. Affluent Buyers in the Middle-to-Luxury Market

Affluent Pitch vs, Luxury pitch for Marketing

Editor: Heathyr Wolfe

Written By : Joe L. Jackson

Joe.L.Jackson@bizhelpportal.com

In the world of middle-to-luxury marketing, everything hinges on the pitch. Get it right.

You’re not just selling a product—you’re selling a story that sticks. There’s a critical nuance many brands overlook: not every luxury buyer is cut from the same cloth. Some want to feel wealthy. Others already are.

If you’re crafting the same message for both, you’re missing out on the deeper emotional triggers that move each type to action. The middle-to-luxury market isn’t just about price points, it’s about perception, posture, and psychology. Whether you’re pitching to the aspirational buyer who’s stretching their wallet to step up, or the truly affluent buyer who has the means and discernment to say “yes” or “no” in a blink. Your message needs to meet them where they are—without sounding like it was born in a boardroom./

The Emotional Currency of “Looking Rich”

When you market to the aspirational buyer, you’re tapping into desire more than access. These are the folks scrolling luxury Instagram accounts, watching lifestyle vlogs, and dreaming in Gucci, even if they’re budgeting in Zara. They’re driven by the emotional payoff of appearing elevated, of getting a taste of the high life without necessarily owning the keys to it.

Your pitch needs to show them how your product will let them walk into a room and feel like they belong. It’s less about legacy or craftsmanship and more about the social optics of ownership. It speaks to their imagined future self, the one who’s arrived, who commands attention, who finally feels “seen.”

Authenticity as a Quiet Flex for the Truly Wealthy

Affluent buyers are playing a different game altogether.

They’ve already made it, or were born into it, and their BS meter is finely tuned. Flashy pitches can feel like trying too hard, and over-polished messaging can come across as insecure. What they respond to is subtlety, substance, and signals that show you “get it”.

Think. Materials over marketing, heritage over hype. A truly affluent customer doesn’t need to prove anything to anyone, so your sales pitch shouldn’t either. Instead of shouting value, you want to whisper quality.

Design Two Separate Worlds of Language

Tone matters.

Aspirational buyers resonate with phrases like “stand out,” “make an impression,” or “treat yourself.” It’s okay to be a little aspirational in your tone. After all, that’s what they’re buying. Aspirational consumers often want to know who else is buying before they make a move. They’re influenced by celebrity endorsements, influencer reviews, and buzz. For them, visibility equals legitimacy.

What about affluent buyers? They need words like “understated,” “exclusive,” “craftsmanship,” or “quiet confidence.” They want to feel like you’re “letting them in on a secret”. Affluent buyers expect things to be expensive. If it’s too cheap, they might think something’s wrong. It’s niche on purpose. You’re not selling them a product; you’re offering a refined continuation of their identity. Your messaging needs to signal that the price isn’t just a number, it’s part of the brand’s filtration system. That alone can be its own kind of luxury.

Storytelling That Translates Status

Aspirational buyers love a good story because it helps them imagine themselves stepping into a new role. Your product becomes the costume change, the symbolic milestone of their evolution. Think of the sales pitch as a mini-movie, how does the product shift their narrative?

Affluent buyers, are drawn to stories that reinforce their already-established worldview. They’re less interested in transformation and more drawn to continuity, legacy, or values alignment. They’re not buying an escape. They’re investing in something that echoes who they already believe themselves to be.

Build the Brand Right, Before You Sell the Dream

Ultimately, you can’t afford to lump every buyer into the same marketing strategy.

Aspirational and affluent buyers live in different psychological ecosystems, and if your pitch doesn’t reflect that, you’re either over-promising or underwhelming. You have to listen to what each group truly wants to feel, not just what they want to own. One’s chasing elevation, the other is protecting identity. Learn the difference, tailor your message, and your brand won’t just be heard.

It WILL be remembered.s overlook: not every luxury buyer is cut from the same cloth. Some want to feel wealthy. Others already are.

If you’re crafting the same message for both, you’re missing out on the deeper emotional triggers that move each type to action. The middle-to-luxury market isn’t just about price points—it’s about perception, posture, and psychology. Whether you’re pitching to the aspirational buyer who’s stretching their wallet to step up, or the truly affluent buyer who has the means and discernment to say “yes” or “no” in a blink. Your message needs to meet them where they are—without sounding like it was born in a boardroom.

The Emotional Currency of “Looking Rich”

Authenticity as a Quiet Flex for the Truly Wealthy

Affluent buyers are playing a different game altogether.

Design Two Separate Worlds of Language

Tone matters.

Storytelling That Translates Status

Build the Brand Right, Before You Sell the Dream

Ultimately, you can’t afford to lump every buyer into the same marketing strategy.

It WILL be remembered.

Social Media Engagement with “Heathyr Wolfe”

I’m working on a homework assignment for Teen Vogue/Parsons. That’s right, your girl is always learning, and recommends you do the same. It increases your visibility as a person, or brand, and you might learn a thing or two along the way.

Our assignment was looking at our visibility status on social media platforms. How well we do, how much we are accessed, and building our brand. Luckily for me, I have been doing so for quite a long time.

Let’s look at some analytics;

Pinterest:

My boards have 13.4k followers. Excellent. Being a visual person is my forte. I am a fashion stylist at heart and love material, garments, art, and how it comes together. I am only currently at 420 engagements. This is understandable because for the longest time I forgot Pinterest existed and neglected it. Neglecting your social media is a horrible waste. It also takes time and effort. Time to start pinning again, because you LOVE IT!!

LinkedIn:

Parsons/Teen Vogue should be happy about this. I recently updated my profile stating I was taking Parsons The New School Program on LinkedIn, and the engagement went up 500%. Earlier this week it said 17 people had looked at my profile, and I believe it’s 12 per week or day. They do not state what their analytics pertain to. Either way I am going to spend serious time working on my profile on LinkedIn. I hope to find the right job to fit my career and resume.

Instagram:

I haven’t posted in a few day but today I had 11 likes, 1 comment and 2 followers. For a completely organic account, over 2000 followers is not bad. I haven’t bought a single follower. Now marketing my account I would start around 10k followers and go from there. I could definitely beef things up with a marketing budget.

Facebook:

On my Personal page I have a VERY high engagement and friends list of about 3000 plus friends. My Facebook Fan page has about 1500 followers. For the month of September 18th to 25th, I’ve engaged almost a third of them. Only about 175 clicked on, or commented on the articles. Commenting, interacting and staying on brand is important.

I currently reach around 4,500 plus people in engagement on Facebook. If even half of those see and reply to my profile, I am doing very well. Facebook caters to a about a 70% female demographic, so when engaging women to see or buy women’s fashion, it’s the perfect platform.

Heathyrwolfe.com:

Only 2 posts in more than a month. I have been distracted by school and various other reasons but people are interested in what I have to say. I mostly get hits from the US and Canada. Often when I write more I get a higher engagement from everywhere from Dubai, Eastern Europe and Russia.

Overall, I have a smaller engagement via other platforms than Facebook. As a brand, and person, I plan on focusing on buffing up my social media. I cater to a mostly American, Canadian and often European crowd. English speakers are my number one market, and french are second. I often post in french, or other languages on Instagram and Facebook to engage with a more international focus in my social media marketing.

Branding is everything and engagement, can make or break your company. Be strong, vocal, engage and communicate.

Now I’m going to go work on my social media just for you.

Welcome to Forever 21 where the size isn’t right, but we have everything. – Why, Forever 21 is headed towards Bankruptcy

Photo by Ken Nishimura/Los Angeles Times

Originally this was a school project. Checking clothing sizing at a major department store. I moved to a smaller town of about 50,00 people, mostly students a few years ago, so I decided the biggest downtown retailer is Forever 21. My quest for sizing differences was leading me there.

Then I saw the news. Forever 21 is on the verge of bankruptcy. News is reporting they ARE in Chapter 11, but upon further research I found they are currently ALMOST there.

Los Angeles-based Forever 21 is preparing to file for bankruptcy protection as soon as this month, ideally with a restructuring plan in place, the people said. Company advisers have been working on obtaining a bankruptcy loan package that would give the retailer about $75 million to continue operations during the case, Bloomberg previously reported. – LA Times

The real question is, why are they collapsing? The economy is tanking, but their prices are cheap. They seem to be a busy store with a lot of retail goods, making mad sales. Who hasn’t walked and bought something on impulse? From lip gloss, to hair accessories, underwear, to sportswear, they have it all.

Starting with the window display. I have been drawn in by the items I see. Put together cute outfits and accessories scream, “buy me!”. Once inside the store I can NEVER, EVER find them, or find them in my size. I had to run all the way tot he register to find one employee, who was watching the register, to help me find this dress. Then it was placed far away from the actual item making it hard to find.

Stocking new items on display, an making them easily found is a must for any retailer. We want these things, let us buy them.

The original reason I came in is sizing. This is a project, right? Being a small and petite woman currently is difficult. I don’t have a 32 inseam. Think 26-27. It’s all about clothing sizes.

EBurns and I on Stylers Panel — I’m very tiny and wear a lot of heels ( far right, Styler’s Panel Beverly Hills, 2015)

I’ll let you in on a secret. When sizing your clothes, a size small, to a size medium, goes up 2 inches, by industry standards. This means you size small 2, goes up two inches in waist, shoulder and hips. It also means your could be a size S could be a 0-6, or your medium, 4-10. Also a garment producer can leave up to 2 inches less or more in the trial run, later to be corrected by the designer.

Let’s look at the fit of these items. I tried two size small dresses. One is a lined, dress shirt in, the other tight fitting number I thought was the display dress.

Not the black dress on display, this had a curled hem, the display straight.

The shirt dress is more like a Medium, except in the shoulders. I found the sleeves extra long and the waist for too baggy for any small.

Now here’s something fun to try. Get the shirt you like in two different colors, same size. Try them on? Guess what?!

Forever 21 has actually sized these differently. I found the burgundy shirt fit more comfortably, and the white fit like and extra small. There is the possibility of stretching from trying on, but everything fit he same in the waist, chest and shoulders. One was just smaller. This is an issue of Quality Control. In retail we are generally strict about that.

I’d like to voice my opinion on cleanliness. See the dirt on the dress? Not my camera, not my makeup ,but the floor did that, when I dropped everything. It makes me feel, a slight twinge of germaphobia to go in there.

A lone rubber band, piece of lint and 21 tag mixed with dirt from every human who entered.

Lastly the cashiers. less side-eye please. Your clothes were dirty because of your dressing room, and floor. They fit terribly with bunching and over or under sizing. This customer is buying your ill fitted clothing and paying your wages. I feel your pain, but it’s retail. Considering the hell I just went through, standing in line, and dealing with ill fitting clothes, be nice.

Honestly, I feel more, buy it, try it on at home vibe, then welcome to F21. I did however find a nice brush and hair bands I need in the impulse register area.

I have to thank them for cheap and affordable accessories and make up.

My final opinion is yes, I support them occasionally. In an over all store experience, they have problems. I hope they restructure and come out winning.

Karl Lagerfeld Passes at 85. Je Suis Triste: A Fond Farewell to a Fashion Icon.

Yesterday and today, the fashion world is in mourning. Karl Lagerfeld has died and the industry will never be the same. He was a cornerstone, a foundation, of the industry.

Karl Otto Lagerfeld was a creative director, fashion designer, artist, photographer, who lived in Paris. Born in 1933 Karl was quick to learn, and branched out as soon as possible. By 1955, after living in Paris for two years, Lagerfeld entered a coat design competition sponsored by the International Wool Secretariat. He won the competition and became quick friends with Yves Saint Laurent, and was then hired by Pierre Balmain. He worked as Pierre Balmain’s assistant, and later apprentice, for three years. (Wikipedia)

Most importantly in the 1980s, when Chanel was antiquated and dying, he took over. He turned it into the multi-billion dollar empire that we know and love today. Insane runways in the Palais in Paris full of rockets, crystals, industrial sites. and models fighting for a change. His collections have met us at the beach and had us walk on water. Never a dull moment his runways were and extension of his personality.

His last show, 2019, Palais de Paris, Haute Couture

With his death may have shared their stories. Models like Naomi Campbell, and Karen Elson, speak warmly of him. Others, say he was a sizist and misogynist. Perhaps, he was a bit of both, he was known to be cruel at times. Karl, however, made a point of saying,

“Everything I say is a joke. I am a joke of myself.”

Karl was indeed a man of great talent. His vision and vast knowledge made and broke careers. He was known for his acerbic wit and sometimes, brutally honest personality.

Karl Lagerfeld, was one thing. Larger than life. He created, made, spoke fashion. He made the industry what we see today. He has left a legacy for us to build upon. Let us hope that we choose to do the right thing with it.

Karls Interview with Suzy Menkes on how he wants to be remembered

Spring/Summer 2018 Trends: Bringing Back the 80’s

(Photo of Stella McCartney SS 2018)

This Spring it’s all or nothing. A nod to the past has brought back defined shapes and a play on colors. Put away your floral’s and head to the stores to pick up your favorite look with an 80’s flare. Shoulder pads are in and demure is out. These looks are soft but tough. Vintage, yet modern.

Classy ladies wear pastels;

At Tom Ford, Gigi Hadid and other supermodels, are wearing pretty pastel pink and yellow. The bold splash of color teases the eye but doesn’t dominate the outfit. Other favorites on the runway consisted of baby blue and a pale or mint green. This season has a sweet statement, with light beauty makeup, a classic closed toe heel, glitterati sparkle, finishing off the look with a splash of color.

Mix and match with a dash of color yet not overpowering. Embrace the suit jacket and boxed shoulder. Skips the nudes and head for pastels. It’s an update, with a nod to the classics, and modern update.

In the history of fashion the 1970s were all about nudes, browns, and stylistically very much about ruffles and loose clothing. In the mid 1980’s there was a huge backlash to the constant earth tones and relaxed style of clothing and woman embraced striking color, square figures and streamlined looks. 1980’s inspired looks are full of bright colors, animal and cartoon prints, finding their niche on the runway and back into the fashion fold in 2018.

Color me pretty;

(Versace SS 2018)

Spring/Summer brings color back to the fashion market. This season’s statement is all about the bold and beautiful. Often seen on the runways of Moschino, The Blonds and jewelry designer Lynn Ban, extreme color is no longer a closet trend.

Seen on 2018’s Spring collection’s we are embracing the adventurous. Animal prints, crazy cartoons, hot pink and orange, electric blues, these have come back in a totally eclipsing way. It’s time to embrace the 80’s colors but instead of being over-sized, mixing and matching, keep your outfit a focused and fearless outline. Bust out your leopard, zebra and giraffe prints. The 80’s are roaring and it’s time you caught up.

(Photo LA Times)

Having lived through the 80’s as a child, I missed this playful era of fashion. It means dusting off a dated era and adding an update that makes gives it a contemporary look. Looks that are simplistic, yet eye catching in their statement. Shoulder pads are making a comeback the right way this time, and print’s with color are inspiring and acceptable again. Streamlining your look makes it easy to find an outfit in your closet, no more messy mix and match. Floral’s and 90’s inspired grunge, have given way to much stronger use of colors, even in pastel.

Color, no matter how you wear it is in, and the 1980’s style has a very strong foothold.

It’s a Jolly old time to shop for gifts. DO’s and Don’ts for Buying for you special someone.

(This was an article I wrote for someone else. but was never published.

I do hope you enjoy my gift guide)

It’s the Holidays! Trying to find a gift for your significant other today is extremely difficult. Gift guides are everywhere. There is a great deal information out there and what to buy for your significant other, it becomes a ‘job’. According to figures derived from a national survey completed by the HuffPost, the average couple spend up to $300 on their partner. Here are 3 tips for taking a daunting project, and making it easy to do;

Do’s

Make it from the heart. Always think about the person first. It’s not about what they need, it’s about who they are. Don’t buy an impersonal gift.

Customized gifts for your significant other makes people happy. Every girl loves jewelry. Or get a customized watch or cufflinks for him. If you are married get your rings engraved to commemorate a special moment you shared.

Experiences mean more to people than things often do. Want to really surprise your love? Get tickets to Paris. Go hot air ballooning in Napa. Or just go simple and local. A 15 minute romantic walk alone with your hunny during the holidays madness. An experience, like no other, means you love them AND want to spend time with them.

There are lots of right gifts to buy for your special someone, but what about the wrong? This leaves the problem of finding what you want.

Stay away from boring basics. Instead, put a gift card from her favorite store under the tree with card telling her you will take her shopping. Perfume and lingerie bought by you for her can be difficult to get right. Why not, make her own custom perfume at a perfumery. Ask the sales girl for help to get it just right. If you want to get lingerie, don’t go low end. Try La Perla or Cosabella for great lingerie that fits. It’s available online, and I promise you won’t be disappointed.

For him, tie’s, socks and tools are a huge no-no. There are better ways to say, “I love you”. In today’s market, boys want toys. If you are unsure what to buy him, try nice clothing. A custom tailoring appointment for your favorite business man, buying him custom jeans, even shoes. Men in the U.S. spent $26.2 billion on footwear in 2016, an increase of $2.4 billion since 2014, the Boston Globe reported. There is a serious market for shoe’s and it’s the one thing you know he will he love. Often the best policy is to ask what they want. They may just answer you.

The best holiday gift you can give your significant other? Listen to what they say, what makes them truly happy and seeing them smile.

HAPPY SHOPPING!

Versace New Shirt is Stolen From L.A. Artist KESH x American Apparel Design #KESH #VERSACE #Plagiarism #BadForm

Call it a case of fashion imitating art in the worst way possible. Yesterday artist KESH found out that Versace had been plagiarizing her shirt/art, and selling it for bank to millions at high-priced Selfride’s for an over-priced $650. Turns out it’s a rip-off of an incredibly famous shirt by local L.A. artist KESH that was a collaboration in 2013 that retailed for $50.

KeshxAA — KESH X American Apparel 2013 on left, Versace ‘Medusa’ on right.

Ouch!

KESH had created a line with American Apparel in 2013. Internationally renowned for her collection with American Apparel in 2013, KESH went on tour for her collection with American Apparel, the line that sold out in a matter of weeks, and was a celebrity favorite.

According to publicist Sydney Reising;

The collection was extremely well received and sold out almost instantly as a result of the support ranging from models such as Cara Delevingne and Jourdan Dunn (both were frequently seen in multiple pieces from the collaboration), to musicians like Jessie J and Wiz Khalifa, and K-POP stars 2NE1 and G-Dragon

The capsule was sold in American Apparel flagship stores around the world, from Tokyo to Berlin to New York. The artist traveled the globe to celebrate in stores worldwide with fans as the collection debuted.

This looks like a slam dunk case for artist KESH. Not only are the similarities in product plagiarism but the original AA x KESH Tee was photographed all over the internet by celebrities wearing it. Celebrities are even coming out in favor of the KESH line by instagramming themselves in the famous shirt.

Look’s like not only is the house of Versace looking at a lawsuit. Artist KESH is just devastated. KESH spoke with New York Magazine’s The Cut earlier today:

“I have always had a deep admiration for Versace. It’s an iconic brand that has stood the test of time. I am deeply disappointed in this. This is not only artwork from a show that took me two years to develop and create. It is not only artwork from a collection that I created for American Apparel to provide something affordable and accessible to supporters of my work. But this is also my face! I can’t understand how something like this could happen.”

Over here at HeathyrWolfe.com we support artists of all kinds but never support liars and cheaters. The house of Versace is fabulous, they don’t need to be stealing from hard-working artists. Why not just hire KESH? KESH is well-known for her work and has been featured in publications including; Elle, Cool Hunting, Vogue, i-D, LA Weekly, and WAD. The artist is known for her loyal fan base that includes Kayne West, Theophilus London, Jeremy Scott, Cara Delevingne, Azealia Banks and Prince.

I’m proud to say this is not slowing KESH down. She’s working on products that include not just visuals but music incorporate as well.

Want to learn more about this talented woman?

Check out her social media below.

KESH

http://instagram.com/kesh/

https://twitter.com/___KESH

Additional #KESHxAmericanApparel collection images are available at:http://sydneyreising.com/KESH_X_AA/

Please direct all media inquiries related to the artist and the recently debuted KESH x American Apparel capsule collection to Sydney Reising.

Dagne Dover it! Get Your Bag Fix On! Interview with Founder/CEO Melissa Mash #Totes #Accessories #MustHave #Spring #Summer #Fashionista #DagneDover

I’m starting a new trend and it’s called Dagne Dover-ing it. Chic, Classy and surprisingly functional I was sold at multi-pocket.

MY life is fast paced and, happily chaotic.

I am constantly on the lookout for a bag that is going to fit into my mad lifestyle. Between jumping around town to catch fashion shows and showing up to red carpet events my life, and fashion sense, doesn’t leave room for the function I need. My bags are pretty and small, but too small to fit a lipstick, phone, business cards and anything else. Maybe I’ll bring a huge tote which is a huge bag of chaos, and looks tacky when sitting front row. Not to mention there is no room at crowded fashion shows.

I am constantly cramming my Girls Scout arsenal in my purse and have nowhere to fit everything. Let’s add the discomfort of rifling through my bag for simple things like my make-up and biz info, and I am left with the thing every woman fights every day. A mess.

Welcome to the lovely land of Dagne Dover Bags.

With a streamlined look this tote screams perfected Parisian street style with the added look of luxury. Coming in five colors (for now, see below) including Cork/Limon and Cork (perfect for summer beach trips) Dagne Dover covers your stylish needs.

I prefer timeless chic to something that screams, “I am trying to be trendy”. I also prefer functionality to a black hole of a bag. Dagne Dover just fixed that.

The AMAZING Dagne Dover tote, has so much organization, my O.C.D. is taking a vacation.

Yes. Dagne Dover is victorious in the functional department. The outside is a sleek exterior. The inside, the same. Pockets for everything from your electronics to your girl goodies. Water bottle, check, keys, lip gloss, check, phone, laptop, accessories and I’m ready for a 7 day work week of 24/7 shows and networking.

Looking for a little more compact, budgetista friendly Dagne Dover item. Shop no more. Here, we have my personal favorite. A compact version of the tote, the Tiny Tote.

Six colors give you a chance to pick one that fits your personality and still carry your note or kindle in comfort.

Worried about security? The have a convenient zip top, (travel security!) and a wallet attached for your convenience so you can grab the train and not lose money, your metro pass or your phone.

Thanks to the lovely people at Barring Eyewear who connected us, I got a chance to catch up with, and interview the brilliant CEO and founder of Dagne Dover bags, Melissa Mash and ask a little about the foundation and creation of Dagne Dover.

What inspired you to create Dagne Dover bags?

During business school my friends and I were struggling to carry all of our daily essentials in a bag that made us feel perfectly put together. Before business school, I had worked at Coach both in NYC and London. While I was in London, I was in charge of introducing the Coach brand to Europe. While managing the first UK store, customers would come in daily looking for a bag that fit their laptops, water bottles, keys, wallets etc. Women’s on-the-go lives required a lot of organization in order to stay on top of their game, and there wasn’t a brand that was made for the modern woman who’s out from 7am until 10pm. I wanted to create that brand that women could count on every day — no matter the weather, no matter the occasion. I wanted to create a brand that was just as focused on the interior design as the exterior design. That’s how the idea for Dagne Dover was born.

Where did the name ‘Dagne Dover’ come from’?

Dagne is a Nordic word for “new dawn” and Dover is Jessy’s last name! We wanted Dagne Dover to be a new dawn for handbags — to change what women expect out of their handbags.

What styles does Dagne Dover come in and which one is your favorite (currently)?

The Tote, The Clutch-Wallet and The Tiny Tote. I LOVE The Tiny Tote! I’m really into minimalist living, so that has also trickled into my accessories of choice. I like being hands-free. However, The Tote is our best seller, and definitely solves women’s biggest handbag problems. It’s what gets the most attention by editors, bloggers, etc. — it’s great for school, work, travel — really everything!

What makes the Dagne Dover bag special and different(i.e. in your eyes)?

Smart internal functionality in a beautiful bag.

Absolute PERFECTION!

Tell us about the Dagne Dover bag line.

While I was introducing the Coach brand to Europe, I would speak with customers every day, and their call-outs were always the same — they wanted a bag with a laptop sleeve, water bottle holder, a place to hold their keys, wallet, work ID, etc. All of those were incorporated into our first prototypes. Additionally, we did a ton of market research early on to make sure that our totes were solving women’s needs. We surveyed and focus grouped over 1000 women and men to learn about people’s biggest handbag frustrations. We’re still creating styles to address those call-outs, so keep your eyes peeled! You can sign up here to be the first to know about new styles.

Dagne Dover is run by three highly ambitious woman, and I love that, how did you come together?

I started working on the business in January 2011. Later on that year, I was looking for a talented designer that “got” the aesthetic I wanted to create (but obviously didn’t have the skills to do!). I had heard of Jessy since she had won the Coach Accessories Design Competition in 2011, and after we worked together, I saw that she was the designer to bring the Dagne Dover brand to life.

I’ve known Deepa since 2007! She has a background in the more operational, financial end of retail from her time at Club Monaco. When she was in her first year at Wharton and I was in my second year, I was running focus groups, and Deepa was hooked. I knew she was going to be a fantastic fit based on her expertise and relationship with her.

How long have you been selling Dagne Dover? They seem to be in high demand.

Yes, we started our pre-sale in March 2013. Word-of-mouth demand for our bags was so high that we were sold out for months in 2014. We relaunched the site in August 2014 after we switched factories and were able to produce more bags than ever before.

As a stylist and editor I’m always on the go and currently tackling fashion week, what do you recommend I carry?

I absolutely recommend The Tiny Tote. It holds a lot more than meets the eye. You can put sunglasses, a camera, Kindle and more in it. It has three compartments for all your lip-gloss and make up options! It comes with a cute little card case for all your cash, cards and ID, and the key strap is perfect so you never leave home without your keys! (Editors note, I always forget my keys unless they are strapped to me with a carabiner which is the height of tacky)It’s perfect for a stylist, editor, blogger, or anyone who loves a good brunch bag for the weekends.

I travel overseas to the UK and Europe often, do you have something for in the Dagne Dover line for international travel?

Yes! The Tote is fantastic for travel (it fits perfectly under the seat in front of you!) and The Clutch-Wallet is great for a keeping all your essentials easily accessible. There’s even a secret pocket perfect for your passport and boarding pass!

I’ve noticed Dagne Dover bags sell out quickly, Do you plan on restocking soon? I need something I can carry for sanity, and Dagne Dover is one my ‘must buy’ list.

Yes! We are constantly trying to keep up with what our customers demand! We’ll be introducing new colors next month and more units of the cork that everyone loved so much. We’ll have more core colors available on our website this fall, so definitely keep an eye out for those!

Are you going to be introducing new bags to the line and expanding? I’d like to see more styles.

Oh yes. This is the year of color and new silhouettes. We’re launching a higher-end leather collection, in addition to a bunch of new silhouettes since that’s what our customers want! Stay tuned!

Thanks again Dagne Dover, we’re dying to get our Mini-Tote in limited edition turquoise. We just couldn’t help ourselves. This was the perfect item to help ease our lifestyle and make our outfits pop!

Want your own piece of Dagne Dover?

Click the logo below and check out their website!

Stylist Workshop by @TrendyMii and Fabric Fashion Show – Day 2 Come Do Q& A with @HeathyrWolfe @eburnsprepjerks ! #Stylist #QA #FAQ #Fashion #RedCarpet #FREE

Save the date kittens! For two days Kiera Renee and her company TrendyMii will be putting on a conference for those of you interested in the fashion industry and becoming a celebrity stylist. This is full deal with how to workshops and what it takes to make it in the industry.

March 29th I will be on a celebrity stylist panel doing Q&A with the ever talented E Burns of Prepjerks. The man is also Christina Millian’s right hand.

Held at 424 N Beverly Hills Blvd by Lifestyle Beverly Hills, I will be there discussing, how to make it in this industry, and answering all your questions about the difference between styling clients on editorial, runway and red carpet.

Excited? Here’s the line-up;

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Trendymii brings Stylers Panel, a style conversation, to Lifestyle Bevelry Hills, produced by Fabric Fashion Show on March 28th and 29th at 424 N Beverly Hills Bvld.

Two days of learning to wrap up Los Angeles Fashion week, and kickstart your Spring. All hosted by Fashion Journalist Kiera Renee

Day 1:

Stylers Panel Presents:

LifestyleBH Presents:

Stylers Panel: Dress for Spring on a Budget
Powered by Trendymii

Stylist
Marko the Curator – Using Ragdolls
@Markothecurator

Kyla Gaile – using Ximena Valero
@styleurday

Gianni Valentino- using ILF
@giannivd1610

Designers/Boutique
Ximena Valero
Ragdolls Boutique
I Love Fashion LA Boutique

Live Tapping of webseries: Ximena Valero
Media Coverage: The LA Fashion, Incline Magazine, Trendymii

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Day 2

March 29th

LifestyleBH Presents:

Stylers Panel: I’m a celebrity Stylist
Powered by: Trendymii

Stylists

Eburns
@eburnsprepjerks

Heathyr Wolfe
@HeathyrWolfe

Booth

Apollo L Bowz

Special Meet and Greet with recording group Happy Pills

Media Coverage: The LA Fashion

This is a FREE EVENT! All you have to do it show up!

For Immediate Release: Glamour Fashion Week to Take Over International Runways in 2015-2016

Glamour Fashion Week is the newest event in the fashion industry. We are set to launch our first year on 2015.

Our goal is to set and accommodate a platform for our designers to show case they latest collection’s. We will be presenting, along with the designers, live performances, vendors, and events ensuring that Glamour Fashion Week will be an amazing event set for success.

Glamour Fashion Week will be a global event. We will start of in United States going through; New York, Miami, Atlanta, Austin, Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Then an international tour will take GFW through; Puerto Rico, Santo Domingo, Milan, Paris and ending in Dubai in 2016. GFW will be an all-inclusive package including airfare, food, hotel, lodging and transportation for certain international destinations. With packages like these, this tour will not only ensure Glamour Fashion Week an astronomical success, but also create many more years of Glamour Fashion Week in the future.

We have already collaborated with multiple media & entertainment companies. Working with the our director of GFW Richard Zacharakis is, EOTM Media Marketing, 809 Media Marketing, Dreams in Heels and Carla B PR. Their continued sponsorship and support will help make Glamour Fashion Week a monumental success.

Meet the directors of our fabulous Team; Producer and affiliate of RZ Promotions and head of Alaska Fashion Week Dominick Liriano.

Dominick has spent years on the fashion circuit producing AFW, and other events. Liriano created GFW stating, “I’ve been honored to helm Alaska Fashion Week for many years, but now it is time to dream bigger. Glamour Fashion Week is that dream.” To contact Mr. Liriano directly please e-mail: producer@glamourfashionweek.com

Our amazing Director Richard Zacharakis.

Head of Glamour Fashion week and President of RZ Promotions: zacharakis@glamourfashionweek.com

Our dedicated Production crew will be here to answer any questions or concerns you may have as a designer, sponsor, entertainer, guest or vendor

Public Relations – Olga Maria: pr@glamourfashionweek.com

Press – Ernesto Tecco: tecco@glamourfashionweek.com

Hair and Make-Up – Kandace Denson: kandace@glamourfashionweek.com

Assistant Director – Heathyr Wolfe : heathyrw@gmail.com

Glamour Fashion Week will include a full-scale event that includes booths for vendors, a red carpet, sponsorship packages, a photo wall, multiple runways, multi-media views screens and more. Glamour Fashion Week will also be providing internationally renowned spokes models;

Angelica Guillen (Project Runway)

Darling Moya

And our international GFW contest winner Isjan Cortes

For a list of the locations around the world, we are presenting Glamour Fashion Week check our website at, www.glamourfashionweek.com. Feel free to contact any of our representatives or find us, and like us at fb.com/glamourfashionweek.

Want to be part of Glamour Fashion Week? Feel free to contact us at info@glamourfashionweek.com.

http://www.GlamourFashionWeek.com

Barring Eyewear, For your Indian Summer #BarringEyewear #Unisex #Sexy #Savvy #Cool #LimitedEdition

There is nothing in life we appreciate over more than super smooth, couture, limited edition fashion and accessories. Especially when involving an edgy, sophisticated, cool that reminds us how ‘special’, ‘one of a kind’ and ‘super exclusive’ we are. Add sustainability (we love that), and polymers we can pronounce and we’re sold.

With this damned heat, sun and Indian Summer we’re all experience we need shades 24/7. Unfortunately most are cheap, break and last about 5 minutes.

But…what if, you could have the James Bond of shades? Durable, almost unbreakable and made by some cool scientists in Philadelphia who decided durability and design were the ‘cool’ new thing to do.

I spoke with one of the co-founders, a young genius, Joseph Wang over the phone and this is what I learned. Three incredible young men came together with a vision, some scientific knowledge and a goddamn great idea. Cody, Eric and Joe decided to create and amazing line of sunglasses, named Barring Eyewear, and succeeded. Each one named after a neighborhood in their hometown they have created a sustainable, and slightly invincible product.

Superior, above par, hand-made and packed, they created and started selling Barring eyewear. Their customer? Someone who was looking for something a little more beautiful and durable than the average shade. In doing so their project has soared to greater heights. Not just in their current market, but as a multi-level, superior product.

Let’s talk science, because you need to know how bad ass these are….

Manufactured with high-grade, tri-acetate cellulose (TAC), every lens features TAC polarization, wrinkle protection technology, scratch & shatter resistant layers, and provides 100% UV protection from UVA and UVB rays. Polarized and Category 3, UV protection, this combination provides crisp vision and eliminates glare. All of their lenses are FDA approved and exceed European Union standards.

Sweet deal!

Want? Yes. Need? Yes, Please! Because it get’s better.

All frames come with a branded wooden case or branded sunglasses case (NOIR glasses), a microfiber wipe, and a dual draw string micro-fiber travel bag, making it a great for you and/or a loved one.

As if the beautiful packing, product and scratch resistant lenses weren’t enough to sell me, they offer a LIFETIME WARRANTY!!

Barring Eyewear also gives back.

In 2014 due to an unfortunate loss of a family member, the owners of Barring Eyewear decided to start donating to charity. They are donating $1 of every sale to Cancer Research. You know how much I admire and adore promoting companies that give back. Barring is not a just superior in product, but attitude as well.

Check out the gallery below to see their product line to get your shopping glands salivating;

Let’s go over how ‘cool’ Barring is again, shall we?

Barring Eyewear is handmade, scratch resistant, polymer rich, sustainable and charitable. Talk about the gift that keeps on giving.

If you want to order yours click the glasses below and it will take you to their main store where you can order yours.

Now for the semi-bad news. They are so damn hot on the market right now they are selling out. Pre-sale selling out. There are only 200 of each Barring Eyewear item made, making these ULTRA Exclusive. We love exclusive but it makes things a little harder to get. Especially as we go into the gift-giving Holiday months.

If the glasses you want ARE sold out you can PRE-ORDER yours by going to their Indie Gogo site below.

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/barring-eyewear-our-polarized-designer-sunglasses

Good luck 007. Here’s hoping you get your handmade, custom Barring Eyewear before the uncool, tragically hip find them and BUY THEM ALL!

Follow Barring Eyewear at;

https://twitter.com/barringstore

http://instagram.com/barringstore

https://www.facebook.com/BarringStore

http://www.pinterest.com/BarringStore/

(A very cool post note for Philadelphia, PA customers. If you live in the Philly, PA or surrounding area Barring Eyewear offers a ‘Concierge‘ service that comes straight to you! Contact Barring@BarringEyewear.com to make an appointment now!)

It’s Coming, LA Fashion Week Design Competition, October 18th! #LAFWDC #Yes #Judging #DomStreater #LAFW

In the last month Fashion land has gotten crazy busy. I forgot I had a blog, and started living la vida ‘Devil Wears Prada’. No life, lot’s of fashion business.

This includes getting swept up in my newest venture as….a judge. No not American Idol (Seacrest I’m waiting for your call), but in something just as crazy good.

Drum roll please…..

TA-DAH! It’s LA Fashion Week Design Competiton!

Aren’t you excited? You should be. Here’s why LAFW Design Competition is going to rock your little designer socks.

LAFWDC is massive. Ten contestants will be showcasing their amazing work on the runway at Penthouse 1050. We have amazing sponsors from Runway Rythm, gift bags sponsored by the lovely SKINNY Bags, Es Kae Noir, Jay’s Party Cakes and celebrity host Ilisa Juried (Pussycat Dolls, BET Awards for Beyonce). Besides our 10 contestants, celebrity judge Dom Streater, winner of Project RUNWAY season 13, will be showcasing her collection. All in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles.

Oh, and I will be there judging the heck out of these designers. Food, celebrities, music and FASH-ION! What more could you want? Oh right, a link to the event.

Click HERE or the image below to order your tickets.

Did I mention we are almost SOLD OUT?!! Hurry kittens or get left seeing coverage here.

D’Jango Unchained Actress Danielle Watts Detained by #LAPD as #Prostitute for Kissing Boyfriend! #BadForm #LAPD #DanieleWatts

Call this a case of mistaken identity, or the LAPD doing a smash-up job as usual.

Actress Daniele Watts, of D’jango Unchained, Weeds, Partners is a helluva an actress. With 34 credits to her name since 2008 she has been a busy girl on-screen. After working with Leo DiCaprio, Samuel Jackson, and being the girlfriend of successful Raw food chef Brian James Lucas, Daniele Watts is no stranger to the red carpet.

D Watts on Weedspopo — Daniele Watts playing a cop in ‘Weeds’

Apparently, these LAPD officers thought she was a stranger, and a prostitute to boot.

On 9/11 Daniele Watts and her boyfriend, Brian Lucas, were in a parked car in outside of CBS Studios making out, when they were approached by two officers, after a resident phoned in a suspicious couple.

According to gossip rag TMZ;

Daniele had just left a meeting at CBS with a director. Brian tells us … he was told a resident of a nearby apartment saw them making out and called the cops.

Brian tells us LAPD officers came up to them with a suspicious eye. Brian believes it’s because cops saw “a tatted rocker white boy and a hot bootie shorted black girl and thought we were HO & a trick.”

Daniele was fully clothed and so was Brian. The cops demanded their IDs to which Brian complied but she refused. She walked away assuming it was no big deal. The cops however saw this as a reason to cuff her and throw her in the back of the car.

DWattsandpopo — Daniele well dressed in casual street clothes

Poor Daniele suffered not only mentally, but physically. Although Daniele did her best to work with and talk to the officers after they had detained her, they made her break down and cry. The LAPD were very forceful and threw her into the back of the car and her cuffs were so tight, she received THIS INJURY;

That is just horrifying.

Too far LAPD. The LAPD have always had a bad reputation and this is not helping. Assuming they were getting freaky illegally? I don’t think you would bust them unless there was full sex. I would think it’s more likely in a ‘nice’ neighborhood like Burbank it’s because they were interracial.

Brian and Daniele have detained a lawyer, and will file a complaint with the LAPD. As they should. They have this blogger’s support, 1000%.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Live Broadcast #Day3 #MustStream #Awesome #NYFW

Yes I have been missing and yes I am still in California suffering the wrath and indignity of NOT being at NYFW. Actually I am gearing up for LAFW because there is a lot I am involved in and have to stay West Coast bound.

Since you, dear reader, aren’t there either but are most definitely craving the feel, insanity and sore feet, I give you;

MERCEDES BENZ NEW YORK FASHION WEEK LIVE!!!

Well almost.

That above is a screenshot your fearless fashionista took of the LIVE Herve Leger show.

What’s in store so far for SS 2015? White’s, brown’s, pinks/coral, neon with attention to metallic detailing. But I know how dead set everyone is on drawing their own style and details from the SS 2015 fashion season.

Ready to start viewing? Don’t worry between show’s they re-broadcast the good stuff and highlight’s so you won’t get bored.
Onward and forward darlings;

MERCEDES BENZ NYFW LIVE STREAM;

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