Diary of a Labellover By A. Fashionista

Shopping for the Social Good

Mashable coined the term "Summer of Social Good." Now with August coming to a close I thought I would do my part and write about a shop owner, Ms. Ashley Judge, who recently contacted me about her online consignment shop, Tra Tutti.  As a blogger, I receive tons of PR requests and I do review every single one of them, if they have a professional pitch. 

What I like about Tra Tutti is the simple but cute design and the fact that they are giving back 20% of a customer's purchase to a charity.   Granted they are not the first the consignment shop to do this, Christabelle's Closet began donating in 2004 to the Michael J Fox Foundation because of her mom. Nonetheless, it is great to see this trend in e-commerce spreading.

As someone who has paid full retail price for anything in years, the first thing I look for in a consigment shop is the level of brands they carry.  Many shops claim to be high end and that often translates to "Banana Republic."   On the other end of the scale, I know several brick and mortar locations in the city that  request you "ask for assistance when handling the Chanel."  No names, folks as I am a regular! Tra Tutti fits nicely in the range of the higher end, offering the trendy Diesel and Dolce to the classics of DVF and Pucci.  Ashley's designer's range is sure to cure any fashionista's shopping fix!

No, her site is not "tricked" out in a fancy programming language that will serve you your non-fat moca latte, but I can search by size, designer, or style and frankly, Im not a fan of mocha lattes anyway. That shopping is a cinch and isn't a 2.0 experience should be food for thought to the Milennial generation.  Ultimately, it is the way Ashley presents herself - as approachable and authentic that will draw customers in.   She has chosen charities that are local and clearly mean something to her - charities aimed at the empowerment of women - Dress for Success and Rosie's Place, Big Brother's Big Sisters, AIDS Action Committee and MSPCA for animals.  If you are in the New England area, AShley will even host a trunk show for you, which is a fabulous way for related companies to generate brand awareness, and raise money for a good cause, while building social responsibility into the brand's equity.

Dubbed "Couture with a Conscience" this shopping experience is like eating dessert with any of the calories!

The Brand That Thought Too Much

Recently I worked on an RFP for a potential high-end fashion client.  It prompted me to write this post because after looking at their site I realized clearly the creators of this brand were in love with themselves.  Don't get me wrong, I am all for creativity and uniqueness in the site experience but when it hampers the ultimate selling proposition then that vision becomes lost in translation.

I believe there is something to be said for a luxury brand creating an online experience that mimics that of the brick and mortar experience.  Whether the site is set up for e-commerce or not, it is critical that the value the brand brings to the consumer be evidenced simply and effectively, whether through a strong mission statement or through demonstrative visuals.

Ultimately,  a better use of that creativity should be spent thinking about communications plan that includes word of mouth, guerrilla marketing, events and strategic partnerships.  Last time I checked, business did exist to serve their customers and turn a profit, right?

Photo Credit:  werner-reiterer

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Morphing from Man to Gentleman

In Jewish culture, a boy becomes a man at his Bar Mitzvah.  However, the question remains, at what age does the man become the Gentleman?   I have met many men in their 20's with successful careers who have the maturity level of the 12 year old Jewish boy waiting for his rite of passage.  Understanding that being a gentleman holds one of the keys to success in life, this doesn't mean you have to change who you are, its merely just refining certain parts.   Therefore,  I have put together a mini- guide, with the help of my British Esquire friends to give you a sense of where you are in the rite of passage.

1. You open doors for a woman in any situation.

2. On a date, you compliment the woman when you first see but only once.  Sincerity is critical and over-complimenting a woman is a turnoff.

3.  You have graduated from the electric razor to double safety razor and you actually employ the technique of a shaving brush.

4.  Your closet has a winter suit and a summer suit. If you emulate Cary Grant, there may even be a tuxedo.

5.  You realize the essential role a collar stay plays in wardrobe. Who doesn't luv the collar stay?

6. You may not be a Mixologist but you can make a killer Martini.

7. You understand the importance of being connected but when you are with "her" , emails can wait.

8. The gut instinct can sometimes fail you. However, you never do a deal with someone you mom wouldn't like. (Mom's really do know best)

10.  When entering into negotiations  you remember a few  of the basic rules:  keep cool.  know your threshold.  Never underestimate history - even if it is the first time you are in negotiations with other person, you should understand their style and have a sense of how they operate.

Answer Key:

-If you can't mix a martini, you have more than 2 suits and you answered "true" to less than 4  other statements, then your rite of passage is not yet complete, and you are still a BOY.

- If you answered "true" to 4 of the 10 statements but still only have one all around suit in your closet, you FAIL and are considered to be a FRAT BOY.

-Answering "true" to to more than 7 of the 10 statements is giving Frank Sinatra a run for his money..you've got game baby...

Monogamy: The New Black?

 Lately, I have had several conversations about the state of affairs, literally. Whether it's been with my single female friends or with guys under the age of 28. 

The central theme is whether or not people are comfortable being monogamous.  Open relationships seem to be v. de rigeur at the moment with some people chasing the idea that being with different people allows them to experiment and be free.  This is fine, if you are going to run your private life like a business - slotting in different dates when the schedules fit, assigning dates almost like tasks because essentially likes and interests will vary.  Ultimately, what this becomes is a lesson in time management.  If you can keep it light and fun then be as open and free as your heart desires.  However, I do believe that there is an element of avoidance that stems from it all.  The most common time to get involved in an open relationship seems to be after a painful breakup or when you are emotionally feeling insecure. Personally, I recently ended an "open relationship" because ultimately, we were getting close to one another but it wasn't real. 

That draws me to my conclusion that monogamy is the HOTTEST look right now. Nobody is labeling it "serious".  You are not moving in together or getting married.  It is simply time spent exploring one person.   I am not saying settle for the wrong girl or guy for monogamy's sake but if you can find someone who understands you, makes you laugh, is just fun to hang out with AND rocks your world, then why would you want to be with anyone else? Monogamy leaves a negative but unfair connotation of being staid, stuffy and vanilla.  Well, coming from a woman who has been married, divorced and has been single on and off for the past 5 years I will tell you that there is nothing better than being spicy and adventurous with the same person who knows you and your likes/dislikes then having to train people and give directions as if I am a traffic cop and hope they remember next time.

Seriously. Try it on.

Saks Isn't Just a Mecca for Shoes Anymore

 We all know that the Saks Flagship store in Midtown Manhattan has its own zip code.  Well, now men have a reason to rejoice because Sak's recently debuted their private label collection exclusively for men.  A concept that was two years in the making, the SFMC, is a complete collection - offering socks  to suits.  This is a brilliant way to revitalize product while thinking about customer's needs -while this is an "in house" collection, the majority of the collection is manufactured in the same factories as many of the same name brand designers that Saks carries.  In addition, many of the pieces are competitively priced in order to attract a new discerning clientele who may be a little more budget conscious. 

 We all know that most men are notoriously cranky when it comes to the shopping experience. Therefore, a concierge service offering premiere clientele in-office shopping is the most convenient way for a man to shop - preparing a catalog of looks and allowing the man to have the clothes delivered to him for with a tailor for him to choose what styles he wants to keep.

Now, that's a wardrobe service worth paying for.

Image:  courtesy of We Are the Market

A. Fashionista's Rags Worth Reading

Recently, I read an interview with Amazon Chief, Jeff Bezos and how is he breaking down the walls of the publishing world much like Steve Jobs did with the music industry.  As much as I am proponent for the evolution of technology and the streamlining of processes, there is still a soft spot in my heart for the printed word, I don't maybe because I have been reading since I was the tender age of 2.

Therefore, I have compiled a list of books and magazines that I believe are worth their salt, whether they be for self-improvement, or just a lazy day day beach read.

1.  Soul of a Business - The book every Entrepreneur should read.  The founder of Tom's of Maine, talks about his journey to reclaim the instincts and how to marry profit with social responsibility, one of the founding principles of his company.  It's deep and philosophical in an inspirational and light way. A MUST read.

2. The Fine Art of Small Talk - I just finished this book.  Believe it or not, it was written by an engineer, so introverts and geeks will be able to relate to the author's journey.  The books is written in short, easy to digest chapters and use plenty of real-life examples that are 100% relatable.   A game changer book.

3.  The Greatest Generation - This book is a perfect for anyone interested in History (like I am).  Penned by Tom Brokaw he explores the WWI generation, that of our grandparents, proclaiming them to be the "Greatest Generation" and looks at history through their eyes.  Their value system, guts, strength and pride is a story that should be heralded with each passing generation. 

4.  The House of Gucci -  Of course I have to include a book about fashion. The story of the Rise, fall and Resurrection of the Gucci name is definitely a page turner.  How many of you knew what the GG monogram stood for?  "Guccio Gucci" , the man who started it all.  A fascinating mixutre of drama, business and colorful personalities. Great beach read.

5.  The Sexual Life of Catherine M.-  Currently reading.  I love biographies and autobiographies.  This story is about the experiences of a woman who was v. sexually open.  The manner in which she writes is real and not hyperbolized. It's just an interesting read if you dare.  Perfect gift.

Check them all out on Amazon.

Moral Dilemma

I recently read an interesting blog post that talked about the book "Moral Animal",which delves into the subject of evolutionary psychology (translation = why we are the way we are). Now I would like to first point out that I have not read it and I am merely commenting on somebody else's perspective. 

First, the author of the post took the time to point out a few major areas of the book that they felt were significant and eye-opening.  Let me recap:

• Altruism is a misnomer. People are inherently selfish.

• People are cruel, laughing at others mishaps because it's not us.

• Monogamy is a cultural artifact and not innate in humans.

• Selfishness and unreliability is a common trait shared by all.  Unless of course it is in the best interest not to be.

• Friendship is merely mutually self-interest.

I hope after reading these points you were left with the same thoughts as I was:  only someone who is afraid of being vulnerable would ever actually  agree with the thoughts penned in this book. In fact, I believe that many philosophers who only saw the dark side in humanity simply suffered from depression and therefore their prose, no matter how profound should never be translated literally.

The only point I agree on is the monogamy point.  I do not believe that it is natural either.  However, I do think that if you allow yourself to trust and love then why couldn't sexual satisfaction blossom between just two people?

Imagine if everyone thought that simplistically as the points mentioned above?  If people real didn't have any character,  business relationships would eventually turn mistrustful and sour and dating would be done more for sport than for romance. The point is the world would be much less of a fun, whimsical, exciting and complex place, wouldn't it?

If you are interested in reading the post, click here.

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Finding Ispiration...

Let's face it, we all go through periods in our lives where we feel less than inspired. The need to be constantly "on top of one's game" can be not only mentally exhausting  but emotionally and physically as well.  All my life,I drew motivation and strength from within.  Now that I am a little(cough, cough)older, I am looking at friends and business associates for inspiration, especially recently.  The last few months have been the roughest months I've experienced since my divorce 5 years ago.  Therefore, I would like to thank the following people because whether they know it or not,they have been my source of inspiration and therefore deserve a shout out.

Alec Andronikov, Chief Mobilizer, Movoxx - A friendship born from SXSW 2009 but he is the real deal.  Born in Russia, he has the business acumen of a Steve Jobs and the charm  and charisma of Guy Kawasaki.  After all, the guy found a way for us to not have to pay the the ridiculous 411 fee, in exchange for a few seconds spent listening to ads. The company was later acquired by AT&T. Of course he didn't stop there. In 2007, he started Movoxx,an SMS ad network and with blue chip clients Continental Airlines, Infiniti, Burger King and W Hotels, he is destined for greatness.  Alec does not take himself too seriously, which is a quality I can appreciate.  He also is the king of the sound byte,most recently quoted in media post for this little number " The most permanent cookie in the world is your phone number. " Brilliant, right?

Dina Kaplan, Co-founder and COO of Blip.tv - Dina is one of  those women who just radiates poise and grace.  She did me a favor recently by speaking at our last Girls in Tech event and like a true professional, she charmed the audience. Maybe part of it was because of her bio - working at the White House, reporter for MTV and now co-founder of an online video network.  However,I suspect that it had more to do with her humility.  She spoke about career mistakes and things she learned along the way.  Her thoughtfulness in business should be an example to many - looking for a job? Dina will email you with inside postings, she will listen without judging and there are not many people around who are like that.  With Blip's recent expansion in distribution thanks to some key strategic partnerships with outlets Vimeo, Youtube, NBC local and Roku, the value ad they are bringing to both their viewership and Client base has shot up exponentially.

Richie Hecker, Chief Bootstrapper and Entrepreneuralist - There is only one word that describes this character of business and digital advertising:  contradiction.  He is the greatest showman but is an introvert.  He will regale you with his knowledge of pyschology, perception and human nature yet it lacks real intimacy.  Is it any wonder? He started his first business at the ripe age of 15,when most of us were just beginning to party. With various coffee shops supplementing for office space he moves through his day going from meeting to meeting - organizing events, connect people,building an ad network and hosting private "lunches for the who's who in the business community. He is one of the most productive people I know and takes the attitude "one day at a time."  It's no wonder he is so sought after by VC's, media folks and entpreneurs.

David Suh, International Businessman & Entrepreneur - David was probably the most charming man I have ever met.  He was sharp with connections all over the globe - from the IT guy to Royalty. When I knew him he was involved in several businesses:  real estate, technology and spirits.  The hours he put in were ridiculous but he was always good natured and happy when we were together.  We would talk for hours about our dreams and he always encouraged me to purse mine.  That is the kind of lover and friend he was. Unfortunately , he had a heart attack at the age of 42. However, everyday I feel blessed to have known him.

Lilliana Stack , my 17 month old niece - A special shout out goes to my niece because she is the future.  Every time I see her she lifts my spirits.  Watching her grow and learn new things every day fills me with hope that she will be brilliant and I am excited to be an integral part of her life.  If anyone makes me be a better person it's that little cherub. 

What or who inspires you?  Email me at thelabelloversATgmailDOTcom.

Pitch(er) Perfect

In an age where technology is developing in rapid fire pace, it would seem natural to make the case that people's attention spans are turning over just as quickly.  After all, we have become a "microculture".  Whether we are communicating our thoughts in a 160 character text, a 140 character tweet or in a few lines on our Facebook status, by now we should be masters at our personal elevator pitch. 

Even for the most extroverted person, articulating what the French call your "raison d'etre" or for you non-francophiles "reason to be" can prove to be a daunting process.  One must radiate inner confidence,  passion and poise .  As cliche as it sounds if you believe in yourself, it will shine through and others will believe in you too.

Remember, First impressions can be a game changer at any networking or social event.  Preparation and personal presence are the keys to success.   Ask yourself "what is it that makes me unique?" "what am I passionate about?"  "how can I take those qualities and enrich other people's lives?"  "Can I overcome the failures as gracefully as I envelop my successes?"  I strongly believe that some of the world's greatest leaders and entrepreneurs asked themselves these v. same questions as they set out to craft their pitches. 

Remember, the perfect pitch is a work in progress as people grow and mature from their life experiences.  Just remember the golden rule:  be authentic, let your passion shine through and people will respond with the same energy.

My pitch:  I am a passionate innovator helping lifestyle companies achieve both their aspirational and bottom line goals.

Now that I told you mine, will you tell me yours?

Why the Brits Do it Better

I realize it has been awhile since I have posted but generally I just haven't been feeling that inspired.  However, a recent visit to a Hudson News stand while I was waiting for the train to AC changed all of that.

British Esquire v. American Esquire

Battle of the Rags

 

Let's get down to brass tacks.  I've read the latest Esquire issues cover to cover and I stand behind the old saying that the "Brits just do it better."  Now before you call emigration, keep in mind that I can validate my reasoning.

1.  "No Strings" sex advice - The columnist provides no anesthetic when it comes to doling out advice to insecure hubbies and boyfriends. Everything from bedroom manners to ex-distress is discussed.   Whether An advisory message should come with it for weak-hearted men who "Can't Handle the truth" as Jack Nickolson so passionately put it in "A Few Good Men" is the only question that I want to ask...

2.  Grade A Masculinity - British Esquire is Redbull and American Esquire is Diet Coke.  The Brits uncannily get how to represent the well-rounded man - a sprinkling of executive tips, a dash of fashion & grooming tips, a pinch of party etiquette blended with inspiring down to earth articles on pioneering entrepreneurs. Simmer and serve....

3.  Cover looks - This may be a tighter race because the Coverboy has to do more with personal taste. Daniel Radcliffe v. Gerard Butler?  I'll leave that decision up to you, except to say that here again we see the "well-rounded" card being played more often in the British edition.  Extra points, of course, go to the Brits too for a cleaner design layout.  Using different typefaces just looks messy on the front cover rather than intended purposed of  "creative and rugged".

4.  Virtual Rag - No contest here.  The Brits rule.  The site takes on a blog like feel where the US site is way too commercial and busy.

5.  The "IT" Factor - Taking into consideration design and layout, the up and comers featured, and the cutting edge brands, the Brits definitely have the "IT" factor.

Note: A. Fashionista is single.  If you know a dishy, charismatic Brit, feel free to send him my way. :)