Tag Archives: Fashion Valley

Find Your “Summer Essentials” at Fashion Valley!

Can you believe it’s 4th of July weekend already? Where did the time go? If you’re still trying to figure out what to wear or pack for the upcoming season, I’ve teamed up with Fashion Valley to share some of my favorite summer picks and I’m also giving away a $100 gift card to get you started! I recently ran around Fashion Valley to show you some of favorite “Summer Essentials” all available now!

FABULOUS FLATS

There really isn’t a better way to run around during the summer than in flats. I know a recent blogger favorite are a cool pair of sneakers (which I own many of), but my favorite flats for the summer are lace-up sandals, slides and mules. I like lace-up sandals because they can be worn casually with a great pair of shorts or wide-legged cropped pants, or dressed up with a cute little sundress.

Slides and mules are my favorite shoes of the moment because they’re so easy: slip them on and off you go! For the beach, the slides are the perfect alternative to flip-flops. For everywhere else, mules feel so preppy, yet modern. They’re like really dressy bedroom slippers!

Clockwise from Top left: The Bridget Lace-Up Sandal in Thai Chili by Madewell; The Boardwalk Lace-Up Sandal in Heather Soot Metallic by Madewell; The Willa Slide Sandal in English Saddle by Madewell; French Connection slip-on loafers from Bloomingdale’s (no longer available, but they have a great selection of mules and slip-on loafers available!)

SHORT STORY

Shorts are a summer staple, but they don’t need to be basic. Check out the scalloped edge pull-on shorts below at Madewell. Aren’t they adorable?

Denim cut-offs just scream summer to me. I always prefer a raw edge when it comes to my denim shorts, like the ones below from Madewell.

Scallop-Hem Pull-On Shorts in Coastal Blue and True Black; Denim Boyshorts in Thornecliff Wash, all by Madewell

BEYOND BASICS

I have my go-to items that create my “uniform”, which consist of striped t-shirts, great pants and easy dresses. I also choose items that are easy to mix and match, stretching your wardrobe to more than just basics.

Radio Tee in Delray Stripe by Madewell

Cropped Wide-Leg Chinos by Pilcro in Sand at Anthropologie

Cleophee Tunic Dress by Cloth & Stone in Mint at Anthropologie

PURPOSEFUL PURSES

I could spend all day on the subject of purses, but for the summer, I like to stick to the most practical: totes and cross-bodies. Totes provide the room needed to carry all of my loved one’s essentials to the beach or outdoor family gatherings. Cross-body purses are the best for amusement parks and exploring anywhere!

Pomaria Tote at Anthropologie

The Holepunch Transport Tote in English Saddle (leather) by Madewell

The Brisbane Camera Bag in Dried Rose and The Transport Tote in Dark Cocoa, both by Madewell

The Take Two Connor Handbag in Purple Wonderwall and The Take Two Abbot Handbag in Black Island Style, both by Kipling

The New Addison Crossbody Bags by Kipling

THE FINAL TOUCHES

These are my final go-to items for the summer: hats, sunnies, sunblock and lip balm. The hats and sunglasses below are not just cute, but incredibly necessary if you’re going to be under the sun for longer periods of time. You will always find me in a hat and sunglasses, especially at the San Diego County Fair. And if you are going to be out and about in the sun, I highly recommend the Super Fluid Sunscreen and #1 Lip Balm at Kiehl’s, which I restock again and again.

Hat assortment at Anthorpologie

The Row Parquet sunglasses by Oliver Peoples

Super Fluid Sunscreen and Lip Balm #1, both by Kiehl’s

THE GIVEAWAY DETAILS!

1. Find and “Like” the picture below on Instagram

2. Follow @fashionvalleyca and @any2ndnow on Instagram

3. Leave a comment telling me about your favorite “Summer Essential” at Fashion Valley mall

4. Tag a friend for a bonus entry!

Winners will be chosen at random by July 8, 2016 midnight PST and is open to those living in the San Diego area or nearby cities.

Good luck and have a wonderful holiday!

Last Minute Mother’s Day Gift Guide!

In the past couple of years, I’ve posted a “Last Minute Holiday Gift Guide” to help those of you who are procrastinators (like me) get through the Christmas holiday. Although I missed Valentine’s Day, I’m going to start putting together some “Last Minute Gift Guides” for other special occasions. Not only will it help me get creative with my own gift giving, but I hope it will help you as well! For this Mother’s Day version, I’ve gathered ideas from stores at Fashion Valley Mall to help with giving your mom (and mine) something unique on her special day!

The “Go-To” Gift

A New Purse – This is a great “go-to” gift because it’s easy and if your mom is like mine, anything practical will do just fine. As I’ve mentioned before, my mom is a big fan of Kipling (2nd floor), so getting her something she will like immediately is a snap. My mom loves backpacks or cross-body purses, and there are so many fun styles and colors to choose from.

Jewelry – This is always a great “go-to” because if you get something your mom loves, you have the pleasure of seeing it on her all the time. I think charm bracelets are wonderful because you can pick out charms that are meaningful to the both of you. If you are not worried about a budget, Tiffany & Co (2nd floor) has gorgeous bracelets and charms in sterling silver, rose gold and gold. If you are looking for more wallet friendly bracelets and charms, Swarovski (2nd floor) has a lovely little selection that will be easier on on your pocketbook.

Quality Time

Day Spa – There are two day spas at Fashion Valley: Carlton Hair (1st floor) and Happy Nails (1st floor). Gift cards are available at both locations to give any mom a wonderful full day of pampering from head to toe!

Brunch and a Movie – Treat your mom to a mid-morning meal and movie, all at Fashion Valley! True Food Kitchen (1st floor) is one of my favorite restaurants there, and they have a healthy and oh-so-delicious brunch menu. Then take her to see a new flick at AMC Fashion Valley 18 (2nd floor), maybe the upcoming Captain America: Civil War?

Bring it on Home

Home Cooked Meal – How about some pampering at home? Either cook something special for mom or get her some new gadgets if she’s the culinary wizard at Williams-Sonoma (2nd floor). I’m a baker myself and there are just so many cool things to find there for anyone who wants to dabble in cookery.

(Pictured: Mother’s Day Cookie Gift Box & Williams-Sonoma Goldtouch Nonstick 6-Piece Essentials Bakeware Set from their official website)

New Parking Guidance System

If you’re a regular shopper at Fashion Valley (like me), then I’m sure you’re already aware of this awesome bit of news: The guess work has now been taken out of the parking situation with their new “parking guidance system” that helps inform you of how many spaces are available! This new system is available at all eight of their parking garages (structures A through H).

FTC Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Fashion Valley

Kipling’s 2016 Spring Line!

Last month, a few bloggers were invited to an “Empowering Women Event” at Kipling’s Fashion Valley location, where patrons could save 20% on their purchase that day by donating their gently used handbags. We were treated to sips, sweets and songs as well as a preview of their new Spring line. I adore the staff at Kipling because everyone is so sweet, and they were so excited to share with us all their latest handbags, totes and backpacks. What better way to celebrate the “Year of The Monkey”!

Always great to see my blogger friends Lilia of Curls & Fashion, Laura of Laura Neuzeth and Alessandra of Alessandra Gonzalez!

(Photo courtesy of Alessandra)

Isn’t Laura holding the cutest Kipling monkey? With his little laptop, it’s perfect for bloggers!

Bright and Colorful: Key words for Kipling’s new Spring line!

My absolute favorite: The new Claudia handbag in stone metallic. Looks like leather!

Thank you Kipling at Fashion Valley for the bright new additions to my growing collection, these will come in handy for traveling this summer!

The Cheeses of Europe Pop-Up at Fashion Valley

I love attending events that are different from what I’m used to, especially at a place like a major shopping mall. Recently, I attended the media event for “The Cheeses of Europe” pop-up shop held at Center Court at Fashion Valley. It featured several varieties of cheeses from Europe (mainly France), offered at a lower price point. The Cheeses of Europe is presented by The Cheeses of France Marketing Council, and their hope is to build awareness and demand for The Cheeses of Europe in the US and the world through national and regional programs. My favorite cheeses of the sampling were the creamier ones and the salted butters. Although I didn’t purchase any that night, I’m happy to know that these cheeses are available at any local Whole Foods, because I will most definitely be trying some of the fabulous dishes on their recipes page. Without a doubt, The Cheeses of Europe know how to Make it Magnifique!

Wine and champagne was available to try with all of the wonderful cheeses for the evening!

The dishes in this mini-sampling were so delicious!

It was great to check out all of the tasty cheeses with Lilia of Curls and Fashion and Vanessa of Fashion Mixtape. One of my favorite cheeses was that Paysan Breton whipped cheese, and another favorite was the Baked Brie with Chipotle Mango Honey Cilantro Shots from the flight of dishes pictured above (pictured bottom right).

Of course I downloaded the app!

KIPLING SPRING 2016 COLLECTION REVEAL + HANDBAG CHARITY DRIVE

This Friday from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Kipling at Fashion Valley will reveal their 2016 Spring Collection and host a handbag charity drive. Enjoy sips, sweets and tunes and 20% off any Kipling handbag with your handbag donation (please make sure any donated handbag is gently used and work appropriate).

I’ll be stopping by, hope to see you there, too!

Kipling Holiday Monogramming Event This Weekend

Kipling will be doing free monogramming with purchase on Sunday December 13, 2015 from 1p-5p at their Fashion Valley location. A monogram on a purse or backpack will add a great personal touch if you’re looking for holiday gift ideas.

RSVP by calling their store at 619-574-0684

I’ll be stopping by as well, so please be sure to say hi!

Santa Is Waiting For YOU at Fashion Valley!

This Saturday marked our third year taking pictures with Santa at Fashion Valley’s Santa Photo Experience. This was by far the easiest year yet because we got his photos completed in the first week of December (rather than the third), and we did it by appointment straightaway, not having to brave the line at all! I’m so glad we did because even with our appointment, we still were able to sneak in a bit early because we had the very first appointment at 10:35 am. We finished with his photo within about 10 minutes, and were able to get in an early day of shopping, eating and enjoying the holiday sights at Fashion Valley. I ended up choosing the “Photo Package Plus Accessory” plan, which really provided the best choice for the price (which included the multi-image CD). To help save time when you visit the Santa Photo Experience, click the following link to make your reservation!

http://noerrsanta.com/simon/

It’s amazing how much he grows each year! I hope he can still sit on Santa’s lap next year!

Also new at Fashion Valley (and Carlsbad Premium Outlets) is Simon Magazine. It’s available at both locations in limited quantities, but if you already subscribe to a Condé Nast publication, you will get a copy of your own.

The first issue looks amazing!

“SIMON AND CONDÉ NAST LAUNCH LUXE LIFESTYLE PUBLICATION SIMON MAGAZINE AVAILABLE NOW AT FASHION VALLEY AND CARLSBAD PREMIUM OUTLETS

Luxury focused fashion, beauty, travel and culture glossy available this holiday season

Fashion Valley and Carlsbad Premium Outlets are pleased to offer shoppers Simon Magazine, a 98-page, high-end lifestyle publication designed to provide readers with the latest must-haves and must-dos, from fashion and beauty, to dining and travel. A limited supply is available to shoppers at Fashion Valley’s Guest Services, located on the lower level underneath AMC Theatres, near Banana Republic. Copies are also available at Carlsbad Premium Outlets’ Information Center, located behind Gap.

The premiere edition of Simon Magazine, produced in collaboration with Condé Nast, features diverse content including covetable gift ideas, an A to Z listing of cultural event happenings around the world, rising technology stars and the gadgets of the future that are here today. The magazine will reach select Simon locations just before the holiday season.”

FTC Disclosure: I received a gift card as a courtesy to enjoy the Simon® Santa Photo Experience, but not as compensation for this post. Although I did receive a gift card, the opinions in this post are strictly my own.

Celebrating the Holidays at Fashion Valley!

Well, happy Black Friday everyone! If you’re like me, you’re already out there, ready to take on the ultimate in holiday shopping after spending time with loved ones on Thanksgiving. While out shopping, don’t forget to stop by Fashion Valley Mall because not only can you get in some major holiday shopping with over 200 stores, but you can also get that special photo for your little one at the Santa Photo Experience, and celebrate in style with seasonal events, like the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony we attended last week. I’ve included some of the pictures I took at the Tree Lighting Ceremony, as well as some information on Santa’s schedule and other special holiday events taking place at Fashion Valley. If you plan on getting pictures with Santa, be sure to schedule your visit ahead by visiting http://noerrsanta.com/simon/, like I did for Dominic. Have a great weekend!

The evening was hosted by Robert Santos of 10 News San Diego

Top photo: The Instagram picture of Dominic in his reindeer antlers and light-up nose (given out free that night), ended up being reposted by Fashion Valley!

Popular holiday carols were provided by the Salvation Army Brass Band

Santa arriving at the Tree Lighting Ceremony!

Let the holiday celebration begin!

Dominic met actor Corbin Bernsen, who co-hosted the event. Such a nice (and funny) guy!

After the Tree Lighting Ceremony, everyone was treated to snacks and activities next to the Santa Photo Experience. Dominic definitely took part by making a Penguin Ornament, and also crafted a Candy Cane Reindeer!

Some of the holiday events and the schedule for the Santa Photo Experience, which runs now through December 24, 2015.

GQ + Glamour Lookbook Live Fall Events Recap

Back on September 17, Janice and I attended the GQ + Glamour Lookbook Live VIP runway show event at Fashion Valley, which was a prelude to their Lookbook Live event that Saturday. The evening started off with appetizers and cocktails over by Neiman Marcus, followed by a fantastic runway show in Center Court. The evening then ended perfectly with dessert and champagne at Tiffany & Co. I’ve always enjoyed these events at Fashion Valley because they treat bloggers as wonderfully as they treat any member of the press, allowing us to have front row seats to ensure we capture the event in the best way possible to share on social media and our blogs. I’ve included highlights of both events, as I attended the Lookbook Live event with Dominic. Cheers!

I fell in love with this cape during Nordstrom’s presentation. The collage above is from my view, and the larger picture is from Fashion Valley’s Facebook page, where you can see me on the left, looking a bit stunned at how beautiful that cape was!

The UK punk rocker in me ended up matching the runway with the strong presence of red plaid. Nordstrom, Hugo Boss and Bloomingdale’s all showing some version of this fall staple (and that’s my Forever 21 skirt and Altuzarra for Target booties in the top left corner of the collage).

Wine and bordeaux are perfect fall colors. Also, that faux fur vest, cropped pants and patent leather heels with the long necklace by MaxMara add interest and texture to an all black outfit.

I simply died and went to footwear heaven at all of the shoes in the Salvatore Ferragamo collection. Oh yes…

My two favorite menswear looks: The top look from John Varvatos and the second look styled by Alex Yanez for Neiman Marcus. Both are an edgy spin to classic looks, incorporating a boot, similar to Doc Martens.

Desserts, champagne and little blue boxes at Tiffany & Co.

It really was such a fun evening spent with fashionable San Diego Style Blogger friends, both old & new! Click here to go to my Instagram account, where all the lovely people in the picture are tagged.

The actual Lookbook Live event was fun and interactive, with style experts from GQ and Glamour magazines.

More San Diego Style Bloggers (and Dominic)! Click here to go to my Instagram account, where all the lovely people in the picture are tagged.

I love this picture of me and Tiffany of Glitz and Glam by Tiff!

My outfit: Cassette Tape print romper by Neon Rose (from ASOS); “Mona” glasses c/o Spy Optic; London Underground cuff c/o Design Hype; shoes by Matiko; unknown name brand fedora

Me and my brooding boy…I think I got him to crack a bit of a smile eventually!

Thank you to Curator PR and Fashion Valley for inviting me to such a wonderful series of events!

“The List” For Fall 2015, Presented by Neiman Marcus

I’m finally getting to post the events I’ve attended last month! Each year for the past couple of years now, Neiman Marcus at Fashion Valley held a luncheon and fashion show to preview what they affectionately call “The NM List”. It’s a set of trends they foresee will be at the forefront of fashion for each of the seasons, and right around the launch of this list, they invite select bloggers and stylists to see those trends in action as styled by Alex Yanez. It’s always a lovely event, and each season its presented, I fall madly in love with a few of Alex’s creations. This year was no different, and I was able to capture all of them for this post, enjoy!

Lunch was so very delicious! And that dessert…it was a yummy as it looks!

My first favorite outfit of the day, was from the “Full-Bodied Reds” trend. The mixed prints and splashes of red are so attractive. Plus, I was overwhelmed by the gorgeousness of the Valentino purse and Prada shoes.

I believe this outfit was from the “Modern Fur” and/or “The Last Layer” trend, and I could not get enough of it! The modern yet very vintage feel of the lace flares, in combination with the fur poncho, leather gloves, stylish hat and that YSL Bourse Star Fringe purse is what makes it all happen for me. If money were no object, THIS is how I’d dress all the time.

“The NM Men’s List” of trends includes the following: Go Green, Statement Coats, Velvet and Full-Bodied Reds. I think my husband should definitely rock any of these for fall!

Alex with the final looks of the day.

Can I take these all home?

Other than the Valentino and the YSL purses, I absolutely adored the Bottega Vaneta Irish Madras & Exotic Skin shoulder bag and the “Hello” clutch by Edie Parker.

With the always dapper Alex Yanez.

(My outfit: Topshop dress; Elisabeth Gothic boots c/o CorsetDeal.com; Chanel earrings & necklace from Designer Vault; Depeche Mode wrap bracelet by Little Treasures by Mir; Rings by Wendy Brandes)

Part of the fun of this event is seeing all of these beautiful bloggers and stylists! (Picture 2 going clockwise is courtesy of Ayana of Thrifting Diva‘s Instagram account here.)

Our gift from Neiman Marcus was a beautiful pair of earrings from Stephanie Kantis, which I wore recently to the FWSD Culinary Couture event (post to come).

Thank you Neiman Marcus for another lovely event!

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