[Shabby] Apple a Day

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Shine On

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 21:06:00 +0000

I was lucky enough to spend Saturday evening with one Ms. Samantha House, who in addition to being down for a harrowing drive to the near-ghetto only to listen to really awful local bands, also designs the most gorgeous and inspiring (and shiny!) jewelry you have ever seen.

And no, I am not exagerrating.

Her pieces are bold and unique with a little twist of whimsy and they make a statement without being obnoxious or overwhelming. And they all sparkle. Which I love.

Behold, a few of my favorites.

These pieces are a splurge for sure, but I think we can all agree they are a splurge well worth it. This is the perfect jewelry to dress up a casual night-on-the-town outfit, or add the final piece of fancy to a dressed-to-the-hilt (is that a phrase?) ensemble. And you simply cannot beat high-quality, carefully and imaginatively constructed jewelry made by hand, with love, in the heart of New York City.

The mind boggles, I know.

And get this, Samantha is so good, she can make this stuff on the bus, probably in her sleep with all eight of the Gosselin children screaming in the background.

So stop reading this and go get some already!
And once you've had a peek, come back and tell us which piece is your favorite and where you would flaunt it?

Flat Foot

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 15:01:00 +0000

With Spring comes the inevitable search for good flats. Because frolicking about in grassy meadows and bustling cities and sunshine is no task for precarious heels or stuffy boots. Flats it must be!

But I am the only one who finds the perfect flat somewhat elusive? The perfect black flat especially. You know the one that's dressy enough for work, casual enough for play, looks good with jeans, skirts and dress pants and is comfortable enough to walk in for miles? (Where ARE you?) I am on the prowl this Spring, as ever, especially because I am looking to replace some well-worn and well-loved flats that just won't make it through another season. (Saying good-bye to shoes is such sweet sorrow.)

I offer no guarantees that any of these are the magic bullet solution, but for those of you in the same (foot) bind, here are some options.

For starters, Aldo Shoes is having a sale of a bunch of stylin' flats for $50 or less. Nothing to sniff at there. There are some good staples (could my black flat quandry finally be resolved?) and some more pop-of-color options as well.

I was also quite taken with this option from Aldo, a little punk twist on the traditional black flat. I am always a fan of ankle straps.

J. Crew has a bunch of classic ballet flats in some not-so-classic patterns, like these fire-y stunners.

For a wide selection at easy prices, I am always a fan of Overstock.com, especially if you are looking to remake your Spring shoe wardrobe.

If you are looking for a total splurge, I am in LOVE with these golden brogues from Aldo. (Can't you just see these with black skinnies, a striped boat neck and a bright Spring Jacket?)

Though this traditional brown oxford from Steve Madden is probably a more versatile choice, and still scores high style points.

Feeling flat-tered?
What is your Spring must-have shoe and where can we find it?

Hair Today

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:17:00 +0000

I am in the middle of growing out my hair. As a life-long Person With Short Hair, this is a somwhat painful, excruciating process. I have attempted and failed many times, but this time I think I am going to make it all the way. And when I do, I am going to reward myself with one of these stunningly adorable hair accessories from Spellbound.

I am rather partial to the cocktail hat-inspired options, but celebrating Spring with a flock of butterflies in my hair is also a highly appealing option.

If you are jonesing for some hair magic right now, head over to Have A Cute Day and enter their Spellbound giveaway.

You're welcome!

P.S. Also, does anyone have tips for making your hair grow faster? I am already downing the prenatal vitamins but I swear I have the slowest growing hair, like, ever.

Hey Baby, What's Your Style?

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 20:29:00 +0000

Personal style, I have decided, is something that is always evolving. Sure, we all have our signature flair, whether it be colorful shoes or skinny jeans or oversized accessories, or flowered headbands. But I think our style is always changing, even if just a little bit at a time.

For example, I don't dress the same way I did when I started college 10 (all right, fine, 11) years ago. Because I am not a college student anymore. And I don't dress the same way I did when I got my first job five years ago, because I don't work at a casual-dress-code newspaper anymore.

With me so far?

Lately, I have been feeling a style shift coming on. I have the urge to get rid of everything and start all over. But where do I want to start from? What style do I want most of all? Preppy with a funky twist? Urban chic with a dash of hippie? Independent bookstore owner in the Pacific Northwest? Or easy-breezy California cool? Maybe big city professional all the time? Or, pushing the envelope risk-taker?

Have you ever found yourself in the same boat?

While our style is, ultimately, about us and what we are trying to say, Shabby Apple would like to help you find the style that is the most "you." And then help you find the women's dresses to match it.

So, without further ado, I present....

.....

.....

(Is this fun, or what?)

....

The Shabby Apple What's Your Style? widget!

Don't ask me what a widget is, because I don't know. But I do know that simply by answering a few easy questions, like where you would go on an ideal vacation, and what art you would use to decorate a new apartment, we can help you get a jump start on determining your signature style.

We'll even point you in the direction of brands (and Shabby Apple dresses, of course) that will help you put your best fashion foot forward.

Go ahead! Take the quiz!
And then come back and let us know: What's Your Style?

Attention Designers!! Wanna Be A Star?

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 16:24:00 +0000

If you are a designer, and if you have a goal for fame and world domination (which, let's be honest, I think we all do), and, most importantly, if you want the inside line on how Heidi Klum can hit the runway so soon after she has her babies (which, let's be honest, I think we all do), then you might be interested to know that Season 8 of Project Runway is currently casting.

And they are looking for you!

I think your task is clear. Get out there and make it happen!

And don't forget your friends here at Shabby Apple when you hit the big time. (Because seriously, I want to know how Heidi does it.)

See you on the small screen!

Mirror, Mirror, On the Wall...

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 23:35:00 +0000

Dress Number Two is the least fair of them all!

To refresh your memory (do we really want to do that?), here is the Ugliest Bridesmaid Dress of all time!

A big congrats though, to Michelle Williams Rognon, who will be rewarded for her diligent friendship (because it takes friendship to wear that dress, and that is all I am going to say), with the Golden Gate bridesmaid dress of her choice, in the fabulous color of her choice!

(Michelle, just pop your e-mail address in the comments section and we'll hook you up! And rest assured, this dress you really will be able to wear again!)

And now, a big hand (and condolences) to all our participants! (Next time I will figure out how to use Survey Monkey for real. Promise.)

For those of you coveting a Golden Gate dress of your own, be not dismayed. These gorgeous gowns are good for so much more than saving you from bridesmaid Hades.

I am already planning to rock important business meetings in this carefully tailored, pleat-topped dress...

And this the flirty ruffles of this dress seem like the perfect companion for a Spring brunch and an afternoon browsing used book stores...

What is your favorite Golden Gate dress?
And, weddings, aside, where do you plan to wear it?

Remember, Remember...

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 15:49:00 +0000

... that there are only a few more hours to vote for the Ugliest Bridesmaid Dress of All Time! We will be shutting the contest down at high noon, Mountain Standard Time. So, get to perusing and vote casting, and all of that.

And, once your eyes have been sufficiently doused in the not-so-awesome, hop over to Shabby Apple and recover with the whimsical and wonderful Golden Gate bridesmaid dresses, now available for your viewing (and purchasing!) pleasure!

The winner of the Ugliest Bridesmaid Dress of All Time contest will be announced first thing Monday morning.

Happy weekend, kittens!

Which Is The Least Fair Of Them All?

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 22:38:00 +0000

As a person who very firmly refuses to ever look at again, not to mention let anyone else ever look at any photograph taken of me between the ages of, oh let's say seven and 27, because they are just too humiliating, let me first offer my sincere admiration to all the contestants in our Ugly Bridesmaid Dress contest.

Three cheers! You ladies are gutsy!

And so are your bride friends for asking you to wear such things.

But one of you will be the winner of a brand new, and beautiful bridesmaid dress from Shabby Apple! So, it was all worth it.

Right?

Below, please feast your eyes on our contest finalists. Once you are done cringing, vote for your favorite (Click here to take survey). We will announce the lucky lady by the end of the week.

Dress 1

Dress 2

Dress 3

Dress 4

Dress 5

Dress 6

And then all of you should burn those pictures.

No offense.

But seriously.

May the worst dress win!

Slim Fast

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 22:43:00 +0000

I know it might be hard for some of you stuck in the snow to believe (sorry, Salt Lakers!), but swimsuit season is nearly upon us!

Even though I crave warm weather all Winter long, I find that it creeps up on me every year. One minute I am enjoying sugar cookies for dinner, and the next I am trying to put on a swimsuit without crying.

Who's with me?

(Someone? Please?)

So you don't suffer the same fate, here is the first in a series of summer slim-down tips, courtesy of OK! Weekly magazine. (Yes, I get it, I read it and I do not feel badly about it. So there.)

Diet: Cut out coffee (And Diet Coke, too).
And try some green tea instead. While coffee elevates stress and increases cravings, green tea has the opposite effect. Also replace artificial sweeteners with honey or agave, and be sure to drink plenty of water. Your body can sometimes mistake thirst for hunger.

Workout: Start strength training.
Instead of hating every minute on the treadmill, start with two days a week of total-body strength training. Weight training will help you slim down and building muscle will speed up your metabolism so you keep burning calories even after your workout is over.

Motivation: Set a realistic goal.
A pound a week is a good place to start, but shedding weight doesn't have to be your main motivation. Any small lifestyle change will add up to a noticeable difference wherever you want to see it most.

There now, that wasn't so bad. Right?
What are your summer-ready fitness tips?

Always A Bridesmaid

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 01:37:00 +0000

Everyone raise your hand if you've heard these words come out of the mouth of a well-meaning bride: You can totally wear it again!

Yeah. Right.

But you deserve to get something for suffering through unflattering shapes, colors and fabrics, right?

Right!

In honor of the launch of the new Golden Gate Bridesmaid line from Shabby Apple, we are hosting a competition to find the ugliest bridesmaid dress of all. The winner will get a free Shabby Apple Golden Gate dress of her choice. (In one of nine gorgeous colors, no less.)

Here is what to do. Between now and April 5th, you must post a picture of you (yes, you, not some poor sucker you found on the Internet. And we will find you and punish you if you cheat) in the ugliest bridesmaid dress you have ever had to wear at a wedding. Pictures should be posted on the Shabby Apple Facebook page. (And hey, why don't you become a fan of Shabby Apple on Facebook while you're at it. Just saying.) You must also post a link to the Shabby Apple dress (any one will do) that you would rather have worn.

Remember, no link means no entry.

On April 5th our talented judges will go through and select five finalists. Then you'll have a chance to vote on the least fair dress of them all, just in time for the April 9th launch of the Golden Gate line.

So, to sum up: picture of you in an ugly bridesmaid dress+link to a lovely Shabby Apple dress=a chance at a free dress for you!

May the best girl, and the worst dress, win!

Reminder

noreply@blogger.com (Emily) — Sat, 27 Mar 2010 01:58:00 +0000

Just a reminder to all of our loyal fans! Tomorrow is the big day. You may have looked out the window this morning and seen the snow just like we did. Don't worry--we're not the kind of girls that would let a little snow ruin a good party. We'll be at the Shops at the Riverwoods at 10 AM tomorrow morning (we hope you'll be there too)--rain or shine.

There will be door prizes for our most prompt shoppers. Easter egg hunt starts at 10 AM and there will be eggs filled with candy, toys, Shabby Apple coupons and even a certificate for a free dress!

We'll see you there!!

Black Is The New Black

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 20:58:00 +0000

There is no wardrobe staple quite like a black dress, is there? Good for work, play, formal and not, it doesn't get much better than a little black dress. I have several, and I still feel like I don't have enough.

But a black dress can also be a boring dress if you're not careful. Here are some of Washington's finest, with some tips on how to work the LBD.

What is your favorite option?

And how do you like to dress up your LBD?

Have you Heard?

noreply@blogger.com (Emily) — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 22:11:00 +0000

Next Saturday there's a pretty big deal happening in Provo, UT. Have you heard? You may be thinking I'm talking about the Festival of Colors at the Krishna Temple but I'm not. That's a big deal too but the big deal I'm talking about happens before that and involves free candy for kids and discounted Shabby Apple dresses. Anyone? Anyone? That's right! It's the Shabby Apple Easter Egg Hunt and Trunk Show at the Riverwoods in Provo.

It's not too often that you get to try on Shabby Apple dresses to your heart's content without paying for shipping fees but this, ladies and gentlemen, is exactly that occasion. We've partnered up with the Riverwoods in Provo and this event is going to be stellar.

Maybe you've been thinking about this dress for your little lady for Easter--It'll be there; she can try it on and you can see just how darling it looks IRL.

Let's say you've been thinking that this dress would be perfect for you for Spring (you're right by the way) but you don't know what size to order and you don't want to pay shipping. Done and done. Just come to the Riverwoods on Saturday March 27th from 10-2 and it's yours.

Ok, enough shamless publicizing (almost). There are just 2 more things that I need you to do. 1) We don't do these types of events that often and the last time we did (in August mind you) it rained. So cross your fingers for good weather. Easter Egg Hunts in the rain = no muy bueno and 2) You're the most well-connected people we know and we'd like to use that. So, if you write a post about this event on your blog and grab this darling little button

we'll enter you in a drawing to win this little number from our Baja line.

That's right. A free dress just for posting about our party on your blog. Easy enough right? Just leave us a link in the comment section and you're entered! Winner will be announced at the event and they can pick up their dress there (or we'll ship it to you if you're not around).

But you should come. We'll see you on Saturday--rain or shine. (but we hope it's shine)

Charmed, I'm Sure

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 21:58:00 +0000

I was catching up over on Have A Cute Day yesterday (how do those sisters do it?) when I came across this photo of Kjrsten and her darling state charm necklace, one charm for each state where she has lived.

Jewelry as nostalgia-- I love it!

So I took quickly to the Internet and started a search for a state charm necklace of my very own. I couldn't find anything quite so colorful as what Kjrsten is modeling here, but I did dig up a few options.

For some sleek, silver state charms, check out Victoria's Vintage Charms.

Or, if a ready-made version is more up your alley, check out these loaded bracelets from Eclecticala. Each one has a different theme with corresponding charms, including some state charms and other USA landmarks like Mount Rushmore.

If you are looking for something more colorful, and you happen to be from Rhode Island, you are in luck at at Vintage Charm Jewelry.

And you Floridians might be interested in this brightly colored find.

I loved these next state charms because they had a little more detail inside the state lines (I adore the Colorado cowboy!), but they don't have every state.

I am putting my own necklace together with Utah, Michigan, Virginia, Massachusetts and Colorado.
What would your state charm necklace include?

In The Bag

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 02:14:00 +0000

Let me paint a picture for you.

Me. Rushing out the door. Late for work or a party or to meet people for dinner. Or anything, really. Purse on one shoulder. A computer or a birthday gift or a plate full of cookies in the opposite hand. Keys precariously dangling from a finger. Crouching, squatting, bending trying to lock the front door or open the car door. The purse slips off and catches on my elbow. The computer/birthday gift/plate of cookies threatens to crash to the ground. Exasperated sighs. Mounting frustration. Ultimately, danger and disaster narrowly avoided.

Sound familiar?

Well, do I have some good news for you. This Spring's hottest bags-- cross body purses that act as a hands-free hybrid of messenger and shoulder bag styles-- are all about practicality. Take it from Deborah Kalkstein, owner of Contemporaria, a Georgetown boutique with a little bit of everything, including furniture, accessories and, naturally, Spring's hottest bags! Read more about her take on the season's new cross body purses, and then check out a slide show of some more spring bag trends.

And then tell us, what do you think of cross body purses?

Are you pumped to go hands free, or is the classic shoulder bag more your cup of tea?

The Fashionista's Guide to Spanish

noreply@blogger.com (Emily) — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 15:05:00 +0000

The Moment Of TRUTH had arrived.

I was standing in an old second-hand shop in Irkusk, Russia (Yes, Siberia. No, no real explanation as to why) with THE PREFECT DRESS in my hands, wanting to try it on. The light in the basement shop was bad, the musty smell overwhelming, and the disinterested, half-blind old woman attendant stared at me as I walked through and touched everything. The dress had spoken to me. Soft, washed, cornflower blue silk; buttons up the front; pockets. It had to be mine.

The game of charades to ask if I could try it on was comical. I mimed the action of trying on a dress and posing in front of a mirror, oh la la-ing at myself. When she returned this with a blank stare, I did the only thing I could think of (the most American thing I could possibly do) and flashed her the thumbs up, hoping she would take that as an "is this okay" indicator. There was no dressing room (this I did not know) and so she finally acquiesced and held up an old shawl in a corner so I could slip it on. It fit like magic. Oh. No.

But there was no price tag. Another game of charades. No haggling allowed when you have to pantomime. After 20 minutes we understood each other as only woman can when clothing is involved and I walked out of the shop, with more resolve to learn Russian than I had had in my two previous years of college classes. Next time, I wouldn't have to mime....

In that vein, Fashionistas, and in honor of our new Baja Line, We've put together the FASHIONISTA'S GUIDE TO SPANISH. Hopefully it will come in handy sometime soon!

"Can I try this on?" -- ¿Puedo probar esto?

"Where are the dressing rooms?" -- ¿Dónde están los camerinos?

"I love the cut, but does it come in another color?" -- ¿Me encanta el corte, pero no viene en otro color?

"Do you have this in a size...." -- ¿Tiene usted esta en un tamaño de...?

"Does this make me look fat?" -- ¿Esto me hace parecer gorda?

"I'll buy it!" -- Lo compro!

"Do you take credit cards?" -- ¿Aceptan tarjetas de crédito?

"I want something with higher/lower heels" -- Quiero algo con major/menor talones.

"Do you have a bag that matches these shoes?" -- ¿Tiene una bolsa que coincida con estos zapatos?

"Is that for sale?" -- ¿es esta a la venta?

"How much is it?" -- ¿Cuánto es?

"Where can I buy a copy of Vogue Magazine" -- ¿Dónde puedo comprar un ejemplar de la revista Vogue?

"Do you know a good tailor/dry cleaner/shoe repair...?" -- ¿Conoces a un buen sastre / tintorería / reparación de calzado...?

So there you have it, ladies. Now you have no excuse not to take that trip to Madrid or Caracas...

South of the Border Celebration

noreply@blogger.com (Emily) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 04:46:00 +0000

The SUN IS OUT, the icy depths of winter are over, and it is time to CELEBRATE.

And though Cinco de Mayo is still two months away, we got a little over-eager and decided to create a South of the Border Celebration in honor of the new BAJA LINE of dresses at Shabby Apple that launched today. So here, Ladies (and Gentlemen?) is the Shabby Apple Fashionista's guide to hosting a fiesta.

Regardless of whether this is an indoor, low-key, get-gussied-up-for-no-real-reason, two-person dinner party, or an outdoor, flame-licked extravaganza, a few perfectly picked elements will make it an event to remember... We've gathered a few of our favorites here; pick and choose what works for you and get to it!

DECOR:

Maybe pinatas were a great addition to the fiestas of yesteryear, when you weren't actually strong enough to break them on the first try, but now you can trade up for these beautiful tissue paper pom-poms that are alarmingly easy to make.

Add a few tea lights in folded over paper bags, extra limes sliced and put in vases, or even a mexican blanket or two as a table runner and you are set. If you're outside, string christmas lights around the dining area to create an outdoor room and give the evening a lovely luster.

MUSIC:

keep it lively with some bright, brassy tunes or more chill with vibes from groups like Buena Vista Social Club or Afro Cuban All Stars. When in doubt, the Macarena may save the day (and provide you with some classic blackmail video footage later on...) Check out the itunes store for more great playlists of Fiesta-friendly music.

FOOD: Fiestas are un-fussy, un-stuffy, kick up your heels, dig-in-with-all-ten-fingers kind of occasions, and no half-hearted, pre-packaged, Oscar Mayer cop-out will do. A Fiesta is all about going BOLD with your foods. Here is a sample menu of some of my favorites.

Mango Pomegranate Guacamole (oh-so-tasty, oh-so-zippy)

Escarole Salad with White Beans and Lime Vinaigrette

Black Bean Soup with Cumin

Pulled Brisket Tacos or Fish Tacos

Coconut Milk Fudge or Flan for dessert

I love the Mango-Pom Guacamole, I'm just going to put the recipe down right here, so you don't even have to follow the link...

4 ripe avocados (2 pounds total)

1 cup finely chopped white onion

2 fresh serrano chiles, finely chopped (2 tablespoons), including seeds

1/4 cup fresh lime juice, or to taste

3/4 cup pomegranate seeds (from 1 pomegranate)

3/4 cup diced peeled mango

1/2 cup chopped cilantro

Halve, pit, and peel avocados. Coarsely mash in a bowl. Stir in onion, chiles, 1/4 cup lime juice, and 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, then fold in pomegranate seeds, mango, and cilantro. Season with salt and additional lime juice

And of course FASHION:

Pull out your cute new straw fedora and pair it with the prefect pair of oxford pumps and a new Shabby Apple Baja Line dress!

South of the Border Style

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 13:35:00 +0000

It is that time of year when cold, gray weather is getting pretty darn old and we all start longing for the warmth and sunshine of Spring and Summer.

Dear Winter, we are over you.

To escape the bleak mid-winter blahs I am off to Australia!

(Yes, you should feel very jealous. Go ahead.)

But before I leave, I am going to let you in on a little secret that will help you get through these last few yucky weeks (months? I hope not) of Old Man Winter.

On March 9th, Shabby Apple is releasing a new slew of fabulous women's dresses. The desert inspired Baja Line will transport you to Old Mexico before you can say, "Another margarita, please!" Fancy yourself skipping through an Old Spanish Mission with the Sundace Kid on your arm, and the bleak winter will be nothing but a bad memory.

If you're looking for a little advanced sunshine in your wardrobe, pick up a swingin' fedora like this one,

and some cargos like this,

or this cargo skirt,

to bring a little south-of-the-border flair to what you wear.

(Rhyme!)

I am passing the blog into very capable hands while I am away, so keep checking back for more information about the Baja Line and much more!

Backstage Pass (Virtually)

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 03:18:00 +0000

It is Fashion Week in New York. Which means beautiful people and beautiful clothes all over the place. Don't you wish we were there?

(Are you there?)

Luckily for us peons, there is more than one way to get a behind-the-scenes look at the fashion wonderland.

Wanna hear one?

Very well.

Might I suggest picking up "The September Issue" on DVD?

You may remember reading, right here on this very blog, a brief recap of the film, a documentary that follows Anna Wintour and the staff of Vogue as they put together and publish the massive September issue of the magazine.

The DVD hits stores on February 23rd, complete with plenty of special extras, including outtakes, extended scenes and a backstage look at some of the biggest, fiercest fashion shows out there.

Like New York Fashion Week.

(Don't you wish we were there?)

I just listened in on an ever-so-interesting phone interview with the film's director, R.J. Cutler. He said lots of fascinating things about filmmaking and Anna Wintour and the rest of the Vogue gang, but the thing that stuck out most to me was his opinion that, even when we dismiss fashion as something frivolous and silly, we are what we wear. In R.J.'s words, "What you put on says a great deal about who you are."

In short, everything we wear makes a statement. Even when we're not trying to say anything at all. Or even when we are trying to say that we couldn't care less. Not caring is a statement of its own.

Deep, right?

If you are lucky enough to live in New York (don't the rest of us wish we were there?), you can get more wisdom straight from the horse's mouth. R.J. and a few of the characters portrayed in the film will be signing copies of the DVD and answering your burning questions at an event at a Manhattan Barnes and Noble on February 25th.

(Sadly I can't tell you which one, though I am sure you can find it somewhere else on the Internet.)

And I am happy to sign DVDs for those of you who can't make it.

What a deal, right?

How can you repay the favor, you ask? Well, hop into the comments section and tell us: If we are what we wear, what are you?

Just Once

noreply@blogger.com (Emily) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 15:13:00 +0000

It's here! It's here! It's here! Valentines has come and gone but the big day we've been waiting for (I mean really, what are chocolates and flowers in comparison to new clothes?) has finally arrived! So, if things didn't go so well at your house this Valentines Day just know that the new women's dresses you'll find at Shabby Apple with certainly make things better.

Our last New York inspired guest blogger is Stepanie. She comes to us from the Brooklyn Limestone she writes all about the ups and downs of home ownership, decorating and a little bit about the ups and downs of everyday living. If you haven't checked her out, you should. She is funny and artistic and lovely.

"Are we really doing this? Isn't this a tourist thing?" I asked with resignation. "We're going - it'll be fun!" He replied. So with classic New York cynicism, I bundled myself up against the frigid elements of the last day of the year. It was still early but the streets were teaming with people ready to say goodbye to 1998.

We met our friends on the subway platform and exchanged the usual pleasantries. Off to Time Square! We arrived to the expected throng of crowds. The usual city cacophony of taxi honks and sirens replaced by the voices of thousands of like minded revelers. Hours to go and blocks away from our destination, the crowd got so thick we had to push our way in through the cracks. Too many people, too little space.

Before long we resigned ourselves to wait it out just out of sight of the famous sparkly ball and enjoy the fun as best we could. And it was cold - so very cold, I admit to wondering to myself 'why am I here? I could be watching Dick Clark, while comfy and warm in my pajamas!'

Despite my best efforts to be unimpressed, the enthusiasm was contagious. All of the strangers around us didn't seem to share in my jaded New York cynicism. They were ready for the countdown - freezing temperatures and crowded streets were not going to dampen their spirits. It was impossible to resist taking part in the palpable joy that filled those blocks!. With nothing but time on my hands, I looked around and got to see the city from another vantage point. From the corner of my eye I caught the little vignettes that made up the crowd. A couple in love, staring up at the mesmerizing lights that surrounded us. A happy but loaded drunk without a coat offering us all a swig of his Jim beam. A group of friends experiencing a classic New York city moment for the first time. The conversation turned to how fast the year had flown by and before we knew it, it was nearly time.

The crowd was chanting numbers randomly. Eighteen…fourteen… nine….twelve…six…four. The anxiety of the moment heightened. Eight..six.. four…three…two…one. WHAM! Thousands of strangers raising hands and hearts to welcome in the New Year. No one knew if we were on time, no one cared. Noisemakers blasting, camera flashes going off, confetti floating through the night air. Cold and tired feet forgotten, no one could not be happy at that moment. And then as quickly as my appreciation for this moment came, it was gone. The thousands of people who had flocked to celebrate had had enough. So we about faced and marched out with the army of tourists and natives alike back to our own little homes. A reminder of the city at its best and its worst. And an experience every New Yorker must brave - just once.

There, like I said, she's lovely. New Year's may have come and gone but it's always an appropriate time for a new you so stop by and check out our new Central Park line--the bright colors, the bold shapes may just help you remember that spring is just around the corner and so is a brand new you (or just a you who is wearing a very darling new dress).

noreply@blogger.com (Emily) — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 22:00:00 +0000

We're not really sure that Natalie needs any kind of introduction but we'll attempt it anyway. She's often called the Mormon in Manhattan but we like to think of her best as one of the authors of the hilariously titled No Sex in the City blog. If you don't subscribe you should. I don't even watch the bachelor and somehow I get sucked into the recaps (complete with DVR screen shots). So without further ado--Miss Natalie (Pictured here in a SA dress at a fabulous broadway opening just to give you an idea of how amazing she is)

i always knew i would be a new yorker. long before i had ever seen the streets of the big apple, i was well versed... please, i watched every Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in my short life, saw ANNIE and knew "NYC" backwards and forwards.

before my first trip to nyc (at 11 yrs old) , my dad told me to

keep my "head high, look like you know where you're going (even when you don't) ."
i knew where i was going.
i was going to create a life in nyc.
home.

i remember eating sesame seed bagels and cream cheese on the streets before i took a carriage ride thru central park , watching the mafia dons and their ladies (in full fur regalia) parade into Carnegie Deli and into the back room, and sitting with eager anticipation in the theater at my first broadway show.
this city is so electric, i thought. i can be anybody i want to be.

i believe it was only a short year later, when i accompanied dad on another business trip. with a promise not to tell my mom, he very confidently (and i guess, recklessly) handed me a subway token (yup, this was before metrocards) and pointed in the direction of the R train....Prince Street.
i was going shopping in SOHO-at 12 yrs old.
many years later, i still take that train to soho to shop with girlfriends or up to 57th street to play in the broadway baseball league, take a walk with my puppy , or picnic with my friends in central park.

i think i was raised in this city... or better, this city has raised me and, thanks to dad, i still keep my head high and look like i know where i'm going (especially when i don't) ... just like a real NEW YORKER.

thankfully, shabby apple has outfitted me all the way. i wear their sundresses to brunch, and dressier dresses to openings, fashion shows, date nights, auditions and church. the dresses are affordable, unique, and insanely figure flattering.
it's only fitting that they center a dress line around the park in the heart of our city.

welcome to new york, shabby.

you make us look good.

xo natalie

Isn't she divine? And wouldn't she look like she knew exactly where she was going in this?

noreply@blogger.com (Emily) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:30:00 +0000

Melissa at The Lil Bee is one of our favorites. Pretty much our love for her can be summed up from a quote we stole from her blog; "she don't believe in shooting stars but she believes in shoes and cars." Amen sister. Of course, it doesn't help that she's a sassy New Yorker, dog lover, mom and fashionista. So without further ado here's her Central Park memory.

When we lived in New York City, nothing made me happier than our early morning walks to Central Park. Dogs are allowed to run free in the park until 9am daily, and so off-the-leash time became a part of our weekend routine. We’d wake up on Saturday mornings, throw on our sweats, and head out the door by 7. The city is quiet at that time, somehow more 13 and a half miles small than 9 million people big. It is your own little island.

We’d walk first to the coffee cart on the corner—one light and sweet, one black—and then straight across 75th Street to Central Park. It was a short walk, maybe ten minutes long, but the anticipation was tangible in our dogs’ leashes—they knew where we were going and would pull as hard as they could to get us there quickly. And then, as we’d cross into the park and onto that first patch of green, we’d unhook the leashes and watch our dogs fly across the lawn to meet the crowd. There’d be a dozen or so other dogs and a medley of Frisbees and tennis balls and sticks and bones. It was an indescribable happiness.

Because this small grouping of people, with their dogs and their newspapers and their coffees light and sweet, was here not just for the day but rather a lifetime, this area of Central Park became our collective backyard, somehow more like twelve people across than 50+ blocks high. We knew each other by face and sometimes by name, and we’d chat about our dogs, the weekend bike race or 5k, the headlines on the Post. New York’s unspoken rule of speaking only when spoken to did not apply.

When it was time to leave, we’d head back home, taking the longer route through the park… up along the paved paths, through the tunnel where the saxophonist huddled down for warmth and spare change, around the pond where the bird watchers sat with stale bagels and binoculars, and up the hill where the runners would stop to catch their breath.

We’d pass by The Whitney and The Carlyle, Madison Avenue and the brunch at Orsay, New York institutions that marked our journey home like breadcrumbs to Gretel. If I did nothing else for the rest of the day, I’d still feel accomplished and alive for having soaked in that electrical feeling that only Central Park can give. It’s been over a year now since I called New York City home, but I’m forever grateful for the memories I have on that loved up patch of green, our own little private backyard.

You can read more about my love of NYC here (http://www.thelilbee.com/2009/12/reasons-to-love-new-york.html) and here (http://www.thelilbee.com/2008/11/central-park.html) on my blog The Lil Bee (http://www.thelilbee.com/).

Our new Central Park line may not be the perfect thing to wear taking your dog to the park but we're pretty sure that they may be nearly as effective as off-leash dog time at helping you break the "don't speak unless spoken too" rule and that you'll be sure to find those places where suddenly a big space feels just like home.

Filling Your Closet with Memories

noreply@blogger.com (Emily) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:56:00 +0000

Shabby Apple is pleased to be able to introduce Amber from www.mommiesontherun.blogspot.com. Amber is a working mother of twins who inspires all kinds of mommies (and not mommies) to keep running. We're cheating a little on this one because Amber is actually from San Francisco but she's no stranger to running the paths of Manhattan's Central Park so we asked her for one of her favorite memories of the Big Apple.

"I'm a city girl through and through. It doesn't matter what coast I'm on, I love the city. Something about the tall buildings, fast(er) pace and secret patches of green hidden amidst all the cement. When I'm not climbing the hills of San Francisco enjoying the endless oddities (this city has its share), I'm enjoying the New York scene. Where can you get a white coffee in the morning then buy a purse on the black market only to walk to the greens in Central Park?

My favorite day in New York was nothing special but it was perfect for me. It was a day last Spring whenI was in the city for a conference. My day could be described in a Clif Notes version of outfits: shorts and tank > blouse and slacks > dress and heels. I woke at 6 am to go for a run when the dark was cracking to light around Central Park. A flurry of suits scuttled by as did a handful of 20-somethings coming home from their night out. For 90 minutes I had my own private paradise with the pond, trees, bridges and patches of grass. Post run I made it back to change and shuttle off to a board room for a day of meetings. the evening brought an event at Rockefeller Center-a night of wine tasting over the city...A perfect day.

Great clothes can help introduce great days. In the same way that Amber's outfits helped determine and define her perfect day in New York, Shabby Apple (new line and all) is ready to dress you in clothes that will help you create those perfect memories. So get ready to fill your wardrobe with great memories. Maybe...like this one.....

Central Park is Full of Perks

noreply@blogger.com (frances) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 22:25:00 +0000

The first real trip I ever took to New York City was Spring Break of my sophomore year of college.

We did it all. The Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Macy's, a Broadway show. And a walk through Central Park, eating those candied nuts you can buy on the street.

It was heaven.

(It was also delicious.)

I've lost track of all my trips to New York since then. The city always has something different to offer-- different styles, different plays, different food, different friends, different seasons-- but Central Park always has the same magic.

I have walked through Central Park on a breezy summer day holding hands with a cute boy.

I have rushed through Central Park on a blustery fall day on my way to a delicious brunch.

I have strolled through Central Park on a scorching summer afternoon, licking an ice cream cone with my mom.

I have stood in Central Park and closed my eyes and breathed it all in.

Central Park is the gift that keeps on giving, and that's why Central Park is the inspiration for the latest and greatest line of Shabby Apple dresses! Over the next couple of weeks, we're inviting some of our favorite New York City bloggers to share some of their favorite memories of Central Park and The City That Never Sleeps.

And we'll also be sprinkling in some sneak previews of the upcoming line, so I think it's pretty safe to say you are not going to want to miss a single day. I haven't seen the new line myself, but my sources say it is to die for. And my sources never lie.

So, sit down, strap in, and get ready for a Big Apple-style adventure!

And if you have some favorite New York City memories of your own, we'd love to hear them.

Of course.