Holiday Party & Huge Sale!

Hello Friends!

On Thursday, December 3rd J. LaMore is hosting the 11th annual Holiday Party & Sale! Everything in the store and online is 30% off! (That includes sale items!)

For those friends who want to come to the party, you can enjoy wine, champagne, and hors d'oeuvre's as well as a complimentary Tarot Card reading from Josephine's Eyes. (Dana is back by popular demand and is so much fun.)

The 30% off sale runs through Monday, December 7th and for online shoppers you can use promo code "holiday09" at checkout and save big! As always, FREE Shipping is included on every order so you save even more! We also offer FREE gift wrapping to make your holiday shopping easy and stress free. You should see the handmade bows we put on every package! I promise the package will be the prettiest one she opens!

If you have any question at all please send me an email.

Jennifer

Socks . . . !

Hi Jennifer & Friends! I noticed in your recent lookbooks that you have strong influence in socks as part of the styled and choreographed looks. Socks with boots and heels paired along with stockings and a mini dress. Knee high socks and ankle socks seem to be everywhere and I have to say that I love the look. I also love the over the knee look too. Very cute!

I now see that socks are making it on all the runway shows and how the models and stylist put the look together is wonderful. I would have never thought to wear this look but I am very interested in it now.

Lynn
Los Angeles, CA

P.S.

On a personal note, I am back from five days in Colorado now but I go back to work on Tuesday. I have a day to regroup. It was really nice going home for Thanksgiving since I've been gone for a couple of years. Traveling on a holiday weekend was pure hell! I consider myself one of the lucky ones to actually get home. I hate to say it but I may reconsider going home for Christmas if this is how it is. I don't know how people do it year after year.

Bond Girl's, Vodka & Dangerous Men!

Hi Mandy! Happy Thanksgiving! I'm so happy that my little "Bond Girl" comment on the Flavio Castellani coats inspired your creative energy. I don't think that has ever happened to me before. LOL!

You truly captured the look in your photography and images that I had in my head when I saw the coats. For some reason, every time I see fur coats like these I think of sexy and glamorous Russian woman wearing them. (I also think of them drinking vodka and and associating with dangerous men but that's another image altogether. Maybe maybe not!) The ads I've seen in the past have never brought me back like these have.

Which reminds me. Why is it that certain thoughts or images stick in your mind and when you see a familiar image you are instantly transformed back to your original thought? That happens to me all the time. I can't tell you the last time I saw the movie "From Russia with Love". I can't imagine what you would have done if I said the coats look like they're from "Dr. Zhivago"!

The black and white photo's give a cold weather temperature to the lookbook and the cover page and the model is stunning! She is perfect for that Russian look! Does she have a Russian accent? :)

Anyway, it was great looking at your work and I'm glad my "Bond" comment helped. I wish I could afford that coat in the image. I love it more now!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Sarah
Dallas, TX

New Lookbook: From Russia With Love

As the creative mind behind the lookbook at J. LaMore, I am constantly being inspired by the clothes we get in. When I saw the Flavio Castellani coats I knew they were something special and I wanted to do something interesting with them for the lookbook. I had a few ideas bouncing around in my head, but J. LaMore friend and blogger, Sarah, gave me some great inspiration when she mentioned that the coats looked straight out of the Bond movie, "From Russia with Love". It was the perfect concept because the coats totally embody the glamourous "Bond Girl" aura with a little Russian flair. Our model, Allison, portrayed the look perfectly.

I wanted to give her a little shout-out for inspiring me, so thanks Sarah!

I hope everyone enjoys the latest lookbook and has a great Thanksgiving!

-Mandy
Creative Director

Introduction

Just signed on so want to send my regards form Paris which is just finishing up with Christmas decoration

Turkey Trot. . .Stuffing Strut. . .or The Mashed Potato Mile?

I'm all ready to eat turkey on Thanksgiving! I'm also ready to RUN! Who would have thought?? I'm usually the girl parked in front of the TV watching the Macy's parade. Somehow my family talked me into doing a charity run (which from what I hear is a nationwide event) called the Turkey Trot. I can't decide if I will do the 5K stuffing strut, or be a "bum" and do the mashed potato mile! Hilarious names...

On the topic of Thanksgiving, I just wanted to write about a few things I'm thankful for! I'm extremely thankful for my family, friends, good health of my family and friends, good fortune and good luck that comes to me once in a while, economic stability (and still being able to afford beautiful J. LaMore clothes from time to time), my 12 year old dog who is still in great health, and for continuously being surrounded by people who love and care about me.

What are you thankful for friends? Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!

-Charlotte
Chicago, IL

TV shows... My Fashion Inspiration?

I've noticed lately that I get a lot of my fashion ideas from the T.V. shows I watch. What's funny about this is that most of the shows I get my ideas from are either from the 80's or 90's, or based on an earlier decade. Fran Drescher in "The Nanny" may have some wacky outfits, but some of the pieces she wears are actually really trendy today! Everything always comes back into style.

The show that I've recently fallen in love with is "Mad Men." Watch it if you haven't yet! It's a quality show that I will definitely start following. I love all of the women's fashions. The show takes place in the 1960's, so the style is very conservative and of the time. January Jones is not only a great fashion inspiration on the show, but she's also gorgeous!

-Charlotte

Chicago, IL

Body Image

I would actually like to talk about a serious issue: women and their body image.

My 8-year-old daughter came up to me and asked me if she was fat. I froze. She's EIGHT years old. She should not be thinking of these matters. She should be playing with dolls and other toys.

It made me think about myself and about the way I felt about myself as an adolescent. I have always been little, yet I was very insecure about my figure in my twenties. Maybe it was just age, but it definitely has to do with magazines and the media. You see the same excuses all of the time: models say that they are "naturally thin," and that they are not the reason so many of young women in today's generation want to achieve that imperfect body. Well, guess what? When I was a young teen, I looked at all of those models and said to myself that I wanted to look like that. I'm not blaming them because some women are definitely naturally thin, but not the majority.

So, what can we do to feel good about ourselves as women and accept the body type that we were born with? First of all, eat healthily. This is nothing new. I started working at Whole Foods Market 10 years ago, and I completely changed my eating habits. It's simple. Eat when you're hungry, and stop when you're full. If you feel like having ice cream or a brownie when you're not hungry, do it!! Especially if you have a well-rounded diet for the most part.

I am in the best shape of my life after having 2 children. Actually, the day I gave birth to my daughter, I weighted 2 pounds less than when I graduated from college: thank you beer and Taco Bell.

My main point is is that I vow to raise my daughter with a positive body image, and I think that all women should step up to the plate and do what they can to ensure that they are living a healthy life and maybe teaching others (a friend, family member, child, etc.) that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. The most important thing is that you have to like who you are and maybe try to educate others about a healthier lifestyle to feel confident in who they are as a girl, teen-ager, woman.

Lila

Why I Love My Closet

Ok, so this may seem like a frivolous thing to write about, but sometimes you have to forget about bills, loans, administration, and all of that stuff that can drive you crazy. So I'm going to write about why I love my closet.

First of all, it was a present to me from my husband when we built our house. We decided to forego the huge bathtub/jacuzzi for a big closet for me. Who cares? Think of all the money we're saving on our water bill. Also, with two small children, who has time to take long, romantic baths?

Well, my husband picked out the carpeting, a beautiful, wine-colored design. The lighting is also wonderful; not typical, with very low lighting which makes for a wonderful atmosphere.

First of all, it is such a great place to hang out. My gay best friend comes over, and we have margaritas in my closet while I try on my designer clothes. It's just a great time.

Secondly, it is the perfect play area for my daughter and her friends. They spend hours in my closet trying on shoes and my beautiful dresses.

Thirdly, it is the perfect place for "making whoopee". My closet has the only locked door in our house since my mother convinced me that it would be detrimental to put locks on the doors in case the children locked themselves in. Of course, the last time my husband and I were "folding my clothes," as he told our children, they just happened to knock on the door. Romantic moment killed.

Fourth, I have so much fun in my closet, rearranging clothes, getting rid of old things. I actually have an entire section with just J. LaMore clothes. I just can't seem to get rid of those. I guess they're timeless.

Finally, the closet is all mine!!!!! My hubby is in the basement, where he belongs; a place where he can throw 100 pairs of socks all over his closet, and I won't see it. It's wonderful!!!!!

Lila

Whoa. . . !

Hi Jennifer! I see you guys just keep improving! Your new holiday lookbook story is so cheerful and festive and the model is stunning!

You make me want to go Christmas shopping!

As you know, I'm going home for Thanksgiving and I'm leaving Sunday. I haven't been home for a couple of years so I'm excited!

Lynn
Los Angeles, CA

More than a pump, less than a boot

I have been seeing everyone from Rachel Bilson to my hairstylist wearing ankle boots when I finally realized....I need a pair! I'm obsessing over all the different ways that ankle boots can be styled.

You can wear ankle boots with tights, skinny jeans, shorts, skirts and dresses! The possibilities are endless!

Here are some ways that you can rock the ankle boots with your body type-

Tall & Slender - You'll look best pairing ankle boots with leggings or skintight denim. Petite - You'll look best pairing ankle boots with bubble skirts or cuffed shorts and fitted tops, Tall & Curvy - Layering long tunics and footless tights with ankle boots is your best bet.

Jessica

Stylist/Model

Fashion Scoop

Girls just want to have fun! According to WWD, Cyndi Lauper and Lady Gaga have been named the latest faces of the MAC AIDS Fund. The newest campaign, dubbed "From Our Lips," will break on Feb. 25. MAC Viva Glam Gaga Lipstick and Viva Glam Cyndi Lipstick, $14 each, will launch in North America on March 18 and globally throughout the month, with 100 percent of the proceeds being donated to the MAC AIDS Fund. The MAC AIDS Fund has invested more than $150 million to organizations in more than 67 countries since its founding in 1994.

This is definitely a worthy cause. I can't wait to try the collection!

Jennifer

Holiday Hair Pieces inspired by the J. LaMore Lookbook

Are you looking for an easy way to add a festive flair to your holiday outfit? We have plenty ideas for you in the new "Holiday '09" lookbook.

As you may know, whimsical hairpieces and headbands are very trendy right now and are also a perfect touch for the holiday season. Some hairpieces sold in stores can be a little pricey, so here are some do-it-yourself ideas that will save you some money and give you a unique look:

1) Ribbon. Buy a 1.5-2" spool at your local craft store and fashion it into an exaggerated bow. You can pick through different patterns and fabrics to get the look you want: red satin, plaid or glittery are some options. You'll look like a cute, giant present!

2) Gift bows. You can buy standard stick-on bows, curly ribbon clusters, or even specialty bows made out of fabric strips (as pictured below) for $1-3 at places like Target or Michaels. Anchor them on a headband or simply fasten them into your hair with bobby pins. They would also look cute pinned into an updo. Be creative! Choose something unexpected and make the look all your own.

3) Tulle or Lace. If you buy a little bit of fabric, you can make a head wrap or even a fabric flower hair piece... or both! You could even try braiding the fabric into your hair, a hair trend currently seen on some runways. People will be asking where you got such a unique accessory!

The holidays are a time to have fun, so don't be afraid to spice up your outfit with a fun hairpiece. You can also play with hoisery options, like fun tights or fishnets, to add a little flair to your look. Take a peak at the lookbook to get some ideas...

-Mandy

Creative Director

Good Luck Raquel

I'm incredibly excited to see 12 Angry Juror's tonight! Raquel Burish, who interned with us at J. LaMore and is also the daughter of my sweet friend Joanna, was cast as one of the jurors in the play that is currently running at Edgewood High School. I can't wait to sit in the audience and watch her perform. I know she will be amazing. I did a little digging and here's a brief synopsis of the play. The original title was 12 Angry Men, but I believe Edgewood changed the title to 12 Angry Jurors to accommodate a mix of male and female students.

The play (which was a movie) is a story of a Puerto Rican boy accused of murdering his father with a switch blade, and his subsequent trial by jury. Initially, it appears as if it's a cut and dry case of murder. Fortunately, one brave dissenting juror votes 'not guilty' at the start of the deliberations because of his reasonable doubt. The jury of twelve 'angry jurors,' are literally locked into a small, claustrophobic rectangular jury room on a stifling hot summer day until they come up with a unanimous decision - either guilty or not guilty. The compelling, provocative play examines the twelve jurors deep-seated personal prejudices, perceptual biases and weaknesses, indifference, anger, personalities, unreliable judgments, cultural differences, ignorance and fears, that threaten to taint their decision-making abilities, cause them to ignore the real issues in the case, and potentially lead them to a miscarriage of justice.

I'm so excited to see the play and to watch Raquel. She is a wonderful young lady, who I simply adore. Break a leg Raquel!

Jennifer

Hair Color Help...!

I need ideas for a better hair color. For the last 10 years I've been highlighting my dark/dirty blonde hair to a color similar to this picture of Hilary Duff. My hair has gotten much darker as I've gotten older, and my roots are becoming a major problem. I have to get my hair done every 10 weeks to avoid horrible roots, unlike when I was younger when I could go 6 months without a color job.

I hate hate hate my natural hair color (it seems like everyone does. and if you don't, you are blessed!) It looks dull and lifeless, and the color is just that "dishwasher water" blonde. What a gross way to refer to it... but it's true!

Does anyone have any suggestions? I'm getting my hair done tomorrow, and if all else fails I'll just get my classic blonde highlights (which make me happy, but they are damaging and tough to upkeep!) I went "brown" about 5 years ago and somehow it turned out auburn (professionally done.) It was cute, but didn't stay for more than 2 weeks! Totally washed out, and was a waste of $150!

Thanks for your help!

-Charlotte

Chicago, IL

Wink "Amber" Top

This Wink "Amber" Top is my new favorite top! I ordered it the second I saw it on www.jlamore.com. I'm going to receive it today and I could not be more excited to wear it on a Friday night out in New York City :) I love the way that J.LaMore styled this flowing top with skinny jeans. I'm going to match this top with a pair of black skinny jeans and a pair of black ankle boots!

Kalyn

New York, NY

Bark'n for the Yak Lady. . . !

Hi Charlotte! I don't get to write that much on the blog but I have to add a few comments on the Christmas topic! I thought Love Actually was a great movie and one of my all time favorite holiday movies.

But the very best Christmas movies of all time is Christmas Vacation with Chevy Chase and A Christmas Story. These movies don't have any music to speak of but for knock down fall on the floor laughter you can't beat them.

In our movie room we have a replica of the leg lamp, complete with fishnet stocking, sitting on our bar that had a small part in A Christmas Story. Everyone who comes over to visit comments on the lamp and remembers the part it played. Frrrggeeeelllaaayyyy. . . . ! Too funny!

There were so many funny characters and lines in Christmas Vacation that it's hard to remember any of them. However, when Clark asked his cousin about his kids future he said "right now he's bark'n for the Yak lady at the carnival . . . " Clark responds, ". . .you must be proud . . . !" We have a college gal named Julie who works with us at J. LaMore and I always tell her that if she doesn't pull those grades up she'll have a career bark'n for the Yak lady! I die laughing every time I tell her that.

Jim

Favortie Christmas Music (and Movie!!)

I also love the Mariah Carey Christmas album. It's such a classic! My favorite Christmas time movie (and maybe even my favorite movie of all time) is Love Actually. I can watch it over and over again and still love it! I've never met someone who really didn't like the movie.

Not only is the movie fantastic, the soundtrack is the best! It's not all Christmas music, but it definitely puts me in the holiday spirit. I love the song "Christmas is All Around Us." If you've seen the movie, you probably understand why I laugh to myself every time I hear that song! That character is hilarious in the movie.

Clare, I saw your post about that new move "Pirate Radio" and saw that you mentioned people who loved "Love Actually" should see the movie. I'll definitely be seeing it over Thanksgiving weekend. I will let you know what I think of it!

-Charlotte

Chicago, IL

Holiday music. . . .!

Hi Jennifer: I'm going home to Colorado to visit my family for both holidays this year and this Mariah Carey Christmas album is one of my favorites of all time. My parents like the traditional albums of Frank Sinatra and Johnny Mathis. I also really like the Pottery Barn Christmas cd's and I always pick some up during the shopping season. That in itself is a tradition now.

I have the Amy Grant CD you wrote about and I have to agree that's it my all time favorite but Mariah Carey is fantastic too!

I have to say that when I hear the oldies I immediately think of my parents and all the special times all of us kids had when we were young. I still carry those traditions with me when ever the holidays arrive.

I hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving!

Lynn
Los Angeles, CA

Write it down. . . !

Hi Charlotte: In order to have a successful weight loss regime you need to have a goal and write everything down. You're absolutely right about one thing - writing everything down is very important. That practice and being consistant in keeping a journal is what made Weight Watchers the huge success. I keep my journal online right now and I go to it everyday and can keep track of everything I eat on my iPhone. I love that. I can then enter everything into my online journal later.

As all of you know from my previous post, I lost a bunch of weight by writing everything down and having a goal. Never loose sight of the goal. One of my goals was to fit into the fashions of jlamore.com. Like this right here. Nice!

I also took some vitamins and strongly suggest that just a small daily pack of vitamins can really help with appetite problems. But the #1 thing I did to loose weight is EXERCISE, and lots of it. Start out by walking 30 minutes/day and go up from there and keep track of that too! My husband used to tell me when I didn't want to go exercise is ". . . they sent someone to the moon for God sake you ought to be able to put one foot in front of the other for 45 minutes, . . . !" I guess when you put it that way. . . . Keeping things in perspective is aways a good thing. Sometimes the hardest part about excercissing is getting off the couch to put your workout shoes on.

As you can tell, I really get into weight loss topics. I worked hard and it paid off!

Sarah
Dallas, TX

Free Weight Loss (or Maintenance) Tool

For those of you looking for a FREE online weight loss program, I wanted to share one that I have used for a few years! http://caloriecount.about.com/

First you have to make an account. From there, you can fill out your profile, set your personal goals, and information. Use the calculators that they offer to see how much you should be eating (calories) to reach your goal (you enter a goal weight and date.) It's also a good tool for maintaining your weight! Then from here you can log your food and exercise. The foods aren't always 100% accurate, or listed, but there's a lot considering it's a free service. You can add your own foods if they aren't listed and you have the nutrition information. I've heard one of the most effective ways to lose/maintain weight is to write down everything you eat!

The feature I just found and I'm really excited about is under "exercise" and then the tab "exercise plan." It's a 12 week, professionally made work out plan. It gives you step by step, DAY BY DAY, workouts for cardio/weight training and how to work out effectively. You don't have to do the workout for that day. There is a list of other possible workouts you could do (or take the day off, do your own workout, etc.) I'm not going to live by it, but I think it has some really useful ideas! Everyday has a little "tip" which I definitely will do (for example, one day I have to throw out one "unhealthy" food from the pantry.)

There's also a ton of other features that the website offers, like recipes, other workout plans, and my favorite are the discussion boards. The discussion boards which I find REALLY helpful are open for any of the members to post on. For example, I was going out to eat for Mexican for my friends birthday and I didn't know what "bad" Mexican food choices were. I posted something and within a day, got around 50 thoughtful andhelpful responses. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help!

Like I said this program is FREE! Although there are no proven results (like for example, with weight watchers), I think if you are really dedicated and get into the routine of using it, it will be a very useful tool. I hope some of you find it as helpful as I do!

-Charlotte

Chicago, IL

My Favorite Christmas Album

It's a bit early to start thinking about Christmas music, but we're planning on playing some next week on Thanksgiving, so it's been on my mind.

One of my all time favorite Christmas albums has to be Amy Grant's "Home for Christmas." I sing along, loudly at times, to every song. I love this album.

What are your favorite holiday tunes?

Jennifer

Holiday Look

I am definitely obsessing over this Maloom "Paparazzi" Dress it had just the right amount of sparkle and class to wear to all my holiday parties this year, and I may even pull it off again and wear it on New Years! This is the new and improved little black dress :)

Kalyn

New York, NY

Fresh face . . . !

Hi Sarah: The new face on the site is local model Paige. You're going to be seeing a lot more of her in the coming months as we shoot more and more cover shoots, lookbook, and product images.

Paige participated in Wisconsin Fashion Week this year and won the fresh face contest, which was really no surprise to anyone who knows her. Outside of being absolutely stunning, Paige is one of the sweetest people you will ever meet.

Paige has the look of "fashion" that few people have and our goal at jlamore.com is to maintain that look as much as we can with the models you see on the site.

Stay tuned as you will see more of Paige in the new lookbook this week.

Jim

Maloom dress is amazingly hot!

Love this dress! I agree with Charlotte, this dress is amazing but I wouldn't wear it backwards. I would wear it just like it's shown.

Also who's the new model? She is amazing and I love her look. So fresh and interesting. she has a wonderful smile.

I also noticed that she's wearing the Maloom dress that everyone loves, including me.

Sarah
Dallas, TX

Thanksgiving Attire

After doing some online shopping, I finally decided what I'll be wearing for Thanksgiving day! I'm thinking of pairing the Linq "Lurex Stripe Tunic" Sweater with my black leggings and flat over the knee black suede boots. I'll probably throw on some fun accessories (like a chic feather headband) for some added color.


What I'm REALLY excited for is the night before Thanksgiving. My family travels to Bloomfield Hills, MI where the rest of our family lives. The night before Thanksgiving is a huge night for partying/going to the bars there. My sisters, cousins, and I all go out together and it's a totally blast! I'm going to wear my new Maloom "Happy Hour" Dress- BUT I'm going to wear it backwards! No worries, I plan to wear a black tube top underneath it. I love the cut, and I'm really into high backs on dresses. I think it'll be a really chic look! Again I'll probably pair this with my over the knee boots. Those sure do come in handy!

What is everyone else planning on wearing for Thanksgiving? Also does anyone have any good recipes? It's "that time of year" and I love to hear of everyone's favorites!

-Charlotte
Chicago, IL

Go see "Pirate Radio"

Hi Jennifer & Friends: My boyfriend and I went to see Pirate Radio this past weekend and I have to say that if you loved "Notting Hill" and "Love Actually" then you're going to really enjoy this film.

The year is 1966, and British schoolboy Carl (Tom Sturridge) has been sent by his mother (Emma Thompson) to live aboard a semi legal vessel called Rock Radio. Helmed by Carl's hip godfather (Bill Nighy) and staffed by several adorably disreputable disc jockeys, this ship will be the party pad where Carl becomes a man. The movie is based on a true story.

What ensues is "Animal House" meets "M*A*S*H," with randy boys causing trouble, drinking, and chasing the women who are shipped in like cargo. The Count (Philip Seymour Hoffman) may cross swords with super-smooth Gavin (Rhys Ifans), and heavyset Doctor Dave (Nick Frost) may steal someones girl, but that doesn't seem to really bother his friends.

(Please know that this movie has some sex scenes in it and is raunchy but really great. This is not a movie for kids.)

This movie is fun and the laughs are many and the music is fantastic with the Rolling Stones, The Kinks and The Hollies, just to name a few. I was having kind of a rough week and this was just what I needed to cheer me up.

Clare
London, England

Dog Cries When Soldier Returns Home

This is so adorable. The dog sounds like she's crying with happiness, greeting her owner! Reminds me of our golden retriever Ruby! So cute!

Jennifer

Hair Color

Hi Lynn,

I didn't even know you weren't a red head any more! Wow, blonde? Me too! I've been blonde since February and have to say I love it. I dug up some information on chosing the right hair color at http://www.lifescript.com/. I hope this helps.

The main trick to finding the right hair color is to complement, not match your skin’s undertones. Here’s a crash course on the three basic shades of undertones, along with recommended hair colors for each:

Pink/Blue Undertones-Hair shades: Intense browns, reds or blonds work well for the base color. Pick golden, ash or honey highlights for contrast.

Red Undertones-Hair shades: Above all, avoid bright red tones. Don’t over-process your hair or go too blond or too dark. Ask your hair colorist for a honey brown or a golden base color. Add caramel lowlights to give your hair a sun-kissed appearance and make your skin appear less red.

Yellow Undertones-Hair shades: Avoid a yellow or golden hair color, which will make your skin look sallow. Instead, use a deep, rich base color like intense dark chocolate, chestnut, mahogany, or auburn. Ask your stylist for highlights in shades of cinnamon, red, burgundy, or dark copper, which will help neutralize the yellow in your skin.

Determining your skin’s undertone will give you a basic guide for finding the right hair color for you. In addition, you should also know if you have a warm or cool complexion. To really examine your coloring, put on a white T-shirt and stand in natural light. A good rule of thumb is if your veins are blue, you’re most likely cool. If they’re more greenish, your skin tone is probably warm.

I hope this helps you out Lynn! Keep me posted on which color you decide to go with!

Jennifer

New hair ideas . . . !

Hi Jennifer and friends! I just wanted to get a second opinion on this look from Anne Hathaway. I think she is beautiful and her look today is the best I've seen in Hollywood and the reason is her hair and makeup is perfect.

I've decided against the laser hair removal because the cost was ridiculously expensive and an expense I just cannot afford. This is LA and the cost of cosmetic treatments are insane.

So, I've decided to move to north so to speak to an area of hair that people will actually see. I have blonde hair now and I've had it for some time now and until recently I've been looking for a color that I love as well as a change in my look and when I saw this look on Anne Hathaway I said "that's it!"

But, as with most woman and their hair, I obsess (I'm sure way too much) over a change in cut and color. The cut isn't the big deal as my hair is a little longer but the color would be nice change. My hair is thick and in good shape and I think I can pull this color off pretty easy. But I'm nervous. I've had very dark red hair before and I got tired of it quickly and went back to blonde a short time later. My boyfriend says I should do it but, he's a man and not that understanding about the stress that goes into our hair, or at least mine. He is right about one thing though. Every hair cut and color on a actress looks good because they have so much help doing their hair and makeup every time their picture is taken, . . . . ! Very true!

Anyway Jennifer, do you like this color? It has a light redish chestnut kind of hue to it and I think it's adorable. What do you think?

Lynn
Los Angeles, CA

All things for all people, everywhere!

Hello Jennifer & friends! Well, my parents are coming to visit me in London for the Christmas holiday! Yahoo! The last time they came to visit me was when I moved here nine years ago. Although I have been back to the states many times for the holidays it has never quite worked out that they have come to visit me.


Once it was confirmed the first place my mother wants to go is Harrods! I have to say, it's quite a tourist attraction, especially during the holidays. Harrods is the worlds largest department store and is absolutely incredible! A tour of Harrods is like and all day thing. The Christmas section is world famous as well as Food Hall.

If you can't find it at Harrods, they don't make it. I just read where Harrods has now decided to sell gold bouillon. Gold bouillon? Whatever! Every celebrity in the world, when they come to London, has shopped there.

Harrods was established in 1834 by Charles Henry Harrod and has a storied history. In 1898 Harrods boasted the first "moving staircase" the escalator and to help nervous people get on it they offered brandy at the top. (I hope my mom doesn't read this or she'll spend all day going from floor to floor. LOL!) Just kidding mom!

My mom, and hopefully my dad, will love the place.


Clare
London, England

P.S. Jennifer, I'm in love with the Flavio Castellani "Giuliana" Jacket! How gogeous is that!

Flavio Castellani "Porsha" Jacket

I LOVE all the new Jackets at www.jlamore.com I want all of them...a girl can dream :) This Flavio Castellani "Porsha" Jacket is such a beautiful and classic Jacket to own for years and years down the road. My favorite part of this Flavio Castellani Jacket is that the fur on the collar is detachable...Two looks for one :)

Kalyn

Flavio Castellani Coats. . . !

Hi Jennifer and All! I was surfing the site and saw all the new Flavio Castellani coats and jackets and I have to say that this jacket took my breath away.

It's STUNNING! The fashion forward and runway look is one of the few times that I've seen where you can take it off the model and wear it out the door. The collar and the cuffs make me think of a Russian or a Siberian inspired look and if you had a fur hat to go with it I would say it was definitely "From Russia with Love."

Nice job Jennifer and buyers. Seriously! Amazing!

Sarah

Dallas, TX

PS. Lila, your daughter is very cute and she looks like she loves the camera and the spotlight. You had better put a big lock on your closet! :)

Pop goes the Warhol . . . !

Hi Jennifer and Lila, you're daughter is so cute! Recently Andy Warhol has hit the big time with a sale of his1962 "200 One Dollar Bills" painting at Sotheby's in New York for $43.8 million! That's about $40 million more than expected.

I have been a huge fan Andy Warhol and have several coffee table books of his work and life. I believe that even Andy himself who died in 1987 would be surprised at what this painting sold for. Art historians consider the painting to be the beginning of the "Pop Art" craze that swept the world and lasted well into the 70's.

The Warhol story is captured in a new book called The Genius of Andy Warhol and after reading the reviews I immediately went out and bought it. Warhol is my kind of crazy and his desire to be rich and famous made him even more famous and rich. His love of money and painting money itself because he thought it was beautiful is so perfect. Everyone is famous for 15 minutes is a statement he made in 1968 and he was asked about it almost everyday after that until his death. Even his death is incredible!

As all of you on the friends blog know I always go to new art openings with friends and it's such a good time. In London, art is a big deal and the galleries are incredible.

Anyway, I was excited about the sale and the new book and thought all of you would be as well.

Clare
London, England

Why I love having a daughter.

OK. So I absolutely adore my son, but I always dreamed of having a daughter, and God blessed me with one, so I had to come up with a top ten list of why I love having a daughter.

1) She looks just like me!!! We've performed cloning the natural way!!

2) She has an attitude, is independent, confident, and is a leader. Girl power!!!!

3) She loves to play dress-up in my clothes and take my makeup and hide it under her pillow (like the pink glitter).

4) She's soooooo.....cuddly. Boys just don't like to cuddle.

5) She loves to leave me sweet notes and pictures of hearts and kisses under my pillow. xoxoxo.

6) She loves to sing and dance, pretending to be Britney Spears and other pop stars.

7) Daughters love to "decorate" for any occasion whatsoever. My daughter decorates the house for every occasion or holiday.

8) She loves to cook and bake. I have a helper to set the table for dinner and help make it, even if it's a total mess!!!!



9) She LOVES TO SHOP!!!! She's not a tomboy, thank God. She has her own style, completely different from mine, and I appreciate her coming into her own.

10) She loves me no matter what and tells me all the time. The sweetest words anyone can hear.

lila@jlamore.com

Alicia Keys. . . Jewelry label?

Hi Jennifer & Friends! I have to ask a question about celebrities and why they collaborate with designers of all kinds to have their own label. Why do they do that? I understand that there is potential for making $$$ on their name, but every time I hear of a singer, actress, sports figure, etc., designing a fragrance, jewelry or a clothing line I shake my head and cringe. Ugh!

I say this only because I really like Alicia Keys and was saddened to hear that she has followed the masses and signed her name and collaborated in designing a jewelry line set to launch this month. What does Alicia Keys know about designing jewelry? Maybe that's not the issue but still. It was the first thing I thought of when I heard it. I also think that when celebrities do this the line will be cheap because what does this person know about designing anything. They're just in it to make money and everything else is just not very good. This is what I think every time a 'celeb' has their own label.

I've been a fashionista for as long as I can remember but up until recently this trend has really started to become a silly.

Mary Kate & Ashley started my downward spiral years ago and then Miley Cyrus (Hanah Montana) got a label, she was what, 10 0r 11 years old at the time? Every hip hop singer in the world has one and now American Idol winners are offered them right after the show ends. Is it just me or does anyone else think that's silly, too.

Sarah
Dallas, TX

Lucky Dog

Thank goodness for the kind hearted, good Samaritans among us! Gale force gusts blew this Maltese-shitz right off Brighton Pier in Victoria, Australia. Sue Drummond could only look on helplessly as her dog was swept into the angry waves.

Luckily, good Samaritan, Raden Soemawinata was nearby and took action. Raden stripped down and dove into the bay to save helpless dog. Raden was a humble hero about the situation saying, “It was pretty cold and windy, but it wasn’t such a hard decision to jump in, it wasn’t such a great feat.” Raden was visiting the pier to spread is grandmother's ashes.
Lucky dog and so cute too!
Jennifer

Britney is upset . . . !

Hi Jennifer and welcome Maria from Naperville, IL.

Some of the younger gals in my office have been following the Britney Spears concert tour and hopeful comeback of the pop princess. Britney has 14 concerts scheduled in Australia and the buzz is that she has been lip syncing out of sync and generally giving a poor performance so much so that fans have walked out of her show. From what I understand Britney has lip synced her concerts for years and nobody seems to care

Milli Vanilli lip synced and it cost them their career and they had their Grammy revoked. In the music world that's like being impeached. In all fairness to Britney though, the voices Milli Vanilli were lip syncing to weren't even their voices. Big difference there!

The booing and the criticism has upset these two young gals who desperately want Britney to succeed and have a comeback. I asked them why it's so important to have Britney Spears in their lives and they both indicated that they grew up with Britney and think all the criticism she receives is unfair and not true. They especially despise Perez Hilton and think he is the worst person in the world. I have to say that I'm not a fan of Perez Hilton either but I didn't say that out loud as I was really getting into this discussion with these two young gals and by young I mean they're in their early 20's. Our office is pretty big and I've never really talked with them before and I was more like an observer than a participant in their conversation. It seems to me that they were acting more like 16 than 23.

After the discussion I went back to my desk and Googled this and you didn't have to look to hard to find that concert goers did walk out of her show and this has embarrassed Britney and her entourage. This picture of her came from Perez Hilton who actually defended her lip syncing saying it was no big deal.

To be honest, I really don't care about Britney.

Lynn

Los Angeles, CA

Welcome "Maria" our newest friend!

Hi friends and future friends: It's my pleasure to introduce you to our newest shopping friend and blogger, Maria. Maria is from Naperville, IL. and all of us at J. LaMore look forward to reading her product reviews and getting to know her through her blogs.

If anyone wants to become a friend on the site and write reviews and blog just go to this page and send us an email and a picture and we'll get you started right away.

Friends receive discounts on products and are the first to receive notices of promotions and other offers that are constantly happening at J. LaMore. As we add more benefits the friends re the first to receive them. So, it pays to be a friend!

New items arrived today and I have to say, OMG! The Flavio Castellani coats are breathtaking! Literally breathtaking! Adorable tops from Salvage came in and a brand new designer, Maloom arrived from New York! I promise that if you love fashion you will love these looks!

The "friend" emails have already gone out and the items will make the site Tuesday. All I can say is, it pays to be a friend!

Jennifer
Madison, WI

After Work Drinks... What's Normal?

Last night I somehow came across an old Allure mag of mine and read an article about a group of women who go out for drinks 3-5 times a week, including their after work cocktail hour (not that weird, right?) These women are all thin, healthy, and wealthy. The story was about how much these women drank each week. They averaged out to about 25-30 drinks a week, and had the same alcohol tolerance as a 200 lb man. One women said she wouldn't be surprised if she finished 2 bottles of wine by herself in one night. Another women said she could top off a whole bottle of wine by herself just sitting at home, talking on the phone to her friend. She considered this "social" drinking. All the women agreed that drinking came first, and eating wasn't really on their minds. They didn't think to go for a bite to eat after work- they were there for the drinks.

This story was questioning whether these women see themselves as alcoholics or not. When I think of an alcoholic, I think of someone who drinks an excessive amount, and can't stop drinking once they start. You don't usually think of healthy Manhattan professionals as this type. Are these drinking ways normal for professional women? I'm happy to go out for after work cocktails, but I don't usually top of 2 bottles of wine solo. When does going out for after work cocktails become too much? I've always thought that social drinking is completely acceptable, but these women considered talking on the phone to a friend while drinking as social drinking.

What do you think, friends? How many nights a week do you think is acceptable to go out for after work cocktails? In college I probably did average 25 drinks a week! Now that I'm out of college and working I have less time for socializing. I think as I get older and settled into my job that I will be the type to go out for some after work cocktails. How many drinks a week is normal for an average female 25-40 years old? 25-30 drinks seems like a lot... but somehow these women were still healthy and happy. What's the right balance? Hmm!

-Charlotte
Chicago, IL

Why a girly-girl needs a son.

Top ten reasons that a girly-girl adores having a little boy:

10) I am very well-educated in "boy" stuff like the latest super-heroes and other characters.

9) I am in such great shape because of playing baseball and football on a daily basis.\

8) I know all of the current sports greats, including the best pitchers, football quarterbacks, receivers, race car drivers, etc.

7) My son is great at math, since I have been quizzing him on batting averages and other scores in football and/or basketball.

6) He tells me that I'm "pretty for a girl".

5) For the first time in my life, I learned how to play video games.

4) I have accepted getting down and dirty, playing outside, in the mud, leaves, etc., whatever a little boy gets into.

3) He wants to live with me when he gets married, and he will only marry a girl who loves football like myself.

2) He's super cheap when it comes to clothes. Just t-shirts and jeans.

1) He loves me no matter what.

Lila
Madison, WI

"Fashion is the Healthiest Motivation for Losing Weight"

I really enjoyed reading everyones perceptions on "what is fat" as well as hearing of others personal experiences. As someone in my early 20's, I'm definitely still surrounded with finding that "ideal" body image- not only by my own standards but also through my friends. I can honestly say I don't go one day without talking to friends about diets, exercise habits, desire to fit into a pair of jeans, etc. The "ideal body image" is exhausting!

The funny thing that girls my age don't realize is that it doesn't do a damn thing to complain about your weight... you have to take action! I'm sure I'm being hypocritical since I am that girl from time to time complaining about my weight, but as I'm growing up I'm realizing you can't complain about anything if you aren't doing something to fix it.

This past fall I've started running and *trying* to eat healthier. I see why it's hard for people! It's a lifestyle change. Although I haven't been perfect about my running schedule, when I am "on" (which is 3 runs a week for me), I feel great! Even if I take a week off, then I work out for 3 days the next week, I may not have lost any lbs, but I just feel better about myself. I've heard before that you are supposed to "think skinny" and I really believe that works. I think if you take care of yourself and think positive thoughts that everyone can feel great!

My question for you friends is have you ever heard of a 10 day cleansing program or something like it? A group of girls I know are hosting this motivational program where you are supposed to work out for one hour/day for 10 days as well as have a strict constructed diet. Supposedly this will kick start your future work out mood and boost your metabolism. I think being healthy for 10 days is a fabulous idea! My worry is that this would have the reverse effect and actually turn me OFF from eating healthy and working out. I know if you push yourself too hard it can have opposite effects. What do you think friends? Would you try something like this? I'm debating on giving myself a "test run"... working out every day(with a few days off) for 30 minutes and eating as healthy as I can for 10 days. Can't hurt, right?!

-Charlotte

Chicago, IL

(P.S. I really love that quote in the picture "Fashion is the healthiest motivation for losing weight." No peer pressure, man, or criticism could make me want to loose those extra lbs more than the idea of fitting into my favorite pair of jeans. Do other women find this true, too??)

Loving the LOOKBOOK

I'm a huge fan of the J.LaMore LOOKBOOK. I always look forward to its updates to see what outfits the stylist have put together, and I often copy them :) I love the new urban feeling of the newest LOOKBOOK. It's right up my alley :) Thanks for all the great outfit ideas!
Kalyn