Couture Tip: Makeup Counter Etiquette

I've heard and read some disturbing things from some women about experiences at their local makeup counter. Often times I hear of terrible experiences at the hand of the MUA on the other side of the counter, however I am starting to hear some things on the side of the consumer that just don't sit well with me.

I feel that women should behave better when they go to a makeup counter and solicit help from an artist. Granted often times they aren't licensed, however, they most likely still know more than you and are more knowledgeable of the products.

Urban Chic: Couture Shopping Experience

Last week while shopping with my roommate, we decided to venture to some of the new shops in Annapolis. I had only been to the Target and the Whole Foods but not visited any of the stores. She told me her sisters told her of a really nice boutique called Urban Chic. I was in the mood to shop so why not stop in right?!?

I normally don't shop in boutiques (and I should) but this one I love. The ambiance and aesthetics of the boutique were very chic and couture. The sales associates were very polite, gracious and helpful. I was informed of all promotions (which I love). As a retail aficionado this is something that I appreciate.

I happened to be present on the day of a Citizens of Humanity trunk show...go figure I needed a pair of jeans. I had already done quite a bit of shopping that day and didn't plan on buying another thing. But 15% off and I desperately needed a pair of jeans that fit...I couldn't resist. And I can never resist premium denim. The sales associate was so helpful and took her time with me. She listened to what I had to say about my likes and dislikes of premium denim and more specifically Citizens. She set me up in the dressing room and I began to try jeans on. She was very knowledgeable and with me right next to customer service is product knowledge. I'm not a stupid shopper and if you don't know what you're talking about....I'm going to know it!

Overall it was a more than pleasant shopping experience and successful! I ended up buying a pair of jeans and they are perfect. I will definitely be frequenting this boutique more and more.

**sidebar** They have the most chic and amazing fitting rooms ever! I wanted to just lounge in there with a cup of tea and the latest issue of Vogue and Elle. Absolutely divine.

Couture News! Bloomingdales FIRST Outlet Opens Tomorrow!

Ladies of the DMV, the time has come. Tomorrow August 20th Bloomingdale's first ever outlet will open in Potomac Mills. After 150 years since the company's inception, they finally join the ranks of other retailers like Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Saks.

Bloomingdale's outlet stores will offer a range of apparel and accessories including women's ready-to-wear, men's, children's, women's shoes, fashion accessories, jewelry, handbags, and intimate apparel.

Aside from Potomac Mills in Virgina, there are 3 other outlets that will be opening. They are:

• Bergen Town Center, Paramus, NJ


• Dolphin Mall, Miami, FL


• Sawgrass Mills, Sunrise, FL

I'm very anxious to get there and see all that they have to offer. I really hope that it won't be a disappointment. I would be absolutely devastated if the first Bloomingdale's outlet is a flop, especially since its near the nation's capital. It's bad enough we have to watch The Real Housewives of DC and all its tom foolery. Definitely not the representation we need...but I have digressed.

Ladies...and gents... if you are in the area and have a chance to go please do! Keep me updated on your thoughts. If you go there this weekend talk to me on twitter and let me know what you think! http://www.twitter.com/mycouturelounge

Happy Shopping!

Couture Fact: Did you know that Bloomingdale's was the first store to have a designer shopping bag? Back in 1961 they revealed their first designer shopping bag which is now iconic. They understood that its not only what you purchase but what you bring it home in. Such a couture concept.

Couture Shopping: Christie's Closet

Anyone who knows me knows that I have a 30/60/90 day rule on keeping things in my life. And it goes for everything! One of the things that I pride myself on doing is taking a complete inventory of my closet every 3 months (90 days) and purging things that I no longer need/want/can fit.

I've never had a problem filling up bags upon bags of clothing and just simply donating them. Whether I've worn it once, a million times or it still has the tags on it, I just let it go. It just takes up space in my closet and I personally believe its an unhealthy habit to keep things that have no purpose in your life...and that goes for anything or anyone.

Recently my body has changed and along with that I can no longer fit majority of my premium denim that I love oh so much. For the first time ever I'm hesitant to just simply give my items away. I sat there and added up how much money I've spent over the years on my acquired garments and as upset that they are in perfectly good condition but I just can't fit them anymore. I know have bags that are just sitting in my trunk because I can't bear to give them away....until now.

I recently had the pleasure of meeting Christie Askew the founder of "Christie's Closet" a couture consignment shop. After speaking with her for about 5 minutes I was hooked and ready to give her everything thing in my closet! Her consignment boutique is the perfect home for my garments and jewelry that I can no longer fit or have a need for in my closet. And a perk is that I will have an opportunity to earn money from the things that I give away. You can't beat that. I can take all the money I earn and put it toward a new couture purchase or purchase from something from the collection of items she has. She has everything from Gucci, Coach, Burberry, Kate Spade and more. Items include handbags, premium denim, dresses, accessories and more.

For more information visit http://www.christiesclosett.com/