Target - and a Trader Joe's Update

I just returned from a very interesting trip to Target. I love Target, I have for many years. They gave my community several million dollars, how can you not LOVE that?

It seems they are re-doing their image a bit. I walked by the jewelry section and had a strange flash back from years ago. In a K-Mart. It really cheapened the look of their costume jewelry and I was quite frankly shocked.

Accessories ARE the new black, they are absolutely HUGE this season and the will be HUGE again in the season that is almost here. Dear sweet magical Target, how I love thee - why have you foresaken your accessories?

They have also changed the look of their Target Brands. They went from nice primary colours to a more muted pallette and the packaging is more clear with the product more visible and it has arrows instead of the traditional bullseye logo. I am not certain but I think the reasoning behind this is to save on the cost of ink on their packaging - just a guess. And while I am at it I would like to highly recommend Target brand toilet paper - good stuff!

While I was at Target I wanted to look through the DVDs for "The Holiday". It came out in 2006 and for some reason I just love it. It reminds me of "Love Actually" but I like the ending more. And low and behold Target came through: Target has the DVD of "The Holiday" for $3.98!
It's on sale now, I have no idea when the sale ends but let me reccommend that too!

I also have an update on the Portland, Maine Trader Joe's:
1. Yes, it is really happening!
2. Yes, it should be here by the end of 2009 [think December]
3. The location IS where Wild Oats used to be.
Let's all celebrate!
<3

Great Style for the Holidays

With all the Holiday Parties, Family Gatherings and upcoming events this season comes the question: What do I wear?

Most of my family celebrates Christmas or Hanukkah and there are always lots of events to attend including of course the Holiday Office Party. While these events can be as different as night and day I have found a few simple rules to stick to that really help this time of year.

Having great style is all about finding your personal comfort level and wearing things you really enjoy. Personally I am not comfortable in snowman sweatshirts, christmas tree sweaters, deer antlers, santa hats or flashing christmas tree lights but I still want to look appropriate for the season and the occasion.

Tip #1. Dress up. Whether you are going to a family party or just the office party chances are there will be lots of pictures taken and this is a special event so look your best and dress it up a bit more than you normally do.

Tip#2. *Sparkle*. While flashing christmas tree light necklaces are a no, this is a great time to have fun with fine jewelry or faux jewelry. I have a great rhinestone necklace that is simple and elegant. It adds just a touch of flash and can transform an every day outfit to an outfit for a speacial occasion.

Tip #3. Texture. The holidays are a perfect time to indulge in luxurious textures and fabrics. Think Velvet and Cashmere. When you get those holiday hugs from friends and family, you and your wardrobe will make a great impression.

Tip #4. Color! This time of year people can go overboard on pattern. Avoid those pink pastel snowman plaid printed flannels and try a simple red cashmere sweater with great jewelry. Green is another great color choice for the season but so is any color that you feel comfortable with. Classic black is another great choice especially when you add the perfect jewelry accents.

When you see how great you look in those holiday pictures you'll be glad you took the time to dress your best and your happy holiday memories will last a life time.