Chicago Ladies! Dark and Lovely + Essence Want You!

If you are a "Dark and Lovely" fashionista then you must attend this event at The Wit Hotel (201 N. State St.) on Saturday, June 12th from 11am to 2pm!

The event will include a panel discussion about getting a head-to-toe polished look led by actress LisaRaye McCoy, celebrity stylist Carlton Jones and Essence magazine Contributing Editor Tasha Turner. If you attend, do come and say hi if you see me!

Learn how to enter the contest to become the next "Dark and Lovely" spokesperson, after the jump.


Here are the Are you Dark and Lovely? Show it Off! Contest details:

SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely is partnering with Essence magazine in search for the next star for the newest Dark and Lovely ad. The national Are you Dark and Lovely? Show it off! Contest will run through July 6, 2010, with a winner to be announced in the October issue of Essence. The winner and one friend will be flown to NYC for a photo shoot, hair makeover by SoftSheen-Carson Artistic Director and celebrity hairstylist Johnny Wright, plus a $5000 shopping spree with celebrity stylist Carlton Jones.

All participating attendees will have their photo taken on site and express in writing why they are Dark and Lovely.

Click here for even more details and I'll see you at The Wit!

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What I'm Rockin' + Vote for The Sassy Peach!

Hey SP readers! I know I have not done one of these posts in a long time so it is definitely time for "What I'm Rockin."

I actually put this outfit together for a contest called Project:Style that I entered by suburban Illinois mall, the Promenade Bolingbrook. Below is the video for the contest so take a look at it and please vote for me! Voting ends Monday, June 14th and you can vote once a day.

Also, in order to vote you will have to join the Shoptopia site. I know this can be a pain sometimes but you can do it to just vote for me until Monday and then get rid of it afterwards. Simple as that!

Click here to check out my outfit details!

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For the Fellas

My guys in NYC just might appreciate this one. Check it out!

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Fab Event Alert: Chicago's Red Pump Rocking Memorial Weekend

Summertime in Chicago is officially kicking off next week with Memorial Day weekend and there's a lot going on. A couple of organizations are having events, and have chosen The Red Pump Project to be beneficiaries of a portion of funds raised. 5 events happening in the next week in the Chicagoland area will be benefiting Red Pump, so get ready to plan your schedules!

First up, Sex and The City 2 Event Series: Carrie, Charlotte, Samantha and Miranda hit the big screen in less than a week. In preparation for the Sex and The City 2 theatrical release on May 27th, Diamonds and Lace EventScaping has planned the perfect set of events to bring the essence of Sex and The City here. The company has planned four events here in Chicago to occur between Wednesday, May 26th, and Sunday, May 30th, with a percent of the proceeds going to The Red Pump Project. With a wealth of activities ranging from massages to pole dance lessons to shoe shopping and a fashion show, each person is guaranteed to find something that will bring out her inner Carrie, Charlotte, Samantha, or Miranda.

Wed., May 26, 2010 - "Hello Lover" The Kick-off Event. Includes: cocktails, appetizers, massages, mini makeovers, giveaways, shopping, gift bags AND a special screening of the Sex and The City 2 movie.

Fri., May 28, 2010 - "Manolo Mayhem:" A Samantha style evening of cocktails & c*ck tales. Includes: pampering, pole dance lessons, adult novelty shopping, food specials, male revue and more.

Sat., May 29, 2010 - "Labels and Love" Cocktail Party at Mercedes Benz Chicago. Includes: cocktails, entertainment, refreshments, fashion show, shopping and more.

Sun., May 30, 2010 - Shoe Heaven Citywide Shoe Shopping Tour. Kick off brunch at SL Sports Lounge at South Loop Hotel, shuttle service, shoe shopping, goodie bags, gifts with purchase and after-tour foot pampering services! Featured stores: Lori's, Sensual Steps, House of Sole and Akira.

You can purchase tickets to each individual event or an all-access pass to everything. Be sure to visit http://diamondsinthecity.eventbrite.com to view the event details and purchase tickets.

And lastly: Summer Skyline Series

What better way to kick off "Summertime Chi" than a rooftop party at one of downtown's hottest venues? On Saturday, May 29th, join The Red Pump Project as we take over the NV Penthouse Lounge (116 W. Hubbard) for a great cause! We have been selected as the beneficiary for the launch of the "Summer Skyline Series," presented by Red Bull. From 4-8p, enjoy the sounds of Chicago's own Jay Illa, complimentary Red Bull and Ultimat Vodka cocktails, and more!

You can even enter to win two tickets to see Toni Braxton on June 5th! The cost of the event is $10, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting our organization. To RSVP (for discounted entry) and to get more information, visit www.royalteinc.com.

Ladies, we'd love for you to join us for the Sex and the City series in your flyest Red Pumps. Gentlemen, if you're not fans of SATC, you can definitely join us for the Summer Series at NV Lounge in your sharpest Red Ties.

This week is going to be really exciting for The Red Pump Project as we kick off the summer showing that "Awareness is Always in Style."

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"A Fine Day of Beauty" with Sam Fine Recap

A few weeks ago I had the fabulous opportunity to attend a workshop hosted by celebrity makeup artist Sam Fine (pictured above with myself and Patrice of Afrobella). It was a fantastic day and I was just squealing with excitement from it all. Mr. Fine wasted no time schooling us on the best way to apply makeup, giving us countless tips and tricks, and debunking all types of makeup myths. He is so very nice and down to earth and I had a great time learning from him.

As if being in the same room and learning from one of the best in the biz was not enough,

Read the rest after the jump...

Reggie Wells (Oprah's longtime makeup artist) was also there and spoke with us as well.

Patrice and I with Reggie Wells

Talk about major powerhouse to have those two in the same room! I had an absolutely fantastic time and have to thank Jada Russell for making it happen.

Check out more pics below.

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The Sassy Peach Rents the Runway - Pt. II

Hi Sassy Peach readers, please forgive me for posting part II of The Sassy Peach Rents the Runway, so late, I do apologize. If you are reading this and have not yet read part I, please do so!

Where were we? Oh! Yes, so I tried on the dress and it fit perfectly as you can see in the pic above. It came in a RTR garment bag that I can keep as well as a "fit kit" which I sadly lost in the abyss of backstage at the fashion show. I'm sure I can get another one though. Anyway, I paired the lovely Mark & James by Badgley Mischka dress with my red pumps no less and the ensemble was complete!

Read the rest after the jump...


I enjoyed the dress so much I didn't want to see it go, but knew I had to return it in time. As I sadly packed both dresses in the RTR-addressed envelope (that they so conveniently provide), I began daydreaming about all of the rentals to come. I cannot wait!

Overall my experience with Rent the Runway was positive and I highly recommend you try it at least once. And now you can rent accessories as well for as low as $10! Already contemplating what I will wear for my birthday this August...

To avoid being on the wait list I am offering my Rent the Runway invite link to you--my fab readers! Happy Renting! http://www.renttherunway.com/referral/thesassypeach

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Fab Event Alert: "A Fine Day of Beauty"

Hey SP readers! I am very excited to announce that fab makeup artist to the stars (Iman, Tyra Banks, Queen Latifah, and Mo'Nique to name a few) will be in the Windy City for "A Fine Day of Beauty with Same Fine."

I will be there to cover the event so if you go be sure to say hi to The Sassy Peach! Details below:

CELEBRITY MAKEUP ARTIST, SAM FINE, RETURNS HOME FOR "A FINE DAY OF BEAUTY"

An Interactive Beauty Workshop Featuring His Highly Sought After Techniques

WHO: Brushes by Viola – Event Producer

WHAT: A Fine Day of Beauty with Sam Fine

WHEN: Saturday, May 1, 2010 at 1pm

WHERE: Lifebook Lounge, 1200 W. Lake Street, Chicago, IL 60607

PRICE: $150.00

EVENT OVERVIEW: Join us for a special afternoon with celebrity makeup artist Sam Fine. With over a decade of experience beautifying women of all shades, Sam Fine is highly recognized for his ability to translate trends, tips and techniques, into looks that work for an array of skin tones. As the expert responsible for some of the iconic makeup looks on high profile supermodels and actresses,Sam Fine demystifies beauty tricks, debunks beauty myths and empowers women to enjoy the benefits of perfectly applied makeup. This 3-hour seminar will change your approach to make-up, one stroke at a time. The seminar will be followed by a Q & A session and book/DVD signing.

GIFT BAG: Signed copy of Sam Fine’s instructional DVD entitled FINE: The Basics of Beauty and a stunning selection of makeup from MAC, SmashBox and Viktor & Rolf Flower Bomb.

SPONSORED BY: Lifebook Lounge, Brushes by Viola, MAC, SmashBox and Viktor & Rolf Flower Bomb

REGISTRATION INFO: Tickets go on sale March 8, 2010 at www.brushesbyviola.com

MORE INFO: Brushes by Viola at 312-204-7307 or www.brushesbyviola.com

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The Sassy Peach Rents the Runway - Pt. I

If you have not heard of Rent the Runway, here is your chance to get a first-hand account of my experience. I am sure you all remember that fabulous Rock the Red fashion show I so fabulously styled last month, but there was one more person to style--ME! In all of the fury & work on the show I almost forgot about finding something to wear. Luckily, the light bulb went off over my head & I remembered hearing about Rent the Runway.

Read the rest after the jump...


Rent the Runway is basically the Netflix of designer dresses. You go to their website, select a dress that you like that is available in your size & order it to be rented! Prices range from a $50 rental to upwards of $300. Being a fashionista-on-a-budget, I opted to stay in the $50-75 range. Time was unfortunately working against me so I had to make a quick decision & finally decided on a white, puff sleeve Mark & James by Badgley Mischka dress. I wasn't sure what size would be best but lucky for me (& you!) RTR lets you rent an additional size at no charge!



So fast forward past my obsession with a dress that was not available when I needed it & RTR's awesome online chat assistance to the day of the show & the arrival of my dress. It was delivered to my apartment with no problem & right when I needed it. Tried on the first dress & it fit perfectly! The.....rats! Looks like we're out of time.

Stay tuned to The Sassy Peach tomorrow for Part 2 of "The Sassy Peach Rents the Runway," to find out how my experience ended! See you then!

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"Rock the Red" Recap

Hey SP readers! I'm finally back & ready to get back to doing some great things here. First up is my recap from the "Rock the Red" fashion show I styled last Thursday night. It was a great success & I really enjoyed working with everyone I did, especially my partner the whole way through, Brittany of Black is Breezie. We had some fantastic clothing & accessory designers & boutiques, that I will tell you guys all about in the coming days.

Not only was there a fashion show, but The Red Pump Project celebrated its 1st birthday & also honored Emmy award winning HIV/AIDS activist Rae Lewis-Thornton. This woman is straight up a phenomenal woman, as well as Luvvie & Karyn (co-creators of TRPP). Rae was presented with the "Ultimate Red Pump Rocker" award (see pics above) for all of her hard work & dedication she gives in all that she does.

Read & see more about the show after the jump...

Here are some pics of the designs that I styled. Aren't they just fab?


(Designers/Boutique clockwise from top left: Amber Johnson, Crystal B. Designs, Black Market Caviar, Spirit Africa)



(Clockwise from top left: Crystal B. Designs, Spirit Africa, Kahindo Mateene, Black Market Caviar)



(Spirit Africa, Crystal B. Designs, Black Market Caviar, Kahindo Mateene)

To end the show with a bang, we debuted the Red Pump Awareness t-shirt line.

The tees were a hit & everyone wanted a piece--believe me you will too. As the newest member of the Red Pump team as the Merchandise Partnerships Manager, I will keep all of you abreast on how & when you can get a piece!


Thank you to all who attended & if you missed it look out for more events. Also thank you to the models, boutiques, & clothing & accessory designers I worked with. It was a pleasure!


Photos courtesy: Bryan Thompson - Graffiti Photograpy & T. Will Photography

Awareness is always in style! ; )

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You're Invited: Rock the Red Fashion Show

Hey Sassy Peach readers! If you have been checking in here for new updates & have not seen any, this (picture above) has been the lovely reason. I have been very busy preparing for this fabulous event so read up!

Chicago-based HIV/AIDS non-profit The Red Pump Project is celebrating their 1st birthday with a fashion show styled by yours truly!

The event is from 6:00-9:00pm at Bottom Lounge on 1375 W. Lake St. Not only will designs by local designers & boutiques be showcased, but Emmy award winning HIV/AIDS activist Rae Lewis-Thornton will also be honored with a "Living Legacy" award.

We encourage you to join us & rock your red pumps & men rock your red ties! The cocktail hour begins at 6:00pm, & the fashion show begins at 7:00pm.

$25 regualr admission tickets can be purchased through the event page at: http://rockred.eventbrite.com. $45 VIP tickets are going fast & there are less than 20 left which include a seat along the runway, 2 complimentary drink tickets & a swag bag.

If you are feeling lucky enter to win 2 tickets to the show at my girl Nikia's blog ChiTown Fashionista!

I look forward to seeing any & all of you there & please spread the word!

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Spring Trends from Bluefly Stylist Tanesha Smith

Spring is quickly approaching & I could not be happier. I'm sure I am not the only one ushering in warmer weather with open arms, so here to get us on track & give us some fab scoop & tips is Bluefly.com Stylist, Tanesha Smith!

1. What are the hottest trends for spring?

Spring 2010 is all about the return of the Girlie-Girl. The in-your-face technicolors & aggressive shoes of the last few seasons have given way to super-femme ruffles, pretty pastels & diplomatic neutrals. But this girl’s no pushover – razor sharp edge abounds with cut-outs, military details, & leather.

Pastels

Neutrals

Military

Ruffles

All Weather Leather

Cut outs

Read the rest of my interview with Tanesha after the jump!


2. How can women at any age wear these hot spring trends?

Forget age & focus on fit – & I’m not talking about size here. If it doesn’t fit your personal style, leave room for interpretation of the trend. Par example, flirty floral dresses in micro-mini lengths may be in, but they may not be your best look. It’s okay to go for a hem that you’re more comfortable with.

3. What is one spring trend that is worth the splurge?

Definitely a pair of outrageously perfect wedge heel sandals.

4. How can women make over last season’s look for under $50? Under $100?

Invest in one or two key pieces – I’d recommend a lightweight leather skirt & wedge heel sandals -- then rock it with your fave closet picks e.g. By day, wear your leather with a broken in tee, cropped blazer & your everyday shoes. For some extra trend cred throw a cheapie vintage military pin on the jacket. By night, polish up with your wedges & a sequin tank.

I want to thank Bluefly & Tanesha for our spring trend scoop. You can shop for these trends & more on Bluefly.com. Sassy Peach readers will be more than ready! As an added bonus, jump ever further ahead to see what was on the runways for the fall 2010 season. Check out the video from Bluefly & WWD below:

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Chicago Designer Chosen as Oscars Design Challenge Finalist

Chicago couture designer, Elda De La Rosa is one of nine designers chosen as a finalist in the Oscars Designer Challenge 2010. One designer will have their original gown worn by one of the Awards escorts as she brings the statuettes onto the stage during the Academy Awards this Sunday, March 7th.

The gown by De La Rosa titled Lucero (meaning 'shining star' in Spanish), is bluish/gold in color & made of iridescent, silk taffeta &, like the entire 2010 Alta Gracia Collection, inspired by the strong, yet beautiful & feminine women who have influenced De La Rosa's life. Specifically, she tapped into the classic, tailored, vintage look of the 40s, where structure met femininity. Throughout the collection, she uses luxurious fabrics, including wool & silk blends, taffeta & charmeuses.- Excerpt derived from Elda De La Rosa Couture press release on Marketwire.com

The winning gown will be announced during the live arrivals show "Oscars Red Carpet...2010," that will air on ABC on Sunday. If you would like to see the other eight designs check out the Oscars Designer Challenge page. This is a very exciting opportunity for a Chicago native & I wish Ms. De La Rosa the best of luck!

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The Sassy Peach Visits the New Marc Jacobs Chicago

Today I stopped by the new Marc Jacobs Collection store located in the Gold Coast. The atmosphere was very upbeat & full of excitement & glasses of champagne. President of MJ Robert Duffy was on hand speaking to everyone & doing interviews.

My favorite part of the 3,000-square-foot store had to be the chandelier above the cash register that looked like delicate blown glass fixtures. Friendly staff buzzed around taking care of customers & handing out awesome gift bags. I enjoyed my time at the store & suggest you go check it out if you are in the area.

Check out a few more random shots after the jump.



Marc Jacobs in a book on display


MJ messenger bags


Chandelier above register


Front table


Mr. Robert Duffy

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Grayce by Molly Sims

If you are in the need of some new, great accessories then I say look no further than jewelry line Grayce by Molly Sims. The line will be introduced on HSN & hsn.com tomorrow, February 25th from 12p-1p & 9p-10p.

The statement necklaces below are probably my favorites from the collection. You can rock them with just about any outfit to take it up a notch or two. Check out a few more pics after the jump!

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