Lucky Shops 2011 VIP Night Recap
Posted 11/07/2011 by Lara
What an exciting weekend! Friday night I was one of the featured bloggers for Lucky Magazine’s Lucky Shops VIP event (you may have noticed me tweeting up a storm). I partnered with the publication to serve on their blogger committee which was nothing short of fabulous; I was so honored to be working with them.
The VIP event kicked off the annual Lucky Shops, which is 3-day shopping event, where dozens of our favorite designers sell their merchandise at up to 70%! It’s a fashionista’s dream, which NYC is not short on; so needless to say, it was packed.
My fellow committee members included (check out their awesome blogs!): New York Girl Style, Miss Whoever You Are, My Style Pill, The Beauty File, Cheetah is the new Black, Nubia’s Nonsense, Audrey Allure, Honestly WTF, Cheap Chicas, Platinum Blonde Life, Style Cusp, Glamazone Diaries and of course myself, Pretty Connected.
I met the glam team at Bloom Beauty Lounge to start the night out right with some blow-outs and styling. I went with my signature blowout with a some added curls and volume (I call it the Victoria’s Secret model blow-out) to compliment my awesome outfit [Shirt/Shorts/Boots: Nicole Miller; Tights: Joe Fresh; Necklace: Banana Republic; Belt: The Limited]. Once our hair was red-carpet ready, that’s just where we headed — to the red carpet where we joined the likes of Bridget Moynahan, Kaylee DeFer, Iman, Susan Lucci, Rachel Roy, Katina Bowden, and Erika Dasher to have our pictures taken and have exclusive coverage opportunities. Then on to go shopping!
I invited a few friends at the event and we bee-lined it to Rebecca Minkoff, and all walked away with a new purses. We circled the ground floor and then made our way upstairs to the Hunter Dixon booth. I’m new to their designs but am keeping them on my radar since I wanted everything in their booth! After settling on a pair of pants and skirt (my dates bought up just dresses and tops), it was time to move on. Two Lucky Shop shopping bags full later, I was cut off.
We then headed to the Lucky Shops after-party at the Crosby hotel for a private advanced screening of Jane by Design starring Erica Dasher, Andie MacDowell and a whole lotta good looking men. As someone who probably doesn’t watch enough television, let alone ABC Family, I found it entertaining and fun without being cheesy (as I find most shows geared towards teenagers to be). If follows unpopular (although very fashion forward) high school student, Jane (Erica Dasher) as she applies for a fashion internship and instead mistaken for an adult, accidentally lands a part-time job. For the love of fashion, I’m sure this show will suck me right in — although it doesn’t premiere until January 23rd, so you’ll just have to wait to see what I’m talking about.
Thank you Lucky Magazine for a great night and the amazing opportunity to work together!
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Let Me Express My Love for Wacoal Lingerie
Posted 08/11/2011 by Lara
I recently attended an event for Wacoal, which included a bra fitting and I can’t express my love and gratitude enough for this brand! First off I’ll start by confessing that I’m a 32DD –although if you’ve ever met me you’d probably swear I wasn’t above a B cup (unless you’ve seen me in a bathing suit). And I strive to keep it that way!
I know it’s a tough sell as a complaint and I’m a disgrace to women everywhere who want implants. I’m reminded regularly, but frankly I didn’t ask for this size, or the challenges of finding a button down shirt that doesn’t involve gaping at the chest or a dress that doesn’t require being taken in to accommodate my disproportion. And if that’s not enough of an excuse, two words: Back Pain.
And my least favorite part of it all, bra shopping! Especially with brands that believe in vanity sizing or that include padding their larger cup sizes (I mean seriously?). And don’t even get me started on Continue Reading…
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Front Row as Express Breaks a Record and Previews their Holiday 2011 Collection
Posted 07/25/2011 by Lara
What an exciting weekend! As I mentioned last week, I partnered with Lucky Magazine and Express to help raise awareness and cover their festivities on Saturday. The day started at 9am when Express took over Times Square and attempted to break the Guinness World Records title for the most people modeling on the catwalk. Well they succeeded!! Taking the title from Galeries Lafayette in Paris which had 521 participants from September 2010, Express now holds the record with 1,243 participants.

Express Holiday Preview
That evening, Express previewed their Holiday 2011 runway show. Streaming live from Times Square fans could watch from the streets or on Express.com. Being one of the 8 featured bloggers to partner with them for the campaign, I had the honor of being front row for the show; mere seats away from (deep breathe) Catherine Malandrino and the high-ups at Express, including Lisa G. (yes, Lisa G. as in twitter’s @ExpressLisaG – sigh). Continue Reading…
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SATURDAY Express Invites YOU to Rock the Sidewalk
Posted 07/22/2011 by Lara

Playing dress up! Nicole Miller dress, Express glasses, scarf, beaded bracelets, Jeffrey Campbell shoes
Ever wanted to be a model and walk the runway? Or watch a fashion show live? Well here’s your chance! This Saturday, 7/23 Express is taking over Times Square (NYC) and is opening their runway to the public in an attempt to break the Guinness World Records for most people modeling on a catwalk (current record is at 521). From 9am-5pm, models (that’s you!) get an exclusive Express tee, a surprise savings card, and a chance to win a $250 Express Gift Card. Then at 9pm Express will host their Holiday 2011 Runway Show. Can’t make it? Watch the show live at 9pm at Express.com.
And yes, I’ll be there! Last night Lucky Magazine and Express hosted a little soiree to celebrate the campaign and asked 8 bloggers to partner with them –myself being one of them! So I’m throwing out my camera fear and going to rock that runway! I hope you’ll join me! I’ll also post pictures from Saturday’s event and how I styled the Express collection so check back!
More pictures from last nights Lucky/Express event…
Caroline from sweetcarolineinthecity.com and I we’re jazzing up our outfits with Express accessories. I’m all about this Express Necklace!
I was getting Parisian nerdy-chic with Express while Continue Reading…
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Lucky Magazine’s Summer Jam
Posted 07/06/2011 by Lara
I’m really glad to be in with Lucky Magazine. Since last year the publication has been very supportive of bloggers. In addition to hosting their semi-annual Fashion and Beauty Blogger Conference (FABB), they regular feature bloggers in their issues and have a whole Style Collective on their website.
Last week Lucky Magazine hosted their Summer Jam Cocktail Party for their favorite bloggers *blush*. I wasn’t about turn down the opportunity to meet the staff at Lucky and mingle with my fellow bloggers.
I was greeted by the wonderful Colleen Call (Lucky’s Fashion Merchandising Director) and prompted to see The Bumbys! Do you know The Bumbys? They’re team Gill and Jill who sit behind a desk and offer honest appraisals of your style. No bias here, the duo’s face is covered and they don’t speak. Of course the first think out of my mouth was, ‘do the sunglasses work for me? I want you to know I grabbed them at the bar, so if they give me extra points add it in, if not I can take them off”
THE OUTFIT:
- Dress: Nicole Miller
- Shoes: Report Signature
- Necklace: Ralph Lauren
- Bracelet and ring: Tiffany & Co
- Bag: Carlos Falchi
- Sunglasses: Compliments of Lucky
- Nail Polish: Borghese Rapido Fast Nail Lacquer in Chroma
My report card said the following:
“YES. Yes to the sunglasses. They remind me of the little shock of color that was streaked in the bangs of the emo girl that I sat behind in High School. But that’s coupled with, in your case a kind of debutante meets Steffi Graff thing. And let me just take this opportunity to tell you, that girl from Algebra 2 is looking fiiiiiiiine. Also, don’t take the Steffi Graff thing out of stride, I just meant sporty. Not horse-like.
Average Rating: 9.7”
Woohoooo a 9.7!! Which rocked, because I worked that room and it was the highest score of any blogger I met! That was a serious ego boost, although I credit the dress. From the moment I left my apartment to the final event I attended that evening, I don’t think 15minute went by without someone complimenting me on it. It’s a good thing I went for it! I was debating between that outfit, high wasted shorts with a tucked in vintage shirt and snake-print leggings. Apparently there is no consistency in my wardrobe these days.
If you’re a fashion and/beauty blogger looking to get in with Lucky sign up for their FABB Conference! Tickets go on sale this week so Continue Reading…
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Pretty Connected Featured on The Look for Spring MakeUp Trends with Sue Devitt
Posted 06/16/2011 by Lara
Last month I shared with you my first segment on The Look for The Pulse Network which was all about spring fashion trends (watch it HERE), now I’m excited for the premiere of another segment I did on spring makeup!
Host, Maggie Rulli and I spent the afternoon at Sue Devitt’s headquarters playing with the line and talking spring makeup tricks and trends! Find out what I had to say and check me out on The Look.
Scroll to 1 minute, 50 seconds on the dial below to skip straight to my part or enjoy the whole segment!
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The Sartorialist Partner’s with Kiehl’s for Father’s Day
Posted 06/10/2011 by Lara
The Sartorialist is one of my favorite fashion blogs. I mean how could it not be? Scott Schuman (aka ‘The Sartorialist’) is not only an amazing photographer, but basically pioneered the broadcasting of street fashion and turned photoblogging into art form.
For Father’s Day, he’s partnered with skincare brand, Kiehl’s Since 1851 to shoot their Father’s Day campaign showcasing a series of images honoring the relationship between dad’s and their children. Scott also collaborated with the brand to create The Sartorialist for Kiehl’s Limited Edition Dopp Kit for Men ($55.50). The set features Scott’s must-haves from Kiehl’s and travel essentials and includes their Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash (2.5oz), Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment (2.5oz), Facial Fuel No-Shine Lip Balm (0.17oz), Ultimate Brushless Shave Cream White Eagle (2.5oz) and “Ultimate Man” Scrub Soap (3.2 oz ), packaged in a chic, functional travel case (created by Italian fashion House Luca Roda!).
Recently, having the opportunity to meet with Scott, I had a few questions…
Tell me about the The Sartorialist for Kiehl’s Limited Edition Dopp Kit for Men and how you picked the products.
I felt very comfortable with Kiehl’s because it was a product I already used, so I knew what I wanted. It’s all based on how you travel. I designed the kit and I was asking Garance [Dore] to draw it out for me so of course she had her own design input. I hate when you just throw everything in a bag and you can’t find anything –like a women’s purse, so I put a lot of pockets in it so you could put things away. I like to put my cuflinks in them.
What was the part about working with Kiehl’s?
They kept sending me free products! That, and being able to celebrate dad’s and shoot that story. I was a stay-at-home dad for two years and I met a lot of dad’s that have a really great relationship with their kids and I really wanted to celebrate that.
What was the creative process for this campaign?
We did a casting and picked a certain amount dad’s, and then went to the park [Bleeker Street Park] that I go to with my kids all the time and I said ‘okay guys, just play. Don’t worry about me, don’t worry about the photographs. I’ll make you look good, you just have fun with your kids’.
What makes you smile?
My girlfriend Garance Dore and my little kids.
Now who’s taking pictures of who Scott?
Okay fine, technically someone else took the pictures, but still!
The Sartorialist for Kiehl’s Limited Edition Dopp Kit for Men is available exclusively at the Kiehl’s New York Flagship store (109 Third Ave., NYC) and Kiehls.com
What am I wearing? Alice Roi red/white romper, Nicole Miller White Jacket, Vintage black belt, Jill Stuart white shoes
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Kiehl’s Celebrates their 160th Anniversary in True NYC Fashion
Posted 05/26/2011 by Lara
New York-based skin care brand, Kiehl’s Since 1851 celebrated their 160th Anniversary last week across the street from their iconic flagship location on 13th and 3rd Avenue. While the rain was pouring outside, the stars we’re shining bright inside. Guests included Pharrell Williams, Susan Sarandon, Kevin Jonas, Alan Cummings, Richie Rich, Ana Matronic and Babydaddy of the Scissor Sisters and Leigh Lezark and Geordon Nicol of The Misshapes.
My lovely date Erika (who’s wedding I just got back from in Acapulco!) and I got there on the later side and the party was bumping! We had ourselves a little dance party, but didn’t hold a candle to Richie Rich. He decided to get up on stage and do an impromptu performance to Prince’s Raspberry Beret for us (this could be the best video ever–only thing missing, glitter!).
Kevin Jonas took a second from his phone conversation to blew us a kiss…
Then we concluded our night on one of Kiehl’s iconic motorcycles, where I thought we were taking pictures in a photo booth –even better, a flip book photo booth! Erika and I look insane. I love it!
If you’re in NYC check out the Kiehl’s Flagship Store at 109 Third Avenue. As part of their heritage project, they’ve included a brand-new installation of an interactive 160th Anniversary Retrospective at the store. Cheers to you Kiehl’s for 160 years of great skin care products!
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Pretty Connected Featured on The Look on TPN
Posted 05/13/2011 by Lara
A few weeks ago, The Look, a new show on The Pulse Network, asked to interview me for a fashion and beauty segment. Hosted by the fabulous Maggie Rulli, The Look, is all about helping women be their most fabulous self by going behind the scenes and interviewing experts in health, beauty/skincare and the fashion industry.
The first of my two segments just aired! So here’s me talking spring fashion trends!
So what’s spring all about? 70’s, 70’s, 70’s. From the maxi dresses to high wasted pants the 70’s are what’s hot for right now. Platform shoes, cork and wood wedges. Well what am I still writing about, watch the segment! It’s all in there.
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White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner
Posted 05/02/2011 by Lara
In the words of Seth Meyer’s (mere hours before the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner host would deliver these words in his speech), “its so amazing to be in DC, in all of this history, all these amazing buildings and yet here we are at the Hilton. The red carpet outside was amazing! ‘Who are you wearing’, ‘what does it matter, I’m going into a Hilton’”.
My sentiments almost exactly as I started getting ready for the WHCD pre-dinner reception. As I strapped on my long, black, Nicole Miller gown I needed about ten rounds of confirmation that I wasn’t overdressed. Both the dinner and all of the official pre-receptions were hosted at the Washington Hilton–I missed that on the invite. As you entered the hotel, the entry way is overhauled by photographers and press as you walk through the red carpet. Once you’ve passed the lobby, there are two floors of pre-dinner receptions hosted by various publications.
Amy and I headed to the 2nd floor for the CBS News/The Atlantic/NationalJournal pre-dinner reception. It was hosted in a tent on the terrace and it kind of felt like a wedding reception, except for the part where there are random celebrities walking around. That, and I’m not used to wearing a dress that falls below my knees.
My highlights included meeting Chelsea Handler who is hilarious, and getting silly with Vampire Diaries actors Ian Somerhalder and Nina Dobrev who we’re so fun and seemed to be enjoying the photo-booth feature. And yes, they are very attractive.
After the receptions, guests lucky enough to be invited to the official dinner filed downstairs while the rest of us watched from the lounge. It’s kind of amazing listening to Seth Meyers and Obama’s speeches knowing they are only mere floors below. Strangely enough several celebrities kept leaving the dinner to hit up the Bloomberg party –or some party that went through the lounge. The buzz of course being Sean Penn and Scarlett Johansson who power walked by twice, the first time holding hands, and the second with their arms around each other. I’ll it admit I was a little surprised to see the duo, but more so the amount of chatter in the room over it.
After the dinner, the lobby filled up with guests mingling and getting ready for the after parties. I took the opportunity to change and do a little mingling of my own…
Outfit change, then on to the Washington Life after-party. I mean seriously… this face has after-party written all over it (I lasted less than an hour).
For more pictures from the event, visit the Pretty Connected Facebook page HERE.































