Hosting a Swap Party

Today a friend of mine brought some clothes to the office she didn't wear anymore and wanted to get rid of. After going through her clothes, I ended up scoring a pair of jeans, a dress and a cute cardigan (see pic) ..Thanks Steph! (You know I could never pass up on free clothes). That just got me thinking, what better way to update your wardrobe without buying new things than by having a Swap Party. Plus, you also get to clean out your own closet from things you don't wear anymore. For those of you new to swap parties, it's basically a party where you get together with friends and swap items you don't wear or use anymore. Here are some tips from Ehow.com on how to host your own party.

• Send out invitations to all of your friends. The more friends you invite, the greater the clothes selection including clothing sizes. Be clear on your invitation to let everyone know atleast how many garments to bring.


• Go through your own closet to pull out the clothes you no longer wear. Include only clothing that someone can still wear in your clothes swap pile.


• Wash, press and hang the garments. Tell your friends to do the same so everyone can easily see the clothes for swapping.


• Set up tables and garment racks. When your friends arrive, take their clothes and display them just as you would if you owned a store.


• Plan on how to go about the swap. Have each person pick a number, and the person with the number 1 has the first choice of an article. The person with the number 2, the number 3, etc. follows, until no more clothing is left, or everyone has picked up the amount they have wanted. If no one else wants an item, allow any other person who wants it to go ahead and take it.


• Bring accessories to the clothes swap party, too. Everyone can swap purses, shoes, belts and jewelry. You can leave with a completely new outfit without spending a dime.


• Donate any unwanted items to chartiy or charitable thrift shops.
  
  

Steal her Look: Giselle Bundchen: Under $100

Special Request:




Ok, I must admit Giselle could be wearing a sack bag and she would still look fabulous. Here she is a couple of months back sporting some destroyed denim shorts with a basic black v-neck Tee and some ankle booties. Here's where you can steal her look for less:

Denim Shorts, Hollister, $44
Black Booties, Charlotte Russe, $32.99
Black T-shirt, Old Navy, $12.50
Gold Skinny Belt, Forever 21, $3.50
Necklace, $5.80

Shorts on Sale: American Eagle

American Eagle is having a sale on all of their shorts. That includes everything from bermuda shorts, casual and denim shorts. Check out these denim shorts, on sale for $29.95 (originally $34.50)

Bikini Season Last Minute Tips

Just the thought that swimsuit season is slowly lurking is enough to cause a sweat (and not to mention a mild panic attack )plus make you want to run to the StairMaster and do 1,000 sit ups. But getting into that bikini doesn't have to be frightening. I was reading an article yesterday on last minute tips to look fab in that bikini. I'd thought I'd share with you... so here they are:

ACCESSORIZE: Try a great pair of earrings, an anklet or cool sunglasses, lovely flip-flops. Bring a glamorous cover-up. If you need color, use a self-tanner, which will make you feel more confident. Get a mani and pedi. "Your toes and fingers can really help carry off an elegant look."

MAKE THE SUIT FIT: You should not get bulging from the straps or material and the bottom should not be baggy. The bottom should contour with your rear without pinching or sagging. With the top, always tie the bottom strap first as tight as possible -- without losing circulation -- and then do the top around your neck. This will lift the bust up.

ACCEPT YOURSELF: Stand in front of the mirror with your bathing suit on. Focus on the features you like. Then focus on what you will do in the suit -- swim, lay on the beach. "The more you focus on what you will do, rather than how you look, the more you'll enjoy yourself and the better your body image will be."

DO THE PLANK: Trade in crunches for plank holds. Crunches work the rectus abdominus but planks target the internal obliques, external obliques and transverse abdominus to give you a leaner look by helping with your posture. To do a plank, balance on the floor on your forearms and toes, forming a straight line from head to heels and hold for 30 seconds.

TRY INTERVALS: Fire up the metabolism with an interval-based cardio program. Do this simple routine three days this week: 1 minute max effort, followed by two minutes at an easy pace. Repeat five times. You can run, bike, or use a cardio machine. To prevent bloating, keep sodium in check and watch the gas-producing foods and carbonated beverages.

Source: Associated Press

Sale Alert: Christian Louboutin Shoes

TheOutnet.com is having a flash sale on Christian Louboutin shoes tomorrow (Thursday May 28th). You can expect to find shoes going for about $300. And although you might be thinking that is still a lot of money to pay for shoes, it really is a steal, given that Christian Louboutin shoes can go for $800 or more. Flash sales don't last long. And I suggest you don't waste time, last time Christian Louboutin shoes went on sale on Guilt Groupe, they were literally gone in just minutes after the sale started. You can register at theoutnet.com

You've been spotted

It's hard to say that polka dots are the latest trend, because although they might be out for a season they always come back. Take for example Michael Kors Spring/Summer 09 collection, it's all about the spots. Whether it's a dress, top or skirt, this summer it's all about the polka dots. Here are some affordable polka dot pieces we spotted (no pun intended).

Tip: Keep your polka dot pieces limited to one item.

Forever 21, 19.80

Kimchi Polkadot Dress, Urban Outfitters, $58

Victoria's Secret, $24.99 (clearance)

Perfect Summer Dress: Under $50

A friend of mine recently bought this halter dress and it's her new favorite thing in her closet. I can definitely see why. It's perfect for hitting the beach, running errands or even pairing it up with some hot heels and wearing it out. It's empire waistline makes it flattering for most body types and can help camouflage the tummy area. They have it in blue, black and pink.

Where to buy:

Express, $39.50

Giveaway: Current/Elliot Boyfriend Jeans

Boyfriend jeans has been the latest craze among celebs. Tranformers Actress, Megan Fox,has been spotted wearing these Current/Elliot cropped boyfriend jeans. Now you can get your own pair of Current/Elliot jeans. VFB along with ChickDowntown.com will be giving away a pair of boyfriend jeans to one lucky reader. Simply send us an email telling us why you wanna em' to vivafashionblog@gmail.com. Chick Downtown carries over 150 designers including Diane von Furstenburg, Marco Jacobs and BB Dakota.

**Contest has ended**

Congratulations to MJ Moore from Pea Ridge, Arizona on winning the Current/Elliot Jeans*** Enjoy!

Special Request: Where to get Carrie's Look for Less?

We recently received a request from one of our readers asking where to get this dress (from designer Randi Rahm) worn by Carrie Underwood during the Academy of Country Music Awards. Although this is a satin dress, it has the one shoulder style and pale pink color and for less than $100, you really can't beat that.

Here is where to get Carrie's look for less:

Unique Vintage

Sale Alert: Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters is getting summer started with discounted items from tops, dresses, shoes and accessories. You can even find some items starting as low as $9.99 (like these two tops, originally $32) This dress, originally $78 is also on sale for $49.99.

Heidi Montag a Swimsuit Designer?

Heidi Montag told E! Online that she will be partnering with designer Ashley Paige to launch a new bikini line. You can catch a glimpse of the bathing suits in the up coming reality show called I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here, which airs June 1st. Heidi said those were the only bathing suits she would be wearing on the show. The bathing suits will be designed will all body types in mind and won't be available until they make their debut at Miami Fashion Week in July. Would you buy the bathing suits? 

Sale Alert: Designer Sunglasses at HauteLook

I've been meaning to get a pair of sunglasses for a while now. The hubby had bought me a pair of Prada sunglasses for my birthday, and leave it to me to sit on them (accidentally) and break them Ugh!! Well luckily for me and you HauteLook is going to have a Designer Sun Extravaganza sale on Wednesday May 27th. You can expect to find some hot designer shades such as Gucci, Dior and Marc Jacobs at 50-75% off. Here is a sneak peak of these Dior Aviators that will be on sale. It's free to sign-up, so make sure you check it out.

$1 Flip Flops at Old Navy- May 23rd Only!

Old Navy is offering their regular flip flops for just $1. What better way to get ready for summer than stacking up on a few colors to match your bathing suits. It's only this Saturday May 23rd (and limited to 6 per person). Happy Shopping!

Tim Gunn the Next Super Hero

Forget about Spider Man and Wolverine, nothing screams out super hero more than Tim Gunn in an Iron Man suit. Well maybe not exactly, but I'm sure he can "Make it Work." According to the NY Times, Marvel Entertainment is going to be releasing the first issue of Models Inc., on August 26th. The comic book will revolve around three leading ladies: Spiderman's Mary Jane, Millicent Collins and Patsy Walker (Hellcat). After Millie is wrongly accused of killing a set designer, Tim Gunn acts as the "wise leader" helping them solve the crime. Will he save the day? I guess we'll have to wait and see.

Beaded Sandals Look for Less

For $19.99 and more than half the price of the sandals worn by Nicky Hilton and Kate Hudson in this pic, these Star Bohemian Sandals are a steal. They have them in black, white, teal, tan and brown. You can snatch them up at Flyjane.net.

Louis Vuitton New Totally Monogram Tote

In case you missed it....Louis Vuitton announced last week the launch of their new Totally Monogram tote. "We are thrilled to announce the worldwide exclusive launch of Totally Monogram on LouisVuitton.com," said Daniel Lalonde, President and CEO of Louis Vuitton North America. The bag features comfy shoulder straps, pockets, and three sizes. It will be available exclusively online until June 1st.

And for all you twitter fans...now you can follow Louis Vuitton and get all the latest scoop on product launches and private events.

Source: FashionTribes

Great News!

Hey guys... just wanted to share with you that Viva Fashion Blog was voted Top 5 Blogs for finding the Celebrity Look for Less on News-Report.com. I was also featured on Woman's World Magazine where I talked about my favorite bronzer. We couldn't be any happier. Thank you all for your support!

Latest News: Marios Schwab Heads to Halston

Marios Schwab is now the new creative director for Halston. The London-based designer will be replacing Marco Zanini and according to WWD, will officially be taking over in July. You can expect to see the fall collection come Feb. 2010.

Source: WWD

Would you Wear This? Tie Dyed Jeans

Tie-Dyed jeans have been a hit ever since they hit the catwalk during the Balmain Spring 09' runway.Celebs such as Fergie, Nicole Richie and Gwen Stefani have been spotted wearing them. But this trend is still under some debate, personally I'm not too sure how I fell about them. How about you..Would you wear this or should they have stayed back in the 80's along with huge Aqua Net teased hair.

Kardashians New Miami Dash Store gets Vandalized??

Last month Khloe Kardashian revealed on her blog that she and her sisters would be extending their store, which is currently in Calabasas, and moving to Miami to open a new store. E! has given Khloe and Kourtney a spin-off show based around their move... how exciting. Well this morning their store was all the buzz. Rumors had it that their Miami store had been vandalized. Someone had spray painted the word "GUK" and carved on the glass. Kourtney put those rumors to rest on her blog saying " We want to make it clear that no one was targeting the store or Kim, Khloe and myself, specifically. The location of the store has remained a secret since we started filming, so there’s no way whoever graffiti’d the store front knew it was Dash. They were just defacing buildings in the area."  They are all set to have their launch party tomorrow. 

Sale: Saks Fifth Avenue

Saks Fifth Avenue is having a 30-40% off sale. Check out this Marc by Marc Jacobs Vest Cardigan on sale for $54.90 (originally $138) or how about this BCBG dress now $88 (originally $148). Happy Shopping!

Tom's University Flats

Add some stripes to your step with these Tom's Univesity Flats. They are super comfy and would go perfect for any outdoor Memorial Day plans you might have. They are $50 and also come in navy.

Steal her Look: Isla Fisher

Isla Fisher was spotted last week with new BFF Courteny Cox grabbing lunch wearing this adorable floral top from Urban Outfitters. Here's where you can steal her look for less:

Where to Buy:

Kimchi Blue Ruffle Tank, Urban Outfitters, $42 (Same top)
Purple Cardigan, Old Navy, $24.50
Distressed Boot Cut Jeans, Old Navy, $34.50
Peep Toe Shoes, Victoria's Secret, $38.99

Statement Earrings

For some people it's all about the statement necklaces, but I personally am a big fan of big statement earrings. These Soho Hearts earrings ($44) do just the trick. I'm enamored with the dangling birdies and the delicate porcelain flowers.

Tip: Show off your statement earrings by wearing your hair pulled back.

Getting an extra lift

Have any of you heard of the Smart Memory Bra. Well according to the Sun UK, these bras have a heat sensitive foam that pushes up your boobs as sexual attraction causes temperature to rise. Once your body cools down, so does the foam and your boobies appear like their normal size again. I can just imagine someone talking to a hot guy and all of a sudden your boobs start shifting up---kindda awkward. The bras were unveiled at a lingerie exhibit in Paris and will be hitting British stores in the summer.


Source: The Sun

New Dior Fashion Campaign

Actress Marion Cotillard, who first made history as the first french actress to win an Academy Award for her role in La Vie En Rose, now has a new role this time as the face of the Lady Dior handbag campagin. Check out a preview of the short film titled "The Lady Noire Affair" and stay tuned for the full film on May 20th on dior.com.

Source: People.com

Steal her Look: Kristen Bell

Here's where you can steal Kristen Bell's look for less:

Purple Scarf, Forever 21, $12.80

Fedora, Wet Seal, $12.50

Blue Jeans, Alloy, $29.50

Black Riding Boots, Famous Footwear, $34.99

Gandhi T-Shirt, Sir Alistair Rai, $63

Mark Your Calendars

Forever 21 will be launching their first ever contemporary line starting May 19th called Love 21. The line is said to have a more sophisticated look and will focus on fabrication and trims. After speaking with a couple of friends who weren't too happy with the Faith 21 line, I guess we'll just have to wait and see.

Did Your School Make it to the VS Collegiate Line?

A couple of months ago VS launched "Nominate Your School" in which 24 new schools would be added to the Collegiate Collection. Well the wait is finally over and after more than 10 million votes for hundreds of different schools the votes have been tallied up. Beginning Friday a new school will be announced each day on www.vspink.com leading up to the launch on June 22nd. Did you vote for your school? Hmmmmmm I wonder if FIU (Florida International University) will make it. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

April Showers Bring May Flowers....

They say that April showers bring May flowers, but it seemed the other way around last week while I was in New York. It had supposedly been raining non stop that entire week. I couldn't help but noticing everyone in their rain boots, kindda made me wish I had brought some along, that is, if I had some. You would think that I, living in Miami (Hurricane Central) would own a pair. They definitely would have came in handy last year when I found myself in South Beach stuck in 2 feet deep water after a heavy storm. In case you're on the hunt for some rain boots (like I am) here are some that will be sure to keep your feet dry and stinky free.















1. Target, $24.99
2. Nordstrom, $59.95
3. Piperlime, $119

Sale Alert: First Call Neiman Marcus

Neiman Marcus is having a "First Call" sale, in which you can save up to 50 percent off. Check out this Cole Haan Genevive Denney Bag on sale for $385 (originally $550).

Alice + Olivia Bianca Blouse

While it might not be the same color this Xhilaration top (On Right) looks almost identical to this Alice + Olivia blouse (Left) which goes for $253 at Bloomingdales. For $235 cheaper this grey cascade top is a steal.

Where to Buy:

Target, $17.99

Look for Less: Fringe Sandals

Jessica Alba and Reese Witherspoon have been spotted wearing these fringe suede sandals. They are from a French luxury brand and are only available in France...so if making a pit stop to France isn't in your list of errands right after going grocery shopping, here's where you can steal their look for less.






Free People, $88






Photo: Vickers/Seligman
Photo: Jixxer/Fame Pictures