I recently attended the 10th Annual eWomen Network Conference in Dallas, Texas and had my picture taken with Tony Hsieh, CEO of Zappos.com right after he signed my book.  eWomen is a fantastic organization that primarily supports small business owners.  So what is eWomen and what was Tony Hsieh, who is clearly a guy, CEO of Zappos, which is clearly NOT a small business, doing there, you may be asking by now.  During the 4-day conference, the attendees are treated to a broad assortment of speakers who provide inspiration, insight and technical expertise to give women many needed tools to run their own business.  Tony was one of our speakers.  He recently penned a book, “Delivering Happiness:  A Path to Profits, Passion and Purpose” on customer loyalty and corporate culture. And yes, I was wearing a great pair of shoes from Zappos!

I have always loved Zappos.com and am incredibly proud to partner with Zappos.com as an affiliate.  What I mean by an affiliate is that I recommend their products that I really like on my site and if you like them too and click through, Zappos.com shows the love by sending me a small token of appreciation.  With Zappos.com, its a win-win-win:  for you, the customer; for me, the blogger; and for zappos.com. 

Before hearing Tony speak, I thought you got the best straw.  But afterwards, I have decided that Tony Hsieh is having a great time at a job he loves.  And that’s a winner for all of us!

Today, we had our Fall District meeting for Doncaster where all of our local sellers came together to talk about the trends for Fall 2010.  Basically, clothing is becoming a little more feminine and a little less chunky for Fall.  You will still see a lot of wedges in the Fall but more heels, especially kitten heels.  As far as clothing, there is still a lot of hardware but the grommets have definitely softened.  There is still a lot of rouching and draping.  Tops, jackets and sweaters are still below the waist with a plenty of belting options.  There is still a lot of black, brown and beige with pops of red, orange, blue and purple.  Skirts are every length while dresses are still short.  Separates are still the way of the season.  As far as pants, the two most typical styles are leggings and flared legs.  Lace, ribbons and ruffles are players this season as well. The look and feel is definitely comfortable with great latitude for dressing in what makes you look and feel your best.

It’s going to be a beautiful season.  Click here to learn more. 

If I have said it once, I’ve said it 10,000 times.  You will never go wrong with an LBD when you notch up simple.  That is what this perfect LBD from Tahari by Arthur S. Levine accomplishes.  It is cinched in just the right place.  The rounded neckline perfectly frames the face while smoothing out some of the upper body challenge areas.  The crepe fabric is forgiving and travels reasonably well (you might need a little steam out if this dress is crushed in a garment bag).  This LBD can be worn as it is or with a jacket or coat.  With its simple style and smart details, it can be worn for work and into the evening with a few accessories!  Speaking of details…. do you love the pyramid studs at the waist line?  How about the grosgrain detail on the sides?  Or the satin facing that offsets the zipper with the circular pull?  This dress can be classic or modern. 

And here’s the best part…from now until August 2nd, it is on sale as part of the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.  If it is even available after that, the price goes up.  So what are you waiting for?

Here I am with another LBD of the week faux wrap dress.  I love faux wrap dresses because I love that the dress is form fitting at the bust like an empire dress.  Unlike an empire dress, this LBD also fits at the hip so it doesn’t look like a tent! This dress is so easy to wear.  It is a sleeveless jersey LBD that fits right over your head.  It is lightweight, machine washable and wrinkle free elastane, making it a perfect choice for travel. The length of this perfect LBD allows it to be worn with either flats or heels.

Here’s a great little tip for finding clothes that fit your body shape.  Think of your body in thirds:  upper body, your middle and your legs.  A perfect dress should be styled to fit neatly in at least one point in the mid section.  It is unlikely that the middle of the mid section is the right point!  For some, it will be at the ribs, for others, it will be at low hip.  For others with a long torso, the higher waist will be a good point of accent. 

Click here to learn more about the Tristiana from Lauren by Ralph Lauren at nordstrom.com

Summer is truly upon us.  And that usually means travel and parties.  And needing to stay cool.  With that in mind, I selected this week’s LBD.  Versatile, packable, wearable and just plain cute!  This Slinky jersey LBD is fashioned with a collection of jewels at the faux-wrap bodice, emphasizing the narrowest part of your figure. Finish details that make this LBD far more luxurious than its value price include a back zipper with hook-and-eye closure; the flattering Surplice V-neck; a very wearable “just interesting enough” length from shoulder to hem: 39”; it is fully lined.

What are some of your party plans for this summer?  Does this LBD fit them? 

Click here to learn more about this LBD from Nordstrom.