September 2, 2008

Wise Up the Easy Way

It’s Tuesday and here we all are working away.

Oh, you’re not really working? Us either.

In fact, after three days off, we’re pretty much sitting around wishing we could have another. And, looking for some sort of something to distract us from the fact that sooner or later we have to get cranking.

Hey, how about we check out some of the new videos at Success Television.com?

Now, for those who tend to feel guilty about not working, you all just head on over to the Career channel and watch, say, Habits of Highly Successful People.

The rest of us (still in avoidance – perhaps even denial) will be clicking away on the Wisdom channel, watching cool and enlightening videos like:

Trust Your Soul

Have You Had an Epiphany

Pursuit of Happiness

Whatever You Choose, You’re Right

Yup. Every now and then it pays to be a slacker.

September 3, 2008

Fare Thee Well to Buy. No, Wait. Don't Buy

Park you in front of the sale rack at Saks and you're in your element -- able to discern at a glance which items are snatch-em-up-fast-even-if-it-means-prying-them-out-of-her-hands deals.

But when it comes to shopping around for decent airfare rates, you may as well be staring at listings on the Tokyo stock exchange. (“What does it all mean? Is this one a good deal? Or will I be metaphorically slapping my forehead in two weeks when the price plunges?”)

That's why Farecast is the shopping buddy you long for.

Its “know when to buy” technology compares and filters information from many travel websites to tell you whether to buy the airline ticket now (fares are bound to go up soon) or wait a week (your patience will repay you tenfold, Grasshopper).

And it performs the same trick for hotel rates. Once you've found the price that's right for you, the site sends you packing to the airline or hotel site, so you can book direct.

Because this buddy knows better than to get between a girl and her deals.

September 4, 2008

Travel Pieces Sure To Stand Out

You would think, looking at all those black bags circling 'round and 'round on the air-port luggage carousel, that we women business travelers were no more interested in style than a herd of...well, men.

Girlfriends, it's time to liven up your luggage. Remember, the object of the game is to stand out by NOT fitting in.

To get you rolling (pun intended), here are a few models that are fashionable, fun and best of all, affordable:

The all new Diane Von Furstenberg Marlene - elegant, classy and functional, especially the Wheeled City Bag.

The Liz Claiborne Stephanie - in black and white houndsstooth, this three-piece set is simple, streamlined and utterly professional.

The American Flyer Monte-Carlo Go Signature - available in orange, red, grey or pink, this set will definitely set you apart from the crowd.

The Travel Pro T-Pro Extreme - eye-catching in light blue and black, its plentiful zip-pered pockets make for organized adventures.

September 5, 2008

Put a Little Swing in Your Style

Oh, the secrets you keep.

Like how the Barneys warehouse sale-and not, er, food poisoning-made you call in sick last month.

Or the fact that you're-shhhh!-a swinger.

Okay, maybe you're not a swinger in the couple-swapping, your-hot-tub-or-mine Swingtown sense.

But the lust in your heart for the new crop of retro-inspired swing jackets makes you feel like such a bad girl.

The chic boxy form, the loose style that lets you move freely...your pulse is quickening just thinking about it.

There's no use resisting-get these jackets now.

Cache Swing Jacket with Button Detail: This charcoal version is a fashion-forward alternative to your typical blazer.

Newport News Jacquard Swing Jacket: Take the trend to the office by pairing this elegant number with a black pencil skirt and a smart blouse.

INC International Concepts Cropped Swing Capelet Sweater: This textured topper adds finesse to a LBD or basic black turtleneck.

Ann Taylor 1-Button Swing Jacket: This short-sleeved version has a more modern, minimalist look.

September 8, 2008

It's Fashion Week in NYC! The glitz, the glamour...let's go! Oh, you're right. Now that you mention it, all those swanky style-setters are showcasing Spring '09 style, and that's, like, two whole seasons away. No sense in getting ahead of ourselves.

Instead, we ambitious, practical types will just stay home and have our very own Uptown Scoop Fall Fashion Week. Each day, Monday through Friday we'll present top trends for fall. Five days - five must-have fashions. Fantastic.

Trend No. 1 - Boots

Labor Day has come and gone, temperatures are dropping, and there’s nary a freebie vacation day in sight for quite some time.

There’s just no avoiding it: Summer is over.

Fine. We’ll just move on and immerse ourselves in something else equally hot – like all those gorgeous boots.

Short boots, long boots, boots with laces, boots with stacked heels, boots with flat heels – plenty of tempting styles to choose from.

A few that may soon find their way to your heart – and feet:

Tory Burch Leigh Crocco Patent Boot: Stacked heels, like the one on this feisty patent croc boot, are on the radar this season. Pair these with a slim pant or wear with tights and a dress.

Aldo Larin: A simple but sleek tall black boot is a perennial favorite.

Nine West Zayit Boot: Look for boots that lace up this season, like this modern romantic black suede pair.

Report Boston: This on-trend brown bootie-with-bite charms with its structured, fashion-forward design.

Alfani Kellen Boot: Looking for a boot that’s tall, dark, and handsome? This extended-calf style fits the bill.

September 9, 2008

It's Fashion Week in NYC! The glitz, the glamour...let's go! Oh, you're right. Now that you mention it, all those swanky style-setters are showcasing Spring '09 style, and that's, like, two whole seasons away. No sense in getting ahead of ourselves.

Instead, we ambitious, practical types will just stay home and have our very own Uptown Scoop Fall Fashion Week. Each day, Monday through Friday we'll present top trends for fall. Five days - five must-have fashions. Fantastic.

Trend No. 2 - Plaids

Striving to stay in style can be a full-time job. Unless you're an Uptown woman.

In that case, well, you're a model of efficiency, always on the lookout for clever ways to avoid shopping for entirely new outfits every new season. So here's the secret for this season.

Simply add some plaid to one of last year's ensembles, and presto - you're up-to-the-minute.

With autumn's lumberjack-gone-luxe buffalo plaids and tartan prints, it's hard not to fall under the spell of this so-beyond-Braveheart trend.

Any one of these glam plaid pieces will update your look in an instant, leaving you dressed to kill...er, uh, kilt...or something that's definitely “in”:

Style&co. Petite Plaid-Trim Tie-Neck Top: This layered look gives the plaid trend a feminine, work-appropriate spin.

Classiques Entier Belted Tartan Jacket: Stand out from the crowd in this sophisticated coat, which boasts bubble sleeves and a removable belt.

New York & Company City Style Plaid Babydoll Top: This eggplant and green plaid has a flirty, more casual appeal.

Ann Taylor LOFT Giant Plaid Belted Coat: A bold red and black plaid print and a jeweled neckline make for a strong and chic fashion statement.

Gap Black Plaid Popover Dress: This slouchy-cool dress is a hip alternative to your standard LBD.

September 10, 2008

It's Fashion Week in NYC! The glitz, the glamour...let's go! Oh, you're right. Now that you mention it, all those swanky style-setters are showcasing Spring '09 style, and that's, like, two whole seasons away. No sense in getting ahead of ourselves.

Instead, we ambitious, practical types will just stay home and have our very own Uptown Scoop Fall Fashion Week. Each day, Monday through Friday we'll present top trends for fall. Five days - five must-have fashions. Fantastic.

Trend No. 3 - Sweater Dresses

If there's one thing you've picked up from your time trekking up the ladder of success, it's the delicate art of compromise.

And while that skill certainly comes in handy when it comes time to broker your next big deal (or ply the powers that be for more vacation time, please!), a little push-pull also helps in matters of fashion.

Exhibit A: This season's in-demand sweater dress, which deftly pairs the comfort and warmth of a cozy knit with the feminine, glammed-up form of a frock.

In other words, it's a best-of-both-worlds trend that's sure to make both parties (you, and you) happy.

One A Bubble Sleeve Sweater Dress: This bubble-sleeved version comes in gray or black, and looks fantastic with or without a belt.

Banana Republic Long-Sleeve Belted Sweater Dress: Available in eggplant or black, this dress features a stylish low-slung belt.

Victoria's Secret Cotton Rib Turtleneck Sweater Dress: This figure-hugging number is classic yet sexy.

Old Navy Knit Button-Front Dress: This effortless dress—which ties at the waist—can be dressed up with a blazer and heels for the office, keeping you comfy and cool.

September 11, 2008

It's Fashion Week in NYC! The glitz, the glamour...let's go! Oh, you're right. Now that you mention it, all those swanky style-setters are showcasing Spring '09 style, and that's, like, two whole seasons away. No sense in getting ahead of ourselves.

Instead, we ambitious, practical types will just stay home and have our very own Uptown Scoop Fall Fashion Week. Each day, Monday through Friday we'll present top trends for fall. Five days - five must-have fashions. Fantastic.

Trend No. 4 - Pointy Toe Pumps

Every day's a new day. A new opportunity to show your stuff. (Stuff being the operative word, since to list all your talents one by one would keep us all here all day... and quite possibly into the night... )

Next time you feel the need to display your ability to take names and kick a little bahooty, toss on a pair of this season's hottest shoes -- pointy toe pumps.

After years of round toes, the classic (and sexy) pointy toe is back - and stronger than ever.

Perfect with a skirt or pants, put them on and watch people flock to your side. (As for those that run in the opposite direction? Well, you don't like working with wimps anyway.)

Tahari Neal Stretch Mesh Pump - sexy, low heeled (as in easy to walk in) and black - this shoe is sure to be a staple.

Michael Kors “Beekman” Patent Croco - in hot, hot red or goes-with-everything black.

Nine West Begin Brown Multi Pony - stands out in the crowd with silver tone buckle and belted vamp.

Click here for Shopstyle.com to peruse more than 100 pairs of pointy toe pumps from your favorite online retailers. Better cancel everything for the rest of the day - this could take awhile.

September 12, 2008

It's Fashion Week in NYC! The glitz, the glamour...let's go! Oh, you're right. Now that you mention it, all those swanky style-setters are showcasing Spring '09 style, and that's, like, two whole seasons away. No sense in getting ahead of ourselves.

Instead, we ambitious, practical types will just stay home and have our very own Uptown Scoop Fall Fashion Week. Each day, Monday through Friday we'll present top trends for fall. Five days - five must-have fashions. Fantastic.

Trend No. 5 - Fuller Skirts

Pencil skirts are lovely.

If you're not in a hurry.

And while some women may enjoy sashaying around the office in tight skirts, clearly, they are going nowhere - slowly.

You, on the other hand, prefer stride confidently from one opportunity to the next. Hell, you've even been known to run at full speed.

Therefore, you'll find this season's trend of fuller skirts quite appealing.

Their volume, innovative tucking and pleating, plus rich fabrics and vibrant patterns make these beauties just what you need to get wherever it is you're going - fast.

And another plus: in a fuller skirt, your likelihood of tripping is significantly reduced. Run, girl, run.

Ann Taylor Loft Floral Flounce Skirt - in fall colors of golds and forest green, this beauty is a solid addition to any fashion agenda.

French Connections Winter Pointelle Skirt - pleated knee length in grey mel or black.

Signature Pleated Suede Skirt - in classic black, an asset that will stay in style for years to come.

Lauren by Ralph Lauren Silk Geometric Skirt - a hipster Art deco print in black, white and violet - with hip pockets - ever so clever for concealing your secrets to success.

September 15, 2008

How to Ask For -- and Get -- a Raise

You love your work. (Not as much as you love shopping, girlfriends and maaaah-tinis, but hey, it's Monday morning and we're supposed to be focused here.)

How to make work more lovable? More money.

Studies show that certain women are less than stellar at negotiating for themselves. So, in case that happens to be you they're referring to in that research, we've gathered a few tools to turn you into a bona fide “I'm worth more” go-getter:

First step: Find out what everyone else is earning, so you can feel confident about the ask. Salary.com may prove useful. Note: it skews higher than competitor-site Payscale.com.

Next step: Read up on expert advice.

• “Making Bold Moves in Tough Times”
• “Five Sure Ways to Get a Raise”

Last step: Put the fire in your belly with an eye-opening stat from “12 Tips for Women to Negotiate Higher Raises”: The failure to negotiate for an additional $5,000 at age 22 will cost a woman $500,000 in total lost wages by age 62.

Optional step: Simply forward this article to your boss and tell her you’d like to make an appointment to discuss. (Ahem...you may want to delete that line about the maaaah-tinis...)

September 16, 2008

Gadget-ology Made Easy

A short survey on gadget-ology. Which type are you?

1. You spent your childhood wishing you had an invisible airplane like Wonder Woman's, and now always have the latest and greatest devices known to womankind.
    
2. As a kid, you were oblivious to technology, but now feel you're up to speed and can't wait to get the next new release of whatever.
    
3. Can't remember how you felt about gadgets as a kid (and don't much care), and now operate somewhere between confused and totally lost when it comes to all those thingamabobs.

If you are a. or b., congratulations, no further reading required.

The rest of us gadget-challenged females will head over to PopGadget.net, and read all about nifty gizmos for gals. Powered by a handful of Geekspeak-fluent editors, you'll find highlights on gotta-have-em gadgets for your car, home, office, clothing and even your pet.

P.S. When searching for a modern-girl gift, start with “PopGadget Picks” for a pick-of-the-litter list the editors love.

(P.S.P.S. And, no, you Samantha-types, there are no, um, how to put this delicately...gizmos that might have been created especially and exclusively for girls.)

September 17, 2008

A Shoe-In You Can Do Good In

There they are. All perfectly lined up in your closet.

Why, just opening the door to take a peek at all those fabulous, magnificent, breath-taking shoes instantly makes you happy.

And, yes. We all know you spent ridiculous sums of money on your must-haves, but, we’re willing to overlook it. Why?

Because the 8th Annual Stuart Weitzman Celebrity Shoe Auction in support of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is running right now.

And you’re just their type.

Celebrities like Brooke Shields, Christie Brinkley, Kim Raver, and more, each chose a Stuart Weitzman shoe to decorate. Each shoe is an exclusive work of art and most are signed on the sole.

You bid an excessive amount of money, you win, and proceeds go to support the work of Dr. Marsha Moses of the Folkman Institute in Boston, where she and her team are working to develop a urine test for ovarian cancer.

Stuart Weitzman is committed to bringing the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer to the forefront. And by bidding on the beautiful designs, you can help find a cure for this deadly disease.

Suddenly, hundreds of dollars for one shoe seems quite reasonable.

September 18, 2008

Wide-Legging It Into Fall

It's one thing to be on top of the trends.

Executing said trends can be a little trickier.

After all, it's not as if the dress for success manual has a section addressing the proper use of leggings in the workplace-no matter how cute they may look on Kate Moss.

There is one fall trend, however, that you can count on getting a thumb's up from the higher-ups while remaining emphatically in vogue:

Wide-legged pants.

Yes, these artfully roomy slacks have edged out those denim anacondas known as skinny jeans once again, offering comfort and class in one fell swoop.

Just add a blouse, some stacked heel shoes, and you’re good to go.

No squeezing necessary.

Gap The Perfect Trouser: The name says it all. This wide-legged, work-ready style is ideal for everyday wear.

Alice + Olivia Wide Leg Pant: This pair has an appealing slouchy, yet stylish, aesthetic.

Spiegel Two-Way Stretch Wide-Leg Pants: Accessorize this high-waisted, wide-legged pair with a chunky belt for extra drama.

Talbots Glen Plaid Trousers: Go classic and tasteful in this wooly pair—perfect with a button-down or sweater twin set.

Diane von Furstenberg Popeye Pant: Splurge on this chic sailor-style pant, which boasts button details and a dramatic sweeping hem.

September 19, 2008

Take Note: Messenger Bags Are Fall Must-Haves

Every now and then the guys get on to something good before we do.

See, boys and men were actually among the first to use messenger bags to help make their load lighter.

But leave it to us women to take a good thing and make it, well, fashionable.

A hot trend for fall, messenger bags are styled after the bags actual bicycle messengers used to carry. Available in soft leathers, softer suedes and lightweight fabrics, each has that trademark wide, comfy shoulder strap that lets you to sling the bag across your body, leaving your hands free for more important matters.

(Like sprinting to your next meeting while simultaneously e-mailing your boss to tell her - tactfully, of course - about your latest accomplishment.)

Piel Traditional Flap Brief Messenger - available in black, chocolate or saddle, the flap-over opens to two separate compartments.

Weekender Crossbody - the spacious interior is wide enough for magazines, big files and even your laptop.

Cole Hahn Messenger Mica Collection - new and noteworthy, comes in black smooth, shiny leather with nickel stud detail.

Coach Mini Signature Messenger - three pockets inside and a front zip pocket under the flap.

Maison Martin Margiela Suede Messenger - 100% suede with flap top secured with aged silver pull and double ring closure.

September 22, 2008

Majorly Advance Your Career In Two Hours or Less

Dear Career Diary,

It's Monday and how in the world did that to-do list get so damn long? Must prioritize.

And for once, I think I'll try putting my personal career advancement at the TOP of the list.

But must find a way to do it f-a-s-t. Wouldn't it be great if I could run some sort of an ad...

Career Encounter Wanted:
Intelligent, ambitious, capable woman seeks a way to get motivated, develop hundreds of new business contacts, learn the latest and greatest techniques to get ahead - all in under two hours. (Oh, yeah...would be a plus to make lots of new friends and get lunch, too.)

Dear Career Diary,

Well, well. Look what I found in Uptown Scoop today...

Career Event Available:
Calling all smart, determined, talented women who want to be inspired, grow their professional networks, discover innovative strategies for success and get insights on valuable business lessons. Join us for lunch from 11:30 to 1:30 at the 4th Annual PINK Conference Series. Starts Wednesday, September 24 in a city near you. Put a beautiful career and a beautiful life on your calendar today!
Register now to attend.

I just love it when the universe speaks to me...

September 23, 2008

VIP Note - Need a New Gig? This One's For You

Attention all women on the move - to a new job that is.

If your intent is to move up, sideways or just get ahead in general, the semi-annual and super popular Fall 2008 Women For Hire Career Expos start TODAY!

Held in ten major U.S. cities each fall and spring, these high-caliber recruiting events enable fabulously talented professional women (that would be you) to meet directly with recruiters and hiring managers from top employers.

Whether you're an experienced professional with several years of experience under your belt or a graduating college student, these one-day events are an ideal chance to launch or advance your career.

Fall '08 Women For Hire Career Expos

• Sept. 23 - Boston
• Sept. 25 - Philadelphia
• Oct. 2 - Washington, DC
• Oct. 7 - Chicago
• Oct. 14 - Atlanta
• Oct. 16 - Dallas
• Oct. 21 - Minneapolis
• Oct. 29 - Tampa
• Nov. 11 - New York
• Nov. 20 - Los Angeles

September 24, 2008

Stepping Out in Statement Jewelry

You've never been the type to hide in the shadows.

If you have an opinion, you express it.

If someone needs to step up, you're the first person on your feet.

And if you're working on a project, you either go big or go home.

So why should your jewelry be any different?

This fall, make an impact in statement jewelry. From chunky necklaces to oversized cocktail rings to notice-me cuffs and earrings, it's all about baubles that are big, bold, and in your face.

Because a strong, passionate woman like you needs more than some meek metal.

Nordstrom Textured Layer Cuff: Gleaming gold bands make for a versatile, yet luxury statement piece.

Banana Republic Ombre Three-Strand Necklace: Three strands of gray resin beads pick up this season's ombre trend, with shades from dove gray to charcoal.

Evelyn Knight Multi Disk Drop Earrings: Swap your studs for these dangling gold disks.

Emitations Cocktail Rings: Bling with a faux gems, these beauts are affordable elegance.

Alexis Bittar Sculpted Link Necklace: This striking chain of golden Lucite links adds excitement to a classic white button-down blouse.

September 25, 2008

Desktop Do Good - A World of Style Is One Click Away

You can see yourself now... (insert whimsical movie music)... dumping this real job to focus on something more noble.

Why, someday (music crescendos here), you may just run off to join the Peace Corps, digging wells for some remote village in Africa.

Oh, p-l-e-a-s-e...

With 20 hours of work to squeeze into the next 5 hours, you can't even imagine having time for lunch, let alone time to plan for some do-gooding.

Wouldn't it be grand if you could keep toiling away, and still be a big-time do-gooder?

Spend some time at World of Good, the world's first online marketplace offering you a way to shop for thousands of products that positively impact people and the planet.

You whip out your credit card to buy stylish jewelry, bags, home décor, art, scarves, and more, most handmade, and suddenly you've given artisans from open air markets in Western India and all over the world a steady job and more opportunities for themselves and their families.

Plus they donate 10% of profits to their WorldOfGood.org non-profit organization which is dedicated to improving the quality of life for millions of artisans living on less than $4 a day. Funds support building schools, health clinics and, yes, clean water systems.

Now, without so much as picking up a shovel, you can still do a world of good.

September 26, 2008

Kristin Davis Launches Fall Fashion

Charlotte York MacDougal York Goldenblatt. Delightfully idealistic, refreshingly optimistic, ever hopeful. There's a little of her in all of us.

And now the woman who brought Sex and the City's Charlotte to life brings us a new alternative in fashion:

The Kristin Davis Collection - her signature apparel and accessories line available now exclusively at Belk.

Seems Belk channeled Charlotte's belief in fairy tales and happy endings to engage Kristin in the partnership. As the story is told by Kristin herself, she grew up shopping at Belk, and says, “The only way I would have done a line of clothing is to do it at Belk...”

So for those days when you need to be a little less fashion-forward Sarah Jessica/Carrie, and a little more sophisticate-styled Kristin/Charlotte, you'll find just what you're looking for in everything from office-perfect outfits to shoes, jewelry and handbags.

A few of our favorites:

Novak Platform Slingback - slip into these and suddenly you're a step up in the world.

Coated Linen Trench Coat Jacket - in shimmering silver, a classic piece with a stylish look.

Grey Medallion Necklace - featuring grey hematite, this medallion pendent is a beautiful addition to many an ensemble.

Wide Collar Tuck Sleeve Blouse - white with tucked cap sleeves, it's appealing alone wear or under a cardigan or jacket.

Ombre North/South Tote - in black/grey patent with double straps and two roomy interior sections, this bag is simply, elegantly chic. Just as Charlotte would want it.

September 29, 2008

Put a Little ‘WOW’ In Your Daily News

Wanted: Brain Candy - good, stimulating conversation.

Option 1: Today's office chatter (translation: gossip). Hmmm... leaves you feeling less than inspired.

Option 2: Turn to the web. Okay, all that pundit-y talk about Palin's lipstick, the economy and financial woes, and more Texas-sized hurricanes brewing. Now you're even more uninspired.

Ugh.

So where can a businesswomen find a news source that has an inkling of what girls are really thinking about?

Sure, we're following the Presidential race and politics. But we also track celebrity news, social issues and science.

Tune in to “The Wow Watch -- Women in the news. Women on the news,” a new feature on wowOwow.com that serves up smart stories on, by and for smart women.

Hosted by media powerhouses Liz Smith, Peggy Noonan, Lesley Stahl and others, this site is part water-cooler musings, part breaking news and entirely worth watching.

September 30, 2008

A Smart Girl's Guide to Modern Politics

Whether you're on the left or right side (or still somewhere in the middle) of the 2008 Presidential race, you've got to give those politicians and their entourages some credit.

There can be nothing easy about spending every waking minute of the day staying on message, being on-the-spot inspirational, rebutting your opponent, all while doing your best not to look sleep-deprived.

Oh, b-r-o-t-h-e-r. Enough about them. How about us?

It isn't exactly a cakewalk trying to keep up with who-said-what and who-endorsed-whom. (Especially when we're super busy staying on message, being on-the-spot inspirational, all the while trying our best not to look sleep-deprived.)

But then again, it's good to be in the know. Plus, given all the drama, it makes for an entertaining break from work. Here are four blogs that will keep you way ahead of CNN:

TalkingPointsMemo.com - good for stories that are about to break.

Politico.com - an all-in-one political place.

ABCNews.go.com/politics/The Note - updated every day, quick and easy to read with good video.

Wonkette.com - great for DC gossip (for when you’re r-e-a-l-l-y bored at work).