Loren is Senior Vice President of Market America, the giant online internet retail company, creator of best selling cosmetics Motives, and designer of gorgeously stunning Loren Jewels, worn by Eva Longoria Parker, Jennifer Lopez, Alicia Keys, Kim Kardashian, and others.

Kim Kardashian wearing Loren Jewels

Kourtney & Khloe Kardashian with Loren Ridinger wearing Loren Jewels

Eva Longoria Parker wearing (stunning!) Loren Jewels winning her Best Accessory Award by Hollywood Insider at the Emmys 2010.

I love that Loren also dedicates her time to many charities such as Rally for Kids with Cancer, American Heart Association, Make-a-Wish, and more.

I became interested in Loren because I thought she was so inspiring and positive, someone all women can relate to. I love following what she has to say on her blogs Loren’s World and My Fashion Cents and she is so much fun on Twitter! Loren is a total girly-girl who loves fashion and is extremely talented, and knows what she is talking about especially when it comes to life, business, and fashion.

She has taught me to really continue to pursue my dreams and ways to accomplish my goals without feeling overwhelmed or that my goals or aspirations are unreachable.

These are my favorite pair of earrings by Loren Jewels. I think they are so elegant and timeless, you would wear them over and over again. $3715

As you all know fashion is a huge passion of mine and I thought it would be fun if I could ask Loren a few questions about fashion and trends.

So last week, I had the chance to ask the fabulous Loren Ridinger a few questions about her inspirations and favorites in fashion.

1. Who is (or was) your biggest fashion inspiration?

Jackie O and Jennifer Lopez. Jackie O was stylish, elegant, but chic.  Jackie loved fashion and wasn’t afraid to experiment with other trends.  Jackie O always looked effortlessly stunning.  My other inspiration is my dear friend Jennifer Lopez.  Jennifer never missed a trend and knows what fits best for her body. Jennifer is a trendsetter, a true fashion icon, her style is edgy, fun and super glamorous.

2. What was your first big designer purchase?

A traditional Dolce & Gabana corset dress, I still have it.

3. What trend are you looking forward to this fall/winter 2010? Or what is your favorite look right now?

I love a beautiful structure jacket from Balmain with a great pair of Hudson or Genetic jeans.  I love this look because it’s modern, classic and you can wear  it anywhere.  This look is fabulously chic, it reminds me of Jackie O.

4. What is one fashion item you can’t live without?

My big diamond hoops, I love them! They are very Jennifer.

5. When getting ready for a big event do you have any rituals?

Well, it shouldn’t be a ritual, but I always wait until the last second and rush out the door late. I love working so I tend to work until the last minute so it always makes me late. Lol.

6. What is one tip you have for women to keep us youthful, healthy, and refreshed?

Great skin care.  I love Matriskin collagen serum from Market America.  Have passion for whatever it is that you do or find something new.  Sleep.  Although, sleeping is not something I do enough of.  I always say I will sleep when I am dead!  Right now I have too much to do and I love it.

Loren, I will continue to be a huge fan and thank you so much for the great interview! xo

So I searched and searched to bring you my favorite purse picks for this upcoming season.

Tory Burch

Tory Burch ~ 'Rodeo Lizzie' Leather Wristlet ~ $175

Tory Burch ~ Leather & Chains Satchel~ $595

Tory Burch ~ Glazed Leather Holland Satchel ~ $465

Marc Jacobs

Marc by Marc Jacobs ~ 'Saddlery Lou Lou' Satchel ~ $558

Marc by Marc Jacobs ~ 'Classic Q - Francesca' Leather Shopper ~ $528

Marc by Marc Jacobs ~ 'Totally Turnlock - Shifty' Satchel ~ $478

Marc by Marc Jacobs ~ Pretty Nappa Hobo ~ $498

Marc by Marc Jacobs ~ Totally Turnlock Helena Convertible Tote ~ $458

Michael Kors

Michael Kors ~ 'Gansevoort - Large' Tote ~ $498

Michael Kors ~ 'Gansevoort - Large' Shoulder Satchel ~ $428

I have this bag in this color and I absolutely love it!

Michael Kors ~ Hamilton Leather Tote ~ $298

The Hamilton is going on my wish list!

Kate Spade

Kate Spade ~ 'bow regard - maryanne' leather shopper ~ $445

Kate Spade ~ Five Points Camille Leather Femme Satchel ~ $475

I saw this purse at Kate Spade in the Gold Coast Chicago and it is absolutely stunning.

Henri Bendel

Henri Bendel ~ No. 7 Quilted Shoulder Bag ~ $395

What you will notice about the purse style trends for this fall/winter 2010 are:

• Soft simple styles – which would be a simple chain, braided or interesting straps, or simple closures.
• Gem colors – this season you will find bags in tones of soft blues, emerald greens, and amethyst.
• Simple shapes – the classic rectangular shapes as in the shoulder bag, or tote.
• Lots of pockets – such as side pockets like on the Gansevoort by Michael Kors.
• Over-sized shapes with multiple uses – these bags are perfect for the girl on the run, and in this trend you will see most of these bags have shoulder straps as well.

What style do you like?

Whatever purse you decide on this season, Happy Shopping!

In May of this year www.garmental.com launched a unique website that came to every woman’s rescue; a FREE online personal shopper that would take the worry out of finding that perfect look.

The editors of this site search Chicago boutiques like Fix Boutique, Tribeca, and She One, to name a few, and pick out their favorite outfit each day and bring it right to your fingertips. Their goals are to bring inspiration to you, to help take the stress out of searching for something to wear, and help support the fabulous boutiques and designers that we have here in Chicago. The editors keep in mind prices, the day of the week, and the weather in their daily search.

New feature coming September 1st!

On September 1st www.garmental.com will launch a unique Chicago search option to the site called “The Closet”. This portion of the site to lets us fashionistas search for a style by neighborhood, boutique, and a price point.  From the filtered search results, we can view the clothing options as thumbnails, as well as printable lists.  Garmental’s visitors will be also be able to find boutique contact information directly on the site!

I had the opportunity to interview one of the founders, Suzanne Kopulos!

What was your vision for Garmental.com?

There are two key reasons why Garmental was created: to be the go-to authority on how to shop local boutiques and to give style inspiration on a daily basis with one complete look a day and Garmental is the only fashion resource that offers this unique format.

How do you predict what looks and styles your users will like?

The great thing about Garmental is that we have more than one point of view. We focus on the style aesthetic of the boutique that we feature and showcase a complete look that exemplifies their approach to fashion. This way, readers will not only get style inspiration, they will make notes on boutiques that resonate with their personal style and become part of their shopping roadmap.

What do you think will be the biggest trend of Fall/Winter 2010?

Utilitarian apparel & boots and loads of leather! Everyone will be investing again in leather jackets, and riding boots. Leather leggings are here, so we’ll see how much people overload on leather. I’m game.

Is there one fashion item you can’t live without?

Statement or vintage jewelry pieces are a must for me. Whether you have an endless budget for high-end designer garments or have tight purse-strings, accessorizing a basic dress or top and jeans with statement jewelry instantly transforms your look or can make a look all on its own.

Why should you shop at boutiques?

More than just to support local business owners, boutiques are unique because when you find one that matches your personal style, you will shop exclusively with them because you will love everything in the store. Boutiques typically offer brands that other stores won’t have or they will have exclusives on great items, so you won’t be a replica of every person walking down the street.

Are their any fashion no no’s?

One of the biggest fashion Do’s is to always dress age appropriate! There will always be fashion trends that look cute and fun, but that doesn’t mean they are made for you. I think it is always important to be mindful of that rule.

Who is (or was) your biggest fashion inspiration?

Diane von Furstenberg, Michael Kors and Tom Ford, for all very different reasons. First off, I am a massive fan of the DVF brand. Mostly because I believe Diane designs for every woman and produces pieces with longevity and should be a staple in every closet. I adore Michael Kors, not only because he is a witty and smart designer, but because he inspired me most by his dramatic use of color while Creative Director for Celine. He really knows how to make women feel beautiful. Lastly, Tom Ford because he is the definition of debonair.  In all instances he exudes sex appeal through his personal style and I feel most men should aspire to reach the same level of personal confidence. Well that or just being Johnny Depp wouldn’t hurt.

When getting ready for the day or for a big event do you have any rituals you follow?

I wish I had something funny like Jersey Shore’s “GTL”. So, I guess my regular everyday is Gym, Coffee, Computer, Shopping. On a big event day, it is almost always day before, eyebrow wax and hair, day of-mani/pedi and try not to wear any make-up until the hour before the event so that I always look fresh.

When you sign up and subscribe to Garmental here are the special perks you can receive;

• Wardrobe Wishlist: Premier savings on items from boutiques around town.
• Primped & Polished: Deals on products that pair perfectly with our Look of the Day.
• Garmental Gifts: A chance to win amazing designer swag.
• City Soiree: Exclusive invites to the city’s most sought after events.

I think this website is an amazing concept. It’s a great tool to help all women find great looks. I will definitely use this site to help me with my shopping. I can’t wait to see the fall trends. I already check the site daily!

A special thanks to SkirtPR.com, Garmental.com and Suzanne Kopulos for the great interview.

So, I thought it would be fun do a different kind of post and share the makeup products that I really love and I would love to hear what brands and products you are fans of as well.

CoverGirl ~ Invisible Concealer

For years I have been using this concealer. I don’t use Covergirl products very much but when something works, you should stick with it.

Invisible Concealer in Light Pale by CoverGirl

Sephora Collection ~ Perfecting Tinted Moisturizer

I really love this tinted moisturizer. This moisturizer evens my skin tone, has an SPF 20, and gives me a refreshed look that I love.

Sephora Collection ~ Perfecting Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 Oil-Free in Medium Peach

Too Faced ~ Primed & Poreless Skin Smoothing Face Primer

I have tried many face primers and this is my favorite one by far. I really like how you can use it by itself without foundation or blush and it will give your face a fresh flawless look. I use it under my Nars blush and my blush stays perfect all day long.

Too Faced ~ Primed & Poreless Skin Smoothing Face Primer

Revlon ~ Colorstay Eyeliner

I love this eyeliner, it’s a great color and it does stay all day long. You can’t go wrong!

Revlon ~ ColorStay Eyeliner in Cocoa

Revlon ~ Double Twist Mascara

I feel like I am really lucky to have long, thick eyelashes. But, I’m in love with this mascara it’s amazing and make my eyelashes even more full and so luscious. You just have to try it!

Revlon ~ DoubleTwist Mascara in Black

NARS ~ Blush

I won’t use anything else on my checks! I love, love, love the colors and LoveJoy is my absolute favorite!

NARS ~ Blush in LoveJoy

Revlon ~ Colorstay Eye Shadow

I used all these great eye shadows, perfect for everyday.

Revlon ~ ColorStay 12 Hour Eye Shadow in Blushed Wines

Sephora Collection ~ Eye Shadow

I think this eye shadow is perfect for going out at night. It’s dark without being too dark and has just the right amount of sparkle. I also like to blend it with a light cream shadow.

Sephora Collection ~ Eye Shadow in Choco Excess

Sephora Collection ~ Shimmer Lip Gloss

I love to finish off my look with lip gloss. I love so many of the Sephora glosses but right now Sugar Cookie is my favorite.

Sephora Collection ~ Super Shimmer Lip Gloss in Sugar Cookie

Let me know what your favorite makeup products are? I would love to find out about what you like so I can try new looks!

I love greens, it a great color and goes well with many skin tones. Along with cream and pink tones, this season army green is one of the big color of the season continuing on from the Spring and Summer trend, but this time with more layers. I have seen some great styles and ways to wear this color already. Look out for military inspired jackets, trench coats, and boots. I’m excited to show you my picks of must-have army greens for this Fall.

Boots & Shoes

Avery by Steve Madden $99 at Macy's

Union high heel pump by Banana Republic - $120.00

Casilda by Nine West in Olive Green - $99.00

Cole Haan 'Air Kennedy' Ankle Boot - $348.00

Jackets & Trench Coats

Sanctuary Military Jacket in Olive - $130.00

Kloth 'Bradly' Military Trench Jacket - $78.00

Tops

Cropped Toggle Capes at Old Navy - $34.50

Tie-Neck Ruffled Tops - $19.99

Short-Sleeve Capes $34.50

Elizabeth and James Explorer Blouse $245.00

Bottoms & Skirts & Dresses

Cargo Skinny Pants at Express - $59.90

Express Draped Mesh Mini Skirt $49.90

Foley + Corinna Netting Dress - $205.00

Wrap it Up Dress at Lulus.com - $49.50

Accessories & Purses

Spun by Subtle Luxury Infinity Scarf - In Olive - $51.00

Military-Inspired Cap at Bloomingdales - $34.00

Joe's Jeans Pyramid Studded Leather Belt - $98.00

Carrera Champion Sunglasses - $120.00

Lucky Brand 'Front Line' Canvas Tote - $149.00 (Great for school or work!)

MARC BY MARC JACOBS Totally Turnlock Helena Leather Tote - $458.00

Elizabeth King and Ella Federovich, co-owners of Luxe a Salon + Spa in Roscoe Village (2109 W. Belmont Ave.), are happy to introduce the second installment of the Lessons in Luxe class series: Scarves & Strands.  On Thursday, August 12 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the Luxe ladies will demonstrate the ins and outs of the chicest scarf hairstyles.  From simple looks for shorter ‘dos and eye-catching arrangements for longer locks, the tutorial will showcase a variety of easy, innovative ways for women of all lock lengths to dress up their ‘do – whether it’s a sexy braid, headband, bun, ponytail, or hair cover-up!  Best of all – each class participant can enter a raffle to walk away with the ultimate end-of-summer elegance: a fabulous Hermès scarf!

Reserve your spot for $10 in advance by calling 773-665-2049.  Luxe a Salon + Spa will apply this $10 as a credit to any future service with the salon.  Otherwise, attendees can pay $12 at the door (which will not be applied to a future service).  Class attendees will take a stab at their own strands while enjoying cocktails and light bites; each will receive a complimentary head-scarf and tips & tricks pamphlet.

Please visit www.luxeasalon.com.

Thanks to Skirt PR for all the information!

If you don’t have a romper yet, your really should own one. Not only do they look great on any body type but they are really comfortable. You can get rompers for the beach, shopping with friends, or even dress them up for dinner and drinks.

So here is my favorite look for this summer…

It’s Always Greener Romper

At lulus.com $54.00

This romper is a gorgeous green and looks fantastic with a great blazer and a pair of wedge sandals. It’s one of my favorite outfit when going out at night.

I Want It That A-Weigh Romper

ModCloth.com $44.99

I also really enjoy the floral prints and this blue is fabulous.

Aqua White Blazer

At Bloomingdale's $88.00

This bright white blazer looks great with either style romper.

Nine West Getby

At Piperlime $59.99

These shoes are a must-have. They are perfect to pair with any romper!

Check out Kourtney Kardashian‘s look….she is a huge fan of the romper this summer season, her favorite are silk rompers.

Kourtney is wearing Dolce Vita Cornelia Romper byFree People $148.00, Urban Outfitters Pin and Needles Puffy Sleeved Open Blazer $68.00, and Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Sandals $760.00

Right now of course we are right in the middle of the Summer season. I have been really enjoying the new trends; the rompers, the jackets, great platform sandals, unique dresses, not to mention the trends right now are casual but you can add certain pieces to really dress up your look.

Here is one of my favorite looks for this summer – keeping it casual…

Summer Must Have – A Pair of Navy Blue Skinny Pants

Ruffle Trim Pants $19.80

Add a Cute Tank like this Perfect Peach Color…

Pleated Ruffle Top $22.80

And of Course the Shoes…

Tayla Platform Sandals $19.99

But Don’t Forget My Favorite Accessory…

Michael Kors Gansevoort Bag -on sale now (I have this in a beautiful blue)

Add some simple jewelry; some hoop earrings or a draping necklace, and you are ready to go…

Well one of the benefits of living or visiting in Chicago is that even in the dead of winter you can still find something to do without freezing your buns off. The theater, concerts, museums, comedy clubs, unique restaurants, lounges, bars, and of course fabulous shopping!

Chicago is one of the best cities to shop. Most people head to Michigan Avenue to shop. However, have you checked out some of Chicago neighborhoods such as Lincoln Park (Armitage and Halsted), Wicker Park (Milwaukee, North Avenue, and Damen), and the upcoming West Loop (Fulton Market)  for a unique and fun shopping experience?

If you haven’t and your looking of something different and fun to do instead of sitting inside having the winter blues; why don’t you invite you friends or you mom and plan a trip to one of Chicago fabulous shopping districts.

May I suggest checking out the upcoming and trendy West Loop?

Fix Boutique

Fix Boutique at 1101 W. Fulton Market is one of the trendiest and hottest boutique in the West Loop area. Owned by two sister who are inspired by fashion for the Chicago season, which is a huge benefit it’s boutiques customers. However, the best part is if you shop now through Jan. 14th you can receive 20-50 % off select winter merchandise throughout the store.

Check out some of the current merchandise on sale:

Elizabeth & James Foliage Dress, $486 regularly priced, $340 on sale

Pencey Pieced Dress, $472 regularly priced, $344 on sale

Generra Zip-up Shirt Jacket, $203 Regularly Priced, $142 on sale

Gerren Ford Zipper Dress, $318 regularly priced, $159 on sale

After shopping at Fix Boutique check out some of the other great boutiques in the neighborhood:

2  Sisters Boutique

Bess & Loie

Heidi Hess

Koros

Tribeca

Bess & Loie

After a few hours of exploring the West Loop why not enjoy a great meal at one of the many fabulous restaurants in the district:

Avec

The Grocery Bistro

Pan Hellenic Pastry Shop (Greek Bakery) ~ Greek town is next to the West Loop

West Gate Coffee House

Izumi Sushi

The Tasting Room

Izumi Sushi

Enjoy your fun, filled, shopping day in Chicago’s West Loop! Please let me know if you have any questions about Fix Boutique, where to go, or what to do!

Dress Up ~Fantastic Mini’s Great for a Night Out

Sequin Mini Dress ~ KAS Designs ~ $139

Arita Mini Dress ~ Diane von Furstenberg ~ $325

Black/White Sequin Mini ~ Charlotte Ronson ~ $206

Jessica Simpson during the holidays in a sexy mini

Sequin Mini Dress ~ French Connection ~ $288

Kim Kardashian photographed wearing sequin mini in gold.

Jersey Mini Dress ~ Quotation ~ $198

Long Sleeved Asymmetrical Mini ~ Riller & Fount ~ $160

Dress Down ~ Perfect Mini’s For Everday

Jersey Turtleneck Mini ~ bobi ~ $70

Twist-Front Sweater Mini Dress ~ Express ~ $41.70

Modal Jersey Long Sleeve Dress ~ Splendid ~ $66

Solid Mini Dress ~ Macy's ~ $27.30

Accessories

You can add many great accessories to the mini dress such as platform pumps, ankle boots, stiletto boots, long necklaces, long earrings, patterned tights, and the boyfriend blazer.

Have fun! What long sleeved mini would you like to wear?