Imitation is the Sincerest Form of Flattery

People say that imitation is the sincerest source of flattery. If someone is copying your identity and strategy, it must be good. The opening of the first Microsoft retail store is no exception to this theory. After decades of business, Microsoft has finally come to the conclusion that having a retail front is good for business. They opened their first store in Scottsdale, Arizona. The "sleek modern design" is a little too reminiscent of the upscale stores that Apple has built across the country. Apple always is one step ahead of the rest of the industry in both technology and marketing of their products. Microsoft's attempt to jump on the bandwagon proves Apple's superiority in technological innovation. However, I will admit I am a bit bias as a I am a "Mac person."

Adweek Article:

Microsoft Opens First Retail Store

Balmain on the Red Carpet

Sienna Miller showed up the other night in this new Balmain creation...

Too bad she kind of looks like Peter Pan. Although, if she had to wear this particular dress somewhere I guess the opening for her broadway show, After Miss Julie, was her best bet. I mean, if you can't dress like Peter Pan for Broadway, when can you (except maybe Halloween, which is conveniently in a couple days). However, don't read too much into this. I still remain a Balmain fan and will prove to you why. This is how Balmain has been positively represented recently:

Blake Lively

Lauren Santo Domingo

Photos provided by style.com

"Ista" Campaings

Speaking of TJ Maxx, there is a new trend emerging in fashion ad campaigns. Adding "ista" to key words seems to be turning into a frenzy. It all started from fashionista and then quickly evolved into "bargainista," "maxxinista," "recessionista," "stylista," and more. You name it and it can become -"ista." The first that come to mind our TJ Maxx's, "Are you a maxxinista?" and Target's, "become a bargainista" slogans. It seems that the fashion industry's efforts to reinvent the shopper in all of us are starting to take influence. Hopefully, it will be a well received effort.

Marshalls | T.J.Maxx "Interventions"

TJ Maxx and Marshalls have teamed up for a new ad campaign highlighting their efforts to aid the inner fashionista in every woman that suffers from over spending. In this series of commercials, a girl's best friends come to stage an intervention for their friend that continues to indulge in overpriced fashion. I have to admit it is a bit cliche and satirical to use the "intervention" approach, however, applying it to the world of fashion is new and refreshing. I think it will resonate with many shopaholics out there who are coping with the tough economic times. I thought it was funny and memorable.

Adweek published an article on the campaign. Check it out here!

The Teen Vogue Handbook

The Handbook came out this month. I still need to grab a copy. You should too!

2010 Media Forecast

Click on the link below for an inside look into the future of media strategic planning.

The 2010 media forecast: partly cloudy

Nothing says spring like a flowery dress

Talbot Runhof Spring '10

I love this dress so much! It is definitely a head turner.

Photo provided by style.com

Celebrity Spottings

Alexa Chung looking stunningly cute in Versace. I want inside her closet if only for a minute!

Is it just me or is Danielle Panabaker wearing a curtain on her back? As much as I love some Dulce, this look is anything but sweet. This is the Young Hollywood Party not a trunk show.

Photos provided by style.com

Seguins, Feathers, Glitter Oh My!

There is one quote that sums up tonight's episode of Project Runway.

"You put diamonds on the crotch and you are home free!" - Bob Mackie

I am a huge fan of Christina Aguilera but I was not a fan of this week's challenge. I agree with the judges in that none of the designs overly "wow-ed" me. However, Carol Hannah deserved to win. It was flashy in a classic way. Definitely screams Christina!

Simply Elegant DK

I love Donna Karan's spring line. Oh so perfect! It is very rare that I like everything in a collection but I can't name a single ensemble that I did not love. Esquisicly beautiful are the words that come to mind. I enjoyed her line because it reasserts the power of neutral colors with just a pop of color (red!). Once I enter the professional world, I can't think of a better fit for a professional and feminine look.

Absolutely stunning.

One Step Closer to a J-O-B

Today, I visited a local agency here in Wilmington. This was the second time I visited Talk Inc. and I really enjoyed it. I definitely want to intern here! Small, boutique agencies are the best way to learn the tools of the trade. I hope I get the chance to experience such a diverse agency. And, it doesn't hurt that is doggie friendly :)

Lagerfeld Spring Winner

Love this..

Karl Lagerfeld

Spring 10 RTW

Photo provided by style.com

Gossip Girl on the down...

Is it just me or is Gossip Girl going downhill? They are inviting all these outside celebrities to have cameo appearances on the show. This week Tyra Banks and Hillary Duff made an appearance. I've heard that Hillary Duff will continues to be on the show for a couple of weeks. I was a tad disappointed to hear this. Do they really have to go and "Hollywood-ize" the show? I mean, Hillary Duff plays a famous actress on the show. Cliche much? I guess the writers are starved for dramatic plot. However, I was glad to see that Dan Humphrey came to his senses regarding Georgina. I about vomited when I saw them make out after her rooftop party. Although, according to previews, that does not seem to be the end of Dan and Georgina. It never is! I just hope the show gets rid of their need for celebrity name dropping and returns to their roots that made the show good in the first place.

Can you say trendy rompers?

Karl Lagerfeld

Spring 10 RTW