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