Tag Archives: Michelle Obama

Wednesday Wish List: Leopard Print Chucks and Jason Wu at Target

Posted on January 4, 2012 by | Leave a comment

by Jackie

Rawr

Ok, [insert sigh here] I was one of those people that didn’t get the whole Concords thing. The retro Jordans caused a frenzy across the country over the holidays, with people lining up for hours to get the limited edition shoes. But, some say tomato, I say “eh.”

Converse Addict Leopard Print Chuck Taylor All Star

Leopard Print Chucks only available on the Japan "Addict" line.

I do, however, love Converse footwear, which is great for the sake of my wallet because they are much more affordable than other sneakers, and offer a lot of style options. I’ve been tracking a leopard print pair for a while, but they are only available through their Japanese site.  (Domo Arigato and Konichiwa is the extent of my Japanese knowledge, thanks to songs by the Styx and Robyn, respectively.)

Luckily for persistent shoppers like me, the Converse website has a design-your-0wn option.

Maybe I should take up shoe designing. Hmmm.

After a few clicks… Voila! My dream Chuck Taylors! I’ve saved my custom design to purchase later. Can’t wait!

Wu is Right on Target

I love luxe for less lines when they’re done right. Target will release Jason Wu’s collection on February 5.  From what I’ve seen so far, I want EVERYTHING! Now you can own pieces from First Lady Michelle Obama’s favorite designer.

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Posted in 9-5 Fashion, Off-Duty Looks, Steals!

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Road to Healthy Living: Three Places to Find Produce in D.C.

Posted on July 1, 2011 by | Leave a comment

Guest post by Jim Oguntimein

Michelle Obama Visits Farmer's Market in Washington, DC (Photo Credit: Win McNamee/Getty Images North America)

I recently moved toWashington, DC and I’ve had a hard time finding produce that was fresh and affordable. The local grocery stores produce section has fruit/vegetables in such bad condition that I’m sure, most of them have some type of agricultural disease, lol. Apparently, difficulty locating fresh produce is common for people who live in major urban areas without access to a Trader Joe’s or the funds to shop at a Whole Foods Market.

With this in mind I decided trek around the Nation’s Capitol in search of good produce and I found a few places that most cities may have.

#1 Farmers Market-Most cities across theU.S.have a farmers market; full of ripe, fresh, and maybe organic produce. In theDistrict of Columbia, you can visit Eastern Market and the DC Farmer’s Market. Both are full of fresh produce and other grocery items.

#2 Fruit Stands- Fruit stands are a great way to buy local produce for the “yuppie/buppie” on a budget or living in poverty like myself. While the selection may not be as varied as what you would find at a farmers market, the fruit quality is often seasonal, local, and fresh.

#3 Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)- This has become very popular over the last couple of years with pretentious people like myself for a variety of reasons. CSA’s offer seasonal local food to members who purchase a subscription. Typically, the subscriber will receive a box weekly or biweekly of fresh vegetables and sometimes other farm products. One small disadvantaged of CSA’s is that you get a lot of atypical vegetables. However, you can view it as a positive because it forces you to learn new styles of cooking and expand your palate.

As you can see, it is possible to get fresh quality produce if you live in major city without spending a fortune. Hopefully, this post will help all those people looking for alternatives to the local grocery store.

Jim Oguntimein: Workout Guru, Certified Public Accountant, and Fitness Blogger

*This is a cross-post from JimGetsSlim.com. Two years ago, Jim started his blog  as a way to document his transformation from being overweight to getting in shape. It has evoved to an all-around fitness blog, offering diet tips, workout videos, recipes, and more! Follow Jim on Twitter @JimIsSlim

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Posted in The Water Cooler: Guest Posts

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#FLOTUS Shines at the State of the Union

Posted on January 26, 2011 by | Leave a comment

by Jackie

First Lady Michelle Obama’s silver Rachel Roy dress is a huge hit in domestic fashion.

Credit: The Huffington Post


 

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Posted in Miscellaneous

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Eco Fab!

Posted on November 8, 2010 by | 2 Comments

by Jackie

Photos by Almenia J. Photography

“I need one of those bags,” I said to Sherria as we watched the models cruise the runway carrying these intricately designed purses at the Elizabeth St. John Couture show at NOVA Fashion Week.

Sherria and I caught up with purse designer Cyndy Esty after the show and learned that each bag is hand-crafted  out of recycled materials in Chevy Chase, Maryland.

Purse designer Cyndy Esty donates some of the proceeds from her sales to local and global causes.

The "Change" purse was one of my favorite designs.

Purses range in price from $250-$1,200.

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Posted in Fashion Resources

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First Ladies of Fashion

Posted on March 31, 2010 by | Leave a comment

by Sherria 

U.S. First Lady, Michelle Obama and First Lady of France, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy (Photo Credit: Elysee Palace via Getty Images)

While any meeting between the Obamas and anyone is enough to make political headlines, the private dinner that took place yesterday involving the First Families of the United States  and France made news for a different reason. First Lady Michelle Obama and the First Lady of France, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, created a buzz on the fashion front.  Both have been labeled “Fashionable First Ladies” by The Washington Post. Sunday’s edition of the Post anticipated the “fashion smack down” that was to take place between the First Ladies at Tuesday’s dinner. I must say, both Michelle Obama and Carla Bruni-Sarkozy are a force to be reckoned with when it comes to fashion. Check out the article and Image Gallery in The Washington Post.  

(Photo Credit: Saul Loeb AFP/Getty Images)

You may not be able to find outerwear that looks exactly like the two fashionable First Ladies. However, you can recreate these looks.  For Mrs. Obama’s look try dresses with floral patterns. To look European chic like Mrs. Sarkozy  go for solid colored pieces with a ruffle or bow design. 

Get the look! 

Anne Taylor Tropical Wool Elysian Jacket, $ 228

INC International Concepts Asymmetrical Ruffle Jersey Motorcycle Jacket (Macy's, $49.99)

Anne Taylor Silk Bold Shadow Flower Dress, $168

Alfani Dress, Short Sleeve Printed Silk with Belt (Macy's, $74.99)

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Posted in Fashion Resources

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Best of A*cute 2009!

Posted on December 22, 2009 by | Leave a comment

Since our launch in April, we’ve been working hard to help you look good at work.  We thank you, our readers, for coming back regularly to see what’s new at A*cute.  Here’s a list this year’s most popular posts.  Make your New Year’s Resolution to be a better version of yourself.  We’ll be here to help look and act A*cute along the way. 

 

 

Nail it…

Grey is this winter's must-have nail color. It's conservative enough to wear to work, yet funky enough to express your fashionable style.

After a trip to the nail salon, A*cute had to let you all know that your hands should not speak louder than your words.  Click here for the latest trends in nail styling that are most appropriate for the workplace.

 

 

 

 Etiquette is always in style

cubicle

Per your in-person and email requests, we outlined appropriate workplace behavior.  According to your messages, some of you may need to forward this post to your cubicle buddies/officemates.

 

 

 

 

 The Right to Bear Arms

First Lady Michelle Obama’s official White House portrait caused a stir in the media and the blogosphere when she chose to sport her toned, bare arms in a classic sheath.  A*cute tells you how to bear your arms the presidential way in this top-rated post.

 

 

 

 Party, Party, Just Don’t Get Wasted

There’s always one office party drunk.  Follow these DOs and DON’Ts so that you can keep your dignity, and your job.

Workplace Fashion No-nos

If you wear miniskirts to work, this post is for you.  If you know someone who shows too much cleavage at work, don’t talk behind her back at the watercooler, send her this post instead.  She’ll get the hint.  We promise.

With that, A*cute wishes you Happy Holidays and we can’t wait to see you in the fashionable New Year!

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Posted in Fashion Resources, Pink Slips: Don'ts

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The Right to Bear Arms

Posted on November 19, 2009 by | 2 Comments

First Lady, Michelle Obama, White House Portrait 2009

by Sherria

When First Lady, Michelle Obama, posed for her White House portrait she received mixed reviews about the sleeveless dress she wore. Some thought the black dress adorned with pearls was classy while some thought she should have covered up her arms in order to symbolize purity, decorum, and professionalism. While many have their opinions on Michelle Obama’s White House portrait, A*Cute Consultants believe that bearing arms can be professional, depending on the atmosphere and the style of top worn.

While chatting with colleagues from various professional settings, we heard accounts of women wearing halter tops and spaghetti strap shirts to work. While every woman has the right to bear arms, let’s remember that our image as a woman should reflect dignity for one’s self and respect for your job and co-workers. Casual, party, and professional attire all have their appropriate place; choose your clothing accordingly.

DON'T: Wear halter, spaghetti, or tube tops to work. This type of clothing is meant for the beach or the nightclub.

DON'T: Wear a halter under a suit jacket. At first glance this may look appropriate to wear under a blazer. However, you will probably find some reason to take your blazer off during the day, exposing your 'party' shirt.

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DO: Take pointers from the fashionable First Lady and wear three-quarter (3/4) sleeves.

Example: Three-quarter length blouse (find more options at www.newport-news.com)

DO: Wear a cap sleeve. This look is very sophisticated. Banana Republic offers blazers with cap sleeves. (Picture taken from: Banana Republic)

DO: Stock up on long sleeve shirts and/or turtle necks. They are made in a variety of colors, which makes for a very bright winter!

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Posted in Fashion Resources, Pink Slips: Don'ts

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Dress Code Straight From the HR Department

Posted on August 30, 2009 by | Leave a comment
DC-area HR professional Anthony Frazier points to First Lady Michelle Obama as an example for professional women to follow.

DC-area HR professional Anthony Frazier points to First Lady Michelle Obama as an example for professional women to follow.

Guest Blogger: Anthony Frazier

Women’s fashion is very interesting.  Many manufacturers do not take into account how women truly want to present themselves in the workplace.  The benefit is that they have much more flexibility in being creative and unique (which men don’t) with their attire as long as it is within reason. Women have to be careful because without even realizing it, women’s clothing is designed to attract attention.

The most important thing is to know the environment you are going into.    In a lax environment, a suitable dress, slacks and a well-covered shirt will do. V-necks or swoop shirts should be worn with caution and usually have a top or jacket to go with it.
In a more professional environment, the Michelle Obama look is fine.  Skirt suits and pants suites are fine.  Skirts should always be at least knee-length.  Open-toed shoes can be touchy in very professional environments.
When choosing shirts, button-downs look great, but make sure they FIT around the body.  Sometimes they can be made too tight or too loose and lack the appropriate number of buttons to coverage cleavage.  Keeping a universal top in your office space is not a bad idea.
For the summer months, please keep in mind that you still must have a business presentation.  Just because it is hot does not give you the excuse to bare more.  House dresses, short skirts, tank tops, and other summer items are still not appropriate.  Keep in mind as to what your male counterpart will think.  The objective is to do work, not necessarily attract attention.
Shoes:  Sandals, flips flops, 5-inch heels (if you can’t walk fast in them), are not good footwear.
Among all, when choosing outfits, think about perception and how your colleagues both men and women would perceive you.  Think about client meetings, the attention you want and the message you are trying to convey.

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Posted in Fashion Resources, The Water Cooler: Guest Posts

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