Sales in Beckley & Lewisburg!

Hi everyone! It's Jess again, filling in for Kim! I promised to fill you in on my fashion finds after my Beckley shopping trip. Good news! If you're looking for deals, look no further! Visit the southern part of the state and find serious sales in Beckley & Lewisburg. Last week I hit Crossroads Mall in Beckley and found major discounts at stores like Belk & American Eagle. My mom found tops with adorable prints, bought 2 classic button-downs, and fell in love with a pair of Jones New York black pants that will take her from day-to-night! All for under $100 at Belk! I picked up some Ugg look-alikes from American Eagle for under $30!

In Lewisburg I was in style heaven at Yarid's, where there was a shoe sale to end all shoe sales! Burberry ballet flats & Stuart Weitzman heels for less than $100! I snatched up a pair of Juicy Couture peep-toe patent leather pumps for only $50!

Where are you finding fashion treasures? WV LIVING wants to know!

Plum Perfect!!!

If you haven't yet heard of Shepherdstown's PLUM Jewelry, be prepared to fall in love.



Plum is one of the newest shops to hit the historic town of Shepherdstown, WV. Cari Aliveto Rosen, designer and owner of plum, crafts one of a kind sterling silver pieces completely by hand. She specializes in hand stamped jewelry, which gives clients anopportunity to customize their jewelry in many ways.

PLUM is located at 133 1/2 W German St in Shepherdstown.

New Year's Eve Fashions

It's that time of year where we gather together to ring in the new year, and if you're anything like me, you agonize over what to wear. In this time of casual dress codes we are often left confused about what we should seek out for our New Year's Eve celebration.

Luckily, this year sequins are trending and you can't brouse though a store without finding several styles. Check out this simple top we found at The Limited (right).

Women are also reaching for assymetrical necklines, whether in simple tops or cocktail dresses. They are bound to turn heads and help you feel festive. Check out the fabulous dress (right) found at the Shops at the Greenbrier Resort.

If you're truly daring, you may want to opt for a playful cocktail dress. Color, lace, feathers and florals are all in style this season! Check out this dress (left) found at Elizabeth Michaels in Parkersburg.

No matter what you choose to wear for the last night of 2009, we wish you the best in the coming new year!!!!

WV LIVING's Kim Parrish on ShopNBC

Hello fashion lovers! It's Jess, filling in for Kim! I hope you're following WV LIVING's very own style editor Kim Parrish on ShopNBC! The Kim Parrish Collection was featured this morning as the Sunrise Special on ShopNBC. One of the fabulous items is this gorgeous Ruffle Trim Wrap Top and get this - it's only $27!! The top is designed with a cute ruffle trim that frames the face, giving the piece a feminine touch. For the ladies out there with a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear, shop with the KP Collection for classics that will never go out of style! If you missed the morning show visit http://www.shopnbc.com/

How did you like WV LIVING's latest Winter issue? The fashion spread includes items from all over the Mountain State. Now sold at Wal-Mart, pick up a copy today, for YOU and a friend!

Alright, I'm off to Beckley for a day full of shopping! I'll keep you updated with my fashion finds!

PARRISH TO KICK OFF ‘KIDS CLUB’ AT TRANS ALLEGHENY BOOKS

Parkersburg, WV, September 2009---Trans Allegheny Books located at 725 Green Street in Parkersburg, West Virginia will kick off their monthly “Kids Club” event with former resident, Kim Parrish, and her newly released children’s book called The Snapdragon Princess on Saturday, September 26th. The event will start at 1:00 PM with a reading of the book followed by an opportunity to have the book signed by the local author. The event is open to the public.

“I’m excited to launch the book at my favorite bookstore in my hometown,” said Parrish. “I’m looking forward to meeting children in the area and introducing them to a story that was inspired by my grandmother while growing up in the Mid Ohio Valley.”

National television host Kim Parrish and best-selling children’s book author Deb Landry came together on this project to explore how role models can be found in our ordinary, everyday lives. The Snapdragon Princess (Bryson Taylor Publishing, ISBN 978-0-9773738-6-4) is available nationwide.

The Snapdragon Princess, for ages 6-11, revives the legacy of a real princess in a delightful intergenerational story of family treasures, enchantment and cherished times gone by. McKenzie is an astonishing young girl who dreams of becoming a princess. With the help of her grandmother, she embarks on a journey and discovers that being a real princess is much more than crowns and dress-up.

Each month, Trans Allegheny will host a “Kids Club” featuring a reading from a local author as well as an autograph signing event. Among the 500,000 titles of used books and 1,000 new West Virginia titles, vintage wooden cases located throughout the building hold rare and collectible items.

The Snapdragon Princess will be available at numerous local bookstores including Trans Allegheny in Parkersburg as well as other online retailers. More information can be found at BrysonTaylorPublishing.com.

Excited!

Why is everyone so excited? ....The next issue of WV LIVING is coming soon!!!



http://www.wvlivingmagazine.com/ Subscribe today and don't miss the fun!

Snakeskin can't escape my closet

Snakeskin shoes from BCBG available at http://www.zappos.com/

Snakeskin inspired shirt from Nanette Lepore available at Shetown Divas in Shepherstown.

Snakeskin inspired bag and belt available at the Greenbrier in Lewisburg.

Not Your Daughter's Jeans at Hornor and Harrison

Ask women across America what their number one problem area is, and the response will overwhelmingly be "my belly!" What woman doesn't want to look slimmer and sexier in their jeans? Look no further, Not Your Daughter's Jeans® are here to flatten your tummy, lift your butt and allow you to wear one size smaller.

Women with real curves everywhere are discovering that these three little things are just the ticket to look and feel their best. Not Your Daughter's Jeans® challenges women to try them on and not look and feel their personal best.


From http://www.notyourdaughtersjeans.com/

Not Your Daughter's Jeans available at http://www.hornorharrison.com/ in Parkersburg, West Virginia.

Spring 2010

I've just completed a whirlwind traveling schedule visiting Manhattan's Garment District several times preparing for spring fashions. Yes- I said spring. I know, we've barely worn our current spring fashions and haven't even purchased for fall and yet designers, stylists and buyers are all searching for the hottest looks. What can we learn from this early planning? We can learn that many of the styles from this spring will continue into fall and still remain strong in 2010.

So what's in style in 2010? The 1940's will still remain an influence in the early part of spring. We'll see fitted, structured suits and a definite menswear influence continuing through fall and into the early part of the new year. We'll also see the Greek Goddess style consistant in this year as well so don't throw out your draped tops and gladiator shoes. Another trend I absolutely love is the Global Influence and it will transition slightly into an Exotic flair with rich colors and an island influence for summer 2010.

So what can we gain with this knowledge for fall 2009? Well, it's safe to wear your fitted suits, harem pants, draping tops and rich, bold colors. They will be right on trend! If you haven't purchased gladiator sandals, maxi dresses and beaded tunics- run, don't walk to the sales rack and stock up for spring 2010!

(TOP AND SCARF AVAILABLE AT VANCE'S BLUES IN MORGANTOWN)

(TOP AND SKIRT AVAILABLE AT CONI AND FRANC IN MORGANTOWN)

SALE!!

I love a sale! I just noticed that She-Town Divas, in Shepardstown, is having a HUGE sale on their JENNIFER REALE DESIGN apparel. It's up to 40% off. This brand is so cute, boasting a mixture of bold colors and classic 60's prints in styles that are fit for a woman's figure.

At these prices you can easily stock up on tank tops and sleeveless blouses that normally scream spring. The trick is layering them under blazers and cardigan for a transitional look.

Now run, don't walk to the sales racks and collect these fantastic layering pieces and make that bold statement in your wardrobe.

Jean Ann's Fashions

Hey guys it's Jess, filling in for Kim! Jean Ann's Fashions in Beckley is a new boutique that you don't want to miss. From designer dresses to the hippest accessories, this locally owned gem will not disappoint. Maybe you need a cocktail dress for a Summer wedding or black tie dinner party. If so, Jean Ann's is the place for you! Labels like Cire, Splash, Night Moves, Evening by Allure, and Faviana New York will keep you looking stylish. And what outfit would be complete without accessories? Jean Ann's offers a beautiful selection of jewelry by Cristal D'Or, so your new little black dress won't be missing that sparkly finishing touch. There is something for everyone! Located on South Oakwood Ave. in Beckley, stop by Jean Ann's to see what they have for you!

SNAPDRAGON PRINCESS LAUNCHES ON AMAZON.COM

Tampa, Florida, July 2009---National television host Kim Parrish and best-selling children’s book author Deb Landry explore how role models can be found in our ordinary, everyday lives. The Snapdragon Princess (Bryson Taylor Publishing, ISBN 978-0-9773738-6-4) launches in August nationwide.

The Snapdragon Princess, for ages 6-11, revives the legacy of a real princess in a delightful intergenerational story of family treasures, enchantment and cherished times gone by. McKenzie is an astonishing young girl who dreams of becoming a princess. With the help of her grandmother, she embarks on a journey and discovers that being a real princess is much more than crowns and dress-up.

“Discovering that ordinary people can do extraordinary things, The Snapdragon Princess encourages us to look within our own families and communities to hear stories of inspiration and find our real life role models,” said Kim Parrish, co-author. “I wanted to write this book because I’ve seen too many people seeking role models in all the wrong places. Celebrities and athletes shouldn’t be the only ones inspiring our children - we should be their inspirations also.”

Featured in dozens of articles from TV Guide to The New York Times, Kim Parrish is a familiar face to millions who welcomed her into their homes throughout her eight years as a popular television host on QVC. In 2005, she took aim at America’s closets with the launch of the Kim Parrish Collection on HSN, her signature line of classic wardrobe basics noted for their innovative, updated twists. The collection is now featured on televised shopping channels in Canada, Europe and the United States.

Parrish says she’s most proud of her involvement, which has spanned nearly two decades, with the Miss America organization. Currently, she is the president of Miss America’s teen competition, Miss America’s Outstanding Teen, which has made available more than $3 Million in college scholarships over the past four years.

Parrish says she teamed up with parenting coach Deb Landry after extensive discussions on where young girls were finding inspiration in today’s society.

Deb Landry is the author of the best-selling children’s books, Sticks Stones and Stumped, Yankee Go Home, and the co-author of The Comfort Zone with Meline Kevorkian Ed.D., and Robin D’Antona, Ed.D. She is a parenting coach specializing in social awareness behaviors and character education and has authored several interactive children’s mentoring plays on character education, social awareness, and bullying prevention. She was also part of the team that authored the Maine State Best Practices in Bullying and Harassment Prevention Manual and lobbied for the new legislation in the State of Maine. Landry also runs the Miss Maine’s Outstanding Teen competition as the executive director.

The Snapdragon Princess will be available at Amazon.com, BrysonTaylorPublishing.com and other local booksellers in August.

Books are available at http://www.amazon.com/Snapdragon-Princess-Deb-Landry/dp/097737386X/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1248832335&sr=8-5

A peek at Fall Fashions

Check out Miss WV USA Jessi Pierson sporting a summer top from Vance's Blues in Morgantown. She paired it with a simple blazer and scarf.

By coupling a few layering pieces with the tank it allows us to wear our flirty lightweight tops year round.

More fabulous photos from our fall fashion shoot coming out in the next issue of WV LIVING.

So Mod- So Now

The 60's have left their mark on Summer 2009 and we can't get enough of their modern prints, bold colors and structured styles.

Check out this top I found at She-town Divas in Shepherdstown! Jennifer Reale is one hot designer and you can visit http://www.jenniferreale.com/ to see the collection. You can find quite a few of her designs at She-town Divas!

The easiest way to wear this look with with a hint of minimalism. If you're going bold on top then keep the bottoms classic. A simple black pencil skirt or white pant will work perfectly to allow the top to do the talking.

Enjoy!

WV LIVING FALL PHOTO SHOOT

The team got together once again this past June to shoot fall fashions for the upcoming issue. What fun we had as we welcomed Miss WV USA, Jessi Pierson, to the studio in Morgantown. Jessi was voted the Miss Photogenic winner in the Miss USA Pageant so we knew we were going to get some great photos.

Taking the lead was photographer Rebecca Devono. Also working to create magic was Jane Engelke-stylist, and Jessica Schueler-assistant style editor. Jane was able to create 7 different looks by changing out the hair and makeup styles on the model effortlessly. She also had a hand in styling the clothing supplied by various vendors, manufacturers, stores and boutiques.

All in all, it was a successful day. Keep an eye out for the next issue to hit the stands.

No Stress Searching for Distressed Jeans

I can't get enough of distressed denim this summer. Call me a rebel- but I love the ragged look of these lived-in, washed-out classics. Every denim brand is showcasing their style, but I found some cool denim capris in Shepherstown. I was pleased to see this refreshing take on an edgy new style.

Check them out at She-town Divas!

It's a Fashion Battle Zone

.....and in any good battle you must be properly attired in Gladiator Sandals- the hottest footwear this season!

Through all my fashion travels from New York to London, the one look that seems to be holding steady is the Gladiator Sandal. I've seen variations of this style, from a watered down version available at Banana Republic to a trend-embracing look available at THE FINERY in Morgantown. In fact, WV LIVING's editor Nikki Bowman recently welcomed this trend into her closet with the purchase of a metallic gold pair of Gladiator Sandals she purchased at THE FINERY located at the Seneca Center and she couldn't be more pleased.

If you're looking for a new pair of sandlas this year and you want to step out of the box, then try this look. Visit, http://www.thefinery.com/ for directions, style stips and more information about this wonderful boutique loaded with style.

SUBSCRIBE by TUESDAY

Make sure you subscribe to WV LIVING magazine by Tuesday morning to receive the Spring issue in your mailbox!!! http://www.wvlivingmagazine.com/.

Not only will the style section feature information on all the hottest trends but we'll tell you where to find them, affordably priced, in the mountain state. Jessica Wedge, Miss WV USA 2006 was our featured model wearing hot looks from numerous stores and boutiques from across the state.

Subscribe today!!!

First Fashion Photo Shoot a Success

The first fashion photo shoot took place at Price Portraits in Charleston for WV LIVING and the end result was unbelievable! Model and former Miss WV USA Jessica Wedge sported 6 different looks in front of the camera and stylist Jane Engelke made sure the hair and makeup complimented each outfit!

I had a blast pulling clothing from various stores around West Virginia and Jane put the finishing touches on each outfit by adding the appropriate accessories. She's got a gift for fashion!

Rounding out the TEAM DIVA was Jessica Schueler, former Miss WV's Outstanding Teen and future fashion magazine editor. Our fearless leader, Nikki Bowman the creator and publisher of WV LIVING, also served as photographer.

What will you find in the spring issue? Items from Horner and Harrison, Geraniums, Eggplant, Elizabeth Michaels, Target, Vance's Blues, Payless and many more great stores from across the mountain state.

When does the magazine come out? March! But don't miss it- go to http://www.wvlivingmagazine.conm/ to subscribe today.

Fab Jewelry Find!

I stopped into an "old favorite" yesterday. It's been a few years since I've shopped at Hornor and Harrison on Grand Central Avenue in Parkersburg. I've always enjoyed their selection and service.

While shopping, feilding emails, texts and phone calls I managed to focus on finding some fantastic jewelry. I picked up some metallic bronze and green bangles and two necklaces! The prices were unbelievable and I couldn't say no!

I also noticed they had several wardrobe fixers like the Hollywood Tape. I'm an avid collector so I bought extra for our shoot on Saturday.

I started talking with a very friendly staff member and she let me know they're the only retailer in the area that carries Seven for All Mankind jeans and they're quite popular. I also noticed an interesting pair of jeans that guarantee to give you an instant tummy tuck! Love it!

When I asked the salesperson what the hot seller was this month she replied "the sweaters on sale!" I agreed, it's still too early to think about spring fashions.