The #BeSomebody concept was created in 2009 by Kash Shaikh- who just tweeted a simple tweet. Since then, the #BeSomebody motivational movement has grown and the hashtag has reached over 5 million people in over 180 countries. I was first introduced to the app #BeSomebody last month, when it launched in Houston. The app was first beta tested in Austin, TX and it wasn’t until October, when it launched in Houston. It is the world’s first mobile social app that connects people who share similar passions. The best and quite frankly, the most important feature of the app is the ‘Experience Marketplace,’ where users can connect with “Passionaries”- teachers and coaches who are making a living doing what they love, all while helping others to reach their highest potential. I highly recommend going HERE to get more insight into the movement and app.
The folks at Market Street The Woodlands invited bloggers out for an exclusive holiday preview at select retailers. This year’s retailers were Johnny Was, Elaine Turner and Cos Bar. It was my first time visiting the open-air mall and it was nice to get there early before the crowds. The award-winning town center, which reminded me of The Grove in LA, was all decked out for the upcoming holidays, large Christmas tree and all. Myself, along with fellow bloggers: Melissa, Jillian, Angela and Paola, were a part of the intimate group of previewers.
Johnny Was was the start of our preview. Johnny Was is a bohemian and vintage inspired brand based out of Los Angeles. It was founded in 1987 and encompasses quintessential California lifestyle with free-spirited bohemian edge. They are known for their higher quality easy-to-wear clothing, as well as their scarves. I fell IN LOVE with the hand-painted kimonos and obi belts. The lovely associates showed us some products that were available for the holidays. One being their signature scarves and a gift set that includes: the How to Tie a Scarf book and Talia Fragrance Oil. The gals also demonstrated ways to wear the silk scarves, as seen in the video below…
Our next stop was the Elaine Turner store. The Houston-based brand was founded in 2000 by Elaine and husband Jim. In just 15 short years, the brand has grown exponentially. Elaine is a huge supporter of breast cancer awareness, so pink is seen throughout the stores and even in the interiors of the handbags. The associates highlighted some of the holiday pieces, such as: the “Celeste,” which is a nod to her original handbags. It has a natural bamboo handle and can be converted into a shoulder bag, cross body and back pack. The new apparel line was spotlighted, which included the Ponte knit Diane Blazer, the Kate Tunic and the Sienna Faux Fur Vest. Shoes were also highlighted (such as the Carrie Boot and the wedges) which are constructed of all Italian or Brazilian leathers and have double layer memory foam insoles. The brand pursued “Gifts under $100” (and under $200) especially for the holidays, that included coasters, mousepads, picture frames, wrap bracelets and more! The store also raffled off a Kassidy crossbody bag, which I was the lucky winner.
The last stop was Cos Bar. Cos bar is a beauty emporium that was founded by Lily Garfield in 1976 in Aspen, CO. The brand was since expanded to thirteen stores located throughout the United States (with plans on building more stores) and offers the finest skincare brands for men and women. The store had an intimate environment, with expert consultants who also allowed for us to sample and try out.
Huge thanks to Alicia for the invite to the event and to Johnny Was, Elaine Turner and Cos Bar for spoiling us!
** I would also like to recommend the Tommy Bahama Cafe for their wonderful service and patio dining! The fish sandwich was rather large, but pretty yum-tastic! **
Houston-based Elaine Turner, best known for her luxury accessories, recently launched her Spring 2015 apparel collection at her Rice Village store. The event was hosted by not only Elaine, but also Nancy Levicki, Co-Founder and President of Dress for Success Houston. The designer, whose classic shoe and handbag designs grace the likes of stylish women all over Texas, premiered easy-to-wear separates in bright, tropical hues. Chic silhouettes include: lounge pants, a short caftan-inspired dress, cami dresses and tunic tops.
As Elaine explains, “The three main reasons why I designed this collection were, number one: I wanted to bring you those classic, essential pieces that could take you through all facets of your lifestyle. Second, I really wanted to appeal to all body types, so I designed loose-fitting, relaxed silhouettes, but they still have a refinement and a polished edge to them…They can go from cross-generational, from all body types, so there’s not that insecurity of ‘should I try this on?’ I wanted people to feel an accessibility about the pieces. Lastly, I wanted to communicate my message of color and print. I wanted the collection to make you smile.”
The evening consisted of shopping (20% of the proceeds went to Dress for Success), mingling and eating light bites catered by Phoenicia Specialty Foods (I’d like to chat about that Tiara cookie…so delish). Elaine also presented the looks, modeled by Paige Branam, Lisa Dawn, Roseann Rogers and Clare Sullivan Jackson. While I was browsing the store, I have come to learn that I’m IN LOVE with the Renata Cork Heel and the Bo Fringe Clutch in all color ways.
When I first walked into the event, I signed up to win the Sabine Tote…and WON!! The tote is my first ever Elaine Turner piece and I’m quite excited to have it.
Be sure to subscribe to Elaine’s YouTube channel to catch up on episodes of “Elaine’s Big Life” and more!
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