The DIVA Diary

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 20 Apr 2007 17:24:00 +0000

It's All Gotta go - The Fade to Black Closeout Sale!

What do Tracy Reese, JayZ, Michael Jordan and Rachel/Ross all have in common??? They all knew when to take a step back, renew their spirit and take a BREAK. Shanel Evans, myDIVAshop owner, has decided to take inspiration from The Greats to take a Pause and renew.

Join us in celebrating during our Fade to Black Closeout sale - Shop online for new spring arrivals, trendy plus sizes and handbags and accessories!

Simply use discount code: FADE2BLACK during checkout and receive 40% off your order!!

Don't miss the opportunity to grab awesome wardrobe additions at a fraction of the price. Hurry for the best selection! Thanks again for the AMAZING support and chat soon!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 23 Mar 2007 20:52:00 +0000

New Stuff for Spring at My DIVA Shop!

Hey Fellow Diva!
2007 is moving in lightening speed so we have no choice but to hop on board and continue to Spring forward! Last week I visited London for the first time and had a blast - I love the individuality that the European fashion sense has - few rules and much style!

Spring is always a great time for new beginnings so to keep in the spirit of Spring-ing forward, we're bringing you fab styles to try out for the new season!

Fabulous new tees, stylish handbags, funky bangles and fine style await you at myDIVAshop! Enjoy...

Fine Style at Any Size

We're delighted to partner with Diamonds International to offer you fine jewelry in just the perfect size! Visit the newly launched plus size collection in extended sizes, perfect for our plus size DIVAs!

Exclusive for My DIVA Shop customers, use discount code MYDIVA and enjoy 10% off your next bling purchase!

Shop now...

New Handbag additions!

You'll want to grab this while you can - nothing welcomes Spring more than a fierce new handbag. This fuschia tote won't disappoint! Gommon and organza fabric with wooden details.
Grab it now...

Handpainted Bangles

As seen in Washington Post Style Section, this season, we're in LOVE with the new handpainted bangles from Yinibini! Each bangle is super sexy and handpainted with the right touch of whimsy.

Grab it now...

Spring tees

Be anything but ordinary with fun new tees for the warm weather, like the "I Date the Problem". Perfect for casual weekends or just kicking back!
Grab it now...

Use the warm breeze for inspiration to take forward moving action - Sign up for a new class, try a new lipgloss or check out a good movie - Spring is here!

Catch you online,

The DIVA

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 01:31:00 +0000

Live N Jeans Sweepstakes!

There's simply no sense in keeping ourselves fashionable and keeping all of the style secrets away from our men - I mean, seriously, behind every stylish DIVA should be a stylish stud ;) I got word of an awesome sweepstakes sponsored by Nautica Jeans Co. - in case you haven't heard, Nautica has launched the new N-series line of jeans for men. Awesome fit and plenty of demin shades to choose from.

To create excitement for the line, Nautica is running an incredible, no-strings-attached contest - 4 lucky winners will win the op for an ALL expense vacation to either Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago or New York....includes hotel, airfare, meals, and transportation!

For more info check out the official site at http://www.livenjeans.com

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 14 Mar 2007 22:05:00 +0000

Cheers from London!

That's right DIVAs, I'm on another international adventure - this time in London! I'm loving the European style and flavor here. London is the perfect reminder of New York - crowded streets, diverse and let's not forget the perfect sense of fashion style! I must say, this city has me a bit stumped on my typical bargain shopping sprees....our American dollar only stretches half as far here, so I've had to be super creative on finding fab style for less....(which rules out this divalicious Marc Jacobs Large Bag with chain, shown on the right, that sells for 700 pounds)

At first glance you would think England fashion is all about 60's mod, black and white and the distinct look of the 80's...but thanks to the streets of SOHO London, Fashion Week Paris playing non-stop in the hotel lobby, as well as a few web ads on the side of a double decker bus, I was able to get to the heart of what makes the city tick.

Check out these fab sites that I found - perfect for keeping up on European fashion:

www.warehousefashion.com (or also www.warehousefashion.co.uk)

www.stylefinder.com

Both of these sites have awesome celebrity style trends, as well as listings for all of the hottest places in the city to shop.

Also during my hunt, I stumbled across these sandals...now how could I resist? :)

Cherio for now - catch you back in the States!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 05 Mar 2007 01:35:00 +0000

VOTINI Party!

Everyone loves a reason to party - You're invited to a VOTINI party! It's a voting party without martini's....and without a live party, actually :) Fellow business associate, Dana Ayanna Greaves, has been selected as one of four finalists across the country for the Microsoft IdeaWins business competition.

Many of you in the DC Metro area may know Dana from her eclectic paper jewelry, ArtisticAYA, or her fabulous summer shopping event, fEMME fETE.

Show some love, watch her video and VOTE TODAY for her original idea of the Organic Beauty Bar-It's like a smoothie bar but it's for your skin.

View the video here: http://www.ideawins.com/contest

Show some love and VOTE for Dana!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 27 Feb 2007 03:15:00 +0000

Our DIVA of the Month!

It should go without saying who our pick for this month's favorite DIVA is - hands down, Dreamgirl's Jennifer Hudson has done us proud. The American Idol castoff came back full force with a powerhouse voice and girl next door charm! She proves to Hollywood that curves CAN be sexy and with that, we salute her for continuing to make history.

Jennifer, congrats!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 25 Feb 2007 00:23:00 +0000

Oscar fashions for plus-size women

With all the red carpet buzz around Dreamgirls' Jennifer Hudson and Ugly Betty's America Ferrera, it's no wonder that fashion designers are frantic to finally create styles perfect for plus size stars!

Check out this recent feature on NBC's Today Show on Oscar fashions for plus-size women, with Catherine Schuller of Figure Magazine. Although the feature focuses on the dresses fitting for a formal event, please pay special attention to the jewelry - the designs from Juliet Renee Williams from JulRe Designs!

Click link to view video: http://video.msn.com/v/us/msnbc.htm?g=2da89d98-7306-47ad-a466-7d202fb309f0&f=00&fg=copy

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 21:31:00 +0000

VIP DIVA Newsletter - February 2007

Gmail - VIP DIVA Newsletter: The DIVA Dish

No News is Good News!

Hey Fellow Diva!
If you are like us, the cold weather has you in straight hibernation mode! Well, while you haven't heard any "new" news from us lately during our own hibernation, rest assured that No News is Good News! We're here at DIVA headquarters working on fabulous happenings and partnering with awesome designers that will keep your Spring wardrobe looking fierce!

Also, if this brutal weather has you in need of inspiration check out our latest arrivals from indie designer liliputians NYC! We've just added fun Zodiac tees that are sure to warm up your winter wardrobe!

Zodiac Appliqued Tees

Need a winter wardrobe boost? New from liliputians NYC - custom made on your choice of a long or short sleeved fitted-style black tee. Handcrafted with love in NYC and available in every zodiac sign! Sizes XS - 2XL

Get yours now!

During this cold freeze, stay warm and inspired - try a new recipe, pick up a great book or plan a summer vacation - Spring will be here before we know it!

Catch you online,
Shanel R. Evans
myDIVAshop
email: info@mydivashop.com
phone: (866) 293-5116
web: http://www.mydivashop.com

My DIVA Shop promotes style and fashion sense for trendy plus size women. We feature styles from independent designers to offer you original, handpicked fashions. We offer flat rate shipping for only $6.95 per order and orders over $75.00 ship FREE!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 19 Feb 2007 21:31:00 +0000

International DIVA Adventures!

I am making my second trip to Stockholm, Sweden and since I am going in the dead of winter, I decided I needed to stock up on layering pieces and warm clothing, like tanks, tees sweaters. I'm not sure what is more fun - shopping BEFORE a trip in preparation or shopping DURING the trip! I made a visit to Target...or Targe' as I tend to call it. I knew I could count on them to have basic layering pieces for clearance prices. I must say - I LOVE Target! I was able to grab plenty of ribbed tanks and basic t-shirts for $3 each! That store is fantastic.

I arrived in Stockholm on Monday afternoon and after catching up on sleep to fight off my jet lag, I IMMEDIATELY showered and took off for the city. Shops in Stockholm close at either 6:30 or 7:00pm so I needed to hurry to make the best use of my time. The bling effect has taken over Sweden, so I found my share of rhinestone studded belt buckles and handbags. I have yet to find ANY trendy plus size stores here (probably because everyone here is tall and lean it seems), however, I am still searching ;)

Till next time....

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 13 Feb 2007 18:37:00 +0000

Welcome Snow

If you are anywhere near the mid-west or eastern portion of the country than I'm sure you are bracing for the first major winter storm of the year. I don't know about you but I honestly don't mind a few extra days to bum out on my sofa with my laptop. Schools have been closed for 3 days so far and I'm still having major back issues, so the extra time at home has been great for me to research new designers and business contacts. I'll also be headed to Sweden again shortly and off to London, so I've been researching fashion spots to hit while I'm overseas. Don't worry, I'll definitely keep you posted! :-)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 07 Feb 2007 14:47:00 +0000

DIVAs, Show Your Love!
Although I'm still a bit under the weather, I'm going to shrug off my BaHumbug attitude and get into the Valentine's Day frenzy. Since I've been glued to my sofa for the past week or so, I've had plenty of time and fun searching the net for cool Valentine's gifts. Here are a few that I think are perfect as gifts for others and for yourself! ;)

Beautifully Different by MyDIVAshop
Show your love for your sweetie by letting her know you appreciate her differences and beauty! Not only is this a fab Valentine's Day gift but 50% of the proceeds fund the Global Scholarship Fund - an organization that funds scholarships for aspiring women across the world attending college! We sell out of this style often so grab yours asap!

$32.00

Hand-Dipped Gourmet Pretzels, Fretzels by Jill

A super fun twist on the tradition of giving chocolate, I'm in love the idea of these gourmet chocolate covered pretzels! Hand-dipped and topped with luscious toppings such as MMs, toffee and of course, rich milk, dark or white chocolate - one bite and you won't be disappointed!

$18.50

Hamsa Swarovski Tank by Love Makes Light

This boutique really gets that stylish clothing will inspire consciousness and light within! Their stylish tanks are perfect for winter layering and showing off a hint of bling. The "Hamsa" tank is handmade in Isreal with 100% cotton, a cartoon-jeweled neckline, and the Kabbalah-inspired Hamsa Hand that adorns it is made with Swarovski Crystals and rhinestone renderings.

$90.00

Brown Sugar Handpainted Bangle by Yinibini

I had the opportunity to sneak a peek at Yinibini's spring line last week and absolutely ADORE the handpainted wooden bangles. The brown sugar bangle is stylish with a touch of whimsy - sure to be a spring favorite! $28.00

Glamour Ever After handbag, Susej Designs

I was at a cocktail party a few weeks ago, spotted this bag and fell in love - A must have for the DIVA that has it all and loves to make a statement, these handmade designer bags are so headturning that you won't want to be without. Each style is also limited edition, so there's very little chance of spotting it at a party the next time you go out ;)

$400

Don't forget your sweetie this Valentine's Day - it's truly the thought the counts most. And I always treat myself to a neat treat each V-Day, so remember to treat YOURSELF this holiday season! :-)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 05 Feb 2007 20:12:00 +0000

Down but not out

I get sick every year around this time - EVERY year. For some reason though, each year I am completely surprised that I am actually sick! This year threw me for a loop though because somehow I actually threw my back out with pinched nerve. So in addition to the usual sinus infection that I always get, I now can't walk. A hutched walk goes perfectly with my DIVA image. ;)

Thank God for wireless laptops!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 26 Jan 2007 17:12:00 +0000

Last Minute Plus Size Clothing Ebay Deals!

I got an email this morning about some last minute Ebay deals on designer plus size items and thought I would share! The Ebay seller goofed and listed several designer plus size blazers, jackets retailed at over $200, for only $9.99 - guess what ladies, her loss is your gain!

Here's the link:
http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZyolandaradiobabe

Happy Bidding! :)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 17:23:00 +0000

A New Year, A New You!

Wednesday, January 31
6-8:30pm

Be You, Bi Yu Wellness Spa
Wyngate Medical Center
5602 Sheilds Drive
Bethesda, MD
301-493-4911
http://www.beyouspa.com/

Ladies Who Launch - DC Metro has teamed up with awesome vendors for a Fitness, Wellness and Beauty event that you won't want to miss! Hosted by Hyun Martin of Be You, Bi Yu Wellness Spa, Ladies Who Launch brings you a fabulous mix vendors dedicated to helping you live well and fabulous for 2007! Shop for items that not only make you healthy and feel good but clothing and accessories that will help you LOOK good too! We'll also be doing a sneak peek of myDIVAshop.com's spring designer tees, so come on out!

Also, if for those who have been curious about Ladies Who Launch Incubators and membership, it will be a great opportunity to come and hear more about the group!

Oh and did I mention that this is a FREE event? ;-)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 24 Jan 2007 20:54:00 +0000

Girls Getaway

I typically go into full hibernation once January starts. I guess it has something to do with the COLD weather coupled with the post-holiday downtime. This year, I have vowed for 2007 to be the best year of my life! A few of my girlfriends and I have talked about planning a girls getaway for the past few years – so to be stay true to the 2007 Best Year Vow, we’ve decided to make 2007 our getaway year! I’m super pumped.

I was charged with the task of coordinating the major components of the trip – Where: Las Vegas When: Summer and Who: Fabulous friends. No party poopers allowed.

In doing research for fun ways to add excitement to a Girls Getaway, I came across some awesome resources that I thought would be great to use in our travel planning:

Trib Hub (http://www.triphub.com)
- since everyone is into blogging, this tool is awesome for organizing your trip, sending invitations and giving your fellow travelers access so everyone can stay involved and excited! The website also allows you and your friends to share idea via your customized forum and best of all, it’s FREE!

Girl Trip (http://www.girltrip.org)
- Although I think this blogger has gone on sabbatical, she still has some awesome tips on making a getaway themed for a fun and fabulous trip with friends, including TV Shows, Dress up and History

Road Trip Divas (http://www.roadtripdivas.com)
- these divas rule! They leave their husbands and kids at home and travel all over the world to fabulous desitnations such as camping (not so fabulous to me but hey, to each her own), Europe and plenty other US locations. In addition to journaling their travels, they have plenty of tips and resources to help plan your own fab trip. They even sell Road Trip Diva merchandise.

So as it goes, planning an awesome Vegas getaway has motivated me to come out of hibernation and start planning months ahead to make sure we all have an amazing time!

Stay tuned for plenty more updates, as the Vegas party has only begun!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:00:00 +0000

Trying to lock down weekend plans? Come out and show your love for rising talent at the upcoming Teens Count School Fashion Battle! Hosted by Toccara Jones, famed plus size model from America's Next Top Model, you'll sure to be energized by the student fashion show and design competition!

Saturday, January 20, 2007

DAR Constitution Hall

1776 D St, NW

Washington, DC

(202) 628-4780

Tickets: $25

Visit: Teens Count for more info!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 16 Jan 2007 18:37:00 +0000

Ladies, think of a perfect Sunday afternoon....smooth grooves, tasty food and SHOES! Check out the details below for Nail Taxi's Annual Fantasy Foot Ball! Don't delay and get your tickets soon - we predict this one to sell out fast! ;)

The Fantasy Foot Ball

Sunday, January 28, 2007

2-5 p.m.

The Four Seasons Hotel - Washington, DC
Visit the web site...
Buy tickets...

Come experience and enjoy the fashion and fantasy of footwear...

Heart and Sole

Pump and Circumstance

Feets of Fancy

Great Strides

Fabulous shoes, delicious food and drink, smooth sounds and a great goody bag await you! Visit the web site today - http://www.thefantasyfootball.net/ - to learn more about this great event and to purchase your tickets. Please be aware that only 150 tickets are available for this fantastic event so don't delay in purchasing yours immediately!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 08 Jan 2007 18:54:00 +0000

Who says Moms can't be Haute Mamas?

We've found a cool boutique that understands that Moms need style while toting around our little ones! Check out Divas N Babes - a fab online boutique created for haute mamas and their cool babes. They cater to chic and stylish mothers with stylish mommy tshirts and baby slings, as well as modern wear for babies aged newborn to 2 years!

Just recently, Tori Spelling was spotted buying the boutique's "I'm the Man" tee!

Enjoy the New Year with discount code: 2007 and take 27% off your total order. Spend $100 or more and receive FREE Domestic and International Shipping!

Experience the boutique yourself and discover your inner mama DIVA!

Visit Divas n Babes for more stylish chic mommy wear, designer baby slings and cool items for your favorite little one!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 15:11:00 +0000

New Year, New You? Check out this week's feature article on Defining your own Style Sense for 2007!

Defining Our Fashion Styles!
With so many designer brands and runway fashions in our faces, it can be hard to determine which styles tend to work best with your individual taste, personality or occasion. Take a few minutes to answer the following questions about your own personal fashion sense to see which Style category you tend to enjoy most.

If you take a look at my wardrobe, you’ll see mostly:
A. All of the latest designer looks and styles. You name it, I have it and more. I could use an extra closet for all of the clothes that I have.
B. A good mix of the latest styles that I found at the mall, boutiques or discount stores. I love catching a good bargain!
C. Plenty of timeless classics, such as pantsuits, skirts, and blouses.
D. Comfortable jeans and skirts, statement t-shirts and bold accessories

You are headed out with your girls on a Friday night – what are you wearing?
A. Designer embellished jeans, v-neck sweater with my new designer boots.
B. Mall brand embellished jeans, sweater with boots I caught on sale last season.
C. Basic black slacks, sweater set and polished ankle boots.
D. Boot cut denim jeans, political t-shirt, fitted blazer with a chunky bangle bracelet.

You are leaving the mall very excited about your latest purchase. What’s in your bag that you are so excited about?
A. Sexy pair of designer stilettos
B. A pair of wedge boots that you caught on sale
C. Cole Haan tweed pump shoes
D. Flared denim jeans

Which celebrity best represents your sense of style?
A. Halle Berry, fashionable and sophisticated
B. Jennifer Aniston, charming girl next door
C. Oprah, professional and in charge
D. Queen Latifah, soulful and laidback

If your wardrobe were song lyrics, it would best be described as:
A. “Fresh dressed worth a million bucks”
B. “Living my life like it’s golden”
C. “Don’t make me over”
D. “Easy like a Sunday morning”

If you chose mostly A’s, then you represent:
Diva Fashion
You live and breathe fashion. You are aware of all the latest designers and trends. You don’t just wear the new styles before they hit the stores; you create the trends that the rest of us follow. You have celebrity style, always ready for the runway or paparazzi snapshots. You’ll never get arrested by the Fashion Police – your wardrobe is stylish, sexy and sophisticated. Your closet is the envy of most women.

If you chose mostly B’s, then you represent:
Girl Next Door Fashion
Your style is often mistaken for Diva Fashion because you like to keep current on the latest styles but this diva is living on a fashion budget. You tend to head straight for the clearance racks. You aren’t afraid to mix styles and often have unique pieces that you’ve found during your shopping hunts. You follow the Diva’s sense of style but on a more practical budget. You tend not to be caught up in designer hype and you aren’t afraid of knock-offs – if it’s cute, you’re wearing it!

If you chose mostly C’s, then you represent:
Professional Fashion
You tend to lean closer to the classics – some may dare to call your wardrobe boring but you like to consider it “practical”. Sure, you’ll throw in a bit of color or shimmer here and there but for the most part, you aren’t straying far from your pinstripes and classic fit styles. You can bring home the bacon and fry it up in the pan! You enjoy simple and sensible additions to your wardrobe that will last from season to season.

If you chose mostly E’s, then you represent:
Mystic Fashion Style
If Neo-Soul music had a fashion equivalent…then your style would be it. No one will catch you spending hours at the mall shopping for the latest trends; you have a fashion style that is distinctly yours. For you, it’s all about the comfort of the clothing and you tend to add the personality with bold accessories and handbags. Your style is easy, laid back and natural, with a hint of retro thrown in.

Although we all have our individual shapes and style, the fun part about being a woman is that we can be versatile. Don't be afraid to experiment with new fashion styles. The new year is a great time to experiment with new styles, so have fun!

Shanel Evans is a freelance writer based in the Washington, DC Metro area. She owns a web based boutique www.mydivashop.com, which features stylish women’s fashions, trendy plus sizes and accessories. She also works with emerging designers, featuring their items on her website and fashion shows. For questions, comments or additional product information, contact her at info@mydivashop.com or (866) 293-5116.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 06 Dec 2006 17:31:00 +0000

MyDIVAshop.com Holiday Trunk Show

Saturday, December 16, 2006

10am-2pm

15711 Beau Ridge Drive, Woodbridge, VA

For directions or to RSVP, 866.293.5116

We're opening up the DIVA "headquarters" for one last holiday shopping event! Grab your last holiday gifts, stock up on your favorites or purchase a few fun pieces for your own wardrobe. Gift-wrapping available and awesome deals!

Bring a friend and receive a VIP discount! We're located just minutes from Potomac Mills.

Light refreshments will be served.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 28 Nov 2006 17:38:00 +0000

TranquiliT holiday trunk show

Come out and visit myDIVAshop.com and other inspiring divas at the upcoming TranquiliT holiday trunk show!

Tranquil Space

2024 p street, nw washington, dc 20036

www.tranquilspace.com

wine, cheese, sparkling h2o and complimentary massage will await your arrival. bring girlfriends (or boys who love to buy treats for girls) and celebrate the holiday season.

social consciousness and support of other women is an important value of tranquil space so a portion of our proceeds will be donated to the fund for women artists. on their website, they write "we dream about what will happen as more and more women artists gain the resources they need to express their creativity fully. we are convinced that they will change the world." we agree!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 22 Nov 2006 14:51:00 +0000

Black Friday Specials @ Indie Sites!

Get your fingers ready to click - in addition to awesome MyDIVAshop.com after-Thanksgiving shopping deals, we'll get the inside scoop on other indie shops that are holding exclusive holiday shopping deals - some exclusive only to MyDIVAshop and DIVA Diary readers!

Enjoy!

MyDIVAshop
www.mydivashop.com
Enjoy FREE Shipping during the holiday season! Early bird Black Friday Special: Take 50% off all orders until NOON, EST (Use Code HOLIDAY50) - Take 25% off for the entire weekend, through Sunday, November 26 (Use Code HOLIDAY25)

Crazy Dreams Studio
Handcrafted jewelty, accessories and gifts for the home
http://www.crazydreamsstudio.com
Enjoy 10% for MyDIVAshop and DIVA Diary readers - simply enter code MYDIVA during checkout!

The Wing Thing
Feminine, Stylish, Artisan jewelry
http://thewingthing.com
Visit the SALE page: many items under $50, earrings under $20 and FREE Shipping within the US and Canada!

Funky Utopia
A fresh blend of handmade, crafty and vintage!
www.funkyutopia.com
FREE Shipping on any order over $25.00 within the US! No code necessary!

Bonnin Designs
Passions of Adornment: Jewelry, Home Decor and Flamenco Accessories
www.bonnindesigns.com
50% off EVERYTHING!! Valid from Friday, November 24 through Monday, November 27
+ as always FREE Shipping!

Rosebud Designs
Hats, scarves and crafts
www.agirlnamedrosebud.com
Save an additional 15% OFF orders over $15. Enter code RDHOLIDAY at checkout

VACCARI
Fine Peruvian Sterling Silver gifts
www.vaccari.biz
Enjoy home decor at a 30% savings! Valid on everything from baby gifts and tableware to tea sets and other gifts!
Use discount code holiday30 at checkout.

Silver Style
Handcrafted jewelry: Love Silver? Wear it with style!
www.silverstyledesigns.com
FREE Shipping on any order and Free Gift Wrap!

Yndigo Designs
Handcrafted High Fashion Jewelry and Accessories
www.yndigo.com
FREE Standard Shipping through Dec. 15 on ALL Orders! Also, exclusive to My DIVA Shop and DIVA Diary readers, enjoy 15% off at checkout: Use code diva

liliputians NYC
hip, indie clothing label specializing in custom, boutique childrens clothes.
http://www.liliputians-nyc.com/home.htm
FREE Shipping on ALL Black Friday purchases! Enter code FREESHIP during checkout

ellie bellie
Paper and Fiber Art
www.elliebellie.com
Enjoy FREE Shipping on Friday and tons of other specials! Use discount code 4120666 for FREE Shipping to apply.

Sofia Bean
Unique baby boutique featuring exclusive embroidered designs
www.sofiabean.com
Take 15% OFF of one order - use discount code Baby15

Darshan Beauty
Herbal Skin Care
DIVA Diary readers are personally invited to join the Black Friday online party for 20% OFF specials on herbal skin care!

Prissy Girl
Fast-rising fashion boutique with fun, feminine, flirty style.
www.prissygirl.com
Take 15% off all orders over $50.00 through December 18!

Lil'Sugarplum
Handcrafted hair accessories for babies, toddlers and girls
www.lilsugarplum.com
Just say MYDIVA at checkout and enjoy FREE shipping and gift wrap!

Twospace
For women that appreciate the clean cut of modern with a vintage flair
www.twospace.com
Storewide savings of 20% OFF with code thanksgiving2006

Buggles Baby Wear
hip clothing for cool kids
www.bugglesbabywear.com
Take $10 OFF any order over $50! Also double your Buggles Bucks with customer referrals!

MAUstudio
Jewelry, gifts and more!
www.maustudio.com
www.maustudio.etsy.com
FREE Domestic Shipping through year end. Holiday special: Buy 2 items and get the 3rd 50% OFF (equal or lesser value) - Hurry expires Sunday, Nov. 26

Kelly Meeker Designs
Original jewelry!
www.kellymeekerdesigns.com
Join the Kelly Meeker Designs mailing list and enjoy 30% OFF!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 20 Nov 2006 06:41:00 +0000

Confessions of a Phat Girl

Can I just tell you how happy I am that the fall season is now here and that the winter season is quickly approaching?!?!? I told you how I so hate the clothes for summer because everything is so skimpy. I am a firm believer that just because they make it in your size doesn’t mean you are supposed to wear it. You can always tell a sister with few friends because they look completely crazy and no one told them. I tell you what…my friends don’t mind telling me. Not that I wear things that look crazy…my problem has always been that I wear clothes that are too big. About 3 or 4 years ago…I lost around 35 or so pounds. I have kept most of it off…This year…I have been trying to lose a few more pounds…but I have been unsuccessful. I haven’t lost a pound…what HAS happened is that I think my body has changed shape. I have lost inches and I have managed to go down another size. It is interesting because while I think the clothes are tight…everyone else says they fit. So when I am shopping and I have to try something on…I can always tell if it fits if I think it is tight. LOL!!! Crazy but it works. The amazing thing is that I even went down a size in jeans. You KNOW how hard that is to do…At any rate…between wearing pants that fit and being able to HIDE a bulge hear and there with a baggy sweater…I am all set for the winter....

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 19 Nov 2006 19:58:00 +0000

Swedish Shopping Update

Shopping in Sweden can be quite expensive! Although the US dollar is worth approx. 7 of theirs - spending hundreds of kronnors just doesn't sit well with my frugal mind. Plus, they have a VAT (country tax) of 25% that applies to most everything! So imagine those pair of boots you bought at the beginning of fall and add 25% to the cost of them.....The cool thing about downtown Stockholm is that everything is in walking distance - the stores open at 11am on weekends and close at 5pm, so there's plenty of time to scout out bargains, people watch and grab a latte or french hot dog (which if I may add are quite tasty)

I was expecting Stockholm to have a completely distinct fashion style of their own - while a few style differences apply, they enjoy many of the trends that we do in the States! Some of the major differences that I see is that men tend to wear their clothing A LOT more fitted than ours do - they are slender and lean and like most of what they wear lean fitting as well. The women here have crowned the boots trend - there are tons of styles from slouch to updated cowboy and wedge styles...I splurged on a pair of tan rhinestone boots - can't wait to upload the photos! Because of the fall chill, layering of course if very big. Plus size divas, however, would have a hard time finding much of anything of interest in the shops.

Although I don't speak a lick of Swedish, I do speak "Shopping Talk" and it was very easy to learn where the sales were and what 30-50% OFF means in another language :-D

Anyhoo, I've spent more Swedish kronnors that I can track - even though items are more expensive here than in the States, what am I supposed to do all day BUT shop? ;-)

Chat again soon!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 17 Nov 2006 13:15:00 +0000

Jet Setting DIVA

Sorry for keeping you without any DIVA news in the past few days - I am actually traveling in Stockholm, Sweden on business. Of course, I'll be scouting out the hottest boutiques and shops that the Swedish City has to offer, so stay tuned for Diary entries and photos of a DIVA in Sweden!