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Friday, July 31, 2009
Features What a Heeling: Heels.com keeps feet happy
Posted By Aviva M. Cantor on Fri, Jul 31, 2009 at 10:17 AM
Are you antsy for some much needed retail therapy but you’d rather not have to drive to the mall? Perhaps you’re having a late night craving for peep-toes and strappy sandals? Worry no more — Heels.com is here to satisfy your shoe shopping urges, and they’ll throw in the shipping for free.
“Welcome to shoe heaven,” says Linda McCoy, co-owner of Heels.com. 20 months ago, McCoy and her husband Eric founded their Charlotte-based Web site devoted to selling the latest trends in women’s shoes. Carrying over 80 shoe brands at prices ranging from $50-$700, Heels.com is home to flats, sandals, boots, wedges, and of course, heels.
Heels.com sets itself apart from other shoe websites by focusing solely (no pun intended) on women’s shoes. “We try to stay on top of our brands and pick shoes that department stores won’t pick,” McCoy says of the site’s assortment, which includes brands such as Guess, L.A.M.B., Jessica Simpson, BCBG, and Betsey Johnson. The result is a vibrant, trendy, colorful website that sets itself “aside from your basic black pump” assortment.
“We really make it easy for our customers to shop,” McCoy says. The Web site is an easy-to-navigate paradise for shoe shoppers, featuring seven views of each shoe with zoom capabilities, as well as a live video of a model walking in the shoes so customers can see “exactly what it looks like when you walk your first step,” says McCoy. “Shopping on Heels.com is risk-free,” according to McCoy, because the website offers free second day shipping as well as free returns. “You can’t get this at Zappos.”
This week, Heels.com will be launching an additional feature to its site called HeelsTV. Featuring fast-paced, energetic videos, HeelsTV is a quick and informative source for designer spotlights, sneak peaks, emerging trends, and new brands. HeelsTV will help “bring our shoppers closer to the brands,” says McCoy, who anticipates that this project will engage, entertain, and educate shoppers.
McCoy, a West Virginia native and former public relations assistant manager at Neiman Marcus, started Heels.com with her husband in hopes to “start something on our own to grow from the ground up … we collaborated.” McCoy believes that starting Heels.com is a way of “supporting Charlotte” and that customers are “going to get some different items” than in department stores or on other shoe Web sites.
For those who are gearing up for fall fashion, McCoy has a few tips as to what is coming next in the world of shoes: animal print, thigh-high boots, open-toe booties, turquoise, charcoal, and “purple is going to be huge” this fall. McCoy hopes to make a “presence in the U.S.” with Heels.com and eventually branch out into an appointment-only boutique
Her husband Eric is just as confident: “Zappos was the appetizer. Heels.com will be the meal.”
Shop Talk Meet Joy Randall, owner of Flawless Makeup Art
Posted By Ciara Lilly on Fri, Jul 31, 2009 at 9:57 AM
The days of ruling out those “hot summer looks” in the Cosmo magazine are over. There is a new makeup artist in town, and her name is Joy Randall. She believes it is simple: You just have to break through those self-made boxes, and embrace your “flawless” beauty.
Creative Loafing: So tell me about Flawless Makeup Art — what’s the company mission?
Joy Randall: Flawless Makeup Art is a company that is about the service of makeup, and the artistry of makeup, versus promoting a product line. I’ve worked for MAC, I’ve worked for all the big name companies, that’s nice, but I’m here to show the Southern region that makeup is more than just a specific product line; there are people out there who do this professionally. There is more to it than just lip gloss and cheeks. We do photo work — we do a whole lot of different things. So, it’s not about you purchasing a product. It’s about these artists who are here to give you the look that you want. That’s the service we provide.
Who is your target market?
I target an urban market. I tend to think that most African-American women are most intimidated; they have the least selection of information out there. However, we can do any race; we are not limited to that.
You are launching a new membership package. Tell me more about that.
Because there isn’t a clear understanding of what we do or a clear appreciation for it here in Charlotte, versus New York or California, this is a program that makes it more cost-effective for people who might not be an everyday makeup person. Instead of paying this $50 for a full-face, well you pay for the membership and you get it for $10 every time. You get brow-arching with it, you get seasonal consultations at $25 (normally $50 for the first hour), so you get plenty discounts on the services. And it makes people understand why they would need someone like me, because we provide it as a service, just like you get your hair done, just like you get your nails done, you can come get your makeup professionally done. In addition to that, we have a bunch of affiliates, people like Moazen Jewelry, YM Designs, and Eye/27 Photography who will offer different specials, as well. Although it’s just getting started, I feel its potential is limitless.
What is one of the biggest misconceptions involving makeup?
That it takes 10 minutes. Makeup does not take 10 minutes. I’m not superwoman, nor do I create like that. Another misconception is “oh that color won’t look good on me.” There is no such thing. I do not believe in people not being able to wear certain things. I think everything can be worn by everybody; you just have to know how to use it for your skin tone. Basically, I think people have to break down their own confidence sometimes.
The Grand Opening is approaching (Aug. 2). Tell me more about that.
This is really a re-opening. I have been here since April. Now, we have the perfect trio here with hair, makeup and photography. We also want people to know where Area 15 is located. So, it’s basically a meet-and-greet for people to see the space. It’s a creative space; we love it. And we want people to come out and help us celebrate. There will also be specials the whole week after, so people can book their appointments that day.
The grand opening of the Flawless MakeUp Studio, located at 516 E. 15th Street, will go down this weekend, Aug. 2. Attendees will enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and wine from 12 p.m.-6 p.m. while touring the studio. The space also houses YM Designs, a photography and graphic design studio and Loc’d Natural Hair Design, making the new studio a true “one-stop shop.” Those interested in purchasing a membership will have the opportunity to complete an application during the grand opening festivities.
For complete details about the Flawless MakeUp Art Membership program or the RSVP for the grand opening celebration, call 704-975-9526 or e-mail flawlessmakeupart@gmail.com.
[photo by Kate Robinson]
Events Trunk show at L.A. East featuring Ed Hardy/Christian Audigier eyewear
Posted By Kimberly Lawson on Fri, Jul 31, 2009 at 9:25 AM
It's Friday — time for a trunk show, complete with cold beer on tap, wine and music!
Head out to L.A. East's Blakeney store for their first trunk show, featuring Ed Hardy/Christian Audigier Eyewear — that's sunglasses, readers and prescription frames. 10 percent off!
As an added incentive, a portion of all sales go to Amped 4-A-Cure supporting cancer research.
Bonus: Ed Hardy Swimwear is 40 percent off.
Blakeney Village
9852 Rea Road
704-341-5962
Sales / Sale of the Day / Summer item Sale of the day: Niche
Posted By Kimberly Lawson on Fri, Jul 31, 2009 at 8:50 AM
It's a store-wide summer sale at Niche, the hit sneaker and clothing boutique in SouthEnd this weekend. Everything's $20, $40 or $60 (aside from some new fall items).
1510 Camden Rd
704-379-1811
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Street Style Street Style: Summer Print
Posted By Aviva M. Cantor on Thu, Jul 30, 2009 at 2:28 PM
Name: Christy Ward
Occupation: Retail Store Manager
Spotted: Black & Blue: The Denim Destination at the Morrison Shopping Center
Rockin: Flutter sleeved printed Modern Amusement blouse, boot cut white denim Anlo jeans, open-toed Aldo heels, & summer jewelry from Black & Blue
Style Philosophy: "Less is more. Don't overdo it."
Jewelry Talk Another dimension of oddity in jewelry
Posted By Samantha Webster on Thu, Jul 30, 2009 at 11:30 AM
When most people think of incorporating wool into their accessories, jewelry does not necessarily spring to mind. Scarves, hats, gloves, sure, but necklaces and rings? Earrings and bracelets? As surprising as this pairing may first seem, the unique and absolutely stunning outcome is phenomenal. Zorica “Zoe” Djukic takes the awkward pair and gives them yet another dimension of oddity. Her jewelry plays on the art of felting … and she’s felting some pretty interesting pieces. From guitars to toucans (such as the one pictured to the left) to intricate flowers, Djukic’s pieces reflect her need to create gorgeous wearable art jewelry for every woman and the little kid inside of them.
Djukic, who is a native Serbian, has always been a creatively driven individual, whether
The chances to experiment, and her fearlessness in doing so, are key to Djukic’s work. “It is really difficult to make a name for oneself in the jewelry art world, but I hope that my dedication to being original and experimental will set me apart from the rest.” She craves the chance to explore different mediums and methods of creating spectacular, colorful pieces, so it’s no surprise that she would also like to get back into polymer clay. While clay is a bit more of a “traditional” jewelry medium, the endless possibilities for creative adventure and all of the colors available make it the perfect medium to compliment her wool creations. “Even though wool and polymer clay are two completely different mediums, they are both exciting as their colors and possibilities can transform imagination into reality,” she explains.
Sales / Sale of the Day / Summer item Sale of the day: Mack and Mack
Posted By Kimberly Lawson on Thu, Jul 30, 2009 at 9:00 AM
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
The Clothier's Corner Looks only get you so far
Posted By William Wilson on Wed, Jul 29, 2009 at 3:24 PM
Society rewards the beautiful people. This may not be fair, but it’s the real world. A 5’5" 115 lb, flowing haired cover girl like my friend Tiffany can get by more than a 5’2", 165 lb female. Additionally, a 6’2", 224 lb athletic, handsome guy like Gerard Butler will be granted far more leeway than a 5’7" frumpy one. It isn’t right, but it’s the real world.
All this being said, there are limits to this. Regardless of physical attractiveness, people must have more to offer than looks. There’s nothing appealing about ignorance. “I don’t know” can’t be the answer to every topic of conversation of relevance you’re introduced to. People enjoy intelligent conversations on a range of topics. Quite often, whether or not there is a second meeting, date, or interview is dependent upon your ability to carry on various conversations. The inability to carry on an intelligent conversation can only be overshadowed by good looks for so long. Eventually, even the most shallow of people are going to want to have SOME semblance of an intelligent conversation. When this can’t be accomplished, so begins the beginning of the end.
Take some time to watch something a little more provocative and thought -inspiring than American Idol and reality shows. Who knows, you may actually learn something you can actually use in an adult conversation.
Next, get to know as much as you can about not only your job, but your field in general. I’m often amazed by the questions I’m asked that people feel apply to my company that really don’t. But the more informed I am, and the more I’m able to answer their questions, the more confidence they have in me. It is never a bad thing to gain knowledge in as many areas as you possibly can. Knowledge is indeed power. This can result in more referrals, greater opportunities, and thus maximized success.
I strongly believe the cornerstone of success begins with image. The better your image, the better your chance of success. I hope you gained something that helps you improve your public persona. If you have any questions, please contact me.
William Wilson is a nationally respected men’s clothier and image consultant. His clients include professional athletes, CEOs, and corporations. His homepage is www.WilliamtheClothier.com. Follow William on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/theclothier.
News The dangers of skinny jeans
Posted By Kimberly Lawson on Wed, Jul 29, 2009 at 10:47 AM
I can't stand skinny jeans ... for me, I mean. I like to feel like I can breathe in my clothing. And it's much too hot outside to feel like I have another layer of skin on my body. I'm just saying.
I'm not knocking them for other folks, though. Skinny jeans can be stylish, accentuate curves and draw attention where you want them to. As a commentator on this Today show video clip states, they are the antithesis to mom jeans.
But it just wouldn't be right of me if I didn't bring to you skinny jean proponents' attention the potential health problems you can face wearing such tight denim: nerve damage, GI issues, bladder infections yeast infections and even blood clots in the legs.
Don't believe me? Hear the words straight out of the mouth of Dr. Keith Siller on the Today show clip here.
Not one for pain or discomfort, I'll just stick with my wide-legs, thanks.
Sales / Sale of the Day Sale of the day: By Design
Posted By Kimberly Lawson on Wed, Jul 29, 2009 at 9:49 AM
Now through Aug. 9, By Design, an international furniture store, will pay your sales tax. For example, this Ingrid Bed is going for $897, down from a MSRP of $1199.
2130 South Blvd.
704-342-4600
11501 Carolina Place Parkway, Pineville
704-542-8803
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All About Style: Checking out the new Blush Boutique
A visit to the South End boutique yields great finds for women.
