The DIVA Diary

2007-04-20T12:24:00.000-05:00

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!

2007-03-23T15:52:00.000-05:00

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

2007-03-19T20:31:00.000-05:00

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

2007-03-14T17:05:00.000-05:00

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!

2007-03-04T20:35:00.000-05:00

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!

2007-02-26T22:15:00.000-05:00

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!

2007-02-24T19:23:00.000-05:00

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

2007-02-22T16:31:00.000-05:00

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!

2007-02-19T16:31:00.000-05:00

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....

2007-02-13T13:37:00.000-05:00

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! :-)

2007-02-07T09:47:00.000-05:00

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! :-)

2007-02-05T15:12:00.000-05:00

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!

2007-01-26T12:12:00.000-05:00

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! :)

2007-01-25T12:23:00.000-05:00

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? ;-)

2007-01-24T15:54:00.000-05:00

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!

2007-01-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

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!

2007-01-16T13:37:00.000-05:00

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!

2007-01-08T13:54:00.000-05:00

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!

2007-01-03T10:11:00.000-05:00

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.

2006-12-06T12:31:00.000-05:00

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.

2006-11-28T12:38:00.000-05:00

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!

2006-11-22T09:51:00.000-05:00

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!

2006-11-20T01:41:00.000-05:00

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....

2006-11-19T14:58:00.000-05:00

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!

2006-11-17T08:15:00.000-05:00

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!

2006-11-07T10:29:00.000-05:00

Deal of the Week!

One of our fellow entrepreneur DIVAs decides to close her online boutique doors, to pursue other dreams - to help your celebrate (and reduce her inventory), enjoy 50% OFF all remaining inventory! Many celebrity styles as well as styles fit for cowgirls! Visit www.divaindenim.com

Coupon Code: DDEND

2006-11-07T10:13:00.000-05:00

Country Cat Fight!

Nov. 7, 2006 - CMA Awards Shocker – Carrie Underwood Wins, Faith Hill Storms Off

The biggest news coming out of the CMA Awards isn’t about who won what award. It’s about how Faith Hill reacted when Carrie Underwood won the Female Vocalist of the Year award. When Carrie Underwood was announced as the winner, Faith Hill threw her hands up into the air, yelled at the camera, and then stormed off. Faith Hill’s words were not audible, but she appeared to be screaming “What!” (Reality TV Magazine)...Come on now, Faith, keep your DIVA cool ;)

2006-11-03T15:52:00.000-05:00

The Full Cup Opens in Alexandria!

I just HAD to share! The owner of this salon is a good friend, has won several awards and been featured on Oprah's website. Women travel miles to be fitting at her bra fitting salon. Check out the info on the grand opening on the newest addition to The Full Cup family!

Enjoy!

After months of waiting with bated breath, we are excited to announce that The Full Cup, a European style lingerie store, has opened in Old Town Alexandria!

Did you know that 85% of women wear the wrong size bra? To make things even more complicated, one style of bra may fit one woman just right, and be absolutely wrong for someone else - even though the size is the same. And of course, each manufacturer has a slightly different method of sizing - so you just can't be sure what size will work best for you, even if you think you know your correct size!

The excellent and discreet staff at the Full Cup is here to save the day. The Full Cup is a "bra fitting salon" specializing in band sizes 28-48 and cup sizes A-K. They carry an extensive selection of exclusive European brands, provide professionally trained bra fitting specialist in an exquisite personal environment. Come and see why this store was nominated as Best of Intima Choice Award store!!!

218 N. Lee St., Ste 206, Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: 703.836.9441
Please note that appointments required to ensure optimal service.
Tuesday-Thursday 10 am - 6 pm
Thursday 6pm - 8 pm (By appt only)
Friday-Saturday 9 am - 5 pm

2006-11-03T11:52:00.000-05:00

Confession of a Nail Biter

I am a nail biter. Have tried to stop on several occasions and even wore acrylic tips for years. But I got sick of going every 2 weeks for a fill-in so the bi-weekly nail salon trips ended. The longest stretch I’ve ever gone without biting them is my senior year in high school. I guess acrylics must not have been popular back then because I remember quitting so that I could look good for my senior pictures. I remember even getting manicures (no tips) just so my nails would be well-groomed and deter me from biting...except the nail techs would laugh because there was very little nail to actually "manicure" lol

I get super anxious every year around this time – not only because of the holidays season but the crazy frenzy that’s become associated with it. This year my family has decided to travel during the holidays which makes for added pressure AND I found out that I need to take a trip overseas for my job…so my nail biting is in full force. One would think that since I have chipped a tooth before biting, that I would stop!…but the biting continues.

So in an effort not to go into the holidays without chewed up nails, I am making a Top 5 List of things to do to AVOID biting my nails. Hopefully this will help some of my fellow nail biters out there too!.

Paint my living room (theoretically can’t bite nails with paint on them)
Type articles (fingers too busy tapping the keyboard to bite)
Call a funny friend to make me laugh (mouth wide open from laughing, too wide for fingers)
Clean out my closet!
Shop for new black boots (if busy trying out new shoes, can’t bite…right?)

If anyone has more ideas, please send them my way, as I am sure that I will exhaust this list over the weekend :-)

2006-11-02T10:17:00.000-05:00

Warming up to Fall

I'm a summer girl at heart but the idea of trying out new fall trends (and being able to hide under bulky sweaters) is good for me! This season, I am all into dressing with ease - I LOVE the updated shirt dresses, paired with boots, tights and cool belt. I stumbled across this shirt/dress and consider it my pick of the week b/c of the fun print! Found it at Darla's Closet.

2006-11-01T11:12:00.000-05:00

Calling all Bargain-hunting fashionistas!

The ULTIMATE FALL FASHIONISTA FLEA MARKET is here!!!

The ULTIMATE shopping experience sponsored by Urban Charm, come out to see and buy amazing pieces from the closets of five fabulous fashionistas!

FABULOUS FASHIONISTAS .... FIVE FANTASTIC HOURS OF SHOPPING !!!

NOVEMBER 11th 12noon-5pm

5111 Oakland Way, Suitland, Maryland

Look for the orange and pink balloons

New and used flea market style shoes, coats, jeans, shrugs, belts, boots, handbags, jewelry, hats, scarves, clothes, accessories and much more! Come out for these amazing NEW, TRENDY, HIP, VINTAGE and STYLISH pieces! High fashion and one of a kind samples will be featured .... name-brand items available as well! Also, an amazing and fierce makeup artist from Natural Enhancements will be there to give you the perfect Fall touch! (makeup applications and services vary $15.00 and up)

Fashionista Flea Market prices varies ... cash only!

2006-10-24T10:28:00.000-05:00

FASHION FIGHTS POVERTY
Friday, October 27, 2006 at 6pm
Carnegie Library on 801 K St. NW
Washington, DC

An ethical fashion show benefiting BeadforLife in celebration of the 61st Anniversary of the United Nations.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
• Red carpet celebrity-style entry
• Vendor suites featuring the most fashionable examples of ethical couture (from non-profits to today’s hottest design houses).
• A silent auction featuring gifts from designers, hotels, restauranteurs and the beauty industry.
• A multi-media presentation regarding BedforLife.
• An after-party to end all after-parties
WHO:
Over 500 of the capital’s most stylish activists and philanthropic fashionistas
TICKETS: visit http://www.fashionfightspoverty.org/

2006-10-20T21:42:00.000-05:00

Bringing Sexy Back : The Birth of William RastThe Associated Press Published: October 18, 2006
LOS ANGELES Pop star Justin Timberlake is not your typical fashion designer. So the runway debut of his William Rast clothing line was not a typical fashion show.
Rather than show the collection at the official Los Angeles Fashion Week site, Culver City's Smashbox Studios, Timberlake took over one of Hollywood's hottest nightspots on Tuesday night.

A runway and scores of bleacher seats were added to a section of Social Hollywood on Sunset Boulevard. The Boulevard3 club next door was used for the exclusive after-party, including a performance by Timberlake, the 25-year old Grammy-winner whose second solo CD, "FutureSex/LoveSounds," was released in September.

The impressive guest list included Wilmer Valderrama, Eve and Timberlake's girlfriend, Cameron Diaz, who gave interviews and posed for pictures before taking their front-row seats for the fashion show. Other attendees included Paris and Nicky Hilton, Maroon 5's Adam Levine and Patrick Dempsey, aka Dr. McDreamy from TV's "Grey's Anatomy."

When the show got started, David Bowie's "Rebel Rebel" blared as models with their hair styled into pompadours and makeshift mohawks previewed the spring 2007 collection dubbed "Street Sexy." Timberlake started William Rast less than a year ago with his childhood friend Trace Ayala. They named the brand after their grandfathers.

On the runway, there were skinny jeans for men and women, topped with tanks or muscle shirts. There were also country-inspired checkered shirts for men decorated with ruffles or leather details. Some were shown with ascots.
Women's styles included cropped cardigans, shrunken sweaterdresses and puffy-sleeved blouses with bows at the neck.

Later, dressier attire had a soundtrack of Nine Inch Nails and N.E.R.D. (Timberlake is said to have spent months picking the show's playlist.) Men wore plaid blazers with attached leather vests over slim-fitting slacks. Accessories were key as each outfit was adorned with oversized belt buckles or chunky pendants. One was a skull, another looked like a grenade.

Party dresses for women were funky and flirty. One ice-blue shift was dangerously low cut, with strands of pearls serving as safety straps. Another featured a shredded scoop neck bedazzled with tiny rhinestones. A polka-dotted, 1950s-style dress had a full skirt, puffy sleeves and a black ribbon belt. Then, suddenly, the fashion show became a dance-off. Six women â€” stylishly street smart in jeans, suspenders, short skirts and torn tank tops â€” turned the runway into a disco, gyrating to a racy Prince tune.

Then the guys took their turn, and they stole the show. To Jay-Z's "99 Problems," four men in jeans, T-shirts and plaid sweater vests demonstrated why breakdancing is making a comeback. They were pop-locking and head-spinning like it was 1984. They somersaulted, flipped and struck gravity-defying poses, proving Timberlake's new duds are disco-ready.
AP

2006-10-18T08:50:00.000-05:00

Project Runway Season Finale Tonite!

I'm a huge Project Runway fan and simply can't wait for tonite's show! In tribute to the Final Four, here are some photos of their winning designs! I'm pulling for Michael Knight but it's anyone's game! Or as Vincent would say, they're all going to "throw down" :-)

2006-10-16T22:18:00.000-05:00

Call her Ms. Jackson!
Regardless of her Super Bowl mishap and the strangeness of her family....or her attraction to Mr. Dupri, Janet has always been a Great in my book. I've been a fan since Control - she is making 40 really look good. Almost makes me want to blow the dust off of my 8-Minute Abs DVD....Almost. ;) I think I am crowning her Diva of the Week. Check out this new cover of King Magazine.

2006-10-15T12:15:00.000-05:00

Being Phat in a Skinny Girl Fashion World

"Dear Diary: So today I only tried on 3 outfits instead of the normal 5, which is pretty good considering that I am bloated due to a visit from “You know who”. Being bloated really doesn’t help my already odd body type. Ok, picture this: I am average height for a woman, around 5’5”. I am not going to say my weight because; well…I am just not going to…LOL!!! Anyhoo, I am what they call full figured. I have the boobs, the hips and things to go along with it. The skinniest part on me, are my wrists. I tell you Ray Charles would have been mad at me if he dated women based on the size of their wrists. Ok…so along with the big boobs, thighs and hips. I have, for my size, an incredibly small waste but it has the nerve to sort of have a spare tire around it. Imagine that. So on this particular day, every single top I try on is drawing attention to my spare tire. Normally, I like a tighter sweater ‘cause it shows my small waste line, making me look slimmer altogether. But the old handy dandy turtle neck is not cutting it and it is black, so you know I am pitiful. The sweater is too big in the back and fitting very tightly around my stomach/spare tire, so that is a no!!! Next I decided on a regular button down shirt. I usually wear it inside of a jacket but today, I decided to try and wear it alone. Big mistake!!! The shirt was too short to be worn without the jacket. The shirt kind of sat on my behind and didn’t make it look to good….or small…which is what I am ALWAYS going for. Did I mention that my tail is rather large? So then I found another sweater. This is a button down sweater, almost like a blazer. I buttoned the top 3 buttons and had a t-shirt on underneath showing at the bottom. Somehow, because of the way the sweater opened up at the bottom, it made my waste look smaller. Finally a keeper…oh and all of this with a pair of jeans, but that is the easy part...."

2006-10-14T17:06:00.000-05:00

I am a bit embarrassed to say that this is my first blog post ever. Ever. Now, I am consider myself pretty hip – I listen to radio to keep up with the latest tunes on the radio, I keep up with fashion trends, watch all the fun TV shows (I swear by Girlfriends, Grey’s Anatomy, Project Runway and America’s Top Model!) Heck, I even know how to properly order a Starbucks a grande, soy, extra carmel latte...but blogging? For some reason, I thought it was just for teenagers. But now I am realizing I am behind the times, so hello world!

2006-04-12T20:32:00.000-05:00

Fun Fashion from Size 2 to 22
Defining Our Own Diva Style

Hey Fellow DIVA!

Spring is upon us and with so many designer looks in our faces, it can be hard to determine which styles tend to work best with our individual taste and personality. Take a few minutes to answer the following quiz 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:
1. 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.
2. A good mix of the latest styles that I found at the mall, boutiques or online shops. I love catching a good bargain!
3. Plenty of timeless classics, such as pantsuits, skirts, and blouses.
4. 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?
1. Designer embellished jeans, v-neck sweater with my new wedge heels.
2. Embellished jeans, sweater with designer sandals I caught on sale last season.
3. Basic black slacks, sweater set and polished ankle boots.
4. 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?
1. Sexy pair of designer stilettos
2. Sequined espadrilles that you caught on sale
3. Cole Haan tweed pump shoes
4. Flared denim jeans

Which celebrity best represents your sense of style?
1. Beyonce, fashionable and sophisticated
2. Jennifer Anniston, charming girl next door
3. Oprah, professional and in charge
4. Queen Latifah, soulfully laid back

Choose mostly 1's?
Celebrity Diva Style
You’ll never get arrested by the Fashion Police – your wardrobe is stylish, sexy and sophisticated. You'll love the Ra Ra Bustier - fits perfectly with your celebrity inspired style.

Choose Mostly 2's?
Diva Next Door Style
You aren’t afraid to mix styles and often have unique pieces that you’ve found during your shopping hunts. Back by popular demand, the Black Button Beaded Handbag makes a great accent to your already fun wardrobe.

Choose Mostly 3's?
Professional Diva Style
Some may dare to call your wardrobe boring but you like to consider it “practical”. Because you enjoy sensible additions to your wardrobe that will last into the next season, you'll love the It's a Wrap Tee.

Choose Mostly 4's?
Mystic Diva Style
If Neo-Soul music had a fashion equivalent, then your style would be it. Your style is easy, laid back and natural, with a hint of retro thrown in making our Favorite White Tank a wardrobe staple.

About MyDIVAshop
MyDIVAshop.com is THE place for stylish and affordable fashion for women of all sizes. Don't be afraid to experiment with new styles to discover your own winning look!
email: info@mydivashop.com
phone: (866) 293-5116
web: http://www.mydivashop.com