BOOKS: WWW Recommends "Silver Girl" By Elin Hilderbrand

Pauleanna says: What an incredible story. I must say this year I have been diving into the world of fiction and I am absolutely loving it! Here we have the story of a woman who had it all, lived a comfy lifestyle and then watched as it slipped through her fingers. A tale of great loss, yet somehow flourishes into a beautiful story of strength. This week's pick is "Silver Girl" - I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

HAPPY READING LADIES!

OVERVIEW: Meredith Martin Delinn just lost everything: her friends, her homes, her social standing - because her husband Freddy cheated rich investors out of billions of dollars.

Desperate and facing homelessness, Meredith receives a call from her old best friend, Constance Flute. Connie's had recent worries of her own, and the two depart for a summer on Nantucket in an attempt to heal. But the island can't offer complete escape, and they're plagued by new and old troubles alike. When Connie's brother Toby - Meredith's high school boyfriend - arrives, Meredith must reconcile the differences between the life she is leading and the life she could have had.

Set against the backdrop of a Nantucket summer, Elin Hilderbrand delivers a suspenseful story of the power of friendship, the pull of love, and the beauty of forgiveness.

Rihanna To Launch Armani Fashion Line

Recently, Rihanna was labeled the face Armani and on the heels of a her new album "Talk That Talk", she has decided to dabble into the fashion world once again and collaborate with Emporio Armani and Armani Jeans to create a fashion line. The collection will feature her well known "R" logo, as well as biker jackets, denim jeans, blue lace lingerie and T-shirts with her face on them. I also hear that she is getting ready to release her second fragrance, Rebelle, in spring 2012.

Are you looking forward to seeing the collection?
Will you be buying?

MUSIC VIDEO: Dance For You - Beyonce

Pauleanna says: What do you think of the video? Love it or hate it?

Party Dresses for Every Holiday Fete!

The hustle and bustle has already started and the malls are absolutely rammed with women who are anxiously looking for that perfect holiday dress. Luckily! I came across some helpful pieces in Marie Claire Magazine that should make your shopping experience a little bit easier. I love this time of year, but do I look forward to fight of parking, standing in hour long line ups and hunting for that bargain? Not really. But when I get my hands on the perfect outfit, it's worth it!

What's your favourite part of the season? and do you have your LBD for this years holiday party?

A Cocktail Party
Sweep your hair up to show off the rosette detail on this one-shouldered dress before you head to this holiday season's "It" party. The drawstring waist and draped detail allow for ultimate comfort: Just in case you eat a little more than planned, you'll still be able to breathe while you shimmy your way to the dance floor. Cha-cha-cha!

Rebecca Taylor Sweet Rose Dress, $315 at Saks Fifth Avenue.

A Cocktail Party
Whether you're ringing in the New Year or just looking for an excuse to sparkle while drinking some more eggnog, nothing says fun like some red lipstick and a sequined frock! The wrap-over detail is just flirty enough so that the V-neck doesn't take away from the overall glamour of this gold mini.

Golden Samantha Sequin Dress, $275 at French Connection.

A Work Celebration
A pop of red is always a great addition to an all-black ensemble! With these sheer sleeves, show off your toned arms (you so rarely get the opportunity to in the winter months!) and try your hand at color blocking while enjoying an after-hours turkey feast with coworkers.

Shelby Stripe Pleat Dress, $198 at French Connection.

Pauleanna says: I also found some cute finds on our favourite online boutique ASOS.

ASOS Bodycon Dress with Circle Sequin Mesh SleeveC$71.25

Aqua Flapper Structured Maxi Fringe Bandeau Dress C$318.75

NEW MUSIC: Love After War - Robin Thicke

It's been a while since Robin has dropped a single and this is one that has grown on me in the last little while. Normally we post music from female artists but the reason why I posted this particular song is because I've always admired the chemistry between Robin and his wife Paula Patton. Shay, Alyssa and I took a weekend trip and we talk about all kinds of girly things, but one thing that constantly came up is if we've ever experienced that "Notebook" love. We were racking our brains to think of couples who showcase it, but unsuccessfully came up with more than a few.

Have you ever experienced that "Notebook" love?

Are there any couples who are good examples of this kind of love? Does this kind of love even exist?

MOVIE TEASER: WWW Recommends "My Week with Marilyn"

In Movie Theaters: November 23, 2011 Limited
Directed by: Simon Curtis

Starring:
Michelle Williams ... Marilyn Monroe
Kenneth Branagh ... Sir Lawrence Olivier
Judi Dench ... Sybil Thorndike
Eddie Redmayne ... Colin Clark
Emma Watson ... Lucy
Dominic Cooper ... Milton Greene

MPAA Rating: R for some language.
Genres: Drama

Synopsis: In the early summer of 1956, 23 year-old Colin Clark, just down from Oxford and determined to make his way in the film business, worked as a lowly assistant on the set of The Prince and the Showgirl, the film that united Sir Laurence Olivier with Marilyn Monroe, who, whilst shooting, was also on honeymoon with her new husband, the playwright Arthur Miller.

Pauleanna says: I think Michelle Williams is going to receive many awards for her role in this movie. I can't wait to see it! If you're down, let's go.

Should Women Approach Business The Way Men Approach Dating?

When I came across this article called, "Crucial Skills Female Entrepreneurs Can Learn from How Men Date" I had a light bulb moment. In a lot of ways business is just like dating: You meet over coffee or dinner, get to know one another all with the goal of seeking a healthy partnership.

"All entrepreneurs need to learn how and who to approach, how to sell themselves, and how to handle rejection and keep going. Men usually pick up these crucial social skills as they navigate the singles scene, but women, more commonly the pursued, may need to put some extra effort into learning how to promote themselves and their companies. Whether the goal is funding, finding a co-founder, or hiring that first engineer, the tips below can help."

PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE
"Men will hit on anything that moves." Maybe exaggerated, but there is some truth to it. Don't be afraid to meet with as many people as possible who can help your business grow. And please, don't turn down speaking events because you're afraid of public speaking. The more people know about you and your business, the better. If you're just starting out, attend networking events and parties to get more comfortable.

MAKE THE FIRST MOVE
Men learn to make the first move--arm over the shoulder in a movie, a brief touch on the leg, and the whole asking out part. Women, on the other hand, still have great strides to make in this area. Don't let your competition get a leg up (no pun intended) on you. For every person that's afraid to ask, there are hundreds of others who aren't. So make sure that you have first-mover's advantage, and ask first.

FLIRT
The rule here is simple: compliment, compliment, compliment. Flirting is all about having a good time with another person, and making them feel special. Everyone likes to know that they're admired, so don't be afraid to tell them that you respect what they've done in business, on a project, or even the way they write in their blog.

HIDE THE CRAZY
That's right -- don't let your inner psycho come out until later ... after you've closed the deal. When pitching your product to investors and potential partners, don't tell them about everything you haven't done yet, or the flaws that still exist. Instead, tell them about the amazing things your product does, and the cool new features that are on your roadmap.

Pauleanna says: There are so many other great tips like: Be genuine and offer them something, Sleep with the arm candy and marry the wife, and my favourite one is GOOGLE THEM! Know what you're getting yourself into before you get into it.

Do you agree with these tips? Do you have any other tips to add?

Amber Rose chats with Wendy Williams about Kanye and what's next...

Pauleanna says: I'm glad Wendy took it upon herself to crack Amber and open up discussion about all the rumours that have been swirling around. Despite her past, there's something about Amber that a lot of women love and respect. She has a quiet confidence and undeniable beauty. Wendy said it best, As a lady, and a woman. I like your style. - Wendy Williams [in reference to Amber not dogging Kanye about how badly he treated her and the dirt that happened in their relationship]. What's YOUR take on Amber?



Wendy Williams changed it up a bit on her show and brought out one of her Real Life Hot Topics. This week the talk show host invited Amber Rose as a surprise guest. During the interview, Wendy asked the 29-year old model about her past relationship with Kanye, how she felt about his public apology to her as well as her brief fling with Reggie Bush:

On how she and Kanye met:
He actually called me to do his Robocop video in LA. I was living in NY at the time. He flew me out to do the video and we shot the video which never came out. We hit it off at that time and we were just together for two years.

On how she felt hearing Kanye’s apology:
You know, he kind of said that he was, well didn’t kinda, he said it, that he was an a-hole. An he was mean to me and he didn’t treat me the way he was supposed to. I accepted his apology because I feel like he’s remorseful for how he treated me. I’m just going to keep it moving. It was nice gesture.

On the night Kanye ran on stage during Taylor Swift’s VMA speech:
I was sitting right next to him. And I was clapping for Taylor because I’m a fan. And I just look over and he’s gone. And then I’m like, ‘Where the hell did he go?’ And he was on stage. You know, I’ll tell you this Wendy: he instantly felt bad. As soon as he got down he was like, ‘Oh my God. What the hell did I just do?’ Not to sit up here and pick up for him, but you know he’s obviously friends with Beyonce and he knows how hard she works. He knew that everybody in the entire world did the “Single Ladies” dance. I guess he just felt passion and that she should’ve won.

On whether she’s the reason why Kim Kardashian & Reggie Bush’s split:
One thing about me is that I’m not a homewrecker. I would never date a man in a relationship or a married man. I just wouldn’t do it. But I broke up with Kanye. He broke up with Kim and we met right after. We were both going through a hard time. So were like each other’s rebound basically. It was brief. It was nice. He’s a great guy.


(source: concreteloop)

Victoria Secret Fashion Show - Red Carpet & Highlights

It's my favourite time of year, The Victoria Secret Fashion Show! It went down on November 9th at the Lexington Avenue Armory in NYC and performances included Maroon 5, Kanye West, Jay-Z and Nicki Minaj. The show airs on television - November 29th. A total of 60 costumes were made this year, along with 31 sets of angel wings, worn over the course of the evening by 38 models! CRAZZY! Will you be watching?

Donna Karan

Shanina Shaik and Tyson Beckford

Adriana Lima in Pucci

Nicki Minaj performance

Miranda Kerr in the "2.5 million dollar" bra

Adam Levine walks girlfriend Anne V down the runway during Maroon 5's performance

Miranda in her "ballet" look

MOVIE TEASER: "Elements of 4" - Beyonce

Beyonce gives fans a sneak peek for what’s to come on her upcoming DVD release of Live At Roseland: Elements of 4.

The two-disc DVD set will contain the recording of her 4 intimate concerts at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City, as well as a slew of behind the scenes looks, personal footage, with the second disc containing a video anthology from her latest album, 4 era. Much to the delight of fans, she shot a video for fan-favorite, “Dance For You.”

Live At Roseland: Elements of 4 is slated to hit stores November 21st and the deluxe version will be in stores on November 29th.



(source: concreteloop)

NEW MUSIC: You Da One - Rihanna

"You Da One" will be on Rihanna's sixth studio album called, 'Talk That Talk'. This track is written by Ester Dean, who has been penning hits for Ri Ri since 'Rated R'. Her first two singles are incredible, can't wait for her new CD released on November 21st!

The "John & Jen" Collection

Line: The "John & Jen" Collection by John Muscat and by Jennifer Wells is full of simple and beautiful pieces that consist of very different designs from their original work. This collection is step out in a new direction and has caught the attention of many who have always admired their knitwear. The color palette is a great selection of bubblegum pinks, corals, teals, and more.

John & Jenn is available at TNT, Holt Renfrew, Mendocino and many more.
Visit the site, HERE

VIDEO: VIP day at the @PetiteFeetSale

I shot a few videos while I was at the sale - I almost love shooting videos as much as I love shoe shopping!  Check them out below!

Shannae xoxo

VIP day at the @PetiteFeetSale was a blast! (3 days left to shop)

As usual, VIP day at the Petite Feet Sale was a blast! I saw a lot of old faces, and even more new faces at our favourite Shoe Shopping Extravaganza!

There was a great selection (with LOTS of boots) Check out the pictures that I took below.

Shannae xoxo

 And below are pics of some of my favourites!!

The sale is on until Sunday evening at the Markham Fairgrounds.  Get the details HERE.

Happy Shoe Shopping!

Shannae xoxo

Daniella Etienne - Woman with a Story

Pauleanna says: Meet Daniella Etienne, a woman of many talents. She is co-founder of the popular blog we all love, The Broken Heel Diaries and also has her hands in other creative avenues like the music industry and community work. I chose to interview Daniella because I admire her work ethic and most importantly her ability to juggle a healthy work-life balance while showcasing great humility and passion for everything that she does. It is my pleasure to introduce to you, her story...

20s/30s/40s?
20s

What is your zodiac sign?
Capricorn

What is your educational background?
Some college in Marketing

Where were you born? Raised? Live now?
Born in Montreal. Raised in Montreal and Toronto. Living in Toronto.

Single or Taken?
Single

First job ever?
Tim Hortons

First “real” job?
Travel insurance at RBC

Your 5 “must haves” of the moment?
Lancome Hypnose Mascara
Lancome Le French Touch Asbolu lipstick
Sony Bloggie
Steve Jobs autobiography
Bodycology Brown Sugar Vanilla handcream

What are you currently listening to?
SBTRKT, Daughter, Florence + the Machine, Dj Mike Rizzy, Watch The Throne, Adele

"We have fun while working away like crazy, never a dull moment. Always fun to partner with peopel who treat BHD like their baby"

So what do you do?
Marketing at Universal Music Canada, Co-Founder and Marketing Director at The Broken Heel Diaries , Chairman of The Remix Project

Take us along the path (personal & professional) that took you where you are today.
I've always wanted to work in music, so when the opportunity for an internship came up I jumped at it. Two months later that opportunity turned into a job, and I have been here for 8 yrs. I also used to have a small business where I did event promotion and marketing. The Broken Heel Diaries came about 3 yrs ago as an outlet to write. Jessica Sanchez my best friend and I turned it into an online magazine & marketing company last January. Lastly but always first The Remix Project started as a volunteer position, then I was asked to join the board of directors and later was nominated as chair. I have been blessed to be surrounded by the best people in every industry.

(BHD Logo)

("Photo Credit- shot by Di Mora www.dimora.ca" BHD main executive team: Kimberly Mae and Jessica Sanchez, missing Andrea De Rubeis, these ladies are my rocks!)

What’s the toughest thing you’ve been faced with thus far?
I believe that no matter what God doesn't give you more than you can handle. Everything we think is tough we surpass and then we are presented with another obstacle we conquer. At the time, when I was 19 I thought getting kicked out of my house was the toughest thing.

What did your parents want you to be?
Doctor or lawyer.

What’s the best piece of advice you were ever given?
Always remain humble.

(Through BHD Daniella had the opportunity to be part of a press trip to Egypt organized by the Egypt Travel Authority and GM Tours.)

What advice do you have for women who want to follow in your footsteps?
Its important to have the courage and faith to follow your dreams. I believe that as long as you pursue an avenue that you are passionate about things will come together. Even when you have no idea where to begin that drive and ambition will shed the light. Also it is important to believe in yourself and believe you can achieve what you have set out to. The possibility to achieve a goal first starts with the ability to believe we can.

Is it possible for a woman to successfully balance both love and career? Why or why not?
I think it is possible but its hard to speak on something you haven't experienced. I just don't see why it has to be one or the other. With the willingness to make things work I think anyone can make anything happen.

What’s next for you?
Continuing to work towards my goals.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years... 10 years?
In 5 yrs I see our BHD team having a BHD HQ for our marketing and online magazine, publishing a book, happily in love and raising a family. In 10 yrs still happily in love and raising my family lol. Saving the kids somewhere in the world and working at The Remix Project in a new market.

And lastly, in your opinion, What do Women Want??
Women want to be heard and want to know that they have the power and ability to achieve their dreams while living a happy, peaceful life.

Career Post: Dressing for Success

Like Kimora Lee Simmons says, "Your image is more important than your resume," and she is absoluetly right. How you present yourself can do wonders for your life personally and professionally. I decided to do a second post because there is uber amounts of inspiration to grab from and I think all of us can benefit! Winter is just around the corner and many are transitioning their spring/summer wardrobe into fall/winter. So here are some tips for Power dressing and how to look sharp always. Some days, you may not feel like superwoman, but even when you don't feel good, look great! A confident appearance will do just the trick to brighten your day....

OXFORD SHOE
Super trendy and retro. Most importantly, they are incredibly comfortable. You can wear them in practically every season and it will add a special touch to your office wardrobe.

WRAP DRESS
A piece that every one should have in her closet. It flatters any body type or size and you can build a power wardrobe on wrap dresses alone because the color pallets and pattern options are endless!

BLAZERS
I have so many blazers that I can't even count them all. A blazer is a must for every season and can easily pull together any office look. Pair with dresses, pants, skirts, EVERYTHING!

BELTS
Even if you work in a boring office where you are obligated to wear black, navy and gray, a belt is the perfect way to prove how stylish you are while still conforming. Super skinny or big and chunky, adding a belt to your business look will have you looking like a true fashionista.

PENCIL SKIRTS

You can pair a pencil skirt with just about anything, and you can find it in so many different styles No wonder it is an office wardrobe staple piece.

CARDIGAN
Whether long and draping or slightly cropped and buttoned to the top, a cardigan is the epitome of versatility and class.

TROUSERS
Finding a pair of pants that fit you just right might be a headache, but ,boy, is the hard work worth it. Well fit pants paired with a cardigan or blazer, leaves no room to second guess how serious you are about your business.

The tip to power dressing is first confidence and, secondly, wearing flattering pieces that are appropriate and stylish. Many of the staples of an office wardrobe can be found in amazing textures, colors and prints, so don’t be afraid to test the waters. Be the power dresser you are meant to be.

(inspiration: Vibe Vixen)