Hurray today is Friday! If you live for weekends, you have made it to another one and if you are looking for something fun to do on Saturday, the USC Sample Sale featuring Hurricane by Jane jewelry is tomorrow. The sales event is a fundraiser for the University of Southern California and proceeds from each and every purchase you make will go towards their scholarship fun. Plus it is a way to do some good both for others and for your fashionable self!

Smart gals know that sample sales are the best places to score unique and affordable designer wares and there are plenty of offerings to choose from. As a former sale producer, I have been to more than my fair share of events and know how to price merchandise to move. Attendees can score great prices on some of my best selling pieces such as the Gold Triple Strand Necklace (current retail $53, USC price $47), Silver Triple Strand (current retail, $47 USC price $40) and the Floating Leaf Earrings (shown below, current retail $46, USC price $38):

Don’t forget, 25 percent of each purchase will go directly to the scholarship fund and I’m happy to do it. Inventory is limited and there is never-been-seen, one-of-a-kind-originals up for grab as well. Plus, my entire Twilight Collection will be on display and available by special order only.

Hopefully I’ll get to see you tomorrow, so please stop by, shop and say howdy please!

Have you ever been so fetching and sexy that your lover just could not control himself, you know, down there? Well if you have been working on dressing in your best pear shaped fashion, have diligently hid your cameltoe, put your best nipple forward and managed to restore your virginity you are probably a true and honest vision of female beauty that no man nor his appendage can resist. If that is a case, your man can now get a little boost courtesy of a new penis spray that may aid in preventing premature ejaculation.

Thanks to CBS.com we know that Web MD reported that “A quick spray of a new drug may help men who suffer from premature ejaculation last nearly six times longer, new research suggests.” This ups the average pleasure time from a sad 30 seconds to an extended 3 minutes in the fun zone!

Since short shooting is the number one sexual health problem for men, this spray can offer new hope to the limp and flaccid. CBS.com states, “Up to 30% of men suffer some degree of premature ejaculation, defined as ejaculation that occurs within one minute of vaginal penetration.”

The drug is currently named PSD502, however the marketing geniuses at Shionogi Pharma Inc., the company responsible for this break through, are surely going to work “hard” on re-branding the product.

Wearing tight pants can be a difficult balancing act between sexy and “what was she thinking?” The latter is often caused by the infamous presence of a coochie highlighting “cameltoe.”

If you are concerned about showing off your most intimate secret to the world, then Camelflage is for you! Finally there is a way for sexy ladies to keep their potency under wraps. Camelflage is a unique, panty product that will allow you to  “…feel safe and secure knowing you aren’t “that girl” everyone is laughing at behind your back” what a relief!

“If you are an active, fashion conscious or contemporary woman then Camelflage panties are for you” as you will be empowered to keep your vaginal powers a secret! All this protection can be yours for the low and affordable price of $19.99. Hurray?

July 29 marks an auspicious time of year. That is when the beauty and glamor of the “Jersey Shore” cast once again will fill a time slot both on MTV and in my heart!

I can barely wait to see what kind of hi-jinx the Snooki, J-Woww , the “Situation” and the rest of the gang (including Angela) get into and for those who need a fix now, here is a 10 minute preview for the season (thanks to New York Magazine).

The clip originally aired as part of the MTV Movie Awards and is really just a quick visit with the troops as they migrate from colder climates to the warmth of Miami. In the he brief clip Snooki is excited as she has found true love thanks to her latest “gorilla, meat-head” conquest (in reality the Snookster broke up with then BF Emillo Masella), there is spray tanning and conversations about “cock blocking.” Hurray!

Ladies and gentlemen, please mark your calendars (June 12, 2010) for the upcoming USC Sample Sale. The event is a fundraiser for the University of Southern California and is a way to do some good both for others and for your fashionable self.

If you have been dying to live out your greatest “Confessions of a Shopaholic” fantasy on a budget, this event features a slew of up-and-coming as well as established LA based designers, including me, Hurricane by Jane. There will be clothing, shoes, jewelry, cosmetics and a whole slew of goodies, all at bargain basement prices.

As a former sample sale producer for no defunct Girlshop.com, I can tell you that these events will allow you to score the lowest prices on designer goods. Since the designers are on site and controlling their own prices (unlike retail stores) consumers will be able to get wholesale (the price designers charge retailers for their wares) pricing. That means no mark up for you, hurray!

As one of the participating vendors, I am pleased to contribute around 25 percent of my total sales receipts directly to the scholarship foundation. I’ll be presenting some of my most popular sellers like the infamous Gold Triple Strand necklace (this baby retailed for around $90 when Shop Intuition carried it) but at this event I will have a limited number of pieces at the bargain basement price of only $46 (currently $53 on ETSY):

Additionally I will be selling necklaces, bracelets and earrings all hand crafted by me and made of sterling silver and gold-filled findings. There will be a mix of some of my current Twilight collection, some best sellers and one of a kind pieces.

Come shop and meet both me and some other great people featuring ladies clothing from Amy Tangerine and Yanak, shoes from Clever Apparel, swimwear from Lolli Beach Candy and much more. As a matter of fact, there are over twenty vendors directly on site for your shopping pleasure!

The complete list of vendors and all additional information can be found right here. The quick stats are:

• Event Date: June 12
• Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
• Perks: Gift bags to be given out to the first 100 people to confirm attendance on the RSVP VIP but whole sale prices and huge discounts can be enjoyed by all!
• Location: Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows (101 Wilshire Boulevard Santa Monica, CA)

It is the goal of the foundation to raise $30,000 for the worthy cause. If you were thinking about expanding your seasonal wardrobe, why not check out the event first and leave the malls and chain stores for another day!

Due to a recent court case ruling, Lucky Brand Dungarees is not longer living up to its name. The line (owned by Liz Claiborne) has just had a $300,000 fine levied against them for copyright infringement.

Crain’s reports that “In the decision, Judge Laura Taylor Swain ruled Lucky Brand’s name, along with its use of the phrase “get lucky” and other references to “lucky” violate a trademark for Marcel Fashion Group’s “Get Lucky” clothing line.” The ruling does not prevent Liz Claiborne from using the slogans; however if they choose to do so it will be considered a copyright infringement on the Miami based Marcel.

Along with the declining quality of Lucky denim products it seems that the new staff at the corporation is dealing with their fair share of business problems. In December of 2009, it was announced that of David DeMattei (the former group president of Williams-Sonoma, Williams-Sonoma Home, West Elm and at home-furnishings retailer Williams-Sonoma) became the new Chief Executive Officer, Lucky Brand Jeans. So far, his work has been less than impressive.

DeMattei was brought into the flap to help that faltering brand. What was once the crown jewel of the Liz Claiborne brands, same sale stores for Lucky Brand decreased 16 percent in the third quarter of 2009.

Whenever I can, I try to support the American infrastructure by buying locally. A weekly trip to my local farmers market in West Hollywood helps me contribute to my local economy, support the Meatless Monday movement as well as ensure that I get a wide array of nutrients from truly fresh veggies.

If you are thinking about adding a trip to your local farmers market into rotation, there are two steps you should take:

1. Check out what fruits and veggies are in season as they will be at their peak flavor, plentiful and inexpensive.
2. Find a great recipe so said items are not purchased in vain. My favorite resource is Vegetarian Times.

Using this method, I decided that fava beans were my next leap of faith. Although Hannibal Lector once said “A census taker once tried to test me. I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice Chianti” as a vegetarian and pacifist, this recipe would not work for me.

Thankfully VT has this easy and amazing recipe for “Artichoke and Fava Bean Ragoût” and the meal is a delicious as it sounds. This recipe is excellent for beginners moving into the vegetarian lifestyle. VT touts this as a one-pot meal and includes potatoes as one of the ingredients. However, to lighten it up that starch can be removed and the Ragoût can then be put on top of a healthy grain like quinoa (follow the cooking instructions on the box but substitute vegetable broth for water to add more flavor), brown rice or even protein and fiber rich pasta like Barilla Plus will complete the meal.

Both PearShapely.com and Farmernet.com agree that shoppers should choose “a Certified Farmers’ Market, you can buy fresh and seasonal produce directly from the farmer who grows it!” There is nothing as empowering as eliminating the middleman and buying directly from the source.

Memorial weekend 2010 has come to a close and that means the official swimsuit season has begun. There is nothing like jumping in the ocean or a swimming pool when it is beastly hot. If you are anxiously waiting to make a big splash but are still struggling to find a swimsuit perfect for your pear shaped figure then Newport News’ bathing suit section simply entitled “Full on the Bottom” can make the task easier.

The retailer has tons of swimwear options for all types of gals, but as a girl with a bigger bottom I rely on Newport News to find bikinis/takinis that will flatter my form. If you are ready to start shopping here are some tips to make the task less painful for you:

• Be Realistic: After years of denial I know I take a small (or size 4) on my upper torso and my bottom is a healthier medium (size 6). Once I admitted that to get a two-piece that fits me perfectly I needed to order separates, I no longer became frustrated in my quest for a swimsuit.
• Order In: There is nothing more depressing then stripping down to your undies under the bright light of a dressing room. By shopping with a reputable online source, that embarrassment can be avoided altogether.
• Save Money: The web is filled with thousands of sites dedicated to discount shopping. A quick search can save you a pretty penny so make sure search for codes before placing your order.
• Landscaping: For the sake of your fellow sister, please make sure to shower and groom before trying on your swimwear. Not only is this a kind gesture for the next person to try on the suit, but also having a well-maintained bikini line can make you feel much sexier.
• Pad It: As one a LA native with my own breasts, I often feel I fall short of the norm I am exposed to. That is why I either select a swimsuit that features some padding on top or rely on a halter-top to make my boobs look more bountiful. Regardless of how you choose to adorn your upper torso, ruffles, patterns and other detailing is the way to draw attention upwards from your bottom
• Wrap It: Even though pear shaped gals can feel weightless in water, when we are back on land we can feel every jiggle as we step. A sarong or flowing skirt is a great way to cover for confidence so, go for it.
• Block It: No matter what shape you are in sunblock is the essential nectar to protect your skin.
• Flattering Fit: For me, boy shorts or little swim skirts flatter my figure. If you are going to choose one of those options, make sure that the fabric does not end mid thigh or at your widest point.

If you have any other tips for making pear shaped swimsuit shopping easy, please let me know. I would love to benefit from any experiences my pear shaped brethren may have had so do tell!

Till this very day Marilyn Monroe is still one of the most popular of Hollywood icons. Fans always have a soft spot for the talented, smart and sexy blond with the sultry voice and people still clamor to get a piece of her. Those with $150,000-$200,000 to spare can get that much closer to her greatness as her gorgeous and infamous pink dress from her dazzling performance of “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend” (Gentlemen Prefer Blonds) is currently on the auction block:

What girl would not want to own such an amazing piece of history? Although I love my Hurricane by Jane, only diamonds would do the gown justice!

Not only is this gem going to the highest biggest, but according to MSNBC.com “Hundreds of iconic movie items will go up for grabs from June 10-12, 2010 at the Profiles in History “Hollywood Auction 40″ in Calabasas Hills, Calif.” Some other treasures included in the auction includes the original “bottle” that acted as Barbara Eden’s home in the first season of “I Dream of Jeannie,” the hat worn by the “Wicked Witch of the West” in the Wizard of Oz and Johnny Depp’s hands from Edward Scissorhands.

This auction is certainly going to make some memorabilia collector very happy. Congratulations to the lucky auction winners, whomever you may be.

Whether you have ever glanced at this blog or know me personally, I’ve always proclaimed my love for Lucky Brand Dungarees. I’ve suggested Pear Shapely gals buy Sweet-N-Low jeans, have nothing but Lucky Jeans in my wardrobe and previously have been a loyal employee and representative for the line.

That being said, the newest offerings from the manufacturer break my heart. The season look like an All-American fashion mash-up of the Gap, Polo and Abercrombie and Fitch, yawn. The even sadder reality is that the jeans are no longer being made in America.

When the brand first started it was based on Gene Montesano and Barry Perlman’s  “ …life long passions [of] blue jeans and rock ‘n’ roll.” There is nothing more American then those two staples and 1990 marked the year that Lucky Brand was born. Part of the beauty of the product is that the founders stayed loyal to the motto “Rooted in Rock-n-Roll” and even after Liz Claiborne became the major share holder (May 1999, Liz acquired 85 percent of Lucky,) the jeans were hand made and finished right in the factory in Vernon California.

That is until recently. According to the current Wikipedia page (and past promotional material from the company) “Lucky products are manufactured in the USA, Mexico and Sri Lanka. All USA-manufactured Lucky jeans are made in Vernon, near downtown Los Angeles. In addition, the jeans manufactured in the United States are all hand-made, and all the detailing is done by hand, except for the actual washing process.” Consumers just need to check the website for the “COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Imported” copy to know that this is no longer true.

Much to my chagrin, Lucky Jeans are now being made abroad. From a business perspective, it is a smart money saving trick as everyone knows labor in Mexico and Vietnam costs far less than manufacturing in the country. However, consumers need to be aware of the changes. Lucky is not passing these savings to consumers they are pocketing the difference. In doing so, there will be more sales and discounts for consumers to enjoy, but they are doing far less to invest in our local infrastructure. Admittedly, it is not their job to support the entire economy, but part of my love for the line came from the fact that they did.

It is obvious that money talks in this country, and that is why I make the effort to support local businesses whenever I can. Now since the Lucky look has been homogenized beyond their original concept and they have changed their manufacturing venue, my love for them has wavered.  Since I left the company, I know that there have been many changes not only to the product quality but also throughout the corporation. Customers and staff that were Lucky Brand loyalists are not shining a positive light on the direction in which Lucky is headed.

If any Lucky Brand Representative reads this post, I invite you to partake in a dialogue to explain the changes. If you don’t want to speak with me directly, I understand. However, right now it needs to be noted that the denim you are selling is not worth the current price point of around $100 per jean. The production revisions you made will allow you to manufacture each for pennies to make.

My suggestion is to lower the price point on the internationally made jeans and still offer your American made denim at the regular price point. That way you will still maintain your roots while expanding your market share.