Definition of Hip

 

 

n  :  the laterally projecting region of each side of the lower or posterior part of the mammalian trunk formed by the lateral parts of the pelvis and upper part of the femur together with the fleshy parts covering them.

adj  :  very fashionable.

{from the Merriam-Webster's Dictionary}

My very hip husband is having some trouble with his hip.  They may need to replace his joint but they can never take away his fabulousness.  Too much pain and discomfort has caused us to postpone our trip.  We will enjoy the best time of year in Saratoga {even if I have to get him a cane to do so!}.  Lots to do and celebrate  {my old man turns 40 this week}.

The ultimate hip accessory in a horse town?  A leather belt with a huge horse themed buckle.  Find great ones at Saratoga Saddlery on Broadway.  They also carry Lucchese boots, great hats and all your horse needs on and off the saddle.   

The Ultimate Bathing Beauty {Giveaway announced}

She was such a P.Y.T.

As troubled as they may have became in life - they left their mark with their talent and style.  No one will ever forget the "Farrah" hair of the 70's or Michael's glove, red leather jacket or moon walk of the 80's.

This week's giveaway winner is....

Beth

 "I would love to check out this new store and get a new suit!"

Congratulations!!!

Have a great weekend everyone...  I have the urge to go to Vapor or Mare to dance to some 70's and 80's music!  Anyone else??? 

{Sorry for the late post... need to get used to the summer schedule - or lack thereof!}

 

 

Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny {Giveaway Wednesday!}

You work hard at the gym.  Faithful to your boot camp buddies, do your crunches, run 3x a week, yoga, pilates, kick boxing, tennis, and what about spin class?  Forget about it - you must lose 5 pounds with the amount you sweat.  For what?  Bathing suit season.  It's here, it's short, and it's time to flaunt your results.  The yellow polka dot bikini may not be your choice, so this weeks giveaway will help you choose the right suit for you...

Make a comment for your chance to win a $45.00 gift certificate to The Clothes Line.  They will help you in your quest for the best look to suit you this summer.

Make a comment to enter to win!

 

Avoid the Tourist Look this Summer...

You know what I'm talking about... Big white sneakers, fanny pack, nose in a map.  Although the last one may be unavoidable the other two must be avoided at all cost.  Am I suggesting 3 inch heels at Disney {seen that} or that you should refrain from all comfort and practicality?  Certainly not!  Sensible shoes can be comfy and chic. I found these sandals by Seychelles at Violet's which serve both needs perfectly.  These will easily go from day to evening, shorts to maxi dress with ease. The soles have a nice cushion and support so you can take in all the sightseeing, shopping, and strolling without the dogs barking.  Do Saratoga proud - leave the white sneakers at home {well, unless you plan on working out} and show off your Saratogian Style...

Love, love, love....

My husband, my girls, Aggie's. Shari Voce Jewelry, T- Bag dresses, and traveling...  Guess what???  They all go together.  Yes folks, I'm packing my bags and heading off to... well, I'm not telling you that... yet.  But, trust me, there will be nice beaches, amazing food, good wine, strong coffee, lazy days, gorgeous scenery, a birthday {not mine} to celebrate, scenic views, and lots of fashion to take in...  Come join me {at least cyberly} this week as I pack and take off...where???   

Happy Week End!!! {Giveaway Winner Announced}

I leave you this week with some shots from Balet Flowers and Design {how brilliant are those peonies?  I just can't get enough}.  I've been a big fan of Balet for some time. Suzanne and her team have a great love for horticulture and it shows. Their bouquets at the Farmers Market are gorgeous and their greenhouse {5041 Nelson Ave Ext, Malta NY} has a bounty of beautiful blooms awaiting your next landscaping project!  Their enthusiasm is contagious {even for a novice like me}.  They are knowledgeable, friendly and helpful - they truly want the best for you and your garden.  Treat yourself to trip out of the rain and into a floral oasis.

Happy Father's Day to all you Dad's out there {a special one to Peter - who is a wonderful father and husband}.  Have a great weekend.  The sun will come out again soon {I hope!}.

This week's giveaway winner is....

Peg

 "I adore the lost art of correspondence!" 

Congratulations!

 

Adirondack Dad {Father's Day Gift Ideas #3}

Life is Good for this outdoors lovin' guy.  Comfort and function is high on this guys list.  He likes the softest tee's, the more worn in the shorts the better and he refuses to wear big boy shoes on the week end.  Nope, it's all about being on the lake, in a tent,  getting his hands dirty in the garden, or just lounging in the back yard for this guy.  Embrace his casual style with a new tee from the Gap or Life Is Good on Broadway - they have so many fun tee's, hats, sweatshirts and much more great gear with snappy sayings on them.  Of course I love the one's that play with words and phrases like "All Those Who Wander Are Not Lost".  Jake's simple message of optimism will lift your spirit and Dad's.   New Reef flip flops from Saratoga Shoe Depot and he's good to go.  Looking for a special gift for this dad?  How about a sporty watch by Swiss Army found at N Fox Jewelers.  Now he's comfy and stylin' {just don't tell him}!

Retro Dad... {Giveaway Wednesday!}

 

He lived it - you love it.  You just can't get enough of Mad Men, mod graphics, or Kate Spade.  Well, this is your lucky day!  Bring your Father's Day gift into Paper Dolls of Saratoga, pick some very cool wrapping paper and the girls from PD will give your dad's gift a very retro look.  They will wrap it up to resemble what he wore in the 60's or 70's {as seen above}.  They might be able to do the 80's but that Gordon Gekko look is not very popular today given the state of the economy... 

Today's giveaway?  A kate spade {no one says retro better than kate} all occasion gift card set {above}.  Need a birthday card?  Your covered.  An interesting thank-you for that fab dinner party you attended last week end?  It's there.  Auntie Jane is under the weather?  You have a kitchy card that will lift her spirits.

Leave a comment on this post and you will be entered to win a gift for yourself this week!!!  You deserve it.  You've been a good daughter and/or wife - right???  Winner announced on Friday! 

Gourmet Dad {Father's Day Gift Ideas #2}

He likes to cook, you like picnics.  He cooks, you take the kids for the day while he is the master of his universe, or at least the kitchen.  He cooks, you clean {again}.  It's Father's Day.  Don't pull a Kate Gosselin {I'm nothing like her!} - let him have his fun.  Supply him with a Putnam Market gift card to get the hard-to find gourmet cheeses, olive oils, balsamic vinegars, meats, pastas, WINE, and so much more...  Then get him a great cooking tool {Le Creusent pots} or one of these very cool picnic essentials by Gourmet Getaway {wine carrier} or Picnic Time {picnic basket} from Compliments to the Chef {it is picnic season and you are due for an updated picnic tote - you'll - I mean - he'll love it!}.  Add some tickets to a SPAC event {he loves the ballet - right?} and you'll have another picnic to look forward to.  A Vineyard Vines seersucker button down along with some crisp new shorts from The Pink Paddock will give him that polished summer look you feel in love with.  Sounds like a win-win gift to me... 

Track Dad {Father's Day Gift Ideas #1}

All Spa City dad's look forward to Opening Day {July 29th} and spending some time at the track...  Make sure he's ready with all the essentials for a winning day!  A subscription to the Daily Racing Form and a nice pen will make sure he's more informed when he does his handicapping {let's face it enny meeny miny mo can only go so far}.  A cool linen shirt from Banana Republic and a dapper straw hat by Scala found at La Sartoria on Broadway will make him look like he's heading to the winners circle instead of hanging out on the rail {nothing wrong with that}.  A few cigars from James & Sons Tobacconists and a cooler filled with a 6 pack of his favorite beverage and some snacks from Putnam Market will ensure a good time whether he wins or loses {although he's a sure-thing in your eyes}.  This is the perfect gift for your track loving dad!

{the inspiration for this board?  My own dad who loved the track and a good cigar}

The Grand Finale & Track Ready... {Giveaway Announced}

I love the wrap dress.  Erin went out of her comfort zone with this dress and has had amazing results!  She looks sexy and confident!  The wrap style plays up her girly figure in a very sophisticated way.  Spanx and Fashion Tape is a girl's best kept secret for keeping things where they need to be.

I wanted to play up the color because it's all about color this season {especially orange and bright yellow}.  I used the same blue peep toe wedges from the shop your closet post to play up the blue in the dress, but added an orange clutch, chunky necklace and fun flower cocktail ring to add pop!  Take risks and have fun with color - it isn't always about matching.

{Dress from Frivolous, Necklace and clutch from 80 West, Spanx and Fashion Tape can be found at Frivolous}

In Erin's Words....

"Thank you so much Susan!  Who knew shopping could be so much fun!  I love how we went through my closet first and decided which things work for me and then got rid of things that did not.  And then to the shopping!  I can truthfully say I did not expect to find much downtown to fit me .... but Susan knows what she is doing.  It was great to shop with Susan because she knows the stores and store owners so well.  These people are great!  So helpful and not scary at all!!!  

 

 I love all my new clothes ~ they are so comfortable and mix with all my clothes I already own.  When we were going through my closet Susan was surprised at the clothes and accessories I already had but never wear...Susan then asked me, "What are you waiting for?"  Well, I am not waiting any longer.  I have been stepping it up and wearing my cool jewelry and hats. Why not?    I have a great life and now I can look good while I am enjoying it!

 

Thanks to Maria for my great hair, I love it!  Much appreciation to Amy and Mary at Spa Cascada..  I love my make up and brows! Thanks to all who came to my big reveal and donated so generously to the Franklin Community Center food pantry".

 

Erin and her husband Mike, through their party raised $900.00 and donated two boxes full of much needed non-perishable food items to Franklin Community Center. Erin is truly beautiful inside and out!

 

A special thanks to Kim Purdy for taking all the pictures!!!

 

The winner of this week's giveaway and the start of an enhancement of their own is...

 

Rebecca..

Her comment was... "My daughter Alice {referring to my grey roots} said "Mom - it looks like someone dropped a powdered doughnut on your head"!

 

Enjoy SaratogaArtsFest this week end!! 

 See you next week when we will celebrate DAD! 

In a Pinch? Shop your Closet!!! {Enhancement Week #2}

Pictures by Kim Purdy

We all have those moments when we feel like we have NOTHING to wear. This is when having the wardrobe staples comes in very handy.  We took these classic khaki trousers that Erin already had in her closet and paired it with a black wrap blouse that Erin has had, but never wore.  The blouse is the perfect silhouette for Erin.  The wrap style works well because the v-neck adds length to Erin and flatters her bust.  The top hits her right at the hip line and shows off her waist.  The wide leg trouser adds balance to the whole silhouette giving it a classic and polished look.  We made it Erin's own by adding funky jewelry.  The chunky coral necklace and fun blue peep toe shoes adds just enough color to make it appropriate for any summer event!

{Coral necklace from 80 West}

 

 

Enhancement Secrets Revealed {Giveaway Wednesday!}

 {pictures by Kim Purdy}

I hate to give away all Erin's secret's {and mine}, but then again, that is why I'm here!

Secret #1 - Maria Brower.  Amazing hairstylist.  I've been using her for years, so this is the hardest one to divulge...  A former New Yorker who takes beauty and style seriously {now you know why I love her}, but the best part is she wants YOU to be happy.  She sits with you to discuss lifestyle and how much time you can realistically spend on your daily hair routine {ponytail not included}.  She spent years working for Redken selling their products to salons, but always kept her hands in hair - her first love {sorry Chuck}.  She knows product and how to execute the best current cuts and colors.  Interested?  E-mail me and I'll get you set up!  Pass it on... 

Secret #2 - Spa Cascada.  OK - I haven't been so good at keeping Amy and her hacienda style spa a secret.  It's made a few posts here and my spirit has been rehydrated there plenty of times.  Amy and her dedication to her craft continues to be an inspiration to me.  Her eyebrow designs, skin care treatments, facials, and makeup knowledge has enhanced many Saratogians.  Add Erin to that growing list.    

Secret #3 - You can experience some enhancement for yourself.  This week's giveaway is a free hair consultation from Maria with a complimentary Redken Shade's EQ Conditioning Crystal Clear Glaze treatment {I've had a few and love them!}.  As Maria says, "this will give the winner exceptional shine and condition without any color change to the hair.  It's ammonia free {gentle to the hair}, acid balanced, and fortified with wheat amino acids".  What's this mean to you?  A better conditioned, full of body, shiny mane!

I'm not done yet.....  the second part of this brilliant giveaway is a free make up consultation with Amy at Spa Cascada.  Amy will discuss make up trends with you, check out your skin, apply a little Glo Minerals and fill you in on what colors work best for you.  Another secret you will walk away with - Blinc Mascara.  The newest {and greatest} mascara on the market.  You'll be ahead of your friends by "tubing" your lashes instead of the passe way of painting them!

Free hair consultation, hair glaze treatment, make up consultation and the newest mascara on the market - you will be on your way to the enhancement you always dreamed of!  Make a comment on this post to make that dream come true!  Winner announced on Friday!  Good Luck! 

Meet the ENHANCED Erin!!! {Enhancement Week #2}

Taaa dahhhh!!!!  Doesn't she look great?! 

Nothing says summer better than white.  Crisp, clean and light is just what we are looking for on hot summer evenings.  But, when the sun goes down it's best to be prepared with a soft light weight wrap.  This is the perfect summer evening outfit for Polo, a dinner party, or a night poolside with friends. I love how the all white layer adds length to Erin, while the wrap when tied defines her waist.  Silver chain necklace and matching earrings add length but are light weight and don't over take the outfit.  A bold cuff and fun beaded bracelets complete the look.

{Pants, tank and wrap from Violet's of Saratoga.  Earrings and Necklace from Frivolous.  Silver cuff, beaded bracelets are from Erin's closet!}

Erin raves about how comfortable and easy this outfit is to wear.  The truth is you don't have to sacrifice style for comfort.  Erin can easily chase after her three boys in this cool cotton black swing skirt that shows off her great legs!  We paired this with her white tank {above} layered with a light weight blue tank. On cooler days or evenings at the baseball field she can layer on her blue wrap {above}, and a funky bright scarf to brighten up the ensemble.  Dainty jewelry adds just the right detail.

Having key pieces in your closet will make mix and matching easy.  This blue wrap will get tons of wear.  To show how different it can be I tied it in the back for the second look and it gave it a much different look and feel.

One of these essential wraps can be yours!!  Stop by Violet's of Saratoga, tell them DTSB sent you and they will give you 20%  off a wrap in the color of your choice - they have a plethora of colors to choose from!!  Run don't walk... 

{Skirt, white tank , and scarf are from Violet's of Saratoga  Blue tank from  Old Navy  Jewelry is Erin's own} 

Meet Erin {Enhancement Week #2}

{Before - coffee at Saratoga Coffee Traders to talk strategy}

Mother, wife, Saratogian, all around do-gooder.  Great laugh.  Loves to hang with her family and friends.  Enjoys the simple pleasures of life - BBQ's, watching her boys play baseball, Blue Moon, walks through town, gardening, her husband's quirky sense of humor, but best of all...  embraces change.

{the unveiling party - picture by Kim Purdy}

We shopped her closet and downtown.  We consulted Amy Snider at Spa Cascada and Maria {my favorite hair stylist} for make up, brow, skin care and hair suggestions.  Did we find a look to match her lifestyle and personality?  Come back all week and you be the judge...

Pucker Up.... {Giveaway Winner Announced!}

 

Who:  I'm not that easy {see below}

What: Kissable Sun Protected Lips by KaplanMD

Where: The ever hip and cool DTSB {thanks to the Sanctuary Spa}

When: Today.... But you are ALWAYS a winner in my eyes...

And the winner is......................

Dora "Spa me up!" 

{please email me at susan@downtownsusiebrown.com to receive your giveaway!}

 
Grab your sunscreen & sneakers and come out for the Cantina Fun Run Sunday Morning to benefit Saratoga Hospital's Emergency Department!!!

Have a great week end!!!

How about a SPA-cation? {Giveaway Wednesday}

Known as the Spa City - we take our spa's seriously.  It's our history.  It's part of who we are.  One spa that doesn't mess around is Sanctuary Spa {72 Railroad Place}.  The minute you enter you know you are some place special.  The sophisticated and soothing atmosphere allows you to start to decompress and wipe the stress away.  {What job? What kids? What wedding plans?}

Treat yourself to one of MiMi Roy's Signature Mani/Pedi's {complete with a sugar scrub and paraffin treatment} and you'll quickly turn off the Blackberry and relaaaaaaax....  MiMi is an amazing nail technician who takes pride in her craft, but her talents don't end there.  She has a classical music background {you can find her songs on itunes}.  If you are lucky, she'll break out a little song while your tootsies are made sandal ready.  She'll lull you with a sweet tune and the message chair calm your tight muscles.  You will never want to leave...

So don't!  Slip on a pair of Oka b. flip flops and head back to the relaxation room.  Sip on some water {add some Pure Inventions for a healthy boost}, or Tea forte tea.  Nibble on some nuts and fruit.  Embrace turning off the stress.

Next try a Signature Spa Facial.  75 minutes of pure bliss....  It's all natural using Jurlique {so natural and pure the company runs it's own farm to source it's ingredients to ensure purity} and Yonka products.  The aromas of citrus are so pleasant.  Combine all this with a with a scalp, arms, hands and feet message and you are reduced to a puddle. 

Wake Up!!  

Duty calls....  The boss is wondering where you disappeared to {is that possible in this PDA era???}.  The kids will be off the bus soon.  The dreaded table assignments for the wedding.... 

Just say... Spaaaaaahhhhhh.............

Before you leave don't forget to get your SPF for you face and lips.  Now you are ready for the SUN and whatever else life throws at you.

This week's giveaway...  KaplanMD Lip 20 Treatment {pictured above}... "the first complete, dermatologist formulated lip treatment created to moisturize, contour, plump, and protect".  The 3 colors - sheer ruby, sheer berry shine and natural shine add just enough color to give your lips a nice glossy glow.  

Make a comment on this post for your chance at this week's giveaway!  Winner will be randomly chosen and announced on Friday!!!

Let's say it together....

 Spaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!! 

 

  

You Are What You Wear or in Sylvie's case... EAT!

The cute and adventurous Sylvie, in the childrens book of the same name, won my kids and me over with her whimsical style and daring taste!  The risk-taking little flamingo is tired of being pink {and eating shrimp}.  She wants to try something new {a girl after my own heart}!  A paisley flamingo? Green? Stripped?  That just won't do... So back to eating shrimp and being pink for her, because it's important to love who you are and to take care of your body too. I won't give the end away... But, trust me when I say - this little flamingo will find her own style and stand out {either on one leg or two} in a crowd!

Written and illustrated by the very talented and LOCAL artist Jennifer Sattler.  You may remember another of Jen's childrens books, Bella's Saratoga Summer.  Her new character will steal your heart and Jen's zippy animations will make you want one book to read and another to rip out the pictures and frame.

Meet Jen and get an autographed copy of the book!  Friday, June 12th, 6:30 at Barnes and Noble {Rt. 50}.

80 West Grand Opening Celebration

The adorable and fashionable owner of 80 West, Barbara Macina, wearing one of the many great dresses she carries at the store now located at 510 Broadway.

 

I'm a huge fan of Barbara's baubles.  A great way for you recessionistas to liven up your summer wardrobe.  Look cool and current in last year's dress when you add these trendy and affordable accessories.  Your secret is safe with me...

 Oh, did I mention she has hats?  For the track, pool, or street.  The ever stylin' Tiffany in one of my favorites.  Love the classic plaid on the cowboy style.  Giddy up!!!

How cute is this dress?  Clearly this 80 West fan knows how to wear it and the shoes were perfect.  Yes, 80 West has shoes too!!!

 

What's you favorite fashion term?  Guests had fun filling a wall with words that describe their favorite fashion term or expression.  Savvy, Sophisticated, Stylish...hmmmm those sound familiar.. {the beautiful interior design of the new location was done by Beverly Tracy Home Design - oh so Elle Decor}.

Much luck, Barbara in your new location!!! 

A gift to all DTSB readers... Mention this post and Barbara will give you 20% off your next purchase at 80 West! 

Now that's a good way to start the week...