1) What makes Milk & Honey stand out from other shoe companies in the industry?

Milk & honey allows women everywhere to actually design the shoe of their dreams. No longer do we have to settle for shoes that are the wrong heel height or a shade off — we can finally have exactly what we want! We also take tremendous pride in the quality of our shoes — we use only the finest materials, genuine leather bottoms and incredibly soft leathers — we really take the time to properly handcraft each individual shoe.

2) How long did it take to turn Milk & Honey from an idea into a reality?

My sister and I dreamed about doing this for years — we’d stay up late at night talking about how great it would be if we could actually make this idea come to life. From the time we got serious about it, it took about a year to be up and running.

3) What inspired Milk & Honey Shoes to use vegan friendly products? What kind of materials do you use?

One of my closest friends is a vegan and had a tough time finding great shoes at an affordable price. Most of the vegan shoes are either plastic or cost $700. We are incredibly honored to be able to provide high-end shoes at the mid-range price for vegans. We use all sorts of faux leather, snakeskin and suede as well as naturally vegan material like velvet and glitter. We line the insole in synthetic and use a compressed rubber bottom for the outersole. We believe you don’t have to sacrifice fashion for compassion.

4) What made you decide to have a company that offers customization? What did the first pair of shoes look like?

We’re high maintenance! It’s as easy as that. We just couldn’t find exactly what we were looking for. Our parents always taught us that sometimes you just have to do things yourself if you want them done right — I don’t think they ever thought that advice would morph into a shoe company!

5) Are you ever so inspired by a customer design it gets added to the Signature Collection?

Absolutely! We have incredibly creative and artistic customers — we always find inspiration from their designs.

6) Who are some of your favorite shoe designers (aside from Milk and Honey)?

I love Jimmy Choo, Chie Mihara, Giuseppe Zanotti, Brian Atwood, to name a few!

7) Are you a flats or heels woman? What do you look for in a good pair of shoes?

I love them both! During the day, it’s all flats all the time — I’m definitely not the girl in 4″ heels at Trader Joe’s, but I’ll ALWAYS be in heels at night — and then, the higher the better! When looking at shoes I look for a leather bottom (that acts as shock absorbent), a really nice and soft lining and bright poppy colors for the outside. I must have at least 8 pairs of red shoes!

8 ) How old were you when you wore your first pair of heels? How did they make you feel?

I know I really wanted heels for my Bat Mitzvah but ended up in light pink flats. I definitely wore a pair of black sparkly shoes to my 8th grade dance — they were fabulous!

9) We love that we have partnered with Milk and Honey for our shoots. Helping to complete our looks with fabulous shoes. What made you want to partner with 365HANGERS?

I have always loved treasure hunting for an amazing bargain — Loehmann’s, Daffy’s, Century 21… So when I first found out that I could internet shop that same way I became hooked! Right now, I’m in love with the black Lucky jumper!

Browse Milk and Honey‘s collection and have fun creating your own fantastic pair.

This week we have our monthly guest blog from Crystal! All about one of our fave prints – FLORALS!

While summer is almost ending, why not end the season by wearing this romantic print? Get inspired this week from bloggers, Anna of Annawii and Daniela of Nany’s Klozet, where they take these botanical prints and transform themselves into youthful, fresh characters. Whether it be a maxi dress like Anna’s or a flowy top like Daniela’s, florals are the sure way to get that desired midsummer night’s dream come alive.

We all love to smell good, right? Right. Wearing the right fragrance can sometimes be as important to an outfit as jewelry, or a pair of shoes – the finishing touch to your look. Whether it’s for a day at the office, a night out with the girls, or a hot date – choosing which smell goods you’re going to use is most likely a part of your daily life.

With all that said, we’re excited to possibly add to your collection, by partnering with Jessica Simpson to give away a 3.4 oz bottle of her perfume, I Fancy You (a $60 value)! I Fancy You is the newest fragrance in the Jessica Simpson Collection. It’s a soft, velvety, floral musk, which includes scents of pear, Fuji apple, lily of the valley, and sandalwood.

How to enter:

Mandatory Entry: Leave a comment letting us know which scents YOU would use to create your very own fragrance!

For one (1) additional entry: Suggest the 365HANGERS Facebook page to 5 of your friends, and leave a separate comment letting us know you’ve done so!

For one (1) additional entry: Follow us on Twitter, and leave a separate comment letting us know you’ve done so!

So, you can have up to three (3) total entries! Please be sure you leave separate comments for each entry!  Be sure to use your correct e-mail address in the comments section so that we may contact you if you’re the lucky winner. Good luck!

This giveaway is open to US residents only.
This giveaway ends on Monday, August 29th, 2011 at 11:59 P.M. PST. 

After a month filled with fierce competition, the Style A Shape contest has finally come to a close. Our lucky winners are Amanda Beard and Geneva Dampare. Amanda took the popular vote win with 1,268 votes, and Geneva Dampare won based on the 365HANGERS team and special guest judge Marie Denee of The Curvy Fashionista. We received so many great entries into this competition and we were so excited to see everyone promote the contest. Although the contest might be over, the great style tips that came to us from across the nation will stick with us in future fashion decisions. Here are a few of our other top stylish picks!

From Left to Right: Jenny Wu (Pear), Morgan Ryan (Straight), Megan (Hourglass), Ariana (Pear)

Imagine a room filled with every kind of shoe you can dream up! We were lucky enough to find ourselves surrounded by the über fabulous Milk & Honey shoes at our recent catalog shoot. The models and 365HANGERS staff alike couldn’t get enough of the wide selection of design perfect, customized, not to mention eco-friendly shoes we had on set. Ranging from sophisticated black pumps, to adorable red and white polka-dot heels, to fierce leopard print booties – there was always a pair that fit perfectly with one of our looks. Check out our pics from our latest catalog shoot and first shoot with Milk & Honey!

Today we have the 3rd and final post in our 3-part Summer Weddings series, courtesy of Marriage.com. Not sure what to wear to your co-workers wedding reception? Let the pros help you.

So we’ve covered your brother’s totally laidback outdoor ceremony, and your BFF’s glamorous night-on-the-town evening soiree, but we haven’t even touched the toughest wedding-related fashion dilemma: that’s right, your coworker’s classy, business-casual reception. You might not even know her/him that well, so looking situation-appropriate is of utmost importance… but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice fashion for practicality and boredom! Here were some picks that we just had to highlight:

We fell in love with this piece as soon as we saw it. Little chic details make this outfit perfect for a cocktail hour reception at a swanky hotel or venue. This dress by designer, singer and celeb Jessica Simpson has all the appropriate elements, while staying classically stylish and trendy. Check out the bright orange, teal, blue and purple stripes which compliment the great structure of this modern dress—not too formal, but not totally casual either (and the lines crisscross and complement in just the right places). The high scoop neck is flattering for everyone, and the detail of the black waist belt (skinny belts are in) cinches in the perfect place. The length is sexy within reason, and the back is ultra-cute, with a stylish back zipper, too! Best thing about this dress? You can take it from daytime (in the office) to night (with the girlfriends). Pair with patent black leather pumps (kitten heels or flats will do too if you’re looking to be comfortable), glam it up with some bright jewel-toned jewelry, and a simple hair accessory. Definitely pencil this dress in for other business-casual events and the like!

Here’s a great twist on the LBD—little black dress, that is. This dress by Aqua, complete with a structured inch-paneled waist and a scoop neck line, is sexy yet appropriate for cocktail hour. Although this outfit is definitely one hot number, the skirt is length-appropriate and it’s sleeveless (not strappy like a dress you might wear out to a club). The silver and gold rim-stones (which are on the front AND the back) keep it trendy and fun, while the empire bust gives the dress a great shape. Add some gold or silver bracelets and some strappy heels, and you’re totally good to go. For a more conservative look, just wear a cardigan on top during the day!

Wedding fashion disaster thwarted! Thanks to 365HANGERS for helping us dress up appropriately for this wedding-related dilemma. What dress would you love to have in your closet?

Today we have the second part of our 3-piece series by Marriage.com! Take a peek below, as they help you figure out what to wear to your BFF’s trendy evening soiree.

On Monday, we found two great wedding-appropriate looks for a casual and laidback beach wedding—a cute maxi dress from signature designer Ali Ro and a great twist on a summer sundress from DKNY. Both were versatile enough to withstand the surf/sand elements, while remaining formal enough for a reception or ceremony. But let’s not forget— relaxed outdoor weddings aren’t the only type of wedding out there—there are also the glamorous, trendy, stylish events which make you (again and again) reevaluate your entire closet.  Yeah, you could wear your little black dress or your sexy clubbing outfit, but is it really suitable for a wedding?  What exactly do you wear to your BFF’s trendy evening soiree? Here are some great picks:

[Option 1: An all-glammed-up dress from Peck & Peck]

Neutral and blush are the new black—popular among magazines, trendsetters, the runway, and weddings everywhere! Take a note from Elle, Vogue, and the biggest celebs on the red carpet: a neutral tone is understated, cool, elegant, and effortless. We picked the perfect dress by Peck & Peck, NYC designers known for their classic A-shaped dress. This lil’ number has it all—from embroidered lace fabric, detailing on the hem and sleeves, and yup, 100% silk. You’ll feel glamorous in this short-sleeved, tailored outfit—just pair with strappy neutral-colored heels (we adore the ballerina-inspired satin-laced heels the model is wearing) and lots of gold jewelry for some extra sparkle. Our tip: keep your hair loose and free-flowing to compliment the style of this Peck & Peck dress!

[Option 2: Dress from French Connection]

This week we have a special blog series, courtesy of our friends over at Marriage.com! A 3-part series helping you figure out what to wear for a specific type of wedding ceremony. The first post is all about a beach ceremony! Take it away, ladies!

When it comes to attending weddings, we all know the standard protocol for being a good guest: give your congrats to the newly-engaged couple, RSVP early, find the perfect (and meaningful) wedding gift, show up on time for their big day… but when it comes to what to WEAR to weddings, it’s not so simple. What might be absolutely perfect for your brother’s laid-back beach ceremony could be less than impressive for your BFF’s trendy evening soiree, or even inappropriate for your coworker’s classy, business-casual reception. No, not all outfits were created equal—and that’s why Marriage.com is teaming up with 365HANGERS today to find six outfits for three very different summer weddings.

SITUATION NUMBER ONE: Your brother’s laid-back beach ceremony

Gone are the days of wearing something short and skimpy to a beach wedding—instead, opt for a sophisticated, fun-in-the-sun maxi dress to stand out from the crowd. Long dresses are tres chic—worn by celebs everywhere and fashionistas alike, and totally fitting for a casual beachside ceremony or reception. This maxi dress is from signature designer Ali Ro, and features a bright, flowery print perfect for summer. The shirred, embroidered bodice flatters any shape while creating structure and support for the bust line, without dipping too low (keep it classy, ladies!) The hemline above the ankle keeps the look fresh and is the perfect length for showing off newly manicured toes or better yet, strappy sandals for the occasion. Elevate the look with a beaded necklace or some chunky gold bangles, and you’re ready to celebrate—beach style. And we’re loving the funky-chic dark-toned nail polish this model is wearing.

If a long maxi-dress isn’t your thing, or if you’re looking for a shorter, less beach-y look, consider this patterned, flowy and feminine dress from DKNY! We absolutely loved all the details of this dress, with the v-neck empire bust, the loose fitting skirt, and the fitted shirring at the bust. The colors of this dress definitely take the outfit from day to night, and the way the fabric moves (and the lightness of the dress) is perfect for a sunny outdoor affair. Pair with a long, dangling necklace and a pair of neutral heels, and you’ve got yourself the perfect twist on a dressed-up summer sundress.

Wedding fashion disaster thwarted! Thanks to 365HANGERS for helping us dress up for this laid-back, outdoor wedding. Which would you wear to a casual beach wedding affair?

One thing almost all women can unanimously say they LOVE, is shoes! For our Style A Shape contest we knew we needed to have our winners receive a pair of amazing shoes, so we are excited to have partnered with the super stylish Report Shoes. We know that sometimes a great pair of heels or boots can be out of budget, but if you shop with 365HANGERS you may practically get them for free with the money you saved from our designer discount. We have paired a few of our favorite 365HANGERS designer items with Report‘s stylish shoes just to show you how much you can  save on one amazing outfit!

Shop 365HANGERS.com

Shop Report Shoes

Enter Style A Shape Contest to win a pair of Report Shoes!!

Grey Elie Tahari dress – $59

 Black Cynthia Steffe dress – $80

If the Duchess of Cambridge (a.k.a. Kate Middleton) walks out in a pair of jeans and a t-shirt – you can bet it’s going to cause a fashion frenzy. The newest royal has a knack for creating a fashion craze every now and then, managing to make women imitate her style left and right. What makes her style so popular are the  clean lines and solid colors which are easy features for most women to pull off. Check out our less expensive alternatives to Her Royal Highness’ put together looks! Now all you need is a handsome prince to complete that look!

1. When did Pree Brulee launch? What is the spirit of Pree Brulee? 

Pree Brulée had been in the works for over a year and it launched at the beginning of June, 2011. The spirit and essence of our company is limitlessness. Our jewelry items, as one will notice, are very eclectic, bold, and colorful and are meant to convey an individual’s style conviction. I wanted to offer something that every girl, whether she is a city dweller with a minimalist style approach or a bohemian princess who loves to layer on a ton of items at once, could wear and make it her own. The company name was inspired by the dessert crème brulée and the word ‘pretty’ as our collection is a mix of sweet and pretty things.

2. What do you look for when choosing product for Pree Brulee?

First and foremost, the quality is very, very important. Secondly, we are not limited to a particular style of jewelry item hence once can find a very dainty ring or a very edgy, statement necklace. We also love to work with independent designers from countries such as Morocco, Turkey, and Israel because of the traditional motifs and symbols they employ in their designs.

3. Accessories can really bring a dull outfit to life, what is your must have accessory item?

I could not agree more. Wearing accessories the right way is an art form since it requires the knowledge of knowing what colors compliment each other, the size of each item must also not over-shadow each other but must work in aesthetic coherence. I love to layer items and am far from being a minimalist. But, the must-have accessory, I believe, is being confident in whatever one wears. A woman can carry the best handbag, or wear the most gorgeous necklace, but if she is uncomfortable everyone will notice it.

4. What is your favorite accessory trend right now? What is your trend forecast for fall?

My favorite would be the quintessential bohemian look, lots of layering whether it be with jewelry or clothes, which has been getting a lot of attention lately. I have been following closely the fashion trends in Paris, especially the 2011 collections from Chanel and Yes Saint Laurent, and many of these fashion houses are focusing on heavy coats and dresses in classic gray’s and blacks. This just means the accessories will stand out more since both colors, in various gradations, are beautiful and contrasting back-drops.

5. Who are your style icons? What celebrity always knows how to complete her outfit?

Oh, too many! But undoubtedly I am inspired most by Iris Apfel. We wrote a blog post on her recently, and she really understands the relationship between accessories and outfits. Carla Bruni, Rachel Zoe and Miroslava Duma always look incredibly stylish despite following different style theories.

6. There are lots of rules when it comes to styling different body types. Do you feel there are rules for accessorizing different body types?

The good thing about accessorizing is that it is not limited to body types. Accessories will look good on anyone if they are worn the right way.

7. How do you manage to have such an amazing and unique product while keeping the prices surprisingly affordable?

Patience and research! There are an incredible amount of products available and one of the successes of our company lies in the recognition that quantity will never surpass quality. We actually have returned items in the past to our designers and vendors as they did not meet our style aesthetic for various reasons.

8. We love the inspiration section of the Pree Brulee website, who is your biggest inspiration?

Wow, this could take a whole day. Since I am student of history and academics is one of my loves, I am inspired by the myriad of cultures that exist in our world. Isn’t it interesting that despite being disconnected from our modern world, people in the distant Himalayas also adorn themselves with jewelry that is reflective of their cultures? Beauty is universal and that is the biggest inspiration for our company.

9. We think you are the perfect jewelry line to partner with for our Style A Shape campaign! What made you interested in partnering with us?

Thank you! And likewise. 365HANGERS has offered something to women that was not readily available in the past. The idea to show dresses on women in various sizes is super. One of the reasons I was very excited to agree to partner with your company lied in the idea that every woman, regardless of age or shape, can look incredibly stylish and beautiful.

10. And lastly, what is your body shape and favorite style tip or trick?

One word: curves. My favorite style tip is to always wear ones’ best smile because it will compliment any outfit.

If you love Pree Brulee as much as we do then don’t forget to enter into our Style A Shape Contest for your chance to win a $75 Gift Card to spend at Pree Brulee’s adorable accessories boutique!

Who doesn’t want to dress like a celeb?! Of course, we all do. Unfortunately, most of us can’t afford to pay full price for a designer dress every time we have the urge to go shopping (which, let’s face it, is far too often)! Well guess what, fabulous women? We’re here to  help! In case, for some crazy reason, you didn’t know – we have designer duds at 70% off retail price every single DAY! That way, you can dress like a celeb and still have cash to go out for a cocktail or two with the girls! Check out actress & TV host Maria Menounos rocking a red Alice + Olivia dress.. and we have the same dress in classic black for only $99! Look and feel great, without any buyer’s remorse. Happy shopping!

Image credit

1. What makes Truth Art Beauty different from other skincare lines on the market today?

No fillers! We don’t use any fillers in our products. That means no water, no synthetic chemicals, no parabens or toxins. Just pure, natural, and organic botanical ingredients. This leads to a product that is not only healthier, but also higher performance!

2. While shopping in your average beauty market aisle what did you find most frustrating while trying to find skincare products?

We found several things frustrating. First, all kinds of products say ‘organic’ and ‘natural’ on the label, but when you start reading the ingredient label, you realize that the product isn’t natural or organic at all! There are so many misleading claims out there. We were also frustrated by the fact that you can’t personalize skincare for your own needs. There were lots of times when I thought I may like a product, but I didn’t like the scent, for example.

3. What is your favorite Truth Art Beauty product?

It’s so hard to choose one! I’m obsessed with our Face Nourish – once you go over to face oil, it’s very hard to go back to regular water based creams.  I customize mine with the dry base with red raspberry seed oil and I add our anti aging booster.

4. What is your all-natural beauty secret? What do you think every woman should use or do to keep her skin young and glowing?

Our beauty philosophy is to live in a healthy and authentic way.  That means not only using natural products and eating healthy and natural foods, but also exercising, getting enough sleep, drinking lots of water.  Healthy beauty is not only good for you; it also leads to better results!

5. We love how you can customize your own Truth Art Beauty skincare and there is a clear explanation of what each ingredient does. What inspired the company to take a more customized approach to skincare compared to only offering brand created products?

As mentioned earlier, we knew that it didn’t exist. And we felt there was a real need for it. You can customize everything from jeans to smoothies, but not beauty! Every woman is unique and has unique needs.  A blend that is personalized to your needs is going to give you better results than an off the shelf product.

6. Starting a business can be scary, especially during these economic times. What gave you the confidence to take Truth Art Beauty from an idea into a reality?

We really believe in our idea. Starting a company is always risky, but we felt we were ready.

7. Truth Art Beauty launched in February 2011, these past months have probably been very exciting and a great learning experience. What has been the most rewarding moment for the company thus far?

The most rewarding moments for us are when we hear our customers tell us how much they love the product and experience.  We’ve had women tell us our eye balm is better than Botox!

8. At 365HANGERS we encourage women of all body types to dress their best, making designer fashion accessible to all! When you look your best, you feel your best. Do you feel this philosophy of “looking your best, feel your best” carries over into the Truth Art Beauty skincare as well?

Absolutely!  We believe that beauty is both outward and inward and the two are totally interconnected! If you look great, you feel great. And similarly, being confident and happy on the inside makes you look great on the outside.

9. We are really excited you decided to partner with us for the Style a Shape contest? What made you want to be a part of this contest?

We are huge fans of 365Hangers and we believe in empowering women – whether it’s designing their own looks or their own skincare.

10. And lastly, what is your favorite style tip or trick?

When in doubt, go simple, whether it’s a little black dress or a pair of great fitting jeans.  Fit is what matters.

 Organic and custom made Truth Art Beauty Skincare is honestly made just for you! Don’t forget to enter our Style A Shape contest for your chance to win a $75 gift card to make your own personal skincare products from this one of a kind beauty company.

We’re happy to announce that Crystal will be guest blogging for us once a month! Here’s her take on one of our fave trends: stripes!

I’ve been seeing a lot of stripes lately and while we tend to associate stripes with nautical looks, you can take that inspiration and switch it up by mixing diffferent colours or patterns. This week, I’m covering two prominent L.A. bloggers on how they wear their stripes in a fun, summery way, both inspired by Alice + Olivia’s Resort 2012 collection. Ariana of La Catrina de la Moda and Hallie of Hallie Daily paired their summer stripes with flowy shorts for a fun day out in the sun! Whether they’re vertical and horizontal, as long as you’re wearing stripes you’ll be seeing optimistic soirees in your future.

I absolutely adore the dresses by French Connection ($38.00) and Nicole Miller ($76.00) here at 365hangers.com, they put the classic black and white stripes on a modern spin. To cop Ari’s and Hallie’s look, you can easily tuck these dresses underneath a pair of shorts! These dresses are simply versatile and workable. For a instant pop of glam, you can always try the dress by DKNY ($88.00) where the polka dot bottom is connected to the striped top, giving the illusion that you’re wearing two pieces when you’re actually wearing one!

How do you wear your stripes? Share your ideas below! Also, remember to check out my previous blog post about the ultimate summer trend: abstract prints!

Till next time,
Crystal
Tweet me @watermoolen