Begg'in not to be Barefoot by Fall

Dear KK My husband doesn't understand my shoe obsession. In fact, he has placed me on an indefinite shoe-buying hiatus! HELP ME! Begg'in not to be Barefoot by Fall

Dear BB First, take a deep breath. So far there have been no reported cases of people dying from shoe with drawl. Second, I have a hankering your husband may have good reason to place you on shoe house arrest.. 1.) Do you have more than 3 pairs of a shoe in the same color? 2.)Do you wear less than 70% of your shoes in your closet? 3.)Do you buy painful pumps because they're pretty? 4.)Does your shoe closet function more like a museum than a closet? If you answered yes to 2 or more of these questions you need to sharpen your shoe senses!

Listen I understand the shoe fetish. There are 1,0000 choices in your size, they always fit and they always make you feel sexy and they are the one fashion item most women feel comfortable taking risks with...a pair of torn jeans with turquoise pumps is hot! But WOMEN can NOT survive on shoes alone. You need a complete wardrobe to truly feel secure. Buying too much of one thing is a fleeting high that will only end with a terrible crash when you walk to your closet and realize you have nothing to wear with your jade jeweled Jimmy Choos. You want your closet to be a place you're excited to visit because you can wear everything in it! Looking at shelves full of unworn heels and flats just puts a pit in your stomach especially in an economy like this!

So instead of panicking I want you to go home and do two things. First, survey your shoe rack and any pair of shoe that is in season and has not been worn in the last year put aside. From that pile you can keep one third. Whatever is left...sell it on Ebay, donate it or give it to a good friend. You got "sole" surplus sweetie and what you need is to put some "soul" back into your closet. Next, go kiss your husband and thank him for helping you un-closet your karma!

GIRL’S GUIDE TO GETTING FABULOUS IN FIVE MINUTES! THE MAKEOVER EMERGENCY KIT

GIRL’S GUIDE TO GETTING FABULOUS IN FIVE MINUTES! THE MAKEOVER EMERGENCY KIT It was a long day at work…you’re are hot, you’re are bloated, and you’re hankering for a pint of cookies and cream Froyo. You come home, plop on the couch and uncouthly unbutton your pants. Yes! There is a Tori Spelling Lifetime marathon on….”BZZZZZ”, your cell phone starts vibrating loudly on your coffee table…you strain to ignore it …but suddenly your right hand has a mind of its own…you mumble grumpily, “What?” It’s your best friend Heidi and she says you have 15 minutes to get ready and head out the door. She was just invented to the biggest event of the year and you have to go!
	Girls, we all need a makeover emergency kit handy at ALL times! It is simple to make. It will cost you less than $50, and you will most certainly get more than your money’s worth out of it. 1.) LIP SERVICE Now I am the type of gal that rarely wears more than a touch of lip-gloss daily ,but when it comes to fashion emergencies you better believe I bust out the Foxy Red Lips. It is very important to know what vibrant colors can work best on your lips. If you are not the best at matching shades then phone a friend who has irresistible lips and tell her you would like to hit the local CVS or Walgreens for a makeup romp. If you don’t have anyone in mind, try hitting the make up counter at Mac, and tell them that you are looking for a great red color. Try a bunch of colors on and find the one that suites you best, then trot right back to the pharmacy and pick a shade that’s similar for half the price! I personally like L’Oreal or Cover Girl lipstick. It goes on smoothly and they have a good array of colors.
2.) HAIR HAPPY HOT ROLLERS I am Hot Roller slaphappy for sure! I don’t care if you have short hair, long hair, or fine hair…hot rollers can add volume and spring into anyone’s step. My friend at a wedding was skeptical, but when I threw in just 5 hot rollers she quickly saw her up-do had much more lift! My favorite set is Conair’s Instant Heat Travel Hairsetter. It costs $18.00 and has enough rollers in it to give a lift to any head. And if you need a few more rollers then the Conair Ion Shine Roller Set is fantastic as well!
3.) Chunky Monkey Jewelry You need to have a go to neck accessory. My kit has three go to necklaces in it! ONE for neutral outfits, ONE for gold or silver and ONE for black or brown. They are the following: -A strand of off white pearls that can me wrapped around the neck 3 times. -A large chunky go plated necklace -A double strand green necklace with black and green beads. When you wear a great piece around your neck people tend to focus more on the jewelry than the fact you only had 5 minutes to fab up!
4.) GO GET THEM OUTFITS! You need to have 3 go to outfits at all times: -One should be something you can wear with jeans and you feel very comfortable in -One should be a dress that does not wrinkle and fits no matter what mind set your in -The third should involve a skirt whether it is a jean or a black skirt depending on your style. Arming your closet with three things you like to wear that can fit into any fashion emergency category IS VERY IMPORTANT!
		5.) FOOT FANCY OR HANDBAG HEAVEN Shoes are one of the sexiest accessories you can have. And you have to make sure you shop wisely when buying them. I have go-to gold heels that I wear with my jeans whenever ever I am in an emergency situation. But plenty of ladies don’t feel comfortable in a pair of pretty pumps so what do you do? Bust out a “banging” bag. Handbags are like a work of art they can dress any outfit up and make you feel fabulous. I feel whether it is shoes or handbags you need to make sure you keep at least one of the categories as follows. -A gorgeous black or brown that makes a statement -A classy silver or gold that can dress up any dumpy day. -A bright color that compliments your skin town and lights up your night!
Now stop reading and get out the door! It’s Thursday and I am sure you are Thirsty!

HOW TO BE A BABE WHEN BROKE:

So when I first moved to Los Angeles ten years ago I was young, broke, and happy as a clam! I literally lived in the same bedroom as my best friend from high school. Imagine 3 women sharing one bathroom (sometimes 4 when my friend Josie spent the night which was often)!! I chopped my long blonde locks, got myself a spunky new “do”, and wala… I was known as a feisty redhead.           My former nicknames of Binksers (don’t ask it’s a family thing), Karamia, and Kurcz were behind me. All of sudden everyone called me KK (I think the internet had a little bit to do with this considering I always signed emails KK but it was fresh so I loved it!) I was an aspiring director and producer and I was actually starting to get work but what I was really known for around town was my every changing hairdos and very loud wardrobe. I literally never wore the same outfit twice for TWO YEARS… actually let me correct that statement I never wore an outfit the SAME WAY more than once!
	Now, remember I was poor, so I wasn’t shopping like Paris Hilton or some A-list celebrity. And I wasn’t running up my credit cards either. I knew where to shop, how to shop and who to borrow from. The key was every Saturday I would hit the “Melrose” strip that used to be known for its kitschy-cheap boutiques. Sundays I hit the Fairfax flee market looking for odds and ends. I knew my budget and I never went over. Every occasion I had a clear vision of the outfit I needed in my head. “Big meeting with Dreamworks for a development gig…hmm they want someone creative but yet they are “suits” (a term used in LA for those who walk around in suites all day as Network or Studio Executives…as opposed to the down and dirty crew people like me). I know! I must get a black skirt, wear one of Suzy’s conservative tops and I’ll throw my wicked knee high leather boots on with an electric blue scarf to let them know I have sass.” My wardrobe was a huge reflection of my personality. Sometimes it even got me gigs…people remembered the girl with the “crazy scarves” or knee high black boots. So why write this walk down memory lane with you? Well, in this economy a lot of us had to button our belt. It’s hard to have “sass” when you don’t have a dime in your pocket! But the truth is we all have done it…whether it was in college, on our back packing tripping through Europe or our first job. We found a way to survive with sass.
Now I shop just like I did 10 years ago. I spend $12.00 for a shirt and I don’t care if it falls apart in the wash because its $12.00. I stay away from the $40.00 shirts that look the same quality as the $12.00 bin because I know I am going to be angry if I only get 2 washes out of it. I always have a clear vision of what I need and want. (never go to the grocery store hungry and never go shopping without an idea of what exactly you need). My girlfriends and I have started all swapping clothes like we were 20 again. I have been b/f with my friend Liz for over 15 years so I know what looks good on her and I know her style…and she knows mine. When I come across something in my closet I know would look good on her I give it to her! And she does the same for me! It’s like getting an unexpected present and it’s so fun! Plus, it brings you closer. We are all in the same boat ladies. So get the ball rolling be the first one to give your gal pal a necklace that has been sitting in your drawer for a year. Have Fun! I promise it will come back to you 10 fold and you will find a new way to feel FAB!

Black Skirt Banshee

Dear KK, I am a confessed shopoholic. However, shopping is really not my problem .....what I buy is....BLACK SKIRTS!!! I literally have over 100...help! What does this mean? Am I doomed to a dark skirt destiny forever??                           -Black Skirt Banshee
Dear Black Skirt Banshee, If you have more than 5 of the same color anything in your closet you need to listen up! Your closet is not only the birth mother of your fashion…it is basically the building block of your day. Interestingly enough you have 100 BLACK skirts and not 100 BLACK shirts, which tells me you’re not afraid of throwing a party on top, but like to keep it very safe on the bottom. How you dress your legs is how you ground yourself in life and BLACK is a power color, and those 100 skirts are making you feel like they are the source of your power. You have gotten in a pattern of thinking that your black skirts are the source of your sensibility and stability. But girl, skirts are sexy and feminine enough that you can have that power in any color.
Time to burn the security blanket and branch out! No one is saying that you can’t wear a black skirt EVERY OTHER DAY…I am just saying there is much more substance to you than meets the eye. Be bold and free yourself from that black skirt binky! In my opinion you should never have more than 5 of an item in the same color. Here is why…you truly have roughly 5 instances to fill for your day-to-day style:
1. Work Casual 2. Buisness Attire 3. Sexy 4. Serious 5. Playful
So try having 5 black skirts, 5 brown skirts, 5 khaki skirts for each instance and now your closet has a multitude of choices!
		Think of your closet for a second like your spice cabinet. It needs to be both accessible and encompass everything you need at a whim’s notice. Picture this….you have had a long day at work and some gal pals are coming over for Sangria...so you are thinking “PAELLA!” You open the cabinet and your staple spice rack has 6 kinds of oregano and basil, which is great for a pasta party with Prosecco, but not so great for Pinot and Paella. You rummage through your cabinet and all you find is your staple salt and pepper, but they are so boring. Life has many flavors such as Indian, Morrocan, Chinese…and you’re not living life to the fullest if you are pigeonholing yourself into just one spice…or one safe look in your fashion.      Spice it up!

5 WAYS TO GET READY FOR A SUMMER WEEKEND UNDER $50!

5 WAYS TO GET READY FOR A SUMMER WEEKEND UNDER $50!
	1.) Neutrogena Ruby Red Lipstick Moisture Shine! - Average price $8.99 on sale at target.com for $6.96. I discovered this yummy feeling lipstick after I received it in a gift bag at the Crystal and Lucy awards for Women in Film. I was excited to support my friend Chelsea Handler who was hosting, thrilled to see all the amazing women who were being honored such as, Holly Hunter and Jennifer Anniston, and tickled PINK to discover this amazing gem. It has SPF 15, and when applied, it feels like a cool mint breeze on a hot summer night! Not to mention the Ruby Red color is just plain sexy!
2.) Sizzling Summer Scarfs! - $9.99 - $14.99 I am obsessed with scarves... yes obsessed! They are the only accessory that can be used year round, and they can dress up old dirty tank tops any day! The Gap has great summer scarfs for just $9.99. But Madewell’s Fringe summer scarfs double as both a light summer wrap and slinky accessory! And this yellow one is on sale now for only $14.99. www.madewell
3.) Janaration’s Blushing Grape Necklace! - $24.00 Here is why I like Janaration... not only is jewelry affordable and gorgeous, but each piece carries a positive message or image. The company was founded by a yoga instructor who has managed to translate her tranquility into her designs. Plus, the grapes are so cute! And they totally remind me of summer and can make any plain old tee FAB!
4.) Bogle Sauvignon Blanc 2005! - $7.99-$8.99 www.boglewinery.com I am not a huge white wine fan, but this wine is crisp and delicious, and the perfect accessory to a summer night hanging with your gal pals. Bottles range from $7.99 - $8.99 and most liquor stores, including bevmo.com carry it. Recommended of course by the ever so fabulous budgetvino.com.
5.) Kara K. Wristlet! Now I usually don’t self promote on my blog, but my gal pals said I had to share this great deal with the world. Inspired by the Recessionista in me, and our popular red carpet light up wristlets featured in O Magazine, we have launched a special addition Wristlet for our Kara K. line. It will only be available this summer online. The wristlet feels and looks like its fraternal twin bag, the Utility Wristlet. All that is missing is the light. The bag doubles as a wallet, has lots of pockets, and can fit your cell, lipgloss, and cash for a gals night out! Made of 100% genuine leather, this little bag will be your new B/F on a night on the town! Available in Cinnamon Red, or Summer Slate Gray. solasfashion.com

FASHION RISKS THAT CHANGED STYLE HISTORY.....

Sadly, on June 25th, the world lost two great fashion icons. One changed the world of fashion with a red bathing suite (that she bought for the photoshoot herself) and a whimsical carefree hairdo. The other was both a MUSIC and FASHION revolutionary. Today the world honored Michael Jackson's life. In both his, and Farrah's memory, here is a little reminder that beating to a different drum when it comes to style is always the right rythmn. Whether it be a white glove, a fabulous feathered hairdo, or even a little black dress...
In the words of Coco Chanel... "Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening."
CLICK ON ANY PHOTO TO READ A LITTLE ABOUT HOW THESE FABULOUS FOLK’S FASHION RISKS CHANGED STYLE HISTORY:

Thirsty Thursday's Weekend Travel Guide!

THIRSTY THURSDAY’S WEEKEND TRAVEL GUIDE OK so here is the deal... thanks to souring fuel prices, most airlines aren’t exactly making weekend travel easy... so what does a true Recessionista do? VIVA la carry on! Sorry girls, leave the “kitchen sink” at home. $15-$25 each way for a checked bag is more than a few mojitos by the beach. I know what you’re thinking, “How am I going to do that?” What will I bring? What if I forget something?... DON’T WORRY! That is what Closet Karma’s Weekend Travel edition is for. We do all the work, so you can sit back relax and have a vacation in a Staycation economy!
It is Monday morning in the Midwest. You’re drooling as you daydream of a delightful detour from life... a word that has become foreign in your vocabulary the past year... VACATION!... Sadly, your mind drifts years back to your senior spring break... you never thought you’d be jealous of foam parties and tequila contests... but alas you are. You need a weekend of culture, laughter, and girl power! So why not Napa? “Napa?!” I know what you are thinking... “Are you crazy?! How could I ever afford Napa?!” The tastings alone will blow the budget, not to mention I have nothing to wear and have not been able to shop in months!” Well, Thirsty Thursday travel edition is about to show you a side of Napa that is not only affordable, but puts the B in Budgetnista!
NAPA FASHION: While Napa’s somieniete may not have the shiekness of a NYC Bistro, Napa itself was primarily a farming community, so it has a down home country feel. Everything is about casual and comfort. If it weren’t for the Tuscan esq. rolling hills and ridiculous wine, you would swear you were in the hearlland, not Northern California. Shorts are totally acceptable in most establishments, and so are dogs! Dressing up in Napa is about accessorizing. Think bright colored necklaces with a great cotton sundress, or a fabulous pair of earrings to dress up your linen pants. Perfect conditions for packing light and you won’t have to worry about an iron!
WHAT TO PACK: 2 pairs of flip-flops, one for day and one for night. 1 pair of comfy platforms or heels. Anything that says strappy and straw will do! A few tank tops and a pair of jeans or shorts. 1 wrap in case you get chilly. 2 sundresses And a bag of your favorite accessories that will dress up any cotton dress!
WHAT TO BUY UNDER $50: Napa has two main shopping areas on Washington Street in Yountville, and the other on Main Street in St. Helena. While the shopping may not be the most unique, (you will find a lot of brands you can find anywhere) if you look closely at some of the art galleries, especially on Washington Street, you will find jewelry from some northern California designers. We found Holly Yashi earrings to be totally affordable ranging from $14-$30 at North Bay Galleries. And if you are feeling the need to splurge and you want to dress like the “locals” check out Taye and Grace. She has an array of sundresses coupled with island jewelry to give you the true Napa flair. Either item will be easy to pack in your carry on!
WINE AND WARDROBE: I’d rather spend my money on buying fabulous wines than tasting it! And a lot of fantastic vineyards seem to agree! First up, V. Sattuti V. Sattuti is probably the most affordable of all the vineyards. You can print a free tasting coupon online at wine.com or econcierge.com or you can pay just $5.00 to taste. Their Sauvignon Blanc is light, amazing and only $18.75 a bottle. Think: Flip flops, cut off shorts, and gabbing with the gals. The vineyard also makes its own Mozzarella and has free cheese tasting to boot! The deli is amazing and the only one of its kind in Napa. Perfect for a picnic and pinot!
Cakebread: We couldn’t find any coupons for Cakebread online, however, their $10 tasting includes a very intimate tour of the whole location. Tasting groups are never more than 8 people, so you are sure to get the attention you need unlike some of the other cattle call type tasting rooms. Their Rubaiyat Merlot blend is sure to impress a new first date without looking like you’re trying too hard. Think:, a pair of Target jeans topped off with a fire engine red Jimmy Choo. The bottle will run you $32.00 and has an expert from Edward Fitzgerald’s translation of the poem Rubiayat... VERY SWANKY!
Merryvale Merryvale is fantastic because it is one of the few wineries open past 5pm. You can taste until 6:30pm and then pop next store to Trevigne for dinner where there is no corkage fee for wines bought from the estate. You can find coupons online for Merryvale tastings at winecountry.com.
Artesa We almost didn’t make it to Artesa due to time constraints, but if we hadn’t stopped we would have been sorely missing out! Not only are the wines consistently fabulous, the location is breathtaking and literally looks like a Tuscan country side. The history of the architecture in itself is worth the trip! The wine tour takes you through the base of the buildings pyramid structure where Gregorian chants play as a blessing over the wine. The vineyard is owned by Spaniards so of course their Tempranillo wine is the most popular bottle. Costing only $25.00, you will want to throw on your brightest red lipstick, curl your hair, and dance the Flemenco the minute you crack open the bottle. Looking for a reason to wear your little black dress and pearls? Try one of their Pinots! Starting at $25.00 with Carneros, their pinot’s are sure to make you feel pretty! Two for the one tasting coupons are available at winecountry.com as well as winetasting.com. Not to mention they offer 33% discount to people in the restaurant or wine industry! Artesa definitely understands the Budgenista!
ADDITIONAL FREE TASTING LOCATIONS:
-FOLIO (located down the street from Artesa and free with online coupon) -BURGESS -CARTILEDGE AND BROWN
NO CORKAGE FEE RESTAURANTS: http://www.gofishrestaurant.net/ http://www.cindysbackstreetkitchen.com/ http://www.jolerestaurant.com/ http://www.silveradobrewingcompany.com/ http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/6/766576/restaurant/Napa/Rutherford-Grill-Rutherford