'Productivity' doesn't just refer to the amount of goods made or services performed; it describes how much an employee may contribute to the financial operation of a business or organization. At first sound, it doesn't make much sense to suggest "slowing down to speed up", but the more you think about it, the more it is manifest.
Slow down with your customers: when you're interacting with clients, your relationship matters almost more than the products/goods you're selling. If the client feels rushed, chances are they don't feel like you're listening. Fast service often equates to unfriendly service. If you've taken the time to woo your clients, inviting them in, pitching new goods/services, and setting aside some time to converse and develop a more meaningful relationship, why shortchange them and rush the experience? If you're in the business of relationships, your goal should be for the client to feel as though you're their only client of the day, giving them your full attention, courtesy, and care. Furthermore, if you pretend they're your only client for the day, you'll also be more in tune with their needs and maximize their spending potential.
Slow down with your employees: when you're constantly rushing from task to task, event to event, meeting to meeting, or location to location, you're often missing out on the power of observation. How do you implement best practices, let alone have the opportunity to make any decent observations? If you're always in a rush, you're setting the tone for your employees and teammates to also speed things up, in turn cutting corners, sacrificing quality for lackluster quantity. Not only will your employees pick up on this behavior, your customers will notice as well. Employees who feel appreciated and enjoy their job environment always work harder, smarter, and pass this positivism on to your clients. Everyone wins.
Slow down with yourself: even the most organized, disciplined multitaskers need a break. It's impossible to always "be on" without taking time to recharge the body, mind, and soul. Whether it's incorporating lunch daily away from your industry, colleagues, and office, planning a quick coffee break or walk around the parking lot, or ultimately a holiday away from life as you know it, getting away, taking a moment to slow the pace and breathe, will allow for greater successes upon your return.
Slow down your interactions: our society is "on-demand" - we want what we want, when we want it, and exactly how we've planned. Sometimes, switching up your interactions will cause your clients, coworkers, and even your competitors to rethink their own agendas. If you always walk the same path from your office to the toilet, choose a different direction. If you always eat in the same cafe, try somewhere new. When you alter your vantage point, you see things differently.
My favorite journalism professor in college taught some powerful life lessons. She'd encourage us to take "walk-abouts" - getting into our community, looking for the extraordinary in our everyday. What looks different? Why is something the way it is? What motivation do you see? What energy is present? What is the tone of your surroundings? If you take a moment to get out of the box, you'll think outside of the box, too.
I'd ask you to stop what you're doing right now, but I hope you at least finish reading my humble thoughts. So when you've completed this moment, I encourage you to do the following exercise:
turn off your mobile communication devices
go outside (either your home or office)
take a quick walk. Introduce yourself to someone you don't know. If you see employees working, family members positively contributing, children behaving, be sure to stop for a moment, meaningfully observe, and thank them for their contributions.
observe. What do you see that you love? What can you improve? What can you enhance of yourself?
When you slow down, you ultimately speed things up.
You don't really need a reason to shop. It's instant gratification, and can be an addiction for some. Whether it's things you need, things you think you need to have, or a splurge of any size, shopping brings a bit of excitement and fulfillment. When brands partner with a worthy cause or community, everyone wins. When done well, the company makes even more money than they would have without that mission based hook, and the organization / cause / philanthropy / community gains much needed support and awareness.
Take Starbucks for example. Beginning in 2013, the coffee giant pledged to hire 10,000 military veterans and spouses by 2018, and have already surpassed their halfway mark. They also have more than a dozen "military family" stores, in markets with large military communities, that're run primarily by military veterans and spouses. In addition to having special recognition on each apron (with an American flag and "military veteran" or "military spouse" under their name), these locations also have a local charity or organization they support that in turn supports local veterans and military families.
Soma Intimates raises money and awareness for a myriad of women's and children's health organizations, including Children's Miracle Network hospitals, breast cancer awareness, the American Heart Association, and the National Network to End Domestic Violence.
Cook's heaven Williams-Sonoma supports No Kid Hungry, sharing their strength and the strength of their generous clientele to end childhood hunger in America, by donating a portion of the proceeds from the sale of special merchandise and raising cash donations. For the past few years, celebrities and chefs have designed wonderfully whimsical spatulas specifically for the campaign. A very worth cause - as one in ten children statistically go to school hungry in America.
Some organizations exist solely to support their own community - like the Navy, Army, and Air Force Exchanges. Not only do the semi-governmental agencies bring quality goods and services at competitive prices, they also donate a large portion of their profits to the moral, welfare, and recreation of their constituents.
My favorite mission based retail of all is (RED). (RED) was founded in 2006 by U2's rockin' front man Bono and the charitable and brilliant Bobby Shriver to get businesses and people involved in the fight against AIDS, particularly in places where the people have no access, education, or resources to fight for their lives.
The difference between (RED) and other charities, is that it's not a charity - it's a choice. As a consumer, there are things you already know you're going to buy. When you choose (RED) products and companies, they're often the same price as non-(RED) items, but profits and donations are made to the organization.
Today, of the nearly 37 million people in the
world living with HIV, nearly 15 million have access to life-saving
treatment that costs as little as 30 cents a day. While this is
incredible progress, we've still got a lot of work to do to ensure that
all those who need medication have access to it.
(RED) was
created to help provide a sustainable flow of money from the private
sector to fight AIDS. Together, they've raised over $324 million to date through the
sale of (RED) products from iconic companies - like Apple and Starbucks
– and from (RED) events. And 100% of that money goes to work on the
ground. Because of the progress made in the fight against
AIDS, the world is now on the cusp of an incredible possibility – we can
deliver the first AIDS FREE GENERATION in over 30 years. Every day 600
babies are born with HIV. Yet with access to antiretroviral treatment,
we can prevent the transmission of the virus from moms to babies.
Without it, 50% of babies will die before their second birthday. Only urgency and action will help us achieve the goal. If we act now,
an AIDS FREE GENERATION can become a reality. The question is not ‘Can
we do it?... It’s ‘Will we do it?’
Use your buying power for good. Turn your dollars into sense.
Thank you for still making "in a for here cup" an option.
Love,
Joseph
Our society is "on demand" - everything must be "when I want it, just how I want it, and fast!" But sometimes our quest to hurry up and wait makes us miss the point or goal. It's not necessarily where we're going, but the journey in itself. Pick one day each month, or even one hour each day, to purposefully slow down. Take the long way home. Park as far from the door of your destination as possible. Order your coffee "for here" and actually sit to enjoy the flavors. When you're not rushed, you can taste like you've never tasted, you can think like you've never thought, and you can truly be your best self.
Maybe it's the deep rooted nostalgic bit talking, but I love that "old fashioned" way of doing things some times. Investing the time, the resources, and the thought show your concern, your care, and your love. Treat yourself and those around you, and try something from yesterday. Prepare a wholesome meal from scratch; send a handwritten note or card to a friend; walk, don't drive, to your destination.
"Coffee culture" is a big deal, especially in Europe and South America. Espresso in the all day long at the bar, always standing up, prepared methodically and lovingly served in a ceramic cup. You might spend only 20-30 seconds drinking the actual coffee, but the trip, the conversation, and the experience are just as energizing as the caffeinated brew. In the morning, with more time to spend pondering life and planning the day, it's cappuccino: the perfect portion of steamed, frothy milk and bold, beautiful espresso. (Side bar / travel tip: when you're traveling throughout Italia, or are experiencing any proper caffe, don't order a cappuccino after breakfast time. Definitely faux pas.) After all, time is the ultimate currency.
Speaking of slowing down, you can slow down your appearance and the aging process by focusing your skincare, not just on your face, but on your hands. The hands take so much abuse - from being in the sun whilst driving, from the countless washings, dryings, and exposure to every element. Just as you exfoliate, moisturize, treat, and protect your face, you should do the same for your hands. You can always get a "face lift" later in life, but a "hand lift" is a bit more out of reach.
When you slow down, you minimize distractions and maximize your thoughts, your hopes, and your intentions. And thus, slowing down might actually speed you up.
Whether we want to acknowledge it or not, we're all connected to nature and Mother Earth. When the seasons change, it's easy to implement other changes in your life as well. Wash away the winter blues and prepare to blossom with spring cleaning. Shed those unwanted pounds and dull skin in the spring with a fresh outlook and lifestyle for summer. Now that it's all, we're bundling up more, enjoying time outside as much as possible, and preparing ourselves for holidays, family gatherings, and other traditions. Here are a few things I love, that just may help you get in the spirit, add a little dash of style + class to your day, and optimize your time so you can ultimately be your best self.
I've talked about the many benefits of candles multiple times, but it's always worth mentioning again. Candles are the easiest way to add ambiance and festive cheer to any space. As autumn's crisp nights creep upon us, I love the warmth, soft glow, and pleasant scents that great candles provide. Choose candles that are as natural as possible, so they don't leave soot or irritate allergies. In the fall months, I love fragrances that are a little spicier, like amber, cinnamon, and clove, with dashes of brightness, like citrus or herbs, and deeper woods, like sandalwood, teakwood, and oud. Agraria Home has a fabulous bitter orange, Nest offers Hearth, Diptyque Paris now features Oud, and Firefood from Henri Bendel are all sure wins.
You've spent the summer outside, holidayed as much as possible, and exposed virtually every inch of your body to the summer sun - it's time now to prepare for the cooler, drier months ahead and refocus your skincare routine.
Exfoliating is very important. Once or twice weekly, gently slough away dead skin cells and other icky irritants. You can either physically exfoliate, by using a textured masque or scrub, mechanically exfoliate, with a sonic brush that literally polishes the skin, or chemically exfoliate, with powerful acidic solutions and serums. Choose a natural product, free from fillers and other harsh ingredients, and always consult your dermatologist if you're going to try something drastic. I love Origins' Never a Dull Moment. It's made with ground mango and apricot seeds, crushed walnut shells, and powerful papaya and grapefruit extracts, dissolving lackluster dead skin, revealing more radiant, fresh, and renewed skin. It's good for all skin types, smells delicious, and is gentle and effective enough to use a few times per week. My skincare maven and friend for life Linda F. recommends Peter Thomas Roth's firmX peeling gel - a potent potion of multi-action enzymes from pineapple, pomegranate, and keratinase, with cellulose
that effectively peel and help uncover a smooth, fresh, new complexion
without drying, irritating or causing undue stress to skin. Also excellent at removing impurities and decongests clogged pores for a youthful, radiant look.
Cleanse the skin, preferably both morning and night. Look for a wash that leaves the skin feeling crisp and cool, without over drying. Face washes don't have to be complicated or overly fragrant - I look for one that foams, leaving behind no residue for that squeaky clean feel. In the summer, I find my skin is a bit more oily, so I'll look for a wash containing a bit of salicylic acids and fruit enzymes, to cut down on the shine. Intended for acne, Philosophy's Clear Days Ahead is frequently in my rotation - this gel packs a powerful punch on bothersome breakouts. Plus the orange extract leaves skin feeling fresh and radiant - and smells incredibly refreshing. Because Philosophy's Clear Days Ahead can be a bit too drying, I limit its use to the summertime or for troublesome times only. Year round, I love Biotherm Homme's Aquapower Cleanser, This powerful double-action daily cleanser, which also includes a small dose of exfoliating power,
effectively removes impurities while refreshing the skin. Its
ultra-cleansing fresh gel formula contains a combination of
oligo-elements and potent cleansing agents that leave the skin soft,
comfortable and exceptionally fresh.
Moisturize and Protect - after you've exfoliated and cleansed the skin, it's time to moisturize and protect. I look for products that protect against dehydration, deterioration, and oxidation, like Origins' A Perfect World serum, Just one tiny drop of this workhorse literally stops the clock on aging, protecting the skin from damaging environmental factors like smog, stress, and other oxidizers and keeps skin looking fresh, toned, and radiant. I also love Murad's Invisiblur Perfecting Shield - a one-stop-shop for anti-aging, flawless looking skin and protection from the sun's harmful rays (and is really great for both men and women).
And I'm absolutely adoring Tom Ford's oil free daily moisturizer for men. This lightweight,
quick-absorbing,
skin-mattifying
moisturize urses
the
Tom
Ford Skin
Calming
and
Infusing
Complexes
with
a
combination
of
luxurious
butters
to hydrate
your
skin,
help
reverse
dullness
and
help
reduce
the
look
of
fine
lines and pores.
It
leaves
your
face
looking
toned,
polished
and re energized, without looking primped or too done.
Spot treat with masques: sometimes all you need is a quick "rescue" - whether sudden dryness, breakouts, or too much oil and shine, a quick masque will often steer your skin back on track in no time. Exfoliate and cleanse as normal, then apply a thick layer of the masque to face, neck, and decollete. Let the masque work its magic for 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and continue with your regimen. For dry skin or a quick moisture surge, I love Fresh's Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask - their special blend of black tea ferment and extracts of blackberry leaf, black tea, and lychee seed pump the breaks on free radicals and restore skin's elasticity, while Belle de Nuit extract soothes and rebalances the skin to optimal condition, peptides firm the skin and visibly defy the signs of gravity, and hyaluronic acid attracts and maintains moisture for smooth, sheer suppleness. Origins' Out of Trouble is a just what the doctor ordered to fix over productive pores, prevent pesky pimples, and put the kibosh on shine. It packs a one-two punch with super absorbent zinc oxide and sulfur. (Side note: If you didn't already know, products with zinc oxide naturally block harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun and light sources, has natural anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, is a natural astringent, and reduces pore size. If you suffer from Rosacea, Psoriasis, Eczema, diaper rash, or dandruff, products and foods with zinc may be your answer.) It also contains Camphor, which naturally calms the skin. You'll notice a smoother texture and clearer skin in no time.
If you travel frequently, or want to make sure you're prepared without breaking the bank, Origins offers the perfect dose of masks in convenient travel or "just in case" sizes.
If you're like me, you can't live without your iDevices - whether iPhone, iPod, iPad, or iWhatever, they're an essential part to our everyday function. And that means one thing - we must always have power. My favorite chords and charging accessories are from Blue Flame. The cables are brilliantly braided and secured, preventing the dreaded "cable split" so typical of the basic white bits provided by the fruits at Apple. I had a Blue Flame cable last several years with my last iPhone, and immediately went out when I updated last. Especially handy if you travel or are frequently on the go, I've had no problems whatsoever.
Makes a great stocking stuffer or Secret Santa gift at the office holiday party, too.
Don't get me wrong - espresso has a place in my life, regardless of the temperature outside or season we're celebrating, but it's nice to finally enjoy hot beverages now that the temperatures and leaves are falling. I'm loving hot beverages, especially piping hot coffee. Williams-Sonoma stocks a delicious concentrate of five different apple varieties, making for a quick and easy pot of mulled cider. I can't get enough of Teavana's Pineapple Kona Pop herbal tea, either. When I was growing up, my Mom would make a delicious "percolator punch" - a marvelous mix of equal parts pineapple juice and cranberry juice, with cinnamon, cardamom, clove, and ginger in the percolator basket. I think it'd be really nice to mix this Pineapple Kona Pop with Mom's "percolator punch" for an added layer of tasty treat. And for a boozy punch, a mighty measure of Solerno Blood Orange liqueur will make mouths happy.
My favorite activity during fall: spending time with family + friends. Get outside. Throw a cocktail party. Just because. Take a hike. Literally! Keep a soccer ball in the trunk (boot) of your car for a random pickup game in the park. Open the windows, feel the fresh air, and remember why you're alive. Be spontaneous. While it's important to look to the future, don't forget to see your now.
Do you value shock? A single event that stops you in your tracks, paralyzing your ability to comprehend, to breathe, to process. Nothing else matters.
I think it's safe to understand that no business values shock, save electricians and power providers. However, some businesses' response to shock seems to promote the ensuing behavior. This can be easily avoided with consistent training, coaching-in-the-moment, and not only establishing expectations, but holding those expectations accountable.
For example, Starbucks has a very simple policy: if the customer doesn't like their beverage, with no questions asked, the Barista will remake the drink or offer a refund. Plain and simple. I can't tell you how many times I've witnessed customers react so angrily, so hastily. Over coffee! We're not talking about an event so detrimental to your health, let alone your existence, to merit such a heinous response. Regardless, customers still go overboard, reacting unnecessarily. What's so incredible is that Starbucks trains their employees on how to react; relationships are a priority.
Just yesterday, I witnessed a customer berating the Barista because she received the "wrong sandwich". Now you must understand, I heard the Barista myself seek clarity and repeat the customer's order. Which is exactly what she received, but not what she was hoping for. After spewing anger and hate, demanding to speak to the manager (which the Barista involved was actually the shift manager to start with), the Barista apologized, remade the not-requested-but-hoped-for panino, and even thanked the customer for their business. I was so impressed with her ability to hold control of the situation and demonstrate kindness, in addition to the very ethos of the brand, when the customer displayed the exact opposite.
This type of professional behavior can be replicated in any business. Treat everyone like a "guest", and you won't get lost.
G: Greet. You must greet your customers. A quick "hello" or "welcome to ____" sets the tone. Make sure your tone is sprite and springlike, as a disingenuous welcome instantly detracts from the business. If the client is on the telephone or in conversation, a simple smile and wave will announce your attention and signal you're availabilty.
U: Understand. Why are your clients there? Are they taking a stroll through your boutique, gathering ideas and enjoying the day? Are they comparison shopping, looking to gather education and data? Maybe they'll just "know it when they see it". Whatever their intentions - as the salesperson, it's your job to find out what exactly the client is hoping to accomplish, and make that happen. And then some.
E: Explain. What can you do for them? Once you've identified what exactly they're hoping to accomplish, explain what you can do for them, both immediately and longterm. This can be as simple as helping the client find the perfect dress to wear to for a special occasion, or as complex as executing customer business enterprise solutions.
S: Suggest and sell. You've identified the clients' needs and explained what you can do for them. Now it's time to hit the ball out of the park and set the wheels in motion. Suggest solutions to meet their needs and ask for the sale. All too often, employees will identify the needs of the customer, present a solution, but never ask for the close. To me, that's like creating a menu, shopping for the groceries, spending all day preparing a beautiful meal, but then never serving the dishes. You must ask for the sale!
I understand you're looking for a new vehicle. You want something classy, with great power, loaded with every amenity and safety feature available, that will last you the better part of a decade and grow with both you and your lifestyle to come. I suggest the 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE Coupe. Shall we place the order for your new car?
I recognize selling a car usually brings a much lengthier process and requires infinite more resources, but you get the gist. Ask for the sale.
T: Thank. What was the original goal of the customer? To purchase goods or services? To gain education and insight? To try something new? Whatever the reason, thank your customer. Invite them to return. Tell them you want to stay in touch, ask for their contact information, and do something with it. Within a week, send a quick thank you note. It must be hand written. Short, sweet, and to the point.
Hello Mrs. Thompson,
I hope this message finds you well. I want to thank you for stopping in to the boutique today. I know you're going to love your new Lady Dior bag. Remember, the bag is made of luxurious lambskin, so be sure to keep it away from your dark denims. I hope to see you soon! à bientôt, Joseph Within two weeks of sending the note, follow up with a phone call. Your reason for calling: securing future business. Your approach, making sure you had the right address on file, that they received the note, and that they're loving their purchase. This will massively decrease product returns and ensure happiness with the customer. It also allows for even more understanding about your client. In the example above, where did Mrs. Thompson first take her new Lady Dior bag? Was she celebrating a special occasion (that you should be notating in her client file for future acknowledgement), or was it "just because..." Learning why clients buy, understanding their motivation and spending abilities, will help you with future business engagements.
You've now officially started clienteleing - or leveraging your professional relationships to drive the business. With consistency and practice, you'll grow your network of customers and clients beyond measure. And once you're at the next level, it will never matter again what good or service you're selling - you'll always have a strong customer base loyal to you.
Treating your clients like GUESTs every time is only enhanced by your attitude. Find your voice. In the car example above, if I worked for the very storied Mercedes-Benz, I'd learn about German culture. Maybe offer clients' children a small bag of Haribo gummy bears or sign every thank you note with a simple and easily translated danke. The simple gestures can exceed your clients' expectations, setting you above and beyond the competition, and ultimately benefit the sales probability and outcome.
A friend asked if this method is applicable to more than just traditional retail situations. The answer: absolutely.
Imagine for a moment that you're an insurance salesman. Of course, you'll follow an established sales tactic: become well versed in your products and services, identify potential clients, pitch your solutions, ask for the sale, and close the transaction. But it doesn't stop there. Clients want to know that you're going to grow with them, not just sell them one product and move along. Regardless of what you're selling, you must include the promise of future growth and commitment between you (or your company) and the client. If you're selling software, will you offer regular check-ins to train new employees? Will you reassess the clients' business needs on a consistent schedule, ensuring the right solutions for the right needs? Do you offer a discount or incentive to purchase additional products/services/solutions in the future?
It's not always what product or service you're selling, but the access to your expertise and assistance in the future. In the world of computers and telecommunications, Apple not only sells wonderful products, they also push solutions and prioritizes the customer relationship. Senior Vice President of Retail Angela Ahrendts doesn't just bring the style and class of Burberry to the table, but a commitment to building trust and longevity with their very valuable customers.
Sometimes, unconventional leaders are the way to drive the business to unexpected heights. Many might have questioned why the fruitful technology giant would have lured a luxury fashion executive, but for those who know Ms. Ahrendts' critical thinking abilities, quest for excellence in customer experience, and remarkable methods to not only capture clients' attention but their loyalty and lifelong business, it was no surprise. Subsequently, her realigning of the eCommerce department with the traditional brick-and-mortar retail department has already increased profits, minimized expenditures, and maximized customers' opinions.
In short, treat your customers like you want to be treated. Maximize each opportunity to strengthen the relationship, further your brand's awareness, and be honest. After all, the answer is no...until you ask.
-- furniture with electrical outlets built in - like the couches, benches, and tables at Starbucks. you can never have enough electrical outlets it seems, and it definitely eliminates potential trip hazards, unsightly power cords, and is such a convenience.
-- I'm loving the Hermes and Tom Ford fragrances for men. Scent-sational.
-- for those who love comfortable luxury + travel, here's the perfect chair: DWR's Flight Recliner. in 2005, we posed a challenge to award-winning designer Jeffrey Bernett to create a recliner that didn't look like a recliner. Armed with experience designing ergonomic in-flight seating for Northwest Airlines, Bernett took us on willingly. He designed the Flight Recliner, in collaboration with Nicholas Dodziuk, to have none of the bulkiness or macho pretense of a traditional recliner. Upright, the Flight Recliner functions as a comfortable, streamlined club chair. Opened, using a patented conversion mechanism that takes only a slight, seated push to activate, it unfolds to hold the body aloft, with support from head to toe. This Recliner is upholstered in Ultrasuede, an innovative micro-fabric that’s pet and kid friendly. In addition to being easy to care for, this modern material has a soft luster, sensuous nap and available in a choice of shades. A stainless steel sleigh base provides stable footing. The frame is protected by a lifetime warranty. Made in U.S.A.
-- I love the llano 18" pillow from CB2. green and gray are two of my favourite colours, and i always try to find unique pillows - i love the mix and match look. i have a sand coloured leather sectional sofa, very modern and stream lined, but have it loaded with pillows of all shapes, sizes, and shades of green.
dimensions:llano pillow. 18" sq.
field day. Curvy fronds cluster abstract on a fluid plain of green, yellow, white, dark brown on light brown. 100% cotton square flips to solid green.
100% cotton
Reverses to solid green
Feather-down insert
Hidden zipper closure
Dry clean only
Made in India
US$ 39,95
-- I'm loving the casual elegance of linen in the home - especially for table cloths, runners, placemats, napkins, etc. Don't worry about the wrinkles - it adds charm and character. I'm especially loving the linens from Kim Seybert, Libeco Ligae, Garnier-Thiebaut.
As thought and seen from the comfort of the Starbucks leather armchair:
Today is Cinco de Mayo, the day when Americans pretend to care about and live Mexico, when really it's just another excuse to party and drink one too many shots of tequila. Regardless of the reason, I love festive moods. And it's my brother's birthday! So we're having our share if birthday shots and pretend the mariachi band is just a birthday band coincidence.
A couple just came in. Think cowboys from the ranch. With matching wrangler jeans, he in a plaid shirt, her in a halter top. My favorite part? She had a fake Valentino handbag. Incredible.
Then a guy comes in wearing flip flops, board shorts, and an overly baggy golf shirt. We're not near the beach. Or the pool. Surf stuff belongs on the sands. And golf gear belongs on the links. Not together. And definitely not at inland Starbucks.
Then there's the eastern European man, about mid-30s, with his laptop, iPad, iPod, and iPhone. He needs to get an iLife. I, too, like well-fitting designer jeans. But the so-skinny-we-can-see-that-you're-not-Jewish variety is unacceptable. And for the love of Jesus y Maria, sunglasses are for when it's sunny - not indoors in coffee shops.
Ooh - actually someone with fabulous style arrived. She's got on these sexy python printed gray pumps, with a gray, black, and bright yellow houndstooth skirt, skinny patent leather bright yellow belt, and a very light gray silky looking tanktop. If she didn't scoot in and out so quickly, I would have gone all Scott Schuman and taken a fabulous picture of her and posted here for your enjoyment.
Seeing her bright belt made me remember the spread in thus month's US version of GQ - it's all about men's belts. I couldn't agree more - complimenting, yet contrasting belts in brilliant colours are the perfect way to add some pizzazz and panache to your look. I have a bright orange canvas belt with off-white trim that I'm loving with khaki suits or white pants. And there's another orange Hermes belt I just can't get enough of.
I feel like there's a sudden invasion of designer watches again. I know fashion is cyclical. And we saw big emphasis on watches a few years back. But even mid- markets are seeing luxury watch stores. Like Jacksonville, FL and Nashville, TN and Indianapolis, IN are suddenly home to luxury watch stores. Omega used to be the top tier for the Swatch Watch kingdom - but with so many access points popping up, the luxe factor is diminishing. Sure, the watches are incredibly well done, but one of the biggest parts of luxury is exclusivity. When Dior opened outlet stores, loyal customers felt the brand was cheapened and too accessible. (thankfully, the outlet in tourism centric Orlando, FL has closed shop!)
I love summertime. Especially when girls are running outside more often, getting fit, tan, and healthy. One girl just walked in here to Starbucks who I recognize from my frequent neighborhood runs. Her khaki skirt, casually rumpled chambray shirt, and flirty, fun flats were perfect compliments to her sunkissed skin and beautiful blonde locks.
Well, it's 4 o'clock and it's time to meet my brother and his wife. We'll be at the cantina for tequila and guacamole, but not to pretend we supported Mexico in their battle against France so many years ago. Today we celebrate his birth, and the fact that we're fortunate enough to be together and drink in the middle of the day.
Sent from my iPhone from the comfort of Starbucks.
So a little bluebird told me that Starbucks will be releasing their super hot, always a sellout plastic insulated cups in the US market on 4 May.
I first got the double-walled insulated, PBA-free grande sized cup a few summers ago, and I must say that it is one of the most fabulous cups I've ever (re)used. Not just because Starbucks gives you a discount every time you use it, but because it keeps your drinks cold, requires less ice, and since it's double-walled, it doesn't sweat with condensation.
Then last summer I bought the larger Venti size - and love it equally as the original grande version.
The grande and venti plastic cups are a little smaller than their disposable doubles, but don't worry - the guidelines on the side of the reusable versions are altered, as they require less ice (since they insulate and stay cooler longer). So the amount of beverage you get from the reusable cup is just the same as the disposable cup.
In the giant universe of seemingly infinite quantities of voices shouting out their opinions and views on style and fashion, I think my voice has a different pitch. I've been the sales force and leadership at both big box retailers and luxury fashion boutiques, I've consulted with luxury boutiques and companies for a handful of years now, and I've been personal shopping for a discerning group of fabulous citizens. I've been behind the counter, in front of the shareholders, and held the pocketbooks, and draw on these three views when looking at the magnetic world of beauty, fashion, and style.
One of the biggest messages I present to clients, whether in consulting or personal shopping, is simple in word and powerful in meaning: selling the message, the romance, and the story behind any product is just as important as the product itself.
It's most than just an appeal to your customers' emotion. Starbucks doesn't just sell bottled water called "Ethos" - it has contributed more than US$6,2 million for one powerful mission: to bring clean water to children around the world, and raise awareness of the global water crisis.
LVMH - Moët Hennessy • Louis Vuitton has captured the essence of luxury living with their new website Nowness. Fashion, Art, Culture, and Travel. The most captivating multimedia experience, Nowness highlights the inspiration, the pulse, and the unadulterated spirit of all things luxe. There are no products for sale. There are no giant advertisements even pushing products.
I read an article in one of Conde Nast's fashion magazines for men recently that highlighted the attention to detail, the attitude, and the charming character of some of the world's best dressed men. Sure, being outfitted in some of the most sought after designs can make you look good; but possessing real depth, real character, and real manners, compassion, and joy make you look world class.
The same can be said for luxury fashion labels. Whether Haute Couture or of humble design and construction, when the inspiration, the depth, and the character of the brand's design is visible and understood, you suddenly appreciate and feel more affinity for that brand. To the unknowing shopper, Vietri is just another maker of dinnerware and flatware; yet to the educated client, Vietri is a fabulous American company founded by a mother and her daughters (the name Vietri signifying three lives) who fell in love with the ceramics they saw while on vacation in Italy, extended their trip to allow time to source a vendor, and began selling high quality Italian dinnerware in America. And I must say, bringing a beautiful plate from the freezer to the oven to the table is incredible luxury and convenience!
Everyone likes to feel good. As consumers, we want to know that the companies we love are doing their best to bring us the best possible product at the best possible price while making the best possible decisions. We understand that quality costs money, and you get what you pay for. And behind the counter on the business end, we understand that without quality products, and more importantly, without customers, our business would simply not exist.
Fashion travels. Style speaks. Fashion rocks. Style is art. Style and Fashion are now. Are you?
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