Shop Talk

Online Dating...

2009-07-16T11:44:00.001-07:00

“I had this guy leave me a voicemail at work, so I called him at home, and then he emailed me to my BlackBerry, and so I texted to his cell, and now you just have to go around checking all these different portals just to get rejected by seven different technologies.

It's exhausting.” Does this sound familiar? In the movie He’s Just Not that Into You, Drew Barrymore’s character Mary states the quote above.

Oh, the joys of dating in a networking world. Facebook, Myspace, eHarmony, Match.com, Plenty of Fish, Cupid.com… yes I have tried them all and oh do I have some stories! Seriously maybe these men on the dating services are still single for a reason or maybe I just need some tutoring on how to find the sane ones that can say more than “you have a great smile wanna talk” or worse “Hey wuz sup how are u doing and how is day” come on at least spell out what your trying to say, your not texting me and still that’s not a good enough excuse for having partially misspelled words. Yes, I can say that I have gone out on a few dates in respect to these sites but as of where I stand at the moment there has been no clicking. One of the first dates I went on was actually through Match and the guy who was with talked right off the bat about meeting my family, and me not having to work if he could support me…. Woah hold on there feller, I see myself working I want to achieve my goals and not looking for any man to hold me back by having me stay at home for the whole day!

I have to say though that I know many people that have had success with online dating and some who have even married those they have connected with through these sites. I do have to make a point though that there is a difference in all these sites and why they charge what they charge. Plenty of Fish is a free dating site and its free for a reason, don’t expect to meet a decent person on this site, also women be aware that married men are openly allowed to join this site and are mainly looking for younger ladies to have a good time with (if you do want to try dating online for free on this site just remember to set your settings allowing no married men to contact you, I learned that face a little too late). Match.com costs about $34 a month (there are also package deals). I have to say that date wise I have had the most success with this site, there are a lot of men who are about in the same realm as I am at this moment. eHarmony is where dating gets a little pricey, the men I have had a chance to date on this site have yes had the money too actually afford the payments and not freak out about spending the money but what comes with that is selfishness. The men from eHarmony seemed to care more about themselves, if they had the choice they would stare at themselves in the mirror all day thinking how fabulous they were. This is totally my experience, I do know many people who have met their match on these dating sites and could say the opposite of what I stated. Maybe I just need a tutorial on how to fill out an online profile of myself correctly?

Just like what Barrymore stated in He’s Just Not that Into You, these days dating involves a variety of technological networking systems whether it be, Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, online dating services, or texts. Have we forgotten how to have a face to face conversation with someone, have we given up with our own fate and begun to rely on the internet to choose our compatible partners for us. Maybe its time we talk to our elders on dating advice?

The Girl in the Red Scarf

Reap What You Sew Fashion Show This Weekend in Lincoln

2008-12-19T10:49:00.000-08:00

I seem to find out about most events that are happening around Lincoln when I’m drinking at O’Rourkes with friends on the weekend. A few weekends ago, I got word from my neighbor about a fashion show she was planning. I’ve written about almost every fashion boutique that has opened up in Lincoln over the past few years and I try to stay on top of the fashion world as it happens in little ol’ Lincoln, Neb., and one thing that I don’t see too often is fashion shows.

But this Saturday, Dec. 20th, Erica White, a UNL textiles design graduate student, will be showcasing her work at Box Awesome, 815 O St. I talked to Julie Reynolds, my neighbor and the coordinator of the show, and got some specifics about the event and Erica’s fashions.

Erica is from North Carolina and has had fashion shows while living down south, but is new to Lincoln and wants to get her clothes known here. After Erica and Julie met a few months ago, they teamed up to set up this show--the Reap What You Sew Fashion Show. Erica is all about having Earth-conscious clothes and using 100 percent recycled fabric for her designs. The focus on this show is the use of T-shirt material and a wearable, comfortable style.

There’s also going to be music provided by DJ Dr. Zhivago, The Heat Machine and Crush the Clown. It should be a pretty eventful night, with a focus besides just music and drinks. Doors open at 7 p.m., the show starts at 8 p.m. and admission is $5. Advance tickets are available at Anu Salon at 11th and B streets in Lincoln.

--Nancy Petitto

Shop News: Weekly Roundup

2008-11-26T11:49:00.000-08:00

As we all get ready to fill our bellies with the holiday bounty tomorrow, the lifestyle world still chugs on. So, this week, I have a few newsy appetizers on the menu.

First up, Rockbrook's Energy Smart, 10915 Prairie Brook Road, is now open. Omahan Paul Vonderfecht founded the green-living retail shop, which offers energy conservation products and services including lighting retrofits for homes and businesses, solar panels, wind turbines, solar hot water heaters, solar skylights and more. It is the first retailer tailored specifically toward energy conservation in the region. For more information (and to check out or buy prodicts online), visit http://energysmartcompany.com.

Also in environmental news, the city will begin mapping out its Environmental Element initiative with a public meeting Dec. 4 at the Scott Conference Center, 6450 Pine St., from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. The initiative, announced nov. 6, will allow the city to address sustainability in its master plan; Michael Kinsley, a senior consultant with the Rocky Mountain Institute who specializes in sustainable communities and workshop design and construction, will be on hand Dec. 4 to help the initiative's local facilitators. He will deliver a keynote address; following that will be breakout sessions for each of the initiative's five targets: the natural environment, urban form/transportation, building construction, resource conservation and community health. Mayor Mike Fahey will also make comments.

Those who plan to drive to the meeting are encouraged to carpool; Metro Area Transit route 15/55 also stops nearby. For more information, call 554-4010.

Omahan Eric Hahn, record-holder for the World's Tallest Mohawk, has received worldwide attention for his hair-raising new title. AOL.com, Sodahead.com and CNN have all taken a moment to interview or otherwise feature Hahn. No, Anderson Cooper didn't beam Hahn into the studio, but he did compare the mohawk to Anderson Cooper 360 correspondent Erica Hill's 1980s mullet. Awesome. Check out the video here.

And finally, Omaha's Beauty Brands Salon Spa Superstores reported this week they raised $4,611 for Omaha Catholic Charities' The Shelter. Beauty Brands donated 100 percent of the proceeds from sales of Redken's Guts volume-boosting spray foam to the organization from Sept. 29 through Oct. 26.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Reader Extra: The Baker Sisters Love NKOTB.

2008-11-19T09:53:00.000-08:00

In correspondence with this week's Reader Lifestyle feature on New Kids on the Block, written by my sister Sarah and I, we thought we'd share a heap of photos we snapped of ourselves and the Kids.

We will be loving them forever. Really.

Weird Wild Stuff Owner Murdered

2008-11-04T22:50:00.001-08:00

One of the owners of Omaha vintage clothing staple Weird Wild Stuff, 4905 Leavenworth St., was reported murdered Monday. Ellie Hollister's husband, 58-year-old Robert Hollister, who also ran the store, was arrested and charged with her murder. The 52-year-old woman, according to the Omaha World-Herald, was found dead at the couple's home Monday afternoon.

Political Parodies Beware

2008-11-03T10:45:00.000-08:00

This Halloween, I half-assed my costume. I was sick and fairly broke before the 31st so I never felt like putting any effort into dressing up. Two days before the deadline, I decided to go as Sarah Palin. The black interview suit from Petite Sophisticate that hung useless in my closet for six years would finally get some fresh air. Throw in a quick up-do, an American flag pin, a toy shotgun, an over-the-top Alaskan accent and the glasses I wear every day anyway and the costume was obvious enough, even though I personally don’t look anything like the real Sarah Palin.

Before I describe the results of my costume, let me explain my political stance. I’m voting for Obama simply because (I feel) it’s time to change the political philosophy in Washington. That’s all. I don’t even really care about the issues or platforms — or politics in general for that matter. I just think the Republicans had their chance for 8 years and things aren’t good. Now it’s time to let the Dems play.

So here are the pros and cons of being Sarah Palin. I’ll start with the pros because that list is actually shorter.

Pros:
1. The cool people will get the joke and laugh along with you.
2. The costume creates a lot of hilarious photo ops.
3. I think I was actually campaigning for Obama in a reverse-psychology kind of way.

Cons:
1. Only Republicans will hit on you.
2. If you go out to “da club” you will be wearing the most clothing out of everyone, girls and guys.
3. There are plenty of people out there — Republicans and Democrats alike — who take politics as serious as a heart attack. They will not be laughing with you. In fact, some people are willing to come to blows over politics.
4. If the people named in #3 show up to the same party as you, drama will ensue.
5. If #4 happens, you could possibly ruin your good friend’s costume keg party.

After a full weekend of the Sarah Palin costume, I began to wonder if poor Tina Fey gets accosted on the street by staunch Republicans. Maybe she’s had to beef up her security this election year. And do people who wear other costumes have to take this crap? Why isn’t anyone infuriated that $5 worth of make up from Wal Mart is now splattered across the face of every comic book geek in the land and defiling the honor of the late Heath Ledger’s arguably greatest performance? Are these Joker assholes taking a lot of shit this year? No, probably not because the face paint automatically makes it OK to parody for Halloween. Maybe I should have been Joker-face Sarah Palin.

The biggest lesson I learned is that, when you put on your political parody costume, you put on something else — responsibility. You have to be prepared to take the good with the bad, and accept the fact a lot of people will hate you blindly. The costume created a lot of hilarity, but it caused a lot of drama, too. It takes a strong person to wield that double-edged sword and I am not that person. Next year I’ll be the controversy-free, slutty Alice in Wonderland.

— Patricia Sindelar

Speak Up: 2008 Election Information

2008-10-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

This week, as October winds down and an historic Election Day nears, I want to take a moment to encourage everyone to remember to vote in one of the most important presidential elections of, well, the history of the United States.

If you’re an undecided voter, take this last week to educate yourself on the platforms of each candidate; because I believe the best information comes directly from a source in question, head to http://www.barackobama.com/ to read Sen. Barack Obama’s comprehensive “Blueprint for Change” and http://www.johnmccain.com/ to read Sen. John McCain’s piece-by-piece plans for national and international issues. For quicker profiles of each candidate and running mates (Sen. Joseph Biden and Gov. Sarah Palin), I recommend the New York Times’ Election Guide 2008, available online at http://elections.nytimes.com/2008/index.html. There, you can find bios, the candidates’ schedules and campaign finances, and comparisons between candidates’ stances on major issues such as healthcare and the economy.

For local information on voting, voter registration, first-time voter and district information, polling places, sample ballots and more candidate profiles (including those running for Nebraska offices), visit the Douglas County Election Commission at http://www.votedouglascounty.com/. Statewide general election polls will be open Nov. 4 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; early voters may vote at the Douglas County Election Commission, 225 N. 115th St., by 5 p.m. Nov. 3. Keep in mind voters are not allowed to wear campaign-support materials, such as T-shirts, hats, buttons, etc., within 200 feet of a polling place; leave them in the car or cover them up before entering.

Lincoln residents can find their voter information at http://lancaster.ne.gov/cnty/election/index.htm. Campaign apparel restrictions and polling hours are the same in Lincoln as in Omaha.

Though the voter registration deadlines for this year’s election have passed, don’t let that stop you from registering for future elections. As citizens of the United States, you have the right to let your voice be heard, so speak up. I don’t think I’m alone when I say now is the time for it.

Separation Anxiety.

2008-10-26T11:00:00.000-07:00

Ah, the onesie. The romper. The bodysuit.

For whatever reason, this adorable-when-baby item has seen a huge surge in popularity, and I, for one, am befuddled. It's one thing to want ease in getting dressed--it's entirely another when that ease causes a girl to have to disrobe entirely every time she has to use the ladies'. I keep trying to convince myself the modern romper, jumpsuit or onepiece is a viable option (as do the folks at the Omaha American Apparel, who have recommended a unitard to me every time I've been there), but I just keep thinking back to my elementary school years. Then, in the height of the mid-1990s monochromatic denim-and-top phase, I sported (proudly, I might add) a hunter green bodysuit with a lace-up placket--and matching hunter green jeans. And probably prairie boots.

Yikes.

Imagine my real horror, then, when I received notice from one of my favorite online shops, Shopbop, that the latest craze in the women's onesie is a dress that appears to be two pieces but is actually one. Now, I've spotted this sort of thing in the form of a sweater or vest with an attached collar and cuffs at low-end department stores, and my feeling on both the faux two-piece sweaters and dresses is simple: Have women really gotten that lazy? Can we really not put on two pieces of clothing?

In a season where separates were so strong on runways, and facing a spring that's truly seen a glorious flourish of sportswear, why are we suddenly in need of dumbed-down dressing? Let's first take a look at some of Shopbop's offerings:

Alexander Wang.

Theory.

Juicy Couture.

I think it's worth mentioning all of these items are around the $300 mark, which seems to me the "easy outfit" is no easier on the pocketbook than buying the pieces separately. And they're so limited--you can add a scarf, jacket or cardigan, yes, and maybe an array of tights, but these outfits are stuck the way they are, which is a little sad. How great would that Juicy "skirt" look with a little rocker tee and moto jacket? Or that Theory "skirt" with a ruffled plaid blouse and schoolboy blazer? And that Wang "top" is just screaming for some high-waist, zipper-ankle denim.

My point is this: Choose separates, ladies. They'll offer you more creativity, more combinations and, subsequently, way more use for the cost. Below are a few ideas I cooked up at Polyvore; the first is a dream designer separates collection, for sure, but the second (quite similar, really) is all from the mall's super-affordable go-to Charlotte Russe. You can certainly find some mid-range goods, too, but these are a few ideas to get you going. Click on each for details and prices.

Baby onesie above by American Apparel.

Shop News: Weekly Roundup

2008-10-23T10:00:00.000-07:00

Last week, Lincoln's Black Market Clothing Exchange, 1033 O St., opened its shiny new shoe store, the Public. Located inside the Gold's building next to the Black Market (which stocks super-hip vintage and recycled clothing), the Public features footwear from Royal Elastic, Chinese Laundry, Seychelles, Steve Madden and TOMS, all in a library-esque setting (so intriguing!). For more information, call 402-475-1033 or visit www.myspace.com/blackmarketlincoln.

Also this week, as you're busy planning your Halloween costumes for next week's ghoul-filled Friday (possibly this columnist's favorite holiday), consider procuring your getup from Seattle-based GoodSociety's CostumeStudio.com, which is donating 100 percent of the proceeds of costume sales to Invisible Children, an organization helping children in war-torn Uganda. According to GoodSociety, Americans--economy aside--are expected to spend more than $5 billion on costumes and events (staggering, no?). That figure, GoodSociety says, can feed more than 100 million children in need for an entire year. Considering that, along with CostumeStudio's selection of 14,000 costumes for adults, children and pets and bevy of party supplies, serving up a treat this year is no trick. Check it out at www.costumestudio.com.

Fashion Wrap: Spring 2009.

2008-10-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend, Paris fashion week closed, marking the end of the major fashion weeks (New York, London, Milan and Paris). I've been following the collections over at my blog, only style remains the same, but here, I thought I would attempt to condense my top picks into just 15 single looks from some of my favorite lines.

I love the flowy trousers--some wide, some softly tapered--oversized jackets, nipped-in waists, bubble shapes and so-pretty pastels of the season; together, punctuated by often heavy, geometric baubles, they feel fully refreshing. Many designers went the way of minimalism, which strikes a chord with me, and perhaps with the troubled economy; still, stalwarts like Marc Jacobs and my dear Chanel came through with saturated collections ready to suit those who don't have a care for the dollar. To me, though, spring 2009 is a time for drapey chiffon blouses and baggy shorts, caught together in sash not-so-neatly wound round the waist, finished with crisp flats and a sleek ponytail--in essence, an effortless coolness perfect for a season just warming up.

Aquascutum.

Boy by Band of Outsiders.

Burberry Prorsum.

Chanel.

Doo.Ri.

Eley Kishimoto.

Jenni Kayne.

Lanvin.

Louis Vuitton.

Luella.

Marni.

Nina Ricci.

Richard Nicoll.

Stella McCartney.

Valentino.

Photos courtesy Style.com.

Cotton Club.

2008-10-05T21:22:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I finally made it to Omaha's new Mecca--for me, the shiny, rainbow-bright American Apparel, located at 733 N. 14th St. next to Urban Outfitters and across from Slowdown in NoDo.

I've been to a lot of American Apparels since my first online purchase (a double deep-vee tunic no longer made and lost somewhere in the basement of my parents' house), and I've found each one, like most chain stores, is a little different. I was worried our AA might be too small, or too low on color choices--in short, nothing like the full-saturation smorgasbords that are the American Apparels of California (the conglomerate's birthplace). I was more than happily surprised to discover that Omaha's branch, while indeed small, is packed to the hilt with the simple cotton clothing, in plenty of color choices and set to a shopping-and-neighborhood-friendly indie-lite soundtrack. I do fear the men's offerings may be a little slight, but you know, boys who wear American Apparel, I've found, are often more than satisfied with T-shirts, hoodies and the brand's actually hip polo.

The only real complaint I have about the store is its somewhat confusing setup; women's clothing fills two sections of the loosely L-shaped store, with unisex and men's merch taking up a third. Accessories and kid/baby clothing line several walls. But the break in the women's selections initially threw me into a disappointed spiral; where, I thought, are my FIne Jersey T-Dresses? Where are the Interlock Minis? Where? Where?

Wandering frantically with a women's 50/50 in my hand I am sure I looked like a lost first-timer, a thing my readers and friends know is hardly the case. Thankfully, the sales associates at our fair AA are tremendously helpful (and creatively outfitted, to boot); they kindly showed me the way to all the things I was looking for, offering their own opinions and a few suggestions. Even the woman who rang me up gushed over the scarf I purchased, reporting she had snagged it, too.

Yes, it was an experience familiar--I do know how to naviagte the racks, if not how to edit purchases, remembering I don't have to wait a few months before my next vacation somewhere but can instead come any time--but I was surprised to walk out the door and find myself at home.

In summation, Omaha's American Apparel is what it is everywhere: cool. A little cooler, even, now that it's 20 minutes from my closet.

Shop News: Weekly Roundup.

2008-09-26T06:26:00.000-07:00

Faithful readers, I apologize for the unseemly delay in posting. The style world blew up a bit here--and I blew out with a bout of walking pneumonia--but here's the recap:

As worldwide spring/summer 2009 fashion weeks press on toward the shimmering Paris-week finale (which begins Saturday, so all you fellow Chanel fans are almost done holding your breath), Omaha wrapped its first-ever fashion week last weekend; a week's worth of events culminated in a massive runway show last Saturday at Nomad Lounge downtown. Check out the Reader's Lifestyle section for a full list of events and reviews; I sadly was unable to attend most of it, but I did make it out to last-minute fashion week partner design alliance OMAha's first Legacy Speaker series event, a "talk" and presentation by eco-fashion designer Linda Loudermilk.

Now, I have to be honest; I believe in the L.A. stereotype (I dated an L.A. band member, at least, who would drink only room-temperature bottled water, even if the water was going to be boiled for a cup of tea), and Loudermilk fulfilled it. After a 50-minute wait, the show finally began with a Loudermilk house-made video, then models began strolling--and I mean strolling--out as the kooky Loudermilk attempted to tell the audience of what the clothes were made (in many cases, she couldn't remember her seaweed items).

After the show, which appeared to be largely from Loudermilk's fall 2008 collection, the designer went on to talk about her philosophy...kind of. Reiterating her Web site, as she did, Loudermilk takes inspiration from nature--"the original punk"--to make her branded luxury eco clothing, i.e. high-end sustainable, animal- and environmentally friendly attire that really does present a new idea of what this sort of clothing can look like. Sadly, Loudermilk came off a little like a flightier Rachel Zoe; I believe she loves clothes, as well as her cause--she just couldn't say all that much about it. Yes, she advised audience members to give back, to respect the Earth and all that jazz, but you know what I remember? Loudermilk gushing over a photo of Robert Downey Jr. in her $600 sasawashi jeans.

I can't totally discount the girl. She does make a few impressive items, and she is forging a new, if only recently recognized, path. But ultimately, my props go to daOMA, which forged into new territory itself by asking a fashion designer to present in a speaking series that generally highlights architects. Bravo for expanding your repertoire, I say, even if this time minds weren't totally blown.

Also this month, at long last, and with little fanfare, Omaha's American Apparel finally opened. Shockingly, I haven't been there yet--this is the true testament to just how sick I have been, as, really, Lindsey (almost) always has time for American Apparel--but according to my style maven sister, the place is jam-packed with colorful cotton goods. I'm just going to start referring to it now as cotton candy, and I know I'm going to get into trouble. American Apparel is located across from Slowdown in NoDo, 733 N. 14th St. Ring its bell at the easy-to-remember 346-3000 the next time you have a T-shirt crisis.

In new news, another Chic Boutique is on the schedule, this time Oct. 2 at St. Robert Bellarmine, 11802 Pacfic St., from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. More than 100 vendors will showcase gifts, art, accessories and jewelry, clothing, toys and more; complimentary wine and treats and gifts with purchases while supplies last round out the experience. Proceeds from the event will go to the St. Robert Bellarmine Ladies' Guild, which supports parish activities and local organizations such as Omaha Catholic Charities and the Siena Francis House. Tickets are $5 at the door.

And finally, be sure to see me with, from what I hear, a fair amount of candy in my hair (and I'm not talking American Apparel) in Scout: Dry Goods and Trade's "Candy Land" fashion show. The runway event, slated for this Saturday at 8:30 p.m., will feature Halloween and otherwise vintage fashions from the second-hand boutique. The fashion show will be preceeded by "Art Candy," a visual art show on display through October and including work from international and local artists alike, including Omaha favorites Joey Lynch and Renee Hoover. Kim Ried Kuhn curated. Give me some sugar as I hit the catwalk at 5019 Underwood Ave. in Dundee.

Happy When It Rains.

2008-08-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

On days like today--gray, rainy and a little chilly--I am always drawn toward basic, easy outfits: jeans, T-shirts, cardigans. I just can't bring myself to get too dolled up in rainy weather, mainly because I don't want to be hindered on my way from the door to the car (and back) by fancy shoes or a snug pencil skirt.

Happily, the proliferation of rain gear on the market today makes basic rain outfits a little more interesting--and a lot more practical. Rain boots (or galoshes, or wellies) are durable, easy to clean and, lately, a big style statement in their own right. Coordinate a pair with an umbrella and a classic belted trench coat, and you have a weather-ready way to stay stylishly dry.

Umbrella: Urban Outfitters, $18.
Boots: Juicy Couture, $112.

Umbrella and boots: Burberry, $195 each.

Umbrella: MoMA for Target, $34.99.
Boots: aerie, $39.50.

Applied Style.

2008-08-22T10:00:00.000-07:00

These days, I'll admit keeping track of all my social networks and Web fetishes is a challenge. On my laptop alone, I daily access Facebook, MySpace, Blogger, Skype, GoogleTalk and about 20 RSS feeds, news sites and fashion blogs. I keep up with Pitchfork and street-style sites weekly. I have four personalized radio stations on Slacker. I have a little-used Twitter account. And an old Friendster account. And an old Livejournal.

I'm clearly not alone here. The number of Internet-connectedness possibilities is pretty staggering, and I don't think a person has little reason to suspect joining even one social network or RSS feed will somehow take over life. I think it can, so when a friend recently asked me, quite seriously, if he should join Facebook, I had to put aside my FB photo albums and Scrabble boards and plants and think about it for a minute.

Of course, the answer is that Facebook is fun. A lot of social networks are (at least in the beginning). And there is, I think, something to be said for feeling plugged in to your interests and your circle of friends at any given time.

And now, the people at Flock think so, too--and they're trying to make keeping track of social networks and Internet favorites easier, breezier and, actually, kind of like Cover Girl, now that I say that.

The just-released Flock Gloss edition was made for a girl like me; it offers a clean, Mozilla-Firefox-based browser with built-in fashion favorites, such as InStyle and PopSugar feeds. Flock's whole idea (it comes in a standard, fashion-free format, as well as Eco, Digg, Yahoo! and Photobucket editions) is to make a busy Internet life simpler by allowing users to log into all their social networks, blogs and e-mail accounts from a single interface. The Flock "homepage" is in essence a little feed itself, divided into columns for feeds and other subscriptions, as well as social networks.

The Gloss edition is a bright, girly pink, and its 20-or-so automatic favorites are some of mine; happily, I discovered I can delete some of the ones I don't like to replace them with my blogroll, and they're all easily categorized within the system. Flock also allows bloggers to create and post blogs within the browser without having to log into that blog's own interface (Blogger, Wordpress, et al), and similarly allows users to check e-mail without going that host site, either.

While it's handy having everything at my fingertips, I will say in spite of Flock's series of one-minute-or-less video tutorials (appropriately on the YouTube network), the browser is slightly less user-friendly than most. It has a series of "buttons" along the top tool bar designed to make visiting favorite sites super-easy, but along with the feeds, my Facebook updates and e-mail, it can be a bit much. I also haven't figured out how to add my secondary e-mail account (and I may not be able to, as it seems Flock doesn't get along with Hotmail) and other networks to the browser, but I suppose that's part of the fun of a new toy, no?

Check out Flock Gloss (and just plain Flock, which I suppose I should mention is award-winning) at http://www.flock.com/.

Much easier for me to understand is the still-new ModePass, a sort of MySpace for fashionistas. The France-based operation, http://www.modepass.com/, allows savvy dressers to create a profile for stylish photos; users can also browse and post article content to the site. Perhaps most fun, members can choose favorite photos from other users, favorite articles and "style icons" from the community to display on their profiles. Profiles also include the standard jazz: blog info, personal stats and interests and comment/messaging capabilities.

The site is multilingual and doesn't have a translation option (at least not one I can find), but it doesn't really matter--photos are what count here, as well as sartorial creativity. You can browse top (i.e. most popular) members, but you can also select some randomly selected profiles to check out from the site's "Members" area.

The best part of ModePass, for me, is that quite a few of the gals behind my favorite fashion blogs have ModePass accounts, so rather than check everything in my Google Reader, I can check in with ModePass for most of them and separately visit the rest. I've also stumbled across new lovely personal lookbooks, which ends up ultimately making ModePass dangerous. I've gotten lost on it for hours.

Damn. Just when I thought I'd finally made steps to reducing my Internet footprint.

Oh, well. There's always time to waste somehow.

Shop News: Weekly Roundup

2008-08-19T19:53:00.000-07:00

I have a couple of news updates for the week (now that I'm back in town from a business trip). I'll start with the American Cancer Society's Chic Boutique, slated for this Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the DC Centre, 11830 Stonegate Cir. Browse pickings from Mary Kay, Simply Tasteful, Elisa Ilana, Absolute Serenity Day Spa, LifeSource Chiropractic and more at this benefit event. Tickets, which include wine, appetizers and a gift bag, are $40 in advance and $50 at the door. For more information, contact Meredith Pickering at 393-5801 ext. 4017.

Also announced this past week was the development of a forthcoming retail outlet center in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Designer Outlets of MidAmerica will gather more than 80 fashion outlet stores and restaurants in a 450,000-square-foot complex. Continental Retail Development, based in Ohio, will break ground on the project in fall 2009; completion is slated for the summer of 2010. Look for it at the intersection of interstates 80 and 29.

Finally, don't forget to check out the Reader's fall fashion cover story this week, chock-full of tips and special features. As always, too, visit the Shop Talk blog later in the week for more style goings-on.

Shop News: YWCA Cleans Out Career Clothing Closet

2008-08-11T22:48:00.000-07:00

This week, Omahans who've recently been hired, are preparing for interviews or have lost business clothing as a result of the city's recent inclement weather can find some new (well, almost new) work duds in the YWCA's Career Clothing Closet.

This week, from now until Friday qualifying shoppers can stop by the closet, open Monday Through Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; extended hours are Tuesday and Thursday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Those hired to new positions within the last 90 days can receive 10 outfits, five pairs of shoes and five accessories (jewelry or handbags) if they bring proof of their hire. Those with scheduled interviews or those who have lost clothing can receive five outfits and two pairs of shoes or accessories.

The YWCA, 222 S. 29th St., has collected clean, stylish clothing for the event; for more information, call Micala Cruse or Tiba Brown at 345-6555 or visit http://www.ywcaomaha.org/.

School's in the Bag.

2008-08-06T10:00:00.000-07:00

One of the things I always loved most about back-to-school season was the fresh stock of school supplies--there's nothing like a pile of crisp folders, a few boxes of pens and blank spiral notebooks so new they squeak when opened. And then, of course, there's the grandaddy of all school supplies, the thing you put your school supplies in.

I had many bookbags and backpacks in my time; in college, specifically, I explored all the possibilities bookbags had to offer. I think it's one of the things that made me the bag hag I am today. For one, there's the sheer range of styles bookbags come in nowadays: messenger, tote, classic backpack, sling, flight. Graphic artists and designers are getting into the mix, too, making standbys like JanSport and LeSportsac super-cool. And with the popularity of teen dramas like Gossip Girl (my Monday-night guilty pleasure), couture (or almost couture) bookbags have made brands like Coach relevant and wanted.

So, in the spirit of shiny new school supplies and in-style accessories, here are some of my top bookbag picks just in time for the fall semester.

First up, we have some modern takes on standard backpacks from LeSportsac. This brand has made a huge comeback, validated by partnerships with rotating artists and designer Stella McCartney. My backpack choices, though, are from LeSportsac's own classic lines.

LeSportsac's Drew backpack, $98, comes in the whimsical new "Dash" print (as well as a bevy of others, including a cute hedgehog motif). This print, though, in this uber-utilitarian style reminds me a little of the brand's former partnership with Tokidoki and its current work with Bfree. It's for the hipster, the urbanite, the comic geek and the skater all at the same time.

This gem is LeSportsac's convertable backpack/tote Eunice, $108. I love it's handbag-esque design--and the fact that it doubles as one. It also comes in this sleek fig patent and has a number of interior pockets for pens and makeup, making it the answer for chic gals on their way from Brit Lit to evening drinks off campus.

Personally, I was always most into alternative bookbag shapes; my favorite bags were a black YakPak messenger bag I sadly lost somewhere along the way and an old red flight bag I found at Savers. But I had a host of other bags between and after; these next bags are, I think, the ones I'd go for now. And I might pick one up, still; work is kind of like class, right?

You can always count on Harajuku Lovers for an on-the-go tote in a statement print, and this new print, Harlequin, in the Oops tote style, $98 at Revolve Clothing, has handy pockets, an adjustable shoulder strap and little Gwen Stefanis all over it. A fatal attraction to cuteness indeed.

Ben Sherman's Pieced Target Flight Bag, $70, reminds me of that bag I had and loved and got a nasty ink stain on. I think this bag could stand up to Bics, though, with interior and exterior pockets, an adjustable strap and a slim design--it's not much bigger than folders, but it doesn't have to be. It's retro vibe makes up for what it lacks in roominess, with logo studs and crisp white piping.

Of course, I can't forget about men students--y'all need to be in style, too. I've opted today for sleek, streamlined bags that don't have much fuss or a high ticket price. I've found a lot of guys don't care quite as much as the ladies if their bookbags make statements, but with these two from classic DJ bag manufacturer Manhattan Portage, men can nab style and practicality.

The Westside Large messenger bag, $75 at Karmaloop, has something like fifty pockets, my favorite of which is the diagonal-zip pocket on the front flap, giving this bag some understated interest. Karmaloop carries this bag in six colors (and some smaller sizes, but the large measures an easy-to-tote-everything 13 x 11.5 x 4.5 inches).

And finally, we have another version of Manhattan Portage's Westside bag, the Westside Laptop Bag, $95 at Karmaloop. This bag has all the same organization features as its Westside counterparts, but it comes with a laptop sleeve to tote a 14- to 15-inch laptop.

Shop News: Scout's Summer Sale

2008-07-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

Round out the last outfits of your summer wardrobe this weekend at Scout: Dry Goods and Trade's 50 percent-off sale. Now through Aug. 5, all sleeveless tops, shorts and capri pants are 50 percent off, along with a special rack of marked-down goods; check it out at 5019 Underwood Ave. in Dundee.

Store hours are 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call 964-2270 or visit www.myspace.com/scoutdrygoods.

Welcome to Shop Talk Online!

2008-07-29T13:30:00.000-07:00

Hello faithful (and new) Shop Talk fans.

Lindsey Baker, Shop Talk columnist and Reader Lifestyle editor, here. I'd like to welcome you all to the new, real-time online hub for my weekly Reader column, Shop Talk. After bringing you the latest in style happenings (and my own musings) for two years, I am happy to be able to reach you all on a different, interactive wavelength.

I hope you'll stop by often to read more of what Shop Talk brings you, as well as what it sometimes can't in the paper: of-the-moment fashion events in the Metro, question-and-answer sessions, the opportunity to tell me you think I don't know what I'm talking about. I'll also feature guest columnists here from time to time, as well as periodic expansions of information corresponding with Lifestyle features that just have too much to fit into the pages of the Reader.

I hope this blog serves as both a good news source and a starting place for lively discourse on all things style. It's what talking shop is all about, so come often, comment often--and then check out my Reader colleagues' new blogs, too. As always, if you have a news tip, bit of advice or a burning question, drop a line to shoptalk@thereader.com, and I'll include and address them here when the paper's space doesn't allow it.

In the meantime, while I'm culling news and material, take a moment to stop by my personal fashion blog as well, onlystyleremainsthesame.blogspot.com. There you can find even more of my fashion musings, must-haves and--perhaps the greatest bonus--my own chronicle of ensembles as I spend the rest of the summer cleaning out my closet and trying to herald in a new style (once I find it). Together, I hope these blogs and the continued coverage in the Reader--along with our growing market and happening scenes--can serve to prove Omaha is not only well-rounded; it's also well-dressed, in every sense of the phrase.

Stay tuned, Reader readers.

Yours in style,

Lindsey.