Tag: Belk events

VIP Scrapbook: Birmingham Riverchase Galleria #BelkScene Prom/Special Occasion Event

Abby Hathorn1 Comment

IMG_8485

Hello, fabulouses, and welcome back to the blog!

Special thanks to the VIP fans who stopped by the #BekScene event at the Riverchase Galleria + those who “tuned in” to the live social media posts! It was so much fun getting to work with Belk Riverchase Galleria for this sparkle-tacular event, and I was so pumped that I was able to share it with all of you…LIVE! I mean, come on…how fabulous was that?!

Now, I want to share with y’all the photos I was not able to tweet and post during the live event–because there is only so much time in a few hours *wink* So, without further ado, I present to you the VIP Scrapbook of the #BelkScene Prom/Special Occasion event at the Riverchase Galleria! Whoo hoo–let’s take a view!

AH! The VIP with the fabulous lady behind Luke & Lyla Designs and her daughters Alison Aughtman (standing next to VIP) is such a wonderful artisan, and I feel so humble to meet her! Check out that FABULOUS handmade clutch! Stay tuned to the blog on Wednesday and Thursday for a CLOSER look at its awesomeness *wink* Check out Luke & Lyla Designs here!
AH! The VIP with the fabulous lady behind Luke & Lyla Designs and her daughters Alison Aughtman (standing next to VIP) is such a wonderful artisan, and it was such an honor to meet her! Check out that FABULOUS handmade clutch! Stay tuned to the blog on Wednesday and Thursday for a CLOSER look at its awesomeness *wink* While you wait, check out Luke & Lyla Designs here!
The VIP with DJ New Era and model Eva Thomas at the #BelkScene event.
The VIP with DJ New Era and model Eva Thomas at the #BelkScene event.
The VIP in action *wink*
The VIP in action *wink*
SPARKLES! Love this prom dress!
SPARKLES! Love this special occasion dress!
And this prom dress *wink* I am all about the gold this year!
And this prom dress *wink* I am all about the gold this year!
*passes out* I could just eat, sleep, and work out in this pretty-in-pink Steve Madden heels! GAH--so cute! :)
*passes out* I could just eat, sleep, and work out in this pretty-in-pink Steve Madden heels! GAH–so cute! :)
Such a wonderful selection of Steve Madden shoes for every occasion!
Such a wonderful selection of Steve Madden shoes for every occasion!

IMG_8444

Prom, prom, prom! So many selections at Belk!
Prom, prom, prom! So many selections at Belk!
These sweet treats were too-cute-to-handle *wink*
These sweet treats were too-cute-to-handle *wink*
DJ New Era at work. He was such a fantastic DJ--I could not help but dance *wink*
DJ New Era at work. He was such a fantastic DJ–I could not help but dance *wink*

IMG_8471 IMG_8438 IMG_8450 IMG_8442 IMG_8441 IMG_8449

COME BACK TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY TO GET THE SCOOP ABOUT MY EASY DIY MANICURE + THE DETAILS ON MY PROM-INSPIRED HOST OUTFIT! :)

https://instagram.com/p/1WBlEztJsM/?taken-by=abbyhathorn

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Advertisement

VIP Scrapbook: Meeting Betsey Johnson + Q & A at Belk in Charlotte, NC

Abby Hathorn5 Comments

IMG_8346

Hello, fabulouses, and welcome back to the blog! 

For those of you who kept up with me on Instagram this weekend, you already know that I met one of my fashion heroes, Betsey Johnson. AH! It’s been two days, and I still cannot believe it! Somebody pinch me! *wink*

http://instagram.com/p/vbWAQdNJlt/?modal=true

Since before I can remember, Betsey Johnson has been one of my biggest inspirations. She is seventy-two years old, has been designing for almost fifty years, and still works neon pink and tutus like it is nobody’s business *wink* Her style is so unique and her philosophy of “wear what you love” is greatly needed in a world that is so easily influenced by fads and trends. 

When I was trying to find myself and learning to express my passion for fashion in tenth grade, I turned to Betsey for inspiration. From her, I learned that “girls do not dress for boys. They dress for themselves, and of course, each other. If girls dressed for boys, they’d just walk around naked at all times.” (See photos below)

IMG_8376
If  someone would have told me when I put these pages together in my Smash journal that I would be meeting Betsey three years later…I would have laughed in their faces. Amazing how God can change things so drastically when we follow His path :)
IMG_8375
*draws check mark* Well, I guess I can mark that off of my bucket list!

Now, without further ado, I reveal the photos taken by my wonderful photographer at the Brunch with Betsey Belk event in Charlotte, North Carolina! Come on, y’all! Let’s take a gander.

Arlene Golstein (in the fur), the VP of Trend Mechandising and Fashion Direction at Belk, and the VIP (in the red coat) chatting with other bloggers at brunch in Charlotte. Oh, I just love Arlene!
Arlene Goldstein (in the vest), the VP of Trend Mechandising and Fashion Direction at Belk, and the VIP (in the red coat) chatting with other bloggers at the brunch in Charlotte. Oh, I just love Arlene!
Arlene personally introducing me to THE Betsey Johnson.
Arlene introducing Betsey and me.

IMG_8326

I was all smiles for the rest of the day! Meeting her (and getting to chat with her!) was a dream come true!
I was all smiles for the rest of the day! Meeting Betsey Johnson (and getting to chat with her!) was a dream come true!
"This girl is only 18! Come on, we need another hug and another picture," exclaimed Betsey.
“This girl is only 18! Come on, we need another hug and another picture,” exclaimed Betsey.

IMG_8345

I do not remember what Betsey and Arlene were chatting about in this photo; however, it was so precious that I had to share it with y'all anyway :)
I do not remember what Betsey and Arlene were chatting about in this photo; however, it was so precious that I had to share it with y’all anyway :)

IMG_8348

I hope I am this awesome whenever I am in my 70s (yellow hair-streaks and all *wink*).
I hope I am this awesome when I am in my seventies!

Exclusive VIP Interview Question with Betsey:

IMG_8337

VIP: What is one item in your closet you would never toss out and why? From watching your show, I know that you must have quite the extensive collection of apparel! 

Betsey: I know this sounds silly, but I lose so much stuff that I try not to get too attached to things–like umbrellas for example. There is no telling how many of those things I have lost! But I would hate to lose or get rid of my necklace I bought for [my daughter] Lulu….My closet is basically a bunch of folded things, which is okay because I love wrinkles. I have one small closet for hanging things, which is mostly things I really love but never wear. If I really love something, I have a hard time wearing it a lot because I do not want something to happen to it!

VIP: Oh, I completely understand! I have a dress handmade by my great-grandmother in the early sixties that I have only worn a handful of times because it is too dear to me.

Betsey: Oh, beautiful! Isn’t it funny how that happens! My other two closets are full of folded things, which is okay because I love wrinkles….Oh! I absolutely treasure my belt *pointing to the leather belt around her waist*. It is quite old, and I do not even remember the maker, but it is like a “good luck” charm in a sense. 

IMG_8334

Note: Please stay tuned to the blog because Friday I will be posting some fun and fabulous Betsey Johnson finds.

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

VIP Interview: Arlene Goldstein, Belk Vice President of Trend Merchandising and Fashion Direction

Abby Hathorn4 Comments

IMG_4297Fabulous, modern, and classic are just a few words to describe the apparel at Belk and Arlene Goldstein, Belk INC.’s Vice President of Trend Merchandising and Fashion Direction.

Arlene Goldstein has over twenty-five years of fashion industry experience under her fashionista belt. She has traveled all over the world to some of fashion’s hot-spot cities in search of emerging trends and brands for Belk stores.With her signature styling and Southern fashion charm, Arlene truly exemplifies Belk’s motto “Modern. Southern. Style.”

IMG_4287

I had the wonderful pleasure of meeting Arlene at the 2014 Spring Preview at Belk the Summit. She looked amazing—sporting a leather moto jacket, printed dress, and leopard heels, which is her favorite “color” *wink* What fashionista doesn’t love leopard?!

The Spring Preview was spectacular, and I cannot wait for the trends to hit the racks! I sense a shopping spree in the near future *wink*

After Arlene’s presentation, she sat down with the VIP to chat about her favorite Spring 2014 trend, personal style, and more!

Now, without further ado, I present to you the VIP interview with Arlene Goldstein, Belk INC Vice President of Trend Merchandising and Fashion Direction.

IMG_4303

VIP: What is your favorite Spring 2o14 trend?

Arlene: I love jet setter because I love the prints. Since I travel so much, I wear a lot of black, and the jet setter trend is a chance for me to integrate some “Oh WOW!” pieces without stepping too far outside of my comfort zone. I also love the accessories–the tribal twist is definitely fabulous!

VIP: Oh, yes! Accessories make all of the difference! So, when you are not traveling with Belk, what are some of your favorite things to do?

Arlene: Well, I have a slew of grandkids, and I love being with them anytime I can! I enjoy going antique shopping too–I love old stuff. Also, if I happen to be in town when the flea market is, I love going out to it to see what all I can find. If I leave with one little trinket–I am happy. 

VIP: How would you describe your personal style?

Arlene: I think it is classic with a twist. I like to ensure that I have the basic building blocks of a wardrobe like those great, timeless pieces that can take you from season to season. 

VIP: What is your favorite fashion era and why?

Arlene: I love the 40’s because they were very romantic and sort of the post-war ear where the hemlines got longer–which we can see the hemlines dropping again in today’s fashion trends. Also in the 1940’s women were very chic–they dressed from head-to-toe with marvelous style and elegance. 

VIP: What is your favorite fashion season?

Arlene: Definitely fall!

VIP: What is your favorite fall fashion piece?

Arlene: Absolutely a jacket!

VIP Question: What is one item in your closet you would never toss out and why?

Arlene: I do not know that I have one piece, but I really love keeping accessories because you can wear older jewelry with more trendy jewelry for a look that is totally your own. Also, I would never toss out anything that was vintage. 

IMG_4302

Keep up with Arlene Goldstein on Twitter @BelkFashionBuzz. Be sure to check out her writings for the Huffington Post for fun and fabulous fashion articles you will love!

Twitter: click here.

Huffington Post: click here.

IMG_4296

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Jack and Jill of America Birmingham Chapter Annual Fashion Show Fundraiser at Belk the Summit

Abby Hathorn2 Comments

IMG_4192

The Birmingham Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. and Belk at The Summit hosted their annual fashion show fundraiser Saturday, November 16, 2013.  This fantastic fashion show was a sold out event with 350 guests attending. Belk has sponsored this fabulous annual event for five years, and this fashion fundraiser is the signature event for the Birmingham Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc.

What is Jack and Jill America?

Jack and Jill is a national mother’s civic organization with the focus of providing cultural, educational, leadership and social opportunities for African American children.  Strong emphasis is placed upon community service and civic responsibility. 

To learn more about Jack and Jill of America, please visit www.jackandjillinc.org/

What is the Jack and Jill Fashion Show Fundraiser?

Each year, two local charities are awarded the proceeds generated from the event ticket sales.  This year’s recipients were Leading Edge Institute and Grace House. Much preparation went into bringing a wonderful morning of elegant fashion, food, and fun to the Jack and Jill mothers and their guests. 

The Jack and Jill special event committee members Karla Fields, Bonika Wilson, Ty Davis, Terri Gardner, Vickie Ausmer, and Michelle Nalls worked closely with Belk at The Summit Store Manager Susan Held, Belk Special Events Coordinator Katie Jones, and Fashion Stylist Melissa Melvin to make the event truly special. 

A special highlight of the morning was the Jack and Jill teen models that walked the runway with the professional models. Malik Kofi was the featured musical guest, and Chef Julia May provided an elegant continental breakfast. 

IMG_8938

Now, without further ado, here are some fabulous fashion highlights from the Annual Jack and Jill of America Birmingham Chapter Annual Fashion Show Fundraiser at Belk the Summit! Enjoy!

It was exciting to see this gorgeous model carry the same Mary Frances handbag I have done the runway! That handbag looked so hot with that outfit, and the model looked gorgeous carrying it!
It was exciting to see this gorgeous model carry the same Mary Frances handbag I have down the runway! She truly rocked that outfit and that handbag!
Check out the VIP blog featuring the same Mary Frances handbag here: https://vintageinspiredpassionista.com/2013/11/12/18-days-of-grand-haul-from-college-classroom-to-date-night/
Also, check out the VIP Interview with the designer herself Mary Frances here: https://vintageinspiredpassionista.com/2013/10/25/vip-interview-celebrity-handbag-designer-mary-frances-at-belk-phipps-plaza-atlanta-georgia/

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Read more about the Jack and Jill Fashion Show Fundraiser here.

IMG_7696

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn

Event Coverage: Belk College Night with Denim Experts Chip & Pepper

Abby HathornLeave a comment
IMG_3560
The VIP sporting her Chip & Pepper jeans at the Belk College Night event in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Hello, my fabulouses, welcome back to the blog! Oh, I had the most fabulous time at the College Night event at Belk in Tuscaloosa, Alabama on September 26! ROLL TIDE! There were food vendors, a candy bar, giveaways, a Belk fashion show, and much more to make the event a night to remember.

IMG_3518 IMG_3495

The VIP blogger with YouTubers Eleventh Gorgeous at Belk College Night.
The VIP blogger with YouTubers Eleventh Gorgeous at Belk College Night.

IMG_3458

Adding even more excitement and energy to the event, the spunky and dashing denim designers Chip & Pepper were there having fun, interacting with fans, and helping customers find the perfect pair of Chip & Pepper jeans. “Chip & Pepper are experts when it comes to fit, comfort and style, and they have incorporated their knowledge into a cutting edge denim collection for Belk that is available at an affordable price.” (press release)

Chip showing off the jeans he autographed for a fan. ROLL TIDE!
Chip & Pepper got into the spirit of College Night by signing jeans with ROLL TIDE!

IMG_3478

IMG_3594
Loving this pretty pink blouse and printed pants at the Belk College Night fashion show! So cute!

IMG_3600 IMG_3597 IMG_3602

Food, candy, dancing, games, fashion, and Chip & Pepper all at Belk on one special night….what more could a fashionista want! Oh…I wish I had a time machine so I could go back to that splendid party and take y’all with me!

The VIP and Chip Foster joking and having fun at Belk College Night.
The VIP and Chip Foster having a delightful, jolly good time at Belk College Night.
The VIP and Pepper Foster chatting at Belk College Night.
The VIP and Pepper Foster chatting at Belk College Night.

Fabulouses, can you guess who the VIP interviewed at Belk College Night? Chip & Pepper, of course! Whoo hoo! I cannot wait to share the spectacularly fun interview! Y’all stay tuned:) ROLL TIDE! Isn’t that just so much fun to say!

Chip & Pepper with the Eleventh Gorgeous sisters! Don't they all look super fabulous!
Chip & Pepper with the Eleventh Gorgeous sisters! Don’t they all look super fabulous!
Chip and Pepper with fans at College Night.
Chip and Pepper with fans at College Night.

IMG_3568 IMG_3548

The VIP with Lancôme makeup artist Pam at Belk University Mall. Thanks so much, Pam, for making me look a little bit more fabulous with a makeup touch up! You are absolutely precious!
The VIP with Lancôme makeup artist Pam at Belk University Mall. Thanks so much, Pam, for making me look a little bit more fabulous with a makeup touch up!
The VIP with blog fans Joy Loveless (on left) and Jealena Dillard (on right). I absolutely LOVED the ways these fabulous ladies were dressed! Y'all were so cute and sweet!
The VIP with Joy Loveless and Jealena Dillard. I absolutely LOVED the way these fabulous ladies were dressed! Check out those leopard high heels–MEOW!

IMG_3322

To see more pictures from this event, stay tuned to the VIP Facebook page for the album “Belk College Night 2013”. Please feel free to tag yourself and friends! Click here to visit the VIP Facebook page.

Stay tuned for an upcoming VIP Interview blog with Chip & Pepper! Y’all are not going to want to miss it! www.chipandpepper.com

To learn more about Belk and shop the magnificent fashions, please visit www.belk.com.

Keep up with Belk via social media:

Facebook click here.

Instagram click here.

Twitter click here.

Stay Fabulous,

Abby Hathorn