Urban Outfitters, Forever 21, The Gap, Zara, Abercrombie and Fitch, Nike, the Kardashians, and H&M. That’s just a short list of major clothing retailers who’ve been called out for their awful humanitarian policies. It’s difficult to feel good about a clothing purchase when you can’t be sure that your gorgeous new dress wasn’t produced in a brutal sweatshop. Luckily for us, there’s a young designer who’s looking to change that and more.

Abi Ferrin is now based in Dallas, Texas, but she grew up in my hometown of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. (Yes, that’s the little ski town where Justin Timberlake proposed to Jessica Biel.) Abi, who was named Texas’ Next Top Designer in 2007, is making waves with her bold, colorful designs. But what makes her vision really unique is her business model. All Abi Ferrin garments are assembled in the USA, and each one includes a piece that was handmade by women involved with the Freedom Project. The Freedom Project is an initiative that Abi created to empower women in the US and beyond. She works with an organization that rescues women from human trafficking in Nepal and Cambodia and gives them the opportunity to work in a safe, fair trade setting. I had the chance to interview Abi and learn more about her inspiring process.

Here is a link to the full interview!

Valentine's Day is right around the corner, and there is no better time than no to make sure you are ready to 'pucker up' on the 14th! Refresh your lip gloss collection with some of these current favorites. They are sure to keep lips shining, moisturized and plump:

Light reflecting ingredients in Aqua Liplights by ybf add shine and come in sets of three. Choose from pinks, neutrals or wines. I received a set to try and am loving the Crystal Crimson alone and the Radiant Rasberry layered over my usual lipstick shade. These glosses go on smooth and never sticky, and can be layered with each other or other lipsticks to get the desired effect. While some glosses can actually be too sheer, Aqua Liplights have a lot of pigment, so they wear like a lipstick. But the glossy formula is lightweight. They also smell nice which is a plus!

$19.80 per set, available online at YBFGirlfriends.com.

Reviewed awhile back, and definitely still a favorite, FusionBeauty's LipFusion comes in tons of pigment-rich shades. The lightweight formula has lip-plumping properties, and lasts through a couple cups of coffee. A single tube runs almost $40, making this lip gloss fall on the spendier end of the spectrum. But I will say, the tubes do last a long time.

$38, available at Beauty.com.

To get that full-lipped pout a la Brigitte Bardot, try Soap & Glory's Super-Colour Sexy Mother Pucker™ Lip Plumping Gloss. The lovely ladies representing Soap & Glory sent me one of my own to try. It is seriously amazing. Lip-plumping ingredients like SUPERFILL™ volume-maxing microspheres expand when they fill with moisture. The formula also contains LIPSWELL™, a natural plant oil infusion, that increases blood flow to lips, giving them a fuller appearance. I love the combo of the clear gloss under my regular lipstick - it quickly fills the fine lines around my mouth. Also available in Half Naked and Yummy Plum, definitely a line worth checking out.

$15, available at Sephora.

For more lip-plumping action, try Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish. I got this in a sample bag and keep it handy for mid-day touchups. Not quite as powerful as the Soap & Glory version, Buxom is super lightweight and slightly stickier. I prefer it alone as it gets a bit sticky when layered under lipstick. A good back up.

$18, available at Buxom Big & Healthy Lip PolishBeauty.com.

What is your favorite lip gloss?

Even though bright colors scream spring and summer, there is no reason to compose your color palette in winter. In fact, wearing bright colors on dull gray days just might brighten your mood. (I'm no scientist, but this has worked for me!)

One color that has pick-me-up powers is orange. Sherbet, peach, carrot - whatever shade you fancy, orange brightens any outfit and lightens any mood.

Some orange goodies I'm loving right now...

The (1) See by Chloe Ribbed Sweater Dress ($450) is perfect for work. Warm enough for a cool day, but the bright hue lightens the mood. For a casual look, throw on (2) Kain's Classic Striped Modal Shirt ($90) with a cozy cardigan and jeans. Super comfy, yet the bold stripes add a welcome dose of sunshine. David Kahn is known for fabulous fitting denim in a wide variety of colors and styles. The (3) Cuffed Ankle Jeans in Atomic Orange make a bold statement and are totally on trend.

I love (4) this Tibi Maxi Pleated Skirt ($330). The light shade of peach might seem more fitting for Spring, but it's long-length makes it perfect for winter. Wear it with a fuzzy sweater for the ultimate cozy yet pulled together look. A bold bag is always in style. The (5) Marc Jacobs Sandy Shoulder Bag ($575) can be worn as a clutch or shoulder bag, and will be a classic for years to come. Finally, punch up your makeup with (6) LORAC's Breakthrough Performance Lipstick in It Girl ($22). The coral shade is flattering on everyone.

For more Orange inspiration, check out these past posts:

Need for Fall - The Orange Handbag

Hot For Spring - Orange

Color Trend: Orange Heats Up Summer

Two of my favorite things...hair products and Louboutins Amika has teamed up with LaurenConrad.com for an amazing contest! You could be the winner and look fabulous from head to toe with these to die for prizes! Win $500 in Amika hair tools plus a pair of Christian Louboutin shoes.

I just entered. You should too :) Check it out here and sign up for your chance to win!

Don't get me wrong - I'm all for fashion that gives back to charity - but from a style standpoint, I swore I'd never jump on-board the Toms bandwagon. I see people on the street rockin' them with jeans, shorts, dresses, and even suits (ugh), and while some people manage to make them look almost cute, I've yet to find a pair that convinces me that I wouldn't rather be wearing a much more stylish pair of simple ballet flats. That is, until I found out that Toms were coming out with their very own collection of Paris ballet flats, due out this spring. They've still got that bound canvas look unique to Toms and boast the undeniable comfort that have made them so beloved among the brand's fans, but unlike their classic and wedge styles, they don't blatantly advertise that you've chosen your footwear based primarily on comfort. And for those of us who consider looks to be just as important as comfort when it comes to our casual footwear, the Paris ballet flats are a brand addition worth waiting for! What do you think - would you reconsider investing in a pair of Toms once these flats are available?

- Alex Gambardella

I have memories of my mother telling me never to mix prints. But times have changed and, thankfully, that old adage is long gone. Now, when it comes to pairing patterns, pretty much anything goes! The trick is to keep color palettes complementary and avoid mixing too many prints at once.

I love the Tibi blouse and Cheetah Print Shorts shorts featured on Shopbop (above). It’s daring, but it works.

Below, these fashionistas know how to do mixed prints right.

Chances are there are some printed pieces in your closet that would mix well with each other. Here are some tips for mixing prints without looking like a clown:

*Look for pieces with a similar color scheme and print size (Ie: small florals in different prints)
*Mix in stripes with a pattern
*Since this is a bold look, keep accessories minimal
*Break up the contrasting patterns with a simple belt
*Anchor your outfit with a solid jacket or sweater and bag

Here are some printed pieces worthy of a mix-n-match.

Above: 1) O'2nd Gathered Back Top ($250) & 2) Timo Weiland Thistle Skirt ($254)

Above: 1) Madewell Shadowspot Maxiskirt ($99 - on sale from $178) & 2) TOPSHOP Stripe Knot Front Shirt ($40)

Above: 1) Timo Weiland Ink Blot Skirt ($106 - on sale from $265) & 2) Milly Julia printed cotton-blend chiffon blouse ($295)

What do you think of mixing prints? How would you wear the trend?

Part of the organizational process always makes you take stock of what you have, and realize what you need. When it comes to jewelry, it seems you can never have too much!

Fortunately, thanks to local boutiques, mainstream stores and online favorites like Gilt Groupe, Bauble Bar and Max and Chloe, access to fabulous jewelry is at our fingertips. I recently learned of a jewelry website that offers unique pieces that won't break the bank.

RomanSunstone.com offers a selection of modern styles in sterling silver, pearls, gemstones and more, that will stylishly accent any outfit. They sent me a few pieces to try out, and they fit perfectly in my newly organized jewelry drawer.

From ever-popular initial bracelets, to classic pearl pendants, Roman Sunstone has something for everyone. A stack of Sterling cuff bangles is the perfect accent to a casual Sunday brunch outfit. The Black pearl and bead necklace would add a bit of whimsy to even the most conservative sweater set - a must-have for the office. And the Crystal fireball and cream pearl cluster earrings would dress up any LBD. And the best part? Everything I listed above is under $50, giving you a reason to shop for multiple occasions!

Giveaway! We are so excited to partner with Tullie Girl accessories to give away a Neon Cord Braided Charm Bracelet set. Wrap bracelets are super fashionable and versatile!

With a passion for kids and good design, local Seattle moms Tracy and Carol set out to create a line of functional, fashionable accessories for kids. Their collection ranges from whimsical shoe sliders and jewelry to a curated selection of thoughtful gifts and toys designed to bring out the imaginations of all kids.

Among their amazing designs, are their neon corded wrap charm bracelets. Totally on trend, the brightly colored cords are adorned with vintage-inspired charms. With the impeccable quality and style similar to pieces from designer brands like Ettika and Chan Lu, Tullie Girl styles brings fashion to the masses with their affordable, well-designed pieces. These were my go to gift for the holidays this year!

Win a Neon Cord Braided Charm Bracelet set! The perfect pair for you and that sweet little girl, you'll get one adult-sized wrap bracelet and one kid-size bracelet, in your choice of color combos. Wrap around your wrists and brighten up any outfit!

Tullie Girl products are available on LittleDoodahs.com.

For your chance to win, simply like Skinnypurse and Little Doodahs on Facebook or Twitter (@Skinnypurse & LittleDoodahs) and comment below letting us know you liked and what your favorite Little Doodahs item is.

Contest is open to US residents only. A winner will be chosen on Monday, 1/23/12.

Post-Christmas sales are some of the best opportunities to score great deals that you won’t find any other time of year. And what’s even better is getting amazing deals at pricier stores that you might not normally shop at! One great example is Banana Republic — right now, you can find some basics for your wardrobe for up to 50% off! Here are some of my favorites that are just $20 or less!

If one of your resolutions is to be more organized and stay at the tippity-top of your game for 2012, there's an easy way to start - and shopping for the perfect carry-all bag is where it all begins! Say goodbye to your not-so-practical bottomless pit bucket bag that manages to hold everything yet makes everything impossible to find at the same time. Equip yourself with an organizer tote or messenger bag that's fashionable and functional, with plenty of pockets to hold all your loot! Make sure to choose something that's sleek and easy to carry by your side, whether you're hauling your laptop and books across campus or dashing from the gym to work to happy hour and beyond. With a more streamlined design and handy compartments to separate your pens from your eye pencils and your gym clothes from your work presentations, you'll be kick-starting the new year with a more organized (and more fabulous) new you!

Pictured above: Bottega Veneta Crossbody Messenger Bag, Yves Saint Laurent brown leather and canvas 'Multy' hobo shoulder bag, See By Chloe sienna leather 'Hilo Double Function' tote bag, and Botkier 'Morea' Crossbody Bag.

WIN a $500 Bluefly Hook-Up. Start 2012 with a splurge—on us! Enter for the chance to WIN on the official Facebook Giveaway Page here.

- Alex Gambardella

If you are a regular reader, you might know I am a fan of natural beauty products – I’ve been wearing mineral foundation for years (and have tried quite a few). I recently learned of a beauty company that offers vegan makeup and was excited to recieve some to try it out.

Mineral Foundation Mineral makeup is so hard to do right. I've tried brands that look too powdery, or too yellow, don’t blend well or feel to heavy. But My Delight's powdered mineral foundation is a very sheer, lightweight formula that feels great. It offers light coverage, perfect for daytime use, and the natural ingredients don't clog pores. Plus, it's got built-in sun protection, a must even in winter weather. I've only tried it dry with a powder brush, but you can also mix it with moisturizer if you prefer liquid foundation.

Natural Mascara Mascara is one makeup product that I usually stick to the mainstream brands. They seem to offer better, long lasting coverage, and less clumping and flaking. I know, it's all the yucky chemicals! But, I would rather wear natural ingredients around my eyes for obvious reasons. The Mascara from My Delight is made from vegan ingredients and goes on smooth and clump-free. Natural apricot kernel oil conditions lashes while depositing color on each lash.

Lips My Delights lip moisturizers are a handbag must-have. Throughout the day, lipstick can get dry and flaky, but a quick swipe of their lip moisturizers restore softness and smooth lines. Using coconut and jojoba oils, the natural ingredients keep lips moisturized all day long.

I'm also a fan of their sheer, vegan lip gloss for daily wear. The color is light, but it's perfect for adding some shine to lipstick or wearing alone. And I feel good about the natural ingredients.

For more information, or to purchase My Delight cosmetics, visit: MyDelightonline.com.

1) ASOS is like a candy store for little cocktail dresses. Their selection ranges from affordable basics to designer pieces. And this UK retailer boasts free US shipping both ways. I love this ASOS Skater Dress ($81) with it's lace skirt, cap sleeves and the button tabs. In fact, it's in my shopping cart right now. But, fortunately or unfortunately, there is just too much to browse on ASOS - just type in "Navy" in the search box of their Up to 70% off sale page. Decisions, decisions!

2) Why not continue the navy kick and rock a little Eberjey India Lace Retro Bralet ($48) and Low Rise Boy Thong ($36). Eberjay lingerie is so comfy, you won't worry about your undergarments getting in the way of dancing the night away.

3) French Connection is a go-to for party fashions like flirty mini-dresses. I love the long sleeves of the French Connection Winter Bex Beads Dress ($163). Featuring unique beading, this silk dress is ultra-feminine. The long sleeves compensate for the mini-length and slim-cut skirt.

4) For a smaller dose of navy, try an accessory like Nasty Gal's Totally Stranded Necklace ($20). Super affordable yet luxe-looking, this necklace will complete your look.

5) A rich-hued silk skirt looks party-perfect with a pair of strappy pumps and a beaded cashmere sweater. Or, pair with a button down blouse, wide belt and boots for a work-ready look. J Crew Liquid Silk Skirt ($70) comes in a few different colors and is on sale!

6) A pair of killer heels should be in every girl's party arsenal. Giuseppe Zanotti's Two Piece Pumps ($416) feature black and navy satin. A winning color combination in a classic style. You can't go wrong.

Navy is my color-of-the-moment. What is yours?

Christian Louboutin Piou Piou Leopard-Print Pony Hair Pumps, available at Saks Fifth Ave. The leopard print isn't over the top at all. I love the shape of these pumps too, with their pointed toes and shorter, 3.5 inch heel. I can't wait to wear these to the office.

For more leopard print heel options...

Top to bottom:

Love, love, love the leopard-print film noir pumps from Madewell ($225). Black leather piping and a cutaway heel make these a leopard-print classic.

I've had my eye on the Via Spiga Mona 2 Leopard Print Pumps for awhile. They are on sale at Bloomingdales during their After Holiday Sale! (Originally $225, now $112.50). I think I saw them at Rue La La as well.

Finally, Sam Edelman's Portney Pump ($77.99) has a 4 inch stacked wooden heel for a slightly more casual feel.

What do you think of leopard heels?

Don't miss these tips on wearing animal print.

Above: Designer Yoyo Yeung features party-ready looks in her Fall/Winter 2011 collection. Young by Yoyo Yeung is available at Kitson.

1) Bright, sparkly jewels instantly add interest to even the most simple little black dress. The collection from Charme Silkiner features gorgeous gemstones like amethyst, quartz and citrine. You really can't go wrong with her picks in necklaces, earrings or bracelets. Check out this past blog post for more info on the brand.

2) A pendant necklace is a great way to create a focal point of your outfit. The labradorite or black onyx Calais Pendant Necklace from Joseph Mimi feels deliciously luxurious dressed up for a night out, but could just as easily be worn with jeans. Designer Patty Miller’s art-director background gives her collection of classic pieces a deep, imaginative feel.

3) Hot Heels Whatever you wear to a New Years party, make sure your heels are fabulous! I'm a flats by day type of girl, so I always love to dress things up for a party. Pour la Victoire is a reliable, go-to brand for strappy sandals and party perfect stilettos. I love the deep wine color of the Hiro suede sandals, lovely with black and metallics. Of course, for a pop of color, cobalt blue is a good choice. A sequin top, some waxed denim skinnies and these Michael Antonio Loveme Suede pumps are sure to make a statement. And for a bold and amazing look, turn to Ruthie Davis for studded and metallic leather heels that are not for wallflowers. She's been dressing the stars for years - More info on Ruthie Davis here.

4) Baubles Finish things off with a chunky cocktail ring in a bright gemstone like the Italian made, blue and silver Florence ring from Rebecca Jewelry. Love!

What will you be wearing this new years?

Don't spend the entire winter bogged down in a frumpy ski parka! Take your winter style up a notch this season with an Andrew Marc "Launch" Puffer Coat - think quilted sleek down filled luxe-sheen jacket. Belted and worn over a pair of Jbrand skinny jeans you'll have plenty of style while you are out and about finishing up the last of your Christmas shopping. Pair this perfectly posh puffer coat with black ankle boots from Isabel Marant and top it off with the accessory du jour, a leopard print scarf.

Our friends at Andrew Marc are giving away a $500 gift card to spend at AndrewMarc.com – Go to the official contest page on Facebook and enter for a chance to win!

What It Is:
Clarins Eye Quartet Mineral Palette in 07 Smokey Passion and Rouge Prodige in 131 Passion Rose

Why This Should Be in Your Bag:

I rarely feature collections on In Our Makeup Bag and here’s why: they are big. Most makeup collections have upwards to 10 pieces and that is just too much for this column. On top of that, the quality of all the items is usually so varied that they don’t make for a very coherent review.

Clarins is a fave brand of mine that happens to put out rather modest collections. Their latest holiday fare boasts only three items: a face powder, eye quad and a lipstick. I have both the quad and lipstick to test out, so let’s see how it goes.

How To Use It:

I’ve previously reviewed Clarins Eye Quartet Mineral Palettes, but this one has a slightly different set-up. Included are two eyeshadows, one powder eyeliner and a creamy highlighter. This selection makes use rather easy. Neither of the eyeshadows stands out as the lid or crease color, so you can match them any way you please! Then, line your upper (and lower if you’re going for intensity) lash line and add the highlighter to your brow bone and inner corner. Another plus: you can use all four both wet and dry!

Find out what grade College Candy gives Clarins Holiday Eye Quartet and Rouge Prodige Lipstick here!

With only a couple more weekends till Christmas and New Years, chances are your holiday party calendar is booked. Whether you are rocking a little black dress or some serious sequins for your cocktail attire, you may run into some "fashion emergencies". There is no better brand to provide you with fashion fixes than Hollywood Fashion Secrets!

You can win your own Hollywood Fashion Secrets prize pack complete with all you need to get you through your holiday parties without a hitch. Your prize pack includes:

- Fashion Tape
- No-Show Concealers
- Special Occasion Tape
- Deodorant Removing Sponge

These are major essentials for any wardrobe. For your chance to win, simply like Skinnypurse and Hollywood Fashion Secrets on Facebook and comment below letting us know you liked and what your favorite Hollywood Fashion Secret product is.

For more info on Hollywood Fashion Secrets visit Hollywoodfashionsecrets.com, follow on Twitter or like on Facebook.

Winner will be announced 12/24/2011. Good luck!

1) Let it snow! This pretty snow sparkle charm bracelet ($50) by J Crew is the perfect way to celebrate the season. Czech glass crystals and an adorable wishbone charm adorn this hefty brass chain bracelet. Layer with other bracelets or wear alone to make a statement. Plus! Save up to 30% with code: JINGLE.

2) For a vintage look, layer a few Braided Charm Bracelets ($27.95) by Tullie Girl. Made for moms and daughters, the sueded cord bracelets have 13 vintage-style charms. Very on trend - I know my daughter will love this and love it even more knowing mom has one too!

3) A newly launched UK company called Cutey creates high-quality charm bracelets. They sent me one to try out and I have to say, I was impressed. I love the modern clasp, and the high-quality materials. I also like the use of multiple charms and beads for an eclectic look. At around $20, the Cutey Pontus Charm Bracelet ($20.09) would make a fun holiday gift. Again, this would look great layered up with a few different styles or on it's own.

4) Initials are always popular, and Lisa Stewart's take on the Charm Bracelet is elegant and sophisticated. Her initial charm bracelet ($30) is a hand engraved bangle that can be worn as one, or paired with a few. I have been eyeing it as a set with the initials of my kids. Either way, you can't go wrong with these beautiful pieces.

What's your take on charm bracelets?

This post brought to you by Parker Pens. All opinions are 100% mine.

Recently on twitter, a friend asked "Who else misses handwriting?" This question hit home for me because I have always been one to believe in the power of the written word. I am a firm believer that thank-you notes should be hand-written. (Now that I have two kids, I will admit, my turnaround time for thank-you cards is a bit longer than in the past, but I do still try to make it a priority). In addition to my phone and outlook, I also keep a physical daily planner that I like to use to hand write my appointments and to-dos.

Part of the handwritten experience is the instrument you use. I am always in search of that "perfect pen". The one that simplifies the process instead of making it harder - A writing instrument that actually enhances the act of writing.

Parker has recently launched the Parker Ingenuity collection, featuring 5th Technology refills. 5th Technology refills combines the beauty of a fountain pen, the smoothness of a rollerball, the ease and functionality of a ball point and the smudge-free experience of a porous point pen, to create an extremely comfortable, long-lasting writing instrument. The innovative design was born from extensive research into consumer's writing needs. Ingenuity collection pens not only write beautifully, but they look stylish. The luxe design has a professional look and feel. Only the tip needs to be replaced when it's time to refill, making this a pen that will stay in your collection for years to come.

As someone who enjoys putting pen to paper, a Parker Ingenuity pen is something I would love. I am also considering pairing a few pens with a brightly hued leather-bound daily planner for a fun holiday gift.

Want to learn more about Parker pens and the Ingenuity Collection? Like Parker on Facebook. And be on the lookout for 2 upcoming Parker Pen Twitter parties! It's a great way to win some amazing prizes such as pens that are valued up to $200.

We would love to hear what you think of Parker Pens. Comment below and tell us why you would want to win one or own one!

No matter how dainty the wrist, there is something so chic about a chunky, menswear inspired watch. I am obsessed with TKO ORLOGI’s new Metal Milano watch line. Super chunky, super metallic and totally cool. This watch would make a beautiful gift for that fashionista in your life. At $150 you can get one for yourself and one as a gift! With this style, you can go bold and layer on the metal bracelets, or let the watch speak for itself, either way, it's a fabulous addition to your accessory collection.