Help America's Crack Problem!

Butt Seriously (pun intended),

How many times have you walked down the street or entered a bar and encountered that girl. You know the one I'm talking about, the girl sporting a pair of super tight, super low rise jeans that exposes her, um, ass-ets. Call it what you will -- and I've called it a coin slot, a plumber's crack and various other fun slang words! -- but, like Whitney said, crack is definitely whack ... and never more so when its being exposed in a pair of unfortunate pants. Put it away girl!

Here at The Planet Pulse, we take America's crack problem very seriously. As such, we are celebrating the return of higher waisted (and flattering jeans) to the fashion world. So forget your fears of bending over and accidentally exposing your booty, The Planet Pulse is here to help put an end to the nation's nasty little denim problem!

WARNING: THESE JEANS ACTUALLY COME UP TO YOUR BELLY BUTTON!

Like in life, your girls are here to help. In this case, we're talking about Rock & Republic denim. This flattering brand has several mid-rise jeans -- all with feminine names -- that will help you cover your cracks. In this case, consider the Sienna, Nicole, Nora and Marissa style jeans to be your new best friends.

J Brand Jeans also offers a solution with its Lexington fit. Despite being dubbed the "80s Rise" by J Brand, these are not your mom's jeans (nor are they "Mom Jeans"). Instead, this pant takes the fun of the 80s and incorporates it into a sleek, modern design that you'll want to wear again and again.

7 For All Mankind also does a great skinny with a classic higher waist that -- as evidenced by Nicki, our model and Planet Pulse staffer above -- does great things for your figure.

So leave the cracks to the pros (a.k.a. the guys who are uplugging your drain) and join The Planet Pulse as we promote a crack free America!

Pittsburgh Fashion Week!

New York ... Milan ... Paris .... Pittsburgh. What do these three cities have in common? If you answered, a Fashion Week (!), then you are right on target my friends. This week, Pittsburghers are proving they're just as stylish as their counterparts in the so-called Fashion Capitols with the city's first ever Fashion Week. The festivities kicked off last night with the RUNWAY: Clearing for Takeoff -- Destination, Fashion Oz! runway show in the Southside Works. Featuring five local boutiques, including The Planet Pulse, we were honored to be a part of the event.

We also got the blessings of a queen ... two of them in fact. Besides the models in the runway show, The Planet Pulse showcased some of its stylish products on Gina Cerilli, the reigning -- and gorgeous -- Miss Pennsylvania and her counterpart, Elena La Quatra, the equally stunning Miss Teen Pennsylvania.

Upon deciding what to dress the girls in, The Planet Pulse decided to go with military-style ensembles, which is one of the hottest looks for fall. Gina is rocking a pair of khaki Houlihans from celeb-favorite J-Brand Jeans while Elena looks like "da bomb" in a black military-style jacket with gold detailing from Juicy Couture.

We were so proud to be a part of the 'burgh's Fashion Week and prove that our city is not all about mullets and Steeler jerseys --- at least not most of the time -- and there is much more to come. Pittsburgh Fashion Week is taking place all week with more events around the city. To learn more, visit the Pittsburgh Fashion Week website at http://pittsburghfashionweek.com/

Of course, The Planet Pulse is available 52 weeks out of the year for your fashion fix. To find out what's really in style this season, give us a visit today!

Who are you today?

Don't our mannequins look hip yet mysterious clad in their Planet Pulse finery and bejeweled masks? Kudos to Doug Anderson, The Planet Pulse staffer who came up with the concept and created our masquerade-themed window display for Halloween. Classy, yes?

Speaking of mysterious, the upcoming Halloween season got me thinking about how we costume ourselves -- not just on Oct. 31 -- but all year long with our ever-evolving wardrobes. On any given day, you can be a hippie chick, a diva, a punk or a biker babe. It's amazing how your clothes define you.

For myself, some days I feel like a glamour girl and pull out some high, high heels and a fancy top (courtesy of The Planet Pulse of course) and on others I just throw on a pair of trusty True Religions (also from the store), a military-inspired ball cap and a pair of flats for the tomboy effect. Each outfit affects my mood and demeanor for the day ... Such is the power of clothes. The fun part is that with fashion, you don't have to choose just one persona.

This is where The Planet Pulse can help you. We have so much in inventory and such a diverse selection that it is easy -- with the help of our staff -- to create a new image. So next time you venture into our Planet, don't just think of it as a clothing store, think of it as a new world of opportunity!

P.S. The photo I took of the display doesn't do it justice. Stop in for yourself and be sure to congratulate our Dougee on his hard work!

New VIP Special!

We've launched a new special offer! This offer is available until September 15, 2010 at 3:00 PM.<br /><br />Fashion Fridays house jazz with David Roth 6-9pm. Sidewalk Sale Sunday, 9/19 with all new hot markdowns @The Planet Pulse

New VIP Special!

We've launched a new special offer! This offer is available until September 9, 2010 at 4:30 PM.<br /><br />Fashion Fridays start tomorrow @The Planet Pulse! 6-9pm with special savings, refreshments and The Sour Mash Band performing!

Size Matters

That is, when it comes to getting the proper fit for your jeans. Wait, you didn't think I was talking about .... Uh, nevermind.

Anyway, getting the correct fit for your body is essential when it comes to wearing denim the right way. Unfortunately, it can get a little confusing as most premium jean brands (such as True Religion, J Brand and many others) utilize the European system of sizing ... meaning sizes range from a 24 to a 32 and beyond. For Americans used to buying their brands with sizes in the lower digits, it can be a bit baffling.

From personal experience, I know it's frustrating to walk into a store and be unaware of your size ... and even more frustrating to try on sizes that are too big or -- worse -- too small. But fear not, the trusty team at The Planet Pulse is here to help.

Below is a conversion chart from European to American sizing. Oh, and this is IMPORTANT! Do not be alarmed if you go up a size when you try on a pair a premium denim jeans. Designer sizing tends to run smaller than Classic Apparel Sizing. So cancel your crash diet and don't worry, it's not you, its the jeans. REALLY!

Classic Apparel Size 00 = Designer Size 24

0 = 25

2 = 26

4 = 27

6 = 28

8 = 29

10 = 30

12 = 31

14 = 32

Here's another helpful hint from the experts. If your jeans fit tight -- but not cutting into your skin tight -- the first time you try them on, then that's the right fit for you. Denim tends to stretch, not only throughout the day, but throughout its lifetime and -- in order to avoid the dreaded saggy butt -- this is important to note before buying your new jeans.

If this sounds a little difficult to take in or remember, just ask your resident experts at The Planet Pulse for help. The staff is well-versed in all things denim and we'd be happy to hook you up with the right pair of jeans today!

The Planet Pulse at Zen Social Club

For the second time in as many months, The Planet Pulse sponsored a fashion-related event at Zen Social Club in Station Square. This time, it was "The Headliner," hosted by DJ Digital Dave on Aug. 20. A set also was performed by "The Dream Team,"aka DJs' Nino Nice and DJ Endless, who were there to celebrate the release of their new CD, Kicking It Poolside.
The night was a blast and four lucky winners were given gift certificates to The Planet Pulse. The staff also made a splash by handing out glow stick necklaces to club goers. A big thank you goes out to our models, especially Andrea, who made us -- and the entrance to Zen -- look good! Thanks for sending everyone our way girls!
Above are Planet Pulse staffers Jaymie, Doug and Jessica at the big event. Between transforming clubbers into Planet Pulse converts, we also were entertained by Doug's (awesome) dance moves. Go Dougy!

Armed and Fabulous!

First of all, how adorable is the above artwork? The hand-drawn fashionista was created by Kara (with the words provided by yours truly), one of the many talented people we have -- or rather had -- on staff at The Planet Pulse. Kara recently returned to art school in Chicago and we'll certainly miss her creativity. However, we won't get a chance to miss her artwork as we have a poster-sized version of this very drawing on display at The Planet Pulse.

But back to why you're really reading this missive, the fashion. While the military look has been popular since it debuted on runways everywhere this spring, like any good soldier, it keeps marching forward ... right into fall!

Of course, The Planet Pulse has the hottest label in the game when it comes to this particular look and that is Houlihan cargo pants from celebrity fave, J Brand Jeans. Spotted on the likes of Rihanna, Gwenth Paltrow and other luminaries, Houlihans are far from your boyfriend's cargo pants of yore. Fitted and sexy, these pants -- which come in a variety of colors from navy to olive drab -- are meant to embrace a woman's curves. Paired with a camisole, a tight T-shirt or some other token of femininity and the combination is a lethal weapon.

So what are you waiting for? Go to The Planet Pulse now and try on a pair! Now, how's that for marching orders?

RVCA is a knock-out

Photo courtesy of RVCA

When PM Tenore founded his signature collection in 2001 and dubbed it RVCA, short for Recession Collection, we're pretty sure he didn't know that close to a decade later, the economy would tank. While times remain turbulent, one thing is for sure, the RVCA brand is booming.

Closely associated with art, music and culture, RVCA also is a sponsor of skate and surf. Recently the company began sponsoring UFC fighter B.J. Penn and the brand is a hit -- make that a knock-out! -- with his followers. I can say this from experience because our Director of Marketing and Promotions (Hi Jaymie!) for The Planet Pulse is huge Penn fan!

So why I am telling you this? Well, in case you haven't guessed, we just began carrying the RVCA (pronounced Rew-Cah) line at the store and we expect it to be a big seller for the fall. Not only does it have some pretty cool associations, but the brand's hoodies -- and indeed all the pieces in the line -- are comfortable and stylish.

And, even though the weather is still warm, have you noticed the nights are getting a little cooler? Perfect weather for a hoodie. May I suggest a RVCA ;)

Will You Miss Me?

Photo Copyright, Miss Me

No, I'm not going anywhere, but thanks for asking. Ha! What I AM talking about is the brand Miss Me, a line of hip, trendy -- and budget friendly -- designs (including denim, shirts and dresses) that we feature heavily at The Planet Pulse ... and for good reason.

Launched in the spring of 2001, Miss Me jeans are known for their fun, embellished back pockets as well as a fit that rivals that of True Religion Brand Jeans. Best of all, there's very little buckage for all for all that bling. Jeans range in price from $86 to $106.

We just got in a new shipment of these designer denim duds and shoppers already are gobbling them up . Some of my favorite looks include an angelic pair of jeans with silver rhinestone wings on the back as well as a pair featuring a strip of leather and shiny studs lining the waistband. Bad girl! To placate your inner hippie-chick, check out our dark denim wash with a duo of peace signs on the behind.

Miss Me also has a killer line of cute clothing options that goes by the name of MM Couture. A new addition to the Miss Me family, MM Couture was created in 2008 and showcases high fashion designs that range from blouses, skirts and dresses to coats and jackets. Some of the fun looks we're excited by at the store include a one shouldered white tank with tuft of distressed netting on the side and a silver sequined mini-dress that reminds me of a disco ball. Just yesterday, I saw a young girl try on one of these dresses for a Hollywood-themed party and, I must say, she looked fabulous!

So that now that I've babbled on about our unique labels, I'll again leave you with a question. Will you Miss Me? Leave your comments below ... and I'm expecting answers folks!

A Tale of Two Pirates

It was just a few short weeks ago that an athletic-looking young man walked into The Planet Pulse. The owner of the store also happened to be there that day and, being the kind of owner he is (friendly!), he promptly began to chat up the young man, who looked like he could be a star player of some sort.

Boy, was he right.

The gentleman turned out to be Pine Township native Neil Walker. A 2004 graduate of Pine-Richland High school and a Pittsburgh Pirate since 2009, Neil also has been a fan of The Planet Pulse since it opened close to two years ago.

A fast friendship -- helped no doubt by a mutual love of fashion -- was soon born.

Luckily for us, Neil Walker is a friendly sort ... and charitable too. Along with fellow player Garrett Jones, Neil will be at The Planet Pulse from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday to sign player cards (the guys will provide their own) and other memorabilia. The Planet Pulse also will donate a portion of the proceeds from Saturday's sales to The Pirates-supported charity, Fields for Kids. This is a terrific -- and local -- organization that provides financial support for new baseball and softball fields around the Pittsburgh community.

See, so not only do you have a chance to meet The Pirates, it's for a good cause too!

Now, just a word or two about Garrett Jones, not only does he look good in his uniform, the outfielder (Nickname: G.I. Jones), like Neil, is an extremely nice guy. But don't just take my word for it, find out for yourself -- and ask them what denim brands they prefer -- when you visit The Planet Pulse this weekend. An added bonus? You also can check out all the recent new arrivals to the store, including fab looks from Miss Me, Ella Moss and RVCA.

So, there you have it; Pirates hotties and an afternoon spent shopping. Sigh. Sounds like a perfect day for any Pittsburgh fashionista worth her salt ... and whose heart belongs to the city.

Makeovers for the soul ... and sole!

Whether it's is a new job, a fresh coat of paint in your living room or just cleaning out your car, life is all about make-overs (unfortunately, we don't get too many "do-overs," but that's another story).

How you choose to do it is up to you, but for me, one of the most satisfying make-overs is not the existential kind, it's the get your hair and nails done, blow of bunch of money on cosmetics and feel fabulous traditonal kind of makeover. Does anything feel quite as good as stepping out of the salon with professionally blown out hair and a new set of highlights? Is there anything more satisfying that finding a great deal on a killer new dress?

If you don't know what I'm talking about, then I invite you to find out for yourself when The Planet Pulse teams up with Harmony Salon of Wexford and Bobbie Brown Cosmetics to present "Makeover Sunday" at the store from noon to 4 p.m. on July 11.

Named after owner Harmony Kaiser, Harmony is a great little salon -- I know, I get my hair done there -- and Bobbie Brown is the preferred make-up vendor to the stars. Combined with the recent additions to the store, including new denim from super popular brand Miss Me, and our helpful and knowlegable staff (they'll tell you when your butt looks great in something!) and it creates an all-out lesson is fabulosity.

To make it extra-special, we'll document the make-over process for you. The talented Freesia, who also created the flyer above, will be on hand to take before and after photos of your updated look.

So relax, leave your troubles at home and prepare for a whole new you. Not only will you be looking good on the outside, but you'll be feeling so good on the inside that you might just leave with one of those inner-makovers I spoke of earlier after all. A day of beauty + inner beauty. I can't think of anything better... On that warm and fuzzy note, have a nice weekend everyone!

(P.S. The Planet Pulse also will be at Cranberry's Community Days on Saturday at the local park. There will be rides, games, food and us, along with a selection of items from the store. Oh, and fireworks! We'll be at Booth 21. Please stop by and say hi!)

Babes in Bikerland

Have you ever watched the movie "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants?" Or maybe read the book? If you haven't (and I think you should, as both the movie and book are very cute), I won't spoil it with the details, but the title was an apt description of our Thursday night as the ladies of the Planet Pulse (including yours truly, I'm the second in from the right) went mobile with a selection of denim from the store.
The pants traveled (haha!) from the store to the Quaker Steak & Lube in Cranberry, where we set up our wares during the restaurant's "Bike Night," which is held every Thursday evening throughout the summer.
The weather was gorgeous and a fun time was had by all as we chatted with the resident bikers and invited them to "rev up their style" with some of the well-known motorcycle-related brands we carry at the story. Some favorites were Johnson Motor Company (I absolutely adore a light-blue baby tee we just got in), Affliction for the guys and Sinful for the gals. Also a hit was a denim vest for chicks by Robin's Jeans (photo above).
Now, even if you're not a biker, these looks will still work for you. Trust me, put on a V-necked, blinged-out Sinful T-shirt and you'll look so good that no one will even question where your Harley is.
We carry all of the above mentioned brands in the store full-time, but, if you're so inclined, The Planet Pulse will be at Bike Night every Thursday at The Lube (weather permitting) with more choice labels chosen just for our biker friends.
And, of course, I have to give a shout-out to the gals who attended Bike Night and manned (ladied?) the tent with me. They are, from left, Alexis, Emily, Me (Jessica) and store owner/buyer Sophia, who is responsible for all the hot items displayed both at the tent and at the store. A special thanks also goes to Nick, Justin and Marty Fin for helping set up and take down the tent and to store owner Marty for being such a super salesman.
We all look forward to the next Bike Night on Thursday and we hope to see you there!

Ella Enchanted

The summer season is that magical time of year in the 'burgh when the days are long, the weather is hot (albeit muggy, after all, this is still Pittsburgh weather we're talking here!) and a whimsical little sundress, some shades and a little self-tanner paired with sky-high heels is all you need to make an outfit complete.

On enchanting evenings like this, who better to turn to than Ella Moss?

If you're unfamiliar with Ella, she is the L.A. based, quirky and romantic designer (real name: Pamella Protzel Scott) known for her flowy, feminine designs that carry the comfort level of a T-shirt. She first found fame after Sarah Jessica Parker's character on Sex and the City, Carrie Bradshaw, wore one of her designs on the show. The brand has been on a skyrocket to the bigtime ever since. Today, the look also is favored by such ethereal beauties as Gwenyth Paltrow and Liv Tyler.

Ella Moss may be an L.A. fairytale, but it's not one just reserved for the City of Angels. After a heavenly two-week adventure to Los Angeles and Las Vegas, our buyer, Sophia, returned to The Planet Pulse last week with a slew of new inventory favored on the west coast and ready to make its Pittsburgh debut in our store. This, of course, includes some enchanting pieces from Ella Moss. I was at The Planet Pulse yesterday and I was particularly taken by a little black number with lacy shoulders. The look is sweet, but also sexy!

Ella Moss isn't our only new arrival. We also have new looks from J Brand, Genetic Denim, Sky, RVCA and more. But hey, don't just take my word for it. Stop by the store today and see what we have to offer!

Fashion Show Tonight with The Planet Pulse!

So for weeks now, I've been talking about all the cool apparel at The Planet Pulse. If you haven't made it to the store yet, here's another chance to check out our hot fashions ... on stage. That's right, The Planet Pulse rules the runway tonight as the exclusive retail provider for the Glamour Fashion Show being held at Zen Social Club in Station Square.

Along with five featured Pittsburgh salons (including friend of the store, Harmony Salon of Wexford!), The Planet Pulse will be the sole fashion boutique at the event.

The fun starts at 10 p.m. with a chance to win five $50 gift cards from The Planet Pulse ... and we're not done hooking you up yet. Mention our name at the door and recieve free drinks from 10 p.m. to midnight. Register for the event by going to the Glamour Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=294316578008 and get ready to rock the runway with us!

By the way, this isn't the first time The Planet Pulse has walked the runway. Above is a clip from the Fairytale Fashion Show held at Whim earlier this year. Check out the video and then get ready for tonight. We'll see you at Zen!

This One Is For The Fellas

But don't worry ladies, I wouldn't leave you hanging without some sort of eye-candy! You'll find it above in the form of Brad Pitt and Usher. Oh, and Jay-Z is pictured too ... Yes, he's a talented artist, but I just don't think he's cute (Sorry Beyonce!). Now, besides good looks, enormous wealth and a paparazzi following, what else do these guys have in common? Give yourself a pat on the back if you said their shirts!

All are wearing Aqua VI t-shirts, one of hippest names in casual men's fashion.

Now, you don't have to go to Hollywood and stalk Brad Pitt to find this brand ... just to another Planet. By that, of course, I'm talking about The Planet Pulse. We just started carrying this versatile brand and already it is selling like hotcakes.

Here's what Usher, Angelina's better half and, yes, Jay-Z, already have discovered: Aqua VI shirts are fun, they're super-soft and they have an interesting print. Besides the standard crew neck, they also come in the more unusual v-neck.

Need more proof? Our very own superstar, Marty, owner of The Planet Pulse, modeled a light-blue Aqua VI shirt that I told him went well with his eyes! Marty wore his Aqua VI with a trendy pair of distressed MEKs. A great look for anyone, I think this is an especially cool combination for a casual night at an outdoor bar. Maybe the Cabana Bar? I'll leave it up to you, the readers. Tell me, where would you wear your Aqua VI?

Get Your "Housewife" On!

If you're like me and obsessed with the "Real Housewives" series on Bravo (I watch 'em all, Orange County, New York City, Atlanta and especially Jersey), then you know the ladies of California always rock some seriously sexy and blinged out tank tops and dresses made by Sky clothing. Now, I have never seen this particular brand around Pittsburgh, but guess what? The Planet Pulse carries it! Planet Pulse staffer Emily (photo above) was kind enough to model one of the newest Sky tops to hit the store. Know another reason why Sky tops are so awesome? They practically come with their own accessories! The turquoise and coral strands that you see around Emily's neck actually are a part of the shirt. Whether it be a jeweled neckline or a funky belt, this brand always has that extra something special that makes it a standout.

Emily paired her ensemble with one of the other fabulous new additions to the store, True Religion brand "jeggings." Jeggings (jeans/leggings) continue to be one of the year's hottest trends ... and it ain't going away anytime soon. Pair them with a Sky top and the combination makes a great look for a night out on the town!

Father's Day is This Sunday!

Consider this a gentle reminder that Father's Day is this Sunday. Admittedly, I usually forget about this day dedicated to dad until the last minute (Love you Dad!) and then find myself rushing out to Target or Hallmark in a panic to grab a card ... and maybe a gift certificate to Home Depot.
However, this year, I'm determined to turn over a new leaf and come up with a cool, well thought out gift for Dad. Luckily, The Planet Pulse has got a lot of attractive choices that I'm willing to share ;)
Daddy option number #1 is this stylish shirt from Debonair Collection. Although it gives the appearance of a typical --albeit sophisticated -- button down for work, rolling up the sleeves reveals a fun and surprising print. Dad will love it! If pink's not his thing, The Planet Pulse carries a variety of colors from Debonair Collection with all the same sweet style.
Another great idea for Dad is a polo from Lacoste. This classic shirt never goes out of vogue. On this, I'm serious! Lacoste has been around since 1933 and, after peaking in the '80's with preppies, Lacoste is enjoying another surge in popularity with today's trendsetters.
For fun, get Dad one in a bright color for summer that can easily take him from the golf course to a Father's Day dinner to a trip to the bar with you!

Let The Sunshine In!

Yeah, yeah I know the weather has been super cloudy and rainy lately (even by Pittsburgh standards). Luckily, the right pair of sunglasses can look just as cute perched on top of your head as they do when they're shielding your eyes from the sun! The Planet Pulse has a whole range of stylish options that are priced right from Pepper's Performance Eyeware.

I tried on a pair of big bug-eyed frames yesterday (That's me, Jessica, to the left) and I felt like Nicole Richie.... or maybe an Olsen twin, minus the eating disorders.

The nice thing about the Pepper's brand is that -- besides being right on target with today's trends -- they are budget-friendly, with prices ranging from $34.95 to $69.95 ... so you don't have to break the bank to get an awesome pair of glasses. Pick up a pair today at The Planet Pulse and bust out of the doom and glum!

Who Wears Short Shorts?

You do! The hot weather is finally here and what better way to celebrate it than to show off your legs in one of summer's hottest trends -- drum roll please--the short short!

The Planet Pulse just got a whole new inventory of these cute little cutoffs with styles from Miss Me, Rock & Republic, 7 For All Mankind, J Brand and True Religion. In fact, when I stopped by the store yesterday, Planet Pulse staffer Nicky had on an adorable pair of shorts from Seven For All Mankind. That's her picture above.

Now, on to a little history lesson. A few years ago (and as she still does today) Britney Spears was known for wearing cutoffs so shorts that the pockets hung lower than the hem. Say what you will about Brit (and I think she's a resident of Crazytown), but girl has got great legs. Which leads me to now. Denim short shorts are everywhere this season and many of them have funky inside pockets that are meant to be shown off. In fact, The Planet Pulse is carrying a great version from 7 for All Mankind featuring a medium blue denim wash with pretty white eyelet pockets that's perfect for a casual graduation party or just a relaxing day in the sun.

Welcome Fashionistas to Planet Fashion, the official fashion blog of The Planet Pulse, the Pittsburgh area's premier destination for premium denim!



On Planet Fashion you will find fashion advice, exclusive offerings from The Planet Pulse and, of course, the who, what, when and where on all your favorite jeans.

So, Planet Fashion is populated by friendly inhabitants (i.e. our knowledgeable staff) and we invite you to share your thoughts, stories and comments with us. Happy blogging ... and may the fashion force be with you!