G-Stage vs. Forever 21

I'll be honest, I am an avid Forever 21 shopper but had never heard of the clothing store G-Stage until recently. I decided to visit the G-Stage on Lakewood Blvd. after work one day to shop for some shirts and I must say I was surprisingly impressed by the wearables and the price tag attached to them. The clothing at G-Stage has a similar feel to Forever 21 in that they are fashionable and affordable, but I must say G-Stage had some pieces that were more original than anything I've seen in Forever. G-Stage also has an awesome plus size section with price conscious, trendy clothing. I bought 2 light weight sweaters, two shirts and a mock leather, hooded bomber jacket in dark camel (sooooo cute) for like $110 total. Find a G-Stage near you and incorporate them into your shopping routine. It's worth it.

DRAKE - "Fancy" lyrics - Why does he mention Bebe in his song?

bebe, I have always loved you and will never stop showing appreciation toward you but you must step up your fashion game. You took on a cheaper fashion direction a few years ago and seem to be sticking to it. Please upgrade yourself to the fashionable company you used to be. If you've had to lay off designers and opt for purchasing private label from Chinese manufacturers, I'm not mad. I understand the economy is still poor for fashion companies. My only request is that you purchase from a manufacturer that produces higher end garments. I miss the old bebe. I was listening to the lyrics of Drake's song "Fancy" and it makes mention of you:

Champagne range
triple white Caddy
closet full of brand new clothes and hand bags
Alexander McQueen, Prada, Gucci, Chanel
D&G, BCBG, Versace, Louie and Bebe

There was a time when these lyrics would have been accurate but as it stands today I realize that Drake simply needed to find a word that fit into his melody and you were easy game considering your prior fashion excellence and past mention in other rap songs. The reputation you established in the past has been strong enough to uphold you today but it won't last much longer. I have fond memories of saving my allowance in high school and going to the Beverly Center to buy a bebe shirt made in burnout fabric long before burnout was mainstream. I can still hear the compliments I receieved when I wore it. You were my first internship when you were located in the Cooper Building downtown. I want you to pull yourself together bebe. Please.

MONMARIE FASHION BOUTIQUE

When you think of Whittier, CA, great shopping isn't the first thing that comes to mind, if anything at all. You might know that the city is off the 60 freeway or somewhere around that area, or that George Lopez mentions it in one of his comedy performances, but there's not an identifying factor most people associate with Whittier. Then one day an artist at my job told me about this amazing Farmer's Market that occurs in Whittier every Thursday evening. The next thing you know my aunt- who resides in Whittier- is inviting my mom to this same Thursday evening Farmer's Market. Before I know it, I'm driving to Whittier after work one Thursday evening to stroll this massive Farmer's Market. While walking up Greenleaf toward the Market I glance inside storefronts and take in the charming nature of the street. One of the storefronts I peek in is Monmarie boutique. Although the boutique isn't what I would call non-discript, it does not scream at passersby for attention with curb mannequins and bright window displays. I decided to go inside and my first thought was that Monmarie is definitely a diamond in the rough. Greenleaf contains quite a few fashion boutiques but Monmarie is in a class all it's own, and not just among it's immediate Greenleaf competitors but throughout Los Angeles and Orange County. When I looked at the clothing in Monmarie I thought the garments were trendy and unique but very wearable. The clothing is for the person who wants to be fashion forward in a fun yet sophisticated way. I loved the fact that every garment contained a design element that was recognizable as a current trend but had a unique twist to it that made it fresh. When you shop at Monmarie you know that you're not getting a cheap knock-off rushed to the stores by a mass manufacturer and I can guarantee that you won't see the shirt you bought on 10 other women when you go out. The prices at Monmarie are also extremely reasonable considering that the quality of the garments are excellent. I almost felt guilty when I purchased an amazing chiffon and knit jersey top that was screen printed and had very intricate beading and hardware, etc., etc. along the neckline. (The compliments flowed throughout the day I decided to wear it.) Aside from the hot Kettle Korn at the Farmer's Market I eventually made my way to, Monmarie Boutique was my Thursday night highlight.

Monmarie Boutique
7309 Greenleaf Ave.
Whittier, CA 90602
(562) 696-5900