Sorry I've been so m.i.a. I'm currently moving back to sunny california (!) from illinois and things have been crazy! I'll resume posting and commenting on all of your wonderful posts as soon as I get moved in and settled down sometime later this week! 

The MET's Costume Institute Gala!

The night I've been waiting for all year! I love this event and it always brings out the most exciting red carpet. This year was no exception, however, I was shocked at how little the super hero theme played into the dress choices. Christina Ricci DID take the theme to heart though and looked AMAZING and really was the best of the night.

How beautiful does she look?! This wonder woman-esque, Givenchy gown is not only beautiful but it's fun and goes along with the theme. This is what the event is all about!! Perfect choice.
More works of art! Anna Wintour, Eva Longoria and Diane Kruger all had beautiful dresses worthy of this event (would we have expected anything less from Anna). Well don't ladies! 
Eva Mendes, The Olsen Twins, and Giselle Bundchen all looked absolutely stunning! I was surprised by the tameness of the Olsens' choices but they did look great. I thought they would have been a little more theme oriented but still great choices.
More beautiful dresses! sigh! 
Well... I can't say I like any of these dresses but there is something to say about these daring ladies and their choices. While this is definitely not one of my favorite Rachel Bilson moments, her outfit definitely had a futuristic feel to it. 

Common ladies! You guys may look good but TALK ABOUT SAFE!! Sooo not worthy of those red stairs.
Victoria Beckham looked... bizarre. She should have definetly gone more theme, she could totally have pulled it off. No matter what beautiful designer dress Blake Lively gets a hold of, it always seems to wear her and not the other way around. I don't even want to start on Jennifer Lopez. Emmy Rossum looked boring as ever but can everyone take a moment and acknowledge the BEAUTIFUL dress behind her!! I was also beyond disappointed with Kate Bosworth's choice as she is one of my all time favorites. Sigh, at least Karl looks fabulous. Amanda Peet, ugh I hate her and I hate this outfit. Nuff said.

How did she get invited?! Sarah Silverman has no right to be on that carpet and neither did that hideous outfit. Ay Me. 

I'm really not sure how I feel about these two. Part of my loves Katie's look and another part hates it. The color is amazing, that I know, and very super hero-ish. The length though... maybe that's where it seems off? The cartoonish bob? The creepy husband? And then Michelle Trachtenberg... ugh, I absolutely HATE her, I've never liked her in anything and don't think they could have picked a worse person to play Georgina on Gossip Girl. As much as I love that show, my love decreased slightly when they casted her and I cringe every time she's on the screen (not just because of her evil character). Any way,despite that rant, I can't help but love her outfit. I just really really wish I didn't...

Any way, I think that about wraps it up for now! Two finals for me to finish and then SUMMER AND BACK HOME TO LOS ANGELES!! yes!

tagged!

  I was tagged to do this survey by the fabulous Silje's Fashion 

The rules:
1. Link the Person who tagged you
2. Mention the rules in your blog
3. Tell about 6 unspectacular quirks of yours
4. Tag 6 fellow bloggers by linking them
5. Leave a comment on each of the tagged bloggers blogs letting them know they have been tagged.

Sorry the font comes up so small! if you click on the little box it will get bigger! 

Um, I'm pretty sure everyone has done this but if you haven't and want to let me know and I'll tag you! Can't wait for The Costume Institute Gala!! so close! 

It's Easter!!

Happy Easter for any one else out there who is Eastern Orthodox! 

Posting will hopefully resume sometime next week once finals and such die down. 

Happy Earth Day!

Happy Earth Day everyone! Although being green is so trendy now, it hardly needs a day of it's own. But I love this earth and plan to do my part in helping out, as is a large chunk of the fashion world.  Retailers such as Barneys and Shopbop.com have their own eco friendly sections now with clothes made of organic fabrics and reusable shopping bags. 

However, as fabulous as all this is, it comes with a hefty price tag. But being green doesn't mean you have to shell out all your green ones. In fact you can actually save money! The CW, home of some great shows (Gossip Girl, One Tree Hill, Beauty and the Geek, America's Next Top Model) has teamed up with StopGlobalWarming.com to help you go green. The website is actually very well done and incorporates all the great characters from these shows showing you just how easy going green is and how one person REALLY can make a difference. There is also a to do list, so check it out and you too can save the world. 
Check out what you can do! 

Once again Happy Earth Day! I don't know about where everyone else lives, but the weather here was definitely celebrating along today! Gotta love that sunshine. 

I guess they're keeping her around...

I thought she was fired?!

Any way... this video takes a peak into Nina Garcia's closet as she discusses her style, how she isn't a fan of vintage and loves Chanel. 

Nina Garcia

Pride

So we made it! We are finally at the 7th sin! Time for some pride! 

I thought I would take this time to brag a bit and show off some things I'm proud of. Last week Raych from That's Chic did a post about her mom's style which inspired me to take the theme of pride and extended it to my family. I have always been emerged in style, art and fashion, since both my parents are artists, my mom was a fashion designer with her own line (Tailfeathers for any So Cal readers who frequented Fred Segals in the early 90s) and my grandmother on my father's side was a coat model, and my great-grandmother (or maybe a great aunt...?) owned a hat shop. So here are the people who have influenced my style since day one and before I knew anything about Kate Moss and Karl Lagerfeld. 

The first picture is of my parents back in their hippy days! Look at all that hair and those bell bottoms! Lookin' groovy guys! Next is my mom and me before...some event...my mom's rocking bright, textured pieces, perhaps showing a bit of her Venezuelan roots in that full skirt (my grandparents are Greek but my mother was born in Venezuela) and me in a short black vintage dress. The third picture is my dad and me on Christmas last year, nothing says holiday cheer like big bows and cable knit sweaters. Next is my parents before a spring wedding we attended last month, my mom wearing a maxi dress and my dad looking dapper per usual. And then, last but not least, a casual pic, polos and jeans and matching orange accessories! 
Here are the founders of our fashion-y family. The black and white picture is my grandmother and grandfather on my father's side (the coat model) in Freeport, NY. On the right is my Greek grandmother (who is actually from Egypt, I know, we're from all over the place, we can't seem to stay still) and me! So many bright colors, she always wore those bold blouses and I...well...I actually can't defend my hot pink, ruffly, sequined ensemble, but I remember despite my mom's pleas I WOULD NOT take it off. 

Moving away from family for a second (although we'll get back to that), I wanted to take this prideful moment to share this project I've been working on with Suzanne Xie, founder of weardrobe.com. The site is really cool and allows people to upload their photos and create a virtual closet "tagging" the clothes they are wearing. You can then look through their closet, pick your favorite clothes and see all the different outfits they wore it with. My job was to create a celebrity wardrobe. I've been working on (and will continue to expand on) Rachel Bilson's wardrobe. There is also one Coco from Coco's Tea Party created for Cameron Diaz.
So check it out! It's really fun! 

The next thing I want to get to on my list is links! I've finally figured out how to add links to my favorite blogs on my page (I think I did it right...) So if you would like to trade links I would be more than happy to! I'm so jealous (I know, wrong sin) of all of you with your links out there on so many sites! Here's hoping to expand my blog a bit!

Okay, to wrap things up I want to show off two of my favorite pictures. 
My mommy looking like the rock star she is while we were lunching out on Balboa Island last month and a polaroid of me as a wee tot modeling a dress from my mom's Tailfeathers line. I guess I was destined to be fashion-y, I had the pout and pose down by the age of three. 

Sorry for the self-centered post. But hey! That's pride for ya!

So that does it for our seven deadly sins theme week! I have a few papers to work on for school so I'm going to take a brief break. Hopefully I'll be back to posting later this week!

Hope you enjoyed this sinful series! 

Wrath

So this "wrath" post was a bit delayed due to the fact that I'm not an angry person and I really couldn't figure out what to write about. I thought about talking about celebs I can't stand but the thought of writing about Paris Hilton and Heidi Montag makes me cringe. So I thought about some movies, thought about Fight Club since there is definitely a little world anger and aggression there. And while there is a lot more going on in that movie beside fighting, it made me think about my friend Sarah who boxes for her workout, something I've always wanted to try. So I present to you my super short wrath post about how I want to take up boxing and punch it all out.

So when I take up boxing, I want to do it in style. For one, I would want to get these pro, satin shorts. They just look so awesome and hardcore, unfortunately they only make them for men so I'm not sure how they would fit but I would def try to rock them ($29.99 from everlast.com). Okay so the pink boxing set is WAY girly, but I feel like punching it out in all pink would be SO satisfying ($99.99 from everlast.com). Now all I need to do is learn how to throw a punch.

So that's all the aggression I have... ONE MORE SIN LEFT! 

Gluttony

So gluttony isn't really something heavily associated with the fashion world seeing as a stick thin figure is heavily preferred. But being one of the seven deadly sins and that being the theme of the week, I reveal to you my greatest indulgences. 

While most of my favorite foods are stuck in LA (Mom's cooking, In N Out, and more on that later), there are a few things I can continue to enjoy here in Champaign, Il. I absolutely LOVE crepes. Sweet or savory doesn't matter, I love them all. Lucky for me there is a fabulous crepe restaurant on the corner of 4th and Green, who would have thought such a small town would have such a lovely cafe. My other at-school favorite indulgence is Nutella (which happens to be amazing in crepes, as well as on toast, waffles, croissants, and in desperate times Ritz crackers). I was actually surprised to find this delicious chocolate hazelnut spread at the local grocery store but I did! Yum...I could eat it all day. Can't wait to get back to LA and head over to Il Trem and get it on a croissant with strawberries all warm and melty. Mmm
Some things I can't indulge in out here in the corn fields, some amazing (and embarrassingly trendy) locations. Geisha House is hands down my favorite restaurant. I love the trendy, hip interior as well as their incredible food. I admit, I don't really like ACTUAL sushi... but they have the BEST veggie rolls in town! If anyone goes you must get the Green Lawn which is an amazing combination of cucumber and asparagus WRAPPED in avocado... heaven. You can't talk about gluttonous consumption in Los Angeles without discussing Sprinkles cupcakes. They are so rich and just flat out amazing. I'm going into a sugar coma just thinking about it. Last, but definitely not least, is the ever expanding Pinkberry. I remember when you used to have to drive to West Hollywood and stand in line for an hour for this tart treat. Now, every time I come home there is at least one new store and a slew of knock-offs popping up EVERYWHERE. I admit, the trendiness sort of ruins the appeal of it, but I still can't wait till school ends and I get to have the plain yogurt topped with strawberries, raspberries, and chocolate chips!!
Not all gluttonous behavior has to be calorie filled. Just watching Keri Russel bake her amazing pies in Waitress (a fabulous movie to boot!) and Kirsten Dunst devour extravagant pink treats in Marie Antoinette is enough to get your mouth watering...although it may lead to a pie and cake binge session the minute the film is over! 

I'm going to go fill up on some Nutella now, hit the gym tomorrow. 

What are your favorite, sinful treats?

Green with Envy

Celebrities, I'm not jealous of their fame or fortunes (although that does lead to my jealousy), I'm not jealous of the swarms of attention they demand or their guaranteed access to the hottest clubs (although I wouldn't mind this perk). It isn't even their seemingly endless amounts of fabulous clothes I envy the most. (although again, if you gave me all their clothes I wouldn't complain). No, what I envy most about celebrities is their closets in which they store their amazing clothes. There is something about the presentation, the space, and their ability to fill it that turns me green. 

Sigh to have such an amazing closet and the clothes to pack it. While Eva Longoria's closet is far neater (there are 50 pairs of jeans there!!) than Nicole Richie's, there is something about Nicole's messy, jam packed closet that I feel like I could spend hours in, always discovering something new. 
Moving on to Eva's shoe selection, she has 200 pairs impressively displayed behind her, while a more dramatic display (in someone's living room!) is shown below. On the right is stylist to the stars Rachel Zoe's closet, which again is a little out of control but full of literally everything you could ever want! Sigh!
So how do us mortals achieve closets like this? Well despite winning the lottery and moving into an accommodating home, there are a few key elements in creating a killer closet. One, matching hangers (even Nicole's mess has matching hangers). Nothing looks more luxurious than wood hangers, it just makes your clothes look and hang so much nicer, which is why stores do this. I also like stocking my shelves full of my favorite designers. Well...books about them. If the only way I'm going to have a Valentino dress in my closet is a book, then I'll display it proudly. There's also something so stylist-esque about a fashion library and inspiration right where you need it in the morning. Another way to glam up the wardrobe is a great lighting fixture (I found the one in the top right corner on target.com for 79.99) or fabulous decorations. I think decorating the inside of your closet is just as important as decorating your room. If your closet is organized in a coherent way (ie it doesn't have to be neat but you have to know where things are) with inspirational decorations, your daily style will reflect that. My final faux-envious-closet trick, designer boxes. Fashion houses put careful thought into everything they design, including the packaging. While I don't necessarily have the fabulous clothes that came inside these boxes (those are usually my mothers) I love to use them as storage for nic-nacs and things that have no other home. 

So until I'm rich and famous, I'll make due, but I'll still turn a bit green every time I get a peak into these great rooms (because let's face it, I could live comfortably in those closets). 

Sloth

This is going to be a hard post to write, talking about all this comfy stuff makes me want to curl up in bed and go to sleep! I really think sloth is the least bad sin, I mean what's so wrong with being lazy and sleeping for hours....

Here are some of my favorite ways to be slothful.

As much as I hate super girly "fashion", I LOVE Victoria's Secret Pink and Juicy Couture sweats. Something about all the pink and girly comfort is just love and can't really be beat by anything else. (Juicy Couture Velour Drawstring Pant $57.40 on sale at shopbop.com, Victoria's Secret Signature sweatshort $24.50)
Ah, nothing says lazy relaxation like hours of calming music. The Vitamin String Quartet does amazing classical covers of everything from classic rock and punk to country and pop (they even have a Jessica Simpson CD!). With over 250 albums they are sure to have a calming rendition of your favorite music. My favorites are their tribute CDs to John Lennon, Nirvana and Snow Patrol, find your favorite artist's classical counterpart on iTunes or http://www.vitaminrecords.com/web/page.asp?pgs=products&catid=20. My other favorite albums to relax to are Nirvana and Foo Fighters acoustic albums. All their great songs toned down, both available on iTunes. mmm I LOOOVVEEE my pillows! I sleep with so many. Some people just pile them on as pointless decoration, I burry myself in them nightly. Big fluffy pillows and big comforters are what a perfect night (and often morning to mid-afternoon) are made of.

Wow, I'm exhausted! It's off to bed for me!! 

Greed

Moving on to the second sin of the week: greed. There are a few items in my closet that i have plenty of, a well rounded collection if you will. Still, like any wardrobe over-achiever, there is always room for improvement, i.e. additions. So, I present to you things i want but don't need...at all...making me a bit greedy. 

This season, Nine West has really impressed me. Their shoes are funky, fresh and edgy, all things I look for in a good pair. They're also well made and affordable (which doesn't hurt!). I not only have a good shoe collection, but I have a fairly impressive collection of this seasons Nine West shoes (see my earlier "Addictions" post). But greedy little me wants more. Six more to be exact. (Top Left: Raven $69, Hotpic $49.99 (on sale), Jobilyn $79, Newtime $89, Forger $89, Nacre $99, all available at ninewest.com)
Okay, so that picture isn't my collection of Free City sweats, but I wish it was. These funky sweats and shirts are SO COMFORTABLE. I have two sweatpants and a sweatshirt and I live in them. While they are expensive (and have been fairly trendy for quite some time) they are totally worth it, at least in my greedy mindset. (check out freecitysupershop.com)

Any one who has seen the top drawer of my dresser knows I do not need another swimsuit, and yet, if that stopped me before I wouldn't have the collection I have today. Is it wrong that I enjoy a large assortment of bathing suits all summer? ( Middle four, clockwise from top left: Mossimo Black Solid Ruched Bandeau Top $17.99, Jovovich-Hawk for Target Triangle Top $11.89, Xhilaration Stripe Bandeau Top $14.99, Mossimo Black Space-Dye Banded Swim Top $17.99 all available at target.com. Two side suits left to right: Antibes Amber-ring Banded Tank $90,  Classic Seersucker Ring Bandeau $44 both available from jcrew.com)

I'm also greedy in wanting more great comments from you guys! What are you greedy about? 

Lust

First off I want to say how much I enjoyed reading everyone's comments this weekend. It was so great to get to hear from my readers, I really appreciate it! It's always fun to know that people besides my parents (I love you mom and dad!!) read this. 

On with today's post. 

We all know the 7 deadly sins, but they aren't just warnings of bad behavior anymore, the infamous seven are saturating pop culture and the fashion world.  Some are fun and some are freaky. The dark style of D.L. & Co have created this beautiful black votive holder and stationary set with each sin written on in gold and they have a set of sleek black plates as well (available from Neiman Marcus and Barneys). Then there is the murder film Seven with Brad Pitt which showcases the septuplets. There is no doubt about it, sin is trendy right now.

So this week is dedicated to lust, envy, greed, pride, sloth, gluttony, and wrath.  All the qualities we should avoid, but it doesn't hurt to embrace once in awhile. 

Starting with lust, there are a few things that I want so badly! But due to the high price tag, they may be staying on the lust list for awhile. 

Christian Louboutin's red soled heels are so drool worthy. There isn't anything quite like the platform pumps with their sharp red heels. I'm obsessed with his entire collection, these four pieces don't even begin to cover the amount of his shoes I want. I have been lusting after them for some time now. Each time a celeb is snapped in these babies I turn green with envy (but that's an entirely different sin, more on that later this week). To own a pair of these $600 and up shoes would be a dream come true,  but until then I'm going to keep lusting. (From left to right: Suede Cutout $785, Peep-Toe Slingback $760, Nuit Dete Slingback $895, Pleated Platform Pump $875. All available at neimanmarcus.com)
Pretty much every piece in the Olsen twin's two fashion lines The Row and Elizabeth & James is to die for. I pretty much wish I owned every piece of these high priced collections. This halter sweater is particularly lust worthy.  Not only is it insanely chic and stylish, it's innovative design makes it a multi-tasking piece. So since it's like getting two sweaters does that make the $265 price tag reasonable?! (available at shopbop.com)
I'm obsessing over costume jewelry right now and really want to grow my collection. But being the lustful person I am, I want to build my collection from the best, Kenneth Jay Lang. No one makes costume jewelry quite like he does. His bangles, cuffs and rings are all must haves. (From left to right: Elephant Bracelet $220, Snake Cuff $110, Urchin Ring $57. all available at shopbop.com)
What lust list would be complete without a mention of the classic Hermes Birkin bag. This elusive status symbol comes with a 2 year waiting list and up to a 6 digit price tag if it's in exotic skins. But I would be content with a traditional leather in black or brown for a cool $7500. Sigh, a girl can dream can't she!

So what are some things you lust after? 

I NEED YOUR HELP!

While working on some posts for a fun theme week coming up, I thought I would take this moment to as for some feed back. There are a few things I would like to know. 

1. I would really love to know who is reading this blog. So, please leave me a comment. Just click the word comment at the end of the entry. The easiest way to leave one, if you don't have a blog of your own, is just to select anonymous and if you want leave your name in the text of your comment. 

2. What's your favorite part of the blog? What would you like to see more of?

3. What's your least favorite part?

4. WHAT DO YOU WANT TO SEE! Any questions you want answered, celebs you want to see more of (less of), designers?  

I'm going to leave this up all weekend so please get around to it if you can! I really appreciate feedback from you guys and really want to know who's actually reading! 

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! 

April Showers Have Begun

So with spring comes the return of the rain. Now as much as I hate the rain, it's a major player in my favorite movie of all time, Singing In The Rain. The comedy, the music, the chemistry, the clothes, perfection. So since showers are pouring across the United States, I thought it would be fun to take a look at the iconic styles of Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds in this great movie.

So glamorous, so classy, so fun. Let's break it down.
The necessities to create this look are classic, timeless pieces. A rainboot is a must. My FAVORITE are Hunter boots, of which I have 2 pairs. This fun, loving yellow and of course a basic black. But the classic yellow is perfect for emulating the poster Singing In The Rain look. (Hunter Rainboots, $98 available at shopbop.com in a slew of colors).

Okay, I was going to search online for a good, affordable trench coat, but I really hate endorsing anything I don't own or haven't seen in real life. So, why mess with perfection. There is no better trench coat out there than Burberry's famous cut. I don't own it, as it's SUPER  high priced, but I plan to one day, as this classic piece will never be outdated. (Burberry Trench, $1295, available at burberry.com) 

How cute is this hat! It could easily be right out of Debbie Reynolds' wardrobe for the film, but looks perfectly modern at the same time. (Eugenia Kim Sophie Satin Cloche, $215, available at Neimanmarcus.com)

Finally, the dress. The loose, drop waist cut, in a casual jersey is such a great, casual dress that can work in all weather and with any accessories. Dress it up with a pair of heels, or sing and dance in the rain with it by adding your rain boots and trench. (Twenty8Twelve Alice Tank Dress, $195, available at shopbop.com)

Rachel Bilson, Rain or Shine

I adored her as Summer on The OC for four years, watching her character grow and mature. For the same amount of time, I have been obsessed with watching her own personal style grow. I think it's safe to say that Rachel Bilson is now a certified style icon. She gets it right, time and time again. Since the majority of the country is experiencing sunshine (along with some strong winds in the Midwest) and California and the South are gonna be hit with some rain, I thought I would show Rachel Bilson's range, so you can pull inspiration from her looks, no matter what your weather. 

If you're lucky enough for a warm, sunny day, Bilson gets it so right with her tight black tank and belted, high-waisted jeans. She keeps accessories minimal with a black bag and her favorite Wayfarer. 

If you have a light breeze, try this casual look from Bilson. Skinny jeans and Converse with a loose white tank and a loose scarf to help keep off the chill.

If bare arms aren't an option, this basic legging/tunic combo looks fresh in all black and a loose cardigan and boots.

Chillier still? This dark wash denim and navy tank combo is such a chic look. Add a natural, leather jacket and studded boots and a slouchy bag and you're good to go. 

For those of you unfortunate enough to have rain and other poor weather elements, try Rachel's most bundled up look. She pairs tight, black jeans with a looser white top and black jacket. The scarf is light and pastel-y and helps balance out the tough studded heels and black leather gloves. 

All Good Things Must Come To An End

So after great consideration, I have decided to stop blogging. It's just been taking too much time from my homework and such here at school. I hope all my readers continue to explore other blogs, as there are some great ones out there...

APRIL FOOLS!

don't worry y'all I'll resume posting tomorrow!

Celebrity Fit Club

So three months into the year  and my New Year's resolutions are but a slip of paper buried in the second drawer of my desk. While my list was compiled with my best friend and many of them are uniquely ours, I feel like my main resolution is shared with the majority of anyone who made resolutions: eat healthier and workout more. Unfortunately after the initial surge of workout classes and motivation my gym membership is merely a piece of paper shoved in my wallet between gift cards and old receipts. 

But, with summer around the corner I'm trying to change that and revamp the resolution! But being the fashion minded person I am, I decided that the best way to get myself to the gym is the motivation of cute workout attire. Why not look great while in the process of making yourself look better! Here are five different celeb workout styles. Where do you fit in?

These girls are serious about their workouts. No fuss here. Simple black pants and tight tops. Katie Holmes ran the New York marathon and looks the part in tight black pants, a purple tank top and a light black jacket with a no fuss baseball cap. Kate Hudson whips out her black Under Armour shorts and a tight grey tank for her workout. With serious sneakers, her ipod on her arm, and a low key pony tail she's not playing around. Sophie Monk keeps her tight workout gear all black, while Nicky Hilton balances her look with a loose white tee (and a large water bottle!).

If this is your style, check out UnderArmour.com and Nike.com
Cameron Diaz and Kate Hudson know they got it, and are going to flaunt it. I mean, why not. Cameron Diaz's preferred look is low rising dance pants that fold over (much like Hard Tails popular cut) and cropped hoodies. Kate Hudson, varies her look. While I showed her above in a much tighter ensemble, she tends to favor loose shapes, then bares her fit tummy or fabulous legs. 

If this is your style, check out hardtailforever.com 
The third celebrity fit look is the laid back look, perfect for yoga classes and hiking. This is definitely where I tend to fit in. Nicole Richie has mastered the look from a cute green shorts and hoodie combo to a sleek, but loose black tank and sweats. Kate Hudson, not to be left out of this category, covers up in this loose white tank and sweat pant look. 

Good places to go for gear like this is Soffe.com and americanapparelstore.com
I also tend to fit into this category. I hardly have time to workout, okay... so I just don't feel like leaving my apartment once I've settled down and finished classes for the day. Therefor, if I'm going to workout I HAVE to do it in between classes. This means I have to find an outfit that is functional both in and out of the gym, and is appropriate in the classroom. These ladies have found that perfect balance and are ready to fit in their workout while running errands. Nicole Richie once again keeps it laid back, but looser, favoring Free City sweats (a favorite of mine!) and plain black counterparts. Drew Barrymore heads to yoga in a basic grey shirt and black pants, perfect for running errands before or after. Kirsten Dunst looks equally chic and athletic in her black tights, loose raglan, scarf and high tops. And Finally, Sophie Monk once again gets it right in loose white pants and a striped sweater. 

If this is a look you like, go to freecitysupershop.com or once again americanapparelstore.com
Now these girls got it all wrong. It's one thing to look good while working out, it's another to get all glammed up. I'm not sure what's up with Paris' fascination with fingerless gloves first in green and then black, or what's up with wearing massive glasses while working out inside, the sparkly tank for a bike ride wasn't a great choice either. Then there are the girls from High School Musical, with their hair done and over accessorized, they look more like they're getting ready to go lift some shopping bags rather than weights. 

While Paris' take on this look isn't a something I would recommend, if you want to glam it up a bit, check out the over the top (but cool) sportswear from edhardyshop.com

Hope this helps you all renew your resolutions! I know I'm ready to workout! 

How To

I have just returned from an early screening of the movie "21" which was AMAZING. Everyone must go see it when it comes out Friday, really a great film. Check out the trailer:

21 Trailer

So awhile ago I was given a request to give suggestions on how to wear those tricky, yet popular, pencil skirts. A pencil skirt should sit on your true waist, bordering on (or actually) high waisted. While you can wear ones slung low on your hips like Ashley Olsen in the first picture, it's tricky and not nearly as versatile. Let's look at the celebrities that are rocking these skirts.

Ashley O goes punky in all black and by adding the leather jacket. Also, by wearing the skirt on her hips it gives it a much more casual look. Victoria Beckham was the only one not in a black version of this skirt and paired it with a tight, tucked in shirt. However, looser blouses tend to work better, creating a less severe look like America Ferrara's tucked in, turquoise modern take and Angelina Jolie's belted version. 

Let's take it step by step. 
1. Start with a skirt that hits at your waist to get the most milage and chicest look. Black is also a good basic color to get it in, since it is a basic piece. The skirt should hit right above the knee, too short and you loose the look, too long and you risk looking like you're drowning in it. (Thread Social, $414 available at shopbop.com)

2.  Choose a loose, flowy blouse. These are best tucked in and help balance out the straightness of the bottom piece.  (all tops from shopbop.com)

3. Belting your skirt also helps pull in this uber feminine piece. Also, like Angelina Jolie's look, if you don't tuck in your shirt, belting it on top works nicely as well. 

hope this helped! I would love to see how you guys pull it off so send pictures if you want! and remember, if you have any questions or suggestions just leave a comment! have a good day everyone!

Spring Is Taking It's Time

So returning to the lingering winter of Illinois has not agreed with me very well. On top of being sick, I miss the ability to throw on a t-shirt and shorts and show off my pedicure. After falling into a quick slump of sweatpants and mismatched sweatshirts with the sole intention to stay warm, I thought I would go through some of my favorite winter looks from the Sartorialist for inspiration. That and downing Halls and honey drenched teas in an attempt to get my coughed-raw voice back. 

But first, I want to share something that certainly brightened my day and is probably one of the coolest things I've heard in awhile. Whether you're a fan of Foo Fighters or Guns N' Roses, both or neither, I think you'll really enjoy this mash up. For those of you who aren't familiar with "mash ups", a dj takes two different songs from different bands (often polar opposites) and mash them together to create a new song. the song is kind of long but it's really worth listening to the entire thing, the video is unnecessary to watch (so you can go about your work while simply listening) but helpful if you aren't too familiar with the two songs and want to see what part is which band. This is my favorite one to date, so enjoy:

Foo Fighters/ Guns N' Roses mash up

And now on to the fashion!

The Sartorialist is known for his sharp eye on the streets of New York and at various fashion weeks. (If you don't already you should make thesartorialist.blogspot.com a daily read) These photos I've saved over the last few months showcase impeccable tailoring, clean black pieces, tight pants, big jackets, and even bigger scarfs. So until that warm weather rolls around take some cues from these well dressed men and women to keep your days fashionable and warm!  

photos from thesartorialist.blogspot.com

Santa Barbara Beaches

So I'm not enjoying the cold nearly as much as those Santa Barbara beaches. So instead of focusing on the dreary end-of-winter, I'm choosing to remanise about my time spent with Gina and Devon over spring break. Pulling from their laid-back, easy-going style, I present to you Santa Barbara Style.

Strappy, earthy, flat sandals were a clear staple. These sandals with muted tones and leathers were the day time shoe of choice. These shoes not only looked chic on the streets but were right at home amongst the sandy shores. (From top to bottom: Joie Shoes Cabaret Flat Tie Sandal. $245. Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent Shoes Hana Hologram Flat Thong Sandal. $230. Chie Mihara Shoes Jade Suede Banded Flat Sandal. $315. All available at shopbop.com)

Loose, breezy dresses were also favored by Devon and Gina. They kept it simple in black and white, adding fun patterned and colored layers. These mid-length dresses looked perfect walking and twirling along the coast. The dresses I picked kept that simple, light weight vibe. (Diana  von Furstenberg Ora Cover-Up. $255. Ella Moss Cecilia Tie String Dress. $185. Both available at shopbop.com)
At night, colored suede was favored footwear and low, soft, flat boots. Not resorting to heels to dress up for the night kept with the laid back style and attitude that was so prevalent. To complete the look, these girls knew how to keep it simple with a few basic, earthy pieces of jewelry. (Counter-clockwise: Jeffrey Campbell Fringe Moccasin. $68. Available at UrbanOutfitters.com, Joie Shoes Agatha Suede Boot. $375. Available at shopbop.com, La Mer Spring Garden Watch. $95. urbanoutfitters.com, Erica Weiner Necklace Collection Birdcage. $34. urbanoutfitters.com, BDG On The Road Vest.$48. urbanoutfitters.com, Helen Ficolara Peace Sign Charm. $55. shopbop.com)

back to work!

I'm back from a wonderful spring break in sunny california. Back to school and back to blogging. It might be awhile till new posts start appearing, but here's a preview of what to come!

My name's Jenny and I'm an addict

Being home for spring break is glorious. I'm being as lazy as I can and just enjoying home. So until classes resume, the laid back posting will continue.

Maybe it's the book I'm reading about addiction that influenced me to create this post, but I thought today I would share my own personal addictions. 

1. I was sure I had kicked the first two but have recently relapsed. I hadn't touched a drop of my beloved Diet Coke for three months and like a true addict, I haven't been able to put it down since I slipped. 

2. In love with them growing up, Nirvana was pushed aside for growing interests and changing tastes. However, they have finally worked their way back into their rightful spot as my favorite band. There isn't anything quite like Kurt Cobain, Dave Grohl and Krist Novoselic. I'm hooked once again.

3. I just purchased these gladiator wedges from Nine West and they've been glued to my feet since. I'm totally obsessed with their polished structure and laid back look.  They're amazing and exactly what I've been looking for

4. My magic weapon. A bandage skirt is so incredibly useful. Paired with a black top and you have an instant dress (my secret to my seemingly endless LBD arsenal), pair it with a slouchy skirt for a casual look, pull it up as a tube top, the list goes on. My mom happened to make mine back in the days of Tailfeathers, but you can find them now at places like American Apparel and Topshop.

5. Any one who has ever talked to me online or received a text message from me knows how much I over use the emoticon. I can't help it, I'm a serial :) user. 

6. While doing laundry one day my roommate Kaite, in response to my HUGE load of whites remarked, "Oh ya... I forgot you were a boy." I absolutely live in these men's undershirts by Hanes. They're just so comfortable and can be worn with anything. And since they're so cheap I often experiment with cutting, painting and drawing on them. 

7. Okay, anyone who knows me, knows my phone. This is my baby, my life and it's always by my side (and I always seem to be holding it in every picture I take). I went through major withdrawals last week when I was separated from it for four days (which seemed like an eternity). Thankfully, we're back together again. 

Take Flight

Almost time to take to the skies! Some people seem to glide through the airport with effortless ease and others...well most of us seem to stumble and haul our way through security and look a mess. Here's a look at some celebrities that travel light and some that travel...well like messy divas...

Let's just say this trio above is a big NO! Poor Tara Reid is a walking wardrobe malfunction. Please make sure while you're lugging your luggage (and if you pack right you shouldn't be doing that!) that you don't wear low riding sweats and high riding jackets, no one wants to see your thong on vacation, trust me. Then there is Tyra. I know track suits can be comfortable but come on, there are so many better alternatives. If you must wear one while you travel mix the colors so you don't look like a parachuter. And that yucky putty, tan color, come on Tyra, remember when you used to be a model? Ah and then there is Carrie Bradshaw (Sarah Jessica Parker's character on Sex and The City for those of you who are unaware) She sure looks stylish, although I know I wouldn't want to sit on a flight and wait in an airport in that outfit, but the huge army of Louis Vouitton luggage? Unless you have Big to lug it around for you and don't mind looking like an out of control diva, then learn to pack less.
Ah! These celebs got it right. Muted, dark tones, laid back style, paired down luggage, this is what easy travel is made of. Tailored sweaters and other pieces trump baggy sweat suit any day. The Hills' Audrina Partridge looks great in a pair of dark wash jeans, a collard, grey sweater and boots. And look! Only one, nice size carry on. It's hard for Jake Gyllenhaal not to look dreamy. He's got this airport thing down, nice jeans + nice sweater + one roller + one backpack = perfection. Hillary Duff and Rachel Bilson get it right too. Big comfy scarfs are a must for me on trips they are the perfect way around ever fluctuating cabin temperatures. 
As much as I love Nicole Richie her "Carry On" is not one I would recommend. I mean looking frumpy and lugging around a huge, full size pillow is no way to start or end a trip, she looks like she's about to catch a nap, not a plane. Ashley Olsen, on the other hand, is the queen of oversized bags and chic, laid back looks, perfect for traveling.  For me, black is the only way to go when traveling, it's crisp and clean and hassle free. It's such an easy color to look chic in no matter how un-chic you feel. Also, her light makeup and easy hair is ideal for getting from one location to another and still looking put together. 
Now we've looked at how those famous folks work the runway, but we can't look inside their glorious black Birkins and stylish totes, so I'll give you a peak at exactly what I'm taking and how I'm taking it.

1. Delays, crying babies, the loud woman who feels the need to complain about everything to anyone who'll listen, airplane travel is no fun, so for me my ipod is my savior, I can disconnect from the craziness with a touch of the button. It's my instant spa, meditiation center, entertainer and inspiration collector all in one. Plus if you're lucky enough to have a decent movie play on your flight you'll have decent headphones to go along. 

2. A PASHMINA. NEVER GET ON A PLANE WITHOUT ONE. My black one goes with me everywhere. Honestly the most glorious invention ever. Wrap this soft delight around your neck while waiting to board, open it up to be your personal cashmere blanket for an on board nap, and if you or your destination gets too hot just toss it in your bag. This is one thing every weather wary person should carry.

3. Speaking of weather, there are hardly 2 places (in this country alone) with similar weather at this time of year. Whether you are heading from a cold climate to a tropical beach, or a west coast town to a skiing village the outfit you wear onto the plane will no longer be appropriate when you arrive. This North Face jacket is not only incredibly warm but incredibly travel friendly too. Personally, I wear this jacket pretty much every single day. It's the perfect weight and is suitable for a mild day with a tank underneath and can be the perfect final layer on a brutal one. But despite it's flexibility, the best part is that this big puffer can squeeze into it's own pocket. That's right, when you get into the airport, safe from all the elements and the only thing separating you from the beach is an airplane ride, just fold the jacket up into a tiny ball and pop it right into your carry on. 

4. My trusty Pierre Duex weekender. This duffle is the perfect size for a weekend away and can work just fine for an entire week if you plan right. This carry-on is a perfect way to travel if you wish to avoid baggage claim, it's just the right size, fits easily in the overhead bins, is a great height for sitting on in the event of a delay and is just so chic and classy.

5. This Marc by Marc Jacobs tote is HUGE. However, it's dark color and perfect shape keeps it from looking sloppy or too overwhelming. When it comes to flying, I find I like to have a lot of things readily available to me. This bag can be pushed under my seat for take off, but can still hold anything I might need during my flight.

6. A trip to the airport isn't complete without a stop in the mini-store to purchase a trashy celebrity mag. You're on vacation, whether you read them so you can pick on peoples lives or to inspire your wardrobe, they are undoubtedly fun. Plus, if you're like me they are perfect for those fear-of-flying-i-hate-turbulence moments when you can't concentrate on anything else.

7. I happen to be one of the lucky few that seems to never get through a trip without a delay. And I mean MAJOR delays. As great as electronics are, there is no way I would leave the fate of my entertainment and joy to the whims of a battery, especially since not many batteries last the 8 hours I've been delayed. My choices for this trip (purchased with my Borders gift card from Mira! thanks!) are David Sheff's "Beautiful Boy" and David Sedaris' "Me Talk Pretty One Day". They are both currently on the bestseller lists and I can't wait to get through them. While usually I'm a one-book-at-a-time kinda gal, Sedaris' witty writing is the perfect breathe of fresh air from the heavy subject matter of Sheff's memoir following his son's addiction.