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. 

another short midterm post. 

With spring break a few days away I thought it would be good to take a look at ways around all those pesky airport restrictions on beauty products. Thankfully now pretty much every beauty company has tuned into this market, making your options pretty much endless. Here are a few  of my favorites.

1. How impossibly cute is this key chain mascara. Plus, nothing wakes up tired eyes more after a long flight then a little mascara. Bourjois Mini Volume Glamour Ultra Black Mascara, $8 at sephora.com

2. Who doesn't love Burt Bees. This small chapstick fits perfectly into those little restrictive zip lock baggies and works wonders.  Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm, $3 at burtsbees.com

3. I don't trust those sketchy airplane mirrors. And why would I when I can tote around a cute mirror like this one. Marc Jacobs Heart Shaped Compact Purse Mirror, $12 at thethingsiwant.com

4. When the amount of makeup you can carry is limited, use these little wonder sheets to soak up oil and make you look instantly refreshed and made up. Clinique Pore Minimizer Oil Blotting Sheets, $13.50 clinique.com

5. One of my friends packed this roll-on perfume on a trip we recently took and it was perfect. Not only is it a great scent, and there are many other roll-on options out there (60 at Sephora), but this compact packaging is the perfect alternative to wrapping up fragile bottles of perfume. Stell McCartney Stella Eau de Parfum Roll-on, $15 sephora.com

6. I love the whole Clinique skin care line so I really love that they now make them in travel size (and in it's own convenient little zip lock baggie to boot!) It was such a hassle trying to lug the whole 3-step system around, now it's easy as pie. Clinique 3-Step Kit, $48 clinique.com

7. Whether you're going skiing or tanning you have to take care of your skin. This little sunscreen packs a powerful punch. Small but mighty. Clarins UV Plus SPF 40, $39 sephora.com

8. Airplanes can be so drying! This is another small but mighty product, a little bit of this lotion goes along way in helping with dry hands and cracked elbows. L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream, $10 sephora.com

9. If you still can't live without a certain product, try these great little bottles convieniantly packaged in an airport regulated zip-lock. The little empty bottles are perfect for filling them with whatever product you want in the perfect amount. Pack Max Carry On Kit, $9.99 bedbathandbeyond.com

One week till holiday

So I don't know about you all but I CAN'T WAIT for spring break. I thought for this Friday post it would be fun to pull inspiration from (and watch!) some vacation movies. Nothing helps the time past and get you pumped for something than a good film. 

Hope you get to watch at least one of these movies this weekend to help the week go by quicker! ONE WEEK LEFT! 

One more week...

So I've been on a bit of a hiatus due to midterms, papers and sickness. But I'm trying to get back on track. While I don't really have time for a full post during this last week before spring break, I do want to make a mini update because I've been missing them! So without further ado, I give to you a day late edition of WWWD

hope everyone is hanging in there! vacation is just around the corner! 

Well I must say I was very underwhelmed  my Paris fashion week. I'm thinking it might just be me seeing as my creative juices and mind have been totally drained by midterms or the fact that looking at all the shows over the past month has just gotten to me. Either way, school continues to be kicked into high gear. I'm hoping to return to a normal posting schedule tomorrow. Have a great day everyone!