Raining Hats and Clogs

Purse shopping!

2011-04-14T15:42:00.000-07:00

I'm in dire need of a new purse... and by dire need I mean I just really really want one. I have found after extensive closet organizing (I should really do a post on that...) I've realized that all my bags are hand held satchels, clutches, or very small long strapped bags and what I want is a long strapped large slouchy satchel that has an effortless but glamorous look to it.

For example...

Rumi of Fashion Toast has one.

Rachel Zoe obvi has one. (Image from CoCo Perez)

Nicole Richie... check

...and Gisele...

Last two images from The Skinny Website

I want one!! Nay, NEED one... life looks so much easier with a long strap! Hmmm truth be told I have the perfect slouchy black bag... can someone make a long strap for it? All my problems would be solved...

Emma = Barbie

2011-04-13T14:18:00.001-07:00

It's no secret I love me some Emma Stone. The girl is hilarious AND rocks Barbie style better than the plastic doll herself. She manages to make hot pink and blonde uber chic and not even slightly tacky.

I just love this outfit. The cut, the color all perfection and that Barbie pink lipstick!! I die. I own that shade myself but have only worn it for my Barbie themed 22nd bday party and a handful of times since... Might have to give it another go...

Image from JustJared

The Sartorialist: A Visual Life

2011-02-15T22:21:00.000-08:00

Such a great little film. Totally worth taking the 7 minutes to watch it in it's entirety. Love the way he looks at the world.

The Sartorialist

Grammy's 2011

2011-02-14T20:03:00.000-08:00

Perfection

I adore Keri Hilson's look! Besides the fact that I think she's one of the coolest girls out there, her look is PERFECT Grammys. Not too dressy, a little funky but still stunning. I mean just everything is so cool! The cut, the color (and i'm talking both dress and hair!) def a fave look of the night.

Disco Balls?

Now I know the headline of this little section may sound negative but it's not! I looooove glitter and shimmer and these ladies did it so right! J.Lo and Heidi... well done.

Best Make-Up

I can't lie, I'm a huge Miley fan... I just LOVE her... and am absolutely rocking out to her music right now... no shame. While her dress was def not the best she's ever worn her hair and make-up was FLAWLESS! So obsessed with the cat eye, light shadow and pink lips with the perfectly beachy locks. loves.

I thought Kelly Osborne's make-up was also really pretty with her lilac tones.

Head to Toe Leopard...

Alright so I'm totally not feeling this BUT it's Nicki Minaj and that's what she does and I think she's epic... I might have to do an entire post on little miss "harijuku barbie"

Keri Hilson also tried the head to toe leopard at a pre-Grammy event, and still not feeling it but this is starting to look like a trend...

Adorbs

Aw! Katy Perry brought her grandmother to the Grammy's for her 90th bday! too cute!

In other news...

Not the Grammys... but this girl can do no wrong. Emma Stone looked uh-mazing at the Golden Globes and looked amazing the other night at BAFTAs. I love the shade of blonde she's been rocking lately and she looks good in those coral dresses! keep it up!!

all images from justjared.com

Golden Globes- Year of the Barbie

2011-01-16T20:57:00.001-08:00

Ah, it's that time of year again, the magical red carpet season where I crawl out of hiding and begin blogging here momentarily. Although, since I'm terribly busy blogging for work (go check out xgames.tumblr.com and follow us on The Road to X), this will be an awful short post. Basically I've always been a HUGE Barbie fan and think this might be her year. Case in point, my two favorite looks tonight were very Barbie.

Blonde, tan and a hot pink dress? Yes please! Claire Danes looked so pretty and so Barbie.

Emma Stone, while not as pink, is certainly Barbie blonde and that dress is still incred. Loooove.

Time to go shopping for HOT pink dresses and peroxide... "Life in plastic, it's fantastic!"

Being Gwen

2010-03-09T22:29:00.000-08:00

Let me preface this post with Mom, Dad, do not be alarmed, I will not be coming home with hot pink hair anytime soon, I'm simply admiring the following... :)

So lately for some inexplicable reason I've been OBSESSED with vintage Gwen Stefani and old school No Doubt (and well 90s music in general). But Gwen has just changed so much over the years and no matter how glamorous or how grunge she is she always looks SO SO SO cool!! And right now I'm obsessed with her in her hot pink hair stage... Sigh.... to be able to pull something like this off...

WAY extreme pink...

pretty in pink...

Pink- Gwen essentials...

Temporary hair dye from Hot Topic (cuz lets be honest, only Gwen can pull this off 24/7)

Doc Martens....in hot pink...grunge perfected.

Barbie pink lipstick...check!

AND it looks like I'm not the only one obsessed with pastel hair this season... Check out the celebs and models rocking the look over at Who What Wear.

And I also love angry bouncy Gwen...

Just A Girl essentials...

+ baggie track pants + cropped beater tanks + abs

who knew such a punk tomboy would turn into such a red carpet siren..

And the Oscar Goes To....

2010-03-07T16:50:00.000-08:00

Every time I sit down to create a red carpet best and worst post I can't help but realize that my decision is heavily swayed by how I feel about that particular actress... It's easier for me to accept an actress I like in a bad dress than an actress I hate in a good one... I'm extremely biased. I admit it. Sooo I'm gonna break it down a little different this time...

People I love in dresses I love...

Cameron Diaz has always been one of my favorites. She's adorable. and if Rachel Zoe is still working her magic with her she's done it again! Loves!

Love Maggie... perhaps it's cause she went to my high school (although sadly her and her brother graduated before I got there) But anyway I think she looked so great!

such a cutie. haven't seen an education yet but I love her style...

Okay... I know I'm gonna get flack for this but I LOVE MILEY. She's adorable, hilarious and has catchy songs... and I think this dress is AMAZING!!! my mom hates it and thinks it looks awful on her but I really really liked it... maybe because I would steal candy from children to get to wear it myself...

does this even need a caption. I adore Nicole Richie and Joel Madden... and I think they look SOOO COOL and incredibly classic on the red carpet... not sure why they are there but I'm glad they were.

Rachel McAdams is adorable. So is the dress. Very romantic...

Diane Kruger is perfect. Enough said.

and just because Ryan Reynolds is oh so pretty...

People I love in outfits I'm not so sure about...

Love love love the top half... not 100% along for the ride on the bottom half.. but really close...

adore the dress. adore her. not loving them together.

Def one of my favorite actresses sooooo excited to see her at the Oscars. I think she looks stunning and so is the dress buuuuuut she looks a little too much like the Oscar statue...

I think she's so so cute and the dress is very romantic but she's a little to monochromatic overall...

People I love in outfits I don't like...

Way way too much...

People I hate in dresses I love...

I hate Demi because she's old and is married to one of the cutest boys on the planet.. Ashton what were you thinking?! BUT she's got Rachel Zoe's touch on her side so I can't hate her too much and she looks amazing in this dress.

I hate her. I hate Twilight. She always looks miserable. I don't get the hype. But she did actually look good tonight so I gotta give her props...

I have to admit I get great pleasure out of this last categorary... does that make me a bad person?

People I hate in dresses I hate...

I am sooooo not an SJP fan. I really dislike her. Her movies. Her TV shows. I know I know a fashion fan that dislikes Sex and The City. Sorry... I just can't get passed her... and I hate having anything bad to say about a Chanel but will not hesitate so say something bad about her. don't like this look. no no no.

Hahaha oy Mariah... why on earth were you there?! What made you chose this aweful dress?! Someone help buy this girl a clue.

And that's a wrap for this year! And now I'm going to continue watching the big show! Hope your favorites win! (Ps I think Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin are doing a GREAT job!)

POST OSCAR EDIT: oh my god oh my god! I'm so so so so happy Sandra Bullock won!!! I ADORE HER ahhhh soooo exciting! And Avatar didn't win best picture yes!!! perfect night!

photos from Just Jared and Coco Perez

Paper Dreams

2010-03-03T20:27:00.000-08:00

A little known fact about me: i LOVE paper. like love love love paper goods. not paper towels and tissues paper goods but the fine beautiful stationary and heavy card stock paper goods and everything that goes along with it, pens, rubber stamps... i have quite the collection. So you can imagine my delight when someone tipped me off about an entire BLOG about PAPER!

It's totally gorgeous. I think I'm in love!!

http://beautifulpaper.typepad.com/oh_so_beautiful_paper/

now the first page didn't wow me, just save the dates that were too casual for my taste, but then when I got on to the next page it became incred! and the more you get into it the more beautiful, unique and stunning paper goods there are!!!! ahh!! am i in heaven?! someone pinch me I think I'm dreaming!!!!

First off, have you chicer ever seen a baby shower invite!

Okay it completely and totally warms my heart when I see non wedding/shower invites! It's so wonderful to see people NOT using facebook or evite... I admit, I do it too, it's so much easier, but ugh it's such a shame!

LOVE this save the date!

Okay, anyone who knows me knows how obsessed I am with my planner (and protective of...don't try to leave me cute notes there! It will not be appreciated!!). I've always stuck with basic black but these beauties might make me change my mind next year!

so CUTE!!

love love love!

OBSESSED!

so simple. so perfect.

all photos from Oh So Beautiful Paper

First & Ten

2010-02-02T23:36:00.000-08:00

OMG OMG!! Only a few days left till SUPERBOWL!!! While I'm disappointed my team (San Diego Chargers!!) won't be there, my second favorite team is hands down The Saints and you can bet I'll be cheering them on! Since it's rainy and winter my wardrobe is predominately black at the moment. However, my jewelry is usually silver. But for these last two weeks, in honor of the Saints going to the Superbowl and in solidarity with my team I have switched it up and repped their gold and black colors (I mean it's not that hard when they have the best most stylish colors in the league!)

If you need some inspiration or need to spruce up your wardrobe let me help you get in the Saints spirit! (If you're a Colts fan I have nothing to offer you save for a tissue to help wipe the tears when we beat you this Sunday)

The basic, most necessary, MUST HAVE...

I mean, lets face it, there is nothing cooler than showing up to a Superbowl party in your teams jersey. However, if the Saints are only your team because you aren't a Colts fan, or if you'd rather show your spirit in a more subtle way just in case (God forbid) the Saints are losing you can slyly switch teams, here are ten spirited options to help you get on your way to a first down...

1. big, bold and beautiful this necklace is a statement begging to be made. Previously $330, Noir Jewelry's "Cosmic Cluster Necklace" is now $231 at shopbop.com and can be worked dressy or casual. I love.

2. Talk about making a statement! This skirt was born to cheer on the Saints! Haute Hippie's "Ombre Skirt" will set you back $365 at shopbop.com but thinking of all the fun parties you could go to together!!

3. Okay so maybe this Alice + Olivia dress is a bit formal for Superbowl Sunday but who knows it might be perfect! It's fun, sparkly and the cut is too cute. You can get it at, where else, shopbop.com

4. So I swear I wasn't lazy and truly did scour the web for the best in black & gold but shopbop.com is just soooo good and happened to be full of everything I could ask for. So, this bracelet isn't gold, but it does have the Saints signature Fluer de Lis and is a totally acceptable and subtle way to support your boys.

5. The most practical of the bunch, this Saints sweatshirt from the NFL shop was refreshingly simple and had such strong graphics that I felt it needed to be given attention as one of the greatest sweatshirts ever! And since it's just the Fluer de Lis it's totally wearable outside football circles and for $51 it's def a cozy fun black basic to have around.

6. CONFESSION: I put black eye shadow under my eyes as eye black for almost every game. However, the powder usually doesn't last all 4 quarters or have quite as dark as an effect as I would like. I contemplated buying pro-status eye black for my weekly ritual but decided that there just weren't enough games in a season to keep that stuff lying around. Smashbox's gel eyeliner available at Sephora seemed like the perfect solution. Heavy texture, can be used on eyes Saturday night and under eyes Sunday morning.

7. Okay, another seemingly overly dressy piece but hear me out. This sequent covered blazer by Torn by Ronny Kobo with a pair of cuffed ripped jeans and a white shirt would be SOOOOOO cute!! ($440 at shopbop.com)

8. More fabulous shopbop.com finds. Fluer de Lis necklace in gold = perfection. $85

9. smaller than the first necklace but still a killer piece, CC Syke's "Devin Necklace" incorporates both the black & the gold! loves! ($195 shopbop.com)

10. For the over the top fan I couldn't help but post this Kathrine Baurmann clutch! Not exactly "practical" but wonderful none the less. This rhinestone encrusted saints helmet purse will set you back a steep 3 grand but if it's your style, who am I to judge, as long as you're rooting for The Saints!

okay so this wasn't a planned part of the post but I'm sitting here with my feet up on the desk (obvi) and was thinking it's about time to take off the pedicure nail polish I got for New Years (gross I know...) and while I'm at it spruce up my chipped finger nails that has been tapping away on my keyboard to create this blog entry, when all of a sudden it hit me! by TOTAL COMPLETE I SWEAR 100% COINCIDENCE I have gold toe nail polish on and black finger nail polish. I'm even a Saints fan in my subconscious! that's hardcore!

I Got A Feelin...

2010-01-31T21:01:00.000-08:00

Oh the Grammys... No one seems to really know what the dress code for the Grammys is. Some go all out with gowns as though it's the Oscars, some show up in jeans... but I think it's clear that these girls got it right.... it's music people, rock and roll! have fun with it. I just HATE when people wear their full length gowns on this red carpet...

Fergie and The Black-Eyed Peas and Miley Cyrus (as much as I hate to admit it) looked PERFECT. This is what the Grammys is about, short, fun, expressive and sassy. And well Marissa Miller looked gorgeous per usual. And then there is Keri Hilson, as I just ranted above I strongly dislike log gowns at the Grammys but I just love love love Keri Hilson and think she's adorable and has amazing style and she looks like a knock-out in this dress so I'll let it slide.

And then the gowns I can't let slide... Taylor Swift is one of my favorites and I think she is so adorable but I just couldn't get on board this blue sparkly number that just ugh I dunno, it was too formal, too blue... not sure. Kristen Bell is also usually adorable and it breaks my heart to put her on the hate list but the neck part of that dress kills me. And Rihanna?! She usually has a way of just looking so so so cool! and well she doesn't here. fail. And Carrie Underwood just looks tangled in that neckline...

moving on... what happened to Brit Brit?! I though she was normal now and the crazy, white trashy Britney Spears was over... sigh... Britney you break my heart.

But then there is Travis Barker and his son Landon... LOVE.. sigh how cute is this!!! Travis is one of my favorite favorite musicians (I'm a HUGE Blink fan and think all his other music projects are AMAZING!) But father and son looking too cool for school on the red carpet! loves it!

okay, Grammys are still going on in LA, gotta get back to watching!

Cinderella Style

2010-01-29T01:18:00.000-08:00

Sigh, there is really nothing quite like ballet. Tonight I was lucky enough to attend opening night of The Jeoffrey Ballet's Cinderella. And it was MAGICAL! The dancing was beautiful, as were the costumes and sets.

The last ballet I attended didn't have a single tutu and I was heartbroken. Thankfully The Jeoffrey did not disappoint and now I can't stop thinking about tutus, tiaras, and glitter, every little girls dream. I felt as if I was watching a Degas painting come to life.

Next stop Norton Simon Museum to drool over their Degas collection! Especially my all time favorite statue, "Little Dancer." I remember as a little kid being dragged from museum to museum by my artistic parents and being enchanted by Degas from an early age. I mean, what's not to relate about his work. I think "Little Dancer" has been my favorite work of art since I was 4 and ballet class consisted of running in circles in pastel pink leotards.

After tonight, I'm also dying to order Harvey Edwards' prints to hang all over my walls. I remember his famous photographs from when I actually started dancing (ie not skipping in tutus but 1st position, 2nd position, plies and grande jetes) as they were hung all over the studio I danced at.

One year I had his calendar and it was BEAUTIFUL.... must find that and save the prints...

Anyway besides reminding me of all this art I liked, Cinderella also had me craving tutus and pointe shoes.
Sadly, I hung up my pointe shoes (Freed Studios to be exact) almost 5 years ago now so neither new ballet shoes nor tutus are quite practical anymore (although Louboutin heels aren't practical per-say but that didn't stop me... hmmmm)

After hours of exploring sites like Capezio and other dance stores looking for a wearable version of a legit tutu I gave up and wandered over to Bloomindales to see what I could find.

To my pleasant surprise they had quite a few ruffley, pastel and glittery pieces that popped out right away. I really love the first two! Although they look difficult to pull off I just adore how straight out of this version of Cinderella they look! (Well save for the fact that the skirts aren't horizontal but it echos some similar exuberance)

I was also enchanted by Cinderella's white ensemble which just re-ignited my hunt for the perfect white dress, which I have been searching for ever since this song came out a couple years ago... (The girl in the music video is inexplicably not wearing a white dress which boggles my mind, but maybe they had just a hard a time finding the perfect white dress as I've had.... so ignore the girl, it's just the lyrics and the song in general, the music video isn't all that exciting)

However, I feel my luck is about to turn around! Look at these cuties! I want all 3! Especially the Alice + Olivia (center) and the Herve Leger (right)... well actually top choice is def the Alice + Olivia one. Ugh and I love that Shoshanna one too (left)!!! ugh Shopbop just made it so easy, they have an entire "White Dresses" section. Brilliant!

And last but not least, the story of Cinderella wouldn't be the same without shoes!

Since I already own the perfect pair of ballet flats, I thought I'd share them with all of you. It's the Kate Spade Felice in pale blush and it's so chic and sweet. The color is identical to that of ballet shoes but the peep toe and black bow details help prevent you from looking like you've just rushed off stage. And check out those Louboutins!! Now THAT trumps a glass slipper any day! The shine, the sparkle! loves! I die!

Alright, that was a long blog full of tangents and extra thoughts but I hope you enjoyed it! Off to practice arabesques and bourrees (for those of you that don't speak ballet bourrees are shown in the video below and the same user has posted videos for all sorts of ballet moves)

SAG Awards

2010-01-24T13:25:00.000-08:00

So since I'm on a roll I figured I'd keep it going. Yesterday, January 23rd was the SAG Awards. And there were some STUNNING gowns. Number one in my mind, which is no surprise, is Diane Kruger. She looks so flawless and glamourous in this gown! Complete perfection.

Next up is Sandra Bullock. If I had to be anyone, it would probably be her. 1) she's HILARIOUS and who doesn't want to be funny. 2) she's BEAUTIFUL. I loved how she looked in all the sleek, starch lines of The Proposal and the sleek lines reappear on this red carpet look. 3) She's also married to badass Jesse James. I mean, could she be any cooler. (I run a moto blog so it's no surprise that her legendary arm candy had to be included in this post). They're such a seemingly unlikely pair but they look so so so good together!

My next to favorites look almost statuesque and definitely took the "plunge" with their looks. Kate Hudson showed up in white again, and she pulls off the color well so why not. I MUCH prefer her choice here than at the Golden Globes. The backless gown is smashing on her. I'm not going to lie, I don't watch Glee so I had no idea who Lea Michele was, but her dress certainly caught my attention. The cut is so flattering and I LOVE LOVE the color. I just love the draping on it. I have an awards dinner to attend for my dad next week and I have a strapless dress in the turquoise color that I think I might just bring out for the event... although I was going to use it as an excuse to go shopping... hmmm

Anyway, award season is officially in full swing! Can't wait to see how this year progresses!

Golden Globes mini-wrap up

2010-01-24T12:20:00.000-08:00

okay okay I'm a week late, but when you consider I haven't blogged for the last 6 months or so that's not bad timing! I have to admit I wasn't even planning on blogging about the red carpets this year since all my heart and soul has been poured into my new blog Lil Miss Moto (lilmissmoto.com). However, after receiving an email request on my opinions on this years red carpet gowns I went ahead and did an "email post". Well since the work's been done figured I might as well post it. So enjoy my super mini, four dress review of the 2010 Golden Globes..

I have to say I ADORED Penelope Cruz not only is her dress adorbs it looks smashing on her and she has my favorite accessory of the night, AN UMBRELLA! She's just so cute holding her own umbrella while the majority of people are just loitering under the poor PUHs (personal umbrella holders... can you say divas!)

I also like Jenna Fischer's Halston dress (and she has an umbrella too! coincidence? i think not!) BUT I think the dress is out of place and wrong on her. It was one of my faves of the collection but I envisioned it on someone tanner, with more bangles and jewelry and to be honest, not at the golden globes... I know it's a gown but I just envision that dress swirling around a FABULOUS dinner party by the gracious, wealthy and gorgeous hostess. Sigh, I can dream for the poor dress that had to be instead dragged down a wet red carpet.

Speaking of wrong dress, wrong time what was Julia Robert thinking?! The woman that brought us that INCRED vintage Valentino gown that has become so iconic chose what appears to be an off the rack cotton dress?! are you kidding me?! Jules, what gives?! She looks great but if she were going to a meeting or dinner or something... def not a red carpet moment.

And despite that I usually adore everything Rachel Zoe does and she is caring her own umbrella I just hate Cameron Diaz's dress... It's so unflattering! Both in cut and color... tisk tisk

So there you have it, my mini post... maybe i'll take some time today and take a look at some of those SAG Awards dress... hmmm

Emmy Red Carpet

2009-09-23T20:52:00.000-07:00

Ah Red Carpet. Nothing quite like it. I love looking at all the glamorous arrivals and the old school idea of the movie star. Everyone looked fabulous and seemed to be sticking to one of three color palettes: red, purple and neutral. Below are all my faves!

Mila Kunis, Deb Messing and Blake Lively all chose red. I ADORE Mila's vintage looking tulle dress. It's dark than the other shades of red but it's gorgeous and fits her bubbly personality so well. Deb Messing, as her stylist and my idol Rachel Zoe would say, shut it down, she looked bananas. So flat out glamourous and stunning. The jewelry is simple but PERFECT. I just love it. Blake Lively was a little boarder line for me. I really dislike her but the red dress she chose to wear caught my eye and I had to include it. But I think the severe braid is awful and I think it's a little too sexy and out there. But at the same time something about it needed to be included in my blog.

Purple is not a color I would ever chose on my own, but after seeing these three ladies rock the royal color I think I might reconsider. I dislike Ginnifer Goodwin's hair that short, but she's a consistent fave style wise and didn't disappoint!

I DIE, D-I-E for Drew's dress she looks uh-mazing! Just beyond beautiful, chic, and fresh. So nice to see her in something not too crazy and out there. I want her dress... and somewhere to wear it too. The others were simple, straight, strapless gowns. Simple. Classic. Perfection.

One quick rant...

We get it Heidi, you're pregnant, you love your body, yay for you. Must we all look at?! Ew. You look ridiculous. Go give birth already. K, I'm done.

most pictures from justjared.com

New York Fashion Week!

2009-09-16T13:07:00.000-07:00

Alright, I gotta be honest and admit I didn't really get into Fashion Week this season at first... perhaps it's the fact that I'm just dying for it to be fall and to be able to wear boots and scarfs and jackets that looking at clothes for spring makes me sick... With that said, there were many incredible collections, or at least some incredible pieces. My favorite things this season weren't any of the avant garde stuff but rather things I'm now dying to own! And they're all pretty much in black or neutral colors... I wasn't kidding, I'm sooo ready for fall.

Donna Karen was hands down my favorite, and I always have love for Betsey (I wore one of her dresses for my 21st bday party, pic on my newly updated sidebar!) and my obsession for Rachel Zoe is probably what caused me to D-I-E over the Halston collection.

Finally Famous

2009-09-13T22:54:00.000-07:00

So after Coco wrote a blog post refrencing Almost Famous, I decided it was time to actually move the movie up my Netflix queue and FINALLY see it.

Well I gotta say I'm obsessed. The costumes were so whimsical and amazing and made me want to run away and dress like Penny Lane forever. I happen to have bought a fab faux fur coat this weekend which works in perfect... although I'm now back on the lookout for the perfect fur vest I've been hunting for some time now. I played around on shopbop.com a little and grabbed some Almost Famous-esque pieces I wouldn't mind having on board.
Joie Faux Fur Vest. Antik Batik Aleska Top. Rachel Pally Long Full Skirt. A Common Thread Faux Fur Vest. All available at shopbop.com

I'm Back!... Again!... But I hope for real this time...

2009-09-11T21:14:00.000-07:00

Okay so after like a year hiatus, I'm finally itching to get back on here! It's going to be a challenge, with taking 20 units at school this semester, working an internship and managing my apartment complex buuuuut hopefully I'll really be able to get back to my blog this time.

My hiatus was due mainly in part to being overly exhausted from the time commitment involved, and exploring "the other side" of me. I love so many things on such different ends of the spectrum that sometimes it's difficult to balance the tomboy side of me that loooooves the action sport industry (which I've spent all summer and am currently working in) and riding dirt bikes, with the overly girly, giddy and glamorous fashion side of me. I worked on trying to explain this a few months ago and I think perhaps these pictures I put together do it better justice!

I present to you one of my favorite fashion shoots of all time paired with some kick ass action sport photos... enjoy!

So that's me in a nut shell. Oh and my endless computer problems haven't helped getting me back into the blogging scene.... I have so much crammed onto my computer and a busted external hard drive (which the genius at the mac bar today convinced me wasn't broken... grrr... it most definitely is and now after spending an hour and a half of my day in the apple store I'm back to square one)

This weekend is jam packed with football games, block parties and dinner parties but I'm hoping to be able to start sharing my faves from New York Fashion week in the next few day, as well as my current obsessions, wants, and all the amazing stuff I bought on todays "recession friendly" impromptu shopping spree (ie tons of great forever 21 and H&M finds)

So hello again everybody!!

xoxo

Jennifer Zoe

Hiatus is almost over

2009-01-06T15:42:00.001-08:00

ahhh. It feels good to be back here.

After a much longer hiatus than anticipated (due to a crazy summer work schedule, moving and starting a new school) I'm finally ready to return in the new year. Unfortunately my computer is not so ready. However, I'm planning on taking him in to an Apple Genius sometime this week and unload his poor, overstuffed brain onto an external hard drive and then hopefully have some new materiel up for you sometime next week.

Prepare for some new things coming your way, I'm thinking less fashion more lifestyle, and a lot more fun consecutive themed posts (think last years 7 Deadly Sins series: Lust. Greed Sloth Envy Gluttony Wrath Pride

I also want to bring more of me into the blog. Fashion is only one tiny part of who I am and I really want to bring in my other passions of music and action sports into this if I can.

I'm excited for the change and to get back into the blogosphere, although postings will most likely be occurring once or twice a week instead of the daily regimen i tried to follow before.

2008-05-11T13:27:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-05-05T23:22:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-05-02T14:34:00.000-07:00

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!!

2008-04-27T07:54:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-04-22T15:17:00.000-07:00

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...

2008-04-17T21:08:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-13T17:57:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-11T01:37:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-09T09:25:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-04-03T22:20:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-02T20:50:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

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

2008-03-30T21:50:00.000-07:00

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

2008-03-26T22:36:00.000-07:00

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

2008-03-25T21:36:00.000-07:00

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

2008-03-24T21:04:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-03-23T19:58:00.000-07:00

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

2008-03-17T20:37:00.000-07:00

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

2008-03-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

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.

2008-03-10T20:21:00.000-07:00

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

2008-03-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-03-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-03-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

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!

Putting The Olsens On Your Bookshelf

2008-02-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

So midterms are upon me which means tons and tons of papers to write and books to read. Today's post has nothing to do with weather and is just a little blurp of news. Hopefully regular posting will resume soon!

What Makes You Feel Powerful?

2008-02-27T08:00:00.000-08:00

It's that time of week again! What Would Wintour Do Wednesday this week is dedicated to this months Vogue and tied in to another installment of building a wardrobe.

On to the forecasts and the power inducing wardrobe essentials...

That's all folks! Have a great day feeling in charge! Feel free to leave a comment with your personal feel good item that can boost your mood and dwindle your fears!

2008-02-26T08:00:00.000-08:00

Today's post is going to be a short one due to all the work I have to get through today! After all the dresses and tights we've been seeing lately I'm ready to give my legs a rest. These fabulous and original pants are appearing all over the attendees of Paris and Milan fashion week and have been spotted by thesartorialist.blogspot.com

That's all I got for you guys today! But I'll be sure to bring you more fashion news tomorrow.

The Good, The Red & The Ugly

2008-02-25T08:00:00.000-08:00

Good morning everyone! So today is my first day with complete nation coverage! So as usual with changes, I would love to hear all of your opinions so please leave your comments on whether you like or dislike these changes, or if you have any other ideas to improve this blog!

With that said, we have A LOT to get through today, so let's start with the forecasts. Today's inspiration is pulled from the guests of Milan fashion week, which has just ended. So with that, I give to you the stylish fashionistas of Milan.

Images from thesartorialist.blogspot.com

Okay, on to the red carpet! The Oscars this wear were celebrating their 80th year and what a better way to celebrate then with everyone showing up and the writer strike over! While I would have liked to see Juno win more (mainly because it's the only movie I actually saw), I can' t really complain about anything accept maybe some of the dress choices! So, since I know nothing about the actual movies, let's move on to the red, and let me say it was a very RED carpet.
Cameron Diaz looked flawless in this pale Dior gown. There was something so effortless about her loosely tied blond hair and natural makeup, I just loved the whole look.

Keri Russel parted from her usual laid back style and really glammed things up for the red carpet. I, for one, really loved seeing this new side of Keri and thought she pulled off this Nina Ricci dress. Her hair and make up flawlessly followed suit and she had my favorite Oscar look.

Hilary Swank, who I've never really been a fan of, really looked great in this dramatic, black Versace number.

Jennifer Garner's Oscar De La Renta wasn't my favorite, but some how with her perfect hair, make-up and jewelry choices she really pulled this look together and look amazing.
Red dresses really took over the red carpet this year. Perhaps as an ode to the legendary Valentino red after his retirement? Everyone who chose this route looked great and really pulled off this daring color.

Anne Hathaway's Marchesa dress was a beautiful one shouldered embellished piece and she really pulled off that color.

Heidi Klum (who I can't figure out for the life of me why she was there?) wore a red John Galliano dress that I have to say I don't think anyone but her could pull off.

Katherine Heigl, who is another person I have pretty much always hated on the red carpet till now, really looked stunning in this bold red Escada gown.

Miley Cyrus, again another random guest, rocked the red. Now, I'm not going to lie, I sort of adore Hannah Montana (I mean she has the best of both worlds!) and must admit this 15 year old is growing on me. Her red dress really was a Valentino and she looked fabulously chic and sophisticated in it.

Okay now for the not so pretty... Now while Amy Adams' Proenza Schouler dress was a stunning shade and looked great on her, she makes the ugly list because of that little gold bag. While you may be thinking, "but that bag works and is cute!" here's what's wrong, THERE IS NOTHING IN IT. While watching E!'s Red Carpet special, they asked her to hold it up and it was completely empty, nothing was in it. Why not just wear a fabulous gold cuff instead of toting around a completely useless purse. I know that may be a harsh reason to put her on my worst dressed list but if that doesn't scream fashion victim I don't know what else does. Marion Cotillard, whom I adore and am so pleased she won, sorta blew it for me this time around. She usually looks sophisticated and so french! But something about this scale-y, white gown was a little off. Okay, Tilda Swinton just looked creepy. While Lanvin is one of my favorite designers, this dress just did not look good on Swinton and she looked very um, alien. Besides Miley Cyrus, I was pretty disappointed by the young-ins. Saoirse Ronan's dress color matched her eyes perfectly giving her a VERY creepy look, and Ellen Page just looked SO blah and so plain jane.

ANY WAY, enough of the Oscars, enough with today's super long post. Paris fashion week begins today so I'm SO EXCITED for that. Don't forget to let me know what you think of the new forecast and feel free to share your Oscar opinions! Have a great day everyone!

I Feel The Winds A Changin'

2008-02-24T13:00:00.000-08:00

So today I'm going to introduce a change in my blog. Instead of focusing on 4 cities, I'm going to instead break things down into 5 main regions in order to expand my audience! So, while I won't be giving as in detail weather reports, I'll be able to bring you more detailed fashion reports. I'll still bring you your fashion needs and major weather things to look for. For a more detailed look at the weather for your location, please check out weather.com

I've been spending today catching up on homework and watching Freedom Writers (incredible movie!) So I thought I would post a birthday update and the fabulous fashion stuff I got.
I got this fabulous black Marc by Marc Jacobs tote and these beautiful heart Tiffanys earrings, as well as the book "The Meaning of Sunglasses" by Hadley Freeman, which I haven't been able to put down since I got it. So thank you mom and dad for all that, and thank you everyone who sent me wishes, cards and just spent a fabulous birthday with me.

Academy Awards tonight! Look for my favorite red carpet looks tomorrow!

Great in Gucci

2008-02-23T13:01:00.000-08:00

So today's post doesn't focus on today's weather, but rather TONIGHT'S! So for all you Saturday night party goers, I pulled some weather ready fashion inspiration from Milan's Fashion Week. Gucci's Fall 08 Ready-To-Wear collection is super chic, rock and roll. Black basics with gold add-ons creates the perfect rocker chick look.

Hope everyone is having a fun weekend. I'm working on some changes for tomorrow so stay tuned and check it out!

Birthday Update!

2008-02-21T12:44:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!

2008-02-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

So it's my birthday! So today's post is dedicated to all those fashion phases I have gone in and out of through out my 20 years. And let's just say some weren't so pretty. So don't take these TOO literally. Have fun, pay homage to the past and laugh a little bit and enjoy this trip down memory lane!

And in honor of the birthday party i'm throwing tonight, where the dress is "cocktail attire", I thought I would share some inspiration and ideas pulled from La Perla yesterday from Milan Fashion Week 08. These dresses are all incredibly chic and feminine and the perfect cocktail length!
and now i'm off to enjoy my birthday and my first day in my 20s!

Burrrrrberry

2008-02-20T12:36:00.000-08:00

Punkin' It Up With Burberry

2008-02-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

Today is What Would Wintour Do Wednesday! But first things first. Milan fashion week is very exciting so far and for today's weather report I pulled from the Burberry Prorsum's Fall 2008 collection. It definitely was very "Burberry" and really added a feminine, romantic level to their usual grungy/punk attire. Soft pieces gone grunge.

And now on to our weekly fix of Wintour.

Missoni Does Milan

2008-02-19T08:00:00.000-08:00

We're doing things a little backwards today. Milan fashion week has officially begun and we're off to a strong start. Missoni showed on the first day and boy how I love Missoni knits. The runway show was filled with classic Missoni knits but definitely had a strong '70s feel to it.

So today, let's pull ideas from this show into our looks. Celebs, especially those styled by Rachel Zoe, have been fans of the Italian designer for a long time. Using Nicole Richie (who is VERY fond of these knits) and Mischa Barton, we'll take the looks off the runway and into everyday wear.

So I hope you all have a colorful, zig-zaggy day! 2 days until my birthday!! See you guys all this afternoon for a "how I did it" Missoni update.

2008-02-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Presidents' Day everyone! For most of you that means a day off and a nice long weekend. Unfortunately for us going to school here in Champaign that means pretty much nothing. However, todays inspiration is probably one of the greatest things any president has ever given to us, Jackie O. Her chic style and use of clean basics is a look anyone can emulate. So let's get to the forecast!

I also thought what better day to present part one of my "Building A Wardrobe" series than today. Part one introduces what I call the "Power Team". Every piece of your wardrobe, in a basic black, and Jackie O was one lady who really knew the power of a great black shirt.
The first thing on my list would be a collection of plain black shirts. My favorites, all available from American Apparel, are a black racer back tank, a black V-neck tee, and a black crew neck long sleeve or sweater. While you don't need these three cuts, it's good to have a tank, either racer or beater style, a short sleeve with a flattering neckline, and a sweater or long sleeve shirt.

The second thing is a group of basic bottoms: a black knee length pencil skirt, a mini skirt and a pair of skinny black jeans. All three are incredibly chic and can be dressed up or down and are amazingly versatile.

Of course making the list is the LBD (little black dress). This is essential for any well balanced wardrobe. While a casual AND a dressed up version are best, if you can't have more than one, try to find a black dress that you can dress up or down like this Juicy Couture dress shown above.

Last but not least is shoes, I'm a huge fan of my black shoes. There are three essentials. One would be a pair of basic black ballet flats perfect for dressing up or dressing down. Second would be a pair of plain, black pumps and third would be a black boot. I happen to have three black boots, a rain boot, a leather boot, and a pair of black Uggs. While only one pair is necessary, I use them so much, I like to have a boot available for whatever the weather might throw my way!

I hope this first installment of building a wardrobe helps all of you complete and build upon your own wardrobe at home! Thanks for this great idea Amy! More tips will be on their way in the coming weeks!

2008-02-17T08:00:00.000-08:00

I'm back! After a brief hiatus due to a MASSIVE spring cleaning endeavor I'm back and ready to report to you all your fashion and weather needs! Let's first get to the weekly weather reports.

Now because it's less than a week till my birthday and my birthday party is tonight I thought it would be fun (and because I know my parents read this!) to give you all an insight on things that inspire me and that I'm wishing for. I hope this gives you some ideas for your own shopping trips and inspiration!
1. Eye Candy- Who can resist the charm and elegance and timelessness of Audrey Hepburn. This photo book, Audrey Hepburn: A Life In Pictures, chronicles her iconic style and charm. Another book I want for my collection and inspiration is this Lanvin book. Written in part by none other than current designer, Alber Elbaz it's totally drool worthy. Both these books are available at Amazon.com and can be found by clicking the above links.

2. Who doesn't want to save the legendary Britney Spears from her current trainwreck and witness a comeback? Okay a lot of people don't, but I for one will remain loyal to BSpears no matter what and love these tee-shirts available through perezhilton.com.

3. I also love embellished headbands right now. I particularly love the simplicity of this knotted band by Rachel Pally available at shopbop.com and this bejeweled headband available at nordstroms.com

4. I was first introduced to this Stella McCartney scent when my best friend (love ya sass!) brought this with us on a recent trip. This perfectly portable and airport friendly roll-on perfume, available exclusively at Sephora stores and sephora.com, is perfect for toting along in your purse for whenever you feel like you need a little fresh and fabulous pick-me-up.

5. Eeps! This is the big dream gift. Kanye West tickets for his US tour Glow In The Dark have gone on sale and what an incredible tour it will be! Kanye is bringing along Rhianna, N.E.R.D., and Lupe Fiasco. Tickets are going fast and I'm hoping, thanks to my parents and Sarah, to fly home to California for a few days to get to see this amazing show! Tickets available at ticketmaster.com

6. The last little wish on my list is this adorable gold Rachel Leigh Audrey Bow Ring. It's simplicity is sweet and girly. I just love what a delicate, chic piece it is and the price won't break the bank either. Available at shopbop.com

2008-02-15T00:55:00.000-08:00

I know I said I would post again tonight but I didn't and I'm not going to post today. I just want any one who was affected by the shootings at Northern Illinois University to know that they are in my prayers. This is a scary time and has hit very close to home this time around, let's hope for peace and stricter gun control laws, we clearly really need them.

be safe.

I Wear My Heart On My Sleeve...Okay, Well, My Neck

2008-02-14T12:25:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone's Valentine's Day is going splendid. I myself got some beautiful flowers (thanks mom and dad!) and am loving all the little heart socks and lockets popping up around campus (not to mention an abundance of flowers and heart-shaped balloons!) Any way, here is my celebratory look for the day.

Today I'll be posting an extra special THIRD post on date night/ girls night out for tonight. So tune back in later for my heart filled fun!

Love Is In The Air

2008-02-14T08:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!!! Hope you have plans with that special someone, or if not (like me) still appreciate all the hearts, pink and red involved in this fun day! That being said, I have a color appropriate post for everyone, so let's get started.

For those of us with not such great weather, bundle up but don't forget to show some red. I think these folks do it best, whether it's just a shoe, a simple scarf or a sweater, these bold punches of color give a fun shout out to cupid without being overwhelming (although on holidays why not have fun and be overwhelming!) However, girls in Champaign be warned, this is NOT the day for cute ruffly skirts and loose fitting dresses as the wind is going to be quite strong, so wear something wardrobe-malfunction-proof.

For tonight, although the event happened over a week ago, I couldn't help but pull from Madonna and Gucci's New York UNICEF bash. All the power couples (and power singles!) of Hollywood showed up and seemed to favor dashing red and great couple ensembles. If you have a big date tonight or are just going out with friends pull some inspiration from these Hollywood hotshots who are wearing today's colors so right.
Ellen Pompeo looks absolutely chic in a simple black dress and Louboutin low ankle boots, and her counterpart looked dashing in a suit with a black sweater underneath. TomKat showed up looking great, Kate looking incredibly smashing in a tight bright red dress. And Gwen and Gavin looked great in all black.
As far as the single gals go, a pink or red short tube dress will do the trick. Or Rachel Zoe's long dress and dramatic neckline. All so fun!

Hope everyone has a great Vday! I'll see you all later today for my Mid-Day Update! And I've also got some exciting requests for posts that I'll be incorporating this weekend!

Mid-Day Update!

2008-02-13T12:22:00.001-08:00

Do to positive feedback on yesterdays mid-day update, i decided to do it again! I kinda like posting twice a day. Anyway, hope everyones day is going well so far, and enjoy!

WWWD Wednesday

2008-02-13T08:22:00.000-08:00

I have decided to dedicate today, and every Wednesday from here on out to the god of fashion herself. WWWD, What Would Wintour Do Wednesdays (I love alliteration if you couldn't tell!) It's such a treat with all the fashion weeks going on that we get to see more of the ever chic and fabulous Anna Wintour. Since she can do no wrong, (since she does after all dictate fashion) who better to pull todays outfits from. Seen here with her signature bob, Wintour daringly wears a floral dress in winter. So why not, after a week of dark and muted colors, give it a try. This look gets me excited for spring and warmer weather (think Prada Resort Collection 08!) and is easy to customize to whatever your current weather situation may be. So without further ado, the weather...

(and for those of you not familiar with Anna Wintour, she is the Editor in Chief of Vogue.)

Intimidated by her greatness? Fear not, the look is very easily pulled off!

Back to fashion week du jour. A whole new side of London came out yesterday and really brighted up the outlook of Fall '08.

While Paul Smith Women's line was the most wearable and incredibly chic and Sinha-Stanic's dresses were easy and playfully fun (would love to have one or two for going out!!), my favorite show from yesterday was Louise Goldin. Something about his orange and blue hues (go illini!) and his modern take on tribal prints was so fresh and exciting! I feel I'll probably get inspired to create some outfits out of these lines and am very eager to attempt to translate Louise Goldin's into real wear.

Hope everyone's days is good, check back around 2pm Central Time for a Mid-Day Update to see what I'm wearing!

Also, don't forget, tomorrow is Valentine's Day. Tell those you love how you feel and check back here for some fun red and pink attire!

Mid -Day Update!

2008-02-12T12:01:00.001-08:00

Two posts in one day?! Exciting, I know! If you're just tuning in to today be sure to read the previous posting before this one, as this pertains to my normal post

Please give me feedback! I am after all writing for you guys. Do you like this additional post? Would you like more of them? Do you think it's awful? Should I get rid of it or do you want to know what I'm wearing daily? please leave a comment and let me know your thoughts!

Black, Fur and Leather All Over

2008-02-12T08:41:00.000-08:00

Good morning! Today is an exciting day! Raining Hats and Clogs has expanded to now include Apex, North Carolina! If anyone else would like a weather report don't hesitate to ask, I love expanding and will do so until I can't handle it! As mentioned earlier, one of my favorite shows at New York Fashion Week was Jenni Kayne. Her fun, youthful and rock n roll take on the little black dress was exciting and the inspiration behind todays report! So let's get down to business.

Also, yesterday the first photos from London Fashion Week crossed the Atlantic and i must say those Brits are going very goth for fall. The first two shows, Jaeger London and Topshop Unique, were both very dark. Jaeger in particular had very ghoulish make-up and cuts, utilizing face engulfing hoods and dark colors. Topshop loaded up on the leather for their gothic-grunge looks. Both really pulled out all the stops on fur with large, voluminous, shaggy fur vests and coats.

While I can't say any of these looks are my favorite, I can spot an exciting trend that has carried over from last week. Lots of black, lots of grey, and lots of grunge. As a kid growing up with 90s grunge, I was never one to shy away from plaid and black high tops and some good Nirvana. This neo-grunge phase we seem to be entering is the perfect balance of nostalgia and modernity. Meaning I can embrace my inner Seattle/ 90s- heroin chic and still look clean and ladylike doing so!

Have a good, weather friendly day everyone!

All photos in this post are from style.com

At Least BAFTA came through

2008-02-11T08:35:00.000-08:00

So much to get through today! The Grammy's were SUCH a disappointment and I decided not to cover all those fashion flops. And that Beatle's tribute!? What was that all about. Although Kanye's performance dedicated to his mother did make me cry, i think his performance was all the show really had going for it. Although I did enjoy watching Amy Winehouse actually perform via satellite... although I did doubt her sobriety at times, okay a lot of times. So despite the Grammy let down at least the BAFTA awards provided me with some lovely post-able material and I also got around to doing a review of Donna Karen's fall 2008 show. So let's get down to business and get this weather news out.

Photos from http://www.thesartorialist.blogspot.com/

Now that business is taken care of, lets move on to the fun stuff. I have been obsessed with the 1920s flapper looks and Aubrey Beardsley prints for quite sometime now, so imagine my joy when I saw Donna Karen's Great Gatsby-esque line come down the runway. And in those fabulous autumn colors, makes me want to skip through spring and summer! The drapery, the shapes, the color, all absolutely flawless.

Last night the poorly attended Grammy's was not the only awards show. Across the pond, the BAFTA Awards, the British version of the Academy Awards, went down and had a very glittery red carpet with dramatic backs, sleeves and wonderfully subtle and natural hair styles. What a great way to kick start a week that is sure to be filled with English style as London Fashion Week has kicked off as well.

And that about sums it up for today. Expect to see a Jenni Kayne inspired weather report tomorrow, as well as the first news from London Fashion Week. Also don't forget Valentines day is Thursday and I have a very fun post planned for that! Have a great day, and enjoy whatever your locations weather brings you and have fun with your fashion choices! Just skip on that awful faux-hawk look a la Alicia Keyes.

FIRST (official) POST!

2008-02-08T21:53:00.000-08:00

So welcome to my first post! I'm BEYOND excited to officially join the blogging world, and i'm hoping this is one you'll enjoy for a long time to come! That being said, New York Fashion Week has come to an end, the Grammy's are tonight and I have the weather forecast for your week to do! We have a lot to get through so let's get started!

This week was fashion week in New York and what a week it was! While I found many of the shows to be fairly safe and not particularly innovative, there were some stellar shows that really pulled everything through at the end. A huge trend I noticed hit the runways was grey, which is a color I've always been found of (the color scheme of my blog is proof!) and look forward to wearing more of!

Zac Posen also followed suit with this chic color palette and really put together my favorite complete runway of the season.

Some others I loved were Alexander Wang and Temperley whose grungy, punk looks managed to be pulled together in such a chic way!

Some other lines that were amazing and showed on the last day were Jenni Kayne and Donna Karen who put together very fun, exciting lines and I'll post more about them during the week. Despite all these wonderful looks on the runway, my favorite looks of all came from the fashion forward guests who attended these shows. Their insanely chic and modern looks will be scattered through out this weeks posts for daily inspiration!

Hope everyone has a great end to the weekend. The Grammy's are tonight and they are always a fashion feast! I can't wait to see what hits (and misses!) that red carpet! And if that wasn't enough London Fashion Week starts today! A busy week awaits us!

all photos used in today's post are from fashionweekdaily.com and style.com

2008-02-08T13:21:00.001-08:00

2008-02-06T12:50:00.000-08:00

Hi All!

I'm working on graphics and content at the moment but hope to launch by this Sunday (2/10/08) and I'm very excited about things! Keep checking back for more updates!