I honestly can’t decide whether or not I think this is a good idea, so help me out here: How do you feel about wearing socks…with your heels? This photo of Leighton Meester rocking a painterly print black dress cinched with a belt, accented by a pair of bad-American-tourist-on-vacation black socks and charcoal platforms puzzles me. The outfit shouldn’t work, right? And yet, I find myself liking it. Especially the socks and heels combo. But would I actually wear it? That, my friends, is the question. I suppose the answer depends largely on the sock/shoe combo itself. First, you’ll have to invest in a good pair of lightweight, mid-calf socks - no gold-toed athletic socks bunching up in your sandals! Egads. I like these Ananda Bamboo Turnwelt Crew socks from Sock Dreams ($9). Next, look for a strappy platform sandal, like this Stefanie Caged Heel from Forever 21 ($20.80). You could try to match your socks to your shoes for a more subtle effect, or you could decide to go all out with socks and shoes in contrasting colors…or you could straddle the line between the two and pick socks and shoes in slightly different shades (like Leighton did with her black and charcoal combo here). On one hand, this is a great way to transition from spring to summer, since it lets you break out your pretty hot weather heels while at the same time protecting your tootsies from spring’s cooler temperatures. On the other hand, it does look kind of bizarre. What do you think? Fun & playful or weird & wrong?
Tim Burton’s fanciful 3D take on Alice in Wonderland has inspired a ton of fashion and beauty-related tie-ins, from nail polish to eye shadow to jewelry. The latest offering to come to my attention is Forever 21’s brand new Twisted Wonderland collection, which has Alice-inspired dresses, skirts, tops, shoes, headbands and more. Take, for instance, this Timepiece Striped Sweater Top ($19.80), which features a hot pink clock on a black and white striped tank - very White Rabbit. There is also a Cheshire Kitty Knit Top, Rose Garden Romper, satin peep-toe heels, and a headband with an enormous black bow on it for that Alice-meets-Mad-Hatter look. What do you think of the collection? Are you ready to follow F21 down the rabbit hole, or are you going to take a pass on this playful look?
Spring is in full bloom and that means summer is just around the corner! I know many of you ladies are looking to get fit and fabulous for the summer and what better way to get started than to invest in a pair of new yoga pants? For those of you that know me, you know that I live in yoga pants. They’re stretchy, comfortable and they make my butt and legs look better! Also, there’s just something about having cute workout clothes that motivates me to go work out. This week, I’m going to be reviewing a couple of my favorites:
Colors: check out the website, because they have too many to list and some colors are seasonal. The black ones come with waistbands in all sorts of colors, like white, pink, and lagoon.
Sizes: 2-12
Lengths: Regular and Tall (free tailoring comes with purchase)
The Lululemon Groove Pant is definitely my favorite yoga pants. Lululemon pants are a favorite of celebrities everywhere (and also one of Lululemon’s best selling pants) They are made with luon (Lululemon’s signature fabric), with a smooth and flat waistband that comes in an assortment of colors (my current favorite is lagoon). The groove pant comes with a waistband pocket for your gym card, ID, or key, perfect for the gym or a jog outside. Best of all, these pants are reversible, so it’s like you’re getting two pairs of pants for the price of one! And Lululemon pants are pricey. According to recent reviews, Lululemon made some changes to the materials and fabric they use to construct these pants, and reviewers have noted that these pants tend to pill after several washes, so beware of that. Also, if you’re short like me (I’m 5′2″), you will need to get them hemmed. The ladies at Lululemon will measure you and send your pants off to the tailor (free of charge) and you pick them up 6-8 business days later.
Lengths: Petite (28″ inseam), Regular (31″ inseam), Tall (34″ inseam)
I have been eyeing these pants since I discovered them, but apparently the Kickbooty pant is so popular that it’s always sold out in the most popular sizes and colors. *sigh* I will keep stalking the Athleta website until then. Athleta is part of the Gap company, so if you have a Gap or Banana Republic card, you get free shipping with your order! Athleta does not currently have any brick and mortar stores, so all purchases will be delivered to you via mail. The Kickbooty Pants are made with Pilayo, a fabric that is “ultimately stretchy, breathable and soft,” according to their website and is perfect for yoga and dance. Customers have gushed about how great these pants will make your butt look, so even if you’re not in your tip top shape, these pants will help you hide it! Most customers find that these pants are true to size, but a few commented that they were a tad tight and short, so check out the sizing chart carefully and read the reviews before you buy.
There are several other companies I want to scope out, I’ll keep you Latest Beauty readers updated.
I’ve been looking forward to the recently released biopic The Runaways ever since the first on-set photos started surfacing last year. (In case you’re not familiar with the group that the film is based on, they were an all-girl band that started in the mid-70s, when all of the members - including future hard rock legends Joan Jett and Lita Ford and frontwoman Cherie Currie - were just teenagers.) Kristen Stewart took a break between Twilight sequels to play Joan, while Dakota Fanning sheds her child star image to play the truly wild 15-year-old Cherie, who takes to strutting around the stage in little more than a corset and thigh-high stockings as her stage persona develops and the band’s exploitation begins to spiral out of control. The movie, which was directed by music video auteur Floria Sigismondi, is a little formulaic (dizzying rise to fame, on-the-road debauchery and excess, post-band redemption…check, check and check) but it’s a fun ride, and the performances are terrific. But, above all else, this is a film about style - the edgy, tough, undeniably ’70s rock and roll style that the Runaways epitomized. Some of my favorite fashion moments from the movie:
Cherie’s David Bowie belt buckle
Shag haircuts for all!
Platform boots, sandals and heels…platforms everywhere
Joan’s black Converse sneakers
Jumpsuits! Denim with cutouts for Cherie, skintight red leather for Joan
Oh, the smoky eyes…
Have you seen The Runaways yet? What did you think? And, more importantly, would you actually adopt any of these fashion cues into your own wardrobe?
Pardon me while I dream about spring for a minute….
I was browsing through Piperlime’s clothing section and came across this plaid shirt dress that I immediately started obsessing over:
I love the colors and the way it belts and I even liked the grey heels that they styled it with. I got all excited to order it and then I realized it was $139…out of my budget for a shirt dress.
…for only $22.90. I’m not as crazy about the colors as I am about the Piperlime one…but I am much crazier about the price. Just goes to show that it can pay to shop around. Now I think I can afford the heels too!
Iconic fashion designer Alexander McQueen, who was legendary for his edgy designs and rabble-rousing attitude, was found dead at his home in London yesterday. While McQueen originally rose to prominence as a tailor working on London’s tony menswear hub Savile Row, he later became the head designer for Givenchy and the ultimate force to be reckoned with in the world of avant-garde haute couture. More recently, he released an affordable take on his McQ Alexander McQueen line through the Target Designer Collaborations series. The cause of death is still unconfirmed, but rumors are circulating that McQueen may have committed suicide; his mother passed away less than two weeks ago. As the fashion world continues to mourn the loss of a true visionary, take a look at some of Alexander McQueen’s most memorable designs here, and view a slideshow of celebrities who have worn some of his more daring creations on red carpets over the years here. Rest in Peace, Lee Alexander McQueen; you will be missed.
Valentine's Day Premiere with the beautiful Jennifer Garner, Anne Hathaway and Jessica Biel
It’s Valentine’s Day this weekend and Valentine’s Day, the movie, hits theaters today. Are you looking forward to seeing this large A-list cast tackle all the ins and outs of love?? I can’t wait to check it out! And after seeing some of my favorite actresses on the red carpet at the premiere earlier this week, I’m feeling inspired for my own hot date this Sunday. This picture of Jennifer Garner, Anne Hathaway and Jessica Biel has got my wheels a-turning….which way should I go with my dress this weekend?? Should I go sexy and sultry like Jennifer, with a tight LBD with peekaboo lace? Should I go sexy and sassy like Anne with a short hemline and fancy feathers? Or should I go sexy and sweet like Jessica with a more traditional “Valentine’s” color and ruffles? I feel like all three women captured a different part of my personality with their very different but very workable styles. I am torn! I want to wear a dress inspired by this red carpet but I think I need help on this one…so I’m going to put it to a vote…
I have always been a huge Natalie Portman fan. And I have always been a huge Rodarte fan. When the Rodarte for Target line hit stores right before Christmas, I was quick to pick up this yellow tulle/lace skirt to add to my wardrobe. I’ve been stumped with how exactly to make it into an outfit though. Well, leave it up to the fabulous Natalie to wear the similar slip dress version of my skirt. Now I know how fab it would look with some black accessories! It doesn’t look like they have the yellow version of the dress online anymore but they do have the black one and coral one, if you’re interested in scoring some high fashion that is red-carpet ready at a totally affordable price. Or you can always go with the skirt and put your own twist on the trend!
Yay, it’s Friday! And nothing says you’re ready for the weekend quite like a comfy, casual ensemble like the one the ever-adorable Drew Barrymore is sporting here, on a grocery run with boyfriend Justin Long. True, there’s not much to it - just your standard jeans, T-shirt and sneakers-type outfit - but there’s just enough detail to keep it interesting and quirky rather than messy or lazy. To steal this look, the first thing you’re going to need is a pair of slightly roomy jeans. No skinny jeans, no trousers, and no bootcuts; instead, look for straight-legged boyfriend jeans like this pair from Converse One-Star at Target ($34.99). Drew eschews a boring plain T-shirt in favor of a top with a bit of embellishment near the neckline, to add interest. For a similar effect, I like this floral knit top from Forever 21 ($13.80). Of course, you’ll need a purple and black buffalo plaid flannel to throw on over that shirt for warmth; if you order two or more, they’re just $29.99 each at CCS. (Yep, those are men’s shirts - all the better to lend that slouchy, borrowing-his-clothes vibe to your outfit.) Follow up with a pair of classic Chuck Taylors from Converse ($45) and a cool pair of shades ($5.80) and you’re ready for a Saturday morning outing. (Don’t forget to pull your hair back into little grown-up pigtails for bonus Drew points!)
There are only 10 days left until 2009 disappears into the ether of history and 2010 is upon us, so without any further ado, here is the final installment in my series of posts on the biggest trends of the year. Today, we will cover the most notable nail fad of ‘09, the wild hair trend sparked by a certain Gossip Girl, and the fashion trick that’s fit for a First Lady.
BEAUTY: Matte nail polish. This was, hands down, the biggest nail trend of ‘09 - and one of the biggest beauty trends of the year, period. After matte-centric ManGlaze and KO Knock Out made headlines early on with their unique colors and finishes, it seemed like every single polish company (OPI, Zoya, Nubar and Orly leap to mind) launched at least one collection of matte polishes this year - and, in many cases, several. Essie, China Glaze and Rescue Beauty Lounge took the craze one step further with by creating matte top coats, which can be brushed onto any shade to create that velvety matte look. I haven’t seen many low-end knockoffs of the matte nails craze yet - you still have to stop by a beauty supply store or specialty retailer like Ulta to stock up - but I predict that drugstore brands will be rolling out their take on the trend very soon. Something to look forward to in 2010 - unless you’re already burnt out on it, that is! So what was your take on matte polish? Did you dig it, or do you prefer your manicure shiny?
HAIR: Long, untamed tresses. If you’re wondering what the most popular hairstyle of 2009 was, then look no further than Blake Lively. The blonde bombshell, best known for her portrayal of Serena van der Woodsen on Gossip Girl, epitomized the wild, messy, borderline unkempt long hair that could be seen on countless Hollywood starlets this year. (Case in point: Check out my last Latest Trends post, in which Lindsay Lohan is shown rocking the look.) I would describe it as Brigitte Bardot meets a serious case of bedhead. The New York Times even likens it to “the ‘Rachel’” of the ’00s - in other words, the defining women’s hairstyle of the decade, just as Jennifer Aniston’s updated Friends shag was the ‘do of the ’90s. And if you lack the natural length necessary, don’t fret - there’s always extensions!
FASHION: Waist-accentuating belts. This is one of the most figure-flattering fashion trends in recent memory, and it is my humble opinion that we owe it all to First Lady Michelle Obama. Sure, women wore belts before Mrs. O emerged as a fashion icon, but I can’t remember so many ladies belting their dresses, cardigans, and so forth quite as much as they do now. The belt has evolved from a sartorial afterthought to one of the most vital accessories a woman can own. They can make an ill-fitting or loose dress incredibly pretty and polished, and they make any outfit look “done,” but not stuffy. If you don’t have at least one or two belts at this point - which I doubt - look for a wide one that’s fitted to your waist but has a bit of stretch, and consider an eye-catching color for added drama. Or you could go the First Lady route and pick up a clear belt, like this one. It’s sleek and futuristic yet pretty and classic, and it will certainly go well with any color combination. Belts, we salute you. Thank you for bringing the hourglass figure back into popular consciousness!
Surely you’ve heard by now that Sex and the City 2 will be hitting theaters in 2010, and no matter how you felt about the storylines and character development in the last movie, you’ll probably want to know what Carrie & Co. are wearing. The above image of Sarah Jessica Parker/Carrie Bradshaw in a comfy-looking white jersey dress and fabulous gold accessories is probably already familiar to you if you’ve seen the film’s promo poster, and it could be an easy one to duplicate - even if you’re on a budget. Start by throwing on a short-sleeved white dress that nips in at the waist and has a scoop or V-neck to show off those amazing collarbones. This See by Chloe pleated jersey dress will do the job nicely, and it’s marked down from $470 to $141, making it surprisingly affordable as well. Next, you’ll need a cool statement necklace; I love this Twining Snake Necklace from Rock Paper Scissors Jewelry ($49). While Carrie’s handbag is a structured gold clutch, this shiny gold wristlet from Express has the same feel for just $15.75, and a pair of glittery gold platform heels from Wet Seal will up your footwear glamour quotient for under $25. And, finally, the piece de resistance - a pair of gold mirrored aviator shades - can be purchased from Amazon.com for the astonishingly low price of $6.99 for a 3-pack!
What do you think of Carrie’s look? Are you excited for SATC 2?
As 2009 draws to a close, the onslaught of “Best Of” lists has begun. Since I love to see celebrities all decked out for formal events, I was particularly excited to check out Jezebel’s list of the Best Red Carpet Outfits of 2009. While I don’t entirely agree with Sadie’s choices, I appreciate the fact that she listed less “conventional” ladies, like Tilda Swinton and Chloe Sevigny, right next to Best Dressed stalwarts like Natalie Portman and Anne Hathaway. And, of course, it inspired me to compile a list of some of the most notable red carpet moments of the year, according to LatestBeauty.
In chronological order (starting at the beginning of the year), here are a few more fashionable celebs who deserve Red Carpet Awards in ‘09:
It was announced this month that THE color of 2010 is Turquoise. Pantone, the global authority on color, has made the call and they explain their reasoning behind this decision, saying,
Combining the serene qualities of blue and the invigorating aspects of green, Turquoise evokes thoughts of soothing, tropical waters and a languorous, effective escape from the everyday troubles of the world, while at the same time restoring our sense of wellbeing.
Well, sign me up! I have always been a big fan of turquoise and I think it is one of those rare colors that is bold but also flattering on most skin tones and colorings. With turquoise being the latest and greatest color to look forward to in the new year, I decided to get a head start and pick out a few turquoise pieces that can take you throughout the year….
This turquoise coat from Love21 (Forever21’s contemporary line) is sophisticated and stylish. I love the collar and the texture of the trim. Perfect for getting you through the beginning months of 2010.
And I am crushing majorly on this chunky statement necklace from Banana Republic. How amazing would it look with a crisp white tee in the spring? The combination of the turquoise and the gold chains is totally on trend.
Once summer rolls around, show your playful side with these turquoise sandals from Steve Madden. Think of turquoise as your new neutral and wear it with any color combination.
It has been chilly here in Los Angeles the past few days and it really is “beginning to look a lot like Christmas,” to quote the holiday song. However you celebrate this time of year, tomorrow is the perfect day to get some of your holiday shopping with done with the 2nd Annual Holiday Walk on the Avenues. From 6:00 - 9:00 on Dec. 10th, participating businesses in West Hollywood will be offering shoppers special discounts, hors d’oeuvres, beverages, and signature gifts. There are even going to be roaming carolers and Santas throughout the Avenues and personal shoppers to help you get all you need on your list. The Avenues of Art and Design consist of Melrose, Beverly and Robertson, with the Pacific Design Center as the district’s anchor.
This sounds like a great way to get into the holiday spirit. I plan on grabbing a few girlfriends and making an evening out of it. I can already picture us sipping our hot cocoa, walking along with the holiday lights twinkling and scoring deals at stores like Kitson and Coco de Mer. Fa la la la la, indeed!
Welcome to the latest entry in my retrospective on the fashion, beauty and hair trends that have been making waves in 2009! Today I’m focusing on a recession-friendly way to keep your hair looking gorgeous, the comfy/sexy fashion sensation that just won’t die, and one of the two biggest nail trends of the year.
HAIR: Coloring your hair at home. Okay, so home hair dye has always been an option - but the big news now is that it doesn’t have to be your “last resort” anymore. More women are opting to save the money they would spend on a trip to the salon by stopping by the drugstore and picking up a box of their favorite shade instead. Personally, I’ve had good experiences with Clairol’s Natural Instincts, which can freshen up or slightly change your existing color for about a month or two, but you can find products that are perfect for everything from highlighting your hair to touching up your roots. Instructions are easy to follow and virtually foolproof, and the kits are very affordable. Does anyone have a favorite at-home hair color to recommend?
FASHION: Leggings. After several years in the fashion spotlight, it’s beginning to feel like a bit of an understatement to refer to leggings as a mere “trend.” Celebrities - including unofficial poster child Lindsay Lohan, who even designed her own leggings line - swear by them, as do non-famous ladies everywhere. They’re so widespread that it seems clear that they may soon be taking their place in the fashion canon, right next to jeans, as an indelible staple of the American wardrobe. Why? Because they’re form-fitting and sexy yet comfortable and flattering, and they can be styled in so many different ways, depending on the rest of your outfit and accessories. (Plus, they’re perfect for layering!) They’ve really come a long way from their workout wear/80s origins.
BEAUTY: Glitter nail polish. With so many different brands to choose from and the increasing popularity of nail polish blogs (yes, there is a subset of the beauty blogging world devoted solely to swatching and reviewing the latest polish collections!), nails are really coming into their own - and one of the biggest trends for tips this year was intensely glittery polish. Rescue Beauty Lounge came out with this amazing trio of glitter polishes early in ‘09, and pretty much everyone followed suit, from Zoya to OPI to Sally Hansen - and, most notably, China Glaze, who unveiled a collection of fifty gloriously glittery shades. There’s only one polish trend that eclipsed glitter this year…which I’ll talk about in next Monday’s Latest Trends! Stay tuned…
For the New York premiere of her latest movie, Everybody’s Fine, Drew Barrymore showed up on the red carpet in this eye-catching Emilio Pucci sequined cocktail dress, looking - as usual - like the epitome of unstudied, casual cool. Since the dress itself, which combines shimmering sequins in a mishmash of colors (silver, gold, green and blue) with a few asymmetrical, deconstructed touches like that bare shoulder, is rather busy, Drew wisely balances the look with opaque black tights and simple yet chic black ankle boots. If a genuine Pucci dress is a little out of your price range but you’d like to steal this holiday-appropriate look for yourself, try this one-shoulder sequin front minidress from Forever 21. It’s not a dead ringer, but for just $22.80, you can’t really complain - and it definitely nails many of the original’s key elements, including the sequins, the shortness and the long sleeve/exposed shoulder combo. Since your dress won’t be quite as colorful as Drew’s, why not make up the difference with a fun pair of showstopping red or cobalt blue ankle boots instead of basic black? Finish the look with a pair of black tights and an oversized cocktail ring, and you’re good to go. And to really capture Drew’s playful, subversive spirit, leave your makeup soft and simple and your hair slightly messy and tousled. Ta-da! You’re dressed up, but not stuffy, just like Drew.
Yes, we’ve already talked about Twilight - a lot, in fact, from the red carpet styles of stars Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning to the Twilight makeup line that recently hit stores, but it just occurred to me that we’ve never actually discussed our feelings about the latest movie itself! The Twilight Saga: New Moon, as the second film in the series is officially called, is a supremely guilty pleasure for me, but it is a pleasure nonetheless. Is it silly? Yes. It is borderline offensive at times? Sure. But seeing the film with a big group of girls gave all of us the chance to relax, giggle like teenagers, and leave our worries behind while we focused on debating much more pressing issues, such as whether Robert Pattinson (as brooding vampire Edward Cullen) or Taylor Lautner (as hotheaded werewolf Jacob Black) looks better with his shirt off. The movie feels a little long, but I think it’s more eventful than the first film, and I loved the Italy-set scenes in which Bella finally visits the sinister, vampire-governed city of Volterra. And, love it or hate it, you can’t deny that the Twilight ladies are a pretty gorgeous bunch! Kristen Stewart, who plays Bella, may be a bit divisive with her devil-may-care red carpet persona, but she looked great in her casual/dressy emerald green birthday gown with black cardigan and sneakers. Love that headband too! Rachelle Lafevre, who plays villainous vamp Victoria, also made an impression in this movie with her wild, untamed curls and bohemian wardrobe. Unfortunately, I heard that she’s been replaced in the next film, Eclipse, by Bryce Dallas Howard - can anyone confirm or deny this rumor? It would be a real shame if it’s true - I’m seriously starting to love her. And, of course, Dakota Fanning is the epitome of sadistic sweetness as Jane, one of Volterra’s vampire elite. If you feel like investing in a black cape and a pair of red contacts, Jane would be a super easy Halloween costume, no? (Yes, I’m already thinking ahead to next Halloween…!) Overall, I thought New Moon was a fun ride…as long as you go into the theatre knowing what to expect! Anyone else have any thoughts on this movie?
Hope everyone had a fabulous Thanksgiving and a great Black Friday and/or Cyber Monday! We’re edging closer to the end of the year here, so I’d like to take this opportunity to observe a few of the latest trends that have been popping up in fashion, beauty and hair. Here are three of my favorites:
FASHION: The statement necklace. The beauty of this showstopper is that it does all of the work for you. Throw on an enormous, eye-catching necklace and what you’re wearing is really of secondary concern. In fact, since your necklace is so bold, your best bet is to keep things simple. For formal occasions, choose a strapless gown or a basic sheath in a solid color; if you’re going casual, try a plain white T-shirt, skinny jeans and boots. And, of course, the rest of your accessories will need to stay understated - or completely non-existent. For a quick primer on how to do this right, check out Amy Adams in this sparkling emerald, sapphire and ruby bib necklace at last year’s Oscars. Gorgeous! If you don’t have a movie star budget, there are much more affordable takes on the trend available at stores like Old Navy and Forever 21.
HAIR: Shampooing less often. In the December issue of Glamour magazine, hair guru Oscar Blandi recommends shampooing no more than twice a week. Apparently, this practice “keeps hair healthy” - not to mention the fact that your scalp’s natural oils will make your hair much easier to style. If you’re concerned about smelling like, well, unwashed hair, rest assured that your locks will adapt over time as you start to shampoo them less - and in the meantime, why not try a dry shampoo? They come in a wide range of prices and scents, and you can buy them in a powder that you shake on or a simple spray for convenience and portability. Professional hairdressers seem to swear by dry shampoo - and you can even make your own low-budget version with cornstarch if you’re watching your wallet!
BEAUTY: Lining the inner rims of your eyes. As modeled by the lovely Olivia Wilde, lining the inner rims of your eyes (i.e., the “waterline”) with a soft pencil will throw the whites of your eyes into sharp relief, really making them “pop.” Several companies are making super skinny eyeliner pencils just for this purpose, but it’s easy to do with any eyeliner as long as you take the time to sharpen and then soften the point beforehand. (Try running the tip on your hand or on a Kleenex before beginning.) Line slowly to avoid poking yourself in the eye, and stop immediately if you feel any irritation. Unfortunately, this look probably won’t work for contact lens wearers or ladies with especially sensitive eyes. But it sure looks pretty, doesn’t it?
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving (yay!), and that can only mean one thing: Black Friday is almost upon us. Even if the recession is bumming you out, you have to do your holiday shopping sometime, and Black Friday - a.k.a. the day after Thanksgiving - always offers some amazing money-saving deals that you can’t score any other time of the year. If you’re planning to wake up bright and early to hit the stores on Friday, why not stop by your local H&M? They’re offering 25% Off on everything storewide from opening until 10 AM. (Yes, this sale ends at 10 AM, so if you’re a night owl like me you’re going to have to set your alarm for sure!) If you miss the big sale, you can still find marked down items all day, starting at just $5. Have fun!
Michelle Obama has cemented her reputation as the most fashion-forward First Lady to hit the White House in decades by stepping out in this gorgeous sequined evening gown by designer Naeem Khan, which she wore to an official state dinner in honor of the Prime Minister of India and his wife.
The look was accessorized with an armful of sparkly silver bangles and a seriously amazing pair of intricately detailed drop earrings. I love how Mrs. O manages to evoke India with this dress without crossing over into costume-y or exploitative territory, and her decision to go with a lesser-known designer calls to mind the way she wore Jason Wu to the inauguration. Gorgeous!
I honestly can’t decide whether or not I think this is a good idea, so help me out here: How do you feel about wearing socks…with your heels? This photo of Leighton Meester rocking a painterly print black dress cinched with a belt, accented by a pair of bad-American-tourist-on-vacation black socks and charcoal platforms puzzles me. The outfit shouldn’t work, right? And yet, I find myself liking it. Especially the socks and heels combo. But would I actually wear it? That, my friends, is the question. I suppose the answer depends largely on the sock/shoe combo itself. First, you’ll have to invest in a good pair of lightweight, mid-calf socks - no gold-toed athletic socks bunching up in your sandals! Egads. I like these Ananda Bamboo Turnwelt Crew socks from Sock Dreams ($9). Next, look for a strappy platform sandal, like this Stefanie Caged Heel from Forever 21 ($20.80). You could try to match your socks to your shoes for a more subtle effect, or you could decide to go all out with socks and shoes in contrasting colors…or you could straddle the line between the two and pick socks and shoes in slightly different shades (like Leighton did with her black and charcoal combo here). On one hand, this is a great way to transition from spring to summer, since it lets you break out your pretty hot weather heels while at the same time protecting your tootsies from spring’s cooler temperatures. On the other hand, it does look kind of bizarre. What do you think? Fun & playful or weird & wrong?
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Tim Burton’s fanciful 3D take on Alice in Wonderland has inspired a ton of fashion and beauty-related tie-ins, from nail polish to eye shadow to jewelry. The latest offering to come to my attention is Forever 21’s brand new 
(In case you’re not familiar with the group that the film is based on, they were an all-girl band that started in the mid-70s, when all of the members - including future hard rock legends Joan Jett and Lita Ford and frontwoman Cherie Currie - were just teenagers.) Kristen Stewart took a break between Twilight sequels to play Joan, while Dakota Fanning sheds her child star image to play the truly wild 15-year-old Cherie, who takes to strutting around the stage in little more than a corset and thigh-high stockings as her stage persona develops and the band’s exploitation begins to spiral out of control. The movie, which was directed by music video auteur Floria Sigismondi, is a little formulaic (dizzying rise to fame, on-the-road debauchery and excess, post-band redemption…check, check and check) but it’s a fun ride, and the performances are terrific. But, above all else, this is a film about style - the edgy, tough, undeniably ’70s rock and roll style that the Runaways epitomized. Some of my favorite fashion moments from the movie:
I love the colors and the way it belts and I even liked the grey heels that they styled it with. I got all excited to order it and then I realized it was $139…out of my budget for a shirt dress.
…for only $22.90. I’m not as crazy about the colors as I am about the Piperlime one…but I am much crazier about the price. Just goes to show that it can pay to shop around. Now I think I can afford the heels too!
Iconic fashion designer Alexander McQueen, who was legendary for his edgy designs and rabble-rousing attitude, was found dead at his home in London yesterday. While McQueen originally rose to prominence as a tailor working on London’s tony menswear hub Savile Row, he later became the head designer for Givenchy and the ultimate force to be reckoned with in the world of avant-garde haute couture. More recently, he released an affordable take on his McQ Alexander McQueen line through the Target Designer Collaborations series. The cause of death is still unconfirmed, but rumors are circulating that McQueen may have committed suicide; his mother passed away less than two weeks ago. As the fashion world continues to mourn the loss of a true visionary, take a look at some of Alexander McQueen’s most memorable designs 
I have always been a huge Natalie Portman fan. And I have always been a huge Rodarte fan. When the Rodarte for Target line hit stores right before Christmas, I was quick to pick up this 
BEAUTY: Matte nail polish. This was, hands down, the biggest nail trend of ‘09 - and one of the biggest beauty trends of the year, period. After matte-centric ManGlaze and KO Knock Out made headlines early on with their unique colors and finishes, it seemed like every single polish company (OPI, Zoya, Nubar and Orly leap to mind) launched at least one collection of matte polishes this year - and, in many cases, several. Essie, China Glaze and Rescue Beauty Lounge took the craze one step further with by creating matte top coats, which can be brushed onto any shade to create that velvety matte look. I haven’t seen many low-end knockoffs of the matte nails craze yet - you still have to stop by a beauty supply store or specialty retailer like Ulta to stock up - but I predict that drugstore brands will be rolling out their take on the trend very soon. Something to look forward to in 2010 - unless you’re already burnt out on it, that is! So what was your take on matte polish? Did you dig it, or do you prefer your manicure shiny?
HAIR: Long, untamed tresses. If you’re wondering what the most popular hairstyle of 2009 was, then look no further than Blake Lively. The blonde bombshell, best known for her portrayal of Serena van der Woodsen on Gossip Girl, epitomized the wild, messy, borderline unkempt long hair that could be seen on countless Hollywood starlets this year. (Case in point: Check out my last 
FASHION: Waist-accentuating belts. This is one of the most figure-flattering fashion trends in recent memory, and it is my humble opinion that we owe it all to First Lady Michelle Obama. Sure, women wore belts before Mrs. O emerged as a fashion icon, but I can’t remember so many ladies belting their dresses, cardigans, and so forth quite as much as they do now. The belt has evolved from a sartorial afterthought to one of the most vital accessories a woman can own. They can make an ill-fitting or loose dress incredibly pretty and polished, and they make any outfit look “done,” but not stuffy. If you don’t have at least one or two belts at this point - which I doubt - look for a wide one that’s fitted to your waist but has a bit of stretch, and consider an eye-catching color for added drama. Or you could go the First Lady route and pick up a clear belt, like this one. It’s sleek and futuristic yet pretty and classic, and it will certainly go well with any color combination. Belts, we salute you. Thank you for bringing the hourglass figure back into popular consciousness!
character development in the last movie, you’ll probably want to know what Carrie & Co. are wearing. The above image of Sarah Jessica Parker/Carrie Bradshaw in a comfy-looking white jersey dress and fabulous gold accessories is probably already familiar to you if you’ve seen the film’s 
it could be an easy one to duplicate - even if you’re on a budget. Start by throwing on a short-sleeved white dress that nips in at the waist and has a scoop or V-neck to show off those amazing collarbones. This 
As 2009 draws to a close, the onslaught of “Best Of” lists has begun. Since I love to see celebrities all decked out for formal events, I was particularly excited to check out Jezebel’s list of the 
It was announced this month that THE color of 2010 is Turquoise. 
This 
And I am crushing majorly on this 
Once summer rolls around, show your playful side with these 
It has been chilly here in Los Angeles the past few days and it really is “beginning to look a lot like Christmas,” to quote the holiday song. However you celebrate this time of year, tomorrow is the perfect day to get some of your holiday shopping with done with the 
HAIR: Coloring your hair at home. Okay, so home hair dye has always been an option - but the big news now is that it doesn’t have to be your “last resort” anymore. More women are opting to save the money they would spend on a trip to the salon by stopping by the drugstore and picking up a box of their favorite shade instead. Personally, I’ve had good experiences with Clairol’s 
FASHION: Leggings. After several years in the fashion spotlight, it’s beginning to feel like a bit of an understatement to refer to leggings as a mere “trend.” Celebrities - including unofficial poster child Lindsay Lohan, who even designed her own leggings line - swear by them, as do non-famous ladies everywhere. They’re so widespread that it seems clear that they may soon be taking their place in the fashion canon, right next to jeans, as an indelible staple of the American wardrobe. Why? Because they’re form-fitting and sexy yet comfortable and flattering, and they can be styled in so many different ways, depending on the rest of your outfit and accessories. (Plus, they’re perfect for layering!) They’ve really come a long way from their workout wear/80s origins.
BEAUTY: Glitter nail polish. With so many different brands to choose from and the increasing popularity of nail polish blogs (yes, there is a subset of the beauty blogging world devoted solely to swatching and reviewing the latest polish collections!), nails are really coming into their own - and one of the biggest trends for tips this year was intensely glittery polish. Rescue Beauty Lounge came out with this amazing trio of glitter polishes early in ‘09, and pretty much everyone followed suit, from Zoya to OPI to Sally Hansen - and, most notably, China Glaze, who unveiled a collection of fifty gloriously glittery shades. There’s only one polish trend that eclipsed glitter this year…which I’ll talk about in next Monday’s Latest Trends! Stay tuned…
For the New York premiere of her latest movie, Everybody’s Fine, Drew Barrymore showed up on the red carpet in this eye-catching Emilio Pucci sequined cocktail 
dress, looking - as usual - like the epitome of unstudied, casual cool. Since the dress itself, which combines shimmering sequins in a mishmash of colors (silver, gold, green and blue) with a few asymmetrical, deconstructed touches like that bare shoulder, is rather busy, Drew wisely balances the look with opaque black tights and simple yet chic black ankle boots. If a genuine Pucci dress is a little out of your price range but you’d like to steal this holiday-appropriate look for yourself, try this one-shoulder 
and it definitely nails many of the original’s key elements, including the sequins, the shortness and the long sleeve/exposed shoulder combo. Since your dress won’t be quite as colorful as Drew’s, why not make up the difference with a fun pair of 
m
ovie itself! The Twilight Saga: New Moon, as the second film in the series is officially called, is a supremely guilty pleasure for me, but it is a pleasure nonetheless. Is it silly? Yes. It is borderline offensive at times? Sure. But seeing the film with a big group of girls gave all of us the chance to relax, giggle like teenagers, and leave our worries behind while we focused on debating much more pressing issues, such as whether Robert Pattinson (as brooding vampire Edward Cullen) or Taylor Lautner (as hotheaded werewolf Jacob Black) looks better with his shirt off. The movie feels a little long, but I think it’s more eventful than the first film, and I loved the Italy-set scenes in which Bella finally visits the sinister, vampire-governed city of Volterra. And, love it or hate it, you can’t deny that the Twilight ladies are a pretty gorgeous bunch! Kristen Stewart, who plays Bella, may be a bit divisive with her devil-may-care red carpet persona, but she looked great in her casual/dressy emerald green birthday gown with black cardigan and sneakers. Love that headband too! Rachelle Lafevre, who plays villainous vamp Victoria, also made an impression in this movie with her wild, untamed curls and bohemian wardrobe. Unfortunately, I heard that she’s been replaced in the next film, Eclipse, by Bryce 
Dallas Howard - can anyone confirm or deny this rumor? It would be a real shame if it’s true - I’m seriously starting to love her. And, of course, Dakota Fanning is the epitome of sadistic sweetness as Jane, one of Volterra’s vampire elite. If you feel like investing in a black cape and a pair of red contacts, Jane would be a super easy Halloween costume, no? (Yes, I’m already thinking ahead to next Halloween…!) Overall, I thought New Moon was a fun ride…as long as you go into the theatre knowing what to expect! Anyone else have any thoughts on this movie?
FASHION: The statement necklace. The beauty of this showstopper is that it does all of the work for you. Throw on an enormous, eye-catching necklace and what you’re wearing is really of secondary concern. In fact, since your necklace is so bold, your best bet is to keep things simple. For formal occasions, choose a strapless gown or a basic sheath in a solid color; if you’re going casual, try a plain white T-shirt, skinny jeans and boots. And, of course, the rest of your accessories will need to stay understated - or completely non-existent. For a quick primer on how to do this right, check out Amy Adams in this sparkling emerald, sapphire and ruby bib necklace at last year’s Oscars. Gorgeous! If you don’t have a movie star budget, there are much more affordable takes on the trend available at stores like Old Navy and Forever 21. 
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving (yay!), and that can only mean one thing: 
