There's Something About Orange

While just about any technicolor shade is right on trend this summer, there's something about orange that I'm loving right now. Perhaps it's because orange seems just right for the increasingly warm weather. Or maybe it's just the punch of bold, bright, cheerfulness that my wardrobe needs right now. Or maybe it's got something to do with how well it pairs with other colors I love like navy blue, turquoise and white. Regardless, orange is a "must have" for me this summer.

The key to pulling off head-to-toe orange? Keep the silhouette simple and streamlined; the color is the standout here, so keep the details unfussy and accessories (try just some simple gold jewelry) to a minimum. Also, stay monochromatic if you want to keep the look feeling sophisticated and edgy as too many bold colors easily read as too young. Nude shoes are a great (and leg-lengthening) choice.

Despite my love of statement-making color, I'll confess I don't always have the hutzpah to wear head-to-toe brights myself. I all too often tend to retreat behind black, navy or gray. If you're anything like me (and I expect many of you are), then the easiest way to play with the bolds and brights found on the Spring 2011 runways is to incorporate these shades into your existing wardrobe in smaller doses, via shoes, jewelry, and handbags.

Source List:

St John Double Face Crepe Jacket and Pencil Skirt (Nordstrom; $795 and $395)

Diane Von Furstenberg Bateau Neck Dress (Nordstrom; $285)

Verbena Dress (Tory Burch; $350)

Kate Spade New York "Daycation" pouch (Nordstrom; $50)
Lanvin Grosgrain espadrilles (Net-a-porter; $595)
Elephant Belt (Kate Spade; $95)

Cara Accessories Bead & Metal Bangles (Nordstrom; $48)

Dylan Large Shoulder Bag (Linea Pelle; $415)

Tory Burch Synthetic Straw Shoulder Bag (Nordstrom; $350)

Horton Sandal (Tory Burch; $295)

Shabby-Chic Linen Ballet Flat (Banana Republic; $79)

Juicy Couture Endless Summer Stackable Rings (Nordstrom; $88/set of 3)

Spring/Summer Essentials

Although Houston enjoys moderate winters, there's just something about Spring that puts a little bounce in my step. Perhaps it's the promise of summer (though my summer vacations have long since passed) or the newly budding flowers, but a gorgeous spring day never fails to put me in a good mood. And, of course, I love spring and summer fashions: the bright colors, the perky prints, fabulous sandals and wedges...it's just so refreshing after months of grays on black.

This Spring, I'm looking to update my wardrobe with some fresh new staples that are easy wearing...and easy washing (both Baby G. and I seem to go through several wardrobe changes a day now)! The type of clothes that will transition from mommy-hood to my pretty casual office. Navy and white (especially white jeans!) are my go-to's for warmer weather, but I'll be updating the classic nautical pairing with bright accessories like those gorgeous Tory Burch Sandals (orange and hot pink are both amazing with navy) and fun prints like Kate Spade's Daycation shopper. An on-trend maxi dress in a bold print is an easy weekend staple that will keep me cool and casual without feeling schleppy. Finally, I'm longing to swap out my everyday watch for something fun, light and a little bit different, like Michael Kors' resin and rose gold watch.

Clockwise (from top left): Coral Dress (Tory Burch), Jersey Blazer (Boden), Daycation Bon Shopper (Kate Spade), Denim Pleated Trouser Short (Gap), Gold Coast Lacey wallet (Kate Spade), Stripe Sunburst Tank (J.Crew), Horton Sandals (Tory Burch), Michael Kors Show Stopper Resin Watch (Nordstrom), Sexy Boot Surplus Jeans in White (Gap), and Dorrie Skirt (J.Crew).

What pieces are you craving this Spring? Any new trends you're dying to try out?

What I Want This Spring: A Stripe Blazer

At 37 weeks and 2 days pregnant, I'm absolutely dying to get back into "normal" clothes (or have my normal clothes fit, well, normally). While it will probably be a few more months before I do any serious shopping to let my weight/size settle back down, the top of my wishlist is a stripe blazer, which is popping up everywhere this spring. Blazers have always been my go to piece for the office and even on the weekend when I want to look pulled together. Either way, I'd pair with white or dark denim and some fabulous wedges. Wear a bright colored top (like orange!) or mix in a small-scale floral to make a bigger statement.

Source List: (1) Maritime Stripe Blazer (J.Crew; $118); (2) Striped Jacket (Banana Republic; $167.99); (3) Bailey 44 'Gyro' Jacket (Nordstrom; $187); (4) Robert Rodriguez Stripe Blazer (Nordstrom; $375); (5) Elizabeth and James Preppy Striped Blazer (Sakes Fifth Avenue; $425); (6) Navy Breton Stripe Jersey Blazer (Boden; $98).


What's on your shopping list this spring?

How to have a Stylish Pregnancy

I've picked up a few tips and tricks for navigating pregnancy as stylishly as possible over the past 8 months or so and I thought I'd share some of them with you today. Fortunately, there are now plenty of maternity clothes options on the market today so you have no excuse not to look your usual cute self (especially since now you'll have that pregnancy glow to go along with your gorgeous bump).

1. Pants/Jeans. Hands down I'd say Gap is the winner in this category for both style and price. Sure, you can throw down some serious cash for designer maternity denim (much of which is pretty useless once you get into the third trimester anyway as they're often cut too low and with too little support for late term pregnancy), but I honestly don't think any of the designer jeans I tried on compared to Gap's "Always Skinny" maternity jeans, which I've been living in since Thanksgiving. Similarly, Gap's perfect trousers have become my work week staple and are (blessedly) wash and wear.

2. Basic Tops. Basic tees and tank tops are essential during pregnancy. You can wear them alone, under open jackets and cardigans, or layer them under shorter (non-maternity) tops for more coverage. While not inexpensive, Isabella & Oliver's scoopneck ruched tees are lifesavers for me. They're comfortable, long enough (without running the risk of looking like a tunic -- a problem that seems to plague much maternity wear, even for this 6' tall gal), flattering and I wear them constantly. For tank tops, I actually prefer Classiques Entier's camisoles, which come in an array of colors and, while not technically maternity wear, are stretchy enough to look good from the beginning of pregnancy to the end. Even better, you can wear postpartum without feeling like you're still stuck in your maternity clothes.

3. Open Cardigans. Fortunately, open front cardigans are a big trend right now and can be found in abundance at all price points. I'm a big fan of Nordstroms' in-house brand Caslon for inexpensive cardigans in fun colors. Again, these have the added benefit of being wearable postpartum as well.

4. Comfortable Flats. Comfortable shoes are essential. I had to temporarily retire my heels a few months ago once my balance started to become affected by my bump. At first I was worried that my feet would grow so I avoided investing in well-made, comfortable flats. Big mistake. Buying a couple of cute, well designed flats will not only perk up a basic black maternity wardrobe, but it will keep your feet (and therefore your legs and back) happy. For my money, you can't get better than Gentle Souls. Just don't go buying a whole new shoe wardrobe until you're well past postpartum and are sure your feet have permanently spread (or not).

5. Proper Undergarments. Let's talk lingerie for a moment, ladies. The first new clothing you'll need to buy for your pregnancy are a few new bras. Make sure they've got plenty of support (I made sure mine had that third hook-and-eye closure and larger, more supportive straps). I would suggest not buying nursing bras immediately as you can never be sure what size you'll need by the time the baby arrives. My other suggestion is to get yourself a few Spanx maternity shaper and/or tights. Not only do they smooth you out, but they provide invaluable belly support as you grow. As for maternity underwear? Completely unnecessary unless you prefer high-waisted granny panties. I've had no trouble wearing my usual boyshorts/bikini underwear throughout pregnancy.

6. Some Fun Stuff. So now you've got the basics down, but fashion is also supposed to be about having some fun, right? For more playful maternity tops and cute dresses, I'd recommend the brands Olian, Maternity America and Moody Mamas. I've found they all fit well and easily transition from the second to third trimester. [Note: it's unlikely you'll need maternity clothes during your first trimester and, if you're taller or it's your first child, during much of the second either. So, if you're newly pregnant, don't rush out and buy a bunch of stuff just yet!] These brands regularly go on sale at Nordstrom and even on Gilt Group and Ideeli, so keep your eyes peeled for bargains. Still though, you really won't need more than a couple of cute maternity tops and dresses.

7. Accessories. Remember, jewelry and purses are one size fits all (well, except for rings of course!). Invest accordingly. Statement-making necklaces and earrings keep the attention up at your beautiful, glowing face and your enhanced decolletage.

So what about you? Do you have any tips and tricks for staying fashionable (and, of course, comfortable) during pregnancy?

Halloween Costume High/Low

I love Halloween costumes. And I'll even admit that I love Martha Stewart's fantastical, creative takes on Halloween costumes. The only issue I ever buy of Martha Stewart Living, just to relish in the fantasy that this year I'll craft away my October weekends and throw together one helluva DIY costume.

But let's get real. Most weekends it's all I can do to check off the "must do" errands and chores. And so, if I'm going to dress up for Halloween, I'm going to have to go store-bought or risk going yet again as a "punk rocker" or Janet Reno (better when I had short hair). But I refuse to do a fall-back again this year. Now that I live in a neighborhood with children aplenty, I vow to do better...even if it's just to scare them a wee bit when I open the door to hand out candy.

For those of us on a budget (or who are dressing up to stay home, as I plan to), I'm totally loving Costume Couture, the new Target capsule collection from Simon Doonan, author and window dresser extraordinaire. Simon's pithy (and punny) wit is all too evident in these costumes, from Candace Corn to the Chow Hound. Even better? It's all under $30. Oh Target, how I love thee...

If you're willing and able to shell out a little more dough (which may be worthwhile if you're attending a full-fledged adult Halloween soiree or have children who practically live in dress-up clothes, as my sister and I did), might I suggest Chasing Fireflies? The children's site has the best selection of costumes -- for children, adults and pets, might I add -- that I've ever seen. I particularly love the array of historical and mythological costumes. In fact, if that Medusa outfit came in an adult version, I'd be all over it.

P.S. - Have you ever noticed how dog costumes are so often modeled by bulldogs? Perhaps it's because a bulldog, let alone a bulldog in a tutu, is inherently funny.

{6} accessories I'm craving this Fall

{L.A.M.B., fall 2010 runway}

This fall I'm so inspired by the grown-up take on rock and roll that so many of the designers (like Gwen Stefani, pictured above) displayed on the Fall 2010 runways. It's all leather, plaid, studs and black, but with a more tailored approach that suits someone about to enter her third decade instead of her second. Sentimentally though, the trend appeals to my inner-rock child -- the adolescent who a decade ago frequented rock concerts (highlights include Smashing Pumpkins' last tour and Radiohead's OK Computer tour) -- and, of course, my perennial retreat to black whenever the temperatures drop. This season though, I'm focusing on picking up just a few key accessories to refresh and update my existing wardrobe, rather than picking up a whole lot of clothing that (frankly) I just don't need.

So without further ado, here's what I'm longing to add to my wardrobe this fall:

I was not an early adopter of the bootie trend. In fact, it's taken me months to jump on that bandwagon, and I do so now only hesitantly, with the caveat that only a fraction of the booties available on the market are flattering and/or appropriate for anything other than pants-only pairings. That said though, I love these. The cut outs, the charcoal gray patent (and I've never been able to resist patent leather shoes), the way they dip below the ankle for maximum leg-lengthening capabilities....but best of all? They're super duper comfy.

Swallows are often associated with rock-n-roll and I love how Marc Jacobs incorporated them into the hardware of this adorable cross-body bag. In college, I had a nylon cross-body bag from Kate Spade and I wore it to death -- I even had a friend memorialize me with it in a cartoon for the school paper. Since then, I've been favoring shoulder bags and satchels, but I can't deny the appeal of a hands-free bag like this for weekends antiquing, sight-seeing or even just trolling the mall.

Any girl trying to pull of a sophisticated rock-n-roll look has to have a pair of studs like these.

Love the ombré effect of this cozy sweater. Boyfriend cardigans, drapey sweaters and ponchos are all big for fall and I love their casual, comfy look for cool fall weekends. These pieces also, of course, make wonderful travel companions.

I'm quite fond of the look of multiple, messy chains all tied up into one, easy to wear piece (I'm not so great at layering on my own, I'll be honest). I particularly like this piece for its mix of metals as well as its feminine touches. It's tough, but delicate. And I love that contrast.

So while these aren't exactly "rock 'n roll," I can't help but want these graphic pieces to inject a little color and whimsy into my new, tough chic look:

Perhaps it's my height or my low blood pressure, but I've always had very cold feet. In the fall and winter, that typically means that I pad around the house (and sleep) in socks -- and the cuter those socks are, the better. Knee socks are also a great choice for boots as they avoid chafing. But if unlike me you're brave enough to don them with heels and a mini-skirt, then I say the more power to you.

I love an oversized, gauzy scarf. It's perfect for layering on cooler days and for pulling out of your purse at work or at the movies when you find yourself the victim of an overzealous a/c unit. I love the pink and gray color combo of this scarf as well as the geometric print, which has a slightly '80s vibe that's very in this season.

So what about you, what are you craving to this fall?

Justin Bobby Brescia

Justin Bobby Brescia

Justin bobby is the hairstylist and the male model which was previously linked to the Audrina Patridge. The resident bad boy of the MTV show the hill is called by a nick name Justin bobby. It may be the T- shirt or the jeans Justin is not known for wearing the upscale clothing. He is mostly seen wearing a regular V-neck or the crew neck T-shirt worn with a pair of relaxed fit jeans is his perfect everyday clothing.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyle: Justin and Audrina

Justin Bobby Brescia has embraced muck fashion. A very big part of the Justin fashion is connected to the grunge era of the music. You can say that his styles match to what Kurt Cobain or Eddie Vedder used to wear in their prime. Flannel shirts and the sweater are one of his ways. You can also be military inspired if you are following the fashion of Justin Brescia. Try out the black fitted military shirt with the snap buttons. For the Justin looks you can gold up the sleeves and wear some dog tags around your neck to get the pop look.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyle: Justin Bobby Brescia

Justin Bobby Brescia looks good in the stylish jacket that he wore in one of his campaigns as a part of his modeling career. The gray wool jacket had a wide collar an also was accessorized with the large black buttons. This gave him a very sophisticated look. He always wears the grunge inspired look which can also bee seen on the show. This look is easy to hold and also matches his personality.

Out of the Powder Room and into the Closet...

While browsing Nordstrom's accessories department with my mom and sister yesterday, I spied Kate Spade's cheerful summer bon shopper ($175) with its playful, leaping zebras. If you're as fanatical a reader of shelter magazines as I am, then no doubt you are also struck by the similarity between this print and Scalamandre's popular zebra wallpaper. While the lack of arrows (which I'm not a big fan of anyways -- it takes the safari-theme too literally) and the different colorways make this print not an exact replica of the wallpaper, it nevertheless bears an uncanny resemblance to the iconic paper.

To refresh your memory, here are a few examples of the pattern in question being used by two of my favorite designers:

Massucco Warner Miller

Miles Redd

And lest you think the similarity is purely coincidental, check out Jack and Kate Spade's very own guest bath (via Habitually Chic), which sports the wallpaper in a cheerful green:

I should add that it's entirely possible (even likely) that Kate Spade had permission from Scalamandre to use this print; I have no idea. Rather than making any legal accusations, I'm more interested in generating some discussion around whether or not you like the increased interrelationship between fashion and interior design in recent years. So what do you think? Is what's good on the runway good in the home?

While I love the fact that runways and design showrooms now speak to each other (both literally and figuratively), I'll admit that I think the line isn't completely permeable. After all, fashion is (or at least should be) much more about trends and seasons: the "It" bag, the hot new colors for fall, etc. Interior design, on the other hand, should perhaps be more timeless and more impervious to trends. I think we've come a bit too far with disposable decorating, which is both fiscally and environmentally irresponsible. But I'd love to hear what you think on this one....

Palm Springs-Inspired Soiree

{iomoi}

Today Catherine has invited me over to The Shiny Pebble for a smashing summer soiree -- and I'd love for the rest of you to join me over there for the festivities. In honor of the occasion, I thought I'd throw together a bit of a pre-party before Catherine's formal event. To celebrate the onset of summer, I'll be throwing Palm Springs-inspired outdoor party (preferably by a beautiful pool).

So I do hope you'll drop by before the big event and join me for a bit of the best of Palm Springs, inspired by a few of my favorite designers:

Kelly Wearstler {Viceroy Palm Springs}

Jonathan Adler {The Parker Palm Springs}

Trina Turk {and her fabulous sense of style}

So let's get this party started, shall we?

Let's start with the (not-so-basic) basics, shall we? For the ultimate in poolside lounging, we'll forgo awkward outdoor chairs for the types of pieces you can really sink right into -- and you can't get much better than this comfy and modern sectional from West Elm and several canopy beds (yes, beds! there's just something so incredibly indulgent and sensual about using a bed as seating, don't you think?). Plenty of free standing white umbrellas will keep us shaded from the harsh desert sun. We'll continue the clean and modern look with tall white planters full of native grasses scattered around the pool. At night, when the desert breezes drop the temperature, we'll stay pleasantly warm with this ethanol-fueled fire pit, the dark boxy shape of which echoes the shapes of the sectional and bed rather perfectly. For pops of color, why not a few of these lovely turquoise and lime capiz garden stools from Pier1? These stools can perform double duty as tables or extra seating and are easily movable around the yard.

And now for the real fun: the decorations and accessories! I'd like to keep the poppy colors going with plenty of Trina Turk's gorgeous outdoor pillows in an array of sherbet-y, sunshine-y hues. We'll pick up those same colors again with Jonathan Adler's paper lanterns, which will look good day or night and bring a wonderful touch of pattern to the scene. Of course, we'll be wheeling out the bar for plenty of pool side refreshments (including pitchers full of our signature drink, white sangria) to be served in colorful acrylic glassware and crisp cocktail napkins. (Even when entertaining outdoors, I love to use real cocktail napkins -- it's just so much more appealing than paper.) We'll keep away an uninvited guests with citronella candles, cleverly disguised as paper lanterns.

The dress code is Palm Springs casual. As for me, I'll be decked out in these classic, comfortable -- and colorful! -- pieces (from left): J.Crew Marin dress ($128); dv by Dolce Vita "Owen" sandal ($24.90 at Nordstrom); Roberta Roller Rabbit big cata yellow beach hat ($50); Kate Spade Pitrizzia Dot Louis bag ($295); Ray Ban "New Wayfarers" ($95 at Bluefly.com); Casseterite Earrings ($158 at Anthropologie); and La Blanca by Rod Beattie bandeau swimsuit ($109 at Nordstrom).

I hope to see you there!

Fashion and CZ Jewelry

Fashion is a very interesting thing! Every now and then something becomes popular and everyone just follow the trend. These trends usually come and go quickly. However, there's a jewelry product that has been on the road to popularity for quite a while and as time goes by, people seem to like them more and more. This type of jewelry is CZ jewelry. They are quickly taking over the jewelry market.

CZ (cubic zirconia) is the crystalline form of zirconium dioxide, which is another way of saying it's a synthetic man-made diamond. Very similar to a genuine diamond, it is most often clear and it sparkles. The whiter and more clear the stone, the more valuable it is considered. Five-star AAAAA is the highest-quality. The cut though, may be slightly different compare to diamond. Cubic Zirconia’s cuts are smoother and more rounded.

For a long period of time, jewelers and scientists around the world have tried to find ways to use other materials to substitute real diamonds, something more affordable for common people. Then in 1960's, French scientists succeeded in creating CZ crystals. It was a big step; however, the crystals were too small to be popular. In 1970s Russian scientists found and introduced a method called “skull crucible”, and this made a revolutionary change in the history of Cubic Zirconia stones. Around 1976, couple years after the method was adopted, mass production of Cubic Zirconia stones officially began.

It took almost a full 100 years to get to the stage in science where diamonds-alike could be replicated! Now CZ jewelries are available almost in every jewelry store, what are you waiting for? Get your CZ jewelries now! No matter it’s a ring or a pair of earrings, you will instantly look glamorous!

Fashion Jewelry Blog

All a Flutter...

When Camilia posted this room from domino last week over at High-Heeled Foot in the Door, I was struck by how very current it felt. Sure, design trends turn over at a slower pace than fashion trends (and, if I recall correctly, this room is circa 2008), but whomever designed this room must have been reading her tea leaves correctly as it's got Spring 2010 all over it. This season is all about shades of turquoise, painted floors and ceilings and feminine florals and butterflies (think Liberty prints) and, between the robin's egg blue floors and ceiling, Schumacher's Birds & Butterflies wallpaper, this room hits all the right notes. The graphic black and whites brought in through accessories (the Madeline Weinrib zig zag rug, the greek key pillow and the silhouette pillow) bring in a nice graphic touch that helps tone down the sweetness of the butterflies and aqua.

In memory of domino's much-beloved "Turn this Outfit into a Room" feature, I thought I'd try my hand at turning this room into an outfit:

I wasn't familiar with Ted Baker until I saw his latest collection at Nordstrom and I'm absolutely in love with all of his pieces for spring, but most especially this gorgeous butterfly print dress. My sister actually purchased it to wear to some of her bridal showers this spring and it's incredibly stylish on. [My one complaint about Ted Baker though is his sizing: he stops at a 10, alas.] In any case, the colors and print are a dead-ringer for the Schumacher wallpaper (sans the little birds) and the easy, flattering cut makes this a versatile, wear anywhere dress. To make it work-appropriate, I'd throw on a tailored leather blazer in a gorgeous grayish brown. The 3/4-length sleeves make it the perfect transitional piece for spring and the leather toughens up the sweetness of the dress while the tailoring keeps it office-appropriate. I'd then layer on some tough, but sweet, pearl earrings and necklace. The necklace has just the palest hint of lilac in it, which will nicely pick up on the lilac in the print. For shoes, I'd go with Botkier's conical-heeled sandals in a nude-ish brown. I love a sturdier-looking sandal with a sweet dress; so much more current than a delicate sandal or heel. For an extra shot of color, I'd throw on this aqua satchel. The style is simple, yet still special and it's a great price for a quality leather bag.

Source list (clockwise, from top left): 1. Ted Baker London "Debbs" butterfly print dress (Nordstrom, $245); 2. Botkier Alexis sandal (Piperlime; $425); 3. Glass pebble and fringe necklace (J.Crew; $69.50); 4. Pearl stud (Banana Republic; $22); 5. Classiques Entier "Cool Chintz" jacket (Nordstrom; $268); 6. B. Makowsky "Belted Y Tab" leather shopper (Nordstrom; $258).

Beige, but not Boring.

As we continue to slog our way through an unusually cold February, I can't help but look to the new Spring 2010 collections for some warm weather inspiration (and escapism). One huge runway trend last fall that's sure to make a splash this spring is fleshtone shoes -- and I promise, they're not nearly as unappealing as they may initially sounds In fact, shoes in nude, beige or champagne have a wonderfully flattering, leg-lengthening effect and are a fresh (and just as versatile) alternative to white shoes for spring and summer. Take a cue from classic American designers like Donna Karen and Calvin Klein and keep the overall palette subdued by pairing these with soft and romantic neutrals for an altogether ladylike look.

On the other hand, pairing these shoes with Spring's bold brights works just as well by keeping the focus on the bold outfit and grounding all that color. Beige shoes are also more day-appropriate than a metallic shoe, making them the perfect choice for the office. Despite this office-appropriateness, there's also something undeniably sexy about beige footwear -- after all, they are nude. Bottom line: any way you wear 'em, you're sure to be right on trend.

In my own quest for the perfect pick-me-up from the late-winter "blahs", I've pulled together some of my favorite beige shoes below. I'm currently torn between the Michael Kors sandals with the lucite heel and the buttery-soft suede Chloe flats in tan and blush. Be sure to let me know which your favorite is in the comments below.

Source list (from top left): 1. "Henry" by Moschino Cheap & Chic from Piperlime ($300). These would be great with a girly summer dress or casual, loose-fitting khakis and the hot pink lining is such a fun jolt of color. 2. "Randee" by Badgley Mischka from Piperlime ($215). The perfect wedding shoe and the soft gold tone is ultra-flattering. 3. "Cammie" by Kate Spade from Piperlime ($295). The ideal spring and summer office shoe in shiny patent leather. 4. Zipper Ruffle Heel from BCBG ($250). The blush hue, zipper-detailing and frills are a feminine, ultra-sexy take on the trend. 5. See by Chloe from Zappos ($249). The type of shoe you'd live in all summer long. 6. "Belize" by Kelsi Dagger from Piperlime ($135). A budget-friendly alternative to Prada's resort 2010 sandals (see Prada runway shot above). 7. "Alecia" suede platform peeptoes from J.Crew ($265). I'm not normally a fan of booties, but the cut of these are incredibly flattering. 8. Giuseppe Zanotti from Zappos ($825). I love how the large rose is butched up a bit with gold-tone studs and a wooden heel. 9. "Private" Cuff Patent Leather Sandal by Jimmy Choo from Nordstrom ($950). This bandage-style is impossible sexy. 10. "Penelope" by Maloles from Barneys ($415). As an avowed fan of lower heels, I'm so excited to see midheels and mini-wedges coming back in style. 11. Platform Floral Slingback by Prada from Neiman Marcus ($650). A sturdy, sensible heel made more fun with a cartoon-like flower. 12. "Wrap Up Heel" by Tory Burch ($325). I can't resist a gladiator sandal. 13. "Clayton" by Kors Michael Kors from Nordstrom ($225). The lucite heel and beige leather get you two big spring trends in one shoe.

Audrina Patridge Latest

Fashion from the hills

Audrina patridge

The most of the Audrina Patridge clothing goes with the off shoulder dresses that are matched with the accessories. Whether long or short the celebrity of the hills goes on with the styles that best suits her and make her more comfortable. Her dresses are best complemented with the long wavy hairstyle she follows.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyle: Audrina Patridge

According to her fashion is all about expressing yourself. She says that fashion is about being a women and celebrating it. She grabs at the first thing that is screaming out at her mood. She thinks that your style can change what you are feeling. You can transform your mood by just slipping on a pair of 5 inch stilettos.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyle: Casual

The new hairstyle the celebrity of the hills follows is the whole blonde look. She has latest adopted the new blonde tresses on her hair. She has been seen with many of the pretty dresses like the purple strapless dress from jovani that features her favorite sweetheart neckline which was complemented with the light purple pumps of accessories. The other time she was seen with the summer cool Maria strapless ruffle feather top by Karina Grimaldi.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyles: Need another Hand

Audrina Patridge the sensational star of the hills is very famous for her styles and fashion. She carries on with the clothes that make her look more vibrant and comfortable which is the most pleasing for her personality. The accessories that go on with her dresses add more to her personality. She uses many of the different bags that carry on with her dresses.

Colorful Wardrobe Pick-Me-Ups

As Houston continues to enjoy the drizzly, cool weather that I thought I escaped from when I left Connecticut back in 2003, I'm starting to rethink my choice of outerwear. After all, wet wool can start to take on a rather unpleasant, notsofresh, smell. A classic alternative would be along the lines of Audrey Hepburn's smartly tailored trench in Breakfast at Tiffany's (wherein that final rainy scene ranks as one of my all-time favorite scenes in cinematic history). But, if you're looking for a more modern, 21st century take on the trench coat, there are plenty of colorful, fashion forward options that are sure to chase away the winter blues.

From top left: 1. King Street Twill Bow Trench Coat by Kate Spade ($645). 2. Michael Michael Kors short trench ($100). 3. J.Crew ruffled gamine trench ($178). 4. Burberry packable trench coat in blush pink ($595). 5. Nick & Mo Topstitched Trench ($78) 6. Scallop Trim Coat from Boden ($198). 7. Indigo Trench from Banana Republic ($175). 8. Into the Wild trench from Marc by Marc Jacobs ($498).

Kristin Cavallari Hairstyle

Hairstyle of Kristin Cavallari

Kristin Cavallari, an actress who is best known for her feature appearances on MTV reality shows ‘The Hills’. Kristin cavallari has stepped up her fashion game in the past couple of months.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyles: Kristin Cavallari

Kristin cavallari added the new touch to her designer clothes by varied variety of hair styles that become very famous on MTV show. Kristin’s hair style varies from medium to long hairs with lot of textures and body. Half of styles of Kristin are very simple and easy to create that looks very stylish, girly and sophisticated on her.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyles: Sexsy Kristin Cavallari

Kristin looks are very much in demand on the show. Mostly people watch the show for Kristin and to see her different hair styles. She looks very womanly on television full of bangs and soft curls or textured waves. All are very popular and her hairstyle printed on many magazines such as rolling stone, teen people and in seventeen and blender.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyle: Kristin Cavallari Long Hairstyle

Kristin cavallari has change the scenario of the MTV show ‘THE HILLS’ with her stunning and different hairstyles among which her ponytail hair always remained in a leading position as it is very easy to maintain. The ponytail hairstyle with her loose end curls are very much in fashion now days among the teenagers.

The Hills-Fashion and Hairstyle: Kristin

Kristin Cavallari has introduced variety of hairstyles during the show time and become style icon for the young generation. She knows how to dress up for each occasion and what kind of hair style looks good on her. Every one wants hairstyle of Kristin Cavallari.

Crystal Renn: A New Kind of {Role} Model

For most Americans, the start of a new year heralds the start of yet another diet and/or exercise regime. And I'm no different. Indeed, losing weight has been at the top of my annual resolutions' list for much of my adult life. While I manage to lose (and then gain) the same 15 pounds that I've struggled against since high school, I've never managed to keep said pounds off for more than a year or so at a time. So we beat on, boats against the current....

But I'm not hear to discourage you from your fitness goals, whatever they may be. In fact, I'm here to offer you a new and different kind of role model, one who might help you put your goals in perspective, focus you on being healthy (and not merely skinny) and, above all, inspire you to work with what you've got. If you're looking for that sort of role model, then you may find her (as I did) in Crystal Renn, the current "It Girl" of plus-sized modeling. In the "One Size Fits All" fashion spread in the January issue of V magazine, Crystal goes head-to-head against a "regular" model and proves firsthand that you needn't be a size 0 (or 2 or 4 or even 6...) to be a top model. In case there was any doubt, Crystal is the model who appears on the right in all of these photos by famed fashion photographer Terry Richardson.

In September Crystal published an autobiography called Hungry, which chronicles the story of her modeling career, first as a size-0 model battling anorexia and a flagging career and later as a size-12 "plus-sized" model experiencing unprecedented editorial success. I don't typically read biographies of popular figures, much less self-help or body image books, but after seeing Crystal's spread in V magazine, I had to pick it up for my holiday reading.

I'll also admit that I was initially attracted to this book for personal reasons as well. While I have never battled an eating disorder, I've nevertheless had ongoing battles with my body image (as I suspect most women do). I am, unarguably, a big woman: I stand just over six feet tall and wear a size 14. And you wouldn't believe how many years it's taken me to acknowledge the simple fact that I am "big". I remember in 9th grade how distraught I was after a male friend indelicately referred to me as "big" in passing conversation. In retrospect, I think he might have actually meant it as a compliment.

As women we are conditioned to equate "small" with "good" and "big" with "bad" (and, even worse, "fat"...or what my father years ago termed the "f-word"). But since leaving college, I have learned that the terms "big" and "small" are just adjectives to describe one physical mass in relation to other masses. Big is not a pejorative. I have also learned that being big has its advantages: I am strong, powerful and easy to find in a crowd. And yet, like most women, I waste countless hours bemoaning the size of my waist, thighs, real (and imagined) back fat...and well, just about all the rest of me. I am embarrassed to admit how often I've confused being skinny with being worthy....worthy of love, a relationship, success...everything. In short, I really identify with the pressures that made Crystal initially succumb to anorexia and really respect her ultimate refusal to keep playing the game.

Crystal's book -- and indeed her modeling work -- is a wonderful reminder of how much we stand to gain when we cast aside society's notions of what we should look like and instead embrace our own version of beauty. When Crystal finally stopped starving herself, she gained much more than 70 additional pounds; she gained the confidence and poise necessary to be a model (and a role model). I find it incredibly inspiring that Crystal's career has only taken off once she found the confidence to say "enough". While the writing is uneven in places (particularly in the beginning as Crystal recounts her childhood), the book is nevertheless an engaging and inspiring reminder that weight ain't nothin' but a number -- a number we shouldn't let run our lives or dictate or self worth. Crystal touches on some sociological and gender issues that I would have liked to see her flesh out a bit more, but ultimately this is not that kind of book. It's meant to inspire, not preach.

{Crystal in Jean Paul Gaultier's Prêt-à-porter Spring 2006 show}

Ultimately, like Crystal, I wish that both Hollywood and the fashion industry would embrace the ideal of "healthy" rather than "skinny" and the wider spectrum of ages, ethnicities, and dress sizes that go along with that paradigm shift. Crystal's success represents a great step forward in that direction, and I hope that in 2010 we continue to see more plus-sized (aka regular-sized) models on the runways as we work our way back from the super-skinny ideal that has completely dominated the industry in the past 15 years. And of course, if more designers started selling their clothes in sizes larger than a size 10, that'd be great, too.

{Elle Canada, January 2010}

And so this year, while I'd like to hit the gym a little bit more frequently, continue to play tennis and incorporate more fresh veggies into my diet, my resolution is above all to stop focusing on the scale and stop chasing some imagined ideal of what women are supposed to look like. I resolve to be healthy and, above all, to be happy with just being "me".