Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Jessica Simpson Launches Fine Jewelry Line for Zales



One of our favorite blond bombshells is at it again in the fashion world.  Jessica Simpson just announced that she will be launching her own jewelry collection for Zales this coming October. 

The fine jewelry line, cutely named “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” will cover all things glittering from pendants, rings, earrings, and bangles, ranging in price from $79 - $999 making it affordable to a broad range of spenders.

The adorable Jessica is definitely proving herself to be a fashion empire powerhouse, adding this new line to her already successful line of apparel, shoes, and handbags.

What’s next for the blond beauty, fashion world domination?

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine





Tuesday, August 30, 2011

MTV VMA’s – What Everyone Wore!


I know that yesterday’s blog was dedicated to Beyonce’s revealing of her pregnancy on the MTV Video Music Awards, and that I showed snaps of what she wore.  But I wouldn’t be doing the event, which is as much about visual stimulation and fashion as it is music, justice without also blogging on some of the wardrobe highlights spotted on the black carpet.

Selena Gomez looked ravishing (and revealing) in a short-to-long (major trend alert) lace Julien MacDonald dress with an equally revealing back.  The simple updo really underscored the elegant high collar.

Britney arrived a little more understated than I expected in a Moschino romper, paired with black patent leather Gina booties.  The every curvy newlywed Kim K rocked the show in a floor length silver sequined Kaufman Franco frock.  Heads up, silver sequins are definitely the Fall trendy buzz words.


I thought Kelly Rowland was one of the highlights in a gold detailed dress with feathered skirt by Falguni & Shane Peacock.  She added spiked Christian Louboutin pumps to finish the look.  And Miley Cyrus looked pleasantly mature in a dress by one of my personal favs, Roberto Cavalli. 

And of course, Jo Calderone (aka Lady Gaga) made “his” televised debut suited and booted by Brooks Brothers.

Who were your favorites?

Posted by: Spankie




Monday, August 29, 2011

Beyonce is Pregnant!


Well the cat is finally out of the bag!  There’s officially a bun in Beyonce’s oven, and she couldn’t have chosen a more grandiose way to make the announcement.  Last night on the MTV Video Music Awards Beyonce arrived on the red carpet looking absolutely stunning in a deep orange floor length frock, hands cupped over her growing belly to let the world know that she and Jay Z are expecting their first child.

Later, at the end of her retro styled performance (done in ultra high heels no less), Bey threw the microphone down, ripped open her glittering purple blazer and rubbed her tummy, Jay Z all smiles back stage. 



For a woman who’s virtually grown up in the public eye, enduring countless claims of pregnancy over the years any time she gained a pound (or an ounce really), I think she’s more than deserving of such a grand scale announcement platform.  The fame world was once obsessed by the idea, and now they can indulge in the reality.

So this just brings up one question…. Will she retire?  In a CNN interview back in June, Beyonce, who turns 30 in a week, intimated, "I always said I'd have a baby at 30. But I also said I'm going to retire at 30. ... Only God knows."

Either way, congratulations Bey! 

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine
(photos from Getty Images)





Friday, August 26, 2011

Rachel Bilson Turns 30!



I’d like to take this opportunity to bellow out a very robust “Oh! Em! Gee!”  Rachel Bilson, one of the new generational style icons, just turned 30 years old, and I must say, the girl doesn’t look a day over 19! 

I don’t know if it’s here gorgeous skin, glowing hair, or impeccable style, but she’s rocking 30 like few women do, and I have loads of respect for that!

 

You may know her from her rise to fame on the O.C., or may have seen the ads for her new series “Hart of Dixie”, but regardless of the shows, Rachel Bilson has been turning heads and offering a shining beacon of hope to those less fashion fortunate on the red carpet.  She calls her approach to fashion ”no fuss, no muss” and the effortless way in which she glides the carpet is nothing short of visual inspiration.  

So let’s all join in a round of Happy B-Day for the lady!

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine





Thursday, August 25, 2011

DIY – How to Make Destroyed Denim Jeans and Cut Off Jean Shorts


For this week’s YouTube Thursday, I thought I’d do a video on how to make your own awesome destroyed denim jeans, and if you want, making them chic cut off jean shorts!  I think destroyed denim is the perfect partner to anything chic and edgy, and since it’s still Summer, cutting off the pants of an old pair of jeans is the perfect way to score a new look sans extra moolah!

There's a step by step video of what I’m doing below:

Here’s what you need:

  1. Some old jeans
  2. Sandpaper
  3. Exacto Knife
  4. Scissors
  5. Cheese Grater (optional)

Rubbing your jeans down with sandpaper will create a nice faded look by removing some of the color in your jeans.  Gives them that $150 worn in look without spending a dime.

Using the exacto knife, scrape along the edges of your pockets, top edge of the waistline, and gouge out small holes exposing the under threads. 

Taking your scissors, measure out how long you want the shorts to be, and cut the legs about 2 inches longer, leaving you the ability to fold the cuffs up to add another fun style element.  You can then take your exacto knife and fray the bottom edges of the cuffs.

Also, when you wash the jeans, the frayed ends that you created will naturally unravel even more, and you’ll wind up with a totally custom, one of a kind, trendy piece!



Enjoy!

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine





Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Missoni for Target


If you haven’t already heard the growing roar of a buzz that’s swirling the fashion markets, both couture and general consumer, you’re about to.  An epic merging of 2 companies, fashion line Missoni and Target are soon releasing a massive 400-piece collection.  Hitting stores September 13 (with an early pop up store arriving in New York September 8) and lasting only until October 22 (or until sold out) consumers will be able to get their hands on not only the trademark zig zagged patterns and woven knits of the fashion line, but don it in home décor and kitchenware as well!



The full lookbook for the line finally released August 16th, and fashionistas across the country are already drooling and scheming of ways to be front and center when the line launches to buy up as much as possible.  And after thumbing through the lookbook, my guess is these pieces won’t last long.

What do you think of the collection?

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine





Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Beauty Culture at the Annenberg Space for Photography




On the very rare occasion that I have some free time, I like to spend it delving further into the art world, and this past week I took the opportunity to visit the Annenberg Space for Photography to see the “Beauty CULTure” exhibit that they currently have on.

On display are the works of over 100 world renown beauty, fashion, and cultural fine arts photographers like Man Ray, Patrick Demarchelier, Terry Richardson, Guy Bourdin, Herb Ritts, my favorite David LaChapelle…. You get the idea. 

The intention behind the exhibit is to explore how beauty is truly defined in our culture, and how it has shifted and changed from the 20th to the 21st century.  Concepts like androdgeny, pageant beauty, the Marlyn Syndrome, and unconventional beauty are the themes the exhibit attempts to cover, though I’m not entirely convinced it was appropriately shown.

In one sense, the exhibit glorified the societies typical ideals of what “beauty” is, by lining the walls with familiar faces like Cindy Crawford, Kate Moss, Angelina Jolie, and Elizabeth Taylor.  There was a small section devoted to ethnic diversity around the world in beauty fashion, but the only models I saw featured in this were the Americanized standards of what “colored beauty” looks like, ie. Naomi Campbell and Iman.  I was definitely hoping to see photographs of ethnic women that more closely represented the beauty ideals of other world cultures, but instead was left with what I like to call the “safe and predictable.”



There was a pretty interesting 30 minute documentary film that played which delved more into the pressures of societal beauty and what is most often expected of models and women, namely extreme dieting, over tall, over thin, young, and conventionally safe.  I appreciated the commentary from some of the more “left of center” fashion artists, though overall when the likes of Anna Wintour and others spoke of celebrating the out of the box beauties, you could sense they’d never really be willing to part from the expected, unless of course it were some featured one-off article “celebrating” diverse appearance, drawing attention to the fact it was being showcased, rather than allowing it to blend in and just be.

All in all, I recommend if you’re in the area that you go check out the exhibit.  Say what you will on what they actually achieve in their message, the works of photographic art are truly stunning, and if you have any slight love for fashion, you’ll definitely love this remarkable collection of visual stimulation.  I know I did!

Exhibit runs through November 27, 2011
http://www.annenbergspaceforphotography.org/

Posted by: Spankie Valentine

Photographs (top to bottom) by:  Dior (cosmetics), Lauren Greenfield (botox), Miles Aldridge (glitter lips), Lauren Greenfield (girls at weigh in)





Monday, August 22, 2011

Street Fashion at Long Beach Funk Fest 2011



This past Saturday, lovers of all things funk joined by the thousands in downtown Long Beach for the 3rd annual Long Beach Funk Fest 2011. I not only had the chance to completely submerge myself in eclectic street fashion at the festival, but I was also honored to be one of the featured musical performers.

Freaks, geeks and fashion chics came out in droves to soak up not only the funky sounds of dozens of funk legends, but to bask in some wild fashion glory. I, as you may well have guessed, was no exception when it came to getting down and funky with my fashion.

Greatly inspired by the era of many of the musical performers, I wore my hair extra large and in charge, picking it out to it’s fullest volume in honor of the 70’s afro. I also rocked my typical face paint when I perform, a silver one piece body suit that I hand made with elevated shoulders, thigh high boots and my signature leg straps.


What I enjoyed most about the festival (besides performing of course :) was witnessing the vast array of cultural mixes that came out. The streets were filled with b-boy dancers in their retro hip hop style, the long haired, hemp necklace sandal wearing hippies, black green and gold Rasta styles, and of course, some all American casual. Hula hoopers twirled, fire dancers blazed the sidewalks, children sported cartoon face paint of their favorite funky characters, and of course, there were glittering leisure suits galore!

 

 
 

The colors, sights and sounds that filled the air were truly inspirational, and it was apparent to me that funk is not just a style of music, but actually a fashion statement of the mind and body!

On to the Mothership! Video to be posted!

Posted by: Spankie Valentine

Photos from my favorite live photographer: Kim C. Martin




Friday, August 19, 2011

Mod Eye Makeup


So I decided to blog a little bit about a revamped eye makeup trend that is making quite the comeback:  The Mod Eye.  And the fact is, I’m not really sure how I feel about this 1960’s throwback look. 

Popularized by fashion icons like Twiggy and Andy Warhol’s divine Edie Sedgwick, the mod eye makeup style included an enhanced crease, white shadows and dramatic lines.  Recently, this look has popped up on the runways and lookbooks of famed designers like Anna Sui.

So here’s a quick how-to on achieving this look for the bold and curious:

Step 1:  Sweep the entire lid with white shadow.  I recommend starting with a primer (my fav is Urban Decay Primer Potion).

Step 2:  Use a brown or black liner pencil to trace out an arch above each lid crease.  You’re basically copying the shape of the eye.  To soften the look, you can smudge the line a bit with a sponge or your finger.

Step 3:  Line the lower lids with a black pencil. 

Step 4:  Add several layers of black mascara to the top and bottom lashes.  To achieve the true look, add some dramatic lashes, including individual ones on the bottom lashes.

And you’re done!  What do you think of this look?  Will you try it?  What would you wear this look to?

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine





Thursday, August 18, 2011

Statement Piece Accessories: Rings, Earrings, Bangles Galore!


I am so insanely excited about this post as not only is it YouTube Thursday, but I’m featuring quite possibly my favorite way to make a dramatic statement:  statement piece accessories!

So Spankie!  Why do you love statement jewelry so much?  Well dear reader, the answer is pretty simple:  because it’s easy as pie!  Seriously, statement jewelry is the easiest and most fun way to take a simple, possibly blah outfit to new, uber polished heights! 

Don’t believe me?  Check out this week’s SERIOUSLY entertaining and fun accessories video:




Think about it… you throw on a simple black dress, have some equally simple pumps and a clutch.  You look in the mirror, and you think, yeah, I look pretty nice.  Then, in one quick swoop, you spend an extra 1.5 seconds and add a large multi colored, sparkling butterfly ring and poof!  You go from thinking you look nice, to thinking you look pretty stinking hot!

Yes, flashy accessories will have that kind of impact!  They not only allow you to add your own creative expression, but will get you noticed.  Every.  Single.  Time.  I promise!

So how do you like to wear your statement accessories?  Tell me all about it!

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine

All accessories featured are here!





Wednesday, August 17, 2011

How to Wear Red



Fire.  Passion.  Power.  Seduction.  These are just a few of the images that the color red conjures up in most of our minds.  And in case you somehow didn’t notice, the color has made an even more prominent statement in pop culture fashion by cultural trendsetters like Florence Welch, Rihanna, and often the billboard model for bebe. 

Yet, even though you’ve seen the dominance of red, you may have been a bit hesitant to rock your own reds… that is, hopefully, until now!

For the most bold, and thankfully simple way to pull off red, wear it as a solid.  Solid dresses, solid tops, and even solid shoes.  Then build your accessories around that.  To keep it chic and sophisticated, add simple accessories like black heels, a simple cuff, and perhaps a silver necklace.  That will really underscore the boldness of red while keeping it effortless looking and sexy. 

If you have fair skin and features, opt for shades of red that have a pale, blue undertone as orangy reds will just clash with your skin.  For my deeper, darker shade ladies, deep crimson reds, and those with plum and pink undertones will accentuate your lovely tone. 

Either way, red defines the aura of power and confidence, so when you put it on, feel yourself transform…. After all, your best accessory is your own personal flare and confidence.  Rock is with a sultry smile!

Are you ready to rock your reds?






Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Demi Moore for Ann Taylor


While thumbing through my monthly fashion magazines I noticed a new ad campaign that instantly caught my eye and put a smile on my face.  It’s the new Fall 2011 campaign for Ann Taylor, featuring the ever beautiful Demi Moore as the new face for the brand.

The ad campaign, which is pretty simple in my opinion, is shot by the one and only Patrick Demarchelier, on location at the Rockefeller Gardens in New York.  Demi stands, statuesque, in clothes that mark the real essence of strong, independent, and fashionable women.

Not only have I continuously been impressed by Demi’s class (and let’s face it, gorgeous gams and lanky physique) but I am also excited by the idea of major fashion brands using women over 40 to represent their lines.  The fashion industry, as we all know very well, is unusually youth obsessed, sometimes to the point of scary, and while I myself am a woman in her early 20’s I love seeing the fashion world embrace true, natural, powerful beauty.

What do you think of the campaign?

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine 





Monday, August 15, 2011

Fall Fashion Trend: Snakeskin


While Summer coming to a close may mean the end of pool parties, BBQ, and itty bitty bikini’s (meow!), there’s something else that it means that gets me feeling all warm and gooey inside:  Fall fashion is coming!

I am in love with all things Fall fashion brings, and this year, some interesting and unexpected trends are popping up and taking hold.  Enter: snakeskin. 

From clutches, to boots, to coats and accessories, snake chic looks are popping up everywhere as one of this season’s hottest must haves.  The great thing about this look, is that since the patterns and textures of snakeskin are so naturally elaborate, pairing snake accessories with simple items like jeans and a t-shirt automatically pump up the fashionista volume, turning an everyday ensemble into a night party ready outfit.

And while I may not personally be a fan of the real thing, the best part about this being such a trend is that you can find some amazing vegan snake alternatives with on par visual and physical quality.

So what do you think?  How would you bring some snakeskin into your look?

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine

Snake Skin Pumps





Friday, August 12, 2011

Style Vs. Real You


Remember the age old saying, “you are what you eat”?  Not only am I a strong believer in the idea behind that phrase (although I guess that makes me a cow with cheese from last night's dinner), but in many ways I think the same can be said for what you wear.

Researchers have continuously been releasing new studies that show there is a link between what we prefer in our wardrobe to certain personality traits.  Now don’t get me wrong, when I initially heard this I thought, “well no duh Sherlock!”  But after putting my eyes back in place from rolling them so robustly, I realized there might be more to this than I ever actually took the time to think about.

Which of the above outfits most appeals to you?

If you chose outfit “A”, researchers would say that because you gravitate towards trendy and hip styles, you’re more of a “go-with-the-flow” kinda girl.  You’re pretty spontaneous, don’t stress about change, and keep fairly chill. 

For all my “B” girls, classic tailored looks are indicative of someone who speaks her mind, knows how to turn a situation to her benefit, and isn’t overly concerned by what others might think.  You’re more likely to often look for ways to better yourself or your situation, and are motivated by creating opportunities.

So what do you think?  Did the A & B styles accurately describe some of your key personality traits?

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine




Thursday, August 11, 2011

Back To School Fashion


Dahhhhh-Dum. Dahhh-Dum.  Dahh-Dum-Dahh-Dum!  Yes that was my poor attempt to spell out the “Jaws” theme!  I’m singing it because the school year is quickly approaching, stalking and hunting you down like an unsuspecting fish flopping around the sea.  But you don’t have to feel like an unprepared flounder in your school of fish (get it J.  Back to school shopping can be, and is definitely my highlight of the school year!

So I’ve put together some of my favorite back to school looks, and the best part is, these looks are so affordable, you will have tons of moolah left over to splurge on books and that casserole surprise in the cafeteria!  Oh what joy!


My school must haves?  Jeans and layers.  Destroyed denim is always on call, and I like having a variety of warm options like colorful scarves, a blazer, and long sleeve tops as my professors usually keep the classroom just above an arctic freeze. 

Since it's YouTube Thursday, take a look at some outfits I put together in our new video!


I opt for large handbags that can fit binders and books, since those clunky backpacks can be major fashion kill, and make sure to have some boots, flats, and comfy shoes at my disposal.  Each school has a different dress code, so always make sure you’re in the know before buying up shop.  And as a general rule, wedges will help you survive the walk to class much better then those sky high stilettos.

What’s your favorite back to school look?  Are you a T-Shirt in jeans gal, a colorful dress girly, or a tailored diva in training?

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine





Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Mid Week Stress Buster


If you’re anything like me you absolutely LOVE Mondays!  Right??  Ha!  Not a chance!  I think it’s pretty standard to feel a little loathsome knot in your stomach when you think of Monday, but in my opinion, Wednesday is a pretty stressful day that tends to fly under the radar.

Think about it, you’re a couple days into your work week, but the weekend isn’t close enough to get too excited for.  Any Friday deadlines that you may have are starting to become much more of a reality.  And social calendars are typically pretty blank on this day.

So it’s my belief that treating yourself to a little extra pamper time mid week will not only give you something to look forward to in the beginning of the week, but will help calm and focus you to finish the rest of the week strong and energized.

My simple suggestions?  In the morning before leaving the house, pop some grapes in the freezer.  After you get home from school/work/whatever, and you’ve sent your last email, had dinner, updated your FB and put the Tweety bird to rest, draw yourself a steamy bath.  While the water is running, add a couple drops of lavender oil which has been used for ages in aromatherapy for the aid in relaxation and the reduction of anxiety.  Light a candle and sit it somewhere safe by the tub.  After you strip down, grab the bowl of frozen grapes and dip in the tub.  The water will soothe your tired, achy muscles, while eating the frozen grapes will act as a refreshing and guilt free dessert that contrasts wonderfully with the hot water you’re soaking in.

Take your time, and after, keep the candle going while you finish your nightly routine to  maintain the mood!  You’ll be amazed how renewed you feel.  If you try it, let me know how it worked for you!

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine




Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Summer Concert Style

August is a bittersweet month for me!  On the one hand, it brings a salty tear to my eye (and I hate when my mascara runs) because it means we’re fastly approaching the end of Summer.  On the other hand, it means a mega boost in Summer festivals and concerts!

Being a musician, I’m naturally prone to love live music (and quite honestly, who doesn’t love a rock star in tight pants and a T-shirt with matching ego for his main accessory). But whether it’s your thing or not, taking in a day festival, or hitting up a local fair is an awesome way to share time with friends, hit a casual date with your Summer hottie, or just do something exciting that’s out of the norm.  Not only that, but it’s the perfect excuse to don some edgy, rock and boho inspired looks that you might not ordinarily have the mojo or the occasion to wear.

My staples for this look?  Rockin’ graphic print T’s, crop tops, and definitely destroyed denim (whew, say that 3 times fast!).  Choose either denim short shorts to flaunt your legs, or snatch some torn jeans and pair with Fall’s never fail go-to: military boots.

Toss some sunglasses on, rock a messy bun or tousled ponytail, and you’re ready for the bright lights!  Ego accessory optional.  

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine




High Low Dress


Have the best of both worlds with High-Low dresses. This playful trend also called a shirt-tail hem, tapered hem and/or a cutaway hem, is constructed with a longer length back and a shorten front. Its asymmetrical hemline gives off a sexy but elegance flow that will trail you all over town.

Take note from Kourtney Kardashian and Demi Lavato, both seen in their gorgeously bright color high-low dresses this pass weekend at the 2011 Teen choice Awards. Kourtney finished her cobalt-blue chiffon dress with a high bun and python pumps, while Demi sun kiss tan accent her yellow sleeveless lace dress, matching peep toe and her flowing long curls completed her look.

Now you’ve seen two very trendy ladies pull off this look, try stepping out of the cookie cutter dresses and slip into this asymmetrical cut. This eye catching style will complete your summer look and will make a great transition piece this fall. Be warned! This style is catching on fast, visit UrbanOG.com to get your high-low dresses and be one of the first to start this trailing trend.

http://www.urbanog.com/index_153.html

Posted by: Debbie





Monday, August 8, 2011

Let’s Get Nude!


Yes, it’s true.  I go nude as often as possible.  In fact, I walk around in public in nude all the time without thinking twice about it. 

What’s my secret behind this confidence?  Nude heels!  This look is such a killer confidence booster, that I firmly believe it shouldn’t be a secret at all!

As you may know, nude dresses were the new it color for the season, and along with that craze came a deeper obsession with nude pumps.  But naked feet shouldn’t be limited to just the Summer months, as this is definitely a year round staple item!

The beauty behind the nude shoe is that they virtually disappear against your skin, making your legs look miles long.  And who doesn’t want glamazon gams?  I’m a huge fan, and I think every heel wearing soul should be too!

Want an easy way to browse tons of addicting nude shoes?  Urbanog.com has a nifty little search feature:  When in the shoe category you’re shopping for (pumps, sandals, wedges, boots, etc.) click on the menu item to the left that says “Color”.  Click nude, and watch in amazement as the styles relist themselves all in the buff!

Are you digging the nude heel look?  Tell me about it!

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine





Friday, August 5, 2011

Fashion Swap Parties


The lovely Autumn months are soon approaching, and just because the seasons are changing doesn’t necessarily mean you have to shell out big bucks to revamp your wardrobe.  As the leaves swap out their vibrant green hues for orange and yellow, why not swap your wardrobe too, without spending a dime?

I’m talking about hosting a fashion and beauty swap party!  Here’s how it works:  You know those beauty products that you bought, tried once or twice, and then decided it’s not exactly what you wanted?  That perfume that you loved for a while, and have now moved on to a different scent?  And those clothes that either don’t fit, or simply aren’t your style anymore?  They don’t have to sit in your closet collecting dust while you shop for new items that rep the updated you.

Call up some friends, and have everyone pull out their gently used fashion and beauty items and accessories, and get together for a fun swap party where you trade and upgrade your loot to your fashionista heart’s content!  Not only will you score some fab new pieces for free, but it’s a great way to bond and laugh with the BFFs.  I know I don’t need an excuse to have a party!

To be safe, make sure things like perfume are at least half full, and don’t swap any eye makeup products like shadow and mascara.

So have fun!  Out with the old, in with the new to you!

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine



Race Issue


  Let’s face it, in the fashion industry and well, in any industry, the race card has always brought up as a sensitive issue and has caused controversy in the past and still remains today. Time and time again, we’ve seen “The Asian Issue” for V Magazine and the more recent Vogue China’s all Asian models cover, where fashion editorials and specifically ethnic models have been categorized as separate from the “norm”. Whether the intention is to glorify and appreciate a culture, race or people, the fact that these models are categorized simply brings up moral issues of racism and discrimination. Unfortunately, the issue of race has and always been around but to clearly divide the models by race is perhaps playing too close with fire. Check out the editorials below and tell us, what is your stance on the race issue in the fashion community?


Posted by: Saeko

Thursday, August 4, 2011

Going Primal with Tribal Prints


Anyone who knows me knows I like to walk on the wild side in fashion, and the Summertime transition to Fall is the prime time to do so!  Enter: the Tribal Chic trend.  It’s effortless look and mesh of exotic-meets-organic vibe highlights the essence of the hot months.  Whether you’re hunting in the forest, errr, rather, hunting for a bargain on the sales rack, or stalking the corners of the high rise New York fashion life, tribal and Aztec prints will always make a fashion forward statement. 

My favorite ways to rock this look?  I’m glad you asked! Choosing a simple cut dress that sports a tribal pattern all throughout is the simplest, and most effective way to pull it off.  For an even more edgy look, pair the dress with a pair of jean short shorts, add some gladiator flats, and native accessories.


My other fav way to get my tribal on?  Adding an unexpected, bold solid color.  This really underscores the tribal print item, and adds a pop all over. 

And for the really bold…. (or just those tired of the same ol’ same ol’ single color nail polish) let me introduce you to your new Lacquer Lover:

















But Spankie! How did you get your nails like that??  Watch the almighty video:


So tell me… how would you rock this look?
Side braid?  Check.  Fringe bag?  Check.  Spear and Shield?  Well…. You get the idea!

Posted by:  Spankie Valentine

Clothing Links:



David Beckham Bodywear for H&M


  As possibly one of the best candidates out there, David Beckham has collaborated with H&M for an exclusive line of underwear and T-shirts he will be debuting in February 2012. The DAVID BECKHAM Bodywear line is following Beckham’s much-anticipated Emperio Armani underwear gig last year which I must say was absolute eye candy. The Italian fashion line turned over nearly double in profit (go David!) As part of a long-term partnership, the first Beckham-designed line will be sold exclusively at H&M and looking at his track record, it seems that David Beckham may give all other men’s underwear brands and models a run for their money.

  Keep an eye out for this goodness and maybe you can pick up a pair of Beckham boxers for your boyfriend, brother, dad, guy “friend”, husband- just don’t get caught ogling Beckham for too long, at least in front of your man.

Posted by: Saeko

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Trend Alert: Bold, Solid Metal Chokers

Photo: trends.com.cn

 I mentioned in a previous post that statement necklaces have been a popular trend this season and I'm sure you've seen celebs and fashionistas rocking it with their outfits but now, we’re seeing a new trend to keep an eye out for: Bold, Solid Metal Chokers. bold, solid metal chokers. All over the fall 2011 runways, the chunky jewelry pieces are elegant, glamorous and fun- but are they functional? They look great on the runway but can we incorporate it into our daily outfits? Take a peek at some outfits below for outfit ideas and let us know if you’d rock this new trend!

Posted by: Saeko 

Photo: Lookbook.nu, Chictopia

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Rachel Zoe Loves Exude


 One of our favorite celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe now has something else she plans to check off her to-do list. Zoe made an appearance at NYC’s Plaza Hotel yesterday to show off her new lipsticks from Exude. The stylist teamed up with the company’s founders, Diane Breidenbach and Laurence Mille, to promote the products which have a unique applicator. This applicator releases a small amount with each use to prevent smears and keep your lips looking flawless. Rachel spoke about Diane and Laurence’s innovative products and shared her own beauty preferences. As far as her own cosmetic or beauty product, Zoe hasn’t made any promises but gave us a maybe.


 "We'll see! I'll never say never to anything ever again because I said never to half the things that I'm doing now. So now I'm just not going to make myself look like an idiot and say — maybe! You know it would be a logical thing for me to do. Because I honestly love it and it's part of the whole process of getting dressed, and nothing fascinates me more than the complete look . . . the answer is, I'm sure that I will. I'm going to feel like I really have to, because I want to."


Posted by: Saeko

Exude Lipstick Lip Creme in Red. Photo: Shahar Azran/WireImage

Monday, August 1, 2011

Best Dressed



We all know Nicole Richie for her impeccable style. At the Ella Moss 10 Year Anniversary Celebration in West Hollywood on Thursday night, we saw Nicole rocking three—yes, three of summer’s hottest beauty looks—plus a lightweight maxi dress. The Winter Kate designer states that her look is not as thought out as many think, “I don’t think it’s as prepared as you’d think” she told U.K.’s In Style Magazine. “I just grab whatever’s around and put it on.” What do you guys think? Would you rock this look?

Posted by: Saeko