There She Is, Miss America 2012 – Laura Kaeppeler

Have you ever watched the Miss America pageant?  If you’re anything like me, you may not know much about the pageant world of beauty queens.  But there are people all over the world who do, and many who make it their life’s work and dream to walk the platform and answer global crisis questions that will hopefully bring them the title of Miss America.

I have a close friend who competes nationally for Miss Fitness America, and from talking with her, it’s a very grueling, high stress world of striving to attain the illusive perfection.  While I may have never walked the pageant runway (high fashion runways were more my thing) there’s still plenty of fashion to gawk at, and fun to be had watching the American tradition. 

So in the spirit of enjoying all types of fashion adventures, here are some pics from the Top 5 ladies, including our new Miss America 2012, Laura Kaeppeler from Wisconsin!  She won $50,000 toward her education (not bad at all!) and hopes to get a master’s degree in speech pathology.  You go Laura! 

And congratulations girls!

Posted by:  Spankie V.

(Photos: Ethan Miller/Getty)

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Look We Love: Comfy Chic

On those days that you're running errands or heading out for lunch with friends, wearing something comfortable that doesn't require too much energy is probably your mindset. While your go-to outfit may consist of an old pair of jeans and a basic tee, we'd like to think that you don't have to sacrifice looking stylish to be comfy. Yes, keeping it simple is often the easiest way to go, which is why we love this effortless yet trendy look. 

The "jeans and a t-shirt" look is both classic and purely versatile for just about any occasion. This is a great start for any super comfy look, but why not jazz it up a bit? Adding a lightweight, slightly oversized sweater over a basic tee along with a simple bib necklace instantly transforms your plain outfit into one that pops. Finish off your relaxed outfit by sporting a simple pair of cuffed denim and neutral ballet flats. If you wish to add some spunk, rock a studded clutch instead of a massive hobo bag for an additional touch of chicness. And voila! You've got a perfect around-the-town outfit! How do you feel about this on-the-go look?

Posted by: Kameron Simpson

Photo: Stockholm Streetstyle

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The Golden Globes: Best Dressed

Did you watch the Golden Globes last night?  Perhaps you’re not interested in listening to a night of thank you speeches or watching tiny film clips, but one thing we do love, is watching the fashion sashay down the red carpet!

And this year’s awards ceremony was pumped full of delicious and glamorous eye candy.  We noticed a few reoccurring trends on the red walkway:  statement jewelry and two toned dresses.  Oh do we love those two tones!  I think Angelina Jolie was my personal fav this time around in Atelier Versace!

Here are some of our fav looks.  From Charlize Theron in pale nude Dior Couture, to Sofia Vergara in gorgeous mermaid Vera Wang, to Natalie Portman in a stunning two-toned Lanvin.

Oh, and did you see Helen Mirren?  Uh-May-Zing!

Who do you think rocked the carpet the best?

Posted by:  Spankie V.

(Photos: Getty Images, Wire Images, Lionel Han, Steve Granitz, Jason Merritt)

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How To Wear It: Rocker Glam

Mosh pits, electric guitars, and headbanging madness is what we think of when it comes to rock 'n roll. But thankfully, you don't have to be a Harley-riding biker babe to have an edgy sense of style. Instead, adding a feminine touch to an otherwise heavy metal look is an ultra-cool way to be fashion-forward.

This look that we adore is tough as nails, yet all the while glamorous. The most essential item needed to achieve your own "Rocker Glam" look is a black leather jacket. Adding a sense of toughness to just about any outfit, black leather jackets are a classic must-have, no matter the season. Wear a basic tee--with girly graphics is a major plus--underneath to give your look a laid-back feel.

And now, here comes the fun part! Slip on a tulle mini skirt for some ladylike flair. Even if you're not the super girly type, this is an awesome way to be feminine without looking too princessy. Throw on a pair of black tights and chic ankle booties, and you're on your way. Don't be shy about going crazy with accessories! Feel free to pile on cascading chain and pearl necklaces, add an edgy ring or bracelet, and rock a trendy chained bag to give your look some extra oomph. And now you're ready to hit the pavement and show of your new look!

Posted by: Kameron Simpson

(Photo: Chictopia)

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Critic’s Choice Awards: The Glamorous Fashion

Celebrities turned out in droves this year for the annual Critic’s Choice Awards, which aired last night.  And the most remarkable thing about having that many actors and celebs crammed in the same space (besides the sea of hair extensions and worst dressed lists to follow) was the fashion!

And so many talented women nailed it this year!  From Michelle Williams decked in Channel, to Emma Stone gorgeous in green, to Charlize Theron demure in Azzedine Alaia Couture, this year’s event was chalk full of couture eye candy.  Enough to make me want seconds!  So here’s a look at the looks….

Who was your favorite glam woman of last night?

Posted by:  Spankie V

(Photos: Jim Smeal/BEImages; Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic; Jason Merritt/Getty Images; Jordan Strauss/WireImage)

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Trend Spotting: Animal Instincts

"Lions, and tigers, and bears! Oh my!" We all know this was Dorothy and her crew's mantra in the Wizard Of Oz as they fearfully made their way through the dark woods of the yellow brick road. Yet in the world of fashion, the saying is more so an indicator of the fearless trend that is now spotted just about everywhere. Wearing kitty kat-adorned tees and sweaters was the thing to do back in our elementary school days--a trend many of us are actually still regretting falling victim to. But it seems that the look is making its way back on the scene in a new, fierce way. Fashionistas here and abroad are rocking pieces with killer canines and ferocious felines printed on them, turning any otherwise boring outfit into a cool and edgy one.

Posted by: Kameron Simpson

Photos: Stockholm Streetstyle, Urban Sybaris, Tumblr, The Vogue Diaries

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Gwyneth Paltrow for Coach! First Look

Amidst her busy schedule of being a globally famed actress, mom to fruitfully named Apple, wife to major rock star, and writing for Goop, Gwyneth Paltrow has taken a quick break to model once again for Coach.

The impeccably blonde, always perfectly tanned beauty is the face for heritage handbag’s Spring 2012 collection. 

This is Gwyneth’s second time around the Coach block, both campaigns shot by the legendary Peter Lindbergh in New York.  Posing with the Willis and Madison Lindsey bags, she takes an easy breezy step out with some soft, romantic style shots.

What do you think of Gwyneth as the new face of Coach?

Posted by:  Spankie V.

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