La Vie en Vogue

Check it out!

2009-11-20T11:31:00.000-08:00

For a number of reasons that I won't bore you with, I have chosen to switch locations in the blogosphere. My new blog, Sartorially Correct, is officially up and running. Please give me any and all feedback! The posts will, for the most part, be the same as the ones I've posted here. I will continue writing about magazines, NYT articles, swag I'll have when I'm rich and famous and all of the other things I would post about. Please follow the link and enjoy my new blog!

Ahem, birthday idea...

2009-11-04T15:33:00.000-08:00

Last month news hit about a new and exciting way to toast our lives. I was too preoccupied with classes and life (sadly LVeV gets pushed to the back of the line sometimes... I know, for shame) that I forgot to comment on this: the Christian Louboutin Champagne Flute. Then when November came along I was reminded by my shoe calendar - for the next 26 days I get to look at some of CLs most creative and desirable pieces of foot candy.

Needless to say, I would love to own my very own champagne flute shaped like a Louboutin heel, red sole and all. So for anyone who is still without a clue what to get me when I turn 21, I can guarantee that this gift would be very well-received. *Nudge, nudge*

The Queen V

2009-10-23T12:42:00.000-07:00

Just like old times (before my life became consumed with Baylor's 100th Homecoming preparations), I'm suggesting a New York Times article for you to read. My favorite thing about subscribing to the NYT Sunday Edition is getting the weekly NYT Magazine. This week brought something even more exciting: The NYT Style Magazine. That's right, Christmas in October, or at least my personal equivalent. The feature gem in the Women's Fashion Winter 2009 issue is The Queen V article on Vivienne Westwood. Soak it in, it's a fantastic. Fashion journalism reported by the best in their field. It's worth fifteen minutes of your time.

Shoes of the runway

2009-10-22T11:44:00.000-07:00

As promised, and only a tad later than expected, here is my post on Spring 2010 footsie fashion. It appears as though in six months when the seasons change, what you dress your feet in will matter just as much as what's hanging in your closet. The shoes are pieces of art. And not the least bit psychedelic. Wedges and platforms are back. Stock up on ankle socks to pair with, and no you shouldn't expect any less from McQueen. Here are a few of my faves. It's only a matter of time until you see some of these looking eerily familiar at a local Steve Madden store.

Proenza Schouler
Versace
John Galliano
Dior
Alexander McQueen
Chanel

I'm still alive, I promise!

2009-10-12T07:23:00.000-07:00

If it takes having a morning class cancelled, which frees up an hour of my time, in order to post a new blog I'm all for it (and frankly, wish it happened more often).

My life in fashion: I'm basically dying because I still haven't seen The September Issue due to living in fashion hell (aka Waco...). I'm drooling over pics on Stylebubble right now, go read it now! Literally living on coffee and style.com.

I'm loving all of the shoes from fashion week, but since I'm not on a mac right now ripping pics from the web is complicated with copy and paste keystrokes that I just don't have time for. Long story short: look forward to lots of eye-catching foot art in the coming days. Fall break starts on Wednesday night for me. All I can say is thank God!

The new, independent me

2009-10-04T18:02:00.000-07:00

Before June the past two years of my life I was an afterthought unto myself. Everything was about me plus someone else. In early June things changed and my boyfriend, let's call him Brett, was no longer in the picture. This freed up a surprising amount of time and I was no longer my own afterthought. I could plan my future and include my own opinion, do what I wanted. Once that pin dropped lots of other things followed, including my wardrobe.

After two years with Brett I began to notice slight changes in my general, everyday appearance and attitude. Since June I've dropped 15 pounds and two dress sizes. I now describe my personal style as 'evolving' rather than 'preppy' or something that means Polos and Sperry's. In fact when Brett found out I bought a leather jacket he was shocked, he said it wasn't my style. In addition to the leather jacket I have since acquired a pair of skinny jeans (even I thought I would never own a pair, but I love them!) and countless other things that wouldn't have fit into my prescriptive 'style' before June. The most recent change happened last night when I dyed my hair. It's darker and a little redder.

All I'm saying is that major life events can have resounding effects that you don't even realize until much later. I love my life and my style and overall outlook on life right now. I can't say that my life is better now, but I am happy And that's what really matters. Plus I'm watching The Devil Wears Prada at this very moment and lusting for my life in New York, which will start sooner than I thought. Rather than moving right after graduation, I'm planning my last semester to be in New York and I just can't wait!

The only thing that could make this better? If my mom would release my October issues from hostage and send them to my apartment.

When it's all said and done...

2009-09-17T22:04:00.001-07:00

New York fashion week is over, but that doesn't mean I haven't forgotten about these last two days. I've been busy working on a fashion week article for the Baylor newspaper. Check back for recaps of the last two days in the coming ones. In the mean time head over to the Lariat webpage for my article! Get it here.

On the sixth day of fashion week

2009-09-15T20:56:00.000-07:00

With Marc by Marc Jacobs and Betsey Johnson's collections showing today, I would say the sixth day was a party (even though the Marc Jacobs/Gaga party was last night...) Enjoy!

Badgely Mischka (look 25)
The mostly black and white collection comes out perfectly polite. It's classy and has a number of wearable items including some mega-cute cocktail dresses. Pops of orangey-red and pink keep it lively, but to be honest this show could fade into the background.
Rodarte (look 17)
Neutrals pop up here too. The sisters Mulleavey design with a gothic Tim Burton-esque hand, but still keep it in the Rodarte aesthetic. It also has a tribal feel to it. Kate and Laura succeed in creating their own world.
Halston (look 5)
With an airyness about it, this collection is one of the many solidifying the return of the romper and the jumpsuit for next year. All of the pieces from this line have movement and a point of view.

Marc by Marc Jacobs (look 21)
If yesterday's show was dainty and soft, today's was the exact opposite: loud and colorful. The Minnie Mouse bow is making a comeback - in bold colors (think hot pink and electric blue) and just a little askew.
Betsey Johnson
The queen of party frocks delivers yet another collection of youthful and girly dresses. Part of me felt like I was going through the stylist's trailer on the set of "Saved by the Bell" and another part of me wished to be at the coolest sweet-16 party ever.

On the fifth day of fashion week

2009-09-14T21:52:00.000-07:00

On this fifth day of fashion week I've realized how much I really want to do this for the rest of my life. I want to report on fashion. I've found my calling, does this mean I can move to New York right now?

A side note: sorry these pics are so small lately, I've been grabbing them from NYMag and style.com. For some reason they are just not loading as big as the ones in previous posts. My apologies.

Zac Posen (look 39)
The progression of this particular collection has me thinking of what Judy Jetson would wear as she travels to Earth from her futuristic, intergalactic space.
Carolina Herrera (look 26)
I heard more about the bloody ball gown, animal head guy on 6th Ave. than what happened inside the tent. But what happened inside the tent will be all over the red carpet, I guarantee it. Intricate beading and the most interesting necklines I've seen yet. Not to mention some really great textures.
Donna Karan (look 8)
Donna Karan makes the thought of living life in shades of gray really enticing with splashes of orange. DK really understands the female body and draping. She also understands that her consumers will more than likely be 30- and 40-something women, who are sure to love this line.

Tracy Reese (look 27)
I got a really youthful and playful vibe from this collection. It's very girly and just has a great energy to it.
Marc Jacobs (looks 8 and 30)
There is an undeniable 1940s feel to this, which I'm a total sucker for, so of course love! Also a hint of the Gaga movement, a few looks sans pants, but with really cute frilly knickers. Lots of ruffles, not a bad thing in my book. Overall a very satisfying collection. I wish I could have seen it in person! It also looks like he wants fanny packs to come back. No comment.

Jill Stuart (look 3)
More illusion fabric and interesting necklines. Cut outs galore. Super short skirts (I'm pretty sure I saw cheek on look 28, from the front...). Strong shoulders.

On the fourth day of fashion week

2009-09-13T21:25:00.001-07:00

Fashion week does not rest on the day of rest. And for that I am glad. Day four, kids!

Lela Rose (look 31)
A sea of perfectly pretty dresses. The separates didn't impress me as much as the dresses. Classic silhouettes with asymmetry and eye-catching gathers.

Derek Lam (look 20)
Another designer looked into my floral dreams delivered. But he didn't get there until the last third of the collection. The transition from polka dots to solids to stars to florals didn't read very cohesive in my book, but it is a very appealing spring line.
Diane von Furstenberg (look 25)
Let me first say that DVF can do no wrong in my eyes. This exotic collection would outfit any desert goddess. Bright colors and the always exciting and enticing patterns. Same DVF, new season.
Herve Leger (look 11)
Another line that never fails to impress me. I still plan to have a few Herve Leger pieces in my closet when I'm rich and famous, and this spring line definitely solidifies that decision. Plus Mr. Max Azria tried his hand at bondage denim. It works.

On the third day of fashion week

2009-09-12T21:07:00.000-07:00

Everything seems to be on hold this week. I'm not kidding. I don't think I've ever put my world on pause for something like I have fashion week this time around (and I must say it's completely due to my dedication to blogging and addiction to twitter/tweed). Here's my day three recap, my friend Erika came over halfway through and we ooed and aaahed at the collections together.

ADAM (look 1)
@mrjoezee summed it up the best in only 117 characters "Hey ladies: please invest in a thin knit racer back tank or henley from Adam this spring and wear it with EVERYTHING."
Richard Chai (look 7)
The colors for this collection stem from the one recurring print made into dresses and tanks, paired with jackets, jumpers and the oddest looking shoes. The shoes I can do without.
Christian Siriano (look 27)
Erika and I called this his "fire and ice" collection. I think I could sit and just click - forward and backward - through this show. It's so perfectly put together and seamless. Each look grows out of the one before it. And there's still the drama there that makes something a Christian Siriano piece.
Vivenne Tam (look 13)
Erika says she would wear every single item from this collection. Kind of like my similar moment clicking through Jason Wu yesterday. Anyway. This was very 60's-70's bohemian that just came out of its cocoon.

Alexander Wang (look 6)
Rugby-inspired: knits, leather, no-pants, cutouts, sheerness, underwear-as-outerwear. Erika says 90's. I agree. Love the braid! We both dropped jaw at look 6 in particular.
Band of Outsiders (look 4)
We say New England prep with an urban appeal. The first thing that came to my mind was this video of the Smirnoff Tea Party, watch it if you haven't yet. We like the green pants.

On the second day of fashion week

2009-09-11T18:17:00.000-07:00

I'm guess that no one else reads the titles of these fashion week blogs to the tune of "The Twelve Days of Christmas" like I do. It really is the best time of the year. I'm definitely feeling the holiday spirit!

Anyway, on this second day of NY fashion week I kept up with everyone's tweets like nobody's business (same with last night and FNO, so wish I could have been there too!). MBfashionweek.com is not keeping me updated with all of the shows and style.com won't post today's pics until tomorrow morning... so needless to say posting everyday will prove interesting. So far I've found images for Jason Wu, Preen and many others found on mbfashionweek.com. There's a good chance I'll have even more tomorrow.

Cynthia Rowley (look 28)
I think I can best describe this line as prim and proper Connecticut chic. Tennis whites and luncheon buttoned collars and pretty cardigans.
Rag & Bone (look 4)
Androgyny abounds! I would take more than just a few of these jackets.

Preen (look 17)
The neutral color pallette and subtle, relaxed feminity allows this collection to stand out without trying too hard. It's so natural and effortless. I'm a fan.
Jason Wu (looks 14, 18)
After hearing all about the mirrored runway and the falls, I was just itching to see the images! Let me say right now that I want every single look from Mr. Wu's Spring 2010 line. I instantly fell in love with look 18 - can I borrow it for my semi formal this fall? In all seriousness though, this collection is everything I want in my closet as a young professional.
Cynthia Steffe (look 1)
As funny as it sounds, I totally had a dream last night about collections showing lots of florals (a la Carrie Bradshaw), so you can imagine my happiness when I saw these images and saw lots of florals. I don't think someone can click through this collection without smiling. So excited for Spring 2010!
Yigal Azrouel (look 3)
Another fairly neutral color pallete! I don't have too much to say about this one, but I think I like it. It's growing on me every time I go back to that tab in my browser. Yeah. I like it.
Charlotte Ronson (look 8)
I think I can sum up this collection by just listing the trends: sheer tops with pretty bra tops, bows at the waist, sheer half legging things, leather jackets.

Nicole Miller (look 4)
There is a (strong) chance I chose this look because it's Ali Michael - she died her hair!!!, but I also think it is a really good representative image of the collection. Long, walking/legging type shorts, blocked graphic print and either black or white.

Erin Wasson x RVCA (look 20)
There's no questioning why the models walked out in front of a band, these clothes were made to be worn at a concert.

After today, I think it's safe to say that leather jackets will be around for at least another season. But really, when are leather jackets not a staple?

On the first day of fashion week

2009-09-10T16:52:00.000-07:00

During Fashion Week I've decided I'm going to blog about my single favorite look from the days' shows. Here to kick it off are my favs from Michael Angel, BCBG, Davidelfin, Duckie Brown and Whitney Eve (because they had picks up on mbfashionweek.com when I sat down at my macbook).

Michael Angel (look 9)
I'm usually not a huge fan of futuristic fashions, but this particular collection really changed my opinion there. This line manages to marry structure and flowing chiffon with kaleidescope patterns that just blow my mind. In my opinion, this was a great show to kick the week off with. My favorite collection so far.

BCBGMAXAZRIA (look 13)
Cutblog: Spring at BCBG, as only it could be: tight n short n sheer, w/ some cutout action. Learn to love your bodies now. When I saw that tweet, this is exactly what I pictured. With all of the Illusion fabric, cutouts, and short hemlines I'm sure glad for my aerobics class this semester - I need to get in shape for next spring. I didn't expect the asymmetry. Love!
Davidelfin (look 16)
Menswear for women has long been one of my favorite trends, so my love of this particular look really needs no further explanation. Except that on top of that it's just a really sick design. Gowns are out, @rzrachelzoe I want to see this on the red carpet.

Duckie Brown (look 7)
Ok, so for a relatively cohesive collection, this one is pretty random. (I applaud you if you followed the thought process to that statement). Picking a favorite look from this line was like trying to pick the lesser of two evils: really hard. And not in a good way. Even though this is my fav look, I'm not sold on it.
Whitney Eve (look 2)
This one was really a toss up between looks 2 and 9. I loved ths structure of the collection's jackets paired with the femininity of the dresses. It's like Whit had Texas in mind when she was sketching this line. The light and airy dresses are perfect for the summer/fall season in the crazy heat, while the jackets are great for the arctic chill you get walking into a building down here.

P.S. I'm loving all the tweets, they make me feel like I'm on the front row of every show!

It's the most wonderful time of the year

2009-09-08T19:43:00.000-07:00

Can I just say how much I love Joe Zee? He's my idol. And I'm not ashamed to admit it. And this upcoming week more than ever I can't wait to read every single one of his tweets. After getting twitpic'd and update after update from the couture shows in July I absolutely can not wait until shows start at the end of the week! The only way this time of year could get better is if I was in New York. Thank God for @mrjoezee, @itsmechaneliman, @fashionista_com, @mrbradgoreski, @cutblog, @womensweardaily, @csiriano, @elle_com and so many more!

Another thing I don't think I could live without is the new Nordstrom Rack that opened back home. I went home for the long weekend and found the most perfect leather jacket. It has lapels, a diagonal zip and extra zipper details - all the things I said I wanted in a leather jacket. The only bummer was that one lapel was bent wrong. I let that little issue cloud my better judgement and I passed on the $169 Michael Kors jacket on Saturday (idiot!). However after having a few fashiongasms while talking to a girlfriend I realized the error of my ways. I called my mom and she made a trip to buy the jacket for me. Needless to say I owe her, and I can't wait until she comes down to visit in a few weeks so I can have full possession of my new jackets. I don't like to play favorites with my clothes, but if I did this jacket would definitely be at the top of my list. I'm floating on a sartorial cloud nine right now.

Here's hoping...

2009-09-07T07:31:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's because all of the old movies/movies set in an earlier decade that I'm watching lately. Maybe it's that I wish I was from a decade in which this was as common as text messaging. Or maybe it's because I adore Anne Hathaway and Scarlett Johansson.

Whatever the reason, I'm nostalgic for statement red lips.

It's such an easy, but gratifying, bold and timeless way to look pulled together. I don't think any other single beauty product can say as much. A woman just looks so much more feminine when she is wearing a strong red lip. I would love nothing more than to see more women adopt this trend. In fact, I wouldn't even call it a trend, it's more an eternal style. I can't even say how much I would love to see statement lips come down the runway next week. Here's hoping. And here are a few images.

Diane Kruger (Inglourious Basterds)

Melanie Laurent (Inglourious Basterds)
Audrey Hepburn (Funny Face)
Anne Hathaway (Devil Wears Prada)
Scarlett Johansson

When I'm rich and famous

2009-09-03T09:06:00.000-07:00

Derek Lam, A/W 2009, look 18

I will have a cape. Not in the super hero, ready-to-save-the-day kind of way, but in the high fashion kind of way. I was flipping through the pages of my September Elle (still on the first read, too) and on page 272 my jaw dropped. Lust at first sight. In the Elle Shops Fall's Must-Haves section, no. 2 is the cape. Examples were drawn from Valentino, D&G, Celine and Derek Lam's collections. I would just like everyone to know that when I am creative director somewhere I will have a cape and wear it proudly. The cape has an air about it that lends itself to being worn by someone really special. I don't deem myself worthy of the cape yet, but someday I will be.

Diverging just a tad, I very much dislike how my magazines have been playing hard to get like they learned it from me. The first two weeks of the new semester have been jam-packed with not enough time to cuddle up with a copy of Elle or W and a glass of wine.

So much is happening!!!

2009-08-24T11:50:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to school, kiddos. Last week I took a break from almost all things technological, lest a few tweets. It was pretty refreshing, consider doing something similar when you have the chance. But now it's full speed ahead with a new semester officially underway.

While I was away from LVEV, so much happened (hence the title of this posts)! As far as my magazines go two issues of W and the September Elle came in last week - not to mention the September Vogue, which came in this weekend, just not to my apartment here in Waco. However (or maybe that should be "sadly"), I haven't been able to crack a single one of them - that's on the agenda for later today. On Saturday, after the timely death of my previous phone's earpiece, I upgraded to the Palm Pree. To know just how incredible that is you should know I wasn't eligible for the upgrade until September 1. They gave it to me anyway. And the premiere of The September Issue was a few days ago. Last week was basically the most eventful week to have left the fashion blogosphere. It's good to be back.

Speaking of The September Issue's premiere let me share images of my favorite red carpet moments. And I need to vent about how much I hate Bee Shaffer's slouch - Mommy Wintour taught you better than that. Vent over, enjoy these pictures!

Chanel Iman
Zoe Kazan

Cynthia Rowley
Vera Wang

Needless to say, clicking through endless red carpet clips made me even more anxious to see this film. So I got on my handy Pre and loaded my Fandango app only to learn that, shocker!, Waco won't be getting The September Issue anytime soon. Who wants to roadtrip to Austin or Dallas with me in a few weeks?

In (much) happier news, my advanced magazine editing class will be pure heaven every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 11:15 to 12:05. Oh yeah, Anna Wintour is on David Letterman tonight, you know I'll tune in!

Until tomorrow, read this Elle Fashion Spotlight. The image drew me in and the copy kept me there.

And these are a few of my favorite things

2009-08-13T09:28:00.000-07:00

Summer is winding down, classes will start soon, and the season will change (although in Texas this won't happen for a few more months). Just like everyone else I'm trying to figure out what pieces I can wear just slightly differently in order for them to make a smooth and sartorially accurate transition. And while all this is happening I need to make sure I'm staying true to my own personal style.

Since I've been packing the last few days (I move into my apartment tomorrow!), I've really been focusing on this concept. It's been made easier - thank God - by my love for certain accessories/necessities. I really doubt that no matter the season these few items will always make my wardrobe cut.

Scarves
Even in the blistering heat of a Texas summer I still wear my scarves. I have solid-colored, striped and even plaid scarves. I think my favorite thing about scarves is that I can get them for $12 at Spice and for $60 at some department store and they both look great! I love pairing them with a white t-shirt in the summer and a long-sleeve cardigan in the fall/Texas winter.
Vests
My aesthetic is possibly far too girly for my own health (some might say my summer uniform is a dress), but I one of my favorite trends happens to be the androgyny of menswear for women. Enter the vest. It instantly creates a beautiful silhouette without being a tired belt. Expect to see me wearing my vests buttoned or unbuttoned and sometimes paired with a scarf.
Cherry Chapstick
Sometimes I leave my phone at home (heaven forbid!). Sometimes I forget to wear my watch (hopefully not the same day I forget my phone at home). And I might even forget to put on deodorant (but I always shower or wear some perfume to cover that up...). But you will never, ever catch me without a tube of cherry chapstick in my purse. And I usually apply it every 20 minutes or so. It's a lifeline for me.

Selena Gomez, anyone?

2009-08-12T07:58:00.000-07:00

Who else is loving Selena Gomez right now? While there was a notable uprising from the sartorial blogosphere about one thing or another involving her Teen Vogue cover (everything from "I'm tired of Disney stars on the cover" to terms like "overstyled" were thrown around), this Texan-turned-tween icon wins my heart every time she comes out looking the way a 16-year-old ought to look: cute, a little sophisticated and totes adorable.

I happened to love her Teen Vogue cover. She's the most fashionable of all the Disney stars to grace this teen zine. As for remarks about her being overstyled, flip through some older Teen Vogues and check out the styling. It's a trend for Teen Vogue covers to be eclectically layered - I like it. It's a fashion point of view that teens don't get in any other teen mag and I for one remember spending hours in my high school band classes mesmerized reading the fashion credits on all the editorial spreads in my Teen Vogues. I doubt I would have been quite as intrigued in fashion as an industry if it wasn't for Teen Vogue's unique and consistent way of styling its covers and models inside. It's actually the reason that, at age 20, I still subscribe to Teen Vogue even when I'm cancelling my Vogue subscription.

Right now, I'm in love with Selena's TCA look. I wish I had a dress like that in my wardrobe four years ago. Hell, I wish I had a dress like that in my wardrobe today! There's a reason she won the Choice Red Carpet Fashion Icon at the TCAs, and she didn't fail to deserve it at the show. I was even more impressed when I read that her dress was Baby Phat (I love ya Kimora, but I don't know how well I could pull off a lot of your stuff). The t-strap shoes are just darling and the earrings are an appropriate touch. The hemline was the exact right length (ahem, Miley). This look is just another reason to fall in love with this pint-sized fashion right.

Luscious lips that last

2009-08-11T08:01:00.000-07:00

This post was inspired by an Elle News Blog post about Cover Girl Outlast Lipstain. You know, the one Drew Barrymore applies in her cute flirty pink ensemble on the commercial - I like what the stylist did in that ad more than what CG is advertising.

Elle's Beauty Director, Emily Dougherty, has recommended many a good beauty product. She reviewed Cover Girl's new Outlast Lipstain and called it "my kind of magic marker." In my opinion this lipstain does not, as Dougherty says, "[last] longer than every other lip pen on the market." I bought this product back in June because I dislike the feeling lipstick and lip gloss have, but need something with a little more color than my faithful cherry chapstick. A lipstain seemed the perfect remedy, and since I'm such a fan of CG's outlast lipsticks for actually outlasting anything else (minus the whole lipsick-y feeling) I didn't think this could possibly be a bad idea. Au Contraire. From my first application I was disappointed. I don't think I've ever regretted a $9 purchase more. The first time I applied the shade, Flirty Nude to be exact, the pen seemed dry and when I looked at my reflection my lips didn't seem much more pigmented than when I wear my trusty cherry chapstick (even when there was color it didn't last long enough for me to get my car keys and go to work). I gave it a few more chances before totally giving up.

Two weeks ago I walked into Sephora on a mission to find a lipstain that would give me a permanently 'just-bitten' lip look. After about 30 minutes of seriously examining my choices I found a strong contender. Benefit Cosmetics Benetint Pocket Pal ($20) offers the lipstain on one end (it looks eerily like a vile of blood with a wand, but no worries) and a gloss on the other. Needless to say I don't use the gloss at all, instead slapping some cherry chapstick over the lipstain. It took me a few times of experimenting to get the color right - you can achieve anything from a dainty-pink pout to a Gwen Stefani-worthy statement lip just based on how much you apply. This one small tint-to-go has saved me from a life of color-less lips.

If you're interested in some other options Lorac and Stila make similar products. In the future I may try Benefit's Benetint Lip Balm.

What's up, BlackBook?

2009-08-05T08:45:00.000-07:00

I'm doing my morning thing, you know: checking e-mail, browsing Facebook, and re-loading Twitter when I find this post from Ed2010News "Ed hears that after Blackbook Media Corp.'s EIC and editorial director has resigned." The post also included a link to a WWD article published today.

WWD reported that Ray Rogers is definitely leaving the mag. The article also reported that Rogers helped redesign the mag - this is also true and the finished product looks great. But also in the article are un-confirmed statements that anonymous sources made about the positions Rogers took on. I do know that last November or thereabouts the Creative Director left (sad) and two of the kiddos I interned with now have positions (hooray) on the masthead. While WWD reports that Elizabeth Sulcer was moved from Fashion Director to Editor-at-Large, the website does not reflect this transition (and I haven't gone to look at the August issue masthead to see what it says). If this is true I'd love to see the lovely Bryan Levandowski take on Sulcer's former position.

So I'm not exactly sure what's going on, but maybe the October issue and its masthead will give us some hints (Rogers' last issue is September). And maybe I'll talk to Bryan and get the dirt from him.

My favorite ANTM judge

2009-08-03T13:31:00.000-07:00

Twiggy is beautiful, articulate and extremely well-poised, not to mention 60 years old. You wouldn't think so if you saw the her UK ad for Olay Definity. In fact, here's that image.

Did you recognize her at first glance? I sure didn't, I actually had to see her name in the bottom left corner to know who I was looking at. And this is what she looks like when not under the influence of photoshop.

Honestly, if I can age this beautifully and still have hair like that when I'm her age I'll be ecstatic. Twiggy is in the same boat as Julie Andrews and Meryl Streep of women who have aged gracefully.

I know I wrote about photoshopping earlier this summer, so I won't regurgitate that post. It's just frustrating to see images like those ads. Shouldn't they have something at the bottom that says *photo illustration*. It's certainly not within the bounds of ethical journalism (yes, ads are certainly forms of journalism) to distribute images without accurately giving credit to what people are seeing is not only wrong, but unethical. Seriously, go read your stylebook.

And so many people think that tabloids posting unphotoshopped images of what these people really look like is an invasion of privacy. Now, I'm not defending tabloids, but sit down and really look at the situation. Yes, everyone wants to look better and if you had the chance you would probably want to photoshop yourself. But is that really ture? Think for a minute and look at how many pictures of you there are on Facebook and then see how many of them are photoshopped. I'm not guessing very many. So, why is photoshopping such an accepted norm? Give it some thought and please leave your opinion.

Oh, how I wish

2009-08-01T12:24:00.000-07:00

The weather in Texas could catch up with my fashion season barometer. While the last week of non-stop thunderstorms have done wonders to cool the sweltering late-July/early-August heat, the truth is that summer will be in full force for the next few months. Poor me. Working retail not only means working in heaven because we get new stuff so often, but it also means that when the rest of the country is stocking their closets with fall must-haves like our store now offers, in Texas we're still stuck with ghastly high temperatures. But, amidst all that heat, humidity and sweat - yuck! - I am falling in love with clothes for fall. I swear I don't mean to be a walking advert for Ann Taylor LOFT (corporate is surely glad I am), everything I'm currently wearing is LOFT. And I love it, so really I'm not ashamed at all. I'm just upset that I can't wear it outside of our very-necessarily-air-conditioned store.

Credits: LOFT modern skinny jean, LOFT shirt dress, Target belt, Anne Klein flats

Christian Siriano for Payless

2009-07-27T15:08:00.000-07:00

Last year I wrote about Patricia Field, Abaete and a few others' lines for Payless Shoes and now images from Christian Siriano's line have leaked. Marie Claire twittered its interview with the designer. While the other designer lines for Payless have been successful, they haven't received the press like Siriano. And honestly, this is the first we're hearing of designers branching out for less since Target's GO International collection (I realize we still hear about GO all the time, hopefully Payless can do the same thing). Shoes can be such an expensive addiction, but with brands like Payless coming out with designer lines that only seem to be getting bigger and bigger, everyone can have looks that have come, literally off the runway for a $25-$45 price point. Like this one:

When I'm rich and famous

2009-07-24T13:48:00.000-07:00

My first choice: Marc New York, $560

I will have a leather bomber jacket. In fact it's going on my Christmas wish (heavy emphasis on wish) list. I want one that's a little big - big enough to feel like it's a guy's jacket - but still fits me right. It should have an diagonal zip (some of the pictured jackets don't have a diagonal zipper, but they're still enviable!) and either lapels or a straight collar. Some extra zipper embellishments is a must, as well are multiple pockets. Black is the preferred color, but I am not opposed to going for something a really inventive like electric blue or fuchsia.

My inspiration

Alexander McQueen, $4995

Levi's, $298

Bebe, $129

What do I have in common with Johanna Cox?

2009-07-22T14:28:00.000-07:00

I must say, ever since November (yes, eight months ago November) when I watched Johanna win Stylista and a position as junior editor at Elle magazine, I've been waiting for what turned out to be today. The day I could read something she wrote for the magazine - as opposed to the many things she writes for the Elle News Blog, which I do enjoy reading.

The day came, I read and reflected. From a journalism POV I'm really impressed, it's certainly the kind of article I would expect Elle to publish - and I mean that in a very good way. It's intriguing, thought-provoking and enjoyable. It's got the right personal-anecdote-to-research-and-expert-information ratio to be an article for the zine. And in fact the only complaint I have, which is hardly a complaint at all, is that it's a tad shorter than most features and articles that Elle publishes (but not dreadfully boring and rambling-y as another another mag's articles).

But back to thought-provoking. Johanna writes about the repercussions of chopping her hair off - a decision I am all too familiar with. A year and a half ago I decided to chop my hair off, my hair was longer than Johanna's, but I did not go quite as short (pictures below). I did this during the winter break of my freshman year at Baylor. In retrospect not the best time for me to make such a decision. Like Johanna says, a pixie cut in her case or mid-length bob as in my case, is not the preference many people have in regards to what a woman's hair length should be. When I chopped it off I was about to go through sorority recruitment, a ritual - unfortunately - predominantly based on one's looks, followed (however closely, or not) by conversations. The last time all of the sororities had seen me was the previous October when I had lovely, long locks. What they saw in January was quite the opposite. Suffice it to say, a large majority of the houses "released" me. Luckily my favorite sorority kept me (also, I should say my sorority has a high number of short-haired girls) and I love it to this day. And I love my hair, too.

I have since made another decision - this one erring on the side of caution - to let my hair grow out to a length more to my liking. I took a risk and endured a love/hate relationship, the result of which taught me a little bit more about myself. And nothing pairs better with the perfect outfit than a knowledge of oneself and the ability to listen to it.

September 2007 (pre-operation chop-it-all-off)
January 2008 (post-operation chop-it-all-off)

May/June 2009 (now-ish, give 1.5 inches)

So what do I have in common with Johanna Cox? Apart from being completely enveloped by world of fashion, we made a decision that may have stung at first, but led to finding a really good fit. She found a guy who accepts her and her short hair and I found my sorority. Hair can be chopped off and can grow back, but the relationships we make in spite of our hair last far longer.

I promise I won't be quite as cheeky in my next post.

Model as Muse: Did Joe Zee give a fresh twist to this piece of non-news?

2009-07-20T08:37:00.000-07:00

My August Elle finally arrived over the weekend. I was so excited that I probably would have hugged the mailman had he been there. Explanation: I finished reading and admiring the July issues of all my mags so long ago (they only last so long when I read them on the stationary bike for 30 minutes every other day, and that's not even factoring in leisure reading) that I've made a significant dent in my novel du jour.

Anyway, I'm the kind of OCD that has to read things in order, front-to-back, left-to-right. That's just the way it goes (everything from the the Sunday funnies to my Elle subscription to, well, everything else). I flipped through the ads, making mental notes as to which ones I'd go back to later, admired the masthead, table of contents and all the other beginning-of-the-magazine offerings when I got to Elle's Style A to Zee. Ahh, the tip of the iceberg. Reading a copy of Elle is practically a religious experience for me. I got comfortable and began to absorb some of the best fashion journalism magazines have to offer.

For August Joe Zee chose to write about models as designer muses. Instead of having his article read like every other model-as-muse piece out there, he found a really appealing angle. I found myself looking at the polaroids alongside his story for the better part of 45 minutes. I don't want to ruin the article for anyone yet to crack their copy; all I can say is don't let the first paragraph let you stop reading, he has a point. It's fresh and exciting, like a 'Street Chic' update on the Elle News Blog crossed with a go-see.

Here are a few models who double as muses. Better yet, they're wearing a design by the designer they inspire!

Chanel Iman (Phillip Lim)
Lily Donaldson (Alber Elbaz)
Coco Rocha (Jean Paul Gautier)

I dress for myself, and for other women

2009-07-16T13:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday a New York Times article (how often do my posts start out with those six words?) about the new Marni shop was trying to categorize - if that's even possible - the type of fashions one can find at Marni and went off on a tangent about the varying influences upon the way a woman dresses. Cintra said that when dressing to be appreciated by a man women try to create "a silhouette resembling Jessica Rabbit." Harsh, but mostly true. Cintra went on further to say that when dressing for other women, women will dress in a more "well-made, polished and flattering looks with less overt chicka-wah-wah" way. At that point, a mere two graphs into the article, I got lost in my thoughts trying to answer that question, "Who do you dress for?" and still feel good about myself.

So I did a little digging - or should I call it soul searching? - either way I stumbled upon a few interesting anwers to this question. And it turns out I'm not the only one wondering about this. In fact WWD asked this exact question to men and women in the fashion arena trying to find an answer. The fashion daily compiled a list of answers and published it on Dec. 15, 2008. There was no official consensus. Anne Hathaway thinks “most women dress for their most fashionable friend.” And she's not alone, a handful of the interviewees thought that women dressed for other women. A few said that women dress for men -isn't that a tiring thought (heels and push-up bras need to rest, too) ? And there were a few optimists saying women dress for themselves. Photographer Nigel Barker is of this particular thought. Here's what he said: “most women dress for themselves. Most men don’t realize what’s going on half the time. If their friend at work wears the same thing every day, they wouldn’t notice. It’s not in the gene pool.” Well put!

Nigel's remark is a perfect segue to my next point, which is that women need to realize that men usually don't notice the outfit, so that factor - and answer - should really not matter at all. Amen! The only men I would ever want to impress with my outfits are my gay friends (I have my priorities totally straight, right?) because they'll tell you if something is not flying.

Next, if women dress for women - let's say a boss or someone you want to look good for - that's a better reality. Especially in a professional setting dressing to impress someone has been an accepted norm of society. At least, it certainly seems that way. I'll be honest, when I go to my internship I want to look fashionably put together and ready to work, and I totally love it when I get compliments on my shoes or blouse. This form of dressing for other women seems healthy. But sometimes it seems like a competition - who can dress the best? - and that is not quite as healthy. And I'm not 100% for the 'women should dress for themselves' camp, only because dressing for myself turns into dressing for my mood and if I lived by that mantra, well, I might not end up going into work/my internship looking the way I want to. I think it is healthiest for women to dress first for themselves and second for other women. It's a healthy balance that keeps a woman both happy and on her toes. Happy to be doing something selfish, but careful to always be thinking fashionably.

You don't need to raid your boyfriend's closet anymore

2009-07-14T19:03:00.000-07:00

Cold at the restaurant in your sleeveless or strapless LBD? Maybe you used to slip his blazer or sports jacket over your cold shoulders, but not anymore. Why? Because you have your own and it's better tailored to be just over-sized enough. And it's all yours. Plus you can buy the slouchy, super comfy boyfriend jeans, too. That's right, menswear as womenswear is back (but if you ask me, it never went anywhere - I love it that much!). In fact, it was all over the resort 2010 collections.

Giorgio Armani look 9
Chloe look 1
Marni look 36
Viktor & Rolf look 13

Natasha Poly, dressed to the nines

2009-07-13T12:32:00.000-07:00

Not only did this Rusky just celebrate a birthday yesterday, but the face of Gucci was caught wearing the most attractive and flattering jumpsuit known to fashion at the Paris parties for Ralph Lauren and Valentino last week. Or maybe it's too good to be true and that belt is hiding a waistband and shirt tucked in, but I doubt it. The outfit is hot; I'm in love with the whole look.

When I'm rich and famous

2009-07-10T20:48:00.001-07:00

I'll have a David Yurman blue topaz petite albion necklace. It's understated elegance. It's timeless. It reminds me of the heart of the ocean necklace that Kate Winslet posed naked with for Leo DiCaprio in Titanic, but less cheeky-looking. Plus it's David Yurman. The jeweler knows how to make high-end jewelry that everyone wants and that can translate into so many different looks. Seriously, flashing in front my eyes right now are all the outfits this necklace completes. So this is love.

Just another reason to love Emma Watson

2009-07-09T08:29:00.000-07:00

The Harry Potter kids are making the rounds on all the talk shows this week, with the Today show, Reigs and Kelly, and David Letterman - just to name a few. And of the three lead actors, I must say, Emma Watson is doing swimmingly. Not only is she the cover (again) for Teen Vogue, but rocked some sick shoes on the Today show plaza and kept her cool with David Letterman.

While under David Letterman's line of fire, Emma was shown this image and asked to explain herself.... to which she said this was simply a wardrobe malfunction and then paused another moment before smartly adding that at least she was wearing underwear. Well done, this 19-year old Brit knows how to handle a sticky situation by not making it stickier or embarrassing herself further. She's smart, quick on her feet and stylish to boot! I'm pretty sure wit and tact like that are worth more than any of the Chanel frocks she's so fond of.

E! News goes as far as to say Emma "schooled other starlets" in similar situations (referring to the wardrobe mishap).

Twitter and Joe Zee

2009-07-08T06:53:00.000-07:00

Elle magazine and Joe Zee get an A+ in my book for they way they utilize twitter. Let's talk Elle first. Like most news sources, Elle simply posts whenever a new article/blogpost goes up on its Elle News Blog, which is no different than what Fashionista, The New York Times and others do with Twitter. But Joe Zee's twitter brings almost 1000 fellow tweeters (up from 215 followers just yesterday or the day before) much closer to the Paris coutoure shows. And close is close, Joe is letting his followers know about everything from the seating (couches at Chanel) to the flowers Karl Lagerfeld sent his way. Oh yeah, he shows pics from the shows too, also with his own commentary.

Ugh! Wished Gucci made drip-dry wool suits. Now headed to Givenchy show in a grey turned polka-dotted, rain-splattered one. - about 23 hours ago

Killer boots at Givenchy! Lace-up knee-highs with an open toe! Chic but please don't wear them to the airport with me. - about 22 hours ago

Dear Karl: I apologize in advance but when your show starts in 2 hours, my head will be in Paris but my heart will be with the King of Pop. - about 21 hours ago

http://twitpic.com/9m77k - Arrived to beautiful white room for Chanel with plush sofas for seats. This comfortable, I may never leave. - about 19 hours ago

http://twitpic.com/9ocz8 - At Plaza Athenee where Versace is what couture should be. An elegant presentation of 13 exquisite dresses. - about 3 hours ago

Overheard at JPG: inspiration will be Old Hollywood. Seating is divided into old movie studios. I'm in RKO Pictures. - about 1 hour ago

Stifling hot in here. JPG's girls are handing out fattening ice cream bars covered in chocolate! At a couture show! Oh the sweet irony! - about 1 hour ago

Yup, Old Hollywood at JPG. Tons of siren gowns, killer trenches, luscious furs, sharp suits and even a Barbarella bodysuit or two. - 18 minutes ago

Chanel Iman, Paris and Dior - Oh my!

2009-07-06T17:08:00.000-07:00

The couture shows have begun in Paris and my favorite tweeting model is giving the world updates, and pics. Keep reading to see what she has said so far and see some of the images.

Spending the whole day shopping in Paris !!! Its just so much to choose from!!! I WANT EVERYTHING - 10:03 am, July 3

In Paris exclusively for Christian Dior! But shhh don't say a word! THE SHOW MUST GO ON!! Crossing my fingers the corset doesn't strangle me - 6:48 pm, July 5

Tighting up my corset as we speak aaaaahhhh !!! RELEASE ME - about 12 hours ago

I love how vintage Dior took things with his couture line this year! It's very Jackie O meets the 1940s. The hats! The jackets! The mary janes and t-straps! I couldn't have dreamt a better collection if I tried. If someone puts a video of this show online somewhere, please comment and post it here - I will love you!

Happy Birthday, America!

2009-07-04T14:12:00.000-07:00

To ring in the 233rd year of this great nation I scoured the internet for the most patriotic and fashionable accessory for the Fourth. After reading an article in Elle about red lipstick, it seems like nothing else is more patriotic and fashionable for the Fourth than a pair of red lips.

MAC Viva Glam Lipstick

NARS Lipstain Gloss
Laura Mericer Lip Velvet
Shiseido 'Perfect Rouge' Lipstick

Fly me to the ... Mediterranean

2009-06-30T10:15:00.000-07:00

(L to R: Chadwick Bell, James Coviello, Elie Saab, Valentino, Kenzo)

I think there's something timeless about an extremely well-draped dress, which is why the Roman/Grecian draping is back yet again for another summer of one-shouldered fun. What's even better is this trend works great with long and short dresses, can be edgy and feminine, and - possibly best of all - can flaunt and hide assets and the things we'd rather left very to the imagination with little to no effort.

With all the movie premieres and summer gatherings this summer, celebrities and fashion icons are diving into this trend head first! Megan Fox looks to be a major fan of the trend.

Megan Fox
Halle Barry

Camilla Belle
Heather Graham
Liv Tyler

From the covergirl to girl behind the cover

2009-06-29T13:05:00.000-07:00

A little bird (itsmechaneliman) tweeted that she her closet and the fashion closet at Teen Vogue have some semblance of each other - now that she's an intern. I know I keep writing on here about how I'm tracking the model careers of Chanel, Ali and Karlie like they're my children, but you're going to have to deal with it for one more post (at least...). But each of them really does have a fascinating career and this is only the beginning.

Anyway. Chanel Iman is interning at Teen Vogue. And a few weeks ago there were mumblings that Coco Rocha would be picking up a similar gig at Vogue. Part of me loves this while the other part of me wonders if this is similar to celebrities enrolling in ivy leagues just because they can. Is it really fair? But when I step back from the scene I realize that these girls are putting those ever talked about networking skills to good use. Jealous? Yes. Wishing I had the same industry connections? Definitely.

Maybe Chanel wants to find something she can do once she's no longer fit for the runways. If she really likes it and is good at it, she could be a much larger force in the fashion industry than a cute-to-boot walking hanger.

A few more guesses Vogue is hurting: a repsonse to Jezebel

2009-06-28T21:31:00.000-07:00

Jezebel posted an article on Friday about the five guesses (aka substantial and highly possible) as to why American Vogue is hurting. 1) the recession 2) the zeitgeist 3) it's stale 4) Anna Wintour 5) the internet.

I have a few to add.

1) The writing is so dull. I fall asleep before I can finish an article. In fact I opt to take a book or other magazine when I go to the gym for fear I'll fall asleep on the stationary bike. And I know I've bashed Anna Wintour's lack of writing in the past, but it bears repeating: the woman never finished high school and she can't pen a thought-provoking editor's letter/letter from the editor to save her life. And it's sure not saving her coveted magazine. I know when you buy a fashion magazine it's for the fashion, but magazines are still journalism and deserve to be edited by someone who knows what good literature is. It's really that simple. Anna Wintour is not a good editor. She may know fashion, but editing is so not her strong suit. How long will it take S.I. Newhouse to recognize that?

2) Too many jumping models. Go through your collection of the last "x" number of Vogues lying in your closet. Now count how many editorial fashion spreads feature jumping models with vacant expressions. Is it all of them? If it's not I'm surprised. When I read Jerry Oppenheimer's biography of Anna Wintour I came upon pages and pages of doting publishers and editors calling Anna's editorial eye "original," "unique," and a million other synonyms you can find on thesaurus.com. What happened to that (if it really was true)? There's not much original and unique about publishing the same editorial spread month after month - just change the clothes, accessories and sometimes the model and viola! Conde Nast can expect to see subription sales to drop even more if they keep featuring this tired spread.

3) The mag is too pretentious. And it's 100% the fault of Anna. Each month the "Up Front" feature is about some socialite and why her life isn't perfect. Is that supposed to affect Vogue's readers? If Vogue really wants to sell - both on the newsstand and subscriptions - they need to feature articles that will make its readers feel something or want to do something. A successful fashion magazine needs to shed a new light on the still images and looks we can find on style.com while also serving up some interesting and thought-provoking reads. Otherwise it's an offensive yawn. No thanks.

Here are some comments that the Jezebel article received from like-minded people who had some of their own guesses:

6. You only need one. If you read July's issue you've already seen everything that will be featured in issues for August, September and May. - merv

7. Buying a badge that reads I'm irrelevant is cheaper than carrying around an issue. - merv

8. Sienna Miller on the cove 13 times a year! - Plz2kthx

9. An policy against hiring anyone who knows what other people find interesting. -iheartapocalypse

That's all.

When I'm rich and famous

2009-06-26T10:40:00.001-07:00

Or when I can find it at a good price somewhere online, I'll reward myself for hard work at the gym by buying a Tory Burch dress, like the Clea dress above, for my new, slimmer self. I took a day trip on Wednesday to Waco and walked into a little boutique (yeah, I didn't think Waco had boutiques either) and discovered a ready-to-wear daydress heaven. Wooden branches - literally - suspended from the ceiling acted as closet rails for DVF and Tory Burch dresses. Once I picked my jaw up off the floor I picked a few dresses to try on and was amazed at myself for fitting in the formerly too-small size! The cut would flatter any figure, especially with the button tab detail at the waist drawing the eye in. The fabric is just forgiving enough. Plus, can't you see MObama wearing it? Bliss.

A seasonal mixture: the best of both worlds

2009-06-23T09:28:00.001-07:00

Last summer pinup was the major trend in swimwear, this summer it seems to be florals (although since I've just been floating around in the pool in my backyard I could be completely mistaken, but florals is the trend I'm sifting through on the internet). Both styles are entirely feminine and - depending on the size of floral pattern - incredibly flattering to the female figure. But this summer, why choose one when you can have the best of both worlds (yeah, Miley might be playing in the background right now).

(left: Shoshanna 'Tulum' Floral Bandeau Bow Bikini, right: La Blanca by Rod Beattie 'Roman Holidays' Tankini)
=

(Betsey Johnson 'Chantilly Rose' Tankini)

A floral pinup design tankini has got to be the most feminine swimsuit available right now. Nordstrom, here I come!

Did someone say art?

2009-06-22T08:31:00.000-07:00

At last week's Whitney Art Party, Arlensis Sosa managed to make her way into not one, but two pics from the party on style.com. It's no secret that art showings and silent auctions - especially when hosted by Max Azria types - yield more than a fare share of models and fashion. Arlensis was a stunner in the orange gown by the sponsor himself. Another best dressed goes out to one of my personal favs Alexis Bledel, though she's more of an actress now she started out as a model, so I still consider her one. She wore a lustworthy Herve Leger (jealous!).

When I'm rich and famous

2009-06-19T11:28:00.001-07:00

I've been inspired by the heat of a Texas summer, and a recent (yesterday) air conditioning malfunction (failure) to lust for fun tank dresses perfect for the high temperatures I've been dealing with. This dress is the perfect summer dress. I can wear it to my internship, work and a day out shopping. This M Missoni diagonal stripe reversible dress (Nordstrom, $695) is perfect.

CFDA awards

2009-06-18T10:38:00.000-07:00

Ahh, the CFDA awards. A night when fashion is at the forefront. There's no playing around, no red carpet tease before a non-fashion-centered event. Here are my favs and just no's from the event (of the images I found...)

Favs:

Betsey Johnson
This is totally her personality, and I love that there's a really good chance her granddaughter has the exact same outfit.

Ralph Lauren
This really makes me wonder if all those bow-tie wearing meterologists on the news wear jeans underneath the desk... After seeing Ralph rocking the look, I hope so!
Rachel Zoe
This stylist can do good for more than just her celebrity clients. A+
Zoe Saldana
It's like she's wearing a cross between Rami Kashuk (PR season 4) and Rodarte. Love.
Coco Rocha
She makes me want to wear a one shouldered poncho. Ok, so it's way cuter (and more chic) than a poncho, but it's still fantastic - and look at those shoes!

Just no:
Ashley Olsen
I think she took Marc Jacobs 80s statement from the AW 2009 RTW too seriously. I mean shoulder pads and solid orange? Ash, you look like a walking carrot.
Michelle Trachtenberg
I really expected her to find something that fit her body better. That's all.

One editing trend that I hope doesn't get overused

2009-06-17T10:04:00.000-07:00

The use of negative space on editorial spreads. I absolutely love it, and the best part is, I have no clue who started it! I've seen this editing technique used in such mags as Elle, Vogue (shocker!) and W just to name a few. It's such an interesting way to let readers view images. Let the photograph rise a few picas from the bottom of the page and expose some white - it's not a crime, in fact it's exciting!

If Elle magazine wasn't so good at varying its use of negative space I would be fed up and annoyed; but by changing the way negative space is exposed, it becomes interesting and a great way of designing pages. W magazine goes as far as leaving an entire page of white space with only the styling credits. Sometimes you'll see two images on a page - a great way to save money on pages and create an interesting dichotomy of images if done properly.

Using negative space is a tool highlight and downplay images to make the reader look at the image differently. Major bummer though, when magazines post their photo shoots online, they don't put the pages online, only the images. So no photos in this post

Safari, anyone?

2009-06-16T09:49:00.000-07:00

Ralph Lauren's SS 2009 RTW collection was all about the African Savannah (above: looks 1, 7 and 47). From resort whites, to black formals to brown and green khakis the collection was mean to reflect staying cool in the heat. Since last week I wrote about being white-hot, this week we're going to get our khaki on! There's a reason Gap has a whole line of khaki garments at the 5th Ave. flagship store right now (to hit the web tomorrow, I do believe) and why most mid-market retailers have ample quantity in shades of khaki. Here are some easy pieces that can be worn together or apart to achieve the look.

MICHAEL Michael Kors long sleeve shirt with patch pockets (Nordstrom, $69.50)

Coach New Ali Large Hobo ($378)

Joie Berlin linen shorts (Nordstrom, $158)

Ann Taylor Loft short sleeve jacket ($59.50)

Banana Republic linen zebra-print patio dress ($130)

Hermoine Granger of the face of Burberry: which would you pick?

2009-06-15T11:36:00.000-07:00

Over the last week or so pics of Emma Watson as the new face of Burberry have surfaced. I know it's not groundbreaking for actresses to moonlight as models, but I've yet to see one that looks this meant-to-be. It took me a second to realize who the new girl was; she looked familiar, but so fitting for the campaign that you completely forget that she has a new Harry Potter flick out this summer. In the sixth film she's still a high school-aged teen of 16, but in reality she's a blossoming 19 ready to break free of her brainiac alterego for more grown up roles.

So, when it comes to the opening of HP#6, instead of dressing up in your Hogwarts best, I'd rather opt for a Burberry look in honor of the most stylish witch.

When I'm rich and famous

2009-06-12T15:43:00.000-07:00

I'll be prepared for the crazy weather of late with a pair of Burberry rain boots ($195, Nordstrom). I'd like nothing more than to pair this with that Burberry trench I wrote about weeks ago - and to be honest, I ache for that trench! I'll admit that these boots could be a reality for me now if I just saved my money, but since I have some houndstooth wellies from Target, they'll do.

Now, I say that these boots would have done well for me in the recent storms - scratch that, land hurricane is more like it - but the reality is that both me and these cute boots would have either A) been swept up into the swirling vortex of water in my backyard or B) drowned. And these boots don't deserve that kind of life.

My dream wardrobe**

2009-06-12T12:05:00.000-07:00

Everyone has one celebrity whose wardrobe they'd like to raid, and after giving it some thought I've decided that if I could I'd raid Michelle Obama's wardrobe. She has the perfect balance of professionalism to wear ability to high fashion sense. Plus she seems to have some pretty awesome designer friends on speed dial, just saying.

To the left she's in Michael Kors, but then that's what she wears half the time, right? I wish I could say the same. No matter who she wears, though, they and she both know how to show off her arms - I would too if mine looked like that! With a healthy helping of MK, Moschino, Jason Wu, Lanvin and Azzedine Alaia, MObama does just fine. Sigh. I wish I could spend even ten minutes in her closet.

Here's just a smattering of my favorite MObama ensembles - there's not enough room to put all of them up here, plus you wouldn't want to scroll that much. Check out the NY Mag Michelle Obama Look Book for more (83 looks so far dating back to the night her hubby won the election).

http://nymag.com/daily/fashion/2009/04/michelle_obama_slideshow.html

Lanvin dress

Etro blouse

Michael Kors dress

Rodarte dress

Moschino and Michael Kors

Michael Kors and Jason Wu

**Note: I regret that this post is going up on Friday instead of Thursday. The last few days the area where I live has experienced some hellacious storms and my internet died. RIP, default wireless router. Today I will also post a "When I'm rich and famous" blog to make up for the lost day. Enjoy!

How I get my glow

2009-06-10T11:49:00.000-07:00

The June 2009 Elle is a body issue, which means lots of articles about healthy workouts, detoxing, emotional health and one woman's journey to find her "glow." While Maggie Bullock may be a decade or so older than me and have different needs, every woman has a right to her own glow. That is to say we all deserve a healthy, radiant and acne/wrinkle/spot-free complexion. Throughout the article there are sidebars full of product possibilities to achieving one's "glow." And on top of that Elle put up a vlog entry today in which one of their staffers interviewed passers-by on the streets of NYC by having them answer this question: blush or bronzer?

My answer, for the summer at least, would have to be both. I achieve my "glow" by using a cream blush underneath a soft powder bronzer. Cream blushes like ones from Clinique, Maybelline and Stila are my favs. I usually choose peachy colors, because on me and paired with bronzer they work best, but each brand has its own color pallettes and application types. Clinique is a cream stick that you just dab on and rub around, Maybelline is a cream mousse that you simply blend into your skin and the Stila I think works best if you use a foam foundation wedge.

Clinique ($18.50)
Maybelline (about $8)
Stila ($25)

Into the white

2009-06-09T09:20:00.000-07:00

Expect summer to be white hot. Walk into any mid-range retailer and you'll find white denim. Bump into the June Vogue and Cameron Diaz is all done up in white (and not just on the cover, she's all whited-out in her shoot, too). Click through SS 2009 RTW runway images on style.com and the models aren't just walking on white - they're wearing it too. From swimsuits to belts to capris, white will be everywhere. Here are only a few examples.

Cameron Diaz in June 2009 Vogue

One the runway:

Balmain look 22
Betsey Johnson look 17
Pucci look 5
Banana Republic white boyfriend jean ($98)

Best dressed? Yes!

2009-06-08T11:53:00.000-07:00

The weekly Vogue Ten Best Dressed list came out today for the week of June 8 (which really means last week, but whatever). And model Alek Wok ranked no. 2 for this ensemble:

She looks fab. Obviously not trying too hard, not taking herself too seriously. Rocking her Yeojin Bae. Fantastic summer look. Loves it.

If you're like me...

2009-06-07T08:49:00.000-07:00

Then all you wear everyday is chapstick. In fact I have a tube of cherry chapstick in every singe one of my purses so I'm never without it. Well sometimes when I need to dress up, I need a little more than chapstick so I have some color. I tried the Cover Girl lipstains that Drew Barrymore wears in the ads and they didn't measure up. After a few other varied attempts I remember something I got in a Clinique bonus buy a few years back. So I promptly went online to see which department store Clinique counter would get me the best bonus buy. A few hours later I found myself at Nordstrom trying to find something else to add up to $25 so I could get my Trina Turk for Clinique bonus buy bag.

Back to the reason for the purchase - Clinique has an almost lipstick that is basically an ultra moisturizing tinted chapstick. The color is black honey. It sounds dark, but it goes on with a touch of color without being overpowering. Plenty of reviews bash the color saying it's too dark, but I find that it works great in the winter when my skin is pale, in the summer when my skin is tan and every other time in between.

Almost Lipstick, Black Honey ($14)

When I'm rich and famous

2009-06-05T07:36:00.000-07:00

Executive decision: I decided that Friday's posts will actually be "when I'm rich and famous" posts.

Kye Wrap Dress in Spice Flower Pink ($325)

So, when I'm rich and famous . . . I'll have a closet full of DVF dresses. The prints are always perfect, the silk jersey (of the wrap dresses) is always divine and the cut is always flawless. No one, and I really mean no one, looks bad in a wrap dress - it's my favorite law of physics. DVF dresses are perfect for work, play, luncheons, afternoon tea; read: they work anytime, anywhere. Just like the Louboutin simple pump I posted about a week or so ago, DVF dresses are such a staple. It's just wrong to let your closet go on without one. I'm crossing my fingers that Gilt Groupe chooses DVF as one of its next sales - I don't know how much longer I can go without one!

Sometimes a story doesn't need to be full of jokes to be funny

2009-06-04T13:28:00.001-07:00

I thought last summer working at BlackBook I had come across some of the most pointed and witty writing there was to be consumed. Au contraire. Read the following article on the New York Times Fashion and Style page "Choose a Shoe, Any Shoe, and Hold On."

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/04/fashion/04CRITIC.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&ref=fashion

Cintra Wilson covers the Barneys New York shoe sale with a wit and candor that is often hard to find. She turns a shoe floor into a war zone. I'm pretty sure an armed forces vet would rather be back in the field than caught in the middle of the scene Wilson describes. But alas, not all men could be so lucky. Here is an excerpt of the article about husband who should have just stayed home:

"Husbands were few. Most know better than to get caught in this frenzy. I did catch one luckless wretch, wholly abandoned, sitting in the middle of a blast zone of discards. In a daze, he fingered a strappy orange Givenchy platform lying next to him, tipped it over to squint at the price, then shook his head in existential bewilderment, as if this, finally, was the cracking point of his spirit."

Mary-Kate v. Ashley

2009-06-04T08:13:00.000-07:00

At the LA premiere of Hangover Ashley Olsen accessorized with a smile. And that's it. I'm all for the "less is more" approach to styling, but with so many fun bags, sunglasses and jewelry this season, to leave her stylist without anything is practically a felony. Her slip dress seems a little blah, so much so that her shoes - as fab as they are - can't save it.

Or maybe sis Mary-Kate took both of their accessories. With sunglasses, a bag, rings, a bracelet and a blazer MK might be over styled, but really I think Ashley could learn a thing or two from her other half. I need her to move her hand and give a peek at her dress. Usually I'm not a fan of MK's style, in fact I usually side with Ashley when it comes to wardrobe, but MK pulled it out. She didn't look grunge, her hair looks healthy and she looks like she belongs in Europe, not LA. It's just eclectic enough.

Of Kors it's summer!

2009-06-02T10:55:00.000-07:00

When you hear the names Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein and Michael Kors, classic Americana comes to mind. The spring/summer 2009 RTW collection from Michael Kors screams classic Americana with it's palette of primary colors and nautical lines (there's a reason all of his ad campaigns are of a smoltering couple on a yacht in swimwear and suits). Mr. Kors wants us to be patriotic this summer, to be proud Americans even through this time of economic turmoil. I, for one, am in love with his throwback to the fifities with playful polka dots and picnic perfect dresses. The swimsuits are totally pin-up, but not too sexy, it's clear that Mr. Kors expects his clients to vacation in the Hamptons this summer, because really, there's no better place to wear his clothes.

Look 6
Look 28
Look 40
Look 58
Look 65

Look 68

For less than $45 at Target you can get a dress that captures this aesthetic. It's nautical, patriotic and chic all at the same time.
Other ways to get achieve this trend for the summer are to wear a white button up shirt and pair it with a scarf, pull the shirtdresses to the front of your closet and remember what your kindergarten teacher taught you: your primary colors.

Craving something vintage

2009-06-01T11:18:00.000-07:00

Is it just me or are the alien-faced models getting old? I don't mean old age-wise, but old as in out-dated. With models gracing the covers of such mags as Vogue and Teen Vogue I'm relieved to see familiar-looking faces, like this one.

Karlie Kloss looks like your best friend's little sister, but what's better is that she's not pigeon-holed into one identity. She morphs into whatever the clothes and makeup she's put in and rocks it. And unlike top model Kate Moss, who always seems to have the same frown or pissed-off look, Karlie smiles. That just makes her seem more poised.

I'm glad that news stories about the weight of models keeps surfacing. Yeah, Karlie's thin, it's part of her profession, but she is thin without looking like walking death. She has a vivaciousness about her that brings life to her face whether she's on the runway or the pages of Vogue. In fact, in the May issue of Vogue she was in the model round table and while she was pictured at the center of the table she jumps off the page and holds the readers' attention. When I saw that picture of her amongst six other arguably better and certainly more experienced models like Iman and Paulina Porizkova I felt like I was sitting across from her. That picture wasn't all about her at all, but she dominated.

She has the face and charm of an old friend, but more than that she has this aura about her that screams vintage model. She reminds me of Marisa Berenson and Jean Patchett. And I like it.

A new beginning

2009-05-31T20:58:00.000-07:00

I'm not really sure if I have amassed a following yet - other than the people who see my updated facebook or twitter announcing that I've posted - but I'm going to start something that will maybe lead to one. Rather than random musings and spur-of-the-moment posts, I plan on bringing some order to this blog. Starting tomorrow I will have daily posts that will be the same topic every Monday, every Tuesday, etc. on top of the random things I decide to write about. Here's the first format I'll try:

Monday - posts about models (much like the one at the bottom of this post)
Tuesday - seasonal trend post
Wednesday - posts inspired by my magazines (hopefully not anymore Anna Wintour rants)
Thursday - celebrity style fodder posts
Friday - posts about my favorite things

Now, moving on to the actual post. When I logged on to coach.com to get an image for another item I wanted to blog about (stay tuned, it will probably show up on a post later this week) I saw this:

I just about flipped out! Not only is one of my favorite models, Ali Michael, the current face of their campaigns, but it seems like they've named a bag after her. I find it too much of a coincidence that they release a bag by the name of Ali when their current model is also named Ali. In fact I don't think it's coincidence at all. The collection focuses on tangerine, black and white leather as well as metallics and the standard "C" pattern on jacquard. It has similarities to many bags Coach offers, but with a little bit different flavor and style. It's just different enough to make your handbag arsenal crave a bag or two from this collection. Here are a few standouts from the new collection called "All About Ali."

New Ali Large Flap ($458)

New Ali Metallic Clutch ($278)
New Ali Hobo ($298)

News on Project Runway's return

2009-05-29T22:36:00.000-07:00

Thank God!!! NY Magazine's fashion blog, The Cut, published yesterday that the new season of Project Runway will be not much changed from the Bravo version. The only changes it seems that viewers will notice will be the channel change and transfer to the West Coast. The Cut said that the set and color palette for the show will stay the same - even though Heidi want to mix things up a little bit with the change in venue. The best news, in my opinion, is that Tim Gunn, Nina Garcia and Michael Kors all stayed on board for the transfer. Hallelujah! I think we can all rest a little easier now, because with all of its effort and will to make it so, The Fashion Show on Bravo isn't doing anything except make me want Project Runway even more. Except with the teaser that guest judges will be the likes of Lindsay Lohan ... at least LC knows fashion ... bring back Zac Posen and Diane von Furstenberg, please.

Photoshopping controversy

2009-05-28T17:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the New York Times published a ground-breaking article on the fact that magazines alter the images we see when we flip through those glossy pages. Okay, maybe not so ground-breaking, or really news, but NYT decided to write about it anyway using these pictures of Reese Witherspoon from the covers of Vogue, Marie Claire and Elle to (sort-of) prove their point:

While NYT was right that Reese looks different in each of these pictures, they commented on the things that don't necessarily have to be altered on a computer to look different when you take into consideration lighting, styling and makeup. It doesn't take a genius to know that Reese's eyes will look bluer when she's wearing something blue/they look different depending on the lighting and that she won't have dimples when she isn't smiling and I really can't find anything really different with her chin from picture to picture. Really? I don't think these are the most offensive magazine covers that have been altered with computer programs.

I think that, yeah, sometimes magazines can go overboard with their airbrushing and photoshopping, but they're not as heinous as makeup - especially mascara and foundation - ads, like these. I use that mascara and my eyelashes only wished they looked that long and curly, and I don't know about you, but I definitely do not look like that when I just wear foundation.

NYT may be right that magazines are creating an unattainable image of beauty for women everywhere, but it's not something new. The Dove campain for real beauty released a video a few years ago that says everything the NYT article does and more in less than a minute:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iYhCn0jf46U

If magazines want to airbrush and get away with it by being honest they can call the images photoillustrations, that's what we call photos - at most publications I've worked with - that have had more done to them than just brightening the image, working with the color balance to correct colors in the image or over-cropping. Don't get me wrong, I don't disagree with the NYT article. I do think that, to an extent, magazines are responsible for the unhealthy female body image, I just think that the article reported it wrong. This is something that magazines have to deal with all the time, and it is an issue that the NYT could have shed some new light on. I like the NYT and find them a really reliable news source, especially on in-depth pieces, but this one just didn't meet my expectations.

When I'm rich and famous

2009-05-26T21:32:00.000-07:00

I'll buy an Herve Leger bandage dress for on of my BFFs, Catharine:

This one is actually perfect for her, plus since it's Herve Leger she'll automatically love it. And so do I. In fact I think she actually goes weak in the knees when she sees an Herve Leger dress, and it's no question why. They strap everything down (literally - we put America Ferrera in a few of these exactly a year ago at the BBook cover shoot and she looked fab!!) while still looking ultra sleek and sexy. There's honestly nothing not to love about the Herve Leger bandage dresses.

While I was scrolling through the Herve Leger website to find an image for this "When I'm rich and famous" the Resort 2009 collection caught my eye. Maybe it's the bright colors or maybe it's that the bright colors look impeccable on the model's skin tone, but either way this collection caught my eye and for real made my jaw drop. For one all of the images for collection don't look like they were taken for a look book, with the model's angular poses and the styling it could seamlessly fit right into the pages of Vogue (it has that Anna Wintour-was-there-and-gave-her-finishing-touch vibe -- flip through the last few issues and you'll know what I mean). In addition to getting Catharine an Herve Leger, I'll get one for myself too!

This particular acquisition might have to wait until I'm really rich and really famous because at this point I don't know which I'd choose and I can't possibly imagine the choice getting any easier. Sigh. I wish I was rich and famous now.

Taken for granted

2009-05-26T17:18:00.000-07:00

One thing I've recently realized I've taken for granted is nail polish. For many reasons, including the fact that I paint my nails/touch them up every other night, my father thinks when I'm away at school I'm at a vacation spa. Several weeks ago there was a snag in my vacation plans when I lost a finger nail for medical reasons and one very big thing hit me - pretty hard: I wouldn't be able to paint my nails! And now with summer basically here and fun, new nail polish colors lining the shelves everywhere I go, I'm realizing how important nail polish really is to me.

My nail polish envy has gotten increasingly worse as I lust after the new pinks and bright colors. It's made me turn to list-making - a pretty common pasttime if you know me - and this list-making is good for my blog. Here are some of my most lusted-after OPI shades:

French Bordeaux

Mauve-lous Memories

Conga-line Coral

In the meantime, I concede a little and opt for a pinky-neutral during this depressing time. In fact, I already own this shade of OPI!

Suzie and the Lifeguard

When I'm rich and famous

2009-05-23T07:53:00.000-07:00

I'll have a pair of these:The Christian Louboutin Simple Pump is perfection in the form of a pair of black pumps. Yes, I could browse his website for days and bookmark every other image, not to mention all of the classics, but this pair - in black leather (not the patent) - top my list. No female should live without a great pair of black pumps and, well, this is my dream pair. Just wait, when I'm rich and famous, I'll have a pair of the red soles. And since this is one of his classic styles, it'll be around when I become rich and famous.

Accessories evolve with technology

2009-05-22T13:05:00.000-07:00

Nowadays you don't just complement or judge someone on their hair or their earrings; pieces of technology like phones and laptops have joined that list. We didn't rush to Apple stores for the iPhone and iPod just because it served a function that we found necessary, no! it's because we thought they were sexy, sleek and, oh yes, fashionable.

There's a reason Samantha had an iPhone in the Sex and the City Movie. There's a reason the cast of Gossip Girl has a new phone every episode - remember when Nate had that tiny Samsung Juke? In the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants Tibby had a T-Mobile Sidekick. Those phones are or were stylish at the time the movie/show premiered. With these examples it's no wonder my Sanyo Katana seems old and outdated.

Now the world of fashionable devices is about to get a major jolt because Sprint will release the Palm Pre on June 6. The iPhone and Blackberry need to worry just a bit, especially when the website quotes an Ars technician saying this: "I experienced something strange and quite unexpected while watching Palm demo the new OS: my iPhone suddenly felt old and played out." Sprint's newest toy features the best of both the iPhone and the Blackberry, it will have a touch screen and a Qwerty keyboard. I know my two year agreement ends this fall and I can't wait to pick one of these up; I've watched in envy for too long as my friends fiddle with their phones that always seem so much better than mine. Now it's my turn.

My current fashion addiction

2009-05-16T13:33:00.000-07:00

Ray Bans will never go out of style. They are the little black dress of sunglasses. Celebrities love them. Movies, both new and old, endorse them. And since they've been using every shade from the color wheel, you can have them like those new GAP pantone tees: one in every color.

In the movies, like Breakfast at Tiffany's and Twilight Audrey and Rob sport them with the greatest of ease. And they look damn hot.

While they look black-hot on those two, other celebs opt for some other colors. Liv likes hers blue, Mary-Kate wears hers white, even my fav Anne Hathaway dons them in black and pink.

After about a year of wearing the same pair of cheap, black sunglasses - and not losing them - I decided to reward myself with a pair of investment sunglasses. Since any previous pair of shades had only cost me about $5, I splurged. But since I don't have quite the disposable income I would like, I fed another addiction: eBay. I spent upwards of a week scrolling through pages upon pages of discounted, but very real, Ray Ban Wayfarers looking for the perfect pair, in the perfect shade, for the perfect price. Enerolisa0512 had answered my prayers. For about half price and no shipping fees I clicked "buy now" and found solace in my very own pair of lavender-pink Ray Ban Wayfarers.

Project Runway... wait, it's The Fashion Show... wait, What?!

2009-04-28T20:00:00.001-07:00

So I don't know what it is - sour grapes or just Bravo trying to prove they know how to make a must-see reality series (because, I love it, but that's all Bravo is now-a-days), but their new show "The Fashion Show" seems almost identical to "Project Runway." An April 22 NY Daily News article said that the lawsuit between NBC Universal and the producers of Project Runway was settled and the show would be making its move to Lifetime and LA and debuting season six in August of this year.

Well Bravo has seemed to move on by creating The Fashion Show. According to the website it's got 15 designers (so did Project Runway) all competing to have their designs sold in a retail market (so did Project Runway - with Bluefly.com). It doesn't sound like these newbies have the chance to see their designs in New York fashion week - too bad.

Over on the west coast (presuming The Fashion Show will be filmed in NY) the new cast of the black sheep of Bravo will be relocating to that town where LC got famous on The Hills, probably competing for a spot in LA fashion week. And I can bet you more than what's in my wallet that it's not hosted by Heidi 'aufedersein' Klum and Tim 'make it work' Gunn.

To be honest, I'll probably watch both shows, but I doubt Isaac Mizrahi/Kelly Rowland and Los Angeles will hold a candle to the old times watching contestants getting "auf'd."

Beachy keen

2009-04-24T21:30:00.000-07:00

A recent post on Fashionista sparked my interest. It was about beach makeup and the writer wondered what kind of woman needed to wear makeup to the beach, she thought only women uncomfortable in their own skin would do such things. The clear answer, at least in my opinion, is all women - so long as their face is equipped with makeup that has sunscreen.

Last fall Neutrogena came out with a new liquid, mineral foundation. Fortunately for me it was about the same time I ran out of my over-priced, can't-even-remember-the-name-of-it, department store foundation and decided to try something new. As a college student I'm out the in sun quite a bit between classes, and, thanks to genes from my dad, have a naturally oily t-zone. The then-new Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Liquid Makeup SPF 20 was the perfect solution. Needless to say, I snatched it up right quick and was incredibly happy with my new drug store, liquid, mineral foundation. It keeps my face clear and sun burn-free. The foundation pumps right onto a foundation brush that can compete with any line of designer makeup brushes - and that you automatically replace every time you buy a new bottle! Until something even more genius than this comes along, I know what I'm sticking with.

My biggest pet peeve about liquid foundation, however, is that it can leave your face looking unnatural (I don't care if you're a makeup artist trying to prove me wrong, I'm sticking to my guns here). Anytime a woman applies a liquid foundation it needs to be followed by powder. Another pet peeve, though, is when the powder is too light for the skin - something that happens far too often. It just takes away from the natural warmth any face has! Instead of a loose or pressed powder that would usually follow liquid foundation I opt for bronzer. A very light veil does the trick: it keeps the face looking clean and one-tone, while adding the natural warmth missing when you use any other powder. I've tried several bronzers and landed on Jane Iredale So-Bronze 2. It has two shades that when swept up on a brush together create a magnificent warmth and glow that looks healthy and natural all year long.

Now, using a foundation with SPF and finishing it with a bronzer, keeps skin protected at the beach - or out shopping - while still looking completely natural. Visit the same beach as the chick who wrote that one article for Fashionista and I'll bet she'll wonder how you got your skin to look so good, because you'll like you're not wearing any makeup at all. Dab on a little bit of cherry chapstick (also with SPF) and you're good to go.

For the love of Toms

2009-04-19T15:31:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that I am a fan of Toms. They're comfortable shoes for a good cause and the new DIY canvas shoe.

Back in the day everyone was buying chuck taylors in white and being their own designer. Teen Vogue featured teens who were ultra creative with their chucks and other teen mags showcased easy to DIY designs.

Nowadays chucks are still big, but there's a new kid on the block. Toms mold to your feet and feel like socks, but let everyone know that you care about kids in Africa. And now they're fun to draw on, too! While you can buy them in a full spectrum of colors and sequins and, well, designs, you can also buy them in white. They probably won't stay white for long though. One boutique in Waco, Harts N Crafts, will take your white Toms and paint them like Easter eggs. Literally. One of the designs looks like an Easter egg. Take your Toms in and get them tie-dyed, splatter-painted, or done however you want.

Spring has sprung at Forever 21

2009-04-18T22:55:00.001-07:00

I know I've called them out before, but Forever 21 is a retailer that will always be dependable for copying designers. In the past I knocked F21 for this, for good reason, but when a design is tastefully adapted for a different price strata (i.e. no blatant ripping-off of a look) with a varied cut/color/pattern/etc. it can be a good thing. Here are a few examples of F21 being a fashion good-guy rather than grand-theft fashion.

Michael Kors SS2009 look 16
Chloe SS 2009 look 34
Lanvin SS 2009 look 22Jason Wu SS 2009 look 5

FGI Dallas - design symposium

2009-04-17T20:59:00.000-07:00

Fashion Group International is an incredible organization, and one of the great things they do is offer a career day for students in fashion merchandising and fashion design. It's a day full of keynote speakers and seminars that culminates in a fashion show filled with designs submitted by attending students. Some 700 or more designs were submitted and about, gosh, 300 or more showcased in the afternoon show at the Dallas Market Center. As the good blogger and journalist I am, I showed up with my camera at the ready. Some pictures turned out too blurry to post, others were just sad (the designs, not the actual photograph). Some of the designs seemed to come from Project Runway-esque challenges (a coffee filter dress... been done) and others just seemed to copy what has come down the runway in New York or Paris. Here are some of the best non-winning designs my camera could capture. Disclaimer: these five shots are a combination of my favorites and the most innovative and the best non-motion blur. And yes, the first look was made out of party ribbons - I love it!

Here are the winners, some with their designer, others without. There were probably more winners than this, however due to where I was seated, the pictures may have been blocked by awards presenters and other people on the runway. Enjoy!

My own personal Coaching

2009-04-15T20:34:00.000-07:00

When I began my love (and collection) of Coach purses it was all about the conspicuous consumption. I was more focused on letting people know that I had a Coach purse that I failed to realize how gaudy the "C" pattern could be. In fact, and prepare to be appalled, my first Coach purchase was a camel "C" pattern tote with fuschia suede. I know what you're thinking, but I was young, naive and just too excited to get my first designer purse that I didn't think it completely through. I've evolved from that first Coach acquisiton. Next was a more subtle, but still emblazoned with the recognized pattern, and also still had suede, but was more tasteful (although in soft pink it's a bitch to clean). Most recently, however, I found a wonderful leather wallet from Coach (compliments of le beau). Here is a pictorial view of my evolution in Coach.

In the beginning

Then this came along

And my new love

As my taste has gotten better I've become more appreciative of what Coach was first designed as in 1944: a leatherware brand. As far as their new collection of Bonnie bags go, I'm not the biggest fan and will probably hold off until next season to find something to-die-for, but the new Bonnie Leather Convertible, $458, is nice.

On Target

2009-03-17T21:17:00.000-07:00

The subject of this post is certainly already old news and even my words about it are old, but since it's been just shy of two months since I last visited my vie en vogue I thought I should share.

Alexander McQueen is the crazy genius mad scientist of the fashion world. The ads for his Go International collection at Target are eye catching and awkward, but definitely catch your attention. My story begins when I was packing for spring break and lost my swim suit (I found literally every other swim suit except the one I planned on taking), so last minute I went to Target for a replacement and found this cheap stunner:

And in case you're wondering, here's how it looks on someone not model size (it's a goofy beach pic, but is the best one to show off the entire suit). The suit works when you have an exceptionally long torso like mine, and is completely figure flattering. I'm high-waisted like the model and wish I had a straight-on shot to show that it really looks good from all angles:

Back to the story... After I found this suit, aka my lifesaver, I wandered back to the front of the store to pay through all of the clothes and saw the Go International collection. Target has been applauded many times, but never have I seen a collection where I wanted every single piece I saw. Here's just a few of the standouts (because there are just too many to highlight!!!):

If you like what you see there's more online and in stores. Check it out!

When I'm rich and famous

2009-01-16T11:44:00.000-08:00

I'll have one of these:

This is my dream. If I ever win the lottery (I'm never that lucky) or marry rich (more likely... but not in a gold digger way) or come upon a high-paying journalism gig (far less likely) this will be my first purchase. My first splurge. It will be the fulfillment of life long lusting. I get goosebumps just thinking about it! And I love reading retail descriptions of it...

"Beautifully mottled buttons adorn the front of a slim double-breasted trench coat cut from durable all-weather poplin. Shoulder epaulets, belted cuffs and a button-down gunflap provide chic military-inspired detail." - Nordstrom's blurb

"Knee length classic double breasted trench with a gun flap which buttons down over the front. Epaulettes on shoulders. Self fabric belt and belted cuffs with metal eyelets and shiny metal buckles. Small rounded collar with hook and eye closure. Large black buttons. Inverted pleat and back flap at reverse. House check lining." - Burberry's blurb

WWD and me

2009-01-01T08:01:00.001-08:00

Since I can’t afford to subscribe to WWD I, instead, invest in its twice annual WWD Collections overview. Here are my thoughts on WWD’s top ten Spring 2009 Collections.

Chanel: I loved the Karl Lagerfeld chose to show this collection against the backdrop of number 31 Rue Cambon. I actually log into Fashion Week Daily just to watch that show. It’s as tweedy as ever, but with a more inspiring edge. I always feel like I’m traveling in a time capsule whenever I watch or flip through images of any season of this show. It’s classy elegance from the 30s and 40s revisited while only slightly tweaked with a touch, here and there, of the season’s trends to keep things current. Absolutely deserving of this recognition.

Dolce & Gabbana: A little heavy for me, but overall enjoyable. Maybe one of the more fall-ish feeling of the spring collections, but the colors and prints keep it lighthearted enough for spring frolicking. I’m not a super big Dolce & Gabbana fan, but I can appreciate good work.

Dries Van Noten: The geometric prints worked super well in the wrap dresses and in bright colors and with bulbous-Burberry like necklaces. I like that this same idea in everything translates just different enough to keep the line fresh and attractive. Just quirky enough, but without the kitsch, to work.

Giorgio Armani: A stunning display that tells us metallics are here to stay for at least another season. I admire that not all of the models are in “death-defying heels,” as one WWD article so bluntly described the dangerous kickers models donned this season; instead, Armani had many of the models in jeweled flats. His large international success needs something that translates over any border and this one does the trick.

Jil Sander: I don’t know that this collection was enough of a standout to make my personal top ten, but the tailoring is good as are the incorporations of fringe and one-button wonders. I like that the makeup is very fresh so that the clothes can stand on their own, however I find this collection a little bland and dark for spring (but maybe this was Raf’s way of foreshadowing the economic crisis).

Koi Suwannagate: I like the whimsy and the ease that this collection carries itself with. Definitely spring, definitely uplifting and definitely makes a statement for this newbie. I don’t really have much to say, but I like it.

Lanvin: You really can’t criticize Lanvin. From twists on a trench dress to the safari/boy scout trend, Albert Ebaz picks up this spring collection where fall left off. He adds a pop of color where it’s needed, but never goes too far. Among my favorites, the jeweled strapless champagne party dress.

Louis Vitton: The shoes. Oh, the shoes. They caught my attention before anything else in this collection, and I think that’s what Jacobs wanted based on the way Madge models in the ad. Strappy, jeweled, and colored, oh my! The clothes are great too from they eye-popping colors, feathery-fringe dress and rumpled mini-dress to the consistently chunky bangles with matching necklaces and earrings.

Marc Jacobs: My daddy says, looking over my shoulder, “those are nice, I could go with those,” indicating that anything else thus far hasn’t done anything for him. Not that this little anecdote changes any of my opinions, but it is certainly the type of blunt statement that can be associated with Marc Jacobs. I may loathe his ads (not the negative space, just the artistry of the images), but I love his garments. Each of the individual pieces that make up one look can be spectacular and stand outs even in other ensembles.

Rodarte: The twosome knows how to drape – anything. From chains to chiffon, the pair creates gowns and party dresses and even things I can’t possibly describe by effortlessly draping until it all molds together into one cohesive piece. It’s a little S&M, a little Grecian drapery and a lot “tough-chic.”

Madonna, meet Louis Vuitton

2008-12-31T13:43:00.001-08:00

Let me start by saying I love Madonna. When I heard that she was the new Louis Vuitton ad girl I was excited, but really needed to see Madge and Louis together before completely signing off on the idea. When my February 2009 Teen Vogue came in the mail, other than being appalled at how thin it was, I was genuinely thrilled to see some of the first images of Madge for Louis and I love them. The images maintain Madonna’s attitude and presence while keeping in tact the integrity of Louis Vuitton, plus the ads (at least the one on the back cover of Feb 09 TV) show off Madonna’s signature asset: her magnificently sculpted legs. The only thing I don’t like about the ad is that she almost looks like Heather Mills… Decide for yourself.

Oh and I love that Toms made it into a fashion editorial (Feb 09 TV, p. 95). Their holiday look book, a toy, was the most creative and least offensive I remember taking in at Bbook last summer.

My temporary absence

2008-12-30T20:51:00.000-08:00

I was thinking that if I have any loyal readers I have certainly not been treating them right. My, so far, week long lack of posts is due to the holidays and my own personal vacation (although it seems I post more when I'm not in school) from most things internet-related. I apologize and hope that you forgive.

Regrets, but I will be back shortly.

But whilst I'm gone know that I've stocked up on magazines for a long (family) car ride so there should be plenty of post-worthy fodder for me.

Oh, P.S., Ali Michael made COACD's top 25 faces of 2008 at #4. Way to go!! Karlie Kloss made #16. I'm a little hurt that my girl Chanel Iman (and the last leg of that trio) didn't make the cut.

Oh, Domenico and Stefano...

2008-12-23T21:40:00.000-08:00

What were you thinking?!

As I've been (slowly) reading and flipping through my January 2009 Vogue and Elle I've come across the Dolce and Gabbana ads for their cruise collection and I have a few problems with it. Take a look:

The good: I like the black and white theme, it's nice and different for a cruise collection.

The bad: The model poses; concave is pretty done by now. Really, pick a new innovative pose for 2009, this one has had it's two or three year run it's time to move on and find something new and exciting - otherwise those models will be really bored.

The ugly: And it is ugly. The old women deserves a "what were you thinking?!" as does the really bad color editing in photoshop. If you look at the model on the far left in the nice white dress her left leg is paler than her right leg - in fact, her right leg looks like it got fake baked, but she forgot to do her left leg - any makeup artist to make that mistake would be fired before she could say "Dolce and Gabbana." But really, the old women? I'm still confused.

Mi vie en vogue....

2008-12-22T20:37:00.000-08:00

This is a completely self-serving post bearing only one question: has anyone had trouble trying to renew their subscription to Vogue recently? I got mine as a Christmas gift a while back and I've had difficulty figuring out what's going on over in Conde Nast circulation because I only just today got my Jan 2009 copy (bummer, I know!)... anyhoo let me know if you have any idea what's up.

Speaking of the Jan 2009 Vogue, I was really antsy waiting for it (just ask my mom... it's one of the only things I've talked about since being home) because Anne Hathaway is the cover girl! I love her and have followed her career since her Princess Mia days. I am thrilled that she is doing so well and can't wait to read the articles (family is in town, thus delaying some of my mag reading). I also think the cover with the word "Change" plastered on Anne's chest is pretty amazing, a total double entendre, due to her life post-beau and how she has upheld herself throughout everything. I'll just consider this my Christmas gift from both of the Wintour and Hathaway - the gods at Vogue have given me a wonderful present.

Oh and the new Modern Bride features both Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson because of the impending release of their film Bride Wars. I love it when magazines get things right.

My favorite models of the moment

2008-12-21T19:53:00.000-08:00

Chanel Iman, 19, entered the world of tent shows a year before my home town girl Ali Michael, but they broke the cover of Teen Vogue on the same month. Currently the muse for Phillip Lim and working toward being a VS model, this youngen is quickly moving up the ranks; in my mind she's on par with Kimora. Ali Michael, 18, who Wintour asked to personally congratulate after her first season, is now the face of a Lanvin fragrance; she's playing with the big dogs after her transition from Teen Vogue to Vogue. I love style.com, so let's have a looskie, shall we?

Chanel:

Dior (A/W 2008 RTW), Christian Lacroix (Spring 2009 RTW), Sonia Rykiel (Spring 2009 RTW), Derercuny (Spring 2009 RTW), Dior (Fall 2008 couture)

Stella McCartney (A/W 2008 RTW), Yves Saint Laurent (A/W 2008 RTW), Ralph Lauren (A/W 2008 RTW), Valentino (Spring 2008 couture), Alexander McQueen (Spring 2008 RTW)

Ali:

Lanvin's Jeanne Lanvin fragrance

Karl Lagerfeld (Spring 2009 RTW), Dior (Spring 2009 RTW), 3.1 Phillip Lim (Spring 2009 RTW), Anna Sui (A/W 2008 RTW), Sonia Rykiel (A/W 2008 RTW)

Fashion journalism I can believe in

2008-12-20T16:46:00.000-08:00

As a writer I understand the need for unbiased journalism in most publications. Time magazine, yes. The New York Times, yes. US News and World Report, yes. But Elle, not so much. Fashion and politics have been co-minglers for, well, pretty much forever. Earlier in this fall several designers created visions for the First Lady-elect to wear on the day of her hubby's inauguration and you can bet your student loans that most to all of them were incredibly thrilled that it was Michelle over Cindy. Like I said: fashion and politics are seasoned co-minglers.

Hooray for the January 2009 American Elle:

When I cracked the January 2009 Elle I was way excited to see Robbie Myers' Editor's Letter addressed the recent election and I was even more excited to know that she wasn't afraid to print her opinions even though criticisms may ensue (and I'm sure she's getting hate mail or angry bloggers to voice their own opinions through their various outlets). So the jist of this post is just to give props to Robbi and Elle.

Now for my own take on the relationship between fashion journalism and unbiased reporting. Fashion journalism needs to report on fashion and things that affect it. The readership fashion magazines like Elle accrue want to know about runway shows, new trends, the celebrities featured inside and the newest beauty/health/fitness information. These same readers will pick up Time magazine or the Washington Post for hard news. They will log on to style.com to go through runway shows image-by-image. They will refresh ESPN.com every 30 seconds during the game for the quickest updates. The point is that all of these sources contribute different things to one person's arsenal of news gathering. And so for unbiased politcal journalism same person will reach for the Times on a newsstand while grabbing for Vogue because they want to see the new trends. Different publications are responsible for reporting different things and I applaud Elle for knowing that if it wants to publish its editors' opinions it doesn't need to be afraid to do so.

For the stocking

2008-12-18T15:14:00.000-08:00

Small gifts and stocking stuffers can often be the hardest to come by. Truly, shopping for real gifts like cashmere sweaters and a nice bathroom set seem so easy; stocking stuffers are much trickier in comparison.

LUSH Mr. Butterball Bath Bomb, $3.95, available at all LUSH fresh homemade cosmetics counters. A great way to relax during the holidays. The perfect gift for friends, family and yourself. You honestly can't go wrong with any LUSH product.

Bond No. 9 New York Andy Warhol Perfume token, $85, made exclusively for Saks, is the perfect little compact. Forget powder foundation compacts or the passe lip gloss compact, perfume token compacts like this are the new trend. The other four Bond No. 9 New York fragrances are also available.

Coach Satin Pouch Charm, $58, found at Coach and department stores. It's small, charming and is the finishing touch for any female collegian's keychain. The teal is a fun color, one that always makes me smile. Unless the giftee is teal color blind, this is pretty much fail-proof.

The perfect holiday party dress

2008-12-17T22:24:00.001-08:00

Being a college student is kind of like being a rich poor person. Let me elaborate. We live under the expanding arm of our parents' money: they pay for school (usually), they pay for the apartment (usually), they pay sorority/fraternity dues (usually) and they send care packages. But to be honest, aside from that, most college students have little more than a positive balance. So when it comes time for the holidays, the only cash in our wallets comes from what we make in text book buy backs and it goes to buying gifts for friends in family, leaving us more strapped for cash than we could have ever imagined. This financial stitch makes it increasingly hard to find that perfect little ensemble for the many holiday parties that we may find ourselves invited to.

Enter the perfect holiday party dress:

It has an exciting silhouette, is black, has a jeweled neckline and is a family-friendly length hitting six inches or less above the knee (ok, so maybe more than six inches on me, being almost 6' and all). Plus a simple black cardigan pairs perfectly to keep you warm and cozy. This Shoshanna embellished dress can be found at Neiman's for $495. If I lived in Highland Park I would certainly snatch this up in an instant and insist that "with a dress like this all of the season's holiday parties would find me." I'd take it out with this Judith Leiber heart-shaped gold clutch, also found at Neiman's for $255 jsut for a little added zing.

In the spirit of reminiscing and updating my blog more often I plan on adding my take on the "editor's picks" I worked on everyday last summer at BlackBook. I will muse on things I love, can't afford, but wouldn't mind if they could grace my closet - even if for just a day.

Fashionably Warm

2008-12-16T20:30:00.001-08:00

December means a gust of cold air in even the warmest parts of the country. Bring on all the pea coats, scarves, trenches, hats with ear flaps, and wool undies because it's time to bundle up and faced our first chapped lips of the season. Just like anything else hanging in our closets, winter coats deserve stylish consideration. But what's that; there's no happy medium for Goldilocks? Here to solve your problem are three of the trendiest and classiest winter coats economy-ridden, Christmas worn-thin wallets can afford.

Stand up collars are so smart, I wish they had become a trend last year when I bought my winter coat. The convertible collar is perfect for bundling up, or just leaving down when it's just cold enough for a coat. New York and Company really got this one right. The military double breasted touch and belt give the coat an edge and makes it masculine in a really attractive way, but the soft gray color still makes it feminine enough for the girliest of girls. The best thing about this coat is that the gray makes it a little bit of a blank slate for a pop of color when accessorizing with hats or scarves, but at the same time, if it's just warn with skinny jeans and boots, it's classy enough to stand on its own.

Berry and jewel tones have come into the season with a settle to score. Pretty much any store - Old Navy, Gap, Ann Taylor Loft, etc. - have introduced pops of these shades in their cashmeres, sweaters, scarves, cardigans, clutches and shoes. So to make a classic pea coat in a berry tone like this Banan Republic wool-blend seems like a no-brainer! With a coat in these bolder shades, everything else can be played down. Like the model in this picture grays and blacks are very complementary, but even pairing subdued shades of eggplant or sapphire would work also. So if you're brave and need to update your five-year old winter coat, conside this a stron contender.

Baby doll cut coats are incredibly girly and figure-flattering, but the best thing is that this coat adds a new sillhouette to the standard body-hugging staple in most of our closets. One of the best features of this coat from Ann Taylor Loft is that the black color keeps it from being too over-the-top and trendy, instead it can work for a few years until you find something you like more.

I need to get this off my chest

2008-12-15T21:48:00.000-08:00

Pun fully intended.

It occurred to me after watching week after week of Stylista I am indefinitely annoyed by Megan. This rant, however, it is not because of her bitchiness, it is for her lack of unmentionables. Namely, a bra. The girl is fashionable, she has style, and she knows how to buy good clothes, but she is sorely lacking a certain something that'll make her girls stand taller and prouder.

After last week's episode with her the white tank it was all too obvious that she wasn't wearing anything to keep her from telling the world she's cold. She needs to meet Victoria. And probably Sarah Blakely, too. Before a girl can be figure flattering on the outside, she needs to have the right gear underneath. Megan might know the fashion industry, but she could use to take some notes here (especially if she is to style celebrities that don't have a model's figure).

My Best Friend is the Body by Victoria Full Coverage Uplift Bra. Certainly not new to VS, this old faithful is actually a recent addition to my bra drawer and quickly becoming a favorite. It fits comfortably, hugs you just right, is perfect under t-shirts, blouses and even dresses. The straps are thick and supportive, but not too. The bra, as the name denotes, adds a little oomph, but definitely not too much. In fact, wearing a push-up or padded bra on a daily or almost-daily basis will help decrease the effects of gravity on the chest, which is a nice bonus. Maybe not the sexiest of bras, but definitely utilitarian and comfy to boot. A good choice for anyone, any size.

Everyone's Best Friend is Sarah Blakely and her Spanx. Story has it she offered Saks the idea for her product, which would have given Saks licensing and copywright and all that jazz, they said no, she looked elsewhere and came out on top. The story's ending is good because women can buy her product anywhere, plus the WWW. Her body-shapers can come pretty much anyway you want them. My personal opinion is that all women should own at least two pairs (one in their skin tone and one in black). I actually break my own rule by owning two nude pairs in different cuts, but at least I have them. Want your cottage cheese cellulite days behind you? You don't even need a genie to grant that wish. The ones that are high-waisted, to your bra, and extend down your thigh are the best in my book.

The Bridesmaid. If Spanx aren't your style, then this paper thin, no-line showing thong is the next best thing. The Victoria's Secret Low-Rise thong is a nylon-spandex blend that is like another layer of skin that covers only what needs to be covered. It comes in a bunch of colors so you can match every type of pant/skirt/dress you own. Thongs are pretty self-explanatory so there's not much else to say about this one except to make sure you pick the right size; pick the wrong size and the no-show thong turns into the love-handle highlighter.

Fashionista Fodder

2008-12-09T15:49:00.000-08:00

I'm an avid reader of the Fashionista blog. In fact, that blog kept me updated on little things over the summer and every once in a while gave me fodder for the BlackBook blog. And now, I take those skills into my own and publish something here. The subject: knock-offs. The main players: Steve Madden and Forever 21.

Anyone who stumbles upon Fashionista on any given day can probably find a story on the first page about how either Steve Madden has ripped off a designer shoe or how Forever 21 redid a designer dress. Hell, Forever 21 does double duty knocking off shoes and apparel. Most of the time it is blatant. If Forever 21 takes something it spins it by adding lace or changing the color, but never something as vital as a pattern or cut. When Steve Madden takes something, not much is changed either. My editor this summer had it right when he said "Steve Madden is the Forever 21 of shoes." Never a truer statement has ever been uttered.

It shames me, as a budding fahsion journalist, to report on such indecencies as what these two retailers do what seems almost daily, certainly every season (um, Steve Madden - Dior gladiators much? too bad SM was a season late on that nab). Today, Fashionista reported Steve Madden taking the YSL tribute sandal - yes, the tribute sandal - and tweaked it a little in order to produce a shinier, cheaper (looking and priced) version. The real YSL is on the left and the knock-off Steve Madden is on the right, but I doubt I needed to point that out.

I do hope that I'm not the only one offended. Trends are meant to be followed, but specific designs are not meant to be knocked-off in this manner. This belongs in Chinatown, not Macy's.

Oh, Stylista

2008-11-19T21:17:00.000-08:00

Does anyone else find the kids on Stylista whiney and kind of incompetent? Well, I do.

As an aspiring fashion journalist (who was interviewed for the Style network's very similar untitled show) I really looked forward to this reality show, but half expected it to be on Bravo (because really, the last thing we want is for this to turn into ANTM for journalists, we're classier than that... or not based on the show). So far I've hardly been impressed. The group they pulled together was obviously flawed; I realize that in order to make good TV and lots of drama the ELLE hopefuls need to be from diverse backgrounds, but a military analyst and a law school drop-out? At least some people have fashion, journalism, or even better fashion journalism experience, but that experience does not by any means make them good at what they want to do with their lives (exhibit A: Devin).

I'm over the Megan hates Ashlie, Ashlie hates Megan plot, I'm over the Megan hates Kate, Kate hates Megan plot, and I'm SUPER tired of only seeing those three until the person getting kicked off gets airtime. That's just bad editing. But there's bad editing in several places - not just the cutting room. The contestants don't know how to pull and editorial spread together, or listen to instructions for that matter, which I'm totally over. You make a mistake, learn from it and move on, don't keep making the same mistake. Honestly, I think the best editorial page design came the first week from the winning group's contributors page, it rocked.

Also, as a former fashion intern at a fashion mag, I can honestly judge the assistant tasks for what they are. The first week, ehh, you may make coffee runs, but not often - I only made them on photo shoots and ONCE in the office during a ten week internship, so buying and putting together a breakfast tray is only something you see in The Devil Wears Prada. The second one with putting an outfit together using the dictionary is basic retail work, dressing a henry hanger; been there, done that. Planning the birthday party is just a really elaborate way to see if you are good at event planning, which hoenstly I can't think of how that comes into play with fashion journalism except to see how good you are at working on a project, no matter the topic - nothing I ever faced, I don't think. And as for putting an outfit together for a weekend trip that goes day to night and is appropriate for a woman of Anne Slowey's age, that's another retail experience challenge and a money management challenge.

The editorial challenges are a better judge of how someone will survive in this industry. The first week was great, but I expected improvement. The second week was also excellent, having to find a new trend, I'm pretty sure I did that every single day of my internship, and then having to put a page together with that as the topic was a great way to make that transition to editorial; good assignment, poor layout on the contestants part. Having to find a mother-daughter pair with a current trend, also a good assignment, but too similar (in my opinion) to the one before it; however the shopping page twist was nice, but really shouldn't have thrown people the way it did... My favorite editorial challenge was the photo shoot for Tori Burch (love her!), but the groups flopped and totally showed that they haven't learned much yet. It's very obvious to me that this show is lacking something that other reality show competitions have: a mentor, the kids on this show desperately need someone to advise them during the editorial challenges, at least for the first couple episodes, because in my opinion they have yet to learn some very important things about lay out and editing. ***Plus, these kids aren't even using InDesign or any other software, they're doing markups on pieces of paper. I bet they won't be able to do that once they're a junior editor...

Ahh, Anne Slowey, I think she is fantastic and I would take her job in an instant. She is as demanding as she needs to be, no more no less. She's honestly not the most difficult person to work for; compared to Anna Wintour she's a walk in the park. I would give my baby toe to be her assistant, but these kids seem to have little respect, I mean really who taught you to fight in front of the woman who could hire you, never bite the hand that feeds you. But anyway, fashion news director = my dream job.

As for the remaining six contestants (well, after tonight it might be 5 or fewer, but I haven't watched tonight yet...) Megan needs to stop being so catty and focus on doing better, because she could get the job but I don't think she will because she has very, very little knowledge of what makes good editorial. Johanna is fantastic, but she needs to be less quiet (however, the preview for tonight makes me nervous for her, I hope she didn't go home), she has great ideas, but I'm still unsure of how good she is on paper with editing. Danielle is smart and a very strong contender, she doesn't have the look of the job, but she definitely has the capacity; I'm a fan. Kate, oh, Kate has no experience, but has great gut instincts, which is great in this industry, but I don't know that she's got it with the computers. Ashlie is another great contender and I think that if the Megan drama were gone, she'd be flourishing, she's in my top two right now. And finally DyShaun, I don't know much about him except that he hates Kate and makes brain farts when it comes to editing, but I think he has a good eye for both fashion and editorial, I just haven't seen enough of him.

I think that the people they chose for this show thought it was a fun and easy reality show that would end up with one person working for ELLE. It doesn't seem to me like any of them expected or wanted the work given to them and I definitely feel like they sometimes (even often) disrespect Anne, someone who they should be worshipping.

Ok so I applaud anyone who got all the way through this. It's late, I don't have anything due in my classes tomorrow, and really needed to vent about Stylista.

My favorite new perfume

2008-11-02T15:48:00.000-08:00

First off - I am supremely sorry that I haven't posted in so long. Not that I have a great following or anything, but a month and a half is long time to go without posting.

Burberry Brit Sheer

I'm sure I'm not the first to write about it, but it's the first Burberry fragrance to catch my attention. What normally smells frumpy and like something my grandmother would wear (not a bad thing, because there is a market for perfumes like that), has now introduced a youthful, exciting eau. It's light and fresh and very clean, which is good. It's probably the first perfume I wish I had in a shower gel in because it's that fantastic!

I first found this gem over fall break on a shopping trip with some girlfriends (Alpha Delta Pi sorority plug here!). We were at the the Burberry store in Northpark mall; I was shopping for one thing, and perfume wasn't it so I didn't buy it there. But that didn't stopme from indulging once I got back to school :).

I'm a big fan of classy, flirtatious, but clean scents and this one definitely meets all of that criteria. Among my other fragrances are:

Ralph Lauren Romance, also because of it's fresh, crisp and clean scent. It's a fall fragrance that evokes feminimity. I usually wear it when I'm wearing Ralph Lauren or Polo clothes... They complement each other really well. Mr. Lauren is a genius.

Coach Legacy, the new Coach fragrance released only this season. I actually got it this summer at my internship, so I've been wearing it since June, which is nice because even though the campaign for it has a very "fall" overtone, the scent seems much better fit for the spring.

Chanel Coco Mademoiselle rounds out my collection. It's actually much different from my other perfumes since it's heavier. I usually only wear it for formal events or when I'm dressed up a little more than usual. Or in the winter because it will stay on your body even with so many layers.

Yes... I'm digressing

2008-09-15T20:55:00.000-07:00

To the reader who disagreed with my review of the Coco Chanel movie:

I am sorry you feel that I reviewed the movie inadequately. I was very attentive as I watched the movie and did notice all of the things you pointed out. In fact I stayed up to watch most of the encore show because I wanted to make sure that I had used my words the way I intended, and I still feel like the movie was too relationship-centric and I wish it had given more insight into her designs. Little stories about how she received her nickname "Coco" gave the insight I sought, however still left me with many questions. I may have been harsh, but critics are allowed that luxury, as are you as another critic, and you are even allowed to be harsh on me. However, I will always be observant. I will never write about something that I haven't completely understood and spent time observing.

Coco Chanel's love interests were pertinent to her career as a designer and to her personal life, but I feel like the movie could have made them less of a central theme and more of a side note, while still maintaining the integrity of a film dedicated to a designer's career and life. This is not to say that I didn't enjoy the movie, I definitely did, I just had higher expectations.

Before you criticize someone, please consider that they have reviewed all of the facts and paid attention to the details just as you have.

Now! On a lighter note, Project Runway. (P.S. if you don't want to read about Bryant Park, don't go any further).

The final six designers showed their collections (of 10, not 12 looks) at NY Fashion Week, which ended last Friday. (Note: each season, the last six or seven designers show their collections so the tent audiences don't know who is in the top three, those sneaky Bravo producers!) If the final three consists of Leanne, Korto and someone else, I will be incredibly happy. The last few challenges have proved to me that Leanne and Korto stand behind their designs, but welcome criticism without getting pouty. Joe is probably third to roundout my top three - I know, a few weeks ago I said I liked Kenley the most... - because he's been so underplayed and his designs can stand up for themselves. BUT based on the fashion week images, Korto and Leanne are my top two going into the home stretch. Let me know what you think (and read Chris March's blog on Elle Tell All!!).

Coco Chanel

2008-09-13T20:02:00.000-07:00

Tonight Lifetime premiered its movie chronicling the life of influential designer Coco Chanel. The movie did what I wanted from it by giving viewers an inside look at the life of this couturier, however I was left wanting something more. I'm sure, in order to maintain the demographic, Lifetime chose to spend more time developing romantic relations, than focusing on the career. While romance is fun to watch, I would have rather watched a movie chronicling the life of a designer, not a Nicholas Sparks-esque flick. Granted, the romantic thread throughout the movie did lend itself to present her designs differently than I expected, I would have rather watched a movie which described to me how Coco developed her aesthetic and the iconic image for women which is still present today, 35+ years after her death, in her clothing. Once a man was introduced to the plot, it took a half hour or so until designs took the stage again. If I were to watch this movie at the Starplex Theaters, I would be happy, but on Lifetime and after being advertised as an artistic film, I was disappointed.

Although the movie let me down, there was one particular plot that intrigued me and made me feel like I sat through three hours with a purpose. When Shirley MacLane described how she designed the little black dress, a staple in any young fashionista's closet, I had a sense of Coco Chanel and what she wanted to create with her designs. I expected more of that when I flipped over to the movie. I had envisioned learning a bit about Chanel's designs and how they became what we see today. I liked learning about how she flourished into what we now knew her to be, I liked watching a young Coco grow up, learning how she acquire the name Coco. These things kept me affixed to my TV, these things answered the questions I had before I turned the movie on. I just wished more of these similar questions had been answered.

Watch the movie, create your own opinions and then comment here.

Cheap Chic

2008-08-26T20:58:00.001-07:00

So Payless shoes have been getting a lot cuter lately (I'm a poor college student, so it's my way of spending less but still looking fab), but the most recent developments brewing with this discount dealer is blowing my mind. Flipping through the first two hundred pages of the September Vogue, I found nestled ads for Payless with, to my pleasant surprise, designs by Abaete and Lela Rose will be sold nationwide. Now, Abaete and Lela Rose have all collaborated with Payless in the (recent) past, and not with out some cute pairs, but also a few duds. I must say, however that I love, love, LOVE the Abaete and Lela Rose shoes that were in the ads. These are a few pics of the new collections for Payless Shoe Source.

Abaete

Lela Rose

Mineral Madness

2008-08-17T18:10:00.000-07:00

As long as there are new and exciting trends in makeup, there will be crazed addicts following them. The bandwagon that drugstore brands are finally jumping on is the mineral powder obsession. I have yet to try any of the products (partly because I'm happy with my own makeup regime, and partially because until Maybelline and Cover Girl, mineral makeup has been pretty pricey), but I'm going to look through the websites and try to decipher between the hype and the best buy.

Bare Escentuals, which is available online, Sephora and probably the TV, too has a really nice start-up package. For something like $60, you get nine products (four brushes, five powders), however you don't get the same deal when you need to replace one of the nine. I've had roommates who swear by bare minerals and the initial price tag seems alluring, but I think I'd need to test it out myself to decide whether the price tag is worth it (maybe another trip to Sephora...).

Bare Minerals

Sheer Cover gave Leeza Gibbons a makeup pedestal during infomercials. That's about the only good thing I can say. The website really has nothing to say about the product, unless you watch the videos, which mimic the infomercials. I don't see prices, unless you count the 60-day guarantee that is plastered all over the website. In addition, there are no pictures of the product, just lots of Leeza Gibbons.

Sheer Cover

Cover Girl has four mineral makeup products, and it's part of the already-established TruBlend collection. If that weren't enough to show that CG may not be ready for minerals, the mineral foundation is a pressed powder, however the bronzer and blush are both loose powders. The online reviews of the foundation are not great, and the vague mineral "powder" doesn't have many great reviews either. The blush had fantastic reviews while the bronzer had mixed reviews. If you do choose to buy into CG's mineral makeup, use your own brush. I think I'll wait to see how the labs at CG improve the product before I invest. (Though all of the products are economical and fit into CG's established price range).

Cover Girl

Maybelline is another drugstore brand to try its hand at minerals. It seems as though Maybelline is the brand with the most diversity in products. If you like liquid concealer and foundation, they have it. If you like powder (which is what I generally think of when I imagine mineral makeup), this one has better credentials than CG's, and has a better applicator. This powder foundation has won awards and been recognized by Oprah. And it comes in at about $10; I may make a trip to Walgreens soon. The finishing veil that Maybelline retails is a pressed powder - they also have a bronzing veil, but I think in the future they may come out with a loose powder veil. Even the mineral blush has racked some awards, and it comes in more shades than CG's two.

Maybelline

I'll go out an try some of the Maybelline mineral makeup. It fits my budge the best (you can get all of the products for roughly the same price as the Bare Escentuals starter kit, and they are much cheaper to replace) and honestly seems like it's the best buy all around with the awards it's won.

Interior design is fashion, too!

2008-08-15T11:10:00.000-07:00

Many regrets for not posting in about a week. I blame the Olympics, and getting things ready to move into my apartment, which brings me to the topic of this post.

Pretty much every year of a student's academic career comes with new and exciting things. Senior year and prom, freshman year of college and dorm stuff. I come to the sophomore year of college and shopping for apartment wares. And if target didn't already have enough fabulousness to offer (hello, the GO International collection, Isaac Mizrahi, and others), Sami Hayek has a small, but really exciting line from lamps to linens to picture frames and shelves. I indulged in a few (like some shelves and a lamp - nothing terribly exciting, but a notch above practical).

I also channeled Martha Stewart when I made my own picture frames to decorate my walls. Plain, solid colored frames in a variety of sizes are two for some really low price, you feel like you should be casing the place. But with a bunch of extra sorority car decals, the frames were decorated to match other aspects of the room.

The point of all of this is, that even with something as mundane as dolling up an apartment, it can be made to fit an individual style. Sort of like DIY jeans and cardigans, but for your space. It's nice, and works just as well as retail therapy.

Wild Kingdom

2008-08-07T22:13:00.000-07:00

Is it just me or will this fall's offbeat, last season comeback be animal prints? Clicking through style.com and flipping through the magazines out on the racks - whose ads for many designers show and extreme amount of leopard and cheetah prints - it's clear that the African savannah is here to stay (and I'm not just saying that because we're having a slew of 100+ degree days here in North Texas).

Take for instance Ralph Lauren. His collection was covered in spots, from the shoes, to the bags, to the hats, to dresses and jackets. When you look at the detail shots all you see is close up after close up of leopard print on everything. He focused on other strong patterns too, but in this photo, on the two models you see hats, bag and shoes in animal print!

A/W runway

When I flip through this month's Vogue, Roberto Cavalli has an animal print inspired gown in an ad and throughout his fall show, there were garments with animal print trim. I think Cavalli was more inspired with the prints than Ralph Lauren because he was more inventive. With Ralph Lauren it was the same print over and over, no variation. Cavalli, on the other hand used variation and didn't show the same print in the same way twice I would love to flounce around in one of Cavalli's pieces.

A/W runway

ad campaign

Ralph Lauren and Roberto Cavalli were not the only two to feature animal prints, several other designers had a skirt here, a vest there and some other variations on animal print trim up their sleeves. It will be interesting to see how this pans out in the next few months.

Plaids are another underdog trend that may pop a little this season. Ralph Lauren and House of Holland had plaid all over their collections for fall. I'll maybe comment more on that later.

The Return of Pat Field

2008-08-04T11:05:00.000-07:00

The ABC show, Ugly Betty, with its third season starting this fall returns to its pilot filming digs – NYC, well Brooklyn to be exact. For the world of fashion, this move means something big, because, also for the first time since the pilot, Pat Field will be styling for the show. I think my heart stopped when I heard the news, or rather when I read the news. The August 2008 issue of BlackBook Magazine (ok, so I don’t keep name dropping the home of my first internship for any other reason than it pertains to my posts – no monetary gain on my part for giving it the little publicity it receives here on my burgeoning blog) revealed this fact and several others about and surrounding cover-girl America Ferrera – pick up a copy to read all about it (and see the spreads I assisted in styling, but that’s beside the point). One among them is the prized tidbit that Pat Field will return to Ugly Betty. We all know and love her for her work with SJP and SATC, but now the world will be waiting with breath that is baited to see what she does for another show about what it’s like to be fashionable – or in this case, not fashionable. But my guesses are, even with the ever fashion-don’t Betty, Pat Field will make her stylish in her own right. Now, with the show claiming Ms. Field, I will be more inclined to watch, so long as my studies permit it.

A happy ending

2008-08-01T16:57:00.000-07:00

Happy 30th Betsey Johnson!

Last night, to conclude my internship, I was my editor's "plus one" for the Betsey Johnson 30th Anniversary Party at her Soho boutique. It was awesome, really, the best way I could have imagined to end my summer in the city. While I couldn't get a pic with Betsey herself, I did get two feet from her and some shots of her mingling. She was so cool, however due to the space being packed from the dressing rooms to the flower-wallpapered walls, there were no cartwheels. Even without her cartwheels, the party was fun. Everything was pink; from the cocktails (cosmos, pink champagne, you name it, it was pink!), the cupcakes, twizzlers, m&ms, etc. And everyone was hot (ok, so maybe it was due to limited space and overcrowding, but all of the people were pretty, seriously, not a single ugly human anywhere). The cocktail waiters were all models, my editor even recognized a few from past shoots. All in all it was a really fun event.

And just like the Oscars, there was a goodie bag! It was really exciting, kind of like Christmas. I went home with a watch (one that I'd actually been oogling on her website!), some perfume, some makeup, a bracelet and a thong. Ok, so I'm done talking about me and my time, I want to take a stroll down memory lane with some of my favorite (recent) Betsey looks.

The Fall 2008 RTW collection had some really fun pieces, but I absolutely loved look 27, with the feminine overalls and floral blouse underneath. It's so Betsey, I absolutely love it! This look epitomizes what I think is her eccentric, feminine aesthetic, but all the while completely wearable. She amazes me every time, and this is definitely something I hope to see girls wearing in a few months.

Her prom-themed Spring 2008 RTW blew me away, it really did. I fell in love with it the moment I saw it on style.com. She was adorable at the end when she and her granddaughter wore the same dress - precious! But of the collection I thought 21 had something special to it. With the quirky glasses, the corsage and the tiara, this looks like it really could have been a girl at prom - it's totally relatable, but still fashion.

The Fall 2007 RTW collection (other than being her most dated on style.com) is one of her more sophisticated, rather than being fanciful. I love, though, that even in such a sophisticated collection, she was able to introduce a little bit of girlish flair. Look 49 is fanciful and feminine, really sophisticated, and a little French looking. It's a fantastic garment, and it's one I wish I could have hanging in my closet.

Holla at cha boy!

2008-07-31T08:32:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately my ten-week stint as a fashion intern at BlackBook comes to an end today. I'll possibly post later about it, but right now we have business to get to. PR was on last night and I have to put in my two cents.

As an avid SATC fan, I absolutely loved the night-life, night-on-the-town challenge. If I were a judge, I would have had the contestants to tell me why Carrie Bradshaw would wear this, because to be honest, that's really what this particular challenge asked for even if not clearly spelled out. No one better embodies a girl on the town than Ms. Bradshaw - except maybe those Studio 54 types. That being said, I definitely think Kenley's win is deserved; Carrie would totally have worn that out with her three sidekicks. Plus I love that Kenley her aesthetic draws from the 40's and 50's - my favorite fashion era. Right now, she's my favorite.

Now onto people who the judges didn't scrutinize. I feel like Stella's leather, rocker outfit would be worn by Samantha, if it maybe had more color. For me, Stella's leather look was a little too flat tonight, she needed something to make it pop a little bit more. I really didn't remember this look until I went online to Bravo's website this morning.

I love, love, loved Jerrell's garment last night! The colors worked really well together, but if the dress were recreated, it could be done with any pallette. It could look good in plums, reds, blacks, all of them! The only teeny problem I have with Jerrell's dress is that it's not made so much for a night on the town as a formal affair. But even so, this dress made me really happy.

Now I really can't end this post without mentioning how the designers are rubbing off on Tim. Last season, with Christian saying "fierce" all the time, Tim picked it up. This season Blayne (let's be honest, the producers hit the jackpot with him) taught Tim the phrase "Holla at cha boy." And this is only the third episode, we still have ten more designers to boot before the finale.

More on Sephora

2008-07-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

I'm going to continue my little love-story with Sephora, because I am temporarily at a loss for what to write about (mainly because the next shows aren't for another few weeks and the next episode of PR is tomorrow...).

Sephora is the perfect place to test drive new products, especially if you like to know the results before you buy them - for instance this past Sunday (another anecdote). My parents were visiting for the weekend and it was rainy. I was walking around with my mom and we happened upon a Sephora (ok, so it may not have been a coincidental happening, but we wandered in just as well). After looking around - this is the same day I found that neat little eyelash curling wonder in the post below - I decided to do my mom up right by putting a little makeup on that clean, but empty facial pallette of hers.

It started innocently enough with mascara to open her eyes up. We found and applied an exclusively-available-at-Sephora prdouct, Imju Fiberwig mascara ($22). I'd never used it before, but it worked nicely on my mom. I may try it in the future, but I have such an addiction to mascara that I have about five tubes to get through before I can even think about buying more.

Next we moved on to eyeshadow. I'm not so good at eyeshadow, so I always choose really neutral colors to just subtly enhance the eyes. Shiseido has the perfect quad combo of colors in one product. The Makeup Silky Eye Shadow Quad ($35) in Desert Winds (pictured is Flora and Fauna) worked famously because it picks up any slight gold accents in the eye and just really makes your face look fresher. This shadow combination really looked great on my mom, I was so happy!

After eyeshadow, it was still raining outside, so we continued on to blush. Next to mascara, blush is my second favorite beauty product because it gives the face a little bit of color. I picked out Lorac Blush ($18) in a combination of Rose and Soul for my mom, because on their own, each color was a little too-too, but together they really worked (pictured is Lorac blush in Pink). If I had to go back and choose again, I wouldn't pick to mix two colors, instead I usually opt for more of a bronzer/blush, but that's just me.

Last but definitely not least we moved on to lipsticks. While I usually just use chap stick because it's quick and simple, I chose some Stila for my mom. The Stila Lipstick ($18) is nice because it has a glossier finish than most other lipsticks so you can just apply it and go (I can't say which color I used on my mom - or which is pictured for that matter - because the colors online all look fairly alike). And this one passes the straw test; after having a diet coke following our little adventure in Sephora, the lipstick had lasting power.

Our time in Sephora inspired a mother-daughter outing when I get home, and I can't wait! I love picking out makeup for other people just as much as I like picking it out for myself.

Look no further

2008-07-27T16:24:00.000-07:00

Today, I visited the store that is surely heaven on earth. No, really. Sephora, land of quality makeup, strong perfume and stand-out tools. The third of those really has me excited right now. As far as I'm concerned, the search is over. I found the perfect eyelash curler, and it's only $5.

Time for an anecdote: last Christmas I was doing my makeup, same as always. I was curling my lashes with my trusty Clinique curler and all of a sudden, as I was clamped down on my lashes, my wrist jerked and I ended up ripping off the eyelashes on the inner half of my right eyelid (no pictures). Needless to say, since then I've been on the lookout for something a little kinder, and until now, nothing has replaced the metal contraption that caused pain throughout the longest six weeks of my life (it took six weeks, but the lashes did grow back).

The Culprit:

The Hero:

With a sleek black, plastic body (and no handles - it's not scary-looking or intimidating at all!) and a clamp that simply slides to curl your lashes, this is the perfect remedy. It was pretty much love at first sight.

But just when I thought this contraption couldn't get better, it did. When you turn it over, the curler has another little gadget - lash and brow brushes. They just slide out the opposite side of the curler. Someone at Sephora is a genius.

How about a closer look. Beautiful. I've always thought that all anyone ever needs to look good are good lashes, and this curler is practically an all-in-one. The only other thing it needs is the perfect mascara, which I'll find in another blog entry. For now, this is my happily ever after.

Lost in translation

2008-07-25T08:58:00.000-07:00

Throughout my summer in New York I’ve seen many a crazy fashion statement. And as an intern at BlackBook I even blogged about a few of them (ahem, the wall-clock purse?!). So when I was standing in line at Starbucks and saw a man wearing gladiator sandals I didn’t point, look twice or even giggle. No, like the blogger that BlackBook molded me into, I stealthily captured the image so I could share it here.

Gladiators are one of this summer’s trends, just like the maxi dress and tie-dye (apparently), but there are some trends that don’t translate from gender to gender, and some that do. And I must say (after a lot of thought), this is a trend that can work for both men and women. With the right hardwares – like this pair – gladiators can be butch enough for a guy or trendy enough for a girl. However, not every shoe can make the gender jump as easily. Like wedges.

I know every other person has a different opinion about this, but I just can’t get my mind around man wedges. Earlier this summer at the menswear shows Fendi introduced these red, patent man wedges. And I don’t think wedges can be masculine. Gladiators yes, wedges no.

First Post Jitters...

2008-07-24T11:32:00.000-07:00

I'm a fashion intern in New York City this summer, however it's quickly coming to a close. My ten short weeks at BlackBook Magazine end next Thursday. Spending a summer in the throes of Manhattan have been everything from exciting to frustrating. I live, well only for the next week or so, six blocks from Bryant Park and wish everyday that I could come with hoards of fellow fashionistas to the tent shows. I've spent several Friday's off in Bryant Park with my blanket and chick lit in hand, watching people and daydreaming about those two weeks each year when the world stops for this small grassy knoll. Like others I spend countless hours combing style.com and imagining being in the middle of it all, thinking about which upbeat songs play as ready-to-wear pieces are modeled for two thousand people...

My normal, non-intern life is far less glamorous. When not in the middle of the city I'm in Waco, TX (yeah, the place where that Davidian thing happened back in the early 90's) working towards a major in journalism and a minor in fashion merchandising at Baylor University. Thousands of miles from the heart of the fashion industry, while all the time lusting for it. So while I may not live "la vie en vogue," I'll post about it, and hopefully someday achieve it (even though really, as long as I'm writing or styling, I'll be happy).

Now that you know a little about me, I hope you enjoy reading my occasional postings.