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Saturday, April 17, 2010

Ask away Girl: DENIM CRISIS!



I need a pair of jeans that will fit my body shape. I have a high waist and really skinny legs. I feel like all the jeans i have are meant to be low, but they are high on me, help me!





Girl, your crisis is going to end! High waisted and skinny legs, I know of some brands and cuts that will fit you like a dream. First off you have a great shape that can be versatile with a lot of jeans, but I recommend staying away from anything high waisted, they are just going to make you frustrated. High waisted jeans on girls with a short torso or a high waist do not flatter that unique body.





You're right in that you stick with a low waisted jean, but there is such thing as "too low." Stay away from anything that is really low cut like Rock and Republics or Frankie B's (ewe). They automatically cut into the hips and serve no purpose in flattering the body other than displaying tacky butt cracks and muffin tops.





Girl, I feel you, I rock the same body type and feel like the brands that fit me best are Paige, Hudson, and J Brand. I own all three and feel like these are the best at offering a lower front rise and a higher rise along the hip and butt. I feel like you would love the Paige "Laurel Canyons," Hudson signature boot cut, or my personal favorite, J Brand "Heartbreaker." I love J Brands because they have a thinner circumference around the thighs compared to other brands which is great because you wont have to worry about the fabric around them stretching out so much.

I hope these tips help you! It's not hard to find the perfect fit for your body type. You just got to look and try on and never be afraid to ask for help!

MGMT "Congratulations"... Not What I expected


Like any other indie kid I'm obsessed with MGMT and think they have such a funky unique beat that makes me want to strut. But this new "Congratulations," not necessarily what I expected.



The cover of the album deceived me because I thought it was again going to give me this postmodern 80's electronic sound that was like their previous album, but to the fifth power. No it was definitely not that and instead I thought I was listening to a beat that sounded like futuristic surfer music from the 60's. I can't hate such a great band for sounding different than their previous album, I'm all for praising individuality, but I was not expecting this.




Don't get me wrong, I like the album, in fact I loved it, but I was completely sideswiped when I heard mellow and echoing songs. I even found myself scrolling through hoping to hear something that can replace my obsession with "Electric Feel" or "Kids," but nothing could replace those hard core beats.




For a song worth downloading off the album, I recommend "It's Working." It's fun and gives that nostalgic 1960's west coast surfer vibe with a twist of hipster modernity. But anyone can go onto MGMT's official website and listen to the entire album for free.




All in all, I like this album, let's give it a 3 out of 5 stars... yeah that works.

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

ILLUMINATE ME: Revlon Illuminator Success!


Of course I'm an E! junkie and saw Gulianna Rancic rave "throw away that blush, it's all about the GLOW!" to make my face glow rather than look rosy. While flipping through some magazines I kept seeing Jessica Biel's perfectly glowing cheeks in a Revlon Illuminator ad, so I figured, "why not!"


Let me tell you, I was debating on trying this or the Nars "Liquid Orgasm" illuminator, but for $29, I wasn't ready for it, or impressed. So I went with the next best thing and tried Revlon's version. By the look of my usual Target isle, there were only 5 left in stock so that was already a sign that it should be good. It was either a darker bronze or a light natural bronze. I went with the light because I refuse to use a darker bronze on my face (Snookie ruined that for me).


And obviously, I was born with no patience and had to rip open the packaging and test it in my car. It felt soooo nice on my cheeks and looked fantastic! I'm one to not dabble in drug store cosmetics, but let me tell you this stuff is great and only $12! It did not make my face feel oily and one little drop goes a long way.


Ladies this Illuminator works like magic and will make you cheeks look like they belong to a sun kissed goddess! It's beautiful on and will glam up any look from colorul spring eyes, or just a clean slate with no make up. I swear you will be satisfied and in love!

Monday, April 12, 2010

Weekly WOOF: OMG, Rihanna!!


Rihanna definitely knows how to make jaws drop with her incredible beauty and daring fashion sense, but what the hell?? Really what was she thinking when she decided to wear a sweat onesie with head to toe giant skulls on there? Honestly, with a body like that why emphasize it with huge skull prints and a side of combat boots. Get some sleep girl and wake up with a better pj decision.

Sunday, April 11, 2010

My Sunday Lift: Thank You, Karen O


My wonderful friend Katie read my mind when she sent me this youtube video. Yeah Yeah Yeahs "Turn Into," acoustic style. I was obsessed because one, it's my favorite Yeah Yeah Yeahs song and two' everything is much more beautiful when it's acoustic, especially Karen O's voice.

No matter what kind of music you listen to or what mood you are in, the wonderful melody of her voice paired with the organically soothing strums of the guitar is the remedy to anything. Listen and love it, it made my day so much better. ENJOY!




Thursday, April 8, 2010

PUCKER UP: Bobbi Brown Tinted Balm


No more shiny sticky gooey lips ladies, it's time to throw away that gloss and become more sophisticated with a nice colorful lipstick or better yet, LIP BALM. I have discovered my new favorite lip color today, and on accident too. I always stay away from Bobbi brown in fear that i will fall in love with something and hate the price, but my dear friend told me about a really cool tinted lip balm. Sounded like something a grandma would wear, but I was curious.



As soon as tested the "Pink Raspberry" color, I was in love! This is probably the smoothest lip stick concoction that has ever graced my lips. The color is subtle yet had that natural rosy tint with a bit of gloss. And it moisturizes too! You can find this tinted lip balm in 5 colors wherever Bobbi Brown cosmetics are sold, I got mine at Nordstrom for $18. Trust me, you will LOVE and your lips will look and feel fabulous!

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Cover My Muffins: How to Conceal The Dreaded Muffin Top


No matter who you are or what pants you are wearing, muffin topping haunts every girl and freakishly, men too. But men are another story, women HATE the muffin top. I cannot tell you how many girls come to me freaking out about that dreaded pooch on their hips. But honestly it's not rocket science, you just need to recognize: one, your body shape, and two, the height of your jeans. If you're a girl who carries most of her weight on the hip, your best bet is to stay away from a low rise jean that's going to cut directly into the hip, DON'T DO IT. I have the answers to your problems all the way from the fit and cut of denim to tricks of hiding those overflowing love handles.


Best Cuts & Brands


Like I said, the first thing to do is recognize your body shape. Muffin tops appear on women who carry most of their weight on the hip and the best thing to look for a jean or pant with a mid to high rise. Higher rise jeans will conceal the weight on the hip and emphasize the narrowness the waist and I highly suggest a dark wash. Dark wash high rise= smaller looking hips and narrow waist... AMAZING! I suggest these Citizens of Humanity "Amber" bootcut jeans. I think these are fantastic especially if you have some booty or carry weight on your hips and thighs. One these are the softest things ever and two the wash conceals!! Trust me, they will be your best friends!




In terms of my favorite styles I say go with Joes "Honey Curvy" fit, Hudson signature bootcut, and the Paige "Hidden Hills." All these jeans have that higher rise either all around or just along the hip and the back. I especially love the Hudsons and "Hidden Hills," because they have a thicker band around the waist that sucks and tucks excess buldge on the hip.


KNOW YOUR SIZE!!!


This is probably the most obnoxious thing I come across is when women deny their size. I don't care that you used to wear a size 26 two years ago, people change and so do styles! Just because you have to go from a 28 to a 29 doesn't mean you have to squeeze you ass into a size smaller. That's how jeans rip and muffin tops appear! Go with the right size even if it's a size or two bigger. I always tell women and myself that no one is going to come up to you and ask what size you are wearing or check the size in your tag. Pay attention to the fit and not the size, it's what's going to make putting on a pair a jeans much more rewarding. But still keep in mind when trying on jeans that if they fit perfectly with a bit of room, go a size smaller because denim does stretch!


Tricks to Hide The Muffin


We are all going to have our bad days when we feel blah and bloated as hell (you know when that is ladies) and every pair of jeans we own are going to give us some pooch. I have some tips that will conceal these handles and still look super cute!


Cover up! By cover up I mean a casual jacket, boyfriend blazer, or my favorite, a cardigan! Wear a fitted blouse underneath or even a tee with a cute blazer or cardigan over (stay away from stripes and go with darker solids), it will conceal the sides and make your tummy look flat, a win win situation that is super flattering.


Also, try tucking in a blouse, preferably a button up. Tuck any flowy blouse in, put a cute solid color belt around the waist, and pucker out some of the blouse around. Believe me, it's my favorite illusion and works like a charm. It makes the waste seem smaller and the muffin tops GONE, and make sure to use the belt, the belt creates the tiny waste illusion.


Alright ladies, I gave you the tips so you have no more excuses. The bakery is closed... NO MORE MUFFINS!

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

WHAT?! Rock and Republic Files For BANKRUPTCY Protection


Wait, did this really happen?? According to the Los Angeles Times today, Rock and Republic had to file for chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Apparently filing would help tone down some pressure on their balance sheets. I don't know if anyone saw this coming.


"Filing is a strategic action that will alleviate balance sheet burdens and will enable us to adopt the financial and operational initiatives needed to support the brand's growth needs," said Geoffrey D. Lurie, the privately held company's newly named chief reconstructing officer.


So don't worry if you're a die hard Rock and Republic fan because they're still sticking around to make sure your asses have giant R's on them. This just goes to show anything can happen in the fashion industry, and as Heidi Klum says, "one day you're in, and the next day you're out."

Saturday, April 3, 2010

Weekly WOOF: Jean Paul Gaultier For Target


Target has been doing these high fashion special features for the past few years now, and thus far I only see them being purchased when they're in the clearance rounders hidden with the plus size clothes by the fitting room. I'm afraid Jean Paul Gaultier's line for Target will be squeezed in with some triple X floral skirts.


At first I was stoked to hear that he was doing a special inexpensive edition for Target, but come on! Make it something worth while and not a freaking gold metallic swim suit or a scary woman on a tee shirt. How I wish a designer would make something so worth spending the more than average Target price on.

Take for example, the halter eyelet dress. Seems like he had good intentions for the dress but it was poorly executed. First off the cut is just extremely awkward and does no justice for any woman who is not model stature. The fabric is awful because it is so thick and doesn't lay flat on the body. You think a more delicate and a more flowy fabric would be chosen for such a elementary silhouette. Lastly, the price exceeds the Target average at $59.99! You can find a way cuter dress somewhere else for that price, or hell a cuter dress at Target for a third of the price!

Seriously, it drives me crazy how none of the items really relate to the fashionista Target shopper. Look who shops at Target and think, "would they really want to spend $29.99 on a coral cap sleeve t-shirt with a giant eye on it?" No they would not. And no one is going to spend $199.99 on a cropped leather motorcycle jacket, it's just bananas when they can find a cuter jacket for like twenty bucks more at Nordstrom Rack.

All in all, this was a fail and once again will be gracing the entrance of the Target fitting room with orange stickers at 70% off in about a month.



New Funky Lacquer By American Apparel


I know it's not that new but American Apparel introduced a new funky concept to their twist on basics with nail lacquer. Of course they had to do something completely different by calling it lacquer instead of polish and using edgey rectangular bottles. I know the indie crowd is eating this crap up, which means I am too. I remember staring at the bottles and debating if I should try one, and of course the more than petite raspy voiced sales girl had to awkwardly chime in on how I can't live without a forest green nail color. I caved and got forest green, mustard yellow, and a cotton candy pink. All i have to say is that I freaking love the colors and the fact they are 3 for $15. I'm hooked and you will be too! I have never received more complements on my funky nails than with these colors. The only set back I have is that the texture of the polish is somewhat runny so don't be surprised if three coats are necessary. So what are you waiting for? I mean come on, such a great deal and there are TONS of unique colors to choose from!

Friday, April 2, 2010

Hot PANTS!


J Brand is pioneering the new trend of the cargo skinny and making it the hottest item to have for your spring and summer wardrobe; and it's called, "The Houlihan." Khloe Kardashian was seen in Miami wearing the Houlihans and rocked out an outfit with some sick Alexander Wang leopard wedges and a simple black button up tucked in... FABULOUS! I mean, these have to be some amazing pants if a girl with a booty like that can look amazing in them too!


Houlihans retail for about $231 at major retailers like Nordstrom, Barney's, Saks but can also be purchased at RevolveClothing.com, Shopbop.com, and Intermixonline.com.

Thursday, April 1, 2010

The Skinny on Your Denim


Let's face it, when any girl sees a pair of skinny jeans, they are TERRIFIED! But what no one knows is that there is variety and ideal pair for any shape! I'll give you the low down on how anyone can find their favorite jean and call it a skinny!




If you're looking for a skinny but don't want that edgy painted denim look or super tight on the calf, try a classic straight leg. Ideally I suggest a straight leg for those who are getting into their first pair of skinnys, think of the straight leg like your training wheels when learning to ride a bike. Here's one of my favorites that look fantastic on almost anyone and are freaking comfy! The Citizens of Humanity Ava Straight Leg. They come in a variety of colors but I think the "Faith" dark wash is best. What i love about them is that they have a high rise in the back and go higher along the hips and work their way down to a low rise in the front. And you know what that means?? NO MUFFIN TOP!!! Also they have an 14inch inseam which means they have an 14 inch diameter around the ankle so they wont be super tight but can still snug their way into a boot. These jeans are also great of you are a hippier girl. If you were blessed with curves don't go with such a tapered look but more of a straight leg because one: it will make you look so much taller and thinner. two: it wont draw attention to the hips.








If you want a fantastic tapered classic and sleek look, go with my personal loves J Brand 912 or the J Brand 910. I'm obsessed and own both but how can you go wrong with them? They are basic as you can get with nothing funky on the pockets so your ass wont look huge! No one wants to have a huge ass in a pair of skinnys. If you are a tall girl, go with the 912 because they are a lot longer and have that 12 inch diameter around the ankle. The 910's (10 inch ankle diameter) are more of an ankle length so if you are looking for a strict boot jean, they will slide into the tightest boots with no hassle! A picture of them is up top. Just some FYI about J Brands, they run small so don't cry if you have to go a size up... it's not you, it's the jean.


Still confused? Don't worry, there are such helpful sites that basically hold your hand as you go through the skinny jean process. My personal favorite is the Paige Premium Denim site. There is an interactive fit guide of this beautiful 5'9 blond babe named Paige Adams-Geller who helps you find your perfect fit. It's awesome. Or another great guide is the one on bloomingdales.com. It has everything including brands that are perfect for your unique body type.


It's a simple process so don't get scared. Just remember not to get a all around low rise (muffin top city) and to make sure the rise on the hips and back is mid to high rise. Also if you're self conscious of looking chunky in them, go with a SOLID dark wash. Anything with fading or weird distressing is only going to draw attention. Also make sure when you try on any denim that they fit SNUG. They will stretch so if you if they fit you perfectly in the fitting room go a size down or else you'll have saggy butt within 30 minutes. So remember to just keep it simple and you'll be fine!


Paige interactive guide link:



Bloomingdales Fit Guide:

Sandal Season: Top 5 under $25


Spring has sprung and that means the sunny items of our warm weather wardrobe have arrived, including sandals! A cute pair of summer sandals or flats can completely vamp up a wardrobe, but why are the cutest ones we see so damn expensive! My rule of thumb, if you're going to buy for a seasonal trend, why spend an arm and a leg on a something when no one can really tell the difference? With great values at places like Forever 21, Target, and Old Navy, it will be so easy to find the cutest summer sandal for under $25!


Here are my top 5 favs:





NUMERO UNO of course comes from Target.com and can we say Seychelles knockoff?? I mean why spend the $79.95 on Nordstrom.com when you can get these bad boys for $17.99. These are so cute with skinnys, a dress, or can even dress up some leggings and a cute over sized tee.



http://www.target.com/Mossimo-Supply-Wakeisha-DOrsay-Sandals/dp/B002PBADUE/ref=br_1_125?ie=UTF8&frombrowse=1&searchView=grid5&searchNodeID=405688011&node=405688011&sr=1-125&searchRank=pmrank&searchPage=1&searchSize=150&id=Mossimo%20Supply%20Wakeisha%20DOrsay%20Sandals&qid=


Number 2! I think these are stinking cute and scream Dolce Vitas that I saw at Macys for about $80 and these are only $24.80 available at forever21.com.



http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=FOREVER21&category%5Fname=footwr%5Fcasual&footwr%5Fstyle=&footwr%5Fsize=&footwr%5Fcolor=&footwr%5Fprice=&product%5Fid=2074652568&Page=all




Number 3 comes from the lovely site of OLD NAVY! I'm normally not a fan of Old Navy.com but I stumbled upon these and seriously wanted to high-five them for a $20 way cute flat sandal. I recommend the rose gold color or even that awesome turquoise to give that hint of flair to a sassy sunny outfit.


http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=34892&vid=1&pid=753300



FOUR! MY FAVORITE! I say this because I just bought these, but how could I resist! These are the cutest things and I absolutely love. I had a pair of Sam Edelman's on hold at Nordstrom but these just ooze summer sandal at a recession friendly price. For $22.99 you get a sandal with with a slight wedge with that gladiator trend. These also come in black but I recommend the cognac color (Picture is up top), just such a great color that practically goes with everything!



http://www.target.com/Mossimo-Pollyann-Woven-Wedge-Sandals/dp/B002Q1DN1O/ref=br_1_20?ie=UTF8&frombrowse=1&searchView=grid5&searchNodeID=13834201&node=13834201&sr=1-20&searchRank=pmrank&searchPage=1&searchSize=90&id=Mossimo%20Pollyann%20Woven%20Wedge%20Sandals&qid=





Last but no least, comes from ALLOY.com. I know some of you may remember Alloy from those free cataloges we received during middle school and freshman year of high school, but I rediscovered their foot wear when I saw these surprisingly cute flat sandals. I love the simplicity paired with the studs along the trim. SO CUTE! And the price ain't bad to boot for only $24.90!



http://store.alloy.com/item.do?categoryID=617&itemID=51889&sizeFilter=&colorFilter=&brandFilter


Like I said, when going for something trendy, think about how long the trend is actually going to last before you spend mucho dinero on something you know will only be around for 3 months. Plus these sandals I showed you are knock offs of amazing designers for triple the price.