While I DID give Kelly Osborne props yesterday for her lovely ensemble at 
the Emmys I am a bit disgruntled that this gal is now on the E News Fashion Police panel with three other amigos
0829-rita-wilson-getty-credit
{ 1 comment }
Who knew the Emmy’s were this past weekend? It just doesn’t seem plausible that it is already awards season! While the prolific acceptance speeches are always what get me to tune in, the fashion is typically hard to beat – whether its good, so-so, or downright hideous. So who hit the mark and who totally stunk…. For the most part the fashions on every bella were a bit ho-hum, HOWEVER in the midst of the typical strapless column gowns, there were a select few who tried to go a bit outside the proverbial box and upped the ante in dresses that were a little less “expected”. One of those lovely ladies is January Jones who rocked out an electric blue Versace number that featured a shorter hem in the front and fanned out into a beautiful mermaid tail in the back. Her dress was truly a “wow” but her hair and make-up could have used a bit of a boost. String-y strands just don’t seem to stand up quite right to such a gorgeous gown.
On the other end of the spectrum we had a risk-taker who shouldn’t have gambled. Fiery headed Christina Hendricks was gussied up in lavender Zac Posen trimmed in ostrich feathers that simply didn’t compliment her ample figure. The color washed her out, and the “too-many-details” and fancied up sihlouette did NOTHING for her. This Victorian-esque inspired number is best left to the lithe super model whose height and bones will show off its
Longoria
BLACK BEAUTY:I am sad to say that the majority of my favorites this year are basic black. While I love a dash of color on the red carpet this year’s looks that sizzled tended on the more inky side with beautiful fishtail trains and tony tone-on-tone embellishment. Eva Longoria Parker was ravishing in Robert Rodriguez, while Kelly Osborne rocked it out in a beautiful look by Tony Ward. I can’t say enough
good things about Kelly’s look – she so perfectly accented her strong points and chose a dress with an interesting neckline that was UBER-flattering for her. While I don’t think Paula Abdul wins the award for “Best Dressed” she does get the “most improved” award. Typically Paula’s style choices are a bit tacky and over-
the-top but in this particular case she choose something ever-so-tasteful and downright lovely. Let’s encourage more of this behavior! Who was blah black? Kate Goselin… (And why the heck was she there anyway?) The Mom who is famous because she has 8 and who recently tippy-toed on the Dancing with the Stars and of course continues her reality show sans Jon showed up in a dowdy drippy number complete with a cowl neckline and run-of -the-mill skirt. BORING – Someone please get the hook.
Goselin
HORRIFYING:My oh my! Sofia Vergara looked more like a pageant princess than an actress attending the grandEmmys. Ms. Vergara turned up in a buttercup yellow number bedazzled with sequins by the honorable Carolina Herrera. Hererra, who 
typically creates divine designs that are utterly classic missed the mark with this Miss. Sunshine look that definitely looks a bit cheap and absolutely un-polished.
Another cheapie on the scene was Naya Rivera whose hair alone with worthy of a style misdemeanor. Who can stand this teal cupcake-like skirt with inappropriate higher than high slit? Beyond the fluff and the balloon shaped chignon the make-up was clown-like as well. Note to all readers, never do caked on make-up, with a dramatic hair style, with a frou-frou dress. Pick ONE item to highlight and do-it-up. 
Mindy Kaling had a case of the “too muches” as well. While the dress on it’s own it architecturally interesting and no doubt well-made, I feel it better suited for a gal with a little more height. The peek-a-
boo tulle, big full skirt, and asymmetrical cut leave us only able to eye the dress and not the girl beneath. This frock is clearly over powering and hits her in a very unflattering point on her leg making them appear larger than they probably are. AND, in the case of Rivera, Kaling’s hair is in one word “Ghastly”. This lovely girl is quite pretty but very poorly styled. Who knew that bad prom ‘dos would be making so many appearances on the red carpet?!
{ 0 comments }
It’s Friday night and you don’t have any plans, but you want to throw on something exciting and look gorge and go somewhere cool and delish to make it all worth it.
We are getting a tinge of a chill in the evenings these 
days, so it might be kinda fun to throw on one of your favorite new moto jackets over your stunningly simple look beneath. Throw on a pair of lovely jeggings this weekend (for those of you not in the know they are jean/legging combos that feature no zipper which means yes, ladies you must pull these ba
bies on with all of your might. Once the second skin denim are in place toss on a pretty top with gold embellishment that falls just below the bum line and then of course top it all off with a slim fitting black leather jacket with a stand up collar OR if you’re not feeling the leather your new military jacket will look fab-o with the gold beneath! Toss on a pair of gold disk earrings and some low slouchy boots. OOh-la-la!
Where to go? Hit up some where casi-cool and try Bar Cento in Ohio City. This place serves up the best fries in town – fried in too-good-to-be true duck fat, garlic, and rosemary. These thickly cut bad boys are served alongside some delish aolis spiked with garlic, curry, and hot peppers. But don’t just stop there try something different and go for the sunnyside pizza topped with pancetta, fried eggs, and provolone – What a feast! If you still have room, dessert it a must here as there is an awesome pastry chef on staff who whips up amazing treats like: Lemon bread pudding, plum and almond tart, and peach and plum cobbler. 
Obviously all of those yummies above are not of the lo-cal variety. Before heading out to such a calorie-laden meal do a marathon cardio session. My recommendation is a 60 minute spin class that can scorch up to 600 calories. Ride on!
{ 0 comments }
How did we go from hot-hot 90′s to whispy 70′s in a matter of a day? My spaghetti strapped whatevers and shorts are still in the front of my closet making it difficult for me to remember what’s it is like to have to reach for a jacket or sweater. The first few days of cooler weather are always a bit bitter sweet… While I love the change-up, sometimes it takes a week or so to get completely “INTO” layering and mixing up new looks for the season. My oufit today, in fact is a case in point that I am a bit discombobulated – leggings, denim jacket, boyfriend shirt, neutral platforms, over sized hoot-hoot pendant. Sounds OK, but trust me – I am a mess…. But I digress. Let’s dish about how to make you look hot in the chill…
Update your pants by investing in this season’s loose harem look. Pair with a loose tank and keep it tucked under your favorite new military jacket.
Keep your leggings from last year, but add a kick by 
investing in a pair with leatherette details on the side — A-la-equestrian.
Booties are still hot for Fall but add over-the-knee boots for a change of pace. Pair with second skin skinny denim and leggings.
Never EVER get rid of your shrunken moto-style leather jacket. This is a MUST have that will never die and is perpetually chic.
Still love your maxi dress from Spring and summer? 
Don’t miss it for fall… Don some thick tights beneath your frock and finish with round-toe boots — The more rugged the better. NEXT layer up with a denim jacket. Darker hues are more versatile and timeless.
{ 0 comments }
Those of us who make pilgrimages up to the Cleveland area simply to get a Sephora fix will have to do so no longer! No, sorry ladies we aren’t getting a Sephora in the neighborhood – but a something just as nice – ULTA. Yes my dear make-up lovin’ friends Fairlawn Plaza in Montrose is opening up this cosmetics superstore that will sell hot must-have lipsticks, blushes, eye shadow, fragrance, etc by the likes of: Urban Decay, Bare Minerals, Smashbox, and many many more. This wonderful place also stocks oodles of lovely hair care products and styling tools to boot.
So, what’s hot for hair and make-up for this 
upcoming Fall season? For hair it’s all about volume so pump up your strands with a volumizing mousse! For extra lift blow dry your hair upside down and style your bouffant by teasing your hair at the crown then smoothing back. Your pouffed up coif will get extra mileage with a generous spritz of hair spray try grocery store brand L’Oreal Elnett super strength – it perfectly holds tresses in shape and then brushes out easily with no icky flakes later. LOVE IT.
How about make-up? It always seems as though berry lip stains are the it lip look for fall. Try it yourself with a deep vampy berry lightly patted over the lips… Next blot with a tissue. The rest of the face should be fairly bare. Add a bit of blush to warm up the cheeks, a dab of mascara, and a pinch of shimmery highligher on the cheekbones. ooh-la-la! Looking for the perfect berry? I love “REBEL” by MAC. What a perfect deep wine shade for the gorgeous days ahead.
{ 2 comments }
While I haven’t gotten extensive feedback on the like or dismay of this particular post’s theme – I happen to like it a lot so thought I would go for round two. If you are searching for somewhere to wear something fabulous this weekend, perhaps this little ditty will provide a bit of inspiration — Or if anything a new exercise move to add to your bag of tricks.
gold disks
THE OUTFIT:We are facing another warm weekend, so rejoice, you can wear something utterly “summer” this weekend and feel lovely, not to mention look smokin’. Drape-y easy looks are what make me tick on this pretty afternoon. I for one, relish the idea of throwing on a pretty flowy caftan/tunic that subtly hangs off the shoulder or drapes easily around the body. Pair this big time sexy top with some skin tight jeggings or basic black leggings (in order to balance everything out), perforated platforms (that will be fab for fall too), and a retro-earring. Maybe you don’t like the black bra showing beneath? For a more conservative approach wear a flesh toned cami beneath that falls and hugs your hips… 
No one will see a thing!
STEP OUT:Where to don this fresh sexy-casual-not-trying-to0-hard look? Head to independently owned Flying Fig restaurant in Ohio City. This creative neighborhood is a 
great summer place to visit with lots of people out and about enjoying a unique Cleveland area chock full of yummy eateries and delightful bars. Before heading to the “Fig” trot on over to the Parisian-style Market Avenue Wine Barlocated next door and enjoy a sip of one of the 100′s of wines offered by the glass, then hop over to FF and try to nab a mini table outside so that you can enjoy the soft breeze and of course the people watching. The menu at Flying Fig is abbreviated, but not short on taste! I recommend one of the flatbreads to start, the seared scallops, and the gnocchi- and don’t worry portions are small so you are sure not to wreck your fashionable figure! Don’t forget dessert – the lava cake is to die for paired with fig ice cream. Reservations are recommended since this tiny jewel box tends to fill right up. Call 216.241.4243. Flying Fig – 2523 Market Ave; Cleveland, OH
THE MOVE:Pretty shoulders are important for this look, so be sure that you are doing your best double shoulder raises before you head out… This is a tough move when doing multiple reps so even if you are a seasoned “work outer” you will want to start with 5 lbs. Begin with one 5 lb. weight in each hand arms at sides, palms facing in. Slowly lift arms out to sides to shoulder height (palms facing down) then, keeping arms at shoulder height and extended, bring arms together in front of your chest, then and lower to front of thighs palms facing thighs. Next do the move in the opposite direction- both arms together extend out in front to shoulder height (in front of chest), move arms back out to side (again holding at the same height) then back down to starting position. That is “ONE” rep. Essentially the move is like making an imaginary “T” with the arms. Repeat 25 times and have fun.
{ 2 comments }
There is nothing better than gaining inspiration from a well-dressed lovely on the streets! Typically the eye-catching nature/appeal of a fashionable person is his or her knack for putting items together that you may already have, in a different way than you may have thought previously acceptable. I am in love with street style websites, lookbook.nu in particular, that features super stylish ladies, gents, and otherwise doing their most serious “Zoolander” while donning a chic look. Many of the styles are right up my alley, while other simply are not.
Any one who knows me, would most likely agree that look #1 epitomizes my style. We’ve got the femme, intricately lovely lace top with ruffle neck detail and flounce sleeve, paired with micro scuffed up
shorts
s which perfectly offsets the sickeningly pretty top, finished with a massive satchel and of course hippie sandals. This look is done right from head to toe. Pairing fussy with beat-up is visually captivating and keeps the look from being overdone. Steal this Milanese gal’s look yourself and pull on your favorite frayed up jean shorts (the ones pictured right are from Urban Outfitters – $28) with a ruffle strewn or or lace top (The top featured left is from Charlotte Russe – $20). Shoes MUST be flat, you will DESTROY with easiness of thise masterpiece by donning spikey heels. Remember it’s all about balance. Ssexy short shorts shouldn’t be paired with sexy high heels, 
gladiator
Look #2 is another “See Jane Style” fave. The best part about this one is that everything that this doll is wearing should be a MUST have piece in every woman’s wardrobe. What else is great? The proportions are perfection. The oversized boyfriend shirt works wonders with the skinny sihlouette of the leather leggings, and the psuedo chunky netural toned heels balances everything out. Let’s dissect the look even further – We are working with all neutrals – black, white, and taupe which can all be seamlessly worn together. There has also been a bit of interest added with the wide leather band worn across the forehead making this not your average oxford and legging combination. What else works? The quilted Marc Jacobs handbag of course – a super classic that is modern with it’s thick gold link chain but classy in that it is conservatively quilted.
How to ruin this look? Pointy toe pumps are a sure way, as would be to-the-knee boots. A too-small white blouse that hugs every inch is another disaster in the making as would be a top that isn’t quite long enough or is TOO long. You want to stick with a length that swings just below where the bum meets the upper leg – LOVELY. Want a boyfriend shirt yourself? Run to H&M. I just picked up a beauty for a mere $19.50 that I plan to wear with leggings, jeans, bandage skirts, shorts, and even over 
dresses all season/year long. A great piece at a great price.
Look #3 is NOT a “See Jane Style” fantasy maker. Oh no my friends – NOT AT ALL. I think this girl is trying a bit too hard to be the punky, thrift store diving diva. The overall look is dirty and unkempt. I hate the sloppy, open, sleeveless chambray top worn over faded floral print short-short shorts and then finished with hobo/cowboy ankle boots that appear scraggly and over-worn. And let’s not leave out that hat. These Charlie Chaplin toppers have been quite popular lately and are styled a-la 80′s with it worn toward the back of the head. I just bottom line hate these hats with a passion and find them to be utterly unflattering in every sense of the word. How would I style this differently? I would hold onto the white tank since that is a basic that can go miles but I would skip it with this look. First things first, obviously the hat will have to go. Next I would button up the shirt leaving the first 3-4 buttons undone, stand up the collar and tuck the tail into the shorts. Next, I would add a cute pink (or black if it’s easier) girly bow belt woven through the loops and would shoe-it-up with a kitten-heel round-toe pink number. Hair in a high pony and pretty pearl over-sized button earrings to finish. Ta-DA! It’s been “See Jane Styled”.
Let me know what you think? Which of the ensembles pictured do you love or hate? How would you style them differently?
{ 0 comments }
I have my ups and my downs with Express. Right now I am on the upswing and really like several of the items in the store – most specifically the outerwear, that is stylish, chic, and affordable — three words that I love to use!
At the current time this lovely retailer has put several top shelf items on special too (think 40% off on special coupon days), which is even better for those of us who are excited to stock up on some great jackets and coats for the season to come. Remember dear readers, it’s best to stock up on jackets rather than frilly tops, trendy bottoms, or dresses because it is the first thing everyone will see, and in the fall you are also more apt to keep your jacket/coat on for the duration of the evening, rather than fling it to the side. Sooo, pick carefully.
This particular open front jacket is too die for fabulous and would be my go-to item when pulling on simple denim and a tank OR over a spectacular floor sweeping dress or skirt (long and lean is in right now ladies). Not only is this piece great for now, it’s timeless and ageless and the fit and shape will carry you from season to season and from year to year. Are you vegan? Well, I have special news for you as well… This perfectly posh piece is 100% faux so you have zero chance of offending anyone should you choose to purchase. How much? $128.00, my dearie – woo hoo!
Jacket number two shown right is one of my favorite finds! Lace is one look that is super hot for fall and will be showing up everywhere from insets on denim to elegant gowns fit for a queen. This particular jacket with it’s cropped fitted shape is incredibly versatile while remaining femme and current. Certainly a white tank and jeans is a good pairing, while throwing it on with a high waist pencil skirt is posh. You can also make this look UBER-prim and channel the 1950′s popular retro look by sticking it on with a full accordion pleated skirt and extra large belt… Finish it all with ladylike fishnets and a round-toed red pump. The best news? This doll is on sale right now for about $75.00.
You’ve heard it before, and now you will hear it again. Trench coats are the one item that the majority of fashion buffs will agree is the must-have for every woman’s wardrobe. I love the ruffly play on this classic look pictured left that keeps the tried and true more fun and whimsical. Clearly this is a casual look best reserved for an impromtu lunch date with a friend, movie night, shopping excursion or even a casual Friday at work. Which ever occassion you choose, this item will add a dose of spunk and will get you noticed. Try one on yourself and if you like it you can walk away with a perfect fall classic for $98.00.
{ 0 comments }
It was the “Statement Necklace” that had fashion folks everywhere abuzz the last couple of seasons, and while in your face massive multi-colored baubles swathed about the neck is still de rigour, the new “IT” accessory for those who love to kick it up a notch is the cocktail ring.
Yes, bigguns’ strapped to your forefinger are totally eyecatching and awesome, but the latest and greatest that has got style mavens everywhere flocking to retailers are the knuckle rings and the full finger ring. While the look of these new accessories are hot to trot, I can’t help wondering if they are user friendly. While I love to throw on trends for office and free time, I am thinking that fusing two or more fingers together may result in a bit of immobility. AH, but who cares… Let’s suffer in the name of fashion, shall we?
Beginning with the classic over-sized cockt
ail ring it is most current to skip the ladylike bigger than big gems and instead bring out your inner death rocker by choosing morbidly cool pieces like happy-go-lucky skulls, slither-perfect serpents, or just anything with intentionally dark inspiration – think spikes, grommets, and studs. Strap on one of these otherworldly numbers with an outfit that is a polar opposite – think a Peter Pan collared lace top worn with high-waist pencil capris, and delicate pink ballerina flats. No one will be able to miss your skeleton ring when you do it like that.
The multi-band/connector ring is another hot number, but should be reserved for night time/non-writing/non-computer time. These particular rings fit across several fingers at a time – 
typically 2-3 and provide limited mobility. These knuckle crushers aren’t practical, but they sure do look cool and is an inexpensive way to add something uber-current to your repertoire.
Last but not least is the full 
finger/knuckle ring that is characterized by fitting over and covering the entire finger. You can go pretty with these or a bit more skelatore. Wear this baby on your index finger only.
{ 0 comments }
Fashion obsessions happen almost daily for me – I become infatuated with certain accessories, a new silhouette, or even a different heel height. So what is it today on this lovely Sunday afternoon that has me lost in a daydream? It’s the oversized clutch. The bigger the better my friends – I am talking lots of width and height but not too much girth. The goal is to have a nice square or rectangle shape that is as flat as a moderately stuffed envelope. You’ll want to carry this perfect piece with you in the evening and tuck it nicely under your arm OR if standing hold it on both hands in front of the body in the upper thigh lower abdomen area.
These oversized beauties are meant to be used as a chic night out carryall – think dinner with fri
gold clutch
My personal favorite right now are several styles by Halston Heritage that don’t cost an arm and a leg, but aren’t dirt cheap either. This sapphire one
brownclutch
Pair your clutch with denim and a silk tank, a sheath/sexy dress, short romper, femme full skirt, or whatever you please. Don’t cram too much into your new treasure though – you will risk it not fitting just right under arm and your bulky mistake will destruct your fashionable vision.
{ 0 comments }
