It's like I'm GOOP and I went on vacay...

So I haven't posted for the whole summer. I'm back now.

Countdown to Memorial Day!

Are you excited for Memorial Day and Wear sunscreen! Have you seen the new awesome sun protection kit from Sephora? For $22.50 you get a ton of different trial size sunscreens and other sun goodies that will get you through the summer fully protected. Most importantly, your money goes to The Skin Cancer Foundation, yay! Fun products for you and your money goes to work. Double bonus.

Eco-kosher the new diet fad?

I saw this on Jezebel, apparently the new thing is being kosher AND keeping your food choices sustainable. I love it! Synagogues are starting their own CSA's (community supported agriculture) which is so awesome. I really hope this catches on!

Mother Lover

Pretty things

A bit ago I met designer/costume designer/stylist Astrid Brucker at a fashion show where her label, Astridland, was showing. Her clothes were absolutely beautiful and I wanted to see more so I went to her online store housed on Etsy to check out more of her label. I found out that not only does she sell clothes, but she sells incredibly trend-right jewelry as well. Not only does it look the part (think multi-strand necklaces, lady-like details) it fits into the whole handmade trend as well. The best part is, it's actually affordable. If you're not familiar with the Etsy set-up, it has to be handmade, so what's cool about Etsy to me, is that you're getting these amazing quality pieces that are also inherently limited run, so you can buy a necklace or dress that you're not going to be seeing on your co-workers or the girls next to you in the bar. Even though it's summer, I really think I might need this shawl. Happy Etsy-ing :)

Update: Everyone on Gossip Girl Sings

Here's a video of Taylor (Little J) performing with her band the Pretty Reckless. It's actually exactly what you'd expect it to be like and it's awesome.

Everyone on Gossip Girl apparently also sings

So by now you probably know Chuck Bass- Ed Westwick, is in a band called the Filthy Youth. You've probably been following Blair -Leighton Meester's leaked tracks on Perez and also her announcement a week or so ago that'd she'd even inked a record deal. In fact, her single is supposed to be released in July and an album will be released sometime this fall. And then, you might have heard that little J -Taylor Momsen is ALSO in a band. It's called the Pretty Reckless. And then last but not least, Nate- Chace Crawford is allegedly signed on to the next Kenny Ortega (High School Musical) project, Footloose, which is slated right now to be an all-out musical. Zac Efron was supposed to star but dropped out because he didn't want to be pigeon-holed into a "type." So does this mean Chace can sing too?!! Here's to hoping that Vanessa- Jessica Szohr forms a band not unlike Dr. Funke's 100 Percent Natural Good Time Family Band Solution from Arrested Development. Okay, so that wouldn't be likely, but maybe when everyone on the show goes to college that's what Vanessa's character will do. She'll then open for Rufus. Then they can hook up. And Dan and Serena will sell promotional T's. The end.

Earth Day!

In honor of Earth day, let's talk about recycling! Recently, I've noticed a lot of articles and buzz about the amount of textiles that end up in landfills each year and different ideas for trying to keep from being discarded. While there does seem currently be a culture shift going on from our throwaway mindset, the way fashion trends cycle through so quickly, items end up in the garbage much before the end of their physical life. We are making strides in the right direction but there's is certainly always room for improvement. If you'd like to read some quick facts about the textile recycling, click here.
The question is...
Do you want to be part of the pollution or part of the solution? (I'm sorry, I couldn't help myself.) Seriously though, small choices you make can add up and make a big difference.
Let's explore some good ways to change your habits:
1) Buy secondhand. If you are going to buy clothes and accessories, think about buying from ebay or a vintage/thrift store. It's recycling! You can always ebay your own clothes and accessories and perhaps make some dollars for yourself. Or you can donate to a thift store or give away on freecycle. What if you however are so trendy and there's absolutely no way you'll ever give up your H&M addiction? Well, if you decide to donate your clothes instead of throwing them away like a lot of people do, you're at least giving your clothes the shot at another go-around.
2) You don't know what to do with half the clothes in your closet because they are just a little too big! Go to a tailor. Getting your clothes tailored brings new life to stuff you already own, yay! So you're saving money since you're not buying new clothes and you're saving resources too. Way to go you! Bonus points if you walked or took public transportation to your tailor, you're so green.
3) Remake your old garments and accessories. You're thinking you want to be a little more Martha Stewart and turn this into some fun crafting. Use beads from a necklace you're over, or make a bag out of an old tee shirt or pillowcase. Amy Butler has amazing patterns for all sorts of cool things you can make from old clothes or fabric. You can find Amy Butler patterns here.
4) Buy smarter. When you go shopping, buy clothing and accessories that you can wear for a while. Yes, trends are awesome and you can buy some trendy things here and there, but if you really want to make a difference, try and buy items that you can wear more than one way. Of course that's nothing new. It's just good to remember and practice. Spending a little more on garments that are well constructed is smarter than spending less on garments that are going to fall apart due to bad stitching or poor thread quality. If you really want to go above and beyond, you can buy from companies that buy carbon offsets, make their products locally, use sustainable raw materials, recycle, or try to reduce or eliminate chemical processes that are harmful to the earth. As I've mentioned before, supporting companies that have ethical and responsible practices ensure that this practices will continue. Supporting companies that aren't worried about how their practices affect the planet will just encourage them to behave badly!

harem pants: one, me: zero

When I posted in January about the harem pant trend, I did mention that it would be possible that I would come around. In the May issue of Lucky in the best section, 30 days of outfits, one of the elements they chose to work with was a slouchy, pleated pair of pants which was styled excellently six different times. Pleats! I didn't want to succumb to pleats! I recommend checking it out, because really, it's exactly the kind of 40s glam that looks effortlessly cool.

FYI: Blog updates

As previously mentioned, I am writing for another blog. I now have decided that I'll post celebrity gossip on that site and keep everything else here so that I'm not double posting. Hope that works for you too!

New home confirmed for Project Runway

Good news for Project Runway fans, Tim Gunn and Heidi are back! Finally after a year of messy legal battles over the fate of Project Runway, the show will officially be on Lifetime. Yes, Lifetime. The lawsuits between Harvey Weinstein and Jeff Zucker/ NBC Universal has finally been settled. So the much embattled season six will finally air! Yay!

Tom Brady's women are fighting

Gisele recently said in an interview that Tom Brady's child is 100% hers. Bridget Moynahan has allegedly responded. And by responded I mean someone who claims to be a close friend tipped Page Six to say Bridget's pissed Gisele is using her child for publicity. Hopefully Bridget will take the high road and not come out with an official statement for her own sake, but considering her sexy mom spread she did after she gave birth, I have a feeling she'll speak out to get some relevancy.

Michelle Obama CAN WE CARE ABOUT SOMETHING ELSE

Okay, so Michelle Obama is smart, talented and beautiful. However, why, why does the media care so much about her arms and her fashion choices? Why does she have to be reduced to a series of clothes and arm shots? I am getting sick of hearing all about her dresses and clothes and how she went to London wearing one outfit and exiting the plane wearing something completely different. I wish we could focus on her other talents other than her sartorial choices. Not to get all jezebel-y neo-feminist, but why do we have to turn all women into fashion statements? Is it just because everyone wants her to be the new Jackie O? Do you think 40 years from now people will be trying to emulate her style? Would it then be worth all this coverage?

Lady GaGa on American Idol

Lady Gaga graced us live on American Idol with her pantless presence. Now, I realize my roommate and I are the last two people on earth tuning into American Idol each week, so you might have missed this, but the girl wore a ZIPPER over her eye. Yes, a ZIPPER was glued over her eye. I am writing this as it is being performed, so right now there are not pictures to corroborate my story, but trust me. Or Google it. Either way. All I know is this girl will do anything to distract you from really looking at her.

FYI

I am now writing for another site, http://www.mauvaislangue.com/ you can see my articles posted under my name. I'm trying to figure out what to do content-wise, and right now I'm generating independent content for each. I'll let you know if anything changes!

Downsizing, not just for regular people!

Chad Michael Murray is allegedly being cut from the cast of One Tree Hill next season. How does the media know this? He apparently told a fan. Said fan taped the conversation and posted it to youtube. E! transcribed the tape and went to work contacting reps for Murray and the CW. No one has confirmed, but the video has been yanked by the user off of the site. Chad Michael Murray is such a wanker, I don't blame the CW for wanting to cut his character.

Twilight, it's good if you don't pay attention

I will admit to reading all four of the Twilight books or the whole 'saga' as author Stephenie Meyer calls it. I will also say that I like them, it's like Harry Potter for girls. To deny Twilight's enormity is impossible. It has spawned a teen abstinence movement, sells out of bookstores, and made huge stars out of Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart. Now that we know Twilight is recession-proof, as it sells out on DVD and singlehandedly saved Hot Topic from shitty sales due to branded products, I thought I'd give the movie another chance.
I saw the movie when it came out in the theater with a friend and we laughed through the whole thing because it just seemed so cheesy. Now that it's out on DVD, I've been reading a ton of reviews about how Kristen Stewart 'carried' the movie. So with the help of my boyfriend's Blockbuster movie pass, I rented it tonight. I watched with an open mind. I'll tell you though, I still don't see how you could watch it and enjoy it without already being a die hard fan. Stewart's performance is subtle, nuanced even, but honestly, if you don't have a working knowledge of the story from the books, I just can't see how it would be any good. I read somewhere that the use of music really enhanced the movie until they play Radiohead's 15 Step. I have to wholeheartedly agree. I actually downloaded two songs from the soundtrack after seeing the movie initially because I'd liked their choice of music, it really complements the whole feeling of the Twilight movement. I'd forgotten that while I watched and when 15 Step popped on at the last minute, it really is so bizarre. The whole movie plays songs like Muse, Linkin Park, and Paramore. In fact, Paramore contacted Twilight reps to get her music in the movie because she's such a huge fan and the song on the soundtrack she wrote especially for Twilight. Radiohead is not like those bands, and just doesn't fit the mood at all, but I truly digress.
All in all, not as bad the second time around, but that might have to do with a few things, the fact that I was catching up on my laundry, reading online and making dinner didn't keep me glued to the movie. Also, I've now read all of the books, so the little things that are revealed in the movie are interesting. Meyer really has created an interesting story arc for some of the characters. Oh, and Robert Pattinson is so hot.

Should Dunkin' Donuts try for the fashion crowd?

Dunkin' Donuts has been making meticulous plays for market share in the coffee world, this we all know. What is interesting to me however, was posed to me earlier this afternoon, could DD woo the more fashionable of ladies? DD has unleashed upon the city and lady mags, an ad campaign praising it's cheap lattes. One of the Dunkin' Donuts in my neighborhood has gone under some major cosmetic surgery with a new wood facade and dark gold and mahogany colors. In the cheap chic zeigeist, could Dunkin' really make a play for the fickle fashion customer? More importantly, would you switch your loyalty from Starbucks to DD?
While Tim Gunn has already expressed his allegiance to the Dunkin' I do have a hard time thinking that the voguettes are going to start clutching styrofoam Dunkin' cups. To me Starbucks is a part of the trend-set and even though you could save money by going to DD, Starbucks has incredible brand equity. Just becuase you're penny pinching doesn't mean you have to give up all of your loyalties. If I'm going to go out for coffee, I'm going to go to a local shop or I'm going to go to Starbucks, I'd go to Dunkin' Donuts, but not by choice. It's like, I love Target, but you can't get me to shop at Wal-Mart. There's really no reason for the bias, it just exists. I imagine I'm not the only one that feels that way. However, I will say that I see more and more people carrying DD cups, so perhaps I'm alone in my thoughts? What say you?

Polyvore.com. it's amazing.

If you haven't played around on www.polyvore.com, or at least looked at it for inspiration, well then you're missing out my dears! If you were a fashion major in college or a middle school girl at one point then, you're quite familiar with the concept of inspiration boards. Polyvore is basically a medium for creating collages minus paper cuts and glue sticks. It's a great site for experimenting with clothes and figuring out how a new piece would work in your current assortment. Also, a good way to kill time at work and a good alternative to wasting time stalking your quasi-friends on facebook.

Days into Nights into Days - by gagey on Polyvore.com

DIY Spring trends

Remember that you don't have to buy all your trendy new clothes. You can make them too! A lot of the looks shown for spring - cut-offs, ripped jeans, slouchy tees... can be made from clothes you already have in your closet. Please do not go out and buy J Brand cut up jean shorts for $176.00. That's crazy! Cut off your own. I swear they will look the same, probs better. If you don't have a pair you want to cut, go to the thrift store. I made some from a pair of hollister jeans from like 5 years ago and for reals, they look just like the ones I'm seeing in Bloomies.
Current/Elliot jeans are cute, but they also come with a pricetag of $200+. Boyfriend jeans are also easy to make and in fact I'm going to try my hand at these too! I have some light wash slouchy bootcut jeans that I'm going to hand distress. You could do bootcut or even some skinnies and distress them yourself with a cheese grater, or just slicing a few holes into them with scissors or a knife. Run them through the washer and dryer and no one will be the wiser. Plus, a lot of the boyfriend jeans have a man crotch and I really doubt we're going to think that's hot next year. If you still are into it, you might again want to try a thrift store and buy a pair of men's jeans or steal from your real boyfriend but it's unlikely his will fit (they'll probably be too big for you!)
Slouchy tees are easy too- a lot of the ones that are sold are literally hand stretched. So if there's a shirt that you're over, try stretching it out and experimenting with stretching out the collar, sleeves and body. Take cues from Alexander Wang or his muse Erin Wasson - this trend is all their fault because they handstretched their own shirts first.
There you have it! 3 trends from your own closet.

Making spring trends work for you

I hate to bring up the state of the economy, but honestly it's hard to avoid talking about it a little, isn't it? Well, we all still love fashion and staying trendy, so what's a girl to do? Current economy or not, I have to learn to save money! So this spring, I've decided to enact a new strategy when preparing for the coming seasons- actually think about what I want before I get it. Yes, it's pretty revolutionary. I have to confess that in the past I have just gone out shopping and dropped a decent amounts of cash I should not be spending on pieces that are completely impulsive. In the end I have some good individual looks but not really a cohesive wardrobe statement. This time around, I'm trying to change!
Here's my plan and I think it's a good one so I'm sharing it with you. (I'd love for you guys to comment on your upcoming strategies!)
1) Research and figure out what trends you like and want to try - if possible pick an overall theme or color scheme. Based on my clothes and current S/S trends, I've decided to go with purples and metallics and I really take advantage of the boyfriend look trends.
2) Haul out your spring and summer clothes! Try on your old clothes and figure out which ones work with the looks you plan on trying everything on and just experimenting with different ways to mix things. So I just did this tonight and it turns out a lot of my stuff definitely works with the current trends which is great. I can guarantee this will be the same for you, so just do it!
3) Identify holes in your wardrobe and figure out the pieces that will fill them preferably going for pieces that can work double duty, like going from work to weekend or day to night. Most of us spend the majority of our time at work so it's good to keep in mind that we should probably be buying more work appropriate clothes than items that can only be worn on the weekend.
4) Buy only those pieces!!! This is the tough part for me. I went out shopping after work today and I'm not kidding I tried to justify buying like 5 different pairs of shoes. If I hadn't been so hungry... well, my credit card might not have lived to tell the tale.. :)

Most importantly, you are allowed one really trendy item, but really, not more than one or two because the trendy stuff comes and goes (but I know you know that). For me I'm planning my one splurge to be a romper. I am desperate for one! So I found one that looks like two pieces and hopefully it will live beyond one season, but if it doesn't, it's okay because I'm only allowing myself one!

DSquared's fantastically awesome social commentary

DSquared sent an interesting accessory down the runway in Milan. Starbucks cups were clutched in many a model's hand in their show inspired by L.A. girls after a hard night of partying. What a fabbie theme! Follow the link to see the show and pictures. http://www.graziadaily.co.uk/milan/archive/2009/03/02/the-morning-after-the-night-before-at--dsquared.htm

I would love to take a second to brag here and point out that I have recognized the beauty of this particular phenom before :) http://racked.com/archives/2008/12/04/olsen_twin_book_giveaway_we_have_a_winner.php
Yes, I won a signed copy of Influence for writing about the starbuck's grip in December.
Just because were in a recession and Starbuck's has been scaling back stores and even the CEO took a paycut to $10,000 a year, doesn't make Starbuck's any less iconic. Skinny L.A. chicks still need their coffee.

Jean Shorts. Will you wear them??

Jean shorts. (Jhorts, anyone? Heh.) Okay so cut-offs aren't anything new, but they seem to be out this season with extra oomph- kind of like your girlfriend that just broke up with her boyfriend and wants to be out on the scene every night, right?
No matter what year cutoffs will remain the epitome of relaxed sexy summerwear. Seen and sold pretty much everywhere for spring/summer, I think we'll be seeing this trend on more than just celebrities. Cutoffs made it through the year as Kate Moss and Lily Allen showed them in a new way and rocked them this winter with black tights.
Model extraordinaire Erin Wasson has "designed" a pair in her capsule collection with RVCA. Alexander Wang showed jean shorts last year which probably was partly to blame for the jean short fanaticism. The real question is, if you are not a model or a skinny high schooler- are you going to wear cut-off jean shorts? Madewell and some other retailers are showing cute jean shorts that have a rolled cuffed hem- for me, those would be the way I would choose to wear this trend, but I'm guessing some real fashion-types will go for the real deal. Where do you fall in the spectrum? Will you wear jean shorts?

Gossip Girl + No Doubt

According to multiple blogs, an upcoming episode will involve No Doubt's first performance since reuniting!
Do you think Rufus and Lincoln Hawk will be opening? Will Rufus harbor jealousy pangs over Gwen's successes? Will Dan try to sleep with another older woman? These questions and more will be answered soon I hope! Also, if you are joining me for the Ultimate Gossip Girl Summit at the Pit next weekend I'll bet the panel really riffs on this!

http://nymag.com/daily/intel/2009/02/no_doubt_is_going_to_be_on_gos.html?mid=daily-intel--20090227

top three faves- Oscar Dresses

So many pretty dresses!!
1) My favorite was Marisa Tomei's Valentino dress, because goodness the work alone that went into that is unfathomable. It was like fluid cascading fans! Bonus points for also being it my favorite mermaid silhouette.
2) Natalie Portman's dress was also fantastic because it was so bright and of course she always looks amazing.
3) Frieda Pinto's one shoulder in blue was another win. She has such an incredible smile and we all know we'll be seeing much, much, much more of her!

Victoria's Secret Jumps on the Natural & Organic Beauty Wagon

Didn't I say big companies were making headway with the organic and green movement? Victoria's Secret has just introduced their Pink body line of beauty products which is 100% vegan and organic and natural (which is probably implied when they state it's vegan and organic). I have to say for the most part my loyalties are to Burt's Bees, Whole Foods, or Trader Joes, but I love that each day there are more and more options for those of us who want to live a "green" lifestyle. Also, it's really affordable. Just thought I'd fill you in!

for those of you in the DC area

to stay on top of those fashion trends and to know when and where the good sales are you should be reading or subscribing to www.dcscout.com

It's by washingtonpost.com and has a ton of great information on events as well as great style advice!

do you ideeli?

so you know how online private sample sales are the absolute best? Ideeli is probably my favorite of all of the lot. If you're not already a member click here to join www.ideeli.com/invite/jennifer.l.gage

John Corbett for Applebee's?!

So I'm watching regular TV (not DVR'd) and it's an Applebee's commercial and I hear a familiar voice praising Applebee's. It's F-ing John Corbett (Aiden from Sex and the City). Does he really have to sellout to Applebee's? APPLEBEE's for the Lord's sake??!
Rant over.

Fave comment of the Day

from twitter-
Racked.com is liveblogging fashion week as well as tweeting it and here's the best comment on Gossip Girl's Taylor Momsen: "Taylor Momsen at Anna Sui. The haircut does not look better in person, sadly"

Yes! I'm so not shocked. I was watching the bonus material that itunes posted for free from season one gossip girl and Taylor looked SO DIFFERENT (read: better) I wish she would grow her hair back out and stop channeling Joan Jett.

For those of you in the nyc area

What are you doing this weekend? My friend's band Birdlips is playing a show Sat night (9pm) at Pianos (158 Ludlow) on the LES. You should go! I'm pretty sure I'll be there. Listen to their music! Download it on itunes! http://www.birdlipsmusic.com/


Also, they date. so cute right?

New Neighbors in NYC

So, JT and Jessica Biel are moving to NYC.
http://www.news24.com/News24/Entertainment/Celebrities/0,,2-1225-2108_2471825,00.html

And apparently Angelina and brood are checking out WASHINGTON HEIGHTS?! http://curbed.com/archives/2009/02/18/wahi_gentrification_watch_brangelina_cometh.php According to curbed.com, they were spotted checking out an apt... very interesting.

FYI

Did you know that Google has an application where you can keep all your health records together? It's accurately named Google Health. I'm posting this because I just read an article this morning about how important it is to keep an accurate health file for your own personal records. So what's easier than putting it online where you can access that information pretty much anywhere?
Just thought you should know!

Another American Idol Posting

Dammit, I'm offcially someone who watches American Idol. As a newbie to the show it's interesting to see how it all plays out. Tonight was the first round of cuts now that the real show has begun and it was pretty predictable- except for one person. Michael the "everyman's man" made it to the top 12. Here's the thing, he's totally good and not like I'd ever make it on American Idol, but his rendition of Gavin DeGraw's I Don't Want to Be was kind of off sounding to me, but he's so likeable that I think people just want him to succeed. What was awesome was Tatiana's elimination (for now) from the show. She openly cried while everyone else who was eliminated tonight held it together and smiled pretty for the cameras. So much for not being a drama queen. I imagine we'll see her back in the competition when she snags a wildcard spot.
Unfortunately, I'm looking forward to next week's performances and eliminations :)

American Idol hooks another viewer (me).

So my roommate has turned me on to yet another t.v. show. This time it's American Idol, a show I'd never even seen an episode of before this season (which is season 8). So tonight was the first night that the artists really "perform" and America gets it's first shot at voting. So this one girl, Tatiana, has been like a total nutcase the whole season thus far and then tonight she's super reserved and it was as if someone had flipped a switch. After her performance the first thing that judges comment on is how they want her to dial back up the crazy. So instead of focusing on her singing, they spent their time asking which personality was the "true" Tatiana. I think it's interesting that they were so bothered with her acting normal because it just goes to show that they had wanted to just put her in the crazy girl box. Now the second that she stepped out of that box, they didn't know what to make of her anymore. I'm assuming her crazy antics were and are good for ratings, so they'd prefer her to be unpredictable and completely dramatic to add some flair to the show. However, I just thought it was interesting how unsettled they were by her normal behavior, even perhaps upset that she could be normal. Just another example of reality t.v. pigeonholing yet another girl into predictable stereotypes.
Here's a peak at Tatiana for those of you who are interested

today's tidbits

poor girl even has to cancel her birthday party
http://thesuperficial.com/2009/02/rihanna_cancels_birthday_party.php

I'd forgotten about them!
http://jezebel.com/5150624/spencer-and-heidi-cant-keep-their-stories-straight

Also, who watches the City? After reading this show recap and commentary, I kind of want to..
http://nymag.com/daily/fashion/2009/02/the_city_cannot_handle_the_top.html

Sucky Concerts: Live vs. Pre-recorded music

So last night I went to see Cat Power and despite her voice being amazing, she did not bring the energy or the attitude nor did she really put on any kind of show. Other than slinking around like a zombie straight out of Michael Jackson's Thriller video, she spent a fair amount of the show with her back to us, which I've never really seen a performer do. She kept the audience waiting while she started the show considerably later than expected, then walked off after about 25 minutes of performing, and kept apologizing silently... it was so bizarre. Also, she never once talked to the audience. She got up there sang, walked off, came back and sang some more and then just walked off again. I don't think I've ever been to a show were the audience was never directly addressed by the performer even once. So that was a huge disappointment and it made me think of this debate I've been seeing off and on since the Inauguration about pre-recorded music used for "live" performances.
All the music played at President Obama's Inauguration was pre-recorded as the orchestra did not feel comfortable with the possibilities of any slips. While that is understandable because of the magnitude of the event, it's also kind of disappointing to me, because when you're talking about some of the most celebrated and talented musicians, it's crazy to think that even they don't want to trust their own skills in a public forum.
Jennifer Hudson lip-synched to the National Anthem at the Super Bowl this year as it was her first public appearance since the murder of her family members. One can only assume that her people wanted the performance and subsequent publicity to only be positive, taking the risk out that her voice could waver probably made everyone feel better.
Recently, Jessica Simpson has had some rocky live concerts that have been adding fuel to the fire of her tanking career and public persona. The latest, which is rooted in her miss at a Michigan concert, is that Tony Romo has dumped her. No word yet on if it's related to her recent "weight gain." Negative publicity likes this most likely pushes some artists to rely on back-up tracks and pre-recorded music.
So relating this back to the concert I saw, even though it sucked that Cat Power was not feeling it last night, I think I'd rather see and listen to the actual song, voice, performance, and music, than have a perfected studio-enhanced version of a song or songs.
If this is where the music industry is heading, I think it will take away from the artists and demand a level of perfection that is just setting up people for disaster, but then again, pre-recording tracks is doing exactly that, taking out all risk that a mistake can happen, unless you are as unfortunate as Ashlee Simpson was a few years back.

http://www.tmz.com/category/jessica-simpson/

What I'm reading about today

Sadface for Rihanna.
http://thesuperficial.com/2009/02/chris_brown_arrested_for_assau.php

rachel zoe trademarked her popular catchphrases. For REAL?
http://nymag.com/daily/fashion/2009/02/rachel_zoe_trademarked_i_die_a.html?mid=fashion-alert--20090206

You might not want to follow Jim Cramer's advice...
http://online.barrons.com/article/SB123397107399659271.html

Ugh, most annoying "it" chick peaches geldof is getting divorced... c-line you were right on the money
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1139662/Besotted-Peaches-ended-marriage-new-rock-star-lover.html
sidenote: for people not too familiar with Peaches you should really visit her fansite which clues you in to her full name and some pretty funny life details:
http://www.peachesgeldof.net/
Also, her little sister's first name is Pixie.

Unlikely a major shock to anyone:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1139651/Weve-Vietnam-Cambodia-Ethiopia--Angelina-Brad-set-adopt-boy-Burma.html

Kelly Clarkson in headlines? Why..?

I have to say, the only time I am even reminded of Kelly Clarkson is that one scene in 40 year old virgin when Steve Carell is having his chest waxed. So when I was checking usmagazine.com this morning like I do every morning (and usually on the hour every hour at work- true story, but also, don't tell my boss), I was a little, WTF? Why do we care about Kelly Clarkson? So when I saw her in the headlining story today on Us, I almost didn't even read it figuring she's in desperate need of publicity because of her new single? Well anyway, I read the blurb and it turns out it's about how she always gets asked if she's actually a les. Why had I never wondered that? I'd never thought that before until this silly little post, but really, she'd make such a great lesbian! Ok, that's all. And now I think she is even though she denied it.

I took her album cover picture from her blog- http://iamkelly.wordpress.com/

Oprah's weight drama

I am so bothered by all this recent weight scrutiny in the media over Jessica Simpson- but I kind of come to expect it since you're either too thin, fat, or pregnant according to Us Weekly. Oprah however, is another story. OMG I don't care about what you look like or how much you weigh and you sure as hell don't need to draw attention to your weight gain by issuing a public apology or whatever she's been trying to do. I look forward to the day where we don't have to focus on a woman's weight as a measurement for personal success... but until then, according to New York Mag, Oprah's open struggle with her weight was a good thing for her public image and her magazine sales- says New York, "O's January issue featured a before and after image of Oprah on the cover, asking "How did I let this happen again?" The queen's extra 40 pounds boosted sales to over 1.1 million single copies, the best-selling issue of the mag in three years. Take that, weight gain!"

Argh!!

The Duck Trucker

http://jezebel.com/5143456/keep-on-duckin-truck-driver-and-duck-become-bffs

this is fantastic. The best part is the fact that the duck's name is Frank!!

Please tell me you've seen this before

This is the cutest/ funniest video. Okay, so that's total exaggeration, but it's a classic nonetheless!
Also, the boy was on tyra and here's his interview.

Laughs

So I went to a comedy show this weekend in the city hosted by Sara Benincasa who btws is so funny. So at her show she mentioned how she and her comedy partner Diana made videos of fake food network pilots. This is quite entertaining and I think you will enjoy it.
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=50443733

In case you didn't catch this already...

Good Morning America decided that "sugar daddies" are a trend and interviewed a young woman who is part of a "mutually beneficial" relationship... you might have caught it on jezebel- I think everyone needs to know about seekingarrangement.com because really, that's crazy awesome.

here are other links to this- http://jezebel.com/5100425/sugar-daddies-easier-than-work+study-for-college-students


Apparently applicants to the site are soaring because of the recession.

Gladiators + Spring Trends

Did anyone else realize that gladiators perfectly suit the bohemian vibe of the new spring fashions? Or really any of the new spring clothes? Gladiators will look good with boyfriend jeans, jumpsuits, your awesome new tie-dye clothes. Just a friendly observation :)

Freecyle= free + recycling!

Do you freecycle? I do. Freecycling is a conglomeration of regional yahoo groups who post daily or whatever whenever they have any items that they are giving away, don't have use for anymore, etc. For example, I had some old clothes I was done with so I posted it to freecycle- it emails out the members in the yahoo group and then the first person to email me picks it up and it's theirs for free! It's fun and cool. You should do it too. It's really easy. This week I picked up a barely used ikea shelf from a woman down the street from me. All you have to do is visit the website http://www.freecycle.org/

Community Supported Agriculture

So, you wanna really be green? Or really support local business? You might already go to the farmer's market, but if you really want to help out your local farms- you could consider becoming part of a local CSA. Where you have basically purchased a share of the summer's harvest and fresh produce is sent directly to your home each week.
Visit this site to learn more: http://www.localharvest.org/csa/
Hurry because lots of farms need you to sign up within the next week or so to become a part of this summer's take!

Fantasy Spring 09 Closet

In college, one of my roommates and I used to play this game -the fantasy food game- it's quite a simple concept and I know you do it too, all you have to do is name and describe the most delicious sounding food thing you were craving in the moment. I believe we created this game while eating very unsatisfying dining hall food freshman year. So I'm going to apply fantasy food to clothes and tell you about some pieces I would have in my fantasy wardrobe for Spring if per chance I win the lottery or stumble into some other stream of extreme financial prosperity.
1) Stiletto Pant by Elizabeth & James
2) Gathered Bateau Sheath Dress by Milly
3) Draped Dress by 3.1 Phillip Lim (specifically because I feel like you could pretend to be Joan Holloway in Mad Men)
4) Alexander Wang combo dress - which is featured in this short video which as a sidenote- is worth it just for the model as she's not quite sure how to handle herself :)
5) Michael Kors ID chain bag
6) Marc Jacobs tulip hem wrap skirt
7) Dolce&Gabbana strapless bustier dress because, you know, why not?

Of course there are many others, but this is all I'm going to bore you with for now. Perhaps my one commenter will add her most coveted spring pieces?

Hippies continue to inspire spring fashion

Have you seen all the tie-dye in the Spring 2009 collections? It's unreal or should I say something totally cliche like, totally far out man! Jimmy Choo, D&G and Alice + Olivia, among others bring some 60s and 70s peace and love to the mix. I'm wondering if perhaps the revival of Hair last summer in Central Park is to blame for the resurgence of the summer of love?
Tie-dye is one of the "it" prints this spring and is absolutely everywhere as a result. I have to tell you, the Rebecca Minkoff tie-dye addition to her classically shaped Morning After bag (pictured right) might be calling my name, loudly... Also as an FYI, printed and patterned bags are pretty big for spring, so one might as well combine two trends into one great accessory (accessories are usually the easiest way to experiment with trends). Miss Sixty ran with this trend and kicked it one step further showing totes in the same print as their dresses on the runway.

You can channel your inner 70s sweetheart over and over for spring with the many bohemian inspired pieces quite similar to tie-dye but instead are dip-dyed for the ombre effect. Ombre (fading from a darker color to a lighter tone) has been a key look for Fall and Winter 2008, so it's no surprise to see it continue and evolve throughout the spring. Might I suggest this ombre maxi dress from Alice + Olivia? Yes, long maxi dresses are still big for the spring too! So if you hadn't been brave enough to try one last spring or summer, you should definitely get one for this spring.

Tribal prints, ikats, and batiks also have their role in spring and you'll see on various style and retail sites (Bloomingdales and Shopbop both have great trend presentations for Spring expounding on the bohemian and tribal looks I touched on here)many tops, dresses and bags with these bold prints are categorized as global or traveler trends or gypsy- boho or neo-hippy. I'd like to think of us as the echo boom flower children, but I digress. I think that Tory Burch has really done well with the ikats and tribals for spring and she has issued her classic canvas totes and tunics in various prints that support the global hippy aesthetic quite well.

Of course the trend has been in the works for a long while now, but you can still throw on a headband like Rachel Bilson (pictured), Nicole Richie or Mischa Barton - and flash a smile and a peace sign like LiLo if you would like to embrace the spirit of the trend without buying a whole new wardrobe.

Jumpsuits- back in action

I called my mom to tell her that I got an email today about jumpsuits as a spring trend according to Bergdorf's. She wants you to know that she has a lovely one that's blue silk by Liz Claiborne. I would like you to know that it really does look great on her.
Jumpsuits seem to be another style that come and go as designers please and are notoriously hard to pull off. If you're going to get a jumpsuit, try on a few styles and see what works for you.
I've posted a very cute one from Bergdorf's- the Addison Short Jumper by Barron Duquette

Oscar Noms

So the list of Oscar nominees came out this week (wooooo) and I am just wondering one thing. Is it possible that Brad and Angelina could both win Oscars for best Actor/Actress?
Also, was anyone else surprised that Tropic Thunder made the cut somehow at the Oscars? Robert Downy Jr. got nominated for best supporting actor in TROPIC THUNDER. I don't get it.

celebrity rumor

Apparently John Mayer broke up with Jennifer Aniston again? I heard it today on Sirius Radio...

Am I the only one who'd never heard of the Razzies?

Apparently the razzies are a spoof on the Oscars. I found this out when reading one of my fave-y celebrity websites - www.thesuperficial.com. Am I the last person on earth to know about this? What a great concept! So Kim Kardashian was one of the nominees and despite the fact that it's supposed to be an insult, she wrote on her blog that she was really honored about being nominated, blah, blah and here's what I have to say- Kim's blog is a GEM. Seriously. I have to say, I love me some Keeping Up with the Kardashians, but who is that obsessed with Kim that they are going to visit her website all the time and like download pictures of her licking lollipops or whatevs? She also has a section called Kim style for those of you needing to copy her look. Enjoy!

Link & Interesting Tidbit

Sign up for Ideal Bite if you are interested in green and eco-living tips. It's a bit like daily candy for eco-friendly set.

Not everyone was excited about Michelle Obama's dress: http://jezebel.com/5136918/black-designers-disappointed-in-first-ladys-fashion-choices

Gladiators still doing battle in Spring 09

For those of you fashionistas who invested in a pair or two of gladiator sandals, good work! You'll still be in step with the trends for Spring '09. Sigerson Morrison has put out a pair similar to the original Balenciaga's launched last Spring.
Top pair are the Sigerson Morrison's that can be found at Bergdorf's.
Bottom pair are one of the Balenciaga pairs from last year.

Boyfriend Jeans still big for Spring

So remember when Katie Holmes wore Tom's jeans and pegged them? And then everyone went mad for Current/Elliot Boyfriend jeans? It seems this trend will carry on through the spring season. Check out today's whowhatwear.com's episode on Jean trends as well as daily candy nyc's blurb on boyfriend jeans http://www.dailycandy.com/new_york/article/41222/Everything+but+the+Girl
I think this is another trend that only works on really skinny girls... not so much a trend everyone can pull off. What about you?

Plaid on Plaid

Did anyone catch B's plaid on plaid outfit on Gossip Girl this week? I've been a little slow to post on it because I'm out in Cal, but I just had to post on it! Especially because I think it's interesting how this is a trend from the D&G runway from their fall and winter collection (showcased here in who what wear tv: http://www.whowhatwear.com/website/full-article/runway-to-real-way-dg/ )
So here's why I'm thinking this is interesting: is Gossip Girl a bit behind this trend? Or is it just playing it now because on the show it's supposed to be winter and it's a winter trend? Or since Spring clothes will be hitting the stores in about two weeks, probably less, should they be heading into spring '09 trends? I know that the episode was filmed pretty recently, and clearly plaid has made quite a comeback for both fall and winter, but as a show who has fashion basically as a main character don't you kind of expect them to be a bit more ahead of the fashion curve?
Note: I couldn't find a picture of the plaid on plaid ensemble, but she did wear plaid clothes almost the entire episode (You've got Yale if you are going to download it from itunes)
Please feel free to leave comments!

Shopping for a cause

So with everything happening- like the green movement - the economic climate- companies making severe budget cuts and some going out of business... I've been thinking that now more than ever it's important to support the companies we believe in by spending our money there. Now more than ever, our dollar is a like a vote. When we spend or don't spend with a company right now, that makes a huge difference. A difference we can see everyday as companies like Saks cut 11,000 jobs. How we spend our money is one of the most important messages we send out everyday. I'd say most people have a grasp of this concept, but would you say that it's in the forefront of your mind when you are grocery shopping, let's say?
I think about it when I wear my one pair of Toms shoes, but I didn't even buy those for myself. I think about it when Lucky mag posts their monthly shop for a cause page, or when it's convenient for me... but I don't usually go out with the intention of supporting specific businesses every time I shop. So this concept was stirred in me when I started noticing Jezebel.com running articles on all the fashion houses that are buckling and how they are so pissed that uggs haven't had to even go on sale. Don't the girls over there realize that's just a basic principle of economics? If people are willing to buy uggs at the current price, there is no reason for retailers to put them on sale. If no one is buying Peter Som, then Peter Som needs to change into something people will buy or yes, he will go out of business. http://jezebel.com/5129499/ugg-boots-are-the-sort-of-stupid-crap-we-hoped-the-economy-would-kill
So for me, this article really sparked something. Do we think about the impact we do when shopping at certain stores or buying certain products? I've always tried to avoid shopping at Walmart because I think they have shady ethics, but sometimes in school I'd have to cave because they were open at convenient times and did have low prices.
Right now though, I think I'm going to try and shell out a few more bucks to allow me to thoughtfully consider my purchases then support companies that I believe are doing more good than harm, whether that be environmentally or by charitable contributions that company makes. There are all sorts of reasons you can decide to shop or spend your money, but now more than ever, I think we all need to start being a little more thoughtful with our spending and really see the bigger picture.

faves for today

I wanted to highlight some of my fave reads on the web today:

Amanda Bynes finally dumped social climber Doug from the Hills
http://thesuperficial.com/2009/01/amanda_bynes_is_kind_of_awesom.php

Chicks who got caught selling coke at F.I.T- pretty funny read
http://nymag.com/daily/intel/2009/01/fit_giggly_coke_girls_achieve.html

thank you Josh for this one- Joe the plumber, war correspondent
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/01/12/joe-the-plumber-fights-wi_n_157239.html

from this week's issue of new york mag, 14 really cool people you'll start hearing all about
http://nymag.com/news/features/all-new/53376/


this totally backs up my point about how everything's changing
http://nymag.com/news/features/all-new/53381/

and finally, a sweet piece on Obama politics
http://nymag.com/news/features/all-new/53380/

for you genies in a bottle...

So today's mystery is the harem pant. While this look has cropped up on the red carpet on model/actress/socialite types, I didn't expect this look to really go anywhere until I got today's WWWD (whowhatweardaily, a fashion/trend website and daily email blast, that's so good sign up if you aren't already!!). So in today's WWWD, it explained how to get the "Hammertime" look. Click to see it here: http://www.whowhatwear.com/website/home.php
Here is a classic example of a trend that will literally only look good on 1% of the population as the harem pant is all at once cropped, slim-fit and voluminous and sometimes pleated. While you can find a model who can look incredibly glam in this kind of pant - is this really something we want to see the next time we go out to a fancy dinner or out to a swanky bar? What if in six months' time we're all talking about how awesome our harems are? What do y'all think? Can harems translate to real life?
I'm worried that by March I'll own a pair. (sidenote, how funny that every trend I've discussed here so far is a comeback? Are we ever going to have a radical, original idea?)
here are some articles discussing harem pants:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26664922/
http://www.fabsugar.com/1684115
(nina ricci satin cropped pants pictured to the right, on sale for 1,575! so insane, right?)

What's in a name?

In case you don't read usmagazine.com every hour on the hour like I do at work, you might have missed the release of the Affleck's second child's name. Here it is folks: Seraphina. No, really. Seraphina. They looked at their cute little baby and decided to name her SERAPHINA. While there are totally worse celebrity baby names- Jason Lee's kid, Pilot Inspektor, Tori Spelling's daughter Stella Doreen... the list of course goes on and on. Feel free to insert your least favorite celebrity baby name here. But back to baby Seraphina. How do the Afflecks have arguably one of the cuter celebrity kids (Violet) and then follow up with Seraphina? She better be the cutest girl ever or else she's gonna have it rough.

Is the Stephen Sprouse/ LV collection untimely, potentially tacky?

So, Marc Jacobs launched the Stephen Sprouse / Louis Vuitton collection last night with a party in soho. To catch you up in case you hadn't heard about it, it's like a sequel to the 2001 collection Sprouse did with LV. Since Sprouse died in 2004, it's not really a collaboration, but more of a tribute to his style and influence. While that's all well in good, in this economy where Sak's sale is selling it's shit for 80% off, doesn't it seem kind of crazy that Marc would be pushing even pricier LV goods? And BTW that's not normal for Sak's to be selling merchandise for 80% off. In fact all signs points to major problems with Saks, but that's another story. Point is, when Saks and Neiman are slashing and burning through their merch, does LV/ Marc really think that this is the time to be throwing elaborate parties launching items like a $275.00 key chain? Or a graffitti bracelet for $1,130.00? I get that mega-celebs can rise above the financial crises - if they weren't swindled by Madoff, but for realsies, is LV SUCH a compelling brand that people are going to shell out that much cash for limited edition goods? The LV spokespeople say they expect to sell out quickly.... however I certainly don't share such an optimistic outlook.
Right now, no matter how much money you have, doesn't it seem kind of tacky to throw it around on such random shit like grafitti LV? On the other hand, if the Sprouse collection does sell out, wow LVMH, you've sure got a winner.

links to the collection on eluxury here: http://www.eluxury.com/estore/louisvuitton/collection.jsp?catId=cat100248&brand=3250
Information on Stephen Sprouse: http://www.welovesprouse.com/
coverage on the launch party: http://fashionista.com/2009/01/post_1646.php#more

Capes, not just for superman!

Let's talk about capes. I know Lucky and Vogue have been pushing them this season, have you noticed that too? Some celebrities have been pictured wearing them out and about. Yes they are glam, but could they really work in real life? I am almost convinced after seeing the amazing deep purple cape Leighton Meester gallivanted around in on Monday's episode of Gossip Girl. In fact, I want that cape. I think capes could be poised to actually make it from fashion pages to street. And by street I mean worn by us regular folk. While, I haven't spotted anyone wearing capes yet on the streets of New York, I will be sure to keep an eagle eye out for them. I'm thinking that with this new 40s fashion kick (funny how we're resorting to 40s fashions? Since that was kind of a similar time period to this, no?) capes are really in a position to actually work. Speaking of 40s fashion, when would be a better time for the 40s to make a comeback? Women in the 40s looked so structured and sophisticated, a look that would seem really appropriate and timely now. I really would not be surprised if we started to see more 40s inspired looks crop up, especially in work wear. I have posted two pictures from the 1947 Hitchcock film Notorious, starring Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman as proof of the sexy, restrained 40s aesthetic.

This fish isn't out of water

Award show season is the absolute best isn't it? It was like the best of the 40s and the 8os collided into an incredible gown convention! After seeing all the lovelies, the one thing that makes me so excited is the return of the mermaid! I could not be happier as I have been a mermaid gown lover since I could dress my barbie in all her 80s gowns like she was Miss America.
We can thank Marion Cotillard, the stunningly beautiful French actress, who wore an enchanting fishscale fishtail dress to accept the Oscar for Best Actress at the 2008 awards. With a Lady Dior handbag campaign on the pages of every fashion magazine, Ms. Cotillard is the essence of french beauty. I'm not surprised to see other women channeling her easy grace. (Sidenote: speaking of Lady Dior and comebacks for that matter, have you noticed how B's handbag is now a lady dior on Gossip Girl? She's been carrying one for the past two episodes. They do seem to be making a comeback)
In other news: Blondes are officially back. Along with the return to the fishtail is the return of the the sexy blonde bombshells. Yes, blondes are back! Leading the pack was resident flower child Drew Barrymore who in recent years has been more of a caramel brunette. Kate Winslet another off and on brunette also turned up the platinum.
And in the same vein of va-va-voom sex appeal and retro-styles, who knew thigh high slits were coming back? It would seem that certain screen sirens channeled Jessica Rabbit as their red carpet inspiration. I have to say, the mix of a floor length gown and a flash of leg is a sexy one. I think this is a red carpet trend that won't just be a flash... hahaha I crack myself up.

You of course can come to your own conclusions and check out all the pretty girls and boys (if you already haven't)
http://www.peoplestylewatch.com/people/static/h/package/redcarpet2009/goldenglobes/best-dressed.html or here http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/redcarpet/2009_golden_globes/index.html

You can disagree about where this is all heading, but just know you're wrong :0)

So you want to know what I think about things? That's clearly why you must have come here! For here's my take on things:
2009 - this will be an interesting year indeed. We're in the midst of some huge change, and y'all are either going to be for change or against change and those of you who are not able to roll with it are probably going to get left behind. You can literally feel the changes upon us in the energy surrounding us everyday, it's all so exciting! Firstly, we have our obvious change in government, which is so incredible for those of us who are ready for something new, but really I'm a bit worried people are putting far too much pressure on this one man. He's going to be great of course, but he's still got like a million yards of red tape to deal with, so let's cut the guy a break when he doesn't singlehandedly cure cancer, end hunger, find a solution to homelessness and bring world peace. The great thing about Barack is the fact that he is open to change, at least that's the image he projects- we'll see what he can do. Either way, I'm excited to see the change he will bring to this nation.
Beyond our obvious regime change we've got some major change that is in ways bigger than a change in government. I'm sure you've picked up on the "Green" movement. It's big people, bigger than you've thought because really, green is the way of the future and you've got to get ready for it now because people that get on it now and going to be a lot happier in the future. Living green is the new black and I'm thinking we're all going to come to find that it's going to be the best way to live. The late adopters and nay sayers are going to have to pick up the pace later and aren't going to be very happy about it. Mark my words and bet your salaries because sooner or later all those people who you think live crazy alternative lifestyles are going to seem a lot more awesome and smart and you're going to wish you'd got on the bandwagon a lot sooner. Maybe not this year, but trust me, it's coming and even S.C Johnson, yes the family company! knows it because they've even launched a new line of natural cleaning products. My recommendation is to make the small changes now, because with change in the air, change is probably going to get written more into our law books.
I thank my dear friend C-line for opening my eyes to these changes that are upon us, and I urge you to open your eyes and see the light. It's January, so in those requisite new year, new you posts are some testimonials on getting back in shape, doing things to make you happier... all of the usual things you've come to read except that, you'll see people are really pushing mediation, yoga, cutting out caffeine entirely, using natural and organic beauty products and basically saying that the way to live a happy, thin, beautiful existance is to become a yoga loving, gardening, juice making hippy. This advice has been around for a long time, the hitch is this time, those gatekeeping media elite are listening. They're making the changes and loving the results. I'm reading it all and giving you the scoop.
True story, I read Skinny Bitch when it came out in 2005 and I remember thinking how impossible it would be for me to live the lifestyle the authors preach. I picked it up in my local B&N and thought, cool, but no one's ever going to go for it. 3ish, 4 years later, I get given my own copy for Xmas, (thanks L!) and I'm reading it like it's gospel. I wasn't ready to face the music then and a lot of people don't want to now. These girls are so far beyond the curve since still most people want to dismiss their holistic approach to life as crap, but really, the funny thing is, these ideas aren't new and yet it's revolutionary since most of us are living in a way that's a 180 from the lifestyle that's preached in alternative and holistic guides to life. It's scary to read that they way we've been living and the way (most of us) we were brought up is probably not the best approach to a healthy lifestyle. I know I want to dismiss it as untrue, but the evidence is stacking up in favor of a holistic approach to life for me. It's trickling down from the top to the bottom and from those little grass roots pockets of hippies and hipsters and grungy cumbaya handholders and it's going to be the way to live.
It's 2009, a time for a new you! Change is upon us and I've decided I'm embracing the future and taking steps to be a greener version of me. It's going to be tough to give up (or try to) caffeine, actually use my gym membership, and take a stab at changing my diet to something a bit more organic and a little bit more veg, but I've realized that the zeitgeist is holistic and green and it's only going to get bigger.