"The September Issue"

A&E Indiefilms and Actual Reality Pictures released its documentary "The September Issue" last week. This documentary includes real designers including Vera Wang, Oscar De La Renta, John Galliano, and Jean-Paul Gaultier, not to mention Anna Wintour. Another great perk for the fashion enthusiast, are the ninety minutes of deleted scenes!

What makes“The September Issue" ($19.99), noteworthy is that filmmaker R.J. Cutler was given never-before access to Vogue’s creative team as the September 2007 issue was being created. The film takes you behind the scenes at Fashion Week, to Europe, on shoots and into closed-door staff meetings, showing America the inner-workings of the editorial fashion world.

Vogue is one of the most powerful and most-respected fashion magazines in the world. Consequently, the September 2007 issue of Vogue, became the biggest single issue in the magazines long history. Isn't that reason enough to rent this film tonight?

The Skinny On Skinny Belts

                         J. Crew Snake-Wrap Belt ($39.50)

One of the easiest ways to dress up an outfit, is with a skinny belt. Lucky for you right now there are so many colorful and affordable options out there, you’re sure to find multiple belts to help complete your look.

Sick of your boring cardigan? Wrap a bright (Merona $12.99) skinny belt on top of a neutral cardigan and tank, to make a sophisticated wear to work look.

Going straight out after work? Put a metallic belt like this one from Cole Hahn ($48) on top of your basic black dress for an easy way to conform your look from day-to-night.

Skinny belts are also a perfect way to dress up shorts and boyfriend jeans this spring. Also, with this influx of crop tops on the scene, the probability of seeing your waist line is much higher, so why not accent it  with a great studded (J.Crew $36.50) or colorful neon (Madwell $28) belt?

Glossy Protection

A new British lip gloss developed by Tracy Whittaker has recently hit the market, and this isn't just any lip gloss, its a crime fighting gloss. 2 Love My Lips, has developed a lip gloss that is not only "lip plumping and breath freshening" but it is "cleverly packaged to include a drink spike detector testing kit". This detector testing kit, is small an discreet, but can effectively determine if your cocktail has been spiked. 

2 Love My Lips "aims to give women the confidence to look beautiful and stay in control". The lip gloss which comes in five colors from Sophisticated Coffee, to Charismatic Cherry runs approximately $15 a tube. A small price to pay for a safe night on the town. 

Uggs + Running Shorts = A No Go

Okay, so I’ll admit it. I have paired my Nike running shorts once or twice with my Uggs, but to my own demise. Come on lets face it, could there be anything uglier? No. The votes have been counted and this look has been ruled a no go, and men agree.

As I walk around campus this look is littered everywhere, and frankly I understand the desire to do it.  You’re running out the door, late for class, or just really hung-over. However, when you really think about it, does this combination even make any sense? I know that it is getting slightly warmer and you want to show off those legs that have been hidden all winter. Nevertheless, I beg you to reconsider this fashion faux pas, because none of these reasons are good enough to warrant showing off your goosebump pale legs while your feet roast in your Uggs.

To stay climatically comfortable in February and March try wearing a big shawl with your sweater or tee. Another idea put a neutral or bright pair of leggings under your skirt or shorts (not workout shorts) and wear them with ballet flats.

Do yourself a favor and keep this Ugg/workout short look for your roommates and your dog. Trust me you’ll thank me later.

Ahoy Matey

Looking for a preppy way to dress this Spring, that is based around something other than polo shirts and seersucker? If this sounds like you, then try out one of this seasons hottest new trends- nautical.

When you hear nautical, I know what you're thinking, fleet week, Popeye and Pearl Harbor, but this season has looks that will put these regular nautical images far from mind and your wardrobe. Instead think high waisted shorts, striped crop silk shirts and rompers.

T-Bags is leading this way with the Nautical look. They have so many nautical options it will make you want to salute their designers. From the Anchors Away dress above ($159), to this adorable blue, red and white Yacht Club Romper ($154).  Another great dress option from T-Bags is this V-Neck Pocket Dress ($159), with the great gold anchor button details and the silk trim on the cuffed sleeves and bottom, it is perfect for a spring cocktail party or a day out on the town.

Madison Marcus Infinite Top

If you're looking for separate pieces, try this striped navy and white high-waisted First Mate Skirt from Alice + Olivia ($165). Or this Madison Marcus Infinite Strip Top ($207), this top embodies two of this Spring's freshest looks- nautical and the crop top.

Splendid Rugby Top

Still, if the crop top isn't quite up your gangway, try one of these two tops one is from BB Dakota- the Sailor Striped Top ($60) and the other from Splendid- Rugby Top ($46). Both of which are great to pair with white shorts and flip flops for a laid back nautical look.

Blazing A Fresh Trail

Everyone has seen the blazer trend over the past couple of months. Blazers with skinny jeans and black pointe pants, over dressy tops for the holiday parties. But now, the holidays are over and Spring is approaching, and its approaching fast. 

The blazer trend is far from over, we just need to re-vitalize this look for the warmer months ahead. 

Blazers will be great items to pair this Spring with boyfriend jeans and sun dresses for a fun but classic look. I have found several appropriate for the warmer season. Look out for shorter cropped blazers, in lighter colors like grey, white and peach. As well as blazers in lighter cotton blend fabrics and linens. 

First, is this amazing seersucker Rogue Blazer from Nanette Lepore ($400), with the great patterned detail on the sleeves.

This double breasted Newport Tux blazer from Central Park West ($152), is a more formal option, to wear to church or on job interview. 

This Shrunken Blazer in grey by 7 For All Mankind ($275), is a more casual option for a day party or picnic. 

This blazer from Zara (only available in stores) is in a fun and flirty color with a simple one button front that leaves this blazer with a clean, simple look ($78).  

Central Park West

From the designers of Madison Marcus, comes their new lower price point line Central Park West. 


Central Park West, carries dresses and nice tops like Madison Marcus, but this line has expanded to include vests, blazers and even yoga pants. Consequently, it is no wonder why this line has exploded on to the fashion scene. 


Central Park West can be found at regional boutiques, large department stores and at online venues such as Piperlime, Revolve Clothing. Also a great overview of their entire collection can be found at Shopstyle. 


A few of my favorite pieces by Central Park West include: 


    Tristan Ponte Boyfriend Jacket ($89). 

Napa Silk Ruffled Layer Tank in Electric Blue ($97), also available in citron. The back has this amazing knotted tie detail. 

Lastly, their Taupe Confederation Vest ($108). The button details on this vest are amazing. 

Spring Hardware

Remember way back in September when style gurus everywhere declared that studs, zippers and all other metal adornments to clothes were in? Well guess what? Nothing has changed, except for the color of the clothes. So out with the browns and blacks and in with the bouquet of spring colors!

Madison Marcus, is adding "hardware" to their spring collection in a big way. From their Seaport Resist Tank ($218), to their Chambray Resist Romper, you'll barely be able to resist! They have attached subtle metal buckles to these items and I'm in love.

Another spring item sure to zip you up, are these casual tee's with back zippers from BB Dakota ($50), in colors from peach to heather grey, you're bound to find one you like.

Also check out these items from Cynthia Steffe- her Aqua Dream Dress ($255), is really a dream. The soft fabric mixed with the front and back zippers makes this item great for a spring party. Another favorite of mine by Steffe is her Grey Dove Skirt ($145) with a front zipper pocket and a high waist cut, this skirt is great to pair with any color top and sandals.

For those interested in lower price point items, be sure to look at Karlie's Metal Stud Tee ($38) in bright vibrant colors like orange and royal blue, these tee's are definitely going to get you noticed.

Finally, if you're looking for outerwear, Aryn K has got you covered. Like this grey studded blazer ($115) and their Yellow Crop Jacket ($90) with buckles on the cuffed sleeves. These items are great to pair with boyfriend jeans and shorts. Or try their Taupe Studded Tank ($74), for an edgier rockstar look.

Bring Coco Home

The Coco Chanel, “Coco Before Chanel” movie was just released yesterday by Sony Pictures. The film staring Chanel’s new spokeswoman, Audrey Tautou depicts the early life of Chanel before her rise to fame.  Which consequently, revolutionized the fashion world.

Of course, the Chanel empire remains a powerhouse in the fashion industry today. With that said, I give this advice: go rent or buy “Coco Before Chanel”, drape some pearls around your neck or put a fancy hat on your head. Next, splash a little Chanel No. 5 on your wrist and watch one of the most influential women of her time on Blu-ray or DVD, tonight!

Bras To Rock With Racerback Tops

Anyone whose anyone has seen the huge comeback large of the racerback top. What I once thought of as more of a workout top is now everywhere, on everyone, and in every color. So if you're not wearing one, you should be. So once you are wearing one, here comes the problem. Because we are being so fashion forward (and not working out in our sports bra racerbacks) then what do you do with those pesky bra straps? Well you have one of two options, you either show them or you don't. However, we all know how annoying strapless bras can be, and sticky boobs well lets face it, sometimes they're just not sticky enough...(once mine fell out on the dance floor at prom, but thats another story). So your other option is to wear that top with confidence knowing that you have an awesome, adorable, not embarrassing bra on underneath.

So here we go, bras from Victoria Secret, Aerie, Cosabella and Honeydew that will allow you to rock your racerback:

Victoria Secret- Scoop Neck Pushup  ($30)

   Aerie- Ruffle Floral Bralette ($14.95)

Cosabella- Mon Cheri Pushup in pink ($50)

Honeydew- Classic Black & White Bralette ($30)

Victoria Secret- Secret Embrace Wave Pushup ($38)

Tantowel = Genius

So here we are in the middle of February, and I hope that everyone is as pastey white as moi. I am not hoping this because it makes me feel better about myself, but because if you aren't then you have been visiting the tanning bed, which is a HUGE don't!

With all of the literature and reports that have come out in the past year alone about tanning beds, I hope that no one is still using them. In fact, Georgia recently just passed a law to increase sales tax at tanning salons, to discourage people from using them. Lastly, using the tanning bed just ONCE a month increases your risk of skin cancer by 30%!!!

Okay, so I am finished ranting about the dangers of tanning and skin cancer, but that still doesn't mean that I want to look pastey all winter. Especially now, with spring break right around the corner, and spring clothes teasing me in boutique windows I want to have some color (a healthy glow if you will).

Everyone who is reading this has probably paid a visit to a mystic tan booth, or has been sprayed by someone at a salon. While I love those safe-sun options, they're not always the cheapest or easiest. Here's what is... The Tantowel, it is incredible!

The Tantowel, is the easiest thing right now on the market to get that sunkissed glow. They have two sizes of towels (full body and half body), and they have two variations of colors. Depending on your natural skin tone you should either choose their classic formula (lighter skin tones) or their plus formula (for darker skin tones). The Tantowl is easy to apply because it is literally a small towel (picture a clorox wipe, but covered with a selftanner)! Not only this but the color lasts for days, and doesn't smell nearly as bad as other creams and lotions.

Moreover, the Tantowl dries so quickly you're back in your real clothes within 10 minutes without the mess.  Lastly, once your one shower deep the Tantowel doesn't rub off like a mystic tan or other creams do, it just fades naturally without the streaks and blotches.

Tantowel comes in so many different sizes: 5 full body towels for $25.25, 10 half body towels for $21, all the way up to 50 pack of full body towels for $221. So whatever your tanning needs are Tantowel will help you look bronzed, minus the cancer.

5 Essentials

Recently, I watched a "web-i-sode" of Isaac Mizrahi's. The webisode featured Isaac's five essential pieces for girls in their twenties. Since I am in my twenties, it couldn't have been more applicable. So I thought I'd give some great examples of these five essential pieces.

1.) a watch: Isaac recommended getting a watch with a removable leather band, so that you can change it up when you feel like it. An alligator band one day, or a super bright band the next. Buying a watch with an exchangeable band allows for a lot of versatility. But if you are like me, (always forgetting to take your watch off before getting in the shower) a waterproof metal watch may be more up your alley. I am a huge fan of the Michael Kors watches.  These are very classic looking watches, but you can also find some with edge. From traditional gold and silver watches, to heavy black and white watches, Michael Kors offers something for everyone at amazing prices. These watches range from $195 to $495 and everywhere in between. With a reliable sturdy watch for only $200 your set! Especially since you're going to need to spend some cash for these next essential items.

2.) a stiletto black boot: Choosing the right boot, is like choosing the right man. They need to be stylish, attractive, not cost you an arm and a leg and be comfortable. These from Report Signature ($237) meet these qualifications. Now, if you really want to splurge try these fold-over high black pump boots from Alexander McQueen ($1,286). If polished leather isn't your favorite and suede boots are more your style try these from Barbara Bui ($447). Lastly, as a helpful hint- if you're planning on wearing your boots all night, or if you do a lot of walking to and from work try these Dr. Scholls, For Her Comfort Insoles available at most drugstores (trust me these are lifesavers)!

3.) a tote bag: When Mizrahi describes this piece on his webisode, he began sketching Louis Vuitton symbols all over the tote. Now I know everyone wants a Louis, but realistically girls in their twenties are not shelling out thousands of dollars on designer bags. Nevertheless, there are plenty of totes out there to satisfy this essential. From black to brown, leather or pleather, this is an item that comes down to personal  preference. But if I may... I love this Tory Burch Clayton Classic Tote ($450) and this Mulberry Mitzy Tote ($750). Finally, this soft leather Kate Spade "Darien-Stevie" Shopper Tote is incredible ($365).

4.) diamond earrings: Duh! Earrings are definitely not just an essential item for twenty-year-olds. Every woman wants diamonds, and Mizrahi points that out. In fact, his recommendation is to start with studs in twenties, get bigger pair in your thirties, forties, fifties...etc., so that by the time you're an old lady your diamonds are HUGE! Men everywhere are cursing Isaac Mizrahi for even suggesting this, but with Valentines day right around the corner, you may need to send this post along to your significant other!

5.) a pashmina/shawl: I am not talking about just your regular pashmina off the street, but a quality pashima- one that is wool, cashmere, or silk. Remember these are nice "essential" pieces that you will be able to keep not only through your twenties, but for the rest of your life, so choose them correctly. This is a great item to purchase now, since most places are marking down their pashminas and shawls for spring. Bluefly, has marked down these Magaschoni cashmere shawls 50%!

Crop That Top

Girls, you better get working on those abs. Not only because spring break is right around the corner but because this springs fashion demands it. No the crop tee once a favorite of Kelly Kapowski (Saved By The Bell...duh), is back and these crop tee's aren't cheap ripped tee-shirts, they are the real deal. From Madison Marcus to Son of John, these tee's range from the priciest frocks to middle of the road pieces like these from Dolce Vita ($100) and Splendid ($90) to pair with your favorite white jeans.

Another one of my favorites is by Free People, their trapeze applique tank ($58) is for the edgier girl, with its mesh appliques in random positions, it is the ultimate "i don't care/roll out of bed look".

But if you do care, and want to show off your girlie side (and your abs) i've got the perfect crop top for you. This sherbert Madison Marcus top ($198), literally sold off the racks in 48 hours at the boutique I work at in Athens (The Red Dress Boutique). The zipper in the front breaks up the ruffle layers that carry all the way around the top.

Finally, this Thayer teal ruffle tank ($98), exudes feminine confidence with its powerful color and tie spaghetti strap shoulders, its sure to make a statement.

Helpful hint to remember- it is absolutely necessary to have the right bottom with these crop tops. Your jeans need to fit appropriately, no one wants to see muffin tops. Also, if you're not going to wear jeans, these tops look great with low-hung jean skirts and shorts!

Unfinished Edges

Unfinished edges, do not necessarily have to be unfinished. In fact, they can actually finish your look.
Unfinished ends are all the rage right now for designers. From the high-end Spring collections of Chanel, to BB Dakota, you can find unfinished edges all over runways and boutiques.

One of my favorite new lines- Central Park West (which is Madison Marcus' new lower price point line), has a great vest that takes unfinished edges to the extreme. This light grey fringe benefit vest ($152) is perfect for layering over tees and tanks in the upcoming brisk Spring months.

Haute Hippie, has a very dressy dot print blouse ($375), with unfinished lace edges outlining the buttons and trimming the sleeves. What I love about this top is that it is so versatile. It can be worn easily to work with a pair of black slacks, or really dressed  up with a black mini skirt for a night out on the town.

Alice + Olivia, does a great job with this trend. From their ultra trendy carlie crochet tank with a removable open stitch scarf ($220), to their raw edge strapless dress in blackberry ($277- hurry its on sale), perfect for a cocktail party!

If you need another dressy option, check out this dress from Madison Marcus. The traverse blue dress ($265- also available in black) has an awesome details. From knotted shoulder to the fringed bottom, this dress is sure to make a statement.

Lastly, you can easily find unfinished edges on accessories like scarfs. One of my favorites is this Alexander McQueen skull pashmina ($395).

Red Hot Valentines

Looking for that perfect outfit to wear out with your honey, or just out with your gals as you swear against St. Valentine? Well you're in luck, right now there are lots of looks to make you completely v-day appropriate no matter what plans you have on the 14th.

1. The trifecta:  this Amanda Uprichard Plum Racerback dress ($140), has just about every color that is appropriate for valentines day. The three layers make it fun, flirty, and right on que for valentines day. Cupid approves.

2. Red hot: if the purple/plum tones don't compliment your skin tone we've still have multiple flirty options for you. Another fabulous Amanda Uprichard number is the red penny dress ($139). It is rich in color and fits fabulously, flattering almost everybody type. Add a skinny belt to break it up or some metallic accessories, and you're set for great evening.

3. Classic: vibrant colors aren't for you? Then I've got the ultimate romantic separate piece for you. The hidden hue blouse from Anthropologie ($128), looks like antique lace. The top decorated with intricate lace details is great for a date. Complete this outfit with a pair of dark skinny jeans for a more casual look or dress it up with black pants or a black pencil skirt.

4.Hot mama: this hot pink Madison Marcus option is killer. The flash lace trim dress ($260), is sassy. The black lace detail on the bottom, leaves just enough to the imagination. The plain bodice is perfect to decorate with some long necklaces, like these from J.Crew.

5. Last call: no big plans for valentines day with the boy toy or girlfriends... still show your holiday spirit with simple pieces. These two sweaters from J.Crew are easy ways to spice up your  normal work wear. 

($168)

($178)