The end of the summer has always evoked a certain sadness. The last days of August bring goodbyes to the beach, patio drinks, flip-flopped feet and warm weather. However, I’ve found that September’s arrival also births a great sense of renewal.

Fall 2008 fashion is reminiscent of this nostalgia for the past, while also managing to be brilliantly independent from previous season’s trends. The styles, accessories and attitude of autumn’s 2008 look make the end of the summer less painful, and the season ahead much more attractive.

As the harsh economy lightens our wallets and puts a damper on extravagant spending this year, fall fashion stirs up visions of the past and reminds us of a time when money was tighter. Evocative of the late 1920′s and 1930′s Depression Era, feminine ruffles, structured shapes and a romantic elegance lend a vintage feel to many designers’ fall collections.

Both fashion legends like top designer, John Galliano and moderately priced lines like H&M, Banana Republic and The Gap are spinning their threads with flashback styles that emphasize Depression era chic. A point in history that defined fashion is again influencing men and women’s styles of today. It was this era that welcomed Coco Chanel, the definition of a woman’s waistline and curves, bias-cuts and the newsboy look for men.

While summer fashion saw floral patterns and light chiffon fabrics taken from the Depression era, the resurgence of ruffled tiers on shirts and dresses, lace and costume jewelry will headline this fall. According to Retro Radar at www.retroradar.com, Neiman Marcus is showcasing many 1930′s inspired accessories this fall, while even the more urban labels like Baby Phat have incorporated glamour into their runway collections.

The 1920′s and 1930′s trick to dressing on a tight budget was to buy colors and patterns that were timeless and could last for more seasons than one. Muted and classic colors like soft pinks, grays, creams and blacks were practical choices. This year, designer’s have incorporated these basic colors into their lines, while reviving vintage styles with brighter tones of deep plums, mustard yellows and dark blues that aren’t quite navy.

For women, layering is the key. Pencil skirts paired with a silk, ruffled blouse under corset tops, vests, and slim cardigans make a statement when accented with a skinny or thick belt. During New York Fashion Week, designer, Nanette Lepore, chose to feature cropped jackets and trousers in a menswear brown plaid fit, while designer Carmen Marc Valvo focused on sensuality with transparent, lingerie-inspired blouses and tailored pants.

For men, the newsboy style and look of urban simplicity is cutting edge. Baggy trousers, pinstripes, lace-up shoes and newsboy caps seem to be re-entering the fashion scene. For everyday, corduroy and velvet blazers paired with a collared button down and jeans gives a relaxed yet fashion forward look to a man’s style. On the edgy front, stores like Old Navy, INC- International Concepts from Macy’s and The Gap have incorporated more of a trendy vibe into their men’s collections. Printed t-shirts with flashier and intricate designs provide cheaper alternatives to styles produced from lines like Ed Hardy’s vintage tattoo wear.

While Depression era glamour has authority over the tone of 2008 fall fashion, there are many separate style components that have also found themselves on fall’s front line.

While everything that glitters may not be gold, the distinguishable mustard gold color of this fall definitely stands out. It seems that no matter where you shop, from the sophisticated prep of J.Crew to trendier, sleek French Connection, this color is making an appearance everywhere. In cozy cashmere, sexy silk, crushed velour and corduroy, this yellow is the color of the season. A warm hue on blondes, this yellow pops against brunette hair. The best part about this monochromatic color is that pairs great with many different colors making is a versatile staple in any wardrobe.

With basic colors of gray, black and cream headlining this season, Women’s Wear Daily reports that patterned tights and costume jewelry are accenting the trend. Printed, patterned and colored tights add a flashy, fun texture to your wardrobe. Animal prints, argyle patterns, bold hues of orange, yellow, and crimson as an extension to the legging trend spice up any outfit. Costume jewelry composed of chunky beads, rhinestones and pearls also enhance clothing this season. Bold cuff bracelets, dazzling cocktail rings, layered bangles, and pendants define accessories with the motto the bigger the jewelry … the better!

Another trend for fall is ombre clothing and accessories. This term refers to the graduation of color from a light to a dark shade. Club Monaco features ombre scarves while shoe stores like Aldo have ombre flats in a variety of colors. Incorporating ombre pieces into your wardrobe provides an easy way to stay on top of a trend and add interest to an outfit.

2008 fall fashion’s invigorating blend of the old and the new creates a diverse runway of colors, cuts and accessories. Every personality has a way to shine with the must-have looks of this season. An incorporation of personal style into each of these fads will make you stand out amongst the rest. It’s all how you wear it and pair it.

Saying goodbye to summer never looked this good.

In an age where it seems a box of chocolates and flowers have become too clich©, what’s a Valentine to do? Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love. Treat your sweetheart to present or activity that breaks the norm and leaves a lasting memory. Here’s Blast Magazine’s gift guide to make this February 14th one to remember.

Themed Presents:

I am a fan of putting together themed presents and when you find out how easy it is, you will be too! Let’s take the above gifts as examples.

• Cuddle Blanket paired with his favorite DVD, and a box of popcorn … a night at home is complete.
• Charging valet paired with a fun new gadget whether it’s a monogrammed money clip, or the IPod Nano he’s been eyeing, he’ll love the accessory he can store on his new organizer.
• A sexy piece of lingerie paired with a sex toy, box of condoms, Karma Sutra book and deliciously scented candle create a night of seduction at your fingertips.

For both of you:

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to spice things up. Show off your inner vixen and have him loving this holiday…and you like never before.

Sexy Lingerie, $40.00 and up

It’s time to show off your body and buy a present that makes you feel beautiful. The delight he’ll take in seeing your confidence and of course hot undergarments will ignite his passionate side. Perhaps surprise him with a tantalizing strip tease, or if you’re daring, come over wearing just your "present" underneath your coat.

Sex Toys, $15.00 and up

Whether you’re a long time fan of sex toys or want to try something new in the bedroom, surprising your man with a new plaything could be the best Valentine’s Day gift he’s ever received. The Internet provides a plethora of toys for anyone’s imagination and it also allows you to remain anonymous.

Show him you can be both naughty and nice this February 14th.

Mandy Moore fans saw a new side to the singer/actress during her July 18 appearance in Boston.

Judging by her successes in the box office and billboard charts, Moore has the talent to light up both the silver screen and the music scene. With new comedy “License to Wed” drawing laughter in theaters and a heartfelt album on the shelves of music stores, Moore seems to have proven she’s no longer the bubblegum blonde pop singer blending with others on the scene.

On a picturesque summer afternoon, Moore drew a small but enthusiastic crowd of all ages to the Prudential Center’s South Garden.

Sleek in all black, Moore visibly set herself apart from her listeners, who were dressed in summer shorts and light colored tank tops, but it was the truth and clarity that rang in her voice that really put all eyes on her.

Moore showed fans her true self by performing five songs off her newly released album, “Wild Hope.”

Many would describe Moore as a down-to-earth Hollywood starlet, and the description is fitting for her latest collection of songs. Finding love, losing it and learning about herself in the process, “Wild Hope” hopes to convey a message to the listener. With help from artists such as The Weepies, Rachel Yamagata and Lori McKenna, Moore constructed her album with upbeat, empowering hits like current single "Extraordinary,” mixed with warm, deep ballads like “Gardenia.”

“Wild Hope” helps Moore transition from a singer to a singer/songwriter, and — maybe more importantly — from a girl to a woman.

While her original fans may be wary of her new image and sound, fans that have matured along with Moore will welcome the change.

During her concert, Moore took the time to interject sweet, mild-mannered commentary about her inspiration and what each song meant to her. She described the bittersweet song "Looking Forward" as a "politically correct way of letting go,” and explained that she found the emotions to write "Wild Hope" after a lonely trip to Japan. Co-authoring all 12 songs on the album marks a first for Moore and a trend she says she’d like to follow in future endeavors.

In Moore’s effort to regain her love for singing, she’s co-headlining a tour with Paula Cole. The tour, which is described to create more of an intimate experience with the audience and focus on the music rather than the performance, begins Aug. 16 in San Jose, Calif., and will include select solo performances.

Looking for a comfortable place to sit and unwind this summer? Taking it easy on a piece of Sumo Urban Lounge Gear could be the solution.

Based in Los Angeles, Sumo Lounge is bringing a new wave of comfort to people worldwide. With a product line that consists of an oversized pillow and ottoman, the company has revamped the concept of a beanbag chair into easy-to-store, multi-purpose furniture.

The Omni is a 4.5′ x 5.5′ nylon pillow filled with beads and advertised as able to be positioned in ten different ways. A lounge chair, a mat, a loveseat, a floor pillow…the Omni allows consumers to use their imagination and maximize on the product’s versatility. Priced at $149, the Omni is available in ten colors ranging from a classic black to a cheerful tangerine.

The Otto is 50 cm. in radius and weighs around 5lbs. providing the consumer with the quintessential living room piece in a durable, stain and water resistant fabric. How better to host a party without the worry of your guests spilling their drink and ruining your favorite furniture? The Otto sells for $75 and can add to your d©cor with its eight different colors.

Gaining press from appearances on MTV Hits as well as through the company’s support of Hurricane Katrina victims, Sumo Lounge Gear is creating a name for itself in the furniture industry. Add to your television watching, video game playing or reading time by treating yourself to the forgotten feeling of a beanbag chair.

If you’re a person who likes to be on the cutting edge of style, Sumo Lounge Gear can bring comfort to your life and flair to your pad. Visit their websiteSumo for more information and all your ordering needs.

As Valentine’s Day stirs feelings of love and lust, give the object of your affection a gift they’ll never forget. The Sexy Gift of the Month Club provides an innovative way to surprise your special someone and bring spice into your relationship.

Blush Group LLC, provides its customers with ‘the art of sensual living’. Is this group the sponsor of the gift club or what? Creator Miller Canning’s idea was to design products that make her customers feel good. In addition to selling sex-related items, she offers gifts like sweet smelling soaps, bubble baths and an urban strip aerobics DVD led by a fitness expert.

“Our company tries to stay away from novelty items and focus on helping women and couples find quality products to enhance their sex lives,” said Canning.

Blush’s gift clubs are its signature items and have become the pillar of its success. Blush’s initial club, The Dirty Book Club, provides customers with a new, erotic book each month. While The Dirty Book Club satisfies customers’ reading pleasures, The Sexy Gift of the Month Club, provides customers with a sexy surprise to look forward to.

Imagine receiving a present every month that delights one of the five senses. Blush offers four, different packages of sexy gifts to bring excitement into the bedroom. Choose from the "Mood Setter" ($35.00), "Romantic Surprises" ($40.00), "Erotic Adventures" ($50.00), or "Premium" ($115.00). After starting the club in December 2005, the club has earned fans.

"I think the club appeals to anyone who wants to explore their sexuality, but is nervousabout going into a public store where they can be seen," said Canning. "Also, I think people who view sex as play and sensuality as something that is on the inside aremore apt to choose the club."

On the other hand, the Sexy Gift of the Month Club seeks to help customer’s become more open to their sexuality.

"It’s a great opportunity to not be responsible for pushing a partner to try something that he or she normally might not have tried. A recipient can just say, ‘hey, it’s here, so let’s try it.’ We give them the freedom to test boundaries with little embarrassment or guilt," added Canning.

With household sex toy parties on the rise and more and more people becoming interested in freely expressing their sexuality, the Sexy Gift of the Month Club provides a new outlet for eroticism.

"Typically people order 3-6 months, but we love the folks who re willing to try new products for a year. I think you get more variety and many more options to explore," said Canning. Best sellers include the "Original Rabbit Pearl," ($78.00) "Lily," ($134.00) "Accuvibe," ($68.00) as well as "O’My Natural Lubricant" ($16.50/$26.50) and a striptease dance DVD, "Strip To It" ($24.00).

"When I watch an Oprah show that is covering sexuality I listen to her audience and see how well our products map to their needs," said Canning.

The Sexy Gift Club of the Month aspires to make every day feel like Valentine’s Day and every relationship feel exciting and sensual.

"Imagine a surprise once a month that reminds you to slow down…or speed up," said Canning.

On November 29, 2006 The Boston Park Plaza Hotel and Towers opened its doors to host the 2006 Boston Choice Awards. The Greater Boston Concierge Association nominated individuals and organizations that exemplified excellence in the hospitality, tourism and entertainment industries. The public was invited to vote on-line for winners in twenty-one different categories.

Following a soulful opening performance by local lounge singer, Rich DiMare, host Billy Costa from TV Diner used his charisma and wit to entertain the ballroom of guests. Ticket prices went to benefit two local charities: Triangle, which helps people with disabilities lead successful, independent lives, and Alex’s Team Foundation, which promotes research and education in pediatric oncology. Representatives from both organizations were on hand and given a chance to speak about their organizations.

Boston’s celebrities like WHDH-TV 7 anchors, Randy Price and Frances Rivera, and Boston Bruins legend, Ray Borque, were on stage to present the winners of the BCA’s. Guests also enjoyed a comedic performance by Tony V., recently named one of the "Funniest People in Massachusetts" by Showtime Television.

The presenters awarded their fellow Bostonians with a glass plaque for their efforts. Awards were given under creatively named categories inclding; "Call the Sitter", "Olive or Twist", and "New Kids on the Block". Winners included Icarus in the South End as the best romantic restaurant, Lucky’s Lounge for the best cocktail bar/lounge and Avila for a new restaurant to visit. The Boston Choice Awards also presented the prestigious "Lifetime Achievement Award" to Jody Adams, who won as the only female nominee against the well-known Todd English and Michael Schlow in the restaurant industry.

The evening’s ceremony concluded with a performance by Antje Duvekot, an up and coming female folk artist who received The Boston Music Award’s “Outstanding Folk Act of 2006.”

The clinking of martini glasses and good conversation continued the celebration at Todd English’s restaurant and bar, Bonfire, for the after party. It was a night to learn about the best of Boston and enjoy all the city has to offer.

The winners of the 2006 Boston Choice Awards:
Olive or Twist (Cocktail Bar/Lounge): Luckys
East Meets West (Asian Restaurant): Pho Republique
Small Plates: NEBO
Call the Sitter (Romantic Restaurant): Icarus
Don’t Call the Sitter (Family Friendly Restaurant): Fajitas and Ritas
Free for all (No Wallet Needed): USS Constitution
Mangia! Mangia (Italian Restaurant): Ristorante Saraceno
Ship-to-Shore (Seafood Restaurant): Turner Fisheries
Bon Appetit (French Restaurant):Mistral
Where’s the Beef? (Steak Restaurant): Oak Room
Anchor’s Way (Water Transportation): Odyssey
Front Row Center (Music, Theatre, Comedy Venue): Pavilion
Top of the Morning (Brunch or Breakfast): Upstairs on the Square
Just a Little off the Top (Hair Salon): Avanti
People and Places (Must See Neighborhoods): North End
The Open Road(Car Rental): Enterprise
New Kids on the Block (New Restaurant): Avila
Who you Gonna’ Call (Most Accommodating Host): Guy Neil, Back Bay Restaurant Group
Let’s Celebrate (Private Function Space): John F. Kennedy Library
Walk this Way (Unique Tour): North End Market Tour
Lifetime Achievement Award: Jody Adams