“No,” says Williams, they are not impossible — in fact you already know the rules. Williams’ book takes the tried-and-true laws, rules and truths of the dating world and applies them your career. Why? Because you should go after your dream job the way you went after that yoga instructor who moved in next store. She explains, for example, how the old “don’t give away the milk for free” mantra your mom used to whisper in your ear while you slept pertains to landing your dream job. Miller says that it’s just as important not to make yourself so available when hunting for a job as it is when hunting for a mate.

“Just like our tendency is to throw out the rule book and call, and call, and call, and call the super hot dude you can’t help but imagine is ‘the one,’ you’re going to come across the job, the boss, the client you can’t imagine yourself living without, and it’s exactly here where you need play the game,” Williams says on her website.

Williams was at the Limited store at the Natick Collection last night. Over 100 women attended to network, sip free wine (yeah, they gave out red wine in a clothing store. Stupid, or genius?) and enter a raffle for a $250 shopping spree to the store. Early arrivers also left with a gift bag that included Tarte eyeliner and a super cute makeup bag. But the highlight of the evening was Williams’ motivational speech and a killer fashion show. Williams was witty and frank — just like her book. If you’re looking for a new outlook on the old job hunt, Girl on Top may just be what you need. Either way, you’ll totally be brushing up on those dating tips.

So does her advice work? That’s up to you find out. We’re ready to give it a shot.

Luz Claudio, writing in “Environmental Health Perspectives,” considers the way Americans and Europeans shop for clothes as “waste couture”: Fashion is low-quality and sold at “prices that make the purchase tempting and the disposal painless.” Yet this sort of so-called “fast fashion” leaves a pollution footprint, with each step of the clothing life cycle generating potential environmental and occupational hazards.

According to “Technical Textile Markets,” a quarterly trade publication, demand for man-made fibers such as petroleum-derived polyester has nearly doubled in the last 15 years. “The manufacture of polyester and other synthetic fabrics is an energy-intensive process requiring large amounts of crude oil,” reports Claudio. In addition, she says, the processes emit volatile organic compounds and solvents, particulate matter, acid gases such as hydrogen chloride, and other production by-products into the air and water.

“Issues of environmental health and safety do not apply only to the production of man-made fabrics,” says Claudio, citing subsidies to the pesticide-laden cotton industry that keep prices low and production high.

In an effort to green up the industry, Earth Pledge launched its FutureFashion initiative in 2005 to promote the use of renewable, reusable and non-polluting materials and production methods. Besides putting on its own FutureFashion showcases, the group organized the January 2008 New York Fashion Week, encouraging designers to create and showcase greener clothing on their runway models. Green-leaning designers can also pick through Earth Pledge’s library of 600 sustainably produced textiles, including organic cotton as well as exotic materials such as sasawashi, pina, bamboo, milk protein, and sea leather.

Another effort underway to speed the fashion industry into a carbon-constrained future is the Ethical Fashion Forum, which provides a variety of tools and resources and runs training sessions and networking events to help facilitate moving the industry towards more sustainable practices.

One stumbling block to the greening of fashion is that only a small number of consumers—some analysts say less than one percent—will pay more for a greener shirt. But if the industry itself can improve its footprint from the inside and drive the costs of more eco-friendly materials and processes down, the benefits will trickle down to consumers, whether they are bargain-conscious or fashion-conscious.

Image courtesy Martin LaBar, Flickr.

Did anyone else notice how many spreads of the White House Black Market catalog had this model with crimped hair? I know that some of the trends from the 80s have started to trend again — velvet, lace, leggings and even some neon colors — but this is the first time I’ve noticed crimped hair in any fashion or beauty marketing.

The spread above is from the latest Brooks Brothers catalog. Call me traditional, but I’ve always been a big follower of the black-brown exclusivity rule. Brown shoes should not be worn with black tights, and vice versa. While I have become begrudgingly accostomed to seeing fashionistas on the streets and in magazine spreads with black tights and brown riding boots, I’ve always relied on my fellow conservatives at Brooks Brothers to enforce the rules. Needless to say, the above picture is a sign of the changing times… and since Brooks Brothers thinks it’s okay, maybe it’s time for me to start wearing my brown Longchamp with black pants…

Please forgive my amateur photography skills in the J.Crew spread above. The folks at J.Crew may be obsessed with Italian cashmere, but I’m loving everything about this outfit… the rich color and textures (wool skirt, cashmere sweater, suede (?) flats… swoon)… and the anklets. I have made up my mind on this fall-winter trend, and I am heading out to buy some warm ankle socks tomorrow.

]]> http://blastmagazine.com/the-blogs/2009/11/catalog-clippings/feed/ 0 http://blastmagazine.com/the-blogs/2009/10/love-em-or-leave-em-barefoot-2/ http://blastmagazine.com/the-blogs/2009/10/love-em-or-leave-em-barefoot-2/#comments Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:05:35 +0000 Krystal Beaulieu http://blastmagazine.com/?p=31964 Ever since the J.Crew catalog hit my doorstep last week in all of its preppy glory, one particular trend keeps peeking out: ankle socks.

J.Crew sells the ankle socks in packs of three. This is my favorite look they show, but I’m loving the pink ones:

What do you think about ankle socks? Do they make you too reminiscent of being a little girl in the 80s? What shoes would you wear to pull this off?

BlastMagazine.com is proud to be sponsoring the Faulkner-Sagoff RUNWAY Gala on October 22 at the InterCOntinental Hotel here in Boston.

The RUNWAY Gala is a night of fashion and fundraising for one of the best causes of all — breast cancer care. So cue the music, lower the house lights, and join Blast as we are very proud to cover and be a part of a night of fashion supporting the Faulkner Hospital Faulker-Sagoff Centre.

Presented by Suffolk Healthcare, this exciting event will preview the works of Boston’s hottest up and coming young designers from the School of Fashion Design. Guests will vote for their favorite alongside celebrity judges, including TLC’s “A Makeover Story” coach Gretchen Monahan, “Project Runway” alums Emmett McCarthy and Kevin Christiana, jewelry designer Tonya Chen Mezrich and Boldfacers.com founder Lisa Pierpont.

The evening will honor Men with Heart, a group of men committed to fighting breast cancer. They are husbands, sons, fathers and brothers of women touched by breast cancer.

The Faulkner-Sagoff Breast Imaging and Diagnostic Centre provides a patient-centered approach to breast cancer detection and prevention, making it one of the leading centers for breast health care in New England and in the country. In the decades since its establishment in 1971, the Centre has cared for well over 100,000 women.

For even more information on the event, visit Faulkner Hospital’s website.

It is her ‘Gracia’ Silk Georgette Dress available at Nordstrom for $395. Is it worth the hefty price tag?  Could I wear it to the office with pearls? And throughout the fall with black boots?

In other exciting news, for all of our Broadway afficianados, “The Lion King” is coming to the Boston Opera House on February 16! Balcony tickets start at just $32.70. For a chance to purchase tickets first, sign up for the Broadway Across America E-Club.

The Boston Public Library launched its Literacise exhibit on Saturday morning, inviting families to participate in the new trend. Mayor Thomas M. Menino was even in attendance to help with the ribbon cutting ceremony.

“It’s always great to be back at the library,” he said.

Literacise combines reading and exercising in an effort to develop more interest in reading for children. Irene Smalls, author of “Jonathan and His Mommy,” partnered with the BPL to put on the program. Her book became a large play area were the kids could read the story and follow along by bunny hopping, zigzagging and more, between the blown-up pages.

So what does child education have to do with fashion? Students from Lasell College’s Fashion Design and Production program were asked to design something based on a book.

Lasell junior Amanda Saladino circulated around the room with her model, Emmalyn Anderson, wearing a swimsuit inspired by Marcus Pfister’s “The Rainbow Fish.”

“Professor Mary Rupert brought this (project) too all the fashion students over the summer,” she said. Her final piece was made primarily from recycled newspaper, but also used paint, stained glass, shell and gold Lycra.

In a statement about her design, Saladino said, “As a child I found the book visually stimulating and was instinctively drawn towards the beauty and individuality of the Rainbow Fish. I considered him generous for giving away his scales and found it heartwarming that he gained friends through sharing.”

Though she added that as an adult she sees a more materialistic message in the story, the end result was heartwarming nonetheless. The suit got smiles from the children and Anderson was later accompanied by a pint-sized model in her own paper-made, fish scale inspired dress.

And so, Post-Boston Fashion Week reminded everyone that it’s not all glamour and guest lists – it’s about giving back to the city as well.

Photos: Brennan Degan for Blast. Licensing.

The show was put on by Synergy Events and ceremoniously hosted by Miss Massachusetts USA, Alison Cronin. It was divided into three segments: The first featured eight designers showing five designs each. The second showed three designers with 10 designs each, and the third segment featured the final two designers, then headline designer Keith Lissner.

With such a long program, Synergy provided intermission entertainment from singers Sophia Moon and Marcie. Despite high energy and good beats from both performers, the crowd in general was only mildly enthused.

The up-and-coming designers, though, definitely excited the crowd.

The first segment showed Skylier A. Blanchard (California), Crystal Noe (Boston), Claudiana Baranenko (Venezuela), Emily Hancock (Boston), Christel Akouri (Boston), Angela Chen (New York), J’aime Lizotte (New York) and Zach Lo (London). The standouts and crowd favorites were certainly Christel Akouri and Zach Lo.

Akouri’s pieces were heavy-looking gowns with intricate beading and often open backs. The final gown, in particular, drew gasps from the audience when the model turned to reveal a very low-dipping back with a trail of beautiful beading and embroidery.

Lo’s collection was highly editorial. The eccentric outfits incorporated plenty of animal print and elaborate hats. And to top it off, the models – two of whom were petite twins – were done up in white, mime-like make-up. All together, they looked a bit like they belonged in the Cirque de Soleil – in a good way.

During the first intermission, Miss Massachusetts USA spoke with a rep from Zach Lo who said, “I’m so impressed with the talent of the young designers coming up. It’s incredible.”

The second segment featured Caitlin Allen (New York), Andy Jacques (Boston) and Heather Luca (Minnesota).

Allen’s collection was described as “comfortable and stylish for everyday wear,” and while the light-weight fabrics looked comfortable, the styles did not seem likely to be worn off the runway.

Jaques and Lucca showed collections that were quite the opposite of Allen’s. Jacques collection included men’s and women’s styles that used a lot of bright blue, particularly in the form of metallic spandex for the women. Lucca described her collection as “neo-Victorian” and each look used a corset and ruffles.

Next Cronin brought Caitlin Allen back out to chat, where she talked about the struggles new designers face getting their names out and competing with other established designers.

The third portion featured Katie Dunn (Portland), whose collection is “constructed to flatter” and aims for “enhancement of the female form,” and Nadia Ivanova (Lodon), who looks at fashion as “a way of communication.”

Dunn’s collection achieved its goal, at least on the easy-to-flatter bodies of models. Several of the dresses fit snug through the waist with flowy or puffy skirts. Others had dipping neck and back lines.

Ivanova’s collection had a common theme of large, pastel sequins on the shoes. The women’s pieces were pretty, but a little plain, while the men’s mostly involved cropped pants – a style that has never really broken into the mainstream.

Finally, headline designer Keith Lissner, who was a contestant on Bravo’s “The Fashion Show,” showed his fall collection.

The collection was described as “feminine, unique and exuding a great sense of self.” The styles were certainly feminine – with flowing satins and puffy tulles, and the collection as a whole fit nicely together. In the order they were shown, one piece seemed to inspire the next. Certain fabrics, colors or lines carried over from dress to dress, making it all look almost evolutionary.

Cronin spoke with Lisser afterward. He offered advice to the up-and-coming designers, saying, “Always stay true to yourself. Stay the course, don’t stop, don’t quit.”

Overall, the show was a success, especially for an event in only its second year. The goal is to establish a more prominent fashion scene in Boston, but it’s too soon to see any real results. With another year like this one, though, the city might stand a chance.

Photos by Madeleine Smith for Blast. Licensing.

The event got off to a rocky start. Despite a 10:30 start time, the show began just short of 11:30, with a small distraction in between. Three models were brought on stage in robes to have their hair done – a process that took about 15 minutes of combing, blow drying, flower pinning, tulle wrapping and a lot of pained looks from the models.

The drinking, dancing crowd didn’t seem to mind though – the DJ was phenomenal. Still, there was a slight air of impatience.

“I’m getting bored, already,” one girl said. “This whole thing is such a tease,” said a man.

But the show eventually rocked into action with Aerosmith’s “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” later followed by a mix of music from the eighties to today. The collection reflected the music, with a combination of rock ‘n’ roll and hip-hop.

The added twist – a distinct eighties and nineties feel, particularly if you were in elementary school in those days. There were large floral prints, puffy dresses and skirts, colorful tights and even a puppy tank top.

Of course, this isn’t a collection for 10-year-olds, so there was plenty of mature style as well, including some very slim fitting dresses, skull prints and sequins.

“I thought there were some interesting pieces,” said MJ Yang from Toronto, Ontario. “I liked the shape of the dresses, I think they did a good job structuring them.”

She said was not impressed overall, though, and neither did local Bostonian Nadine Bentele.

“In terms of coats or skirts, there was nothing,” she said. But she did add, “It was very unique. Betsey Johnson, that’s her style.”

The women did agree that the hair and makeup was stunning, as did several other onlookers.

“I really liked the hair and the hair accessories,” 21-year-old Bostonian Katrina Fitzgerald said.

Scott Bosse, 25 and  also living in Boston, said, “It was awesome. I loved the make up.”

Overall, the show was like one big party. The short runway was at the center of the club where people were packed in right next to it. The DJ kept everyone dancing before and after the show.

“It was a fun show,” Yang said.

The show, Dark Wave Disco, was a collection of cocktail dresses. As the models walked around two levels of balconies, spectators lined the balconies with drinks in hand. The crowd loved Mendoza’s collection of dresses that moved, flowed right past you.

“Everyone’s ready for something a little different,” commented Fashion Boston editor Alexandara Hall. “Boston fashion is more than Uggs and umbrellas.”

Macy’s celebrated fashion week Tuesday night by hosting Fashion Group International of Boston and the Launch Designers. Spectators sipped on cocktails as models stood on platforms and a DJ blasted top 40 remixes over the speakers.

“It’s a really nice way to experience fashion,” commented spectator Karen English, an Emerson College student. “Usually at a show you cant get that up and personal to the pieces. The model walks past you and bam they’re done, that’s all you get to see.”

Guests had a chance to walk up to the models, ask them to turn, actually touch the clothing. The designers were also standing close-by and available for any discussion of their collection.

The Launch Designers was a group of five up and coming designers in Boston, handpicked by FGI.

Millie Bautista of the Dominican Republic showcased a line inspired by everyday upscale fashion with tiny details to make you drool.

Paulina Gilson drew her inspiration for her impressive silhouette of jackets from a castle in her native Czech Republic. “The architecture, and how everything works together. I feel like it just clicks,” she said. For Gilson fashion is about a balance. “It’s not overpowering. It’s wearable.”

Eddie Phillips of Southbridge had designed a more simple collection of cocktail wear. “I like things simple,” said the former accountant. With clean lines, and astounding texture, his collection is far from ordinary.

Nara Paz started out as a bathing suit designer in Brazil. After moving to America she had different hopes and dreams, “I want to move to the high end of the market. I want it to be more than a dress, to me fashion is a piece of art.” With her dramatic use of colors, sharp attention to detail, and innovative shapes, Paz has definitely created her own pieces of art for the human form.

Elena Sanders of Watertown showcased her line of “steampunk.” Sanders was inspired by Victorian-era steam powered technology, and the coal-stained faces of the workers. WIth a variety of different textures and materials, lots of metal and gears, her pieces look like a bit like costumes. “But it’s a lot more than your Halloween costume,” Sanders defends. It’s the kind of costume you’d be intrigued by for hours, and takes a creative ingenious mind to create.

“This provides a great opportunity for new talent to be featured and kick-start their businesses,” commented Jay Calderin, Executive Director of Boston Fashion Week.

In Style magazine highlighted Lauren Conrad’s “ombre” nails on their website at the beginning of the month, and I had to try it myself. Splurging on manis and pedis (or taking the cheap route and ending up with infected cuticles) has gotten cut from my list of things to do. I have fallen in LOVE with the DIY method. Using a foot file and cuticle cream, I apply two coats (Essie’s my favorite!) of color before finishing up with a top coat  (I always use Orly’s top coat).

I used three shades of blue to create a “fade effect” — Essie’s Mesmerize, Shelter Island and Sag Harbor. If you don’t have three hues of the same color, you can always add a little bit of white to a dark color to create the fade. I used this effect on my room in middle school, but enough about that!

Don’t skimp on the top coat — the most important part! It can also help make your mani or pedi last if you reapply a top coat every other day. The best part of an at-home mani or pedi is that you have the shade to fix any chips. You’ll look like you just walked out of the salon for at least a week.

4. Very Hollywood by Michael Kors

Michael Kors attributes the appeal of his new scent to mandarin and gardenia, but I’ve been on the hunt for a new fragrance for months, and I would just call it genius. Sensual without being musky (or musty, which I usually consider to be synonymous with musky), intriguing with suffocating. Not to mention the bottle looks adorable on my vanity.

3. The Color Purple (no, not the novel)

Have you walked into H&M lately? Royal Purple shades flatter garments all over the store, and thank goodness. Have you ever seen anyone who didn’t look good in a shade of purple? I bought a wool mini skirt from H&M, and fell in love with the Theory pre-order “Sarah” Animate Top at Bloomingdales.

You can buy short or tall classic Uggs in Mulberry to wear when greeting the fall weather or coat your nails in Opi’s Pamplona Purple (part of the Espana Collection), but it’s hard NOT to look good wearing purple.

2. Absolute Boston

Try it mixed with Arizona’s Arnold Palmer (a mix of lemonade and iced tea for those of you who don’t get out much) or ginger ale, you’ll taste tea. Absolut’s newest blend of elderflower and black tea with ginger ale is my new go-to cocktail.

1. Understatedly Over the Top

Today, I am sporting a simple outfit of a white J.Crew t-shirt with a tan Brooks’ Brother pencil skirt… with a mixed-metal necklace, chain link gold bracelet and caged all-season sandals. I’ve got numerous compliments all around the city today for my very simple outfit paired with fall’s best outrageous accessories… and I got them all for less! Now, don’t get me a wrong, I am a big fan of Tiffany’s, Kenneth Jay Lane and Saks Fifth Avenue, but this season’s fashion jewelry can just as easily be found at Forever 21 or H&M. Getting dressed is simple and comfy this season if you’re willing to glam up the extras.

]]> http://blastmagazine.com/the-blogs/2009/09/obsessions-of-the-week-september-29/feed/ 0 http://blastmagazine.com/the-blogs/guilty-pleasures/2009/09/style-steals/ http://blastmagazine.com/the-blogs/guilty-pleasures/2009/09/style-steals/#comments Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:42:25 +0000 Krystal Beaulieu http://blastmagazine.com/?p=25762 Ben Bernanke may have announced today that the recession is “Very likely over,” but I’m still not a huge fan of spending a lot of money on fleeting trends, so I’ve found my fall favorite (and most notable) trends for less… much less!

FALL WRAP

Splurge: DKNY’s “Cozy” Silk/Cashmere Cardigan for $195 at Nordstrom and Bloomingdales

Steal: Victoria’s Secret,”The Soft & Sexy Wrap” for $58 at www.victoriassecret.com

Victoria's Secret Soft & Sexy Wrap

FALL FLATS

For the sake of my financial well-being, I won’t even go into all of the fabulous splurges on the flat shoe scene.

Steals: Payless (I know, I know), Lela Rose for Payless Newell Ballet for $29.99, Also Aldo, Rubal Flats for $45.

Lela Rose for Payless

FUR LOOP

Splurge: Adrienne Landau’s Raccoon Fur Loop at Saks for $175.

Steal: Fur Collar at H&M for $14.95 (in store). The H&M store in Holyoke, Mass., had a manikin wearing the collar overlapping around her neck and fastened with a black silk flower. I haven’t decided yet if this is a style I love or hate for fall — what are your thoughts?!

Adrienne Landau's Fur Loop

HEAVY METAL

Splurge: Kenneth Jay Lane’s Chunky Chain Necklace in Gold for $340, exclusively at Saks. Or Michael Kors Chain Link Necklace for $700.

Steal: Forever 21, Chain Link bracelet for $4.80 (found in store) and Rebel Chain Necklace for $7.80.

Forever 21 Chain Link Bracelet

GREY DENIM

Splurge: Rich & Skinny Studded Straight-Leg Jeans in Silverado wash at Bloomingdales for $202.

Steal: (Okay, so you have to forgo the fabulous studs) The Laguna Skinny Stretch jeans in Grey at Hollister for $49.50.

The Laguna Skinny Stretch Jean

PLAID SHIRTDRESS

Splurge: Gemni Belted Plaid Shirtdress at Neiman Marcus for $244.

Steal: The Campy Gingham Check Shirt at Forever 21 for $17.80.

Campy Gingham Check Shirt

Here are some of my favorites for fall:

5. The color red (Ironic?):

Okay, Harper’s Bazaar listed the color red as one of fall’s biggest trends. I haven’t seen it listed anywhere else, nor have I seen any eye-catching outfits in the ruby family, but I have a pair of patent leather red flats that I purchased several years ago that love to see a day out on the town:

4. All-season sandals

Liz wore a fabulous pair of tan caged sandals to Heather’s wedding, and, although I adored them, never thought I could pull them off. Then, I was flipping through the ever-mesmerizing September fashion mags, and fell in love with Elizabeth and James’ spectacularly strappy sandals:

I couldn’t bring myself, though, to spend $350 at Nordstrom for a pair of footwear I wasn’t even sure how to wear. Would they be so intimidating they would forever be confined to a life among flats in my closet? I couldn’t do it. So I settled for a “beginner” pair of Dolce Vitas, less than a third of the cost for a smaller sacrifice in style. Now, can I wear these to work?

3. Cool palette polish colors

Okay, I missed the boat in the Spring, when Essie released their fabulous blue color “Mesmerize” and their exclusive, limited edition “North Fork” collection of sea-green, gray and light blue. If you’ve been living under the pink-neutral rock that I’ve been stuck under, grab your remover pads and go blue or gray for fall! PS: eNail Supply still carries Essie’s elite “North Fork” shades — and for less than $8 each!

Essie's North Fork Collection

Now, maybe after this, I’ll be able to transition myself to Opi’s ever-popular dark Espana Collection…

2. Thriftiness

Okay, I’ve read that this is the season for recycling and re-wearing, which makes me ecstatic to be able to pull out my Dorothy-esque patent leathers to fulfill my red quota.

It also has inspired me to hunt through my closet for classics – you know, the Burberry scarf, black Stuart Weiszman pumps (that I realized last night at Mohegan Sun now sport chew marks — thanks, Teddy!!!), the Brooks Brothers pencil skirt – and maybe I’ll even splurge on a new one. Like Burberry’s ever-classic-ever-popular Classic Quilted Jacket. Now, when will my raise get approved again?!

1. Cashmere leggings!

I have been obsessed with the idea of cashmere leggings since I saw that DVF epitomized comfortable luxury in the “Chris Noth Plays Mr. Mom” spread in the July 2009 issue of Harper’s Bazaar.

I was even willing to splurge on the $198 leggings because I loved them so much, but haven’t seen them anywhere yet! I think a call to DVF may be in order. Until then, I’ve found Victoria’s Secret “Cotton & cashmere sweater legging” for $38! I’ll let you know if they compare to my vision of the dreamy DVF pair.

You’re going to learn a little something about Vogue editor Anna Wintour by watching “The September Issue.” She is supposedly the inspiration for “The Devil Wears Prada.” She’s dense, fierce, complex and a damn good editor, but everyone in lifestyle journalism already knew that.

However, what you really need to learn from watching “The September Issue,” is how big an impact that journalism has on your life, whether you know it or not and whether you like it or not.

There’s no shortage of idiots cheering the downfall of the American newspaper and more recently the American magazine. Watching R.J. Cutler’s documentary, it’s clear that the focus is less on a biographical swooning over Wintour and more on making people understand the impact that she – and thus her magazine – has on people’s regular lives. (There IS, of course, a great scene in “The Devil Wears Prada” about the color cerulean that sums this up nicely)

The September 2007 issue of Vogue magazine was a monumental 800+ page undertaking during the peak of the fashion year. The documentary, made over eight months, chronicles the making of the issue, largely through the eyes of Wintour and her polar opposite, the magazine’s creative director, Grace Coddington.

Wintour is cold, businesslike and very calculating in the film. Coddington is fluffy, artsy and emotional. The pairing works well for Vogue, and we see the two of them butting heads and getting frustrated on their way to a mega-magazine.

Wintour is the focus of the film, as is seen through the opening montage of fashion icons referring to her as a goddess. And it’s true. Things happen in the world of fashion because she wills them to be so.

That’s the movie. Sure, there’s a telephone book sized September 2008 issue being made in the background, but “The September Issue” shows in intricate detail what journalism – particularly the always underestimated lifestyle journalism – means to society.

Not to be left out is what Coddington adds to the flick. The red-haired Welshwoman couples heart to Wintour’s brains as she travels the world setting up glamorous photo shoots with supermodels only to have some of her favorite shots rejected. Frustrated, she rolls with it and schedules more photographs. The two woman enjoy a teenage brother-esque relationship of constantly challenging each other, but instead of football, it’s fashion.

“I think I know when to stop pushing her,” Coddington says. “She doesn’t know when to stop pushing me.”

The documentary is well done. It’s nicely edited with good camera movements and even a catching soundtrack,

But wait, there’s more.

While it’s easy to picture Meryl Streep barking away at her underlings, the documentary does a good job showing us that Wintour is still a person, a woman and a mother, even while she’s rejecting $50,000 worth of photography after looking at it for six seconds.

In one of the most poignant scenes, Wintour interacts with her daughter, Bee Shaffer, who all but brags about the fact that she’s not at all interested in ever working for Vogue or ever working in fashion. The camera turns to Wintour who, while never letting down her guard or breaking into human emotion, seems to be mentally willing her daughter to stop saying that.

A bit of humanity, even from the devil.

#5. Tory Burch

5. Tory Burch

I will admit that I am not nearly as in love with her fall collection as I was with summer (which, btw, Saks has on SALE. I think I want the Jula dress or the Esther dress).

#4. my new national officer position in my sorority

4. My sorority

Even though the paperwork is currently taking over my coffee table until i can find an organizational system that works.

#3. the almost kindergarteners in Boston

3. Kindergarteners!

The almost kindergartners in Boston, with whom I have spent every single day of the past week, and will spend every single day until September 11 <3 my job

#2. fritos with ranch dip

2. Fritos and ranch dip

#1. planning to meet the gibs at heather's wedding!

1. A wedding

…although it is next Saturday, and I still do not have a dress…

Teddy Roosevelt was on my list… until he kept trying to eat my fritos with ranch dip…

The clear highlight of Quincy Fashion Half Hour was the Betsey Johnson fashion show, held at the Marina Bay Beach Club. The models strutted a beachside runway wearing playful styles currently available at Johnson’s Newbury Street store, including summery dresses, swimsuits and handbags.

Stylists from Salon Marc Harris primped the models for the event, turning out spunky up-dos and making frizzy pigtails a worthy fashion trend. The show started off with the stylists presenting a birthday cake and singing “Happy Birthday” to Harris, who attended the event and blew out his candles on the runway.

While Johnson and her trademark cartwheel were absent from the event, the show stayed true to the designer’s high energy. Models danced along the runway to upbeat music from The Ting Tings, Alien Ant Farm, Lady GaGa and Kevin Rudolf.

The Connecticut-born designer recently unveiled her Fall 2009 collection in New York, entitled “Betsey’s Crocker’s Recipes for Dressings.” All of the outfits in the collection are named after comfort food recipes, including Sex Pot Pie and Triple Cheeseburger Deluxe.

Sunday’s show, however, was more about celebrating what’s left of summer. The sand-strewn runway and whimsical party dresses made us wish there’s a whole lot left.

Nettie Kent Jewelry — Leather, copper, silver and gold leaf bracelet — $148

Leather, Copper, Silver and Gold Leaf Bracelet

Looking for the perfect bracelet that will go just as well with your sexy red dress as it will with jeans and a t-shirt? Look no further than Martha’s Vineyard designer Nettie Kent’s leather, copper, silver and gold leaf bracelet.

The first leather bracelet style she created, no two are ever the same. Silver is melted over copper and the flow creates a unique design each time. Kent then paints with gold leaf to highlight different areas. “The process brings me back to my roots as a painter,” she said. “It’s just a really fun and unrestricted way to use metal.”

Kent collects her leather from old belts, purses, even cowboy hats. Old copper flashing used in the jewelry is gathered from houses on the vineyard. “The sea air and salt water patinas the copper with beautiful colors and I think it looks like landscapes, almost like paintings,” said Kent, who studied painting at Hampshire College.

Blast is obsessed with the preppy leather cuff paired with the boho look of mixed metals. We guarantee compliments when you strap on this bracelet for a night, or day, on the town.

Get it now at Turtle in the South End, or visit www.nettiekent.com.

Nirva — Katya Dress — $650

Katya Dress

New England winters may inspire you to wrap up in cozy cashmere, but Lexington based designer Nirva Derbekyan looked to the even harsher winters of Russia to inspire her autumn/winter 2009 collection. Weather this cold never looked so good.

The gorgeous fuchsia fabric was Derbekyan’s inspiration for the Katya dress. She also noted that the wool gabardine is perfect for manipulations, prompting her to create a bright, fun colored dress with a conversely harsh structure. “Contrary to the tailored look, I wanted to add a bit of fluidity and geometry at the same time,” Derbekyan said. She added the front drape and the moveable cap sleeves to keep this unique dress in line with her signature style.

Blast is just dying to wear this dress to a formal fall event, but how special would it be for New Year’s Eve? We dare you to keep it in your closet that long.

You can buy the Katya dress when it goes on sale at Stil Boutique in the Prudential Center at the end of the month. Visit www.nirva.com to see the whole collection.

Twigs and Heather — Sterling Silver Dangle Twig Necklace — $125

Sterling Silver Dangle Twig Necklace

The summer weather beckons us to enjoy nature; what better way than to put it around our necks? Twigs and Heather, headed by twin sisters Heather and Kerry Alice Collins, cast sterling silver one-of-a-kind pieces plucked right from the Atlantic Northeast.

The dangle twig necklace reminds us of playing outside in the woods as kids, but without that child-like look. The particular twig pictured is a winter twig, and the changing seasons is the twins’ biggest inspiration.

“It’s pretty amazing the subtle (and not so subtle changes) that occur in the trees year-round.  Plus, the sentimental feeling that the twigs evoke in our customers is very special to us,” Heather said.

The dangle twig is a popular item, and because each necklace features a different twig, they each have their own personality. Blast thinks this necklace is the perfect gift for the nature girl—or the city girl who wants to get back to her, um, roots.

Order it online at www.twigsandheather.com or www.etsy.com. You can also pick it up at Turtle in the South End and MagPie in Somerville.

Sea Bags — Medium Anchor– $110

Sea Bags Medium Anchor

If we were millionaires at Blast (as we someday hope to be), we would certainly own a large sailboat perfect for party cruises and romantic dinners. But, for now, we’ll happily settle for the Anchor Bag by Sea Bags of Portland, Maine (not super-local, but how could we resist?).

All the bags are made out of recycled sails, and we especially love the Anchor Bag (available in navy or red) for its ability to catch the eye of a hot sailor on leave (not yet tested, but we’re assuming).

Sea Bags are environmentally conscious and preppy at the same time, which is more than we can say for that Abercrombie model you dated.

Owned by Hannah Kubiak and Beth Shissler, Sea Bags are designed by Stephanie Moran and her team.

To own a bag inspired by all things nautical, visit www.seabags.com.

Lillian Asterfield — Sea Lillian Necklace — $35-$65

Lilian Asterfield Sea Lilian Necklace

If you used to rummage through your dad’s closet and play dress up with his ties, the Sea Lillian necklace is your dream come true. Nicole Deponte’s Lilian Asterfield pieces are made completely from recycled and upcycled products, such as old vintage ties, t-shirt yarn and plastic curtain rings. We love this necklace because it is one of the most unique out there.

Each Sea Lillian necklace is different, but we chose to feature this particular one because we couldn’t take our eyes off it. Sadly, it’s recently been sold– but never fear; Deponte takes special orders.

Her jewelry was recently shown at Lucky Gallery during an exhibit featuring artists who focus on sustainability. You can buy her pieces at Turtle in the South End or at www.nicoledeponte.com.

Read, set, SHOP!

BLAST: So, James, we hear you’re a Harvard guy, correct?

JAMES REINHART: Just graduated actually, last month, with a joint degree program at Harvard Business and Harvard Kennedy School.

BLAST: And how did the idea for ThredUp come to mind for you?

JR: I was literally getting dressed last November and doing the classic “going through stuff in my closet,” and there was all kinds of stuff in there in good shape, but I was tired of wearing it. And it occurred to me; lots of people have tons of stuff and feel they have nothing to wear. I asked around and everyone said, “I have the same problem but I just let stuff pile up in my closet.” So I thought, why don’t people transact in the used clothing market place? It was really a sort of “aha” moment at seven in the morning.

BLAST: And the economy hasn’t hindered business at all? It sounds like this is the right time for something like ThredUp.

JR: Yeah and I think this is a time where Americans are trying to economize and cut back on luxury purchases. It’s accepted more; now is a great time for used stuff. You see transactions on every used marketplace and they’ve gone up. People are trying to get more value from stuff they already own.

BLAST: How do you think ThredUp is helping the fashion world environmentally?

JR: Well, I think it’s a classic example of trying to do more of a reduce, reuse, recycle mentality. We all have enough stuff in our closets that just aren’t new to us, and if someone else were to use the item they’d be perfectly happy with it. I mean, we haven’t done a carbon footprint analysis… but it’s a lot more environmentally friendly than buying new items from China. I think that matters.

BLAST: And its similar to how Netflix works?

JR: Yes, exactly, and its exactly how Netflix works with the exception that Netflix goes through its warehouse, and we are exactly peer to peer.

BLAST: So its different from consignment because you can constantly recycle and keep clothing from being wasted? Or how would you describe the biggest and best difference?

JR: Yeah, so if you compare it to a place like Second Time Around, the difference is that for most people, its not as easy to get to these consignment shops. The average person on a Saturday doesn’t have time to do vintage shopping. You can do it all online — sizes you wear, brands you like — all those types of things. You can do it at midnight on a Wednesday versus going to a vintage store. It’s a real time efficiency issue. And some consignment stores are set up a bit haphazardly, where you’re trying to find the diamonds in the rough. And most of those diamonds in the rough are in other people’s closets. We can help you shop from other people’s closets.

BLAST: Do you think this will effect other industries and how they operate sales, recycling, or renting? After all, movie rentals were impacted by Netflix in a huge way.

JR: I think what you’ll see is that retailers will understand that consumers want more environmentally friendly items, and want to get more value for their goods. This movement to discount and get everything cheap will (be helpful) in the long run. I’m not sure how it will change the entire industry, but you can mix and match between new and used.

BLAST: And your pilot went well?

JR: Yeah, the pilot went great. We had 160 uses in a men’s pilot, and just over several months from February to April with an 85 percent satisfaction rate. Eight out of 10 are major indicators.

BLAST: Are you going then market to men, women, children?

JR: We are relaunching with men’s and women’s and hoping to add kids in about a month later. Kids are a natural fit for us because kids grow out of their stuff so quickly. We’ll be doing the hand me down experience — quicker, faster, and more efficiently.

BLAST: Anything else you want to say about ThredUp?

JR: I think ThredUp is a real experience product. I think people need to really give us a chance. I noticed in the pilot, a lot of people outside of the 160 signed up but then chose not to use their envelopes. And the people who did really do it liked what they got. And that’s part of the fun. You can get cool stuff delivered to your doorstep based on what you specified. Its not just great value, it has a fun aspect.

ThredUp points out to us: Why can’t it be painless to get rid of stuff you don’t wear anymore, through an easy and cheap process to get new stuff that you will wear?

Joel Williams, a ThredUp client from San Diego, recommended the service.

“So far it has been great and I think the key thing they’ve done since the beginning is using high quality items. The results have been positive for me,” Williams said. “If you wanted to, you could use Ebay, but the coordination costs would be so much. They (ThredUp) do it at a price that is much lower than the value it delivers to the customer”.

Right now, the first 1,000 registrants can try ThredUp for free the first three times. You can sign up at Thredup.com and be notified when registration opens.

In this column I won’t discuss seasonal trends or dictate or ‘recommend’ what you should or shouldn’t be wearing, but I will write about people in the industry who are designing, creating and curating things of artistic integrity and worth. Fashion should be a form of self-expression; something that is personal and emotional, not something that is prescriptive, limiting or static. Not to say that this column won’t be biased; I plan to write only about people and things I like, it’s just up to you to decide if you agree.

A designer who I admire and adore is JCDC — Jean Charles de Cajabajac. This guy is a total fashion hunk. Suave and old school, yet incredibly contemporary, his designs are mad cool. And I mean, literally, a mixture of fashion insanity and cooler-than-cool logos and graphic designs.

Jean Charles recently brought his French label to London in the form of a fashion gallery in Conduit Street, and guess what? He personally and exclusively talked to me about why he chose central London as his destination of choice and how he plans to conquer the USA.

“I chose Mayfair because it is at the corner of two symbolic streets for me: Saville Row, where my father and I used to be dressed at Chittleborough and Morgan, and Conduit Street where my dear friend Vivienne Westwood’s store is located,” he said.

I asked Jean Charles if his connection to England had been effectively reinforced by having his own “fashion gallery’’ in London. “The fashion gallery is part of my universe, and this store is my place in England,” he responded.

What about a store in the USA? “I love America, that would be exciting!”

The central London store, curated by Anthony Stephenson, is definitely a fashion haven amongst the chaos of the city, and who knows the next stop for JCDC might be America?

***

Another designer you just have to know about is the lovely cutting edge menswear designer Katie Eary. She was featured in the recent English edition of Vogue and is set to go international any time. This is what I found out after a catch up (or rather, a mini interrogation session) with her on Facebook.

BLAST: When did you realize you wanted to be a designer?

KATIE EARY: I was always an artist at heart, and so putting my mind to anything creative was always enjoyable. But for me, The Saatchi Sensation exhibition was a turning point in my life. I became an avid fan of all things Brit Art! It was also a wake up call! How was I going to make an impact? If Emin, Hurst, Quinn, Lucas (the list is endless) were doing all this cross-examining of taboo subjects how could I make my own impact? Everything seemed to be exhausted in all areas of creativity… All this except maybe Menswear. And so, 14 years later…

BLAST: 
If you could describe your style in 5 words, what would they be?

KE: Ab Fab, Punk, refined, nautical, magpie.

BLAST: You were recently featured in Vogue, how did it feel being featured in the most famous, most respected fashion publication in the world?

KE: I love Vogue, they have been so, so supportive, and to actually be featured is a real honor, and feels great to believe that they believe in me.

BLAST: Lets play Desert island discs. Fave Track/artist?

KE: My Black Hearted- but in general everything by PJ Harvey.

BLAST: Fave artist/piece of work
?

KE: Marcus Harvey — I thought the portrait of Margaret Thatcher using the dildos was just genius. But in general I can’t say he is my fave, I have too many!

BLAST: Fave designer/piece of clothing?

KE: Givenchy leather inserted jeans and Balmain military jackets.

***

A music /fashion star that you have to look out for is a singer named Mpho ( pronounced: mmm fo). She is releasing her debut single Box N Locks in July. The music video is influenced by an 80’s pop Bowie esque style and Mpho’s fashion sense is a mix between Lady Gaga Futurism and Beyonce sassy-ness. Check out the bright orange mirror top with larger than life shoulder pads in the video below — such a crazy cool look.

Well that’s it for now folks. Hope “y’all” enjoyed my first column. Don’t forget to log onto my blog for even more info on not just fashion, but music and art  as well.

Peace, your girl from London, SY. XOXO.

The Massachusetts-based Friendship Home, a non-profit organization working to enrich the lives of adults with developmental disabilities and their families through quality respite care and creative programs, is pleased to announce the Fashions with Our Friends fundraising fashion show at The Lantana in Randolph, on May 13. A truly unique and heart-warming event, this years fashion show will feature Friendship Club members from Duxbury, Norwell, and Quincy walking the runway modeling fashions from local merchants.

Thanks to the support of local businesses and community members, Friendship Home is planning to break ground on their state-of-the-art respite care and activity center in Norwell for adults with developmental disabilities. The home will provide a place for life skills education, overnight stays, and fun activities for special friends while offering much needed respite for their families who often care for them 24 hours per day without relief. Currently, there are over 2,500 individuals who could benefit from such a facility, with currently only one bed available for their use on weekends. Friendship Home will provide opportunities for education and socialization as well as support for families that are often overwhelmed and isolated. These services are currently offered for four hour periods twice per month in each of three Friendship Club locations.

The Fashion with Our Friends show includes dinner, a raffle and entertainment along with the club member’s fashion show and grand finale performance! Tickets are available on our website for $50 each or through our office — www.friendshiphome.net or call 781-740-9507 for more information.

About Friendship Home

At Friendship Home, we are parents, friends, business people, and volunteers from many walks of life, committed to creating a safe, warm, and nurturing home for our sons, daughters, and friends. Our mission is to enrich the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families through quality respite care and creative learning experiences. Friendship Home provides an opportunity for community members to help families build a stronger community. Once completed, Friendship Home will be a respite and activity center where people with developmental disabilities can stay for periods of up to two weeks, giving them a safe and stimulating environment, while offering needed respite for their caregivers. For more information visit www.friendshiphome.net or call 781-740-9507.

But one company is daring women everywhere to flaunt your “peek-a-boo” bra straps by accessorizing them.

Reapeat Possessions is offering what they call “conversation starters” to convert your bra strap into bling by adding glass beads, Swarovski crystals or pearls for $23 to $120 each.

You’re going to have to judge this one for yourself.

Needless to say, when we heard of a new bag line claiming to be chic and useful for the things you need the most, we were skeptical. But after checking it out, we found out that these bags are pretty darn good. And fashionable.

Suzanne’s Discreet Chic Accessories has the bag that Beyonce, Taylor Swift, Kate Beckinsale, Leona Lewis, Katy Perry, Alicia Keys, Jennifer Hudson and Miley Cyrus are all sporting, and that’s a short list.

The line, created by Suzanne Gabos of Tampa, Fla., is the most stylish and subtle way to carry, protect and organize personal products.

With a practical “Hide and Chic” clutch where you can discreetly store tampons, a Fem-Tote case created to go into your bag so you an find special items easily; and a hilarious - but oh so truly needed - Panty Pouch where you can keep a change of clean undies and avoid wearing dirty undergarments the morning after, even your mom would be proud to see you buy one.

The company was established in September 2007. Gabos’ sense of style, fashion and organization inspires the line of classy, yet functional traveling cases to address the needs of females between the ages of 12 and 60. The Fem-Tote and the Panty Pouch were designed to ensure feminine product freshness and cleanliness, with style, dignity and discretion.

The designs simply focus on the active woman, whether she is traveling, working, playing or merely, looking for a way to carry her things.

“In life, women deal with many pleasures; however, the menstrual cycle is not one of them,” said Gabos, in an interview with Blast. “The Fem-Tote will make this ‘period’ of time more pleasant. It is my hope that my designs will connect with women everywhere and provide them with the freedom that comes from being confident and secure in their everyday lives.”

The bags may not bring an end to the bloating, cramps, headaches and moodiness, but they will make things easier to find and prettier to carry. Always have to look at the glass as half full, right ladies?

The bags vary in sizes and come in different colors, designs and fabrics ranging from $42 to $140 and are all available on-line.

Especially after a winter where the National Weather Service reported average temperatures of 30 degrees or lower across the states for about three months, anything that insinuates warmth is welcome. In the spirit of welcoming spring we dedicated our April cover and Culture section to the beautiful fashions of spring and the trends for Summer 2009.

Thanks to fashion connoisseurs like Sara Campbell, whose flowy and feminine dresses are perfect additions to any woman’s wardrobe, Nicole Deponte, with avant-garde statement cravats, Storey Hieronymus Hauck, owner of the eclectic Turtle Boston, and shoe additions from Missoni to Modern Vintage our photo shoot outfits were set.

The last detail that made the shoot a success was the setting. Bobby from Boston, a unique vintage store and a true jewel in the South End of Boston, provided the best background. There, we could mix the fresh styles that you will see everywhere these coming months with the richness and history of retro fashion.

So, what to look for as you prepare your own warm weather outfits? As you browse through our galleries notice one common aspect, color. Color, color, color. In the details of accessories, the shade of a clothing item or even the hue of a shoe. At every store from Nordstrom to H&M warm weather fashions include colorful additions.

Not only that, there is also a resurgence of tribal print and ethnic themes. Best seen, for example, in shoes like Jimmy Choo’s Cora Fringe Sandals. Granted, these are the extreme option and one of the most expensive, but the idea is the same. Target, Nine West and even Payless Shoes are including ethnic inspired styles that are easier on the wallet.  Swing by Old Navy or Banana Republic to find tops, skirts or dresses with this design as well. Statement bangles and earrings will complete the look, or look through your jewelry and find chunky, jewel infused, necklaces to add.

Aside from the tribal an ethnic prints, flowers and block prints are also making an appearance in different places. Whether you choose a shift, empire or belted dress to show off those legs, consider print accents for it with a cardigan, scarf or shawl. If flowers aren’t your thing metallic shades are all the rave too.

Try to find a large metallic bag that could become your everyday tote.  And for evenings, definitely look into clutches. The prints and colors in style are so bold; you don’t need an overhaul bag that makes a look cluttered. Structured bottoms, that look clean but have pockets, rolled up hems, zippers and buttons provide that “Bam!” needed for the office or the after party so you don’t have to rely only on dresses.

Also consider sheer fabrics and 80s inspired tops. Either option paired with boot cut, wide leg jeans or mid thigh length pants will look good. And, if you really want to follow the trends, get yourself a pantsuit. They are popping up everywhere in silk or cotton and work wonders with heels, add accessories and you have the summer “it” outfit.

We can try to wrap up with shoes, although this topic could easily make for another 600 word Op-Ed. What women should consider for the coming warm weather months is at least one pair of sky-high heels with a cool design. A bold pattern, a detailed heel or a mixture of fabrics will ensure that your shoes get noticed and that the outfit you wear them with is easy to assemble. Essentially the shoes will be the focal point. For the rest of summer days, flats are still popular. 

Try to search for bargains, not because you have to get that one hot pair of heels for the season does it mean you need to spend $200 plus. A brand new website launched by Kim Kardashian is a good solution to getting great shoes every month at affordable prices. Nationwide shoe dealers like DSW and Off Broadway Shoes are starting summer their sales shortly after the Easter bunny visits.

And guys, please don’t feel left out. Blast reporter Kristin Lambert has taken the task of telling you how to look good for the warm weather months too. In general, everyone please go to your closets and see what you have that may fit into a trend mentioned. After seeing what you have, and getting those coats in storage, prepare to bargain hunt and find accent pieces that will refresh your wardrobe.

Who said looking fashionable had to continue being expensive? We are still in a recession so don’t be afraid to ask for the sale section in a store or invest in one great piece. Like the Boston Globe reported, more and more shoppers are asking for discounts and getting them so join the revolution! Just remember to pray to the higher beings for the warmth to stay as log as possible.

Spring fashion must haves for men will have you feeling loose and free to just chill and hang with the guys, (or an easy going girl in your life) while you look for free concerts in the park, re-visit a childhood basketball court or even a throw cozy spring picnic in the park with pals.

What I think is the cream of the crop in men’s fashion this season is the more relaxed fitting jeans, shorts and pants. If you are more casual and cried over last season’s calf hugging pantsuits, not to worry. The designers this season know you are looking to chill out while leaving the more up-tight look for a special occasion.

One of my favorites for this season is a collection by Michael Bastian. There’s something about a sporty guy with a little muscle and a tan to top it off that seems sexier than ever.

Men can easily sport the wider leg pants or shorts with a little leg room to move around in. Even the hemline is a more easy fit, but not too baggy, which could have easily made this look appear “bummy.” Plus, it’s nice to see a man show a little “leg” for once, we women are tired of doing all the work! WINK WINK!

Another really cool trend with many designers this spring, including Michael Bastian, is the ability to dress up shorts or those torn up jeans with a sport coat. Have you ever seen pictures of 4-year-old boys from the 70’s wearing the short suit outfits with the socks pulled up high? Ok, well we don’t need to see your two striped knee socks now, but the look is oh so cool for a night out at your local hangout.

Designers like William Rast really hit the nail on the head with this cool, yet sophisticated look. But if you don’t have the cash you can easily make your own with an old pair of jeans you can cut down, and pair it with a suit coat you have stashed in your closet. Come on, metro sexual was a great look but for you men who are more rugged you can now be metro-hipstural! Who said you only had to wear a suit coat for weddings or funerals?

And as usual, the cool v-neck tees with retro prints are great for any style you decide to sport. One of the key components to this season’s style is wearability. If you can’t run, relax or be rugged in it, it doesn’t belong on you men this spring. Even if you are not into nature there is something very appealing about stomping through a pond if you so choose to. What man doesn’t want to enlighten his old boyish ways?

There are lots of ways to broaden your wardrobe this season, even if you mock some of the designers runway looks with your own personal touch. But most stores carry items that are similar in style, like American Eagle Outfitters who has the up to date spring must haves like t-shirts, cargo shorts and low loose jeans. Now let’s head outside and play a little flag football.

Oh, and you can take the suit coat off for that.

This spring is a season of contrasts that reflect the change taking place within our nation.  Designs range from organic and flowy to rigid and architectural, romantic to athletic, wild and patterned, to chic color-blocked and sensible.  Some fashion houses have even gone green.  Designers such as Marc Jacobs and Betsey Johnson are not only just downsizing their shows and events this season due to the declining economic climate, but are also incorporating eco-conscious prints and material. 

Patterns and textures are slowly gravitating back towards our truest roots.  Some designs focusing on tribal prints, animal patterns, and colors both vivid and natural.  Materials include organic cottons created using fair priced foreign labor.  Altogether, trends this spring are challenging and exciting, but don’t fret, always feel the confidence to try anything at least once.  Invest in affordable pieces at stores such as H&M, J. Crew and Banana Republic.  When you think spring trends, don’t shy away,and  in the words of Obama say, “Yes we can!”

Let’s break this down slow and steady, top to bottom, so that no one is to be left behind. We can start simple with the dresses of spring, which, in this season, come in all shapes and sizes.  Designers play with geometry and fun new patterns.  Polka dots, stripes, checks or crisscross details run rampant through the collections of Oscar De La Renta, Philip Lim and Michael Kor, among others.  The shift dress is always classic, however if you try out some strong futuristic cuts, via Calvin Klein, you are sure to be ahead of the fashion curve, for these looks are daring and not for any commoner. 

Usually in the spring seasons we see an array of florals, lace, ruffles, and bows; all things bright, sparkly, young and pretty.  Well, designers have shied away from the predictable use of these accents and kept the bows and flowers grounded to adorn your feet. A contrasting image is seen in this season’s trend for outerwear too.

Whether it is fitted, bulky, oversized, structured, military or draped, futuristic fits and sculpted sleeves are all the rage.  Several years ago the soldier style jackets were back in action, now thanks to designers such as Alexander McQueen, whose ode to her royal highness weighed heavy in every collection, they’re back with young punky twists.  Think metallic’s, beading and lots and lots of sequins.  If you want to stay on trend without breaking the bank, stick to fitted preppy cut jackets that can be dressed up or down with the properly added accessories.  Jackets can be paired with blouses. Whether they have ruffled details, are loose and draped, made out of transparent silks or are covered in ethnic prints, this wardrobe staple will soften any look.

For accessories, everything from bags to shoes comes in an array of metals, studs, fringe, leather, raffia, silk, jewels, crystals and even the always classic, stripper lucite.  If you’re investing in one bag this season, make it a clutch, what do you need to lug around all summer anyway?  Lip-gloss, keys, cell-phone and you’re good to go.  

Unlike most fashion this season, the shoes are less than practical.  The fabulous creations of Dior, Prada, Gucci, YSL and far too many more to name, mix all sorts of metals, animal skins and small adornments that will leave you in awe.  However, the click-clacking down the Nina Ricci runway was even wilder than something Dr. Suess could imagine, so ladies, please don’t go there.  In sticking to sensible, salacious footwear, think of strappy sky-high wedges and stilettos.  Nine West has made some especially affordable and sensuous sling-backs that will sexify any outfit.  Hopefully we won’t see the models teetering off the runway as an omen for the state of the economy.  Happy spring cleaning and deal hunting ladies.

Our pal Nick Penna, Jr. of SalonCapri, told us this is a versatile look that can be dressed up or down. He told Blast the steps to realizing this hot-off-the styling chair look. Go ahead and get cooking.

Penna explained that the key to mastering this look is to create a well-defined part. “I’d suggest a side part to draw more attention to your face. A part in the middle of your hair can sometimes appear too harsh, depending on the shape of your face,” the “Best of Boston” stylist said. Use a lightweight styling pomade or texturizer to smooth the hair along your part and create a sleek finish.

To achieve a wavier look like Reese Witherspoon’s for example, skip on the styling pomade and wait until the look is complete to use a finishing spray. Penna suggests Shu Uemura’s Liquid Fabric Texturizing Spray as an easy-to-manage product.

Sweep your hair back into a low ponytail and secure it with an elastic that best matches your hair color. This should be a tight ponytail and it should be securely fastened at the base of your neck. With a firm grip, pull the end of the ponytail clockwise around the elastic, making sure to smooth the hair as it is being wrapped.

After the circular shape of the bun has been created, begin to pin the loose ends with bobby pins. Secure as necessary. “You want your bun to feel secure and cleanly wrapped without flyaways and extra strands of hair sticking out,” added Penna.

To finish the style, use a flexible finishing spray. Don’t be afraid to spray the bun, part and sides of your hair to ensure a sleek look. If you’re aiming for a messier approach, use your fingers to further add texture to your waves and then finish by spraying. If you add sexy smokey eyes you are ready to sport the do with sexy heals and a classy dress.  With innocent light makeup and pink lips you can wear the colorful spring palettes seen in a lot of runways this season to take over the arm weather.

Fashion has always been a huge part of the hype surrounding the Academy Awards and Sunday was no different. With Hollywood’s brightest stars walking the red  carpet in their finest, we can always expect to see some characters.

Best of the Evening

Taraji P. Henson

With a white, curve-hugging dress by Alberta Ferretti, Taraji keeps you captivated from head to toe. A stunning, sharp necklace contrasts with the dress as it softly unfolds into a train.
Anne Hathaway

This lucky lady actually got to wear two dresses at the Academy Awards tonight. Her red carpet dress by Armani kept with the neutral tones of the evening, fishtailing at the bottom with bright paillettes throwing light and intrigue into her look. Once on the stage with Hugh, you might have noticed she changed into something a little more danceable, but no less charming.
Angelina Jolie

Less is more. Angelina kept it simple and striking with a black Elie Saab gown, and green Lorraine Schwartz jewelry. There’s really not much to say about how this woman constantly keeps up her track record for being undeniably attractive. Not to mention the arm candy that never goes out of style – Brad Pitt.
Freida Pinto

Despite being part of the stand-out movie of the year, Freida could have been spotted anywhere on the red carpet with her deep blue, one sleeved John Galliano gown. She looked timelessly beautiful, which was fitting considering her diamond ring was 150 years old.

Penelope Cruz

Another neutral color, but by no means plain. Penelope’s dress was vintage, ruched, and brilliantly embellished. It’s hard to believe, but this dress has waited in the shop for Penelope for 8 years. We’re glad she found it again.

Hugh Jackman

He was just too brilliant to look anything but spectacular. It might have been the song and dance that blinded us, but his simple, sharp tux really looked great on a stage worthy of the old glamorous Hollywood.

Robert Pattinson

We can’t help but mention our new favorite Brit. In a classic old-school tux with a skinny bow tie, Rob showed us how well he can clean up. Not only did he shed a bit of his new beard, but also a bit of his British accent for presenting this evening.

Worst of the Evening

Jessica Biel

Although white might have been in this year, Biel missed the target with this shape-contorting block by Prada. With one of the best bodies in Hollywood, it’s a shame she decided to cover those curves up with this tiered mess of extra material.

Tilda Swinton

Why would such a dignified woman and actress dress in something that made her look like a cigarette? The black and grayish-white number by Lanvin left her skin looking even more pale than normal and reduced her figure to one hard line.

Mickey Rourke

It’s hard to say this is one of the worst when he’s donning a necklace in memory of his dear Loki, but alas, it’s true. His white Jean Paul Gaultier number definitely shows the gusto we expect from Rourke, not to mention the random chains and wicked witch of the west shoes that we should have expected, really.

Sarah Jessica Parker

This “barely mint” Dior Haute Couture strapless seems like a shout out to her recurring character Carrie Bradshaw. It definitely makes her cleavage “barely” avoidable, but in conjunction with her overstated makeup, leads us to remember that Carrie often wore some pretty ugly (though supposedly fashion forward) stuff.

Sophia Loren

It’s hard to put into words really – and it seems it must have been hard to put into fabric. A neutral, yellowish, puffy octopus inspired dress oozed around Sophia while sallowing her skin color and clashing with her hair.

Heidi Klum

Think origami inspired ’80s Jetsons and you’ve imagined Heidi Klum’s red Roland Mouret gown. Bold, yes. Tacky? Just maybe. Fashion forward? I guess we’ll see in a century or two.

Philip Seymour Hoffman

We saved the best for last. Sure, the tux was normal, but we kept getting distracted by the beanie. With sweeping locks falling from underneath the hat, we figure that maybe he’s trying out the young look we’ve seen so many of our heart throbs wear out on the towns, but at the Academy Awards? On Philip Seymour Hoffman. It just doesn’t add up.

Now let us know what you think. Were you as equally dazzled by our stars and starlets? Do you think Miley Cyrus deserved to be on this list in one way or another? Think the beanie was hot? Reveal your fashion highs and lows of the night below in the comment box.

Click on Jude Law to see a Details slide show

“You have to feel like you own that piece,” says Kevin Harter, men’s fashion director at Bloomingdale’s. But confidence can take you only so far; a false tip, a clumsy doff, or an incorrect fit can render your cap dunced. If you’re in your twenties, there’s a chance you can get away with the casual fedora, as long as you keep what’s south of your chin simple. Avoid necklaces, graphic T-shirts, and vests, which, when paired with a hat, may cause a chemical reaction that results in Pete Wentz. If you’re in your late thirties or early forties, a classic gray fedora can be a smart and practical partner for a suit, provided you stay away from ridiculous embellishments. Shape, size, and positioning make all the difference: A fedora shouldn’t be perched high on your crown or squashed down on your brow. It should frame your eyes but not hide your face. “Stick with smaller brims,” says Banana Republic creative director Simon Kneen, “or you run the risk of looking like Oscar Wilde.” And while a gentle tilt is acceptable, cocking at an extreme angle is strictly for Dick Tracy.

Still think you have what it takes? Go for it. If not, try flipping the hat over and asking for change.

Written by Courtney Colavita. Article used with permission.

We saw in the fall the landscape that designers laid out earlier this year on the runway. The styles were reminiscent to the 1920s and 30s era of the Depression, with pencil skirts and vintage lace tops and of course the paperboy hats that seem to make us feel demure while walking down the street, even if we have to buy it for a dime at a second hand store.

Classic but traditional pieces can be found almost anywhere.

Winter fashion can be one of the best wardrobe seasons we have. There is nothing cooler than dialed down temperatures to compliment your cool, layered look. So cozy up to a warm mug of hot cocoa and let’s hash out some of this seasons hot closet must haves.

With the woes of the economy and the long winter months of cool air and shorter daylight, it’s easy to get trapped in the negative tone of just wearing black on black. So, instead of dimming down your outfit to reflect an unsure spirit, show some life that still burns inside you with an outfit that is kicked up with color.

This season hosts some bright but not blinding colors like green, gold, blue and deep plums. So pick the color that you like best and find it in one of this seasons styles.

If you’re seeking a little over the top attention with the trendy colors this year, slip on a cool sequined top or even a glossy style dress with black liquid tights. That’s rights, it’s all about the sequins and gloss, just do it within reason. No need to reflect light off you like a flashbulb on a disco dance floor!

If you still want to wear your chic depression era duds from fall, no worries, we have just the complimentary pieces to keep you styling all winter, without having to buy a whole new wardrobe.  Coats are a must have, especially if you live in cooler climates! Tuxedo jackets make the perfect comeback to compliment any wardrobe. With its bold straight lines, you will feel tall and sleek, even if what you have on underneath is not all that new and stylish.

Wool cashmere petal collar coat with belt $2,595 by Stella McCartney

Exterior sex appeal is all the rage this winter. Who doesn’t feel a little safe and warm while wearing our man’s coat? Only now we can have a tuxedo jacket all our own!

Both of these trends are easy to attain no matter what your budget. Target has their new GO International Collection hitting the stores now so you can be just as stylish as those who shop at the trendy boutiques stores, only on a smaller budget of course.

Still want more spark in your wardrobe? Heat up the holidays with a little flair. Bare your not so long ago summer shoulders in a strapless cocktail dress made of chiffon. While you’re at it, accent it with a stylish statement necklace like a large pendant, a long strand of beads or a chunky choker.

We can’t forget the model for all outfits, SHOES! Even the dullest outfits can be kicked up a notch with a killer pair of boots. This season hosts a huge selection of heals, flats, and fringes that will have you walking your way to some of the hottest looks, from girls and guys! Tall boots, the ones that come up over your knee, are all the rage this season. Whether it’s a stunning pair from Nine West or Stella McCartney, they are key for any outfit.

Who would have thought the hooker boots Vivian wore on Pretty Woman could be so hot! Don’t forget to work that tall heal! If you are not so daring, or maybe a little awkward in heals, you can still be trendy in a cute ankle boot. Just throw on a pair of leggings, a long sweater, and you’re ready to go.

Those are the basics! Sequined or glossy styled tops, (don’t forget to get it in one of the season’s hottest colors) tuxedo jackets, leggings of any style or pattern, strapless party dresses and uber tall or ankle style boots!

If you’re not in the mood to go all out, accessories can dress you up too. Add a scarf to your wardrobe, grab a cool clutch in faded hews of green and blue, or throw on a chunky style necklace that will give you a tiny touch of this seasons finest finishes.

If you are a fashion forward guy or maybe you ladies have a guy who needs a little help, we have a few must haves for men too.

Luckily the styles are very reminiscent to women’s fashion. Tuxedo style suits, in dark colors are super hot on a cool winter night. This trend may seem a little ordinary, but it’s far from it. The tuxedo style suit, as revealed during designer Paul Smiths fashion show, revealed a shorter sleeve and shorter than normal hem line. The new men’s look in suits are so hot off the runway, that even in this chilled weather, had us reaching for a fan.  Just add accessories, like blue shades, to add some color.

Another fashion necessity for men is a bomber style jacket. We need to keep our men warm too! And if he is a little risky, he can even try sport coats and pants with mixed prints and square patterns! But I have to say, wear at your own risk.

So there it is, winter must haves that will have you feeling warm and fuzzy no matter what your budget.

Just make sure you button up, it’s getting cold out there!

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.

You hope it’s the condensation that’s making your reflection look like you left the gym locker room, but no.  You’re forehead is glistening with perspiration.

Dermelect Cosmeceuticals’ Pore-Revolution-T-zone -Mattifier might be the solution you’re looking for. This beauty treatment is safe for all skin types, and a small dab of the silky cream applied to your forehead and nose, and any other areas that are prone to shine, should do the trick (Experts say to use your ring finger when applying, as this appendage has the gentlest touch). The salicylic acid in the cream stimulates the pores and, at the same time, cooling reliefs like willow leaf oil soothe the skin.  The thin cream dries faster than your first coat of mascara, so there will be no remnants of residue.

The odorless product also works to tighten your pores and refine your skin.  Stop the shine and go through your day with confidance forever more.

Other products available at www.dermelect.com include Dermelect Cosmeceuticals’ Detoxifying Oxygen Facial Commisson.  This facial cleanser is designed to awaken the skin with just a dime-sized squirt in the morning. Its natural ingredients, including soy protein and licorice extract, are gentle and soothing to the skin, and the cleanser releases oxygen molecules that instantaneously detoxify the unwanted dirt and residue in your pores.  This product, which was formulated by medical professionals and licensed estheticians, can additionally be used as a quick and easy makeup remover in the evening.

For more information or to purchase, please visit www.dermelect.com.

Most famously known for her stylish, comfortable and celebrity-worn line of funky and colorful flip flops, this Ditmas Park Brooklyn, N.Y. native’s passion wasn’t always just fashion.

“My passion was Arabic and Safardic Judaism, Middle Ages, Middle Eastern Philosophy and religion which is what I went to school for,” Kreitman said. She jumped from first year level Arabic language studies to a graduate level in one summer Kreitman said, revealing her thanks to Hebrew University’s
program.

Kreitman received her Master’s from Columbia specializing in Hebrew, Arabic and Middle Eastern studies. But after coming to the realization during the 1980s that there “was no need” at all for someone with her educational background and passions, she fell back to a childhood love of fashion, especially sewing and handiwork such as embroidery, knitting and beadwork. Not many can say they asked for a sewing machine for their bat mitzvah, received one and used it frequently and with gusto.

After seeking advice from an adviser at Columbia, it was clear to Kreitman she should study at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. She earned the prestigious Critic’s Choice Award and after graduating she worked at Tahari for a short while before starting her own namesake line.

“The shoes are ancillary, I had been a knitwear designer since I got out of FIT and I created this company in 1991 from unemployment money,” Kreitman said. When she discussed the beginning of her business she said, “Our high-end sweaters are all produced domestically, and in the early 90s women worked and suit jackets and suits were in high demand. My team and I concentrated on great whimsical jackets in the style of Moschino and we garnered quite a market.”

**

However, despite being a supplement to Kreitman’s line of knit wears and accessories, her flip flops have adorned the feet of such names as Felicity Huffman, Paris Hilton, Vivica A. Fox and Emma Roberts. Most recently, a Conde Naste editor emailed Kreitman saying that Carrie Underwood wore her flip flops to an Allure cover shoot because they wanted to know all about the shoes that the star wouldn’t take off.

“It’s nice to know that these people are wearing them. Shandra Wilson loved our ballet shoes. And Marcia Gay Harden wore our ballet shoes after having her twins since she was running all over the place,” Kreitman said.

The shoes didn’t start off as a fashionista must-have. They were actually a gag birthday gift Kreitman designed for friend and mentor children’s designer, Ruth Hornbein. “She got stopped everywhere and in 2000 she said we have to do a line.”

For the designer however, it all comes back to her roots. “My favorite thing to design is knitted sweaters. My strength is actually in sitting down at a knitting machine and knitting my own fabrications and coming up with new design patterns, hands using textured yarn.” She said she realizes that she has to evolve to be more commercial, as any designer does. “My strength has always been the whimsical approach to knitwear that we called ‘tongue-in-chic’, basically clothes that make you smile and make you happy.”

There are many differences between Kreitman’s line and mission and other designers and brands out there.

“I know how to knit and sew, I’m not at a computer designing. I know how to do handwork, embroidery, and whatever other kind of hands-on crafting like beadwork and handstitching, whatever needs to get done. I can sit down to a sewing machine and I can sit down to a knitting machine and that’s why I feel the line is a little different.”

Additionally, Kreitman’s target audience isn’t the teeny-bopper set predisposed to wear whatever Lindsay Lohan is donning for the week.

“We would hope our target audience is the young fashionista but really it’s educated consumers with a fine eye for the sophisticated and cultured styles. People who have been exposed to travel, and Europe.”

She is a fan of “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Sex and the City” but a critic of “Project Runway’s” flamboyant drama.

“I am put to the test everyday, the same tests that they (the contestants) are put through on Project Runway. But you have to make it work on a production level, a manufacturing basis.”

As for kicking back in front of the television, she said that when she closes her doors at night she doesn’t want to watch a drama about her daily fashion grind. “I want to relax with legal and medical dramas.”

**

Kreitman said of her design team “We’re die hard fans (of Sex and the City). We mourned the day it went off the air. It was so inspirational from a fashion point of view, and now people aren’t too excited about fashion.”

Kreitman realizes designing is a tough business and that not many people can last and evolve and grow with the times. She said she feels that you have to be well read, well educated and have a good grasp on the world around you to make it in the business.

“Fashion isn’t a vacuum, it’s happening in the world. It’s a product of our culture and it reflects culture.”

And while she isn’t in a business pertaining to her former passions of Middle Eastern language, cultures and studies, Kreitman’s love of fashion and passion for quality and handmade pieces that her line exemplifies shines through.

“You gotta real love what you do. And you have to know that most of it is nitty gritty but you have to have fun with it. If you don’t what’s the point?”

For the latest in Jamie Kreitman’s NY fashion line head to the designer’s Web site at http://www.jamiekreitman.com.

1. A man has to discover his own taste and then base his sartorial decisions on that-you shouldn’t buy something because you saw it on TV. You need to feel at ease in your clothes or you risk being a bit ridiculous.

2. I like a guy in a suit that’s cut a little smaller-slightly shorter, with smaller lapels. Inside, the jacket should have beautiful finishing that only the guy wearing it notices.

3. Italian men are very vain, even if they won’t admit it. They care about their style.

4. Not everyone looks good in a tuxedo. It’s important to look at proportions and find one that fits you well.

5. Shoes define the kind of man you are. They should never be too trendy or showy but lean toward the classic. There are a lot of ugly shoes out there, and they can ruin even the most sophisticated attire.

6. A little bit of chivalry always makes a woman happy. You shouldn’t exaggerate, but I do like it when a man holds the door open for me. I think, Okay, this guy has manners and knows how to comport himself.

7. When it comes to wearing color, you need to be a bit careful-a bit more traditional. A man should look sophisticated and refined, and color can sometimes get in the way. You have to be moderate.

8. Men can carry bags as long as they are masculine, like a tote or an attaché case. Look for a sturdy canvas or handsome leather one, maybe with a raw finish. A bag should be functional and practical.

9. Clothes don’t necessarily render a man sexy-his attitude and his nature do. For me, someone who is not classically handsome but has a lot of charm is more attractive than a really good-looking guy with no personality.

10. My husband’s style is classic, but he’ll occasionally wear a Marni sweater or sneakers with a suit or try a jacket that’s slightly shorter, and it works for him. My son is more daring. The most important thing is to be yourself.

Check out these top stories from Details:
FOLLOW THE RULES: LUCAS OSSENDRIJVER
Lanvin’s inventive men’s designer on the merits of sneakers, the tackiness of logos, and why you should invest in a mismatched suit.
FOLLOW THE RULES: VÉRONIQUE NICHANIAN
The menswear designer at Hermès on the myth of French style, avoiding trends, and why you can never have too much cashmere.
FOLLOW THE RULES: PAUL SMITH
The sharp British designer on poorly dressed Londoners, Daniel Day-Lewis, and when you should lose the bow tie.

1. You shouldn’t adapt to what people expect you to wear-you should make your clothes your own. For me what’s interesting is to wear the jackets and pants of suits separately.

2. I think it’s distasteful when people buy clothes with logos or brag about what they spend on their clothes. Luxury should be something intimate.

3. Jewelry is very difficult for men, but they can go a little more extreme with shoes and bags. Wear trainers with a suit and the look completely changes.

4. I think clothes are more elegant when they’re nonchalant. You can wear something quite sophisticated but not look too overtly luxurious.

5. Friday-wear is very typically American. You have this office uniform, and then suddenly it’s the weekend and it’s the opposite. I think it’s better to mix the two and make officewear a little less formal and Friday-wear a little less casual.

6. When I was younger I used to wear a lot of T-shirts, but now I wear more and more button-down shirts. I think it’s actually very cool to just have a lot of really great shirts in a very good fabric.

7. It’s important that clothes be light when you’re layering. It’s very nice if you wear three jackets instead of one-but not three suit jackets. I mean a shirt and a shirt jacket and another jacket made out of very light fabric. There’s a richness to that look.

8. A lot of men are very insecure when it comes to dressing. They ask themselves every morning, “What am I going to wear? Is it the right thing? Does it match?” Once they find something they stick to it, and I think that’s a shame. I think men should make a bit more of an effort. They should see clothing not as something necessary but as something fun.

9. here’s something modern about dressing up-wearing a shirt and a tie-but in a lighter way. We made ties that were just strips of fabric–sometimes in the same fabric as the shirt. It’s a new way to wear a tie.

10. I don’t really like wallets. I prefer that you carry your money in your pocket or put everything in a bag and carry it there. Just keep it simple.

Well my option this season is the trench coat. It is looking very special this season in all kinds of colors and price ranges to make any budget feel comfortable. Every major designer had one in their line for the season and I saw the one that Isaac Mizrahi did for Target for about $50.

The thing is, whether you are a guy or a girl, a great trench makes a great statement, and no matter who designed it, or when for that matter, this classic design will make you look chic.

They come in many lengths but for women this season the quarter length and the jacket are in.

We are not talking about your grandma’s trench either. No tan — get a bright color that is a little flirty and expressive. This style will cinch your waist and the right color will add that over the edge style.

My favorite of all the ones that I saw this season is the one by Topshop. They have one that is two toned and has an empire waisted cut. The top half is one color, then just below the bust line it is a darker shade of the same color and the sleeves are color divided the same way. I love it! It really is updated and super chic.

One look that seems hard to work with this season is the safari look. This look traditionally is very boxy and steals away the shape of the body. This season it has been updated and tailored a bit.

I have seen it cute but be cautious going for this look, it can come off odd. The best thing to do is use the exotic prints sparingly and get a pair of khaki shorts, a cargo or walking short style, and keep it simple. Add some chunky inexpensive beads and keep it easy.

For the guys this look should be all about the print. A printed tee and a great pair of shades will take you through the summer in this style. There are the printed button down shirts, but be careful to get a good safari print. You don’t want to end up looking Hawaiian. Your grandfather’s Tommy Bahama look is not what you are going for here.

Spring is always about the adorable dress and of course this year is no different. A great print is always good in spring, but this season, go for the florals. They are amazing and really awesome.

This year there is not one defining moment in the cut of the spring dress but a defining color. The blue in cornflower and powder and the lavender and soft purples are working the field. But spring is all about color, so take your favorite and run with it.

My tip is to get pieces that are light enough for summer and add a sweater or a jacket and make the items work both seasons. Layering is always a great choice for spring because it gives you great color and styling options while allowing you to stay warm and sexy.

In a move that should surprise no one, PETA is coming out strongly against Gucci for their supposed use of seal-fir in boots found in Russia.

In an e-mail to Gucci CEO Robert Polet, (Download it now) PETA describes what they call “documented seal hunt horrors.”

“Is this kind of blatant cruelty to animals something that Gucci wants to associate itself with?” the email states.

According to PETA, Canada’s annual seal hunt, which begins this week in Labrador and Newfoundland, is the largest massacre of marine mammals in the world.

“People worldwide have looked on in horror for years as the Canadian government has permitted the annual slaughter of up to 335,000 baby harp seals, with the quota set at 275,000 seals this year,” PETA said. “The terrified seals are shot or clubbed repeatedly, and as many as 42 percent are skinned alive.”

“Whether it’s clubbing baby seals, electrocuting minks on fur farms, or crushing lynxes’ legs in steel-jaw traps, every fur that Gucci sells represents unimaginable suffering,” siad PETA Assistant Director Matt Prescott. “From Moscow to Milan and everywhere in between, cruelty to animals is never in fashion.”

Have you ever dreamed of dressing up the Olsen twins to your heart’s desire? If so, your dream may come true. Although, the items you use to dress the tiny moguls may not be what is expected. A new dress-up game involving a “mauled mink messenger bag,” a “hanged hamster headband” and an “electrocuted ermine evening dress,” are just some of the things visitors to PETA’s, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, new site can fool around with when dressing “Hairy-Kate and Trashley Trollsen.”

“Meet the Trollsen Twins” is a new campaign run by peta2, PETA’s youth division. The campaign’s web site, which can be found at peta2.com, criticizes Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen for continuing to wear fur and sell fur in their clothing line The Row, renamed “Death Row,” by site creators.

Aside from having a dress up game for the twins the site also includes a well-crafted Full House spoof episode titled “Full House of Horrors.” In it, Jack Shepherd, author of PETA’s blog The PETA Files, stars as “Futureman” who comes to tell the Tanner family about Michelle’s fashion crimes in the future.

“It’s not just that these little Michelles are going to end up as a pair of fashion casualties who hide their shrunken bodies in entire families of dead animals,” says Futureman in the video. “The worst part is what happens to the animals who die for the Olsens’ sick, sick fur habit.”The reworked episode gets the Tanner family to kick Michelle out of the house for her future crimes as an animal killer. But, these are only two features of PETA’s newest web site.

“We create these sort of controversial, sort of funny campaigns,” said Dan Shannon, assistant director for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, or PETA. “People get to learn a serious lesson while poking fun at celebrities.”

The Olsen twins were chosen as targets for this campaign because they wear fur frequently; and according to Shannon, they seem to make a statement in doing so. PETA members have written to the twins many times to no avail since they have never received a response from the sisters.

In comparison, PETA members wrote to Eva Mendes after seeing her out wearing fur and received a letter sharing her horrified, apologetic, reaction. Mendes even went on to participate in PETA’s “I’d Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur” campaign.

“[The site has] gotten almost half a million hits so far so it’s been really successful for us,” said Shannon.

PETA tends to have ardent opposition as well as support, but Shannon said there is no concern about lawsuits. “Everything we’re saying on the web site is true,” he said. “People make their own decisions.”

PETA members are often criticized for using shock value and sensationalism to get the public’s attention. When trying to find responses form the fashion labels criticized in the website, Blast only received “no response” comments in return, though.

“The issues are shocking in and of themselves,” said Shannon. “All you have to do is tell people the truth.”

The peta2 web site also features links allowing visitors to write letters to the twins, asking them to stop wearing fur. A pre-written letter is available, but PETA encourages visitors to write their own letters, for maximum impact and influence.

Another link leads visitors to a page for peta2’s latest clothing designs, which vary from sweatshirts to messenger bags. In addition to a cartoon design of the Trollsen Twins, there are designs that read “Fur is Dead” and “Mean People Wear Fur.”

PETA maintains a list of fur-free retailers available on their Internet sites. Some include The Gap, Eddie Bauer and H&M. Polo Ralph Lauren, Betsey Johnson and Calvin Klein are some of the latest designers who have decided not to use fur in their collections too. Consumers can use this list to make informed decisions about the products they purchase and ask other fashion labels to stop using fur.

“Every purchase that you make sends a message,” said Shannon. “Most people deep down care about animals and don’t want to see them suffer.”

What do you think of this? Do you agree with PETA specifically targeting children with these kinds of advertisements? Do you agree with Futureman? Sound off in our comments section!

Yes I will go over it, but I find that what is on everyone’s minds, from elementary school children to grandparents, have been the effects that the war is having on our daily lives. Everything from gas to fashion is affected and we just are ready for the end to arrive.

No one likes to have war, but too many people enjoy the spoils of war at the expense of other peoples’ lives on many levels, from the ultimate casualty to the slow draining death of the citizens of each country that is involved. Then there is the factor that we are all connected in some way or another so that makes the entire world part of a war that only some people are benefiting from in the first place.

You can see in fashion, more in 2008 than in 2007, the exasperation that is occurring with the fatigue of a 5-6 year war (depending on when “war” has been acknowledged) that is eating away at the fabric of the world or at the very least my world.

The holidays were not as bright this year because so many of us know young people that are not with us anymore due to the war. Some are more fortunate in the sense that they have to struggle to find a new life, be they wounded physically or mentally, but they are still here. Some of us have loved ones that are just still out fighting or training to fight and we just wanted them home so that we could hold them close.

So many children are saying things like, I don’t want anything for Christmas or Hanukkah, I just want my mommy and/or daddy or uncle or auntie to come home to be with me. That was just so heartfelt to me. So I have pondered over and over how not to include the gray in my commentary of the fashion scene for this article but it just came off fake.

Once you get a chance to review the fashion for 2008 you will see the directional change that I spoke of previously with the hip hop bling bling fading away. All that flash and opulence can’t continue when we are paying over $3 a gallon for gas.

The spring for 2008 is all about a re-emerging of the 1960s. The flower child influence is definitely there. The bright colors and beautiful fabric crafted in patchwork styling is channeling a message of antidisestablishmentarianism.

The overall movement in fashion is about modesty and classic elegance. The classic 1940’s through 1950’s house dress has come back in an amazing way. They are fitted in the bodice area but flow in a slight A-line that gives the body of a woman its greatest appeal. A very come hither look that is not scandalous.

Knits are hot for the entire year. In the spring they start off small and tight and as we move into fall they get bigger and chunkier. This year the styles are all about comfort and finding a swaddling delight in what you wear.

The name of the game for fall 2008 is secretary chic. That means that some button down shirts and classic sweaters can be added to the wardrobe that you already have to create the lines that will define the season.

This year, the fashion gods have created the proverbial chicken soup, the ultimate comfort food in clothes. So get out your favorite pieces and add a little new and make a statement that sticks it to the man and you will be ready to take on the fashion world and be groovy-hip-fly-phat-chic all of 2008.

Keep your heads up and stay fashionable!