Monday, March 29th, 2010 | Accessories, Celebs

Jennifer Aniston Loves Her Brave Leather Belt

By Samantha

Boyfriend jeans are here to stay, and along with the trend, belts for women are making a huge comeback for a classic chic look. Brave Leather Belts have been worn by Jennifer Aniston numerous times as of late, and there is something about her wearing a trend that instantly makes it fresh, casual and fun.

All Brave Leather Belts have signature novelty detailing, embellishments and hardware that add a functional, edgy piece to your outfit, pulling it all together. Handmade in Canada, the belts are also extremely earth friendly. The dyes for their belts are made from plant and vegetable extracts, and no animals are killed for the leather, as all materials are reclaimed from the food industry. It’s the circle of life, and the end result is some pretty kick-butt belts, that will make your favorite jeans and tee combo even more hip.

Brave Leather Belts retail for between $75 and $160 and are available online at BraveLeather. Getting Jennifer Aniston’s look has never been this easy. Now, if only we could tackle the hair.

Friday, March 26th, 2010 | Accessories, Haute Press, News, TopPictures

Giuseppe Zanotti Makes His E-Commerce Debut

By Samantha

There is nothing worse than finding a pair of shoes you love either in a magazine or on a celebrity and not being able to find them in any stores. Well, Giuseppe Zanotti has solved that problem for his fashion followers, of which there are too many to count, and launched his very own e-commerce site. The site went live this month, which aside from shopping, includes the latest news from the designer, pictures and video clips, along with special services for the most loyal customers. And it’s hard not to be loyal to a designer whose work is so versatile, classic yet glamorous.

Powered by the YOOX Group, the site is available in the US, Europe and Japan along with various other countries. As part of the launch, the designer created an “e-collection” of two brand new, unique styles that were created in celebration of the website launch, and are online available online. The superflat sandal and matching clutch are effortless to wear yet exude an essence of luxurious sophistication that is now attainable.

Also, on the site, there is a “Special Request” section, where consumers can request shoes that they have seen as of late on their favorite celebrity on the red carpet or in their favorite fashion magazine. No need to search for your favorite shoes. There is also a “Wedding Shoe” section devoted to footwear for the bride-t0-be, and her bridesmaids, where you can assist in designing the ideal shoe for your special day.

With the Giuseppe Zanotti world now at your fingertips, the designer has made loving him even easier, which I didn’t realize was possible. So get on your computer, we know you are at it now, and visit Giuseppe Zanotti Design now. View exclusives and peruse for your favorite luxe wares. Your biggest problem will be finding which shoes or bags to purchase, because they are all so damn amazing.

Friday, March 26th, 2010 | Accessories, Celebs

Jessica Alba Rocks it Out in Melissa Joy Manning Studs

By Dyuti

Always red carpet ready, Jessica Alba was spotted at the 2010 Tribeca Film festival looking stunning as ever. Her jazzy Proenza Schouler outfit was definitely a show stealer but the gorgeous Melissa Joy Manning earrings she chose to wear accentuated it even further.

These beautiful studs are a perfect complement to her honey-hued skin and follow the same color scheme as her vivid eye- makeup and printed sheath dress. They are made from completely recycled 14k yellow gold and the rare cavansite mineral forms the brilliant blue core here.

A huge hit with the A- list celebrities, Melissa Joy Manning is synonymous with great style and the latest designs in jewelry. What also makes the label every bit worthy of its fan following is the contemporary approach towards organic fashion. Usage of sustainable materials while creating extraordinary designs makes this line much coveted with a client profile that includes the likes of Anne Hathaway, Kate Hudson, Rachel McAdams, Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Aniston and many others.

The Melissa Joy Manning cavansite studs retail for $625. For more information and to shop the latest collection visit Melissa Joy Manning.

Thursday, March 25th, 2010 | Accessories, Fashion, Style

Walk on Sunshine in Edward Beiner Shades

By Dyuti

Come summer and every fashionista knows that she’s only as good as the sunglasses she wears. Fortunately, Edward Beiner is here to save the day and your eyes.

Having created a niche in a market flooded with bigwigs, Edward Beiner eyewear is on the road to expansion; gaining momentum by the day and one celebrity at a time. As of this day, their client profile includes superstars like Heidi Klum, Jennifer Lopez, Lindsay Lohan, and Alicia Keys to name a few and the list just keeps getting longer and longer.

Specially crafted keeping in mind the sunny skies Miami and the vivacious South Florida, he has found a way of blending practicality and elegance seamlessly resulting into excellence. This sophistication of design and impeccable craftsmanship is what draws a huge fan following towards the nine stores.

All this pomp and show is by no means, merely at a superficial level. Beiner boasts of a patented Eye Point Technology, which is a breakthrough in lens technology.  When polarized, they eliminate glare completely and filter UV rays out to about 98% hence giving your eyes the best of protection possible.

The exclusivity of production is the prime reason for the superior quality. With classic Art Deco influenced designs, finest materials and latest technology, Edward Beiner is the last word in sunglasses.

Visit Edward Beiner for additional information and store locations.

Friday, March 19th, 2010 | Accessories, Celebs, Fashion, Haute Press, New York

Alicia Keys Makes a Vera Wang Statement

By Dyuti

Madison Square Garden was set ablaze with Alicia Keys sizzling performance. Spectacular as always, Alicia elevated the glamour quotient of the evening in all black sequined black pants. The pièce de résistance of her outfit though, was adorning her neck.

This layered, multi-stranded, statement necklace is a part of Vera Wang’s spring 2010 RTW line-up. Called ‘Partying with Poiret’, the collection is a contradictory in itself. On one hand it draws inspiration from romantic flowers of the season like tulips and poppies while on the other are dark undertones and the midnight blues. The clothes are wispy, light with slight drapes and gentle gathers; all in nocturnal colors like charcoal, indigo, violet and gray. As a counterpoint to this are the accessories. Countless strands and chains intertwine and interlace together to make strong and bold necklaces which add some drama to the ensemble.

This one-of-a-kind neckpiece is surely this season’s must have accessory and with Alicia donning it, a new trend has just begun.

For more information visit Vera Wang.

Wednesday, March 17th, 2010 | Accessories, Fab Events, Fashion, Haute Press, Los Angeles, Style

Your Inner Bride Will Be "Unveiled" on Melrose Place

By Samantha

Even if you aren’t in the midst of planning a wedding, we know that you have thought about yours, from your dress to the lucky suitor who you will be honeymooning with. If you live in LA (and if you don’t, you might consider making the trip), on March 28th, the famed Melrose Place will be transformed into a bridal paradise with “Unveiled: Bridal Style Revealed.” From 11AM to 4PM, the tree lined street will turn into a mecca for all of a bride’s needs, from the dress and makeup to the linens, invitations and catering. This is the one-stop-shop for your dream wedding.

The event will feature designs from Monique Lhullier, Carolina Herrera and Temperley London, who will graciously open their stores with models showcasing their latest bridal designs. Ports 1961 and Vince will be open for shoppers to buy their perfect wedding guest outfit, or jut a great ensemble for a night out. Kate Somerville’s team will be on hand to discuss beauty treatments and luxury mobile beauty service Fiore Beauty will have a Lash Bar and will also be offering hair styling tips, massages and more. Bacara Resort & Spa, Williams-Sonoma, the London West Hollywood, Bella Bridesmaid, Patina Wedding and TravelStore Platinum will line the street to showcase their luxury wedding day goodies while you indulge on cake tastings. There will also be an expert panel to include celebrity wedding planner Mindy Weiss and owner of Creative Intelligence, Marc Friedland. They will be on hand to discuss wedding trends and event planning with tips and tricks to make your day even more special, like how to align with a philanthropy to help others on the happiest day of your life.

Edgar Zamora of Revelry Event Design will be the creative force behind “Unveiled,” transforming the street into a sophisticated, wedding day wonderland meant to inspire brides to be, families of brides to be and wedding planners alike. It is meant to be a fun, care-free afternoon where ladies (and some men, too) can peruse the street to put together their upcoming vows and celebration. And if you aren’t planning, you can still come, try some cake, and plan your perfect wedding for when Mr. Right does come along to whisk you off of your feet. Or come with your girlfriends to play dress up and learn a thing or two, because we are sure if you haven’t been a bridesmaid yet, your clock is ticking.

Tickets are available at Unveiled, where your Bridal Passport is $30 in advance and $40 on-site. Check-in is at 650 North La Cienega Blvd. in West Hollywood, right at Melrose Place.

Monday, March 15th, 2010 | Accessories, News, Shop

Lia Sophia Has Bangin’ Baubles

By Samantha

Lia Sophia’s latest red carpet jewelry collections, Midnight and Lanaya, have left me speechless with their glamorous, retro vibe that appears to be inspired by art deco architecture coupled with bold femininity. The jewelry line is constantly delivering jewels that are fashion forward yet classic in design, for prices that don’t kill. Also, the devotion of Lia Sophia to various charities is eye-opening, and shows again how fabulous it is when designers have a philanthropic element, making them even more lovable. Just when you thought you couldn’t love the line anymore. With Lia Sophia, the founders in the Kiam family have really created something special, jewelry that is so much more than just a shining accessory.

The Midnight collection has dashes of orange, blue and pink alongside golds and pewters, with gorgeous geometric shapes and glittering stones. For the 70s girl living with modern day flair, the Midnight collection is sure to take her out on the town in style. From long necklaces to chokers and rings to bracelets, the collection is extremely versatile. What I love most about this collection is how transparent it is; the jewels can easily be worn during the day to spruce up jeans and a tee-shirt or at night to glitz up your finest dress. The design of each piece in this collection is so intricately thought out from the external look to the internal making from the stone placement to the color blocking. While the Midnight collection does feature some more basic pieces, the line focuses on glittering fun and just enough shimmer to make sure you are the talk of the town. You can choose to rock bolder styles, or keep it simple. Either way, the Midnight collection is definitely going to add a little kick to your step, as you walk around looking feminine and fabulous in the jewels.

The other collection that has be smitten is the Lanaya collection, which is inspired by the many hidden gems in the natural beauty of Thailand. The architecture remains simplistic yet defined and the silhouettes are tribal inspired. There are pearls throughout the collection which are coupled with chains and crystals for a marriage between natural beauty and modern sophistication. This collection features backdrops of gold and black matte with black crystals. I happen to be obsessed with the gold with black crystals, as it is an interesting play on the trend of mixed metals. The black crystals have a grey/blue tone, that with shimmer almost appears to be silvery. Against the gold, the color really pops, and these pieces can easily create an outfit. The Lanaya collection is full of bold statement pieces that you can build an entire outfit around. The collection is chic with a bit of a 1920s flapper vibe paired with the South Beach Art Deco district. The Lanaya collection doesn’t need color, because what is lacks in color is makes up for in design and detailing. From fringe to braiding, these pieces will add a new spin to any red-carpet look, and will intensify jeans and a tank to a whole new level.

The Lia Sophia Midnight and Lanaya collections are available at Lia Sophia, along with the rest of the line’s jewels. On the site, you can learn more about the founding family, opportunities to host your very own Lia Sophia party and shop to your heart’s content to find all of the baubles you will need this season, that are sure to last you for quite a few seasons to follow.

Pictured (from top to bottom): Midnight Collection – Triangle Chain Link Bracelet, $450; Triangle Stretch Bracelet, $500; Triangle Chain Necklace, $850; Orbit Necklace, $850; Orbit Ring, $200. Lanaya Collection – Fringed Chain Stretch Bracelet, $550; Fringed Chain Bracelets, $225; Fringed Chain Bib Necklace, $1,000.

Monday, March 15th, 2010 | Accessories, Fashion

AMI Swimwear Doesn't Break The Piggy-Bank

By Samantha

AMI, a line that we have come to love for their affordable fashions from dresses to shoes also is providing swimwear for the budget conscious fashionista. Summer is just around the corner, and if you are like me, you are already thinking about what bathing suit you want to don for Memorial Day.

Whether you are a itsy-bitsy bikini type of girl, someone that likes a little more coverage or all about the one pieces, AMI has a suit to fit your needs. Plus, the swimwear is available in a variety of colors and prints. Whether you prefer a classic look, or something more bold, you will be covered, or actually, not really covered much, but looking fabulous. Personally, I am digging the classic nautical style, but the red bikini will definitely be called upon when I’m trying to meet a hot surfer this summer.

There are over 100 styles to choose from, and they all retail for under $50. The swimwear is flirty and feminine, fashion forward with just enough of a kick to ensure you are the hottest chick hitting the waves. The only thing to really think about is how much fabric you want to cover up with.

For more information, and to view all of the styles, visit AMI.

Wednesday, March 10th, 2010 | Accessories, Fashion, Fashion Week, Haute Press, TopPictures

Costume National Fall 2010

By Samantha

The Costume National Fall 2010 collection is all about morphing from the man-made to the technological. Omnipresent in the collection is the juxtaposition of organic fabrics and classic tailoring alongside modern technicalities of design.

Knits, leather and fur are the backdrop of the collection with a refined, rock n’ roll attitude for the edgy chick that remains sophisticated and timeless. The pieces are warm, yet remain very light and every item is deconstructed and put back together to create the look. The colors for the pieces are monochromatic, in different tones of the same shades. There palette is doubled with an urban feel in the black, silver, charcoal and concrete and a natural feel with ivory, almond and dark brown. Taking nature and marrying it with the urban evolution creates a collection that is stunning to the eye, with so much depth lying in the details. The embroidery is a unique “bark” which is an organic and iridescent surface of hand-folded gold sequins covered one by one with black voile. An artisans technique that is complimented by the innovations of modernity.

One of the best parts of Costume National is that the line is all encompassing from head to toe. Dresses, pants, coats, jackets, bags and shoes are all from the brand, and work together effortlessly to create looks that are raw yet ornamental and stunning. The Fall 2010 collection is on trend with all of the natural colors that we have been seeing, and what girl can go without a fabulous over-sized bag and funky, rocking shoes? Every garment is incredibly thought out and put together to create true “looks” that are lust-worthy for the girl that isn’t afraid to make a statement but likes to always keep it classy.


Monday, March 8th, 2010 | Accessories, Celebs, Philanthropy

Pennyroyal Silver Does Music and Hollywood Proud

By Samantha

Jewelry line Pennyroyal Silver is quite busy lately, with two fabulous collaborations going on. Designer Tim Foster creates jewelry with a message, which is inspired by his true passion for music, as he is an industry veteran. Each piece is designed with a song in mind, and just like those songs, it is the minor imperfections in each piece that makes them come to life, and gives them value. The line started with a hammer and a penny and has grown exponentially since then, with full collections of jewelry that is wearable, fresh and truly inspired.

Most recently, Burton and Pennyroyal Silver teamed with singer Jewel to create a limited edition pendant whose proceeds will go to “Give a Drop,” one of Project Clean Water’s campaigns. Burton’s love of philanthropy and music came together, as Jewel and Burton were able to get creative musically, and support a charity that they both believe in. The silver water droplet pendant is fun to wear and a great way to look stylish whilst giving back. The pendant retails for $90.

Alongside his collaboration with Jewel, Pennyroyal Silver has made a commemorative piece of jewelry for the release of Alice in Wonderland. The “Drink Me” pendant is a bit gothic, showcasing the darker side of the movie, and is edgy yet remains elegant as well. Anne Hathaway recently picked up the necklace to celebrate the movie, and her fantastic role in it. This “Drink Me” pendant retails for $145, and you can use the coupon code “Alice” throughout the month of March for 25% off. There are only 1000 numbered pieces, so hurry up. Alice in Wonderland is the hottest movie of the year, and any of the merchandise is definitely on trend, fun and will be wearable forever.

For more information, and to view and shop these and the other fabulous items from the collection, visit Pennyroyal Silver.