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Spring 2011 Shoe Preview

The newest shoe trends for Spring 2011 will literally knock your socks off! After months of hibernating and piling on the layers, the hottest styles for Spring are both bold and carefree. Whatever your mood, one thing to look forward to is that all the Spring trends are reminiscent of 1970’s fashion. If you love this hippie and disco chic era of fashion, you’re going to love what’s in store!  Shed those winter boots ladies because it’s just about time to show some serious skin!

Cage Strap Wedges

The sexy confidence of bold cage straps combine with the comfort of a wedge heel to make the hottest shoe for Spring 2011! As much as fashionistas love their sky high heels and platforms, there’s nothing like a solid wedge that gives you the stability to stand tall for hours at a time. Drawing inspiration from the gladiator shoe booties of Fall 2010, cage straps wedges are the perfect way to transition your shoe style for the warmer months ahead. For Spring, cage strap wedges in leather and suede will be the new go to shoe – great with everything from a flirty dress to sophisticated suit.

Crown Vintage Realm Wedge 59.95 DSW 

Trouve Neda Wedge Nordstrom

Boho Neutrals

The boho inspired styles for Spring are cool and relaxed, reminiscent of the free spirits of the 1970’s! Strappy sandals, wedges, and espadrilles have always been Spring staples, but this year neutral color palettes are king – from subtle tans and soft metallics to warm camels and rich shades of brown. Natural fibers such as cork and jute, along with woven straps and accents add to the bohemian vibe. Wood based soles are also making a strong comeback, giving these hippy chic shoes a bold edge. Aside from being ever so versatile, these boho neutrals also have that lovely leg lengthening effect. Taking a cue from my favorite shoe trend of 2010, the nude pump, these sandals will make your limbs look amazing all the way through Summer!

Seychelles Flat Sandal

Seychelles Gypsy Sandal

Disco Color Block

The vibe for Spring 2011 has officially returned to the 1970’s with retro glam inspired color block heels, platforms and wedges! Causing a colorful stir on the fashion runways were models rockin’ disco chic platforms that’d be perfect for a night at Studio 54. The bold combinations of colors command attention and are an easy way to dress up even the most blasé outfit. For a casual look, spice up your jeans and tee with some two tone sandals for a fun pop of color. Or, go all out and dress the part of a dancing queen by pairing one of the season’s vintage inspired frocks with some daring color block platform pumps!

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Last Minute Holiday Gifts 2010

No matter how far in advance we start our holiday shopping, there always seems to be someone else on your list to shop for! Whether it’s your pet-sitting teenage neighbor, your foodie coworker, or the ultimate fashionista in your life, it’s difficult to know which gifts are best. With the help of the Internet and some amazing last minute deals, you can easily find a gift for even the most discerning person on your list, without breaking the bank!

The Fashionista

What fashionista doesn’t appreciate a fabulous pair (or two) of shoes? If you’re in need of a great gift for the style savvy set in your life, you can’t go wrong with the gift of shoes. DSW Shoes is your one stop shop for all the hottest designer shoes at incredible prices. Great for men, women and teens, a DSW Gift Card is the perfect present for those that love fantastic footwear! When you purchase a $50 DSW Gift Card this holiday season, you’ll receive a $10 gift card in return – so you can share the shoe love and get something for yourself too! Order a DSW Gift Card by December 22nd or an e-Gift Card by midnight on December 24th for Christmas delivery.

dsw gift card

The Traveler

Beautiful luggage and chic travel accessories make a wonderful gift, but they can be costly and difficult to select. For an affordable and useful gift for the jet setters in your life, try the Ultraviolet Sanitizing Wand. At just $12.99, this must have travel accessory kills 99.9% of surface germs, bacteria, molds, and fungus. Recent reports have proven that the knobs and switches on airplanes carry the highest levels of bacteria, not to mention the remote controls in hotel rooms! Ideal for travel, home and office, the compact wand will fit into your carry on or handbag so it’s readily available whenever you need it. No traveler should be without this ingenious item!

Travelon-Ultraviolet-Sanitizing-Wand-in-White

The Foodie

Igourmet.com brings the best of international gourmet products right to your kitchen at affordable prices. If you want to delight your foodie friends, give the gift of an igourmet gift basket, with products ranging from fine cheeses and condiments, delectable desserts, and wine from all around the world. As an added bonus, promotionalcodes.com is offering a $10 off coupon for any order. Combine that with any of the wonderful assortments available on igourmet (many for under $100) and you’ll be sure to impress any culinary extraordinaire!

igourmet intl gift basket

The Teen

Teens are so difficult to shop for, particularly when it comes to buying clothes. But when it comes to teen style, one item stands out above the rest – the graphic tee. From vintage inspired to modern pop culture designs, teenagers live in graphic tees, perfect with everything from jeans and shorts to leggings and skirts. Rotemgear.com is an eclectic website with a fantastic selection of ethnic, retro, and pop culture tees and products that are super reasonable. The Kitty and Dog crossbones collection ($18.99 and up) is a fun, quirky, and rocker-chic style that both teen guys and girls will adore. No matter what the teen’s taste, remember that a cool graphic tee is an easy and affordable gift that would put a smile on anybody’s face!Kitty Crossbones

The Luxury Lover

To satisfy the sweet tooth of the luxury lovers in your life, give the gift of pure decadence – a collection of delicious Champagne Petit Fours from Valerie Confections ($55). The luxurious mini confections are made of rich butter cake layered with Champagne ganache, then hand dipped in dark chocolate. As an exquisite finishing touch, each cake is topped with an edible piece of 23 karat gold. The twelve piece gift set comes beautifully packaged with an elegant gold satin ribbon. Your friends will be so impressed with this lavish gift, and you can rest easy knowing that it didn’t set you back a fortune!

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Holiday Fashion 2010 – Sequins, Glitter & Sparkle, Oh My!

The holidays are officially in full swing, and there’s no doubt that many of us have festive cocktail parties and merry events in our future. With all the stress of the holidays, who has time to figure out what to wear? Well, not to fear because with this season’s hottest looks, you’ll be ready to go in no time! The best new fashion items for Holiday 2010 are shiny and bright, from sparkly sequined dresses to elegant vintage headbands. If you have to purchase just one piece this season, opt for one that glitters and glows – it’s the easiest way to dress up your favorite look, from cocktail dresses to jeans and tee!

Calvin Klein Sequin Tank Dress ($98, Nordstrom)

For those that really want to make an entrance, a dazzling sequin dress is the way to go! The styles of the season are sexy and sophisticated, and would look great as is or with a pair of tights and a bomber jacket. The key to pulling off such a stand out dress is to keep your accessories simple. Nude or black pumps are best, while a pretty pair of studs and a cocktail ring would finish off the look perfectly. Remember, the dress (and you) is the star, so no need to overdo it!

Calvin Klein Sequin Tank Dress 98_Nordstrom

Sequin Front Tank ($39.90, Express)

If you want to rock the sequins but don’t think you can pull it off from head to toe, try a glimmering embellished tank or blouse. This festive style can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Wear it with a pair of black skinny pants for a sleek look, or layer it under a blazer with jeans for a casual chic feel. A stunning pair of chandelier earrings or a cuff bracelet would complement both looks beautifully.

Sequin Tank 39.90_Express

TOMS Shoes “Glitters” ($54, TOMS Shoes)

Put a fashionable kick in your step with the “Glitters” collection from TOMS Shoes! , Known for their amazing mission of “One for One,” TOMS donates one pair of shoes to a child in need with every pair purchased. This holiday season, you can look casually glam while also giving back. Available in gold, silver, pink and black, these shoes will definitely add some sparkle to your holiday wardrobe. Wear them with jeans, slacks, skirts, and even your favorite little black dress!

Gold Glitters 54_TOMS

Rose Evening Bag ($33.56, Handbag Heaven)

If you’re looking for the perfect accessory to complement your cocktail dress and heels, there’s nothing more glamorous than a beaded clutch. This stunning evening bag is reminiscent of Old Hollywood with its two tone sequins and rhinestone encrusted enclosure. Available in gold/white, black/silver, and silver/white, you’ll definitely be able to find a combination that will match your outfit. Other than a fabulous statement necklace, a festive handbag is the best way to dress up any holiday ensemble!

Rose Evening Bag 35.66_HH

Art Deco Headband ($62, Bethany Lorelle)

For a unique twist on the holiday accessory, try a vintage inspired headband with beautiful beading and sequins. This handmade headband will add an elegant and feminine touch to any outfit. Whether you’re wearing an evening gown, sheath dress, or suit, a dazzling headband is a simple and fashionable item to spice up your look. And since the headband is the new must have accessory, you’ll be able to use these pretty pieces for seasons to come!

Deco Beaded and Sequin Headband by Bethany Lorelle

Thanksgiving Dining Deals

For those who don’t already have a Thanksgiving feast planned for Turkey Day, many restaurants are taking the stress out of the food filled holiday by offering affordable pre fixed meals and dinners to go. From contemporary comfort food in the south to inventive organic cuisine on the west coast, these restaurants are serving up healthy, delicious, and affordable fare, so you can give thanks for what’s really important – your family and friends.

Stefan’s at L.A. Farm (Los Angeles, CA)

Well known for his appearance on Bravo’s “Top Chef,” award-winning Chef Stefan Richter presents a distinctly American meal for Thanksgiving for just $39 per person. Served buffet style in the casual yet sophisticated bistro, Stefan’s at L.A. Farm, guests will enjoy Richter’s unique yet traditional fare. Some of the mouth-watering selections include crispy, whole-roasted turkey, honey-baked ham, pumpkin soup with cinnamon and maple syrup, baked yams with marshmallows, mashed potatoes, green beans almondaise, and of course, pumpkin pie! Spend your Thanksgiving dining amongst the stars, with celebrity chef Stefan Richter! For reservations, click here.

L A  Farm Neon Sign (2)

Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop (Los Angeles, CA)

For a non-traditional Thanksgiving meal, check out Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop with two locations in Beverly Hills and Encino. Their signature sandwich, The Bobbie, has been referred to as “Thanksgiving on a Bun.” Loved by celebrity fans such as Kathy Griffin and Ryan Phillippe, The Bobbie consists of homemade, roasted pulled turkey, whole cranberry sauce, stuffing and mayo on a fresh baked sub roll. Recently voted "The Greatest Sandwich in America" by an AOL poll, The Bobbie is just $7 for a small sub and $12.75 for a large. With this tasty treat, you can feast like its Thanksgiving all year round! For locations, click here.

eleven at Loews Hotel (Atlanta, GA)

Executive Chef Olivier Gaupin has created a savory Thanksgiving menu of contemporary fare at eleven, the southern bistro at the recently opened Loews Atlanta Hotel. Combining seasonal selections with local, organic produce, Gaupin’s five-course menu will delight all of the senses. Start with a warming butternut squash soup, followed by your choice of seasonal salads. For a tasty appetizer, choose between a lovely crab risotto or duck confit terrine. For the main course, go the traditional route with roasted free range turkey with giblet gravy and all the fixings. Or, opt for prime rib with rosemary garlic jus with truffle mac & cheese or fresh Florida lobster tail with seared sea scallops. For dessert, satisfy your sweet tooth with either the southern corn meal custard, pecan tart, or a chocolate caramel dome. The five-course dinner at eleven is just $38 per person, $18 for children ages 5 to 12 (under 5 are free). For reservations, click here.

eleven Loews Atlanta dining room

Serpas True Food (Atlanta, GA)

Acclaimed Atlanta Chef, Scott Serpas infuses the tastes of his native Louisiana, Asia, and the Southwest for a unique and innovative, “True Food” experience. This Turkey Day, families can enjoy classic comfort food with a twist by pre-ordering a Serpas Thanksgiving feast to go! The delectable three-course meal is available for four ($100) or eight ($175) people. For the first course, select between butternut squash soup or a mixed Fall green salad. The main course consists of herb roasted turkey breast with corn bread stuffing and cranberry relish. And if you’re craving fried turkey, that’s also available for an additional $40 each. In addition to this, you can choose three satisfying side dishes, ranging from maple sweet potato casserole to bacon braised collard greens. Top off your meal with one of Chef Serpas’ delightful desserts, apple or pecan pie, pumpkin bread pudding or double chocolate brownies. Extra sides for four may be added for $25 per side, while additional desserts are just $12 each. All orders must be placed by Monday, November 22nd. To order your Thanksgiving feast to go, click here.

Urban Farmer at Nines Hotel (Portland, OR)

Executive Chef Matt Christianson’s Thanksgiving selections are inspired by Northwest bounty, and features organic, sustainable food from the region. With an emphasis on simple, straightforward fare, the Urban Farmer “Enjoy Our Home for Thanksgiving” meal will consist of three inventive courses for $49 per person. There will also be an ala carte menu of traditional holiday favorites available for children. First course options range from a farm charcuterie platter including foie gras torchon to a Dungeness crab cake, with truffled celery root slaw. For the entrée, select from Oregon honey and spice roasted turkey, allspice cured Oregon pork loin, or Highland Oak grass fed New York strip steak, to name a few. Diners will also receive a selection of festive side dishes served family style, including roasted brussel sprouts with almonds and cinnamon maple candied yams. For reservations, click here.

The Nines - Urban Farmer (2)

East Indian Co. Bar & Grill (Portland, OR)

Culinary Director, Pradeep Chandrana, has created an exotic twist on the traditional Thanksgiving dinner with Indian inspired specialties. Spice up your holiday with a whole turkey infused with Indian seasonings, served with mashed potatoes and stuffing ($70, take-out only). Other delicious offerings include tandoori grilled turkey tikka and sheekh kebabs ($15 per order), khatta metha kaddu, or sweet and sour pumpkin ($12 per order), and for dessert, a sweet potato halwa ($5). While the East Indian Co. Bar & Grill dining room is not open on Thanksgiving Day, guests can enjoy the limited edition menu in the dining room from November 22nd 27th. Take-out orders are also available and must be placed by November 23rd. For reservations, click here.

“Mad Men” Inspired Fashion

AMC’s Mad Men has inspired a new culture of retro chic fashion! From the bold Don Draper to the sexy yet feminine Joan Harris, this show has brought vintage inspired fashion to the forefront. Ladylike silhouettes and dainty accents have continued to rule the fashion runways, while Fall 2010 has officially marked the return of the well dressed, sophisticated gentleman. Whether you’re a fan of the show or not, the following fashion items will definitely take your modern day style on a trip back to the early 60’s – an era of refined and understated elegance.

mad men cast

Vanessa Dress ($90, Heartbreaker Fashion)

The ladies of Mad Men have reminded us that nothing says you’re a woman better than showcasing your hourglass figure. With simple sheath styles, flirty floral skirts, and sexy wiggle dresses, women have been inspired to show off their curves in these classic and elegant looks. Heartbreaker Fashion is a fantastic resource for vintage inspired dresses at an affordable price. The Vanessa Dress is sexy and polished, perfect for the office or a night on the town. The neckline, button details and cinched belt add a graceful touch that will truly make you feel like a woman!

heartbreaker vanessa dress navy_90

Spring Street Compact ($48, Saks Fifth Avenue)

The compact was the ultimate female accessory in the era of Mad Men, perfect to reapply your lipstick and pretty enough to start a conversation over cocktails. In a simpler time when cell phones and iPads weren’t even a possibility, there was nothing that defined a woman more than her compact. This lovely compact from Spring Street was inspired by the ladies of Mad Men and is sold exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue. The enameled compact features a chic black and white palette and bold flower embellishment made of crystals and glass pearls. The classic feel of this compact is ultra feminine and would make a beautiful gift for women of all ages.

spring street compact saks_48

Dear Betty Handkerchief ($28, Happy Hanky)

The handkerchief is a symbol of feminine elegance. Not just for weddings or special occasions, hankies are dainty, romantic, and a great addition to a modern woman’s handbag! Happy Hanky is a line of vintage inspired handkerchiefs, all featuring chic prints and trims that are reminiscent of Mad Men.  All hankies are made of 100% premium cotton and arrive with the signature Happy Hanky poem. The black and white floral pattern and hot pink lace trim on the Dear Betty handkerchief is the perfect combination of sweet and sassy, just like Betty Francis!

dear betty handkerchief

Silver Tie Bar & Black Fedora ($29 & $45, FineandDandyShop.com)

A well dressed gentleman is not complete without his dapper accessories. FineandDandyShop.com is THE website for men who live to dress to the nines. For those who appreciate the finer things in life, from ascots and pocket squares to cuff links, this essential site makes accessorizing for men fun and accessible. This chic Silver Tie Bar would complement every man, while this Black Fedora will make you feel as powerful as Don Draper himself.  Thank you Mad Men, for inspiring a new generation of men to dress up again!

silver tie bar blk fedora

Cool & Creative Shopping Sites

It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the many new shopping websites and online boutiques popping up daily. Which offer the best deals for budget minded fashionistas? And which are the easiest to navigate? For those who would rather hit the Internet instead of the mall, here are three inventive and stylish websites sure to make your life easier next time you need some serious retail therapy!

myShoes.com

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Launched in February 2010 by fellow shoe addict, Andrea Woroch, myShoes.com is a seriously smart search engine exclusively for women’s shoes. Visitors can use the Shoe Stylist to create a custom search for the exact shoe they’re lusting for. Sort by style, heel height, color, brand, details & materials, and price – within a few clicks, myShoes.com will show you the shoes and prices available from hundreds of stores and brands, from Zappos and Nordstrom’s to DSW. myShoes.com makes online shoe shopping easy and effortless, bringing you streamlined results in one location. Check out the results for this fabulous nude platform pump – it’s available at nine stores but everything you need to know is filtered on myShoes.com! You’ll never have to jump from one site to another to compare prices, shipping, coupons, or return policies – myShoes.com is truly a shoe lover’s best friend!

SendtheTrend.com

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Launched in September 2010 by Project Runway alum, Christian Siriano, SendtheTrend.com is a monthly membership site for chic and affordable accessories. After taking a short style survey to determine your fashion needs and interests, SendtheTrend personally selects exclusive jewelry, scarves, and sunglasses that fit your style profile. Visit your gallery to view all of the accessories chosen for you, all for just $29.95 each! Choose to buy one, two, or ten, all at a set price of $29.95 each, and that includes free shipping! Your SendtheTrend membership begins after you purchase your first item. On the 1st of each month thereafter, members receive a personalized email with fresh new accessory finds, so you’ll always be on top of the latest trends! For members who don’t want to commit to a new accessory every month, or if you don’t find something you like in your gallery, just opt to “skip” by the 5th of the month. SendtheTrend.com is an easy and hassle free way to shop for the hottest fashion accessories, hand selected by some of the biggest names in the business!

WearevertheWeather.com

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Launched in September 2010 by fashion forward travelista, Renae Virata, WearevertheWeather.com is an ingenious site that helps women determine what to wear, based on the weather in a particular city. Get a “fashion forecast” for New York, London or Hong Kong by using the easy My Stylist tool. Enter a specific location, date and type of occasion, and the smart tool will show you a plethora of style options for you to choose from. Users can create tons of different outfits, save, print, and even share the looks with their friends via email, Facebook and Twitter. And of course, no shopping site would be complete without the ability to click through and purchase all the items you desire. Virata hands selects each item featured on the site, and updates the selection weekly so you’ll always be well dressed, rain or shine! WearevertheWeather.com is a fun and resourceful site that is perfect when planning for your next vacation, weekend getaway, or anytime you’re travelling and just don’t know what to pack!

Spooktacular Halloween Cocktails

Whoever said Halloween is just for kids? With more adults partaking in the ghoulish festivities than ever before, I thought it’d be fit to share some creative and delicious new libations. For all the Halloween hosts who want to impress their guests with the latest in cool and creepy cocktails, try out the following recipes! And remember, you can also serve these sans alcohol for an equally spooky treat!

Spiced Pumpkin Martini

Courtesy of Mixologist Claire Smith, Belvedere Vodka

2oz Spiced pumpkin infused Belvedere vodka*

1 oz Puree*

1 oz Spiced syrup

1 Slice of fresh ginger

Muddle ginger with the syrup in the base of a cocktail shaker. Add pumpkin infused Belvedere and shake with cubed ice. Serve in a martini glass and garnish with a slice of ginger.

*Spiced pumpkin infused Belvedere
Roast a 500g pumpkin (braised with honey) at 200 degrees Celsius for 45 minutes.  Remove from oven and place roasted pumpkin contents into a small saucepan with bay leaves, cover with 200g of water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 1 hour. Remove the bay leaves and blend with 500g of Belvedere Vodka. Pass through a muslin cloth to remove pulp and use. Keep refrigerated.

 

Spiced Pumpkin Martini

Jack O’ Lantern

Courtesy of Regional Beverage Director Damon Dunay, The Empire Hotel, NYC

2 oz Jack Daniels

2 Sugar cubes

Orange Bitters

½ oz Lucid Absinthe

Coat a rocks glass with Lucid Absinthe by rotating liqueur around glass. In a cocktail shaker, place sugar cubes and two dashes of Orange Bitters. Crush cubes with a muddler. Add Jack Daniels and ice cubes and stir until combined. Strain and serve over ice in the rocks glass. Garnish with a Jack O’ Lantern face carved out of an orange (an orange slice or peel works too).

 

Jack O Lantern

Alien Cooler

Courtesy of Mixologist Jon Ojinaga, Redwood Room at Clift Hotel, San Francisco

1 ¼ oz Crop Organic Vodka

¾ oz Veev Acai Liqueur

¾ oz Lime juice

¾ oz Simple syrup

Soda (fill with)

2 Pinches of julienned cucumber

1 Cucumber slice

Combine all ingredients in a tall Collins glass with ice. Fill with soda. Stir to mix cucumber in the glass. Garnish with a cucumber slice.

 

Alien Cooler

Basil Hayden’s Bloody Mary

Courtesy of Basil Hayden Bourbon

1 oz Basil Hayden’s Bourbon

2 Dashes of celery salt

2 Dashes hot sauce

2 Dashes Worcestershire sauce

1 Teaspoon wasabi

Tomato juice

Celery, lime wedge & blue cheese olives

Rim a pint glass with lime juice and celery salt. Fill with ice to the top. Add Basil Hayden’s(R) Bourbon, celery salt, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce and wasabi. Fill remainder of the glass with tomato juice. Stir well. Garnish with celery, lime and blue cheese olives.

 

basil hayden bloody mary

Affordable Halloween Costumes 2010

The best part about Halloween is dressing up like someone you’re not! Whether your costume choice is sexy, quirky, or gothic, nobody likes to break the bank for one night of ghoulish fun. With a little bit of creativity, you can dress the part using items you have at home mixed in with a few affordable accessories from your local Halloween Superstore. Just be sure to check for coupons and online codes before shopping!

Thanks to consumer savings expert, Andrea Woroch, for letting us know about PromotionalCodes.com, which has online discounts for every outlet from Costume Kingdom and Spirit to Halloween Express!

Lady Gaga

The fashionably eccentric pop star is the number one costume choice for Halloween and for good reason! From her crazy hair styles to her out of this world fashion statements, there’s plenty to choose from when dressing up like this dainty diva.

What you need…

A great wig, a la Lady Gaga. Whether you want to rock her classic long bangs or go funkier with yellow highlights, your wig is the must have accessory to set you apart from the rest! ($7.95 – $19.95)clip_image002

Also distinguishing you as the peppy pop princess are a pair of her signature sunglasses. Lady Gaga is known for going bold in big, statement frames. With any of these shades, you’ll definitely put on your best poker face! ($8.46 – $13.46)

What you have…

Now that you have the signature Lady Gaga accessory pieces above, all you need is a sleek outfit. Go simple with black leggings, a black one shoulder tank, a black blazer with strong shoulders, and some killer black pumps. Top off the look with a strand of pearls and some fingerless gloves! If you’re feeling like being more creative, check out Rain Blanken’s article on About.com for 10 Lady Gaga Costumes you can make at home!

 Snooki (Jersey Shore)

Whether you love MTV’s Jersey Shore or not, there is no doubt that the cast members are memorable! The leader of the pack, Snooki, stands alone as having the most recognizable style, making her look popular and easy to replicate.

What you need…

The “Snooki bump” is the signature hairstyle of this outrageous Jersey girl. If you’re a brunette, all you need is a lot of hairspray and a possibly a Bumpits for the ultimate lift. For all others, a Snooki wig is the easiest way to achieve the look. ($16.95 – $20.95)clip_image004

GTL baby! The Jersey Shore motto of “Gym, Tan, Laundry” will further set you apart as the outspoken Snooki. Be sure to load up on self tanner and bronzer because your look won’t be complete without an orange glow! ($5.00 – $10.00)

What you have…

Anything tight and short should do! Opt for a black, leopard or other animal print dress, paired with sky high platform pumps. Or, pair a black mini with a leopard print tank for the same effect. Just don’t forget to emphasize the cleavage! Finish off your Snooki makeover with thick black eye liner, gooey lip gloss, and more bronzer! Fist pumping and carrying a red plastic cup is optional.

Flo (Progressive Insurance Commercials)

Sometimes the best costumes are the ones that make people say “Oh yeah, aren’t you (fill in the blanks)?” After hundreds of national advertisements for Progressive Insurance, it seems that “Flo” is one of the most recognizable TV commercial characters in ages. Her upbeat spirit is as identifiable as her quirky wardrobe, which makes “Flo” another easy and affordable costume for Halloween!

What you need…

Check out Progressive Insurance’s website for a fabulous description of how to “Dress Like Flo,” listing the ten items you need to resemble the friendly superstore cashier. Like the other iconic characters mentioned above, “Flo” has a few signature style items that make her unique.clip_image006

A plain white apron with the Progressive logo is the giveaway, and can be made at home for under $15. Or, go the easy route and purchase one from Amazon.com ($19.99)! Bedazzle the apron with her other distinctive items, an “I Love Insurance” pin ($0.79) and a “Tricked Out Name Tag” ($9.95)!

What you have…

All you need to complete the look are items that you already have in your closet! Wear a white short sleeved polo shirt, white slacks (khaki will work too), black sneakers (Converse preferred), and a navy blue headband. Finish it off with some bright red lipstick and black eyeliner and you’ll be good as “Flo”!

Edward Cullen (Twilight)

This is an extremely easy look for any man that wants to dress as one of the sexiest and most sought after movie characters of the last year! Rain Blanken breaks it down perfectly on About.com, but all you really need to concentrate on is your hair, makeup, and attitude.

What you need…

Edward Cullen is a “Twilight” vampire, thus he has pale, glittering skin. You canedward cullen opt for traditional white vampire makeup, or go for a lighter look by dusting on white and silver eye shadow ($4.99) all over your face. Add drama to your eyes by applying black eyes shadow or eyeliner around the outside edges. Keep your lips dry and pale. If you want the full vampire effect, rock a pair of vampire fangs ($2.95) to complete the look.

What you have…

Since this look is mainly about perfecting Edward’s face, keep your wardrobe simple. For confident men, wear a pair of black pants or denim with no shirt, or a button up shirt worn open. You can continue the makeup from your face on your neck and chest for the total effect! For a messy, Twilight worthy hairstyle, wet your mane and tousle it with gel. Then, get Edwards lift by teasing your hair with hairspray and setting it with a hair dryer.

I had the pleasure of modeling for Heidi Klum today for Access Hollywood Live! All the models wore items from her new collection, Heidi Klum for New Balance! Super chic and comfy clothes for active women on the go! Here are some pics of all of us with Heidi backstage : )  Click here to check out the video!

Celebrity Handbags for Less

When you flip through the pages of your favorite magazine, you’re likely to see Hollywood A-listers sporting amazing designer duds and luxe handbags. As I’m your Glam, Affordable, and Luxurious resource, I’m always on the hunt to recreate these looks for less! Thanks to fab website, Handbag Heaven, we can all tote celebrity studded bags without the hefty price tags! Here are some of their most popular styles under $70!

Chanel Quilted Handbag

The design team at Chanel created an elegant and feminine quilted handbag, popular with stars like Katy Perry, Mischa Barton, and Lauren Conrad. The combination of the black quilted leather and gold chain strap make this a classic and sophisticated purse for true fashionistas. For those who can’t afford the $1500 price tag, Handbag Heaven’s Classic Quilted Shoulder Bag is almost an exact replica, but it’s more versatile and affordable! At just $54.95, the shoulder bag is available in black, cream or red and is made of soft, quilted leatherette. The bag also features a gold/leatherette chain shoulder strap and bold hardware. The best part is that this GAL find is actually three handbags in one! Wear it as a shoulder bag with a double chain strap, or for a longer cross body look, extend the chain into a single chain strap. Finally, this beauty can also be worn as a super sized clutch, simply by tucking the chain inside the bag!

Everyone from Vanessa Hudgens, Victoria Beckham, and Lady Gaga has been spotted around Hollywood with the signature Balenciaga Satchel. The oversized compartment and sleek styling of this handbag make it popular with fashion savvy celebs. Luckily, Handbag Heaven has an exact replica for just $53.95! The Broad Ripple Satchel might as well be the long lost twin of Balenciaga’s version because the resemblance is uncanny! This must have handbag comes in six shades, and features all the bold, gold hardware and zippers that make the original such a fashion statement. If you’re on the go, grab the 5 inch wrapped handles and wear it on your wrist or over your shoulder. Or, for a more relaxed feel, attach the longer strap (included) and rock your bag in comfort, all day long.

vanessa hudgens_balenciaga-1895 Broad Ripple Satchel_53.95

Hermès Birkin

The Hermes Birkin has been the most coveted handbag of the last decade. After a notable appearance on Sex and the City, and socialites such as the Hiltons and the Kardashians as fans, this “it” bag has become the most difficult fashion item to own in Hollywood! With prices ranging from $9,000 to $150,000 for this handmade, fashion treasure, it’s not surprising that a majority of us can’t even imagine toting this gem, until now! Handbag Heaven’s Gina Buckle Satchel features exotic embossed leatherette that gives the bag an edgy elegance. At $67.96, this affordable find is available in cream, navy, or black. The Gina is truly the epitome of style and a classic addition to any woman’s wardrobe.

Hilary Duff_birkin_9000 Gina Buckle Satchel_67.96