The Style Files: It's an Ache I Still Remember

I know I deemed "Somebody That I Used to Know" trendy a couple months ago; however, I'm obsessed with this cover. Fun and Gotye rolled into one? Too good to be true!

Style Spiration: Rachel Bilson

Between her strong presence on websites like Who What Wear and her quasi-comeback in Hart of Dixie, Rachel Bilson- and her style- is everywhere. Bilson has a strong, polished style that could make any  fashionista swoon. Let's take a peek, shall we?

From the retro wide-legged pants to the poppy white frames, Bilson hits this casual  look out of the park at a Sunglass Hut event. Sure, this look may come off as a bit...casual-  the hair is unstyled and the barely-there makeup infuses effortless chic into this ensemble. Let's be honest, what says "fashionista" better than effortless chic?  (Photo Cred)

I absolutely love the Zac Posen creation Bilson sported at an Art of Elysium event. The feminine silhouette and fabric combination is divine; however, the vivid rose color adds a dash of glamour. The matching lip, girly hair, and minimal jewels are super refreshing. (Photo Cred)

If you look quickly, it's like Audrey Hepburn time traveled to the millenium!  Bilson exudes ladylike style at the Tribeca Film Festival. The boxy silhouette is perfectly paired with the brocade-esque embellishments. The soft pastels look sharp against the black pumps and clutch. And that 60's hair? J'adore! And when a certain Mr. Lagerfeld is your arm candy, can you really be on the worst dressed list? Exactly. (Photo Cred)

As always, Bilson aces street style.  I love the way she blends layers and different fabrics together. The solid booties are so unexpected, which is what personal style is all about. But before we write off this look as "edgy", the braid brings this look back to its original casual aesthetic. (Photo Cred)

The Weekly

The beginning of summer means a lot of things: tan skin, bikini shopping, iced beverages, and, oh, Cannes. Ready for some exceptional red carpet style? I am! 

• Freida Pinto at the Cannes Film Festival premiere of Moonrise Kingdom (Michael Angel): In my mind, Freida Pinto is a fashion miracle. We don't see her on every red carpet; however, she ceases to amaze me with her cunning sense of style Though the beaded bodice may sound over the top, the relaxed peplum and draping on the skirt balances out the extravagant fripperies. The simple ring and drop earring beautifully complement the sparkle in her dress. Pinto recruits the stunning updo to finish off this red carpet glam look.
• Diane Kruger on the Le Grand Journal show (Balmain): As any stylista knows, Diane Kruger is the queen of edgy fashion. Fortunately, she does not disappoint here! Kruger perfectly blends simple and feminine silhouettes with chunky accessories. Tres chic. The simple makeup and casual hair bring the two extremes together. 
• Kate Moss at the Marie Curie Cancer Care event: That's a fur I need to own.
• Diane Kruger at the Cannes opening ceremony (Giambattista Valli Haute Couture): Princess alert in Cannes! Although this ensemble is a world's difference from her Balmain outfit, I'm obsessed with both.The sweeping silhouette is perfectly combined with the gorgeous aqua and dramatic asymmetrical shoulder? So smitten! 

xx

The Joys of Denim

Yesterday, before planning my outfit for my bubble tea outing with my friend Hammah (or Hannah, whichever you prefer), I stood in front of my closet in search for the perfect outfit to combat the blazing Northeastern weather. Eventually, I decided on a printed Free People full skirt, a white tank, gold/pearl jewels, a black belt, and my precious black Miu Mius. But, even with all of this clothing, I still felt as if something was missing. Browsing through my wardrobe, I picked out the perfect finishing touch: a jean jacket. Throughout the day, aka when I was watching Pretty Little Liars, I saw a lot of denim.

(Photo Cred)

(Photo Cred)

(Photo Cred)

I was so happy to see so much denim in one show because I was starting to think I was the only one who still found a "cool" factor in denim vests and jackets. There's a common association between denim tops and anything cheesy:

(Photo Cred)

Well ladies and gents, I'm here to tell you that denim jackets and vest are 100% a must-have. It's actually quite easy to make a denim innovative and chic. So for your entertainment, here are my denim do and don'ts:

• DON'T match blue denim with blue denim: Remember when my boy, Justin Timberlake, and Britney Spears wore that hideous matching denim outfit? Sorry Rachel Zoe, but not your finest styling job. Anyways, the biggest problem with this whole look is the monochromatic outfits. While same colored looks may look awesome with some fabrics, like silk or chiffon, denim is NOT one of those fabrics: it just looks cheesy. If you want to rock denim on denim, I highly suggest a light blue jean jacket with black denim; it's majorly chic and the anti-cheese. 
• DO keep it casual: As we all know, denim is not a fabric you're ever going to dress up. So do keep it fun and casual. Alexa Chung put together an awesome look with an oversized denim blouse. Without the jean staple, this look would be rather feminine; however, Chung added a major splash, which I personally love. To re-create this look at home, a girly sundress and vintage inspired earrings would be unstoppable with a denim jacket.
• DO up your makeup: I know that feel awkward when I dress on the casual side and a jean jacket may provoke this feeling in others. In order to get that slice of glam you crave, try a dramatic eye or a pop of red lipstick. I love Rachel Bilson's raspberry lip at 3.1 Phillip Lim's Menswear 2010 preview. So chic! 
• DON'T over do the look: While a printed skirt or a tiny striped dress may be awesome with a denim jacket, don't overdue the accessories. In most situations, I think that a highly accessorized look with a denim outfit may be too much. If you want to incorporate truly stellar accessories,  I'd suggest a black ensemble, jean vest, and some statement pieces. 
• DO keep it tight: You know that song, "Miss New Booty"? There's this part that goes "get it right, get it right, get it tight," which I think is very applicable to wearing denim but clearly in a different context. Denim vests and jackets should never be tight fitting for ladies, they aren't going to show off your fabulous curves. The perfect fashion antidote? Go body con! I've been warming up to the idea of wearing more fitted clothing, which I find hysterically ironic, and I think a perfect way to start is with a jean jacket. It's like the best of both worlds: the base will show off what "yo' mama gave ya," but the jean jacket will make the look more modest and fun. A dress like this from Urban would be absolutely perfect. 
• DON'T be afraid: Confidence is always key in the world of fashion. So what if someone thinks rocking a jean jacket is a throw back to Clarissa Explains it All? They're just jealous that they aren't as fabulously chic as yourself. And for us aspiring fashionistas, we need to take some risks! Not to mention that Clarissa was pretty rad herself. 

xx

The Style Files: So Baby Good Lookin' Out

I'm deciding to create a new rule for the Weeklies.

Instead of writing about random things, I will devote each writing piece before the weekly to a celebrity's style that I'm totally digging  that week. Sound like fun? Obviously.  

Instead of calling my Sunday posts "The Weekly," I will now be calling these posts "The Style Files." 

"The Style Files" will consist of "Style-Spiration" and the good 'ol Weeklies.

So to get this started, I'm focusing on my number one girl, Beyonce.

Style-spiration

Beyonce has been a core inspiration this week.  On Monday, I was cruising around town when I heard this new song called "The Best Thing I Never Had." Like many songs this summer, Beyonce's song spoke to me.  I always admire her independence and strength in every thing she does; she always inspires me to be strong and self- sufficient, even if I'm listening to "Freakum Dress." 

Fast forward to Friday: I was on the elliptical at the gym , watching Beyonce's Good Morning America  concert. Even though I was a sweaty mess, her voice and confidence gave me goosebumps all over my body.  I wish I was her; but let's be honest with ourselves, who doesn't?  Basically everyone I meet loves Beyonce. And the people who don't are just jealous.  I think one of the reasons everyone loves her is because she is completely confident when she wears great costumers and always looks like a superstar.  If anything, Beyonce should be  an inspiration to all of us: we should all be confident in whatever we have on. Let me break it down for you:

Confidence= Fabulousity.

That's not to say that Beyonce is always topping every single "Best Dressed" list. She seems perfect, but she even has her flaws. But her confidence and overall diva stature makes her this week's Style-spiration.

Bey at the 2011 GMA Summer Concert Series (Photo Cred)

I absolutely love this crocheted mini, especially paired with the very art- deco stage. The cutouts were completely whether appropriate (even Sasha Fierce needs to stay cool) and I love the movement of the fringe skirt. Personally, I love the yellow much more than the black one: the yellow pops from the background and epitomizes summer while the black looks sinister. Paired with her fun curls, how Diana Ross/ 1970's is this look? Major love. 

The 2005 Oscars wearing vintage Atelier Versace (Photo Cred)

Seriously, how majestic is this look? I love how she never hides her curves; instead, she flaunts her figure. At the same time, this silhouette and the black is super slimming. But Beyonce, being the diva she is, rocked these phenomenal earrings that made the whole look something to talk about. Props to her stylist. 

Bey at the 2006 Golden Globes in Elie Saab (Photo Cred).

This  look is beyond awesome. There comes a great deal of insecurity when wearing a completely  sequined ensemble, with a plunging neck nonetheless! She looks fabulous, as always. Basically like a golden ball of glamour. I love this look with her straight hair and the bold accessories are so sick. This Elie Saab really hugs her figure , which I love. Most curvy actresses on the red carpet do a lot of draping. But this kind of confidence is completely genuine.

Some good Bey street style (Photo Cred).

I love how disheveled, effortless, and undeniably chic this outfit looks. I mean, those girls in the background aren't just smiling because it's Beyonce. But they're thinking, "Ugh, what a rockstar outfit." What I love most about personal style is that in order for it to be personal, you really have to take risks and think out of the box. Let your fashion freak flag fly! And that's exactly what Beyonce's during here!  The leather jacket and shoes are really tough-guy, yet the shirt is so laid back, but the  shirt is mega glam. And hold up: that necklace? So eclectic. "What is this outfit?" some may say. Awesome. Even though her outfit is very miss-matched, she keeps her head up high and shows off her outfit with pride. Extreme confidence. 

So, my lovely readers, the next time you have a wardrobe change, bring out your inner Sasha Fierce.

ONTO THE WEEKLY! 

• Rachel Bilson shopping in Beverly Hills (some conglomerate of clothing): This is such amazing street style: the cutoffs and the booties are edgy, yet the blazer is very polished.  And the braid and sunnies are insta-effortless-chic. Unlike the other looks I gush over in The Weeklies, I like this look because it's  attainable. This is a really short analysis, but it's a very simple look.
• Hilary Swank at the International Indian Film Academy (Elie Saab): Oh my god. This is such a home-run (I don't know when I became sporty,either). I love anything that sparkles and this dress has quite a lot of sparkle.  I'm literally obsessed with this silhouette: fishtail and the portrait neckline, classic fashion that everyone loves. The beautiful red is perfection with her complexion: bold enough so it pops but nothing too abrasive.  While I'm not totally loving the bracelet, the drop earrings with this Saab dress is supreme. And her hair and makeup  makes the prime focus on the dress. A+, Ms. Swank, A+.
• Rose Huntington-Whiteley at the Transformers: Dark of the Moon Premiere (Antonio Berardi): Let's just get this out on the table: doesn't this look totally remind you of Jessica Rabbit? Anyways, she absolutely killed, in a good way, this look. I love the shimmer on this red dress and the slit is  so sultry and perfect for the summer! If I had to wear a full-length dress, I'd be pretty sweaty. So smart move, Rose. I don't like the necklace, I think that a industrial statement piece would've been better with this dress, but I do love the soft waves and feminine makeup. Va Va Vroom! Oh, and the nude heels ? Awesome choice, as always. I feel like I usually see nude heels in a rounded toe or peep-toe, my sister actually just bought a pair of nude peep-toes, so the pointed toe gives it some edge. Basically, I really want this dress.

xx

The Weekly: The World Looks Good to You, As it Should to You

On Friday, we celebrated my fabulous friends' birthday classily (I don't think classily is a word, but we'll go with it). Ever since then, I've been thinking about the obsession with classy. Of course we all want to be like Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly, who doesn't? But there was a time, not too long ago, where America was more infatuated with ripped jeans and Juicy Couture tracksuits.

AKA THIS:

Photo Cred

Nowadays, there are so many books that act as a "how-to". Derek Blasberg's Classy is just one example; he tells readers that classy is not the way we dressed, but the way we act, naturally (but I think style is the most obvious quality).  It's a shame that we actually need these books to tell us how to be classy, even though they're so much fun to read which is why some of the classiest even have them.  Anyways, all of this made me want to compile a list of the 10 classiest women (celebrity wise, I'm sure that there are plenty of classy women all over the world)  of the 21st century. 

So here we go:

10.  Rachel Bilson: In addition to never hearing about her in the tabloids, she has a sophisticated taste for being so young. What I love about her is that she is so fit, but doesn't find a need to wear Miley Cyrus apparel.  She attends the hottest fashion parties and also dresses the fierce.

09. Beyonce: Speaking of fierce, how could you not love Sasha Fierce. She reeks, yes reeks, glam! Even though her outfits are definitely sexier than my other classy ladies, she has maintained such a good image in the public eye. Let's refer back to the Kanye West fiasco?

08. Katie Holmes: Maybe she's too quiet to be scandalous, but Katie Holmes reminds me of a Hollywood version of Jackie Kennedy and, no, her  acting gig as Jackie O has nothing to do with it. Though I hate minimalism, her clothes are simple enough to be so chic. But, at the same time, she's always taking fashion risks without pushing the envelope.

07. Posh Spice: Do I really need to say anything else?

06. Blake Lively: Even though I mildly hate her for being a fashion icon, she is a class act. Does she reveal her boobs a little too frequently? Yes, but one must give her credit for styling herself without abusing her assets. She's come a long way, you must give her that! And when a person is  BFFs with Anna Wintour and Karl Lagerfeld,  you can't help but think that they are classy.

05. Kate Hudson: I've admitted so many times it almost gets old, but I love Kate Hudson.  In my mind, she single handedly proves that you can be both bohemian and classy. She's always so chic, but her "loving life in all situations" personality truly sparkles and provokes class.

04. Anne Hathaway: In the eye of fashion, she is truly a vision always. I love how she is so cultured and wise, she studied at Vassar! And remember when her boyfriend stole all of that money? She was witty and handled it perfectly! 

03. Reese Witherspoon: The definition of an "All-American Girl". She went from goofy Elle Woods to an Academy Award winning actress. With many highly publicized breakups, she's handled them all with so much class. And all of her charity work is so admirable too!

02. Emma Watson: Even without being a fashion superstar, Emma would have had it made as Hermione. But what I love most about her is her seemingly un-superficial ways. She goes to Brown! Seeking a higher education once you're famous is so rare;however, when it occurs, you can't help but give someone so much respect. And do we ever hear about her ending up trashed at a random frat? Surprisingly, no! 

01. Natalie Portman: I'm definitely blogging about Black Swan sometime soon because I'm so obsessed. Natalie Portman is such a great actress! Even though she doesn't always have the best outfits, she is such a professional. Also, she's frequently thought of as the next Audrey Hepburn, she has to be number one! 

So that was fun...now onto the weekly! 

• Rachel Bilson at the Bulgari Benefit for Save the Children and Arts for Peace and Justice (Zac Posen): I know this happened a while ago, but I love this.  The color scheme on this is- coral,  torquoise, and tan- is so soothing,  Also, this  Posen fits her like a glove! I love the different fabrics, it creates some understated drama. No wonder she's on my classy list! 
• Selena Gomez at the Warner Brothers 68th Annual Golden Globes After Party (Catherine Dean): There must be something with this coral color, because it's absolutely fantastic. She looks so simplistic and put together; the skinny belt definitely makes this dress spicy, but still really simple. I also love how she did a nice up-do, it makes her look so sophisticated.

xx

The Weekly: I Don't Need the Answers

sooooooooooo

Let's discuss Pre-Fall 2011.

Overall, I think it's a pretty good collection. There is an incredible amount of variety, from Erdem's bright prints for day dresses to Reem Acra's fabulous sparkles for cocktails and evening wear to Zac Posen's sleek and sexy silhouettes. Variety is great, but it doesn't give many hints with trends. So for my personal entertainment, here is my collaborative list of what's in.

For all of those people who believe minis are hip, knee-length skirts are totally in are now.

Black is the new black.

Who ever said pencil skirts were just for teachers?

Color-block, color-block, color-block.

Tall boots are necessary.

PETA may not be happy, but hints of fur are uber chic.

Donna Karan is life-changing.

Even when you think fashion is androgynous, a stunning evening gown is always essential.

I urge everyone to check out some fabulous Pre-Fall 2011 Looks on style.com

Oh by the way, look how domestic I am!

ANYWAYS

Onto the Weekly! 

• Rachel Zoe shopping in Beverly Hills: As we all know, I want to be just like Rachel Zoe when I grow up, maybe I'll have a little bit more meat on my bones but you get the idea. Even while running measly errands, she looks absolutely fabulous. Who wears platform boots (Atwood?) whilst shopping AND pregnant. She's so gutsy. And black doesn't look gothic or inappropriate during the day; however, it looks so effortlessly chic. Do the shoulder have a feather embellishments?! I'm obsessed. I think she's also dressing very appropriate with being preggers and all, unlike some of her other clients; Kate Hudson, I'm sorry for insulting you. Zoe, on the other hand, she's shutting it down.
• Rachel Bilson at the Spike Video Game Awards (Dior/ Brian Atwood): What I admire most about Rachel Bilson's style is how low maintenance it is: she's so simple and effortless, which works for her. This blue works so well with her hair and complexion. Although the silhouette is rather simple, the complexity of the ruffles and mesh definitely jazzes it up. Also, wearing a nude pump  and minimal accessories was very smart of her. For the most party, I think Bilson dresses like a classy young lady.
• Katy Perry at the Change Begins Within Benefit (Issa): To me, Katy Perry is a toned down Lady Gaga; she has her fair share of crazy costumes! This dress for her, however, is perfect. She is showing off some of her originality while staying a classy Mrs. Russell Brand. She never really wears things that are long and does not show her boobs, so to have her wear a long and rather conservative dress is amazing. Also, her long hair looks amazing, for the record, I am a long hair fanatic.  I do with, however, she accessorized with more bracelets or even a stunning earring. Regardless, Katy Perry looks like a fashion firework (punny right?).
• Reese Witherspoon at the How Do You Know LA Premiere (Zac Posen): Similar to Rachel Bilson, Reese has such a classic style. To me, she's know boring but she's wise; she's been in the industry for a while therefore she knows what works and what is appropriate for her age. She's not trying to impress anyone with super tight minis. This Posen, for example, shows off her tiny waist but it's not sultry or anything. The pink feather effect is the perfect amount of trendy for Reese, because she's a mom at all. This look, like her overall look, is appealing because she's not trying to impress anyone. She just looks put together and it's fabulous! 

Weekly Looks: A Fierce Feminity

There's nothing really new and fashion forward to report for this Weekly. OH... I did order a new necklace which I'm SUPER excited about! It should (hopefully) be arriving soon...like tomorrow. So instead, here's a nice picture of Boston!

Artsy, right?

For this Weekly, the looks are really girly. I think the theme of this week, in my life, is GIRLY. Just all of the colors, silhouettes, and patterns are so fierce and girly. So anyways...onto the looks!

• Keira Knightley at "Never Let Me Go" Premiere (Chanel): A dream of mine is to be covered in pearls. Drenched in pearls. Keira Knightley, I'm so jealous of you. She looked absolutely  SPECTACULAR. From far away, this dress could be considered "boring". BUT THE DETAIL?! Incredible. The knee hem is so classy and the strong black heel is uber chic. What I love about Keira Knightley is how she always know to dress in an eclectic and interesting way.
• Eva Mendes at  LA Philharmonic (Dior): In my mind, this dress is the epitome of whimsy bohemian. This pink looks SO amazing with her skin complexion and the silhouette is so princess-esque. But the bronze and silver beading gave it a bit more spice and prevents it from being too girly. As much as I love little cocktail dresses, I respect Eva Mendes for wearing a gown: it exudes class.
• Rachel Bilson at the Roberto Cavalli 40th Anniversary Party (Roberto Cavalli): This dress is so Cavalli and it looked amazing on her! I love leopard, always, and this silhouette worked so well with the print. It was genius to match the dress with the red clutch. It reminded me so much of Christian Louboutin AND Lipstick Jungle in one. So wonderful.

xx