Fashion Culture : July 2009

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Celebrity Gossip: Chris Brown Apologizes

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Jul 31, 2009 by Rebecca White-Glanders

Chris Brown has publicly apologized to his fans for hitting a woman and it only took him 5 ½ months to do it. The singer issued a video-recorded statement in which he apologizes for behavior he describes as "inexcusable," saying "my mother and my spiritual teachers have taught me way better than that." He also says that he grew up in a home with domestic violence. Photos that emerged after the beating showed a barely recognizable Rihanna with a bruised and battered face. Although Brown says in the statement that he didn't apologize publicly sooner on his lawyer's advice, whether his former fans are willing to forgive him remains to be seen.

Since *Heath Ledger*'s tragic death, the future of the new Batman movies has been a bit uncertain. Ledger, whose performance as The Joker earned rave reviews, was initially set to play a large part in at least the next Batman movie. However, since both producers and potential actors were hesitant to revise his role, they had to rethink their plans. It seems that finally, an alternate plan must have been reached, and production of the third movie may, after all, move forward. At Comic-Con 2009, Gary Oldman let slip that filming is to start on the third movie in 2010, with a release date of 2011. Fans can only hope!

*Michael Jackson*'s death is looking less like a tragic accident and more like a homicide. According to law enforcement sources, the Los Angeles County Coroner will likely release autopsy results on Jackson next week and it will "almost certainly" be ruled a homicide. One of Jackson's doctors, Dr. Conrad Murray, is currently being investigated as the doctor who may have given Jackson the powerful anesthesia agent Propofol on the day he died. One complicating factor: Jackson used at least four aliases to obtain prescription drugs, including Omar Arnold, Michael Armstrong, Jack London and Peter Midani. Authorities are currently trying to sort through the mess to determine what was actually going on.

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Building a Wardrobe: Back to School Shopping!

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Jul 31, 2009 by Eisla Sebastian

Building a back to school wardrobe can be a lot of fun, even if it is a bit expensive. The key to building a back to school wardrobe is to select clothing that fits your body and that are also versatile. Keep these two things in mind as you make your selections and your back to school wardrobe will end up awesome.

Measure Your Body
In order to get the right sizes for your body you first need to know what you are working with. Before you start shopping you will want to take your waist, bust (chest) and hip measurements, as well as take measurements of the lengths between your shoulders, between your shoulder and your wrist, your inseam and the length between your waist and your ankle. Finally, if you want to buy skirts, you will want to take a measurement of the distance between your waist and where you want the skirt to end. These measurements are best taken by someone other than you, so get a friend or family member to help you out. Write down all of your measurements on a piece of paper and use them when you select sizes.

Look for Versatility
When you are building a back to school wardrobe you need to look for versatility in each clothing item that you buy. To start with you will want to select items that have colors and patterns that can be coordinated. For example, you can buy a neutral color backpack that will look hot with all of your back to school outfits. Next you will want to select clothing that can be layered to create different looks. Finally, you will want to select items that will serve dual functions. For example, you can select layering items that will work as both a point of visual interest as well as an insulating layer.

Build Outfits
As you select items for your back to school wardrobe you will want to think about the outfits that you can build with your selections. If you are not good at putting together interesting outfits you can learn from store mannequins and from the advertisements that are posted online. These displays will help show you how to layer different items and how to coordinate colors and patterns.

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Office Style: Stay Comfortable in Heels at the Office

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Jul 30, 2009 by Sabah K.

If you work in an office that adheres to a business casual or professional dress code, selecting the right types of shoes for every ensemble can be a bit of a challenge. How do you find the perfect balance between heel height, comfort and style? While some office mavens can get away with platform pumps and stiletto heels, your feet and legs may not be in prime shape to tackle the stairs and long trek across the building in a pair of skinny heels. However, there are some ways to stay comfortable in high heels, like with Mary Janes and kitten heels for those long days that you're on your feet.

If you choose to wear stiletto pumps or another style of skinny heel, consider adding a few gel pads for extra support on the ball of your foot. The balls of your feet absorb most of the pressure from wearing those extra-high heels, and if you plan on trotting around on them for over an hour, the extra support will prevent foot pain and soreness.

When you're wearing kitten heels, consider wearing a thin no-show sock so that your feet aren't slipping out of the shoe easily. Kitten heels are a great, classy alternative to the standard pump for the office, but they can feel like a pair of sandals if they're not cut very high. Wearing a thin pair of socks with these shoes can make the shoe much more comfortable and will prevent your foot from slipping out.

If you decide to wear a pair of booties with a high heel for the day, make sure you've practiced walking up stairs and on elevated floors with them. Booties and boots will constrict your ankles, which means you can't climb very easily. If you know you're going to be tackling escalators or flights of stairs during the day, make sure you're comfortable making the climb in these constrictive shoes.

Mary Jane pumps are great for the office, but even a platform shoe or a thick heel can put some pressure on the balls of your feet and calves. Wear some padded insoles or gel support cushions if you plan on wearing tight leather shoes for several hours so you can get the support you need.

Finding the shoe that fits for your office ensembles can take time. Make sure the heels you choose can provide the comfort and support you need to get through those long days that you'll be on your feet.

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Celebrity Gossip: Jon Gosselin Starts new Relationships after Separation

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Jul 29, 2009 by Rebecca White-Glanders

Reality star Jon Gosselin is certainly making a name for himself, although that may not be a good thing. Last week, Gosselin cavorted in France with 23-year-old Hailey Glassman, who happens to be the daughter of his estranged wife's plastic surgeon. Glassman had subsequently gushed to the press about she and Jon's relationship, but to no avail: this week, he appears to have moved on. Glassman was shocked when she found out from People that Jon has been on a romantic trip to the Hamptons with Kate Major, a former Star magazine reporter. Major, 26, claims she and Jon Gosselin fell for each other while she was working on an interview wit him. Apparently, party-loving, unemployed fathers of eight are the new hot commodity!

Things are bumpy right now for singer and (new) actress LeAnn Rimes. After months of suspicious photos and speculation that Rimes was having an affair with hunky Eddie Cibrian, 36, a source has announced that Rimes and her husband have separated. Cibrian and Rimes met while co-starring in a Lifetime original movie, Northern Lights. Rimes and her husband, Dean Sheremet were married in 2002, when Rimes was only 19 and Sheremet 22. This news comes only days after Eddie Cibrian and his wife, Brandi Glanville, announced their split. Hmmmm.

As if the mystery surrounding *Michael Jackson*'s three known children wasn't enough, a fourth possible child of Jackson's has emerged. Omer Bhatti, 25, is a Norwegian rapper and possible product of a one-night stand Jackson had with a woman named Pia Bhatti in the 80's. Although a DNA test is still underway, Jackson's family is ready to welcome the young man with open arms if he proves to be Michael's son. Omer Bhatti even sat in the front row among Michael's siblings at his much-publicized memorial service.

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Most Posh Hotels and Spas in the World: Le Meridien N'Fis in Morocco

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Jul 28, 2009 by E.A. Anne

Marrakesh's reputation as one of the most romantic cities in the world will become clear to you the second you step foot in the city. Located near the foothills of the Atlas mountains, Marrakesh, or "The Red City" was once an important imperial city of Morocco. Today, it is a popular tourist destination due to the Majorelle Gardens and Saadian Tombs, as well as the beautiful and imposing mosques.

Without a doubt, Le Meridien N'Fis is known to be Marrakesh's most exotic and luxurious hotel. Le Meridien N'Fis is perfectly situated right in the middle of the Marjorelle Gardens, and thus offers its residents magnificent views of everything the park has to offer. Rooms at Le Meridien N'Fis are extremely stylish and contemporary, with every amenity that one could desire. Depending on your preference, you can request a room that either overlooks the flower filled Andalusian gardens or that opens to views of the Atlas Mountains. Le Meridien N'Fis is known for its excellent customer service, and the hotel staff is always available to assist in all ways possible.

Besides the abundant amenities each room has to offer, the hotel also provides an gorgeous pool for bathing, valet service, concierge, laundry service, tennis courts, business centers, and more. Le Meridien N'Fis hosts more than five different restaurants and bars that serve dishes from all over the world—some of the cuisines served include Italian, Barbeque, Moroccan, Mediterranean and International.

When you've finally saturated yourself with luxury service and comfort, you'll want to venture out into the surrounding five-hectare park. Always remember to wear comfortable walking shoes that are both supportive and stylish. Be sure to stop by the Dar Si Saïd Museum, a museum packed with Moroccan artifacts and crafts. Also spend some time visiting the Saadian Tombs, tombs that were only recently re-discovered in the 20th century. The souks, or markets, are also a great way to spend the afternoon, especially for those who love to shop.

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Celebrity Gossip: Demi Lovato and Trace Cyrus Break up

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Jul 27, 2009 by Tiffany B

It appears that the *Harry Potter *actor Jamie Waylett, who plays Vincent Crabbe in the movie series, is going to be avoiding jail this time around. The actor pled guilty to growing 10 marijuana plants in his mother's home. The reason why the judge let him off without jail time is because he saw his pot growing endeavor as "small scale." He was sentenced to 120 hours of community service. The community service could involve clearing graveyards, picking up trash, cleaning graffiti, and clearing ditches.

Disney star Demi Lovato has broken up with her boyfriend and Miley's big brother, Trace Cyrus. Trace, who is also a singer for a band called Metro Station said, "Demi is one of my good friends and I definitely became very, very close with her in the past few months, and it's something I really wanted to make work. But unfortunately, we both have very busy schedules - we're both on tour right now." Despite the breakup, the two are still friends and have no hard feelings. Cyrus, 20, went on to say that him and Lovato, 16 had too much of an age difference as well. "When someone is that much younger, you're looking for different things in relationships. Maybe when she's older and we've both matured, we'll be looking for the same thing and it can work out." Cyrus is kicking off his headlining tour this month and then after that will be joining his sister Miley on her tour as well. It appears he really doesn't have time for a girlfriend.

Despite rumors that Katherine Heigl was not coming back to Grey's Anatomy, she has confirmed that she is and is shooting the next season of the show. Although she told David Letterman that she is on the show, she said, "I'm either there as a ghost, on the other side or I survived a disease no one survives." She also added that she hopes that Grey's Anatomy sticks around for awhile and would love to see it last as long as ER did. Although, she is glad to be back, she says that she does miss her close friend T.R. Knight, who left the show last season.

Sources:
www.people.com
www.tmz.com

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Celebrity Style Mashup: Gaga Over Reese

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Jul 27, 2009 by Pam Gaulin

Both Lady Gaga and Reese Witherspoon have an influence on our fashion choices. Whether you embraced the overdone pink worn by Reese in her Legally Blonde movies, or marvel at how Lady Gaga can actually shock your fashion sense, there is no denying that these women know how to make a style their own.

Best Features
We can learn from both of these women to emphasize our own best features, or commit to a style and an intended reaction. Lady Gaga freely admits some people may find her outfits too weird, yet, we can't help but look. Fashion designers for fall have embraced the Lady Gaga, super heroine, bodysuit as a clothing look by emphasizing the legs in fall collections.

Emphasize the Clothes
For Reese, a well-fitting dress, a pair of stylish shoes, subdued make up and styled hair are her fashion. She does not over-accessorize her outfits, and a pair of small dangling earrings is often the most she will wear. Reese lets her well-chosen clothes speak for themselves, showing that for some women, not accessorizing is their best fashion move.

Commit to Your Own Style
Follow the sentiment of Lady Gaga, even if your not so gaga over her fashion sense, and commit to a style that fits who you are, not who fashion wants you to be. If you're athletic, commit to an athletic look with sporty dresses and a variety of sneakers. Reese Witherspoon looks just as natural and beautiful in her work out clothes as she does in her chic mom outfits or Red Carpet dresses.

Glam Up
Glam up, if that's what suits you, and add one over-the-top accessory to your outfit. A pair of lucite and black heels can transform a pair of jeans and top from so-so to gaga. Go with Lady Gaga's off-screen wardrobe, and play with the imagination. Wear capes, sun glasses, bold jewelry and maybe even a wig.

Whether you like sweet or saucy, stick with your own fashion taste.

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Wear This, Not That: Save Money and Look Great

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Jul 27, 2009 by Pam Gaulin

Take It Down a Notch or Three: Flats
Yes, heels are great. They make us feel tall and our calves look fabulous. Every once in a while our feet beg us for a pair of cute flats. Luckily for feet, flats are popular right now and add casual chic to summer work and play outfits. Choose a pair of flats with texture or a soft metallic hue for a more dressy look than canvas flats provide.

Bohemian Touches, Not All-Out Woodstock
Grab a bag with a touch of fringe or a sandal with a tiny bit of bead work, to wear the Bohemian trend. A loose ponytail, flowing skirt and comfortable cropped t-shirt complete the comfortable look.

Clutch This!
After years of carrying our lives around with us, ladies, it's time to take back our back health. Re-embrace the clutch. Use your cell phone or PDA and forgo any extra electronics. Pare down on-the-go make up to the essentials, and go lightly, like Holly in Breakfast at Tiffany's.

Vintage Glasses vs. Designer Glasses
Save some money on designer glasses and opt instead for a pair of big, round vintage sunglasses. You'll probably have enough money left over for a new pair of shoes!

Mix and Match Shoes and Bags
Cleverly coordinated shoes and bags are back. We're not talking about matching solids or identical twin matches. The pairings are more subtle and work off texture, accent colors and embellishments. A bag with straw-colored patches will match with an espadrille in beige or a cork-heeled shoe. A white bag with bold, black graphics will tie in nicely with a strappy black shoe. Think subtle and the results will be big.

Follow the Yellowish Brick Road
Move over Burnt Ochre, muted mustard hues are coming into vogue, and can be found on clutches made with natural-looking materials.

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Room Makeovers: Decorating Tips for Creating More Space

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Jul 25, 2009 by Sabah K.

You've eliminated the clutter and done away with the oversized furniture, but why does the room still feel like it's caving in on you? Many rooms and even entire apartments can make you feel slightly claustrophobic because of the way they are designed, but also because of the placement of decorations and room accessories.

Whether it's the dorm room or the home office that's the size of a shoebox, there are several ways you can decorate the space so that it appears to be much larger. Here are some decorating tips to help you create more space in any living area:

1. Use mirrors. Mirrors create an illusion of more space, and can be strategically placed on the opposite wall of a window or door. Use wall mirrors or small decorative mirrors in the foyer, living room or even the dining area to create the illusion of more space.

2. Limit accessories to just two to three large pieces. Choosing accessories to furnish your room with can be fun, but it's easy to go overboard. If there are too many accessories in the room, the space will begin to feel too crowded and cluttered. Stick with just one or two eye-catching pieces to complement the look and style of your room, and create the feeling of more space.

3. Keep chairs and sofas near the wall. These pieces of furniture can divide a room if they are placed in the center or away from the wall. Position them against the wall instead to make more room for guests, and even other pieces of furniture.

4. Stick with neutral colors. Too many bright colors and accents can be distracting and make it difficult to feel calm and relaxed in the living area. This can also contribute to the 'claustraphobic' feeling. Create a feeling of more space by choosing neutral, monochromatic colors for your walls and major pieces of furniture.

5. Use spot lighting or torchiere lamps to add more light to the room. These lamps can be positioned in the corners of a room or in the recesses of a ceiling to create the appearance of more space. The right type of lighting can open up even the tiniest of spaces.

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Style It: Fashion for a Mountain Lodge

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Jul 25, 2009 by Lee S.

If you're heading for a weekend at a mountain lake resort, don't pack clod-hopper boots and plaid flannel shirts! Fashionistas can do mountains and lakes in style, and canoe, hike, and look fabulous at dinner.

Travel in white ankle pants by AKA Woman. The hidden zipper gives these pants a sleek look. Top them with a pretty little tank like a smocked print from Reef in lavender. If it's cool, carry a great denim jacket like this one by Nik+Zoe - it's not your mother's denim jacket! For your feet, wear super comfy Kate Spade flats in a far-from-average pewter. The kiltie, eyelet accents, and stylin' stitching will catch more than one glance. Carry your gear in this violet tote from B.Makosky. It'll bring out the violet in your tank for a put-together look, and it's perfect for lunch or afternoon tea.

When evening arrives, keep the ankle pants, but trade the tank for a billowy black top from Joie, and the flats for these black patent gladiator sandals from Marc by Marc Jacobs. You can carry everything you need for an evening, from lipstick to cell phone, in an adorable fuchsia print clutch by Ed Hardy.

Head for the lake or the hiking trail in these convertible pants from Columbia. Not only can you turn them into shorts with the pull of a zipper, they also dry faster than your Aunt Fanny's hair. Top them with a soft, easy tee like the Freedom to Roam in cranberry, from Patagonia. Not into the antelope graphic? Then choose basic black with the Patagonia Vitaliti Vee. Don't forget a cover-up in case it gets cool; this Sweet Revolution hoodie from Columbia will do the trick. You can hit the long trail in these comfortable but supportive New Balance light hikers, or opt for sweet multi-sport shoes from Columbia in the Tusk/Mauvelous shade.

Back at the lodge, when the sun starts to go down, keep your comfy pants on, and slip into classic Thunderbird boat sole mocs from Minnetonka, and let your cares drift away on the lake's waves.

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Clothing in Pop Culture Film: Doris Day - Pretty in Pink

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Jul 24, 2009 by Eisla Sebastian

Before Molly Ringwald was Pretty in Pink, there was Doris Day in Pillow Talk. Doris Day was pretty and pretty chic in pink pajamas, dresses with matching coats and gloves and high heels. In a modern world where super hero characters are known for wearing the same costume for an entire flick, in the days of Doris, an actress' revolving door wardrobe was her greatest sidekick.

Miss Match
While Doris Day's wardrobe was a little too happy matching for today's runway of mis-matched patterns, there is no denying that she was the epitome of swanky femininity, with a wardrobe fitting for an interior designer. Her hats matched her coats and gloves, which matched her dresses. Her coats had inner linings that were meant to be seen, not hidden away under a row of wide buttons.

Cozy Pink
Even in bed or lounging about at home, Doris Day was a picture of femininity. Her pink pajamas, both girly and modest, were also chic. A girl needs a good pair of pajamas, particularly if she expects to be taken out of bed and carried down the streets of New York City, by a burly Rock Hudson, or her own leading man, as Doris Day was in Pillow Talk.

Bottoms Up
The foundation of every chic Doris Day outfit is a stellar pair of pumps. A pair of ivory pumps, with a high heel and silver buckle will dress up any outfit, adding instant femininity a la Doris Day. For a modern approach, the shiny blue option will match perfectly with the blueberry blue of the upcoming fashion season.

Down With Love Fashion Tribute
The 2003 movie Down With Love paid tribute to Doris Day, Pillow Talk and the romping romantic comedies of the 1960s. Despite some plot and dialogue pitfalls, Rene Zellwegger pulled off the Doris Day guide to the feminine and chic, complete with matching outfits and lots of pastel hues. In her plaid white and pink skirt, she joined the ranks of Doris and Molly and was pretty in pink.

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Celebrity Gossip: Rumer Willis to star on 90210

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Jul 24, 2009 by Rebecca White-Glanders

With *Michael Jackson*'s tragic death, various media outlets have speculated about his fortune, his children and his untimely demise. Finally, after several days of uncertainty, it looks as though some of the controversy surrounding his death may come to an end. The details of his will are being ironed out in Court with his mother, Katherine, being a primary recipient of his estate. Also, the biological mother of his two oldest children, Prince I and Paris, is allegedly close to working out a custody settlement with her. With some of the Jackson drama winding down, it's time to take a look at what the rest of Hollywood is doing.

Hard-partying actress Mischa Barton may have finally hit rock bottom. The 23-year-old had been working on her career, starring in the upcoming movie Homecoming. Unfortunately, after calling police with a medical problem last week, Barton was transported to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles and placed on a psychiatric hold. According to a rather vague statement by her rep, she has been hospitalized based on her doctor's advice and is resting. For now, her fans will just have to wait and see.

Rumer Willis, daughter of actors Bruce Willis and Demi Moore, is trying once again to step out of her famous family's shadow. She has had several small acting roles previously and is set to test out her acting skills when she joins the cast of the new 90210.

Jon Gosselin, 32, father of eight and star of the precarious reality series Jon & Kate Plus 8, isn't letting anything slow him down in his quest to act like a wild frat boy with indiscriminate tastes. A mere 20 days after announcing his divorce from Kate Gosselin, his wife and mother to his eight children, Gosselin was seen globe-trotting with his new girlfriend, party girl Hailey Glassman, 22. Gosselin enjoyed sporting his new badass Ed Hardy duds while smoking and drinking with his new gal pal in France.

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Building a Runner's Wardrobe: Training to Racing

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Jul 24, 2009 by Eisla Sebastian

Every sport that you are serious about requires proper gear. If you are a runner, the gear you need is a versatile wardrobe that will take you through the various climate changes during the year and that will also fit the running events that you enter. Regardless if you are a recreational jogger or a professional runner, you need to build at least a basic running wardrobe.

Undergarments
The best place to start when building a runner's wardrobe is undergarments. This foundational layer is going to be what protects your skin from rashes, rubbing burns, blisters and discomfort. Men will want to focus on underpants that offer extra support and bounce control, as well as moisture wicking properties. For women, a quality jog bra will be worth its weight in gold. If you are a woman who has had a baby or who is carrying a little extra weight in your abdomen, then a high waisted, supportive pair of underpants will also help make your running more comfortable. Finally, both men and women will need running socks. These socks offer extra padding in the heel, the balls of the feet and the back of the ankle.

Training Clothes
When you are training, your clothing items will need to reflect what time of year you are training. During transitional seasons, fall and spring, you will want to select training clothes that are layered. This will include a thin long sleeved shirt, running pants, a vest and a windbreaker. For warm weather training you will want to select from a collection of running shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, and great jog bras. Cold weather runs can be accommodated with thermal underwear, a warmer jacket and an extra layering shirt.

Racing Clothes
The clothes that you race in are going to be slightly different from the clothes that you train in. Your racing clothes will be more fashionable, aero dynamic and lighter in weight. If you race in the winter months or at high elevations, then you may want to start the race with a few layers of stylish running clothes and as the temperatures climb you can remove layers and drop them off with your support crew.

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Office Style: Slimming Office Ensembles for Summer

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Jul 23, 2009 by Sabah K.

If the desk job has you sitting behind a computer for hours on end, staying in great shape this summer might not be an easy task. Even when you're hitting the gym before work and eating healthy throughout the day, a few extra pounds can creep up on you. What's an office maven to do? Wear the right type of office attire so that looking slim and fit is in the realm of possibility. Here are some tips for looking slimmer when you're stuck with the rules of business-casual:

Single Colors from Head to Toe
The office fashion lineup for summer includes neutral-colored linen suits and all-black or all-white ensembles. This is a great way to look slimmer in a flash, because the monochrome outfit elongates your legs and torso.

Kitten Heels
Everyone in the office may be wearing ballet flats and gladiator sandals, but these can make you look heavier (especially if you're petite). Stick with kitten heels or shoes with at least a 2-inch heel so that your legs look just a little bit longer. The extra height can also improve your posture and make you look leaner.

Pencil Skirts
Pencil skirts are great for the summer season at the office, and will help you pull off a chic and stylish look. These can be paired with a fitted blouse or top, and are especially slimming for larger hips and thighs. The straight lines create a sophisticated, pulled-together look and also trims away a few pounds.

Long Blazers
If you must wear a blazer on a hot summer day, skip the cropped blazer trend and wear a blazer that ends a few inches below your waist. The longer blazer has an instant slimming effect, and is also a classic look that can be worn through early Fall.

Button-Down Shirts
A crisp cotton button-down shirt is a summer necessity for the office, and is a great base piece for layering. The clean lines and straight cut has a slimming effect, and you can wear this with cropped dress pants, a pencil skirt or straight-cut, wide-leg pants for the complete look.

From kitten heels to long blazers, you have several options to choose from when it comes to dressing for the office in style. Pick out a few of these key pieces when you want to hide a few extra pounds but still stay fashionable and comfortable this season!

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From the Runway to Your Closet: Wearing Floral Prints

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Jul 23, 2009 by Tiffany B

Floral prints were seen all over the fashion runways from the summer 2009 collections. From big and bold floral patterns to small and delicate floral prints, flowers were everywhere you looked from dresses and blouses to even on handbags. Floral prints are not that difficult to wear, it just takes knowing what looks best on your body and wear it to the best of your fashion ability.

Summer is the best time for floral prints to come out. When you think of summer, you think of flowers blooming and color everywhere. It's refreshing to see flowers in the summer and that goes for clothing as well.

There are all types of floral prints. Some are very large and bold and others are small and feminine. The patterns can have several different colors or it could be simple with only two colors. The possibilities are quite endless for floral prints right now. If you look at any fashion designer's runway show for summer 2009, you will see a variety of different floral patterns just in one collection.

So, how do you know what is going to work on you and what will flatter your body? First of all, if you are not comfortable in loud colors or in something that draws attention to you, then you are definitely going to want to go for more of a subdued pattern with not as many colors. If you have a larger frame and you don't want to draw attention to areas of your body that you are not happy showing off, then you will not want to have big and loud floral patterns in these areas. You may choose a simple dress that only has flowers at the bottom or at the neckline, so that you don't attract attention to possible trouble spots like your stomach, hips, or butt.

If you want to show your body off or you want to add curves, you can go for the bigger floral prints that cover your entire body. Choose sundresses that have large flowers all over them in a variety of colors. Or even a black dress that has a large flower near the waistline.

Remember that floral patterns are not just for dresses. You can wear flowers on blouses, handbags, shoes and skirts.

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Celebrity Gossip: Celebrity Breakups

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Jul 22, 2009 by Tiffany B

Not only did Janet Jackson lose her brother Michael, but US Weekly is reporting that her and her fiancé Jermaine Dupri have called it quits as well. An inside source told the magazine, "His friends are telling people it's over." Another source echoed that saying, "They have been moving in different directions for a while." Apparently mixing business with pleasure is what hurt the couple the most. A friend of the couple said, "Janet felt their lives were too crossed and they should have kept things separate." Another reason for the long time couple's break up was that they were just too opposite of people. Janet is on the shy side, while Jermaine likes to be out with the crowds, talking and mingling with others. Currently Janet is busy helping to care for Michael's three kids, but is "devastated" at the breakup.

In other celebrity breakup news, professional football player Tony Romo has called off his relationship with Jessica Simpson. It appears that since breaking up with her ex-husband Nick Lachey, Jessica Simpson is only getting her heart broken. First, John Mayer and now Tony Romo. Worst of all, Romo dumped Jessica the day before her 29th birthday. "Jessica was really blindsided," says a family friend. "She's sad, mad, and confused. Her emotions are all over the place." The couple started dating back in November 2007 and Jessica has said that she could picture herself marrying Tony. Poor Jessica, while her sister Ashlee enjoys marriage and her son, Jessica seems to not be able to get a break with guys. Maybe she should have realized what she had with her husband Nick Lachey. Could this karma coming back to haunt her?

On a happier note, G.I. Joe star Channing Tatum married his Step Up costar Jenna Dewan last week in Malibu. The pair wed in front off 220 guests which included bridesmaid Haylie Duff and her boyfriend Nick Zano. Their outdoor ceremony at a beachfront estate was followed by a sit-down reception in a tent on the same estate. The couple first met on the set of Step Up in 2006. Channing proposed last September in Maui. Here's hoping that this Hollywood couple can break the mold and stay together.

Sources:
www.people.com
www.usmagazine.com

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Celebrity Style Mashup: Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe - Style Magic

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Jul 21, 2009 by Pam Gaulin

Emma Watson is a popular fashion icon, thanks to her continuing role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series. It's no wonder girls and women are looking to Emma Watson for fashion inspiration, as she has truly blossomed into a beautiful and fashionable woman.

When you watch Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe on screen, do you remember the two young actors from the first movie and how young and sweet they both were? They've both grown up since then, and so have their styles and their fan base.

Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe: Style Magic
Neither Emma Watson or Daniel Radcliffe is going to take fashion only half-way. They are going to go full bore, just as we expect them to in "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince."

Smart in Stripes
Daniel Radcliffe, as Harry Potter, shows us that you can look smart in a striped sweater. The beauty of the striped sweater is that Harry's dear friend Hermione could borrow that sweater and pair it with a pleated skirt, and make it look even smarter. Isn't that just like Hermione?

She's also smart about footwear, as she knows at a moment's notice she can be off running through the drafty castle. A pair of warm, supportive shoes are a must for the busy student.

Feminine Frock
Although she could wear an otherwise masculine knit. Emma Watson does feminine well. At home in a 1940s Retro style flower print dress, complete with high collar and short sleeves, she's stunning.

Daniel Radcliffe: Edge of Fashion
Daniel Radcliffe sticks with simple, classic styles to bring out his best features. He understands the importance of crisp, dress up shirts, sans tie, paired with straight black jeans and the most stylish Oxfords or loafers available.

A snug t-shirt with a pair of loose fitting jeans are also a classic look for the young Daniel Radcliffe. No matter what the pair of these stars wears, it feels like magic.

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Most Posh Hotels and Spas in the World: Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh, Egypt

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Jul 21, 2009 by E.A. Anne

One of the most magnificent and enchanting hotels in all of Egypt is the Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh. The Oberoi is located right on the Red Sea in the city of Hurghada, Egypt. The hotel offers an euphoric atmosphere on the white sands of the Red Sea, with access to the beach as well as surrounding tourist destinations.

The Oberoi is a perfect destination for tourists that are looking for a good mix of beach bumming and pyramid hopping. The hotel is situated on a private beach that stretches 48 acres long. The Spa and Fitness Center on site are world renowned. The many treatments offered at the Spa use techniques from around the world, including both the East and the West.

The rooms at the Oberoi are some of the most luxurious that you will ever encounter. The suites have large dining rooms for entertaining, living rooms, large bathrooms that overlook private gardens, outdoor dining pavilions, and private heated swimming pools, and beach access.

The Oberoi hosts several restaurants that serve different cuisines, including Italian, Indian, Chinese, and local dishes. The different restaurants are located around the hotel and are decorated impeccably.

The hotel is located about 25 miles from the town center of Hurghada, which presents a perfect balance for guests wanting to stay away from the city but also have easy access to it. The Oberoi has excellent concierge services and can assist guests in scheduling various tourist adventures, including desert safaris, 4th century monasteries, and island tours which are all nearby. Additionally, the hotel can arrange tours and excursions to the pyramids throughout the country.

With all the time guests plan on spending outside in the sun on the beautiful beaches of the Red Sea as well as the hours spent oohing and awing over the ancient pyramids, a sun hat is definitely a must.

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Wear This, Not That: Summer, Country and Fun

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Jul 20, 2009 by Pam Gaulin

Hello, Country
Summer is a time to put away stodgy black dresses and somber pantsuits. Pull out the comfortable gingham dresses and lavish yourself in the cool cotton fabric.

Blue Suede Shoes
Part of summer comfort comes in the form of soft, suede shoes. Wear them around the beach house, on the deck while having brunch, or to the beach for a bonfire with friends. Comfortable and chic, a suede shoe in sapphire blue or pink will brighten up any summer outfit.

Straw Bags, Not too Big
Toss the over-sized bag you've been lugging around, despite your chiropractor's advice, into the closet. Use a straw bag just big enough for your summer essentials including a rolled up beach towel for impromptu swims.

Smoke and Mirrors
Drop the corsets and lingerie styles from Madonna's heyday and embrace the more subtle allure of lingerie-inspired fashions. Corsets with long-sleeved blouses underneath, or modest pin skirts with small sheer embellishments on top of darker fabric are the right way to wear lingerie style today.

Rivets and Gromets, Oh My
Continuing the illusion of showing less than you appear to be, are rivets and gromets. These circular metal pieces with holes in their middles can be found on boots, vests, shirts and more. The silver gromets brighten up neutrals, adding instant shine and style to your wardrobe.

Cool Not Warm for Work
Accessorize your gray tanks, white blouses and summer blazers with cool, and not warm accessories. Wear deep purples, silvers, bright plums, watery blues and magenta. Opt for cool browns, more rusty than earthy, and land that job or get that promotion.

Stop Growing Up
Replace the serious in your wardrobe with some fun. If you can pull it off, find a colorful tutu for a night out with the girls to wear out to brunch. Invite bright white accessories into your wardrobe, preferably with floral patterns or petal-like pieces.

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Building an Eye Wear Wardrobe

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Jul 17, 2009 by Eisla Sebastian

You need to put as much thought into your eye wear selections as you do into the rest of your wardrobe. Fortunately, shopping for eye wear, whether it is fashion eye wear for everyday use or sunglasses for outdoor use, is a lot of fun. Today there are hundreds of different types of glasses to choose between, ensuring that you will not have a hard time finding the frame style, lens features and frame colors that you are interested in.

Prescription Glasses
If you need corrective lenses then it is a good idea to start your eye wear wardrobe with a good pair of prescription glasses. Even if you normally wear contacts, having a pair of glasses is a good idea, as they can provide your eyes with a break from the close contact of contact lenses. When selecting frames for your prescription glasses you need to select a style that is going to compliment the shape of your face and that will also reflect your personality. People with very outgoing personalities will want to select frames that are a bit more daring and loud than those that are selected by people with a more laid back personality.

Sunglasses
You have a lot of choices when it comes to sunglasses. The first aspect of your sunglasses that you need to think about is the type of lens treatment the glasses have. If you need prescription sunglasses then you will want to look for lenses that change color in the light. This type of lens will provide you with clear glass when you are inside and darkened glass when you are outside. You can also select polarized lens treatments and impact resistant lens treatments.

After selecting the right type of lenses for your sunglasses you will next want to look at the frames. The style of the frames for your sunglasses needs to reflect your activity level. If you are very active in sports then you will want to select sports frames, which wrap around your face and they tend to be more resistant to impacts. If you use your sunglasses for wandering around and hanging out, then you will want to look for more fashionable frames.

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Celebrity Style Mashup: Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett

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Jul 14, 2009 by Pam Gaulin

It's impossible to mention Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett without considering their contributions to fashion. Farrah's casual yet hip look from her Charlie's Angels days, and Michael's clothes adorned with crystals are back in vogue. Where Farrah Fawcett's style is soft, with beige and shell hues and soft edges, Michael's was about contrast, flash and edginess.

Casual Elegance of Farrah Fawcett: The Beauty
Farrah Fawcett's natural beauty was enhanced by her understated and softly colored wardrobe. She could make any white or light color look like gold. A pair of casual, off-white pants with a pair of platform heels and collared shirt were all she needed for a day or night on the town.

Farrah Fawcett looked just as beautiful and elegant in a pair of jeans, a red blouse and a pair of Nike roller skates. No matter what she wore, her accessories were minimal, and she let her movie star smile and fabulous hair accessorize her look. Highlight your best feature every day, or go pop star style and accessorize your wardrobe like a star, similar to Michael Jackson.

Borrowing from Michael Jackson: The Beat
The popularity of the Swarovski crystal has not waned since Michael Jackson first came into his own, wearing that infamous red leather coat. It is more popular today than ever before, and can be found on boots, hair accessories, shirts and jackets. Wearing an ornate necklace is one way to add extravagant shine to your wardrobe, and get noticed, pop star style.

He wore black and white frequently, in a way that has been emulated frequently by pop star Gwen Stefani. Gwen Stefani often sports black and white, striped or not, or black and red stripes. Contrast is key for pop star style, and when you want everyone to notice you walk to your own beat.

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Most Posh Hotels/Spas in the World: Fairmont Hotel, Kenya

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Jul 14, 2009 by E.A. Anne

Attention all animal lovers! Kenya is calling...

Kenya has some of the most spectacular wild animal reserves in the world. A trip to Kenya must include at least one animal safari—visitors on safari are expected to see around 30-40 different species of animals. Expect to see such a range of animals, including wildebeest, zebra, wild dogs, hyena, cheetah, leopard, lion, jackal, crocodile, elephant, rhino...the list goes on. For these expeditions, come prepared with a good pair of binoculars.

In order to tackle all of this animal sight-seeing, you will need a luxuriously comfortable bed...and some pampering wouldn't hurt.

The Fairmont Hotel has locations all around the world, but the one that has climbed the charts in terms of luxury and decadence is the Fairmont Mari Safari Club in Masai Mara, Kenya. The Safari Club is ranked # 48 of best hotels in the world. The hotel is located right on the Mara river, which serves as the home to many wild animals, such as crocodiles and hippos. The Masai Mara park reserve borders the Fairmont Mari Safari Club. This park reserve is one of the most famous in the world, and is noted for the annual migration of the zebra and wildebeest which takes place from July to October each year ("The Great Migration").

The Fairmont Mari Safari Club contains 50 luxurious tents where guests are housed. These tents are extremely unlike the type of tents used by campers—they are beautifully decorated and extremely comfortable. Each tent has its own extremely modern three-piece bathroom, and many tents have extended decks for private dining and outdoor showers. The restaurant at the Safari Club serves traditional African fare and provides live music every night.

The best reason to stay at the Safari Club, however, is the offering of superb safari packages to the Masai Mara park reserve. The Safari Club offers different accommodations and tour packages. My favorite contains a full-day drive through the park and a hot-air balloon ride! Have fun!

http://www.fairmont.com/marasafariclub

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Tips for Evolving a Wardrobe as You Lose Weight

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Jul 10, 2009 by Eisla Sebastian

Deciding to lose weight is not only great for your physical health, but it is also great for your mental health. However*, as you shed the pounds, your wardrobe no longer fits your body properly.* Since you don't want to have to buy a completely new wardrobe each month, you will want to select special clothing items that can be modified without the assistance of a tailor to fit your body as your move down in clothing sizes.

The Wrap Dress
One of the best clothing items to add to your wardrobe when you are losing weight is a wrap dress, not a faux wrap dress. This type of dress can be tightened as you lose weight so that it always is flattering your figure. Another perk of this dress is that if you gain weight temporarily because of water retention or a diet slip-up, you can easily adjust the dress's fit so that your body still looks hot.

The Shirt Dress
A shirt dress is another great option to add to a weight loss wardrobe. This dress can be worn without a belt at the beginning of your weight loss journey. As you lose weight you can add a belt to keep the waist of the dress creeping inward, exposing your new figure. You can pair a shirt dress with leggings and/or a jacket to change the function of the outfit. It can also be accessorized with beads, bangles and a great pair of shoes. If you want to ad a pop of color you can unbutton the shirt dress a little bit so that a colorful camisole can peek through.

A Vest
A vest can be a great addition to a weight loss wardrobe, especially the vests that have size adjusters on the back of the vest or on the sides. As you lose weight you can use the vest to give your oversized clothing structure. For example, if you have a dress shirt that is too big now you can wear it under the vest. You will not only create a more flattering silhouette with the vest, but you will also create an interesting outfit for work or play.

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Celebrity Gossip: Heidi's Workout Video

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Jul 10, 2009 by Tiffany B

You can add a new title to The Hills' Heidi Pratt's (formerly Montag) resume. She is now coming out with a workout series that she developed with trainer Chad Waterbury. She told PEOPLE that, "Staying fit is something I'm really passionate about. I work out with a strength-and-conditioning coach 90 minutes a day, five days a week" She plans on sharing her "full-body, intense resistance exercises" so that they can have a body like hers. The Heidi Workout will also feature nutritional advice such as avoiding "white" carbohydrates and filling up on lean protein and vegetables instead. When Pratt first went to Waterbury, she did not want to lose weight, but she wanted to gain curves in the right places. "When she came to me her butt was really flat and she wanted to make it bigger," says Waterbury. "Now, it's nice, shapely and round." You can catch a glimpse of Heidi when the September issue of Playboy comes out in which Heidi graces the cover.

Rapper Lil Wayne is being sued for nearly half a million dollars for not showing up to one of his scheduled performances in the Bahamas. Apparently the rapper was sleeping instead of singing. Red City Entertainment is claiming that they fronted $432,000 for a special concert that Lil Wayne was to perform on September 22, 2008. After giving the rapper a $210,000 advance, he was a no-show and was found to be passed out in his hotel room instead. The balance of the lawsuit is for the payment of Lil Wayne's hotel room, his expenses, and the cost involved in throwing a failed concert which included refunds to concert goers. A rep for Lil Wayne has not commented on the suite.

It appears that actress Patricia Arquette has changed her mind about her estranged husband Thomas Jane. The actress has called off the divorce that she filed for back in January. She cited irreconcilable differences, but apparently the two have worked out their differences? She has filed legal documents asking for the divorce petition to be dismissed from the courts. We will see how long before she is filing papers again, or has the couple really worked things out?

Sources:
www.people.com
www.tmz.com

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Style It!: A Weekend at the Beach

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Jul 9, 2009 by Lee S.

Pack your bag, Stylistas - we're headed for a weekend at the beach, and we're going to do a bit more than just lie in the sand.

For the trip, be comfy but stunning in capris from Tommy Bahama, a white cotton-linen-silk blend with a great nautical button detail on the leg bottoms. Or you could wear these by Lilly Pulitzer in white stretch sateen with enamel buttons on the side slits. Top off either with an eye-catching Lilly Pulitzer top; the printed silk in Beach Club Blue is a winner. Keep your tootsies comfy while you travel in whie Vigotti sandals, and keep everything together with this Dooney and Burke bag in white. You're going to love this bag so much that you may want a couple of other colors too!

Next , hit the beach in this one-piece from Tommy Bahama in Barolo Brown. If you're feeling more daring, and if you have the form for it, try a sweet little bikini from Type Z in leopard with pink. Don't forget a beachy cover-up like a lawn tunic from Tommy Bahama in your choice of black or white. So all that sand doesn't burn your feet, wear these flip-flops from Emilio Pucci - fun and fancy, too. Carry water, sunscreen, and towels in a tote from Banana Cream and Roxy.

When you've soaked up enough sun, try a bike ride, a walk, or just a little shopping. Throw on cargo shorts from Jag Jeans in coconut topped off with a great little tee like this ribbed number from Nike in Urban Haze. Swap the flip-flops for a pair of Keds in Loden Green.

Finish off Saturday night with dinner at the Yacht Club in this darling V-neck dress in vivid shades of blue, along with the white sandals and bag from the trip out. You'll dine, drink, and dance the evening away. Sunday morning, bask at the beach a little more, then it's time to head back home after a stylish weekend to remember.

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From the Runway to Your Closet: Funky Yet Fabulous Shoes

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Jul 9, 2009 by Tiffany B

One of the most notable fashion trends on the runway for this year was funky and interesting shoes. Gone are the days of plain black or tan pumps. Instead, the fashion runways are full of models sporting shoes with cut-out designs, hidden platforms, buckles, zippers, floral appliqués, fringe and sky-high heels.

This runway fashion trend is one of the easiest to pull off. You could be a mother of five or a fashionista in college and pull off this trend. The best part is that you don't have to be a size 0 to wear trendy shoes. In fact, some of these funky shoes will actually take attention away from your problem areas, making you appear slimmer. What woman doesn't like that? Shoes with sky-high heels and platforms can also do a great job at making you appear slimmer and taller. The only thing that you have to worry about is being able to walk in the shoes. One word of advice: before wearing these types of shoes out in public, be sure to wear them around the house and get used to walking in them.

When looking to follow this runway fashion trend, look for shoes that are interesting and don't look like anything you have seen before. Look for shoes that have straps going in all different directions or ankle boots that have cut-outs to make them look more like sandals. Also, accents like bows, zippers, studs, and fringe are another aspect to look for in funky shoes. The more interesting and intriguing the shoes are, the better.

Funky shoes can be worn with just about any outfit. They can peak out of a pair of jeans or add total drama when paired with a short dress. A pair of interesting shoes can take you through the whole summer and even into fall. When you follow this fashion trend of funky shoes, you will have people dying to know where you got your shoes from. You can be the center of attention simply for your good taste in fashion.

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Celebrity Gossip: Kendra Wilkinson Married and Vanessa Minnillo Moved On

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Jul 8, 2009 by Tiffany B

The Girls Next Door star Kendra Wilkinson is now a married woman. Kendra married her fiancé, professional football player, Hank Baskett on June 27 at the Playboy mansion. Among the 500 guests that attended the wedding were Kendra's former co-stars Holly Madison and Bridget Marquardt as well as her ex-boyfriend Hugh Hefner. Kendra was decked out diamonds for her wedding as she wore more than $100,000 worth of jewelry on the big day. She donned a pair of 4.25-carat platinum drop earrings, a 2.5-carat platinum pendant, and a 4.5-carat bracelet. Holly said that Kendra looked like a "princess" and was "absolutely beautiful." Hank and Kendra were engaged last fall after he proposed to her at the top of the Space Needle in Seattle. The couple also announced earlier this month that they are expecting a baby together on Christmas day.

Hunky actor Bradley Cooper is denying that he has a romantic relationship with Jennifer Aniston. The two were seen enjoying dinner together and flirting at a party, but Cooper, who starred in the movie The Hangover, says, "she's a friend of mine. Simply, simply, just a friend." He added, "She's someone who is super, super known. Famous. If someone says 'hello' to her, it's given that he's fallen in love with her. So, no. No. She's a very, very interesting woman, but she's simply a friend." Aniston and Cooper were both in the movie He's Just Not That Into You, but did not have any scenes together.

In other Hollywood relationship news, it appears that Vanessa Minnillo did not wait long after breaking up with Nick Lachey to move on. The former MTV VJ was seen luring Spider Man 3 star Topher Grace into her clutches. The two were seen at a private party dancing and kissing and then left the party together. Nick Lachey, who was formerly married to Jessica Simpson, and Vanessa Minnillo only announced their break up earlier this month.

Sources:
www.people.com
www.perezhilton.com

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Most Posh Hotels and Spas in the World: Sheen Falls Lodge in Ireland

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Jul 7, 2009 by E.A. Anne

Anyone who enjoys the simplicity of the outdoors and the extravagance of luxurious hospitality should make it a point to visit Sheen Falls Lodge in Ireland. Sheen Falls Lodge was built as the summer residence of Marquis of Lansdowne and now serves as a home-away-from-home for tourists and nature lovers alike. The luxury hotel is located in the midst of 300 acres of woodland near Kenmare Bay in Ireland. Expect to spend a lot of your time outdoors when visiting this lovely hotel, because the activities are really endless.

Sheen Falls offers many outdoor activities on their private 300 acre estate; these activities include: garden tours, fishing, horseback riding, swimming, tennis, scenic walking tours, vintage car rides, and more. The concierge at Sheen Falls works with all of their guests individually to plan and organize the best activities available. Be sure to pack a good sturdy pair of hiking boots for many of these activities. The proper hiking boot will ensure that your feet and back will not be too sore enjoy all the sights and sounds Sheen Falls has to offer.

Sheen Falls Lodge has several restaurants within the premises of the estate; these restaurants serve a variety of tastes and preferences, in particular they excel at serving local and traditional Irish fare. The restaurants also have a large wine cellar to suit all tastes.

After spending much of the day outdoors, you may be tempted to relax inside for a change. Sheen Falls has a luxurious spa and health center, offering massages and other spa treatments. The Lodge also has a modern fitness facility for those that need more strenuous or individualized exercise.

There are many rooms available for rent, from small cottages to entire villas. Whatever it is you are looking for, you'll find it here in the serene outdoors of Ireland.

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Celebrity Style Mashup: Johnny Depp and Shia LeBeouf - Channeling the Public Transformers

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Jul 7, 2009 by Pam Gaulin

Two of the summer's hottest commodities are at a big screen near you, in blazing style. Johnny Depp sheds his pirate gear for Retro suits and Shia LeBeouf takes on the transformers, in classic jeans and leather coat. Both actors exude a sense of cool and modern appeal, yet both fit snugly with hip and retro styles of the men who came before them.

The Slim Suit
After wearing beads in his hair and his goatee, Johnny Depp may be pleased to shed his pirate skin for a fresh-faced and kempt look, with retro suits of the 1930s. For the look, Depp dons the full suit ensemble complete with gloves, vest, heavy trench coat and not surprisingly, a hat.

Fedoras are a must in the Johnny Depp-inspired wardrobe. Depp also wears light-colored shoes to match off-white suit pants and shirt in the film. A monochromatic look, from head to feet can look suave on the right guy.

Shia, Frank and Dick
Another version of the slim suit which can be seen on Shia LeBeouf is the casual combination of white dress shirt, skinny tie, slender jeans and a button-up sweater. The look hearkens back to both Frank Sinatra and Dick Van Dyke, two charismatic men of talent. Adding his own twist to the look, Shia LeBeouf would be more likely to wear a pair of black or gray Vans Classic Slip-On Core Classics than a casual or dress shoe with this ensemble.

Black Leather
No matter how you mash up a look inspired by Johhny Depp and Shia LeBeouf, some items will remain the same. A black leather coat with a bad boy Marlon Brando look is a must. A pair of relaxed blue jeans, in good shape, paired with a graphic T-shirt should also be in this wardrobe. Dress it up with a pair of black biker boots or dress shoes. Or, pull a Shia and dress your ties and shirts down by donning a pair of comfortable slip-on sneakers.

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Evolution of Clothing: Pump it Up

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Jul 6, 2009 by Pam Gaulin

A pair of pumps can turn any outfit from drab to fab. We wear them to work and to go out on the town. The word pump is often used to describe a lot of different types of shoes. Pumps have a medium to high heel and cover the back of the foot and the toes, without a strap. Visible parts of the foot include part of the arch, the top of the foot, and a bit of toe cleavage.

Early Heels: Chopines
High heels, some as high as 23 inches were in fashion for upper class women during the Renaissance. These shoes were custom-made and had intricate lacing. In contrast, pumps combined a heel and style with easy slip-on convenience.

Pompes and the Louis Heel
The origin of the word pump in reference to shoes comes from strapless and button-less shoes, "pompes" worn by men and servants in the 1500's. The pump was later elevated to royal status. Pumps with a low and curved heel could be found in the French royal courts of the Louis XIV.

The curved heel is one which comes in and out of style on a pair of pumps, and is called the Louis heel. This particular pump looks strikingly similar to the early pumps of the 1700s. Both styles are round and curvy, with subtle patterning.

In the 1800's more of the top of the foot was shown in silk court shoes. The heel was relatively low, and the Louis heel remained popular in the 1800's.

Modern Pumps
The modern pump, with the narrow heel at the bottom, that we see today first came into fashion in the 1950's.

Pumps were a formal footwear of choice for ladies, including fashion icon Jackie O. The pump, particularly in a plummy pink high heel is still popular, in no small part because of the Sex and the City TV and movie franchise.

Sources
Head Over Heal History, http://www.headoverheelshistory.com/pumps.html
Pumps, http://shoes.lovetoknow.com/Pumps

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Celebrity Gossip: The Passing of Three Beloved Stars

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Jul 6, 2009 by Rebecca White-Glanders

Some people say that when celebrities die, they tend to die in groups of three. Unfortunately, that has proven true during the last week, as entertainer Ed McMahon, actress Farrah Fawcett and pop superstar Michael Jackson passed away.

Two of the deaths were not entirely unexpected. Ed McMahon, 86, died after battling cancer and suffering a bout of pneumonia. Actress *Farrah Fawcett*'s heart-rending battle with cancer had become publicly known over the last several months. Fawcett's ex and father of her child, Ryan O'Neal, had expressed he and Fawcett's desire to marry in the face of her worsening condition. Unfortunately, they never got the chance. Fawcett passed away shortly after being readmitted to the hospital.

But the death which was most unexpected has also had the biggest impact: that of international pop superstar turned recluse Michael Jackson. Sympathy and fan tributes have poured in from all over the globe since Jackson's recent death, with radio stations who barely gave his music airtime playing it non-stop. Jackson, 50, was rushed to the hospital after he stopped breathing. Apparently, he never regained consciousness. An initial autopsy was unable to determine a cause of death; Jackson's family have requested that a second autopsy be conducted. Either way, his death came at an ironic time, when he was preparing for what was to be his international "comeback" tour. There are more questions than answers for his family and friends. Was his declining health to blame, or was it a dependence on prescription drugs? Was he simply not strong enough to be preparing to go on tour? And, most importantly, what will happen to his three children now that he is gone? Although most of Jackson's family and friends believe Katherine, Michael's mother, is the best candidate to raise the three children, Jackson's ex-wife Debbie Rowe is the biological mother of his two oldest. Her parental rights were terminated, and later restored. If she sues for custody, it could mean a nasty and protracted legal battle.

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Wear This, Not That: Tomorrow's Fashion Trends Today

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Jul 6, 2009 by Pam Gaulin

Here's a peak at tomorrow's fashion trends, today.

Cropping the Shirt
The long-waisted shirt may be seeing its end as cropped shirts make their way back onto the fashion scene. The waist will be emphasized again, with cute cropped tops and waist-emphasizing wraps and shrugs.

Meet the Browns
Move over gray, the brown family is here. Earth hues continue to dominate all aspects of color in our lives, from couches Coaches (yes, Coach bags), from carpeting to peep toe boots. Brown is also the color of the day for make up. Neutral eye shadows, natural to nude lips, with un-fussy eyebrows and center parts add to the natural look for Fall 2009. Non-chalance, carefree hair will soften the more harder-edge look of biker chic clothing.

1920s to 1950s
The Depression-era and 1920s vintage touches recently found in clothing will give way to more 1950s, Hitchcockian styles. The 1920s are still being used by some designers, in a modern way, including Alberta Ferretti, the more optimistic yet restrained clothing of the 1950s, are also making the scene.

On the Fringe
Fringe will continue to shake its way around women's fashion. Fringe is reminiscent of the 1920s and the 1960s.

Sweet Petite
There's no reason to be swimming in his jeans or to wear jeans that are not the right length. Expect to see more petite jeans made for women under 5'4" that fit a petite woman's figure.

Hats off to Hats, Not Scarves
Those long layers of scarves we've been wearing, even in the heat and humidity may have to go. Fun and bright hats are preferable, and add a sense of whimsy to an otherwise serious world.

Warming up to Red
The must-have fashion accessory right now is warm red. Warm red is cropping up in designer handbags, shoes and women's ready-to-wear clothing. The red is empowering enough for women, yet subtle enough for the boardroom.

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Beauty Tips: Does your Makeup Bag Need a Summer Makeover?

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Jul 4, 2009 by Sabah K.

Whether you're heading out to the summer soiree on the beach or spending the weekend shopping outdoors, you'll need to keep your skin looking great under the hot sun. Many of us make the mistake of using the same makeup season after season, but doing this means you might be putting on the wrong shade of foundation, and outdated colors of eyeshadow and lip glosses. Here are some simple ways to give your makeup bag a much-needed summer makeover:

1. Pick out some cream eye shadow. Powdered eyeshadow is great for Fall and winter when you're not going to sweat as much, but warmer months call for something with a little more stay-put power. Cream eye shadows are your best bet for the season, because they will go on smooth and give you that powder shadow look without the fuss. These tend to stay in place for longer than the standard powder shadow, so you'll be able to put it on and forget about it!

2. Replace your blush with bronzing powder. Rosy red cheeks are great for the colder months, but summertime calls for some major bronzing action. Replace your usual blush with a bronzing powder duo, and you can highlight those cheekbones like the stars.

3. Trade lipstick for lip glaze. Summer makeup looks tend to be on the lighter, carefree side, so don't load on the rich lipsticks this season. Plump up those lips with some lip glaze or gloss instead, and you'll have kissable and smooth lips all season long. Look for products that contain oleic acid, vitamins and sun protection factor for a few extra lip-smacking benefits.

4. Go for the cat eyes, not smoky eyes. Smoky eyes still work well for the evening, but summer's hottest look is the chic and simple cat-eye. Trade your palette of eyeshadows and layers of eye makeup used to create the smoky eye look for a super-skinny eye liner that will help you achieve the perfect cat-eye in a flash.

5. Get your glow on with highlighting powder. Give your skin a midday refresher with some highlighting powder, instead of applying a fresh layer of foundation. These pressed powders will moisturize and tone your skin, take away any excess oil, and keep you looking fresh and youthful.

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Celebrity Gossip: Babies and Bang-ups

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Jul 3, 2009 by Rebecca White-Glanders

Well, it's finally happened, and no one is surprised - Jon and Kate Gosselin of Jon & Kate Plus 8 are divorcing. Although the divorce filing was discovered by paparazzi early Monday, the actual announcement wasn't made until the "special" one hour show Monday evening. Kate, who filed for divorce, claims that Jon left her 'no choice'. The cold-hearted cheater and father of eight simply said he's "looking forward to a new chapter in (his) life". Worse still, Jon says the show will feature segments featuring Jon and the kids, and Kate and the kids, separately. In the meantime, TLC has wisely halted production of the show. If they're smart, they'll can it. If not, it should be almost physically painful to watch.

Matthew Broderick and Sarah Jessica Parker have finally welcomed their twin girls, which were born via a surrogate. The couple, who are parents to James Wilkie, 5, resorted to a surrogate when they were unable to have another child without assistance.

Actor and beach bum Matthew McConaughey is set to be a father - again! McConaughey and girlfriend Camila Alves are already parents to little Levi, 11 months, who will be a big brother later this year. Congratulations to this adorable little family.

Much-hated celebrity blogger Perez Hilton has recently proved himself a big baby - and a hypocrite. Hilton and Black-Eyed Peas singer Will.i.am recently got in a face-to-face confrontation over Hilton's negative coverage of bandmate Fergie. The argument got pretty heated, but it appeared things were going to stay verbal - until Perez verbally attacked Will.i.am. Perez immediately got what he deserved with a big punch to the face, and then immediately complained about it on his Twitter account. While it's still up for debate who actually hit Hilton, GLADD is furious with him for using the offensive slur. But Perez isn't sorry, he's mad at GLADD, saying he is "saddened GLADD chose to victimize me further".

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Building a Wardrobe: Maternity Wardrobe Tips

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Jul 3, 2009 by Eisla Sebastian

If you are expecting a baby or if you are trying to get pregnant then you need to think about building a maternity wardrobe. This wardrobe will need to take you through the physical changes that your body will undergo during your pregnancy, as well as provide you with clothes to wear while you regain your figure after you deliver your baby. The clothing items that you select for your maternity wardrobe will also need to help you deal with some of the comfort issues that pregnant women have.

Footwear
While footwear may seem like a strange place to start when building a maternity wardrobe it is actually one of the first wardrobe items that will need to be updated when you get pregnant. When you are pregnant your feet swell and spread. It is because of this that you will want to buy footwear that will stretch and breathe as your feet expand.

Clogs, flipflops and slip on shoes all work well as pregnancy shoes, however, you will also want a good pair of walking shoes as well. In addition to selecting comfortable and expandable shoes you will also want to pick up high quality socks. Thick running socks will help keep your feet dry and cushioned, protecting them from pain that some pregnant women experience as their weight increases.

Bottoms
The wardrobe items for the bottom half of your body need to be stretchy and they need to include an extra-stretchy front panel to accommodate your expanding belly. When selecting bottoms for your maternity wardrobe you will want to look for natural fibers, material that has a solid color and cuts that will fit your height. You will most likely need to buy several sizes to accommodate you at the various stages of your pregnancy. Select neutral colors for your bottoms.

Tops
Maternity tops will be where you can have fun with colors and patterns. Remember to select tops that fit you at your shoulders and that then flare outward. During the early part of your pregnancy you will be able to wear normal tops, however, as your pregnancy enters the second trimester you will most likely need to buy maternity tops. Try to select tops that are not too trendy, so that you can use the tops during future pregnancies.

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From the Runway to Your Closet: Wear more Yellow

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Jul 2, 2009 by Tiffany B.

Yellow, yellow, and more yellow. The color yellow was all over the runways for this summer. Designers such as Roberto Cavalli, Diane Von Furstenberg, and Calvin Klein, had yellow dresses, blouses, skirts, scarves, hats, shoes, and handbags. Just about anything you can wear or carry with you came in the color yellow. Most of the designers opted for the bright yellow, but others took it a little softer with more of a paler yellow. You may be thinking that this is one fashion trend that you want to stay far away from, but done in the right way, yellow can be fabulous.

When you look at the runway fashions, they had bright yellow pieces that were a vivid yellow and not a neon yellow. Avoid neon yellow colors so that you don't look like you arrived from the 80's or you came from the local construction site wearing your safety gear. Gold tones and lemon colored pieces are a good choice as well. There are also certain colors that yellow should not be paired with. If you choose to pair your yellow with black, be sure that it is done in a sophisticated way or else you may end up looking like a bumblebee. Pair yellow with purple, gray, navy blue, and white. Think about steering clear of pairing yellow with pink or tan.

It is rather easy to take this runway fashion trend and apply it to your real-life wardrobe. If you are not sure about the color yellow, then start off small with a pair of yellow sandals. They can add a pop of color to your outfit without being too out there.

If you feel more daring then go for the yellow dress or the yellow blouse with trousers or a skirt. Yellow clothing can be casual or more formal. A plain yellow t-shirt can look great with a pair of boot cut jeans for a day of shopping.

The key to wearing yellow is to find the right shade that matches your skin tone and hair and that you can feel confident in. Some women may like more of the gold tones while other women want the vivid lemon color.

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Office Style: To Fringe or Not to Fringe?

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Jul 2, 2009 by Sabah K.

One of the most popular fashion trends for spring and summer 2009 is fringe, and those little shreds and ruffles are appearing on everything from dresses to sandals. This fun, bohemia-Western inspired look can jazz up any plain ensemble and show off your playful side, but is it really appropriate for the office? Here's a close look at the clothes and accessories that you can get away with on casual day at the office and the pieces that should stay in your weekend lineup:

Fringe Sandals
Gladiator sandals and heeled ankle-wrap sandals with fringe trim are one of the hottest looks for the season, but are slightly over-the-top for most office settings. Some of the latest shoe and sandal collections feature ballet flats and gladiator flats trimmed with fringe, but this can be distracting and make your ensemble look less than professional. Stick with the classic looks for shoes and sandals when you're hitting the cubicle.

Fringe Dresses
This season's fun and flirty dresses are laced with fringe and long fringe accents, but they're a definite 'no' for the office. If you want to wear a summer dress, stick with a more conservative, classic look with a cap-sleeve warp dress or a sleeveless shift dress with a lightweight cardigan. Fringe dresses are more suitable for cocktail hour or weekend social events.

Fringe Handbags
Oversized handbags trimmed with lots of fringe may be the ultimate accessory for the average celebrity, but probably won't win you a 'best dressed' award at the office anytime soon. These bags are also very distracting and take away from the polished, pulled-together look you need at the office.

Fringe Tunics
A fun and sassy look plucked right out of the '70s, the tunic paired with some opaque tights is a casual ensemble for the season. However, this stylish and modern look is too fashion-forward for the office scene. If you want to wear the tunic or tunic dress, make sure you're wearing a fitted jacket or long cardigan over it.

Fringe Scarves
A scarf or wrap is a great accessory for the office, and you can get away with a fringed version on casual Friday for the office. Just pair it up with a plain dress or blouse, and enjoy a stylish and trendy look for the day.

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Celebrity Gossip: Giselle is Pregnant, Jessica Simpson in New Reality Show

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Jul 1, 2009 by Tiffany B

Jessica Simpson is trying her hand at a reality show once again even though she has blamed her reality show Newlyweds with her ex-husband Nick Lachey for the demise of her marriage. Simpson will be headlining VH1's The Price of Beauty. The show will follow Simpson as she travels around the world to find out what people think is beautiful. The singer claims that she was "immediately intrigued" when she heard about the show, as just a couple of months ago she herself endured criticism for gaining weight. Simpson had this to say about the show, "I am really looking forward to discovering how beauty is perceived in different cultures and participating in some of the crazy things people do to feel beautiful. I know we will all learn a lot on this journey and I am so excited that VH1 is coming along on what I'm sure will be a wild ride." Taping of the reality show will start in mid-July and is set to air next year some time.

Another actress/singer may be getting her own reality show also. Lindsay Lohan met with Ryan Seacrest to discuss a possible reality show. Ryan wrote on his Twitter page, "Met with Lindsay last night about a show idea I have for her...it helps people and gives others a second shot." Seacrest has produced other reality shows before such as Keeping Up With the Kardashians. According to tmz.com, the show will give real people who are heading down the wrong path $1million to make it right. Lohan would serve on a panel of judges who would choose the winners from the contestants.

There are several inside sources that are confirming that supermodel Gisele Bundchen is indeed pregnant. Giselle married professional football player Tom Brady in two ceremonies this past spring and has talked about how family means everything. Meanwhile rumors have been popping up all over stating that Gisele was pregnant. If you have seen any pictures of Gisele lately, who usually has the flattest stomach, you may have noticed a slight baby bump. Well, now sources are confirming the news that she is pregnant with the couple's first child together. Tom Brady already has an almost two-year-old son from his previous relationship with actress Bridget Moynahan.

Source:
www.usmagazine.com

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