Tuesday, August 31, 2010

VIMwatch: 2010 Emmy style

Ladies



Golden Globe winner (for Felicity) Keri Russell, looked absolutely stunning - as usual - in this bright pink summer-y gown. We don't know how she does it, but girlfriend is always looking the epitome of class. And we love her hair, too. Check out Russell's new series Running Wilde, also starring Arrested Development's Will Arnett as the title character, on FOX.



Once again, the lovely Claire Danes was the envy of many in her gorgeous glittery gown. I mean, honestly, who doesn't love something that sparkles? And when someone can pull it off as well as Danes here, there's really nothing to complain about. Not to mention Danes took the Emmy for Outstanding Actress in a Miniseries or Movie for Temple Grandin.

Gents



Peter Facinelli apparently has time away from the Twilight films to also star in the Showtime series Nurse Jackie - who knew?! - and made an appearance at this year's Emmys looking pretty awesome. Though the hair might be what really makes this outfit, we are loving the white on white look.



Personally, we think The Office's John Krasinski can't help but be absolutely adorable. He really took that to another level at this particular award show with his fabulous silver bowtie. Love it!

Saturday, August 28, 2010

VIM Pick: Best Read of the Summer



Summer is always a great time for relaxing on those lazy days and catching up on reading that you've meant to do but just can't find the time during the school year. Naturally, we VIM staffers did a lot of that this past summer and wanted to share our favorite read with you:

Chelsea Handler's collection of one-night stands, My Horizontal Life, is just plain hilarious. All of Handler's books are written effortlessly. One can tell she really has knack for storytelling and often comes off much like Judy Blume, a childhood fave of many. Beyond the writing, My Horizontal Life is really great in that you can pick it up at anytime or even read the chapters out of order as it is designed in a series of short stories of Handler's pre-comedian life. Trust us, it's colorful.

Fall Mood Music


Fall is almost in full swing with classes beginning Wednesday [don't forget - treat it like a Monday ;)] and with move-in madness and back-to-school get-togethers happening all around, we've decided to provide our readers with the ultimate MSU 2010 "welcome week" playlist to help get everyone in the mood for fall, football and Spartan goodness. Enjoy!

1 "Don't Stop Believin'" Journey
2 "Bulletproof" La Roux
3 "Livin' on a Prayer" Bon Jovi
4 "Hot Mess" Cobra Starship
5 "Sweet Disposition" Temper Trap
6 "Love the Way You Lie (Feat. Rhianna)" Eminem
7 "Sweet Caroline" Neil Diamond
8 "Please Don't Go" Mike Posner
9 "You Make My Dreams" Hall & Oates
10 "Mr. Brightside" The Killers
11 "Teenage Dream" Katy Perry
12 "I Saw Her Standing There" The Beatles
13 "Electric Feel" MGMT
14 "Cupid Shuffle" Cupid
15 "September" Earth Wind & Fire
16 "Can You Tell?" Ra Ra Riot
17 "Gettin' Over You (Feat. Chris Willis, Fergie and LMFAO)" David Guetta
18 "Up Around the Bend" Creedence Clearwater Revival
19 "Lean Like a Cholo" Down A.K.A. Kilo
20 "I Like It (Feat. Pitbull)" Enrique Iglesias
21 "Like a Prayer" Madonna
22 "Friends in Low Places" Garth Brooks
23 "Bad Romance" Lady Gaga
24 "Billie Jean" Michael Jackson
25 "Ridin' Solo" Jason Derulo

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Album Review: Teenage Dream



We don't hate Katy Perry's latest effort. Why? Because it is what it is. Perry is actually a very talented vocalist and simply chooses to expose the world to insanely bubblegum-y pop deliciousness. She does not ever try to hide behind anyone or anything else and will sing about nearly anything (see: "Peacock" if you don't believe us). Teenage Dream is loaded with infectious dance anthems especially for the college-aged, like "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)." On another note, "Circle the Drain" provides interesting insight into Perry's pre-Russell Brand relationship with Travie McCoy. Even if you don't enjoy Perry, I'm sure you'll get the "Hummingbird Heartbeat" dancing to this album for the next year or so on the club circuit.
Most notable tracks: "The One That Got Away", "Teenage Dream"

Wall Art: Niagara Detroit


If you are looking to decorate your new residence hall room, apartment or house, look no further than Niagara Detroit.

Launched by former rocker and Motor City native, Niagara, this passionate artist's prints of the Pop art variety are to die for. Anything vintage is right up our alley and all of Niagara's designs scream vintage (and often comic book) - in a good way!

Happy decorating.

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Movie Review: Eat Pray Love



If there seems to be one message shouting at you from this film it is: Find yourself! (And see the world from multiple perspectives while doing so.) That message in and of itself is a great one. The book remains unread by some on our staff but that does not mean that the film is not appreciated. For those who have traveled to even one of the three destinations on Liz Gilbert's (Julia Roberts) list, it stands as a gorgeous testament to the beautiful countries. For those who have loved and lost and loved again, it does the same. For everyone in between, it gives a glimpse into some aspect of the kind of person many of us aspire to be. All things aside, this worldwide best-seller translates nicely to the big screen but does not pack enough punch or is too slow-moving to deeply satisfy its audience, despite some truly fantastic performances and heartwarming moments.
Best on-screen moment: Any part with Ketut - the wise, inspirational, Balinese guru who is 101- or 64-years-old... he can't remember.

Monday, August 16, 2010

Movie Review: Dinner for Schmucks



Everything that can go wrong for the "hero" of this movie... does. Films don't get much more predictable than this is. Dinner for Schmucks is an adaptation of a widely popular French film and one can almost tell why it doesn't translate all that well for American audiences. Steve Carell and Paul Rudd give it their best shot and play a truly excellent pair of buds, but they cannot quite save the script of annoying situation after annoying situation. Stephanie Szostak shines in Dinner as Paul Rudd's character Tim's girlfriend, Julie. If you love Rudd and Carell and fancy some interesting cameos from Zach Galifianakis and ventriloquist comedian Jeff Dunham, then you should give this flick a shot. If not, don't bother.
Best on-screen moment: When Tim (Rudd) attempts to walk up the stairs after hurting his back.

Friday, August 13, 2010

People Tree Fall Fashion Preview


What's in for fall? According to our English counterparts, stripes and ruffle/twist details.

UK fair trade fashion company People Tree published a fall fashion preview and we are loving the items below. Check 'em, out!


Ruby Frill Dress, $85, in grey


Wide Stripe Top, $40, in paprika/brown




P.S. Yes, this is the company Harry Potter star and Brown University sophomore Emma Watson designs for.

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Jac Vanek Bracelets



Jac Vanek began her career as teen due to an interest in music and the "scene" culture that surrounds the business. Slowly, the now 21-year-old, who also models and is involved in photography, became an Internet sensation. The rest is history.

Collaborations with musicals artists Miley Cyrus (below), Boys Like Girls, Paramore and Cobra Starship have further helped put this young designer's style on the map. Most of her bracelet products are priced at $10 and Vanek offers clothing and other merchandise on her site. Further, Vanek often works with social, not-for-profit causes. To learn more about the brand and the woman behind it (or to purchase) click here. We at VIM find these products fun and semi-inspirational (like Carpe Diem above) for the free spirit in all of us.


Lady Gaga and Aaron Carter showing their support for NOH8, each wearing Vanek

It's All Good Miley bracelet

Album Review: 31 Minutes to Takeoff



Twenty-one-year-old Southfield, Mich. native and Duke University senior, Mike Posner shines on his first for-profit release (in the past he has released two free albums through iTunesU). If you haven't heard his debut single "Cooler Than Me," then you have to have been basically living under a rock this summer. Posner is kind of like a baby-faced version of Justin Timberlake, whom we are all missing right now as he is continuously pursuing acting (seemingly) over music. Collaborations with Boyz II Men ("Déjà Vu") and Travis Barker ("Gone In September") as well as sampling Ray Lamontagne's "You Are the Best Thing" ("Do You Wanna?") help make this album a fantastic first effort that we know will be played all over the Michigan State University campus and beyond. Plus, with lyrics like I should've cheated on you/Nobody told me I was dating a whore, what's not to enjoy?
Most notable tracks: "Please Don't Go," "Bow Chicka Wow Wow"

Monday, August 9, 2010

VIMwatch: Teen Choice 2010 Style

Ladies

Lea Michelle of Glee was looking stunning as ever Sunday night in this gorgeous green ensemble. Note: Lea's tan shoes (this seems to be a trend among most of the starlets of the evening).

Burlesque star Kristin Bell wowed us with her slightly oriental summer dress. Not too shabby.























Gents

Ian Somerhalder from The Vampire Diaries and modeling fame looked absolutely scorching in his James Dean-esque, "bad boy" getup.

From left field, Joshua Jackson stole the red carpet looking absolutely dapper in this dark blue blazer-and-tie with dark jeans combo. We'll always have a soft spot for Pacey Witter.

Sunday, August 8, 2010

Fashion Spotlight: Mary-Kate Olsen


Mary-Kate Olsen graces the cover of Marie Claire's September issue and we couldn't be more delighted. Not only were we lovers of the Olsen twins as youngsters, but Mary-Kate is truly a fashionista to look up to. MK has a fearless sense of style, which, in our opinion, is what fashion is all about. The actress/designer's I-don't-give-a-damn attitude 24/7 is majorly admirable. Plus, she always looks stunning. As a result, please enjoy the stills below.


Feeling a tad nostalgic?

So are we! It is for that reason that we've decided to provide another "favorites" list (the awkward length - at six - is simply because we couldn't eliminate any of these gems). This time, we compiled our "Greatest TV Shows of the Nineties," to be watched specifically when you're yearning for the decade (which, for us, happens more often than it should, frankly). Yes, the fashion wasn't easy on the eyes, but it does make for fabulous memories. The following shows are honestly the best examples that we can think of - plus, they are just plain the best.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer


Let's face it, the WB seriously knew what they were doing in the 90s because it had an incredible lineup of teen angst that has yet to be matched (The CW has got absolutely nothing on it). Buffy the Vampire Slayer is just one stellar example of this. Buffy managed to combine romance, comedy, action and drama in neat, 43-minute episodes, all the while keeping Sarah Michelle Gellar looking awesome. Talk about impressive. Also, Buffy made vampires cool before they were "cool."

Dawson's Creek

If there is one character in the history of television who was subjected to the worst wardrobe ever, it was Joey Potter of the infamous Dawson's Creek. The creek was genius for its time, though when one watches it again you can't help but think, "Did the writers really think that 15-year-olds talk like this?" Also, does anyone else find it ironic that everyone's least favorite character from this series is, in fact, its title character? Or is it just us.

Felicity

We take our comment about Miss Potter back, Felicity's title character definitely gives DC a run for its money in the bad fashion department. That, however, does not take away from how much we absolutely loved this show. Felicity was the first true show about college, spanning only four seasons to encompass the characters' four years of undergrad at "NYU." It was an adolescent's first glimpse into what college might be like. Our experiences to date involve a lot less over analyzing and we have yet to be caught in such an amazing love triangle, but Felicity remains one of our all-time faves.

Friends

Isn't a simple mention of "the Rachel" enough reasoning for us to adore this show for both its fashion and beauty influences? Not to mention it is probably the single most hilarious show of the decade, at least for our generation (all of you Seinfeld lovers out there).

Saved by the Bell

If you have to ask why Saved by the Bell made this list, you clearly are not a child of the 90s. Saturday morning television will never be the same, we will never be the same and I'm pretty sure Kelly Kapowski/Zack Morris hold a special place in the hearts of all current 20-somethings. Also, the fact that you can purchase this is beyond awesome.

Sex and the City


I think this one is pretty darn obvious and, yes, we did check: Sex and the City premiered on HBO in 1998. We realize that this series is still quite relevant, with its two feature films and all, but if you take a moment and start at season one, you can check out the high end of nineties fashion with our favorite ladies.

Saturday, August 7, 2010

Organic Cosmetics... even Mascara!

Josie Maran Cosmetics have developed an entire brand of organic, luxury makeup for the conscious consumer, sold at Sephora stores nationwide as well as online at the provided link.

The secret to the success of this line is their use of Moroccan Argan oil, a 100 percent natural substance found from semi-desert Argan trees. Unsurprisingly, the company's biggest seller is, in fact, their Argan Oil, $48, with its incredible moisturizing abilities. Not to mention, their creation of fabulous organic mascara ($22).

Friday, August 6, 2010

Comfy Chic

It's almost time for those summer internships to wrap up but that doesn't mean we shouldn't add to our summer working-woman wardrobe, right? Right.

These shorts, from J. Crew sister brand Madewell, can easily be dressed up for the office with a sleek belt and blouse combination. Trust us, you'll be saying "thank you" when you are crazy comfortable at work.

Heathered slouch sweatshorts, $45, Madewell.com

Ciao Bella Gelato


With the outside temperatures still rising, Ciao Bella Gelato is the perfect hot afternoon treat.

Ciao Bella Gelato, which has been featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show and in countless magazines, boasts an extremely indulgent collection of gelato and sorbet created from pure, natural ingredients. With gelato flavors ranging from Chocolate Jalepeno to Key Lime Graham, and sorbet flavors ranging from Blood Orange to Blackberry Cabernet, you'll never run out of new, exciting flavors to devour.

Ciao Bella Gelato opened its doors in 1983 in New York City's Little Italy, but has seen its business spread throughout the nation. You can pick up a pint at your local Whole Foods, Target, or Harris Teeter, but if you still need help finding your perfect pint, you can always go to their store locater online to find the closest location nearest to you (in E.L. Foods for Living carries the brand).

Emma Watson unveils a new, shorter do.

Emma Watson unveiled a much shorter do this week, calling it "the most liberating thing ever."

The Harry Potter star told Entertainment Weekly that she had been wanting to cut her hair short since she was 16. However, she had to keep her long locks due to playing Hermione, but with the final Harry Potter installment wrapped, the star said she finally was free to cut it all off.

Watson said she knows people will have an opinion about it, but we at VIM think her new cut is cute and practical for college students. With Watson entering her second year at Brown University, her new gamine cut will slash her morning prep time significantly.

Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part I will be released Nov. 19 and Part II this coming summer--on July 15, 2011.

Warehouse Sale Alert!



Attention makeup fans! Stila is having a warehouse sale on their website. You can buy discontinued and sale products—and the prices are college-budget friendly! Our top picks:

1. Stila Stars Set
2. Back to School Set (perfect for the fall—and those early classes!)
3. Perfecting Foundation
4. Sun Gel
5. Barbie Loves Stila Doll Collection Sets

Hurry, once the products sell out, they are gone forever!