Sunday, November 28, 2010

Green Friday THIS week!


Green Friday, a uniquely East Lansing event modeled after the nationwide, notorious Black Friday, will happen THIS Friday, Dec. 3.

For it, local boutique Jeanologie XX/XY has teamed up with businesses around town to help us students save a little cash over the holiday season. There will be discounts ALL DAY, so make sure you get shopping and make smart purchases!

Participating locations include:

1. Jeanologie (303 M.A.C.)
2. Spartan Spirit (MSU Union)
3. Union Central (MSU Union)
4. MadEagle
5. Curious Book Shop
6. Archives Book Shop

Keep checking the Facebook event for more location announcements.

Monday, November 22, 2010

VIMwatch: 2010 AMA Style

Ladies

The fashion last night was A-mazing, especially as far as the ladies were concerned. That said, we would like to give honorable mention to Katy Perry, Miley Cyrus and Kelly Osbourne, who have been hitting it as of late, and to Willow Smith, who is positively fierce. (Click on the thumbnails at the bottom to check out their lovely looks!)


Our first choice is Taylor Swift. Last night, she stepped out with new hair--probably our favorite part--and we loved the "metal" look of the dress and the strappy heels. Win.


It seems as though we've been seeing less and less of Mandy Moore lately. But with the release of her new animated flick Tangled, it only fit that she showed up to present last night and we loved her look. The colors in the dress are amazing and the sequined detail is gorgeous. A truly great choice.

Gents


Honestly, we cannot not give props to the men of NKOTBSB, especially the gorgeous-looking Nick Carter. Not only was their closing performance a lovely trip down memory lane, but they all looked great upon arrival. Anyone else kind of giddy about their upcoming tour?


Our final pick of the night goes to Ne-Yo, whose style we can't help but love. He tends to always rock the hat, but it definitely works. We are also loving the scarf as lining. Work it.








Friday, November 19, 2010

Declutter Your Closet


With the dreaded finals week coming up, getting organized is a great way to relieve stress. By organizing your things, you may feel more in control and ready to take on anything. Organizing your closet could be very beneficial and help you relieve stress. Here are some quick tips to getting started on organizing:

1. Remove out of season clothes. Exchanging your summer dresses for lumpy sweaters may be a little depressing at first, but it is practical and will save you time in the long run.
2. Get rid of clutter. Go through your clothes and finally get rid of that shirt you’ve only been holding onto for sentimental reasons. It’s always great to donate your clothes to someone in need.
3. Keep jewelry/ accessories in containers. Find or make a cute box that can store all of your jewelry and adds some flair to your space. Keeping all of your stuff in one place makes it easier to find when you’re in a hurry.
4. Invest in some staple storage items Shoe racks, canvas bins, etc. can all be multi-functional and make your organization process a lot easier. Many stores have stylish alternatives to a usually boring closet accessory.

"Talk American" with HP7 Stars



Okay, so maybe we're on a bit of a Harry Potter kick after checking out the film last night, but this was too funny and adorable to not share (especially the always charming Tom Felton, a.k.a. Draco Malfoy).

Check out the stars of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows have a go at talking "American" with MTV's Josh Horowitz. High-larious!

Movie Review: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part I



To sum up the seventh (part one) installment of the infamous Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) film series in two words: absolutely brilliant! If we could give it five kisses, we definitely would. Everything works in this newest flick--the acting, direction, special effects, costuming--and we wouldn't be surprised if it continues to break record after record. Apart from leaving you on the edge of your seat, itching to just watch Part II already, the film is chilling. For lovers of the Potter novels, this is the journey you have been waiting for since turning that last page. Part I brings the books to life in a way that is new and practically unlike what has come before. For those that watch the films without a love for the text, this flick may be just good enough to have you wanting to pick up at least the last novel (if only to know how it ends).
Best on-screen moment: When Hermione (Emma Watson) narrates the wizardly tale of The Three Brothers.

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Flexible Yoga


Regularly practicing yoga can not only be time consuming, but also expensive. With Yogaglo users can go online and pay a monthly fee of $18 to get access to over 600 videos, which range from 5 to 210 minute practices.

You can also select your class by style, level, or specific use, such as stress relief. So whether you’re a beginner who wants to learn the basics or you’re more advanced and enjoy a faster paced vinyasa flow style, it is all available with the click of your mouse.

And if you are still not convinced, Yogaglo has a free 15-day trial for you to explore the site and all that it has to offer!

VIMpick: Tickle my France-Y


With winter right around the corner, we wanted to offer up one of our favorite nail polish shades to match the season's neutral colors.

Pictured above is Tickle My France-y by OPI. This rosy hue adds a little kick to the traditionally pale, winter shades.

OPI.com for salons, $8.50

Dress Like... Chuck Bass?


Guys, this one's for you.

Retailer Urban Outfitters has teamed up with J.Press to give their male fashion enthusiasts the opportunity to dress themselves similar to the famous Gossip Girl character's preppy style.

Here's our favorite look from the collection.

Striped button-down in blue, $68
Solid wool trouser, $88
Collegiate scarf in green, $38

Fashion Spotlight: Sexiest Man Alive


People Magazine has named the gorgeous Ryan Reynolds as 2010's Sexiest Man Alive, a title we simply have to agree with. We've put together some of Mr. Reynolds' best fashion moments - guys, take note...I mean, he is married to GQ's "Babe of the Year".

Check out the just-released trailer for Ryan's new comic-inspired flick Green Lantern.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

The Beatles on iTunes



After debuting on iTunes today, The Beatles are killing it!

It being digital downloads. Eleven of the band's records have made the iTunes top 25 and at least 60 individual songs have crept into the top 200 downloads.

We can't we really blame music lovers, though, as it's about time people are able to purchase some Beatles goodness digitally. Great move, Paul and Ringo, great move.

Have you or will you be snagging some Beatles tracks? Some of our faves (if you're new to the group) include "Paperback Writer," "In My Life," "Maxwell's Silver Hammer" and "Oh! Darling."

Album Review: Loud



Rihanna's newest release, Loud, has hit shelves a mere 361 days after Rated R... that's not a lot of time. The disc's highlights come in the form of some high-profile collaborations, with artists like Drake, Nicki Minaj and Eminem. However, though the disc is a vast improvement from her fifth, it still isn't on par with Good Girl Gone Bad. We love how Rihanna manages to combine a vast expanse of genres--like hip-hop, rock, reggae and pop--but cannot help but think that perhaps the best track on the album is its lead single ("Only Girl...") and were fairly disappointed with the sequel to "Love the Way You Lie."
Most notable tracks: "Cheers (Drink to That)," "S&M"

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Looking for a Drastic Change in Time for the Holidays?

Try the hairstyle sweeping the nation: The Pixie Cut.

We've blogged previously about starlet Emma Watson's new hair and we couldn't resist mentioning the hairstyle again (in leiu of this Friday's Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part I release).

And it's not only Ms. Watson, plenty of Hollywood starlets are opting for a shorter 'do these days. VIM has compiled our faves.


Clockwise from top left: Michelle Williams, Ginnifer Goodwin, Jessica Stroup and Carey Mulligan.

Can Tiffany's Help You Organize?


Apparently, yes. Pictured above is the brand-new compact wallet from Tiffany & Co. (yes, the famous jewelry brand), priced at $195.

Tiffany's has launched a new "leather collection" that shoppers may purchase exclusively online or in select stores (the nearest to us that offers the collection is in Chicago). The collection offers goods for both men and women (the most inexpensive of which is a travel jewelry case at $75). Perhaps the greatest aspect of this collection is that now customers can own fashionable items in the gorgeous, elite Tiffany blue color.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

VIMwatch: 2010 CMA Style

Ladies


Ms. Underwood, who hosted the 2010 CMAs, looked absolutely stunning on the red carpet in an amazingly over-the-top, gun metal Talbot Runhof gown. We also appreciate the minimalist attitude with the rest of the ensemble since the dress itself is so loud (in a good way!).


Taylor just keeps on getting fashion right (see HERE) and yesterday evening was no exception as she strutted the red carpet in a red Monique Lhuillier gown. Work it, girl!

Honorable Mention: Sheryl Crow, just for looking gorge at her age.

Gents


Keith Urban isn't always a fashion hit (though he's very good looking), but tonight we made an exception. We don't love his "country style" large belt buckle, but the suit jacket with dark jeans is something we can get on board with. The jacket's lining is fabulous.


Ty Pennington gets a shout out because his tie is fabulous and truly made his ensemble/suit. It ads the perfect pop.

Honorable Mention: Darius Rucker because we loved his undershirt.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Interior Design: Color Forecast Part Two


Trend to note: Native American Inspiration

Design is always a great way to express one’s cultural interests. No matter where you live it can always be fun to be inspired by different people and places. This color forecast takes a look at the culture of Native Americans and their bold color palette that’s inspired by their natural habitat.

The color palette associated with this culture is very vast, but is always recognizable. Bold colors like turquoise or orange are great accents to pair with more subdued natural tones. Bright colors placed near one another will help reflect this unique style. Purples, yellows and reds are all suitable colors as well because of their connection to nature.

Native American culture is very centered on symbolism and distinct patterns. Mixing and matching different patterns is an important element in achieving this very original style. Geometric and ikat designs (see pillows above) are probably some of the most recognizable patterns true to this culture. Incorporating some natural influences like that of wildlife or landscapes can also enhance the appeal of your space. Pick out a piece of art or an accessory that reflects these objects to fully incorporate this style.

So don’t be afraid to take inspiration from this historic and beautiful culture. After all, it is the month of Thanksgiving!

-Katie Munks

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Lauren Conrad's FFU Advice



Check out the high-larious PSA/spoof above.

VIMwatch: 2010 EMA Style

Ladies

Former Hannah Montana actress and singer Emily Osment rocked the bandage look on Saturday and truly "blue" us away. The color is totally hot.

Shakira definitely deserves a shout out for best dressed of the night because she was stunning in her low-cut, glittery ensemble paired with simple heels. Not to mention it seems to be the look of winter (Similar frocks have been seen on December's Elle and countless others).

Honorable Mention: Miss Miley Cyrus, who looked demure in her black tie evening gown.

Gents

Newly married to Katy Perry, Russell Brand wowed on the red carpet with his woman. We are loving the scarf-rather-than-tie look, paired with white, Western-inspired footwear. (Note: Katy Perry also looked stunning in her admission ticket sequined mini-dress and royal blue high heels that are to die for.)

Johnny Knoxville, though not quite as fancy as the rest of the guests, pulled off his suit and tie sans blazer look, equipped with Ray-Bans, quite well. Semi-casual worked for the sometimes insane funny man.

Designer Bags: Kate Moss for Longchamp

Fashion icon Kate Moss has established a bag collection with the infamous Longchamp of Paris, and we absolutely love it. For all of us Rachel-Zoe-newsletter junkies, the Neo Patch design was recently brought to our attention and we've decided to share it with you.

Moss' design comes in all shapes and sizes, our favorite of which is the handbag ($1700), and you can choose anything from a clutch ($565) to luggage ($3370), each is pictured below.

To purchase from the Kate Moss collection, click HERE.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Hot Jam: The Big Bang



Hotties Miley Cyrus and Kevin Zegers star in this steamy new music video from Rock Mafia. While the vid is pretty stinkin' awesome, the song is better! Check it out above.

Download the track through iTunes HERE

Get the Look: Taylor Swift



Many women admire Ms. Swift for her feminine fashion sense and ability to pull off almost every type of dress (oh, and her legs). This is perhaps one of the country starlet's best looks and we did our best to find ways you can mimic it.

Victorian Blouse Silk Origami in Cocoon, Banana Republic, $79.50
Tiered Skirt Mixed Ruffle, Charlotte Russe, $24.50
Tights Open Knit in Grey, Forever21, $6.80
Boots Dolce by Mojo Moxy, Kohls, $199

Monday, November 1, 2010

Interior Design: Trend Forecast 2011



Design, just like fashion, is all about looking forward to upcoming trends. Fabrics, upholstery, furniture and paint colors change every season. For 2011, a lot of the color trends are fashion inspired. From light pastels to bold colors, upcoming trends are spanning many different styles, such as eclectic or traditional. You can find your perfect style match with any of these colors. When you know what the next great thing will be, your design will be ahead of the rest.

Trend to note: Natural Inspiration

The “green” movement isn't limited to promoting environmental friendliness; nature is also helping to inspire new color trends. Nature has always been a source of inspiration for design, but now it is really a great source from which to choose colors.

A great amount of inspiration for color is coming from the Earth, like that of mossy greens and botanical inspired bright colors. Dark greens, purples, reds and yellows are going to be popular in the coming season. Along with these vibrant colors come neutrals that are a perfect way to subdue that pop of color. To accent any of these colors in your space, you can also use natural printed fabrics, like that of an animal print or a leaf or floral design.

The main point of this nature-inspired trend is to have balance between your space and the outdoors. By mixing these neutrals and pops of color, your space will mimic nature in a way that is comforting as well as chic!

Movie Review: Paranormal Activity 2



Obviously, this is a sequel. After all, what would a true horror film be without at least one sequel? Part of what is quite terrifying about Paranormal Activity 2 is that it brings its frights gradually. It felt as though for at least the first half hour, just about nothing happened (besides an odd "break in"). In keeping with the classic horror film style, only about two of the characters choose to believe in what's happening until disaster strikes... then the remaining ones jump on board. In the end, the flick had us screaming (mostly because we were terrified for the baby), and it had an excellent tie-in with Paranormal Activity. Let's just hope they don't make a third and instead come up with something fresh.
Best fright: When the daughter gets locked out of the house while babysitting.