Saturday, June 11, 2011

Dress Like a Princess!

Catherine Middleton has not only recently become a princess, but a widely-watched fashion icon as well. We can't help but be extremely envious of her chic and sophisticated wardrobe. Here's a how-to guide to covet her style into your closet!

Boots— Throughout her relationship with Prince William, Kate has been seen wearing knee-high heeled suede boots, flat slouchy brown boots as well as leather boots. Kate is known to wear boots with skinny jeans for a day of shopping. She was also seen dressing them up for a visit to St. Andrews.

Dresses—Kate Middleton certainly knows how to wear a dress. From that particularly famous Alexander McQueen she wore as she said "I do" to her everyday attire, Kate knows what looks good on her. When shopping for Middleton-inspired dresses, look for prints, chiffon fabrics and halters. If you're looking for something less casual, focus on simple, elegant dresses with small details and an excellent fit that accentuate your figure.

Wedges—Since the day after Middleton's wedding, women everywhere have been clamoring to get their hands on L.K. Bennett's wedges (there?s already a waiting list). However, this wasn't the first time Kate was photographed wearing wedges. She's been seen wearing many different variations; peep-toe, sling-back, espadrille, cork, patent leather and suede.

Bright Colors—Kate may keep the silhouette of an outfit very simple but she adds color. She favors shades of blue, most notably her Issa dress worn to announce her engagement to Prince William and her Zara dress worn the day after her wedding.

Outerwear—On countless occasions, Kate has been seen wearing a jacket or a blazer. Make note: the fit is crucial! If you find one jacket that fits you well, it will instantly make you look more put-together. Middleton also likes cropped jackets and trench coats. After Kate was seen wearing this Burberry coat, it sold out within hours. Pair an equestrian-inspired blazer with boots and skinny jeans and you may just be mistaken for Kate herself!

—MANDILYNN KERR

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

TOMS's Launches "One-For-One" Eyewear Line



Looking for a new pair of sunglasses to shield your eyes from the bright summer rays? Consider purchasing a pair of TOMS sunglasses! The popular slip-on shoe brand has expanded their product line to include sunglasses. TOMS pioneered their “one-for-one” business model with their shoes by donating a pair of shoes to a child in need in accordance with each pair purchased.

TOMS founder, Blake Mycoskie, recently announced that for each pair of eyewear sold, the company will help give sight to people in need through prescription eyeglasses, medical treatment, or sight-saving surgery. He further explains that each hand-painted stripe on the side of the sunglasses has meaning: the first stripe represents you (the purchaser), the second white stripe represents TOMS (as seen in their logo), and the third stripe represents the person you’ve given sight to.

There are three different styles thus far for men and women—aviator, oversized round, and wayfarer—which are available in many different color combinations and we love them all! TOMS sunglasses are available online through the TOMS website and in-store and online through Nordstrom. Prices range from $135 to $145.

—STEPHANIE WEBER

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Cut It Out!

We’re all for showing a little skin this season, but plunging necklines and shorter–than–short minis are so history. The newest way to flaunt your summer skin is in a slightly revealing and slyly seductive cut–out dress.


Inspired by the signature slashed–and–sliced style of Narciso Rodriguez, a handful of daring designers are now doing away with fabric in the most unexpected of places. The result is a variety of fitted frocks featuring sexy slivers, which were seen all over the spring runways and on stars such as Emma Watson and Ginnifer Goodwin.

Ready to incorporate this hot trend into your summer wardrobe? A celebrity favorite is the classic Herve Leger Bandage Minidress ($990). For inexpensive alternatives, Topshop features a Bandage Dress for $110 and Asos offers a variety of cut–out dresses starting at just $22. Pair this style with sky–high heels, and be sure to keep accessories to a minimum!

—SAMANTHA MEUX

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Beyond Blue


Denim is a staple in everyone's closet. Finding a way to update your jeans can be challenging, but celebrities have brought attention to this season's newest denim trend. Brightly colored jeans in every shade of the rainbow are being seen on celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and Sarah Jessica Parker. These colored skinny jeans look best paired with neutral tees, ballet flats or heels.

Favored by celebrities, the brand Current/Elliott has bold colored jeans for $167 at revolveclothing.com. For a celebrity steal, delias.com has vibrant denim for $9.99! Who knew it was that easy to achieve summer's "brightest" trend?

—CARLY HILL

Thursday, June 2, 2011

VIM's Gaga for Tom's of Maine

Thanks to a segment on the news not too long ago — and the lovely Sheryl Crow — our eyes were recently opened up to an amazing company by the name of Tom's of Maine. (Seriously, what is it about companies with "Tom" in the name?)

Since the start of Tom's in 1970, co-founders Tom and Kate Chappell struggled to gain initial support for what was then a "crazy" idea — developing and producing natural, sustainable products for household consumers. The two pushed on though and have continued to grow their company and gain immense support along the way through their "good business" pillars that include remaining environmentally conscious in all production, partnership and office endeavors. Below are just some of their great products.

Crystal Confidence deodorant, $4



Wicked Fresh toothpaste, $5



Body Wash (soap), $7



Tom's products can be purchase online or at local Rite Aid, CVS Pharmacy, Walgreen's, Meijer and Kroger locations. Tom's also carries a variety of mouthwash and dental floss products.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Perfect For Your Pedi

The Top Summer Shades For Your Toes

Summertime is the perfect opportunity to stow away the dark, mysterious polishes of the winter and experiment with bright, warm hues for the sunny season.

1. Watermelon by Essie $8, Ulta.com
We love this refreshing, juicy fruit shade. Perfect for a picnic at the beach!

2. Ocean Dip by MAC $15, maccosmetics.com
This bright and creamy teal reminds us of the ocean waves, no matter how far you are from the shore.

3. Elephantastic Pink by OPI $9, Target stores
Inspired by the bright pinks of summer, this is the perfect hue for toes in the sand.

4. Chuffed Jelly Sheer Colour by butter LONDON $12, butterlondon.com
This cantaloupe polish is unique and perfect for any coral enthusiast.

5. No Room For the Blues by OPI $9, opi.com
This poolside blue is the perfect way to stylishly splash into the summer.

—STEPHANIE WEBER