Happy Martin Luther King Day!

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.

-Martin Luther King Jr.

Alek Wek

Du Juan

Chanel Iman

Gemma Ward

photos courtesy of http://www.style.com/

Fit Fashion

January is a time of holiday hangover, the return of monotonous routine, and when herds of guilt-ridden people flock to the gym to fulfill their New Years resolution. I am no different, but I always look on the bright side of this vicious cycle-new clothes! This Spring 2008 season, Stella McCartney has designed another gorgeous and practical collection for tennis, running, golf, and swim, as well as warm-up clothing and accessories. If this seems a little frivolous to you, I have a few arguments. These clothes have the best technology to improve your game, and can also be mixed and matched with other pieces of your wardrobe seamlessly. My view is when you look good, you will probably work out harder too.

One if not possibly the most chic sports is tennis. While being very classic, this outfit is also very fresh. The sweetly feminine detailing on the neckline is a retro take on the polo. The skort is also a tennis staple, and this one has just the right
amount of minimalism to balance out the preciousness of the blouse.

This outfit is my favorite, since I am a runner. This material is breathable and wicks away perspiration, while looking shiny and fabulous as well. I love the utilitarian vibe, the bright colors, and the satiny texture.

A very unique interpretation of the golf uniform. No polo shirts to be seen here! I could easily see the short jacket paired with jeans for a casual spring outfit.

A very glamorous maillot. Just a tad bit more modest than a bikini. This is for active people who love their two piece but don't want their bathing suit to be, um, as active as well.

Inspired: Twilight by Stephanie Meyer

Over the winter break, I decided to catch up on some un-required reading (finally)! I also got my wisdom teeth pulled, which meant no social time for Miss "The Godfather"-cheeked girl. I picked up Twilight by Stephenie Meyers, and could not put it down! It is one of the most beautiful stories I have ever read. It's the unlikely love story of Bella, a typical teen girl, and Edward, a beautiful and complex vampire. I have passed this book on to a few people now of all different ages, it is just a universally appealing, genre-defying masterpiece (the movie is in the works...and check out the rest of the series!)

How does this apply to my blog? Well, I came across one of my favorite must-haves in one of its new incarnations, Moon Venom from DuWop. This tingly lip plumper has opalescent shimmer in it, perfect for if you are feeling a little mysterious. The venom theme is such a unique concept and reminds me of the venom in the bite of a vampire. The shimmery "moon" flecks remind me of the title of Meyer's second book, New Moon (Note: the tingly sensation is from the cinnamon extract).

I recommend reading this series, you won't regret it.

Covetable: Leather Hoodie

Don't get the wrong idea. I'm about as badass as a cupcake. But for some reason I am so drawn to this gorgeous leather hoodie by Mike and Chris.

This twist on a classic borrows from the biker boys yet adds a decidedly chic twist. The gorgeous neutral color has a European flair, perfect for zipping off on a Vespa or picking up groceries at the chilly produce section of the supermarket. The antique and distressed texture gives it just enough of a roughed-up finish to keep it from looking undesirably new. The fact that it's a hoodie combines casual with luxe, making it wearable for many occasions. And the pièce de résistance: the hug-you-in-all-the-right-places fit.

I can picture this as a hugely versatile piece. Worn with jeans and a sweater, this would be a wonderful layering piece on those days when a down puffer just doesn't give you the sleek look you want. This would also go beautifully with softer fabrics to juxtapose textures, creating a truly unique look. In essence, this is the piece for all you girls who don't want to sacrifice your femininity in order to look strong and confident.

Consider it your urban armour.

Image courtesy of http://www.standardstyle.com/ProductDetails.aspx?productID=52108&BrandId=1577&CategoryId=990

Huh? White Lashes at Erin Featherson

Is it just me, or does it look like this model at the Erin Featherson Spring 2008 runway show forgot to put on mascara over her primer? Artistically I think this look is very intriguing, almost like icicles around the eyes. Practically, I think this look would have people wondering whether or not you bleached your eyelashes. This is very runway rebellious, and perhaps an inspiration for a Halloween costume as the White Witch from Narnia?



pictures courtesy of style.com and http://www.ourfixerupper.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/04/narnia.jpg

what do YOU think?: Balenciaga's sporty stilletto

Balenciaga Fall 2007

A very odd trend appeared on the Balenciaga runway this fall season, no doubt making the audience question whether they were at a fashion show or the roller rink. This bright, clunky shoe appears to be the illegitimate child of a roller skate and a stiletto, a strange hybrid of sport and style. Perhaps the fierce athletic styling of the 80's is back with a vengeance after years of minimalism, boho-chic, and retro-glam.

So, what do YOU think, is it couture or just clunk?

picture courtesy of http://www.style.com/fashionshows/collections/F2007RTW/detail/thumb/BALENCIA

I'm Blue

Am I the only one who remembers that nineties song "Blue (Da Ba Dee)" by Eiffel 65? Yes, it takes me back to those good ol' bad-pop-song days. But enough of my reminiscence. Makeup is having an indigo mood lately with a new crop of the cool-toned color infiltrating surprising products, creating dazzling effects!

Benefit BADgal Blue may seem a little intimidating, but it is in fact so easy to wear. The deep blue mascara brings out the whites of the eyes while toning down red. Wear it by itself or brush the tips of black mascara-coated lashes to make your eyes seem bigger, brighter, and more awake.

OPI - Russian Navy
When it comes to nails, navy is the new black. This is definitely a fresh take on the dark nail trend that is still lingering from last year. This gorgeous hue is from the 2007 Fall/Winter Russian Collection. This polish would look sophisticated with a short, slightly rounded nail shape to keep the look from being too hard.

Benefit California Kissin' Lip Shine

Probably the most intimidating product of all, this gloss flecked with blue sparkle is quite easy to wear. The color is a clear shine, and the teensy blue sparkles color-correct discoloration and bring out those pearly whites, making it the fastest way to get a brighter smile instantly!