OLSEN TWINS are STYLEMINT!

With clothing lines The Row, Olsenboye and Elizabeth and James in the bag, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have found another fashion venture to occupy their well-dressed time: StyleMint.com.


Women's Wear Daily reports that the actresses-turned-designers, along with MySpace founder Josh Berman, will launch the site in July. The fashion newspaper breaks it down:

StyleMint will meld e-commerce and social media platforms to offer consumers a personalized shopping experience, based on a monthly opt-out model, similar to book-, music- and wine-of-the-month clubs. Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen will help design and merchandise the offerings -- starting with a collection of women's fashion T-shirts retailing for $29.99 -- as well as create regular videos for the site.

Users will initially be asked to register as members and can then participate in short style quizzes to determine which items would most interest them. The first collection of t-shirts will include eight different cuts in a variety of colors.



Ashley told WWD, "Online commerce is the perfect medium for us to create a new brand that is as much about the clothing as it is about the customer experience."



Are you ready to accept the Olsens as a formidable fashion force?

COLOR HIM FABULOUS!

Guy's Guide to Spring/Summer Accessory Must-Haves!

New-Wave Boat Shoes
Nothing wrong with traditional brown boat shoes, but with everyone from Sperry to Gucci doing creative new riffs, why not go for something more up to date than the ones JFK sported? Try a streamlined new silhouette or a splashy color instead.

Patterned Pocket Squares
By now you've caught on to the 1960s Mad Men pocket-square thing—and so has everyone else. Stay a stride ahead by mixing plaids and checks in your rotation. Just be sure to pair them with solid shirts to avoid pattern overkill.

Plastic Aviators

Wire-framed aviators have been a stone-cold classic for decades—now they've gotten a timely update. This new riff co-opts the chunky plastic cool of Wayfarers and applies it to the timeless fighter pilot's silhouette.

The Straw Fedora

Dressing seasonally applies to your headwear, too. That means going with a straw—not felt—fedora come spring and summer. The coolest version right now is known as "stingy," in reference to its super narrow brim.

 

Brightly Colored Faces

Even if all the dudes at your office have thrown a chunk of cash at an impressive watch, they probably don't have one quite like this. A red, blue, or green face will add a shot of badass-itude to your otherwise conservative business look.

 

A Brighter Striped Tie

It's time to take the striped tie—the preppy staple that never goes out of style—to another dimension by adding a couple of doses of bold color. Yes, you can wear these ties at work, where they'll make even a well-worn suit look vibrant and new.

WHO DAT?

Welcome to Miami! Miami is a fashion destination that celebrities flock to for vaca, some call it home, and others come to unwind, this weekend is no different. SuperBowl XLIV is what most have their eyes on, . . but my eyes are on SUPERBOWL Fashion. Celebrities turned out in style for all the pre-game festivities. And although some would choose a team based on colors, Black & Gold is always in! Blue & White is so last season.

How did Hollywood's hottest look in the sizzling Miami heat? HOT! HOT! HOT!

Rihanna dazzled in a Christian Siriano strapless dress as she hosted the Pepsi Refresh Project Kickoff Party at LIV Nightclub in Miami Beach on Friday night (February 5).  Rihanna accessorized with statement jewels and Jimmy Choo shoes.













Kim Kardashian is heating up Miami.  In town for Super Bowl 2010, Kim rocked a sexy mini, accessorized with matching pumps and a matching clutch to the Leather and Laces Super Bowl Party hosted by the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism. 

Joining in on the Super Bowl festivities, Fergie attended Playboy’s Super Saturday Night Party in Miami Beach, Florida on Saturday night (February 6).
Held at Sagamore Hotel, the Black Eyed Peas frontwoman was joined by her bandmates for the annual southern Florida extravaganza.

Quite possibly the swankiest of all of the Super Bowl parties in town, the biggest names in show business and sports gathered together at the W Hotel: South Beach on Saturday night (February 6).
Joining together for the Creative Artists Agency Super Bowl fete, Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes met up with Cameron Diaz and Alex Rodriguez during the course of the evening soiree.

Keeping quite the busy schedule during her trip to southern Florida, Olivia Munn was spotted all over South Beach on Saturday (February 6).
Looking simply stunning, the Olivia brunette beauty wore an olive green dress as she was accompanied by an officer to The Raleigh for the Maxim Super Bowl party - during which time she celebrated her cover issue of the popular men’s magazine.

Among the many events taking place in southern Florida this weekend, the 2nd annual Big Game, Big Give fundraiser drew out top Hollywood names on Saturday night (February 6).
Hosted by Michael Bay at his Miami Beach estate, AnnaLynne McCord and Kellan Lutz were among the stars on-hand at the shindig held to benefit the Giving Fund.

FIVE LESSONS IN SEXY

Sexy doesn't mean Victoria Secret model. Sexy is an unspoken confidence. It's actually the best accessory that will complete any outfit. It goes with anything and it always fits you!

Here are 5 Lessons in Sexy

1. If it sparkles, you shine. Remember the song, "Diamonds are a girl's best friend"? Well, all that glitters is gold, my friend. They instantly bring glitz to your body. Here's a tip to keep in mind: Go for fitted, not loose when it comes to sequins. Keep accessories to a minimum when your dress is practically jewelry in itself.

2. Long legs are never out of style. The shorter the hem on the skirt or dress, the longer the legs! Try adding a gorgeous heel to the mix and you instantly get supermodel elevation. Simple and chic is never out of style, opt for a V-neck tee, rolled up the sleeves, and a bold necklace to tie it all together.

3. Zip it, good! Zippers are everywhere, therefore, if it zips, it's HOT. Zippers give a sense of youthfulness and playfulness without being childish. Zippers are not being hidden anymore. From heels to jackets, . . .zip to the store to get a piece!

4. Give them the cold shoulder. Everyone's got sexy shoulders, so show them off! And notice that whether its a jumpsuit or asymmetrical dress, cinching the waist with a bold belt will make this ensemble fierce. Another trend is bold shoulders: try sequin shoulder pads to add some pizazz to a basic outfit.

5. Skin is in. Just a hint is all you need. A tiny sliver, no larger than a slice of pizza. Peek-a-boo cutouts are so on trend, yet glamorous at the same time. Whether it's sheer or geometric cutouts, show a glimpse of what you are most comfortable in, your skin!

HATHAWAY HALF NAKED IN GQ

Anne Hathaway donned lingerie and talked to British GQ about movie kissing. "It's a totally different experience," she said of the forceful movie kiss. "But really you have to be Angelina Jolie to pull that off and still look good. I don't know if you've noticed, but I ain't no Angie."
"If you're both unattached and you get along, of course kissing in a movie is fun," she went on. "But you can never get truly deep down and into it. Well, I can't. Jennifer Garner -- now that girl can movie kiss!"

NARCISO RODRIGUEZ GOES VIRAL

On February 15, 2010 the Narciso Rodriguez for eBay Collection will officially be on-sale. The designer’s first-ever original capsule collection will be sold exclusively through the Narciso Rodriguez eBay store (www.ebay.com/narcisorodriguezforebay) and redefines how and where savvy shoppers can buy designer fashion at extraordinary value.

The eight-piece limited-edition collection bears the designer’s signature, streamlined look and sophisticated color blocking, created in a red, black and white color palette. The collection will be offered at accessible, fixed price points ranging from $65 - $350, in sizes 0 to 14, and available for purchase exclusively through the Narciso Rodriguez eBay store.

Download the eBay iPhone app now to shop the Narciso Rodriguez for eBay Collection on the go starting February 15.

STRATEGY FOR A NEW WARDROBE IN 2010

Strategy is a systematic way to become a fashionable woman who is appropriately dressed for every occasion.
Many of us are adapting to new roles, and it is time to revamp our wardrobe with these changes in mind.
Some of us simply fell into our current look without giving it much thought. Over time, it’s become outdated or inappropriate for the lives we now lead.

Do you have clothing in your closet that you bought 10, 20 or more years ago? Unless these are fabulous designer fashions that cost thousand of dollars, this may be a clue that it's time for a new you.


 

Step One: Understand
Your Image

Whether you are a sophisticated urbanite, like Metis, or a gal who would rather be fishing, like Artemis, there are women’s clothes that feel comfortable and just right on you. Visit your closet and figure out what styles you love. This is the start of creating a coherent image.

Create Visual Illusions to Flatter Figure

A fashionable woman uses clothing lines, such as seams, stripes, belts, and the cut of a garment, to create visual illusions. Mississippi State University Extension Service has an excellent display of drawings that show how to use clothing lines to choose figure flattering clothes. There are also some good planning documents there.Another basic wardrobe planning document may be found on the page for this ultra-practical work wardrobe. Learn how to make $200 last for a week's worth of outfits.

Coordinate Colors for
Versatility & Value

Basic wardrobe planning includes knowing what colors look best on you. Limit yourself to a few colors and the neutrals that look best with these. This makes it easier to mix-and-match wardrobe pieces.
Shopping becomes a snap, too.
My eyes automatically focus on the jewel tones of blue, green, aqua, purple and deep reds look best on me. I go through a sale rack quickly, because I don't bother to stop to look at size, price, or garment care for all the other items.
The sporty wardrobe, right, for town-and-country uses black and tan neutrals for the main pieces. These are highlighted with neon colors to add pizzazz.

Step Two: Organize What You Own

List your daily activities. Decide what types of women’s clothes you need and how many hours a day or week you spend in them. This helps us see how to best use our clothing budget.
Some of us wind up with too many comfortable weekend togs and not enough for work, clubs, or church. Basic wardrobe planning brings balance into our closets and fashion spending.

Sort, Discard, and Declutter Your Closet

Now, it’s time to ORGANIZE. Declutter your closet. Be tough with yourself.
Identify figure flattering clothes that are in style and fit your lifestyle. Don’t be afraid to split up suits. Jackets often outlast skirts and slacks, which receive more stress on the seams and wear on the seats.
Pile #two is clothing worth keeping that needs minor alterations or cleaning.
Bring a big box for the third pile – clothing to get rid of because it no longer fits your figure, your lifestyle, or is out of date.

Identify Outfits for Your Daily Activities

Here's the creative part.
Now that you know what you have, identify basic outfits for your lifestyle.Get creative. Try clothing items in new combinations. Experiment. Find new items that work together.
Discover what's missing. I end up with tons of colorful shirts, because they are cheap and easy to buy. Finding neutrally colored, reasonably-priced pants and skirts takes shopping commitment, persistence, and patience.
Figure out what you need -- such as that all important black skirt or navy blue shoes. How about the unusual textured blue shoes, above, from Beyla, at Zappo's to add zest to an ordinary blazer?
Every fashionable woman needs -- but too often we forget to buy -- a versatile white blouse.

Step Three: Shop Wisely for
Multi Use Women's Clothes

Make the best use of your women’s clothing budget by buying pivotal pieces of good quality that offer lots of wear. Never buy anything unless it’s figure flattering and you can wear it with at least two or three other items you already own.
Tuck the list of key items that you need into your purse. I often find a clothing sale when I am shopping for something entirely different. Carrying the list with you is also a chance to make thrift shop and garage sale stops super productive by looking for missing items.
To summarize, three principles of basic wardrobe planning are strategize, organize, then shop.
Now that your wardrobe is up-to-date and organized, find some fun activities to show off your great new look.


(Source: FashionAfter50.com)

10 DO’s ON GETTING STYLISH WITH AGE

The most common question that I receive as a Personal Stylist, regardless if they are a celebrity or a private client is, “Can I wear this?”, “Am I too old to pull this off?”, or “What is the age limit for wearing, . . .?” It’s almost like a broken record, so I thought I’d set the record straight.

Is there such thing as ageless fashion? To an extent, yes! Most clothing and how it is styled is “pulled off” by the confidence you exude. With that said, confidence can be achieved through lots of hours at the gym, a little cosmetic help, and by staying true to yourself. If you feel great, you can pretty much wear anything! I say ‘pretty much’ with the exception that you are staying true to yourself and not by trying to be someone you are not. No one would like to see a sophisticated 65 year old dress like some teeny-bopper Hollywood pop princess.

DO’S

• Age is just a number, so think young and it will radiant in your every move, word, and fashion step. If you would traditionally wear black, try to incorporate pops of color.

• Take care of your body. We only get one of them. A gorgeous outfit is only as great as the body that it’s on. Don’t get too skinny, at the same time. Be proud of your shape as you get older.

• Stick to clothes that are structured or a little tailored. A great blazer is an investment piece whether you are 29 or 99. It can make anyone’s body look trim and slim!

• Choose solids: red, gray, khaki and especially black and white. In fact, when in doubt, go for black and white. You can't go wrong with this combo. Think Chanel: eternally timeless, elegant.

• Make sure that you stick to your WARDROBE BASICS and only enhance your wardrobe with accessories to define new trends. (See WARDROBE BASICS)

• Details are everything. Remember a shorter length hem is traditionally more youthful than one that falls at the knees. If you have nice legs, show them off! Also keep in mind, the details can make a huge difference, large plastic or gold buttons can age your great jacket. Opt for a zipper for a youthful touch.

• Embrace new trends with open arms. If scarves are still in style, invest in one that makes you feel good. If it’s bold jewelry, try to wear a piece. If it’s sequins, remember less is more, but sequins don’t have an age limit!

• Remember the life lesson, “Age is just a number. You are only as old as you feel.” So if you still feel 32, then you are still 32!

• Find a haircut that suits your face shape. It's your time to take a chance and embrace your gorgeous face. A fresh hairstyle every year can definitely revamp your look and boost confidence.

• Become best friends with your tailor, as you get older, your body will change. Whether it's fixing a hem or taking a seam in, this person can make all the difference in your wardrobe!

CELEBRITY PAYCHECKS FOR FASHION WEEK'S FRONT ROW

Some stylistas would give anything to sit in the front row of fashion week's hottest shows...but can you imagine being paid to place your derriere right next to the runway? How about being paid hundreds of thousands of dollars to do it...and, of course, going home with a designer gift bag? After a little bit of research, Fashionista compiled this list of celebs and how much they earn for sitting in a coveted front row seat:
A-List
Rihanna ($100,000 or more)
Beyonce ($80,000-$100,000)
Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen ($80,000 each)
Julianne Moore ($60,000)
Maggie Gyllanhal ($60,000)
Chloe Sevigny ($60,000 or more)
Jennifer Lopez (circa 2005: $80,000; circa 2010: $30,000)
Lindsay Lohan (circa 2006: $60,000; circa 2010: UNINVITED)
Colin Firth (pre-A Single Man: $5,000; post-A Single Man: $15,000)
B-List
Blake Lively ($50,000)
Leighton Meester ($40,000)
Hillary Duff ($40,000)
Other Gossip Girl cast members ($25,000 a piece)
Jared Leto ($25,000)
Cliven Owen ($10,000)
Kristen Bell (unpaid, but airfare, makeup and clothing are taken care of)
C-List
Kim Kardashian ($35,000-$50,000)
Amanda Bynes ($25,000-$30,000)
Eliza Dushku (unpaid, but airfare, makeup and clothing are taken care of)
D-List
Paris Hilton (free or UNINVITED)
Jersey Shore cast (UNINVITED)
America's Next Top Model Winners (free)

BARNEYS NEW YORK WAREHOUSE SALE!

Los Angeles

Picture this...the brands you adore and consistently covet, think: Marc Jacobs, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Proenza Schouler, Prada, Yves Saint Laurent and Manolo Blahnik, all 50%-75% off regular prices! I know it sounds too good to be true, but once in a blue moon, fashion dreams become realities! So get your Louboutin’s in gear, because the legendary Barneys New York Warehouse Sale is upon us, and making its first stop in Los Angeles, starting TOMORROW! Trust me, this is one event to which you will not want to be fashionably late.

With an impossibly glamorous selection of the finest designer clothing, shoes and accessories for both men and women, as well as gifts for the home, the Barneys New York Warehouse Sale has something for everyone. The sale schedule is as follows:

·      2/4 and 2/5: 8am-9pm
·      2/6: 9am-7pm
·      2/7: 10am-7pm
·      2/8 and 2/12: 10am-8pm
·      2/13 through 2/15: 10am-7pm

With that said, clear all other engagements off your calendar and get ready for some fashion mayhem—in the best way possible! xoRZ

Availability: Barneys Warehouse Sale begins Thursday, February 4th and runs through Monday, February 15th at the Los Angeles Convention Center, South Hall. 1201 South Figueroa Street. (310.777.5700).

KARDASHIANS FOR BEBE

Next week ladies, the wait is over, . . .The ever-so-stylish Kardashian sisters are lending a hand to retail giant Bebe! Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, and Kourtney Kardashian are teaming up together to design a new collection for the chain.

Kim recently told Life & Style about their new venture, saying, “We’re branching out.”

“We have a line coming up that we’ve designed for Bebe. So that’s what we’re focusing on right now.”

Kim says the girls have signed a five-year contract with Bebe. We each have our signature pieces,” Kim reveals, “Khloé has her collection, Kourtney has hers and I have mine. It’s so exciting.”

We love that each sister is doing their own collection with Bebe, because they all have such different senses of style! We think their vision matches perfectly with Bebe, and we can’t wait to see what they come up with!

2010 SPRING ACCESSORIES ARE A CROC

New year, new life? There are always exceptions to the rule, especially if we talk about fashion. One might think that every year the stakes are renewed and designers involved in setting trends with innovative products that have not seen in the market so far. But the truth is that while there is some of that in the world of the catwalk also see these perennial classics that even if they return again and again they are still interesting.

We talk about the ins and classic designs are always in place, products that never go out of fashion, perhaps because its quality, materials that are designed or simply because they set their own style. This applies to the designs of crocodile skin, a trend that we see both in bags and accessories and many shoes.

Despite the history, brands are betting big on the reptile skin and success seem to be guaranteed with high quality products, often priced too high for some budgets.
What can we find this season?

Fendi encourages a "clutch" that combines different textures of crocodile and has a very strong stone while Donna Karan is played by some very distinguished abotinados shoes:

SCAR JO'S MANGO MADNESS

Mango's Spring 2010 ad campaign features Scarlett Johansson in two of our favorite spring trends—the trench dress and floral prints! The actress looks as sexy in Mango’s curve-enhancing khaki wrap as she does sweet in their strapless liberty-print dress. This is Johansson's second season modeling for the label.  
Her last campaign received a mixed response, but that hasn't deterred Scarlett Johansson from reprising her role as the face of Mango's Spring/Summer 2010 collection. With her hair a little longer and in a sultry shade of chestnut red, the actress models the Spanish retail's latest feminine floaty designs.


"I love working with Mango," gushed ScarJo in November. "This is the third campaign I have done with them. The photographer, Mario Sorrenti, makes me feel very comfortable: the sessions are great fun. I see Mango as a casual firm, with lots of combinations of garments, fresh and youthful".