2009 VMAs —Oh Boy!

2009 September 14
by Mona-Elisa

If you weren’t watching the VMA’s last night, then you missed quite an eventful show. It has been a few years since I have actually been entertained by the VMA’s and this year I was laughing, shocked, impressed by performances, and just altogether ENTERTAINED!

My favorite performance of the night would have to go to Taylor Swift. She definitely did her thing by traveling from 42nd street to Rockefellar center and running up those subway stairs in heels. I get out of breath just walking up those stairs on my way to work so I have to give it to her for running, singing, and not even sounding out of breath when dancing on top of that taxi cab. Alicia Keys and Beyonce also had note worth performances. Lady Gaga just had me confused…

My favorite red carpet outfits would have to be Beyonce’s red dress and Alicia Key’s black sequins dress.

Photo by Getty Images

Photo by Getty Images

Photo by Getty Images

Photo by Getty Images

Both outfits were simple and easy to look at.

The most outrageous outfit would have to be Lady Gaga. She was continuously spotted wearing strange ensembles with strange head pieces. So not practical but she definitely managed to make herself stand out. She must have also spent the most on her outfits because they were all just very costume-like.

Photo by Getty Images

Photo by Getty Images

Keri Hilson has recently caught my attention but I don’t think her outfit of choice did her or her body justice. She is such a pretty girl on camera and in person and I was expecting to see her in something more flattering.

Photo by Getty Images

Photo by Getty Images

Worst outfit of the night would have to go to Kanye’s armpiece. If I had her body I would want to show it off too but im confused….??????

Photo by Getty Images

Photo by Getty Images

Ciao ~ Sandra

Fall Trends: To do or not to do?

2009 September 14
by bellesandbulls

Fashionistas!

Many of you are wondering about how to incorporate some of fall’s hottest new trends into your wardrobe. Each week we will take an upclose look at some of the trends that are making their way to the streets of NYC and whether or not you should jump on the slouch-boot bandwagon, as it were.

First up: Boots
Over-the-knee boots? Answer: Love them! The overwhelming majority are flat (a plus for all city dwellers) and they can be flattering to many different (read: short) leg shapes. One serious no-no to this trend: super-shine patent leather (ugh! not flattering). Otherwise, slouched or sleek, these boots have a thumbs-up from the women of NYC. Rumor alert! Apparently Jimmy Choo is fashioning an over-the-knee style for our old fav H&M. Sweet! NBC leaked it first.

Fringed boot? Answer: No! These are, first of all, too flimsy for the hard-knock city life and, I’m pretty sure it’s safe to say, don’t look good on anyone! If you already own a pair of these, I would suggest using them for around-the-house chores, oh and make sure the blinds are drawn?

Ankle boots? Answer: Absolutely, yes. Girls are donning these with tights and short skirts, skinny jeans and even shorts. The boots that have some room at the ankle seem to work the best for not cutting off the leg too early and are the most flattering. Cowboy styles are OK too.

Lace-ups? Answer: No, never, don’t do it. ‘Nuff said.

Check out our other Belles for what’s hot in the designer realm. Next week, I’ll be tackling: The color Purple

Fashion Fever

2009 September 12

This last Thursday, I found myself in pure fashion heaven as I walked down 5th avenue and fashion hopped from store to store. It was seriously like treat-or-treating for fashion goodies.

Tiffany Store 5th ave

Tiffany Store 5th ave

The Dior store on 57th street was a site of pure chaos as photogs, fans, and guest stretched their necks and bodies to get inside the store and get an in person glimpse of Charlize Theron. It was only appropriate that the blonde cause so much excitement this Fashion Week…I mean, she is only on the cover of Vogue Magazine.

Outside the Dior Store on 57th Street and Madison

Outside the Dior Store on 57th Street and Madison

I had the most fun at Versace. There I ran into Ciara, Jade from America’s next top model, and other beautiful people. I didn’t realized how thin Ciara has gotten until seeing her in person. The last time I saw her was about 2 years ago while working a VH1 red carpet. In my opinion she is looking her best these days. Much more classy and grown up in comparison to her more sporty look when she first hit the scene.

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Ciara greets fans and press at the Versace store on 5th ave

Ciara greets fans and press at the Versace store on 5th ave

I can definitely Fashion’s Night Out being an annual event. It invited the everyday person to take part in the fashion week festivities.

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Take a look at PSA put together for the night.

We Are The World

2009 September 11
by bellesandbulls

obamaAs the rain falls, it sets the perfect scenery, symbolizing the pain inflicted and felt on this day, some 8 years ago… On today we acknowledge the lives lost, changed, affected, and altered by the September 11th tragedy in 2001. This is a somber moment for America.

Though the date was clear in my mind, the early a.m. bus ride gave a new perspective. At 9:37 a.m. traffic stopped, heads bowed, hands lifted to the sky. Commuters were silent. The silence of the world was heard!

Today is the day to renew our common purpose with a day of service and remembrance of the September 11th attacks. A day to stand as one. As a people. As a city. As a state. As a nation. As a concerned and compassionate world.

In honor of the lives taken, the lives shaken. Those torn. Individuals who still mourn. On today, September 11th, 2009, show our togetherness, support and strength as a country by outfitting in Red, White and Blue. Stand proud in support of America’s triumph, tragedy, history, present and future. We are proud Americans! Let’s fully acknowledge the legacy of those no longer here and through you, the loved ones they left behind. “That is our calling today and in all the Septembers still to come,” says Mr. President.

patriotic

We are the world…
Janette Clark

All That Fashion Has to Offer

2009 September 10

teen vogue hand bookThe day has come and the party has already begun! The New York City streets are jammed packed. Traffic’s horrific! Everyone eager to make their way to set up for the day. All of a sudden there’s worldly involvement in FASHION…

Years ago, the world of fashion was very divided. Fashion’s biggest obsessions were models and modeling. At this time, Vogue’s spinoff teen magazine showed just how closed outsiders were when it came to the world of fashion. Amy Astley, former Beauty Director of Vogue, now Editor of Teen Vogue, said the most commonly asked question of potential readers was, “How can I become a Fashion Model?”

Today, the awareness of what the industry has to offer has definitely penetrated the world. Modeling is no longer the most visible career in fashion. Teen Vogue readers are now asking how they can get Amy’s job. Ha! Though that may not be their first step into the industry, it’s definitely a great goal to set for those in love with all aspects of fashion. Those that live and breathe all it has to offer are now exploring their options.

In awe, excitement and relief, Amy’s job has gone from the superficial craze of being a part of the industry to connecting with potential tween execs – the future of fashion. From behind the scene scoop on what it takes to publish “The September Issue,” to shows like Project Runway recruiting designers from Parsons The New School for Design, to Fashion Week festivities at Bryant Park, the interest in fashion careers continue to increase. For this reason, Teen Vogue developed its own book, The Teen Vogue Handbook, a how-to guide for students dreaming of jobs as a designer, photographer, stylist or editor.

The Teen Vogue Handbook will be released next month. Tweens, grab a copy! If your heart is in it, it’s well worth the ride. Wherever your passion flows, success will grow… Fashion lovers, as stated in The Teen Vogue Handbook, “Be Prepared to Suffer!”

Wishing you much success!
Janette Clark

Get Your Stilettoes Clicking

2009 September 10
by Mona-Elisa

Hey Ladies….and gentlemen!

It is Fashion’s Night Out! Get your walking shoes on…the cute one’s of course, and let’s get ready to party!  Today retailers will be celebrating fashion and I am ready for the celebration.

Tonight will definitely be a night for event hopping, so let’s get the party dresses out and let’s get the stilettoes clicking.

The ladies's from MTV's "The Hills" step out

The ladies's from MTV's "The Hills" step out

Tell us…where will you be tonight?!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

~ Sandra

September – The Rock Star Month of Fashion!

2009 September 9

fashion
As September eagerly unfolds, there are several happenings on the fashion front. From Labor Day sales and Back to School trends to Fashion Week and the Video Music Awards, this time of year has prompted all to get fashionably engaged. Yes, September rings in the time we get Focused. Get Fly. Get in touch with Fashion!

There’s a worldly focus on what’s to come in the upcoming year… Labor Day is behind us, the last of summer savings have been snatched off racks and now the kiddies are now on their way to school. The newness of September is quite refreshing.

In realigning your goals, life plan, interests and passions, one will find the need to reinvent themselves in a physical sense. The tikes have done so with a closet refresh of Back to School gear. Check out the trends for the year!
back to school

Now the buzz of Fashion Week… Consumers are excited to shop again. This sparks intensity. Inspiration. Innovation. Fashion’s Night Out!

Vogue’s Anna Wintour is kicking off Fashion Week with Fashion’s Night Out – a global retail party. So, grab your wallets and come join the fun. Stores are open until 11p.m. Take advantage of special discounts, tapas, cocktails and more. It’s a Fashion party! Your dedication is being rewarded. The exclusivity of Fashion Week now welcomes public participation.

Become a part of it all on Fashion’s Night Out, Thursday, September 10th, 2009. This is sure to have a positive impact on your wardrobe, retailers bottom line, designers and the industry as a whole, all while being lenient on the pockets. Find out who will join in the celebration!
fashion's nite out

I know… what else can we have on the radar in just 2 short weeks? Video Music Awards! VMA attendees seeking the best lays for their biggest celebration of the year. I wait in anticipation of it all. Stay tuned… The month of September is a Rock Star month in fashion and I look forward to being fully engaged.

Janette Clark

Where Will You Be During Fashion’s Night Out?

2009 September 9

The beginning of Fashion Week is quickly approaching and retailers are preparing for Fashion’s Night Out.

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Vogue has collaborated with retailers all over the world in a “global intiative to promote retail, restore consumer confidence, and celebrate fashion”.

Due to the Fashion’s Night Out iniatiative, the number of parties have tripled this year since many retailers, over 700, will be hosting in-store parties to invite consumers in and celebrate the start of the week long celebration. Events will be taking place from the 6p.m. to 11p.m. window and all are welcome!

I am a huge fan of this initiative because it invites the everyday person to take part in the fashion week celebration. Fashion is all about the consumer and I am happy to see that Vogue is encouraging retailers to refocus their attention to those that will in fact keep their businesses afloat.

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Fashion’s Night Out t-shirts (seen on the model to the left) will be sold at sevearal retail locations.

 

Happy Shopping!

Sandra

I Answer To The Last Call

2009 September 8
by Mona-Elisa

Janette and I were on the same page this weekend!!! Labor Day weekend and the end of the summer signifies for me…end of summer shopping!! Yes, a girl like me loves to shop.

This weeekend, my mom and I strapped on our comfy, but stylish shoes and hit the stores with a mission. A mission to find great deals, and great items to satiate a shoppers high. Were we successful? YES IN DEED!
 

last-call-store-pms123

I found it extremely necessary to answer to the last call. The Nieman Marcus Last Call that is. I love finding a great deal, and finding a great deal on designer items must be one of the best feelings in the world. To accomplish this feeling of great content and satisfaction, I visit outlets of major department stores. Gosh, there goes a secret….

I have a secret but not so secret love affair with Nordstrom Rack, Saks off 5th, and The Nieman Marcus Last Call store. There you can find Christian Loubotin shoes for a fraction of the price, and gorgous Chloe bags for unheard of discounts. 

Chloe Bags

Chloe Bags

~ Sandra

The Labor Day Sales Have Begun!

2009 September 4
by bellesandbulls

labor-day-comments-14

Labor Day weekend has arrived! This not only marks a worldly celebration, it also marks the perfect time of the year to rack up on summer sale items. The Labor Day sale events have begun. Shifting from summer to fall fashion should be fun.

For the smart shoppers, be sure to stock your closet with articles for the summer to come. Here are a few places that will satisfy your wardrobe, without depleting your savings.
labor-day-2009-sales
Summer Dresses
- eDressMe New York

Great Shoes
- 6pm.com

Designer Apparel, Shoes & Accessories
- Barneys Warehouse Sale
255 West 17th Street
New York, New York
Hours: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
212-450-8400

Happy Shopping!
Janette Clark