Heavy Metal Hands

The latest trend in nail polish: strikingly silver nails. They can range from a light glittery silver, to a deep steel silver, and everything in between. It somehow reminds me of David Bowie and taking a trip to outer space. I'm not even sure he ever wore nail polish, let alone this color, but it's so futuristic and rock-like that I'm reminded of him.

Here is his video for "Life on Mars," and check out his awesome blue eyeshadow:

Where can you find it?
OPI, and Essie, and Hard Candy all have a plethora of colors to choose from.

Panic With an Acoustic Guitar?

Panic! At The Disco is in the studio preparing a new album... and it's all being done on an acoustic guitar. This may come as a shock to big fans of the band who made a name for themselves by producing music heavy with electronic beats and all sorts of studio magic.

They recently told RollingStone magazine:

"That record is basically programmed to a T... [the new record is] influenced by the music our parents listened to: the Beach Boys, the Kinks the Beatles... Our new songs are more like classic rock than modern rock. We got older and started listening to different music - and this seems like the natural thing to do right now."

I'm all about artists stepping out of their comfort zone, so I'm pretty excited to hear their new sound. The only thing I'm apprehensive about is Panic! losing the sassy flair they show in all of their music videos. They seem to have a lot of influence from the mid and early 1900s, which is present in all of their videos and most photos you see of them. Their style and the unique artistry they show is always visually pleasing and fun to watch.

Here is their video for "But It's Better If You Do":



A message to the Panic! boys: Props for trying a new sound, but please don't let your videos become lame.

Where can you find it?
Their new album hasn't dropped yet, but you can still buy their first one, A Fever You Can't Sweat Out.

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Now playing: Panic! At The Disco - Lying Is The Most Fun A Girl Can Have Without Taking Her Clothes Off
via FoxyTunes

Hair Evolution

As many musicians have proven throughout the years, the quickest way to get a new persona is to get a new hair color. Just by doing something as simple as changing your hair color you can completely alter your own attitude. Here are a few examples:

Joss Stone: She went from innocent songstress with golden locks, to a sassy soul singer with punky red-streaked hair.












Avril Lavigne: She started with mousy brown hair and a bad attitude, and now she's punk-glam with platinum blonde hair and a streak of hot pink to show she still likes to rock.












Christina Agulera: The definition of a chameleon. She started out innocent with her sweet blonde genie-in-a-bottle-hair. Then she threw a few black streaks in it to dirty up her image. Next she went bold and black, and now she's old school classy with starlet blonde hair.























The moral of the story: In a slump? Change your hair. Whether it's going lighter, darker, or adding a few funky streaks of color to it. The nice thing about is, if you mess up, you can cut it off, wear a hat, or change the color again.

Rock Stars on Your Eyes

Spring time is usually associated with pastels, rosy cheeks, and fresh faces. Imagine my surprise when my December issue of Allure informed me that fashion shows for spring 2008 were showcasing intense and glittering eyes that dazzled the runway. When done right you can look like a superstar ready to rock Madison Square Garden, when done wrong you can look like you got punched by a pixie. To avoid achieving the latter, I'll try and break down proper glitter usage for you:

• ONLY apply it to the eyes, don't go crazy sprinkling it all over yourself.
• Try applying glitter to just the lids of the eyes, or the outer corner of the eyes.
• With glitter, any color works.
• Don't do glitter on the lips. Shimmer is fine, but glitter is just awkward.
  

In Allure, they have a picture of one model wearing an especially lovely version of the look. Her face is clean and fresh, which allows the eye to be more dramatic and attention grabbing. The eye is lined all around in a deep brown-blue color, then just the outer corners of the eye are heavily coated with a deep navy colored glitter. I absolutely love this! It's dramatic but not overpowering.

Where can you find it?
Try MAC (they come out with some amazing glitter eyeliner at this time of the year, they go on with ease, but don't rub off or flake glitter all over your face), Urban Decay, L'Oreal Paris HIP High Intensity Pigments

See It, Hear It, Wear It... All In One Place

Obviously, I think it's great when someone's taste in clothing is intertwined with their taste in music. The problem is, it's difficult to find a store that does the same thing. However some stores put a ton of emphasis on both. Here are few examples:

Hot Topic:
Known for being the muse of many goth and emo kids, who feel instantly rebellious by buying clothes from this trendy anti-trend store (does that make sense?). Not only can you buy a ton of lesser-known band tees, you can also walk into the store and sample some music, then purchase the CD if you like it.

Diesel:
This high fashion line actually has their own music contest, where they search for new up-and-coming indie bands. They then feature them in a concert in London.

Where can you find it?
Click on the links above to go to each store's official web page. (Even if you don't think you'll like it, they're both really cool to look at. Especially the Diesel site, it makes you feel like your trapped in a water bubble floating through space. Seriously.)

Smell Like a Rock Star

This year, the Shop Boys said to party like a rock star, Nickelback sang about wanting to be one, and R. Kelly... sang about doing what he always does (Bump n Grind anyone?), like a rock star. So if we can do all these things, and wear rock star clothing, why not smell like one too?

Well you can!

That's right, artists like Gwen Stefani, J. Lo, P. Diddy, Hilary Duff, Britney Spears, Mariah Carey, and Usher all have their own fragrances. Now that I'm writing it, I realize how many there are, and I'm sure I've missed a few.

Here is a rundown of the perfumes from these artists. This list has each artist's perfume(s), a link to a page about the fragrance, and a snippet from each site explaining the scent. (I threw in a few commercials too, I couldn't help but notice how much they resemble mini music videos.):

• Britney Spears
• Believe "A sparkling blend of exotic fruits, soft florals and seductive amber."
• Fantasy "A magic love potion of sweet temptation."
• Curious "An exhilarating white floral accented with Louisiana Magnolia and wrapped in the sensuality of vanilla-infused musk."
• Gwen Stefani
• L L.A.M.B. "...a fusion of feminine and masculine with a luscious floral scent that bursts with sparkling freshness, and then wraps you in the warmth of sensual musks"

• Hilary Duff
• With Love "Youthful and fresh"

• J. Lo
• Still "Spicy white pepper, sensual sandalwood, and musk mix with ultra feminine florals, like pink freesia, honeysuckle, orange flower, and rose to create the most mesmerizing aroma."
• LIVE "...a vivacious blend of Italian Orange, Sparkling Sicilian Lemon, Pineapple, Violet Accord, Red Currant, Peony, and soft, sexy musk, serene vanilla, and Sandalwood."
• Love At First Glow "This scent possesses a blend of Italian Bergamot, Neroli de Provence, Georgia Peach, Osmanthus, Pink Jasmine, Wild Rose, Freesia, Blond Woods, Musk, Vanilla Absolute."
• Still "Spicy white pepper, sensual sandalwood, and musk mix with ultra feminine florals, like pink freesia, honeysuckle, orange flower, and rose to create the most mesmerizing aroma."
• Glow "...infused with notes of Orange Flower, Grapefruit, Orris, Jasmine, Vanilla, and Musk."
• Live Luxe "This scent possesses a blend of Juicy Pear, Exotic Melon, Apple Twist, Electric Citrus, Sun Sweetened Honeysuckle, Amethyst Freesia, Muguet Petals, Skin Musk, Creamy Vanilla, Soft Amber and Sandalwood."
• Glow After Dark "...a blend of Mandarin, White Cherry, Passion Fruit, Jasmine, Peony, Rose, Orange Flower, Pink Musk, Tree Moss, Blonde Woods, and Patchouli."
• Mariah Carey
• M "...opens with an indulgent, creamy accord and blooms into an opulent floral heart as a rich base reveals darker, sensual facets."

• P. Diddy
• Unforgivable (for men) "Unforgivable defines cool."
• Unforgivable (for women) "...embodies the essence of sensuality that intoxicates the senses."

• Usher
• Usher (for men and women) "Evoking the soul of one of today's premiere entertainers, both scents represent Usher's passion and commitment to positive expression."

Where can you find it?
Click on any of the links above, or check out your local Sephora or cosmetics department in a department store. All of these fragrances should be found in one or the other

The Boyz are Doing It Old School

It seems like every artist today is going back to their roots and drawing inspiration from many great singers from the past. Christina Aguilera went "Back to Basics," and Amy Winehouse went "Back to Black," while singing in the old school style of the original blues, jazz, and r&b artists.

Now, Boyz II Men has released an album called "Motown - A Journey Through Hitsville USA." It's a compilation of Motown covers, and even includes an acapella version of their hit "End of the Road." They include some of my favorites like, "Just My Imagination" (originally by the Temptations), "Mercy Mercy Me" (Marvin Gaye), and "I Was Made To Love Her" (Stevie Wonder).

At a first glance, and strictly judging an album by its cover, the Boyz have successfully channeled some vintage style. They all look positively dapper in their black suits, sitting in what appears to be a quaint little diner. Since they are the most successful R&B male group of all time, and my personal favorite, I have high expectations set for them.

Here is a video with a little more information about the new album:

Where can you find it?
But it now on iTunes.

¡Viva La Cobra!

"¡Viva La Cobra!" is the title of the band Cobra Starship's second album, and I felt just as jubilant as this vivacious title when I looked at their album insert. Cobra Starship is definitely a band that knows how to fuse 80s music and fashion influence with modern day style.

To the far left is an image of their album cover, and next to that is a picture similar to what is inside their album insert (they have the same outfits on, and this is most likely from the same photo shoot). They wonderfully combine bright colors and flashy patterns in a way that stops just short of being offensive. They must have a great stylist, and I think it's brilliant.

Some notable items:

• Their large futuristic sunglasses.
• Neon tracksuit jackets.
• SKINNY pants (a must have), particularly the black and whit checkered pair, and the red and black tiger striped ones.
  

Their style nicely reflects the upbeat, sometimes comical, and slightly outlandish style of their music. With titles like "Damn You Look Good And I'm Drunk (Scandalous)," and "Prostitution Is The World's Oldest Profession (And I, Dear Madame, Am A Professional)," how can you take yourself too seriously? The entire premise of this band is one serious joke (in a good way), as you can see from the section about the bands beginnings on their webpage. It explains that a cobra from the future came to Gabe (the band's lead singer) and told him the purpose of his life. Fueled By Ramen, the record label they are signed to, has a brief summary of this on their website:

"Gabe Saporta spent days and nights in the deserts of Arizona pondering the nature of being. After being bitten and nearly killed by a venomous snake he awoke to learn his purpose in life from a giant futuristic cobra. His purpose was to create Cobra Starship and make sure the world goes out in style"

They seem to treat the whole concept of celebrity as one big joke, and I can't get mad at them. It's refreshing to see a band embrace music and fashion in such an outrageous way, all while laughing at themselves. Kudos for being different Cobra Starship.

Where can you find it?
"Throw your fangs up" high and proud and sport some gear from the Fueled By Ramen web store.

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Now playing: Cobra Starship - Prostitution Is The World's Oldest Profession (And I, Dear Madame, Am A Professional)
via FoxyTunes

Spice Up Your Life

The Spice girls are coming out with a new album, and I just had a scary thought: what if they influence fashion in the same way they did in the '90s? If you don't remember how they changed the world, let me remind you:

• Animal print.
• 7 inch platform shoes, sandals, heels, sneakers...
• Everything in a bright and/or offensive color.
• Skin tight tube dresses pulled up to give-grandma-a-heart-attack heights.
• Little girls must always run around thrusting two fingers in the form of the "peace" symbol in your face, all while screaming "GIRL POWER!" in their best fake British accents.
• Babydoll dresses and pigtails.

With baited breath I immediately searched YouTube for the video to their single "Headlines (Friendship Never Ends)," to see what they've become. First of all, I was actually happy to see the original line-up return: Geri (Ginger), Emma (Baby), Victoria (Posh), Mel C. (Sporty), and Mel B. (Scary). However, they all seem to have shed their previous Spice-personas for a more sophisticated version of their former selves. With the possible exception of Mrs. Victoria Beckham, who looks as Posh as ever.

Check it out for yourself:



We'll have to wait and see just how successful the girls are with their comeback. I doubt they'll be as successful this time around, but they're getting a pretty good start in the fashion department: Roberto Cavalli has agreed to supply costumes for their upcoming tour, starting December 2 in Vancouver. Apparently he is a good friend of Victoria Beckham's, and was thrilled to get involved in the tour... I wish he was my friend too.

Where can you find it?
But their new single now at iTunes, or check out their Greatest Hits record.

OMG CBGB is G-O-N-E

A recent article on RollingStone.com titled "CBGB's Vacant Shell To House Designer Suits And Other Things We Can't Afford" vented the much sympathized frustration with the closing of the punk landmark. The article states that the space "will soon be filled with the designer suits and upscale fragrances of a John Varvatos boutique."

The thought of this lounge closing is quite scary to many music enthusiasts, especially since this is a place that calls itself the "home of underground rock." They were in business for nearly 30 years, and housed bands like Talking Heads, the Ramones, and many more.

The full name of the lounge is CBGB & OMFUG. Its recently deceased founder, Hilly Kristal, gave a wonderful history of the location on its official website, and explains its unique name:

"The question most often asked of me is, 'What does CBGB stand for?' I reply, 'It stands for the kind of music I intended to have, but not the kind that we became famous for: COUNTRY BLUEGRASS BLUES.' The next question is always, 'but what does OMFUG stand for?' and I say 'That's more of what we do, It means OTHER MUSIC FOR UPLIFTING GORMANDIZERS.' And what is a gormandizer? It's a voracious eater of, in this case, MUSIC."

For more about the historical venue in New York, RollingStone has a great archive of articles about it and its founder HERE.

What about the designer, John Varvatos, whose boutique is to take over this precious space? His designs are positively snazzy, and completely out of any price range I can ever hope to afford (in the near future anyway). For instance, one model sports an outfit of "wish list" items, including a "Champagne Silk Bow Tie" for $95. Ouch. Nearly $100 for a bow tie? No, thank you. Still, the designer may have some rock cred as RollingStone points out, "Iggy Pop was a model in his fall 2006 ad campaign, and Alice Cooper, Slash and Ryan Adams have donned his designs." Alice Cooper is also featured on the first page of the website, looking rocker-chic with a top hat, cane, eyeliner, and giant snake wrapped around him.

The opening of the Varvatos boutique marks the further upscaling of the Bowery strip. Now, underground rock fans will have to wait and see where and when the promised new location of CBGB will open its doors and pour out the sweet sounds of rebellion.

The Ramones were a CBGB favorite, and fequently performed there. Here is a video of them at the lounge:

Where Can You Find It?
Well, you can't visit CBGB & OMFUG since it doesn't really exist right now. You CAN buy their merchandise online though. Also, if you want to buy John Varvatos, you can shop online (although you must be contacted by a "personal shopper" after requesting their merchandise), one of his boutiques, or a retail location. Your best bet to find his merchandise in south Florida would be to visit the Bloomingdale's in Boca Raton, or Aventura.

Usher = Murderer and Rapist?

Ummm... what? Ok, so Usher isn't really a murderer OR a rapist (not to my knowledge anyway), but he did channel one in his 1998 video for "My Way" (click here to watch it). Yes, that was nearly 10 years ago, but I feel like the scandalous figure his attire was inspired by has gone unnoticed by many. Who is he dressed like? Why, Alex DeLarge of course.

Alex DeLarge is the protagonist of the Anthony Burgess novel A Clockwork Orange, published in 1962. The novel was adapted to film in 1971 by Stanley Kubrick. The iconic figure, played by Malcolm McDowell, is immediately recognizable to any fan of the film. The main characteristics are suspenders, a bowler hat, a cane, and the most important touch: dramatic false eyelashes accenting the right eye.

Check out McDowell as DeLarge here:

So why the sudden interest? It just so happens I decided to be my own version of Mr. Delarge for Halloween this year (I'll post pictures later for all you curious cats). Unfortunately, many of my friends had no idea what I was talking about when describing my costume, until I mentioned Usher's video. Then it dawned on me: what a strange character to depict when singing a love song. However, I still think that it's awesome, and done quite well.

• He has the costume down right: suspenders, hat, cane, button-down shirt, eyelashes.
  
• There is a scene where he and his "droogs" (or gang members) are running down an abandoned tunnel wreaking havoc, like in the movie (although Usher doesn't beat up any old men along the way).
  
• ...and there is the obligatory gang fight/dance off.

Although I wanted to be a sort of female DeLarge, I took a cue from Usher and added a little sparkle and flair to my own costume. So I've taken a few ideas that can be considered vintage or old school, and mixed them with a little modern day pizazz.

Where can you find it?
I bought the accessories for my costume at Costume World, click here for a map. If you're a big Stanley Kubrick fan, Warner Bros. will be releasing the Stanley Kubrick Collection soon! That includes A Clockwork Orange, The Shining, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and more.

Haunted by The Misfits

I previously posted about the time-spanning popularity of The Rolling Stones band t-shirts, and lately I've seen people wearing t-shirts of a much lesser-known band. It seems that everywhere I turn I am greeted with shirts bearing the "Fiend Skull," (left) the symbol of the band the

The Misfits are a hardcore punk band from New Jersey that made their debut 30 years ago. However they have been getting more recognition now than ever before. Here is an excerpt from their website bio that explains their style:

"What further separated the band from their hard-core peers of the 70's punk scene was their inspired fixation on horror movies. It was from that inspiration that they created an entire world out of a passion for the genre. Utilizing B-movie-style artwork, the band appeared with slick, black "devil lock" hairstyles and horror make-up. The Misfits cast a fiendish aura of mystery embodied by ghoulish charm and landed themselves a massive cult following. That following continues to expand world wide on a daily basis."

Isn't that perfectly appropriate just in time for Halloween? Any band that sites horror movies as an influence is fine by me.

Quite honestly, I think the sudden popularity of the band is due to their "Fiend Skull" symbol. Last year skulls appeared on everything, and the Misfits logo just looked trendy. This may have either allowed old fans to come out strong, or created new fans who wondered what this band was all about. I also suspect that many people wear their t-shirts completely unaware that they are actually wearing a band tee. (NOTE: Don't embarrass yourself by wearing a kick-ass band's t-shirt without knowing at least one of their songs, never underestimate the passion of a hardcore fan.)

This recent vintage fetish phenomena is present in music as well as fashion, as there is an intense need to be surrounded by everything old and seemingly forgotten. Although vintage clothing has been popular for some time, the trend expanded into vintage concert tees, and eventually old school music. There is a divide between current artists using the newest technology to create their sound, and the resurgence of bands from the 80s and earlier. Personally I love it all, and I think the current mash-up between the two is really exciting.

Here is the Misfit's video for "Dig Up Her Bones" (isn't that sweet?):

Where can you find it?
You can find some Misfits merch at Hot Topic, check it out here.

Countdown to Halloween

Since one of my favorite holidays (tied with Thanksgiving, mmm the gluttony) is just around the corner, I've decided to dedicate a few posts to it. Starting with this one.

Because MAC is awesome and I can't get enough of them, I'm going to mention them again. Every year they feature a section on their website with ideas about how to do your own amazingly awesome and original Halloween makeup. It's actually really inspiring for anyone who has a creative flair and wants to try something new and out-of-the-box. Check it out.

Now, for the music tie-in: The obvious costume would be to dress like your favorite rock star. Classic old school go-tos like Madonna, Boy George, Kiss, and the Misfits are great. Britney Spears could be a fun one to do this year also. But why not try a play on words? For example: The Pixies. Dress up like a pixie and carry around a guitar.

Others to try:

• 50 Cent
• Eminem
• Arctic Monkys
• The Beatles
• Dead Kennedys (but this may be a little tricky... you don't want to offend anyone)
• Bee Gees
• Dr. Dre
• Salt N Peppa

Just think of a band or artist that has a cool name that you can do a witty play on words with. You may have to answer a lot of questions about what the hell you are, but I guarantee once you explain yourself people will be impressed by your clever originality.

Where can you find it?
Look around your house, scavange a Halloween costume shop, or a vintage store for ideas. I usually let my costume come to me, I find that I come across better inspiration that way.

MAC and McQueen?!

My heart nearly stopped when I visited the official MAC Cosmetics site and found THIS. My favorite cosmetics company, and one of the most bad-ass designers around, Alexander McQueen, have teamed up to do a limited edition line. It is all inspired by the makeup used for his Fall 2007 runway show, which I previously blogged about (yay me).

I love the description they have on their site:

"Backstage at Alexander McQueen Fall '07, looks veered colourfully to the dark side. Celebrating the designer's historic inspiration: ultra-pale lips and eyes shadowed lid-to-brow with a magnetizing cat's eye. Powerful...and bewitchingly McQueen."

The new line looks pretty enticing, and I will definitely be checking it out. I'm a sucker for a dramatic eye and a pale lip. Even if you wouldn't wear this everyday, the look can still be inspiring: Cleopatra-from-the-Future costume anyone? Halloween is just around the corner.
Actually, in an interesting connection to Halloween... after looking at McQueen's website, I noticed he dedicated his autumn/winter collection as follows:

"IN MEMORY OF ELIZABETH HOW, SALEM 1692"

Interesting... but why? After a little online investigation I discovered that McQueen is apparently an ancestor of the accused witch. Elizabeth How (or Howe), was hanged July 19, 1692, at Gallows Hill (here is a brief timeline of the events). According to fashiontelevision.com, his show was "complete with a red pentagram traced in sand and a macabre film opening the show." He's a little creepy, and I like it.

What music did he use to send out the witchy vibe?

• "NY Excuse" by Soulwax
• "Spellbound" by Siouxsie and the Banshees
• "Red Tape" by Agent Provocateur
• "I Put A Spell On You" by Nina Simone

Where Can You Find It?
Find the McQueen makeup collection at your local MAC store. But, be warned: their limited edition collections tend to fly off the shelves, and never come back. So if you love it, get it before it's too late!

MIKA: A New Fashion Icon?

He wants to be like Grace Kelly, and thinks big girls are beautiful.

Mika's album, Life In Cartoon Motion, is a colorful pop adventure that contains songs about lollipops, big girls, Grace Kelly, and love. The album cover reflects the mostly upbeat and vibrant mood of the album, and his vocals even remind me of a cartoon version of Freddie Mercury, in a good way!

His official web page is just as fun, and the opening lines of his bio are classic:

"Welcome to his world: where some louche dilettante is throwing the greatest party in the universe and everyone is invited under his very own cherry moon... Both astonishingly musical and profoundly thoughtful, his tunes combine a heady euphoric rush with darker unexpected elements: daytime melodramas and night-time tales of love, loss, abandonment, hope and happiness."

His style reflects his music beautifully. It's colorful, fun, unique, and still a little old-school classy. I would describe it as one part Frank Sinatra, one part 80s pop color palette, a dash of David Bowie eccentricity, all stirred with a multicultural stick that only a childhood spent in Lebanon, Paris, and London could create. Mmm, delicious.

Seriously, keep an eye out for this guy. He's already big in the UK, and is currently on a European tour (fine, deprive us Mika). His music is nothing but good times, and any guy could learn a thing or two from him on how to look positively dapper.

Anyway, check out one of my fave songs from him:

Where can you find it?
Buy his album online. I would say buy some of his merchandise, but I checked it out and it wasn't very impressive... see for yourself here.

Androgyny Is Sooo Hot

Top to bottom, three icons of androgyny: Annie Lennox, David Bowie, and Grace Jones.

Each of these musicians were popular in the 80s, and they were part of a long list of artists who decided conventional depictions of gender just weren't cool anymore.

This sort of unisex style has mad a minor comeback recently as well. For instance, I work in a women's clothing store, and many young men have come in to purchase our skinny jeans. It's to the point where I no longer find it strange, although it is strange to walk by a guy wearing the same pair of jeans as me.

Also, it's become more acceptable for guys to rock some guyliner. That's just eyeliner for guys by the way, makes sense right? Rock stars like Jared Leto (singer, 30 Seconds To Mars), Pete Wentz (bassist, Fall Out Boy), Brandon Flowers (siner, The Killers), Billie Joe (singer, Green Day), and loads more, have been seen wearing sexy bedroom eyes for guys.

What about hair? I've seen way too many boys with hair prettier than mine lately. How to they get it to flip so beautifully when they toss their heads? It just isn't fair.

But it's not all just the fellas stealing the ladies' looks. Tailored suits cut in men's style, and cropped jackets paired with high-waisted pants that play with the female figure, are very trendy this fall.

The brightside:

• You can stay at your boyfriend/girlfriend's house and not worry about lacking a change of clothes in the morning, because they already borrowed your pants!
• The same goes for makeup. Just use theirs.
• Office uniforms can be even more uniformed. Everyone must wear the same pants, jacket, and collared button-down shirt. Perfect for the company that wants everyone to look the same... although, I'm not particularly fond of that. Individuality people!

Where can you find it?
Wherever your significant other shops, now you guys can actually have fun shopping together! Or for some nice women's suiting, check out Express. They also have a sweater called "the boyfriend sweater," coincidence? I think not.

Gimme More? Mmm... no.

It pains me to watch someone like Britney Spears go from a person who can take such beautiful high fashion pictures (like the one I have here), to THIS.

In my very first post I mentioned the fashion phenomenon that Britney Spears started with her naughty school girl style. HOWEVER, in her new video for Gimme More I don't see anything worth running to Macy's for. If ripped fishnets, booty shorts, and um.... bedazzled mini biker vests(?) ever become fashionable, I quit. Oh wait, don't forget the faux tattoo of The Blob on her arm, it's so classy! Even her rumored album cover is scandalous. I understand she's supposed to be a stripper, or whatever, but she is capable of so much better. I was willing to let that little VMA slip-up slide too...

Don't get me wrong I think her new song is pretty damn catchy, it's on my iPod and everything, but she lost her fashion sense somewhere between UGG boots and the all-denim outfit she wore to match Justin Timberlake (love him) long ago.

Speaking of UGG boots... they're great in the winter, up north, where there actually is snow. Florida doesn't really have winter, it's waaayyy south, and there is NO snow. Do you see where I'm going with this? A tank top, mini-skirt, Coach bag, and UGG boots isn't cute. It makes no sense. I'm sure I'll start seeing it soon since it's getting to be that time of year though. The bottom line: save cold clothes for cold weather and snow, not palm trees and sunshine.

So much negativity! Here, cleanse yourself with some classic Britney bubble-gum pop:

Where Can You Find It?
If you MUST buy UGG boots, they sell them everywhere, seriously. But please, wear your UGGs responsibly. Remember: COLD weather, and attire to match.

Stuck A Flower In Her Hair and Called It Rockabilly

For some time now, I have noticed girls wearing their hair in a particular style (me being one of them) that I couldn't figure a name for. Generally, the front few pieces of hair are clipped back and pushed forward (sometimes teasing the roots for extra volume) to form a "poof." The remaining hair is either left loose, or pulled straight back into a ponytail.

Finally, I came across Rockabilly style.

I've been unknowingly drawn to this style that I never knew the name for, and now I'm obsessed.

A quick and dirty history (beginning with the music, of course):

• It originated in the 1950s, had a revival in the '70s, and still has a strong following today.
  
• It has country roots with rhythm and blues influences.
  
• The term rockabilly is a cross between the words rock 'n' roll and hillbilly.
• The sound all about emotion, rebellion, and having a good time. It's usually loud, fast, and up-tempo.
• The style reflects the sound, being rebellious but fun. Girls are meant to be "sexy but tough," much like Rosie the Riveter.
• Some of the better known, earlier artists of the genre are, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash. One later reviver of the style is Brian Setzer.

One great web site has compiled an extensive history of ROCKABILLLY, where I retrieved most of these facts. Check it out HERE.

The rockabilly style is close to greaser styles of the 1950s. In modern day rockabilly fashion tight jeans, and fitted t-shirts, sometimes bowling team or gas attendant inspired, are worn. Women wear pencil skirts, fitted dresses, horn-rimmed glasses, red lips, and tight sweaters. The female style is reflects a tough but feminine attitude, and is greatly inspired by pin-up fashion. One icon often referred to is classic pin-up, Bettie Page (pictured above). The favorite patterns used are polka-dots and leopard print. Both sexes generally tend to sport a tattoo or two as well.

The guys wear hair slicked back and curled in the front a la John Travolta in Grease. The girls wear their hair poofed, curled, and/or short bangs that are also curled, sometimes putting a flower behind their ear. Click here for better hairstyle details.


After reading about it, the movie Crybaby starring Johnny Depp came to mind. It's so fitting because the characters in it wear a sort of rockabilly style, and it's a musical! Here's a clip:

Where Can You Find It?
Many vintage stores in the area carry rockabilly fashions, but I found a great site online! It's called babygirlboutique.com, and has an amazing variety of clothes, bags, and accessories. (I'm planning on ordering one of their bags!) There is also free shipping on orders over $100, sweet. If you want to get connected with other Rockabillies in South Florida, check out this myspace group. Also, if you really want to get hardcore, check out the Rock-a-Billy tattoo and piercing studio in Lauderhill, they're pretty amazing, and very respectable.

From Anarchy to the Runway: Punk

"Punk first emerged in the mid 1970s in London as an anarchic and aggressive movement... Closely aligned was a music movement that took the name punk."

Isn't it amazing how lovely music and fashion go hand in hand? In the case of punk music/fashion, this is especially true. One great website I found (the quotes above and below were taken from it) has a detailed timeline of different fashion styles, sometimes focusing on specific radical trends. On the site they mention the influence of Malcom McLaren of the punk group the Sex Pistols, and Vivienne Westwood. (click here for the section)


This is another great article outlining punk, also citing Vivienne Westwood and the Sex Pistols.


Who is responsible for bringing punk fashion to the runways? The website fashion-era.com says it's Zandra Rhodes.

"Around 1977, Zandra Rhodes the British dress designer, took elements of the punk style and used it in her collections making refined and more elegant versions in bright colours which were more acceptable to the rich and famous. She used gold safety pins and gold chains to connect and decorate uneven hems and slashed holes. The carefully placed holes were edged with gold thread and the hems adorned with exquisite embroidery."

Definitely check out her website. The influences of punk are clear... if that's not your bag, check it out anyway. Her crazy hair is worth a gander.

What began as a subculture phenomenon, has now become so mainstream you can find its influence nearly everywhere. It's not uncommon to find droves of people walking around wearing plaid, torn jeans, piercings in places other than the ears, and/or garments with entirely impractical zipper placement.

Here's a little Sex Pistols (interpreted by a random 5-year-old):

Where can you find it?
Well, I looked at some of Zandra Rhodes "Punk Chic" jewlery online... and I think most people would be better off DIY (do-it-yourself). Unless you'd like to spend over £305 on a safety pin... I suggest you go to your local arts-and-crafts store and get a few safety pins (they usually sell over sized ones as well), then bedazzle the hell out of them... and call it couture. Seriously, look how chic safety pins CAN BE. Besides, isn't that where the whole punk idea came from?

"I'm a little L.A.M.B....

...who's lost in the wood." Yes, these are lyrics from a classic Gershwin standard ("Someone To Watch Over Me"), but it's not totally random. It seems that lately I can't escape Gwen Stefani's clothing line, L.A.M.B.

I can't honestly remember all of the places I've seen it pop up, but the name has been a constant whisper in my ear for some time. Finally, I decided to put the dancing sheep in my head to rest, and I checked out the L.AM.B. website.

Initially, I was impressed. There are a few key items that stand out. I love the zebra spy coat, but at $685 it's a little out of my price range. I also loved her shoes! Particularly the oxford pumps that come in a few different colors. There are other high fashion items, casual track suits, and even some Rasta hats.

It's a very eclectic collection. If you want to know where she draws inspiration from, and what celebrities show her their support, check this out.

Where can you find it?
You can buy L.A.M.B. online, or at department stores such as Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, and more. You can also find it at these locations.

Hoodies: The New Way to Look Mysterious

In the pictures:

(top) The guys of Gym Class Heroes.

(bottom) Gabe Saporta, lead singer of Cobra Starship. (He's actually wearing a Clandestine hoodie designed by his buddy, Pete Wentz).


In the past, celebrities have worn sunglasses at all times to cover their eyes and shroud themselves in unobtainable mystery. Many fans have tried to emulate this by wearing their sunglasses indoors and at night. (A suggestion: Don't do this unless you actually are a movie/rock star, otherwise, you just look like you're trying really hard to look cool, and no one should ever look like they're trying... just be cool.)

Now, many musicians of the hip-hop and punk/emo genres have been wearing over sized hoodies with the hood pulled over their head at all times (no, not just when it's a little nippy out). It's almost like a modern day cape: it covers just enough of the face to either disguise them, or leave people wanting to see more.

Here are a few different ways to wear them:

• Over sized and baggy, either with or without a baseball cap under the hood. (I recommend this for guys though, it's a bit masculine for girls...) This is usually the way you see hip-hop artists wearing them.
• Fitted. A lot of the fitted types come in vibrant colors and fun patterns. These are usually found in stores that sell more punk or emo type gear, or skater wear. Good for guys and girls.
• Fitted, and cropped. Think, the Pussycat Dolls. They are usually more feminine and definitely recommended for the ladies, sorry guys.
  

Where Can You Find it?
Tactics.com has a wide variety for guys, and stylinonline.com features some fun themes with comic book characters, video games, cartoons, and bands. Forever 21 also has a ton of cute styles for girls that you can buy online, or in their store. (If you're in the area, check out the Forever 21 in Sawgrass Mills Mall, it's huge!)

Make a T-Shirt Your Ticket To The Stage

A classic Rolling Stones t-shirt is one example of a band tee that will never go out of style. The open mouth and thrashing tongue instantly bring to mind the Stones, and images of classic concerts and bad-ass attitude.

Like in the 70s and 80s, t-shirts with fun and quirky phrases, cartoons, or band logos have popped up everywhere. One of the easiest ways to dress it up and look totally rock star is to wear your favorite witty tee, a pair of jeans that say "so what", and a fitted vest. The vest ties it all together and adds a bit of business class to a casual look. Throw on some chunky jewelry (an assortment of bracelets, big hoops, or a long necklace), mess up your hair, and instantly feel like your about to rock out on stage with your favorite band.

If you've scoured every retail store and can't find anything unique, witty, or to your liking... why don't you just create your own? Seriously. The website threadless.com features designs done by average people, and anyone can submit their ideas. You can find some really unique and interesting shirts here, and you get to vote for which ones you want to get created.

Carrie Underwood wears a similar look in her video for Before He Cheats.

Justice's video for D.A.N.C.E. features just how cool a t-shirt can be, and it was even nominated for an MTV Award for Best Video:

Where Can You Find It?
My favorite place to buy fun and quirky t-shirts is dELiAs. They have a wide range in their store, the tees are always buy one get the second half-off, and they usually get new ones in every week. Also, don't forget to check out threadless.com, it's deliciously addicting.

Dare to Wear Your Prom Dress When It Isn't Prom

Who would have seen this coming?:

Walking around in a prom dress, when it's definitely
not time for prom, is OFFICIALLY cool.

In Lily Allen's video for "LDN" she merrily skips down the street in a flowing, layered, strapless prom-syle dress... and tennis shoes. Somehow, she pulls it off and makes me wish I could walk down the street in my prom dress and matching Adidas... and not look completely mad.

Here is her video:



ALSO, Betsy Johnson fittingly titled her new spring collection "Prom Queen," and featured some fabulously frilled, perfectly poofy, and lovely laced dresses. I can't wait to see someone walking down the street in one, and totally owning their awesomeness.

Where can you find it?
You can buy Betsy Johnson online (free shipping on orders over $100 for a limited time!), or at one of her boutiques.

How To Get Pete Wentz On You

clan·des·tine adj: secret or furtive, and usually illegal

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In 2004 Pete Wentz, the beautifully tortured bass player/front man of Fall Out Boy, created Clandestine Industries as an outlet to sell his book. In 2005 it expanded into a clothing line geared towards punky-emo youth.

Now, Clandestine and DKNY have decided to collaborate on a new women's line. *Gasp* Petey and DKNY working together to make uber-emo skinny jeans - for women?? Oh yes, it's true.

The collection only features a few key items, but it definitely reflects Wentz's style. It features graphics inspired by his tattoos, and his Clandestine logo, which is actually taken from a tattoo he has on his lower stomach (check it out below). There is also a print tee that has a large pixilated picture of his dog, Hemingway.

It's perfectly rock star because:

1. It's inspired by his awesome tattoos...
2. It's basically all black, with the Hemingway tee being an exception.
3. It features skinny jeans and a trench coat.
4. The man who created it is better known for wearing guyliner than playing bass in his band.
   

Where can you find it?
I recommend buying it online, since Macy's is offering a free Fall Out Boy CD with a purchase of $100 or more. (It's not cheap, so this is easy to do.) Or you can go to a Dillards or Macy's near you that carries the line.

Why Eve Is Awesome, and MAC Rules.

The rapper Eve's video for "Tambourine," contains some obvious product placement for MAC Cosmetics... and I couldn't be happier! As you will learn (or may have noticed by my previous post about crazy eyeliner), I'm obsessed with MAC makeup. MAC, standing for Makeup Artist Cosmetics, makes makeup for, well, makeup artists. If you know what to look for, their distinct classy black packaging, you will spot their products in any behind the scenes video of major awards shows and music videos.

WARNING: Their makeup is not for those afraid to put a little high pigmentation on their face! However, if you're willing to play with it and learn how to properly blend their delicious array of colors, it can be more addicting than a Krispy Kreme doughnut.... mmmm.

Eve has actually been a spokeswoman for MAC's Viva Glam Campaign, which raises money for AIDS research, for quite some time. Here is some info from their AIDS fund website:

Established in 1994 by M·A·C Cosmetics, the M·A·C AIDS Fund supports men, women and children affected by HIV/AIDS globally. Introducing its first VIVA GLAM lipstick that same year, M·A·C decided that every cent of the selling price of the VIVA GLAM lipsticks would go to the M·A·C AIDS Fund. With a total of six shades of Viva Glam lipstick and two shades of Viva Glam lipglass now sold worldwide, and through the annual Kids Helping Kids Card Program, M·A·C Cosmetics has provided over $95 million (US) to date for the M·A·C AIDS Fund. The M·A·C AIDS Fund is the heart and soul of the company – with its employees giving their time, energy and talent to help those affected by HIV/AIDS worldwide.

Here is the "Tambourine" video, look for the MAC makeup about 1 minute into the video. I love the way it's presented to her on platters, like a tasty delicacy. Of course, her makeup looks ah-maz-ING in this video as well, but that's to be expected:

Where can you find it?

Check out your local MAC store during holiday time. The past few years they've sold some great pallets that contain all six VIVA GLAM colors, and each one is absolutely gorgeous! They're timeless, and compliment virtually any skin tone. So fabulous.

Thank Freddie Mercury for Black Nail Polish Being Cool

New York magazine has published an article online covering a brief history of black nail polish, one of my favorite trends. As expected, much of the major appeal of this trend was started with rock bands and artists. Some examples they list are Freddie Mercury (lead singer of Queen), David Bowie, Marc Bolan, Bauhaus, and Marilyn Manson.

Once the fashion industry decided to play along, the cosmetics company Urban Decay created the color Perversion, "a vinyl black polish with purple highlights named after a Gravity Kills album." The article also states, "Despite cropping up on fashion models, black nail polish still says 'rebellious rock,' as evidenced by indie band the Deathray Davies’ album, titled Midnight at the Black Nail Polish Factory."

I couldn't agree more. No matter how trendy black polish gets, it still makes you feel a little like a rock star.

Although their timeline stops at 2006, the black/dark nail polish trend is still going strong this fall. However, it has undergone some slight tweaking. Instead of jet black, colors are emerging with flecks of purple and magenta, with burgundy and navy undertones. My mother insists they all look the same, but I beg to differ. Of course I explain to her that when the sun hits my nails just right you can really see difference...

My favorites this season: OPI's Russian Navy, and Midnight in Moscow.

In honor of Mercury and Bowie, here is "Under Pressure":

Makeup Made For the Rehab Reject

Admit it: when you first saw Amy Winehouse's, well, unique eye makeup you thought, "Is she serious?" Not many would have guessed this over-the-top eyeliner would be a future trend. Her exaggerated cat eyes also seemed a little eccentric to me, until I saw what Alexander McQueen had models wearing for his fall show (shown above). They, like Winehouse, donned thick black liner drawn past the eyes, but they paired it with dramatic black brows and blue eyeshadow from lash line to brow bone.

This, by no means, should be used as everyday makeup, but it does reflect on the new fall trend: thick eyeliner. My favorites are classic black, or an edgy turquoise or teal. A more subdued version of the McQueen look can be found at the MAC Cosmetics site. They also use blue shadow and black liner, but it is street-compatible and a little more easy on the eyes.

Where can you find it?
MAC Cosmetics stores are found in many malls, and several department stores carry MAC cosmetics counters. A few department stores that carry it are: Bloomingdales, Macy's, and Nordstrom.

Japanese Gothic Lolita

I've just discovered an article online about a Japanese Goth trend called Gothic Lolita , intriguing. The trend began around 1999, and the site morbidoutlook.com names bands like Motley Crue and Malice Mizer (pictured above) as influences.

The look is similar to the American goth trend, but is a little softer. Less leather and chains, more layers of black lace. It's actually rather elegant and not as harsh as one would think. Some key things that characterize the look are:

• Black, black, black. What's a Goth trend without black? There is use of some color, but usually only red or pastels.
  
• Ruffled babydoll dresses. Think Alice in Wonderland meets Interview With a Vampire. In fact, Kirsten Dunst's character in this movie dresses in a somewhat Gothic Lolita fashion...
  
• Lots of layers. Ruffles, lace, aprons, jackets, leggings, tights, headbands. Even parasols can add to the dimensions of this look.
• Mary Jane-style shoes.

In essence, the girls who wear this garb remind me of full grown Victorian dolls. Ruffled dresses, innocent rosy faces, and long ringlets of hair. A little pout and a gaze of indifference helps too. It's elegant, dark, cute, and a little creepy. Deep.

Ghetto-Fab Blast From the Past

Many rock stars have been seen wearing super BIG, flashy, 80s inspired gold hoops. Rihanna sports them in her "Shut Up and Drive" video, and Lily Allen and Hilary Duff have also been seen wearing them.

Here is Rihanna's "Shut Up and Drive" (check out those hoops! classic):

Where can you find it?
If you dare to rock these massive hoops, check out your local Express store. They carry them in the large and round variety, and even some heart shaped ones.

Music is to fashion, as peanut butter is to jelly

Think back a few years: adolescent girls were running around in plaid skirts, pig tails, midriff-baring tops, and enough glitter to have anyone believe they had had a bad run in with a pack of angry pixies. Who was responsible for this? Definitely not their parents or teachers, no, it was a few former Mouseketeers. With the release of her "...Baby One More Time" video, Britney Spears immediately sparked a passion in young girls to become rebellious Catholic schoolgirls... or at least dress like them. Christina Aguilera burst on to the scene shortly after, and low-rise jeans suddenly became so low it's a wonder how anyone sat down in them without half undressing themselves. This is just one example of how a few musicians can spark a trend in fashion.

Musicians, especially since the 1900s, have had a strong impact on what is considered cool and trendy. Their eccentricity beautifully complements the extreme nature of high fashion, and a better pairing is difficult to find. Designers make the clothing, musicians make the statement, together they create looks that define generations.

With this blog, I'd like to bring to you some of the most exciting fusions between music and fashion today, no matter what the genre. Hip-hop, pop, rock, punk, goth, jazz... whatever is most enticing at the moment. Enjoy.