Bakersfield.com Parade: Style Me

Miss Piggy's Stylish Wardrobe

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 09:00:07 PST

Miss Piggy has always been one of my favorite fabulous females. (OK, so she’s actually not a person, but does that really matter?)

Kermit and Miss Piggy's Top 5 Gift-Giving Tips

Part of the reason I love her so much is that her wardrobe is as bold and dramatic as her personality.

In the new movie The Muppets, she works for Vogue Paris as a “plus-size editor” where she stylishly tries to win back the heart of her prince charming — Kermit the Frog.

Her wardrobe (and her prince!) are definitely something to be desired, as she wore designs from the iconic Burberry brand to celebrity designer Zac Posen.

Check out Miss Piggy’s Fashionable Wardrobe >>

Designer Looks for Less: Versace for H&M

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 13:58:12 PDT

Donatella Versace is going back to the archives to bring the most memorable pieces to the fashion-forward H&M consumer.

"The collection for H&M is the essence of Versace. I can't wait to see how H&M’s wide audience will make these pieces their own," says Donatella Versace.

The iconic brand is known for its vivid colors, memorable prints, and amazing cuts. The H&M collection will include men and women's clothing, accessories, and even home items. The stand-out designs will be great additions to any fall wardrobe.

This limited edition line will be hitting stores and online November 19, so mark your calendars! This is guaranteed to be a sell-out.

Check out StyleMe’s Top 5 picks from the Versace for H&M collection

Halloween Costumes — Let Your Friends Decide!

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 10:58:38 PDT

Advertorial

Halloween is a favorite holiday in my family. I think the obsession started with the awesome homemade costumes my mom made when I was growing up. (Thanks mom!)

I’ve been everything from a super-girly ballerina to a yellow daisy to my all-time favorite, Princess Leia.

The tradition of dressing up hasn’t seemed to end in my adult years. The hardest part? Deciding what to be.

This year, Target has made it easy with the Let Your Friends Decide Facebook app. Simply select your favorite costumes from their list, share with your friends, and have them vote! It’s fun and it’s easy. There are costume ideas for the whole family (even your four-legged friends)!

Check out Target’s Let Your Friends Decide Facebook app.

Blog post brought to you in partnership with Target.

Decor and Party Throwing Tips for Halloween

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 07:59:21 PDT

Advertorial

Halloween decorations and costumes are meant to be frightfully fun, but the price tag for pulling together the big night doesn’t have to be scary.

We sat down with Sabrina Soto, Target Style Expert for Home, to get some scarily simple Halloween decorating tips and party planning advice.

Here are a few spooky and unexpected ways to decorate your home for Halloween while still keeping costs low:

• First, think big picture. Use decorations that can work for both Halloween and Thanksgiving. This way, you can save money and not worry about re-decorating so quickly. Harvest themed décor like wreaths and vine-lit pumpkins, both available at Target, are perfect outdoor décor items that can easily make the transition from Halloween to Thanksgiving.

• Let the kids get involved. Host a pre-Halloween decorating party and invite each guest to bring one embellishment – sequins, glitter, feathers and buttons – to create spooktacular Halloween masks and decorations to hang around the home. The host can provide orange and black construction paper, glue, stencils, and scissors. Halloween is a great time to let your creativity shine through.

• Make it scary. Position spooky candelabras and black and silver candles around your house to create a Halloween ambience. Proudly display your Halloween treats by using a spider web two-tier tray as a table centerpiece. If you really want to create a spooky feel in your home, hang fake cobwebs with creepy spiders on them and place gravestones in the front yard.

• Re-use old items for decorations. Visit second hand stores for vintage and antique looking necklaces and place them around black candles for a table centerpiece.

Hosting a Halloween party doesn’t have to be a stressful event. Below are some fun ideas to throw a frightfully fun Halloween bash:

• Use small touches to make a big impact. For example, place a decorative notecard that says ‘witches brew’ next to the punch bowl and one that says ‘eye balls’ by a bowl of peeled grapes.

• Plan games. A great way to get everyone involved at a party is to play games. Host a dance contest to “Monster Mash” or play games like mummy wrap. If you’re playing scary games, try dimming the lights and setting up flameless LED candles around the space.

• A big trend this year is haunted gingerbread houses; have kids decorate them at the party for a fun and delicious activity.

• Give unexpected take home gifts. Try packing treat sacks with apples and tooth brushes with cards saying “fang scrubbers.” It’s a simple gesture that all the moms will appreciate.

Blog post brought to you in partnership with Target.

Kylie Jenner Makes Her Runway Debut

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 14:59:49 PDT

When 14-year-old reality star Kylie Jenner made her New York Fashion Week runway debut at the STYLE360 Abbey Dawn by Avril Lavigne Spring 2012 show, it was a family affair. Front row spectators included sisters Kim and Kourtney Kardashian and Kendall Jenner, brother Brody Jenner and brother-in-law Kris Humphries.

The famous family and stars of Keeping Up with the Kardashians were also there to cheer on Brody Jenner's girlfriend, Avril Lavigne, who designed the collection. Kylie looked like a pro as she strutted down the catwalk to the tunes of Avril Lavigne. Celebrity guests also included Donald Trump's son Eric Trump and Real Housewives of New Jersey star Teresa Giudice.

See photos of the runway and front row celebrity action

'Hello, Lover!'

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 13:59:27 PDT

"Hello, Lover!" — It’s the memorable Sex in the City quote that Carrie Bradshaw utters as she sees an amazing pair of shoes in a store window. If you’re like Carrie (and me!) and shoes equate to love, then you will be head over heels for the upcoming fall trends.

From chunky heels to menswear inspired footwear, there's something for everyone. Whether you’re style icon is Carrie, Charlotte, Samantha, Miranda or even Mr. Big, we've got your feet covered.

CHECK OUT THE TOP 5 FALL SHOE TRENDS — SEX AND THE CITY STYLE >>

Fall Fashion Trends for Men

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 10:59:23 PDT

From gingham to flannel to bold plaids, guys like PARADE cover model and country superstar Blake Shelton love their checkered shirts. Good thing, because they’ll be making their way into the fall fashion wardrobes of stylish men everywhere. Bold plaid, military-inspired and outdoor-rugged will anchor this season's key trends.

“Fall 2011 menswear emerges as both rugged and refined in regards to color, fabrication and inspiration,” says Eric Jennings, VP and fashion director at Saks Fifth Avenue. “Warm, autumnal hues such as loden green, burnt orange and earthy browns fuse with rich, multidimensional fabrics.”

CHECK OUT THE 5 MUST-HAVE MENSWEAR ITEMS FOR FALL>>

Sofia Vergara's Stylish New Collection

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 08:59:31 PDT

Sofia Vergara, PARADE cover girl and co-star of the new movie The Smurfs, recently announced her new lifestyle collection for Kmart -- Sofia. “I wanted to work with a national retailer that would truly value a collection that provides both fashion and quality at a price women could afford." the actress says.

The Sofia collection will include sportswear, dresses, handbags, jewelry and footwear and will be available exclusively at Kmart beginning this September. It’s designed to offer budget-friendly and figure-flattering styles with pieces that can easily transition from day to night.

Can’t wait for September? SEE A SNEAK PEAK OF THE SOFIA COLLECTION HERE >>

Plus..

YOU COULD WIN A $50 KMART GIFT CARD

E-mail me by Wednesday August 3, 2011 (1 pm E.S.T.) at StyleMe.PARADE@gmail.com and tell me your favorite look from the new Sofia collection. One lucky winner will be randomly selected to receive a $50 Kmart gift card to help purchase your very own fashionable Sofia items available this fall!

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. To enter send an email to StyleMe.PARADE@gmail.com. Starts 1:00 PM E.S.T., 7/25/11 and ends 1:00 PM E.S.T., 8/03/11. Open to legal residents of the 50 United States (D.C.) 13 years and older, except employees of Sponsor, and affiliated partners and their immediate families and those living in the same household. Odds of winning depend on the number of entries received. Winner will be notified by email. Void outside the 50 United States (D.C.) and where prohibited. A.R.V. of the grand prize is $50.00. Sponsor: Parade Publications, 711 Third Ave., NY, NY 10017.

5 Must-Have Shades

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 14:59:55 PDT

Pippa Middleton's star is shining so bright these days that she’s got to have her shades. From her wire-framed Ray-Ban aviators to her favorite oversized Gucci pair, the future Queen of England’s sister is right on trend with her sunglass choices.

When making your selection for summer shades, the best choice is something that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, and of course, it has to be stylish!

Check-out this season's hottest sunglass trends…

Aviator
Ray-Ban is know for it's pilot-inspired aviators. This frame works well on most face shapes and is also the perfect choice for both men and women. $129 at Ray-Ban.com

Oversized
This Gucci pair is the perfect choice for anyone who loves a little glamour and style, like Miss Middleton, whose often spotted in this exact Gucci pair. $295 at Solsticesunglasses.com

Shield
Marc by Marc Jacobs makes some great buget-friendly accessories like this metal pair of sunglasses. Kill two trends in one look with a glamour shield frame in the hot summer color - white. $98 at Bloomingdale's

Ombre
Love to be a little different? Try a pair of Ombre shades like this purple pair from Betsey Johnson. The dark frames will keep you sun-free and the metal studs on the arms will showcase your edgier side. $75 at UrbanOutfitters.com

Color
The biggest trend for summer from fashion to accessories is color! Cararra, a favorite brand among celebrities, takes it to the next level with this bright red pair that is sure to add some fun to your summer wardrobe. (P.S., it's on sale!) $59.00 at Solsticesunglasses.com

Stylish Gifts for Father's Day

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:00:04 PDT

Need some last-minute gift ideas? Taking a cue from TV’s most fashionable father, Mad Men’s Don Draper, the right items and accessories can transform dad's look from drab to fab. From $10 to splurge-worthy items, these great gift picks will definitely do the trick.

10 Stylish Gift Picks for Father's Day>>

Blake Lively's Look for Less

Wed, 18 May 2011 14:00:06 PDT

Blake Lively has been making headlines for her new red hair and her recent sighting at Cannes looking comfy with a newly-single Leonardo DiCaprio. The Gossip Girl star is almost always topping style lists for her trend-setting fashion choices, like this designer look she woreto the Chanel Collection Croisiere Show.

The navy sequin blazer and short miniskirt is perfectly paired to show just enough skin. In Blake’s case, her best assets (amazing legs!) look even longer with her neutral Christian Louboutin platform pumps. The designer outfit is taken from Chanel's runway look, but it's easy enough to replicate on a budget for your own night out on the town.

Love Blake's designer look? Find out how to get the look for less >>

Kate Middleton’s Stylish Wedding Day Traditions

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 14:00:05 PDT

Kate Middleton’s walk down was a sight celebrated around the world. Her gorgeous dress, designed by Sarah Burton for Alexandar McQueen, was simple and understated yet stunning and fashion-forward.

The Duchess of Cambridge chose accessories that perfectly matched her elegant dress, while keeping with the bridal tradition of “something old, something new.”

Check out Kate’s stylish wedding day traditions >>

'Water for Elephants' 1930s Fashion

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 11:00:05 PDT

When you think of the new Reese Witherspoon and Robert Pattinson movie Water for Elephants, fashion is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. But after watching the movie, you’ll see why it might be at the top of the list of reasons to check out the movie.

The film is set in the 1930s, an era known for big bands, nightlife, and sensuous and glamorous evening wear. And Reese didn't dissapoint in dazzling, long, slinky gowns. Water for Elephants costume designer Jacqueline West, who also worked on The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (with a wardrobe that needed to span over 100 years!), shows once again why she is an expert at her craft.

Check out costumes from the movie, included some amazing sketches from Jacqueline West >>

Designer on a Budget: Mathew Williamson

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 12:00:08 PDT

With H&M and Target paving the way, designer collections at budget-friendly retailers have become must-have collectible pieces in many fashionistas’ wardrobes. The latest to launch is a Macy’s exclusive line from designer Mathew Williamson. If you’re not familiar with the name, you’ve definitely seen his colorful and graphic designs on A-List celebs like Siena Miller and Keira Knightley.

The good news is now you don’t have to have an A-List salary to wear Matthew's bohemian inspired trends. The new capsule collection from Macy’s will retail between $50-$120 with a few specialty pieces selling up to $300. So for all you budget-conscious fashionistas, mark your calendars for April 13 when the limited-edition line will debut online and in-select Macy’s stores.

For more on this new collection from Mathew Williamson, check-out Macy’s.com to get a sneak peak.

Designer Carmen Marc Valvo Raises Cancer Awareness Through Fashion

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 12:00:45 PDT

Fasion designer Carmen Marc Valvo has dressed style icons like Vanessa Williams, Taylor Swift, and Claire Danes. Now, the celebrated designer is ready to debut his latest project — his fashion book, Dressed to Perfection. His latest accessory offers everyday fashionistas tips, advice, and some fashion "101" for dressing for red carpet moments. Plus, all of the proceeds will be generously donated to colon cancer organizations to support research and education.

To kick off March’s Colon Cancer Awareness Month, the eight-year colon cancer survivor has teamed up with the Colon Cancer Alliance (CCA) and Dulcolax to make it fashionable to talk about screening for this potentially deadly disease. He stopped by PARADE's office for a chat.

What sets Carmen Marc Valvo apart from other designers?
"I have an innate understanding of the female form and I want women to feel sexy and look their best. Everyone has something that they’re not really happy with. I accentuate the positive and play down the negative. I’ve really crafted my skill to understand how important the fit is in making the women feel beautiful."

His favorite looks from this year's Oscars.
"Gwyneth Paltrow. I think she looked gorgeous. I liked Sandra Bullock. I think her make-up could have been a little bit better, but when she came on it was like, 'Wow!'"

Oscar fashion flops.
"When you’re on the red carpet, you need to pop. Scarlett Johansson didn’t pop. The hair was a mess and the color kind of looked like it was a dirty dress version of the carpet. I didn’t know if I was looking at the carpet or the dress. When a woman comes out at her event, people have to go, 'Wow.' There weren’t enough wow factors at this past Oscars."

He would love the chance to dress...
"Helena Bonham Carter. I understand that quirky quality. For evening wear, less is more. It’s the right earring, not the earring and the necklace, and the bracelet. She has to learn to do the same thing. Cut off those stupid velvet balloons [sleeves] and she would have been stunning. She has to calm it down a bit, just take one thing off."

What it’s like to dress superstars like Tina Turner.
"I never had the pleasure of meeting her. I think she found us because the stylist put her in one of our beaded little mini-shifts which was the “it” look of the time. And this was when I first started 20 years ago. She said I want Carmen for my tour. I think we sent like 20 dresses for her tour. I don’t know how many made the tour, but they all went with her and they all stayed."

Designing for a mass retailer.
"Halston was thrown out of Bergdorf’s 20 years [ago] and he was a fashion pariah [for his line at JCPenney]. Now you have Lanvan for H&M, Stella McCartney for Gap. It’s a completely different world that we live in with regards to fashion. We have more options in dressing down and you prioritize where you spend your money.

"We are having conversations with manufacturers to do a less expensive lifestyle line for some of the stores we don’t sell in. I think it would be a wonderful marriage, but you have to find the right partner who understands the aesthetic of who you are."

Accessories worth splurging on.
"I think your bag is kind of like your calling card today and I would splurge on it a little bit. [You need] one good bag. Not so much the shoe, [You can] paint the bottom red, you see them walking in the back. Who is going to notice the difference?"

On his new book, Dressed to Perfection.
"It’s a fashion book with beautiful iconic photographs, but the proceeds are going to colon cancer research. So I used fashion as my platform to share my story with a larger audience. Not everyone has a lot of red carpet moments in their lives, but everyone is touched by cancer at some point in their lives."

On becoming an advocate for raising colon cancer awareness.
"I came out of the cancer closet, so to speak, with the great help of Katie Couric, who I totally admire and adore. I realized that I didn’t want to be so quite about it and that I wanted to make it fashionable to talk about colon cancer. Katie pushed me in the right direction to become a crusader and an advocate."

What he wants people to know about colon cancer.
"It’s the second leading cause of cancer related deaths and it’s 90% curable if it’s detected early. Right there you have a total disconnect. Why is that? People are not having their colonoscopies. I survived because I had an early colonoscopy, so I’m living proof that it works."

On his cancer battle.
"Anyone who has gone through cancer understands the roller coaster of emotions that you have to go through — fear, sorrow, pitty, anger. I think one of the most important ways to keep your sanity when you’re going through this horrible disease, is to find some sort of outlet. And the outlet has to be something that you love, a happy place."

"I used gardening as a metaphor for the healing process. It was about the fragility of life, the beauty of life, growth, power, nurturing. The seasons of the garden correlate to the seasons of fashion, and there’s a rhythm to the garden, movement and color, just like there is in fashion. Maybe that’s why I’m drawn to my garden, but more importantly, it was my way of healing and dealing with my disease and the recovery and the healing process."

Advice to loved ones of someone dealing with cancer.
"The only thing I can say is for the person with cancer and for the ones affected, just think positively. I think that negativity can affect you, the healing process, and the energy that you portray to your loved one. Even though it’s really hard, put on a happy face. Even if you don’t feel it, don’t show it."

Check out some of my favorite looks featured in Dressed to Perfection >>