Laura Spencer from HGTV’s ‘Flea Market Flip’

“Find it, fix it, flip it!” is Lara Spencer’s motto as she hosts the second season of HGTV’s “Flea Market Flip.” If you haven’t caught an episode yet, you’re missing out on some healthy competition that results in fantastic works of art. This isn’t your everyday fixer-upper show.

Teams of two compete head to head to create three fabulous and functional pieces that sell for big bucks. So, you’re probably asking, where’s the challenge? The creations are made out of … well … junk! The teams are given $500 each to scour through the unwanteds at flea market vendors. Whether the item is a rusty antique, like a chandelier that simply needs a spit shine, or a random conversation piece, like a traffic light that’s missing some components, the goal is to get it at rock bottom price. Whichever team turns the biggest profit gets a $5,000 prize! The show follows the teams as they take others’ junk and turn it into artistic treasures. A painting easel becomes a polished, industrial-looking mirror fit for a Manhattan loft; an uninteresting bureau becomes a gorgeous wet bar that you’d only find in the sleekest Williamsburg apartment.

The individual projects range from quirky to beautiful to vintage to modern to weird to over-the-top to shabby-sheek to rustic to high-end to charming to artsy, with only one thing in common–all are visually astounding. Though profit is the ultimate goal, the innovative pieces have individual stories to them that are priceless. The results are more than just spruced up chaise lounges and stylized end tables: they are masterpieces. It just goes to show how far creativity, a DIY attitude, and a little elbow grease can go. Check out “Flea Market Flip” on Fridays 9pm/8c on HGTV.

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The buzz about this soundtrack is almost as colossal as the movie itself. Almost. When news got out that hip hop mogul Jay-Z would be producing the soundtrack for Baz Luhrmann’s film adaptation of The Great Gatsby, music critics and fans of the original novel were eager to find out what direction the rapper would go in. The public was naturally curious as to how a hip hop giant of the 21st century could pull a soundtrack together for a movie set in the Roaring Twenties. Not surprisingly, Jay-Z pulled out the big guns for this project, including wife Beyoncé, Andre 3000, Gotye, The xx, and Florence + the Machine, to name only a few. The addition of the retro-inspired Lana Del Rey, an obviously natural fit for the soundtrack, diversified the set even more.

Like the movie, the soundtrack is a gamble. Most people agree that Jay-Z took an epic risk using modern day hip hop and pop artists for a film that is so symbolic of such a defining time period in our history. Naturally, critical reception of the soundtrack has been mixed. Some critics describe it as a sort of hodgepodge of mismatched tracks that are wildly inappropriate, and far from representative, considering the time period of the original novel’s setting. Fans of the soundtrack beg to differ, instead interpreting it as a carefully crafted fusion of modern day hip hop, jazz, pop, and alternative music that is largely symbolic of the canonized novel. One look at the titles of the tracks Jay-Z chose, such as Goyte’s “Hearts a Mess,” and it’s obvious they were indeed meticulously selected to serve as a musical manifestation of the film’s focal point: the tortured romance of the relentless Jay Gatsby and the always flighty Daisy Buchanan.

As with the film itself, the jury is still out on the soundtrack. Even so, there is no doubting the unmistakable cinematic quality of this soundtrack that Jay-Z was able to capture with his carefully selected musical contributions. The tracklist, while controversial, is undoubtedly worth the buzz. It’s a flawlessly evocative parallel to the film itself, increasingly compelling and climactic from one track to the next. Highlights include the arrestingly haunting “Young and Beautiful” by Lana Del Rey, as well as the unexpected, flapper-esque cover of Beyonce’s “Crazy in Love” by Emeli Sandé featuring the Bryan Ferry Orchestra. 

The Great Gatsby Soundtrack is now available for purchase on iTunes for $15.99.

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1. JacksGap

JacksGap consists of a set of twins, Jack and Finn, making awesomely hysterical videos on pulling pranks and their thoughts. I found JacksGap after they appeared in a video this past fall with Tyler Oakley, who also makes YouTube videos my roommate and I loved to watch. The twins were handsome, hilarious, and best of all, British. They are ideally ideal. Their channel has a whopping 1,803,079 subscribers with the number constantly rising. I had this goal of somehow stumbling upon them while in London these past five months, but since that doesn’t look like it’s going to happen, I can very easily settle on enjoying their channel. I bet you will too.

2. PointlessBlog

PointlessBlog is run by Alfie, a teen lad from Brighton. Alfie does many videos with other YouTubers (as do pretty much all of these channels I talk about). One particular person you’ll find on his page quite often is Marcus Butler–fans have even named their bromance Malfie. Whether he is filming with someone else or on his own, his dares, deep questions and conversations are sure to make you laugh. He is always coming up with new ways to surprise his fans, so you should go become one to see what happens next!

3. Zoella

Now, Zoe is hilarious, but I first started watching her videos for her makeup and fashion tutorials. Zoe is one of the most beautiful girls I have ever seen, and she definitely knows what she is talking about. From clothing hauls to life advice, Zoe is always posting videos for her viewers. She is also incredibly humble and a brilliant role model.

4. MarcusButlerTV

Marcus is one of the most absurd and random people I have ever watched on YouTube, and I love it. He is more than up for a dare, loves posting vlogs, and always has a new idea brewing. If you are in the mood to laugh, just plop right on down and watch Marcus. You won’t be able to keep a straight face.

5. CarrieHopeFletcher

I just recently started watching Carrie’s videos, but she is absolutely brilliant. Carrie posts many videos of her thoughts, and I absolutely love it. All of her topics are extremely relatable, and she’s an incredibly talented musician

It’s so hard to not talk about Alex Day, Charlie, Sam Pepper, or anyone else that makes brilliant YouTube videos, but if you subscribe to any of these, you’ll be sure to find a fair share of new channels to love.

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Robert Downey Jr. reprises his role as Tony Stark/Iron Man in the third installment of the Iron Man franchise. He manages to keep the character fresh, funny, and, of course, always self-absorbed.

Playing off of the aftermath of The Avengers, Stark is struggling with anxiety, with his dear Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow) is always by his side. When bioengineer Aldrich Killian (Guy Pearce) and Stark’s ex (Rebecca Hall) return, things seem to take a turn for the worse. An anti-American terrorist known as The Mandarin (played brilliantly by Ben Kingsley) also adds to Stark’s troubles.

Although the world is struggling to deal with the terrors now upon them, Iron Man’s fanbase still treats him like a celebrity. In this post-Avengers world, even the characters are interested in what’s happening next.

The way in which Shane Black, writer and director, plays upon this real and imagined popularity is one of the highlights of the film. With subtle hints in lines such as, “Ever since that big dude with the hammer fell out of the sky, subtlety’s kind of had its day,” Marvel fans can laugh and revel in the connectedness.

Another aspect of the film that’s new, is the addition of a child as a key character in Stark’s life. Harley Keener (Ty Simpkins) becomes a part of Stark’s life, and the father-son dynamic between the two is hilarious and endearing.

Potts is also more involved in the film, having the opportunity to shine, with definitely surprises in store.

This film is a great addition to the franchise and gives the actors an opportunity to show their character’s growth. It’s engaging and entertaining, and I will always be cheering for the wonderful love affair that is Pepperony. With a name like that, how can you not?

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After four consecutive seasons of male winners, American Idol fans were pleasantly surprised with Season 12′s top five. It was girl power to the highest degree as Amber, Kree, Janelle, Candice, and Angie entertained the judges and viewers with undeniable vocal talents. Critics agree that not only did the girls blow the boys out of the water this year, but these women also were the most skilled contestants to ever take the stage in Idol history.

Each week, the competition got more intense as contestants seemed to drop like flies. One by one the vocalists were sent home until only two remained: Kree Harrison and Candice Glover. Kree, who won the Midwest vote with her love of country and blues, had beautiful clarity to her voice that the judges constantly described as “real.” Soulful Candice reached the heavens with her high notes and elaborate trills in a style that “took [the judges] to church.” Ultimately, Candice’s humongous voice won her the competition. Struggling with self-esteem issues throughout most of her life, Candice has become an inspiration to women across the world, as Nicki Minaj made sure to point out. Her final performance of her new single, “I am Beautiful,” was a tearful, albeit heartwarming, display of how the underdog took it all! Congrats Candice!

With such an incredible finale, one has to wonder where the show goes from here? While there were many familiar faces in the last episode, like Aretha Franklin, Adam Lambert, and Jennifer Lopez, who gave phenomenal performances, many faces won’t be appearing for a 13th season, like all the faces from the panel of judges. Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj, and Keith Urban only signed on for one season, so they won’t be back for season 13. Producers don’t seem to be taking it too hard though. After a 22% drop in ratings, the newest additions to the panel ended up costing more than they were worth. However, the real shock is Randy Jackson’s departure to pursue other projects. Aside from Ryan Seacrest, he was the only other original member of the cast. The show put together a special tribute to Randy’s 12 years on Idol and assured him that “the door is always open.” Though Randy will be missed, fans are waiting with baited breath to see who will make up the new panel as production tries to win back some of the fans that they lost during this season. They’ve certainly got our vote!

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After waiting in line outside of The London Studios for 30 minutes, a man finally came around, took our tickets and wrapped a pink bracelet around our wrists. Ten minutes later, he called for the pink bracelets to follow him, so we hopped out of line and formed a line behind him. Within minutes, we were winding through the studio hallways, and then BAM! The set I am so familiar with on screen, was right before my very eyes. This was it. We were in the home of Chatty Man.

For those of you who aren’t familiar with Alan Carr: Chatty Man, it is a British comedy chat show hosted by the ever brilliantly flamboyant Alan Carr.

I have been a fan of the show ever since I saw a gif of his dance-off with One Direction and watched the interview. One of my goals when I went to London was to score tickets to a taping, and that goal was crossed off of my bucket list on Wednesday May 1st.

Before Alan Carr even entered the studios, we were entertained by one of the staff members who chose four guys from the audience and made them have a dance competition. Their nicknames were “Zac Efron” (who was very attractive and adorably shy), “Big Man” (who had really muscular arms), a guy whose nickname seems to have slipped my mind, and “That Guy” (literally just that guy).

After they entertained us for a bit, Alan walked down the stairs and the show began.

The guests of the night were Sir Bruce Forsyth, Steve Coogan, Jo Brand and Seann Walsh, and Little Mix.

Sir Bruce Forsyth holds the Guinness Book of World Records title of having the longest career as a male TV entertainer. He was hilariously adorable, picking fun at Alan throughout his interview. I would like him to be my grandfather.

Steve Coogan is a well-known English actor and comedian who talked about his upcoming film Alan Partridge is in Alpha Papa.

Jo Brand and Sean Walsh are comedians who talked about their upcoming gig as hosts of the Channel 4 Comedy Gala. Before the interview even started, Walsh had us laughing with a bit of a slip on the stairs.

The five girls of Little Mix added to the show with a little Q&A and then a pyro, confetti-filled performance of “How ya Doin’?”. They are brilliantly beautiful and talented performers. I was glad to say it was my second time watching them perform.

Having the experience of watching a live TV taping is such a different experience, because you are a part of the show behind the cameras (with a few shots that just might make it on TV). I recommend everyone try to see a live taping once in their life.

And if you want to see this Chatty Man show? It aired on May 4th, but clips can be found online on Britain’s Channel 4 website.

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Throwing a flirty dress over a swimsuit is both convenient and stylish. Go with a bright color or a wild pattern! It’s summer, and you should be taking advantage of that. Be daring! That perfect dress will make you stand out in a crowd. There are an array of summer dresses to choose from: strapless, one strap, flared, hi-low. Choose a dress that fits your style. Dresses are very light and flowy, which is perfect for a hot day. Also, it’s great for the beach because if you don’t happen to be fully dried off, you won’t have to squeeze into denim shorts. Trust me, it’s hard to get into denim when you’re wet, but it is extremely easy to slip on a summer dress.

Now, what goes on your feet? I do not recommend flip flops because it’s hard to walk through the sand with them flinging sand up your legs. I do suggest strapped sandals: they are less flimsy, and if you’re going out to eat after the beach, they’re a lot more attractive than flip flops.

Also, you do not want to be worrying about losing an accessory while you’re at the beach, so don’t wear too many of them. A cute pair of earrings will do. Try not to bring too many small items that you’ll be worried about losing. The only must-have accessory is an oversized bag for your beach needs, especially your towel and sunblock. Nothing is more painful and unattractive than a sunburn.

For your day at the shore, you want to keep your outfit light and stylish. So, pick out pieces that are going to make a great impact. You do not want to be fussing all day with your outfit.

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The early 1970s gave birth to the punk style and way of life, characterized by its dark, edgy, and do-it-yourself trends. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is currently highlighting the trend and its aesthetic to show the influences it has had on fashions, past and present, in the exhibition, “Punk: Chaos to Couture.”

The exhibit is organized into seven galleries designed to provide a multisensory experience for viewers with animated clothing, music videos, and audio techniques from several time periods. Each of these galleries serves to tell the story of the punk trend and its origins in London and New York, as well as highlight the ways in which it has impacted the high fashion trends that have become so popular today.

The showcase features one hundred  designs for both males and females that show the convergence of the punk “do-it-yourself” trend and the couture “made-to-measure” motto. It examines the materials, techniques and embellishments of both the punk style itself and the manner in which it is incorporated into current high fashion designs. The exhibition highlights the presence of the punk aesthetic in modern fashions in highlighting its characteristic  “do-it-yourself” themes such as Hardware, Bricolage, Graffiti and Agitprop, and Destroy, which are represented in one of the galleries.

Expect to be dazzled by the international fashions of today that keep the punk trend alive! The exhibit runs now through August 14th. Don’t miss the chance to release your inner punk and learn about fashion while doing so.

Photos Courtesy of www.metmuseum.org

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The electric slide, shuffle, gangnam style, and harlem shake are all iconic dance crazes that have swept the world at some point in time. Every few years, a new style or type of dance becomes extremely popular and is seen everywhere from classrooms to clubs. One move has been around for over a decade but has gone unnoticed: the twerk!

Twerking has been around for years with its first major appearance in Lil Jon’s “Get Low” back in 2003. Twerking never died out, but the term took a hiatus from pop-culture for about ten years. It recently came back to the dance scene with the release of the Twerk Team—a set of girls that release videos of themselves vigorously shaking their behinds to various songs on their YouTube channel. Songs, such as 2Chainz’s “Birthday Song” and Juicy J’s “Bands,” are perfect for twerking, and at times, they often encourage it. In French Montana’s “Pop That,” his verse opens up with, “Work, work, work, work work, what you twerkin’ with?”

Whether the rap and hip-hop genre will continue to keep twerking alive is unknown, but for now, twerking is back and it’s better than ever.

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