Madonna. Madonna first moved to NYC in hopes of a career in modern dance; boy did her life take a different turn. To me, Madonna epitomizes a style icon. She has reinvented herself countless times throughout the years and has managed to stay on top of her musical and fashionable game. Love her or not, you can't defend that she she hasn't made a stylish impact in pop culture. My favorite fashion technique that Madonna has used throughout the years is that she plays with different fabrics. From spandex leotards to leather jumpsuits, from jeans and a button down shirt to flowing saris, Madonna experiments with textiles in inventive ways that reflect where she is at in her life, whether it be young and 'material' to spiritual and sophisticated. Her look exemplifies what a performer should look like.

Michael Jackson. It's hard to believe that someone of such phenomenal fame and importance in musical history is no longer with us. He joins Elvis, Frank Sinatra, and so many other musical geniuses in a different realm, but his legacy has and will stay alive. A documentary about Michael Jackson called 'This Is It' is in theaters right now. It's two week span has been extended until Thanksgiving weekend, so I definitely plan to see that in theaters so I can experience his would have been last performance in as real of a setting as I can. Let us commemorate the style of MJ. Of course he is known for so many trends, most notably his cropped pants with white socks, but my favorite pieces that Michael sported so well throughout the years were fabulous jackets. He inspired millions to wear zipper-accented red jackets, slick leather suit jackets, sparkling moonwalk jackets, and military-inspired garb. He did not shy away from hats, embellishments, color, or arm bands. A true style icon in his own right, Michael paved the way for so many pop icons, celebrities, and normal everyday people to take risks with their clothing.

Molly Ringwald. She made her mark in 80's favorites such as The Breakfast Club, Sixteen Candles, and Pretty In Pink...to name just a few. Though she played the quintessential teen girl, she was always striving for individualism in her everyday life, which definitely reflected in her clothing choices. Ringwald has noted that Edie Sedgwick, Marilyn Monroe, Diane Keaton, Dianne Wiest and Brigitte Bardot as her fashion role models. Known as John Hughes' muse, her style reflected femininity and quirkiness. In my opinion, her most notable fashion techniques were pairing lots of things that didn't quite go together, but seemed to make sense at the same time. She defined youth and always managed to achieve that girl-next-door, school girl look. And who can forget her short red do? A refreshing staple in a world of blonde bombshells and brunette babes. She has a nostalgic quality about her, which undoubtedly makes her iconic.

All of these icons can inspire tons of looks for everyday life as many fashion designers such as Marc Jacobs and Betsy Johnson (to name a few) have done. Not only can you make 80's clothing wearable and very today, but they are always festive for Halloween or appropriate for a decade themed party. I must say that 80's parties are all over college campuses nationwide, and is the ideal theme for a birthday party because it's so easy to achieve and fun to do. Start with a Totally 80's Party Invitation that plays up the neon hues of the decade, or perhaps this Stylish 80's Invitation will inspire people to wear something fabulous. Take cues from these style gurus and individualize them! Be your own fashion icon or inspire others! Stay Fab*ulous!

Madonna Image Credits: Madonna photo and ankle boot, celebrations print, & Cameron Diaz as Madonna photo via Polyvore.com. 

Michael Jackson Image Credits: Black & White image,  embellished black jacket & red leather jacket via Polyvore.com

Molly Ringwald Image Credits: Pretty In Pink image and Tiered Skirt & Hat image via Polyvore.com.

Are you a parent who has the joy of collecting your child's adorable artwork throughout the year with few places to display it? The fridge can only hold so many drawings, so we've created Little Artist's Cards as a way to share your child's awesome creations with family and friends. The cards have a space for your child's drawing or painting and a space for a photo of the little artist. We  would love to see some of your favorite pieces of art- so send us a photo or scan of your child's drawing before November 24th, 2009 and you will be entered to win 25 FREE Little Artist's Cards. See above for more information on how to enter.

Here's the small print:
1. All entries must be received by noon EST on Tuesday, November 24th to be considered.
2. One entry per person, please. Any additional entries after the first will not be considered.
3. Winner will be contacted by email by 4:00 EST on Tuesday, November 24th with instructions on redeeming prize.
4. Prize is valued at $60.00 and shipping or any additional cards or accessories are not included.

Vegas Holiday - What happens at the holiday party, stays at the holiday party!

Thanksgiving is right around the corner and I find myself getting very excited for another huge, delicious dinner with my family and friends. In preparation for eating galore with no qualms about it and lounging with the people I love most, I have put together a few of my favorite Thanksgiving Day traditions.

Family & Friends. Of course we all love being around the ones we love for the holidays. For my Thanksgivings, I am usually with my mom's parents and her side of the family. The photo at the top left is from a Thanksgiving dinner we had couple years ago. Not a ton of people, but just right.

Macy's Day Parade/Football. At some point in the chaos of everyone greeting, catching up, cooking, and munching, the TV will be turned on and the parade or football is a sure pick. Although... it will most likely be muted as my Papa can't stand the TV.

Before Dinner Prayer/After Dinner Joke. Before everyone digs into all the delicious food, everyone stands around the table holding hands while a prayer is said in thanks. After dinner, while all the food is settling, someone will inevitably ask Papa to tell his traditional Thanksgiving day joke. This joke is by no means the funniest thing you'll ever hear, but the reason we all love it, is because at the end of this G-rated joke that involves a lizard, a turtle, and a rabbit, there's a bad word, and hearing Papa say this word just cracks everyone up. He'll say it slowly and deliberately, and we all listen intently, waiting for him to say it, and at the the end there will be a huge outburst of laughter.

Black Friday Shopping. Usually, the day after Thanksgiving, my mom and I will wake up a little early and grab the newspaper to check for any great deals. It's mostly the search through the paper that we enjoy over a nice cup of coffee and some breakfast. Then, as everyone else starts waking up, we'll recruit a few people who may want  to join in on the day of shopping.

I've also selected a few of my favorite Thanksgiving cards and invites. These colorful invites are perfect for fall. And, if you have children, the Little Artist cards are a great way to show off any of the masterpieces your child brings home from school!

So what are your favorite Thanksgiving Day traditions? Any out-of-the-ordinary routines that you and your family look forward to on Thanksgiving? Let me know! Best wishes for a great holiday!

Image Credits:

Parade balloon, shopping bags, football game. 

Invitations/Cards

A Time for Thanks, Cornucopia, Autumn Swirls, Oak, Autumn Art.

Brides & Grooms-- let us know in a comment below, how much was/is the future husband involved in the planning of your wedding?

For my dad's party I selected navy and silver as the table colors to signify wisdom, maturity and a classy combination.

My friend's chose pink and brown for my baby shower because they are a trendy color combination that is both chic and sweet.

For our holiday parties I always incorporate red into the tablecloths and very often into the partyware. Mixing red with green or gold or silver is a festive choice. 

Choosing two inks for a tablescape is just perfect.