The Latest Scoop from StyleBakery.com

Sonja Picard Collection Manipura Belts

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 01:00:57 -0500

Inspired by yogic philosophy, designer Sonja Picard's collection follows the Indian concept of Shringar, or complete decoration. Intended to protect the wearer from evil and encourage good fortune, her Manipura belts are adorned with Hindu artwork and are made with animal-friendly faux suede. Six styles available.

$55 (50% off sale) at sonjapicard.com

purchase any belt and be entered to win a free pink kunzite ring, as seen on carla wohl at the 2009 academy awards, through 9/7/09.

Summer Loving: What We're Loving This Season, Part 10

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 01:00:27 -0500

Today wraps up our 2 week series highlighting over 100 things we're loving this season. Here is our final Top 10 list filled with the hottest clothing, accessories and stuff to help make your summer even hotter.

Ikat Halter Dress-JCrew

I call this my 7-11 Dress. I need it to wear 7 days a week, in at least 11 totally different ways. Dress for summer wedding, check. Dress for the day when I'm rushing out the door and need an instant pick-me-up, check. Dress for brother's graduation, check. Dress for summer soirees, check. Need I go on? I figure, by the time I wear this gorgeous dress out, pairing it with cardigans, cropped vests, tees, and alone, I am sure to get my money's worth.

$225 at jcrew.com

Miss Trish of Capri for Target Sandals

Miss Trish of Capri has come to Target, and she packed lots of style in her travel bag. This legendary shoe designer has been a favorite of mine since my days working my first magazine job at InStyle, and all I could do was afford to try them on, but never purchase. Ya gotta love a $35 flat sandal that screams "luxe for less".

$29.99 at target.com

Avene Thermal Spring Water

This summer beauty essential is just as important as your sunblock, if you ask me. Whether I'm in humid NYC or dry Dallas, the sveltering heat can always be relieved with a spray of this thermal water. It reminds me of going to the amusement parks as a young girl, and feeling the misters as I stood in line for the scary roller coasters.

$7 at beauty.com

Finger Paints Silver Nail Polish

The rockstars have influenced me, and I am taking a leap of faith away from my Essie Marshmallow natural hue to this heavy metal metallic silver polish. I'm not much of a bad girl, so this polish is as dangerous as I will get this summer.

$4.99 at sallybeauty.com

Lightweight Painterly Scarf-Gap

Want to know my secret for getting dressed when I really don't want to get dressed? Cool colorful scarves! It works wonders for every single outfit, no matter how basic or fanciful it is. Although I wish I would have known this secret years ago, I will never stop carrying it with me, season after season.

$24.50 at gap.com

Gianni bini Swimsuit-Dillards

With my new obsession with MUFA's (See Flat Belly Diet Pocketguide below), I think I deserve to sport a sexy one-piece that gives the illusion of a two-piece. This black & white cheetah print number is sure to drive the boys wild.

$65.40 at dillards.com

Flat Belly Diet! Pocket Guide

A great guide to learning how to change your lifestyle, eat healthy, reduce your risk of heart disease, and get a flat belly while eating yummy nibbles like dark chocolate and almonds.

$7.99 at amazon.com

Jack LaLanne's Power Juicer

Skin is in! This summer I'm getting a natural glow by juicing my way to the bronzed complexion that I have always desired. Jack LaLanne is like 317 years old and looks great, and his claim to fame is this fountain of youth, the Power Juicer!

$99.80 at powerjuicer.com

Beyonce's "I Am...Sasha Fierce" Tour

Although I am Daisy Lewellyn, "I Am Sasha Fierce" will be my alter ego this summer once I hit the concert of the century (if you ask me!) Beyonce, what a dream, an international superstar who still says please and thank you. Fame and manners look good together.

for more information click here

DIY Days: Ribbon Belts

This summer, I am reaching back to my Do-It-Yourself roots and making ribbon belts for less than $1.00! These bright babies can be yours too: just measure your waist, order the ribbon in citrus colors like Torrid Orange and Yellow Gold, and tie around your waist and the extra ribbon into a pretty bow. Voila! Instant Effortless Chic!

$.98 a yard at mjtrim.com

How do I prevent my feet from slipping inside my shoes?

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 01:00:16 -0500

Q. I love wearing tights with high heels, but how do I prevent my feet from slipping inside my shoes!

A. It sounds to me like your shoes may not fit properly. We are huge fans of Foot Petals products which offer various shoe inserts to help your shoes fit better. If this doesn't keep your foot from sliding, you might want to try a little double-stick wardrobe tape like Topstick on the soles of your tights to help prevent slippage. Finally, you might want to opt for heels with ankle straps or t-straps which will help keep your foot in place.

Kimchi Blue Coated Canvas Weekender

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 01:00:15 -0500

Completely appropriate for a sunny summer excursion, this roomy weekender adds a little charm to your day with its vintage floral print. The generous size makes it perfect for holding a few essentials, and it includes functional pockets to keep smaller items safely within reach. Versatile enough to use year round, this is one of those pieces you're destined to use time and time again.

$39.99 (sale) at urbanoutfitters.com

get 25% off all sale items through 7/14/09, use code 25OFFSALE

Trendspotting: More Electric Pink!

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 01:00:00 -0500

Diane Kruger is the latest celebrity to wear this shocking shade of pink. You're in good company, Diane. Is this a color that anyone can wear? We've seen it on celebs with brunette and blonde hair...now we just need a redhead. Come on, Isla Fisher!

Pink Ombre Knit Dress,
$62.99 (on sale) at edressme.com

photos via instyle

What Was Marion Cotillard Thinking?

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 12:00:00 -0500

Don't get us wrong, we are in LOVE with Marion Cotillard's sparkly platform mary janes, but how can she walk in them?

photos via justjared

Summer Loving: What We're Loving This Season, Part 9

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 01:00:42 -0500

We continue our 2 week series highlighting over 100 things we're loving this season. Check back daily for a new editor's Top 10 list filled with the hottest clothing, accessories and stuff to help make your summer even hotter.

Walk of Shame Shoe Chains

When I saw these, I knew I had to a) have them or b) I had to DIY something like them. They're the coolest of the new shoe accessories in my opinion. And would work with any black pumps already in your closet now, and on boots in the fall.

$98 at littersf.com

Figleaves Waterfall Sheared Kaftan

I have a colorful, ethnic-print tunic I got in the Bahamas that has been clinging to life for a few summers. I've worn it as a swim cover up, a dress, a top - and I want something that can fill all the same functions. I really love the colors of this Figleaves Waterfall Sheared Kaftan and think I could make it work.

$90 at figleaves.com

LaRok Majorca For The Day Dress with Print Skirt

I don't really wear shorts (did I mention my short legs?) so summer is all about skirts and dresses for me. But I'm not really about your typical floral sundresses, so it's always a search to find something cool and different. I love the colors and textures in the skirt of this piece, and always want to snatch up dresses that are light on fabric while a little darker in aesthetic. And a black strapless top? It's a go.

$268 at shopbop.com

Hayden-Harnett Joey Wide Cuff

I want. I love a studded cuff and this is a more-fashion forward and trendy way to wear the rock staple. The Joey Wide Cuff in violet crinkle patent is my favorite, but I'd love to layer it with the Ramone Studded Slim Cuff in onyx or Bermuda. The Ramones references only make me love them more, and want to wear them with my classic Ramones tee.

$80 at haydenharnett.com

Melissa Odabash Jessica Cutout Swimsuit

Okay, this is a fantasy item if I had the body for a cut-out swimsuit like this. As it is, I'm kind of the type to buy a variation on the same J.Crew swimsuit every year. "Kind of" as in that's exactly what I do. But if I were more adventurous with my swimwear and more regimented about my workout routine, I'd love something glam like this bandeau with silver stud embellishments, cut-out details and a sexy low back. It may only be available in an Italian 44 but that is about a US medium so hopefully it will fit a variety of bodies.

$61.25 (sale) at theoutnet.com

Jeffrey Campbell Crosshatch Platform

I came to the shoe bootie trend late, and as soon as I found my perfect pair - super high but walkable, flattering in front so as not to make my legs look shorter than they are - they're out of season. Not that silly rules like those stop me. But I love tough-chic sandals that give the look of a shoe bootie but are summer appropriate and show off your pedicure all at the same time.

$188 at urbanoutfitters.com

Zoya Nail Polish Ooh-La-La Sampler

It is a tough call between this and the super bright La-Di-Da sampler, but I've been wearing the Midori green and Tallulah blue all spring. I love changing up my nail color and Zoya's samplers are a great way to do it while sticking within a color family - if you want to mix and match your nails and toes. I tend to go brighter on my toes - so right now I have Katy on my feet and Emme on my nails. Zoya has never steered me wrong on the hot colors for a season.

$36 at artofbeauty.com

Redken Color Extend Sun

I do a lot with my hair, from regular blonde highlights to the occasional punky pink streaks, so I've become a color care expert. I always use Redken Color Extend shampoo and conditioner while my hair is color treated, and this summer I was excited to switch to their sun-specific formula when I knew I'd be outdoors a lot. Shampoo, conditioner, a sparkling shield to prevent damage and an after-sun mask to repair damage - this line has you covered almost as well as a beach umbrella.

visit redken.com for more information

The Warped Tour

The rainy season has not put a damper on my summer concert schedule - I got drenched at Nine Inch Nails/Janes Addiction and skanked in a mud pit at No Doubt. But my favorite summer festival? The Warped Tour. This year's headliners include Bad Religion, Anti-Flag, Bouncing Souls, the classic-if-over-rated NOFX and more. If punk's not your thing, maybe you had a blast at Bonnaroo or SXSW or ... dare I say it, the Britney Tour. Whatever's your thing, hope you found some fashion inspiration.

visit warpedtour.com for information

The Real Housewives of New Jersey

I am from the rural farmlands of South Jersey, and when I saw the Sopranos-tastic North Jersey cast of the Real Housewives of New Jersey I was not pleased. Then I started watching and I'm hooked. Nothing gives me more glee than watching Theresa flip a table, unless it's the family matriarch warning an outsider "Let me-a tell you something-a about my family." I have never been more proud to be from Jersey or to be Italian.

visit bravotv.com for information

Gap Drop-Waist Floral Blouse

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 01:00:38 -0500

A low drop waist and a flirty ruffled hem lend this airy blouse romantic charm. The artistic floral print plays well with simple jeans and shorts, and you'll love its easy, relaxed fit. Also in brown floral.

$49.50 at gap.com

Today on StyleBakery: July 9, 2009

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:50:27 -0500

Don't miss a morsel! See what's cooking today on the StyleBakery network:

Style Recipes: Summer Loving: What We're Loving This Season, Part 9

Celebrity Dish: What Was Marion Cotillard Thinking?

Ask Us: Need 6 pieces to pack for a trip to Southeast Asia

Daily Scoop: Gap Drop-Waist Floral Blouse

Beauty: Laura Mercier Creme Cheek Color Pot

StyleBakeryTeen - Style Feature: Beauty Evolution - Harry Potter's Emma Watson

StyleBakeryTeen - Star Style: Britney Spears' Fall Candie's ads released

StyleBakeryTeen - Gossip Watch: Miley's ELLE Cover

StyleBakeryTeen - Cravings: Lauren by Ralph Lauren Ruffle Top

CheapChicDaily: Craving Cocktail Rings - $20 And Under

BooJee Ribbon ID Necklaces

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:34:32 -0500

It boasts your name and photo, but a bland ID badge doesn't really say much else about you. Change things with BooJee Ribbons, decorative lanyards that make even the most uncomplicated work ensembles more stylish. There's one to complement every outfit, and they feature detractable badge reels and an ID pocket that works with vertical and horizontal badges alike. In six colorful prints.

$15 at boojeebeads.com

get 20% off your order through 7/12/09, use code tasty. the 7th stylebakery reader to make a purchase will receive a FREE gift!

Laura Mercier Creme Cheek Color Pot

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 16:18:54 -0500

Laura Mercier Creme Cheek Color Pot is a new blush duo that combines a creamy cheek color with a soft-focus loose cheek powder. The effect is natural and understated, yet gives skin a luminous and glowing look. We are coveting this travel-friendly pot for the mere fact that it will save space in our makeup bags while offering quick touch-ups on-the-go. Available in two shades. Limited edition. $34, nordstrom.com

Need 6 pieces to pack for a trip to Southeast Asia

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 01:00:59 -0500

Q. I'm heading to Tokyo, Thailand, and Cambodia for a month. I'm super pumped about the trip as I have not had the opportunity to travel outside of the country for a couple of years and I have never been to Southeast Asia (though I've always wanted to go).

I've learned (the hard way) that one really shouldn't over-pack for these adventures, so I'm only bringing a carry-on sized bag and a collapsible duffel that will come along to tote around souvenirs before I ship them home. For this trip I especially want to only bring the bare minimum because I've heard that everything is very inexpensive other there (including clothes) and that I will be able to buy climate appropriate wear--read: made for the incredibly hot and humid weather--for very little money. However, I still need to bring some basics. And I will need something to wear in Tokyo, where we will be stopping for the first few days of our trip before we get to Thailand and the prices are much higher.

My question is this: What should I bring ? How would you pack?

I only want to bring around 6 pieces. My activities will be so diverse--city sightseeing in Tokyo and Bangkok; Temple Trekking in Cambodia; an elephant trek through mountain villages in Northern Thailand; and beach hopping all along the way--so bringing diverse pieces will be essential. Laundry can be easily done so I have no problem wearing the same things over and over.

Other things you should know: I am petite (size 2 or 4) but (unluckily) big busted so braless is never an option.

A. Sounds like a fantastic trip! I applaud your plan to pack very lightly since you don't want to be bogged down with cumbersome luggage. For the hot & humid climate and the varied outings you plan to take, I suggest the following extremely pared-down, yet functional, list:

1. 2 to 3 tank tops/t-shirts
2. pair of shorts
3. casual skirt
4. casual day dress
5. comfortable yet chic sandals for city tours
6. hiking shoes/sneakers for treks
7. linen scarf/wrap - just in case you need an extra layer
8. hat

Look for fabrics that are easily packed and either won't wrinkle or are meant to be wrinkled (like the scarf and skirt below). The packable items below will keep you comfortable, well-dressed and should carry you through the month. Have fun!

Savannah $34 - Fossil

Vasque Women's Amphora Light Hiking Shoe $99 - Endless.com

DKNY Active Women's Gracey Sandal $58 - Endless.com

Love Quotes Peace Wrap Scarf $88 - Chickdowntown.com

Petite Smocked Squareneck Knit Dress $49 - Ann Taylor Loft

Joie elephant cotton 'Octavia' drawstring shorts $93 - Bluefly

Rumpled cotton safari skirt $78 - J.Crew

Emily Elizabeth Jewelry Halle Earrings

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 01:00:19 -0500

Designer Emily Elizabeth's collection is full of exquisite pieces that reflect nature's beauty in the most captivating, feminine way. These radiant, dangling earrings are a sublime choice for those sweltering days when your hair is pulled back - and we love the reasonable price.

$60 at maxandchloe.com

Summer Loving: What We're Loving This Season, Part 8

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 01:00:15 -0500

So You Think You Can Dance

Each summer, I always look forward to watching So You Think You Can Dance. Everything from the audition process to the show is always exciting. Each episode features different styles of dance, so unlike American Idol, where everyone has to sing the same style each week, SYTYCD offers me-- and its millions of viewers-- the opportunity to be entertained and wowed with more variety.

click here for more info

Converse® One Star® Cami Dress

A girl can't go wrong with a basic, bright-colored dress for summer. Wear it with sandals to run errands or go to a weekend bbq, add a cardigan over it for chilly nights, or dress it up with fun accessories for a night out! (P.S. It comes in several other colors also)

$29.99 at target.com

Whimsy Print Tote II

This tote is colorful, feminine and large enough to carry everything I need during the day. Oh, and the price tag is fabulous, too.

$16.80 at forever21.com

Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Easy' Metal Aviator Sunglasses

I love big, dark, paparazzi-avoiding sunglasses, but for summer I want to lighten up my look. These Marc by Marc Jacobs Metal Aviator Sunglasses will do just that.

$98 at nordstrom.com

M·A·C 'Dazzleglass' Lipcolour

I love lipglosses - the glossier the better! MAC Dazzleglass gives me a fabulous high-watt shimmer that leaves my lips looking gorgeous.

$18 at nordstrom.com

The E.N.D (The Energy Never Dies) Deluxe Edition by Black Eyed Peas

Good music defines a summer, and the new Black Eyed Peas CD, The E.N.D (The Energy Never Dies) Deluxe Edition gives fans new high-energy tunes as well as a twist on some past favorites.

only at target.com - $11.98

Ahava Sun Protection Anti-Aging Moisturizing Spray SPF 15

Even if I'm just running errands, sunscreen is a must. This one is light, non-greasy and in a spray bottle-- perfect for on-the-go travel.

$22 at skinstore.com

Merona® Dolman Cover-up

Cover-ups are a must-have for summer, no question. I like this empire-waist style that actually looks like many sold in department stores, but costs so much less.

$17.99 at target.com

Silk Ruffle Top

This silk top is light and airy, looks great paired with a skirt or your favorite pair of jeans and will even look fabulous layered under a blazer come fall.

$69.50 at bananarepublic.com

CARLOS by Carlos Santana Fandango

Metallics are always so pretty and add that "little something extra", especially in the summer. These sandals come in a bronze tone that would look great with any ensemble and are on trend with their gladiator style.

$79.95 at zappos.com

Steal Isabel Lucas' Look...Again

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 01:00:00 -0500

Let's face it - the girl's got style. Isabel Lucas was rocking a summery cowboy look recently and we just had to steal it, even though we already stole another one of her looks last week.

Ecote Suede Studded Clutch, $19.99 (on sale) at urbanoutfitters.com
Basic Sleeveless Cowl-neck Dress, $9.99 (on sale) at express.com

Frye Carson Pull On Boot, $348 at piperlime.com

Double Button Jacket, $22.50 at wetseal.com
Twill Fedora, $24 at ardenb.com

photo via instyle