Category: HOT NEWS

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Lines I Love: ADAM + Made Her Think

On the surface, today’s featured lines are vastly different—ADAM’s polished clothes versus Made Her Think’s girly-goth jewelry—but despite their contrasting appearances, these brands have enjoyed similarly inspiring journeys to the top. Both launched in 2004 by passionate designers (Adam Lippes and Meredith Kahn, respectively) who had previously worked with big-name brands (Oscar de la Renta and Gap) before embarking on their own collections. Seven years, a few exclusive collaborations, and many stylish followers later, these noteworthy lines have never looked better, which is why they should be celebrated and shopped!

 
But before I discuss today’s fabulous picks, first I must address the masterminds behind these two amazing brands, starting with the seriously talented Adam Lippes. After spending six years as the Global Creative Director for Oscar de la Renta, Lippes pursued his own cotton basics collection in 2004 under the eponymous label Adampluseve, which was shortened to just ADAM when he expanded into a full sportswear and lifestyle collection. One thing Lippes has learned along the way is how to make gorgeous, truly wearable clothing. While some young designers resort to runway theatrics like over-the-top styling or high-impact beauty looks, Lippes instead takes a sophisticated, understated route. His latest collection is filled with crowd-pleasing pieces ranging from floral chiffon maxi dresses to high-waisted jeans in the season’s must-have hue. Even better: in addition to a very strong spring, the designer’s fall show was also wildly intriguing, so you’ll have plenty to pick from next season too!

Joining ADAM are the hauntingly beautiful baubles from Meredith Kahn’s supremely cool jewelry and accessories line, Made Her Think. Once a denim designer for Gap, Inc., Kahn’s now creating moody yet elegant pieces, like luxurious thorn cuffs and talon rings, that are adored by such stylish femmes as Leighton Meester, Emma Watson, and Rihanna. Additionally, Kahn has participated in noteworthy collaborations with high-profile brands like Club Monaco and Rebecca Minkoff—her jewelry was featured in Minkoff’s S/S 11 presentation and F/W 11 runway show—and has recently launched her men’s jewelry line, Dess Homme. Seamlessly interweaving punk sensibilities with feminine detailing, Made Her Think jewelry is the perfect complement to the season’s downtown-lady trend and minimalist ensembles alike!

Made Her Think

Moonlight Pave Thorn Cuff  ($184 each, 212.872.8811) in Silver Ox, Rose Gold, and Matte Gunmetal
Incredibly versatile, these tough-luxe cuffs offer something for everyone. While the thorn details will give an otherwise polished look a touch of attitude, the Swarovski crystal rhinestones also make it a sophisticated and chic choice for those who err on the edgier side. We like the idea of mixing them with a few other bracelets or simply stacking all three to give your outfit some understated cool.

Horizons Necklace  ($345) in Rhinestone Silver
When it comes to awe-inspiring statement jewelry this season, the Horizons Necklace definitely takes the cake. This glamorously punk piece is just the sort of bauble you need to take a simple look to the next level, thanks to its mesh tubular chain and triangle-tipped, rhinestone-embedded charms.

Double Mesh Gauntlet Ring  ($554) in Silver
If you’re looking for a subtle way to add intrigue to your ensemble, we recommend investing in the Double Mesh Gauntlet Ring. The industrial-like design makes it a truly unique and practical piece! The two mesh rings are connected by small chains, allowing your finger to move freely and comfortably—perfect for texting, typing, and of course, tweeting!

Stoned Pendulum Earrings ($683, 630.920.8444) in Diamond
Punctuate your after-hours ensembles with these medieval-esque dangly earrings. They’re glamorous, tough, and a bit dangerous all at the same time, plus, they have a great fashion-editorial look. We can easily see Abbey Lee Kershaw rocking them on stage with her band, Our Mountain.

Wrapped Talon Knuckle Buster Ring ($149.50) in Rose Gold Vermeil
We were so excited by all the fabulous rings in the Made Her Think collection that we couldn’t help but include another one! The Wrapped Talon Knuckle Buster caught our eye with its elegantly tough-girl vibe. The rose-gold talon wraps around one finger and rests over two making it an incredibly clean and chic piece you can wear with both casual and dressy ensembles.

ADAM

Short Denim Dress ($245, 1.800.960.6797) in White
When we first laid eyes on this darling denim jumper, we knew we had to include it in today’s story. The overalls-like straps give the summery frock a youthful look, while the crisp white color feels fresh for spring. It’s just the kind of thrown-on-and-go piece we can imagine Chloe Sevigny wearing all season long!

Denim Bell Bottoms ($225) in Lava
We’re crazy for this season’s bevy of ’70s-inspired pieces, especially wide-leg/flare jeans, so it’s no surprise everyone in the office is flipping over these ridiculously cool bell bottoms. Though the high waist and wide flare give the pants a decidedly retro look, the vibrant red hue keeps them feeling modern and of-the-moment. We’re also quite fond of the pintuck details, which are very flattering and give the appearance of a slim, elongated leg. For an on-trend outfit that doesn’t feel too kitschy, we recommend styling these polished jeans with a pair of wedges and a silky white button-down blouse.

Basketweave Glass Beading Tank  ($495)
Though we generally prefer to stock up on tons of basic tanks and tees for the summer months ahead, we always keep our eyes peeled for a few indulge-worthy tops. This season, we’re obsessing over ADAM’s elegant Basketweave Glass Beading Tank. The two-tone tank is a chic yet unexpected choice—we love the shimmering silver beading on the top half and sheer chiffon bottom—plus, it’s a piece you can wear year-round. Try it now with a pair of tailored shorts and heels and style it with a crisp blazer and slim trousers when the temps begin to cool down.

Crochet Lace Skirt ($495)
No spring wardrobe would be complete without a few key white separates. That’s especially true this year because this crisp and clean color perfectly balances the season’s array of vibrant hues. Accordingly, we thought this delicate A-line skirt would be a great addition to any wardrobe; the intricate crochet detailing and scalloped hemline make it a texturally interesting pick. Take a styling tip from one of Kate Bosworth’s recent outfits and pair it with an army jacket and ankle boots for a perfect transitional ensemble.—Jessica Baker

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Twice As Nice: Second store for Madewell in NYC !!

Madewell welcomes their largest NYC store yet with an all-day fête.

This week, Madewell debuts their second and largest NYC location, occupying a 6,500-square-foot spread at Fifth Avenue and 19th Street. Staying true to Griffith Thomas’ original 1868 structure, the new space features double-height historic windows, original moldings, and cast iron columns—perfect to display all the summer must-haves I can’t wait to shop. To commemorate the grand opening, the Flatiron location will feature a special “Hometown Heroes” pop-up shop with a selection of some of their favorite NYC brands, including In God We Trust, Love Adorned, JF&Son, and Albertine, as well as summer-ready music picks from Other Music. The Madewell celebrations continue this Saturday, April 30, with an all-day Hometown Heroes party, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Enjoy special surprises every hour, cool styling tips, treats, and more. Of course, as they say, some things are just better in twos: Two Madewells means double trouble for your wallet.

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3 Head-To-Toe Plus-Size Looks Perfect For Spring

Though the weather has been on the unpredictable side lately, there’s one thing I know for sure: It’s warm enough that we don’t need to wear tights or a jacket all hours of the day. And we’re certainly savoring every minute of bare arms, legs, and open toes until it officially becomes too hot or humid to want to wear anything at all. I’ve put together three plus-size outfits that are perfect for those cherished spring outings—like al fresco dining and long, wandering park strolls, and casual bike rides. See ’em all below! 😉

Gallery Hopping—Cool and casual, the lightweight suedette pants bring an element of sophistication to an otherwise low-key outfit. Bright and architectural accessories like this structured yellow bag and awesome wooden heel make it perfect for an afternoon of art-viewing.

Above, from left: ASOS Leather Boxy Lock Bag, $89.65, available at ASOS; Forever21+ Cotton V-Neck Top, $5.80, available at Forever21; Evans Collection Suedette Harem Pants, $74, available at Evans; ASOS Cafe Effect Cuff with Screw Detail, $26.90, available at ASOS; Jeffrey Campbell Always Punctual Wedge, $179.99, available at Modcloth.

Brunch—This breezy, printed dress with a light color palette and ultra-feminine flourishes is essential for weekend brunching and shopping with friends. Strong accessories like a cross-body bag in a bright color or chunky heel add weight to the feathery materials of the dress and jacket.

Above, from left: T-Bags Printed Scoopneck Dress, $198, available at Saks; ASOS Curve Tailored Drapey Jacket, $134.48, available at ASOS; Torrid Silver and Light Blue Stone Statement Ring, $12.50, available at Torrid; Marc by Marc Jacobs Natasha Leather Cross-body Bag, $350, available at Net-a-Porter; Dolce Vita Jade Wedges, $179.95, available at Solestruck; House of Harlow 1960 Horseshoe Bangle, $48, available at Shopbop.

Wine Bar—Spring evenings are one of our favorite things about the season, filled with outdoor dining and visits to wine bars that have their windows wide open. An airy black dress can easily transition from daytime picnics to those evening dates by incorporating bright accessories like a patent belt or a cute, fringed cardigan.

Above, from left: Carmakoma Mockingbird Dress, $88.88, available at Carmakoma; ASOS Curve Skinny Belt, $10.76, available at ASOS; Genevieve Savard Dark Crystal Tote, $320, available at Convent; Forever21+ Fringe Trip Open Cardigan, $19.80, available at Forever21; Torrid Black and Gold Glitter Bangles, $14, available at Torrid; ASOS Holly Leather High Sandals, $98.62, available at ASOS.
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6 MUSICAL MUSES WHOSE STYLE ROCKS MY WORLD

Ranging from bad-ass South African gangsterism to the fresh-faced grace of a Brit songstress, the tunes blaring on our iPod are almost as varied as the musicians who craft them. And with this mishmash of sound—think Zola Jesus’ ethereal operatics or Jessie J’s pop-friendly dance tunes—each artist comes with wildly different and incredibly covetable styles. Suddenly, on top of singing along to Oh Land’s “Son Of A Gun,” I now want to blunt-cut our bangs like Die Antwoord’s Yo-Landi, and go thrift-shopping for beach style with Tennis’ Alaina Moore. Not every musician has to be a fashion inspiration, but I must admit: It’s awfully awesome when my fave artist look as good as they sound rocking the stage. Here are the songbirds currently inspiring ME ! 

Yo-Landi of Die Antwoord

The Sound: Irreverent, grimy, and unapologetic, Die Antwoord became an Internet sensation in early 2010, radically popularizing the part-electro, part-crunk sound known in South Africa as “Zef.” Rapper Ninja aggressively alters between English, Afrikaans, and Xhosa, and Yo-Landi spits deceptively sweet-sounding rhymes on hooks.

The Style: With hyper-short baby bangs and a penchant for gold and glitter, her style is not for the faint-hearted. Of course, we love her fearless sense of self in a cropped top or a scene-stealing graphic tee.

The Goods: Adidas Originals Hi Cut Sneakers, $110, available at Adidas; Laura Lombardi Brass Bar Earrings, $32, available at Refinery29 Boutiques; Urban Decay Bobby Dazzle Eyeshadow, $20, available at Beauty.com; See By Chloe Pants, $295, available at Shopbop; VPL Bra, $95, available at La Garçonne; Baebae Geometric Double Knuckle Ring, $99, available at Refinery29 Boutiques.
Rye Rye

The Sound: Emerging from mix-tape culture, the hard-hitting emcee Rye Rye was discovered by M.I.A., who called the young artist the “voice of Baltimore.” We fell in love when she brought her boogie-tastic beats to Alexander Wang’s post-Fashion Week carnival last year, and her kinetic energy and club-friendly tunes keeps our booties shaking.

The Style: Once a protégé of the always stylish M.I.A., Rye Rye has stepped out of her mentor’s shadow—but has borrowed a couple of her brightly colored tricks. Where M.I.A. embraced global patterns and an inherently Brit sensibility, Rye Rye rocks some real-deal Baltimore street style. We love matching her hair with her clothes, the excess of pink, and of course, those incredible door-knocker earrings.

The Goods: Manic Panic In Green Envy, $9.50, available at The Bruised Boutique; GirlProps Wing Earrings, $7.99, available at GirlProps; Jessica Simpson Ruffle Bustier, $29.99, available at Jessica Simpson; Deena & Ozzy Clear Metal Trim Purse, $39, available at Urban Outfitters; Diane von Furstenberg Miggy Poplin Shorts, $200, available at Net-a-Porter.
Jessie J.

The Sound: We couldn’t be digging this influx of smart, savvy pop mistresses hitting our ears—Robyn, Adele, and now Jessie J., who sounds like Pink and Nicki Minaj’s love child…if she were born across the pond.

The Style: Imagine Katy Perry’s dark side, with flat-ironed black hair and thick swipes of black eyeliner. Except Jessie isn’t just vamp: Her playful style of pin-up elements with killer tights, cheeky hair accessories, and mega-hoops show the singer can switch effortlessly between sex-kitten and LOLcat.

The Goods: House of Holland Fringed Tights, $27.99, available at Modcloth; Vena Cava Bomber Jacket, $310, available at Refinery29 Boutiques; Juicy Couture Multi-Layer Fringe Bracelet, $100, available at Ssense; MAC Russian Red Lipstick, $14.50, available at MAC; Halston Heritage Sandals, $225, available at Net-A-Porter.
Zola Jesus

The Sound: With a flair for the dramatic (maybe stemming from her opera background), front-woman Nika Roza’s otherworldly vocals are dark but not goth, flitting through Zola Jesus’ echo chamber-like soundscapes. We love.

The Style: Aside from being haunting musically, Nika’s signature style leans to the dark. But the singer mixes it up, pairing a pencil skirt with a silk top or adding flowing layers of black for texture. Porcelain skin and red lips, however, is a must.

The Goods: LauraKranitz Two-Sided Headband, $29.95, available at KarmaLoop; ASOS Long Sleeve Slinky Dress, $32.27, available at ASOS; K-198 Nevin Hoodie, $315, available at Nicholask; Smashbox Brow Tech To Go, $26, available at Sephora; Pamela Love Cuff, $378.01, available at Pamela Love.
Alaina Moore of Tennis

The Sound: How’s this for an adorable story? Post college, married couple Alaina Moore and Patrick Reilly sailed around the world and returned to write beachy, nostalgic sounds about their experiences. Think slow dances, kisses under the boardwalk, and rubbing your toes in the sand.

The Style: A summer-obsessed retro sound should have a summer-obsessed retro style, and when it comes to casual shorts, convertible-ready hair, and rocking out on your organ, Alaina is set. We love her use of patterns, from nautical stripes to floral.

The Goods: Deena & Ozzy Foldover Boot, $68, available at Urban Outfitters; Warehouse Palm Print One Shoulder Dress, $113, available at Warehouse; Lowestoft Sunglasses, $89, available at Jack Wills; Living Proof No Frizz Styling Cream, $35, available at Sephora; Vanessa Bruno Hawaiian Print Shorts, $364.50, available at Matches.
Oh Land

The Sound: There’s something about the music of Nanna Øland Fabricius, or Oh Land, that reminds us of a romp through the mythic and mysterious Danish forests. Driving beats harmonize perfectly with her rapturous voice, like a percussive-heavy Florence and The Machine.
The Style: If you can ignore Oh Land’s model-like looks (if you can), you’ll see an imaginative, colorful world filled with capes, maxi dresses, and a couple beauty tips swiped from Twiggy. Of course, Oh Land learned from the best for her gorgeous stage style: Designer Christian Joy works with both her and our girl-crush Karen O

The Goods: Unique Printed Mesh Dress, $450, available at Topshop; Modekungen Space T-Shirt, $98.02, available at Modekungen; Modcloth Never Felt This Way Hat, $24.99, available at ModCloth; Nars The Multiple In South Beach, $39, available at Nars; Minimarket Space Shoe, $219.95, available at Solestruck.
Ellie Goulding

The Sound: It will be nearly impossible to mention 2011 in music without talking about Ellie Goulding. The Brit It-Girl not only sweeped at the BRIT awards, but she’ll be at every summer festival you can name. Her upbeat sound and breathy voice is the soundtrack both to our workouts and our evenings at home.

The Style: Perfect for the warm weather, Ellie’s bright eyes and pale lips are anytime-appropriate. Girly, effortless, and classic, her girl-next-door vibe is always modernized with a bright print or her dreamy, flawless waves (can her hair be any more perfect?).

The Goods: Lover Coppelia Cotton Lace T-Shirt, $350, available at Net-a-Porter; Lancome Hypnose Waterproof Mascara, $24.50, available at Buy; Kyler By Joy O Coyote Pendant, $78, available at Kyler Designs; Topshop Cream Rose Dress, $75, available at Topshop; Madewell Striped Spring Polo, $59.50, available at Madewell; Beauty Is Life Lipstick, $28, available at Barneys.
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GUESS x ELLE Global Street Chic Contest

ADVERTORIAL

If you’ve got an eye for style and got what it takes, you may want to enter this contest sponsored by GUESS.

From Amsterdam to LA, the new Global Street Chic feature on ELLE.com will capture the best street style looks from the most fashionable cities around the world. Together with GUESS, ELLE launches a casting call to find the “Global Street Chic Ambassador” who will travel around the world taking pictures of the best in street fashion from global style hotspots. A ‘Fan’s Favorite,’ the finalist who receives the most votes on GUESS’s Facebook page, will receive a wardrobe of GUESS product. To enter, simply upload a photo of your best Global Street Chic look from April 25th to May 25th onGUESS’s Facebook page. The two winners will be announced at the end of the summer, good luck!

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HOW TO WEAR A ROMPER TO PERFECTION ;)

IRO Alexia Romper, $220, available at Shopbop.

I’ve heard every excuse in the book: “I’m too short,” “I feel like a kid,” “But how will I pee?” Quit complaining, because no matter what you call the onesie, jumper, or romper, it can look kind of amazing on most any body type. We love clothing that shortens our early-morning closet shuffle, and this one-step item incorporates the convenience of a dress with the practicality of a pair of shorts. I’ve selected a few stand-out rompers that are fitting for daytime escapades, special evenings, even the office. But before you step into one, scan my styling tips, which are sure to help you avoid any one-piece blunders.

A Little Cinch Goes A Long Way—Clothing that’s cut to fit your entire body can lose definition at the waist. Add a belt, or select a romper that includes a cinched waistline to enhance your natural curves.

Keep It PG (Or At Least PG-13)—Be sure to select a romper that covers your derrière (we recommend jumping around in the fitting-room to make sure!). The weather may be warm, but that’s not really an excuse for a full moon.

Prints, Prints, Prints—There’s no shortage of bold prints, and we encourage you to try them all! But, be selective. If you’re very petite, a large, loud, floor-length print may swallow you up. So, opt for a print and silhouette that’s a little more understated.

Work Those Gams—A romper, whether shorts, cropped, or full-leg, can make your gams look like they go on for miles. Play them up and avoid sandals with thick ankle straps that can segment your shape in an unflattering way.

Matilda Ruffle Romper, $19.98, availabe at G By Guess.
American Rag Jumpsuit, $49, available at Macy's.
3.1 Phillip Lim Tie Front Romper, $425, available at La Garconne.
Forever21 Faded Checkers Romper, $16.90, available at Forever21.
ASOS Pleated Open Back Jumpsuit, $107.58, available at ASOS.
H&M White Jumpsuit, $24.75, available in-store at H&M.
Akira Button-Front Romper, $36.78, available at Akira.
Pins and Needles Voile Romper, $38, available at Urban Outfitters.
Bess Daze Cutout Jumpsuit, $650, available at Net-A-Porter.
Line & Dot V-Neckl Floral Romper, $60, available at Moxsie.
Ali & Kris Axtec Women's Romper, $24.99 available ay Tillys.
Dolce Vita Evie Romper, $108, available at Need Supply.
Topshop Jumpsuit by Love, $72, available at Topshop.
Suno Baggy V-Neck Onesie, $555, available at Opening Ceremony.
H&M Loose-fit Jumpsuit, $25, available in-store at H&M.
BCBGeneartion Ruffled-Flounce Romper, $88, available at BCBG.
Rory Beca Leona Romper, $172, available at Shopbop.
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NIKE AIR YEEZY 2

Kanye West hasn’t been able to take off the NEW Nike Air Yeezy 2 !! I can’t wait until these are released. I am definitely going to try to get them in my size. SUPER FRESH!

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Fan Bing Bing: International Fashion Icon

AT THE CHRISTIAN DIOR FALL 2011 PRESENTATION: CHECK OUT HER SUNGLASSES=LOVE!!

Fan Bing Bing is a Chinese actress and singer who is blowing us away with her outfits these days. Featured on a few magazines covers, I am sure she’ll soon be gracing many more. Check out the pics and my personal fav look… 🙂

 

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The Perfect Dress For Any Summer Event

Barbecues—Loose and draped are the key components of a good barbecue dress. Keep it casual but cute, and make sure it leaves room for seconds!
Forever 21 Smocked Paisley Dress, $22.80, available at Forever 21; Cynthia Rowley Confetti Flirt Dress, $365, available at Cynthia Rowley; Marc by Marc Jacobs Multistripe Silk Dress, $685, available at Stylebop; AllSaints Ikat Dress, $165, available at AllSaints.

Day Weddings—A little peacocking never hurts during the daytime. Channel your inner Draper with ’50s silhouettes and dainty prints.
Topshop Pink Tulip Pattern Fifties Dress, $100, available at Topshop; Leifsdottir Blue Morpho Shift Dress, $348, available at Leifsdottir; Conscious Collection Brocade Dress, $49.53, available in-store at H&M.

Formal Weddings—It’s time to wear that show-it-off dress you’ve been dreaming about. Choose bright colors in light but luxe fabrics.
Sachin + Babi Angelina Dress, $660, available at 25 Park; Dorothy Perkins Coral V-Back Dress, $82.58, available at Dorothy Perkins; Gestuz Tie Dye Maxi Dress, $448.25, available at ASOS.

Beach—Those too-sheer, too-short, and too-seductive dresses are your friends in this case. Look for dresses in crumple- and bleed-resistent materials
Topshop Cream Crochet Swing Dress, $100, available at Topshop; Calypso St. Barth Bandana Print Dress, $165, available at Calypso St. Barth; Rag & Bone Stripe Beach Tank Dress, $175, available at Rag & Bone.

Brunch—You’re not going to be moving around much, so this is the time to wear a dainty dress in a sitting-pretty silhouette. Just don’t spill!
Nydia Dress, $105, available at Urban Outfitters; Thread Social Cutout Cotton Strapless Dress, $650, available at Net-A-Porter; French Connection Bright Check Maxi Dress, $173.92, available at ASOS.

Outdoor Festivals—You’re going to be rocking out in the beating sun all day, so, extremely lightweight dresses in bright, colorful prints are our festival M.O. Check out our Coachella fashion story for more suggestions!
Sass & Bide Simple Not Easy Silk Maxi, $685, available at Glassworks Studios; Seneca Rising Odyssey Cutout Dress, $140, available at Nasty Gal; Parker Ruffle Dress, $188, available at Barneys New York; Forever 21 Abstract Print Strapless Maxi dress, $22.80, available at Forever 21.