Furry Situation

(via:zelfist.com)

Now the issue of fur is a sticky one. If you ask me, I love fur. It exudes luxury and glamour. In fact, anytime I wear fur I feel quite elegant and super sophisticated. There is something about a fur jacket that I simply adore. Clearly, the adjectives are going on and on, but I love fur. The Olsen twins get a lot of crap for wearing fur. PETA classifies them as trolls. You know what I say, you can wear faux fur and you can still look just as good AND you didn't harm any animals in the process. Don't get me wrong though, faux fur can also look extremely cheap and tacky. So choose your jackets or vests wisely.

I love my faux fur jackets but anytime I wear fur at least two people ask me "Is that real?" And how do I reply? A) Well, not anymore! (kidding) or B) No, but it looks real huh? I'll say both just to get different reactions. That's always fun. But my point is, people love fur, real or fake, but mostly real, and it sucks that animals get harmed in the process of making real fur jackets. But, just remember that you can find a fabulous faux fur jacket or vest like these women above and make it look great!

These specific vests are uber chic and so easy to wear. All you need is a great pair of jeans, a basic tank or long sleeve, boots, flats, or heels then throw on that vest and you're good to go! Remember, they serve two purposes: warmth and style, so you can't go wrong. There are all kinds of hues and textures you could pander in. I personally love Ashely Olsen's luxurious vest the best, which comes from Jenni Kayne. So, should you cuddle up with that vest or that special someone? My answer is cuddle up with both!

Art vs. Porn

First things first: Regardless of the fact if you are male or female you must have stopped and looked at this advertisement. Sex sells period. Tom Ford’s advertisements have always been provocative and gone against mainstream. These images are actually quite “clean” compared to some other ones he has put out. You should definitely check them out here. But, this goes into the issue of advertising, and I’m not so focused on that.

When Tom Ford unleashed these advertisements for his fragrance back in 2007, there were two kinds. These specific ones were "not as tame" as the ones featured in magazines and were only showed on the company's website. Nevertheless, they were out in the open, no pun intended. This comes to show that censorship did take place in this situation and that there were certain images that could be viewed on the internet and certain images strictly for magazines.

Some people may argue that these images exploit women and their bodies. In the first photograph she is opening her mouth, and it’s like well what more do you want? There is also no face attached to the bodies so it makes it easier for the viewer not to relate in that manner. In addition, these photographs each possess a lot of power. The woman is using her body to entice the viewer. This fragrance is directed towards men, and what better way to lure men in than to have a sexy image in front of them? Especially those red nails!

Keep in mind that these photographs were taken by the well known and controversial photographer, Terry Richardson. I happen to be a big fan of his work. To me his work is weird, but that’s why I like it. He makes me question and look at things in new ways. He also always makes the people he shoots look so sickly and unhealthy, but he is able to capture raw images and make them look really interesting. At the same time, if you are a fan of his work, you have to appreciate his style and his vision and I do.

So is it creative? I think that it does have some elements of creativity to it because this is so simple and in your face that you can’t miss it, so it is creative in that way. But, I think that it’s not a new and fresh idea and thus it’s kind of just whatever. So if you ask me, I see this argument from both sides. I can't say that these images are beyond incredible, although I definitely do see some artistic value, but I can say that this advertisement did a brilliant job and then some. Look, I'm blogging about it right now, and that is exactly what the company wanted. More power and kudos to Tom Ford. P.S. I wonder how this fragrance did in sales?

Pink Bombs of Deliciousness

via:ultrafragrances

The sparkly light pink bottle and adorable black bow make this the perfect gift. This fragrance is light and soft, just how I like my fragrances! Plus, it's fairly new. Supposedly this perfume enhances positive energy and encourages broader and flexible thinking. Oh reeeeeeally? How can they determine this? Wait a minute, as cheesy as that sounds, I think it's true because I like this scent and I like positive energy along with flexible thinking, so I guess they do go hand in hand. Pretty fascinating to know what your scent says about you!

Behind the Name Lies Another

It's great how hip hop artists always tell you their names at the beginning of their songs, this way you never have to look the song up! At times they even let you know the title of the song, how convenient.

What interests me though are the actual names of these guys. You have to wonder, wait a minute what is Snoop's real name? I get so used to seeing him as Snoop that I never even thought to think about it, let alone imagine him with another name.

My curiosity flourished and I found myself googling other hip hop artists' names in the process. Below is my compilation of real names that I would never associate with these artists. By the way, Snoop Doggy Dogg, his name is...get ready...Cordozar Calvin Broadus Jr. Didn't expect that, huh? Or did you?

Akon- Aliuane Badara Thiam (A for Akon?)

Flo Rida -Tramar Dillard (obsessed with his hometown)

Jay Z - Shawn Corey Carter (cute!)

Kid Cudi - Scott Mescudi (clever)

Ludacris - Christopher Brian Bridges (makes sense)

Lupe Fiasco - Wasalu Muhammad Jaco (random!)

Mos Def - Dante Terrell "Beze" Smith (beze...okay)

Ne-Yo -Shaffer Chimere Smith (seriously, shaffer!)

Sean Kingston - Kisean Anderson (representing Jamaica)

Soulja Boy - DeAndre Ramone Way (into the army?)

T.I. - Clifford Joseph Harris Jr. (red dog!!!)

T Pain - Faheem Najm (Ice T inspiration)

Wale - Olubowale Victor Akintimehin (got it!)

Yea, their cool factor just took a plunge down the hip hop whirlwhind. I see now why they change their names. I'll never be able to look at T.I, I mean Clifford the same. I listen to thier music all the time, I might as well know their real names, right? Also, check out this website for more real names. You might be shocked too!

Mi Casa Es Su Casa

I wish this was mi casa. Esta casa es muy hermosa! Es la casa de Kimora Lee Simmons y Russel Simmons. Okay, I'll stop. I absolutely adore French style homes, well anything French related really. I feel like this style of home is ultra-luxe yet comfortable and has that home-y feeling at the same time. Colors of burgandy, loden green, and gold work so well together, almost like it is Christmas year round! This has the feeling of a palace. Is it not gorgeous?

Just look at the entrance, wouldn't you want to come home everyday to this! The ceiling is painted with angels and that staircase...love! I could do without those two huge vases though.

This room reminds me of Marie Antionette. The couches and fluffy pillows.

This room probably acquires dust year round, except for Thanksgiving. But it most definitely serves as a room of art!

(pics via: delux)

Spoken Word Poetry Slam

Just like wearing polka dots and stripes, I've always enjoyed poetry slams. The whole idea of a poetry slam is so empowering for its speakers and listeners. It allows people to dive into the personal lives of poets, all while presenting a venue to create who you are. Poetry slams offer opportunities for people to express themselves freely and confidently with support from audience members. This was a supportive crowd and I'm glad I got to be a part of it. This poetry slam also provided a community of recognition to its students and guest speakers.

Each person spoke about various topics, but the connecting factor was their passion. By simply listening, I got shivers several times and some poets even had me a little teary eyed. This is when you know that the poet has influenced you to feel, because once you feel something you know that the poetry has shook you up and changed your perspective or even solidified your opinion on certain matters. Wow, I’m getting shivers right now just by remembering these poems.

The various ways the speakers presented each had different impacts on me. Some speakers read from their Iphones (Talk about technology at its best!) Others memorized their poems and this was very potent because the eye contact allowed the speaker to connect with his or her audience members. Also, I appreciated the fact that some of these poems intertwined other languages, like Spanish, into their English poems. This gave the poems more authenticity and feeling.

I would have to say that one of my favorite poems was presented by Jacob Tsypkin that dealt with his identity as a Jewish man. The way he fluctuated his voice and changed up his emotions truly was conveyed so well. The energy in this poem was there from the beginning to the end. He mentioned his family, his history, and his current state which all tied beautifully together.

Also, another poem I liked was presented by a woman about women. She told the females in the audience that being a woman means being a goddess, a queen, and a strong individual. She wanted to make sure both males and females understood the meaning of womanhood. I thought this was great, she made so many strong points without being rude to men. In fact, I think that this can be applied to men as well, showing that they can be kings and strong individuals too. But let’s not let those egos get to our head now! Have pride in yourself but also be humble at the same time.

Fash N Style

(pics via:rihanna daily)

Although I would never wear this, I thought the overall idea of this dress/shirt was interesting. Plus, it's Rihanna, so she can basically pull off anything. I can only imagine that her arms would be in pain after holding them out like that for more than a minute. Try it, it actually is more difficult than you think. Anyway, is this outfit plain ugly or creative? I'd say a little bit of both.

Your Guide To Becoming Jersey-fied!

Jersey Shore is obviously popular. As ridiculous as it is, it’s amusing and people keep coming back for more. I just can’t get into this show, however there is another show on the style network called Jerseylicious that I have gotten into. You won’t find fist pumping here, but you will find big hair, and lots of it. This is different from Jersey Shore, it actually has a plot! I decided to give this one a try and I thought okay this isn’t so bad, in fact it’s entertaining and now I’m addicted, watching it every Sunday night. (pics via:myabcshows, newsodrome)

CONFESSION # 1: Although I knew that a group of these people who dress and act alike existed, thanks to visits to New Jersey and Michigan, I had no idea that there was a name for them: guido or guidette. Duh! Also, I truly appreciate this culture. I’m simply so fascinated with it that I thought I would share. After much observation, (actually 5 minutes is all you need) here is my guide to becoming jersey-fied!

GUYS:
*Pluck your eyebrows until they look better than your girls’ eyebrows. Use that thickness to your advantage honey!

*Spike your hair from your left ear all the way to your right ear, from the beginning of your hairline all the way down to the backside of your neck. SO: spike your entire head.

*Make sure your earring bling is nice and huge, allowing others to notice you from at least 20 feet. Pierce both ears.

*Stock up on Ed Hardy T shirts and hats, especially the ones decked out with crystals.

*While your at it, stock up on steroids and such. (such= no idea what they are taking)

GIRLS:
*Tease the hell out of your hair, until it gets big, big, big. Go for a poof, you’ll get that snooki effect.

*Fake bake until you get orange. On top of that, use bronzer too. Don't worry if it doesn't look natural.

*Make sure your eye makeup goes beyond your eyes.

*Mix those animal prints, the more the better. I’m talkin zebra, cheetah, giraffe, snakeskin, yup they all look fabu together!

*While you wear your animal print top, major cleavage is a must. If you got it, flaunt it!

*Wear over the top earrings that flash, but remember to take them off before you get into a fight.

*Make sure to say that you’re the only one with class and that the rest of the people around you are trash.

*Memorize those comebacks to the point where you can shoot ‘em off like they just came naturally to you.

(I know what I’ll be for Halloween next year!)

CONFESSION # 2: I really do love big hair (but not the snooki kind or reference to the 80’s) but the kind that frames your face and is nice and flowy. Overall, I really am captivated by this culture and all its glory, hence this post. Man, this was fun!

P.S. Before Lady Gaga became well…gaga, she was originally a guidette. Now that, I could totally imagine. Maybe she will recreate this look with exaggeration. Knowing her, this is a huge possibility.

The Trench of All Trenches

If you haven't noticed already, there is an abundance of glitter, sparkles, and sequins on this blog. I have a weakness for these kinds of things. This specific trench coat is such a show stopper. It's a dream come true for women who can only imagine a piece like this one. This coat is crafted so well, I mean its Burberry so hello! Final note: not an ounce of tackiness but total elegance.

Sunglasses - Key Word "SUN"

As comedian Larry David puts it "You know who wears sunglasses inside? Blind people and assholes." Yes, that is so true! I will never understand why people wear their sunglasses inside buildings and especially at night. This picture sums it up nicely. Sorry Kanye, I like your beats but your arrogance is out of control. Don't even get me started with your lyrics. Just because, Klondike, Blonde Dyke, and Limelight rhyme it doesn't mean it makes sense to connect them. Want to listen to it? The song is "Stronger" Have Fun!

FURTHER EVIDENCE OF KANYE'S RUDE SELF:

Hilarious! At the end of the day, as much as I "hate" on Kanye, I have to give him props for his music. It's fresh and fun. He doesn't always get it right, but when he gets it right, it is RIGHT!

Designer Weapons

I don't really know how to feel about this, forget that, I really like them! You have to admit, this is creative, maybe creepy. Oh, whatever I can't make up my mind. A case of indecisiveness for me! Anyway, check out this website, designs by Peter Gronquist where you can find these guns and much, much more!

Cool stuff, okay I've made up my mind, in all honesty I really do like them. I can see myself standing tall with an arched back, slowly placing my smooth fingers on the rough grip. My pinky first, followed by my ring finger and then my middle finger. Lastly, my index finger takes the initiative and situates itself on the trigger and... okay now I really want to do this! I'll take the Versace gun thanks! Don't forget the matching heels!

Chanel Tick Tock

More Chanel! I thought this was a clever way to show time. Their watches are polished and sleek, but it would be wonderful if actual clocks like this existed. Hey, maybe I could find something like this on Ebay. But, let's say this clock was real, and I did own it, I don't know if it would last in my household. I would take the 6:00 lipstick and then move on to the 10:00 lipstick and forget to put them all back. Watch out, my lips are on the move! Mu-wah
pic via: beautysnob

Most Expnesive Fendi

So how much is it? $36,600 to be exact. This bag is made of 24K gold python skin. Each of these limited edition bags will contain a gold plaque with a serial number for authenticity on the inside. Also, these bags were designed especially for Fendi's new flagship store opening in Vegas Baby at the MGM Grand City. Do you think that's too much? One thing is for sure though, if I bought that bag I would wear it everyday, regardless of whether or not it matched my outfit. I'll make it match. hehe. pic via: itsamazing.

Shiny Nikes

Not only do I like these Nikes but I love how the logo for Nike has remained the same ever since the beginning. The Nike name comes from the Greek Goddess of Victory. Less is more and the simplicity of this logo has made this one of the most recognized logos around the world. With the variety of Nikes out there, this is one of my favorites. I also love the black and white Nike Blazers. What's great is that shoes like this are supposed to be used for sports like basketball, but rarely do you see nice shoes like this on the courts. The owners have to keep 'em fresh! Swoosh! Which ones do you fancy? pic via:sneaker.com

Tribeca, New York

Judging from the title of this post, you may have thought that this would simply be about Tribeca, New York when in fact I just wanted to admire Olivia Palermo's apartment, probably one of the best in the city.

Don't you just want to sit back, relax, and dive into a magazine of Vogue?

What a great vintage florescent orange Hermes tray decorated with bangles and a shiny gold clutch. Tip: Use your jewelry and other accessories as a showcase.

I saved the best for last. This glorious closet is not actually held in a closet designated space. Instead, Olivia converted one the rooms in her home into this fabulous little boutique, well that's what it seems like, no? So, she has splashes of hats, a variety of necklaces, clutches galore, and those shoes! The zebra printed rug is a nice touch as well. Exquisite Olivia!
pics via: nypost

The City Trailer April 27th!

The City - MTV Shows

Ahh!! I am beyond ecstatic for this new season of The City. The fashion is what really lures me in, especially Oliva Palermo's sophisticated ensembles. Just from the trailer she has amazing outfits, so I can't wait for the actual episodes. This season features Whitney Port's clothing line called "Whitney Eve" but did you know that now she is being sued by former partner/designer Adrianne Baravatto who is claiming that Whitney was supposed to pay her $80,000 a year and that she would receive 25 % of the profits gained from the company. Yikes! I don't know what the future holds for Whitney but I hope everything works out okay for her. She doesn't deserve this. Although, like most celebrtity designers, if she didn't give a helping hand during the fashion process then it makes sense that this fellow designer would be asking for something that she was promised. In the meantime, I wonder if all of this is being captured by the MTV camera crew, sometimes they are just really really good, and let's not forget their oh so manipulating editing skills. Hey, whatever brings the drama right?

These Men Make Me Smile

These men are so dreamy and bonus: well dressed!

Name: Dave Franco

Age: 24
Show: Scrubs
Clothes: Suit-Ermenegildo Zegna, Shirt- Paul Smith

Name: Ben Hollingsworth
Age: 25
Show: The Beautiful Life
Clothes: Suit-Hermès, Shirt-Robert Geller


Name: Hunter Parrish
Age: 22
Show:Weeds
Clothes: Suit-Armani, Tie-Burberry, Belt-Louis Vuitton

via: Details Magazine

Icky Old News Comes Back

The other night I came home and I happily turned on the television to watch AC 360. I just have such an admiration for Anderson, he is just so nice to look at and he acts so serious, it’s kind of funny! Anyway, my point here is not to gush over Anderson Cooper, although I could easily do that. I’ll bear you my weird commentary. Instead, I want to address the fact of why John Edward's sex tape with Rielle Hunter was being discussed. What the heck!! This is so annoying. It is old news, why is it on right now and why is it being analyzed to such a degree? I think about half of the program was dedicated to this subject. Okay, Rielle has come out to the public with an interview for GQ magazine and showed her side of the story, and that’s great, but it really doesn’t provide any new information and I think it doesn't have that much added value to the story.

via:thehotjoints

It's so crazy to think of what past presidents and other people running for president could be doing and are currently doing behind closed doors. Obama, watch out, kidding! This is yet again another politician who has engaged in sexual relations behind the screen. Geez, we get it already! Well, what people do in their private lives is private, but still it just comes to show that when you are in the public eye eventually everything will leak out and people will freak out, hey that rhymed! I feel bad for the people who have supported him, donating tons of their money towards his presidential campaign. I wonder if their views have changed. Personally, because of this scandal, yes, my opinion of John Edwards has changed. I think that having a relationship on the side like that is dirty. At least he came in front of the problem and admitted to being the father of Rielle’s daughter.

But maybe I am being contradictory, because I’m writing a post about this. Maybe I am interested. Anytime there is a sex scandal, the story sells and I think that I am one of those readers who has fallen into the trap. I think it’s because of the juxtaposition of politics with sex scandals that makes it news worthy. We are so used to seeing politicians in this rigid and boring manner that everyone wants the dirt, and here it is, moist as it can be. One thing is for sure though, he should have pulled out of her before he pulled out of his presidency.

FCUK

FCUK Dresses - Fun * Classy * Unique * Kewl

Coca Cola Neva' Looked Betta'

Italian Designers such as Missoni, Marni, and one of my favorites Moschino teamed up a while back to support an earthquake in Abaruzza. Each bottle represents the famous signature of each brand. Drink Up! via:bougies

Beamer, Benz, or Bentley

WOW! This is RIDICULOUS! I can't believe that an entire song is dedicated to this. What has hip hop music come to? As much as I love hip hop music, (Lil Wayne shout out!) I feel that that the music videos are so degrading towards women. Of course you've got slutty looking girls who are barely covered, practically dancing on these men. They do nothing but seductively sway around these men or other girls. It's sad, these women are just seen as objects, just like the cars, watches, and necklaces flashed in the video. I don't think these women realize how they are being portrayed. The crazy thing is that they usually don’t even look into the camera. Their eyes are usually pointed down or to the side. This, I think is done on purpose.

What's sad is that this has become the stereotypical kind of music video for most male hip hop artists. Take for example, Gucci Mane’s new music video “Lemonade” and you will see the same aspects of women seen as objects in his video as well. Although there are not as many women in Gucci Mane’s video, there still are a few, and that makes the point. Overall, I feel like hip hop music is catchy and an energy booster for me personally. However, the music videos are just so wrong and they could be so much more creative, rather than the obvious video that we expect to see. Having the mentality of expecting to see something simply proves a lack of innovation in hip hop video making. I guess these hip hop artists are too into their drugs and cars to realize it (clearly by the lyrics in their songs). On a positive note though, I must admit I love Lloyd Banks' YSL shirt in this video. So, Beamer, Benz, or Bentley, which one do you prefer?

Crazy-Cut-Outs

These Victor and Rolf dresses are so unique. I'm in love with these cutouts and as crazy as they are I still have a liking for them. via:fashiongonerogue

Perfectly Destroyed Denim?

Oxymoron. Is this possible? Yes! Evidence Below:

Obsessed.The only thing you have to keep in mind is the fact that these jeans are only trendy right now. They won't stand the test of time, but indulge while you can. I know I did! Just remember to invest in a classic pair as well. via: abercrombie

Stylish Little Tot

You have to agree with me, is this not one of the cutest boys you have ever seen? Aww, he's so adorable and he knows how to work it with that pose! He rocks! via:thesatorialist

I'm Off To The Gym

Come workout with me! Aren't these marvelous little trinkets? Anything with cc's has that special touch to it. These babies come from the Chanel Sports 2010 collection. via:whitezine

Gucci Goodness

Top Look: Head to toe fabulousness! I swear I would wear this outfit in an instant. The plunging neckline is done in a classy fashion and the fit is magnificent.

Bottom Look: I really like how this suit resembles the look of denim. The silk collared top is a nice addition and the fading is excellent.

Gucci Fall 2010 RTW. This entire collection was great, incorporating aspects of fur, lace, and silk while defining what the classic office chic woman should wear. What do you think of this business attire? (pics via: style.com)

Housing Conflict In Jerusalem

With all of the action being taken against fee hikes and furlough days throughout the United States and especially here in California, action against the demolition of homes and the chance of being driven out of the country is taking place in the eastern part of Jerusalem. The mayor of Jerusalem, Nir Barkat, has a new plan to get rid of the old neighborhood of Al Bustan in order to build a national park that will attract tourists and bring in money for the city. The mayor believes that it has major potential; residents disagree and wish to stay where they are. This is the overall message, but, because of the Palestinian - Israeli conflict, the underlying plan is to have all Palestinians dispossessed of their current homes to have them be replaced by Jewish people. The mayor of Jerusalem says that he has the Palestinians in mind but they believe that he is a liar. I just can’t believe that the mayor would sink this low and use the new buildings to justify the situation of having the Palestinians leave the country. I understand where he is coming from and the money that it will bring towards Al Bustan. However, he can’t put a price on the destruction that it will cause on the lives of these current residents.

In the picture above, these children are protesting and have the right to do so. If children are protesting at their tender, young ages then what does that tell you? (This is a note to myself). Having the opportunity to stand up and take action by marching around town and informing their fellow residents of the issues is truly an inspiration and has courage and empowerment written all over it. (pics via: nytimes)

♥ Most Adorable Commercial ♥

Take 53 seconds to watch this and your little heart will melt, guilty as charged!

Bow-tiful Hair Accessories

Ever feeling bored with your hair, well believe me its getting bored of you too, kidding! So anyway, these are great accessories that you can just throw on to feel new. Super cute! Yup, I love bows. Who doesn't? via:forever21