So maybe it’s because we’re phasing out the very last day of September, but I am convinced that the month’s radiating sapphire birthstone dictated everyone’s fashion choices for the burgeoning fall season. My muse: InTouch Magazine, Oct. 4th edition. And the feature that drew my jewelr-adoring eyes in (much like the way the actual gemstone entrances me)? It headlined ‘Blue hues ruled at Fashion Week!’ Well, it may have ‘ruled’ at Fashion Week – as evidenced by the beautifully beryl runway bound celebs decorating the glossy InTouch pages (see Carmen Electra, Ashley Greene, Jessica Lowndes, Rebecca Romijn and Kristin Cavallari all looking phenomenal), BUT the blue trend was catalyst a while before fashion week 2010 appearances. Lea Michele and January Jones both wore shades of blue for the 2010 Primetime Emmy Awards in August. While the adorably outgoing GLEE star didn’t walk away with a golden trophy, she scored insane points for fashion finesse..making almost EVERY best dressed list. Any which way you turned this month, blue was icing over every starlet’s wardrobe color palette. I just love blue so much because it looks good on everyone – especially light-skinned ladies. There is an elegance and a very regal quality with the shade, as well. And, returning to my scholar background, almost any psych professional would tell you that blue is extremely calming, relaxing, and therapeutic. Looks good on, feels good on, and makes ME feel good..almost too good to be true…blue! Sherri Hill’s bevy of blue echoes the beautiful and regal aesthetic of Oscar de la Renta and Versace gowns. And just like a sapphire, these dresses command serious attention. For once, maybe having ‘the blues’ is a good thing?

So it’s pretty likely that you’ve heard the phrases ‘old money, new money..’ ‘old world, new world..’ tossed around from time to time. Well nowadays, with a pop culture obsessed and entertainment savvy society, it’s also likely that you’ve been hearing ‘Old Hollywood Vs. New Hollywood.’ For good reason, too! Even though George Clooney, Richard Gere, Brad Pitt and Johnny Depp (to name a few) have won over the hearts of our mothers, there is an entirely new class of talented, suave, and unmistakably fine young Hollywood gentlemen blazing the star-studded trail. This goes for the starlet arena, as well; while our fathers look to Nicole Kidman, Catherine Zeta Jones, and Sandra Bullock as beauty icons, we admire the adorable and undoubtedly mature and sweetly sophisticated looks of Demi Lovato and Taylor Swift. As a disclaimer: I’ve used these celeb references in relation to my age – 22. I realize that Old Hollywood connotes something/somebodies wholly different, but for me, as a Generation Y-er, these actors and actresses are sufficing as reps for the ‘Old Hollywood’ category. Anywho..’Young Hollywood’ is totally in these days..has been for quite some time. Every day, with every new Disney show, Nickelodeon program, ABC Family series, and/or CW teen drama, a hot celebrity newcomer is born. And these fresh sweeties and studs are everywhere. Decorating the glossy pages of celebrity, fashion, and beauty mags, posing for a much publicized red carpet shot, or joining together for a PSA that will surely tune the attention of some otherwise apathetic listeners. With all this hooplah surrounding the Young Hollywood circuit, it’s only fitting that there would be TONS of parties, grandiose social events, and ‘mixers’ planned to celebrate their fame and success. With a keen insight into all things young, fresh, fashionable, and on-trend, TEEN VOGUE has played host for seven [going on eight] annual ‘Young Hollywood’ parties. Complete with a camera flashing red carpet, the event ushers in the hottest of the hot to mingle, compare filmography, and possibly even jumpstart a budding romance. This Friday, October 1st, will be the eighth annual young celeb soiree, and with a track record of some fierce and fiery fashion, it’s a pretty good guess that these paramount powerhouses will be dressed ‘to the nines!’ Needless to say, I’M looking forward to each and every red carpet debut…Even though these stars are my peers, they still make fab style icons!!!

So this blog is going to be a little different, thematically, from most of my previous entries – but still interesting and worthwhile, nonetheless. As I was doing my usual perusing of magazines last week, I stumbled upon a really cool feature in the Oct. issue of People StyleWatch. If you’ve been keeping up with the blahblahblonde blogosphere, this is definitely not the first time I’ve referenced the ever style savvy and uber forward thinking People counterpart. In fact, this post will stay in the same color palette as last week. Only, instead of peach and buff, I will be talking about PINK (my favorite!). As almost everyone knows, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The approachable and identifiably female color, pink, has headlined and guided the breast cancer cause/research campaign for what seems like forever at this point. No mistakes to be made, this campaign has found tremendous success and support. I think this is the case, because the ribbon insignia and the universal pink color are so hyper-connected to womankind. The marketing schema surrounding the breast cancer campaign has also proven very fruitful; the cause has been received and recognized by millions of people and that alone can incite contribution and philanthropy. Now once that strong symbol is paired with items that consumers crave, the campaign gains even greater encouragement. One such item that PSW featured was the Coach brand ‘BCRF Maggie’ leather shoulder bag. A bag that would certainly reserve top priority on any woman’s (myself included) wish list. Coach is donating 20% of all earned proceeds to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. My guess is that the pink color draws them in, and the attached cause only reinforces the purchase. Whether the woman commits to buying the bag as a treat for herself or feels more comfortable because the buy is promoting charity, all three parties make out well. One happy and stylish customer, a happy and richer Coach employee, and a stronger BCRF alliance made. Ralph Lauren’s ‘Pink Pony’ operation has been around for years now. And even while the effort has most definitely driven in profits for RL itself, PP exudes nobility with strong philanthropic roots. According to Ralph Lauren himself, “Breast Cancer is not just a woman’s issue — it affects all of us: the brothers, husbands, fathers, children, and friends. Pink Pony is our effort in the fight against cancer.”

So about a month back I was falling in love with the ‘nude’ trend. Uh, no, not referencing streaking or the au naturale look – although if you’ve been keeping up with MTV premieres, this Monday’s first season 2 episode of The Buried Life might cover that..watch the previews, you’ll know what I’m talking about. In all seriousness, I’m talking about the new nudes trend that is basically leading this fall’s fashion forecast. Perfect example, and reason why you’ll want to explore the trend: People StyleWatch October issue. Three of the first major fashion pages of the magazine are dedicated to paying homage to the nearly nudes. Not to mention, these three illustrious pages also feature items that are all under $100!!! Stylish, chic, and not threatening to burn a hole in your purse. Just as the PSW gurus expressed, these pale, peachy, buff, and blush items all prescribe a feminine and fresh look (enhanced and made only more chic by occasional sparkle). Taking the style sage advice from People and matching it with a few of my own interpretations, I’ve come up with a tightly honed philosophy on why this trend is so appreciated. Just as a white and/or ivory color palette connotes an angelic look, light and airy, silky and serene, a neutral or nude color palette works to create a goddess-like look. A nude gown, complete with delicate draping and relaxed ruffles can synthesize a soft Aphrodite-like aesthetic. Uber feminine and very approachable, especially for a porcelain complexion like mine. And also, which such a neutral non-ostentatious foundation, an outfit can be elevated with a likewise classic and beautiful piece of jewelry, a matching clutch, and/or a simple pair of matte or antiqued stiletto heels. Sherri’s own interpretation of the nude trend takes form in peachy, champagne inspired minis and long gowns that use jewel and crystal embellishment to achieve that desired sparkle. For the shorter, baby doll silhouette designs, Sherri uses layers of soft tulle to create pretty, bouncy, and ultra-girly effect.

So if you were tuned in to our facebook and twitter posts for the day, you already know that last night C.I. Visions got ‘Snooked!!!!’ And for those Jersey Shore illiterate, I mean that the show’s own Nicole ‘Snooki’ Polizzi and our client Sherri Hill formed a match made in GTL heaven. The adorable pint sized guidette [self-proclaimed] appeared on the Late Show with David Letterman yesterday – leaving the crowd laughing and thirsting for a taste of the notorious ‘Ron Ron Juice.’ And while the majority of the segment gave us just a more detailed glimpse into the antics and chaotic circus-like behavior at the Seaside/Miami beach estate, watching the golden goddess interact with David in such a candid way was just refreshing. Sometimes everyone needs to let go of inhibitions and release their tension with a fist-pump that rivals those of the Karma-dwelling ‘juice-heads.’ Snooki shocked everyone when she ditched her signature animal print wardrobe and switched it up for a silver sparkling mini from Sherri Hill. Even though it may not have triggered her ‘animal instincts,’ Sherri Hill’s style # 2334 definitely channeled Snooki’s fun-loving, party/club-rocking personality. Definitely a dress that she can ‘beat up the beats’ with – that means dance in Snooks. Check out the full video on Sherri Hill’s own facebook page. And feel free to browse the website for more Snooki-approved looks..with or without the poof

So a few weeks back I started discussing one of my favorite school year events: Homecoming. Well, since the weather has turned a little colder and the leaves a different shade of color, the fall homecoming season has officially hit. Meaning: pumpkin picking, apple cider drinking, haunted hayride riding, and prepping for a homecoming dance that will surely clench the most anticipatory spot in any fall frenzied lineup. My college’s homecoming/alumni weekend is actually this upcoming weekend and while I won’t be in attendance, my heart will certainly be bleeding cardinal red and gray in rememberance of happy college days past. For all those who haven’t graduated yet..homecoming in the midst signals serious beautification preparation. And for most, that all starts with the perfect dress. Since all of us at the office have born witness to the excitement, thrill, and unifying effect of homecoming, we’ve collaborated with designer Sherri Hill to put together a helpful hint list to guide dress shopping for this special night. Not to mention, keeping these tips in mind can work to ensure [as Rachel Zoe would say], ‘major’ votes for Homecoming Queen….Just saying..

1. Determine the Dance Type. Is your school’s homecoming a semiformal event or a dressy dance? This can help you determine the correct length, fabric, shape and overall style of the dress. For more formal events, both long and short dresses are appropriate and girls can go all out in all-over sequins and elegant velvets and satins with feather and beaded trims. For a more casual dance a short dress is the way to go with the “special occasion” added in beaded and sequined touches at the neckline, waist and hemline.

2. Look to the Red Carpet. “Today young girls are fashionistas! They have been watching their favorite television shows, ripping out inspiration pages from fashion magazines and taking notes on what young Hollywood is wearing – all in hopes of dancing at homecoming in a star-worthy dress.” says Hill. “It’s important to incorporate all of their inspiration and ‘must-haves’ into one dream dress – from Taylor Swift inspired sparkle and fringe to Selena Gomez influenced baby-doll looks and Kim Kardashian’s tight and body hugging “bandage” style sheaths.”

3. Make the Dress One-of-a-Kind. No one wants to arrive for the dance and see someone else in the same exact dress – girls today want to celebrate individual style. This easily be accomplish by choosing a simple-styled dress with clean lines that falls at the knee or just above it and styling and accessorizing with a unique pair of shoes, handbag and hair accessory or a statement piece of jewelry to ensure a finished look no other girl will have.

4. Go for the Wow Factor. Let prints, trims or a pop of bright color dress up an otherwise simply cut dress. Look for strapless, off the shoulder, and asymmetrically cut necklines to add instant glamour. A dress with a ruffled bodice, fringed edging or rhinestone or beaded trim and edging will rally the cheers.

5. Be prepared for the elements. Because homecoming is in the fall, weather can be unpredictable. Choosing a sleeveless shift dress in cotton sateen or taffeta or a short-sleeved jewel-neck dress in a shiny solid fabric is always a safe choice. Pair the dress with a great fuzzy sweater, faux fur shrug or caplet to complete the look and ward off seasonal temperature changes.

Five sure-fire tips for a Homecoming ‘hit!’

So. In the last year or two, Jersey has been exposed ALL OVER THE PLACE. If it’s not the GTL or ‘smushing’ going on at the J. Shore house, it’s cat fights, perfectly quaffed hair, and dramatic makeup application exploding at Gatsby Salon. If there’s not a sister vs. sister match at Diane & Co., you can bet there’s a take down, drag out brawl going on between some heated Housewives at the Brownstone. And while many people have had it up to here with the New Jersey exploitation..I’ve been tuned in and attentively taking in all of the drama and hysteria every week. Yep, I’m a native Jersey girl, and can totally understand the frustration that Jersey-ites are contending with, but my goodness it’s QUITE entertaining TV. Yet, while the state sure may be taking hits, the fabric is totally hot. Let alone its pure softness and comfortable feel, jersey serves as a foundational fabric to every wardrobe season after season. Not to mention, jersey bed sheets are the BEST sheets. Distancing herself [just a little] from her flair for special occasion design, Sherri has created an exclusive jersey separates collection that is in all ways feminine, beautiful, and edgy. Done in mostly black and whites (channeling a very classic color palette and simple aesthetic), the collection features soft one-piece jumpers, long gowns, shorter, more form-fitting draped minis, and fashion-forward separates pieces (including harem pants, embellished tunics, and slinky tanks). The collection is definitely something different for Sherri, but in demonstration of her serious designer competence, a total success. Very chic. There you go, jersey, you’ve got your reputation and integrity back!

So as Fashion Week is coming to a close..I wanted to pay tribute, for the final time, to some noticeable and well-received trends emerging from the much-loved fashion palooza. Scanning through numbers of FW reviews, I was captivated by Harper’s Bazaar online review from this week. Maybe it’s due, in part, to the clever and whimsical, yet descriptive names given to each trend by the editorial geniuses. Though, I think it’s just my penchant for organization and clarity that propels me into looking at trend reports. Having a clear-cut, sectioned off matrix of trends basically suffices as my fashion instruction manual – all ready to take out on my [somewhat contained] buying sprees! So one of my FAVORITE trends that has cropped up on HB radar: Eccentric color combinations. Meaning: bold choices in color, mixed and matched. This would also include wild prints, eclectic patterns, interesting and ironic icons and appliqué, a basic circus of sorts. And while that might be a HUGE fashion risk for a lot of women, for others, this might be a welcomed challenge. Carolina Herrera and Oscar de la Renta think so, at least! And it’s never a bad thing to be the center of fashion attention (when it’s positive, of course). More than anything else this season, I think that THIS trend is for the original trend-setter; the woman who chooses to blaze her own trail, set her own path, in style. I’m definitely game! Sherri Hill rises to the eccentric color combination occasion with a collection that radiates bright and colorful personality. Available in short or long, this color-crazy couture is right on point!

So as I was perusing through the October issue of Lucky, I was struck by a feature on page 134: Biker Chains. Pretty intense, pretty hardcore, pretty nothing I would ever usually divert my attention for. And why is that, you may ponder? Well, to be entirely blunt, black leather, grommets, fringe and sterling silver chains have always signaled a style that was way too edgy and intimidating to me. I’ve always maintained that ‘good girl,’ ‘goody two shoes’ reputation, so somehow, along my twenty-two years of life, this style has been unnoticeably phased out or (more unfortunately) never candidly considered. I think this article forced me out of my fixed thinking about biker inspired apparel. Instead of keeping with my masculine schema for biker wear, I have started to consider a feminine alternative. Aptly named ‘biker bling chic.’ And instead of staying within the confines of accessories, I’m going to segue into biker chic outfit – sort of a nod to Cathy Horyn’s article on ‘ Biker Chic’ in July of this year. Only last week we were talking about the little black dress and it’s renowned acclaim (ahem, Oxford English Dictionary)..well, what can be better than an LBD with some extra bling? Especially sexy for those super special occasions. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with a simply, subtle black dress. But if you’re already going sexy (which, with a black dress, you always are), then why not elevate the look a little more? Infusing just a little bit of ‘bad girl’ into your debut – bad girl, but with refined edge. Sherri Hill’s cocktail collection offers a variety of dresses that appeal to this biker chic phenomenon. Black bandage dresses (or, as we would call them, shape shifters) with heavy silver jewel embellishment can offer a more mainstream, eased into biker look. While her silk satin onyx minis with corset tops and studding or silver chain mail detail can easily accomplishment biker/rocker chic fusion. Not a Harley enthusiast? No worries. Biker chic easily achievable for the non-riders among us.

So this will be a relatively short post for today..but, of course, worth the commentary. Last night marked one of music’s biggest and most prestigious annual award shows. Well, to be honest, the MTV Video Music Awards show is THE event for today’s past, current, and budding music artists. Not to mention, MTV’s bevy of reality TV stars also help to comprise the list of highly esteemed attendees. Whether you’re a Jersey Shore fan (which I most definitely am, shame and embarrassment welcome) or not, you’d be entirely mistaken to think that the club-clad collection of guidos and guidettes was not high up on the evening’s HOTT commodity list. The show, led by sexy satire queen Chelsea Handler, was fab to watch on its own – not surprising considering the witty and comical promos leading up to the big night. And while I thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of Lady Gaga’s acceptances (it’s always an adventure with the trend-setting, fashion eclectic pop mistress), my fave part of the two-hour music video extravaganza was definitely the live red carpet affair..or white carpet if you’re MTV. This year’s VMA fashion fixation: minis, sequins and metallics. Leaving Lady Gaga’s eccentric eveningwear on hold for a moment, most of the night’s diva’s were dressed in tight, body hugging minis decked out in sequin and sparkle. Sofia Vergara and MTV stars Lo Bosworth, Audrina Patridge and Sahar Dika (my favorite Real World NOLA girl) were scintillatingly sparkling. Others (i.e. JWOWW, Amber Lancaster – Hard Times of RJ Berger- and Natalie Horler of Cascada) were big proponents of the ‘little black dress,’ repping short skin-tight black beauties with one-shoulder straps and blinged out embellishment. And finally, the young Hollywood ‘It’ girls, including Selena Gomez and Victoria Justice rocked out in a myriad of metallics that looked stunning against their brunette locks. Check out MTV.com for full VMA fashion coverage..and compare some of these celebrity looks to Sherri Hill’s cocktail collection..the resemblance is scary!!!