cultureofcute

Archive for August, 2009|Monthly archive page


Perfect in Paisley

In Fashion on August 31, 2009 at 2:47 pm

Paisley dresses

There is something timeless, romantic, flirty and feminine about a flowing Paisley dress. When we get sick and tired of looking professional, bad-ass, or super sexy…a refreshing change in wardrobe is a must! Lately, we’ve seen certain celebrities floating around in paisley dresses looking refreshed, approachable and most importantly, comfortable.

A bright and colorful paisley print dress is perfect for casual office wear or cocktail parties. Or for an edgier feel to this late summer ensemble, pair a short paisley dress with dark-opaque tights or chunky boots.

Here are a few of our favorite paisley prints:

- Macy’s INC Paisley Print Jersey Maxi Dress: $89

- Forever 21′s Regal Paisley Maxi Dress: $24.80

-Victoria’s Secret’s Halter Bra Top maxi dress: $108

- Sky’s Palazzo Dress: $262

Kate Moss n’ Topshop: Fall Collection online today!

In Fashion on August 31, 2009 at 10:10 am

kate moss

On my recent trip to London, my first priority shopping trip was focused on visiting the acclaimed Topshop store and bringing some of Kate Moss’s saucy fashion line back to the US with me. Thankfully (and starting today) I don’t have to take another expensive trip to Londontown to fill my closet with edgy and oh-so-cool eurowear.

Kate Moss’s newest collection for TopShop is in Stores (in the US) and online today! The collection is a more grown-up interpretation of Moss’s signature rock and roll style with jeweled jackets, classic cardigans and plenty of look-at-me cocktail dresses.

Our personal favorites are the Sequin Waterfall Vest for a cool $80 and the Military Style Cardigan which will run you $90.

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Hey There Stud

In Fashion on August 28, 2009 at 4:14 pm

Studded Clutch

When Miuccia Prada launched her MIU MIU line, I was only 10 years old, but I still remember leafing through my mom’s W and Vanity Fair’s to see the stylish “youth oriented” styles. I was a fan from day one. That might explain the borderline obsession I have with this MIU MIU studded leather clutch.

Supple black leather? Check. Stylish gold studs? Check. Nice size? Check. This bag has so much to offer, it can add a little toughness to sweet looks and can totally dress up jeans and a tank.

Clutches are never out of style, no matter how much giant hobo and doctor bags may be “in”, when you are ready for a night out- stylish and classic clutch is the way to go. No one needs to schlep their life to a bar or dinner: cash, some lip gloss, keys and phone. Done!

Also check out the Michael Kors Delancey clutch for a more affordable way to enjoy this look!

Cost: $475.00 (buy it once, use it forever).

Buy It: www.mytheresa.com


Sun Worshiper’s Best Friend

In Electronics on August 28, 2009 at 10:11 am

UV Monkey

Ok…We all know that a sun-kissed tan makes us feel more attractive, skinnier, refreshed and in general…better looking. We also know that logging too many hours in the sun will have us most definitely looking like the tanorexic Magda (think leathery, over tanned skin) from “There’s something about Mary”. Let’s blame that evil Ultraviolet light for making us cower underneath a large brimmed hat and slather on SPF 75…

However, if you want to spend a day at the beach or hiking in the mountains, there is no avoiding the sun and just short of wearing a ski mask and space suit…how do we know if the evil UV is getting to us?

In comes the UV Monkey. This magical little device attaches to our keyring and lets us know at what levels the sun is kicking off wrinkle-inducing (not to mention cancer causing) UV rays! The UV Monkey will assist you by checking UV levels so that you know when to protect your skin. This helpful device is especially necessary for the lil ones because we all know that permanent skin damage from too much sun often is done before age 18.

Once exposed to sunlight, the center will change to different shades of purple to indicate increasing levels of UV light (darker means higher level of UV). The UV Monkey can indicate 4 different ranges of the UV Index (Index 1-2, Index 3-5, Index 6-8, Index 9-11).

Au revoir UV fear. Hello UV Monkey!

Cost: $9.99

Buy It: Think Geek


Clear Skin Ahead!

In Fashion on August 27, 2009 at 3:47 pm

Clarisonic

Every time I go to the spa for a facial, I feel brand new when I come out, but I also feel slightly robbed. I have been wanting to emulate that feeling at home without the spend and all signs point to the Clarisonic.

Anyone who has ever used a Sonicare® toothbrush can vouch for the amazing powers of the “sonic technology”. The Clarisonic was developed by the lead inventor of Sonicare® toothbrush and used and recommended by leading dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons.
Imagine soft bristles oscillating back and forth at a sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second on your face! I know it can sound a little intimidating, but your skin is left so very soft and clear. The brand claims that regular daily use the Clarisonic reduces dry skin patches, oily areas and blemishes leaving skin feeling and looking smoother, and seriously who does not want that?

Cost: $195 (steep I know, but a one time buy!)

Buy It: www.sephora.com

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Trench to Transition the Seasons

In Fashion on August 27, 2009 at 10:14 am

Willa Holland Trench

At a recent party celebrating the first anniversary of 3.1 Phillip Lim’s Los Angeles store, Willa Holland (best known for her time on the TV show the “OC”) was spotted in a culture-of-cute-worthy outfit. The actress reminded me anew of the versatility of a lightweight trench and how it’s the perfect piece to wear between seasons. While Holland opted for Lim’s Leopard Print Silk Trench Coat ($725 at Nordstrom) over her floaty tank and pencil mini skirt, there are some great traditional options in stores.

Topping our list right now is the Gap’s Classic Trench Coat ($88), as it offers loads of style for a limited amount of money. Wear it with your airy outfits now or just throw it on with jeans and an over-sized button-down come fall!

Some of our other favorite trenches:

Jessica Simpson – Double Breasted Trench Coat – Cost: $128

Buy It: Nordstrom.com

Bebe – Raw Edge Ruffle Trench Coat – Cost: $129

Buy it: BeBe.com

Tahari ‘Gia’ Belted Satin Trench Coat – Cost: $89

Buy it: Nordstom


Shine on Me

In Fashion on August 26, 2009 at 3:29 pm

sequin pants

As we venture into fall, it’s important to note that virtually every designer sent sequins flying down the runways. You name it, it sparkled: scarves, jackets, hats and all.

I’ve always been a huge fan of the sequin. I’ve always loved anything with a lil bling and sparkle to it and as we’ve mentioned before, leggings are hot haute hot this fall. With these saucy bottoms, you get two trends with one stone. Sequins + Leggings = Magic! They’ll bring out the David Bowie flamboyant glamour in anyone.

They’re best worn with a long basic white tank or tee—leave all the drama for below the belt. For shoes, go with an ankle boot or black patent pump. Who doesn’t want a little extra glitter in their life? Love me some sequins.

Cost: $80

Buy It: Top Shop

La La La La Lola

In Fashion on August 26, 2009 at 9:59 am

MJ Lola

I’ll admit it; I like the package to be as alluring as the product. Marc Jacobs never fails to make his perfume bottles total dresser eye candy. Thankfully the fragrance is always just as lovely. I have been wearing Marc Jacobs Daisy for awhile and can’t wait to try his newest fragrance: Lola.

Following in the lines of many fragrances lately, this bouquet is targeted to a slightly younger crowd. Filled with notes of pear, grapefruit, pink peppercorn, peony, rose, and geranium it is a lovely mix of fresh and fruity. I love the addition of grapefruit; it totally makes a fragrance playful. If it is mature and musk your are looking for, this may not be right for your, indulge in a bottle of Shalimar.

Cost: $65-85.00

Buy It: www.bloomingdales.com

Channeling Your Inner Preppy

In Fashion on August 25, 2009 at 3:42 pm

Tory Burch Polo

One of my favorite looks is a nice fitted polo over cute jeans. It is painfully easy but still looks so ‘pulled together’. Fitted polos are popping up in fall casual collections all over the place.
I was browsing online when I stumbled upon this Tory Burch Pique Polo. I love the slightly longer length to elongate the torso as well as the great gold logo buttons. You can totally dress this up or down.

Ralph Lauren also makes a great polo (lots of them) but especially the skinny fitted polo from the Blue Label Collection. You can also grab some great affordable polos from the Gap and American Eagle.

Cost: $20-125
Tory Burch Polo: $95

Buy It: www.bloomingdales.com


Living the Vida Coco

In Health & Fitness on August 25, 2009 at 10:32 am

Vita Coco

Wanna stay summer fresh well into the autumn months? Unlike mojitos, Vita Coco, the tropical elixir, is actually good for you. Low in carbs but packed with skin-soothing antioxidants and potassium, “it also helps regulate blood pressure,” says nutritionist Ashley Koff.

Vita Coco is 100% pure coconut water and claims to bring you a refreshing, electrolyte-replacing beverage that surpasses artificial sports drinks in every way – except in artificiality. Vita Coco contains no artificial ingredients and unlike coconut milk, coconut water contains no fat or cholesterol. Its an excellent source of the five essential electrolytes: potassium, calcium, phosphorous, sodium, magnesium – in fact, they seem to have all the important “ums” covered. And its made in Brazil…where everything sexy originates.

Cost: $21 for 12 11.1-oz drinks

Buy It: Amazon.com

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