in a word...fab!

Adam Lambert Plays a Love Game

2009-10-21T22:53:00.000-04:00

Is there any doubt that Glambert is the sexiest m-effer to croon his way to the finale of American Idol...like ever? Whether you're gay, straight, deaf, mute or blind, the animal magnetism of this man is absolutely inescapable. And don't get me started on that voice. To quote Rachel Zoe, it is beyooond.

That being said, this photo shoot is the steamed milk in my sexual-latte. I am so in love with the idea of blurring the lines of sexuality, gender and attraction.

Says Adam, "I am gay, but I like kissing women sometimes. Women are pretty."

Want more? Check out the article accompanying these pics, here.

Source/Source

Fashion Week; Spring '10

2009-10-01T11:50:00.002-04:00

Last year, I was a virgin to the Fashion Week frenzy. I'd had to travel down from my school upstate. I was amazed by the fashions around me, the display in the middle, I was even excited just to be standing on the lines. This year, I was excited to be there but I took it like a pro; in and out! I went to Vessel by Lois; which was set up in a building surrounded by warehouses, construction and the club, Mansion. I also attended Ports1961, Tibi and Toni Francesc; all under the tents.

The display under the tents was a set up of luggage by MCM. They're an old leather goods company that has sprung back into the fashion world. There was a small thing on them in NYLON's newest issue about their purses. The other day, my friend bought a wallet made by them at a consignment shop. Looks like someone missed the fashion curve! Oh well, one mans trash is another mans treasure, and MCM looked like the makings of a fabulous treasure chest at Fashion Week.

For Vessel, I was given back stage access and spoke with the make-up director and the hair stylist who explained that in paired with such androgynous collection, Lois, the model turned designer, wanted the look to be relaxed and natural. All the pieces seemed very male-inspired: Down to the shoes. It was very tailored and very conservative. I also happened to see Malik Yoba and snack on mini beef patties.

Ports 1961 was an ethereal collection. It held a very tranquil presence with iridescent pastels, cremes, and whites. There were plenty of draped backs, cinched waists, soft materials and roomy pieces.

Tibi was my favorite, by far. The collection was quite colorful, very fun, and perfect for the season. There was wide variety of silhouettes and details: lots of one-shoulder's; silky loose short shorts; ruffles, flowers and adornments stitching. Chrisette Michelle was in attendance, as well as Jade from America's Next Top Model and Amerie.

Toni Francesc was called Waters Mood and it stayed true to it's name. When it wasn't moody with structured silhouettes, fierceness, origami designs and tight to the body, it was flowing and flirty like water. I was a little bored at this show but it there were some amazing and interesting pieces.

It seems this year trends are hinting at hard and soft: origami, lots of structure but still flowing skirts and draped backs. I love that color is popping up this year: maybe this means we're heading out of this economic "depression". There was still a lot of men's-wear inspired clothes, from Lois' androgynous collection to Ports 1961's take on pegleg pants. But this has been going on since the 20's and I doubt it's going anywhere.

Well, that was my Fashion Week. Here's what I wore the last day.

Lovingly, In AWord Intern.

Fab Fall Booties!

2009-09-21T22:17:00.005-04:00

YSL Caged Booties
$1,130

Did you go gaga for the sinfully strappy Yves Saint Laurent Caged Booties on the YSL Spring 2009 runway? If so, we've got something in common! And lucky for us, the knockoffs have hit the market.

Bakers Ashton

$59.99

Infinitely more wearable than the original and for a tenth of the price? These Bakers heels are a no-brainer.

I just scooped up a similar pair (but with a thinner, higher heel) by Michael Antonio through my Shoe Dazzle subscription. Perfect paired with everything from black skinnies to a belted floral dress, I can't stop wearing them! Go on, give your Fall wardrobe some serious edge.

Happy Fashion Week!

2009-09-12T11:18:00.005-04:00

Seventies Side Eye

Hello my loves! I can feel the side eyes from here, as I have been hopelessly MIA from this here blog. So where have I been? Being a lawyer (my bosses actually expect me to work, the nerve), drafting my next exclusive (featuring Luke Destin, Oprah's fashion stylist, yay!), being fabulous (it's exhausting) and planning my world takeover. Endless apologies...I've missed you all!

Currently, I am all up and through the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week tents, so I can bring you the trends and fashion tidbits you need! Next stop, Paris Fashion Week!

Thank you for all of your positive energy and dazzling love...

Stay devastingly fab, Elle

Picture Source

It's Baaaaack! Project Runway Premieres Tonight!

2009-08-20T16:10:00.000-04:00

Pour the pinot, pop the corn, pass the dutchie and prepare yourself for another magically delicious season of designer drama as Project Runway (woo!) debuts on its new channel, Lifetime, tonight at 10 pm!

The lost Season 6 will finally air after 8 months of legal shenanigans, and I haven't been this excited for television since RuPaul's Drag Race and its glittery gays were swirling around on Logo. (Puhleeze tell me that Season Two is in production!)

But I digress. This is about PR! All of our favorites judges are back, including Heidi, Tim, Michael and Nina (yes, we are on a first name basis). And speaking of favorites, as if the PR premiere weren't enough, Lifetime is airing a special All Star Challenge tonight at 8 pm, featuring eight past PR finalists competing for $100,000!

I'm practically schvitzing with anticipation! Where the H are my blotting papers when I need them?

Be there tonight at 8!

Fab Look of the Day

2009-08-20T13:46:00.006-04:00

Go Mo! One of my favorite funny girls, Monique, made a dazzling arrival at the Hoodie Awards this past weekend in Vegas looking like a svelte and feathery dream!

Although I do wish her buhbies were perched just a tad higher, it is clear losing 40 pounds and wearing strategically placed undergarments has worked wonders for Miss Mo! And more importantly, she is giving me effects with this dress! The silhouette makes her look long, lean and luscious. I also love the fact that she paired it with simple hair, soft makeup and minimal accessories. Claps and snaps to her handlers, good work out of each and every one of you!

Monique has chosen the perfect time to get ready for her close up. She has the industry abuzz with her apparent star turn in the highly anticipated film, Precious, and will soon debut her own late night talk show on BET. Good for you girl!

Source

The Shigoto Launch at Ninja

2009-08-12T00:35:00.000-04:00

The Japanese-inspired setting was the perfect touch to transport those of us who attended the Shigoto launch at Ninja NYC to ancient Tokyo. From the artsy serving dishes to booths surrounded by scenic rocks and trees, from bamboo fences and walkways offsetting coal black floors and walls, it was an ethnic extravaganza! The singular path in front crowded by photographers and fashion addicts was soon dotted with models sporting Shigoto.

The models were diversified in ethnicity but shared one thing in common: harem pants! Wide and spacious throughout and snug at the ankle, this trend has surfaced quite rapidly, with some success and very many failures. For Shigoto, they came is varied colors: red, white, turquoise and blue, even emblazoned with SHIGOTO in rhinestones.

Fun fact: harem pants like these were worn by Japanese construction workers centuries ago. The men accessorized the slightly baggy look with shoes that separated the big toe from the rest.

Elle and Momma

The designer, Jasper Momma, proud of his accomplishments and more than willing to share his inspiration behind the collection, tells me that he traveled to Japan to find rich, quality fabrics to make the pants with. This is the one part that is completely unlike the uniform in which it was borrowed, Momma says the construction workers pants were made of much thinner, cheaper fabric.

Best part of the night, the separated toe socks in our goodie bags!

-Reporting by Nastasia, Inaword Intern

Come party with Eva the Diva, this Thursday!

2009-08-11T12:06:00.003-04:00

Top Model, Actress and Covergirl

"Eva Marcille"

hosts her annual

ALL WHITE AFFAIR
-

this Thursday, August 13

at the luxe Suzie Wongs

547 W. 27th Street (betw 10 and 11th)

Open Bar from 11 to 12 am (get there early, gumdrops!)

Red Carpet at 11 pm

Media inquiries, email press@hustlemode.com

All others, RSVP at eva@hustlemode.com

I usually can't stand a function that forces me to blend in, but for Miss Eva, I will make an exception! My white dress is fresh, pressed and ready to blind you bishes! Can't wait to see you there!

xo, Elle

There's No Match for Sharon Stone (NSFW pics)

2009-08-11T00:02:00.005-04:00

Actress and humanitarian Sharon Stone is fearless, fiery and ferocious on the cover and inside spread of September's Paris Match magazine. Not only is the 51-year-old giving good face and looking absolutely amazing in her dominatrix looks, but she is going Bruno (aka full-on frontal)! Shot by photog, Alix Malka, the mother of three posed in corsets, gloves and high leather boots. Jesus be Sharon's metabolism after three kids!

"I'm a person who feels that if it's appropriate for the character I'm playing or the mood of the piece, then [nudity is] no big thing," says Sharon. See the proof, below.

Read the article (in French), here.

Rachel Roy for Macy's

2009-08-10T00:36:00.001-04:00

Rachel Roy's Twitpic of her Soho popup

This month, noted designer (and former wifey of Damon Dash) Rachel Roy is debuting her trendy new Rachel Rachel Roy collection for Macy's. Macy's, taking a cue from Target's ingenious and super successful collaborations with high end designers, will debut the line instore this month and as well, will feature it in a Soho pop-up (111 Spring Street) starting today. It will remain open through the end of Fashion Week.

The line features fun pieces like trenches, jumpers and shorts from $59 to $299, shoes from $79 to $199 and bags from $69 to $109. And all of the Fall trends are covered! Studs, zippers, ruffles, plaid and even acid wash dot the line.

If you've been yearning for a Rachel Roy piece in your collection, get yours while you can!

Source

Work wha?? It's National Pampering Day!

2009-08-04T00:07:00.001-04:00

PrettyCity.com has declared today, August 4th, National Pampering Day! What exactly does that mean? You should spend the day (or at least a part of it) taking care of you! There are a million and one reasons to leave early or skip work altogether, personally, I'm having my pipes cleaned! *wink*

Select your city at PrettyCity.com for savings on spa packages that will get your motor running!

xo, Elle

Recessionistas: Visit Buffalo Exchange!

2009-08-03T00:09:00.001-04:00

Picture this: a fashion-addict, fresh out of college, during a recession, searching frantically for a good job within her field, sharing a room with her little sister while dreaming of a closet all to herself! You can probably guess that this young woman is worried, amongst other things, about how she will get her next shopping fix. In comes Buffalo Exchange!

Thrift shopping has become a favorite past time of mine, so last month, a friend and I were looking for men's shoes for an upcoming wedding and decided to head to Buffalo Exchange, a store that specializes in "recycled" clothing and accessories. Shoppers can buy, sell and trade unique pieces on the spot! That's where I stumbled upon these Steve Madden beauties...

...and I fell in LOVE! After trying them on, I wanted them even more! And the price (gasp!) was a mere $20! Of course, my friend co-signed (who wouldn't?) and I walked out of the store with the best purchased I've made in a while.

So, for all the budding fashionistas out there, looking for a deal on your next fashion fix, check out Buffalo Exchange!

Visit www.buffaloexchange.com for locations.

Onion Trunk Sale: Tomorrow!

2009-07-30T21:50:00.003-04:00

Dresses, dresses, dresses!

Don't miss this!

For Your Viewing Pleasure: The Sartorialist

2009-07-28T00:44:00.007-04:00

Scott Schuman made fashion blogging cool with his well-respected site, The Sartorialist, a collection of street style photographs that showcase the style and whimsy of real people who just happen to be devastatingly fashionable. Scott's eye for inspirational subjects caught fire in the industry, and everyone who is anyone has been captured on his blog. So, his upcoming book by the same name, an anthology of Scott's favorite shots from around the world, is officially a must have for fashion lovers near and far. It includes photos of both well-known fashion industry figures and those lucky passersby whose impeccable taste or clever countenance caught his eye. In a word...inspiration!

The Sartorialist arrives on shelves August 12 but available for pre-order, here.

Live Music Lives!

2009-07-25T15:05:00.009-04:00

Who is that fabulous girl on this flyer? She is serving! *wink*

Hey hotnesses! This week, join me (your girl, Elle) at two (recession proof!) events, where live music will be living! This Wednesday, July 29, my favorite tall drink of water with a twist, W!LL Sheridan, is hosting Blow @ Sway with performances by Sound Wavve, Tenna Torres, & Pill! The New York Times will be in the building, and so should you. Ladies $1, Gentlemen $5, fabulousness guaranteed. RSVP at theblownyc@gmail.com. [UPDATE: THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED! sorry luvbugs]

Aaaand tomorrow, July 26, all my Jersey brethren do yourselves a favor and make your way to Dolce in Elizabeth for The Heart Gallery, a celebration of art, poetry, music and fashion! My young bruh, Mr. Rodney Rikai, is hosting, performing, and otherwise being his entertaining self. No need to be flashy, come as you are. For me of course, flashy is not an option, it's a way of life! Wine tasting all night...leave feeling right! Admission is $5...see you there!

Hugs, drugs and lots of love, Elle

Luxe Links

2009-07-24T13:33:00.003-04:00

Askmewhats has nail art tutorial for bling bling nails.

The Beauty Chick reviews CoverGirl and Olay Simply Ageless Sculpting Blush.

Beauty Junkies Unite shows you the right way to get cheeky with 4 easy cheek stains.

Best Things in Beauty spotlights the new Giorgio Armani Beauty Fall 2009 colors.

Claire's Beauty gives Clarins Delicious Self-Tanning Cream a test drive.

Denim Debutante has an in-depth review of Paige Premium Denim.

Fabulous Over Forty is giving away Sothys Sun Care to one lucky reader. Enter now.

The Glamour Whore shows off the hair raising talent of Olivier Chomienne.

Gloss Menagerie reviews Softlips Pure Honeydew.

Gouldylox Reviews sneak peek at Milani Eye Tech Infinite Liquid Liners.

Hairs My Story has a gorgeous summer tropics FOTD.

in a word...fab has a sneak peek at J.Crew's Fall 2009 Collection.

It's complexion week at the Informed Makeup Maven, and don't forget to enter her cool giveaways this week!

Krasey Beauty discovers the beauty in going organic with Revolution Organics.

Visit Lipgloss Break and Enter to win The Cure 24/7 hair treatment and Sunkissed Glow fragrance by JLo!

My Beauty Bunny shows you how to get gorgeous, healthy, post-beach hair!

Sicka Than Average schools you on the best sunscreens for that pretty little face of yours. Protect ya neck!

ThisThatBeauty runs down fall's hottest collections!

Unfunded takes on Farmer John with some killer denim cut-offs.

VexInTheCity invites you to share her addiction - her make up collection.

***Affiliate of the Week***
The Style and Beauty Doctor will show you how to keep your blowout for blowing up.

For more information on The HLMN or on becoming an affiliate please visit our website.

Beauty Buzz: Solange Crops her Mop

2009-07-23T12:26:00.006-04:00

Everyone's favorite wierd little sister, Miss Solange, has decided to trump all the young starlets who have recently shaved half their heads (I'm looking at you Cassie, LaLa and Rihanna) by shaving hers entirely and going au natural. Well now!

I love her courage and short hair is definitely the ish but I tend to like this particular look on more mature women who have liiiived. It's a little jarring on young Solo. I think the key to this look for her will be makeup. In my book, short hair necessitates more makeup! It's a Fabulosity Rule #448.

What's your verdict?

It's All About the "O" Dontcha Know

2009-07-23T10:40:00.007-04:00

Hey kittens! Are you a fan of the big "O"??? Overstock.com that is! If you weren't aware (as if) Overstock offers trends for every It Girl at recessionista prices. Whether you're the chicster pictured on the Hamptons party scene pages, the preppy listening to Frank Sinatra while sunbathing on Palm Beach, the bohemian smuggling her new iPhone into a seven-day yoga retreat, the urbanite sporting designer sneakers to stake out her spot at “Shakespeare in the Park” or the tomboy wearing her favorite jeans until they’re hanging by the thread, you can find key pieces to fit right in with your current wardrobe. The best part? Prices are up to 60% off retail and shipping never exceeds $2.95 - so it’s “O” so quick and easy to get those sought-after looks for less.

Personally, I like to incorporate key pieces from all of the It Girl styles mentioned above into my Summer wardrobe. A girl's personality changes from moment to moment after all! For instance:

I would totally rock the Chicster fedora. Sure they can be kinda douche-y in every day life but I would wear mine on vacation to take the place of last year's floppy straw hat. Very now.

This one is hard because I am the antithesis of a Tomboy but Wayfarers have become classics in the category of Accessories: Sunglasses. They look great on everyone from my mom to my 17- year-old cousin and the cheap ones work just as well as the real deals!

Since everyone and their BFF is already wearing some form of the bejeweled strappy flats, I will instead take the urbanite's Tan satchel! It's utilitarian design is perfect for work or stomping the city streets, and the color definitely says summer. Yummy.

Nothing says easy breezy bohemian like a Maxi dress! Effortless dressing at its finest! I love a look that looks as if you put no thought into it at all (when of course you did). And I'm going with the red (oo-ooop!) because I love a pop of color in the summer.

Finally, Ms. Preppy had me at diamonds but rather than go with what is sparkly (as usual) I'm going to be practical and go with the silk scarf. Layering with scarves is going to be huge for Fall, so why not get started now? Something about them says, "I'm jetsetting to Paris after lunch darling, call you when I get there!"

So what pieces would you pick? Go ahead, click yourself on over to Overstock and get the goods!

Today! Belvedere Vodka Toasts She-blogs.com!

2009-07-23T10:15:00.001-04:00

Italian Vogue's Black Barbie Issue

2009-07-22T00:19:00.000-04:00

La Fashion Bomb (via Blog Crazy Sexy Techie Cool) is reporting that as a follow up to last summer's groundbreaking all-black Vogue Italia, the fashion rag has dedicate its July issue to the iconic black Barbie.

Franca Sozzani, Editor-in-Chief of Italian Vogue explains, “Barbie has been an icon for whole generations which is why I really wanted to give a strong sign in step with the times, and dedicate [this] issue to Black Barbie.”

Here are a few scans to wet your appetite:

I definitely need to see this live and in color!

P.S. Did you hear that Barbie plans to release dolls with more afrocentric features later this year? Love it!

To all of Mimi's Lil Lambs...ready, set, go!

2009-07-21T00:01:00.000-04:00

Mimi-la on set of her latest vid, "Obsessed"

VH1 & Gotham Casting Present
Storytellers: Mariah Carey

VH1 is filming a super spesh Storytellers concert
taping LIVE in NYC on August 6th

Featuring the one and only Mariah and they want only her BIGGEST fans to take part!

Want a rare opportunity to see Mariah in the most intimate of settings, discussing the stories behind her biggest hits?

Email Tickets@GothamCasting.com for comp tickets!

These tickets will go FAST, hit them up now!

Make sure to include the following:
NAME
AGE (must be 18 and over)
PHONE
CITY/STATE
RECENT PHOTO
GUEST NAME (1 PER PERSON)
WHAT MAKES YOU SUCH A BIG FAN OF MARIAH'S
YOUR FAVORITE MARIAH SONG
THREE QUESTIONS YOU WOULD LIKE TO ASK MARIAH
A SWORN STATEMENT THAT YOU WILL NAME YOUR FIRST CHILD MARIAH (jk about that one)

Make sure to put "Mariah Storytellers" in the subject line of your email...good luck, buttercups!

Pic Source

Kim K. Wants to Suck Your...

2009-07-20T21:27:00.001-04:00

...blood! Our favorite hottie with a body, Kim Kardashian, has been playing dress up again, and this time the result was this bewitching Vampire-inspired makeover crafted by Troy Jensen. Kim is usually bronzed to a sparkly crisp, but here she went positively pale with the use of Bobbi Brown products, including a brow concealing wax that blended with a stick foundation for a look that is haunting!

Troy actually used a cream black eyeliner to fill in her entire lip. Then, using a soft eyeshadow brush, he brushed an eggplant purple shadow over for a faint matte color. I am totally into this look; who know goth could be so glam!

You can check out all the products used for this Twilight-inspired shoot, here. Troy Jensen's blog is kinda awesome, check it out!

Is your fashion health at risk? Elle has your subscriptions!

2009-07-16T10:55:00.011-04:00

Are you wondering how to stay in the fashion loop? Are you needing a tad more Andre Leon Talley in your life? Would you like to find something more exciting than your electric bill in the mailbox? Then do yourself a favor and subscribe now to both Vogue (yum) and W (yum to the yum) Magazines for just $1 an issue! (That's $24 if you haven't had your coffee yet.)

Order now and you are guaranteed to receive both September Fall Fashion Issues, which shall serve as your fashion bibles for the entire season. Don't miss all the latest trends and hottest editorials for instant inspiration!

Take advantage, man. Take advantage. Click click to get your fashion fix!

Louis Vuitton's Lunar Landing

2009-07-15T10:06:00.006-04:00

Sally Ride, Buzz Aldrin and Jim Lovell

In a striking new visual by Annie Leibovitz, Louis Vuitton highlighs the 4oth anniversary of the moon landing by bringing together three giants of space exploration: Buzz Aldrin, the second man to set foot upon the Moon; Jim Lovell, who guided his crew back to Earth as the commander of Apollo 13; and Sally Ride, who in 1983 became the first American woman to enter space.

Shot in the California desert, the three astronauts stare knowingly at the sky from a battered pickup truck, and just happen to have brought along an LV Icare travel bag in Monogram canvas. The tag line echoes Neil Armstrong’s 1969 quote: “Some journeys change mankind forever.”

-
Ummm, this is all well and good but since when does Louis Vuitton care about events in American history? Word is that LV has decided to shift its focus to “core values.” Right, because luxury handbags are about as American as apple pie and space travel. Sounds like a "survive the recession" tactic if I've ever heard one.

Anyhoo, you can experience more at www.louisvuittonjourneys.com.

Source

Sneak Peek! J.Crew's Fall 2009 Collection

2009-07-14T00:14:00.007-04:00

Since narrowly escaping bankruptcy due to Michelle Obama's well-publicized affinity for the brand, J.Crew is certainly taking the Oba-momentum and running with it! The classically preppy sportswear line's Fall pieces are an opulent collection of ruffled tops, slim cardigans, textured skirts, lean jackets and wool blazers in warm Autumn tones of pumpkin, gold, navy, gray and olive. And the accessories! Skinny belts cinch the lush layers topped with statement jewels and scarves. Take a close look: adding just one or two key pieces will inject the chic into any wardrobe effortlessly. Yup, J.Crew will be seeing a lot of me this Fall.

Source

Exclusive Event at the Swarovski Concept Store

2009-07-12T23:24:00.002-04:00

You’re invited! On July 22, treat yourself to the "buy now, love forever" statement jewelry at Swarovski CRYSTALLIZED, the new concept store and customizable jewelry line from Swarovski. Take your pick from a scintillating range of customizable and on-trend jewelry pieces, as well as exquisite designer collections.

Attendees will preview the latest trends while design experts demonstrate how to use crystals to personalize your summer essentials with endless styles, shapes, colors and sizes. Oooh la la! The only thing I like more than crystals are crystals personalized just for me!

Stop by for champagne, canapés and a free gift, plus 15% off the entire collection.

Location:
Swarovski CRYSTALLIZED™ New York
499 Broadway (opposite Bloomingdale’s)
New York City

Date:
22 July, 2009

Time:
6.00 - 9.00 pm

RSVP events.us@crystallized.com by mail or call 2129663322

Dawn goes Dom

2009-07-02T12:35:00.001-04:00

Miss Dawn Richard of Danity Kane fame has been all over the map lately, vamping for HoneyMag.com, sitting front row with Diddy at the BET Awards and overall, building her brand in a major way. In her newest photoshoot, Dawn goes hardcore dominatrix on your ass alongside her boo, Que Mosely (of Day26). Shot exclusively by celebrity photographer Derek Blanks, the editorial shoot is an alter-ego interpretation of "good vs. evil," as the couple explores their "dominatrix" side vs. their "submissive" side. Sexay!

Well now! I must say, happening upon these pictures in the middle of my work day caused me to clutch a pearl and lose my breath! Definitely a hot look for the both of them, but if these pics are any indication, I think we all know that Dawn is the dominatrix in this relationship, even when she's trying to be submissive! That lil minx!

Photo credit: Derek Blanks http://www.dblanks.com/

Ideeli's Summer Red Sale starts today!

2009-07-02T11:00:00.000-04:00

On sale: Abaco Handbags!

My favorite invitation-only shopping community, ideeli.com, is having a Summer Red Sale starting Thursday, July 2! Expect to save up to 90% on spectacular clothing and accessories by crave-worthy designers. Prices start at a mere $10!

Join me on the oh so exclusive ideeli.com and enter invite code: inawordfab for VIP access to a bevy of sales on all things luxury.

The Summer Red event includes clothing by:

On sale: Jay Godfrey dresses!

Just Cavalli, Julie Brown, Malene Birger, Simone Perele, Mac & Jac, Earnest Sewn Jeans, Jay Godfrey, Bedhead Pajamas, Escada, & Nicole Miller

On sale: Ernest Sewn Jeans!

On sale: Mac & Jac tops!

Don't forget about awesome accessories, handbags, & shoes by:

On sale: LAMB shoes!

Raj (scarves), LAMB Shoes, Pade Vavra Jewelry, Melissa Joy Manning Jewelry,
Tila March Shoes, Abaco Handbags, Pucci Shoes, Roberto Cavalli Sunglasses, Ed Hardy Handbags, and Marc by Marc Jacobs.

On sale: Roberto Cavalli sunnies!

The Summer Red Sale starts promptly at 11:00am, Thursday, July 2nd. Enter invite code: inawordfab for access to the luxe life!

Love and lipstick darling, Elle

Beth Ditto for Evans - Get the Gossip!

2009-07-01T01:00:00.001-04:00

Beth Ditto, the larger than life frontwoman of punk band Gossip, is launching her very own plus-size collection for the high-street chain, Evans, on July 9th! Excited, yet? You do realize that Evans is the plus-size version of the UK import, Topshop, right? This means trendy clothes for curvy girls! Cue the wooooo!

Ms. Ditto, who’s 28 (both in age and dress size), is known for stripping down to her jiggly bits onstage and being completely fearless and comfortable in her skin. How will this translate to a fashion collaboration? She recently chatted up London's Sunday Times:

“You know, I’m a dyke — a crunchy dyke at that — so I had to weigh up whether I wanted to do something so corporate,” she says, her Southern tones at full tilt, “but it’s been a dream. I literally sketched out these shoes,” spoints her jazz flats in the air, “and they made them and flew them back to me. And I wanted to do a lot of things you’re always told not to wear if you’re big.” Like what? “Like anything with a good cut,” she laughs. So there are stretch tops, fitted jackets, acid prints and cut-off trousers — all very un-Evans. But no kaftans? “Which is a shame,” she nods. “I lurve a kaftan.”

I assumed she would have been labouring under the martyred notion that it is impossible to find anything decent to wear if you’re over a size 16, but she says not. “I don’t understand all these women who say they feel betrayed by fashion. A piece of clothing can’t talk — it can’t tell you that you can’t have it — so really, you're just telling yourself that. You make yourself the victim, because if you want clothes that bad, then make them yourself. You have to get creative if you’re fat. I’m really good at turning a belt into a necklace, and I can always find a nice pair of earrings.”

Here are some yummy preview pieces for your viewing pleasure:

Looks promising! Can't wait to get the Gossip on July 9th!

Source/Source

Out About Town: Snapple Big Apple BBQ & NYLON Guys/Keds Event

2009-06-30T23:04:00.000-04:00

Hi inawordfab family! Nastasia, the Inaword Intern, here! Whew! These past couple of weeks have been busy busy! I've been going to a bunch of events to bring you some inspirational street fashion. First, I attended the Snapple Big Apple BBQ at Madison Square Park on 23rd.

Just picture it: crowds of people in the summer sun all looking for some good food! Even in a hot, crowded park, there were men and women who were effortlessly fashionable and worth taking snaps of.

Although I was kinda disappointed by the laidback looks around me, this woman (left) made me smile! She was just so cute! With her hair pulled back and under a straw fedora, she was right on trend and perfectly casual for the event. The blue button-up brought out her eyes and although she was dressed quite simply, all the way down to her small diamond posts, she stood out!

Button-ups and jeans were popular that day! And if this woman isn't a model, she needs to be! She had the most amazing statuesque figure and a perfect complexion. But besides that, her crisp shirt and jeans with neutral accessories were on point. Her arm candy was pretty sweet too, and I'm not talking about her purse! He also sported a straw hat and I especially liked his watch, a classic accessory which is both practical and fashionable.

Long-strapped purses were certainly a trend to be remembered! Her rust-colored leather purse was super cute and functional. The oversize earrings were a perfect touch to spice her who look up a bit. I like!

The downtown couple of the event! They would definitely get the Hipster award, as they pulled it off like no other. The entire look on this woman was eye catching: the chains, the modern fanny pack, the oversize button-up with rolled sleeves and yet another straw hat! I mean, where did this girl go wrong? Her guy coordinated effortlessly all the way down to his Converse sneaks which are classic, cool kid kicks! Separately, these two are good, but like Ne-Yo and Fab proclaimed, "Baby, you make me better!"

Hello lovie! Not only is she rocking a long-strapped purse but her ruffled shirt is darling and it works with the high waisted shorts! I loved the pockets and although I am usually a short shorts girl, I went coo coo for the lengthy look. They even tied into into a bow in the back! AHH! In love.

Lastly, this is what I call an Asian Persuasion! The graphic prints on the men's shirts and hats were fun, but it is the v-neck that I think is absolutely sexy and perfect on a guy! (I love when mine wears his!) Now onto the fab girls. Leggings, check! A barbeque staple and in great colors and prints. And what else would you wear over leggings but a baggy sweatshirt or a comfy jersey top? Both girls had a bag that I totally wanted to snatch and grab! The mini duffle with nautical stripes was amazing but my favorite was the layered cream leather oversized clutch. Adorable!

A few days late, I attended the NYLON/Keds/Bloomingdales event hosted by Ed Westwick. I got there just in time to see a great dance off!

Hey Danger Cat! This dancer has a great body and a great look! Her eye make-up was outrageous and her body suit was on point as well. I asked her to take a picture, and BAM! She struck the most awesome pose I've ever gotten from someone in the streets. No wonder she won the $500 prize in the dance contest!

Danger Cat wasn't the only lovely lady in attendance. These Midwestern women were new to New York and the party scene! I loved the purple American Apparel-style dress that was accessorized with the coolest headband. And the leather jacket worked well with the studded clutch to give an edgy feel without being too hardcore. Fabulous!

This lovely young woman made me think "Upper East Side princess" as soon as I spotted her! I loved her floral print high-waisted mini paired with a loose white vesat. She paired them with a great bead necklace but it was the gladiator sandals that were simply delicious!

This slightly off-the-shoulder LBD was perfect for a dance event! The leather slides were a sweet detail but I found that her shoulder grazing earrings were definitely what drew my eyes to her look. That, and her super silver short cut! Hot.

Although I missed the sexy Mr. Ed Westwick, I did get a flick of Whitney Thompson, winner of America's Next Top Model Cycle 10! I wasn't a fan back then, but she won me over. She's beautiful in person and her hair was great! But most of all, her black trench was totally classic and perfect for the nasty weather!

Thanks to all who are pictured, and stay tuned for more events!

-Nastasia, Inaword Intern

Loss of a Legend

2009-06-26T11:18:00.005-04:00

Where there is LOVE, he'll be there!*

Style Icon Photo Gallery of Michael Jackson and the fashion that inspired a generation

Don't it always seem to go, that you don't know what you've got till its gone...

Sending peace, prayers and sparkles out to the world in memory of the quintessential entertainer and humanitarian. You were not of this world...rest well, love!

xo, Elle

*Thanks Halima!

Beyonce's "I Am" Tour Hits MSG

2009-06-25T00:00:00.001-04:00

Beyonce aka Sasha Fierce, her freekum leotards and her all-girl band hit Madison Square Garden this week and by all accounts, this concert was a sparkly orgasm of nonstop amazingness! She saaang, she "uh oh'd," she posed and she flew! As a Yonce stan, I only have one question: why wasn't I there? Damn me! I was forced to scour the internets for the deets. Let's check out the setlist, shall we?

Crazy in Love (featuring Jay-Z)
Naughty Girl
Freakum Dress
Get MeBodied
Smash Into You
Ave Maria
Broken-Hearted Girl
If I Were ABoy
Sweet Dreams
Diva
Radio
Me, Myself and I
Ego
Hello
Baby Boy
Irreplaceable
Medley: Check On It/Bootylicious/Bug ABoo/Jumpin’ Jumpin’
Upgrade U
Video Phone
Medley: Say MyName/Independent Woman/Bills, Bills, Bills/No, No, No/Survivor
AtLast
Listen
Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)
Halo

Now onto the pics, with costumes courtesy of Thierry Mugler:

Bitterness. I may have to follow her to the next venue! Did you go? Was it everything you could have hoped for and more? Do tell doll...

Shop Vintage at Harlem's own B.O.R.N.

2009-06-24T00:12:00.002-04:00

At an exclusive shopping event taking place tonight, popular vintage store, B.O.R.N, is offering 20% off all merchandise including pieces from Stuart Weitzman, Dior, Cynthia Steffe and Calvin Klein. With one of a kind furs and amazing accessories, everyone will surely leave with something!

Who: B.O.R.N

What: 20% off vintage duds designers including Louis Vuitton, Dior and Stuart Weitzman

Where: 52 West 125th street

When: June 24th 2009 6-9pm

Why: Because every fashionista should own vintage!

RSVP to sara@vitalpublicrelations.com

Sip, nosh and be reB.O.R.N!

H&M and Jimmy Choo!?!?!?!?!?!? H to the yes!

2009-06-23T00:33:00.001-04:00

In a match made in budgetnista heaven, affordable trendwear giant, H&M, is collaborating with the Carrie Bradshaw-approved shoe brand, Jimmy Choo, for a limited collection of shoes and handbags, slated to launch November 14 at 200 H&M stores worldwide. [*clears throat* White girl wooooooooooo!]

H&M tells WWD that there will be twelve "Jimmy Choo for H&M" shoe designs for women and four for men, priced from around $50 to $140. As Jimmy Choo shoes will typically set you back between $500 and $800 (unless of course you prefer the ever popular Claudia sky-high stiletto which retails as high as $1,395) this collabo will finally make the brand accessible to the fashion masses.

"Claudia" Sandal

Jimmy Choo co-founder and President Tamara Mellon said the brand would bring H&M "a sophisticated, fashion forward, accessible and glamorous collection."

This is in a word EPIC. I seriously may have to put in for a vacation day. I will be up at the crack, vaseline on my face, ready for a fashion faceoff with anyone who dares to come between me and a size 10. I. Can't. WAIT!

Source

Brian Reyes Friends and Family Sale

2009-06-22T00:19:00.000-04:00

Monday June 22 and Tuesday June 23

8 AM to 7 PM

304 Hudson Street

5th Floor

New York, NY

David Beckham in his Armani's (again)

2009-06-21T00:54:00.000-04:00

Yes Lord! Yet another Emporio Armani underwear campaign has hit the streets, featuring the one and only David Beckham. Le sigh. Although these ads are not giving me the hot flashes that previous ones have (I think it's the hair), Becks is still one of the most perfect specimens alive.

Full Figured Fashion Week hits NYC

2009-06-18T00:54:00.003-04:00

On June 25-27, 2009, New York City history will be made! The fashion week experience will finally be focused on the super sexy curvy girls of the world! And with 40 million women over size 14 in America alone, spending $25 billion a year on clothing, I'd say it's about time. Produced by DeVoe Signature Events, Full Figured Fashion Week (FFFWeek) will debut with a series of social events specifically showcasing "real size" designs, designers, retailers, local boutiques and models.

Come out and network with over 1500 plus size fashion enthusiasts, style mavens, vendors and press during this highly anticipated three-day fashion extravaganza!

Miss Kim Coles will be hosting the finale runway event, to be held at 7:00 PM on Saturday, June 27th at the Prince George Ballroom, NYC. Get all the details at http://www.fffweek.com/. See you there!

Candace Bushnell: 'New York is a city of energy vampires'

2009-06-17T00:30:00.001-04:00

Writer, socialite and unbelievably fabulous woman, Candace Bushnell, recently sat down with CNN to tawk marriage, success and of course, her first love, the big city of dreams, New York, New York. She's been a girl about town since Studio 54 was in its prime, and shared her love affair with us all as the author of "Sex and the City." This interview was incredibly inspiring for me as a single girl surviving New York's lipstick jungle! Enjoy!

CNN: How would you describe your work?

Candace Bushnell: I try to write about the human condition, and shopping, materialism and consumerism comes into that, because America is a very consumerist economy.

CNN: Tell me about when you first arrived in New York.

CB: I first arrived in New York in 1979. I was 19 and I was going to University in Houston, Texas, and I decided that I knew what I wanted to do and it was time to go and do it. I literally ran away from college.

Then I went to an acting school, "HB Studio" and I moved into this apartment with three other girls who wanted to be actresses. Of course, they were all waitresses so I was a waitress.

I was incredibly determined -- I wrote short stories, I wrote the beginnings of novels. I wrote a little children's book and sent it to the editor-in-chief of the children's division of Simon and Schuster and she asked me to write a little children's book for a series she was doing.

I got paid $1,000 for it and I was like "Oh my god, who says you can't make it in New York right away!" Of course that little dream crashed in about a month.

CNN: So you didn't have an overnight success?

CB: I was a freelancer all through my twenties. I did about one story a month and I wanted to write fiction, so the stories that I would do were precursors to "Sex and the City."

I started working for the NY Observer when I was 33. After I had been writing for them for about a year and a half the editor said, "Your stories are the most talked about stories in the Observer, you should have your own column." I was paid $1000 a column and the reason was that the column "Sex and the City." was so popular that they sold newspapers and advertising off it.

People in New York were faxing it to their friends who worked in the movie business in LA and almost immediately I was getting phone calls from movie producers who wanted to buy it and ABC and HBC wanted to buy it.

It started as a seed, with an absolute truth that people may agree with or it may disturb them. It disturbs me sometimes when I read it because it's very wrong and very honest. I think most call it cynicism but I call it realism -- it is absolutely raw reality. It was never written for a big audience and it was never written to make people feel good. It was written as the truth in a humorous way.

CNN: How do you feel about the TV series?

CB: I think the reason why the TV series has continued, and has continued as a movie, is that they have never lost the authenticity of the column.

CNN: How would you describe New York today?

CB: It's a very, very busy place and it's a city where everybody has a place to go and a million things to do. It certainly can be a very stressful city but it can also be an incredibly exciting city. It is a place where your dreams can come true.

It's also a city where you're going to see sides of human nature that you're going to be shocked by. New York is a city where, if you are open minded, when you walk out of your apartment you don't know what could happen.

CNN: What do you do to get away from it?

CB: I go to Connecticut and I look at bugs and I don't socialize. If I'm here for 10 days in a row I'm exhausted.

When I was younger the energy really fed me. This is a city of energy vampires -- people really feed on each others' energies and that's why New Yorkers talk fast and gesture and they'll come in and say "Oh my god you won't believe what happened!" That's a normal greeting in New York.

CNN: What was it like to get married and stop being the single girl?

CB: Charles [Askegard, a principal dancer with the NYC ballet] and I met at the NYC Spring Gala seven years ago. It was really a magical moment because I was 43 and I had kind of given up on that. I was cynical about relationships and I wasn't sure about marriage -- I was always very worried that marriage was stifling.

But when I saw Charles across the room I thought, "That's the man you're going to marry." We met and we talked and I thought, "This is the nicest guy I have ever met in my life," and we went to a club and we danced and we kissed.

We got married two months after we met.

CNN: Can you describe New York in 5 words?

CB: It's exciting, passionate, fast paced, straightforward and, strangely enough, it's friendly.
-
Source

Bruce and his Bride Do W Magazine

2009-06-16T00:54:00.004-04:00

Now this is my kind of wedding album! Bruce Willis and his hot young bride, Emma Waring, have stripped down to their skivvies in a strikingly sexy and disturbingly wierd editorial shot by Steven Klein. I love that Emma is playing dominatrix to a strong but docile Bruce: she's got him bound, cowering in a corner, blindfolded, bruised and battered! (Go bish!) No worries, he's loving every minute.

Now be forewarned, some of these pics are a tad NSFW (bubbies). Tell your boss it's art!

You can check out the story that accompanies these flicks, here.

Source

Dolce & Gabbana Sample Sale

2009-06-16T00:05:00.002-04:00

Out About Town: She's Got the Look!

2009-06-15T00:08:00.001-04:00

Are you watching Season 2 of She's Got the Look, TV Land's modeling competition for fabulous women over 35? You should be! The adorable Robert Verdi, stylist to the stars, is one of the celebrity judges. Not only is he talented...

...he's also super sweet! In early June, I attended the Robert Verdi and Friends sale at the thrift store mecca, Housing Works NYC. Besides scooping up some fabulous 60's era clip on earrings, a necklace that spells out "MEOW" in CZ's, and a Himalayan purse (totaling $16!), I also met Robert, who quickly grabbed my camera and declared himself the "master" at taking self-portraits like the one above.

During the event, Robert was filming for his upcoming series, The Robert Verdi Show Starring Robert Verdi, coming soon to a television near you. But I digress. This post is all about She's Got the Look!

Besides meeting Mr. Verdi, just last week I met Hope Toliver who competed on Season 1 of the show, at a birthday party at 1OAK. Her slim white suit definitely stood out in the crowd, and I remembered how inspired I was watching her and her castmates; gorgeous women of a certain age following their model dreams!

Lucky for us, She's Got the Look is back for Season 2. Check it out on TV Land, Thursdays at 9 PM/8 Central!

Luxe Links

2009-06-12T12:22:00.004-04:00

Beauty Sweet Spot share the latest on how to get and keep your teeth white.-Beauty Junkies Unite compares 5 self tanners and shares the results.-Watch as style maven June Ambrose interviews Chrisette Michelle at Black Style Central.-Blaq Vixen Beauty tries her hand at false nails from the Kiss brand...want to know how they measured up?-Find Beyonce's colorful gladiator sandals at The Cheap Chica.-Cool and Fresh discovers the incredible shoes of Nicholas Kirkwood.-Diary of a Style Addict shares the details on a fab charity event!-Check out this cute little dress from Anthropologie over at Fabulous Frocks.-Hot Beauty Health shows you 10 natural solutions to preserve your youth and beauty.-la.morena has the scoop on a ton of wonderfully priced goodies from E.L.F. cosmetics.-SparklingPinkGorilla shares her shoe of the day.-StyleLuxe shares what makes a great sandal.-Style Apothecary reviews the amazing products from Graftobian Beauty.-Workchic shows how you can go from the airport to a meeting in style!-For more information on The HLMN or on becoming an affiliate please visit our website.

Breeding for Bags?

2009-06-11T00:05:00.001-04:00

Someone get PETA on the horn! French luxury brand, Hermès, maker of such handbag classics as the Birkin and the Kelly, has begun breeding its own crocodiles to keep up with what the label calls "massive over-demand" for handbags. Even in this economic downturn, leather bags continue to be the label's fastest-growing product line. Since it can take three to four crocodiles to make one handbag (WOW), the brand is finding it uber-difficult to make the required 3,000 bags a year. Customers must sometimes be wait-listed for years before snapping up bags made from exotic skins, costing upwards of $48,410 apiece!

Hmmm. As beautiful as these bags are, there is something unseemly about the prospect of farming crocs for the sole purpose of creating luxury goods. Food is one thing, but for fashion? This has made me rethink my love affair with fur! (But you will still need to pry it from my cold, dead hands before I give that up).

What say you?

P.S. Want a Hermes bag without the guilt? Check out this fun DIY project on the Hermes corporate Website. Download, cut and paste your own paper Kelly bag! A perfectly chic way to dress up any mantle, desk or vanity.

Source (via Reuters)

Marilyn Uncovered

2009-06-10T00:28:00.002-04:00

Never before released photos of the matchless Marilyn Monroe were uncovered by Life.com last month. Sweetly sexy in bikini top and high-waisted shorts, the 24-year-old budding model and actress likely took the photos for a cover shoot that never went to print. It seems that no one at Life.com even knew they were ever taken.

"She [hadn't] really exploded as a star, yet she was on the brink of something big," says Dawnie Walton, deputy editor at Life.com, who stumbled upon the rare photographs while streaming through the 7 million photograph's in the company's digital archives.

What a fabulous find! Simply, beautifully Marilyn in all her (pre-drug, sex and rock and roll) glory.

You can check out the entire collection, here.

Source

An Inaword Fab Exclusive! Kwame Jackson: The Man Behind the Brand

2009-06-08T00:01:00.003-04:00

Apprentice alum. Harvard MBA. Serial entrepreneur. Brand manager. Tastemaker. Mover and shaker. Think you know all there is to know about Kwame Jackson? You have no idea.

Kwame Jackson is more than just his trademark white smile and impressive resume. He's a Southern-bred, style-conscious, supreme risk taker who injects inspirational quotes into everyday conversation as effortlessly as some might say, "nah mean?" But above all, he's a survivor.
Growing up in Charlotte, North Carolina, Kwame lived a self-described "Cosby-esque" existence surrounded by proud, successful black people. Mom was a CPA with her own firm, while his step dad practiced general surgery. Early on, his entrepreneurial spirit was honed selling candy on the school bus and mowing lawns to make the money for his first Nintendo. Then, everything changed when at the age of 15, Kwame's mother passed away at the young age of 41. For Kwame, it was the ultimate lesson in persistence and resilience.

"Once you get over something like that, everything else is gravy. I had this massive devastating experience, so not very much is truly disappointing or devastating to me."

Refusing to crumble under the weight of his loss, Kwame continued to strive for academic excellence, ultimately gaining entry into UNC Chapel Hill's Kenan-Flagler Business School, one of the nation's top undergraduate programs for Business.

It was in college that Kwame first began to express a strong interest in personal style. Becoming a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and participating in a number of prestigious internships with brand management icon Procter & Gamble helped him to develop his signature professional style and marketing chops. It was this fashion sensibility, in conjunction with his superior performance and cool confidence, that kept tongues wagging during his tenure on the first season of The Apprentice, which you may recall as one of the most successful shows in television history. Kwame made it all the way to the finale, where he went head-to-head with eventual winner, Bill Rancic, in a showdown watched by 28 million people.

"I'm very proud of that. I'm glad that I was able to be a part of something that redefined television. It was a great experience; it helped me to believe in myself and opened a lot of doors. I view it as a floor, not a ceiling. I knew I didn’t want to become a reality star, my goal was to brand myself as an entrepreneur."

His latest foray into entrepreneurship is Krimson by Kwame, an executive neckwear line that he launched with partner Corwyn Thomas in 2004. Why the emphasis on ties?

"[Neckwear] is probably the last bastion of personal style and influence that a man can express in the workplace. You can go bright, solid, pattern... It's an expression of your personality and a mindset for what you want to accomplish that day. 'This is the day I’m getting it done, getting promoted, proposing to my girlfriend, closing on a mortgage.' When it’s important, it’s Krimson!, that’s our trademark and the brand’s essence."

After a successful start in a few small test markets, Krimson has grown exponentially in the retail market. Despite the current economy,Macy's just increased Krimson's distribution from New York, Chicago, and DC, its three largest markets, to San Francisco, Houston, Miami, San Jose and Atlanta.

"The goal is to build it into a global luxury lifestyle brand to rival Ralph Lauren. Phase I consists of owning the men’s accessories space where we will add pocket squares, fragrance and cuff links. I have a lot of requests from women for scarves, bathing suits in our distinctive paisley patterns, and even female neckwear. You never know where the brand will take you."

Kwame recently embarked on a "50 City Style Tour" for Krimson to take the brand directly to consumers in their local markets, a nationwide span of VIP trunk shows and fashion cocktails attended by executives, celebrities and industry professionals and sponsored by iconic brands like Remy Martin. Although high profile people and events are par for the course in Kwame's world, he recalls the BET Ball celebrating President Obama's inauguration with awe.

"You had Colin Powell in one corner of the room dancing with his people and Jay-Z in the other corner doing the same thing."

Despite the big fish in attendance, Kwame insists the highlight of the evening was meeting Frederick Douglass IV, the great great grandson of the famed abolitionist, orator and author. It is very apparent that as much mainstream success that Kwame has enjoyed, he remains connected to his African American roots.

"My name is Kwame Toure Jackson, not Blake Smith. I don’t really have a choice. My parents put that in my head early on. So I know who I am and I’m confident in who I am." Even still, Kwame refuses to box Krimson in as an "urban" brand. "I don’t want it to be an urban brand
in any way shape or form. I want it to be a global brand. It's about a global mindset."

This global mindset and feeling of inclusivity is a major theme for Krimson, which despite its high quality comes with a value price point. In Kwame's view, the target customer is "generally the aspiring professional, age 25 to 40, who is well-traveled and well-schooled. They've been a few places and done a few things, and they want their dress to speak to that."

And Kwame knows a little something about being an aspiring professional. The consummate entrepreneur, Kwame believes success comes to those who are unafraid to step outside of their comfort zone and take big risks.

"It doesn't mean you'll be successful, it doesn't mean you'll be a failure, but it does mean you'll have a sense of fulfillment. You can say, 'I gave my life my best.'”

Currently a Harlem resident, Kwame is dating a "very nice young lady" that understands his hustle and supports his grind. "Oprah said, 'Everybody wants to ride in the limo with you, but very few people want to ride in the subway.' I'm building, so if you’re not willing to be a part of
the journey, then 'Nice to meet you.' I have good days and I have empty pocket days. I’m definitely not about stability and comfort at this point in my life, I’ll pass on the picket fence and suburban house for now. I’m the guy willing to put it all on the table and give it my best shot."

Above all, Kwame is a gentleman. When asked about Omarosa, who famously sabotaged his efforts during the finale of The Apprentice, his answer is simple. "God bless her."

To shop Krimson by Kwame, visit http://www.krimsonbykwame.com/.

-Elle

Check out previous Inaword Fab Exclusives:

A Conversation with Plus Size Diva, Joanne Borgella

Up Close and Personal with Dominican supermodel, Miguel Perdomo

Style Profile: Bim Star of Aremu Premier Couture

I Love This Blog: Corporette

2009-06-05T00:08:00.000-04:00

As a lawyer by day/fashion editor by night, my two lives often meet somewhere in the middle. And going home to change is not always an option! For that reason, I may pair a pencil skirt with a tuxedo jacket and T-strap heels when going from work to a cocktail function, or cover a ruffled dress with a tweed vest and kitten heels when going straight to an after work fashion launch. It's a delicate balance, but corporate chicks can bring the fabulous too!

That's why I have fallen head over heels in love with Corporette.com, a fashion and lifestyle blog for lawyers, bankers, MBAs, consultants, and otherwise overachieving divas! Full of helpful tips for business dress, interviewing, etiquette and the like, Corporette is a go-to guide for us girls who are juggling both a demanding career and a love of fashion.

Check it out for yourself! www.corporette.com

xo, Elle

Elizabeth and James expands

2009-06-04T00:05:00.001-04:00

Everywhere you turn, a new style icon is crowned and like the world of organized crime, there's always someone ready to take the top spot. But much like the Gotti's, the Olsen twins stay under the radar yet never leave the scene. Not too long ago I came across a blog called Olsen's Anonymous and I love this site because it reiterates their majestic fashion sense with each post.

With the success of their Elizabeth and James' clothing line and jewelry collaboration with Robert Lee Morris, it makes sense that the next step is to expand the brand with shoes. The newest venture is a partnership with Steve Madden, who the girls say "truly understands our design philosophy, and how we want this brand to grow over the coming years."

Some styles are now available and I've already found my favorites, including the Haley Wedge and the Edge Gladiator sandal.

Haley Wedge $325

Edge Gladiator $295

Jean Booties $395.00

But the shoes that I absolutely ADORE are the Jean Booties. They are made of suede and ostrich and like Mary Kate says, are perfect paired with denim cutoffs! Get yours when they become available June 2nd on shopbop.com.

Elizabeth and James shoes are just another amazing showcase of Olsen yumminess! I can't wait to see what's next!

-Nastasia, Inaword Intern

Southpole Ultimate Hoodie Contest

2009-06-03T00:14:00.001-04:00

Artists and designers...do you have an idea for the ultimate Southpole Hoodie? Enter your best sketch for a chance to see if you've got next. The winning design will be added to the Southpole collection and be featured in a full page ad in WWD.

To enter, go to: www.wwd.com/hoodiecontest and submit your design by July 24, 2009!

Lots of luck, loves!

Michelle Obama: 100 Days of Style

2009-06-02T00:04:00.002-04:00

In between running a staff of thousands and supporting the Leader of the Free World, my girl, Mrs. O, has found the time to become a total style icon as well. The fashion snobs behind the Daily Front Row and the Fashion Mini have deemed her first three months in the White House fashion-worthy enough to release a luxe collector's issue, Michelle Obama: 100 Days of Style.

In 116 pages of pictures, the issue explores her varied looks from the inaugural ball to her excursion through Europe, and goes behind the scenes with her favorite designers. 100 Days of Style is available on newsstands, at major bookstores nationwide and online at www.fashionweekdaily.com.

Diane von Furstenberg: Ready, Set, Sample Sale

2009-06-02T00:02:00.001-04:00

Trend Watch: Think Chain Link

2009-06-01T00:13:00.001-04:00

Do you remember when Janet Jackson danced along mountains with a nose ring linked to her belly button ring? And who hasn't coveted the classic Chanel handbag hung from the shoulder with a chain link and leather strap? Well, this season, chain link accessories are everywhere! Recently, Amber Rose (who is clearly styled by Kanye) was shot in Chanel chain link sunglasses...

...the ever style-savvy Rihanna wore lobe-to-lobe chain link earrings and Beyonce caused a firestorm with her Bless chain link sunglasses in the video for "Diva." In other words, the chain link trend is on! There are so many great ways to wear it. I, myself, have a chain link necklace from Forever 21 that dresses up any outfit. Earrings, bracelets, purses and shoes are some fabulous ways to stay on trend without overdoing it.

Vanessa Simmons and Solange both know that long chain strap purses are perfect for a night on the town.

Melie Bianco Link Messenger $60

Urban Outfitter Purse $38

Topshop Quilted Chain Handle Heart Bag $50

Here are some other great looks to try!

Urban Outfitters Messy Chain Necklace $48

Forever 21 Interwoven Satin and Chain Necklace $6.80

Forever 21 Necklace $13

J. Crew Silk Ribbon Chain Link Necklace $69.99

Splurge Alert: Guillaume Hinfray Pumps $402

Litter SF Shoe Jewelry $98

Old Navy Chain Link Flip Flops $6.50

Steve Madden Flip Flops $40

Litter SF Necklace Earrings $65

Urban Outfitters Earrings $24

NBC Hoop Earrings $53

Forever 21 Chain Link Hoops $5.80

Litter SF Link and Chain Headpiece with attached Necklace $165

Splurge Alert: Chanel Sunglasses $390

Chain belts have been over for a little while now but they could definitely manage their way back, so wear one anyway and stay ahead of the trend! BUT, a huge no-no is wearing those punk rocker chains that hang from your jeans...maybe later, but definitely not now.

Go on now, break out the chains, have some fun and don't let them hold you back!

-Nastasia, Inaword Intern

Out About Town: "I Gotta Mean Shoe Game"

2009-05-31T22:24:00.010-04:00

Al of the Minority Report, Elle and Stas the Intern

Hey cupcakes! Elle, here, with another Out About Town situation. Friday night. Just got paid. Wicked shoe game. So of course I headed to BK for "I Gotta Mean Shoe Game." This party was so much fun! And I'm not just saying that because my guy Al from The Minority Report was nice enough to ask me to host. And I'm also not just saying that because I was deemed to have the (second) hottest shoe game in the building (I was cheated). It was really and truly pure unadulterated fun. Dancing, laughing, cocktails and faabulous shoes! Thanks to all who came out!

My winning (or losing depending on your pespective) shoes on left, and Stas's fierce tuxedo-inspired pair on the right.

Excuse His Beauty: The Sergio Garcia Story

2009-05-28T18:07:00.005-04:00

Same sex marriage may have gotten the hell no this week in the state of California, but on Planet Los Angeles, boys can be prom queen! Certified sassy bish, Sergio Garcia, was just voted queen of the ball at Fairfax High School! Take that homo haters! Garcia nabbed the title after killing everyone softly with a compassionate speech made to the Senior Class earlier this week. I smell a Lifetime movie in the works! "Excuse His Beauty: The Sergio Garcia Story." Copyright pending! This news has made my cold cold heart melt enough to feel the sweet tingle of justice. Somewhere Adam Glambert is smiling.

Read on for deets!

An openly gay teen is the new prom queen at Fairfax High School. Sergio Garcia, 18, was crowned queen Saturday night at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. "I feel invincible," Garcia said wearing his rhinestone studded tiara.

A few days earlier, he gave a speech that touched a nerve with students: "At one time, prom may have been a big popularity contest where the best-looking guy or girl were crowned king and queen. Things have changed and it's no longer just about who has the most friends or who wears the coolest clothes," Garcia told a gymnasium full of seniors. "I'm not your typical prom queen candidate. There's more to me than meets the eye."

Garcia assured the crowd he wouldn't wear a dress on prom night."I will be wearing a suit," he said. "But don't be fooled, deep down I am a queen."Garcia said he saw fliers advertising the prom and the election, and they didn't specify that the queen must be a girl. He thought the role would suit him better than prom king."I don't wish to be a girl," he told KTLA Jaime Chambers.. "I just wish to be myself. Being prom queen has changed my life and inspired the lives of other students, who are like me."

Senior class president Vanessa Lo said she and many other students were initially against the idea but were won over by Garcia's speech and became convinced he wasn't just an attention-seeking clown."It just goes to show how open-minded our class is," Lo said. Other students weren't as happy, and suggested many voted for Garcia just to see the spectacle of two boys dancing together at the prom."I'm not really happy about that," said 17-year-old Juan Espinoza. "He should've run for prom king."

Fairfax High School, located at the intersection of Melrose and Fairfax Avenues, has often been at the forefront of the gay rights struggle.

Serrrrgio is a shoe-in for Hot Slut of the Day over at Dlisted. The chola eyebrows alone...

Source

Luxe Links

2009-05-28T09:57:00.000-04:00

Jada cutely covers Ebony - Mrs. Grapevine

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Trend Watch: Senorita skirts - FabSugar

Zoe Kravitz talks music, pets and style - NYLON

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He has 21 kids and child support is due! - Volunteer TV
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This week's New York Sample Sales - NY Mag

Lauren London Pregnant with Lil Wayne's baby? Say it ain't so! - YBF

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Louis Vuitton Opens Art Exhibit in Hong Kong - NY Times
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14 Summer Must-Haves - Allure Magazine

More than Miley's Boy Toy...get to know Justin Gaston - DLISTED

It's a recession!! Christian Lacroix files bankruptcy - Fashion Wire Daily

Kate Moss' favorite item from her Summer '09 Topshop Collection - Topshop (via People)

And again, is any normal person actually wearing harem pants (successfully)? - Love B. Scott

Gotta Mean Shoe Game?

2009-05-26T10:40:00.008-04:00

Ladies, can you Naomi Campbell walk in the sickest of heels with the best of them? Do you specialize in skipping along city streets a la Carrie Bradshaw in the loveliest of Louboutin's, chicest of Chanel's, trendiest of Topshop's, or even the cutest of Kohl's? Gotta mean shoe game to match your big ego? Then you simply must come out and help me continue to celebrate my birthday (yes, I'm still celebrating) as I host "I Gotta Mean Shoe Game," a Salute to the Almighty Shoe, this Friday, May 29 at Tamboril in Brooklyn!

I want to see all my BK divas and the men who love them. Fellas with a foot fetish? This is right up your alley! Be there as I debut the newest (and dare I say hottest) kicks in my collection.

the Breakfast Club and the Minority Report present

I Gotta Mean Shoe Game

Hosted by Elle of www.inawordfab.com

Tamboril

527 Myrtle Ave btw Grand. & Steuben

10pm-4am

Ladies FREE ALL NIGHT

Fellas $10 unless accompanied by a hot chick

Stop in and say hello...I'm giving out double kisses all night! And hey, you and your fabulous shoes may just be featured right here on inawordfab.com!

More info: The Minority Report

Thanks Alanzo!

What's Your Theme Song for Summer?

2009-05-22T11:47:00.007-04:00

Last summer, some of us hit the club in our drop top cars and made Show Stoppers by Danity Kane our theme song, while others waited until this past fall to make our theme song Single Ladies (even those of us who know damn well we're not single). Well, Summer 2009 is almost here and we all know that we can't wait to hit the streets and we'll need a good theme song to strut to! It could be the latest from Lady Gaga, Drake or our ever-reliable Beyonce. That's where Ringtones-direct comes into play. Once you've picked a fab song to be your theme song, you just head over to that site to download it to your phone. What's a better way to have your own "Devil Wears Prada" montage moment (you know the one I'm talking about, with the creme coat and hat ensemble) than to have background ringtones playing from your phone. It's also the most fab way to know who's calling before you even waste your time searching through your drop bottom tote for your phone.

This link is the perfect place to find songs that aren't in the typical ringtones format and sound like a true song. My fave is "Poker Face" by Lady Gaga and Pink's "So What!" Tell me who can listen to them and not strut: you just can't! You can also search for your favorite tunes and manufacturers. Whether its audio, graphics, action, or anything else, you can find everything on this site. The site is all about ringtones for mobiles. But it's not limited to just ringtones, you can find games, wallpapers, video and audio clips, logos, themes, text and picture SMS, screensavers and much more for your mobile. It's a fun place for your mobile phone. Go to this page and you can find some pretty cool backgrounds to spice up your phone, too. So, check out the site and fab up your phone for the season!

-Nastasia, Inaword Intern

Get thee to the Banana Republic Sale!

2009-05-21T09:57:00.003-04:00

In between cookouts and Patron shots this weekend, get thee to the White Hot Event at Banana Republic to enjoy 30% ALL full-priced items! Have you been waiting impatiently for that must-have summer item to go on clearance? Well, now's the time to grab it!

Have a most memorable Memorial Day weekend my loves!

xo, Elle

Hello Gorgeous!

2009-05-20T12:07:00.003-04:00

Ummm...excuse me while I wipe the drool from my chin and pick my chin up off the keyboard. Just dayum! Why do you do me like you do, Bradley? And why am I not with you in Cannes?

Le sigh, swoon, clutch heaving breasts and le sigh all over again. I love every inch of you in this outfit. Especially the pinky nugget ring. Keep pimpin, B.

Source

Nicole Richie does Lady GaGa

2009-05-20T00:36:00.000-04:00

I may be uber-late with this post, but a fabulous editorial shoot has no expiration date! I simply had to comment on the maternally fab Nicole Richie's spot-on imitation of Lady GaGa in April's Music Issue of BlackBook.

Wearing platinum blond bangs, gold nails and diamond-encrusted jewelry, Nicole channeled the eighties in a ton of spandex and neon. I love that this is such a departure from her usual boho-chic styling. Enjoy!

Now Wear This! Citizens of Humanity Avedon Jean

2009-05-19T00:04:00.002-04:00

These days, ripped jeans and leggings are the easiest way to look effortlessly on trend. The hottest pair of skinnies in this style is the Citizens of Humanity Avedon Jean. Both Gwen Stefani and Rihanna were spotted in LA last month in the Xene wash, which have been sold out almost everywhere!

Although the jeans, which retail for $185, are hard to find in Xene (black), there are still sizes available in Fallen Angel (white).

Get yours before they're gone!

Samantha Thavasa Shopping Event!

2009-05-18T00:04:00.001-04:00

BagTrends.com is co-hosting a fabulous shopping soirée at the Samantha Thavasa boutique in NYC. Stop by to sample summer trends, shop the bag-a-licious offerings from Samantha Thavasa and polish up your Japanese to boot! Refreshments will be served.

What: BagTrends.com and Samantha Thavasa Bag-a-licious Shopping Soiree
When: May 28th, 5pm – 8pm
Where: 965 Madison Avenue (@ 76th Street)
RSVP: samantha_thavasausa@bagtrends.com

Trend Watch: It's Jungle Out There!

2009-05-15T01:26:00.001-04:00

Fratelli Rossetti leather sandal with tortoiseshell detail, $490

By now you've noticed that a safari vibe has invaded Spring style! Vamp up your Spring basics with python, giraffe and zebra printed handbags and shoes, wide-brimmed hats and wooden bangles. Brands like Dooney & Bourke, Donald J Pliner, and Fratelli Rossetti, can help you to take this trend and make it your own!

Donald J Pliner Corby in Mushroom, Khaki, and Aqua Python Patent, $400

Donald J Pliner Bamberg hobo in Mushroom Python Patent, $1155

Dooney and Bourke Medium Giraffe Duffle, $495

Ask Elle

2009-05-14T00:00:00.000-04:00

OK Elle,

Since you were all up and through Fashion Week, I know you've got the HOT stuff right from the runway. Help a plus-size sista out! I've got a formal ball to go to and I don't have a thing to wear in my closet. I need to know where I can shop for plus-size formal fashions that are within my budget of $250-300, that will be age appropriate (40-50) and turn the heads...for sure!!! Please give me the low-down on what's flattering these days...mama I needs visuals!

Desperate...
Sherry

Hi Sherry-luv!

No worries, cupcake, I have the perfect dress for you! Plus size glamour girls in search of fabulous formal wear should look no further than Monif C., a well-known plus size designer with a boutique conveniently located right in NYC. Monif C.'s line has been featured on Rip the Runway, in Essence and in many other noted fashion zines.

My favorite current piece in her line is the Marilyn Convertible Dress, a definite must-have for the season. It is a convertible dream! It can be tied and styled in at least 22 different ways, including as a halter dress, a dress with sleeves, a skirt, a baby doll top, and more!

Made of luxurious jersey, it is as comfortable as it is flattering. The best part? It fits sizes 8 through 24 and comes in a number of trendy colors.

There are even instructional videos on all the different ways to wear it! Click here and here to watch and learn!

For a less formal affair, I would also give the a shorter, cocktail version a go!

Try this one on for size, Miss S., I promise it will live up to your every expectation! Thanks for writing!

xo, Elle

Rihanna: A Week in Pictures

2009-05-13T00:09:00.002-04:00

In Dolce & Gabbana at the Costume Institute Ball on Monday

Even before Rihanna's goodies hit the internet (and may I just say HOT!), the good girl turned bad was having a fantabulous week in pictures. You may not agree with her fashion choices, but there is no doubt that she has a definite point of view and is absolutely fearless when it comes to fashion. She started off last week in a bowtie, shoulder pads and leather gloves at the Met Ball on Monday.

Here she is leaving the Gramercy Park Hotel on Tuesday in trendy patterned leggings, booties, shorts, a black jacket, and earrings that attach from earlobe to earlobe.

Later on Tuesday, she changed into this neon yellow, rhinestone studded jacket and paired it with a red lip.

On Wednesday, Rihanna went shopping at Intermix in a figure-skimming corset, jeans and pastel pink wrap.

That night, she hit the town in a chic white pantsuit and cheetah blouse.

Then on Thursday, she donned a sexy snakeskin vest by Gucci.

That same night, she chose Louis Vuitton to work the red carpet at the DKMS 2009 Annual Gala at Cipriani.

Finally on Friday, she took a more low-key approach in a camouflage hoodie and bright neon kicks.

Well played, Miss RiRi.

Source

Luxe Links

2009-05-12T00:29:00.003-04:00

Fashion Weekend New Jersey (who knew?) presents Fashionation this Memorial Day Weekend! - FWNJ.com

Getting married this year? The Budget Fashionista has your go-to guide for a fabulously budget-friendly wedding - TBF

So Keifer Sutherland headbutted Jack McCollough of Proenza Schouler? And Anna Wintour is pissed? Escandolo! - Fashionologie

Posh Becks unveils her sexxxy new Emporio Armani underwear ads - People

Beyonce does nerd swag nicely - LBS

YBF serves up her favorite Hollywood mommies just in time for Mother's Day - YBF

Sandra Bullock covers this month's Harper's Bazaar - Socialite Life

The best runway accessory? A Chanel concept car - Persona Mag

Bravo's The Fashion Show: Week One's winning dress - ShoppingBlog.com

Natalia Vodianova: Supermodel Supernova - CNN

Where do you stand on cut-off jean shorts? To buy or not to buy? Style.com

2009 Cosmetic Executives Women Beauty Award Winners - CEW

Is any person in real life actually wearing harem pants (successfully)? - The Cut

Picture Source

2009 Met Gala Trend Watch: Bare Legs and Booties!

2009-05-11T00:07:00.002-04:00

Monday night's Costume Institute Gala at the Met, the yearly event that never fails to bring out fashion's elite and Hollywood's glitterati, was a salute to supermodels hosted by Kate Moss (in a faaabulous metallic turban by Stephen Jones) and designer Marc Jacobs. It's fitting then that many of the models in attendance signaled a serious trend in cocktail wear: short dress, bare legs, and ankle-high booties!

Daria Werbowy in Balmain

Gisele Bundchen in Versace

Raquel Zimmermann in Proenza Schouler

Liya Kebede in Derek Lam

Alexander Wang and Lara Stone in his design

Hilary Rhoda in Thakoon

Bradley Cooper and Caroline Winberg in Emilio Pucci

Arlenis Sosa Pena in Alberta Ferretti

Who says you have to pair a short and sparkly with strappy, delicate sandals? Instead, try this rockin' trend for yourself!

Check out the rest of the red carpet, here.

Source

Sample Sales NYC!

2009-05-11T00:00:00.000-04:00

What: J Rosen Showroom

Why: Vix and Lisa Curran swimsuits (all the way up to DD, ladies) start at $65; cover-ups start at $30; flip-flops start at $10.
When: May 5-22. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: 250 W. 39th St., b/t Seventh & Eighth Aves., ste. 510 (212-221-2349). Cash only.

What: Fred Perry
Why: Iconic polos, track jackets, and footwear for $40.
When: May 11-17. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., noon-5 p.m.
Where: 547 W. 27th St., b/t Tenth & Eleventh Aves

What: Tibi
Why: Terry strapless cover-ups for $40 (reg. $185), swimwear for $55 (reg. $190), dresses for $99 (reg. $380).
When: May 13-15. Wed., 1-7 p.m.; Thurs., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Where: 409 W. 39th St., b/t Ninth & Tenth Aves

What: Yigal Azrouël
Why: Gowns for $275, dresses for $125, tops for $100, pants for $75. Casual merch for men starts at $43.
When: May 13-15. Wed. & Thurs., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: 225 W. 39th St., b/t Seventh & Eighth Aves., 7th flr. (212-302-1194).

What: Lela Rose
Why: Fifty to 75 percent off party dresses and RTW.
When: May 13-15. Wed.-Fri., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 224 W. 30th St., b/t Seventh & Eighth Aves., 13th flr.

What: John Robshaw
Why: Bohemian bedding, throw pillows, and linens are up to 75 percent off.
When: May 14-16. Thurs. & Fri., 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: 245 W. 29th St., b/t Seventh & Eighth Aves., 6th flr. (212-594-6006).

What: Steven Alan
Why: Cardigans and shirts for guys and girls, Matt Bernson shoes, and special gems from Sophomore to Rachel Nasvik.
When: May 14-17. Thurs. & Fri., 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat., noon-7 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m.
Where: 87 Franklin St., b/t Church St. & Broadway.

What: Robert Clergerie
Why: First-time sample sale has actual samples (about 200 pairs) in sizes 5.5-10 from the fashion closet. Chunky heels, clogs, and boots are $100-$150 (reg. $400-$900).
When: May 15 & 16. Fri. & Sat., 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Where: 19 E. 62nd St., b/t Fifth & Madison Aves. (212-207-8600).

E.L.F. yourself! Spring makeup for $1.00!

2009-05-01T13:35:00.005-04:00

Value-driven cosmetic company, E.L.F. (Eyes, Lips, Face) appears to be liquidating their entire makeup line! Everything from powder to lipstick to mascara to brushes are $1.00 a piece!

Any orders over $15.00 can use the coupon code: CAROLINA for an additional $7.50 off!

Get glowing!

Forever 21 Launches a Plus-Size Line!

2009-04-29T20:17:00.007-04:00

Hell to the yes! On May 1st, Forever 21 is (finally) launching Faith 21, its first ever plus-size collection! This means that I can now shop for more than just accessories in the trendy, cheap and chic bastion of teen fashion. Faith 21 will have sizes ranging from XL-2X and will range in price from $3.50 to $34.80.

Much like the Forever 21's main collection for petite and skinny minis, Faith 21 will feature of-the-moment pieces including sheer peasant blouses, denim leggings and mini dresses like the flirty floral above.

Heidi Canalizo, a regional manager at Forever 21, confirmed the collection was a no-brainer. "In the past we've had XL sizes and we would sell out of them so quickly," she said. "Our customers have been asking for this for so long and in the past few years we've really decided it's time to get into it. Not everyone is a size 2."

Ready for your own piece of Faith? Head on over to Forever21.com and get free standard shipping on orders of $75 or more! If you're in Southern California, you can actually shop the line in-store beginning May 1 at Lakewood Center Mall, Montebello Town Center, Los Cerritos Mall, and Anaheim Plaza.

In other news, this Spring will also see the launch of Target's plus-size line for juniors. Target's Pure Energy line will go up to a size 30 and feature skinny jeans, maxi dresses and sleeveless party tops. From the looks of it, I'm not in love, but hopefully more and better looks will be found in store. Give it a whirl!

Jimmy Choo Sample Sale in NYC!

2009-04-28T15:48:00.004-04:00

JIMMY CHOO SAMPLE SALE IN NYC!

DATE: APRIL 30TH 2009, 1PM-7PM

LOCATION: THE METROPOLITAN PAVILION, 18TH STREET (BETWEEN 6th & 7th AVE.), 4TH FLOOR

SHOES STARTING FROM $75 AND BAGS STARTING FROM $150

RUN, DON’T WALK!

Bish Stole My Pose!

2009-04-17T14:52:00.004-04:00

Linds Lohan is not the only one pissed about Katie Holmes' Glamour cover this month...

Bish stole my pose! How daaaare she...

Kanye for LV

2009-04-17T12:15:00.003-04:00

Kanye and his arm candy du jour Amber Rose (hot) have been captured in photos for Mr. West's recent collabo with Louis Vuitton - a line of monochrome, leather, and suede sneakers. Fresh. Mere mortals can get their hands on a pair in June, although Kanye has been rocking his for months. Photos by Steve Shaw.

Source/Source

Kimora wants your "Fab Photo!"

2009-04-17T11:38:00.009-04:00

Divas...do you stan for the forever fabulous KLS? Do you have a closet stocked with Baby Phat clothes, shoes and handbags? Good news! Brand loyalty has its benefits. From now through April 22nd, Baby Phat is holding its first ever Baby Phat "Fab Photo" Contest. You are cordially invited to submit a photo of yourself wearing your most fabulous Baby Phat outfit to contest@phatfashions.com. One Grand Prize winner will receive a $500 Baby Phat wardrobe and have their glorious mug splashed all over the Baby Phat Facebook fan page.

Want the goods? First, join Baby Phat's FB fan page, strike a pose, then email your Fab Photo (a close up taken within the last 30 days), name, e-mail addy and phone number to contest@phatfashions.com.

Make mother proud!

Prepping for Project Runway Season 6...and 7!

2009-04-14T15:01:00.008-04:00

If an entire season of Project Runway, including the always climactic runway show at Bryant Park, has been filmed, and a winner crowned, but none of it has ever actually aired, does that season actually exist? Surprisingly, the answer is yes, since after all the legal shenanigans, PR fans will finally get their Season 6 fix beginning this summer on Lifetime. The jury is still out as to whether the fashion designer face-off will remain true to its Bravo roots, but I for one am still waiting breathlessly in anticipation for Heidi, Tim and the ever colorful contestants.

Think you have what it takes to impress the judges on Season 7? Designer hopefuls should check out www.bunim-murray.com/prcasting. Season 7 casting is happening as we speak! Good luck, buttercups!

Valentino: The Last Emperor

2009-04-07T21:37:00.006-04:00

Greetings my fellow fashion fiends! Looking to kill a few hours this weekend? Make it your business to check out Valentino: The Last Emperor, a behind-the-scenes look at the world of haute couture through the eyes of the legendary Valentino Garavani. The film follows Valentino and his longtime partner, Giancarlo Giammetti, as they confront the closing act of a nearly 50-year career in the glamorous and competitive world of fashion.

Matt Tyrnauer, producer and director, describes the film as "one explosion after the other. Valentino is very impatient. He’s a Taurus. He loves the drama. There are divo moments and there are tantrums, and a lot of them are directed at the camera. It’s sort of like a cross between a hurricane and a cyclone."

Besides documenting Valentino's life and career, the film further explores the larger issues of art versus commerce, and explores the uniquely loving relationship between Valentino and Giammetti. Check out the sneak previews below, then go see it for yourself!

Quote of the Day

2009-04-03T15:40:00.006-04:00

"You don't...go to Buckingham Palace in a sweater."

-Oscar de la Renta on the First Lady's palace attire

Source

Lakshmi Menon taps into her "Divine Power"

2009-04-03T00:07:00.004-04:00

Model Lakshmi Menon is a bronze goddess in Dolce & Gabbana on the April 2009 cover of Dazed and Confused. Dripping in gold chains, bright colors and regalia fit for a queen, Lakshmi is playing the part perfectly. Well done, doll!

Photographed by Josh Olins and styled by Nicola Formichetti

Source

Topshop is here!

2009-04-02T19:55:00.007-04:00

Topshop New York opened today (yayness!) and I am just as excited now as I was back when it was first reported that the it-Brit chain was opening its American flagship at Broadway and Broome. Launching just in time for some serious Spring shopping, there are a ton of great events and perks planned for the week. And you don't even have to be in NYC to take part! If you shop online between now and April 9th, you'll receive free shipping on all orders.

So, you may as well seize the opportunity to invest in a fabulous piece from the Kate Moss S/S '09 collection for Topshop. Pretty sweet.

"The Hills" are alive...again!

2009-04-02T12:26:00.003-04:00

Yes, bitches! Season 5 of the pseudo-reality dramz fest, "The Hills", will premiere Monday, April 6th at 10pm ET. As much as I would love to say I'm above the rich bitch shenanigans of L.C., Heidi, Audrina and nem, I will sooo be there. Or at least my Tivo will. Will Lauren and Heidi finally settle their differences (AKA push Spencer off a cliff), have a good cry and become besties again? Will Justin Bobby put together a coherent sentence? Has Brody gotten any hotter and is that even possible? Inquiring minds want to know!

Be sure to check out all the frenemies, Ferraris and fashion this season on The Hills! Can't wait until Monday? Check out "The Hills" preview special with Lauren by clicking here.

Love, lipgloss and lashes, Elle

Still Searching for the Perfect Pair of Jeans?

2009-03-30T14:55:00.008-04:00

And, do you want to add "Featured in Essence Magazine" to your long list of fabulosity credits? You're in luck! Essence is hosting an open casting call in search of real women who have the denim-buying blues to appear in their annual Denim Makeover fashion feature.

WHEN: Tuesday, March 31, 2009

TIME: 6 PM to 9 PM
WHERE: ESSENCE MAGAZINE
135 West 50th Street
(between 6th and 7th Avenue)
4th Floor
New York, City

AGES: 18 to 35

SIZES: 0 to 18

HEIGHT: 4”11 TO 6’

If you have all sorts of trubs finding jeans that fit your body, this casting is for you. Go on, show them what you're working with!

Support our Jilly from Philly!

2009-03-27T16:31:00.004-04:00

HBO's newest series, The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, premieres this Sunday, March 29 at 8 pm with Jill Scott in the starring role. Aren't you so proud of her? Do your part to support the first HBO show to star a black woman (ever)! Watch and discuss!

Bebe Didn't F*%k it Up!

2009-03-24T00:25:00.000-04:00

I am sending loads of lashes, lipstick and love to Bebe Zahara Benet, recently crowned winner of RuPaul's Drag Race and America's Next Drag Superstar! The 28-year-old native of the West African republic of Cameroon brought an ultra exotic and oh so sophisticated energy to the show that took her straight to the top! Not only did she serve up the most effortless fabulosity, but grace and dignity as well. I lived for this show and all of its contestants. And why did it take so long for RuPaul to get a show? Seriously, Ru did Tyra better than Tyra does Tyra. Can't wait for next season! Oh and Bebe, you better work.

Meet Sara Blakely and her Haute Contour Spanx Line at Saks NYC

2009-03-24T00:00:00.002-04:00

SPANX, Inc.® proudly introduces the first ever Sexy, Sumptuous, Shapewear with a new brand, Haute Contour! For years, the First Lady of Shapewear, Sara Blakely and SPANX Inc, have created shaping solutions to help women look and feel great in their fashions - now they are bringing fashion to shapewear with beautiful pieces designed to slim the derrières and torsos of fashionistas everywhere. Haute Contour by Spanx is truly the dessert of shapewear – now you can have your shape and sexy too!

Sara Blakely, founder of SPANX, Inc. said, “Women and men would always ask me if I could create sexy shapewear, and now I have with Haute Contour. Each piece of this lingerie-inspired collection is shaping, sumptuous, and ready to be seen in!”

Thursday, March 26, 2009
5-7 pm

Saks Fifth Avenue, New York
611 5th Avenue
New York City
Intimates on Ten (10^th Floor)

Meet Sara and sip champagne as you browse the new line...see you there!

The Inaword Intern Reviews MTV's House of Style

2009-03-23T00:20:00.000-04:00

Having just finished watching the newly revamped House Of Style on MTV, I am left feeling proud and disappointed at the same time. Proud because most of the trends they counted down, I've already totally picked up on (snaps and claps for me!). But disappointed because I found it to be cheesy and ridiculously scripted.

In case you haven't heard, MTV has partnered with Teen Vogue to bring back the classic MTV show on all things fashion. Host, Bar Refaeli and correspondent, Chanel Iman, chat about the must-have items of the moment, including celebrity lines, designer DIYs, beauty secrets and more!

I was excited to see Chanel on television because of her bubbly yet down-to-earth personality that I thought would absolutely shine. Wrong! She was so reserved and seemed to hold back. Give her time...

The good news is that the fashion countdown was fun and informational! Some of highlights were:

Friendship Bracelets
Mary Kate Steinmiller, who designs friendship bracelets for Charlotte Ronson, showed us all how anyone can DIY! My roommates and I will definitely be making those ASAP! I have never been so excited to go to my local Wal-Mart. I'll let you know how that works out.

Marc by Marc Jacobs
Of course; he's my absolute FAVORITE!

Bikes

Miley Cyrus is the queen of this accessory, even though it was first spotted as a trend in London courtesy of supermodel Agyness Deyn.

Jellies
They're back! My ultimate favorite summertime sandal...of course they should be more sophisticated then the little sandals from the 90's!

Other trends on the countdown included Jewels and Gems, Neons, Tribal Prints and what we've already brought to you a while back, Jumpsuits!

Another feature of the show was Fashion Stories featuring Taylor Swift (the other Jonas woman scorned) and supermodel Jessica Stam. I, personally, am not too fond of Taylor. Her style is nothing to fiend over; it's actually completely copiable. Her hair is amazing but her squint is annoying! Now, Jessica Stam on the other hand has gorgeous hair, beautiful eyes and a cool, laid back style.

Stam is also a complete recessionista. She shared her love of flannel shirts, in particular how versatile they are to keep warm in winter and as little jackets in the summer. She also talked about cutting your jeans from winter into shorts for summer which, I don't exactly agree with because well, where I'm from, winter comes back around. She recommended bag swapping parties with friends. And my favorite tip of all: White Tees! So simple and yet, as she said, they can be worn all day and all night in so many ways. A skinny skirt and heels are a good way to transform a t-shirt into evening attire.

The episode ended with a backstage interview with Justin Timberlake at his William Rast show during New York Fashion Week. He spoke about taking classic American fashions like jeans and leather and adding a modern twist. The line, a partnership with his friend Trace Ayala, is a honest statement and a new movement. It's cool, relaxed and speaks to his southern upbringing.

Tune into House of Style on MTV and check it out for yourself!

-Nastasia, Inaword Intern

KensieGirl Preview Event at Macy's

2009-03-23T00:16:00.002-04:00

Fab Find of the Day: Barbados V-Plunge Swimsuit by Monif C.

2009-03-20T16:06:00.007-04:00

Barbados V-Plunge Swimsuit $124.00

Overall, I must say I was quite unimpressed with the plus-size fashions on Rip the Runway 2009. Although I love Douglas Says and the fact that he designs for full-size women (I've even walked in his show before), his colorblocked collection of jersey dresses reads retro and dated, in the worst way.

But joy comes in the morning! The above beachy little number, part of Monif C.'s designer swimsuit collection, had me at hello. Why? Well, we all know how I feel about gold lamé. There should probably be an entire section of inawordfab.com dedicated to it. Definitely not for the faint of heart, it's bold, eye catching and futuristic, three things I love in a fabric. But and however, it's quite hard to pull off without looking like a space cadet. That's why one of the best pieces to have in a lamé fabric is a barely there swimsuit, and Monif C. has designed one just for us plus size pretties.

The belted midsection of the Barbados V-Plunge is super slimming and the plunging neckline is super sexy. Really, what more could you want in a one-piece? Don't be afraid to serve it to all those skinny minis the next time you hit the sand! Get yours now at Zappos.com!