Carrie Bradshaw fans rejoice, your prayers have been answered! 

Celeb Sightings: NY Fashion Week

Let’s discuss the True Blood finale

Birth control gets a makeover

Going through a break-up? These books will help!

John Galliano found guilty for more than just sporting a fish tail braid.

Having a bad day? Watch Serena Williams have one too.

Feeling fat? It’s your clothes fault. 

Yeah, you smile with that puppy and hope that fixes your image.

As we all know all too well, back in 2009, Chris Brown assaulted his girlfriend and put a major halt on his career. Now, 2 years later, Rihanna has moved on… but Chris Brown has not.

Chris “beat her down” Brown made a huge mistake when he beat up Rihanna, not only professionally, but as a person. Now, two years later, Brown is not too thrilled that his “mishap” is still bringing him down. He claims he has made numerous public apologies, but still doesn’t feel like this “mishap” is going away. It should be noted, however, that throughout his so-called “apologies,” he blames other people for his negative image and failing career, never actually taking the blame himself. Whose fists were used in that fight, Chris? Just curious.

It’s a sad story. I mean, Chris Brown is incredibly talented. I even still find myself rocking out to Forever and No Air. But is his talent reason enough to not hold him accountable for what he did? Should we really be blamed for turning our backs on someone who did something so horrible just because he’s got a good voice and some sick dance moves?

The same question can be asked about John Galliano, head designer for Dior, who had a little (well, actually a freaking HUGE) “mishap” of his own. A video was leaked of Galliano being openly and aggressively anti-Semitic, which ultimately led to his dismissal from one of the most notable fashion houses in the world. His words offended many, including Natalie Portman who spoke out against him.

But surprisingly, people are taking his side, claiming “he was being theatrical” and that the hateful rant should not lead to the dismissal of such a talented visionary.

It’s shocking and infuriating. Just because the guy can tailor a dress perfectly does not mean he doesn’t have to be held accountable for such poor and disgusting behavior. Why should we let him off the hook for saying such hateful and ignorant things? And why should Chris Brown be surprised that his career isn’t taking off and that people don’t want to support him any longer?

You messed up, dude, not us.

It doesn’t matter if you’re the best dancer in the world, the most respected fashion designer, or just a random person on the street, if you do something wrong, you have to pay for it.

Right?

You know what blows about winter – aside from the fact that it’s freezing out and we all put on about 15 pounds from eating stew and sitting on our couches in sweatshirts and sweatpants? The fact that it’s grey and miserable for months on end.

Well, we’re here to put a stop to that – because even if it’s ugly outside, there’s no reason we can’t brighten things up with some pops of color. And the trend seen all over the Spring 2009 runways was orange, orange, orange.

The shade showed up in all versions, from bright and rich at Lanvin and Louis Vuitton to muted at Chloe. A jumpsuit at Akris was a lovely shade of persimmon, while John Galliano sent out at least 10 outfits the color of orange Popsicles! Check out the pics of these looks below…

Cutesy and kicky with black tulle trim at Louis Vuitton

Another one-shoulder stunner at Chloe

Jumpsuits are back in full force at Akris

One of the many orange looks coming down the runway at John Galliano

Now, don’t feel threatened by such a bright hue. You don’t have to dress head to toe in it if that’s too scary for you! There are tons of ways to introduce this color to your wardrobe, whether it’s a cute scarf or amazing new bag. We’re here to bring you all the fabulous options guaranteed to turn your closet from drab to fab.

See the rest over at StyleBakery!

For the last few months, every Monday I’ve highlighted a star who I believe epitomizes style, whether because she takes risks and sets trends, or because she puts together simple ensembles that perfectly highlight her assets. In honor of the new year, I thought we should take a trip down fashion memory lane and see some of 2008′s best dressed stars. These ladies are all style icons of our time for different reasons and I’d jump at the opportunity to invade their closets any day. (To see more of these ladies’ perfect fashion choices, click on their pictures!)

1. Anne Hathaway:

Anne’s a new one on best dressed lists this year; in the past she was never really a stand out when it came to fashion/style, but ever since her break up with that loser bf of hers, she’s been shining as bright as can be. Anne makes fashion choices that are edgy yet classic and the gir knows how to play up her beauty. She’s been a great example for women all over the globe that you can come out of a bad relationship better than before, and for that alone she gets major props.

2. Rihanna:

Rihanna is probably the edgiest star on my list. She has a style that’s all her own and she owns it. Even her edgy hair cut has been an inspiration this year. She wears bright colors, interesting cuts, and always looks smokin’. There’s a reason Rihanna was the first person I chose to be a Style Idol; she tells young women that it’s possible to play up your personal, unique style, to make it look fabulous and to have fun doing it.

3. Leighton Meester:

Leighton is another new comer on the fashion scene, but she’s come in with a bang. Known for her preppy Upper East Side look on Gossip Girl, on the red carpet and out & about, Leighton has a fun, flirty style that utilizes classic designers but puts a young & modern twist on their classic styles. Leighton is a gorgeous gal who knows just how to play up her fresh-faced good looks and her beautiful body.

4. Michelle Obama:

This has been a huge year for politics and for the Obamas and Michelle Obama has been in the epicenter of that, not only for her devotion to her family and her husband’s campaign and her calm and cool demeanor, but also for her keen fashion sense. She’s been touted as the Jackie O of our generation and what she plans to wear on inauguration night is the talk of the town. There is no denying that she consistently looks put-together and stylish, but also professional and well-suited to be the President’s wife. She’s also won praise for the fact that many of her fashion choices are in an affordable price range and easily accessible to the average American woman. I must admit that I, too, am eager to see what she dons on January 20th.

5. Heidi Klum:

Last but not least is Heidi Klum. Though she hasn’t been on my Style Idol list (yet), she is constantly photographed looking absolutely gorgeous and glam. Heidi not only has an amazing body for anyone, let alone a mom of 3 (!), she’s got a look about her that is stunning, but has a girl-next-door air that still makes her likable; she is the woman women want to be. She comes across as fun and funny, yet she always looks polished and stylish. It’s no wonder she hosts one of the top fashion shows on television; her personal style, whether in jeans and a tank or a gorgeous John Galliano gown, is one us mere mortals can only hope to obtain.

Who do you think was best dressed this year?

Of course, no celebs are immune to the occasional “what the hell were they thinking?” moment, but for the most part, these celebs look foxy and fabulous and inspire us all to do the same.]

Dita Von Teese is famous for her infinitely sexy burlesque act (I actually saw her perform at a small party a few years back, and let me say, it is quite spectacular), and for having been married to freakish Marilyn Manson. Lately, however, she has been getting a new sort of notoriety: for her fabulous style.

Dita stands on her own as the Diva of Retro. She pulls off this look with vintage-inspired clothing, dramatic coloring and her signature pin-up hair and ruby red lips. She is a dream for many couture designers such as Marchesa, Vivienne Westwood, Roland Mouret and Christian Dior/John Galliano, as their gowns perfectly hug her amazing and almost unbelievable hourglass figure. She accentuates the beauty of her classic looks by adding fun and flirty accessories like sky-high heels and funky hats.

Dita embodies glamour like no one else and makes it look effortless in the process; that’s enough for me (or anyone) to consider her a Style Idol of our time.

Top one favorite activity: A fashion-based art project fueled by margaritas!

This spring, designers such as John Galliano, Christian Lacriox, and Dolce and Gabbana have been drawing inspiration from the art world to produce amazing, eye-catching pieces that are an art school dropout’s (read: me) dream come true. And while pieces like this might be difficult to put together on a Sunday afternoon; with some ambition, craft supplies, and a little buzzed-up creativity, you too can be a part of this wikkid hot trend!

Necessary supplies:

* Something you want to spice up. This can be a dress, purse, pants, skirt, t-shirt…literally, anything. If you want to go blank canvas style, hit up American Apparel or save your money and just get a three pack of Hanes wife beaters. However, I personally think this project gets even more exciting when you’re working with something that already has a pattern on it, so don’t rule out that plaid skirt from your private school days.

* Paint. The options here are to purchase actual fabric paint, which can be a little pricey, or buy acrylic paint and mix it with fabric fixative. Plus, when you’re done, you can still use the leftover acrylic to create a piece for your wall that matches your gear. Yay! All of these materials are available at craft stores like Michael’s and Joanne’s Fabrics, or in the craft departments of some superstores.

* Paintbrushes. You can just go with one size, but I think using a few different sizes to create variation in the brush strokes makes the final result more interesting.

* Paper plates. Disposable, relatively eco-friendly paint trays.

* Bowl of water/paper toweling. For cleaning messes.

* An armature of sorts. I usually use a chunk of cardboard trimmed to the size I need for whatever I’m working on. Cheap and easy. (Just like you)

* Tape or tacks/pins. To hold the piece of clothing in place on the armature.

* Newspaper/tarp/an old sheet. This could get messy, and landlords frown upon paint-splattered floors.

* Margaritas. Though I suppose it could be argued this is not essential to the project, I beg to differ.

Recipe for disaster:

1.) Mix a margarita. Consume.

2.) Wash your sh*t. In this case, clean clothes are good because the paint will stick better/last longer.

3.) Cover the floor. Duh.

4.) Put the item on the armature. If you need to, affix it to the armature with the affixing items. *You might not actually need this. Some items are just more annoying to work with on an armature, but in the case of say, t-shirts, using one will probably save you a lot of headache.

5.) Pour/mix your paint. A lot of it. Because nothing is more annoying than to be in the middle of creating only to realize you have to stop and make some more pink.

6.) Grab your brush and go to town! For inspiration, here are some links to excellent arty designer examples:

Elle video

Elle slideshow

Blog

7.) Let it dry for at least a few hours. Because it would suck to go out to the bar thinking you’re all fly and end up getting paint all over the bar stool.

8.) To clean, hand wash in cold water. Lest you run the risk of ruining your artwork/tainting all the other clothing in the washing machine.

Tips:

- Tone ‘er down. I’m all for buckwild, but with a project such as this, it’s easy to go overboard. The first time around, it might be in your best interest to keep your design relatively simple, or at least take it slow.

- Bite off someone else’s sh*t. If you’re not sure where to start, take your cues from the OGs: abstract expressionist works are especially well-suited to this project.

- Embrace your inner kindergartener. Because it’s supposed to be fun, damnit!

DIY for life!

For all of the times we hoped and dreamed way-too-gorgeous runway models would just…get axed up and trot around on stage flashing war wounds on their not-so-perfect-anymore bodies, John Galliano, a seemingly post-apocalypse obsessed fashion designer, has just made those dreams come true in Paris.

The only problem with the execution of this odd fantasy is that the models were all male. Apparently, looking like you just got your ass kicked by whatever doom 2012 holds for the world isn’t a very IN look for the gals.

Some of Galliano’s designs were undeniably costumes–not anything any guy would ever wear…unless he’s battling something awful in Lord of The Rings. However, surprisingly, some of the jeans, shirts, and sweaters were actually not just OK, but pretty badass.

The designs are grim, much like Galliano’s presentation of them. But who doesn’t like a little bit of DUNGEON in their wardrobe?

It’s unfortunate that his designs were masked by, well, actual masks (amongst other things), but had it not been for his zombie model parade, I never would have recognized this very embarrassing truth about myself:

Even with gauze and blood and death and doom all over his face (and a noose on his neck), I’d still bone a model looking like he just drove a motorcycle off of a cliff.

And to think, I once had standards.