This week our usual Fashion Porn was placed on the back burner to make room for the fashion lover’s Christmas: Mercedes Benz Fashion Week.

As fashion week wraps up, I already have a long shopping list of what I must find once Spring clothes hit the shelves.  While I’m aware that this is months away, the collections this year were so beautiful that I’m going to have to start saving up in order to stock my closet with the affordable versions of the designs I saw this week.

And although it’s hard to play favorites with the many diverse collections that walked the runways, there are five fabulous designers that really stood out amongst the prints, sky high heels, and oversized accessories at this year’s NY Fashion Week. Fashion Week MVPs, if you will

The Fashion Week All-Stars.

LELA ROSE

Even if you don’t follow designers, you may know Lela Rose from her collaboration with Payless.  Her collections are typically a little more mature, but this talented lady really stepped it up this year with a  colorful, sporty collection for Spring 2010.  The unusual color combinations will be something for a seasoned fashionista to play with this Spring.  Classic touches such as tweed bottoms grounded the neon color scheme and added an interesting twist to spring clothing. Lela Rose made people re-think spring style and it is that innovation that makes a great designer.

REBECCA TAYLOR

Ladylike floral dresses were hardened by studs and cropped blazers at Rebecca Taylor.  Electric patterns were found throughout the collection; even the sweetest colored dresses were paired with bright shoes.  The collection was fresh and cool with strong silhouettes balancing out the signature sweet and flirty pieces.  The color palate was unique, as were many of the patterns paired together. And I wanted to wear every last piece. Rebecca Taylor, you are a genius.

MARC BY MARC JACOBS

Always a crowd favorite, Marc Jacobs did not disappoint during his little-sister collection, Marc by Marc Jacobs.  Though the headbands were reminiscent of the bunny ears seen on the runway during the Louis Vuitton Fall/Winter 2009 show, much of the collection was fresh and exciting.  Jacobs incorporated tribal prints and accessories into more traditional shapes, creating completely unique and exciting looks.  A far cry from his signature collection, Marc Jacobs created pieces from fun, colorful patterns, making it one of the all-star collections this season.

ZAC POSEN

True glamour appeared on the red and purple carpeted runway at Zac Posen this season.  Bright colors dominated the collection, which was filled with Posen’s speciality: dresses.  He definitely knows how to dress a girl looking for some fun. His mini dresses were fun and accessorized perfectly with over-the-top brooches (that were slightly reminiscent of the Rocky Horror Picture Show lips).  Fine tailoring dominated much of this collection, though the show ended with some stunning evening gowns that left me dreaming of a reason to wear one.

TEMPERLEY LONDON

Take a circus ringmaster, add a dose of rocker and you’ve got Temperley London’s spring collection.  Though grounded by basic black and white, this collection is anything but basic.  The geometric patterns were complemented by solid blazers – and many of the looks were topped off (literally) by a top hat.  The bold prints, studded blazers and other circus-y elements don’t seem like anything that could work together or on anyone, but Temperley makes it work. And they make it work well.

Though I chose only 5 designers, in true Fashion Porn style, I had to add a 6th look to complete my All-Star collection.  The genius behind Michelle Obama’s inaugural ball gown, Jason Wu, showed he is worthy of space in the First Lady’s closet and definitely deserves some recognition after his beautiful showing this week.

Who were your Fashion Week All-Stars this season?

All photos via style.com showcase Spring 2010 runway looks

Do guys hate her, too?!

We hate you, Tiffani Thiessen.

Blue M&Ms could save your life.

Jessica Simpson gets (skinny) revenge!

Is your workout killing the environment?

Cute neon. For cheap.

There’s nothing that puts a smile on my face like finding a fantastic bargain, and since we all wanna look good in a crappy economy, finding those deals is even more important these days.  Each week I’ll feature one store/website where you can find eight A-dorable items for under $20 (not too shabby, right?).

This week I’m featuring Mandee.  While some of their stuff admittedly looks like it costs under $20, it’s a great place to find cute basics, cheap denim, and certain trendy pieces that probably won’t last more than one season (so paying under $20 is perfect).  Another bonus: they often have good sales that make their stuff even more of a bargain.

Summer’s more than halfway over and school will be back in session before we know it, but there’s still plenty of warm weather to be had (and hey, you can usually utilize some of your cute summer clothes for those early days of fall semester) which means it’s not too late to buy halters, flip flops, shorts or skirts, especially when you can find ‘em this cheap.

This halter will look adorable with shorts for the summertime, but nicely eases into fall. The color palette is perfect and it’ll look totally cute with a pair of jeans and some boho wedges.

I love the ikat print on this skirt. It lets you take a simple day look and jazz it up easily. And at $9.99, you have the option to pick it up in the other 2 colors.

Colored denim is still popular this summer (and neon hues even moreso), but it’s not a trend that’ll last forever so who wants to spend tons of money on it?  At $16.99 these shorts are not only a steal, but that light blue will look faboo on those tan legs.

I love the flirtiness of this dress and that it is subtly sexy while still being classy enough to wear to a family BBQ.

I love me some Havainas, especially this uber-cute striped pair. So beachy, so nautical, so 50% off!

This shirt is girly, will look totally cute with jeans and will be super easy to throw on when you’re rushing off to that first morning class.

A girl can never have too many comfy tees, and this one is right on trend with its vintage style & neon lettering. But it doesn’t come with that ridiculous vintage price. It’s $5. Yes, $5. That’s less than your morning Venti Mocha.

Channel your inner rock star with this studded belt, which will give some edge to a simple tank/summer dress.

Post courtesy of out friends at StyleBakery.com. For more awesome fashion, style and beauty news, check them out!

There are some trends that last season after season: leggings, floral prints, gladiator sandals, etc. Then there are those that fade away: baby doll tops, harem pants. How are you supposed to know which trends to trash and which to invest in? Luckily, fashion is already way ahead of you. Fall 2009 and Resort 2010 collections have already been released, and Spring/Summer 2010 is in the works. For most designers, Resort is a preview of what’s coming next. Therefore, the collections provide great insight into what will be hot and what will be not for summer 2010.

We scoured the Resort looks of all the top designers – from Stella McCartney to Brian Reyes to Prada – and compiled a list of summer fashion trends that aren’t going anywhere:

One shoulder tops and dresses are chic without being too revealing. Don’t wear too much jewelry with this look as it makes a statement on its own.

(Ella Moss “Odessa” Top, $87 at Nordstrom; Leila Teired Dress, $237 at Bluefly; Juicy Couture Print Ruffle Dress, $180.60 at ShopBop).

Exposed zippers are edgy, but a favorite of designers such as Phillip Lim and Brian Reyes. This trend definitely has a future.

(Mink Pink Kansas Dress, $93 at Chickdowntown; Brian Reyes Sleeveless Dress, $510 at ShopBop; Charlotte Russe Zipper Ruffle Top, $19.99).

Statement necklaces can glam up any basic outfit, from jeans and a tee to a silk dress.

(Kenneth Jay Lane Flat Zebra Pendant, $99 at My-Wardrobe; Banana Republic Party Bib Necklace, $79; Lauren by Ralph Lauren Multi Bead Bib Necklace, $58 at Nordstrom).

Even though Jenny’s first order of business as queen on the TV series Gossip Girl was to nix her clique’s signature headbands, their influence remains. Bow details will still be in for summer 2010.

(French Connection Flash Bow Dress, $89.99; Newport News Bow Necklace, $29; Felix Rey “Emma” Wristlet, $156 at Bluefly; Forever 21 Pamela Satin Bow Headband, $4.80).

Other looks to shop for include both skinny and wide leg pants, cardigans, high-waisted pants and skirts, fitted blazers, belted waists, ruffles, tribal prints, sheer fabrics, and long tunics.

Which short-lived trends should you buy at cheap-chic retailers? There’s no way to be sure, but it doesn’t look like neon brights, fringe details, studs, or harem pants will be hanging around much longer.

That means it’s time to make your toes look pretty, because, let’s face it, they probably look pretty gross after being stuffed in a pair of boots all winter.  Grimy toenails are the perfect way to ruin a hot new pair of sandals (not to mention creep out everyone around you), so it’s time to give them a little TLC. And while you’re at it, let’s give those fingernails some attention; a little pretty polish goes along great with that perfect summer sundress.

Bold, neon colors are the trend of the summer and below are some bright polishes that will catch the attention of everyone, maybe even a summer fling. I know my summer goal is to score a hottie with a yacht, and while neon toes won’t get me that, I’ll try anything.

And I’ll look cute either way.

To Start:

Sally Hansen Maximum Growth Daily Nail Program: If you’re looking to grow your nails out this product really works.  It also strengthens nails and keeps them from being cracked or brittle.  Sweep this on as a base coat before painting your nails (then reapply daily) and you’ll see results in just a few days.

To Color:

Maybe I’m a nail polish snob, but I truly believe when it comes to polish you get what you pay for.  More expensive polishes don’t crack or bubble as easily, stay chip-free for longer, and go on smoother.  That’s why I tend to shell out the extra few dollars for a more quality polish. And it’s still way cheaper than bi-monthly mani/pedi appointments, so it’s worth the investment.

OPI: If you go to OPI’s site you can test out colors against different skin tones and on different nail lengths.  Of course, it’s not the same as trying it out yourself, but it might help you make a decision about what color is right for you.

Try Out: Shorts Story, A Grape Fit, In My Back Pocket, or Need Sunglasses? Some of these bright hues may be too much for your fingers (they are mighty brighty), but may be just right for your toes.

Essie: Essie has a mini line of neon colors for this upcoming summer, making it pretty easy for you to transition into brights.

Try Out: Flirty Fuscia, Funky Limelight, Perky Purple, or Punchy Pink. You can even try all four with the Essie mini set for only $18.

Sephora Brand Polish: If you can’t afford to spring for a pricier polish above, try Sephora Brand’s polish in: Chupa, Mangue, or Curacoa.  (P.S. Can someone tell me what those words mean??)

Top it Off:

To seal your color in and add a new level of shine try Revlon’s Quick Dry Top Coat.  It dries super fast, prevents chip, and has a UV shield to keep color locked in.

There is nothing more beautiful than a freshly manicured hand wrapped tightly around a glass of sangria. Welcome home, summer!

A few months ago, we shared our picks for adding more color to your beauty bags. Now the season is in full swing, and we can’t help but feel inspired by all of the colors blooming outdoors, being displayed in store windows and taking center stage at our local beauty counters. This is the perfect time of year to add more punches of color to your beauty routine, no matter how subtle. Find these colorful picks in stores right now.

MAC “Just A Pinch” Gel Blush is a seriously bold red color in its pot, but goes on smooth and sheer when applied to our cheeks and lips. This color looks great on all skintones and can be worn as light or amped up as you like. $18.50, nordstrom.com

Essie Neon Collection

What better way to add color to your look than to add it to your tips and toes? We know that neon can be a bit scary for some, but when worn on the hands and feet, it’s a lot less “in your face”. Get this mini set, and don’t be afraid to try them all. $18, essieshop.com

L’Oreal H.I.P Bright Duos Eyeshadows pack gorgeous, even more rich pigment than the original, into two colors that can be worn together or separately. Highly blendable, these colors go on sheer when applied with a shadow brush. Add more layers to turn up the volume on your desired look. $7, drugstore.com

Bare Escentuals Free To Be Naturally Adventurous Set

With gorgeous, vibrant colors, this 100% pure, preservative-free set allows the user to play up her bohemian style; give yourself exotic eyes, sparkling cheeks, and inspiring lips with all of the lively colors. Includes a blush, two eyecolors, one liner shadow and a gloss housed in a teal clutch. $39.50, sephora.com

Sephora Brand Moroccan Sunrise Bag Collection

We believe beauty junkies can never have too many cosmetic bags. We know these will never be worn with our favorite ensembles, but these tangerine colored bags look so good in our bathrooms, and really make keeping our ever-growing beauty arsenal well-organized. Available in four sizes. From $9, sephora.com

This is the perfect time of year to add more punches of color to your beauty routine, no matter how subtle. Find these colorful picks in stores right now.

I don’t know about you, but after what seemed to be the most grueling. winter. ever. I am excited and eager to dust off my spring wardrobe… and add some new pieces to it. As is always the case with the new season, we have some new trends (along with a few piggy-back trends of season’s past) to spice up our wardrobes.

Here are some of Spring 2009’s hottest trends:

Back to Basics: Black & White

It’s not nearly as versatile as the LBD (little black dress) and won’t be replacing it anytime soon, but the white dress is huge for spring. Contrary to the simplicity of the LBD, the white dress is all about glamour, so look for ruffles, maxi-lengths and sheer fabrics (another uber-trend this season). It’s time to bring out your inner goddess!

Along with the white dress, we’re seeing great dresses, tops and skirts that flaunt graphic black on white prints. This look makes a bold and fresh statement and is a great way to stand out in a sea of LBD.

A Suit-able Choice: Pantsuits and Short-suits (AKA jumpers/rompers)

We’ve seen the short-suits for the last couple of seasons, and they’re big again this year, but we are also seeing the pantsuit make a comeback. Don’t worry; it’s got a lot more style. If you are brave enough to rock this trend,  be sure to go for a drapey look and not a super tight number. If done right, this style can be incredibly chic. If done wrong, however, it can be incredibly Jazzercise.

Color Me Bad: Color, Color, Color!!!

As is always the case, color is extremely popular this season. Bright colors like neon oranges and bright blues were prominent on the runways, but the two main color staples for this season are hot pink/magenta and yellow. You can brighten up any outfit with pops of these colors and they’re wonderfully versatile hues that can be matched with pretty much every skin tone.

If you’re not wanting something quite so in-your-face, muted brights like mint-green, coral and pastels are also a great way to add some zing. Another color trend we’re seeing pop up this season are flashes of neon; shoes or the lining on a coat are great ways to play up this 90′s trend without busting out the Hypercolor shirts and biker shorts.

Detail-Oriented: From Ruffles to Leopard Print and Everything In Between

This season puts a lot of emphasis on details, especially the epitome of feminine detailing: ruffles and bows. Look for them at the shoulder and on the hip. You’ll also see leopard print (picking up where giraffe print left off last year); sequins and glitter; big, bold prints (floral, graphic and even tribal inspired); and lace. Finding pieces with fun & interesting details are sure to make you stand out.

Take a Chill Pill: Relaxed Fit Pants

This cut is similar to the boyfriend jeans style that emerged in the fall; it is loose and easy at the hips, then tapers delicately above the ankle. This looks to be spring’s most popular silhouette and it also wins for this season’s most comfortable trend, as you can give your thighs a break from those super skinny jeans.

The Royal Treatment: Cleopatra-Inspired Looks

Asymmetrical tops and dresses, harem pants (one of this season’s most unexpected looks) and jeweled necklines all pay homage to the queen herself. If you’re going for the asymmetrical look, long, flowy dresses are a newer take on this trend. If you’re brave enough to try out the harem pants, be sure to pair these with belts, chunky heels and drapey tops to get the right look. You are going for modern, not MC Hammer.

There are other trends you’ll spot this season such as boho/hippie chic and excessive accessories, but these 6 are bound to be the biggest ones out there. Find your favorites and make ‘em your own; you’ll not only be basking in the warmer weather, but you’ll look lovely doin’ it, too.

[Ever see something you want but don’t have the money to buy? Ever get sick of studying/watching TV and have the urge to get crafty and make things on your own? We know! Us too! We just don’t know where to start, which is why we got some of CollegeCandy’s craftiest writers to share their favorite DIY projects with everyone. So get to your nearest craft store for the essentials and let’s make some fun sh*t.]

Okay, maybe “new” is not technically true. But hear me out.We all have that old once-loved pair of perfectly worn-in shoes that are still perfectly functional but are (a) out of fashion, (b) scratched up, or (c) both. Such shoes can often be found at the back of the closet, in hopes that their exteriors will suddenly heal and they will rise, phoenix-like, from the ashes of their fashion faux pas.

But there’s a solution! You can revamp them!

“That’s retarded,” you say. “I mean, yeah, I can take them to a tailor to get them revamped–if I want to spend $80.”

“Listen,” I reply, “for you are the one who is retarded–you can fix them up yourself!”

How? Two words: spray paint.

I ain’t freakin, I ain’t fakin’ it: spray paint works great on leather shoes. Plus, metallics and neons, both of which are very in right now, are two very available spray paint colors. So grab a can of spray paint (or two, if you’re feeling really creative!) and follow these instructions for your new pair of shoes! Well, new for all intents and purposes.

(1) Find the right place to create your masterpiece. You should set up next to an open window (you don’t want to asphyxiate, right? the fumes are pretty toxic). Spread out some newspaper or old magazines so you don’t stain the floor. And, I mean, REALLY spread ‘em out–don’t underestimate the distance spray paint can spray.

(2) Double-check that the window is open.

(3) Shake your spray paint in the can for about 2 minutes to really loosen up the paint.

(4) Stuff more old newspaper inside your shoes. This helps it keep the shape and also keeps paint from getting on the interior.

(5) Take your sad old shoes and spray the heck out of them. Try to keep the coats of paint steady and consistent. Spray quickly to keep the paint from dripping.

(6) Let it dry for a half hour.

(7) Repeat step 5. Cover that muthaflippa!

(8) Put your shoes outside (if you can’t, put them right next to an open door or window). Let them dry for about four hours, give or take an hour. You want to make sure that they’re dry enough that, when you touch them, no paint comes off on your fingers.

(9) Once they’re completely dry and you’ve brought them back inside, you can remove the newspaper from inside the shoes.

(10) Wear those puppies! Await compliments on your new shoes!

[Image courtesy of http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2392/]

[I want it, I need it, I can’t live without it. There are so many things on store shelves and racks right now that we want to take home and hang in our closets. Things that are so cute, everyone should know about them. We’ll share ‘em with you here (because we’re that nice), but as far as actually getting them goes….well, you’re on your own with that one.]

While a little black dress is a staple in every woman’s wardrobe, some much-needed attention should be given to LBD’s sexy cousin: the little red dress. Yes, black is classic and timeless and blah, blah, blah, but red is sexy and draws some much needed attention to the fabulous woman wearing it: me…er…you.

And besides, Fred Flare’s fabulous strapless sweetheart bustier dress is still totally classy and sophisticated, only with some added va va va voom sex appeal from the color and perfect neckline.

Don’t want to go red? No worries; the sweetheart dress also comes in yellow (and we’re talking Rihanna-status neon nail polish yellow) and classic black. It’s perfect for a date party, graduation dinner, or even just a night out with the girls when paired with chunky jewelry and a patent leather flat.

Me likey.

Well that’s bulls**t.

Bathing suits are supposed to be fun, flirty and cute. We wear them when we’re supposed to be having fun, not stressing because we’re not as surgically enhanced as the girl next to us or investing in last minute sarongs. With Spring Break steadfastly approaching, it’s time to check out the best bathing suits out there and re-vamp our ideas about swimsuit shopping.

So grab a trusted and honest friend, remove the necessary body hair and spray tan yourself silly (it seriously helps in dressing room fluorescents) and let’s shop.

Best Budget (And no one will know it!)

Old Navy’s Smocked Paisley Bikini

Remember those days when you wouldn’t be caught dead without your neon Old Navy Fleece jacket and every time you walked into Old Navy you had to buy 5 pairs of flip flops? Remember those really cheery Old navy commercials with everyone dancing? Well Old navy is awesome again (even though I was still shopping there when it wasn’t…those flip flops kick ass!) and all the proof you need is in their swimwear collection. This cobalt blue string bikini looks like you plucked it straight out of a Mediterranean boutique instead of your local Old Navy, and no one will be the wiser that you spent less than 50 bucks on the whole thing. You can shop by pattern, cut or mix and match, and every.single.piece. is under $20.

Best Bust Creators

Victoria’s Secret MiracleBra Swimsuits

Any of the tops offered by the MiracleBra line are bound to enhance whatever you’ve got up top. The suits all come in a ton of different cuts, colors and patterns, so the possibilities are endless when you’re creating your ideal bikini. (Bonus: seriously smaller chance that anyone on the beach will be wearing the same suit as you). Even if you want to be seriously sexy up top, you can keep it conservative on the bottom thanks to VS’s separates. This top is my favorite, mostly because it’s wireless, and if my PC doesn’t have wires, I personally believe my boobs shouldn’t either. Because it’s all cloth, the top is way more comfortable and definitely won’t get bent out of shape after some intense volleyball.

Bikini (F)or (large)Bust!

BECCA’s Expedition Halter

If you are well endowed when it comes to mammary issues, then you know how hard it is to find a decent fitting AND cute swimsuit. Enter BECCA by Rebecca Virtue. In almost every single pattern or style, the brand offers a D and/or DD cup size. Join in now: hallelujah! I love this geometric pattern because it is a) very cool and b) draws the eye in a diagonal direction, therefore (visually) cutting your boob in half (I said visually, ladies.) The cool coral, black and teal enameled brooch in the middle ties the funky pattern perfectly together, and the thick halter straps provide maximum support without underwire. Perfection.

Best One Piece

Venus’s South Beach Monokini

For the ultimate combo of chic and sexy, cut-out one pieces are the way to go. The cut-outs shave inches off of your waist by drawing your eye inward, and I love that the halter top isn’t so skimpy that the fabric will fall out of place if you move. In black, this suit begs you to wear it with heels, a floppy hat and huge sunglasses while you call everyone “dahling,” but all the other colors and patterns are so much fun that you might just want to buy two (and at $34 a pop, why the hell shouldn’t you?).

Best Itty-Bitty Bikini

Victoria’s Secret VerySexy Jeweled Orchid

All yellow polka dots aside, if you’ve been busting your butt at the gym since before SB09 was just a twinkle in your eye, show off your hard work in one of these. The maroon color is gorgeous on just about any skintone and the orchid accents are beautiful. They also allow you to look hot and fashionable on the beach without adding accessories that will probably end up broken, lost, or in the pocket of someone with a metal detector. The tiny triangle top gives you free reign over just how much cleavage you want to show and the low rise/high cut bottoms will leave very little to the imagination. If you’ve got the body to rock this bikini then work it!

Best splurge

Betsey Johnson’s Unforgettable Bikini with Swim Skirt

Not going anywhere for Spring Break? Then reward yourself for not blowing 6 months salary in one week (those margaritas add up!) and splurge on this. When I first saw this suit, my mind went into cuteness overload. Baby yellow? Yes, please. Floral detail on a classically feminine cut? OMG bikini heaven. This design also comes in a triangle or halter top , and tie or Brazilian bottoms (and yes, they all have the adorable rose detailing). Leave it to Betsey Johnson to create a perfect blend of retro glam, soft colors and hardcore sexiness…and turn it into a swimsuit.

Best Body Makeover

Miraclesuit’s Barcelona Bandeau

Ok, so I know the idea of a Miraclesuit sounds like something your Mom bought recently, but trust me when I say it truly is a MIRACLE. The extreme amount of spandex in this suit allows it to suck in, flatten, push up and shape pretty much any area on your body that makes you uncomfortable. The retro-bandeau style reminds me so much of pin-up girl suits, and they make the most of curves instead of trying to squeeze them into an ill-fitting suit.

Best All Around

BECCA by Rebecca Virtue.

Whenever I go to buy a new swimsuit, Becca’s collection is always the first one I check out. Her styles are always fabulous and fun, and there’s a cut for however–ahem—confident I’m feeling about strutting around in glorified underwear. And she never disappoints. A native Californian, Rebecca Virtue knows her beachwear. She believes in working with the natural shape of our bodies to create beautiful swimwear for everyone. All of her suits are designed with pretty detailing, gorgeous colors, cool combinations of fabrics (including soy!) and are meant to fit you flawlessly. And the best part? These suits last. I bought my first Becca suit when I was 15 and still wear it to this day without any saggy fabric or stretched out elastic—definitely worth it. You can check out her whole 2009 collection at her official website.