Off to a land of fine fashion and good friends...

Attention stylistas...the "we heart fashion" gals are teaming up to take tinseltown this weekend. The blonde and the brunette are going to frolick the streets of Los Angeles in style for the next three days and bring you the "play-by-day" right here on our favorite virtual journal. We felt it was only fair to let you all know that our fashion tips will be sparse over the next few days as we scope out serious style victims and fabulous fashionistas in this trendy little California town. Plus, we will be throwing on our party best to hit all the hot spots! We only get a reunion once a month so we have to make our mark...as always we promise to be on the prowl for the girls who make us cringe, those who force us to secretly snap pictures with our purse cams and for the ladies who make us envious that we didn't think of it first!

Come Monday you can expect a few things from your professors of what not to wear:

1) A full download of the LA fashion do's and do not's

2) Gossip - if we see any foxy celebs, you'll be the first to know

3) The winner of our rubypearl dress giveaway

...and for the grand finale...the blonde and the brunette are going to team up for a first-ever collaborative piece! We haven't decided on a topic yet - look for less? top trends? a celeb we're loving? Or, have I mentioned that the MTV Movie Awards are Sunday night in LA? Perhaps we will demote ourselves from self-proclaimed fashion "know-it-alls" to celeb stalkerazzi and see if we can get a glimpse! It's always fun to see what the stars decide to wear to this particular awards show. Since it's MTV naturally it's slightly more casual and a little more rock and roll...I'm already anxious to see some fashion blunders...but, if I'm being honest, I'm really more antsy to see those who pull it together and rock the carpet. Rihanna, please show up - you always restore my faith in celeb style!

Miss us while we're gone but remember we aren't far away and it's not ALL fun and games. We are still working to bring you the very worst in fashion decisions so that we can help you stay on top of your game. Ta-ta for now lady loves! My parting fashion advice - in honor of the carpet that will be imprimted with Jimmy Choo's and Louboutins, wear something sassy this weekend. Get out the fancy heels and the saucy dress and turn some heads! xoxo,

Accessories: The Spices of your Wardrobe

Just like food, your wardrobe requires some spicy flava to turn you into that eye-catching diva pounding the pavement of your city. I find the accessories of my wardrobe to be one of the most exciting features. You can add a delicate bracelet to complete an ensemble that already speaks for itself, or throw on a few statement pieces to sass up your most basic attire. Additionally, and one of the most glorious perquisites of accessories, is their ability to give you the look of a fierce fashionista for a SMALL chunk of you bread. Yes, it’s true; one glam accessory can morph your entire appearance.

My top 3 HOT LIST accessories lately have been hats, scarves, and cocktail rings. I find these pieces have the ability to add some much needed zing to any malnourished wardrobe. My go to head ornaments are the fedora and the bowler for the spring/summer months: two options that also work when perched atop your cranium in the winter months (but let’s not get into that). This straw fedora (from Target for $11.69) amalgamates a summery look with some serious fun! (I know; oxymoron). The topper speaks somewhat retro words, and this can be a fun convo; just be sure you don’t take the whole retro look too far. We don’t want you to look like you just teleported here from another era. Thus, I recommend letting this piece speak for itself by pairing it with some more simple or modern pieces. The same rule applies to this cheeky bowler hat (also at target for $13.49). It’s not Halloween so save your costumes for October 31st please! Match either one of these lids with a modern flowy dress and tantalizing wedges or a simple white tank tucked into some dangerously skinny or modish trouser jeans.

SCARVES! The word alone makes me want to grab my keys and bust out the door to the nearest boutique. Yep, we’ve found my hot button weakness! If you ask me why I cannot really explain but those lengthy beauties really initiate a little jig in my head. They are offered in so many styles, colors, sizes, and patterns and the right scarf can speak volumes. While I love to dabble with all different species, my true weakness com from an oversized scarf. You can wrap these in an immeasurable number of ways and create an entirely new look from day to day. I possess one of the Sir Alistair Rai little numbers (on the left for $145) and it literally twinkles my toes each time it’s wrapped around my stem. I DO see the price tag and I’m hearing your response; so if you’re not willing to invest in a piece of this caliber, check the similar but more budget friendly option found at Urban Outfitters ($24.00). A good way to add said accessory would be atop a maxi dress (basic dress for a busy scarf and vice versa) with some slammin gladiator sandals on your wheels (yes, feet). DANGER: wearing a scarf in the summer can be tricky, especially if it’s not any appropriate material! Stick to something light and airy like linen.

Who needs diamonds? Toss me an over-the-top, oversized cocktail ring and I’m good-to-go. And people call me high maintenance!? Yes, a cocktail ring is big in the ring scheme of things, but in an overall look this in one small detail that makes a bold statement. Slide one on in an intense hue for a punchy pop or grab a neutral sparkler for a more sophisticated look. I also have an admiration for anything in the shape of a flower, MUAH! The most superb part? They can be found for the price of a Starbucks treat. It’s okay, remove the IV for ONE day (I know, WHOA) but it CAN be done in the name of fashion. It’ll be worth it in the end. Your favorite can be rocked with nearly every ensemble so slip it on and listen to the rave reviews flow. Take a peek at the blooming buds below (punchy, neutral, and flowery). Clean out your spice racks ladies and make room for some new flavas! Be BOLD XOXO Brunette

Even though a ripped jean seems a little outdated, this look seriously rocks…

…and since I am ever the online shopper, I felt it was necessary to find Cam’s casually sheik look on a budget (since the itch to shop this weekend HAD to be scratched!). Cameron D. sported this playful little ensemble to the Nickelodeon Kid’s Choice Awards and once I saw her hit the orange carpet almost 2 months ago I haven't stopped thinking about the red polka dots. Even though I am not a huge fan of jeans that were ripped on purpose, somehow the leggy superstar makes it work. Maybe it’s the fact that the pieces are a cool combination of “the rocker meets the girl next door” or it could be that she successfully marries three popular summer trends – worn ankle jeans, peep toe platforms and a funky blouse. I love the way she pairs a red and black blouse with a bold white belt – subdued yet audacious. The white cleverly draws attention to her waist and gives her a super flattering shape.

So, ready to be orange-carpet ready? (or just ready for a new twist on your everyday jeans, whatever…) Regardless of the occasion, these three pieces will surely add some excitement to the denim default pant so many of us rely on. Now, go to your closet, grab your fav skinny jeans and prepare to give Cam a run for her money. The best part? You can have the whole look for $90 (ahem…steal!) – and as always, if you need to justify the spend, read on.

This polka dot top from Karmaloop is absolutely ja’dore and will go with anything from your favorite blue jeans to a sexy black pencil skirt. Plus it can be worn across seasons - wear it as is in the summer or toss a long sleeve tee underneath for fall. Bottom line: polka dots are so in and this pick is more than worth the $34 price tag.

Pair the top with this punchy red belt from American Apparel (one of our top stops for basics!) Clamp this bad boy around your waist and give that blouse some shape. Not only will you draw attention to your girlish figure, but you’ll give a fairly simple black top some personality. At $16 you can’t really beat this buy – and you can probably wear this again during summer. It will look great cinched around tunic tops and t-shirt dresses. And finally, my favorite part of any outfit – los zapatos. Shoe shopping can be overwhelming and frustrating – what color do you pick? Strappy sandal? Peep toe pump? Wedge? Can you wear a print with polka dots? Well, relax ladies – I’m here to help! And I’ve found a winning pair. As you know I am a wedge-lover and true to form I’ve chosen these metallic gold wedges from endless.com ($40) to pair with the dottie ensemble. Gold is so fresh for summer and it adds a little sparkle to any outfit – plus it gives you the flexibility to add some really great gold/bronze accessories. Warning: these platforms are 4 ¾ inches…but at least they guarantee a fine looking rear! If you are hesitant about a shiny shoe, the black wedge will look dynamite too. But in the name of fashion, take the risk! Alright fashion loves, the look for less round two is complete. Now get the credit card out and fill that virtual shopping bag! Time to kick your new summer wardrobe into gear! xoxo,

Bringing Sexy Back...

Spotted: SINGLE white female committing a severely repulsive fashion faux-pas. This little treat was last seen offending the crowd at a hotel bar in downtown Los Angeles. SERIOUSLY!? I wasn’t even aware that this was a topic that required attention. For those of you who don’t know; the outside world does not need visual confirmation that you keep your lady lumps securely strapped in place. We’re all better off making a potentially unsure assumption that you maintain control in that area. With that said, DO NOT let this be you! Make time for a little "one-two check" in the mirror before you abscond to your night on the town. We love a scandalous, back-baring piece but do it in a tasteful manner. A backless top is meant to evoke and sexy, sassy attitude; and not give a “check out what designer made my bra” lesson. Use your best judgment. Party on! XOXO Brunette

GIVEAWAY: WIN a dress from rubypearl!!!

Attention fashion followers…local Austin, TX designer Sunny Haralson is a fan of our little blog and decided to partner up with us for our first giveaway. Sunny is an amazing designer and has a fab line called rubypearl (click here to see her collection on etsy.com). The collection is handmade by Ms. Haralson and I have to say, these one-of-a-kind dresses are T.D.F. (to die for, come on ladies!) I especially love the “reserve for eclectic dress”. What can I say, my heart beats for anything that will make my teeny boobies look fantastic and, who can turn down vintage corsets? The aesthetic of this dress is so fresh – Sunny used lace from a 50’s wedding dress and flowers that were embroidered by hand. To top it off, this beauty buttons down the back. Um, where do I sign? I have already started thinking about the fabulous places I can debut the dress. It will be perfect for summer and the structured shape promises a flattering fit. Sunny’s designs are creative and distinctive, two characteristics that keep her in demand and super busy. Cheers to you Ms. Haralson – the “we heart fashion” gals are huge fans! And now the moment you’ve all been waiting for…the dress giveaway! We are going to giveaway the “london” dress, handmade by Sunny for her line rubypearl. We are in love! The lace on top radiates girliness and the unique print promises that no one will be wearing the same dress as you! Plus, coral is a great shade for all the sunkissed beach gals out there. Ready to win? All you have to do is:

Become a follower of our blog and then leave a comment on this post answering the question – where will you “rock the frock” this summer? Why? The “we heart fashion” gals will choose the most creative, exciting answer and announce the winner next Monday. Remember, think outside the box – make sure your event is somewhere people will appreciate your well-thought out ensemble. We’d hate for you to end up a fashion don’t on our blog! To see more of the rubypearl collection go to the etsy.com storefront: http://www.rubypearl.etsy.com/ And to learn more about Sunny Haralson and her fabulous fashions check out her blog: http://rubypearlslips.blogspot.com/ Don’t forget – you have a week to enter the contest! And check back for more giveaways, we are just getting started! xoxo, **note: the dress is a medium and fits up to size 6-8,but can be altered to fit smaller sizes so almost anyone can fit into this one!

From Runway to Roadkill

Ahh yes, celebrities do it too! Some may feel that celebs insinuate they can do no fashion wrong or that they are untouchable simply because of their fame. I’m here to tell you that this is SO not accurate; and Madonna is here to show you! An icon in more ways than one, Madonna has really made a name for herself. She would undoubtedly fall into the classification of a fashion risk taker and while her pop star image can generally absolve her fashion faux pas, here we have one that I would confidently categorize UNEXCUSED! Now, I realize Madge was donning duds for the Costume Institute Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (a “dress to the nines, fashion is art” affair) but there is still a line that can be crossed and she propelled over and beyond this particular line. Observe the cheeky, elegance of the model rocking the Louis Vuitton frock on the runway. This is substantiation that the dress is not to blame. Madonna is simply creating an austere style by adding thigh-high, patent leather boots that tie around the ankle, a peek-a-boo black bra, and most offensively, a turquoise headpiece that resembles bunny ears. This ensemble is exceptionally busy and there is so much to process it may be difficult to wrap your brain around the entire look at once. Personally, I feel offended, appalled and ill when I falter upon such deliberate defiance and maltreatment of a fashion kingdom.

My piece of advice: keep it simple, and edit people, EDIT! If you choose a special, intricate piece be sure to keep the rest of your look simple to prevent your clothing from competing with one another. Choose one item to be the main attraction and allow the rest to compliment that piece. If you find yourself piling on too many accessories and such, take a look in the mirror and pull those that aren’t benefitting your style. Fashion is art so make it tasteful! XOXO Brunette

The Fashion Crime That Haunts My Dreams

Alright shoe addicts, I’m talking to you! I have decided to diagnose the shoe-illness that causes me to cringe, without fail, everytime I see these beasts. I call it “CROCphobia”. These shoes are not only a crime against fashion, but they should be illegal for everyone except children under 5 and nurses. I can’t even come up with a reason good enough to justify a CROC shandal (shoe + sandal, because really, which is it?). I know I have encouraged you to take fashion risks, but this is fashion suicide - and proof was on the airplane from Cabo to Chicago...look at your own risk!

You saw it here, CROCS that tie. O. My. G. I don’t even have words. As a self proclaimed “shoe aficionado” and a gal who hearts fashion, I feel it’s my blogger duty to fill you in on the basics. Now, if you are thinking to yourself, “but, I can’t wear four-inch heels in the airport”, fear not. I may prefer a towering platform heel, but I also know how to pick out something comfortable and functional without losing my sass. So, pay attention ladies, it's time to learn.

It’s my personal belief that shoes shouldn’t simply be an accessory to an outfit, they should be part of the main event! A fabulosity shoe can make all the difference and take you from simple caterpillar to runway ready butterfly – even in the airport. Let it be known, I am not a supporter of the just-rolled-out-of-bed-for-my-early-flight look.  There is ALWAYS time to run a brush through the locks, some jet black mascara to wake up the face and a swipe of lipgloss (my go-to products below).  Like I said, fabulosity makes all the difference.  The same rule applies for your travel shoes. I can accept a pair of flip flops and I can even accept Ugg boots (barely, and never with a jean skirt), but I cannot accept CROCS, ever.

So, what shoes do you wear when you want to be comfortable, but not lose your flare? Good news gals, you have three options!

Option 1: If you prefer some height you can never go wrong with a wedge. Elongate the leg, lift up the booty and avoid the pain of a spiky heel. The wedge is almost always on a platform so your foot will be at a comfortable angle for all the walking you’ll do and you’ll feel like a glamazon - even when you have a 6AM flight. CAUTION: I don’t guarantee comfort all day long – plan carefully. You won’t catch me in heels if I am spending more than 6 hours at the airport. I’m loving these Jessica Simpson wedges @ piperlime.com (Ashlee; $59), great with dark denim and a deep v-neck tee.

Option 2: Meet the ballet flat. A practical choice and with this shoe I can almost always guarantee all day comfort. The one rule that you have to remember when you wear the flat - wear pants that won’t get stuck under your feet! Never drag your pants. Tatters and tears are so 1995, circa the JNCO jean - ew. I like a skinny ankle pant, a cuffed boyfriend jean or a boot cut. This summer I am all about bright colors and ankle straps – these flats by ALL BLACK @ endless.com ($55) are extra fancy with the jewels on top.

Option 3: Learn to love the Puma – perfect for the sporty chicks. I love these shoes! They look so great with shorts and summer sweaters since they are part preppster and part play-time. Finally, a tennis shoe that doesn’t make me feel like I should be at the gym but rather like I’m dressed down in a really cool, girly way. Some advice if you do decide to go the Puma route – keep these puppies bright white so that they look as polished as you’ll feel. A dirty shoe fosters a lazy wardrobe! Scoop up a pair of these GV Love sneakers @ endless.com ($70) - free overnight shipping and no tax! Now that you are in shoe shopping mode, start thinking about your next trip and the perfect shoe for the journey. Don’t forget, comfortable doesn’t have to mean boring or that you should sacrifice your style. Fabulosity should always be part of your wardrobe– whether you’re at work, out with the girls, or catching the red eye. Time to show those CROCS whose boss! xoxo,

The REAL Look of Innocence

Summer is so close I can feel the sand fall in and out of my flip flops. In light of the fabulous sunny, sandy season ahead I’ve decided to share with you one of the trends I adore most. It is the look of “innocence” that highlights romantic, layered ruffles, flowing, sheer fabrics and delicate but intricate details. While endlessly parusing the online fashion empire during the wee hours of the morning I stumbled across the perfect prototype of this theme. Pieces that flawlessly coordinate can be found on one of our most coveted websites, asos.com, where they are featuring the look at the moment. The color palette is delicate and includes petal pink, sky blue, soft white, beige, and champagne (woo, yes please!). The occasional metallic or black is thrown into the mix to keep the look grounded and a little edgy.

The light and airy feel of the layers and ruffles is absolutely ja’dore and allows the clothing to respond in the beach breeze. The sheer fabrics create a subtly sexy style that is both sophisticated and daring. And, metallic accessories and strappy sandals give the look that “just what it’s missing” final touch. However, I must say, I find the inimitable details to be the most darling aspect of the theme. The complex and edgy look of this zipper tiered Phillip Lim dress is stunning and by far one of my favorite pieces.

To get the look for less check out the zip ruffle top for $46.89 or the chiffon petal skirt dress for $132.86. Or slip into innocence mode and dive into your closet head first with a fresh new perspective. Perhaps you’ll see something in a different light that may be a magnificent look for summer!

Meet me at the beach stylistas! XOXO Brunette

Audrey Kitching: Pink Is Still My Favorite Color

Hello again divas! As I was browsing around one of my favorite sites - buzznet - I came across one sassy, pink-haired chick, Audrey Kitching. It seems that this sassy little fashionista has been tagged as "worst dressed" in more than one mag - Star and Cosmo! This little tidbit peaked my curiosity and so I started to click through some of her pics (check them out, she's gorgeous!). Its true, some of her fashion choices are rather...interesting, and she consistently violates one of my top fashion rules. Our girl Audrey likes to mix multiple trends all at once - sequins, animal prints and neon. Brave! I've always said mixing trends is never a bad thing, but be concious of what you mix! If you want to wear something full of sequins on top, keep the bottom neutral and pull in some neon accessories. Of course its easy to read about the worst dressed and automatically agree, that was certainly my instinct! But after a deeper dive into Audrey's pics, I was suprised to find myself warming up to her unique style. In one set of photos she models seven spring styles and I am a fan of four of her looks. My favorite is her "fancy" dress. I'm loving anything with tiers this season and this dress is totally perfect for summer. I love that the black keeps the look mature, but the pink and red layers give it punchy personality. It wouldn't be my first choice to sport bright pink tresses, but somehow Audrey makes it work. Perhaps its that I admire her willingess to take a fashion risk , or the fact that you can totally get a sense of her personality just through her fashion. I'd totally meet her for mojitos on a Friday night - even if it's just to see what she wears! So remember future fashionistas, before you instinctively jump on the "worst dressed" bandwagon", think of Audrey. Yes, her style is out there and she probably makes choices you wouldn't, but does that make her UN-fashionable? I'll venture off the wagon and say not necessarily. She wears what makes her happy, thats obvious, and we could all learn a lesson from her kitchy style. Think outside the box and give new ideas a chance...just be aware not to break too many rules! A colorful tiered maxi-dress might be the perfect addition to a generally drab wardrobe, but I don't recommend mixing animal prints and sequins in the same night. I say baby steps ladies...find inspiration in fashion risk-takers, but learn from their mistakes. Remember, we want you to wear what you love, as long as we don't hate it! xoxo,

Since I'm No Criminal, I Won't Steal from Rachel Bilson's Closet

Hello Fashionistas! TGIF! Friday Funday - the start to a long holiday weekend and the perfect opportunity to rock a ja'dore summer frock. Since we've told you how much we are loving Rachel Bilson's style I haven't been able to shake her fancy green dress and python sandals. And while I was thinking of clever ways to spread out multiple charges on my credit cards for an impromtu shopping trip this weekend, my inbox managed to save the day. Admittedly I am an online shopping addict and therefore subscribe to more "newsletter" emails than I care to share, but sometimes, and usually at the perfect moment, the sale of the week swoops in red-cape style and makes my morning. Sure enough, mid tastey vanilla-biscotti cup of coffee this morning, Bluefly and Urban Outfitters swept me off my feet. Now, pay attention ladies and move fast - Bluefly.com is offering up to 55% off shoes and handbags while urbanoutfitters.com is advertising their sale with items starting at $9.99. Hello lovers! And, in the spirit of wanting to be the belle of the memorial day BBQ's this weekend, Rachel Bilson style, I found her look for less courtesy of these fantastic sales. Those of us who love celeb style on a budget can have her green dress/sexy sandal combo for a mere $210. I know, it seems like a lot - but wait until you hear who you will be wearing - Pour la Victoire cut-out heels and a Hawk by Geren Ford dress. Yep, high fashion without the buyers remorse.

So, there you have it fashion lovers, fab shoes and a sassy dress.. Now go out and be fabulous this weekend and don't feel bad about your purchase! But, if you do need justification, just remember, the actual price tag on the shoes is $275 (more than the whole outfit) and the dress is on sale! Plus, cutout sandales and little summer dresses will take you far this summer so it's definately worth the investment.

Until next time - xoxo,

l

PS: If you have other looks you love, send them to us - we love the hunt!

Sausage and Muffin: Words That Should Only Be Used In Reference to Foods

We have our FIRST fashion calamity to share with you! Check out this hot mess we discovered at the Phoenix International Airport on our way home from a girls trip to Arizona. If you look closely you will notice her jeans are a size (or more!) too tight. It looks like she really had to dance into those denim beauties. This is fashion crime number #1: sausage and muffin-top should never be associated with fashion…how unflattering! Perhaps the most important fashion tip for all of you is to make sure you invest in clothing that is your TRUE size. You’re not benefitting anyone by squeezing into the smaller, its-more-fun-to-be-a-2, size. In fact, you could end up giving some poor, innocent bystander instant gag reflex if you choose to violate this rule. I’m not asking you to advertise your true size all over America. In fact, keep this piece of information a secret if you must. I’m simply suggesting that you choose clothing that doesn’t squeeze you in inappropriate places. In the end you will look smaller than you are…and isn’t this everyone’s ultimate goal? In addition, I would also like to suggest that you avoid jeans without butt pockets. This too is only causing an unattractive result. Pockets can actually be the savior to your jeans. A good pocket can give your rear the perfect look. Avoid any pockets that are too small, too high, or too low on the body. The ideal pocket is average sized and centered in the jean as shown in the right look above. I hope this helps you all in your future purchases! XOXO Brunette

For the love of 21!!

Alright fashion followers…in light of the lovely recession that has my credit cards on lock down and my brain in constant calculation mode, I have spent a large part of my free time shopping for budget-friendly frocks to add to my summer wardrobe line-up. I’ll be the first to admit that stores like Wet Seal, Charlotte Russe and Contempo (throwback!) have always made me squirm. The quality isn’t great, although the designs are fairly fashion forward and price is right. Needless to say, I can never seem to justify pulling the trigger even when I have an arm full of potential purchases. Now forever 21 falls into the same “quality is a problem” category, but they seem to pay more attention to current trends and keep the price super fab! Whenever I’m online shopping at forever21.com I end up spending hours browsing because there are so many unique pieces that would add flare to any outfit. Check out the “Shop by Trend” section – so many cool ideas and totally outside the box. I’m loving the “modern misfit” and “tropicali” looks. Something about neon prints and menswear fusion has me so excited to get the credit cards out of hiding. And now the reason I’ve decided to dedicate one whole post to forever 21. The recessionista-friendly site has launched a new collection: “love 21 contemporary”.

There are so many fab, wallet friendly, super trendy pieces! The line is only available in select stores and online, but it’s definitely worth the click-through. My favorite piece is the “lace yoke knit top”. Tuck that beauty into some skinny dark denim and some fancy sky-high platforms – black patent or if you’re feeling adventurous, try a python print. Perfect for a night on the town – a little sexy and a little bit rock and roll. Check out the entire line here and stock up…it’s perfect for summer and for the budget! Stay tuned for more outfit ideas…I’m just getting fired up. xoxo,

Calling all Fashionistas!

Hello Stylistas!

Welcome to your go to blog for everything fashion. We are here to keep you up to date on the latest fashion trends, inform you of delicious deals in the stores and online, and give you tips on how to find your best look. The words “fashion” and “crime” are our least favorite so we will do our best to keep you out of trouble! However, these tips and tricks will only be the accessories to our main event. We’ll feature various celebrities and real people whose fashion we LOVE or HATE! Each fashion disaster will be followed with examples of where they went wrong and how they can be improved. And, we fashion felines will include tips on how you can alter your wardrobe to get the same look of those who are crime free.

Now a little taste, since it would be wrong for us to leave you without a little fashion inspiration! Celebrities we’re loving at the moment, well, all the time, include Rachel Bilson, Rihanna and Nicole Richie. These three know how to take fashion risks without committing a fashion no-no. Take a look at some of their latest ensembles they’ve been photographed wearing out and about!

XOXO,

TheGals