Christian Louboutin Shoegasm

Like the tune from Guns n Roses says, “welcome to the jungle.” Had that song came out within this new trend that’s happened to fashion these days, it would be quite fitting. Tribal and animal prints are all the rage right now and are everywhere, I mean it- everywhere! From our tops, pants to the tip of our toes, we are all trying to be covered in the roaring print.

Christian Louboutin has done this pattern stunningly well, in so many different varieties. Recently he came out with the new cork bottom pumps in several different colors, a personal favorite being the leopard print heels. Not only are they extremely comfortable and walkable, but they are irresistible for summer 2011.

There are tons of Louboutin creations out there so while you're perusing, feast your eyes on their alluring sandals too. Usually when wearing Louboutin’s shoe art, one would notice the sightly red bottoms, this time you may be noticed for the show stopping prints.

Text Jordan Bossman
Source(s): Christian Louboutin

Throw your peace sign up: Ella Moss Summer '11

As a result of one of fashion’s newest trends, we are currently stepping through the door and entering 1969 meets modern day. Woodstock has already passed through the Catskills and its as if the mentality, style and clothes have left its effective mark to the everyday dress we all know. Guess the look that will keep you on your toes for our back in the day special. Keep guessing...Yes, you’ve got it- long bohemian and peasant skirts are back in and are the newest wrinkle(no pun intended)in current fashion. For women of any shape and size, this should be the new and ideal piece for you. Ella Moss’s Summer 2011 collection knocked it out of the park with their new line of jersey and silk chiffon Cali Maxi skirts. Moss made four variations for their jersey material skirts, and two variations for their ruffled and silk chiffon maxi’s. Pair your skirt with a floral top, a tied blouse and chunky belt. One of the best features of this look is that you can feel and look sharp, laid back, while still putting together a proper outfit. Figure out what look is the most you and find your skirts at EllaMoss.com. Give your personal style an update and find your inner chic hippie.

Text Jordan Bossman
Source(s): EllaMoss.com

Camilla Franks Summer Spectacular

Have you checked out Camilla yet?

With her divine patterns and fun outlook on making a woman look sexy in the sun, or under the moon, Camilla brings bohemian to the summer style scene.

A few nights ago, I was having sushi in downtown St. Louis, and of course I was people watching as we were sitting at a table outside. I noticed a young woman sit at the table next to mine and she was wearing a Caribbean ocean blue tunic dress much like Camilla's, and I thought to myself, "I've got to have that." Of course when I have thoughts such as those, I feel the need to find a similar item from any designer or in any magazine.

Camilla's was the first caftan I found. Her pieces are generally priced at $678. If you are looking for a less expensive price, H&M would be the first place to look. However, if you are looking for variety, genuine, original beauty, and quality, Camilla's collections would be the first place to find just that.

Check out her page at www.camilla.com.au

Text Alexandra Faye

Soak Up The Sun in Style: Free People Beachwear

Trying to beat the heat in style? Check out the latest collection from Free People and get your beach on! The collection is the perfect combination of bohemian chic and bombshell fierce. Knitted wraps and crochet cover-ups are the perfect pieces play demure while still flashing glimpses of your bronzed bod. Pieces like the crimson hued bralette and the citrus infused crop top add just the right amount of Bardot to any outfit while remaining modern and fun. The collection is available online and in-stores with prices ranging from $58-$148 (not too shabby). And now you can have that little bit of extra frozen yogurt at the snack shack because you'll have a cute an fashionable cover-up to throw on!

What To Wear This Summer? All White in Fendi!

Looking for a summer outfit inspiration? Well head over to Fendi's website for some great summer looks.

With a fun and unique user interface, you have the option of either viewing the Spring and Summer 2011 Collections, as well as the Fall and Winter Collections. What fun it can be to know what new styles will be showing up for seasons to come. I, personally would love to wear this outfit showed simply because of the color white. White is so fun and flattering for summer. The color can be sexy and classy as well. Also, showing off the sexiest bone in a woman's body, the collar bone, is always enticing. Wearing a one-piece outfit like this will definitely make a woman stand out. With all of this white, she can almost look angelic. These are the types of pieces that make you smile with delight at how much you would love to wear each one this summer!

Text Alexandra Faye

Source(s): Fendi.com

Summer Heat vs Office Dress Code

With the increase in temperatures and the heat on the rise, feeling comfortable in your work attire seems to be a battle for many. On a hot 90 degree day, when most would prefer to be poolside with a drink in hand or laying on the beach, many stick to their priorities and head to work. How can you accommodate not only your office dress code but the Summer heat? Here’s how: Well-known designers such as Ralph Lauren have launched their Spring/Summer 2011 Menswear Collections that range from pinstriped suits to suits with shorts. Instead of wearing a suit with long slacks, why not substitute the slacks with shorts? Suits with shorts are a very stylish trend this Summer. This style would still adhere to a professional look but can accommodate the high temperatures of the season. A light textured dress shirt with a blazer and dress shorts would be a perfect outfit for the office. To accessorize, a tie or bow tie can be worn to complement the shorts suit. Although these fashion trends may not apply to the corporate world, others who have a more laid back and casual dress code can adopt this look.

Text Stephanie Buscema

Source(s): GQ, Esquire, Ralph Lauren

4 Beach Must Haves For The Fashion Conscious Fellow

Feel the heat of the sun on your face and the sand between your toes but most of all feel great in your beachwear. The four beach must haves of the summer include styling shades, nautically fun swim trunks, boat shoes and fashionable fedoras. Well known label, Sperry Top-Sider provide men who have a passion for the sea with trendy boat shoes. The Men’s Authentic Original Boat shoe, defines the typical, stylish beach loving male. Wear these shoes with Ralph Lauren’s Sanibel Sails Trunks that are covered in vintage sails and you are dressed and ready to take on the beach. Don’t forget to shield your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays by wearing the very popular aviator sunglasses. Specifically Gucci sells the 1933/s aviators that leave you looking undaunted. To complete your perfect beach outfit, don’t forget to wear a fedora. This summer, fedoras are being worn by fashion savvy men on and off the sand. Banana Republic provides the Belmondo raffia straw fedora. This fedora is perfect to match any of your beachwear attire. The hat is made from navy raffia straw and is trimmed with navy plaid. Take on the beach dressing your best by wearing apparel that bellows fashionisto.

Text Stephanie Buscema
Source(s): Esquire, Gucci, Banana Republic, Sperry Top-Sider, Ralph Lauren

Summer: 3 Fashion Trends That Matter

Now that Summer is almost in full swing, the latest fashion trends of this warm weather season are underway. Three of the most popular trends of the summer are colored chino pants, dressier sports coats and light colored dress shirts. Each item contributes vibrancy and class to men's style. You can buy chino pants in every color available and coordinate your outfit with a light colored dress shirt. You can utilized the flexibility of your chino pants by rolling up the bottoms and wearing them with boat shoes giving you a real preppy Summer look. For nights out, add a sports coat to your outfit adding sophistication and a dressier appearance. The plus side to owning these items is being able to have them in every color you want. You can mix and match with any different color chino pants or dress shirt. By just adding a dressier sports coat, the clothes could look like a completely different outfit without the coat. This comfortable dress-wear creates a classy and sophisticated, preppy, summer look.


Text Stephanie Buscema
Sources: GQ, Tommy Hilfiger

It's Getting A Bit Nippley Out: A Racy Summer Trend

70's staples like floppy hats and maxi skirts have certainly defined the look for summer '11, yet there is another trend starting to poke it's racy little head out from women's blouses; going bra less!

In 1977, Woody Allen's Annie Hall was released and viewers everywhere were shocked not only by the iconic androgyny of Keaton's character but by the carefree attitude she possesses by going sans bra. However, her style was immediately adopted by many women and bras were definitely no longer a necessity in fashion during the era. Fast forward to 2011 and more and more ladies are...well...letting the ladies hang free. See the Prada show for inspiration on how to work the trend without offending people. And while this is a trend that is perfect for hot muggy days....it's probably best kept for the women with smaller breasts.

Text Lauryn Stone

Source(s): Style.com, Refinery29.com

Prada Real Fantasies: What a Whirlwind

While I will admit, there are a few pair of shoes and several leather bags that are to-die-for in this collection, I honestly do not understand the rest. Prada's Spring/Summer Collection for 2011 is named "Real Fantasies". According to the website, the collection was created because of how dreary the world has been due to the difficult financial times, and the colors, designs and patterns of the garments, footwear, eye wear, and purses inspire a more happy and fun disposition. I completely understand where Prada is coming from on that point, however, I do not understand how the combination of the colors, shapes and patterns in the garments in this photograph will make anyone's day brighter. This ensemble looks as if it were trying to combine the fifties, sixties and seventies, but failed. The shapes, I can totally see many women wearing, however the patterns and color choices do not flow well or flatter the figure. Sometimes, experimentation can go a little too far.

Text Alexandra Faye

Swim Warriors: Reign Over the Beach With Mara Hoffman's Travel & Fantasy-Inspired Swimsuits

There's no need to worry about your beach body when you're wearing a Mara Hoffman-designed bathing suit. These artful pieces featuring loud neons and nature-inspired graphic patterns are sure to steal the show. The current swim collection available online and in stores includes beautiful tribal print bandeau one-pieces, embroidered balconette bikinis, traditional triangle bikinis, maxi caftans, playsuits, long maxi tank dresses and much more. A variety of bikinis, tops, cropped pants, and covers help you get as little or as much coverage as you want for a perfect day in the sun. Visit Hoffman's official blog to get a feel for the designer's taste and inspirations. You'll get an influx of inspirational art, worldly images, vintage photos and movie snapshots. There are also really great collages like this one featuring current pieces with horses, owls, wolves and desert landscapes.

Three Retro-Inspired Swimsuits That Are High On Style

If you're not the itsy-bitsy, barely-there-bikini-wearing kind, then you're in luck. There are plenty of stylish options that you can pick from, like these three from Samantha Pleet, Rodarte for Opening Ceremony, and Lonely Hearts. The Samantha Pleet Tide Suit features a high-waisted bottom and a classic brassier top in an interesting modern print. This Rodarte for Opening Ceremony halter one-piece is adorable with its nostalgic floral print. And this cut-out purple number from Lonely Hearts is so cute that you'd want to wear it with high-wasted shorts or skirt so you can sport it out on the streets as well.

Text Kristina Bravo

Sources: Need Supply, Opening Ceremony, Lonely Hearts

Who Knew Kristen Dunst is The New Face of Bvlgari?

You may have noticed Kristina Bravo blogged about Kirsten Dunst is starring in an upcoming film, Melancholia, but what she didn't mention was Dunst's new role as the face of Bvlgari's Summer 2011 Sunglasses Collection as well as the jewelry designer's new fragrance Mon Jasmin Noir. Of course she is also modeling the brand's latest jewelry collection, as well.

If you don't recall, I wrote about Julianne Moore modeling with lion cubs a few months back. During that time, cubs were a huge hit all over every magazine in ads and photo spreads. Now, we are seeing full grown animals on the pages, such as in the current Bvlgari ad campaign. At first, the brand was showing Dunst in sunglasses, and I personally did not know who the model was. In each issue, I would see this woman with odd lips and wonder what the significance was. In the May issues, they have finally revealed who she is: Kirsten Dunst. Wow, this was not expected at all. The actress has been nowhere to be scene in recent years. She was considered highly fashionable about six or seven years ago. She was the face of Miu Miu in the Spring 2008 Collection, then disappeared from the spotlight for a long period of time. Now, she is back shining directly in the fashion world through Bvlgari. Does this brilliant Little Women, Marie Antoinette and Spiderman star know how to make a comeback or what?

Test Alexandra Faye

Coachella Street Style Snaps!

Another Coachella weekend has gone and passed and the music festival would be nothing without street style that ushers the season of heat and dehydration. The outfits spotted might have been a little predictable (Levi's cut-off shorts, the maxi trend, mini-dresses, floppy hats, crop tops), but what else are you going to wear in the middle of the desert in almost triple digit temperatures? Here are seven of the best street shots from around the web, giving us a little style inspiration for the rest of summer.

Text Kristina Bravo
Sources: Refinery29, Studded Hearts, Fabsugar, Elle

Ooh La La: Daisy Lowe's Swimwear Collection is a Scorcher

Swimsuit season is almost upon us (cue spine-chilling horror movie sound effect), but you can relax because good things such as shape-embracing swimwear come in collaborations. Think, who better to offer a swim line to splash around in for the curvaceous set than 22-year old bombshell Daisy Lowe? The rock and roll British lovechild of Pearl Lowe and Gavin Rossdale designed a retro-inspired four-piece collection for affordable retailer Peacocks. The two swimsuits and two bikini sets are all priced under £22, or $36 for stateside beauties; so there's no excuse to fall back on the same old bikini you've had in your closet for years. So come summer, channel a modern-day Jessica Rabbit poolside and celebrate those womanly curves!

Text Kristina Bravo
Source: fashion.telegraph.co.uk

Label Watch: Laugh Cry Repeat In Pretty Clothes

Laugh Cry Repeat was founded in Fall 2010 by the designers behind Anzevino and Florence, a high end clothing shop that closed its Los Angeles doors earlier last year. Word on the streets is that the duo had handed over their more accessible line to someone involved with the boutique Revolve Clothing to continue. William Anzevino has then collaborated with Urban Outfitters to produce the Upson Downes collection. As far as Richard Florence is concerned, well let's just say Google doesn't have the answer to everything. Its background might be a little muddy (the website doesn't even have an "about us" section), but the label itself is definitely worth a spotlight for its modern yet playful designs. Laugh Cry Repeat's Summer 2011 collection experimented with cut and fabric that resulted in clothes that you definitely want to frolic in during those warm summer nights. Besides, a little mystery doesn't hurt anyone, especially when pretty clothes are involved. Check out the collection after the jump!