July 2009
July 30, 2009
2:20 PM

Bon Voyage: What to Pack for Your Honeymoon in Paris

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Planning your romantic getaway in France? Even in the summer the weather can get a bit chilly. So, whether you're walking along the Champs D'lyse or stargazing at the Eiffel Tower, you'll need a few outfits that will work in 50-80 degree weather. Use this one as a guide:

Wear Anywhere Pants
Don't let the name fool you, boyfriend jeans are perfect for newlyweds too. These distressed denims by J.Brand are the ideal length for breezy afternoons, are super stylish and can be dressed up or down with heels or flats.

Couture Coverup
Okay, so this J.Crew cardigan isn't exactly couture, but it doesn't lack any details. The frilly ruffles will definitely give your boy-cut pants a more feminine vibe. Plus, you'll need this wrap for any nighttime outings.

Drop Earrings
You'll need something bigger than studs to really make this day-to-night transformation complete. These citrine, amethyst, and cat's eye earrings by Bounkit have the perfect pop of color.

High Heels
Of course these pants can be paired with any style shoe, but our pick are these strappy stillettos by L.A.M.B. They've got plenty of edge, and the nude color means they'll work with just about any outfit.

Day-to-Night Top
The cut of this sequin t-shirt from Top Shop is a bit casual, but the sparkly paillettes make it trés chic!

-- Heather Levine

Photograph of Eiffel Tower: Elizaneth Messina Photography
July 28, 2009
2:38 PM

Haute Knots: Our Favorite Wedding Updos

filed under: Beauty
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A chignon is the quintessential wedding updo, but it doesn't have to mean classic, or worse, boring. We're seeing all sorts of fun variations. Get inspired by some of our favorites:

clockwise from left
Tousled
Ask your stylist to curl your strands before putting them into a bun. This will give your chignon a laid-back look. Besides looking totally gorgeous, these undone updos are the perfect place to pop in a veil (like this feathery, floral cage style).

Voluminous
Why not add a little va-va voom to your updo. Ask your stylist to create an over sized bun using a hair sponge (they'll know where to get one). It's especially flattering for brides with very fine hair.

Braided
Consider wrapping your bun with a few braided strands. Trust us, plaits have become more glamourous than boho. Plus, they're a guaranteed way to make your updo look more unique.

Assymetrical
For something fresh and unexpected, try skewing your tousled knot to one side.

Polished
There's nothing wrong with going basic, but to keep your look current and still ultra- stylish, remember sleek is chic.

-- Heather Levine

photographs clockwise from left: eight20 Photography; Jessica R. Strickland; Picture The Day; Erik Ekroth; Ryan Green
July 24, 2009
3:54 PM

Rock Stars: Wedding Gown Designers Make Jewelry Too

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With This Bling
You've got the designer gown, now all you need is some gorgeous jewelry that makes an equally couture statement. Luckily, some of the top designers have started creating incredible costume jewelry.
Check out these stunning statement necklaces by Reem Acra, Vera Wang and Oscar de la Renta.

-- Heather Levine

photographs from left: Luke Walker (1); Erik Ekroth (2,3)
July 21, 2009
2:05 PM

Tickled Pink: Three Amazing Wedding Day Blushes

filed under: Beauty
0772109blush2 A healthy sun-kissed complexion is always in style, and I'm constantly searching for the next great product to give me that real-looking, fake glow (yes, even in the winter I still like my cheeks to look rosy). Here are my favorites:

clockwise from top
Chanel Exclusive Creation Blush
I love this compact for its chic, ladylike design. Plus, the way the perfect mixture of frosty pink shades somehow makes my face look slimmer doesn't hurt.

Bobbi Brown Illuminating Bronzing Powder in Antigua
I adore this shimmery pink powder. I apply it with a brush for light, barely-there bronzing.

Nars Orgasm
I've been addicted to this blush for years. It's very light and works with every skin tone. I know, because I use it all year round.

I'm going to keep testing to see if there's a creamier, softer, brighter, shade out there, do you have any favorites?

-- Heather Levine

photographs courtesy of manufacturers
July 08, 2009
6:00 PM

Precious Platinum: White Hot Jewelry Trends

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I recently caught up with Michael O' Connor — He's a jewelry and style expert, and is always hitting the big awards shows to dress celebs in dazzling platinum baubles. He's so fantastic, I thought I'd pick his brain about the latest jewelry trends. Here's what he had to say:

Q. So Michael, what's new in engagement rings?
One trend I'm noticing is romantic rings. There lots of styles with micro-pave platinum settings or carved settings with ornate gallery work (that means the stones are being used in the settings as well as additional side stones to frame the center stone).

Q. What's the latest with wedding bands?
Again, I'm seeing lots of ultra-romantic styles either set with diamonds or heavily patterned. The other trend I've noticed is classic, simple bands without gemstones. Whether you go trendy or traditional, the most important thing to remember when choosing wedding bands is that these rings will be worn every day. So, it’s important to choose a metal (like platinum) that will hold up with daily wear.

Q. Anything exciting going on with necklaces?
Statement necklaces are the hottest thing right now with both celebrities and brides. A great necklace will really compliment a gorgeous dress. Plus, it draws the eyes up toward the face. Celebrities like Heidi Klum, Taraji Henson and Amy Adams were all wearing larger statement necklaces during this years awards season.

Q. We love bangles, what do you think will be big in bracelets?
Like necklaces, bracelets are becoming bigger and bolder. Many designers are creating a big look with the use of intricate, open patterns. The designs are often studded or sprinkled with diamond accents to add sparkle and pizzazz. Celebrities from Madonna to Jennifer Lopez love the chunky bracelet look and often pile them on three or four high. Brides and women everywhere can get a similar red-carpet look by mixing and matching groups of bracelets that they might already have with a tennis bracelet or a wider semi-precious gemstone bangle.

-- Heather Levine

All photographs Courtesy of Platinum Guild International. Designers Clockwise from left: Chad Allison; Martin Flyer; Kimberly McDonald; Jacob and Co.; Platt Boutique; Kirk Kara

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