Remembering: Michael Jackson | August 29, 1958 - June 25, 2009

I can't believe it has been a year since we lost the greatest entertainer in history, The King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Two nights ago I watched the TLC documentary on Jackson's kids and I'm just glad it showed the genuine side of how Michael raised his kids and how they were really a family. It still feels like a bad nightmare and it amazes me how one person could have such an impact on the world, inspire so many, and never fizzle. Indeed he is missed.

I found out that some unreleased photos of MJ will be auctioned this Decemeber 2010 by Pierre Bergé & Associés (in Paris). The photos were taken by French photog, Arno Bani (whom MJ commissioned for the shoot), in 1999 and were to be used as album art for MJ's tenth album, Invincible (which was released Oct. 2001). The auction will disclose 12 portraits along with 50 contact boards.

                  Here is your preview into the photos:

         

The series is titled "Michael Jackson's Blue Eye"  and features MJ dressed in a black suit jacket with small mirrors scattered. His eyes are closed and his left eye is covered with a patch of blue makeup.
*thanks to NY Daily News and Art Daily for the scoop and photos*

Eliza Parker NYC Launch and Shopping Event

RSVP by June 25th at rsvp@elizaparker.com.

Trend Report: Get Your Summer Dress On!

This is a guest post by Merellia of Curvy Ladies! I am thrilled to have our first guest post by her because I love her site and she's helping all of us spruce up our summer wardrobes. Check out her hot summer dress picks!

Summer is not just close anymore. It's actually here! So I guess you know what that means... no more shrugs, cardigans or fleece, and you can ditch the leggings too. Let your shoulders go bare and your legs soak up some sun in some of the hottest summer dresses that are going to be bombarding the clothes racks. I personally love sun dresses, and not just any dress, it has to be a sleeveless fit-and-flare, just above the knees with a light airy print, preferably floral.

There are quite a few trends out this summer that I'm sure will inspire a few wardrobe choices. Here's what I found:

1. Tribal/Ethnic Prints

Inspired by some of the most culturally rich parts of the globe with their earthy hues or strong vivid colors and intriguing pattern combinations. This Ethnic Halter Dress by Faith21/Forever 21 is a perfect example of how ethnic prints can be introduced to your wardrobe. **Here's a tip to remember when choosing accessories to wear with your tribal print dress: Pick your accessories in neutral colors that can be found in the print.

2. Floral Prints and Accents

Whether it's soft watercolor shades or bright bold patterns, we're going to be seeing a whole lot of flowers this summer. While I'm totally digging this Belted Garden Tunic (again by Faith21/Forever 21), you will find lots of sun dresses in a variation of floral prints that are bound to catch your fancy. Some Tropical Prints will also fall under this category if they portray tropical flowers like the Ivory and Red Tropical-Print Dress by Torrid.

3. Animal Prints

Animal inspired prints and motifs will be seen on bags, shoes, tops, and dresses. This is a trend I am not very partial to, although I am really digging this Michael Kors Patterned Camisole Dress from Nordstrom, but then again I'm a sucker for fit-and-flare dresses. **Here's a tip to remember when rocking your animal print dress: Wearing more than two pieces of clothing or accessories with animal print will make you look cluttered not chic.

Have any of these trends peaked your interest? What other trends are you going to be rocking this summer?

This was a fab post! For summer, I am big floral print fan, or variations of it. You picked some fab items for the summer. Thanks Merellia for helping us curvy ladies out.

Free Frock Fridays with Chloe & Reese

Model Walk: Omahyra Moto

Socialite-ing: Forever 21 'Walk on Water' event

This past Monday (June 7th), I attended the To Be a Star & Forever 21 'Walk on Water' event at The Frying Pan (Pier 66, NYC). To Be a Star is a new web show that chronicles the journey of 6 girls who spend 3 months in NYC with established mentors from the fashion and entertainment industries. Forever 21 was throwing a fashion show to kick-off their flagship store opening in Times Square. Kimmie Smith, Kitten Lounge, and Jeannine Morris, Beauty Sweet Spot, were the hosts of the evening and looked fab! Singer Katie Faith opened the show singing "Yesterday", which is the title track from the web series. 12 models walked the runway in a series of 4 vignettes showcasing Forever 21 fashion. It started with Fitness, Beach with the Girls, Party at the Club, and ended with Red Carpet Ready. According to the official press release, over 600 guests attended the event, including Richie Rich (which I took a quick camera phone pic of), McKey Sullivan (ANTM Cycle 11), Jaime Hilfiger, and more. VIP Gift bags included products from Forever 21, Purple Lab, Smashbox, Completely Bare, and much more!

Okay, so here is my experience. Check-in went relatively smooth. And believe me, there was a lot of people there! I was honored to be among the press sitting in the front row, although it didn't seem it would happen since most of the front row seats were taken. But the doll that ushered me made it happen for me. I had the pleasure of sitting next to the lady behind Socially Superlative and we became the best commentators of the event (you had to be there to understand). There were some attendees who didn't respect those sitting in the front row, and took certain liberties, but I won't go into it. While there was a little disorganization with seating (some people had to be ejected from the front row so Richie Rich could sit), and guests were just really packed in, the event wasn't too bad. I was shocked by the fashion though. I am a HUGE fan of Forever 21, so don't get me wrong, but the fashion that walked the runway, I felt, didn't show the brand's best attributes. After the last runway vignette, I was ready to leave, and of course to pick up my swag (which at this time I was definitely looking forward to). Well, to my dismay, all the gift bags were gone (as they grossly miscalculated). One of my friend's told me that someone swiped her gift bag (leading to an important lesson in Swag Bag 101. Gift bags are like children. Do not leave them unattended...even for a second). I was also sad that I didn't get a chance to speak with Kimmie Smith...but again, there were so many guests. I will say this, there was not an empty seat or really empty space at the venue, so kudos to the PR and marketing team!

I was able to take some photos, mind you I am no pro, but 'have digital cam will take pics'. If you want to look at the professional shots, here is the link: To Be A Star and Forever 21 'Walk on Water' Event.

*some highlights of the photos: the guy in the Banana hat (which I would so wear!), and a lady in the front row was wearing an oversized cocktail ring that I was eye-ing the whole time. I loved it!!*

Sample Sale: ESCADA

Event Begins: 6/13/2010


Event Ends: 6/15/2010

Event Times: Sun-Tue 10am-7pm

Payment Type: Cash/VISA/MC/AMEX-No Checks

Location: 110 W. 19th St. (The Metropolitan Pavilion - North)
(btwn. 6th & 7th Ave.)
New York, NY 10011

Tel: (212) 852-5446

*thanks to Top Button for the sample sale scoop!!*

Must Watch: Salma and the Snake

I was getting ready to check my AOL mail (yes, I still have AOL accounts), when I saw the link to this video. It seems Salma Hayek was interviewing with Extra to promote her upcoming film, Grown Ups, also starring Maria Bello and Maya Rudolph. During the interview, an uninvited guest shows up and literally has Salma up out of her seat, heels and all, on top of Maya Rudolph. Who was the surprise visitor? A snake. Maria and Maya said it was "like a python." All I know is, I was laughing because I never seen someone move so fast...especially a scared celeb. But I also share in Salma's fear as well, lord knows I would've been out of my seat and pleading for help like that too if I saw a snake.

You're Invited: "Once Upon a Time"

For more information and to get your ticket, click here Once Upon a Time

Quote-tational

"We must never confuse elegance with snobbery."

~ Yves Saint Laurent

Slip-off the Heels and Slip-on CitySlips!

I seriously cannot count how many times I go to a wedding, party, or event in fierce heels (and you know how you enter a room when you know you're looking good), and then leave the party walking like I am forcing my feet to walk. You know how it is ladies! After a good night of dancing, or just working the crowd (networking and socializing) and trying to look cute in your shoes the whole night, at some point you either went barefoot on the dance floor, or were huddled up in a corner trying to give your feet a peptalk to stay a little bit longer and not make you look like they didn't want to be there. 

It seems former NYU students Susie Levitt and Katie Shea suffered the rewards of being a socialite too. For them, the front door seemed miles away after a night of partying in 4" heels. Tired of hobbling back home in pain, and tired of seeing chic ladies go shoe-less in the streets, they decided that no girl should go without a funk-tional pair of flats. [Fanfare please] Susie and Katie created CitySlips, a fashionable pair of back-up flats that you can comfortably carry with you. These foldable ballet flats come in a carry case, kind of like a pouch, that can be carried in any standard bag (or if you're like me, in an oversized clutch). The deluxe bonus is: the pouch converts into a larger tote to store your killer heels in. Now you don't have to balance your shoes in one hand and your phone in the other (I am a chronic bberry in-hand-holder). Or if you're carry a cute clutch, you can still have one hand free because your shoes aren't occupying the other. You can hail a cab with ease (although, you can't throw the shoe at them if they don't want to stop...in case you wanted to).

Well, I am just in love with them!

Now you can carry your shoes Plan B, not worry about what to do with the heels, and still look chic because the flats are ultra cute and come in 3 basic colors to compliment any outfit (black, silver, and gold). Let's face it, we're never going to give up our heels or step off our platforms, but now at the end of the night we can turn to our sole savers CitySlips to get us home (without counting the steps we have to take).

CitySlips. $24.95. http://www.cityslips.com/

From pouch to tote  

CitySlips How-To 101

Shoe Love Quickie: Christian Louboutin

Today is Slingback Thursdays (via @TheDailyShoes). I decided to look up some fierce slingbacks, a style of shoe I don't own too many of. Well, while perusing I came across these Crepe-de-Chine Christian Louboutins at Neiman Marcus. I love that they are navy blue (which compliments the red soles) and I love the grosgrain origami accent!

Of course with me, there is always a story in my head. When I saw "crepe-de-chine", a fabric you don't hear too much of, it immediately reminded me of a Different World episode when Whitley was getting married, and before the wedding her mom met Byron's mom (called "Emma Jean"). Diahann Carroll made this one statement that stuck with me, "Emma Jean, please don't crush my crepe-de-chine." In the case, I would say, "Please don't step on my crepe-de-chine." Now to find someone whose name rhymes...

If you never saw the episode, or can't remember it, you know you can find any clip on YouTube. Here is the scene (Diahann Carroll starts to say it at 0:57)

Rue McClanahan: February 21, 1934 - June 3, 2010

I just cannot believe we lost another Golden Girl. Rue McClanahan, who played Blanche Devereaux, died of a stroke today at the age of 76. Golden Girls is still one of my favorite shows! To me, it's the original SATC and Blanche was TV's first "Samantha," with a southern belle edge. Did you know that Rue was married 6 times in real life? I had no idea. She also played alongside Bea Arthur in the show Maude. "Thank you for being a friend..."

All four of the Golden Girls

Enjoy these clips of Rue being Blanche!

Momma Mariah?

When I saw the story in my tweet-line I said, "You could blow me over with a feather." It has been announced that the baby rumors are true. Mariah and Nick will be parents. It's a little unsettling...and makes me somewhat speechless, but I'm thrilled! I am definitely anxious to see what the baby will look like, the name they will pick (because sometimes I lose hope with celebs and their baby names), and how Mariah and Nick will be as parents.

Radar Online broke the news! So click here to read the full story.

What baby names would you pick for the Cannons if it's a boy or girl?

Quote-tational

"Know, first, who you are; and then adorn yourself accordingly."

 ~ Epictetus

Coach 4 Bloggers

I keep forgetting about Coach collaborating with 4 bloggers to design 4 unique handbags. When I opened my e-mail again today, I just knew I had to look into it further. All of the handbags are deluxe, but of course I have my fave! I love Emily's Satchel from blogger Emily of Cupcakes and Cashmere. It's doctor's bag meets birkin covered in delicious pink frosting. If only this blogger could afford it.

Pick your fave Coach Blogger Bag here: Coach 4 Bloggers!

Coach. Emily's Satchel. Created by Emily Schuman of Cupcakes and Cashmere. $498. Look at the inspiration board, is it any wonder why this bag was meant to be for moi?

Twitter Scoop: Sample Sales!

I loyally follow @NYCShopGuide for fabulous quotes and even more fabulous sample sales 411. Here is your special twitter scoop on where to get more bang for less buck:

• Bi-annual Theory sample sale for women. June 2 - 9th. 261 West 36th Street, between 7th & 8th, NYC. 2nd floor.
• DVF sample sale. June 7 - 11th. Up to 75% off. 260 Fifth Avenue, between 28th & 29th, NYC.
• Alice + Olivia sample sale. June 3 - 7th. From 11a - 6p. 80 West 40th Street, between 5th & 6th, NYC.
• Ralph Lauren Womenswear sale. June 8 - 11th. Soiffer Haskin, 317 West 33rd Street, NYC.

Happy Shopping!

Model Walk: Jourdan Dunn

Diving In: Newport News Bandeau Swimdress

With summer right on our heels, I need to revamp my swimwear and start looking for bathing suits to make beach debuts in 2010. I am a bonafide curvy girl, so for me, I opt for a skirted swimsuit. I like to accentuate the positives and minimize the appearance of the negatives...and skirted swimsuits are the perfect option. Plus, I do like a little retro in my closet. Just because you're curvy or on the full-side doesn't mean you can't strut on the sand like the rest of them.

When I think of swimsuits, I automatically think of Newport News. I bought two from them not too long ago and they fit fabulously! I may not rock a two-piece, but I felt and looked just as sexy. Not to mention, they are budget-friendly.

So, be on the lookout for my Diving In posts. I want to share my swimsuit finds with all of you and get your feedback.


Pick 1: Stone-trimmed bandeau swimdress. $39.
Purchase here: Sandbox with Newport News

Dennis Hopper: May 17, 1936 - May 29, 2010

This Memorial Day Weekend we lost two stars. Esteemed actor Dennis Hopper passed away on Saturday from complications of prostate cancer. He's most known for his movie role in Easy Rider, a movie I don't know much about. Unfortunately, I didn't really follow his movie career too much, but I do know him from Waterworld, Super Mario Bros, and Speed. I don't know if you're like me, but it's hard when you hear of celebrities no longer being here. You know they are normal people who just get discovered...but for some reason, it always hits me hard when they die. It's like I don't expect them to die for some odd reason. Dennis Hopper sure left his mark in Hollywood, his career spanned over 50 years.

Gary Coleman: February 8, 1968 - May 28, 2010

I know I am late with posting this, as I am sure you have all heard the news. I have been on a Memorial Day Weekend hiatus so I wasn't able to post my shock over the news that Gary Coleman had died. When I heard he was in critical condition, I had a feeling it wasn't going to end well. He died after being taken off of life support on Friday. He had suffered from an intercranial hemorrhage. We all knew him best on Diff'rent Strokes, playing the younger brother Arnold. The show had aired in 1978, but even now everyone still says, "What'chu talkin bout Willis?"  He might have only been 4'8" in size, but his talent and stardom was much bigger than he was.


"The fabulous Arnold-ovich."

What I Wore Today: Sunday edition

This past Sunday had fabulous weather. In honor of it, I wanted to play around with colors and picked a theme of green and pink. By the way, getting my summer hair was totes on the agenda (since I love big hair with big sunglasses. It's the diva-wannabe in me, haha). If celebs add hair, why can't I?

What I Wore Sunday...

• Pink Ralph Lauren pumps (purchased from Marshall's - one of my absolute fave stores to buy shoes)
• AnnTaylor Loft green sheath dress
• NY & Co bag
• Halston sunglasses (a gift one of my aunts gave me)

While I was doing the pink and green scene (or as a friend said mentioned, I was watermelon-esque), another gal pal of mine made a retro entrance and thought it might inspire a summer look for you...

My friend T had her hair spooled. Now this wasn't her original intention, but I thought it totes worked, and is definitely a fab (and not-thought-about creative) way to keep your long locs off your neck during the hot season. (By the way, I got her permission to use this photo. The other lady shown in the back on the other hand might get me.)

C'est fini!

Memorial Day Sale with Magnes Sisters

Sale ends June 30th!!

Enter code: eighteen_holes at checkout.

Go shopping at: Magnes Sisters