Shopping For Headbands, The New Must Have Accessory

Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve been a fan of headbands. There’s something timelessly elegant about what such a small hairpiece can do for your look. As an accessory, it completes your outfit. As a separate entity, it can define who you are and what your mood is. Jennifer Behr has an excellent selection of headbands to choose from. If you’ve ever seen an episode of Gossip Girl, you may already know that Blair Waldorf’s headbands come from her designs. However, these headbands come at a hefty price ($$-$$$), but they are indeed gorgeous.

My favorite place to look at headbands is Nordstrom. Nordstrom has some great headbands that are often on sale; not only that, but they’re comfortable and every single one of them have a specific style about them that makes them beautiful to simply stare at.

For the holidays try the new Holiday Jewels Collection from Goody, from rhinestone encrusted to sexy satin, these headbands will make you look fabulous, flirty and hip. Adding a great headband will automatically update that little black dress.

If you’re on a budget, Forever21 also has a decent selection of headbands that you can take a look at. They will typically have a variety of headbands ranging from normal solids to peacock-designed and feathered pieces.

I’ve also bought a couple of headbands from Etsy, an online store where sellers will make things handmade and sell them at their own price. Etsy is a great way to shop if you’re a fan of handmade items, or if you just want to be able to browse through things and buy things to your own liking and budget. Headband prices range, but you have a wider variety to choose from.

If you’re into something simple that you can just use to push your hair back with, I would suggest just taking a look at your normal clothing stores. The Gap has a selection of headbands that are fairly simple including plaids and solid colors that will go with most every outfit. J Crew also has a few girls’ headbands for relatively cheap prices.

I’ve found a number of headbands at all these places and more; the best headband should not only be just fashionable, but comfortable to wear and not too tight. My best advice? Keep your eyes open. You never know what you may find at the places where you least expect.

– Lalida Sriyordsa

On The Catwalk: Thakoon FW08

One of my favorite dresses from the FW08 collections . The fabric is too gorgeous for words.

Au Courant: What To Wear Right Now

FASHION

Gryphon Sequin Jacket

Two Words. Ultra Glam. Find it here.

Tantalizing Temperley

A favorite among women with disposable incomes and London It-girls, this autumn is all about Alice Temperley. Purchasing a Temperley piece is not a splurge but an investment. It's instant luxury. Loaded with ruffles, military jackets, and satin, the fall 2008 collection carries an unexpected sexier edge. Inspired by the infamous Mata Hari, Temperley encourages women to embrace their inner femme fatale.

FW08 Trend Report

The winter/fall season is my least favourite season when it comes to climate but my favourite, clothing-wise. It must be because you have so many more options and pieces you can layer on top of each other to create something fabulous. This winter, designers took us into a world of Bohemian lust. Trendy Missioni-esque knits, fringed boots and paisley prints are just a few of the 70’s inspired touches found on the runway, especially at Gucci and Hermes. Jewel tones that are usually saved for warmer months showed face at many designer shows. The staple colour for Winter 2008 is red paired with grey or of course black. So what should you try this winter? Here is my list of Fall Must Haves:

The Statement Coat:
If you think about it, your coat will be the most important layer of your outfit since it is what is noticed right away. Because of its importance, you should probably devote most of your shopping budget for the perfect coat. As much as I love tailored black coats that are so elegant and chic I’m starting to take note of the floral coats which were big on The Michael Kors catwalk that are also popping up everywhere. Vintage stores are really great for finding eye catching pieces, especially coats and mind you, fur coats are always in style and always affordable at vintage and consignment shops. To be ultra trendy incorporate this season’s colours and invest in a red or jewel tone coat.

Shoes Are The New Handbag:
If you haven’t noticed already, handbags are becoming passé and the attention is all on shoes. This season try thigh high black suede boots. You can wear them over a pair of skinny jeans, with a dress or a skirt and still stay warm. They are probably the most versatile shoes. For extra comfort try a low heel style. I also adore lace-up oxfords in colder months paired with opaque black tights.

A Great Look for Winter:
The New York “Uniform” as I like to call it is a mini dress over black opaque tights and black shoes. It’s fool-proof. Many girls don’t wear dresses and it always baffles me. Dresses are great since they are just one piece and you won’t have to worry about matching, colour coordination, etc. What’s also nice about dresses is that they can be dressed up or down. Try a sweater dress, and don’t forget to top it off with a great belt. People also underestimate tights. They are a great substitute for pants especially when they’re made of cashmere or cashmere’s cousin, merino wool. I love Wolford’s line of Merino Wool tights. Pair your tights with black shoes and your legs will look a mile long.

Accessories:
The big accessory trends this winter are BIG BOLD and eye-catching necklaces. Statement necklaces are a great way to spruce up the quintessential black or camel turtleneck. I also love jewelled headbands that can work with your hair up or down.
So there you have it a few things to help you look fantastic this winter. Have fun and exploit your fabulous side. -Millissa for Inside Desi

Ali Ro Fall 2008 Collection

There are tons of great contemporary lines popping up all over the industry. One of my new favorite lines is Ali Ro. The fall collection is fantastic and perfect for the office. The featured Ali Ro dresses were our favorites from the collection. You can really wear them everywhere dressed up or down with a few key accessories. The entire collection can be found here. -HM

Fall Must Haves For 2008: Over The Knee Boots

Over the knee boots are very Haute for fall 2008 and on top of my shopping list. You can wear them with minis, over jeans, tights and dresses. The First pair are the Misa by Halston. At over a grand you're probably lusting for them but want something more affordable, no worries the second pair is The Top by Chinese Laundry and will run you only $100.00. Chinese laundry has great quality shoes so this pair will definitely get you through this season. Last but not least is The Monica by Louboutin. They are probably the best fitting over-the-knee boots, ever. Happy Shopping. -M

TOP 10 Fall 2008 Trends

FALL 2008 TREND REPORT

Tartan, Plaid, & Check prints
Tartan has flooded the Fall 2008 runways, including Peter Som, Thakoon, Nanette Lepore & Carolina Herrara.
Photo: Tartan on the Nanette Lepore runway

Chunky Knitwear (Boleros, Cardigans & Jackets)
Examples: Nicole Miller, Alexander Wang, & Donna Karan
Photo: Chunky handknit, Nicole Miller

Autumn hues are all about green and purple.
Examples: Michael Kors, Derek Lam, DVF
Photo: Michael Kors Runway

Organic prints inspired by nature and the elements
Examples: Badgley Mischka, J. Mendel, Marc by Marc Jacobs
Photo: Badgley Mischka gown

Art Deco
Examples: Dolce & Gabbana, Chanel, Missoni
Photo: Missoni

The Urban Edge. Metropolitan inspired pieces with a feminine touch.
Examples: Burberry, Rag & Bone
Photo: Burberry

The Taste of Decadence.Think embroideries, satin, and bold colors. Luxury is a fall classic.
Examples: Vera Wang, Oscar De La Renta, Hermes
Photo: Vera Wang

Jewel tones. Bedazzled looks. Stand out in these fabulous colors.
Examples: Alice + Olivia, Anna Sui
Photo: Alice + Olivia

Minimalism. Simplicity at it’s best. Sometimes less is more.
Examples: Issac Mizarahi, Charlotte Ronson, Narciso Rodriguez
Photo: Charlotte Ronson

Sexy Tights
As seen on the runways of Betsey Johnson and Vivienne Westwood Red Label
Photo: Check out Vivienne Westwood’s star-filled tights

Elizabeth & James: Celebrity Chic

After the tragic end of the Jovavich-Hawk partnership, many fashionistas were in search of a new celebrity fashion line. Named after Mary-Kate and Ashley's sister and brother, the much anticipated release of Elizabeth & James (this past spring) was well received by audiences across the style spectrum. E&J is getting a lot more attention than their previous line called, The Row, which catered to a minimalistic crowd. As fall looms in, there is much to look forward to as the Olsen twins never fail to deliver. E&J focuses on the idea of duality; the simple marriage of masculine and feminine. The boyish blazers and dainty dresses mirror the effortless Olsen style. Not ready to splurge? Elizabeth & James now has a jewelry collection (preorder at Intermix). The coveted young Hollywood elegance is yours for the taking. FASHION

Back to School: The Quintessential Essentials

The Wide Leg Pant
You may want to still pack your skinny jeans, but don't forget to buy a pair of wide leg pants at your favorite retailer. See by Chloe has a retro inspired "classic wide leg flare jean," which has an amazing lengthening and slimming effect. For a dressier look, Theory has a many wide leg options this season.


The Open Front Cardigan
Perfect for walking around campus or for those cool fall nights, the open front cardigan is a necessary staple in any lady's wardrobe. Even though most people opt for the black or the gray, this red "cozy cardigan" by DKNY is made out of silk and cashmere. Luxurious.


The Fitted Blazer
The fitted blazer is the epitome of prep school chic. It makes you look elegant and put together without all of the fuss and pressure of assembling the ultimate outfit. Rugby by Ralph Lauren perfected the craft of the blazer.


The Full Skirt
This classic piece is making a comeback and it's ready to be in your closet. Combine with colors or florals like this skirt by Aqua.




The Oversized Bag
Every girl needs arm candy. Necessary for carrying books, a laptop, makeup and magazines (sometimes all at once), an oversized bag is a must-have! My current favorite is Botkier's Large Monica Satchel in black.


Your Boyfriend's White Shirt
Simply take from his closet. If you're single and fabulous, fake the look by buying a "His White Shirt" from JCrew.

New Hairstyles For Fall

I was browsing through Allure and found their feature on the latest hairstyles straight from Hollywood. I personally love these two looks since they are understated yet offer lots of glamour. You can see more styles here.

New York Girls: What are they wearing?

Inner wear as Outerwear:
Negligee inspired clothing is alive on the city streets of New York. Check out slip dresses by Blumarine.

The Maxi Dress:
Chic Manhattanites wear the maxi dress both in the urban jungle, and during their Hampton getaways. Seaton is a fantastic wearable brand, look for it at Shopbop.

Vests:
Indie loving trendsetters love to layer with vests. Designers caught on with the vest idea and created "vest" dresses like the featured "draped vest dress" by Mara Hoffman. Another great designer for vests is Karen Zambos Vintage Couture.

Booties:
Perfect with skinny jeans.

The T Strap:
Classic vintage glamour. Therese

Required Reading: YSL Style

YSL Style, is the latest book I've been flipping through. The book is a compilation of sketches, garments and the sparkling history of the label and man who shaped the fashion industry. Each page is filled with decadence and fantasy. Pre-order your copy today and live the dream every time. -M

Gorgeous Versace

Looks from Versace Fall 2008 Ready to Wear collection

Zac Posen FW08: Hit or Miss?

Fashion wunderkind Zac Posen is known for his dramatic presence on the runway. His fall 2008 collection has British and French influence. It's an extravagant mix between Moulin Rouge and Prince William's closet. The collection has an abundance of sheer fabrics, sequins, and ruffles with the occasional herringbone tweed sheath. Posen chose to overemphasize evening wear, which had taken away from his promising daytime silhouettes. Some argue that this collection is Posen's most focused show to date; however, it seems that the young designer is still struggling to find his voice in the world of fashion. You be the judge.

The Rebirth of Nina Ricci

In previous seasons, Nina Ricci had a recognizable feminine and pristine collection. This fall, Olivier Theyskens re-energized the brand by designing for a different kind of girl: the young hipster who lives an incredible, yet subtle lifestyle. Theyskens focused on an earth toned palette from chestnut, rust, slate, and khaki to varying shades of yellow and green. Such colors truly describe the warmth of an autumn day. The collection has a series of gowns that embody a form of ethereal elegance. It's like getting lost in a timeless, enchanted forest. We can't promise you a fairytale or a tiara, but we know you'll look like a royalty.

Precision by Lamoon Beauty Glam Rock Fall 2008 Nail Lacquer Collection

It seems impossible to even think about Fall with the thermometer reading 100 degrees in some areas. Retailers will soon be launching "back to school" promotions, so the new season is just around the corner.

On July 14, 2008, Precision Nail Lacquer by Lamoon Beauty is releasing a gorgeous array of colors for Fall. The Glam Rock collection consists of VIP - Very Important Polish - a very dark purple shimmer, Glam Metal - a gun metal gray shimmer, U Rock & I Roll - a gray creme, The After After Party - a blackened navy blue shimmer, Rebel Red in You - a black creme with red glitter, and Party Like a Rockstar - a metallic gold. With so many unisex colors in this collection, it is sure to be a hit with everyone.

Precision Nail Lacquer applies like a dream and is quite durable. It's one of my all-time favorite brands and has been for some time now.

You can purchase Precision Nail Lacquer at beautyWEST or ask your favorite nail technician to purchase Precision Nail Lacquer from Lamoon Beauty. All Precision nail lacquers contain UV inhibitors and are 3FREE - free of toluene, formaldehyde, and DBP, which are known to cause cancer and birth defects.

Glam Rock Collection features 6 glamorous shades that will bring out your inner rockstar diva. Get dramatic!

"Glam Metal" is a gun metal gray shimmer.

"VIP-Very Important Polish" is a dark purple shimmer.

"U Rock & I Roll" is a grey creme.

"The After After Party" is a blackened navy blue shimmer.

"Rebel Red in You" is a black with red glitter.

"Party Like a Rockstar" is a gold shimmer.

-Carla Gaughan

Akiko Ogawa, A New Favorite

http://www.a-primary.com/

Peter Philips for Chanel Beauty

Even though this is a Autumn collection, these are so utterly perfect for Summer!! The four, limited-edition nail colors, by Peter Philips for Chanel, are $25 each. These bold and bright lacquers were inspired by beautiful California, and are available in store at the Robertson Boulevard Chanel Boutique beginning 30 May, 2008. Chanel.com will stock these perfectly pop tip colors this June!

Philips is the Global Creative Director of Chanel Makeup and is an elite makeup artist. Rest assured, your glorious nails will be glamorized!