Why do you let me stay here?

Simply delightful...



I'm a big fan of She & Him, and of anything Zooey Deschanel/Joseph Gordon-Levitt put their hands on.  2009's film (500) Days of Summer is a modern romantic comedy combining two of my favourite actors.  This music video, directed by Mark Webb isn't the official music video for Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?, but it should be.  This combination of She & Him (the duo in which Deschanel provides the vocals), Joseph Gordon-Levitt, old school, impromptu tap-dancing and (500) Days of Summer is amazing... I'm ashamed I haven't seen this video earlier.

I'm a Bag Lady.

I've always had a softspot for the perfect handbag.  I've fallen in love many times with leather, straps, stitching and handsome hardware.  I love the feeling of a having a gorgeous bag on my arm: the weight of a satchel, hanging by the crook of my arm as I stroll along the street, letting the bag sway gently from side to side.  There is something powerful and magical about a handbag, and its ability to completely transform an outfit.  I am convinced that it's the most powerful accessory and will forever be a timeless staple in any woman's closet. 

Here are some models I have my eye on... and I admit, some can only be a mere fantasy.

The Rio Snakeskin embossed satchel has been the object of my desire for a long time.  I love it in this fuschia colour, but I think I might cheat on it with the cream python version from Fall 2010...did I mention it costs a little under $1,400?

The Ruched Petal Zip Satchel from Valentino ($2,695) is just divine.  I have a handbag similar to this style in a light purple, but I love the grey update for fall.  I love the way Valentino's bags are super girly but retain a simple elegance.  There isn't much hardware on this piece, but it proves that a bag doesn't need 20 pounds of hardware to be beautiful... It illustrates the sculptural qualities leather can have in the volume and movement of the rose petals.

This little number from Michael Kors is a piece I've had my eye on for sometime.  It has a classic "Birkin" shape, but without the Hermes pricetag.  The Michael Kors Hamilton Large Tote is affordable at $298 and doesn't have the tacky "MK" tags that make it look cheap.  I'm usually not a fan of MK bags, but this one has a spot on my wishlist, especially in this colour for summer.

I've fallen in love with a Coach bag before... and I think it might happen again.  This morning, I got an email from them, stating that the Kristin collection (the series from which my Tiffany Box Blue bag came from) got updated in new colours and style.  I clicked the link, my heart racing.  I think I'm going to take a temporary separation from the turquoise bag... navy is my new love.

Unfortunately, this bag only comes in the large version, and at $498, it's pushing it.  I love the size of my other bag, and I don't think the price difference is worth the extra space.  Sometimes size doesn't matter in finding the perfect piece of arm candy.

Dior Resort 2011

There comes a time when a collection from a designer is perfect.  The 2011 resort collection from Christian Dior is no exception.  The collection was inspired by 60s French new wave... it just echoed the likes of Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte Bardot for me, my three major style inspirations. 

Muses Marion Cotillard and Charlize Theron were in attendance for the show held in Shanghai.  It was Galliano's third trip to China, and he wasn't inspired by Oriental design for this Cruise show.  "I was just trying to recapture that excitement that was happening at that time in Paris, which is very similar to what is happening in Shanghai today," he said.

These white pants are divine. 

White lace... always a staple for me.  I would kill for that jacket.

I have a blazer that looks just like that.  I can't wait to pair it with a pair of thin black pedal pushers like they did here...

This is such a fun interpretation of a glam "I Dream of Jeannie".  Totally "practical", but whimsical and light.

I love this aquamarine gown.  It is airy and I love the silhouette with the belt at the waist.

This is pure fantasy.  No one can do Couture like Galliano.

The pieces are just lovely, evoking a ladylike, 60s spirit.  I wish people still dressed like this, the clothes are so well crafted and perfectly minimalistic.  I like to describe my own fashion palette as a mix of girlie, bows and retro, and this collection encapsulates what my dream wardrobe would look like.

See the full collection here.

The Best Fashion Interview I've ever read.

While browsing through Style.com today, I came across this interview by Dirk Standen, who interviewed Alber Elbaz, the current designer for French fashion house, Lanvin. 

"And I always say that doing a collection is almost like writing a book or making a movie, and I don’t know any other industry that can produce six movies a year by the same director. That’s the thing. You cannot write six books a year. You cannot produce six movies. You can’t do six collections a year. And I think this is actually what is making fashion be the way it is today. I know a lot of people complain that there is not enough change and that fashion in the past was much more creative than today, and I think a big part of this phenomenon is that we don’t have the time to think, we don’t have the time to project, we don’t have the time to digest. I’m not talking about, like, “Oh, we need to travel for inspiration,” because I do in fact believe that the best traveling you do is from your couch while you eat potato chips. But I think we just need the time to think and to look at it again and to have another perspective. " (Elbaz)

What a genius, his designs are breathtaking, his illustrations are whimsical and he proves a point.  The fashion world needs time to think and get inspired again.

Read the full article here 

Miss USA 2010

Last night, millions of viewers across North America tuned in to watch the 2010 Miss USA pageant.  The winner of the pageant would go on to represent the US at the Miss Universe pageant in August, so there is a lot at stake.  The 52 contestants came out on stage dancing to Ke$ha's Tik Tok in sparkly Sherri Hill dresses that were appropriate, considering the locale of the pageant.  The event was held in the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas.

The event was hosted by a "Marriage Ref" host (who was she???) and Curtis Stone.  Half the production consisted of former Apprentice contestants, which was expected because of the Donald Trump connection.  But seriously, when Trace Adkins came out to perform a song during the elegant evening gown competition, the soundtrack couldn't have been more out of place and inappropriate.  Miss USA is not a high school dance in Kentucky.

Joan Rivers and her daughter, Melissa offered commentary and humour between commercial breaks.  Joan even wore a sash that said "Miss Mayflower" and made quips about beauty and the pageant world.  She didn't hold back though, and even went so far as to describe one contestant's neon green evening gown as, "It looks like it was dripped in Gatorade."  Which to be honest, was the truth.

The fashion of the evening was questionable.  The host wore three heinous dresses, including a floor-length blue number that looked like it was $69.95 from Fairweather, and an olive prom dress that was reminiscent of a bad bridesmaid.  The only fashionable person there was judge, Johnny Weir who wore a dramatic multi-coloured feather jacket and even had an outfit change later in the show.  The girls wore the most repulsive pink and orange bikinis that had an awkward fit.  The tops made chesty girls look droopy, and small girls looked even smaller.  The print was a ghastly tye-die that didn't do justice for anyone's colouring.  Don't even get me started on the evening gowns...

The winner was Rima Fakih, who was the first Muslim to win Miss USA and the first Miss Michigan to win the crown.  It was a bit suprising that she won, considering her trip in the evening gown competition, and lower scores in the swimsuit competition...throughout the show, I was certain either Colorado (who placed 3rd) or Oklahoma (who was the runner-up) would win.  They embodied the grace and elegance of a Miss USA contestant that I felt Fakih lacked.

It was reported that Fakih was a winner of Stripper 101.  You heard that right.  The beauty queen won the competition in 2007 during which photos were taken... and if you're wondering... clothes did come off.  Her prizes included jewelery, adult toys, a stripper pole and some cash that was appropriately stashed down her bra).

So much for a wholesome "American Girl image"... It has me wondering whether her title is in danger, and to be perfectly honest, I think it should be.  This was not a topless lingerie photoshoot to help a struggling model make money, but a blatant display of trash.  It's one thing to take pole dance class as a means to exercise or treat your boyfriend, but to compete in public and expose yourself, when you intend to be a part of an esteemed organization is wrong.  This does not represent the ideal American girl, and shouldn't represent the United States on a world stage at Miss Universe.

The Miss USA organization came under a lot of fire the previous week, when they released their official photoshoot, shot by famed photographer, Fadil Berisha.  The public thought the photos were too racy, because the girls were shot in lingerie.  The photos were black and white, and to be perfectly honest, they were more covered up in men's dress shirts and corsets than if they were posing in bikinis on the beach.

Here are some of my favourite shots.

Miss Oregon, Kate Paul looks like a young Farrah Fawcett.

Miss Wyoming, Claire Schreiner, looks like a sultry mix of Catherine Deneuve, Sophia Loren and Brigitte Bardot.  I'm wondering... where was this beauty in the top 5?

Britanny Bell, Miss Arizona is sensual, and proves that curls are beautiful.

photos from http://www.missuniverse.com/missusa/members/contestants

I think Miss USA needs to distinguish between sexy and skanky.  And personally, I think the winner represents the latter. 

Cannes Fashion

With the Cannes Film Festival in full swing, red carpet fashion followers have been royally spoiled this year.  I'm not going to discuss the worst... because everyone is looking fabulous alongside the French Riviera this week. 

My best dressed is without a doubt, Kate Beckinsale, attended the premiere of Robin Hood on May 12th.  Beckingsale is also a judge, along with Benicio del Toro and Tim Burton.

Beckinsale looked more like a leading lady than a judge in this frothy, light blue Marchesa gown.  Accessorized with Chopard jewels, the British beauty was elegant and timeless.  I love the asymetrical detail of the sheer sash and the movement of the fishtail.  It's simply lovely.

Pastel blue seems to be the colour of the season... Bollywood star, Aishwarya Rai dazzled us in this Elie Saab dress.  I loved the scale or petal like layers on this dress and the dainty sheer shoulder as well.

I don't know who wore these Christian Louboutin shoes... her name is Hofit Golan, and she was shot with French director, Christophe Guillaume... but these shoes are hot (and his are too). They take the YSL "cage bootie" trend to a new level, adding elegance with a less torturous, scalopped pattern, and add a little bit of "Dorothy" in sparkling red.

Eva Longoria poses with Aishwarya Rai...and Parker looks like she could run away and get married (again) in this Emilio Pucci gown.

Eva proves once again that she is a red carpet fave in this body hugging, Naeem Khan gown.  Her figure looks flawless and I enjoy the elegant simplicity of this gown, which still delivers on the glitz.

Eva Longoria Parker shows us a more casual side, in a grey Herve Leger mini, sapphire YSL heels and a navy Birkin bag.

Cate Blanchett attended the premiere of her new film, Robin Hood on May 12 in this gorgeous Alexander McQueen dress.  I don't even think I can call it a dress, or a gown... it's a piece of art.  Looking regal as always, the gown was personally selected by the late Lee McQueen, and it couldn't be a more perfect fit.  Blanchett takes risks on the red carpet, and isn't afraid to sport unconventional couture.  This creation epitomizes both Blanchett's elegance and McQueen's genius as a designer.

Shutup Ashley.

I love Summer Heights High.  Since the videos of the first and only season began circulating over a year ago, Mr. G and Ja'mie King have been a standby in Youtube entertainment for me.  This DVD extra is a gem.



What I love about Ja'mie is that she is a hilarious satirical version of any popular girl.  The show is set in an Australian public school (Ja'mie being an exchange student from a rich, private school) yet her character transcends into North American culture.  We all know people like Ja'mie... those who will do anything to elevate their image and climb the social ladder.

Throughout the show, we never got an insight as to what Ja'mie King intends to do in the future.  This video explains that, and showcases Chris Lilly's brilliance as a comedian.

"I want to go there, and hang out with starving people, and just take photos of me with them."

This video hits onto the fact that charity work is no longer being carried out from the "goodness of people's hearts" but as a means of becoming popular, famous or a positive role model.

I am so obsessed with this series, I wish they would make a second season.  When the full episodes were posted online (only to be removed by ABC later...) they reached thousands of views, and everyone started to watch the series.  With shows like Glee bringing in large ratings, it would be a shame not to bank on the "high school comedy" genre of television series.  It would give ABC a competitive edge over Fox's runaway hit with Glee.  Maybe Ryan Murphy (producer/writer of Glee) could spice up SHH's Mr. G dance routines with some overly choreographed musical theatre numbers.

A tv addict can only dream...

Scented candles for the Obese.

We've been hearing a lot of buzz about fast-food chains recently.  KFC launched their new sandwhich, where they supplemented the bun with two pieces of deep-fried chicken (because transfat protein is way healthier than carbs right?)  Today, Whitecastle finally unveiled their "hamburger scented candle".

For $10, you can have your very own White Castle Hamburger scented candle, and you don't have to feel guilty, since all the proceeds are going to Autism Speaks. 

I'm all for donating money to a good cause, but is this really the best way to go about this?  Because really, who would buy a hamburger scented candle, other than Harold & Kumar or some guy aiming to romance a fat woman with a fast food addiction. 

"Mmm honey, come into the bedroom; I've lit some candles for you..." 
"Oh... do I smell White Castle?  The aroma of grease and high cholesterol is putting me in the mood for love."

Turn your labia into a Yaybia!

I think this speaks for itself.

I need Oh La La La

In pre-Gaga days, there was Goldfrapp.  Techno pop at its finest, especially when it's remixed by Tiesto.



Rocket is the first single off her new CD, Head First.  I've loved Allison Goldfrapp for a long time, and Ride a White Horse and Happiness are two of my faves from her discography.  Goldfrapp is dramatic and very different.  Fellow Brit, Little Boots kind of reminds me of her, but we can't just assume that anyone blonde who is in an electronic/pop band is a derivative of Lady Gaga or Goldfrapp.


Goldfrapp 'Oh La La' from Realise Studio on Vimeo.


This video is amazing.  How many drugs do I need to take before I can ride a disco ball horse?  Last time I checked, this video was produced way before Gaga even made it big, she was probably still performing in a sleazy Brooklyn club.

I'm listening to the Head First album and I love it.  It's not as great as Supernature from a few years ago, but the duo's style encompasses almost everything I love about pop music.

Gaga vs. X-tina

It seems like everyone and their grandmother are trying to emulate Lady Gaga.  In a video shoot for Christina Aguilera's new single, Not myself tonight, X-Tina seems to be drawing a "little inspiration" from Gagita.  Watch the clip from her video here.

These images were released to promote her new single Not Myself Tonight.  The first photo is very reminiscent of Lady Gaga or a blonde Annie Lennox.  My mom mentioned how Lady Gaga sounds like Annie Lennox, and it made me so angry and upset, she took the comment back. In the last photo of Aguilera, she dons the vinyl corset/garter belt combo and leather gloves that kind of remind me of Madonna in the early 90s.  Aguilera (or maybe it's just her stylist) is drawing heavy influence from Gaga, as demonstrated by the photos below...

Is this copying?  Or imitation?  Granted, celebrities have worn Carreras before, but the red lipstick and white hair is all too familiar.  At least Aguilera didn't completely copy Gaga by opting for a black pair of Carrera sunglasses instead.

In this still, Aguilera seems to be emulating Gaga's dance sequence from Bad Romance. Personally, I don't understand the need to copy a video to this degree.  Gaga has revolutionized the music video, and has raised the bar for video production.  Every artist needs a high-budget, choreographed video complete with couture outfits.  (see Miley Cyrus' Can't be Tamed video). 

Aguilera is a talented performer with an awesome voice, the truth is, she doesn't need all this armour to pull off a look.  One thing is for certain, Aguilera could outsing and dance circles around Gaga.  Gaga is a weak performer live (I'm sorry, she's awesome but her voice live is pathetic), yet Aguilera can hold the high notes and dance around onstage.

Three years ago, when Aguilera released her Back to Basics CD, her look was elegant Old-Hollywood.  It suited her and her songs showcased her voice for their true quality.  I think Aguilera should stop trying to be a headline-making popstar and should focus on using her voice to make great soul music.

Miley Cyrus Can't be Tamed.

Miley Cyrus decided to remind us once again that she isn't 14-year-old Hannah Montana anymore.  





I hate to admit it, but I love this video.  It's sleazy, sexy, guilty-pleasure pop.  The video is well-directed and the styling is beautiful.  Cyrus' outfits are (albeit revealing), very couture.  When she comes out of the cage at the beginning, I noticed the black bands on her arm.  This detail known as the "cage dress" is popping up everywhere on celebrities, and cutouts and cage dresses will definitely update the LBD in the Fall.  I loved the feather bolero she wears, which brings the taxidermy trend to mind as well.  The standout piece however, was the disco ball bodice and peacock feather (wings?).  It was just stunning, and dramatic.  The stylist really amped up Miley's image with this one. 

Can't be Tamed was released yesterday, and is already garnering controversy.  We all remember the scandal two years ago, when photos from Vanity Fair exposed Mileys--back!  People are buzzing about this video, saying she's too young to be this raunchy.  Last time I checked, Miley will be turning 18 this year, and I think any girl can own up to wearing skimpy outfits or gyrating at a dance party.  The only difference is that everyone is watching Cyrus, and watching her grow up at the same time.  I am a natural fan of drama and controversy... I just don't understand why this video is viewed as raunchy.  All I see is a popstar performing her song.  And that is what she does best.  Cyrus is an entertainer and her appeal reaches a wide demographic.  Last summer, everyone, including my mom knew and loved her hit, Party in the USA.  I doubt this song will be as much of a hit as her previous singles, but it is still relatively catchy.


In the song, Cyrus talks about "going through boys like money".  This is quite the accomplishment for someone as young as her.  We can all decide to bash Miley, call her a slut, famewhore, Disneyrobot, whatever you will, but in the end of the day, she is the one dating her gorge co-star, Liam Hemsworth.

The media has deemed this video an "evolution of Miley".  What is she... a Pokemon?  I guess Cyrus has transformed from a Hannah Montana Pokemon to a Caged Bird.  I think this is an outcry from Miley, proving to the public that we are confining her talent (yes, I will admit to thinking Cyrus has talent) and not letting go of her Hannah Montana character.  


If Miley decided to ditch the country kicks and God-awful wig, I'm cool with that...As long as I have a catchy tune to hum in the shower. 

Legalize Arizona

Here are some images from demonstrations protesting Arizona's new immigration law, SB 1070.  They bring racism and immigration to question... as well as Jan Brewer's leadership.  Images like this show how much respect Brewer has lost as a politician.  The state of Arizona has also become a punchline as demonstrated below by the man's shirt.

This last image really strikes me. It's so powerful in conveying the sentiments immigrants have towards this issue...

The Chihuahuas are ironic, since they are a stereotype for Mexican culture.  However, these little dogs are powerful in proving how the issue has touched so many lives that even their pets are getting involved to spread the word.  The little dog's outfit is creative as well...

from this source

Best and Worst Dressed: Costume Institute Gala

Besides the Oscar's, this is one of fashion's biggest nights out.  Celebrities, musicians and designers mingled at the event yesterday, which was hosted by none other than Oprah Winfrey.

I'm feeling positive today, so here are the ten Best-Dressed stars of the evening.

Anne Hathaway is stunning in this Valentino gown.  The nude colour works on her, because it doesn't wash her out.  She didn't overdo the makeup and the fit is perfect... The dress is a bit reminiscent of Miley Cyrus' Oscar gown, which was too mature for her.  But on Anne, the frock is perfect for this Young Hollywood actress.

A lot of people dislike Blake Lively's Marchesa mini, but I like this style choice.  We're used to seeing Lively in plain coloured minis with little detailing.  She seriously needs to give up the Herve Leger bandage dresses... this mini is daring and different, and it showcases her hot bod.  The only thing I don't like are the Christian Louboutin shoes.  They are gorgeous and ornate, but a strappy, simple Jimmy Choo metallic or snakeskin sandal would have complemented the dress more.

The reigning queen of Vogue is elegant in a Chanel dress and jacket. I love her haircolour too, it's very vibrant.

Ladies in White:

Emma Watson stunned the crowd in this custom made Burberry gown.  The asymetrical neckline is contrasted by the slit in the middle while the ruching and ruffles make the Grecian gown modern and structured.

Taylor Swift is a red carpet maven and this Ralph Lauren dress is no exception.  It's a nod to the 40s, which is my favourite fashion era.  Swift is always elegant and styled to perfection.  I know I will spend hours trying to recreate her undone fingerwave updo.

Ladies in Vera Wang... no brides this time.

Mariska Hargitay is so elegant in this Vera Wang gown.  The rich navy colour is perfect for the red carpet, unlike the usual nautical or office navy seen on other stars.

Maggie Grace is another example of Vera Wang's brilliance as a couture designer.  The lilac gray colour is beautiful, and the fishtail silhouette shows off her petite curves.

Who would have thought Mila Kunis could look like Hollywood royalty?  Again, Vera Wang dazzles us with layers of black and gray tulle that mesh together to create magic.

Naomi Campbell proves to us that she's still a Supermodel in this Dolce and Gabanna dress.  Less is definitely more, you can never go wrong with a body hugging LBD... er LBG (Little Black Gown)

Jenny from the Block herself was the night's best-dressed star.  She is beyond perfection in this Zuhair Murad gown.  The fabric looks light as air, in my favourite neutral (grey), but is contrasted with an intricate overlay of gold embroidery and beading. 

The Worst

I feel like I'm starting to eat my words, comparing Carey Mulligan to Audrey Hepburn.  The actress was ho-hum in this Miu Miu mini with black opaque tights and black shoes.  The opaque tights are too heavy for this time of year, but at least she is keeping her legs one colour to lengthen their stumpy stature.  The dress doesn't help her out much either.  The fabric looks like it was stolen from curtains you'd find at a Bed and Breakfast. The pockets are deep, and make the look childish, you seriously start to wonder if Mulligan ran away from a playground in this look.

It pains me to put Eva Mendes on a worst-dressed list, but this D&G frock is a disaster.  I don't know who decided that clashing two massive and ostentatious floral prints was a fashion do, but this proves it's a don't, because not even her bodacious bod can save this eyesore.

Oprah Winfrey's BFF Gayle left us saying...WTF? I can't even find the designer either... it makes me wonder, was it homemade?

This Louis Vuitton dress looks more appropriate for Ke$ha if she ever was to attend the Oscars.  On Maggie Gyllenhall, however, it makes her look like an old star trying to be cool in a youthful and crazy couture garbage bag dress.

Oh Katy Perry... did you know her cat is named Kitty Purry? Clever, yes.  Unfortunately, Katy wasn't clever when she picked out this CuteCircuit dress.  She looks like Candy Floss.  Yum, but cavity enducing.  The event is called the Costume Institute Gala, but it doesn't permit you to go around in a costume either.

What the fuck is going on at YSL?  This dress looks like its from Bebe.  January Jones doesn't help it by adding black satin gloves and stripper makeup either... this looks like a Halloween costume of a 1920's hooker.

Rachel Zoe might be a stylist to the stars, but I think she should consult one for herself.  The canary-yellow Marc Jacobs gown would work better on someone younger, and not in velour.  Velour belongs on the tracksuits of soccer moms of middle America.  Not at a Gala like this.

Rachel Bilson looks like she went to her grandma's house and stole her vinyl tablecloth and made a Louis Vuitton dress out of it.  The black shoes and black clutch are too matchy matchy as well.  The hemline should be a good 6 inches shorter, since this length is cutting her legs off.

Donnatella Versace... why must you look like a plastic stripper?  Your looks is as plastic as your face, and chest, and butt and lips and it goes on...  I loved your Spring 2010 collection, but I'm really not digging the cheap shiny fabric and red platforms.

And the WORST dressed goes to... Chloe Sevigny in Proenza Schouler!  Sevigny is so often on the best-dressed lists, she must pull practical jokes on us like this to throw us off.  The dress has a shitty flouncy hemline that allows tulle to show from underneath... very reminiscent of something you'd find for $29.80 at Forever XXI.  The neckline is even worse.  No one looks good in a turtle neck, especially if it is attached to your dress and in some heinous colour like teal.  Oh, and is that a black bra I see beneath the lace?