A Toast to Taupe

In the past few seasons, nail color has been just as important as any other fashion element. In '06 there was the gothic movement with shades of black, then '08 brought a slew of neon nails in electric pinks, yellows and oranges. Most recently for '09 was a surprising twist with an unexpected shade of jade green.

It's time to get sophisticated with this year grown up shade of taupe polish, the perfect compliment to springs subtle neutrals, pretty pastels and soft tones. Taupe has a way of blending in to any outfit, while still adding an element of sophistication, more than, say, the basic light pink polish.


As with most nail polish trends, this one debuted on Chanel's Spring 2010 runway show, with models showing of this mushroom-y shade. Other nail polish brands have taken note, and now there are variety of options to chose from.

Top Row: Chanel Particuliere, Sally Hansen Commander in Chic
Bottom Row: OPI Over the Taupe, RGB Toast

Pantone is the world leader for colors, not just for fashion, but for graphic design and interiors as well. Fashion designers use Pantone's color system to specify colors they use in their collection. Each season Pantone releases color swatches of the selected colors for the upcoming season.

From Pantone comes the color forcast for Spring/Summer 2010:

Designers bring splashes of sunshine to the runway for spring 2010. Vibrant brights add a sense of excitement to the color palette, while practical neutrals provide a safety net for cautious consumers.



“Now more than ever, women are vigilant when it comes to spending,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “Instead of reinventing their wardrobe at the start of each season, consumers want pieces to complement what they already own. Pairing a bold color with a basic piece or freshening up their look with bright accents addresses the need for practicality, as well as fun.”

Spring and summer naturally evoke feelings of calm ocean waters and tranquil beach vacations in cool, vibrant, tropical Turquoise. This soothing hue from the blue-green family conjures feelings of escape, especially when paired with Amparo Blue. With more warmth than the typical spring navy, this particular shade of blue is extremely appealing because of its brighter, more energetic attitude.

Like the scent of a blossoming flower, Violet lends a romantic air to the warm-weather palette. This intriguing purplish hue is a distinctive addition to any wardrobe.

Yellow has made its mark on fashion and spring will further this trend with gleaming Aurora. Reminiscent of the first glimpse of yellow as the sun begins to rise over the horizon, this shimmering, slightly greenish yellow adds a bold infusion.

Energy continues to surge throughout the warmer hues of spring, leading to provocative Fusion Coral. This inviting orange connects directly to tangy Tomato Purée, this season’s classic red. Pair it with Turquoise for a retro look.

Thoughtful, cautious neutrals provide a dependable backbone to the brights of spring. Kick back and enjoy the bubbly luxury of Pink Champagne. This delicate, wispy tint is the season’s newest neutral. The melding of Pink Champagne, Tomato Purée and Amparo Blue is a refreshing take on the classic springtime combination of red, white and blue.

Three additional neutrals round out the palette. Tuscany, a warm beige hue, provides the perfect backdrop and works well as a solid base color with dynamic accents like Fusion Coral or Violet. Dried Herb is the ultimate green neutral, pairing well with all other colors. Ideal for bigger ticket items, cool Eucalyptus is the eternal, practical gray. Choose this nuanced neutral and add brightly colored exclamation points in shoes, jewelry and handbags.

10 Trends for 2010

While many parts of the country are experiencing the lowest temperatures in decades, it is already time to look ahead towards Spring fashions. In fact, the fashion industry has already turned it's eyes towards Fall fashion. . .giving new meaning to the phrase "that's so last year".

So what does Spring fashion hold for us? What trends will linger, and what new trends will surface? Keep reading below to find my 10 trends for Spring 2010. Then continue to check back weekly to find each trend explored in more depth with examples of my favorite finds.

10 Trend for Spring 2010

1. Lusty Lingerie - Lingerie isn't just for the bedroom. . .this sassy trend makes it appearance every few years, but it takes careful planning to pull of the underwear as outerwear trend.

2. Peek-A-Boo - Perfectly placed cut-outs, mesh and sheer fabrics dominated runways, making for a PG-rated peep show.

3. Short Shorts - just when we thought hemlines couldn't get any shorter. . .they did. Now more than ever it is crucial to hit the gym and get those gams ready for short season.

4. Metallics- Sequins, paillettes and metallic sheen are on the menu for spring. Careful of quality to keep this look luxe instead of cheap.

5. Structured Ruffles - This girly trend has been one that keeps finding it's spot in fashion. This season look for more controlled, manicured ruffles.

6. Feathers - Another trend from fall, feathers make a bigger splash this season. Wear with care to avoid adding bulk to areas that might not need it.

7. Jewelry, Jewelry, Jewelry - The perfect, easy way to update any ensemble, bigger and bolder jewelry can make the simplest of outfits stand out.

8. Slouchy Trousers - High-waisted, belted and loose is the way to wear pants for Spring. Gauzy fabrics give this look movement.

9. Prints - Tribal, abstract, floral and graphic. . .prints are the fabric of choice for Spring.

10. Neutrals - A refreshing change from the dark colors of fall, light neutral shades of nudes, grays and whites dominate Spring.

Tantalizing Trend #9: Embellished Tights

Tights get a makeover this season with embellishments, making them the focal point of any outfit. Keep those gorgeous gams warm by donning tights in a variety of hues, fabrics and patterns.

When it comes to color, some of the most drool-worthy hues are shades of gray, purple and hunter green. Gray offers up a unique alternative to boring black tights; if daring to sport a bolder color, keep the rest of the ensemble more neutral.

Fabric is all about knit leg wear, which is sure to keep those legs toasty on a cold day. This casual fabric is the perfect tool to dress down more formal attire. Take a preppy approach with a pencil skirt, silk blouse and cardigan for work.

Lace, dot and diamond shapes are the patterns of choice for stockings. From subtle to bold, patterns add another twist to sensible tights. Adding a patterned tight is a favorite way to jazz up a solid dress or skirt.

Row 1: B.ella, Banana Republic, Hue

Row 2: See by Chloe, Modal Pellerine

Row 3: Hue, TopShop, Hue

Row 4: Wolford, Cynthia Rowley

Let's Talk Brands

Wolford, my hosiery of choice (dreams), is best known for their seductive spin on hosiery. Unfortunately, at upwards of $50+ for one pair, these aren't necessarily in everyones budget.

Looking to get the most for your money? Hue leg wear is affordable, durable, and comes in a wide variety of choices. From $10 to $25 a pair, it is easy to stock up on all the top trends. (insider tip: TJ Maxx and Marshall's almost always carry these for half the price!)

If it's slimming you need, body shaper favorite Spanx has a whole line of trendy tights to choose from. They also have a cheaper line at Target, Assets, which work just as well as Spanx to suck you in and shape your rear.

Tantalizing Trend #8: Jumpsuits

A rather controversial trend - the jumpsuit is one of those items that you either love, or hate. It is also a look that is extremely difficult to pull off, however, when worn correctly can exude a feeling of chicness. Sister to the jumpsuit is the romper, a short version of a jumpsuit. The romper can still be worn well into fall with long sleeve versions, or by donning a pair of tights.

Row 1: ABS jumpsuit, Kova & T romper, Anthropologie jumpsuit
Row 2: Twelfth Street jumpsuit, Ella Moss romper
Row 3: Emoda romper, Shoshanna jumpsuit

With this trend, there is a fine line between the best-dressed and worst-dressed list. Follow these simple rules to insure your spot on the best-dressed side.

Rule 1: Choose a loose fit, there is nothing worse then a tight jumpsuit creating the dreaded camel-toe effect.

Rule 2: It's all about the fabric. Now is not the time to skimp in the fabric department. Select a jumpsuit made of flowing silk, or a heavier cotton. Steer clear of anything with spandex in it or the look will go from chic to cheap.

Rule 3: Wide or strait leg is the way to go. There are VERY few people who can pull of a jumpsuit with a skinny leg. Keeping the leg line streamline with a wide leg will make you look long and lean.

Rule 4: Consider a belt. Help break up the solidness of a jumpsuit, and define your waist by adding a belt. Whether thick or thin, the belt should accent the outfit, and not be the focus.

Rule 5: Choose the color or pattern wisely. The safest way to go is by selecting a dark color such as black, navy or brown. Bolder colors and prints can look nice as a romper, however they are too much on a jumpsuit.

Rule 6: Two-tone. To soften the look of a jumpsuit or romper, consider one that mixes two different fabrics or colors. This gives the appeal of separates, while still being one piece.

Rule 7: Simple accessories. The jumpsuit is a focal point enough, without adding crazy accessories to the mix. Stick with a simple clutch, long earrings, and a nice metallic heel to finish the look.

Tantalizing Trend #7: Ruffles

Making their debut as a trend in Fall 2008, ruffles have made their way to one of the top trends for Fall 2009. From subtle, to bold and everything in between, this girlie adornment can add instant appeal to an otherwise blase garment. Contrarily, you may also end up looking like an 80's wedding cake topper if you don't exercise restraint.

This season expect to see ruffles adorn everything from dresses, to bags, and even boots. Maintain a chic and sophisticated ensemble by mixing ruffles with tailored, edgier pieces. Experiment by mixing leather with frilly ruffles for a fashion forward take an this romantic trend.

Row 1: Sonia Rykiel gloves * Betsey Johnson bag * Marc by Marc Jacobs dress
Row 2: DVF dress, Juicy bootie, Spiegel bootie, NY & Co cardigan
Row 3: Milly dress, Leifsdottir tee, Anthropologie scarf

Tantalizing Trend #6: Strong Shoulders

Powerful, sharp and strong - these are all adjectives used to describe shoulders on the Fall 2009 runways. Bringing the 80's back, shoulders make a bold statement with jackets, shirts and dresses alike.

Once again, fall favorite Balmain wowed on-lookers with a slew of jackets and dresses with strong shoulders. However, this trend made it's way into collections both on and off the runway, making it a guilty splurge, or an affordable find, depending on one's discretion.

Spring 2010 shows also brought traces of shoulder pads, making this trend more than just a one season wonder.

Row 1: Rick Owens, Robert Rodriguez
Row 2: Top Shop, Victoria's Secret
Row 3: Silence and Noise, Max Studio, Victoria's Secret
Row 4: Sport Max, Diane Von Furstenberg

For the more fashion conservative - work this trend into your wardrobe through a jacket or dress with otherwise classic lines.

The fashionista's out there have endless possibilities with this trend. Try recreating it on your own with a loose tee or turtleneck that you add shoulder pads to.

Tantalizing Trend #5: One-Shoulder

A favorite for fall, asymmetrical necklines and one-shoulder apparel should be on your must-have list. This is a trend that comes and goes every few years, making it one worth the splurge. Once this trend gets the cold shoulder, store it in the back of your closet for a few seasons until it is once again en vogue.

Shoulders are often referred to as an erogenous zone on women, and this season there is no sexier way to bare your shoulders than to leave one completely uncovered. A one-shoulder tee adds instant style and sex appeal, even when thrown on for a casual outing with jeans. For cocktail hour, take the look to a new level with a one-shoulder, long sleeve dress.

To accessorize, leave the necklace at home, and rock a glam pair of earrings, with a few dainty bangles. For day or for night, a clutch is a better choice than a shoulder bag, keeping the shoulder line simple.

Row 1: DVF dress, Black Halo top, Elizabeth and James top
Row 2: BCBG dress, Arden B romper, Robert Rodriguez dress
Row 3: French Connection dress, Robert Rodriguez blouse

Tantalizing Trend #4: Boyfriend Wear

It started with boyfriend cardigans, then the boyfriend blazer was introduced. With the appearance of the boyfriend jean on the fashion scene, it's pretty clear that boyfriend wear is a definite trend this season. 

Row 1: Aqua Satin Blazer   Zoa Tee     

Row 2: Eryn Brinie  Plastic Island Cardigan  Banana Republic Jeans      

Row 3: Vince Sweater Dress   Velvet Boyfriend Blazer   

Row 4: Studded Boyfriend Blazer   BDG Cardigan    Zoa Tunic

So what exactly is boyfriend wear? Boyfriend wear is clothing made to be a little roomy, and cut more for mans shape. This isn't saying to go out and borrow your boyfriends clothes, unless you pretty much wear the same size. Clothing made to be "boyfriend wear" is still cut with a female in mind, and unlike your boyfriends clothes, shouldn't look sloppy on. 

The great thing about this trend is that is a comfortable, fashion forward way to do casual. Throwing on any element of boyfriend wear is a great way to dress down any outfit; even a cocktail dress becomes more casual when worn with a boyfriend blazer or cardi. 

The key to pulling off this casual trend is mixing boyfriend wear with feminine, fitted elements. If you are wearing slouchy boyfriend jeans add a fitted cashmere sweater on top. Likewise, an over-sized boyfriend shirt looks fierce with skinny jeans or leggings.

I want it, and I want it delivered!!!

I. AM. OBSESSED. WITH. THIS. DRESS!! Seriously, I want it soooo bad! New Years anyone?

I love sequins, and I love feathers, combine them and I'm committed for life. Just thought I'd share it with you all too!

Dress by Gryphon

Wear with it:

Pleaser Shoes - Sapphire Earrings - Christian Louboutin Clutch

Tantalizing Trend #3: Boots

The hint of crispness in the air, the gradual turning of leaves, football games. . . .all of this can only mean one thing: boot season! Although I am sad to see summer go, there is something nostalgic about pulling on that first pair of fall boots. 

A staple for fall, boots have never seen so many variations before. From sandal boots to thigh high boots, they come in all sizes, shapes, colors and embellishments. Ditch your shoes this season for a pair of boots, which this season, go with any ensemble. 

1. Balmain   2. Colin Stuart  3. Brian Atwood   4. Emanuel Ungaro   5. French Connection   6. Free People   7. Frye   8. Anthropologie   9. Rene Caovilla

Boot Dictionary

With so many choices this season, how do you keep them strait? This Boot Dictionary and Guide will help you decide which pair is best for you!

Shootie: New for 2009, the shootie is a cross between a shoe and a boot. Spice up an outfit that you would typically wear a pump or sandal with. 

Bootie: Brought onto the fashion scene fall of 2007, the bootie is very similar to an ankle boot, but doesn't cover the ankle. Wear these with dresses to give a pretty frock a fashionable edge. 

Ankle Boot: A boot that covers only the ankle, new styles have embelishments such as ruffles and flowers. Pair with rolled up boyfriend jeans for casual chic ease. 

Slouch Boot: The slouch boot can be any height, and is made of a soft suede or leather, allowing it to casually slouch around the leg. Dress down an outfit, and make it look effortless with this choice. 

Riding Boot: Just as the name suggests, the riding boot is made (or at least resembles) for riding horses. This equestrian inspired boot is a perfect solution for a weekend shopping trip, or casual night out. 

Over-the-Knee/Thigh Boot: My favorite boot for fall, the over-the-knee (OTK)/thigh boot comes in a few variations. The boots can either be fitted, or loose around the leg. The OTK variation covers the leg up to just above the knee. 

The thigh high version comes all the way up to the thigh. Wear these with dresses, or over jeans. When selecting a thigh boot use discretion, and lean towards a suede, round toe boot in a neutral color to avoid looking like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman. For a more conservative look, pair thigh boots with a pencil skirt or knee-length dress. 

Fold-over boot: The fold-over boot folds typically at the top near the knee. Newer versions such as the Balmain boot pictured above fold completely in half . 

Convertible Boot: Recessionista's watch out! Convertible boots give you two boots in one, some fold over while some can slouch down. Others, like my favorite by Colin Stuart, unzip at the ankle to make two totally separate boots. 

More Leather Love

One of my favorite ways to wear leather this season is to mix it with girly, romantic pieces. The contrast of feminine with edgy gives leather an unexpected twist, which really plays up an outfit! Experiment with different textures, layers and colors to change the vibe that the leather gives off.

Leather Love by thestylemaison featuring Balmain shoes

Leather 2 by thestylemaison featuring Diane von Furstenberg dresses

Tantalizing Trend #2: Leather

Channel your inner biker babe this fall by sneaking a few pieces of leather into your wardrobe. Leather pants, jackets, and even dresses, are popping up in a variety of stores. For those animal lovers, there is even a variety of very well executed faux leather - not to be confused with the not so fondly named, pleather. Express clothing has aptly named their line of faux leather: (minus the) leather.

Whatever your preference is, there is something available for everyone's taste. For the less adventurous, work a leather pencil skirt, worn leather jacket, or knit and leather sweater into your wardrobe.

Take leather to the next level by donning a metallic leather mini, or a leather jacket complete with studs, zippers and chains. Experiment with mixing different textures and elements to create a truly interesting ensemble that is sure to turn a few heads.

Top Row: byCORP mini skirt, Victoria Secret pants
Middle Row: Guess Jacket, Rojas Skirt, Hue Legging
Bottom Row: Rag & Bone Dress, DVF Knit Jacket

Tantalizing Trend #1: SEQUINS!

Oh how I adore sequins! For Fall, luster, shine and glitz are on the menu, and sequins are the main course. Dazzling the runways, sequins show up on everything from shoes to coats and everything in-between.

Clockwise from top left: Topshop Skirt, Marc Jacobs Purse, Dolce and Gabbana Pump, Marciano Skirt, Trina Turk Cardigan, Paul and Joe Dress, Alice and Olivia Legging, Foley and Corinna Blouse

If you fit into the more conservative sector, a sequin embellished cardigan or sparsely sequined top may be the best fit for you. Accessories also offer up and quick, easy a less over-the-top way to work this trend into an everyday wardrobe.

For those with a little more gusto, slip into a full sequin dress for evening, or even a sequin skirt for day. Dress it down with a casual tee or chunky knit sweater for a simple, thrown together kind of look.

Now, the all out fashionista will find even more excitement in sequins this season. I for one am dieing to snatch up a pair of black sequin leggings! The options are endless with the bountiful sequin options, and I am quite afraid that by the end of this season, my closet may begin to look a bit like a costume room for cirque-du-soleil: but I have to admit that I am okay with that.

A general rule with this sparkling trend is to approach with care. If unsure how to wear it right, stick with black or metallic sequins, and not brightly colored rainbow ones. This will keep your look chic and sophisticated, instead of product of the 80's. Finally, remember to experiment with adding a variety of textures such as velvet, leather and wool to your ensemble.

Sequins, Leather and Boots, Oh My!

For the first time in quite a while, I am completely in love with the seasons trends. Heavily inspired by the 80's, Fall/Winter 09 trends are all about textures and detailing.

Shaping up to be one of the most exciting seasons in fashion in a long time, this season has a wide variety of trends making their way to the runway. From skinny pants, to trouser style, to 40's inspired, to 80's harlequin pants - there is something for everyone this season. It is all about playing with fashion, mixing prints, patterns and textures, and making a bold statement with clothing.

Below are some of the top trends for Fall, which I will expand upon as the season continues to progress. As with any trend, mix these in with the current classic pieces in your wardrobe to keep your ensemble from looking like a costume.

1. Sequins! A fantastic way to add some glitz and glamour to any wardrobe, expect to see sequins everywhere for Fall.

2. Leather - After spending much of last Fall searching for the perfect pair of leather pants, I am so glad to see that leather is at the fore-front of fashion this season.

3. Boots - Ankle boots, knee boots, and my favorite, thigh-high boots are the shoe of choice this season.

4. Boyfriend Wear - Last Fall we saw the boyfriend cardigan, Spring brought the boyfriend blazer, and now we include the boyfriend jean to round out the list of fashionable boyfriend wear.

5. One Shoulder - Exposed shoulders were all over the runway, and they are a great way to add some sex appeal to an understated outfit.

6. Strong Shoulders - Blazers, shirts and dresses are showing more than your average shoulder pads, a fall back to the 80's, shoulders are getting wider this season.

7. Ruffles - Back for another season, ruffles are making their way into bags, shoes and coats for Fall.

8. Jumpsuits - A controversial trend, I'll let you in on some chic jumpsuits that you're sure to fall in love with.

9. Detailed Tights - Textures, embellishment and colors give tights a make-over this season, and add instant pizazz to the plainest of outfits.

10. Velvet - An ultra luxurious fabric, velvet adds another texture to the list this Fall.

11. Fur - Fur vests, jackets and detailing were all over Fall runways. Protect the animals and opt for faux fur instead of the real deal.

12. Statement Coats - Coats aren't just for keeping warm - use them to make a statement with shapes and detailing.

2009 Trend #3 - Decorative Zippers

1. Lanvin Spring 2009 2. D&G 3. Phillip Lim 4&5. Marc by Marc Jacobs 6. Rory Beca 7. Forever21

As stated in my 9 Trend for 2009, no more hidden zippers; now zippers are used as a decorative detail. From exposed, to contrasting fabric trim, zippers will be a focal point for the back of shirts as well as dresses. I LOVE this trend; I'm typically a fan of anything that draws interest to the back of clothing. Be careful not to over-do the look by no over accessorizing or pairing a zipper back top with a pencil skirt with back detailing as well!

GET THE LOOK


Dress: JCREW
Zippers: Swarovski, Orange, Aluminum

This trend is an easy one to copy on a budget! Go through your closet, what items do you have that might look good with an exposed or decorative zipper? Measure the length of the existing zipper and go to your local craft store and find a zipper that is the same length in a contrasting color or that has other decorative touches. If you can't sew, take the zipper and item to your tailor and have them rip out the existing zipper and replace it with your new zipper, sewing it so that the ribbon is on the OUTSIDE instead of hidden on the inside!

VOILA - a totally custom made, one-of-a-kind look! You can find zippers for $10-$20, and the cost of tailoring should run about the same. New look for just $40!

2009 Trend #2 - Bold Accessories

Accessories were bold for fall. . .well expect bigger and bolder for Spring! Necklaces are making big statements, and shoes are wilder than ever! This trend is really taking off thanks to the down turned economy. Adding bold, new accessories is a cheap and easy way to update a look from past seasons!

1. John Galliano 2. Banana Republic Necklace 3. JCREW Bracelet 4. Christian Louboutin & Lanvin Shoes 5. JCREW Red Glasses 6. Roberto Cavalli Ring 7. Forever21 Belt 8. Forever21 Shoes 9. Gucci Python Bag

This Spring take a plain white cotton dress and add a statement necklace, bold shoes and a bright colored clutch and take your fabulous self out for the evening! There is still the danger of over accessorizing though! When it comes to accessories I like to follow the rule of 2: meaning 2 eye catching accessories per outfit. Choose a bold necklace and belt, but the keep the shoes, bag and bracelets toned down a little. Or opt for oversize earrings and bracelets, but keep the rest more subdued. Bags in python prints are especially popular this season!

If you are trying to keep an eye on the wallet this season, opt for fun, bold accessories that you can mix with the clothes that you already have! A GREAT place to find awesome jewelry is Estate Sales! You can find these listed in your local paper or on Craigslist! My friends and I have found a lot of amazing necklaces, cufflinks and rings for just a few dollars at estate sales! And you are sure to have a one of a kind piece as most of the jewelry is costume jewelry from past decades!

2009 Trend #1 - RED

First -- I apologize for my long absence from blogging. . .I have been in the process of moving, setting up internet, etc. 

Now. . .on to elaborating on my 1st predicted Fashion Trend of 2009 - the color red. 

I've noticed over the years that I will tend to suddenly gravitate toward one color. . .and the next thing I know it's the "it" color the following season. Well. . .this fall I began to gravitate toward the color red. Well, what do you know. . .Pantone releases it's color trends. . .and right at the top is Fuchsia Red for Spring!

This is a great color as it is flattering on a variety of skin tones. . .and really makes a statement. With a color like red, you do need to be careful not to over-do it! You can incorporate this color into your look in a variety of ways. . .from making it the lead character with a fabulous red dress, or giving it a supporting role as a clutch or shoe. 

Check out these fabulous red finds below:

Clockwise from top left:

Reem Acra . Oscar de la Renta . Searle . Black Halo . Marc by Marc Jacobs . Nanette Lepore . Tweezerman . Christian Louboutin . DVF

So what colors go well with red? Red is a pretty vibrant color. . .so you don't want to mix it with too many other colors. . .but it surprisingly can be mixed with almost any color. Red and turquoise-blue is a favorite combination of mind. It gives a very tropical, exotic vibe. Red and yellow also go nicely, although you have to be careful of looking too "mustard and ketchup". 

Red and green may start to look a little too holiday. . .lean toward a more yellowy lime green for this combination. Red also of course goes with any of the neutrals such as black, white and brown. Try Red and Navy for a nautical look! 

I expect Red to be a front runner for Fall 2009 as well. . .look for darker, rich red tones!

Fashion Colors - SPRING 2009

As I mentioned in my 9 Trends for 2009. . .I see red as being a key color in fashion this year. Pantone is the world leader for colors, not just for fashion, but for graphic design and interiors as well. Fashion designers use Pantone's color system to specify colors they use in their collection. Each season Pantone releases color swatches of the selected colors for the upcoming season. 

Below are the color swatches for Spring 2009!

Pantone expands upon it's color predictions with the following,

Best and Worst of the Golden Globes!

I LOVE award season! In fact -- I'm planning to have an Oscars party with my best girls - a night of champagne, girl talk, and voting for best and worst dressed! Pay attention to what you see on the red carpet though. . .as this typically sets the tone for trends of the season!

At the Golden Globes there were several trends that stood out:

1. White

2. Ruffles

3. One-shoulder

4. Statement Necklaces

Look for these trends to show up on evening and cocktail gowns alike! Like something you see? Check out Edress Me for celebrity inspired gowns! Faviana and ABS by Allen Schwartz are two designers known for mass producing celebrity inspired gowns. 

Check out the red carpet gowns in the slide show below and be sure to vote for BEST and WORST dressed!

Eva Mendez and Eva Longoria Parker tie for best dressed in my book! Both women were perfectly styled from hair, to gown choice, to jewelry. I also thought that Olivia Wilde's lavender Reem Acra gown was a fabulous choice for her! Beyonce, Debra Messing and Sandra Bullock also deserve an honorable mention!

On the worst dressed side, I have to say I am disappointed with Renee Zellweger's choice. Renee typically chooses beautiful gowns, landing her on the best dressed list. This time however, she is definitely a miss. . .although I give her credit for taking a fashion risk- the mark of a true fashionista! Cameron Diaz, Freida Pinto, Jenna Fisher also left a lot to be desired. But, my worst dressed award goes to Drew Barrymore - who looked a little like she arrived on the red carpet after a night of partying in her gown. 

Who gets your vote?