Who Influences Your Style of Dress?

"Who influences your style of dress? My style is influenced by such superstars as Gwen Stefani, Rihanna, Nicole Richie, and Mary Kate Olsen. I love the combination of eclectic, bohemian, and chic. It is just who I am. However, do I typically invest in L.A.M.B. pieces or Dior? Nope. I am a gal who loves sales and adores 2-for-1 specials.

Fortunately, our day and age is all about affordable imitation. Instead of hitting Bloomingdale's for Seven jeans, these days I walk into Forever 21 and spend less than 15 bucks for a pair of low-waisted skinny jeans. My loose, summer bikini cover-ups aren't Juicy Couture; they are Target brands. While I choose to avoid paying $200 for jeans (especially if I can find these jeans on sale at Kohl's); I will fork over the same amount for a shopping spree. For $200, I can find two pairs of heels, some tanks, jeans, and possibly a new vest to wear over those tanks.

It is important to realize that..."

READ MORE on AgendaMag.com! My "Talking Chic" column can be found in the Columns section after you enter issue #25.

Photo Credit: http://www.teenvogue.com

Chelsea, "Lately"I can't get enough of you!

I am a big fan of Chelsea Handler's sense of comedy and her 11 p.m. show on E! Entertainment, "Chelsea Lately." I even wrote about her style as one of my first Good Girl Gone Shopping blog posts early '08. From the gossip topics she and her fellow comedians cover to the fabulous golf chic ensembles that Chuy wears, it is impossible to click off the television and get the beauty rest the dark circles under my eyes need.

And I have been wanting to get my paws and chipped nails on a copy of Chelsea's book, Are You There Vodka? It's me, Chelsea (a play off of Are You There God, It's me Margaret by child author Judy Blume) for some time now!

So when I recently visited Leeann (Join the Gossip) for her birthday, in which she lives right around the corner of Kat Von D's LA tattoo shop, I noticed Chelsea's book just chillin' on her coffee table. When Leeann saw me pick it up and look at the cover salivating, she said "I just started! You can read when I'm done!" We both started laughing, cause last time she let me borrow a book, I kept it for nearly a year. Whoops! At that time, it was Nicole Richie's book, The Truth About Diamonds.

ANYWAY...I will definitely update you about Chelsea Handler's book when I'm finished. However, I have a feeling Leeann, my fellow blogging friend, will provide you with a recap on Join the Gossip when she's done. Either way, you will be in the know my friends.

Happy Sunday!


Photo Credit: http://www.chelsea-handler.net

My Heart is Mended -- My Computer's Fixed!

August 2nd -- unacceptable. That is the date of my last blog post, when I discussed my hairdresser's (June Cawley) top 5 tips.


Not sure EXACTLY what happened to my computer, but I know this: I was without one for more than 2 weeks. Sure, some of you may have noticed that I have continued to update my Facebook and Twitter statuses, but that is a thank you to using other's computers for like 5 seconds (mama and papa). So now I am up and running, and feeling much more like myself again. I will get right back to juggling the projects and responsibilities that mean so much to me (my personal shopping and styling promotions, Manhattanite Blog, and ClosetMouse). I have also encouraged myself to join mediabistro again, and start pitching my ideas to New York mags.


So right on to all of my new followers and visitors who haven't given up on me! Stay tuned for more contests, new "fabulous blog" links, and more tips and trades about shopping, updating your wardrobe, and finding just the right pieces to make your heart go pitter-patter.


Please contact me directly at elana@talkingchic.com with any questions and/or concerns. I am here to help! The Good Girl Gone Shopping is baaaa-aaack.


Photo Credit: Me and boyfriend Steve, enjoying an evening out playing pool in Santa Ana, CA. Just one of the ways I tried to enjoy my life computer-less.

The Dos and Donts on How to Manage Black Hair

I have kinky hair. You know, tight curls that allowed me to wear my hair as an afro when I was a kid. And boy, did I.

These days, I have a relaxer and wear my hair straight. It's just what I feel comfortable with. However, in the last few years, I used to play with my styles. From long blonde braids to a weave for extra curls, I enjoyed different looks! And the woman who helped me change it up and have fun with hair is June Cawley, a Caribbean hairstylist queen in the Inland Empire! She works in LaVerne and knows black hair (as well as Caucasian-ish) hair like no other. So during my recent trip to her salon, I realized that it was time to share the tips she has shared with me for years, which has helped me, a girl who relaxes her 'do, a great deal.

Here are her Top 5 Dos and Don'ts:

- Wrap your hair with a bandana at night and a loose ponytail to protect your hair. Contrary to most women's beliefs, avoid a silk scarf - it will cause breakage.

- Wear curlers often if you want soft waves or a tuck under in the morning. Using the straightening or curling iron everyday will break the ends off.

- Wash your hair at least once a week in order to keep your scalp clean.

- If you are to wear you hair up with a clip or as a ponytail, don't wear the clip or band in the same place. The same spot will cause the hair to thin quickly!

- Remember to not keep touching your hair - the grease from your hands will just cause your hair to look greasy and get a frizz.


I say thank you now, because I strongly believe in her tips. Many of you may already be aware of these dos and don'ts, but many of you may not. It's always important to trust your hairdresser - it's a must! I have been going to June for eight years, and I wouldn't allow another stylist to touch my hair. She is witty, knowledgeable, and will help you sort out the trash in your life and realize what's important.

So, if you are in dire need of a hairstylist who knows her ish, contact June! She works Tuesday through Saturday, and welcomes new clients. Contact me for her info. Yes, this is big-time promoting her, but I don't do so if I don't believe in what I'm preaching. I keep it real. And honestly, I still have issues with managing my mane. Do you?

June's contact number: (626) 221-9474


Photo Credit: http://www.sheenasays.com