The 'Good Girl Gone Shopping' Hits New York for Fashion Week!

(Lincoln Center! I've arrived...)

It's ridiculously chilly in New York...and I'm loving the change! I'm a born-and-bred SoCal girl, and typically I love weather that makes me sweat and wanna keep my toes dipped in the sand. But this season I'm embracing the east coast coolness (as long as I'm bundled up).  Hittin' several amazing shows during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week with my blogger niece, Ashley Gummerson, New York Fashion Week is inspiring and a big 'ol networking hub. Some of the hot shows I've attended include Nicholas K, Desigual, Richard Chai, and Mark and Estel. Stay tuned for my runway rundowns coming soon to Agenda Magazine! I'll also be posting photos on Good Girl Gone Shopping, featuring some fun moments from my trip.

This month, you can also look forward to some new interviews, giveaways, and shopping tips. I hope you're having a fabulous week! Hugs...xoxo.

Check Out My Features in the Holiday/New Year 2014 Issue of Agenda Magazine!

(www.AgendaMag.com)

I've been a fashion columnist ("Talking Chic") and staff writer for Agenda Magazine, an LA-based jam-packed publication of goodies, since 2004. So I'd love to share my latest features with you, which are now published in this Holiday/New Year 2014 issue! I frequently promote my Agenda articles via social media (Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram), but I know it's easy to overlook posts, tweets, and pics at times. So with each new issue of Agenda Magazine, I will continue to update you - my lovely readers! Here you go:

The Stage You're At
"...I mean . . . Would there be another slumber party where we watched Teen Wolf and ate cookies past our bedtimes? Deep down, I remember knowing my mother was speaking words of wisdom. But deep, deep down, I still wasn’t sure if that really marked the end of all fun ever to be had!" READ MORE

'CJ by Cookie Johnson' Exclusive Pieces to Commemorate World AIDS Day

"...After her husband’s HIV diagnosis in 1991, Cookie has maintained an active role in fighting against the epidemic and has helped to raise awareness in a worldwide movement...In this exclusive interview with Agenda – during a recent special event featuring her line at Nordstrom in Glendale – Cookie shared her insight on World AIDS Day and the special charity pieces from her collection." READ MORE

A Not-to-Miss Night Out at Project Ethos
"Three shows were especially intriguing from the Project Ethos October 2013 event. This included its official hair care partner, Sebastian Professional, in which head stylists executed masterful transformations on stage, as well as the return of the feminine, luscious pieces from the Ermelinda Manos Designs collection and the glamorous and sexy looks of NBC’s “Fashion Star” favorite GLAUDI by Johana Hernandez..." READ MORE 

As always, I love your comments both here, on Good Girl Gone Shopping, as well as on Agenda! Thanks for your interest and support... Happy Holidays! xo

My Interview with Celeb Fashion Stylist Ali Levine Now Featured in Agenda Magazine!

(Ali on set! Photo Courtesy of Agenda Magazine)

Remember when I gave a heads up that my interview with Ali Levine, social media-savvy celeb fashion stylist, would be coming to Agenda Magazine soon? Well, it's LIVE. Here's an excerpt of my intro:

"Ali Levine and I met via social media. She followed me on Twitter; I followed back. I followed her on Instagram; she followed me back. Early on, Ali and I began building a connection naturally based on our individual passions in the fashion industry. And since building a fabulous working relationship with this Los Angeles-based celebrity fashion stylist, I’ve come to gain the utmost respect for her. Ali’s bubbly, passionate personality is evident not only as a social media guru (creator of “TrendsTues™”); chit-chatting with her is just as fun!..." 

Visit Agenda Magazine to read my interview with Ali! Enjoy! 

New York Fashion Designer Byron Lars is "More About the Clothes, Less About the 'Hype'"

(Photo Credit: Courtesy of www.agendamag.com)

If you missed my latest news article in Agenda Magazine, noooooo biggie. When you get a few minutes, please check out "Byron Lars Beauty Mark: More About the Clothes, Less About the 'Hype'" in the July/August issue.

Byron Lars, the New York fashion designer who has dressed First Lady Michelle Obama more than once, believes you can look like a million buck without having to spend that. Yes, that is MY kind of designer!

Thanks for reading. Comments are always welcome!

Rebranding Thy Self: With a New Style...Comes New Behavior?

(Photo Credit: www.mirror.co.ul)

It's sooooo totally natural to feel a newfound sense of confidence and clarity when you adjust your image in a new direction, especially when you feel it's an improvement and you notice that others are taking to your reemergence.

In fact, I usually feel sassier when I add I more sex appeal at night (as if I single-handledly brought sexy back in my faux-leather leggings) or when I do something simple, like say, change my nail polish. For years, I have branded myself as the 'Good Girl Gone Shopping' and Elana, the "Talking Chic" columnist for Agenda Magazine. So when I do make subtle changes, I am aware that when others research me, they will perceive everything about me to be key elements of who I am. And actually, not just who I am as a brand...but who I am as a person. 

Now....I didn't see the Miley Cyrus "twerking" thingy with Robin Thicke on the VMA's, but wow, did I hear about it everywhere! From Twitter to Power 106, the comments were anything but kind to this chick. For me, the above pic says it all and I don't really need to see a YouTube clip to play catch-up (even though I'll probably give in and watch it). But, anyway, my point of this article isn't to analyze her behavior. After all, she's in show business and an entertainer and building up hype and yada, yada, yada....I get it... 

(Photo Credit: www.huffingtonpost.com)

What I find most interesting in general about style, which the Miley fiasco exemplified, is the inner phenomenon that takes place when you take on a new look. Or, rather, explore a different side of yourself that was previously kept under wraps with a "safer" style. I personally find it fascinating that beauty and fashion makeovers can completely create a new image for oneself -- especially an entertainer. Remember, when Britney shaved her head? Of course, you do. Well, that was another moment that made my mind spin a bit (which I wrote about in my Spring 2007 Talking Chic column, "The 'F' in Fashion is for Fun.")

I'm curious as to what you think about the relationship between inner self and style. It's basically a did-the-egg-come-before-the-chicken-scenario. Did Miley's rebellious style exist before her outlandish behavior? Or, did her outlandish behavior just need a little help with the right edgy fashion? 

Talk to me! Feel free to leave your comments. All perspectives are welcome! If you wish, you can also contact me for further commentary. 

I Was Red-Carpet Ready in an Exclusive Kristen Dorsey Design!

(On the red carpet wearing KDD earrings! )

I'm all about shopping on a budget and enjoying luxury for less. But there are times, I admit, when the price of quality and style can be justified. Or...the very least...understood. Case in point: Kristen Dorsey Designs (KDD). Last month, I had the opportunity to wear an exclusive pair of KDD earrings for an exciting Project Ethos fashion event at the Avalon in Hollywood. Being able to pick the piece myself was also quite the honor, let me tell ya!

My go-to accessory (besides my D&G glasses) are a pair of statement earrings, so selecting the "Turtle Song Earrings" to borrow for the night was a no-brainer. Knowing that I would be wearing predominantly all black to the event, I predicted that this pair of earrings would stand out nicely for a red carpet pic! And I do believe that the Turtle Song Earrings (along with the neon shade of nail polish my niece picked out) gave my outfit some nice flavor and naturally exemplified my personality. 

The delicate details of the earrings are especially quite beautiful, which makes sense -- the entire KDD collection is created from a Native American and Southeastern design perspective. Designer Kristen Dorsey offers jewelry that is ethically sourced and environmentally friendly, including styles for women of all backgrounds to appreciate and enjoy. Love this. 

The price point of these handcrafted pieces are on the higher end, so this may be more of an investment for you. Still, I'm a firm believer in having a diverse range of accessories -- from costume to lavish. After all, never know when you'll need to get dolled up and hit the town in luxury! xo

*Stay tuned for my upcoming review of the Project Ethos fashion event in Agenda Magazine! 

From Me to You, I Say...

(Photo Credit: www.glitterimage.info)

Currently, I am working on a fashion article for Agenda Magazine, featuring the Lisa Kline -- the iconic, "Home of LA Style" businesswoman. I am also in the process of writing and piecing together the next Good Girl Gone Shopping blog post, which features my metropolitan teenage niece, Ashley, and her styling abilities in a hot pair of Burntie shoes.

And before I get some beauty sleep and begin planning my Tuesday at Plastic Surgery Studios, I am happy to take a moment to say thank you for your support and patience! This month of looooove is just another perfect time to show gratitude toward my family, friends, and fans. And my lovely readers, you are an overlapping species because you are my fuel. I appreciate every single one of you, and I look forward to continually connecting with y'all here, via comments and my contact form, and/or on Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest.

Now go give someone a hug and show 'em how much you care! Do it...like now. xo

'Splurge' -- The Shopping App You're Likely to Obsess Over!

Happy Wednesday lovelies! I gotta give you a heads-up on what I'm currently writing about for Agenda Magazine. It may very well be taking over fashionistas' mobile devices everywhere! Enter "Splurge" -- a shopping/fashion app that offers you the unique experience of browsing dynamic sales with ease. You will not be thrown pages and pages of the same brand, leaving you totally turned-off and ready to log out. From small designers to couture designers, the merchandise selection is specially curated by a team of specialists at Splurge.

I learned about this new app during my morning meeting with co-founder Albert Dahan (CEO, Joe’s Jeans kids, Da-Nang, Stitch, American Vintage) at the relaxing, bohemian-style Petit Ermitage hotel in West Hollywood, Sunday morning. His passion really sparked my interest, and I really wanna tell you so much more about the development of Splurge, how it looks to be revolutionizing the ability of online shopping, as well as introduce two of the brains behind such a product (Eric Dahan and Zach Crosner). But before you know it, my Agenda article will be out for you to check out.

Until then, feel free to read some of the resourceful articles that have shed light on Splurge:

- "Splurge App Touts Retail Sales" by Women's Wear Daily (Rachel Brown)
- "Go Ahead and SPLURGE!" by The Los Angeles Fashion Magazine (Julianna Maranon)

Now available to download on iTunes! Happy Shopping! xo

Dear Friends...I'll Be Writing While Away

Dear Friends,

I have not forgotten about you. In fact, you remain on my mind constantly. But the truth is, I've been working on a very important project -- my first book. So yes, it takes time, energy, and a unique level of focus.

What's also happening: I remain committed to writing my regular "Talking Chic" column for Agenda Magazine and maintaining my Good Girl Gone Shopping Facebook page. In addition, I just hired a personal assistant who is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. (With her help in keeping me organized, I hope to get back to blogging sooner than later!)

I hope you are enjoying your summer and finding time to relax as needed. If you have any questions regarding personal shopping and/or freelance writing services, advertising, or sponsoring a giveaway, please contact me.

xoxo,
Elana


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

Jersey Barely-There Fashion NOT For Everybody!

The new season of MTV's fabulous disaster "Jersey Shore" starts next Thursday, Aug. 4th. Not only does this probably mean more Snooki "Is my cuka showing?" cartwheels, glowing orange tans, and "DTF" girls in and out of the kids' house (this time in Italy!), I am anticipating even more outrageous stereotypical Jersey fashion. And if you embrace the LA nightlife, or actually nightlife anywhere in the country, you will notice that the tight, mini skirts, cheek-hugging denim shorts, and ultra-low, cleavage baring tops are continuing to be hot, trendsetting styles among club-going ladies these days. But I will say again what I always say: Not.All.Trends.Are.For.Everyone.

If you haven't read my latest "Talking Chic" column in Agenda Magazine, please check it out: "Should What's Worn in Jersey...Stay in Jersey?" Enjoy, and thank you for reading!

Have a fabulous week!

Designer Kevan Hall Showcases His Spring 2011 Collection at Agenda Loft...and I Was There!

(Kevan Hall and his models)

Extravagent fashion shows can be a mind-blowing experience. The long catwalk, flashing camera lights, front row celebs -- elements that reflect the designer's success. And designer Kevan Hall is no stranger to this environment, as his glam gowns have graced the big runway for years. But recently, on January 19th, he took his Spring 2011 collection to Agenda Loft in downtown LA for an small, private showing. It was a nod to the back-in-the-days 1930s fashion shows at Salons, where buyers, press, and the privileged few were exclusively invited to preview a new collection. Proudly, I was one of the few exclusive guests to attend the intimate showcase.

Having interviewed Kevan Hall backstage prior to his show, in 2006 at Smashbox Studios during LA Fashion Week (I am still a staff writer and columnist for Agenda Magazine), I was delighted that I had the opportunity to view another one of his collections. This time, instead of models being 30 feet away, they were posing nearly beside me.

The models danced and swayed as they entered the main area of the loft on a white catwalk and struck a pose as needed for the photographers. All of us guests stood on the side of the catwalk watching them do their thang and fondly watched Kevan Hall adjust the gals' gowns as they sat down or sauntered about. I absolutely loved when a model took part in a scene such as this: Sitting on a pink chair, putting on a pair of hose, slipping on heels, and putting on a necklace...then getting up and walking back down the catwalk with a come-hither-me look. Had such a striking, dramatic appeal. Something you wouldn't witness at a big runway fashion show. There was even a moment toward the end of the show that the guests were encouraged to pose around the models for fun. I mean, hello, how great is that!



(Coty loving her som Heidi Klum!)

                                                  

(Coty and I after the show)

 

(Gloria Bass of Vintage Glo)



(Arun Nevader, Kaylene Peoples, and Kevan Hall)

   (Heather Petrey of LAFashionSnob.com)

                                                                                                                                                
Overall, it was quite a successful event. Kudos to Agenda Magazine's editor-in-chief Kaylene Peoples for putting on such a memorable event! It was an honor to attend. My fashionista friend in tow, Coty, enjoyed herself as well, especially when she saw photos of Heidi Klum lining the hall walls as we entered (see her pic above...haha...) Some of the fabulous attendees, all of whom I respect and admire, included: jewelry designer Gloria Bass, book author Marilyn Anderson, celebrity and fashion photographer Arun Nevader, and LA fashion blogger and designer Heather Petrey.

I share my experience with you because I believe it's important for you to be familiar with all that I am involved with. After all, you're reading my blog to gain insight to the world of fashion and shopping. So sharing my firsthand accounts with designers and other talents is my pleasure. More to come!

Kevan Hall is the first designer to show his collection at Agenda Loft --  a performance loft and event venue with an urban skyline setting. Some of his celebrity clientele includes Celine Dion, Sharon Stone, Angela Bassett, Charlize Theron, Salma Hayek, and Vanessa Williams.

(A moment to remember: Me and Kevan Hall)

                                      

Photo Credit: My camera!

Bye Bye Babydoll Dress

The babydoll-style dress is just not for me anymore. I am moving on!

Check out my recent "Talking Chic" column in Agenda Magazine: "This Trend is Not For Me." 'Cause let's get real -- not every trend is meant for all shapes and sizes. Once you can accept that, the better off you'll be! As a personal shopper and wardrobe consultant -- I promise you that.

'Vintage Glo' Jewelry: For that Hollywood Sparkle

Kaylene Peoples, the editor-in-chief of Agenda Magazine, recently introduced me to the jewelry designs of Gloria Bass -- Vintage Glo. And I can't take my eyes off of her creations. Her love of antiques (since she was 10 years old) is clear. Gloria's pieces are precious, versatile, and lively, attracting a variety of celeb clientele.

Therefore, her talent inspired me to reach out and ask her a few questions. I HAD to dig deeper to find out some more about Gloria and the amazing Vintage Glo.


Who was your first celebrity client? I can only imagine your rush of excitement!

Anastasia Brown, executive music producer...OMG, she called me on the phone to personally thank me and for me to keep up the great designs and she loved her piece and will wear it...It was sooo surreal.


What an accomplishment to be a vendor at the Golden Globes! How did that come to be?

I got to be part of the Golden Globes with the help of my Publicist Kaylene Peoples.


How have you kept your head up in the competitive industry of fashion?

With my designs being one-of-a-kind, I really never have felt I had to compete. I create what comes to mind and don't ever look at fashion magazines to see what the trend is. I have my own trend and look.


Who inspires your sense of style?

Loving antiques and the love of decorating my home inspires me to decorate my jewelry in my own style.


Your designs offer beautiful, dramatic appeal, but I can imagine many women would feel like they couldn't pull it off. What tips would you give women on how to find the best pieces of jewelry to fit their personalities?

When you see a piece and say OMG.....I HAVE TO HAVE THAT....then you will wear it.


What have you learned thus far?

I have learned that it takes a lot of work getting yourself in the face of the big world of Fashionistas, but as long as I keep loving my work, it's all worth it!!




Photo Credit: Rings courtesy of GBK, mannequin with necklace by Jeff Linett, Arun Nevader/Getty Images -- From the Gifting Lounge: Top (L) Jordin Sparks, (R) Sara Hyland, Bottom (L) Gloria Bass and Deidre Hall, (R) Shar Jackson)

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

Your Style Star Interviews the Good Girl!

When Monique of Your Style Star (YSS) tweeted about wanting to interview fashion bloggers, I jumped at the opportunity! And she took me up on it. So do us both a favor, and check it out! I talk personal shopping, styling, Gwen and Tyra, my mother's hippie fashion sense, and my hopes of becoming a one-name wonder.

Read "This Good Girl's Gone Blogging" and if you're a fan of my rambling thoughts, follow me on Twitter.

Britney Spears Reflects on Her Dark Days Tonight on MTV!

I remember the day when my sister sent me a text message that said "Britney shaved her head BALD like Sinead O' Connor!" At that time, I was still living at the condo in Rancho Cucamonga, so I ran up the stairs to my room, and turned on the TV -- that's right, this was major news around the country.

Never truly calling myself a Britney Spears fan, even though I will hit the dance floors and turn up the volume in the car when her songs come on, I was shocked and saddened. But now I'm totally delighted about her "coming out" on MTV tonight in an exclusive feature that reflects on her dark days. Truth is, Britney taking steps outside of the pop world could have taken her out for good. So I am happy to see this young mom and entertainer speak to millions no matter what the consequences are, even if if it is staged.

As for her past bizarre bald head move; while all of us realized that Britney shaving her head was probably part of an internal struggle she was experiencing, I may have been one of the only ones who became an even bigger fan at that point.

Reposted here for you, my Spring 2007 "Talking Chic" column in Agenda Magazine shows what was going on in my mind during that time:

The "F" in Fashion is for Fun

...Let's step back a sec and pretend that Britney's sole reason for shaving her head was because she was eager to spark a young Hollywood trend in baldness. Did that ever cross anyone's mind? Well, it crossed mine—I am a firm believer in having fun with fashion.

Just as award show season has occupied much of the E! Network with pre-show coverage, post-show coverage, and Fashion Police disses, my few hours between sleep and work consist of watching beautiful hosts talk to beautiful people time and time again. In doing so, I have come to the conclusion that not only "hair" has become the "ultimate accessory" in A-list credo, but so is a star's stylist. And from what I've heard, I have gathered that there are many celebrities out there with really bad taste; however, thanks to the professional stylists, America can barely pick out who is clueless and who wishes they could have more spunk in their swang. So bringing it back to Britney, couldn't one say that she is simply being herself but just getting ridiculed for it? Or desperately daring to be herself despite the commotion she has stirred?

So with a stylist as a sidekick, are other celebs misleading the public into thinking that they actually know a thing or two about real style? Truth is, we care...but we really don't. All in all, we just want a celebrity to look good and maintain the holier-than-thou status that society continues to hold them to. Yet when a star—a person—steps out of the grips of Hollywood and dares to take a chance on the raw emotion she is feeling at the moment, we point, laugh, exploit, make fun of, and chastise them because they are defying what and who a celebrity is supposed to be.

Since when did fashion get so serious that a girl can't shave her head and not make it on every gossip magazine at the grocery store? It's just hair, people, really. But Britney's move was definitely shocking...for me to watch, at least. I'll admit it. I myself enjoy playing around with braids, weaves, and scarfs; how my hair looks is nearly as important, if not more, than the jeans on my butt and the shoes on my feet.

I understand the symbol of femininity engrained in the look of a woman's hairstyle. And for me, I gotta feel confident before I step out the door. So for many of us who watched actual news coverage over Britney's lock chop, which in itself is sad—(Hello? Aren't there troops in Iraq to cover? What about the burglar down the street to show on the 10 o'clock news?)—it seems like the real issue is that without her hair, she has lost any sort of sex appeal that may have made boys twist in their seats and girls buy her music to feel as empowered as they may have believed her to feel.

Maybe the real empowerment was in Britney's forgetting about what her stylist, her family, and her management team wanted for her. Despite any sickness or help she might need, I actually felt a sort of envy in the fact that she let all of her inhibitions go and lived for the moment. Whatever that moment held for her, Britney is still the Mickey Mouse Club tyke and the I-kissed-Madonna chick—but possibly for one of the first times in her life, she became the I-think-for-myself Britney.

So with the insistence of our dear friend, I am actually going to extend the "F" for fun to the "F" for "F&#% you." Now, that's what I call a role model.

Anyone out there agree with me?

Photo Credits: Bald Britney (http://www.celebrific.com/) and Britney with awards (http://www.huffingtonpost.com)

Send me a Tweet! This is one Twitter Addict Who Wants to Chat With Ya!

When I am not browsing Google images of my favorite celebrity fashion picks, checking myspace bulletins and approving comments, proofing news articles and marketing pages for my full-time gig at PlasticSurgery.com (and Beauty Chat), rating cool looks and uploading pics on Lucky Style Spotter, brainstorming and developing a topic revolved around 'Good Girl Gone Shopping' for Chic Galleria, putting together my "100 Bucks or Less Column" (and apologizing for missing my deadlines!) for Fashion Chicago Magazine, communicating about events with my editor at Agenda Magazine, and (phew!) of course, not blogging here with y'all...I'm on Twitter!

Feel free to send me a tweet. I talk about it all on there -- and then some.

15 Stylish Sites That Continue to Blow My Mind

TAKE A BOW! (applause)

Lucky Style Spotter -- Want to see how other stylistas wear their jeans? Care to share your thoughts in a fabulous forum with tons of fashion topics? Brought to you by the one and only Lucky Magazine, this site gives me daily fixes of all that makes my world go 'round.

Chic Galleria -- Can't we all just get along? Working alongside the most amazing entrepeneurs, designers, and health experts; on Chic Galleria, I can proudly shout "Yes we can." Women's Fashion, Men's Fashion, Parenting, Gourmet, Wellness, and Fitness are just some of the areas that make up this "Go-to Magazine for all personal care, beauty, and fashion-related must-haves!"

iCiNG -- When Gala Darling shares her thoughts with you, she makes you feel like her best friend. Unique tips, insight, event coverages, interviews, goal setting, and sincerity is what you get when the this tattooed beauty blogs away.

My Fashion Frenzy -- Turn up your speakers when you arrive at writer and editor Nikki Maria's style blog. If you follow the trends of Beyonce, are addicted to America's Next Top Model, get psyched to see which celebrity is displaying the most cutting edge in fashion -- My Fashion Frenzy will do just that. Get you all crazy and stuff.

Join the Gossip -- Dig those hair accessories that Kenley of Project Runway Season 5 wore? Leeann Morrissey of Join the Gossip is one of those bloggers who doesn't just tell you about a new trend, she shows you! From pics of her new feather headbands to before and after pictures of her going from blonde to dark brown, this is an up close and personal look into the life of a journalist with style.

Ideeli -- A "members-only shopping community for trendsetting women" is exploding with couture designer giveaways and deals at a rapid rate. A small fare even gets you front row! Want an invitation? Contact me and I would be happy to send you a code to get in.

Ash Magazine -- Because she's good enough, she's smart enough, and doggonnit, people like her. Ashley-Nicole is endearing, up on the fashion trends, and totally in tune to what is going on the world. I heart Ash Magazine.

Shop It To Me -- I am among the "Trendsetters" listed on Shop It To Me - a site that offers you virtual personal shopping assistance, with a blog that is dy-no-mite! Natalie and Tamra keep the comments coming, while spotlighting their Trendsetters, shopping events, and what's hot in the world of runway.

Chic Kiddie Boutique -- What are the kids wearing these days? Accordng to the cute giggly Monique Frausto, the options of dressing tykes in the latest fashion apparel is massive! This is one U.S. Army vet-gone-blogger who keeps it real.

Fashion, Love & Martinits -- Oh, how do I love thee? Mandy Applebum redefines what it means to be yourself. A self-proclaimed "fabulous and fat female trying to lose the love handles and make it in the fashion industry" is making it my new BFF list.

Shoe Smitten -- What do you get when you combine shoes, a budget-concious shopping flowchart, a college student....and more shoes? Her name is Anna Basham, and loves to pour her heart out in blog posts that touch upon her love of all that is footwear.

Agenda Magazine -- My "Talking Chic" column has graciously been a part of this online fashion publication for nearly five years. Thanks to Kaylene Peoples, my eyes have been exposed to some of the most amazing runway shows in LA. Want to read, watch, AND listen to her interviews with local designers? Agenda Magazine has your back.

Luxe Tips -- From one fashion junkie to the next, I tell ya that Luxe Tips is a lifestyle site for everyone. Because my interests revolve around more than leggings, heels, and cute jackets (What? They do!), this site gives me what I need. I first learned of this sitewhen I stumbled upon the blogger's post on Gwen's L.A.M.B. perfume. Enough said.

Beauty Chat -- Familiar with this blog? Yup, it's one of my babies that I don't think I can ever part with. Amazing contributors and a fabulous designer keep this site running and attracting fellow "Beauty Chatters." From plastic surgery and skincare to fashion and self-help tips, you gotta give it to Beauty Chat for having a diverse appeal.

Eye 4 Style -- "Deals & Steals" is just some of what you will get when you take part in the Eye 4 Style experience. A recent favorite post of mine is on the blogger's rundown of the Lucky Shops event in NY. Was I jealous? That was only the half of it.

Photo Credit: Me!

Used Book Giveaway: The Joys of Much Too Much by Bonnie Fuller

I said that exclusive book reviews are coming, right? Well, here is my numero uno. While yes, you can see I have tons of books in the works. You're probably thinking, Why can't she just read one at a time like a normal person? Well two reasons: I'm not normal, and I like to skip around based on my mood and interest at that moment.

Soooooo, my recent fave is called The Joys of Much Too Much by Bonnie Fuller. I am apparently late jumping on the bandwagon with this book -- it was published in '06 (I know, two years ago isn't too behind.).

Here are a few reasons why I bought this book:

- The front cover shows a woman doing much too much and appearing content. (As a fashion blogger, online editor, department manager, columnist, and personal shopper and wardrobe consultant, I attain balance and wellness.)

- The title -- hellooo! That intrigued me in itself.

- The author: Bonnie Fuller is a big-time magazine mogul who has worked at Glamour, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, and fun gossip mags. (In fact, she talks about her rise and fall story that will have you thinking: If she can do it, I can do it!)

- The PRICE was only $4.98 at Barnes and Noble. Needless to say, yes, a steal.

And here are the top points I got out of the book:

- Everyone goes through rough times, but if you push forward and "Don't Face the Facts," as Fuller says, then the sky is the limit

- ALWAYS maintain positive relationships with your colleagues and bosses, and make a name for yourself where you are!

- To not let where you came from blind you as to where you may go in life

- Having kids should only make your life interesting and not get in the way of your career drive (good to know!)

After I read the book, I e-mailed my friends and all of the Beauty Chatters to tell them they don't know what they're missing if they don't pick up a copy of their own. Well, two of the gals jumped at it. Stephanie ordered one and is in the process of reading it, while thanking for me for the lead. Knowing Leeann was going on vacation -- I let her borrow my copy. Unfortunately, it didn't seem to keep her toooo interested because she didn't finish it in that week during her downtime. (Maybe she is savoring it or just over it. Time will tell!).

My newest book, The Truth About Diamonds by Nicole Richie was a borrow from Leeann. It was our exchange deal. So far, so good. I'm really getting into the Chloe character.

To win my used (but in good condition) hard copy of The Joys of Much Too Much, just comment and tell me how what I gained from reading this could also benefit you in your career.

Contest ends August 15th.

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

Me and Adrianne Curry of America's Next Top Model...

...Are both in the summer issue of AgendaMag.com. Me -- the fashion columnist ("Talking Chic"), and Adrianne Curry ("My Fair Brady" and formerly "The Surreal Life") - the cover model/ Reality TV star and lead interview.

Kaylene Peoples, editor and publisher of Agenda, is in full force with revamping the magazine and making it better than ever! Being with the mag for 4 years, I can tell you that it has come quite a long way. Always fabulous, but now, more fabulous than ever!

I would love your feedback. If you have never visited AgendaMag.com, please do! This summer's issue features a hosted video at the Santa Monica pier with Lindy Flowers, and a shout-out to moi's column topic: the teeny-weeny bikini.

Cheers!

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