Bursts of Color (in Sexy Styles!) Ruled the Red Carpet! Check Out My Top 8 Picks!

I absolutely would choose a form-fitting black gown before selecting a bright pop of color for the red carpet! Er...I mean, typically I would choose black. But the bursts of color in sexy silhouettes worn by Hollywood faves, including Jennifer Lopez and Katy Perry, are giving me life in a refreshing way! Here are my top 8 looks from the Golden Globes' red carpet coverage:

(Jennifer Lopez)

(Guiliana Rancic)

(Olivia Wilde)

(Jennifer Lawrence)

(Jada Pinkett-Smith...and hubby Will!)

(Katy Perry)

(Emmy Rossum)

(Kate Winslet)

Photo Credits: Random Instagram finds! 

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.

Win a $750 Value 'Lucky Shops' Giftbag!

I am a trendsetter of Shop It To Me -- a fabulous personal shopping online retailer. So when I received an e-mail that they are partnering up with Lucky Magazine in a breathtaking giveaway for 'Lucky Shops,' I knew what I had to do: notify my Good Girl Gone Shopping fans and followers.


So here's the deal: 'Lucky Shops,' a shopaholic event (full of designer deals!) that is held in New York City annually, is coming up on November 6th and 7th. If you become a member of Shop It To Me, then you are eligible to win a $750 Value 'Lucky Shops' Giftbag! Inside of the bag, think such amazing items as Amrita Singh bangles, Kiehl’s products, a Clu tanktop, tons of other fun beauty products and more.


Shop It To Me gives these instructions on entering:

• Visit www.luckyshops.com to become familiar with the event (you may want to consider buying tickets while you’re at it!)
• Leave a comment on this blog post about what you think is the most exciting part of Lucky Shops
• You must be a Shop It To Me member to win

They will be picking a winner on Friday, October 31st at 5pm PST by conducting a random drawing among all comments left on the Shop It To Me Blog.

Good luck! And if you're as big of a Lucky Magazine reader as I am, you KNOW this is a giveaway worth jumping on. Seriously.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Shop it To Me

Ripped Jeans a Ridiculous Trend?

A little ripped and worn in is cute...but there IS such a thing as over-doing a sorta silly trend. Should I adopt this trend myself, or have a client who is dying for a pair, I suggest buying a pair of thrift-store jeans and do it yourself for $5. Don't pay $100 for denim that is too trendy. That's my professional opinion folks! Vote on my poll. Your feedback counts!

Photo Credits: http://www.designerclothesonline.co.uk, http://www.intheircloset.com, http://www.celebritynewsflash.wordpress.com

What Do You Hope to Fit Into for the Summer?

I take kickboxing (which, I know, I talk about all the time), Pilates, and spinning. And soon, I hope to be able to wear this while shopping and at the beach. It's just so dang "Three's a Company" cheesiness-cutesy.


This particular jumper is sold at (and photo from) ShopManhattanite.com. This is by Tart -- the "Cleo Jumper in Crete." On sale for only $40.80, marked down from $136! The color is beautiful, and would look great on its own or with a cute cardigan for chilly, summer evenings...


What piece are you saving up for? Or, strive to fit into?

Tyra Banks -- Your Favorite Fashionable Talk Show Host

You voted, and according to majority, Tyra Banks is the most fashionable talk show host! The runner-up was Chelsea Handler. Oprah, Ellen, and Bonnie Hunt trailed in the votes. Because the majority of you range between ages 18 - 35, I believe that age does play a role in how you view what is trendy and fashion fashionable, however. (My 60-year old mom adores Bonnie Hunt and loves how she casually wears hoodies on camera.)

So here are some fun pics featuring the winner, also "America's Next Top Model" queen creator and former Victoria's Secret model, from tidbits of her daytime talk show, "Tyra."

Which would YOU feel most comfortable wearing on camera?

Photo Credit (from top to bottom): http://www.gossiponthis.com/, http://www.msnbc.msn.com/ (Dave Navarro and Obama), http://www.people.com/, http://www.msnbc.msn.com/, http://www.missxpose.com/, http://www.eonline.com

Ashley's Take on Teen Fashion Versatility

This, here, everyone is my 13 year-old niece, Ashley Gummerson. Off the bat, you can tell that her San Diego teen fashion sense rocks and she is up on the latest trends. After learning that my brother recently bought her a Betsey Johnson dress and that she is in love with Forever 21, well you have to agree: this is DEFINITELY my niece.

Our passion for fashion runs deep, so I excitedly asked her to come on board with me and be the voice of the teen market. And similar to my go-getter personality, "Ash" wastes no time jumping at the opportunity ("OMG Auntie Elana, I would love to!!!). The same day I asked her to become involved, she sent me these two pics of her styling abilities. Um, hello, right? Yes, she's 13 and you better watch out fashion world.

Featured is a yellow Forever 21 dress. See how she played with two different vibes, while utilizing accessories and different shoes to give each a unique personality? In pic #1, the leather bomber jacket toughtens up the dress with the tennies giving it a 1950s "Grease" feel, while the scarf and red flats give the dress a fun spring appeal. THAT is what versatility about.

So if you have any questions that you would like a teen fashionista to answer, please e-mail me at elana@talkingchic.com or DM me on Twitter, and I will make sure Ashley gets the question. All samples and press packages that you would like her to receive, feel free to pitch to me!

(Oh, and did I mention how big of a fan she is of the Jonas brothers?? But that's a whole other story...)

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Ashley

Fun Rainboots - With or Without the Rain!

The overcast of Spring AND the recession can definitely make a fashionista feel weighed down. You desire the hottest trends but can't live without your $4-a-day coffee fund. You hope to find everything on sale but don't want cheap quality. The weather is a bit chilly for open-toed pumps but you need some colorful footwear.

Yay for Plueys.com! An independent label of printed rainboots with online distribution in the United State, the UK, Singapore, and Hongkong, Plueys is inspired by the world around us. Audrey of Plueys.com excitedly contacted me after finding me through Independent Fashion Bloggers. I am so glad she told me about this fabulous line, as I know that these boots would make interesting staples in any shopaholic's closet.

Their philosophy: "We believe that having a bit of color in one's wardrobe can brighten up any gloomy day! Fun rainboots can inspire and evoke some cheer to the rainy streetscape!"

The price range of Pluey's rainboots for women are $60, and for the kiddies, the cost is $30. Not too shabby, as long as you make good use out of them and don't let your Plueys collect dust in your closet!

I typically enjoy solid-color, boots -- black, ruby red, camel tones; however, I have always been known for trying out new styles. What do I have to lose? What do YOU have to lose, really? At some point, no matter where you live, you are gonna have to slush around somewhere in the mud or slippery road. These shoes may just bring out the young girl in you, making you EXCITED to jump around and get wet.

But should you wish to make use of these rainboots when the heat hits, here are a few ways to sport Plueys rainboots (in addition to the girls' styles above):

- Denim shorts and a tank! Throw a lightweight scarf around your neck for a warm-and-chilly combo.

- A simple vintage, A-line skirt or dress to mix eras every so delicately.

- Short leggings and tall socks for a funky appeal.

Happy Shopping! Check out "Where to Wear?" on Plueys.com for more inspirations. If you need my assistance with styling, please contact me at elana@talkingchic.com to set up a consultation. I am based in Upland, California -- just an hour east of LA.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Plueys.com

Gwen Stefani: My Favorite Fashion 'Switch Hitter'

If anyone studies the fashion hits and misses of Gwen Stefani, it is moi. I used to be obsessed with this rocker and designer's many eras of fashion, now let's call it...hmmm..."admiration." So when it comes to celebs whose style makes it on both the good and bad lists, my numero uno choice is Gwen. Period. But for me, she ultimately proves that her switch hitting sense of fashion rocks no matter who or what categorizes her. Plus, her looks are totally attainable when shopping on a budget. Helloooo Forever 21!

So, if you will, please visit Chic Galleria and review the photos I chose of Ms. Thang. Can you tell which ones most likely got a thumbs down and which images were praised by thy fashion gods?

Better yet...can you guess my favorite image? (My friend Leeann of Join the Gossip shows the "Ever-changing fashions of Gwen Stefani" as well!)

Photo Credit: http://www.thestyleeditor.com/ (that magazine cover looks awesome in person!)

How Rihanna Made My Article the Topic of Controversy

As a contributor for Chic Galleria, I do my best to support my articles with photos that best illustrate the focus. Well, in my recent "10 Ways to Add Color Color to Your Wardrobe," I posted this picture of Rihanna wearing a rad pink and black polka dot headband. It is a prime example of how to add color to your style, right?

Well, one reader ("Shauna") decided to comment and insinuate that my story and the picture of Rihanna was supporting domestic violence. Saaay whaaaaat!?!? I understand that frustration can come from seeing a photo that reminds you of a situation, but I was simply showing the fashion statement that this singer was making. I, in no way, condone or support domestic abuse. It is a horrible for any victim involved, and quite honestly, Chris Brown and Rihanna are just ridiculous right now. Seriously.

But I was just writing about fashion, and featuring one of our pop star stylistas!!!

What are your thoughts? Please go on and check out my article, and check out all of the comments. Fortunately, tons of supportive readers understood just why I asked Beth Anderson (the editor-in-chief of Chic Galleria) to post this picture with my article.

And yes, please add your two cents. Comment like crazy after reading that article. I'm sure other Chic Galleria readers would appreciate it! (...and let me know what you think of my responses to it all.)

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

Flavorful Footwear: My Favorite Spring Trend

I love color! So, you can imagine how excited I am with Spring's assortment of shades. I am very excited to hit the shops soon for fancy, fun footwear. (Dear Macys, I know I can count on you!)

Which Spring trend is making you salivate?

Visit Mahagony Butterfly to learn what else hit Spring '09 runways, and how real women can incorporate new fashion trends in their wardrobe.

Photo Credits: http://www.macys.com/ (from bottom to top: Carlos Santana, Bandolino, Marc Fisher, Steve Madden, BCBGirls, Jessica Simpson, Harajuku Lovers, Carlos Santana)

A Skinny Jean, Try-On Shopping Trip!

Here's the deal: Skinny jeans are not for everyone. Most of you know this.

While I, myself, have a dark denim pair from Forever 21 -- I am very conscious as to how I pair them up with my blouses, dresses, and jackets. I can tell you that as I lose weight (8 to a 6 currently), they are much more slimming on my pear shape. And no lie, I have had my own share of fashion flops despite the praise I have received when wearing them.

This is why I love to see boy-cut body shapes sport a slim pant. Narrow, straight hips do not have to be hidden in a loose slack or jean, because that can actually emphasize the lack of shape on the bottom.

So with great joy, I have an 11 a.m. try-on shopping trip with my new client (and fellow Beauty Chatter), Jennifer. She has a great shape: busty on top and narrow on the bottom. While we joke about giving one another of what we have (I give her some of my rear, and she gives me some of her cleavage!), she truly wishes that her narrow waist, hips, and thin legs could appear fabulous. And with great excitement, I will help her accomplish just this! A skinny jean with high, small pockets will give her a tighter look around her hips and bottom; at the same time, however, when styled with bias-cut blouses and fitting jackets, the eye will be sure to continue moving up to her proud features.

Because I have had such great experiences with Forever 21, and I love my $13 skinny jean from there, we are going to meet at the Victoria Gardens location in Rancho Cucamonga (about an hour east of LA). With a speed record of one hour, I typically get a client in and out -- unless he or she enjoys schmoozing. Showing up early with a handful of clothes ready to greet the person, or already having his or her dressing room set up, is how I provide ultimate personal shopping. No matter a client's size, body shape, or style; everyone deserves excellent customer service.

This is the number one goal of Good Girl Gone Shopping, with A-list treatment and attentive sincerity the other qualities of my personal shopping, wardrobe consulting, and styling business! So let's give a cheer for Jennifer, who is willing to try a new style for the first time. My goal: to upgrade her classic, sexy look into head-to-toe "fabulosity." (Shoes are another shopping trip in itself!)

So be sure to keep up with my blog news, as I plan to then post Jennifer's before and after pictures in my photo gallery.

(And, my friends, as you shop for new trends, here is my reminder: Just try it on! Many clothes can be misrepresented on the hanger.)

Photo Credit: http://www.storeappeal.com/ and http://www.urbanoutfitters.co.uk/

Lumberjack Chic -- Flannel Button-Ups All the Rage in Shops On Melrose!

Yesterday, I decided to head west to West Hollywood to see what I can do with a few odd items of mine that I haven't worn for years. Four years ago, I had decent luck at Wasteland on Melrose; I sold several items for cash, such as Juicy Couture sweatsuit jackets, Custo Barcelona blouses that shrunk, and Blue Cult jeans. While I walked away from a bunch of costly items with a mere $135 bucks at the time, I remember being ecstatic. Because those clothes were just sitting in my closet, making a profit was better than ignoring those items and seeing hundreds go down the drain.

So, as it almost hits 2009, I figured I would have amazing luck with 5 designer pieces. This is what I brought with me:

- Marc Jacobs gaucho pants

- Gucci black shades

- Limited-edition canvas Louis Vuitton handbag

- Yanuk jeans

- Citizens of Humanity jeans

And guess what? The gal who checked out my stuff passed on EVERYTHING. She said that faded and distressed jeans aren't selling very well at their store and that they looked used. I almost laughed because it's like, "Well, duh. This is a vintage shop, and you are buying someone's stuff." My friend Leeann, of Join the Gossip, came with me, bringing a pair of dark Sevens, and two cute tees, and also had no luck. While it was truly my mistake in not calling Wasteland first to ask what trends, designers, styles, and sizes they are buying now, I stll felt ripped off. (So, ebay, here I come?)

So take make a long, disappointing story short, Leeann and I decided to check out the other shops on Melrose, as neither one of us had walked the avenue for awhile. And as we did, the theme of the afternoon was: flannel button-ups for women. I absolutely love plaid tops, so in witnessing such a selection flannels; I was very impressed with the various options stylistas have to choose from.

There was the: guy's oversized style, the empire-waist new women's style, the sleeve-less, long button-up, and the A-cut flannel dress in long or short sleeves. Yes, I know, the flannel isn't new to the scene, but the 90s grunge dejavu feeling definitely got me excited to go home and ransack Steve's closet and wear one of his. I personally like the androgynous ovesized look. Figure I could just throw a belt on top of it for instant girly appeal. Leggings, heels. Muah! It's the Mary-Kate anti-celebrity, boho flair.

I talk all the time about finding fashions to express your personality. So I love that the flannel trend offer various renditions for various types of gals. I even think the businesswoman can take a black and white flannel and pair it with black slacks, some long necklaces, and a blazer -- and she is still office chic.

The average cost across the Melrose shops seemed to be about $35, which is, eh, not too bad for the fashion flannel. If you are like me and like the men's cut the best, head to your local thrift store, and I guarantee that you will have some luck finding one for just 5 bucks. (OR, see what your boyfriend, husband, father, brother, or even son has in their closet!)

And as the lumberjack chic look is quite the rage throughout Hollywood and big cities, I can't wait to see this trend reach Inland Empire shopaholics.

So ultimately, the profit-less trip to LA was a success because it was nice to get out of town, and immerse ourselves in the city that shares our passions.

(Oh, and seeing JC Chasez walk out of the Slow boutique was kinda cool.)

Photo Credit: Mary-Kate Olsen - http://www.ashburyvintage.com/, Lindsay Lohan - http://www.coolwebgossip.com/, Rihanna - http://www.blogs.nypost.com/, Kirsten Dunst - http://www.denimblog.com/, Jessica Simpson - http://www.elle.com/, Miley Cyrus - http://www.urbanbloc.com/, Diane Keaton - http://www.offtherack.peoplestylewatch.com/

'Gossip Girl' Fashion -- The Actors Talk About Their Characters' Styles

I tune into Gossip Girl on Monday nights at 8 p.m. because of what else, the fashion! The storylines are very 90210 and The O.C. (throw in Manhattan money), and yes I'm sucked into the drama...But really, I love Blaire, Serena , and Jenny's styles. The guys' looks are pretty trendy and sometimes quite outrageously awesome (think: bow ties, sweater vests, and blazers).

Eric Damon, the costume designer of Gossip Girl, also gives his insight on the how and why of dressing the actors in this YouTube clip:

Gossip Girl -- I'm (Finally) On Board

What can I say? After last week's Gossip Girl episode, where this one guy was dating this one girl, but then showed up with another woman, who is the mother of one of their friends...Oh, and the fashion on set...gorgeous.

What can I say? I'm in.

But why am I surprised? This is coming from the girl who religiously watched 90210, Melrose Place, The OC, and now One Tree Hill...

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

BANG BANG BABY -- Watch out!

I have discovered an amazing jewelry line -- via myspace -- that I know my clients will simply adore; it is inspired by two of the coolest designers around. Owner and designer Liz Besanson admits that the ever-so-lovely Betsey Johnson and Tarina Tarantino are some of the inspirations behind her line, Bang Bang Baby. So I had to "send a message" to this company, while asking to feature it on Diary of a Personal Shopper. Liz agreed (yay!).

A little background history: Born and raised in New York City, she did the corporate thing for awhile first, while gaining the backbone and tough skin that she needed in a competitive industry. Good thing, because Liz dealt with her fair share of rejection before being turned away from boutiques due to her jewelry line being too "edgy."

So she decided to transform the style of Bang Bang Baby into more chic and glamorous style with, still, a touch of edginess. Then it wasn't long before boutiques starting picking up on her eclectic combo, carrying her line in their store, and making their customers extremely grateful (I'm sure). And get this --Liz never studied jewelry design! But with her drive, talent, passion and unwillingness to hear "no," I ask you this: Does that matter when you are holding an awesome piece of custom-designed Bang Bang Baby jewelry? I think not.

Just see what Liz had to say for herself:

Me: What is your philosophy on fashion?

Liz: Fashion is always evolving. Trends come and go and we know this. To me, fashion is a form of expression as cliche as that sounds. Growing up in SoHo (New York City), I found myself loving the high-end boutiques, but not being able to afford them. So I developed a style that would look just as good without breaking my bank account. I frequently visited designer outlet malls and thrift-stores to find one-of-a-kind pieces to add to my wardrobe. Many people complimented my style and mentioned how "rich" I always look. Little did they know! I guess I bring the same influence into my jewelry designs. I prefer not to stick to one certain "look" or "style." I love them all, especially the edgy look. However, I can only take so much of it and then I need to wear something girly and fun! So when I take a step back and assess my jewelry style, it clearly speaks on the style that I personally own.

Me: Who is Bang Bang Baby designed for?

Liz: I would love to believe that I design for everyone, but this is not true. The 20 to 30-something crowd really gets my designs. They are my audience. There are a few others who will contact me to have something custom designed for them that aren't quite as quirky and bold.

Me: Tell me about the evolution of the name 'Bang Bang Baby'...

Liz: The name came about from searching on the Internet for inspiration. I wanted something that would be bold, fun, and would get people talking. While searching, I came across a picture of a vintage pin-up calendar girl. She was wearing a cowgirl outfit and holding a little gun that shot out a flag that read "Bang Bang Baby!" The picture was sexy, bold, and fun. It really jumped out at me! My designs are just that, and hence, the company name was born!


Want to win a Bang Bang Baby-designed piece of jewelry? Here's how you will win a surprise piece that Liz will pick from her new Fall "Retro Chic" 70s-inspired collection: Post the interview question that you would have liked me to include in this article. Then I pick my fave!

Contest will end this Friday, August 8th! GOOD LUCK.

Photo Credits: Courtesy of Liz!