PHILADELPHIA INDULGENCE

Most of us are busy all day at work or taking care of our children and every once in a while we need a moment to ourselves. When I’m feeling stressed, I typically light a candle, listen to soothing music and take a relaxing bubble bath. Another decadent delight that truly never fails is chocolate. As a self-professed chocoholic, I‘m always on the prowl for sweets at the grocery store. Last night, I picked up a new dark chocolate spread from PHILADELPHIA INDULGENCE. I was instantly intrigued by the notion of being creative and pairing this spread with a myriad of different options, in order to create the ultimate after dinner anytime treats. Thus far, I’ve tried it with bananas and potato chips, and both combinations were absolutely heavenly. I can’t wait to get home tonight and see what else I can couple this chocolate spread with (i.e. BACON!). What little luxuries do you use to unwind after a long day?

PHILADELPHIA INDULGENCE is real chocolate blended with rich, creamy PHILADELPHIA cream cheese spread. Compensation was provided by Kraft via Glam Media.  The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Kraft.

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Isabelle Fuhrman's Horse+Nail Tucker Bag

Hunger Games star, Isabelle Fuhrman, was spotted on her way to the MTV offices in New York City, wearing Horse+Nail's brand new Tucker bag. I love the simplicity of this design. The buttery-soft leather exterior is accented with a series of dangling tree spikes. A long chain strap gives you the versatility of wearing this bag on your shoulder or across your body. The leather shoulder strap offers added comfort and support. It's available in a myriad of different colors, from neutrals, like white and camel, to bright hues, such as kelly green and fuchsia. This is the perfect rocker chic essential for creating an edgy, model-off-duty look. Best of all, it's actually affordable. Purchase the Tucker bag directly from Horse+Nail for only $282. Please note that each bag is made-to-order and, therefore, will take 1-2 weeks for delivery.      

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Catherine Zeta-Jones' Hermès Birkin & Fendi Baguette

I simply adore Catherine Zeta-Jones. She has starred in quite a few blockbuster hits, but Chicago was my absolute favorite. The singing, the crime drama, the glitz and glamour of the roaring 20's... what more could you ask for? Unfortunately, Catherine seems to have fallen on hard times lately. She admitted to suffering with bipolar disorder last April, and she has certainly been looking pale and thin recently. Let's hope she gets better and stages a triumphant comeback. In the mean time, can we discuss her covetable accessories? She was spotted rocking Yves Saint Laurent Tribute sandals, an Hermès Birkin and a Fendi Baguette. I have no idea why she needs two bags, but obviously I support this trend and would have no problem with it catching on.  

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Shourouk Vladimir Shoulder Bag

Shourouk is a French designer, best known for her gorgeous technicolor jewelry, and I'm obsessed with her latest foray into handbags. This innovative evening bag was crafted in India out of tortoise shell printed polyvinyl. The front flap is encrusted in stunningly beautiful Swarovski crystals and enameled stone embellishments. A long golden chain shoulder strap as well as the zig-zag pattern along the edges keeps the design youthful and fresh. Preorder the Shourouk Vladimir evening bag at Moda Operandi for $995. In case you haven't visited Moda Operandi before, they offer an incredibly unique shopping experience. Since the site is operated by fashion industry insiders, they have exclusive access to runway shows and showrooms, giving their customers the opportunity to preorder clothing and accessories directly from the runway or a trunkshow. Once you pay a deposit on your items, the designers will craft them especially for you, affording you the ability to purchase exquisite and rare pieces that may never even be available in stores.    

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Fred Perry bags – one part of a brilliant spring collection

Another truly memorable London Fashion Week (LFW) has just come to an end. The best and most revered designers in the world all congregated in London to showcase their latest designs for 2012’s autumn/winter season.

As most high street fashion fans know, LFW essentially determines what’s going to be in style each season. Only a few short months ago, in September last year, those very same designers that arrived last week were showcasing their designs for the 2012 spring season. As such, many of the most popular trends from the catwalks then are now on the shelves in the high street and available online.


With that in mind, let’s take a look at a brand that had a particularly exciting week last September, coming out with some sensational looks that are sure to become must-haves in the upcoming months – Fred Perry.


The brand’s new footwear line generally sticks to the classic, low-ankle plimsoll with a thick rubber sole that Fred Perry is known for. However, many of its new shoes are available in suede, most notably the blue suede brogue. Heeled brogues were a popular choice in women’s fashion in an androgyny-filled 2011, but have now once again taken up their rightful place at the forefront of men’s footwear design.


Whilst plaid check features heavily in a lot of Fred Perry’s casual shirts, the brand has introduced a few gingham check pieces to its new line too, including a colourful selection of shorts. Gingham tends to grow in popularity in the warmer months and, thanks to the versatility of its style, it can be a great way to mix up your outfit. It isn’t as popular as its larger checked cousins, but that’s no reason not to invest in a few key pieces, particularly as last September’s LFW suggested it’s set to become a staple this season.


In terms of jackets, Fred Perry, like so many other high street designers, has picked up on the growing popularity of gilets. Elsewhere, you can find some fantastic Fred Perry bags and other accessories, so you’ll be able to kit yourself out from head to toe in fashionable items.

January Jones' Prada Pyramid Frame Bag

January Jones was recently snapped by the paps rocking an incredibly chic outfit. Okay, so I'm not in love with the Jason Wu dress, but that bright red lip against her porcelain skin is perfection personified, and check out those killer platform sandals. Naturally, January completed her look with the Prada Pyramid Frame Bag. Miuccia's retro spring collection is perfect for the Mad Men star, known for her timeless, sophisticated styling. The classic black, white and red color combination instantly conjures the nostalgia of the 50's. Suddenly, I feel like throwing on my finest polyester shirt and heading down to the car hop for a bite to eat. Purchase the Prada Pyramid Frame Bag at Neiman Marcus for $2,950. Gadzooks! Prices sure have risen over the last 60 years.  

 

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Rihanna's Vlieger & Vandam Clutch

Rihanna was spotted heading to dinner last night at Giorgio Baldi, wearing the most adorable Spring outfit. She showed off her gorgeous gams in what can only be described as a hardcore pair of Daisy Duke's and polka dot Miu Miu sandals. Can we talk for a moment about this rocker chic bag? It's from the Amsterdam based accessories label, Vlieger & Vandam did make S&M mainstream, after all. Believe it or not, this shoulder bag retails for a very reasonable $245. In other Rihanna news, Gene Simmons recently dissed the pop star during a press conference, stating that the upcoming KISS and Motley Crue concert won't include any "fake bullshit. Leave that to the Rihanna..." Ouch!         

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3.1 Phillip Lim 31 Hour Tote

Hello. My name is Michael St. James, and I'm addicted to color-blocking. You're all probably sick of me fawning over this trend like it's the hottest thing since sliced bread, but at least I've fessed up to the obsession and I'm working on my recovery. Unfortunately, every time I think I'm cured of the affliction, a covetable bag comes along and sweeps me right back off my feet. Take the 3.1 Phillip Lim 31 Hour Tote, for instance. The simple design is flawlessly accentuated with a chic fold-over top, amped up further with ingenious use of color-blocking. On one side, this is a black tote with a hint of white, but on the reverse it's a white bag with a touch of black. In other words, you're getting two handbags for the price of one. Everyone from college students to corporate professionals and busy moms could effortlessly incorporate this large, timeless bag into their summer wardrobe. Purchase at NET-A-PORTER for $795. Also available in camel.       

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Marc Jacobs Brighton Flap Bag

It's official. I'm obsessed with colorblocking this season. For those of you who like the trend, but still aren't sure how to incorporate it into your wardrobe, start slowly with a subtle mix of hues. Take the new Marc Jacobs Brighton flap bag, for instance. Anyone can pull off these tonal designs. Pair the chic blue version with a black and white graphic printed wrap dress and you're out the door in effortless summer style. The camel variation is a classic neutral that can truly be worn with anything. While, the supple lambskin and golden python closure instantly attracted me to this bag, I fell in love with the high quality Italian craftsmanship and impressive functionality. An elongated chain strap makes it appropriate for women of all shapes and sizes. For added wearability, this bag also features an all-important exterior pocket. The Marc Jacobs Brighton flap bag is currently available for preorder at Saks Fifth Avenue for $1,595.    

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Luxe iPhone Cases

Let's face it ladies and gentlemen. You use your phone every day and it's important to invest in a protective sleeve that is both durable and stylish. I know the difficulty of choosing the perfect case, because I too spent many months searching for the ideal option for me. I finally settled on the Jimmy Choo Trent iPhone case. I was initially enticed by the luxurious python skin, but the convenient pull-tab feature sealed the deal. If you're interested in this case, you're in luck. Jimmy Choo reintroduced it for Spring in a myriad of new hues and leather variations.

Quentin Mackay's lizard skin cases, pictured above in black and metallic bronze, are also elegant choices. The sophisticated, understated design is ideal for the ladies who lunch set. For girls who just wanna have fun this season, Bergdorf Goodman carries quite a few options that will certainly make a chic statement, including these playful styles from Céline and Chanel.

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

Although Sarah Jessica Parker is no longer affiliated with Halston Heritage, she's not counting the end of her role at the line, as her departure from fashion. Last week, she told WWD that she isn't finished yet.

"I don’t think my brief tenure [as president of Halston] would be called an exploration,” said Parker, at the Louis Vuitton fashion show. “I learned an enormous amount, it was invaluable, and I’m definitely curious about pursuing it, and we’ll see. I’m sort of figuring that out right now, actually, as we speak.”

I'm curious to see what the actress will be working on next. Are you interested to see what SJP has up her sleeves, or would you much rather see her in front of the camera, instead of behind the scenes?



This green Tom Ford dress is all kinds of wrong, and I was sorely disappointed that it was Julianne Moore giving me Emerald City nightmares! The pointed shoulders and velvet sleeves completely canceled out the sexiness of the low-cut number. Moore was photographed in D.C. while making an appearance for Game Change, a film where she plays (pretty believably, from the footage I've seen) Sarah Palin on the campaign trail.



Lindsay Lohan was also seen recently sporting her (new) red locks. The starlet, infamous for her partying and troubled ways, has quite a long haul to get back on the right track, but I am definitely feeling this throwback to her Disney days. A lot less harsh and aging than her most recent blonde (and dark brunette) looks.

Lindsay is giving me 70s flashbacks, in a good way, with her red jacket, wide leg trousers, stacked heels and oversized sunnies. Come back to us LiLo!



Elie Saab and Balenciaga showed some of my favorite runway looks this past week. Elie Saab gave me high drama, while Balenciaga showcased modern construction and bold colors, under neutral outerwear.


Above, are my swoon-worthy pics from the Elie Saab RTW Fall 2012 collection. Below, Balenciaga kicks things into high gear.






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Stella McCartney Yarn Falabella Bag

Let me preface this post by saying that I absolutely adore the Falabella bag. It is unquestionably Stella McCartney's best handbag design to date and one of the few that I actually recommend splurging on, despite the fact that it's faux leather. The chain detailing and slouchy shape is ideal for casual weekend styling, and it has been spotted on everyone from Rihanna to Charlize Theron. With that being said, McCartney has created a new yarn iteration for Spring and it is one of the ugliest bags I have ever laid eyes on. Where do I even begin? The pom-poms, the crocheted design, the fringe detailing... not even a grandmother would want to snuggle up with this heinous bag in the middle of a blizzard. Who in their right mind would tote it around during the steaming hot months of summer? To add insult to injury, this hideous creature retails for an astounding $2,495. Ladies, I need you to do me a favor. If you see anyone wearing this bag, simply snatch it and strike a match. Seriously, Stella... what the fug?!

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Katy Perry's Jimmy Choo Rosalie Satchel

Katy Perry was recently spotted in a Vera Wang ensemble ripped right off the runway. While her vest is unquestionably the most adorable summer layering essential ever, I absolutely abhor Katy's sheer dress, especially the drawstring hemline. It's almost as bad as her attention-seeking electric blue hair, but I'm digressing. Can we talk for a moment about her incredibly stylish satchel? It's none other than the iconic Jimmy Choo Rosalie bag. This smaller version is brand new for Spring, as is the lovely light coral hue. It's crafted from the finest calf leather and features shiny silver hardware. Although, the optional shoulder strap could certainly come in handy, I would opt to carry this satchel by hand, as the sophisticated styling and scaled down size is most suitable for the "ladies who lunch" aesthetic. Purchase the Rosalie Satchel at Jimmy Choo boutiques for $1,450.   

   

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Christian Louboutin Syd Backpack

Sorry ladies! This one's for the boys. For Spring, Christian Louboutin continued to expand his menswear collection and I, for one, am blown away by the Syd Backpack. I'll be honest. At first, I thought I had no use for this bag. I'm sure many of you remember my declaration against wearing backpacks. However, this isn't just your ordinary knapsack. It's actually three bags in one. Firstly, it's a spacious tote, perfect for shopping trips and casual office wear. I simply adore the look of the smooth leather exterior juxtaposed against the textured handles and studded front pocket. With the addition of the detachable straps, this chic tote converts into a backpack, ideal for trips to school or even the gym. Lastly, the front pocket is removable and it can be worn alone as a wristlet.  The Syd Backpack is an awesome multipurpose handbag that I desperately wish I had in college. Purchase at Christian Louboutin boutiques for $2,395. Normally, I stick to my self-imposed $2K price ceiling when it comes to handbags, but I may be able to make an exception in this case. After-all, it's technically three bags, right? Major shout out to one of my favorite YouTubers, Gemma, for sending me an image of the python version on Facebook. It's absolutely stunning, isn't it?

   

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Rihanna's DVF Tonda Cork Clutch

Rihanna was recently spotted in New York wearing the new Tonda clutch from Diane Von Furstenberg. It's a simple design with a convenient push-lock closure, and it comes in a myriad of different materials and hues. Rihanna opted for the cork variation with gold-tone hardware. Cork is one of those spring trends that can be quite divisive. Typically, people either love it or hate it. I personally love the look and I think this clutch would be perfect with a colorblocked BCBG dress for summer garden parties. Best of all, it's actually affordable. Purchase the Tonda cork clutch at DVF boutiques for only $345.  

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Weekly Fashion Roundup

This is cutting it close, okay technically it was on the cusp of last week, but that can't and won't stop us from discussing Viola Davis at the Oscars last Sunday.

This emerald Vera Wang gown was absolutely gorgeous against her skin tone and hair color. The fit is perfection, the detail is intriguing, and I'm also dying happily over her large drop earrings. You've done us proud Viola, now go forth and bring us more to gawk at!


J Lo, What in THE crotch padded hell?

It goes without saying that Ms. Lopez's body is out of control, and she's very much holding it down on that front, but how do we feel about this below-the-belt situation? We get it - she's in charge, she's cocky, she's had Enough (I couldn't resist), but was this a cheap shot for V Magazine? I think Jenny looked fierce, and could have done without the extra-ness going on here. What say you?


Somewhere else is magazine shoot land, another Jennifer was dutifully getting it right for Glamour's April issue. I was totally smitten with Jennifer Lawrence's sultry makeup and hair, and this gold Elie Tahari top. Fabulous photo selection for the cover.

It obviously helps that I'm highly anticipating the release of The Hunger Games this month. I expect the fashion in the futuristic setting will be interesting to see as well!



The Christian Dior Fall 2012 collection brings one word to mind: dapper. It represents an era when powerful women were not afraid of being feminine and flirty. There's been some discussion on how well Bill Gaytten would fill the shoes of John Galliano, and I think he came up a bit short.

This collection was demure, and although there were a few moments of drama, nothing evoked the fantasy and playfulness that we've come to expect from Dior. Nonetheless, some of my favorite looks from the collection are below.

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Proenza Schouler Evening Clutch

This Spring, it's all about neon and pastel hues, and Proenza Schouler embraced the trend with this stylish evening clutch. The shiny silver-tone hardware adds a touch of elegance to the fun design. A detachable shoulder strap offers versatility and wearability. I absolutely adore the neon coral color, and can you imagine the major moment a fashionista could create with the citron version and a little black dress? My only complaint is the unnecessary front-handle detail. It distracts from an otherwise timeless design. Purchase at Kirna Zabete for $1,175.

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