Tell Me a Bedtime Story

Bedtime Stories was a surprisingly good comedy about an Uncle, Skeeter who babysits his niece, Bobbi and nephew, Patrick for a week and learns that they have the power to bring the stories they tell to life. When they add in their quirky parts and combine them with his bedtime stories they turn his life upside down as they manipulate his life's main events, from job prospects to romantic relationships. If the story was real instead of raining gumballs I'd wish for raining shoes and purses, but since I'm stuck in everyday life with no superpowers to speak of, this film was a refreshing view into a fantasy world. It was fantastically amusing, a family film that you couldn't help but burst into uncontrollable laughter watching. Starring Adam Sandler, Kerry Russell, Courtney Cox Arquette, Laura Ann Kesling, Johnathan Morgan Heit and of course Bugsy the bugeyed guinea pig.

Jungle Update

The ratings went up in the last episode but the fate of my dearly beloved still hangs in the balance. The decision whether or not the show will be pulled relies completely on what happens in the next few episodes. So Lipstick and non-Lipstick lovers alike tune in on Fridays from now until the season is over, blog about it, post on nbc, sign the petition, do everything you can to save our dear lipstick from becoming another discontinued shade. They can't cancel it now, everyones lives just got so much more interesting. Will Nico and Griffin hook up, or will she and Kirby hook up again, this love triangle is about to steam up the jungle. What will happen to Wendy and Shane now that she wants therapy and he's planning on running off on this international tour with Natasha Bedingfield at the urging of Josie, his manager whose nursing a thing for him. Most importantly, now that Victory has shocked us all (in a good way) by saying its her turn to pop the question to Joe, we have so many questions, like how she plans to flip the script and when she does what will Joe's answer be.

Let us not forget: It's a jungle out there, Dress appropriately.

Spotted: Leighton Meester Teen Vogue Cover Girl

(photo taken from TeenVogue.com)

The beautiful Leighton Meester will be seen on the cover of Teen Vogue in the upcoming February issue. Teen Vogue reported that Leighton says she doesn't want to stop playing the character, and was quoted saying "It would be like part of me going away." Her spread in Teen Vogue will detail all we want to know about this classic beauty, from the truth about that rumour that she was born in jail, to what she thinks about her co-star Ed Westwick (Chuck Bass), the article will also include what she really thinks about Blair Waldorf's signature style, her childhood and some insider information on her debut album (I can't wait to get my hands on that one!).

P.S. New Episodes of Gossip Girl Start January 5th, The next few episodes will answer a few questions about our upper eastsiders, Like how Serena's trip to South America went, or whether or not Blair will attend her father's alma mater, and what about little Jenny Humphrey's return to constance, she's bound to make waves, most importantly we'll finally get some closure from our burning questions from the last episode. Will Chuck and Blair finally be together, will Dan and Aaron have a showdown for Serena's love, what will happen with Rufus and Lily? There's so much we're about to find out. Gossip Girl's New Years Resolution: Keep Getting Better!

SOS: Lipstick Jungle about to be CANCELLED

I haven't complained about the economy because it really didn't hit me until I got slapped with this this morning. I've had enough of these studios cancelling good shows, first it was Women's Murder Club, and now the show that is near and dear to my heart; Lipstick Jungle. Why is it so hard for them to keep a show on the air that's about women on top? Help me save my dearly beloved, sign the petition at http://www.petitiononline.com/lsj777/petition.html, you'll not only be doing yourself some good if you watch the show, but you'll be keeping tears off my pillow!

Gossip Girl: Waldass Translation

As you all are well aware I’ve never been much of a Waldass (or Chair) fan because I consider myself a purist to the books, not that I don’t love the show, it gets my week started on the right foot and I’d consider myself a fanatic. After much dismay I must say I’ve finally been converted over to the darkside. Even though I’d love for the Nate and Blair saga to continue some time in the future, I’ve come to love and appreciate their antics and that whole star-crossed lovers thing that Blair and Chuck have going on. After last nights episode I’m no longer on the fence about this twosome, Blair really loves him and I say ‘Give the Queen what she wants!’ But poor Chuck in the midst of all this, he’s become a very lonely orphan. How does one deal with losing their parents on the upper-east side, holing yourself up in your fathers hotel and drowning yourself in booze and the company of women seemed like the Chuck Bass way, but what about his one true love? Will he eventually come back to her, a little less soulless and more ready to love her? We can only hope, after that touching moment with them crying together on Blair’s bed only for Chuck to disappear yet again when Blair fell asleep. Or will Blair go looking for him, disregarding the note he left on her pillow? I personally hope the latter, their relationship just got good and in the midst of all this chaos I’d hate for them not to follow through.

As for the rest of the Gossip Girl Cast, as one love triangle, namely Bart-Lily-Rufus comes to an end; another one takes its place Aaron-Serena-Dan. But what can we say for the romances that seem to have met their untimely end. How could Lily not tell Rufus that they had a child? Why doesn't Celia stay out of her daughters life? Can it really be over now that Rufus knows? If Rufus has anything to say about it I guess so, and that just leaves more drama for our other triangle to stir up. Now that Dan got the free and clear from dear old dad, what will Serena do when she comes back from Buenos Aires. Since the recent Waldorf-Rose nuptials we can assume that Aaron isn’t going anywhere, but we don’t expect Serena to fall out of love with Dan so easily do we, especially now that her mother’s love affair is over? And we don’t expect Dan to go out without a fight!

Spotted: Waldass in an ad campaign for Nikon’s new line of Coolpix cameras. I’ve got to say they look adorable & those camera's look pretty good too (I know what I want for Christmas). Where: You can find the ad spread in the current issues of Teen Vogue and Lucky.

Back for the very first time

Okay so I’ve been MIA for a little over a month now, after I got back from Teen Vogue Fashion U life caught up with me. November was a hellish month with midterms and assignments, but I’m back and ready to spill.

Closet Raid: Bluefly Invades the Gossip Girl Cast's Closets

On a less dramatic more fashion concerned note Bluefly just launched a Haute Gossip section to their site so you can afford to shop like your favourite Gossip Girl characters. The site made categories for Serena, Blair and Jenny worthy pieces that you can add to your wardrobe featuring ensembles from Nanette Lepore, BCBG Max Azria, Michael Kors and Yves Saint Laurent to name a few. They've also got a section for the guys that want to dress like the men of Gossip Girl, I don't know what it is but Dan's vests paired with jeans and a dress shirt is so appealing. Check it out now "'cause there's more than skeletons in their closets..."

Gossip Girl: The Heat Intensifies

It looks like things are about to heat up on the set of Gossip Girl. With the latest Chuck and Blair cat and mouse game turned on its head what's next, will Vanessa turn out to pose a threat to the good at being bad duo? Will Blair ever say those three little words (with 8 letters) to Chuck? Well I don't see it happening any time soon, Blair might have a battle ahead of her if she wants to hold onto her pride and get Chuck in her bed.

With Nate moving into the Humphrey loft what's next? For those of you avid Gossip Girl fans that skulk around online looking for spoilers you may have caught a glimpse of a certain character I've taken a shine to disliking and Nate in what seemed like an intense liplock. Jenny's about to get a story line, and at the expense of my dream couple Nate and Blair (yes I know they're not together but a girl can dream). So with the little relationship brewing in the background what will Vanessa have to say about it considering she still has feelings for Nate and she and Jenny are friends. We'll have to watch and see.

Watch Out New York I'm on My Way

With exactly a week to go before I leave for NYC I'm a bit frantic. Now it's real, I'll be on a flight to the Big Apple this time next week doing everything I can not to squeel from the excitement. So what should I do when I get there? any ideas? I plan to visit the Met and the New York Public Library because the last time I was there I ended up getting too caught up in the hustle and bustle. Of course I'll be scouring the city for some delicious new pieces to add to my already overflowing closet. I need questions to ask the editors, it felt like it would take forever for time to pass last month and now I feel like I haven't had enough time. I'm not sure of what to wear either, what does one wear to meet the people that could possibly change their lives?

Read My Lips: Win a Trip for Two to NYC!

Love NY? Well Flare and Fido are giving us the chance to fly to the big apple for a shopping spree and one nights stay in a hotel. Anyone up for a $1000 Canadian shopping spree in NYC??? I'm first in line (especially because I'm supposed to be going there anyway on the weekend of the 25th of October), the contest closes soon so enter today!

Read My Lips: Contest - Nine West - Your Shoe Craving Sweeps

Visit ninewest.com and let them fill your shoe cravings, one pair at a time! ...plus, how about a tripto New York City and a $1,000 shopping spree?

Nine West is holding a shoe craving sweepstakes where you can win one pair of shoes per month for the year (all shoes must be valued up to $100 each). The Grand prize is 1 year of free shoes, an indulgent two day trip to New York City plus a $1,000 shopping spree and a subscription to Lucky Magazine. The Second Prize is six months free shoes, and the Third Prize is three months free shoes all prizes include a subscription to Lucky Magazine.

This is a sweepstake you can't miss, whether or not you think you won't win it's still a great chance.

GG Hysteria

I’m a bit wound up after watching tonight’s episode of Gossip Girl. I always manage to somehow feel personally slighted when something bad happens to Blair and this episode was no exception. I have to get a few things off my chest, Lord Marcus should be beheaded, sleeping with step-mommy dearest isn’t a good look especially for a suitor of our Queen B. Next ‘UGHH’, this episode reminded me of why I HATE Vanessa’s character, it’s one thing to basically dump Nate Archibald but to take it upon herself to dish out revenge when we all know nobody does it better than B is just idiotic. Chuck Bass should be shot! I know he and Blair are kindred spirits when it comes to orchestrating drama but he continues to hurt her over and over again and for that I cannot and will not forgive him. I somehow managed to feel anger towards Serena in this episode too, I mean Blair is allegedly her best friend and is loyal to a fault (one of the many things I love about her) and because Serena is hurt from the D&S break-up she just decides to disregard the good girl image she manicured last year along with an attempt to dethrone Queen B. I feel a storm brewing on the Upper East Side, a school divided and the Manhattan Monarchies at war. We all know whose team I’m fighting for, TEAM B, Long live the Queen!

It looks like Serena’s character is about to shed the good girl image and get back to the bad girl from the books. Queen B will once again have to fight for her title, mark my words the claws will come out! I’m still a diehard Blair and Nate fan; so maybe, just maybe they’ll end up back together at some point this season. As for Jenny, her character serves only one purpose; to annoy me. My prediction still stands the only way that girl is going to have an actual purpose in the show again is if the writers somehow concoct some crazy relationship with her and Nate.

My favourite quote from this episode

Dan: Google Revenge and you'll get BlairWaldorf.com!

Attention: All Teen Vogue FASHION U Class of 2008

So a bunch of us are going to go to Carmines for dinner before the concert, to get to know each other and to get some good food. I figured this would be a great way for us to meet up before the weekend really begins. If you're interested we'll be there from around 4:00-5:30 pm (2450 Broadway) before we head over to the fashion show and concert. Carmines servings are family style: one plate can feed like 4 people, so come hungry. Check the facebook event page for more details and for any updates...See you there!

Pandora's Box

Less than one Week from today my life will regain balance as Lipstick Jungle returns to the small screen. TV.com says Nico's guilt from her tawdry affair will lead her to try to do anything to fix her marriage. Poor Nico, saying no to Kirby might just be the hardest thing any woman would ever have to do. As for Wendy as she tries to set aside some family time, along comes her mother to throw a monkey wrench into her plans. Victory will yet again fight falling in love with her billionaire (ex)lover Joe Bennett. All this and more will be unleashed when ABC opens "Pandora's Box" in the season premiere on Friday September 24th.

My New Favourite Zip Code - 90210

It's a little late but I still have to say that I kind of love the CW's new 90210. Maybe I love it because I'm not as familiar with the old one, so I don't have a strong loyalty tied to it. I like the mix of the characters and the drama that's already began to ensue, I also love the idea that the show plays around with the old cast as well as giving us fresh new drama. I'm still not sure which couple I'm rooting for, it could be the one that looks like it'll never be (Annie & Ethan, the shows Canadian stars) or the two misfits that fit (Dixon & Silver) I'll have to keep watching to figure it out, but I know I'm not a fan of Naomi (it may be because she has too many beautiful features on her one face that manage to clash in every episode). For a recycled rich kid prime time soap this show has something that's got me hooked, I just can't put my finger on it quite yet.

TEEN VOGUE FASHION U: Class of 2008

So I realize this blog has started to follow tv a bit too closely so instead of telling you how I almost cried watching One Tree Hill this week, or that Gossip Girl was again phenomenal and a damn good surprise (the writers managed not to be predictable…YAY!) I’m going to share some of my good news with you. I recently got my acceptance to TEEN VOGUE FASHION U 2008, now for those of you that don’t know this is a pretty sweet event. FASHION U is a three day event consisting of a fashion show, concert, movie screening and best of all Seminars with the Editors of Teen Vogue and top fashion designers. I’m still reeling with excitement since I’ve been waiting since July 7th to find out if I got in. Since I want to be an editor of a fashion magazine sometime in the near future I kind of feel like I’ve broken some proverbial glass ceiling, now all I’ll need to do is make sure the editors remember me. Now I realize I haven’t been as interactive as I should but if anyone has any questions they think I should ask I’d love your suggestions, I’m sure there are things I’m not thinking about. For the fellow class of ’08 I can’t wait to see you there, and for those of you who weren’t aware of this awesome opportunity there is always next year (you can get a jump start on your sketching for the admissions form && check teen vogues website in and around June and July of next year).

Rekindling My Love for TV

This past week was the jump start on the CW’s earlier season premieres, and I have to say the flame is still there. Okay so I was a bit disappointed with the One Tree Hill Season Premiere, it had its intense moments and the crazy Nanny Carrie is back and bringing with her a load of drama with a capital D(an). I found myself asking why the hell Lucas is with Peyton, no offence to all you Leyton fans but Peyton really does bore me. Brooke and Lucas however are my favourite One TreOe Hill couple of all time. So after the episode I went spoiler searching to find out if it’s really over between them, I mean marriage never means much to the writers now does it. I’m happy to report for all the Brucas/Looke fans that Leyton may not be living so happily ever after; throughout the season Lucas and Brooke will be faced with their not so dead feelings. The love triangle continues, and I’m oh so happy for it. I hope Brooke’s okay from her run in with the robber and that both Nanny Carrie and Dan spontaneously combust in that house she’s keeping him in, I’ll Miss Marvin McFadden and Millicent if they actually stay away their the only stable couple in the entire group.

On another note, did anyone understand America’s Next Top Model’s new Techno/Galactic vibe, because I sure as hell didn’t. Tyra redeemed herself with the rest of the episode, but I have to wonder is ANTM running out of ideas on how to make it interesting. So within the top 14, 13 remain and I’ve obviously already picked my top and bottom 5. I’ll start with the girls I think have the goods to win and an appealing personality along with it (in no specific order at the moment I don’t know them well enough to label them yet). Majorie’s nervous yet adorable nature is intriguing and her bone structure is pretty damn awesome. Elina is so different I couldn’t help but love her, it seems like she understands herself pretty well and I can’t wait to see how that translates into her photos. Kimora Lee #2 had to be on the list, the Harlem Honey Sheena has so much personality it’s hard not to think she’s going somewhere in this competition. Isis, yes I know she was born a man and all that but I admire her strength and determination and going on a show that is watched internationally and broadcasting that takes some serious guts, she’s got potential and as much as other people say she doesn’t belong I think she does. McKey, if that girl isn’t high fashion I don’t know what is, she’s got it in the bag if she can quit being so damn awkward in front of the camera. Now for the bottom 5, the girls that I barely remember or just don’t like. Nikeysha, sorry girl but something about you just doesn’t fit, maybe when Tyra does your make over you’ll make a serious transformation because that shoulder length cut with bangs is making your face look scary skinny. Clark, she’s already my least favourite person in the house, maybe if this sheltered little southern bell gets a taste of the real world I’ll like her better but for now I think she’s too closed minded. The only thing I remember about Lauren Brie is that she scares me and she has a big forehead, I hope they soften her up a little bit in the makeovers. As for the two I don’t remember Analeigh and Samantha there isn’t much I can say except get some camera time, viewers need to see you’re personality, the good, the bad, and the ugly. As September goes by more season premieres will trickle in and I’ll have so much more to talk about.

I’m going to start posting my weekly predictions for whose getting the boot on ANTM next week, who knows my top 5 may even change

XOXO You know I loved it.

So the season premiere of gossip girl did not disappoint. I loved every waking minute of it, I missed it so much this summer it was like a piece of me was missing. It was packed with the usual drama with some not so predictable occurrences (who knew lonely boy had a little playboy in him). I think there's a lot more than meets the eye to Nate's tawdry affair with Catherine, and Serena and Dan are back together, like the writers had a choice. But the real spotlight as usual is on the Queen Bee, Blair Waldorf stole the show. It's enough that she made me want to cry when tears welled up in her eyes, something about the shows anti-heroine is just so commanding. She's beautiful, and she's complex, and although I think Chuck understands her I'm still having trouble with accepting that they really love each other. For now Lord Marcus will keep Blair occupado and I can't wait to see things heat up between those two, give Blair a chance to be at least a little happy. Oh the possibilities that lie within this new twisted love triangle, but for now if it's a choice between Royal blood and an unfaithful bloodhound the obvious choice is Royal blood. The back-story of little J at the white party remains where is belongs: on the back burner, I just don't find her that interesting. Sure when she was a bad girl I loved to hate her but now, I just hate to see her. I have a feeling the writers are going to try and use Nate as her way back into the 'scandalous lives of Manhattans elite', but for now I'm tired of little Jenny Humphrey, and I don't really care if that changes. Can't wait for next week!

My New Love

Okay so I finally wandered my behind down to Kensington Market this weekend to do some vintage shopping and found my new absolute favourite store: Bungalow nestled on 273 Augusta Avenue. I picked up an adorable blazer ($21.99) and a delicious white skirt ($19.99) that I absolutely positively adore. I can’t wait to wear the pieces and I’m beating myself up wondering why the heck I let it take me this long to get down there. I’m absolutely sold on vintage stores and though the heady incense smell that you’ll find in some of them is still a bit too much I’m head over heels. I also found some great scarves that are absolutely gorgeous, at $5 a pop for the bigger ones and $2 a pop for the smaller ones I’m heading to Flash Back (the one with the Audrey Hepburn Image on the sign) on Kensington every time I venture downtown. And the button wall at Courage My Love is my new best friend, I can say bye-bye to generic plastic buttons for good =D. I just discovered the perfect way to mix my energetic/colourful personality and Audrey Hepburn’s polish to construct a look that is totally me.

TV Gets Good Again

September is fast approaching and though the thought of the drop in temperature doesn’t warm the cockles of my heart I’m comforted by the sweet prospect of tv getting good again. With less than a week until the season premiere of Gossip Girl I can hardly contain my excitement. I can’t wait for some more Blair Waldorf hysterics. I’m looking forward to getting back into my guilty pleasure tv routine and among Gossip Girl (September 1^st) the other pleasures I'm looking forward to are One Tree Hill (September 1^st), Lipstick Jungle, Grey’s Anatomy, CSI Miami, New York and Brothers and Sisters. I’ve been waiting intently and I’m interested in seeing what new shows turn up this fall, since they cancelled Women’s Murder Club I’m looking for a show to fill the void, could the CW’s new 90210 (September 2^nd) be a possible fit? We’ll just have to wait and see. I’ll be commenting on the season premieres, what I liked, didn’t like, and my alternative story lines. Who knows maybe I’ll throw in some predictions for the seasons ahead, for now I just want Blair to be happy and I’m dying to know who Lucas asked to marry him…

A Nasty Piece of Work Indeed!

US Weekly : August 11th, 2008, Issue 704

The case of the disappearing bikini top has been a source of unsettled discussion in the “Addicted to Gossip Girl” facebook group, and according to this article in US Weekly the subject still can’t be laid to rest. The CW claims they never edited out the bra strap in question in their new set of salacious advertisements. But the ad in question, with the caption “A Nasty Piece of Work” shows no sign of the strap, the shows viewers know that in the episode this still was taken from the strap was there, so where did it go? It’s clearly not there, so we can only surmise that the image was doctored. This is a different kind of provocative for the CW, their infamous “OMFG!” ads have nothing on this one.

What are your thoughts? Did they go too far? One thing's for sure the CW has learned to use negative press as good publicity, this ad is definitely A Nasty Piece of Work, and I kind of love it!

My Picks: Semi-Annual Blue Sale up to 70% off

Tops: Because I'm trapeze crazy. I love the shape of these tops and the way they accentuate my long neck.

Castle Starr

Ivory sleeveless silk beaded top

retail value: $322.00

bluefly: $193.00

on sale: $94.99

(you save 71%)

Tocca

fuchsia cotton-silk voile 'Violetta' top

retail value: $200.00

bluefly: $120.00

on sale: $59.99

(you save 70%)

Dresses: The Empire waist accentuates my waist, and the drapery on the scoop neck gives me such a luxurious goddess-like feeling.

Single

turquoise floral striped silk v-neck dress

retail value: $205.00

bluefly: $124.00

on sale: $59.99

(you save 71%)

Susana Monaco

deep orange jersey scoopneck mini dress

retail value: $235.00

bluefly: $141.00

on sale: $69.99

(you save 70%)

Jackets: The regimental look of the double breasted jacket adds that touch of masculinity to a feminine outfit that has been seen all over the runways this year. The mustard Tory Burch jacket is a stunning pop of colour, perfect for a night out or for any occasion.

Robert Rodriguez

black cotton-linen double breasted jacket

retail value: $365.00

bluefly: $219.00

on sale: $174.99

(you save 52%)

Tory Burch

mustard stretch cotton 'Lynn' jacket

retail value: $295.00

bluefly: $177.00

on sale: $139.99

(you save 53%)

Bags: The yellow satchel is so functional, yet so cute and bright. The chocolate ruched leather shoulder bag is so luxurious with a slightly rugged feel, it's such a great piece for almost 50% off the suggested retail price.

Hype

yellow pebble leather 'Costa del Sol' satchel

retail value: $295.00

bluefly: $177.00

on sale: $140.99

(you save 52%)

Alexis Hudson

chocolate ruched leather 'Bastille' small shoulder bag

retail value: $440.00

bluefly: $264.00

on sale: $223.99

(you save 49%)

I Want It!

MaxFactor Vivid Impact Highlighting Mascara Duos

I was never much of a make-up person but this summer I started experimenting. I’ve fallen in love with Sephora’s Green mascara; the extra pop of colour was so me I couldn’t not love it. The added colour on your lashes is so fun and flirty I can’t help but gush about it. Now every magazine I flip open has this ad for MaxFactor’s Vivid Impact Highlighting Mascara Duo and I want it so badly, the release delay in Canada is driving me nuts. The mascara duo comes with a base coat colour and a highlight for the tips. The colours in the shade collection are Blazing Black, Moonlit Black, Karat Brown, Burning Bordeaux, and Blushing Blue. I’m especially looking forward to using Blushing Blue (a blue base, pink tip combo) and Blazing Black (a black base, pink tip combo). Their listed on drugstore.com at $10.12 each, and I’m tempted to have it FedExed to me if I don’t find it this week.

La Collection De France
Ever so often OPI comes out with a new line, the past few have been their Indian, Russian and Australian Collections, the newest addition is the Couture Couleur La Collection De France for the Fall/Winter Seasons of 2008. The line boasts deep, rich, luxurious colours inspired by the elegance of French fashion. I’m dying to get my hands on the Parlez-Vous OPI: a smoky violet that to quote OPI “speaks the language of fashion”. Other shades I’m loving are Bastille My Heart (a rich burgundy) and We’ll Always Have Paris (a rich coffee shade of purple). Best of all this line has No DBP, Toluene, or Formaldehyde.

Semi-Annual Blue Sale

The sale opens to the public tomorrow. Don't miss it, I'll post my top picks and steals later.

Read My Lips: Contest – Tag it “TN Fashion”

Win this cute Mblem – Geometric Tie Back Dress (retail value: $158) from ThisNext. Mblem is the brainchild clothing line of singer/actor/fashion designer Mandy Moore. To win the dress all you have to do is recommend fashionable products on thisnext.com, and tag them “TN Fashion”. The more products you tag the more you increase your chances of winning, so get to tagging you've only got 7 days left. The contest is open to U.S. Residents only, for more information read the contest rules.

P.S. If you think you never win anything and would much rather just buy the dress click here.

Women's Murder Club: Another Good Show Gone

but the great books remain

After finding out that the Women’s Murder Club television series based on the James Patterson novels was cancelled in its first season I went into remission. To mend my broken heart I went to my local bookstore and picked up 1st to Die, the first book in the Women’s Murder Club series, and as much as I loved the TV series I love the books ten times more. I’m now on the fourth book, entitled 4th of July and I could not recommend a more thrilling series. Patterson has created a set of page turning, mind blowing, and tear wrenching novels that I’ve become heavily addicted to. The series is progressively getting better and better and I honestly don’t know what I’m going to do when I finish the series. If you’re looking for a good series to read this one is as good as it gets, so head to the bookstore and I’d advise picking up at least the first two because you’ll want to go straight into the next one after you’ve finished reading the first. There are seven books in all, try and finish them before me!

Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale

Didn’t I tell you about jewel and berry tones? This gorgeous Nordstrom Exclusive magenta DKNY Belted Metallic Satin Trench Coat is on sale during Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale for $66.90 (60% off the regular price, applicable shipping and taxes not included, and also available in champagne) and worth every penny. Don’t miss this sale, there are many more pieces you'll love, prices go up on August 4^th, so head to Nordstrom.com now!

White Dark Knight

If it isn’t enough that Christian Bale is the best Batman EVER, and that he’s positively lustful, the film was phenomenal. It is packed with action, unexpected twists and turns and a great cast. Heath Ledgers portrayal of the Joker was absolutely sadistic, it was perfect! There’s so much I could say about this film, but won’t because I don’t want to spoil it for those poor unfortunate souls who haven’t gotten to the theatre yet. I can’t help but feel terribly sad from the loss of Heath Ledger, his performance redefined villainous to proportions beyond lunacy. I’d like to take a moment of silence in memory of Heath, [moment] and then go into more detail about the film. I actually felt like crying when Bruce Wayne crashed the Lamborghini, such a beautiful car should never be mistreated like that, but moving on. I loved the cast, yes, but I’m still wondering why they went with Maggie Gyllenhaal instead of Katie Holmes. For a super hero movie there were so many things I didn’t see coming, which is a challenge considering how much we’ve all seen before, it caters to the technology junkie in all of us and that yearning for the rare combination of good actors with a good script. Go see it, you won’t be disappointed.

In Need of a Link to Luxury?

Who doesn’t want to relax in the lap of luxury? Maybe your summer vacation is coming to an end and you’re heading back to school or maybe you’ve saved up some vacation time and you’re looking for the perfect place to spend that well earned week, I’ve spotted the perfect solution to cool your getaway fever. Meet Luxury Link, a website with ‘2640 extraordinary hotels, villas, and cruises’. They are currently offering 551 travel offers that you can buy now and 467 live travel auctions. It’s like Ebay for vacations; participate in bidding wars to win your dream vacation in some luxurious locales. Grab your bikini's, and sunscreen and prepare yourself, because any location your heart desires is a click away, but shhh, it’s a secret!

Lord and Taylor Coming to Canada?

Photo:Mark Lennihan/Associated Press

After reports that NRDC, the owner of Lord and Taylor bought out 80% of the Hudson Bay Company on July 16^th, 2008 the rumour mill hasn’t stopped churning out suspicions that Lord and Taylor will be moving to Canada. I for one think Canada needed the extra touch of class, they really only have one department store as high end as Lord and Taylor, and Holt Renfrew definitely needs the competition (even though L&T may be a couple notches below it on the high end scale). Some may argue that the Bay is one of Canada’s high end department stores, which could be why it’s so fitting that Lord and Taylor bought them out anyway (even though it doesn’t begin to compare). Cardinal rule of business: stomp out the competition before it even sees you coming! Now if we could get Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman up here too then we’d be talking. Will NRDC pull a Macy’s and replace every Bay with a Lord and Taylor like Macy’s did when they bought out Hecht’s? Or will they do some crazy compartmentalizing and have The Bay, Zeller’s and L&T all in one store? I hope not! We’ll just have to wait and see, but I for one am always happy when American stores make the move across the border, it just makes Canadian shopping all the more interesting.

Berries or Jewels

The fall season is creeping up and slowly but surely its colour palette will be making its way into stores. So what exactly can we expect for fall, could it be the rich, deep purples, pinks and reds of berries or should we expect the vibrancy of luxe jewel tones? My thought, the season has enough days for both. If I haven't said it before fashion is dead without colour, colour warms the soul and has the power to liven up any ensemble. I foresee rich, luxurious, saturated colours in the fall and lots of them! Sapphire blues, Ruby reds, Canary yellows and Emerald greens with Raspberry pinks, Cherry reds and Boysenberry purples, as the leaves turn we will evolve with what Pantone calls ‘the season of change’ from the bright, pulsating colours of summer to the deep, sumptuous berry and jewel tones of the fall. If you’re shopping and happen to come across any colours from the fall palette while you’re still shopping for your summer brights slip a few fall colours into your shopping bag and you’ll be ahead of everyone else when this season comes to an end.

Wall-E Stole My Heart & Made Me Think!

Though not for the ones who only enjoy movies with riveting conversation this movie is a great combination of a critique of our lives today and one cute robot. When you were a kid after you’d finished reading a story, did your parents ever ask you what the moral of it was? Point and case, there isn’t much conversation to speak of in this movie but it does say a lot about our lives. Wall-E is a robot that was made to clean earth up, while humans went off into space to wait until the earth they’d covered in waste was inhabitable again. This movie should tell you that our waste consumption is way too high, our dependency on technology is causing a lack of interpersonal intimacy, and that under no circumstances should we ever consider converting all our meals to liquid form. Who really wants a burger in a cup? If you’re a conspiracy theorist you may also think that the fact that the Buy n Large corporation ran everything on earth means that Wal-Mart is coming for us all, but I’ll leave that to you. I’m actually proud that Disney didn’t do much sugar coating with this one, if you read the film for its morals it’s probably one of the starkest critiques on our lives that Disney has ever made, whether intentionally or unintentionally. Plus Eve and Wall-E are so adorable you can’t help but love it, I personally wanted to scream out in the middle of the film “Robots have feelings too!” But then I’d have seemed loopy so I kept my mouth shut and watched the new love story about two robots of the future.

I Got Lucky!

At first glance Lucky Magazine has never been one to catch my eye. For some strange reason I’d always overlooked it, until they put my favourite new actress on the cover. The August 2008 issue of Lucky boasts the beautiful, talented and slightly quirky Leighton Meester as its cover girl. If you’ve been reading my blog you probably know that I’ve got my eye on everything Leighton Meester, including and most importantly her alter ego, Gossip Girl’s Blair Waldorf. Lucky’s spread on Leighton goes through her current can’t-live-without list, a list I’ve come to hold dear to my own things-I-really-want list. If it’s one thing on her list that I can afford and had to have it has to be the velvet flocked hangers. Who hasn’t experienced the annoying inconvenience of going to the trouble of hanging all their clothes up, only to have them fall to the floor at the first sign of movement? Pick up Lucky’s August issue for Leighton’s full list of necessities. Other than my obvious approval of Leighton’s spread in the magazine, I must say that the layout was rather intriguing, and I couldn’t ask for better content. Packed with their signature “Lucky Breaks”: their special deals and discounts exclusive to those people sensible enough to pick up the magazine, and a selection of wardrobe pieces that equivocate to a what to wear bible, this magazine should be every fashionista’s best friend. As a little added bonus Lucky included a sticker sheet for readers to mark their favourites, making my post it’s obsolete (Thank God!).

Beret Me!

Okay, you got me, I said I’d make no more posts about accessories until next season but I can’t keep great finds a secret. Maybe somewhere deep down my French heritage is bursting through, or I’m going bohemian on you (cute but not likely). But I absolutely cannot get berets off my mind. It doesn’t help that Alloy has this beautiful purple one on display everywhere I look. Alloy’s knit beret comes in mustard and plum, they’re $19.50 each and a little birdy told me to use the code SAVE15 at checkout to receive an additional 15% off my order. Wear your beret with a sleek low ponytail or leave out your bangs and tuck the rest of your hair into it, either way you’re sure to turn heads. I had to gush about this beautiful accessory, but don’t think that’s all Alloy.com has to offer, pick up a pair of coloured skinny jeans or their tailored wide leg trousers, or search the site for yourself, you may even find something I overlooked.

Who is the Modern Day Audrey Hepburn?

Who is the modern day Audrey Hepburn? My obsession with this style icon goes beyond her life and legacy. There’s only so much I can find about Audrey’s memory before I’m forced to live in the present, so now I find myself looking for her in today’s celebrities. So who is a modern day Audrey, is it Anne Hathaway, Natalie Portman, Keira Knightley or Leighton Meester? If I rank these celebrities on looks I’d be in trouble because all of them have somewhat Audrey Hepburn traits, the high cheekbones, slender figure, and lets face it, they are all drop dead gorgeous. I may favour Leighton because her alter ego Blair on Gossip Girl may actually be the origin of my Audrey obsession, way back when the Gossip Girl books were first published. Leighton’s personal style isn’t really Audrey Hepburn, Blair however is exactly what a modern day Audrey Hepburn should be. Coincidentally I love all these actresses to pieces, Keira Knightley may actually rank the highest in comparison to Audrey’s film credentials, she may not be there yet, but Keira’s film choices are always classics. Anne Hathaway has been touted as a modern day Audrey Hepburn for her take on Hollywood glamour. Anne’s style is elegant and something about her just summons My Fair Lady to mind. Now I simply adore Natalie Portman, the woman can do no wrong, and I think she’s probably the one that could wear the Audrey Hepburn pixie cut best. Her films are great, and she’s definitely on my best dressed list. Everything about her oozes perfection, she’s a brilliant actress (her portrayal of Anne Boleyn had me mesmerized), and I’d kill for her wardrobe. Portman is nearly always featured in Teen Vogue, at least once an issue. So the question still remains who is the modern day Audrey Hepburn? Since I can’t fairly evaluate Leighton Meester as the fictional character Blair Waldorf I will have to make my choice from real life celebrities. In film, I’m leaning towards Keira Knightley, but if I evaluate fashion sense I’m drawn to Anne Hathaway. All these ladies know ‘how to be lovely’, but the one with the film credentials who is also an emerging style icon has to be Natalie Portman, how could I not choose the one with the taste, talent, and face for Audrey’s signature hairstyles.

Think Pink!

Although my allegiance still lies with Forever 21, Pink Ice is making it hard. Forever 21 is still the best for variety and I will never relinquish it’s title as my head band hot spot. Pink Ice has nice designs although their fabric choices are not as desirable as those of Forever 21 they are gaining speed and fast. Their website just received a major facelift, and with its new face came a new line of dresses that I love. I was contemplating learning how to make my own dresses this summer and a few of the Pink Ice dresses are eerily reminiscent of the designs I’d sketched. Some of their designs have a bohemian vibe while others are designed more for nights out on the town. As you should already know I loved the Toga top/dress, but my picks from the new designs are the Printed Knot Dress (Limited Edition, $34.99), the Band Strap Dress ($27.99), and the Cross Knot Tunic ($27.99). Pink Ice ships worldwide so if there isn’t a store near you these babies are just a click away, and they also have a point system that helps you get more out of every dollar you spend. Mark my words, this is a store to watch, and I saw its predecessor a mile away.

Où êtes-vous ? Oleg Cassini

As you well know I’ve been searching tirelessly for a pair of Audrey-esque/Jackie O reminiscent sunglasses. Well this week my search finally came to a halt. Re-emerging after Oleg Cassini’s death two years ago is a line of sunglasses released under his brand name that I absolutely positively can’t get enough of. Whether it’s the squarish oversized pair that Nicole Richie has been sporting, or those timeless classic O shaped beauties that Jackie O made famous. “I’m bewitched bothered and bewildered” by this modern yet vintage line, and it makes sense that it was released under the name of the official wardrobe designer for Jacqueline Kennedy. I adore them yes, but the thing that’s bothering me is I can’t seem to find them online, the Oleg Cassini website was no help and neither is google, so I ask again, this time in English "Where are you? Oleg Cassini". I own the two pairs mentioned above, but my habit of breaking my sunglasses has me nervous that if I ever break them I’ll never get them back. If you want them, drop me a line and I’ll whisper where I found them, they won’t be there for long so hurry up!

Grecian Goddess

Take a page out of Aphrodite’s book, though the toga was actually formal attire for Greek men just like the kilts of Scotland, women wear it better! Show off your tan taut skin, toned shoulders and beautiful collarbone in a one-shoulder ensemble. I love this 2008 trend, think Katherine Heigl’s stunning crimson Escada dress at the Oscars, or more recently Carrie Bradshaw’s giant hibiscus dress in SATC, not to mention it’s one of the top wedding dress trends of the year. Whether it’s your swimsuit, a top or an asymmetrical gown, think TOGA! I obviously couldn’t promote togas without shamelessly hinting towards my favourite style icon. Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (or in any other movie for that matter), who wouldn’t want to throw a shindig dressed in a bed sheet after watching this beauty carouse around a room like she was floating on air. I’ve got my eye out for one-shoulder pieces all around town, I most recently ordered a purple top from pinkicestore.com and I love it, I can wear it to a club as a dress or to dinner as a top.

P.S. Let me know if you find something I’d like.

Michelle Obama's $99 Dress

So it apparently costs $148 at White House/Black Market stores, while it’s offered on the Donna Ricco web site for only $99 or at Nordstrom for $98. I understand that people are shocked that the woman doesn’t squander her money, but good style can be done on a budget. I happen to love Donna Ricco and knowing that the possible next First Lady doesn’t spend her money frivolously is a big plus. At least you know your tax dollars aren’t going to paying for Chanel couture (not that I wouldn’t buy it if I could afford it). I think the fact that Senator Obama’s wife was seen on “the View” wearing such a budget friendly frock is a sign of practicality as well as style. Anyone can look good with a stylist and a lot of money, it takes a style savvy woman to shop on a budget and find something great. Obviously people agree because my source tells me the dresses are flying out of White House/Black Market stores, currently SOLD OUT on the Donna Ricco Website, and only available for pre-order on the Nordstrom site. It’s called the “tank leaf print dress” and it seems like she’s trying to tell us something considering the pun; she’s the prospective First Lady who purchased her dress at a store branded “White House” (*wink*wink*). I know I don’t usually talk politics but the more I know about Barack and Michelle Obama the more my faith grows in the leaders of the U.S.

I Love Your Funny Face

People always ask me why I call myself Funny Face and my response is usually, to quote the movie that started it all “I have no illusions about my looks, I think my face is perfectly funny.” To explain further Funny Face happens to be my favourite movie (Gap stole the dance sequence from the film and fused it with AC/DC in an ad series for the skinny black pant two years ago). Maybe it’s because I idolize Audrey, or maybe it’s because it’s subject matter falls into the categories of fashion, magazines, and intellect. Starring Fred Astaire and Audrey Hepburn there is nothing remotely bad about this movie. Audrey plays Jo Stockton a manager of a bookstore in Greenwich Village turned ‘Quality Woman’/Model in Paris. It’s a Cinderella story with some of the most romantic locales of Paris in its backdrop. Funny Face combines sight seeing, fashion and music with film, it’s cultured, it’s witty, and the fashion collections are still gorgeous, even if it was filmed over 50 years ago.