Ultimate Accessory: Your Hair (Oribe Salon)

Following the advice from my interview with fashion designer Isaac Mizrahi in which I asked him what is the most important fashion investment one should make he said "your hair." Well to be more specific he said "if you spend a little bit more on a color or cut that you can't normally afford you'll see that it'll make everything you wear look great." And let me tell you he was so right!

I decided to check out a salon on Miami Beach called Oribe Salon. They are known for styling celebs such as Jennifer Lopez, Cameron Diaz, Naomi Campbell and Nicole Kidman..just to name a few. Let's just say they are the creme de la creme. Anywho, my hair has always been black and I've been trying to go lighter (think Eva Mendes color) with no success. Every time I tried to go light my hair would go more towards reddish and orange tones...not cute! Needless to say they did a great job and the color is exactly what I've always been trying to accomplish, plus it made my outfit pop. The staff is super friendly and they make you feel like if you were a celeb yourself.

So if you're thinking about making an investment, you should definitely take Issac's advice and go with your hair. It will make Oh so much the difference. In case you live in Miami I highly recommend checking out Oribe Salon they are located at 1627 Euclid Avenue. From the sexy, Porsche-designed chairs to the uniquely shaped shampoo bowls to the four-foot high vases filled with colored water, every single detail has been completely thought out at this salon. You can take your pick from any of their mega-talented staff. I personally got my hair colored with Nicole Hanlon and the cut was done with Natasha Khanzada..they are amazing, but so is everyone else at the salon. Click here to check out their website and get their price list.

Global Chic Tote

Check out this classic yet fashion forward Bamboo tote. It's from super model's Iman Global Chic collection and comes in brown, green, purple, tan and my fav. yellow. It's on sale for $69.95.

Steal Her Look: Eva Longoria Under $100

Eva Longoria wore this bow topped vest along with these Tuxedo pants. The good news about her look is that the vest she wore is actually budget friendly and goes for $59. Here's where you can steal her look:

Vest, Armani Exhange, $59

Black Wide Leg Pants, New York & Company, $24.95 (on sale)

Photo: Albert Michael

Say it Ain't So.....

According to The Cut... A jury will be deciding next month if Forever 21 illegally copied a batch of shirts from designer Travata. This is the first time a jury will be making such a decision, which could possibly affect the rules of how far chain stores go in copying designer labels. In this picture you can see the Forever 21 shirts on the top and the Travata shirts on the bottom. We all know that Forever 21 gets a lot of their inspiratation from designers ....but for many girls that can't afford the designer labels this is probably the closest they'll get to having the "real thing." What do you think?

Click here to read the full article on The Cut.

Steal her Look: Vanessa Hudgens "Lakers Game Look"

Vanessa Hudgens looked cute in this Joie print tank and these Twelfth Street Luella Wedge shoes during a Lakers game last week. Here's where you can steal her look for less:

White Tank, Revolve Clothing, $42

Destroyed Jeans, Wet Seal, $29.50

Tan Wedge, Charlotte Russe, $29.99

Feather Earrings, Urban Outfitters, $14.99

Photo: JustJared.com

Is your Fashion Green?

I read a really interesting article the other day that talks about ECO Fashion and things we can do to help out the environment. In honor of Earth Month I thought I’d share with you guys. Here are some simple ways we can be eco-friendly in our closets:

Consider Organic Clothing: Buy Clothing made from organic cotton, hemp or bamboo. Purchasing these fabrics encourages farmers to consider converting to chemical-free processes. Last year, organic cotton farming increased 152% worldwide in response to the demand.

Why: Conventional methods for growing cotton consume about 10% of all the world’s pesticides. Overused pesticides can drain into the ground, contaminating ground water and killing wildlife.

Buy Recycled Clothes: Donate old clothing. Charity groups like Goodwill or Salvation Army give used clothing to the needy, resell it in secondhand stores, or ship it abroad for use in Third World nations. Clothing that is too damaged for reuse is passed along to recycling companies to make new products like yarn, carpet and polishing cloths.

Buy Chemical Free Clothing: Seek out companies that rely on botanical dyes, such as turmeric (various shades of gold) and indigo (light deep blues). Undyed fabric made from raw organic materials may have a natural color. Low-impact fiber-reactive dyes contain no heavy metals.



Source: Miami Herald.com

Recycled Jewlery

At a glance you would never imagine that these bracelets are made out of recycled magazines…pretty cool huh? They are from a store called Recycled Plant and are made from a mosaic technique and by weaving the magazines together. You’ll be sure to look eco-chic.

$48

Steal her Look: Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez wore this blue drapped minidress and YSL platform pumps during her visit to Good Morning America. Here's where you can steal her look for less:

6 Degrees Dress, Macy's, $19.99

Black Heart Necklace, Aldo, $8.98

Black Platform Pump, Zappos, $55

Photo: Jennifer Mitchell

Fergie Style Icon of the Year

Fergie was honored on Wednesday night as Style Icon of the Year by US Weekly. She definitely didn't disappoint in this DSquared dress over an Alexander McQueen for Target vest. (We love when celebs mix high and low-end pieces) "For me, it's such an honor. I really pay attention to fashion. I love to get creative with my fashion, just like my music. It's a very creative process for me." said Fergie. Other celebs previously honored with Style Icon of the Year include Heidi Klum, Jenniffer Lopez and Jessica Alba.

Source: USA Today

Photo:Todd Williamson

LC's Affordable Clothing Line

What do Vera Wang, Avril Lavigne, Daisy Fuentes and Lauren Conrad all have in common? They all have a clothing line at Kohl’s. Well, not quite yet for LC…but according to the NY Times come October she might be introducing a “casual Californian-inspired clothing line” at Kohl’s.

Last we heard she was discontinuing her Spring/Summer 09 collection. As oppose to her previous collection, which was a bit pricey (a casual dress will sell for more than $100 bucks) her new line at Kohl’s has more reasonable prices that will range from $20 to $60. We are really excited to see what it will look like...are you? Click here to read the entire article.




Photo: Kohl's
Source: NY Times

Steal her Look: Balmain Embellished Jacket

Beyonce was spotted last week at the Waverly Inn in NYC wearing this fab Balmain Crystal Embellished Canvas Jacket. What is not so fab is the hefty price tag...a whopping $11,410 bucks... definitely out of most of our reach. But something that is within our reach and will do the trick is this Bandleader Vest from Target. It's a steal for only $34.99.

Photo: Gossip Girls

Sale Alert: Express Shop the Box 70% off

Express is having a shop the box sale you don't want to miss. Prices for tees start at $9.99; Sweaters $14.99; Jeans $29.99 and pants $19.99. Check out these cute ripped boyfriend jeans now $29.99 (originally $79) Happy Shopping!

Bermuda Shorts: Under $40

Bermuda shorts are your perfect option when you want to show-off some legs, but still want to feel comfy and sporty, plus you can wear them almost anywhere from work to the beach. Pair it up with a dressy top and heels for a day at work or dress it down with some flip flops and v-neck tee for a more casual look. 

Where to buy: 

Stretch Summerweight Bermuda Shorts, J.Crew, $39.50

Lady in White

Lady Gaga wore this white suit, swirl hat and Geisha girl style lipstick as she arrived at Radio One Studios in London to promote her latest single "Paparazzi." Are you diggin' the whole outfit or do you miss the latex and hair bows? FYI...for those of you wondering why that person is handing her that floral tea cup and saucer, supposedly she never goes anywhere without it.













Photo: Splashnews

Tips: What to Wear on a Date

Latin Grammy nominated singer, Fanny Lu and stylist to the stars Rocco have teamed up with Caress to reveal how to look fabulous this season and on a hot date! Here are some of their helpful tips:

Look smokin’ on a hot date!

A halter, sleeveless or cap-sleeved dress is a perfect date look. Be flirty and show off a low-cut neckline.

Punch up the look with one bold accessory…an eye-catching cocktail ring or layered necklaces will make a statement.

Make your skin look great — it’s your best accessory! You need even-toned skin with a look that shows off your arms. Try Caress Evenly Gorgeous Body Wash … it exfoliates and moisturizes to reveal beautiful skin.

Sparkle in jewel tones!

For a special occasion this season, choose a dress or gown in a jewel-inspired color, and shimmer in deep purple, garnet, emerald or sapphire.

Complete the look and feel regal in ruby, sapphire or amethyst jewels. For simple elegance, wear diamond stud earrings—even if they’re faux.

Time to wear shorts

Bring on the fun in the sun, put on a pair of classic summer shorts. For a more casual style, wear long and bright shorts, and for a more elegant and summer-type look, wear short shorts with a colorful blouse.

Play up your look with a pair of 4-inch heels or platform shoes, a fabulous thick belt or a cute cardigan with lots of color.

Show off those incredible legs with soft and smooth skin. Obtain an even-toned look using the new Caress Evenly Gorgeous Body Wash.

Giveaway: Diane von Furstenberg Carry-on Bag

Summer is almost near and that means time to take a vacation…even if it’s just a weekend getaway or a staycation. To help you travel in style, Viva Fashion Blog along with Luggage.com will be giving away this Diane von Furstenberg expandable carry-on bag. It’s lightweight (which we know that comes in handy) and water and stain resistant.

Luggage.com which is part of CSN Stores, is the 3rd largest online retailer in the U.S. They have everything from briefcases, luggage,handbags, travel accessories and even pet carriers to name a few. To enter, simply send us an email with your name and email address to vivafashionblog@gmail.com. The contest ends on Monday April 21st 12pm ET. Good Luck!

Steal her Look: Hayden Panettiere

Hayden Penettiere wore this green one-shoulder ruffle dress and beige Christian Louboutin pumps to the launch of AX watches this past Wednesday in LA. Here's where you can steal her look for less:

Where to Steal her Look:

Green One-Shoulder Dress, edressme.com, $65

Beige Pump, Endless, $60.45

Gold Tone Flex Bracelet, Kohl's, $19.60

theoutnet.com Launches Today

It's finally here..the Outnet launches today,an online designer outlet store, brought to you by the same team as Net-A-Porter. They have over 200 designer brands such as Chloe, Michael Kors,Alexander McQueen, Matthew Williamson and 3.1 Phillip Lim to name a few. Each month the Outnet is going to hosts time-limited Pop-Up Sales, Giveaways and Going, Going Gone Sales. Their first pop-up sale, which starts April 24th, will be Spring Dresses and you can snatch them up for up to 80% off. It only last for 72 hours though. Happy Shopping!

Liz Claiborne Spring 09' Collection

In our chat with Isaac Mizrahi this week he told us how he is revamping Liz Claiborne from the "granny" image and making it more youthful and adding more color and prints. And he wasn't kidding...you'll definitely fall in love with his Spring 09' collection. Here are just some of our favorites.

Steal her Look: Beyonce

Here's where to steal Beyonce's Look for less:

Plaid Top, Victoria's Secret, $38

Skinny Jeans, Arden B, $58

Jessica Simpson Pump, Nordstrom, $44.90

Burgundy Bracelets, Urban Outfitters, $24

Suspenders, Absolute Ties, $9.99

Photo: Humberto Carreno

A Watch Fit for a President

There is no doubt that First Lady Michelle Obama has great style, but her hubby doesn't stay that far behind. Here is his must-have accessory, this Jorg Gray 6500 Chronograph watch that was given to him as a birthday gift from the Secret Service. Lucky for us Jorg Gray, once a private-label, recently announced the launch of its line of watches that will be available to the public, plus they also have a ladies version of the Obama watch. Click here to check out this and other watches from their new line. 

Forever 21 has Faith

Can't find anything but sizes too small at Forever 21 that don't seem to flatter your body, well that soon will be changing. Starting May 1st the store will be launching a plus-size collection called Faith 21. The clothing line will be similar to Forever 21, with everything from trendy tops, jeans, tanks, leggings, skirts in sizes XL, 1XL, and 2XL and well as Junior plus sizes. It launches in select stores nationwide and online at forever21.com

Stay Tuned....

Viva Fashion Blog will be interviewing Isaac Mizrahi on his new role as Fashion Director for Liz Claiborne next week and we want to know what YOU would ask him. Send us your questions to vivafashionblog@gmail.com and we'll be picking the best ones to ask him for our interview. Be sure to Stay Tuned....

VFB Interviews Kim Kardashian

Ever wanted to have your own personal stylist? Well now you can. Kim Kardashian just embarked on her latest venture… as Founder and Chief Stylist of a new website called Shoe Dazzle. A monthly online shoe society that has celebrity stylists such as Kim Kardashian pick shoes for you and for $39 a month you can be part of it.

Here’s how it works:You first take a survey to find out what’s your “fashion personality.” Once you finish the survey the stylist selects five pairs of shoes, based on the results of the survey (If you don’t like any of the five shoes that were picked you can simply request a new list). Once you chose a pair from the list, they are delivered to you. The $39 monthly fee covers the membership, one pair of shoes and the shipping!

Viva Fashion Blog caught up with the stylish Kim Kardashian and here’s what she had to say about her latest project and her own personal style:

Q: Tell us about your partnership with Shoe Dazzle, how did it come about?

A: I’ve known Bob Shapiro for a long time. He started Legal Zoom with my other ShoeDazzle business partner, Brian Lee, a few years ago and the concept was so successful, that I thought it would be fun to use the concept for something that I love—FASHION!

Q: If we were to raid your closet, how many pairs of shoes would we find?

A: I actually have about three closets just filled with shoes, and you’ll probably find close to two 200 pairs! I especially love boots and heels. But, I definitely do refresh my shoe collection regularly and put shoes that I’m not going to wear anymore up for sale on EBay (the proceeds may go to charity)!

Q: How would you describe your own fashion personality?

A: I would say I'm chic, trendy and just fun and sexy

Q: Where are your favorite places to shop?

A: I love Intermix, Curve and Vionnet, and, of course, MY STORE DASH

Q: Do you have any style secrets for our readers?

A: You have to feel confident in order to exude sexiness, best trick is feel good in what u have on!

Q: Anything else you would like to share with us?

A: I’m launching my new fitness DVD, Fit In Your Jeans By Friday, this April and it’s something that I’m really proud of! Producing it was definitely inspiring for me, and I really hope it helps motivate other women to get in shape!

Christian Louboutin Sale Starts Today

It's finally here Ladies... Guilt Groupe is having a sale on Christian Louboutin shoes. It starts today and runs until Friday, but I suggest you don't wait that long. These babies will most probably go really fast. These suede platform stilettos are my favorite, they'll set you back $378, but when compared to how much they originally cost $775, it's a pretty good deal. Plus, they'll last you forever. You'll need to sign up at gilt.com to check out the deals and in case you're not already registered click here to get my personal invitation.

Sale Alert: Banana Republic Factory Store

Only 8 more days to enjoy Banana Republic's "Guilt Free" Shopping. This is all taking place at Banana Republic Factory Stores. Here's how it works:

When you buy one item, you get 30% off your entire purchase;
Buy two items get 40% off;
Buy three or more items you'll get 50% off.

It's only good at Banana Republic Factory Stores and lasts until April 16th. The entire store will be on sale...Happy Shopping!

One-Shoulder Tops

We recently blogged about how celebs were rockin' one-shoulder gowns at the ACM's. Here are some affordable one-shoulder tops that can be worn off the red carpet. I recently added this floral one-shoulder top to my wardrobe.. I couldn't resist that it was on sale for $29.40. You can also go with this other one-shoulder top from Express. They have it in blue, black and pink.

Candies Floral Top, Kohl's, $29.40

Blue One-Shoulder Top, Express, $49.50

Fab Find: Golden Hammered Ring- Cache

If you're familiar with the store Cache, your first thoughts are probably older women clothing. I must admit the first time I went into the store I was shopping with my mom, but they sometimes have cute trendy stuff. One time I found these trendy tank tops on sale 2 for $15. They normally go for $58 each. My latest find is this golden hammered ring I am in love with for $18. I've been looking for a big ring...so this is perfect. 

One Shoulder Dresses at ACM Awards

The one shoulder dress was a big trend at the ACMs. Taylor Swift wore this red Angel Sanchez dress...Miley Cyrus had on this embellished one shoulder Monique Lhuillier dress and Carrie looked stunning in this pale pink grecian gown. Vote for your favorite! 

Carrie Underwood BIG Winner at ACM Awards

It was a country star studded event last night during the 44th annual Academy of County Music Awards. And for Carrie Underwood it was a BIG night, taking home the "Entertainer of the Year Award".  She's the first female to win this award in nearly a decade.

So what better way to celebrate this BIG night than with this BIG dress from designer Rafael Cennamo. She wore this dress during her "I Told You So" performance. Other top winners of the night include Taylor Swift winning Album of the Year and Julianne Hough snagging Best New Artist. 

Photo: Kevin Winter

Steal her Look: Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba wore this "Bread & Butter" Black and White Boat Neck tee with these ripped boyfriend jeans while she did some grocery shopping in Beverly Hills. Here's where you can steal her look for less and also get her same reusable bag.

Where to Steal her Look:

Stripped Tee, Old Navy, $10

Ripped Boyfriend Jeans, Urban Outfitters, $68

Yellow Jersey Scarf, Wet Seal, $5.50

Black Flats, Charlotte Russe, $18.99

'Fall in NY' Bag, Rume, $9.95 (Same Bag)

Gladiator Sandals are Back this Spring

Time to put your boots away and get your toes ready for Spring with some Gladiator Sandals. We're glad to see that these sandals are back this Spring. Not only are they very comfy, but they can easily spice up any dull outfit. So hopefully you kept yours from last season, if not..here are a few you might want to add to your wardrobe.

1. Turquoise Sandal, Mia Hydra, $70

2. Strappy Sandal, Steve Madden, $79.95

3. Drizin Sandal, Aldo, $75

4. Black and Turquoise Sandal, Rampage, $50

5. Beaded Sandal, Target, $19.99

Poll: Would You Buy Shoes...Even if They Were Too Small

A friend of mine wore some really cute shoes to work today. She told us the story about how she got them on SALE at Steve Maddens. The only thing was, they were the last pair left and half a size smaller than her shoe size. This got us thinking... wow, we women would sometimes forgo comfort when faced with a sale and a pair of fab shoes. Has this ever happened to you? Would you buy a pair of shoes for an irresistible price but that were too small?

Spring Nail Polish

The other day I went to go get my nails done. The manicurist brought out an array of colors from pink, blue to some darker colors as well. I really love dark colored nail polish, but I thought, hey.. it's Spring..so why not try something different. I ended up going with a nail polish from Essie called Peach Daquiri (sounds yummy huh?) I loved it! In case you're looking for some fun and bold nail polishes to try this Spring, you might also want to try some colors from O.P.I. They have a new line called the South Beach Collection, with some fun nail polish names like Paint My Moji-Toes Red and Feelin' Hot-Hot-Hot.







Essie- Peach Daquiri

Project Runway Finally Returns

No, it's not an April Fool's joke.. NBC Universal, the Weinstein Co. and Lifetime have really FINALLY resolved their disputes. After many months of battling and months without Project Runway a statement released today by NBC Universal says "the Weinstein Company will pay NBCU for the right to move Project Runway to Lifetime." They also say that "all the parties are pleased with the outcome." So come summer you can expect to see Project Runway back on your TV screen.

Photo: Scott Gries