Ok, so where do you look?  A great place to start is, believe it not, facebook! As if you needed another reason to check your facebook, right?  Well, brands and fashion companies are utilizing social networking in a big way, and it’s showing no signs of stopping.  You can find all kinds of designers and stylists (Rachel Zoe, anyone?) on facebook and twitter.  Becoming a “fan” of a store’s facebook page is a really simple way to get regular updates on their brand and keep up with sales, new releases, anything!

Twitter is, of course, amazing for instant updates on your friends’ lives, but you might be surprised to learn there are plenty of your favorite brands tweeting their hearts out all day, too!  Most will link to sales or new arrivals on their sites, but sometimes they’ll post a personal picture of something goofy going on the office or of some amazing couture they spot in a designer’s studio on a business trip.  Whatever they post, it’s a super fun way to feel even more connected with your dream brands!

In addition to following and “fanning,” you can subscribe to sale sites like RueLaLa.com, ideeli.com, and HauteLook.com (and yes, they all have twitter accounts you should be following), and they will send you emails featuring some crazy-go-nuts sales from the powerhouse staples, as well as some budding designers about which you can’t BELIEVE you’ve lived this long without knowing.  It’s a pretty great deal.

We can’t all be besties with a designer or someone who always seems to know what’s going on, but we can play in the major leagues by utilizing as much social media as we can.  And it’s not like it’s not way fun anyway!  So how do YOU keep up?

How Do YOU Keep Up? is a post from: Celebrity Inspirations

Wear belts with solid colors that need to be broken up. Whether you’re wearing a monochromatic dress or tunic, a belt will separate you into upper and lower halves, ensuring you don’t sport that “pillow case” dress look!

Find a medium width belt. Ultra-skinny seems to be out, and thicker, more substantial belts are in. But for the most part, we’ve seen celebs wearing in-between widths because they flatter almost any body shape.

Look for something unique! Search for belts with embellishment, twisted leather, neat clasps…anything that sets it apart from boring belts that keep your pants up!

Neutral color belts (like black and brown) are great investments. They go with anything and will match most of the shoes you already own.

Two popular looks: vintage and rock n’ roll! Worn leather belts can be worn with patterned dresses and feminine tops for a bohemian chic look. If your style’s more hip than hippie, look for patent, studs, and chunky clasps. You can even wear the buckle on the side for a unique, eye-catching style.

Belts can be worn with tiny, form-fitting outfits, as well as oversized, flowy ones. Just make sure the belt you’re sporting matches the clothes. If the ensemble is tight to your body, look for a more sophisticated, formal belt made of leather. If you’re pairing your belt with an oversized get-up, the material of the belt can be more casual and fun.

Are You Still Rockin’ Belts? Celebs Are! is a post from: Celebrity Inspirations

Vintage pieces are often higher quality than what you’ll find in stores today! Many were handmade and created from beautiful fabrics you won’t find at department stores. BUT these materials can be different than what we’re used to! Make sure it fits properly before you buy it. Decades before us, women wore undergarments to shape their bodies, and clothes fit accordingly. So don’t beat yourself up if pieces seem to fit snugger than you’re used to!

Only buy pieces you think you will wear. You don’t have to buy something ancient just so others know it’s vintage. Take a look at the current trends, then purchase pieces that align with what’s in. It’s a more inconspicuous way of incorporating vintage into your wardrobe.

If you’re intimidated by vintage-loving regulars judging you, you can always shop online. Go to modcloth.com for this, and check it regularly because it’s updated all the time! Make sure whatever store you choose provides lots of pics, measurements, and has a good return policy.

If you want higher end vintage pieces, why not look for vintage stores in ritzy areas? You can find high class items for low class prices.

Check zippers, buttons, and seams to make sure they’re in working condition or can be fixed for a reasonable price. Also look for stains, tears and smells. If they have 1 of these 3 things, don’t even bother!

Shop with a friend. First timers may be overwhelmed and forget their own sense of style amidst a sea of older pieces. Bring someone along who knows you well.

And lastly, it is so important you go into the store with the correct mindset. If you freak yourself out or believe it’s going to take too much energy, you’ll hate the experience. And remember, it’s ok to leave empty-handed!

Help! How Do I Vintage Shop? is a post from: Celebrity Inspirations

Celebrities seem to have it made. VIP access to every and any event, designer labels, constant support and assistance… (sigh). But I believe with fame and fortune come an enormous responsibility. When you have all these advantages and luxuries, is there really any excuse not to give back to the community?

Whether the motive is gaining publicity or achieving a sense of satisfaction, we’ve all heard stories of various celebs dishing out cash and time for a worthy cause. Every year, fashion shows in the name of charity take place to raise money for a plethora of causes. Celebs set up foundations in their name and dish some dough to a cause they’re personally connected with.  They auction off jewelry, handbags, and other items to raise money for one of the countless charities.

Some stars choose the vast and varied field of medical problems to focus their philanthropic efforts on – especially cancer. In the past 2 years, celebs like the Beckhams, Marc Jacobs, Donna Karan, Brad and Angelina, and Johnny Depp have made headlines with their helping hands. Marc Jacobs focuses on fatal skin cancer, Johnny established the “Johnny’s Angels” support system to cheer up cancer-inflicted kids, and Donna Karan, designer to the stars, is bringing holistic therapy to cancer patients. (There are so many more I could mention – it’s inspiring!)

My point: Celebs have the means to make a difference because they’re financially blessed. However, you don’t have to earn a 7-digit salary to help the fight against cancer. (Here comes the connection between doing good and, of course, fashion.) Several organizations have been set up for the purpose of keeping children with cancer busy while in the hospital. Many choose to design and create their own jewelry while they’re being treated – it keeps their minds off less pleasurable thoughts. Sarah Michelle Cohen is one such cancer patient. Sarah was diagnosed with cancer at age 12 and began designing bracelets while in the hospital. Today, she has a truly unique and impressive collection of jewelry for sale. Best of all, the money she earns goes to completing each bullet point on her “bucket list” and donations to Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis. So, check out Sarah Michelle’s Designs to lend a helping hand and simultaneously find some beautiful items. You can also read Sarah’s journal to learn more about her fight against cancer and how she’s inspiring others to live life to the fullest.

Who knew it was so easy to make a difference?

REAL Celebrity Inspirations: More Than Just Looks We Love is a post from: Celebrity Inspirations

1.      Coffee or lunch with friends – The goal here is low-maintenance, but cute.  Really cute.  There’s no “boom, boom, and boom” outfit I can give you, because there are so many options, but here are a few guidelines: Keep one aspect simple, while playing up another, e.g., ripped jeans and an airy, light tank or tee, with LOTS of long, layered necklaces.  And remember, you’re not doing brunch in the club, so keep the spiky heels and sparkly stuff at home.

2.      Shopping – Shoes that slip on and off like flip flops or any kind of flats without buckles or laces are best.  They should be durable enough to stand on once your feet are out of them, so you don’t have to put your feet on the dressing room floor.  Ick.  For the rest of the outfit, go with leggings or comfy jeans, and a bra you wear often under a tight-fitting camisole, under a boyfriend cardigan.  That way, you can just wear the cami under what you’re trying on and throw the cardigan on and off.   Keep the accessories minimal and the hair simple: down and natural is best, and ease up on the foundation to prevent makeup stains on the clothes that aren’t yours…yet.

3.      Working out – Work-out wear is all about balance.  Don’t do the head-to-toe track suit, coordinating jewelry, and face full of makeup, but don’t stop caring about what you look like, either.  One good look is snug cotton or lycra capris in a dark color, with a retro tee or breezy tank.  Another way to go is with boyfriend-esque soccer shorts-rolled once or twice-that hit upper- to mid-thigh and a simple shirt you can tuck at little at the front, or a snug tank.  Keep your shoes functional and supportive, sport low, low socks to elongate your legs, and get that hair out of your face securely.  Oh yeah, and wear deodorant.

4.      Beach – It’s tempting to go all out at the beach, but overdoing it is only going to look like you’re trying too hard.  Instead, look like you BELONG on the beach with a simple suit (too much pattern will make you look juvenile and will draw attention to the suit, as opposed to your personality), a breezy cover-up dress or tunic, simple stud earrings, and gold or silver flip flops you’re not afraid to get dirty.  Waterproof mascara, tinted chapstick with SPF, and face-friendly sunscreen is all you should have on your beautiful face.  Do a high messy-bun before you get wet, then take it down once you start playing and let the sand, sun, and sea create mermaid waves in your hair.

5.      Swanky Dinner – Ok, now’s the time to do it up.  You’re going to need some heels, and a knock-out dress.  Go with something you know fits well, and accessorize.  Keep your accessories in the same color scheme (all gold or all silver, or coordinating colors that don’t distract from the dress), and make sure they complement your clothes.  If you’ve got super shiny chandeliers, skip the necklace, or if you’ve got a statement necklace-metal is very new and very in right now-go with stud earrings.  I am a fan of going without bracelets to elongate the arms, but if you do decide to wear one (or twelve), just keep them on one arm, and make sure they go well together!

Remember, dressing is about looking the part, so make sure whatever you wear doesn’t wear you.  And trends are great; we love following them, but keeping it classic and simple is always a good thing to do if you’re unsure if something looks right.  Think of your favorite celebrity’s style, consider if she would wear it, then go for it!

What to Wear When… is a post from: Celebrity Inspirations

1.  Dark-wash jeans – at least two pair: one for when you wear flats, and one long enough for some heels

2.  White collared shirt - fitted with stretch in the fabric, long enough in the torso and sleeves to cover your waistband and touch the heel of your hand, and simple enough to be belted or tucked into a high-waisted skirt

3.  Black dress – knee-length, solid black, and structured

4.  Well-tailored slacks – long enough for heels, detail-free, fitted, but not too snug

5.  Pumps – pair of black, pair of brown; make sure they’re comfortable, classic, and fabulous

6.  Trench coat – fitted through bust or waist (including through the sleeves, which should reach just past your wrists), double-breasted, neutral color, functional pockets, knee-length

7.  Boots – pair of black, pair of brown; if you have little legs, go for knee-highs, if you’re like me and have Hercules calves, stick with ankle boots, but don’t tuck your pants into them, obviously

8.  Carry-all bag – chic bag with lots of space for anything and everything, not a basic canvas tote, but one with style and a longer strap option to keep you functional

9.  Ribbed tanks – as many as possible, in as many colors as you can find…seriously

10.  Cardigan – cotton or cashmere, depending on your budget; a v-neck where the buttons start around the bottom of your sternum, as opposed to a crew neck where they start at your collar bone, is most flattering; keep the sleeves long, because you can always scrunch them up

Ten Basic Staples is a post from: Celebrity Inspirations

For an affordable way to adopt this trend, shop at stores like Forever 21, Fred Flare, or Claire’s for inexpensive necklaces.  Pair your favorite ones together for a layered look or wear them separately for a simpler look.  While you’re there, stock up on their wide selection of bracelets for some extra flare.  For great deals on layered necklaces, try Arden B. The store has a variety of layered jewelry all for under $30.

Celebrity Trend Alert: Layered Jewelry is a post from: Celebrity Inspirations

The general feel of the designer’s collections was tailored and travel-esque.  From safari jackets at Versace and earth tones at Salvatore Ferragamo to the red accents at the never-afraid-of-color Bottega Veneta, the key to success is a classic look with some fun punches of eclecticism thrown in there.  Don’t let him shy away from embroidery on his denim, whether in a dark wash or in the ripped-to-shreds look that has kept up its popularity.  On the other hand, a look that, understandably, can be avoided would be the surprisingly small and tight swim trunks shown at-where else?-Dolce and Gabbana and Versace.  You can’t win ‘em all, eh, ladies?

For a crisp look, go for slim trousers that narrow toward the ankle, and keep them short enough to show off his classic yacht loafers or maybe even some high-top shoes.  Up top, a fitted jacket with defined shoulders, or a skin-bearing vest (a’ la Cavalli) looks amazing in monochrome grey, white, or black.  Pops of orange (no, not hunter fluorescent orange) keep the ensemble fun, and for a more casual look, Versace and Gucci are telling us light colors are definitely a go.  V-neck, fitted tees in monochrome or even (gasp!) pastels work well over his favorite denim.

Overall, this is a battle you should win.  But it’s not like you weren’t expecting to anyway.  Actually, it probably won’t even be a battle with these trends.  Classic, simple looks that still allow him to be comfortable and not feel too flashy?  Can’t go wrong there.

The Boyfriend… Dress Him Well! is a post from: Celebrity Inspirations

What’s the best way to reach young people about a topic they NEED to listen to?  Intertwine fashion and music with some serious education, and you’ve got one successful marketing strategy.

This is just what H&M is up to again for the second year in a row. After an overwhelming response to a similar campaign last year, they have once again paired up with Designers Against Aids (DAA) for Fashion Against Aids to promote AIDS awareness. H&M has collaborated with celebrities from the worlds of fashion and music to come up with bold T-shirts, dresses, tank tops, and body suits that get the message across.  Stars such as such as Katy Perry, Yoko Ono, Dita Von Teese, and N.E.R.D. are onboard this year, and have produced some pretty daring designs sure to be noticed. In addition to clothes that serve as awareness boosters and conversation starters, 25% of sales will be donated to HIV/AIDS awareness projects. These chic and clever clothes for both men and women went on sale in H&M’s DIVDED department May 28th. If you haven’t opened a new tab yet to check out the collection, keep reading. Designers usually can’t work images of condoms into their projects and actually sell them. This is a pretty unique collection.

Everything designed for this project is a statement piece.  Each is witty, trendy, and a little piece of the celeb who designed it. The overall theme is reminiscent of the ’80s, so you’ll see lots of white, bright neon colors, and graffiti-style fonts and images. There’s a bold item for everyone, whether you’re into baggy T-shirts or form fitting body suits. Cyndi Lauper’s tanks scream “Girls just wanna have safe sex” in bright pink, while Katy Perry contributed a leotard and shirt that claim “It’s what’s on the outside that counts.” Dangerous Muse designed a classic tee with a heart on the front (…made of condoms), while N.E.R.D. urges people to “Use your brain” on a series of colored shirts and tanks. There are several other interesting and amusing pieces that will make you look twice. If the thought of wearing birth control or the word “SEX” or on your chest is intimidating, pick up something a little more subtle like Yoko Ono’s shirt that simply states “Imagine peace.” It’s inspiring how each celebrity came up with their own unique way to communicate the same thing. And just because these clothes were designed by celebrities, they don’t come with a superstar price tag- almost everything is under $20.

At the end of 2007, over 33 million people worldwide were inflicted with AIDS. It’s no wonder popular stores like H&M and much-adored celebrities are getting involved; it’s their call to fans and customers to join them in the fight against AIDS. But instead of asking for donations or bombarding you with e-mails we identify as “junk,” they realize this may be a more effective way to spread the word to a young, busy generation. (And as a young, busy college kid, I can confirm they’re assumption.) When it’s this easy to support such a worthy cause, there’s really no better excuse to go shopping. Spend a few minutes on H&M’s website for more information or just head to the nearest store to check it out!

Supportive Style is a post from: Celebrity Inspirations

Are celebrities being affected by the economy too?  Well, probably not, given that Ashley Tisdale’s Frye boots (pictured above) alone will cost you a pretty penny (to the tune of 328 bucks).  But stars have lately been spotted pairing luxe designer items with affordable tops and accessories.

Tisdale’s Lark & Wolff top by Steven Alan is only $68 from Urban Outfitters.  Other stars that have been spotted in clothes from the trendy retailer include Nicole Richie and Isla Fisher.  Above, Richie completes her rugged look with Urban’s BDG Burnout top for just $28!

Stars also love American Apparel too for great tees and dresses at even better prices.  Rihanna was often seen last summer wearing the brand’s Cotton Spandex Jersey dresses.  American Apparel counts Lauren Conrad as a celebrity fan as well who owns a number of the store’s affordable tanks and shirts.  The former star of The Hills was spotted with recently with a cool tie dye tee that will only run about $27.

Star Steals! is a post from: Celebrity Inspirations

Target! Target’s Go International collection features clothing from up-and-coming designers at great, affordable prices.  Target currently has a collection of summer-ready dresses and tops with flowers and ruffles from California based designer Tracy Feith.  Other designers for Target’s Go International line include Thakoon, Jovovich Hawk, Erin Fetherston, and, coming this fall, Anna Sui.

H & M! H & M is another retailer to add to this list from their collaborations with the likes of Roberto Cavalli, and most recently Matthew Williamson.  The peacock dress (pictured) from his line has been worn by Nicky Hilton and Katy Perry.  The store just announced an upcoming collaboration with Jimmy Choo, who will be creating shoes, handbags, and clothes (a first for the luxury brand) for H & M.  But if you want to snag a piece from one of these collections, you better act quickly.  The day the Cavalli line debuted in stores, the racks were stripped of his clothes in minutes.

Gap! Hitting stores today is Gap’s Design Editions for the summer, featuring khaki collections from Alexander Wang and Vena Cava.  The Vena Cava collection adds a twist to their khaki designs with tribal inspirations, while Alexander Wang has shorts with chic pleating for under $50.  And for those of you with young kids, Stella McCartney is bringing style to your tots.  The designer has teamed up with Gap Kids to produce a line of affordable clothes for your children.

Payless! To complete your designer look for less, Payless has teamed up with a number of designers to bring you designer collection shoes at affordable prices.  Alice & Olivia currently has sweet open toed ballet flats for under 40 bucks.  And coming this fall, Project Runway winner Christian Siriano has a collection of edgy Egyptian-inspired shoes ranging in price from $25-$45.  Now that’s fierce!

Designer Collaborations is a post from: Celebrity Inspirations

6. create your own style – Taking cues from others is so crucial in developing your own style.  Thus being creative with what you see on somebody else and making it something that’s right for you is a triumph in itself.  Knowing you can’t pull off the acid wash torn-to-shreds skinny jeans, but finding some torn-up boot cut jeans in a darker wash and doing the grunge look is a success!  You’ve taken a style and made it work for you, instead of letting the clothes overpower.

7. stand out from the crowd – Who wants to be boring when you could be bangin’??  Doing as celebrities do is a surefire way to stick out a little bit.  While your buddies are in standard attire, you can shine in your celebrity-inspired ensembles without going overboard.  Now, it’s easy to pile on the accessories in an attempt to look put-together, but take cues from our girls featured on the site and note that sometimes, less is more.

8. leave behind the jeans & t-shirt regimen - It’s easy to get stuck in a clothes rut.  Break out of those boring regimes by checking out what your favorite celebrities are wearing and getting some fabulous ideas.  Noting a different pairing of styles (i.e. a plaid button-down worn under a boyfriend cardigan) or a flowy skirt pulled up to your chest, belted, and worn as a dress are easy ways to shake up your routine.  Plus, they make getting dressed in the morning a little more fun if you feel like you’re wearing something you’ve never worn before, eh?

9. rest assured you’re doing something right – Worried about looking too trendy or not being able to pull off a look?  Relax.  Celebrities have stylists.  And they usually do as those stylists say.  So if you’re using some of your fave celebs as a fashion guide, you really can’t go wrong.  As long as you make sure the look meshes with your personality, and you make sure you really wear the clothes, and not the other way around, know that you are doing something right.

10. feel fabulous – You know that awesome feeling you get when you just know you look great?  If you find a celebrity style you like and make it your own, you won’t be able to keep yourself from smiling!  A lot of how we approach our days and how we approach people is a direct result of how we feel, and if you’re feeling fabulous, can you imagine what a wonderful day it’s going to be?  Everything starts from within you, but it certainly doesn’t hurt to make your insides smile with a really great outfit.

10 Reasons to Learn & Love Celeb’ Style…Part Dos! is a post from: Celebrity Inspirations

2. know what’s appropriate – A lot of dressing well has to do with dressing appropriately. We know that wearing an evening dress every day—whether it’s gorgeous or not—is not going to attract the right type of attention to your clothes. Being well-dressed in every situation means knowing how to rock tattered jeans and a loose T-shirt downtown without looking plain, and, alternately, look completely at home in a cocktail dress at the swag uptown hotspots.

3. get new ideas – You know how you go through your closet and wonder why you ever wore certain pieces, and then a year later, you find some awesome new way to wear it and are SO glad you kept it? Credit that lovely rediscovery to your careful eye on celebrity styles! Think back to a time when naval-bearing shirts were the greatest things ever. (Eew. I know.) But consider that same shirt with a poufy mini skirt pulled up to your waist, belted something fierce, and accessorized with a statement necklace. Adorable, right? Who would’ve thought that awful belly trend could morph into a completely crucial part of your current wardrobe?

4. better than copying your friends’ styles – Love your friends, but don’t copy their styles. Likely, your group of girlfriends all dress somewhat similarly, and if everyone keeps dressing like everyone else, nothing good will result. A look outside of the group can have an amazing impact on not just your own style, but your friends’, too! So help your girls out! Take note of what the A-listers are sporting and start the trend!

5. good gossip – Remember Bjork’s swan dress a few years back? And how many times have you debated with your girlfriends about the wearability of the Lauren Conrad hippie hair twist? Little quirks in celebrity styles are memorable, and it’s always fun to talk about pop culture. Because fashion is such a huge part of many celebrities’ lives, taking note of their styles helps you learn more about them, and definitely gives you something to talk about!

…..Don’t be upset! Part Dos of Learn & Love Celeb’ Style will be coming shortly! Fashion frenzies stay tuned….

10 Reasons to Learn & Love Celeb’ Style…Part Uno! is a post from: Celebrity Inspirations

Sites that provide rental services can be deceiving. To rent bags from one of these rental sites, you usually must become a member. The level of membership you join also dictates which bags you are allowed to rent. A basic membership only gives you access to low name designers. (Sorry Versace and Chanel lovers!)  If you’re not ready to commit, you can still rent bags without a membership for a steep price. Even though these borrowed bags are less expensive than the real deal, they are still considerably costly. To rent a decent sized bag for a short 7 days can cost over $150 – plus shipping and insurance costs.  And what about the must-have shoes and outfit to match that new bag every few weeks? Maybe rental services should stick to cars and DVDs for the sake of our wallets.

I’m not trying to diminish the prestige of top designer items. If you have the lifestyle to support it, why not buy yourself an exquisite bag? But for the rest of us, renting these second-hand bags is just unnecessary. You can find classic, stylish bags for half the cost and without a due date.  Why not search for celebrity inspired bags instead? Celebs these days carry some hot bags in bold prints and pretty patterns that are easily mimicked for a fourth of the cost. I’d recommend HandbagHeaven.com for celebrity inspired looks. Or check out PurseBlog.com to see what styles, shapes and colors the stars are crazy about. Then hit the mall in search of your own bag with these ideas in mind!

Rental Recommendation is a post from: Celebrity Inspirations

Celebrity fashionistas have recently been trying their hand at something new…designing.  Stars with coveted style are lending their keen eye for fashion to companies like DKNY and even Wal-Mart to produce affordable clothing lines.

DKNY can now add Hilary Duff to its list of celebrity designers.  Duff follows Pete Wentz and Rachel Bilson, who designed a junior’s collection for DKNY with the name Edie Rose.   Duff’s line is called Femme and will hit stores this August.  Her collection includes jeans, t-shirts, and dresses and will range from $39 to $129.

Looking to save even more money with celebrity designed clothing?  Wal-Mart sells an exclusive line for Taylor Swift by L.e.i.  Swift designed a line of adorable summer dresses that sell for around $14.  And coming out this August at Wal-Mart?  Miley Cyrus has teamed up with legendary designer Max Azria to produce a clothing line for teens to be sold at Wal-Mart.  Best thing about this line?  Nothing will cost over $20!

Some celebrities are even going as far as creating their own brands.  Reality stars Lauren Conrad of The Hills and Whitney Port of The City have both created clothing lines.  If you have a little extra money to spend (the dresses run upwards of $200-$300), their collections feature adorable summer dresses and chic high-waisted skirts.

Celebrity Designs You Can Afford! is a post from: Celebrity Inspirations