2008 in Fashion Review

This year proved to be a fashion roller coaster filled with ups and downs. Here are some of the trends and most memorable style moments of 2008:

Britney Spears is back in a big way. She's fit and fashionable. For her upcoming tour that was announced this year, her style coincides with the "circus" theme. Let's just say Britney and her top hat rock!

Who can forget Lauren Conrad's braid? It was a hot trend in Hollywood and beyond. Did you ever try it out? I definitely did =)

Although the first Season of Gossip Girl aired it 2007, it didn't actually finish 'til 2008 due to the Writer's Guild Strike. As the world fell in love with the show, we all became enamored with the clothes that the socialites donned. 

Who can forget the Katie Holmes boyfriend jeans debuted in August?! And the pixie cut... These looks were definitely the subject of many discussions.

I know there were many more trends, but I can't remember all of the past 12 months! What sticks in your mind the most about 2008's fashions?

Photos courtesy of: Seriously? OMG! WTF?, the CW, BritneySpears.com, Cupcakes Taste Nice

Join the Gossip's One Year Blogaversary Giveaway!

Today is Join the Gossip's one year anniversary! I got my start while writing for Beauty Chat and with the encouragement of my former boss Elana of Good Girl Gone Shopping. The blog layout has changed three times and my posts are definitely not as consistent as I'd like them to be, but overall I am pretty proud of how it has turned out.

I am a pretty random gal and so are the topics I write about. Last year I set out to have a great time writing (as I am a journalist by trade) and have accomplished that thus far. Thank you to all who have supported me along the way!

To show my appreciation, I will be having a giveaway. The following products, of course all random items, will be awarded to one lucky reader (Be sure to check out the links for product info.):

Urban Decay Brow Box

Neutrogena Sun Fresh Sunless Lotion

DentaBurst Freshening Teeth Cleaners

Kerastase Thermique Leave-in Heat-Activated Reconstructing Milk for Weakened Hair

Einstein Lip Therapy 

Lisa Hoffman Spa Facial Packette

To be entered for this contest, please leave me a comment describing what you would like me to blog about. It can be general if it is something you don't think I have ever covered, or more specific if you'd like. 

One winner will be chosen on Saturday, January 17. 

Good luck--and thanks again for your support!!

Contest only open to continental U.S. residents and those in Canada. Sorry to everyone else, I never do this, but I am doing the shipping myself on this one.

Photo credits: Urban Decay, Neutrogena, CybeleSays, Kerastase, LipTheory, Lisa Hoffman

Celebrate New Years Eve in Style

With the new year approaching, it's about that time to start shopping for the perfect outfit (if you haven't found one already).  Forever 21 has some great party dresses, all under $30. Strapless, sweetheart busts seem to be the way to go. Shades of blue are also very chic for the holiday.

Kristiana Satin Dress 

$27.80

Fab Chiffon Bubble Hem Dress

$14. 50

Belle Satin Dress

$22.80

Photos courtesy of: Forever 21

Merry Christmas

I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas! Enjoy family, friends, food, and everything else you have to be thankful for. 

For those of you who celebrate other holidays, I wish you the same joy during this wonderful season!

Photo courtesy of: FreeFoto.com

The Hills...Right in My Backyard...Sort of

Last night watching The Hills, it really hit me how “in the middle” of it all I am. Since I work in West Hollywood (and have an amazing view of the Hollywood Hills!), I am surrounded by the places seen on the show each week.

Last night, for example, the ladies of The Hills went to the SLS Hotel for the grand opening party. That hotel is a 5 minute drive from my work. SBE, Heidi’s place of employment, is about 5 minutes away as well. And the street that they showed Lauren walking down to get to a hair salon before the SLS party is the same street I work on (it’s a pretty small street), that leads to Melrose.

Plus, the famous club that Lauren and Heidi had their big blowout at about two seasons ago, Area, is like 2 minutes from my work. (p.s. I went there for a fashion show and wasn't that impressed. Wasn't diggin' the grandma's basement feel.)

It’s all pretty exciting!

On The Hills After Show Lauren’s big surprise announcement was that the show will continue on, despite the rumors that she is over it. I wasn’t too shocked since she’s gotten where she is in fashion due to her celebrity…not because young women would otherwise pay $100 for a plain T-shirt.

As far as the After Show ensembles, some looked amazing (Heidi), while others just looked horrid (Whitney). I’m sorry, I know that she now resides in The City and NY is fashion-forward, but the hippie love child trend is one better left in the past. Just my opinion.

Photos courtesy of: MTV and Barberqrecors.blogspot.com

Melrose Merchandise

Over the weekend I went shopping on Melrose, an LA street known for fashionable boutiques like Ed Hardy, Fred Seigel, Betsey Johnson, Peoples Republic, and others. I was accompanied by my friend Elana of Diary of a Personal Shopper who suggested we visit Wasteland, a vintage shop that also buys high-end clothes. I was all in for selling my Seven Jeans that I have never worn, unfortunately they weren't interested. They also passed on Elana's Mark Jacobs, Gucci, and Louis Vutton items. Apparently they weren't looking for our items or those brands?

Despite the rejection from the Wasteland sales associate, we continued on our journey. Since I was with a personal shopper, I was lucky to have her thoughts and suggestions as I looked for an outfit that I could wear to an LA suburb club that night for a friend's birthday. because of time constraints, I didn't find anything. But I did get a grasp of just how big the flannel trend currently is on the West Coast. (Head over to Diary of a Personal Shopper to learn more.)

While walking down the street we did get a bit excited to lock eyes with former NSYNC hottie JC Chasez. It's always fun to have a celeb sighting. I must say though, the former boy band member is looking a little rugged with the facial hair he's currently got goin' on.

Oh and p.s. you will find little to no public restrooms on the street. Make sure to make a pit stop pre-Melrose =)

Photos courtesy of: pe.com and Photobucket

Britney Spears in Concert!

Today I bought Britney Spears tickets as a Christmas gift for my friend Sarah and I am actually pretty excited. Although I am not a "real fan" of the pop princess, I am starting to be. As I have blogged before, her meltdown gave me a new found respect for her.

(Click above to find tickets in your area)

Brit's tour, named "Circus" just like her album, is sure to be an amazing show. In fact, tickets were selling out so fast for the Los Angeles area that two additional shows were added (which I imagine happened across the country). I was lucky enough to get tickets for one of those added dates. 

Although she explained in her MTV documentary that she never left and doesn't feel like this is a comeback, I hope that this stage in her career goes well and that she succeeds. I'm certainly routing for her!

From what Ticketmaster has explained, the seating for the event will be set up with a round stage, in essence like a circus would be. Hopefully that translates to visibility for all fans.

What is everybody thinking of her latest single "Circus?" I really like the chorus, even more than "Womanizer" I think. Take a listen:

So anyways, the show is in April at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. I'll be sure to fill everyone in on the details!

Topshop

Reading my fellow bloggers posts, I have become a bit familiar with Topshop. I hadn't even heard of the store until this year, and I have never purchased any items, but I do like to browse. The shop is more popular in non-US countries, like Europe, because that is wear they are located (although a flagship store is opening in NY). Also, you can't return items purchased online if you live in several countries, one of which is the States which makes it hard to buy items.

Since I am weary of making clothing purchases online, I will just admire from afar for now. Here are some amazing items found online on Topshop:

Upon seeing this Silk Tie Dress, priced at $125, I fell in love =)

This Knitted Sequin Frill Cardi is on sale for $40 and is quite a steal!

Kate Moss has collections at the shop and they are pretty great...

Has anyone from the US made any online Topshop purchases? If so, how was your experience?

Photos courtesy of: Topshop

I Owe You an Explaination...

I'm sorry that I have been m.i.a. for the last few weeks. I recently got a new job in the LA area, which I love, but the drive is killing me! I live in a Los Angeles suburb, about 48 miles away from the city (I technically work in West Hollywood--if you are unfamilar with Southern California, it's where The Hills is based), but with traffic I have about a 4 hour round trip drive. I hope to move out to the area soon!

I apologize for not posting more frequently and for not visiting any of your blogs to comment. I will try to read all of your posts on the weekend from now on; I do miss you all =(

As for my new job, it's at an event planning company that partners up with non-profit organizations to put on walk, bike rides, and other marathons that work to raise money for cancer research. I haven't been there for a full week yet, but it already feels good to know that I am working to help others, and potentially be a part of the cure for cancer.

So, once again, I am sorry! I promise to try harder to keep up with this blog, as well as yours.

Photo courtesty of: Dave's Travel Corner

Viva La Juicy!

If you are looking for a great gift, I recommend the Juicy Couture "Viva La Juicy" Holiday Set. I recently bought this for one of my good friends, and really should have gotten myself a set as well.

The fragrance smells heavenly! It's a magical perfume made of many fantastic scents including wild berries,

mandarins, honeysuckle, gardenia, jasmine, amber, caramel, vanilla, sandalwood, and praline.

And the packaging is so adorable!

Comprised of Eau de Parfum Spray (3.4 oz.), Body Lotion (4.2 oz.) and Shower Gel (4.2 oz.), it's priced just right at Nordstrom for $79; howe

ver, I made the mistake of buying a set at Macys and was charged $98. So go to Nordstrom if you're going to buy the set!!

Any gift ideas you care to share?

Photo courtesy of: Nordstrom

The Body Shop Winner is...

ZARA! Congrats =)

Thank you to all who entered the giveaway. I wish I could have chosen you all as winners. It was great hearing about all of your favorite beauty products; I'll have to try some of them out!

Be sure to check back for future giveaway here on Join the Gossip!

*The winner will be contacted and thereafter has until Sunday, December 7, 2008 to claim their prize. If I don't receive a reply by that date, another winner will be selected*

The Body Shop Review and Giveaway

I am all about trying new cosmetics. So, when I was able to test The Body Shop's new Mineral Makeup Line: Nature's Minerals, I was immediately excited. I have to say, this is my first experience with the brand and I was thoroughly impressed. 

I am not really a big fan on most mineral makeup. I feel that it doesn't provide enough coverage for my personal needs. However, Nature's Minerals foundation works to conceal blemishes without looking too thick. I tested Shade 02, which was a bit dark for my complexion. But still a great color. 

The blush was just as great as the foundation. Once again I chose a beautiful color, Golden Terracotta. This blush is versatile; for a daytime look only a light amount of the powder is needed, and for nighttime glam, I use a little more on my cheeks.

As for my favorite makeup item, eyeshadow, I was beyond pleased with the look that the Radiant Graphite provided. I am addicted to this shadow and wear it almost every single day. It's a flattering hue that will work magnificently on various skin tones. 

I loved all of this makeup so much that I wore it to a job interview...which I landed! Perhaps due to my flawless cosmetics ; ) (more on the job to come!)

So The Body Shop Mineral Makeup sounds fabulous huh? That's because it is! So fabulous, in fact, that I want you to try it out for yourself.  You can win foundation, blush, and eyeshadow--in your favorite shades--right here on Join the Gossip.

Please leave a comment explaining your favorite makeup item (whether it be lipstick, mascara, etc.), and why you just gotta wear it. One winner will randomly be selected, as long as they have answered the question, and announced on Friday, November 21.

Good luck =D

Photos courtesy of: The Body Shop and my camera

My Vintage Inspired Headband

Recently, I posted a blog about Kenley's hair accessories and came across an Esty account that sells breathtaking headbands. Well, after drooling over the gorgeous items sold by VieModerne, I decided to make a purchase: an AUDREY Black and White Feather and Leather Flower Headband.

I asked that my headband be made with a red flower and the seller obliged.

The feathers are gorgeous!

It was a bit over $40 with shipping, pretty pricey for me, but it's so fantastic that I couldn't pass it up.

There are many 20s-inspired items featured in VieModerne's shop. Certainly worth a visit!

Photos courtesy of: Esty and my camera

Urban Decay Ammo

I just bought an awesome-looking Urban Decay Shadow Box Palette in Ammo on Beauty.com.

The following 10 shades come in a mirrored compact:

-Smog

-Mildew

-Oil Slick

-Last Call

-Chopper

-Maui Wowie

-Shattered

-Polyester Bride

-Grifter

-Sin

The colors look beautiful, I can't wait to test them all out!

I received free shipping, a 20% discount as a PayPal member, and wasn't charged sales tax. The item sells for $34, but with my discounts my total came out to be $27.20.

This was my first purchase from Beauty.com. Has anyone else ever bought anything from this site? I always get a little worried buying things online...

Belated Halloween Fun!

So, I just had to post some pictures of the fabulous outfits that everyone wore this year!

I was a flapper =) Found the dress at H&M!

Good Girl Gone Shopping and me

Stephanie of Beauty Chat and moi

Group photo!

Hope everyone had an amazing Halloween >=0

Lucky Magazine's My Denim Transformation Challenge

Hello all! I a back from my short hiatus, sorry!

I wanted you all to know about the Lucky Style Spotter contest (that's Lucky mag) that my friend, Good Girl Gone Shopping, has entered. She had to create a going out outfit revolving around jeans.

Doesn't she look adorable?!

This lovely lady pieced together some great items to create a look perfect for a night out on the town. As a personal shopper, she's great at all of the fashion choices she makes.

To check Good Girl Gone Shopping's page, head over to the Lucky Magazine Denim Transformation Challenge and create a profile, it only takes a minute or two and the site is pretty cool--especially if you're into fashion.

Please vote for Good Girl Gone Shopping...a 5 is the top score. Top winners get to style a Lucky fashion shoot, a personal shopper's dream.

Hurry because voting ends on Tuesday, November 4! Thanks everyone =D

Photo courtesy of: Good Girl Gone Shopping

Gwen and Baby Zuma

I adore this photo! Gwen looks beautiful as always, but I really like the pale lips...it's a nice change from the red shade that she's usually in. And Zuma--look at those gorgeous eyes!

Once again, well done Gwen and Gavin. This lil guy is going to be a lady killer just like big bro Kingston.

Photo Credit: Dennis Stefani

Happy Halloween!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN! 

My favorite holiday, I am always thrilled when it rolls around each year. I usually try to partake in some spooky activities, this year that meant going to Knotts Scary Farm. Frightening ghouls and ghosts, fortune tellers, and terrifying mazes make for an exciting night.

This year I went with my friend, fellow Beauty Chatter, Stephanie, and her family. Below is a picture of us on the log ride. As you can tell I am familiar with he ride and where the camera is located ;)

Whatever you do this year, have fun and be safe!

Photos courtesy of: Knotts and ThingsThatAre Fun.com

Gorgeous Tealight Holder

Bath & Body Works always has amazing items. I can never leave the store without making a pretty hefty purchase. My latest find, a fall-inspired tealight holder. 

A candle placed within this holder reflects beautiful leaves that create a cozy atmosphere. Personally, it's my little self-created autumn, since the weather in Southern California has yet to dip below the 90s. 

Retailing for a mere $5, it's a great deal! 

Photo courtesy of: Bath & Body Works

Madonna's Misfire: Chanel Gun Shoes

Let me start off by saying I'm not a fan of Madonna. Please don't hate me, I just am not too fond of her. 

Anyways, onto the shoes. Part of the Chanel Spring 2009 Cruise Collection, these heels...er...shoes with a gun attached to the bottoms were spotted on Madonna last night at the New York premiere of her new movie, "The Fifth Wisdom."

What do you think? A fashion statement, or a backfire?

Photos courtesy of: Gizmodiva.com

Domestic Violence Awarness Month

Although most of my posts are lighthearted topics revolving around fashion, makeup, and other pop culture topics, I want to take this opportunity to discuss an important subject.

In addition to Breast Cancer Awareness Month, October is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Although not as widely recognized, I feel it's just as important to talk about. 

Pretty much all of us know someone who has been affected by this, whether we're aware of it or not. Some of us may have even experienced it firsthand. If you're not sure of the signs of domestic violence, here are a few provided by helpguide.org: 

• Dominance
• Humiliation
• Isolation
• Threats
• Intimidation
• Denial and blame

There are many outlets that you can turn to for help, including the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, domesticviolence.org, National Domestic Violence Hotline, and many others.

You need not feel ashamed or trapped in an abusive relationship. Numerous famous people and celebrities are said to be, or have admitted to having been, affected by domestic violence such as Chris Brown, Abraham Lincoln, and Christina Aguilera, to name just a few. These are all amazing individuals who accomplished great things in their lives, despite the pain associated with domestic violence. And so can you.

If you feel that you need assistance, please try to reach out for help. There are many willing to listen and provide assistance.

Photo courtesy of: yardflex.com

Kenley's Hair Accessories

She may have not won Project Runway Season 5, but Kenley sure has created a fashion craze. Always seen with some sort of hair accessory, her look is all the rage. 

Here are some similar hair pieces, all of which are adorable:

MARGAUX Peacock Eye Feather Headband with Green Flower - $32

Nordstrom Tasha Feather Flower Headband - $48

Forever 21 Chiffon Rose Headband - $4.80

For more amazing hair pieces, head over to shopbando.com. You'll be amazed by the items sold on that site!

Photos courtesy of: Shefinds, Forever 21, Esty, and Nordstrom

Leanne Wins Project Runway

I am team Leanne, not only because we share the same first name (although I spell my name differently =), but also because her designs are pretty consistently stunning.

At Bryant Park during the season finale of Project Runway Season 5, she worked with a beautiful Tiffany blue, white, and tan to create an amazing color scheme. And her pieces were gorgeous, with a lot of movement. Leanne's collection surpassed the others by far. Therefore, it is fitting that she was named the winner. 

I hope to see Leanimal at many NY Fashion Weeks to come!

Photos courtesy of: Bravo