On a Roll...

Gwyneth Paltrow, former and self-proclaimed style icon, has been laying low as of late, keeping her red carpet appearances relatively limited and her awe-inspiring style moments even more few and far between. She has been spending time across the Atlantic being a hands-on mom to her kids, which is a very refreshing move for an A-lister to make. I am very impressed by this and have a great deal of respect for this choice, but the lover of glamour in me missed red carpet Gwyneth. I missed the Gucci velvet suits and simple, modern Calvin Kleins of her style reign (end of the 90s/beginning of the millennium).

There has been something in the air recently, however. Ms. Paltrow has been getting it oh-so-right. From Jay-Z's wedding to her whirlwind press tour for Iron Man, GP has not missed a beat. With her incredible haircut to her newfound embrace of her killer gams, she is looking amazing. Great short frocks that are simple with a touch of edge (white for night, embellishments, super brights, cut outs, asymmetric hemlines and necklines) paired with the simplest yet spot-on choices of jewelry and her now ubiquitous sky-high heels have become her latest staples.

Gwynnie was just our Chic of the Week, but just one mention did not seem like enough; a tribute was more in order. And we are not the only ones to take notice of the actress's sexy new incarnation--her transformation is being hailed from the smallest blogs to the largest fashion mags and newspapers across the world.

Go, GP, go!

In Proenza Schouler at Beyonce and Jay-Z's wedding on April 4th.

Wearing super-high (seven inches!), black McQueen heels, jewelry by H. Stern and a lacy Balmain mini on April 24th.

In Sonia Rykiel, black Louboutin stilletos and a Chanel clutch at the Berlin premiere of Iron Man on April 22nd.

Gwyneth in vintage YSL and black leather Givenchy sandals in New York on April 7th.

Pretty in pink in Dior at the Breast Cancer Research Foundation "Hottest Pink Party" in New York, April 8.

























Ms. Paltrow sporting a black Preen mini and Giuseppe Zanotti lace heels (at left) in Rome on the morning of April 23rd.








Photos courtesy of Dotspotter, OK! Magazine UK, People.com, Marie Claire UK, Celebutopia, The Fashion Spot and Sawf News.

Is there an Echo in here?

For a long time, I have been trying to figure out how to make silk scarves work for me. I've long loved an Hermes silk and other various incarnations, but have been frankly bewildered how to incorporate them naturally and skillfully into my own wardrobe. The headscarf look made famous by Jackie O and denizens of St. Tropez decades ago and then once again by It Girls such as Nicole Richie in recent years has never looked right on me. Try and try again, I always looked more cleaning lady than jetsetter.

Silk scarf around the neck? I always felt way too Diane Keaton in the remake of Father of the Bride. So, for the past seven years or so I have been doing the cop out way: tying the silk square onto my tote or whatever handbag I was carrying when the mood struck me. Nothing daring there.

Recently, I decided to buck up and just give the old nautical themed Hermes I've had for years a try casually strewn around my neck. The result? I loved it. With a little courage I have sneaked this timeless accessory into my look and around my neck and am now completely hooked. Since this watershed fashion moment for me, I have my eye on nearly every scarf currently on the market.

Carrying the best designs for the best prices by far is Echo. Seriously, there is a scarf to match every recent [great] fashion trend--stars, ikat, modern art. These scarves are an easy way to add color and a little bit of Grace Kelly into your wardrobe, which let's face it, we all need.

STARS


Echo "Star Spangled" - available in fresh lime, pucci pink and white, $48

BALENCIAGA/IKAT

Echo Ikat with Metallic Square, $78

PAINTERLY

Echo "Paint Stroke Stripes," $48

Echo "Crossroads," $78 and Animal Spectator Neckerchief, $25

Who: Gwyneth Paltrow.

What: A form-fitting, knee-length Gaultier and Bulgari jewels.

Where: The premiere of her new movie Iron Man at the Warner Moderna Cinema in Rome.

When: Wednesday, April 23, 2008.

Why: First of all, I am obsessed with her new haircut and think it that it has been one of the best decisions she has made in quite a while (a far better one than many of her recent choices of films). Her makeup here is perfection--totally soft but still smoldering. And though I don't often love a one-shoulder gown, I think this looks very strong without being severe and fits her to a T.







Photo courtesy of InStyle.com.

[Belated] Chic of the Week

Who: Katie Lee Joel, cookbook author and wife of Billy Joel.

What: A long, shiny mane paired with a soft, sky blue vintage gown.

Where: The New Yorkers for Children benefit gala at the Mandarin Oriental in Manhattan.

When: Wednesday, April 16, 2008.

Why: The troubled musician's wife looks radiant, simply elegant and unfussy. Her long locks and the feminine curves of the dress make the look so uncomplicated, easy and completely appealing.








Photo courtesy of Zimbio.

Sink or Swim?

Bathing suit season is officially open us. This can be traumatic, not only because you might not have done as many lunges and squats this winter as you promised yourself you would, but also because lately swimsuits have become a luxury item costing upwards of $100 even at retailers like J. Crew!

Well we here at FB&F think swimsuit shopping is painful enough without having to break the bank, so whether you are a one-piece or two-piece girl (one-piece thank you very much!) we have found a few options that might make finding a swimsuit that's perfect for you more bearable this spring.

From left: Dot Bikini (avail. in two colors) $44 at American Eagle, Basic Bikini (avail. in many colors and patterns) $24.99 at Old Navy, O'Neill Bikini $88 at Pac Sun

From left: Strapless Colorblock Suit (avail. in many colors) $36 at American Apparel, Basic One piece (avail. in many colors) $38 at American Apparel, Basic One piece (avail. in many colors) $19.50 at Old Navy

Completely Obsessed with People.com

I already gave up my celebrity gossip addiction (it was pretty out of hand -thank you very much Perez Hilton), but I cannot stop visiting People.com because of their great style section.

Now, while I may not have the same style as some of People Magazine's regulars (hello the stars of High School Musical with their hoodies and short shorts), People.com has a great feature called Looks for Less where they find outfits worn by celebs I might actually try to emulate like Nicole Richie and Cameron Diaz, but for way less $ which is definitely my style.

The Jelly's Jam

One of my favorite looks from growing up is having a major comeback this spring. Though this trend has been popping up here and there for the past few years, it is back in a bag way for 2008. The trend I am speaking of? Why, jellies of course! Those lovely, brightly colored gummy rubber shoes we all loved as little girls.

Setting these latest incarnations apart? Major labels, first off. Both Givenchy and Marc Jacobs currently have styles on the market, each retailing for under $200. This makes jellies a great way to afford shoes by your favorite designers, when their wares usually carry price tags closer to $700. Nearly $200 still sounding cheap? Below find some options for nearly half the price!

The most popular styles this season are the gladiator, both flat and with a slight wedge, the ballet flat and even slingback kitten heels! Whether you need a sandal for trekking through the city or a heel for a beach party, jellies can take you there.

Another plus? These little numbers are totally weatherproof, making them chic warm-weather rain gear. We love our wellies, but when it gets hot, just think jellies!

Givenchy Jelly Gladiator, $165--in white (not shown), pink or black (available at Barney's).

Old Navy Ankle-Strap Gladiator Jelly Sandals, $19.50.

Marc Jacobs Jelly Mouse Shoes, $160 (available at Net-a-Porter).

J. Crew Jelly Ballet Flats, $45--in deep yellow, alpine green, bright red and black (not shown).

J. Crew Jeweled Jelly Ballet Flats, $59.50.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Glitter Slingbacks, $149--in copper (not shown), red, transparent (not shown) and grey (available at Zappos).

One Shoe, Five Ways

Nine West Jobilyn in Silver, $79

When purchasing footwear or embracing a new trend, there are a lot of factors to consider. Can I really afford this? Will this blend well with everything else I have hanging in my closet? Will I wear this more than once? Well, I can't help with your bank balance, but I can provide some advice on how to pick up on one of the season's hottest trends and ensure that you'll be able to actually wear it.

Gladiator sandals have been seen all over runways, on starlets from coast to coast, and in every price range. My favorites so far? The Jobilyn by Nine West. I love the hippie meets disco queen silver version and think a little metallic never hurt anyone.

Whether your personal style skews runway-ready, dressy, menswear-inspired, retro or casual, I've got you covered with affordable ways to sport these gladiators out on the town.

NOSTALGIC

Juicy Couture Long Printed Dress, $248 (available at JuicyCouture.com).

Feather Hinge Bracelet, $24 (available at Urban Outfitters).

RUNWAY

Balenciaga, Spring/Summer 2008

Frill Detail Tea Dress, approx. $89 (available at Topshop).

CASUAL

Julia Stripe Shirt, $32.50 (available at dELiA's).

High Waist Shorts, $22.90 (available at Forever 21).

Gryson for Target Zip Tape Satchel, $39.99 (available at Target).

MASCULINE

Boating Stripe Blazer, approx. $118 (available at Topshop).

Laquette Butterfoil Tank, $58 (available at Intuition).

Cheap Monday The Tight Jean, $65 (available at Karmaloop).

Roll Up Bowler, $28 (available at Urban Outfitters).

DRESSY

Calypso Christiane Celle Kimberly Dress, $250.

Tasha Leather Flower Headband, $78 (available at Nordstrom).

Kotur Elongated Shiny Silver Clutch, $348 (available at Vivre).

Nina Garcia: Out?

According to Heidi Klum, in the fashion world, you are either in or you're out. Apparently at ELLE, Nina Garcia is out. WWD and New York Magazine's blog "In the Cut" report that the magazine and its Fashion Director have parted ways. Very juicy.

Read more at New York Magazine and WWD Online.


Photo courtesy of the Los Angeles Times Blog.

Chic of the Week

Who: Vogue's Sylvana Soto Ward, at right.

What: A mouse-gray shift dress from Roland Mouret's Pre-Fall 2008 Collection and Louboutin t-straps.

Where: Bergdorf Goodman's Welcome Back cocktail party for Roland Mouret in New York.

When: Wednesday, April 10, 2008.

Why: She's rocking this look much better than her runway counterpart--the fit of this knee-length dress on Miss Soto-Ward is immaculate. The Christian Louboutins are simultaneously sexy and demure. Perfectly polished but not stiff.

THE dress, as modeled by Han Jin on Mouret's Pre-Fall 2008 runway

Photos courtesy of Park Avenue Peerage and Style.com.

Style Source: Take Flight!

PSA (Pacific Southwest Airlines), 1973-76

American Airlines, 1974-77

Left to Right: Pan Am, 1969-71; Pan Am, 1970s

Right now, I am feeling very inspired by flight attendant uniforms from the 1960s and 70s--really, the golden age of high altitude fashion. Signatures of this era include brightly colored, psychedelic scarves, crisp blouses and bold, striking color combinations. Flash forward over thirty years to today and these touches--prints, colorblocking and feminine shapes--are easily found. No, not in the friendly skies, but at the hottest e-shops and poshest department stores around. Flight Attendant Chic is ready to take flight.

Diane von Furstenberg Mondrian Patchwork Mini Dress, was $375, now $224.90 (available at Saks)

Tory Burch Amandine Top, $285 (available at Tory Burch).

Lux Linen Hi-Waisted A Line Skirt, $58 (available at Urban Outfitters).

Emilio Pucci Falling Stars Oblong Scarf, $185 (available at Saks).

Left to Right: Broome Shift Dress, $149.99; Marnie Dress, $109.99; Prince Striped Shift Dress, $149.99. All Abaete (available at Bluefly.com).

Marc by Marc Jacobs Alessandra Dress with Bow, $428 (available at Nordstrom).

Flight Attendant Photos courtesy of Dark Roasted Blend and Uniform Freak.

This Weekend Only!

This weekend only at wonderful E-mporium Pink Mascara, shop and receive 20% off all items already on sale. Click here to save on labels such as Goldenbleu, Kooba, Mara Hoffman Jean-Michel Cazabat, and Graham & Spencer!

Chic of the Week

Who: Socialite Byrdie Bell.

What: A fur-trimmed, cobalt cardigan, yellow printed chiffon dress and black Louboutin pumps.

When: Monday, March 31, 2008.

Where: The Cinema Society screening of Smart People in NYC.

Why: The mix of the bright yellow and shocking blue looks punchy and ready for warm weather, while the fur accents on the shoulder make this ensemble look slightly tough, not dainty.









Photo courtesy Style.com.

Binge vs. Budget: Stars and Stripes Forever

We have Kate Moss to thank for the stars and stripes trend this summer. First she modeled the YSL star necklace in the designer's recent ads, and then she included a star print shirt (guaranteed to sell out soon) and a striped dress for her second Top Shop collection. So make sure to get in on the trend by picking up a dress for the summer featuring either stars or stripes.

Budget (in addition to the Top Shop pieces if you can get them):

Hot Kiss $46

Binge (in addition to the YSL necklace if you can get it):

Lacey Parker $285 at Intermix

Binge vs. Budget: White for Night

As the temperatures start to rise and the tanning or lathering on of self-tanner begins once again, there is nothing better than a LWD (Little White Dress) in place of that LBD. Nothing looks fresher and crisper for spring than a bright white frock and there is nothing that sets off a tan better.

Whether it's embellished with beading around the neckline or gone graphic with hints of black, these white dresses will be pitch perfect for any spring soiree. White looks great paired with metallic accessories, especially silvers and gunmetals or with neons and primary shades, so now is the time to break out those pink pumps!

For less dressy occasions, think about opting for a pair of white jeans. White jeans look summer-ready and polished with navy, whether it's a boatneck top, tank or something a little dressier for a nice dinner out.

White accessories can also be fun for evening--just maybe rethink that dive bar when grabbing that white clutch, or even better, select one of these easy-to-clean white patent pieces. Laces and studs help make these plain white purses and shoes a little more eye-catching.

Put those black dresses and that dark denim aside--these next six months are all about white.

DRESSES

Beaded Neckline:

Karta White Jewel Patch V Neck Dress, $335 (available at Singer 22)

Jacinda Shift Dress, $34.80 (available at Forever 21)

White and Black:Pink Tartan Diana Graphic Dress, $425 (available at Saks)

Kimchi & Blue Applique Frock, $78 (available at Urban Outfitters)

JEANSJ Brand Low-Rise Cigarette Jean in White, $158.

Morgan Low-Rise Skinny Colored Denim, $44.50 (available at Delia's)

ACCESSORIES

Laced-up Patent:

From left: Gucci Corset Mid-Heel Slide, $635 (available at Bergdorf Goodman); Nine West Roedy, $79.

Patent and Studs:

From left: Marc Jacobs Rocker Fergie, $895 (available at Shoptwigs.com); BCandy Paris, $58 (available at Steve Madden).

Spring Flowers In Bloom

Handbag designer Lisa Spagnolo got her start at seven years old by sewing purses made out of polyester pants pockets with her grandmother . According to her website, "Lisa combines vintage-inspired fabric with classic design to create elegant and timeless pieces. Along with her love for all things antique, Lisa is also influenced by her passion for other cultures and adoration of art."

This spring Lisa's designs are exactly what I am looking to buy - something gorgeous and floral and under $50! Visit her website at http://www.lisaspagnolo.com/ or shop her looks here. Lisa says that more styles are on the way for spring, so make sure to check back often.

All three clutches between $42 and $52

Vintage clutch $42