Tread Brightly In A Trendy Pair Of Neon Flats!

imageEver since I finally mastered the art of strutting in sky-high heels, it takes a pretty special pair of flats to make me revert to my strictly-flat-soled college gal ways. And with a new shoe trend on the block — neon flats — I have to say, I can’t help but be intrigued (can you blame me, they’re practically blinding!). But before you roll your eyes and think, we already tried bringing back 90s neons, do we REALLY need to try again?, keep in mind that saving the in-your-face color for just your shoes allows you to indulge in fun springtime brights without looking obnoxiously dated. After all, there isn’t a much better way to show off even the slightest spring break tan like a pair of neon pink jellies, and nothing says “check out my immaculate new pedicure” quite like a pair of hot turquoise peep-toe flats. Not convinced yet? Check out the slideshow for a selection of my favorite neon flats!

view slideshow

12 Denim Dresses That Will Make You Rethink How You Wear Your Jeans!

imageI know, I know — the words “denim dress” together sounds like something out of Lisa Turtle’s “Saved By The Bell” wardrobe (and not “The New Class” either), but don’t write me off as crazy (or tragically dated) until you hear me out! You might not believe it until you see it, but denim is making its way out of its early-90s cave and back into the realm of dresses with trendy updates like exposed zippers and military accents. While a chambray shirtdress isn’t hard to imagine as modern and sophisticated, thicker fabrics and acid washes are also being made 2010-appropriate thanks to Karen Millen, Charlotte Ronson, Thakoon, and other more bargain-friendly retailers. And the best part of this trend (aside from the fact that it’s updated and totally cute) is that it combines the comfort and summer-friendly breathable nature of denim with the slightly dressier versatility of… well, a dress! And nothing has me sold faster than versatility! Check the slideshow for a selection 12 (yes, 12!) stylish denim dresses — I dare you not to be a fan!

view slideshow

Shoe of the Week: Dolce Vita Violet Heels

imageIt seems like a lot of shoes I’ve been seeing these days are about putting all the bells and whistles onto your feet (I’m looking at you Balenciaga!). While I certainly wouldn’t complain if a pair of showstopping shoes ended up on my feet, I’m definitely more of a classic girl at heart. As always, classic doesn’t always mean boring. Check out the suede Dolce Vita Violet Heels to see what I mean. A classic peep toe heel is always a staple in any girl’s shoe collection, but the lace-up detail allows it to stand out from the pack. I would wear them with skinny jeans and a floral top for a casual date. On the flip side, you can easily amp up the edginess by pairing it with a body conscious minidress for a night on the town. Since they’re on final sale at 50% off the original price, grab a pair before it’s all gone!

What: the Dolce Vita Violet Heels
Price: $115
Where to Buy: Tobi.com
Who Found It: facadeindreams was the first to add the Dolce Vita Violet Heels to the Hive.

Au Naturale Spring Beauty Trends Calls For Clean, Dewy Skin

imageFinally. spring is almost here! And as we shed the winter layers in anticipation for warmer, sunnier days ahead, don’t forget to start lightening the coverage on make up as well. Caked on powder and obvious cover up was never a good look and matte finishes are so last season. Spring is all about breezy, carefree days and the beauty of nature and all things reawakening. That’s why the new beauty trend for this spring is dewy, radiant skin and a clean, au naturale look. Glowing, clear skin is youthful and appealing and while I’m sure we’d all like to participate, some of us may be worried about still getting ample coverage while taking this ‘au naturale’ look out for a test spin. The first step is to keep skin moisturized to keep that fresh, dewy feel, like a tinted moisturizer. Cream blushes in soft pinks and translucent dusting powders complete the look and leave skin moist and radiant, but not oily looking. Click on the slideshow to see some of our favorite face care products and cosmetics that will keep you looking bright-eyed bushy tailed this spring season!

view slideshow

Get Coco Rocha’s Sleek Futuristic Look

imageAfter Coco Rocha stepped out at the Grammy’s wearing a piece from her upcoming fashion line, I’ve come to expect her to always wearing her own designs. Yet, when she guest judged the 3rd annual Supima Design competition she didn’t wear her own line – instead she rocked a futuristic look by one of the nominated designers Victor De Souza. She joined the league of uber fashionable ladies, like Daphne Guinness to wear the designers fashion forward looks. While it might be hard to wear the exact look everyday (how does one sit in a patent leather belt/skirt anyways), when paired down it€™s a great sleek mid-season look. Start with a fitted black blazer that has a strong shoulder, Vivienne Westwood€™s Bold Shoulder Jacket has a similar feel, or for something more casual try Superfine’s fitted black denim jacket. Pair that with some basic black leggings like Coco did or add a space age touch with some leather inset leggings. While you could wear some nice flat or heeled boots like Coco did, I suggest taking the look up a bit with some peep-toe black booties. To keep with the minimalist feel of the look, accessorize with a simple cocktail ring worn on the thumb. Check out the slideshow for how to replicate her look!

view slideshow

Label Love: Discover German Designer Esther Perbandt

imageGerman fashion designer Esther Perbandt was born and raised in Berlin where she’s currently a fixture in the minimalist and avant garde fashion scene. Launched in 2004, the label is known for their moody and androgynous style. Her latest collection for Spring 2010 titled “Instrumental” is a study in black and white with a few notable looks in pink. One of my favorite dresses is a mini dress with a sweetheart neckline with a sheer overlay on top which would create a beautiful fluid look with any movement. Most of her garments can be worn loosely in an easygoing way or a simple cinch at the waist with a belt can change the whole look. An additional accessories line complete with bags and jewelry (like this brass and faux hair necklace) completes the Esther Perbandt fashion empire. Take a look at my slideshow to see more!

view slideshow

Top 10 Clogs That Will Make You Want to Pack Away Your Stilettos

imageWhile watching the Spring 2010 shows like Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Miu Miu I noticed one thing…they were all wearing clogs. What? I had to look again; yes those are definitely clogs they are wearing. So it seems that clogs are back, and this trend has been gaining steam for a little while before it went high fashion in Paris and Milan. MK and Ashley Olsen have been wearing clogs for over a year now, and Michelle Williams was seen walking her adorable daughter, Matilda with some equally adorable clog boots by No.6. But if anyone is going to take the look and make it a trend it’s going to be Karl Lagerfeld. While the Chanel ones are drool worthy their price tag (retailing over $1,000) is a little steep for wooden shoes. So I had to look into some other options, because I can’t see this being a long lasting trend. Just to clarify these are not your basic wooden clog or leather nurses clog, and they are defiantly not those horrid colored plastic ones either! These clogs are sexy and embellished, some with heels as high as those on your favorite stilettos. There will be no need to pair them with super light wash 70’s style bell bottoms, these clogs will work best paired floaty little dresses and romantic sheer tops. Check out the SLIDESHOW for the top 10 clogs that won€™t cost you a month€™s rent.

view slideshow

Stylehive’s Stylescopes Say You’re Destined To Rock A Spring Scarf!

imageJust because spring has sprung, it doesn’t mean you have to swap your scarves for sunglasses and throw all your favorite past-season accessories to the wayside. Stylehive’s Stylescopes are here to say you’re destined to stay wrapped up in style, as long as you go the lightweight route and pay close attention to spring-appropriate patterns, colors, and fabrics! While scarves normally conjure up thoughts of snowstorms, stuffy wool blends, and hot cocoa by the fireplace (so not what you’re craving in the season ahead!), silk, chiffon, and gauzy versions are still totally in, no matter what the temperature. Tauruses can add some fresh color to their spring basics with this Diane von Furstenberg circle scarf, and Aries ladies will get to hang up their sequined blazer for the time-being and shine on with glittering neckwear! Curious to see what kind of springtime scarf the stars have in store for your sign? Check out the slideshow!

view slideshow

Recession Chic: Multitask & Save With These 10 Multipurpose Makeup Picks!

imageThere are a few things in life I do not regret: 1) picking out all the Kit-Kats from the Halloween candy bowl instead of giving them to the trick-or-treaters, 2) telling my 10th grade English teacher that her gold lamé sports blazer looked like tin foil, and 3) stocking my makeup bag full of multipurpose products, like Nars’ Multiple Luminizer stick for example. For anyone who doesn’t have a compulsive cosmetics-buying problem like me, all-over color products not only help you save money with their multitasking abilities, but they’re also a cinch to use (especially when they’re finger-application-friendly or come in stick form), and conserve space in your purse! Get rid of your mini-collection of blush, lipsticks, and accompanying brushes and opt for a gel-based cheek and lipstain by Lorac. It’s sheer enough to look natural even with the most rushed and haphazard of touch-ups and requires no additional tools other than a mirror (or not even that, if you’ve had lots of practice)! Or freshen up in record time (and ease) with Josie Maran’s fingerpaints — a space-saving palette of cream eyeshadow, blush, highlighter and lipcolor all in one, no brushes necessary! For more superhero-worthy products that will help save your wallet from mass makeup-buying peril, take a look at the slideshow!

view slideshow

Hot In The Hive: Dell Vostro V13

imageLast year, the Dell Adamo laptop was making waves with it’s razor thin design that was basically Dell’s answer to Apple’s MacBook Air. However, the laptop came at a premium price and more than a few people balked at the nearly $2000 price tag. That’s where the Dell Vostro V13 comes in. With a sleek aluminum body, 13 inch screen and just over half an inch thick, the Vostro V13 is ideal for anyone looking for portability without compromising screen size. It also comes with 2GB of memory, at least a 250GB hard drive and Intel Celeron M Processor or Intel Core2 Duo Processor which means it’s definitely not all looks and no brain. Best part is, it’s also lighter and over $1000 less than the Adamo! If you’re a budding CEO of the next Fortune 500 company or just a student in need of an affordable and highly portable computer, the Vostro V13 should be at the top of your list.

Price: $449-$669
Who Found It: facadeindreams was first to add the Dell Vostro V13 to the Hive.