Fashion Week has just wrapped here in New York and it has been an exciting week of shows and events (check-out the highlight of my week — going backstage at Marchesa)! As exciting as it is, the non-stop pace can be draining. But I was curious when stylist to the stars, Mary Alice Stephenson — who’s working with the likes of Alexander Wang and Prabal Gurung on nail polish for Sally Hansen, and has dressed countless stars including Michelle Obama and Sarah Jessica Parker — shared her top fashion and beauty must-haves for the week. Stephenson is seasoned in dealing with red carpet moments, when it’s important to have everything you need on hand, so her picks were perfectly appropriate for NYFW prep.

Here’s a look at all of Stephenson’s suggestions — many of which I used this past week.

• Rembrandt Deeply White 2-Hour Whitening Kit
• Rembrandt Deeply White Whitening Paste
• Visine Maximum Redness Relief Formula
• Neutrogena Makeup Remover Towelettes (I also spotted these in stylist Robert Verdi’s Fashion Week suite and they were one of the most popular beauty items on display)
• Band Aid Brand by Cynthia Rowley Adhesive Bandages (Adorable!)
• Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs Spray
• Fashion Saverz Stain Remover (Perfect against deodorant marks)
• Hollywood Tape (Double-sided tape to keep everything in its place)
• Living Proof Full Thickening Mousse (Love this brand — they make the best anti-frizz products and all of them smell amazing).
• Smashbox Photo Finish Primer (This will improve your makeup’s hold like almost no other primer).

On a side note, and fashion and beauty essentials aside, a key to making it through a back-to-back schedule is having snacks on hand so you don’t fall face first into a fistful of hors d’oeuvres when you’re out at events at night (though that did end up happening to me on a few occasions). I got a few samples of Kraft’s Milkbite Milk & Granola Bars (just launched this week), and they’re delicious! I’d highly recommend throwing some in your bag along with nuts and baby carrots. I’m partial to granola bars, but one has to be careful because there are a ton of them with lots of sugar and high fructose corn syrup. These Milkbite Bars not only taste great, have a chewy texture, and will satisfy any sweet cravings, but they’re free of high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, colors and preservatives, and each bar has 30% of your daily recommended value of calcium.

Images: Living Proof, Kraft

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1. The white and red. Kate kills this look. Why? She’s showing team spirit, supporting the country she’s visiting on Canada Day and wearing a really cool Maple leaf hat, but keeps it classy in a creme-colored frock. Plus, the girl shopped her closet which makes her even more lovable. That Reiss dress was the same one she wore for her engagement photos. Economical and gorgeous.

2. Sunny yellow. This could have come off looking cheesy with that much yellow. However, Kate makes it mod by adding those nude heels. I am a huge fan of skin-colored spikes! So, mixing the 40′s-style silhouette from the dress with the bright color and the nude pumps makes for a winning look.

3. The chic blazer. I think tailored blazers are hugely underestimated. They can class up any look. Now, Kate is already dressing up a bit with a belt, dark-wash jeans and a blouse, but even if she’d worn a flirty floral frock or a pair of cut-offs, she’d still look ready to impress with that chic blazer. If you don’t have one in your closet, I insist you make it a priority for fall!

4. Red hot. With a bold color like red, everything else in your ensemble needs to take a back seat. Understated jewelry, minimal accessories and anti-fuss hair like Kate’s are the perfect accents to such a pretty dress. I’m just in love with red for the season, but this might have been my favorite look of hers for the tour. (Well, OK. One of them! It’s too hard to choose.)

Are you impressed with the Duchess’ wardrobe? What looks would you steal? Sound off!

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I can’t say I’ve ever been a huge fan of Olivia Palermo. During her two-year stint on MTV’s The City, the girl was certainly painted as an epic villainess (and I always rooted for Elle mag’s PR guru Erin Kaplan to get her fired–it’s just how I felt!). But I have to admit: this lovely lady does have style to go with her mean streak.

I love the look at left for a few reasons. It sort of epitomizes Ms. Palermo’s overall sartorial tendencies in a classy/edgy kind of way.

First, Olivia plays with accessories. She has a signature, and she owns it. For her, it’s all about the statement necklace. She has a massive collection of them, and they’re all quite enviable. This looped, rope necklace is extremely cool when paired with a basic pant suit. It’s worth thinking about when you’re compiling your wardrobe and thinking of the pieces that will define your look: What’s the piece in your outfit you love most? If you figure that out, you can build ensembles around it.

Second, Olivia loves basics with punches. Her closet must consist of the staples: tailored pants, A-line hems, pencil skirts, blouses, blazers, etc. But she always adds in a punchy extra for some interest. In this look, it’s the shoes. Taking a classic pant suit and adding a pop of color, the yellow heels, is genius.

Finally, She knows what suits her shape. Olivia dresses her figure beautifully. She’s thin, and realizes that she can pull off boyish pieces, like the boyfriend blazer and pants. (But, she always makes it feminine–shoes, bag and the rolled up hem are very girlish). Think about your figure when getting dressed every day. If you’ve got curves, you should always define a waist. If you’re thin, you can pull off some roomier clothes. If you’re petite, add length to your legs with nude or blush-colored wedges or heels.

What do you think of Olivia’s look? Did any of you love The City (and miss it now that it’s been canceled)? Who are your style role models? I’m dying to know, so sound off in the comments!

Image Source: flickr.com/photos/lovelyhk/4390295928

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So, I was a little obsessed with the phenomenon surrounding the royal wedding and, now, I can’t get enough of Duchess Kate’s style! She just always looks so pulled-together and pretty. But most of all? Her fashion sense is one we can all steal. It’s not an expert or stylist’s handiwork, she does it all herself. So, let’s take note of the key pieces in the duchess’ look and why they work so well.

Tailored dresses. Kate’s dresses are all very polished. Her color palette is primarily neutrals, and if not then solids, and the frocks create sleek lines which are flattering on any figure. Look for dresses with neat hems, pencil skirts and streamlined details.

Kitten heels. Kitten heels are great things. They’re still sophisticated and give your leg a little extra definition, but they are waaaay more comfortable. Grab some shortened heels with a pointed toe, or with a thick heel for ultra-comfortable support.

Minimal jewelry. I love the way Kate chooses wreath necklaces, and then just wears her engagement ring and a clutch as accessories. It reminds me of that old rule that you should always take one accessory off before leaving the house. If you’re going to a place that will favor a more chic dress code, then consider Kate’s extra minimalism.

Hats! The duchess frequently kills it in over-the-top fascinators, but you don’t have to. Choose a fasinator that’s more subdued and looks almost like a sideways hat, or opt for a dark, wide-brimmed hat instead. But do choose a pretty hairpiece, especially if you’re going to be outside. It makes the outfit!

Soft make-up. Kate never looks overdone, but never looks underdone either. Walk that fine line by wearing the make-up essentials: an eyeliner in a dark brown, mascara, foundation, neutral lip gloss and pale blush. That’s it! The whole routine should only take you about fifteen minutes, at maximum, and you’ll look pretty no matter the occasion.

That’s it, kids! Do you adore the duchess’ look as much as I do? Or is there another royal whose look you admire more? Sound off in the comments.

Image Source: flickr.com/photos/anhonorablegerman/5765686318

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I’ve been noticing a disturbing trend amongst the celebs for a while now but, apparently, I’ve spent all sorts of time hoping in vain that it’s only a phase and it will soon reach its welcome demise.

Obviously not.

What is this trend you ask?? Well, friends, celebrities seem to be going pantless. Like, a lot. This trend is just not dying.

First, it was Gossip Girl‘s Taylor Momsen channeling her inner rockstar and stumbling out of her Pretty Reckless gigs without pants (or, you know, just plain ol’ walking NYC streets sans bottoms). No matter, though. That was just one gal. Soon however, it was Lady Gaga deciding pants just weren’t for her. But, well, it was LADY GAGA. That’s to be expected. So I wasn’t overly concerned. I mean, it was just a teen going through a rebellious stage and a bona-fide over-the-top pop star. No big… right?

Wrong. Oh, so wrong. It gets worse, y’all.

Just last month, Britney Spears and Rihanna decided to work the pantless trend while performing in front of a huge national audience at the Billboard Music Awards. I know, I know. By this time, you’ve got to be thinking: What is so wrong with pants, people? Are they that difficult/uncomfortable/ugly or something?

I, at least, need enlightenment. Surely, I am missing something. But just as surely, this must just be a musician thing. Right… RIGHT?

Imagine my surprise today when I see the new cover of Marie Claire unveiled. And would you believe it? The normally-classy Marie Claire has put the normally-classy Jennifer Aniston on their cover… Without. Pants.

For real. At this point, I am seriously questioning my fashion sanity. But even though the celeb world seems to be challenging me, I am here to make my case for wearing pants. (And I’ll be honest, this is a case I thought I’d never have to make.)

1. Stayin’ classy. Friends, leave a little something to the imagination. The appropriate amount of skin to be showing off in any given outfit is 40 percent (the most visually-appealing, but still totally classy, amount). Stick to that.

2. The pant trends this season are awesome. Wide-leg trousers, colored cigarette pants, distressed and bleached out styles… why would you want to miss out on all that??

3. I am quasi-kidding… sort of. I think most of us sane individuals believe in the necessity of pants or skirts when we leave our houses. (I think?) But still, it does beg the question: What are y’all thinkin’, celeb-friends? Why the NO PANTS look??

If you have any guesses, do share. Otherwise, please wear your pants. I beg you.

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I have a mod, blue-tinted photo of Audrey Hepburn in my room with a quote scrolled across the bottom of the frame. In all her glamour, peering out above retro, cat-eye sunglasses, Audrey declares: “My look is attainable…”

Wait–what?! One of the biggest style icon’s of all time thought her look was “attainable?” Well, yes. And I can’t say I disagree with the lovely actress. Even today, her style totally is one we can emulate.

Although Audrey Hepburn was always impeccably dressed, the girl’s closet was composed of all classics, and so her look will never go out of style. We’d be wise to follow her lead when we compile a wardrobe… here’s how:

1. Invest in classics. The LBD. A trench. Oversize sunglasses. Black pumps… these items were the basis of Audrey’s fabulous look, and they’re still so relevant today. Buy these foundational pieces for your wardrobe and add in trends. For instance, update an LBD for the season with a pair of bright wedges, or wear a pair of oversize sunglasses with your cut-offs and a white button-down. It doesn’t take a lot to look chic if you have the right sophisticated essentials.

2. Select lots of neutrals. I am a neutral addict. (I am well aware that color is sunny and fun, but black and white will always be in vogue!) When choosing the foundational pieces in your wardrobe, like dresses, coats, pants, cardigans and so forth, make most of them neutral with just the occasional color. Bring your hues in when it comes to accessories…

3. Have fun with accessories. Feel free to go wild! Accessories are easy to swap out each season, so choose whatever color or style you’re totally into right at that very moment. Audrey knew how to accessorize to stay current (with great hats, glasses and jewelry–ah, see Breakfast at Tiffany’s). Like this summer? It’s all about gold, pop-of-color heels, cool cross-body bags… Aud would totally be on board with the extra trends, and you should, too.

And that’s it, ladies! I told you the girl was telling the truth: Audrey’s style is attainable. Now, I have to leave you with a little fun-loving style wisdom from the screen and sartorial icon herself:

“I believe in manicures. I believe in overdressing. I believe in primping at leisure and wearing lipstick. I believe in pink. I believe happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day, and… I believe in miracles.”

Gosh, how can you not love Audrey?? Let’s all choose to believe in the powers of pink, lipstick and overdressing… it seemed to work for Ms. Hepburn!

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I tell ya, lovelies. The two most glamorous things in the world are film and fashion. And at the Cannes Film Festival, you get both. The stars took to the red carpet in France to promote their new films, and here’s what a few of the superstar actresses were wearing. Try not to drool on your keyboards, dolls. These gowns are that gorg…

Rachel McAdams in Marchesa. I’m hard pressed to come up with an actress I love more than the stunning Ms. Rachel McAdams. Talented, nice, fashionable… She’s the real deal! My favorite look of the whole Cannes week was Rache in this look from super-fab Marchesa. Oh, and if I love Rachel in terms of Hollywood, I love the Marchesa ladies in terms of Design Land. Their chiffon-y, lacy, frilly confections are always unimaginably pretty. The illusion fabric and red silk applique on this gown was to die for.

Salma Hayek in Gucci. Oh, how much I envy Salma’s curves! This body-skimming princess dress could give the newly-crowned Duchess Kate a run for her money. Gucci has been a standout design house as of recent seasons, and this gown proves why. The subtle glitter, the sweeping hemline, the form-fitting strapless bodice… all perfectly made. Why can’t I have a special event to attend where I can where this gown? Why can’t Gucci creative director Frida Giannini just gift me this gown? Oh, life’s injustices…

Uma Thurman in Versace. Eeek! OK, so let me tell you my obsessions with Uma’s Versace frock. 1) It’s white. White is white hot this season, and it’s effortlessly chic. It’s not fussy, but sophisticated and the color of summer; 2) The feathers of the dress are not too loud, but just perfect accents. This is how feathers should be worn, people. Simple and sweet. Take note; 3) The sweetheart neckline is a perfect way to soften the white gown. I know it sounds weird, but so much white can be severe. It can be blinding. This neckline, with the slit, shows enough skin to keep the dress looking fresh and; 4) Those turquoise drop earrings! Pops of color, friends. White and aqua? LOVE.

All right, your turn to spill. Which lovely lady’s dress were you flipping for at Cannes? Anybody’s that wasn’t mentioned here? Sound off and tell me who hit a style home run.

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Oh, the Met Gala. If I could pick just one event to attend solely for the fashion, I would be hard-pressed to choose between the Met Ball and the Oscars. But Met would probably win. Why? Because the fashion on this red carpet is so over-the-top, glam, straight-off-the-runway perfect, it’s phenomenal. Don’t get me wrong, the Academy Awards are fabulous, but the Met Ball is for sartorial royalty.

The stars at the 2011 Met Gala impressed on Monday, as they stepped out to honor the late Alexander McQueen’s legacy in fashion. But of course, some looked better than others… Here, I choose my favorites. Read about them, and then hop on over here to see all the photos from the evening.

Diane Kruger. Easily, my favorite of the evening. When I saw Diane’s look the first time, it was strutting down Jason Wu’s fall/winter 2011 runway on model Karlie Kloss. Here, I am just as obsessed with the sleek black maxi skirt and sparkly illusion top. As we speak: Still dying.

Blake Lively. The girl came on the arm of Karl Lagerfeld and wore Chanel. Need I say more? Not really… but I shall, darlings! The Grecian draping of the dress was styled in a really modern way, with her signature long curls looking fresh with the glittery accents on the bodice of the dress. Her look was so cutting edge I can hardly stand it.

Gisele. The supermodel came sporting her quarterback husband, Tom Brady, and a gorgeous crimson gown by Alexander McQueen. The simplicity of the look was great for Gisele, because she does not need a lot to stand out. Plus, red is the color for the upcoming fall season, so it was a little peek ahead.

Brooklyn Decker. Oh. My. Gosh! You see, Brooklyn’s Michael Kors gown is why I sometimes wish I had a model’s frame. Very few people can pull off a body-hugging, bright-pink, long-sleeve dress with a slit up to the top of the thigh (And okay, I swear the frock was totally classy). But a model can. Sadly, not for my body type. Regardless, I loved this look!

Eva Mendes. The actress stunned in Stella McCartney, and I was taking a few style notes from her for the season ahead. She rocked a floor-length frock with one-shoulder detailing in a rich, almost-electric blue. Two things: One-shoulder looks are winners for spring and summer, and make sure to pick up a piece in a super-bold hue. Style must-haves, ladies.

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I have to admit, I’m a little obsessed with the royal wedding. I know, I know. For shame…

Now, I really don’t think I’d ever want to be a princess. That whole invasion-of-privacy thing has never been a big dream of mine. (Well, okay. I’d take the princess title for a day. Just to wear the tiaras!) But I do adore Kate Middleton. Like Princess Di before her, it seems like she could totally be your best friend. And she’s also the first “commoner” to marry into the royal family in over 350 years. It’s nice to see how far we’ve all come in society… And oh, yeah! Finally, the gal has genuine class and a sophisticated style. Kate’s fashion for the big day is one of the major reasons I’m so excited to tune into the wedding.

What will I be looking out for style-wise this Friday when Kate weds Prince William? A few things:

1. Um, duh. Kate’s whole wedding look. Who is going to design the bride’s dress? I cannot wait to see it! My bet is on Alexander McQueen creative director Sarah Burton, but Sophie Cranston, Alice Temperley and Bruce Oldfield have all been thrown around. What we know for sure is this: Kate’s look will be pretty demure. Sleeves and a veil for Westminster Abbey are a must. Otherwise, it’ll be a royal scandal! (So, yeah. Not likely to see a strapless gown…)

2. I’m dying to see the hair. Everyone’s hair. It’s supposed to rain in London this Friday! (Really. Of all days.) What will the bridal party be doing with their hair? And Kate?! I have been predicting a half-up, half-down ‘do for the princess-to-be, but that may change if we’re talking humidity and winds. I can’t wait to see what hair stylists do to best combat the elements. Obviously, having a bad hair day is not an option.

3. The stylish stars will be out in full force, too. I cannot wait to see what the guests wear. It’s a lavish affair, so I hope they feel free to go over-the-top. David and Victoria Beckham are on the guest list, along with singer Joss Stone and director (and Madonna‘s ex) Guy Ritchie. I would look for all these cool kids to make a statement, especially Ms. Posh Spice herself. Oh, and another thing you may want to take note of? A whopping seven of William’s ex-girlfriends have been invited, and two of Kate’s former flames. Now, if I were attending the wedding of my ex, especially my royal ex, I would want to appear darn good. The eat-your-heart-out look is always in fashion.

What are you most excited to see fashion-wise at the royal wedding?

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