I don't think there's any celebrity who has cleaned up better than Nicole Richie. Remember The Simple Life? (I watched every single episode.) She was a riot, and a bit of a liability. Since then, she has pulled herself together nicely and transformed into a fabulous designer, not to mention an even more fabulous mom. After creating her jewelry line, House of Harlow 1960, named after her daughter, Richie also developed a chic maternity line and a shoe collection--all of which are affordable to non-celebs!

With such a busy life, and now, with two kids in tow, Richie manages to balance it all while staying in style. Her wardrobe staples and go-to pieces are practical, easy and gorgeous. From maxi dresses to oversized cardigans, from fitted blazers to flat leather boots, moms and non-moms can learn a style lesson or two from her.

Shop her jewelry line now at Bebe.com. Pieces start at $38.

--Venus Tsang

I don't know about you, but I'm super excited to see Sex and The City 2, especially because my daily dose of Samantha and Charlotte (my favorites) has been reduced to watching SATC reruns on TBS...

As I wait patiently for the movie to come out, I'll make due with this gorgeous photo taken of Kim Cattral and Miley Cyrus filming a red carpet scene in New York City. They were wearing identical dresses--how cute?! But each star accessorized their ensembles differently.

So who wore it better? I'm a little afraid of Miley's killer choker and dominatrix gloves. However, I love Kim's statement necklace (right). While it's a little much with her dress and belt, I feel like I could wear it with a white tee, jeans and a cardigan--it would look amazing.

I don't know where hers is from, but I found a similar piece at ShopTheLook.net for just $24! It's a similar color and baubles, and I can't wait to get my hands on it to spice up my wardrobe.

--Venus Tsang

Okay, I'll admit it -- I like Olivia Palermo. And despite MTV's best efforts to make her seem like the Wicked Witch of the (Upper) East compared to Gilda-esque Whitney, she's become a real-life Blair Waldorf, the high-society queen bee whom you end up rooting for in the end. Plus, she always looks fiercely flawless, even during this season's turf wars with Elle's PR director. So how does she do it? I got the scoop from The City's uptown girl on fall fashion, her to-die-for skin and, of course, the show:

What are your must-have items for fall?
Roberta Freymann's statement necklaces, designer Brian Reyes' gorgeous jewelry collection, Chloe's Gemma bag and Topshop's grey lace-up booties (pictured).

What makeup products can't you live without?
I can't give away all my secrets, but I am a huge fan of Guerlain and YSL products.

Do you shop online? What are some of your fave shopping and fashion sites?
I do buy some things online, mostly shoes because I know they'll fit. But there are so many great fashion sites out there -- WhoWhatWear.com, Style.com, WWD.com, Grazia.Daily.co.uk.

In one episode, we saw you shopping on Canal Street. Do you shop for bargains?
I always love a bargain, but I think it's easier to find a deal in a situation where you can negotiate prices. I've found great pieces at antique markets, flea markets or road shows.

Do you have any fashion regrets? Anything you've bought that you'll never wear?
I always try to buy things that I know will work with what I have in my closet, or something that I know I'll grow into.

Do you think you're portrayed accurately on the show?
I think that what you see of me on the show is a very small aspect of my life on the whole -- you only see me in a very limited capacity at work. I don't think that anyone can really get a true sense of what I'm like as a person by watching those few minutes I have on screen each week. And, of course, it's entertainment television, so things tend to get played up and dramatized. I don't think anyone really has that much drama in their everyday life!

Do you ever cringe, laugh or cry when you see yourself on the show?
I do cringe occasionally when I see something on screen that didn't play out quite the same way in real life, but it's a half-hour show and I realize there's not room for everything to make the final edit. The editing can get frustrating sometimes, but at the end of the day it's all for the sake of entertaining our viewers.

Are you friends with Whitney? Do you hang out with her?
Whitney and I don't really get the opportunity to hang out much. We're both so busy with work and filming, and then trying to catch up with our regular lives. But when we do see each other we are absolutely friendly. I enjoy running into her and catching up on how she's been.

--Michele Laufik

"Every man wants to be Don Draper and every woman wants to be with him," says Michele Laufik, iVillage producer and fan of AMC's Mad Men. If you want to live like a Mad woman, it's easy with some classic '60s lifestyle advice.

For one, you can bring back cocktail hour--here are recipes for a Tom Collins and an old-fashioned cocktail. You can also wear red lipstick, which is very old-Hollywood chic, yet so hot right now. And what goes better with crimson lips than a Mad woman body a la Betty Draper (who's played by January Jones)? "She was told by producers to gain weight... because they want a soft, voluptuous woman," adds Laufik.

Need some fabulous dresses to go with your curvy Mad woman body? We hunted and discovered affordable Mad Men style a la Shabby Apple's Manhattan collection...

From left:

Upper East Side: bright blue dress with pleats on skirt ($72 at ShabbyApple.com)

Washington Square Park: plain cranberry dress with pleats on skirt ($72 at ShabbyApple.com)

Fifth Avenue: brown and white giraffe print skirt and white shirt ($82 at ShabbyApple.com)

--Ysolt

In the November issue of Elle, five of Hollywood's leading ladies talk about their favorite fashion designers, preferred roles in movies, and Hollywood stereotypes. Although the actresses are all across the map, play decidedly different characters, and lead separate lives, one thing they share in common is a departure from the mainstream Hollywood image. Each is a beautiful, strong woman, but in her own unique way. From big screen siren to paparazzi-magnet to under the radar star, here are some telling sound bites from Hollywood leading ladies Katie Holmes, Julianne Moore, Emily Blunt, Zoe Saldana and Renee Zellweger.

Katie Holmes on fashion
"I love Alaia, for sure. Stella McCartney. I like Ralph Lauren because I feel like it's very American, and I'm pretty all-American, from Ohio. Isabel Marant and a new designer, Sari Gueron..."

Julianne Moore on types of characters she is drawn to
"I think my connection to acting has been through reading. I'm interested in scripts. People ask me, 'What role are you dying to play?' It's really: What story do I want to be in?"

Emily Blunt on adjusting to life in Hollywood since moving from the UK
"I feel the fear of the business creep under my skin in Los Angeles in a way that it doesn't in England. It's funny--I feel like beauty is in the eye of the beholder, unless you're in Hollywood! It's shameful how you have to look a certain way. Women are simply not allowed to grow old gracefully. That's why I love playing character parts, because I'm not pigeonholed into trying to remain young forever to play the ingénue or romantic lead."

Zoe Saldana on being known as a beautiful Hollywood actress
"It's sexy to know that guys find you attractive. It's empowering."

Renee Zellweger on whether a successful movie career requires sacrificing your personal life
"A friend of mine couldn't decide between moving to New York or staying in Los Angeles., and another friend said, 'Do everything!' I thought, That's it, do everything."

I don't know about you, but I come away feeling inspired by these ambitious, assertive women, and have so much respect for Emily Blunt, who I always loved but now feel I know better!

To see the rest of Elle's "Women In Hollywood" covers, visit Elle.com.

--Venus Tsang

I recently became obsessed with Giuliana & Bill on the Style network. The two of them are just so darn cute together. And, uhhh, can I get Giuliana Rancic's wardrobe, please? The E! News anchor and managing editor has the chicest dresses, most adorable minis and even her daytime denims and tops are fab.

I caught up with Giuliana last week, and I just had to pick her style brain! What I learned? Yes, she has a stylist. His name is Jose Camilo, and he styles her for E! News. As for her regular life, she's a total shopper and--without question--a fashion maven. She even shops for hubby Bill Rancic. "I love to put him in collared shirts with sweaters on top and nice jeans," she explains. "He looks really great in European designs, so I tend to shop at nicer places for him."

As for her own style, here are the deets...

What's in your makeup bag?

I always have my Lorac Blush/Bronzer Duo (in hot & spicy) for a nice glow, M.A.C. Lipglass (in florabundance) with M.A.C. Honey B Lip Liner, and my ChapStick Fresh Effects (in green tea mint) for my lips. I love the tingle it gives me while it moisturizes my lips. I can't have chapped lips on the red carpet when I'm standing six inches away from celebs. First, I line my lips, then apply ChapStick as a base before my MAC Lipglass. It creates a flawless lip and lasts longer.

What are your fall must-haves?

I just bought a few men's blazers in black and navy blue by MM Couture--very affordable and super-stylish. I've been wearing them with simple neon or bright T-shirts over super-tight LNA stretch pants and my new black, above-the-knee Balenciaga leather boots. They're the equestrian style with four-inch heels-very fitted at the leg and tall. So hot!!! I just got two tight leather motorcycle jackets--one in black and one in turquoise from Secret Circus of London. Love!

What's a major fashion "do" for women?

Every woman needs a few pairs of really high wedge-heel shoes. I hate flats and live in heels, so wedges are great because they're the most comfortable heels to wear. They make every outfit look hotter!

Where do you shop?

I love H&M. These days, the affordable stores are coming out with amazing clothes, so you don't have to spend your entire paycheck on your next outfit. I tend to buy trendier items from stores like H&M and Forever 21, and more classic pieces from Bloomingdale's and Neiman Marcus.

What does beauty mean to you?

Beauty means confidence to me. When I feel healthy, confident and secure... I feel beautiful.

Such great fashion and beauty advice from Giuliana, right?! Love her! Tell me whose style you're loving these days! Maybe I'll have an opportunity to pick their fashion/beauty brains soon, and share them with ya!

--Ysolt

Celebrities are creating fragrant concoctions left and right. From Jennifer Hudson to Britney Spears, their perfumes are becoming hits among fans and women who just like to smell pretty (like me, for instance--I've been wearing Britney Spears' Fantasy for years and I always get compliments on the scent).

Country singer Faith Hill is following suit. Enter, Faith Hill Parfums. iVillage caught up with the star and asked her what inspired her to create this fragrance. She says she just went for what she loves, and made something she'd wear herself. And for a woman who has worn only two fragrances for the last six years, you know you're in good hads. "I'm pretty picky," she points out.

Her sparkling floral bouquet fragrance also has hints of crisp pear, refreshing neroli and lush pink peony. And if that's not enough to soothe your senses, you'll also get a whiff of jasmine, magnolia and gardenia--so girly, so elegant! "I usually prefer just a lotion or a soap something that can last throughout the day, so it was important that my perfume was not repelling. There's a few flowers that I really, really love, like the southern magnolia and peony. Southern magnolias--if you've never smelled one--they're the most intoxicating flower you will ever smell and I grew up around those," explains Hill. "They are so fragrant and beautiful. If you're in a yard running around and you run past one, it stops you in your tracks and you go, 'What is that smell?'"

Interested in smelling like Faith Hill? Visit your local CVS, JCPenney or Target (just to name a few) to get a bottle. They run $17-$31 (depending on size). For more info or to find more stores that sell the scent, surf FaithHillFragrances.com.

--Ysolt

Fashion gurus from Women's Wear Daily said the collection, which debuted at Paris Fashion Week on October 4--created by one Miss Lindsay Lohan and Spanish designer Estrella Archs--was an embarrassment. Yikes! Was it that bad?

"As for the clothes, they looked cheesy and dated, as has often been the case chez Ungaro during the post-Emanuel revolving door of designers. Hot pink, orange and flashy, with an overworked heart motif relentless in its execution, the collection displayed none of the promised younger side Lohan was supposed to deliver. Nor in a million years would one guess that the lineup was designed by one young woman and 'creative directed' by another. Glitter heart pasties all around, ladies?" --WWD

I have a confession: Gwen Stefani is responsible for my accessorizing skills. From stacking bangles to sporting neon, I've been a fan of the rock star's style since I first saw No Doubt's "Just a Girl" music video on MTV in 1995. I was only 15 then (do the math), and I even highlighted my hair hot pink three years later. Luckily, I was in college and rocked a more punk-ish style. Fast forward 10 years later and she's still as fabulous as can be, and has thankfully upgraded her style with a chic approach--which, of course, I admire and follow.

Today, the super-stylish mom/rock star/fashion designer/style icon turns 40! Happy birthday, Gwen! Thanks for your style inspiration and fashion contributions--from the introduction of L.A.M.B. to your trendsetting ways to your use of accessories that have schooled me since I was a teen.

Here are some finds that are Gwen-inspired (on the cheaper side):

• Triangle Lock Clutch Bag ($65 at Topshop.com)
• Blu Bijoux Mixed Metal Stackable Bangles ($40 at MaxandChloe.com)
• Rampage Victory Patent Pump ($49.95 at Endless.com)
• Plaid Ruffle Scarf ($19.50 at ArdenB.com)

--Ysolt

Stars dazzled on the red carpet at last night's Emmys. The main trends we saw: draped-and-gathered dresses, tiered chiffons and lots of purple. And oddly enough, there weren't that many fashion faux pas. There were a handful of looks we were semi-iffy about, but even those gowns weren't that bad. Only one made us cringe: an Obama dress long after the prez's campaign. However, I absolutely adored the dresses on Chloe Sevigny, Blake Lively and Lindsay Price. Want to know who else made the cut? Check out the Best and Worst Dressed at the Emmys gallery! Don't forget to chime in and tell us who you thought looked fab (and who you thought looked not-so-fab)!

--Ysolt

All I can say is, I'm so excited to see Victoria Beckham on the cover of Elle magazine. The ever-illusive fashion icon has such a presence (especially now that she lives in the states), yet nothing is really ever said about her beauty, at least not beyond the fact that she looks killer with her sexy husband David in those racy undie ads. I mean, between the time that Spice World came out (ahem, 12 years ago, hello!) and the magazine's brilliant interview this October, when have we ever had real quotes from the grown-up Posh Spice?

Right. So, here are some of our favorite bits from Victoria's Elle interview.

On adjusting to life in America: "You know, I love America. It's such a positive country. When people say to me, 'How long did it take for you to adjust? Poor you, it must've been really difficult'--poor me? I'm living in Beverly Hills. I'm very, very lucky. I wake up every morning and I recognize that I'm blessed."

On her ever changing personal style: "There are celebrities who always look great, always look pretty, but it's always the same hair, the same makeup, and I find that quite boring. I want to change it up, do something really creative. I think that might be why women like me."

On being perceived as a cold person: "People think I'm a moody bitch. I do have my insecurities. Maybe that is why I look a little bit serious. The kind of person who's going to stand on the red carpet and love the attention and have the big grin--I'm just not like that. I want to get in there, do what I've got to do, and get home to my kids."

On raising her children: "[They] bloody well will work. Same as myself, same as David. They're not going to be the kind of kids that just hang about. I want them to be able to fulfill their passions, but I think it's important that the children grow up and have respect for themselves."

Truth be told, Victoria kind of sounds like one of us--with the minor exception of her fame and serious style (plus, she's added clothing designer to her long list of achievements). She's a woman who cares about her family and doesn't want her kids to grow up spoiled, she won't lay it all on the line for the silly paparazzi (even if it means being perceived as a "moody bitch"), and for the fashionistas, she looks incredible in this season's best prints.

--Venus Tsang

Okay, fashion mavens. LC by Lauren Conrad has finally arrived at Kohl's. Are you as excited as Lauren? I like budget style as much as anyone, but I'm going to have to wait and see what the pieces look like in person. The clothes seem cute on the video, so I'm hoping that translates into real life. I took a gander online and saw a really cute Watercolor Dolman Top for $34 and a chic Brushstroke Sheath Dress for $50. I'll have to pay a visit to my local Kohl's this weekend to try them on before I make a purchase. Will keep you posted!

Have you checked it out yet? What'd you think? Tell us!

--Ysolt

The breakup hair has finally happened. Kate Gosselin rocked a new 'do while co-hosting The View this morning, and I must say, she looked absolutely fabulous. Even better, she handled herself sooo well when asked about her marriage and Jon (who, by the way, recently said he despises her). So classy! (If anyone wants to challenge me on that thought, bring it!)

Even if you're not a fan of the mom of 8, you can't deny the fab asymmetrical bob. I'm sure some of you are just dying to rock it, too, so we asked Ellin LaVar, who's transformed the locks of major celebs, like Whitney Houston, Iman and Oprah, to give us the hair how-to:

Step 1: Use a dab of LiquidGlass ($7.79 at CVS.com) for gloss. Apply while wet to get the wavy effect.

Step 2: Use a round brush on your hair in the direction of your face. Then, direct hair away from your face using your fingers as a comb.

Step 3: Apply a little more LiquidGlass for definition.

Step 4: Top off your style with NaturalControl flexible hold spray ($7.79 at CVS.com).

Your 'do should last the entire day, says LaVar. Happy styling, ladies!

--Ysolt

And by "it," I mean starting their own fashion lines. From Lauren Conrad to the ladies of The Real Housewives of Atlanta (ahem, Lisa and Sheree), it's only natural that actress Julia Stiles get a taste of the action.

Okay, well not really... But, this mockery sure is funny!



--Ysolt

Three previously dark-haired Ks recently went blonde: Kim Kardashain, Katharine McPhee and Kat Von D. The style world is all astir! Did these dark-haired lovelies ruin their hair? I don't think so. I, too, have gone blonde and plan to never go back black.

Overall, the ladies pulled off the look, says Laurent Dufourg, celebrity stylist and owner of Prive Salon. He prefers Kim as a brunette, but thinks she looks really good as a blonde. He believes Katharine's new edgy style is totally working for her. And as for Kat Von D, the celebrity hair guru prefers her as a brunette also--it makes her stand out more. What do you think of these transformations?

The newly single reality star showed off her blonde highlights at the Teen Choice Awards. (Can you say breakover?!) Many thought she was sporting a wig, but Kim Kardashian blogged that it's real! Her glam guru, Clyde Haygood was behind the transformation.

Katharine McPhee lightened her locks for her next album cover (Unbroken in stores October 6). The singer says she's never dyed her hair before so this was a drastic change! Katharine says the change has encouraged her to try more daring fashion, too--fabulous! Maybe that'll inspire some of you hair-dye virgins to take a leap in edgy style?

As drastic as it is, Kat Von D's hair makeover doesn't come as a surprise to us at all. The LA Ink star has been known to take plenty of chances when it comes to style. We kind of like it, but many fans are coming out in pure hatred of it, saying "the base color on her face is doing nothing for her."

Are you planning to follow in these stars' footsteps and go blonde? Be careful! Laurent says going from brunette to blonde is a hardcore project. "Not only is there the process of stripping the hair without damaging [it]--it will turn red first--you have to try and get the red out before going [light]," he explains. "[There's] heavy maintenance involved dying the roots every two weeks, as well."

Before you jump into a pool of hair dye, try light locks on your face using Makeover-o-Matic, a virtual hairstyling tool. Or, ask the iVillage community for advice on our "Get Great Hair" Message Board. Make sure the hair revamp is worth all the trouble!

 

--Ysolt

It seems that the style-fiending nation has gone a little insane. That's right. I said it. Some of you are crazy! After First Lady Michelle Obama rocked a pair of shorts yesterday, fashionistas and non-fashionistas alike have come out in opposition. Some say that the first lady shouldn't wear shorts at all. Others claim that they can see cellulite! I mean, really, guys? Is this the worst thing we've seen?

Plus, let's just put things in perspective here--she wore these now-infamous shorts on a day trip to the Grand Canyon with her daughters, who were also in shorts. What else should Mrs. O have worn? Obviously, not an Isaac Mizrahi dress or a Michael Kors two-piece ensemble! And, it's really hot over there. If she had worn pants, she would've been way too hot.

So, come on! Give the first lady a pass on this one. She can't be the style icon we've regarded her as everyday. Style mavens are allowed to have casual days, too. Michelle Obama--she's just like us. She puts her pants on one leg at a time. She has the right to be comfortable and weather-appropriate. And when on a Grand Canyon excursion, a pair of shorts is really the only option. Wouldn't you agree?

UPDATE: Commenters, ask and ye shall receive. Here are some of the comments made in the media about the first lady's shorts.

--Ysolt

 

 

Ever since accepting her infamous overnight celebrity, Susan Boyle has been flooded with praise and pleas alike from fans begging her to ditch the drab and find a style that matches her beautiful voice and even sweeter personality. And while the limelight may be new for her, she's certainly opened up to her rock star status and shed a little of the "cat lady" persona with various makeovers.

She's been flaunting some frump-free outfits, a bangin' new dye job and, in the September issue of Harper's Bazaar, she's all dolled up in designer duds and killer heels. But she does have a limit—though she'll indulge in a new dress or eye shadow here and there, she's not in the market for an image overhaul just yet, if ever.

No, instead of giving in to Botox and the raw food movement, Susan Boyle is perfectly content with being "short and plump...[and] looking like Susan Boyle," she says. So she'll continue working that crazy-amazing voice she's got with nothing but a snazzier wardrobe and the same down-to-earth attitude that she won't let get infected by the Hollywood bug. I think I just fell in love with her all over again.

See our style suggestions for Susan, and tell us what you think of Susan's "new" new look in the comments below.

—Remy Braun

I've always been a supporter of nippies. Let me clarify. I've always been a supporter of nude nippies--the kind that you can't see, whose sole purpose is to keep you covered, whether you're wearing a sheer top, white shirt, or strapless dress.

Rihanna, on the other hand, is clearly a supporter of nippies--the kind whose purpose is to be shown off, whether it's with pink sparkly stars under a sheer black top or shiny silver ones on a bare chest under a blazer.

Bristols6, the brand that makes these sparkly, shiny nippies, describes its product as a "patch of freedom," whose qualities are "something fun, something funky, [and] something a little sexy."

To be totally honest, I wouldn't necessarily say that these pink nippies are a fashion faux-pas on the part of Rihanna. Gasp! But maybe it's because I've seen her wear everything from cut-out thigh highs to a sexy dominatrix cat-woman suit onstage.

But if you're not going to get recognized when you're walking down the street in your nippies (and that's 99.7% of us), then you'd better not go anywhere near these sparkly stars, hearts, butterflies or x's... Unless you want people to think you're a porn star.

--Venus

I have to confess--my high school boyfriend and I used to match outfits ... on purpose. Although that was 13 years ago, I'm not proud of it. It was mega-cheese-y of us.

From time to time, I've caught my parents sporting matching polo shirts and color schemes, too. They say they don't plan it, but one's gotta wonder. Is the mirror-imaging really just a mere coincidence? Or, is it a couple's way of making the whole world jealous of their perfect love affair? "We're so insync/in love that we dress the same."

The most recent display of the debatable fashion faux pas: Michelle and Barack, who both sported blocks of black, white and scarlet red at a reception for foreign ambassadors that they hosted at the White House. Mrs. O looked stunning in the Jason Wu sheath with embroidered bodice and chiffon cummerbund.

Now, I doubt the first couple turned to each other that morning and discussed what they were going to wear. I'm boiling these matching ensembles down to coincidence. And I must say, as cheese-y as my high school sweetheart and I were in dressing identical (retro barf!), when unplanned, it's actually super-cute!

As for those who match on purpose: Please stop. Isn't PDA enough?

--Ysolt

Great news for Madonna fans! Whether or not you've got tickets to her Sticky and Sweet concert this year, you can still take part in the festivities by trying a new, custom created diamond eye shadow, made just for the popstar by shu uemura.

Inspired by Madonna's hit song "Ray of Light", shu uemura's Artistic Director Gina Brooke transforms Madonna's eyes nightly by applying a mixture of crushed, small flawless diamonds and white eye shadow to her lids. This gives her eyes a bright glow that helps captivate the audience when she's on tour.

But this sparkling look isn't just for the stage. Using shu uemura's own shade, "ME White 906", anyone can achieve the soft, light-reflecting, diamond-like effect.

"A little sheen helps enhance the eyes and gives an instantly younger appearance," said Brooke. "Madonna is always up for trying new things and I think all women should feel comfortable experimenting and enhancing their beauty--on stage or off."

If you'd like to get Madge's look, The shimmery, ethereal eye shadow is $20 at ShuUemura.com

Even though it's easy for our first lady to bedazzle us with her elegant fashion choices, most of them being dresses, skirts, and incredible accessories, we should remember a few things.

A) only wearing skirts is totally impractical,
B) she's still a mom that runs around with her adorable kids, and
C) she's just like us!

So what is Michelle Obama's go-to solution for the summer days when a pretty dress just won't cut it? Capri pants! More demure than shorts, but less stifling than trousers, Mrs. Obama has amassed quite a collection of cropped pants for every occasion, whether it's a gardening party, public speaking, or fancy dinner. Sure, some are professional chic and some are mom-ish, but I say hats off to our first lady for being a real woman--I approve of the capris!

What do you think? Is Mrs. Obama a fashion icon because of her cropped pants or despite them?

--Venus

Michelle Obama's new 'do at last week's "A Country Music Celebration" is all the rage. Did she cut it? Did she tuck it back? Who cares?! It's too cute for words. We did some research and found out that the first lady's new hairstyle is just trickery at its best. Mrs. O's hair is still the shoulder bob we're familiar with under this style.

Want to get the look? Follow these steps:

Step 1: Apply Soft & Beautiful StyleProtect Spritz on wet hair from roots to ends. Blow dry hair with a medium-sized round brush, to create volume and lift.

Step 2: Gather hair in a loose pony at the nape and tuck under, pinning with bobby pins as you go.

Step 3: Finish with Soft & Beautiful Oil Sheen Spray to leave hair looking healthy and vibrant!

--Ysolt

Last week, Whitney Port was making waves in Miami during Miami Fashion Week, and we tracked down the awesome bikini she's wearing. Exquisitely crafted by New York based designer Brette Sandler, the "Penny" suit features a cute pattern and a flirty silhouette.

Other celebrities like Heidi Klum and Lo Bosworth have also been spotted in Sandler's designs, which are not only creative and cute but also great investments that will last for summers to come.

The Penny Ruched Bandeau Bikini is on sale for $115.50 at Shopbop.com, and the complete collection can be found at BretteSandler.net!

--Venus

Last week, we made a crack at Barack Obama's choice of jeans for the first pitch he threw at the All-Star Game, suggesting that he should leave those short, baggy ones at home and step out in a more stylish, slimmer pair. And we weren't the only ones to notice.

So with Mr. President on the Today show yesterday morning, Meredith Vieira prodded him about the jeans in question. She said, "You are married to one of the most fashionable women in the world -- do you want to defend the pants?"

And President Obama responded, "No. Here's my attitude. Michelle--she looks fabulous. I'm a little frumpy. Basically, up until a few years ago, I only had four suits. She used to tease me 'cause they'd get really shiny. I hate to shop. Those jeans are comfortable, and for those of you who want your president to look great in his tight jeans, I'm sorry--I'm not the guy."

Well, we guess that maybe we should lay off the man with so many other responsibilities in his hands... But then again, Obama said it himself, we would love for our president to look great in his tight jeans!

--Venus

Whether we like her chart-topping, flirty pop tunes or not, it's undeniable that Katy Perry is one of the It Girls, although, according to her album title, she's just "one of the boys." Despite this statement, Perry is a girly-girl at heart, with a fondness for her cat--Kitty Purry--and a wardrobe full of colorful, cute, and edgy pieces.

People reported that during an interview with British Vogue, Perry revealed her daily routine and her beauty must-haves. Et voila, behold the secret to fresh-faced, pin-up worthy style.

"My must-haves are Secret Camouflage by Laura Mercier as it covers any spot without looking cakey. Johnson & Johnson's Green Tea lotion smells fresh and zen, and eye drops always help me look awake and fresh, even when I'm jetlagged and sleepy. I swear by L'Oreal Professional Color Shampoo and Conditioner as I've had a color every month since I was 15, and it helps my hair feel fresh and new, like it's just been cut. I've religiously used Kate Somerville products on my face for the past 6 months, and [I love] Flowerbomb by Viktor & Rolf because it's sweet and sexy, and not too intense."

Well, she doesn't sound like just "one of the boys" to us!

--Venus

New mom Jessica Alba has recently been spotted out and about wearing her peacock feather headband a few times, once while going to a restaurant in Los Angeles with her daughter Honor Marie (pictured).

It's no secret that Mrs. Obama is a fashion icon. No first lady has had such a powerful presence in fashion since Jackie O, as both have seriously turned the tides on boring presidential attire. And by now, we're all as familiar with Michelle Obama's love for wide belts and gorgeous brooches as we are with Jackie O's trademark sunglasses.

But now, our knowledge of MObama's fashion life expands beyond her (amazing) closet. July's Washingtonian revealed the preferred scent of the First Lady: Love in White by Creed!

Made with quality ingredients from across the world, specifically orange zest from Spain, rice husk from Tonkin, white jasmine from Italy, daffodils from France, magnolia from Guatamela, Bulgarian rose, and sandalwood from India, this fragrance sure sounds worthy of our First Lady.

Interestingly enough, the perfume itself also has a presidential history. The first bottle of Love in White ever made by the French luxury brand Creed was given to then first lady Laura Bush in 2005, on the night of the fragrance's debut.

For a whiff of the presidential perfume, or to get your own, each 2.5 ounce bottle is $230 at NeimanMarcus.com.

--Venus

In season three of "The Secret Life of the American Teenager," Shailene Woodley's character Amy has had her baby, shifting the show's focus from pregnancy towards young motherhood. But while Shailene supports awareness and encourages conversation about handling teen pregnancy, she isn't planning on starting a family herself in the near future.

To promote the new season of the show, she looked bright and youthful as she donned a pair of Keds Classic Champions and smiled for pictures.

The Keds, a budget-friendly and casual-chic option, are favored among celebrities and only cost $35!

We'll wear them to pieces, and they'll only look better and better as they get broken in.

--Venus

Danielle Deleasa, the new fiance of Kevin Jonas, is a lucky girl. Last week, the oldest Jonas brother surprised his long-time girlfriend by showing up at her door, on his knees and with a one-of-a-kind Jacob & Co ring in his hand.

Needless to say, she accepted!

We bet that she is not only ecstatic about Kevin's ultimate declaration of love, but also about the proof of his love--the stunning, platinum-crafted, cushion-cut 3.72 carat diamond ring--uniquely created just for her.

All we can say is that hopefully we'll be just as lucky someday.

--Venus

These days, Reese Witherspoon has been looking happier and healthier than ever! But, with beautiful children, an adorable boyfriend (Jake Gylenhaal), and lots of movies to film, I'd probably be just as gorgeous. (Right?)

Here she is in early June, strolling in Los Angeles, CA.  Reese balances out a cute, printed sun dress with black accessories like a pair of black flats and a stylish black fedora.  And this is our take on getting Reese's style for less!

• Printed sun dress ($14.99 from Forever21.com)

• Black ballet flats ($14.99 at OldNavy.com)

• Black clutch, ($20 from UrbanOutfitters.com)

• Black fedora ($24 from ArdenB.com)

• Black sunglasses ($5.80 from Forever21.com)

• Gold heart necklace ($3.80 from Forever21.com)