Contrast Pumps

Eva Longoria

Katie Holmes

Rachel Bilson (source)

Attention all recent bridesmaids: don't toss your dyeable satin pumps just yet! Contrast pumps are the hottest thing going right now in shoe wear trend. It seems that almost anything goes...I'm a big fan of yellow and red pumps with casual looks (like on Rachel Bilson) but the trend doesn't seem to end there.

This look works best if the materials match as well, like on Eva Longoria. Though most people wouldn't think to pair Eva's pastel yellow with grass green, because both her shoes and dress were shiny, this look works! I would have chosen a different colored clutch, but otherwise, Eva gets the thumbs up from me for this unconventional look.

Katie Holmes also manages to pull of the contrast shoe look with her red strapless ball gown and purple peep toe shoes. In fact, her royal hued peep toed shoes are really hot right now, and are a great purchase for anyone who wants to get a lot of mileage out of their trends. These shoes can easily be carried over into fall.

Try out the contrast shoe look for yourself with a pair of candy colored shoes you already have...you may find that a trend exists right in your own closet!

Summer Scarves, Yay or Nay?

Jennifer Aniston (source)

Sienna Miller (source)

While I'm sure that it is chilly in some parts of the world, here in the US, I am quite certain that winds aren't whipping through the Hollywood Hills. So what gives with the summer scarves?

When it is warm enough out to wear flip flops with a casual dress, you know that you can leave your scarf at home, right? Perhaps I am being too harsh...I remember in school how certain classrooms were always freezing, and though it was sweltering outside, I secretly wished that I had something to cover up in. Alas, my black cardigan in high school was not as cool as these fringy scarves.

So what do you think...are scarves in summer taboo, or oh so cool? After much deliberation, I must give them a thumbs up. Much more portable than a jacket (easily rolled up into an oversized purse), different and classy, I think that summer scarves are A-OK.

Sweet Sandals, Gladiator

Sienna Miller in silver Chanel gladiator sandals (source)

Hilary Swank (source)

Sick to death of flip flops and wedge heels? Lately, celebs have been crazy over gladiator sandals, and you should be too! Perfect when paired with a casual dress or shorts, gladiator sandals are a little more formal than sandals but just as comfortable.

The really cool thing about gladiator sandals is that they add a unique edge to your look. Hilary Swank's tribal-inspired tunic gets extra mileage when paired with her gladiator sandals and really accents her look. Sienna Miller also seems loves her silver Chanel sandals because I've seen her pictured in them more than once.

If you've been working out hard this summer and want to show off some toned legs, then this is definitely the look for you! However, if you are self conscious about your legs, then gladiator sandals may not be the best option, but you never know! Try a pair out for yourself for a different look before summer is over!

Strange Shoes

United Nude "Mobius" Pumps, $175 (source)

Forget espadrilles and six inch spike heels, the future in high heeled shoes is here! These super strange shoes from United Nude can be yours for $175. This style, called "Mobius" is one part fashion and one part art. But are they practical? Hardly.

What could you wear with a pair of shoes like this? The color alone is questionable...if they were red, or even yellow or white, then maybe I could do something with them. I just don't know...I guess that it might work with a black utility-type shirt dress with a belt....oh, it just seems to hard.

What do you think...are these shoes totally avant-garde and hot, or a total fashion not?

The Long Sun Dress...Yay or Nay?

Jessica Simpson in Vintage (source)

Jessica Simpson recently debuted her new clothing line decked out in this vintage caftan dress. It's not the first time I've seen this look, in fact, it's been haunting me wherever I go. Similar dresses have been staring me in the face on sale at the Gap and hanging on the racks at Target. I am strangely drawn to them, but for some reason, I always hesitate.

While these dresses are pretty, they remind me of the house coats that my grandmother used to wear. You know, those comfy floral numbers that are halfway between an apron and pajamas. I can't decide if these kind of dresses are casual formal wear, or just really long sun dresses.

So what do you think...is this a good look or not?

Liv's Look for Less!

Liv Tyler carrying a Louboutin Bag (source)

Liv Tyler was stunning this weekend as she stepped out in black flats, a dress, a blazer and black footless tights. But the standout piece of her look has to be her Louboutin bag. While I would love to snag one for myself, I simply can't afford its' designer price tag.

Luckily, Melie Bianco makes high quality bags in designer styles at a price tag that I can afford! This one isn't exactly like Liv's, but with a pair of flats and a dress, this bag completes my "Liv Tyler-inspired" look. Now only if I could look that good with blunt bangs...

Melie Bianco Braided Double Handled Bag, $59.99

Get Graphic

Paris Hilton in a "Paris" Graphic Tee (source)

Kate Bosworth (source)

Avril Lavigne (source)

Graphic symbols, circles and Andy Warhol-esque designs are all the rage right now in tees and tops. Celebs like Paris, Avril and Kate Bosworth have all been seen working this style which dresses up a casual look.

Whether paired with shorts and sandals or under a blazer with pants and heels, a unique graphic tee is a great wardrobe investment. Pick one with a "retro" design or style for a timeless look that will last you longer than a few seasons. Dress it up with large hoop earrings and an oversized tote or wear it around the house with lounge pants for a couture casual look.

We like these cute and comfy tees from Disney Couture featuring Thumper and Flower from the movie Bambi. Both fun and stylish, they are cute enough for your teenage sister and stylish enough for grown up weekend wear!

Thumper and Flower Graphic Disney Couture Tees, $34.99 and $39.99

Mad About Plaid

Ashley Olsen Re-styles 90's Grunge (source)

Cameron Diaz in a Plaid Newsboy Cap (source)

Plaid, plaid, plaid...everywhere you look, it's starting to re-emerge. Before you know it, there will be plaid mini skirts on Hollywood fashionista's this fall!

Ashley Olsen has been seen often in this, her favorite outfit, an oversized plaid shirt, skinny black jeans, oversized black bag and platforms. In all honesty, I hate this look. It isn't far removed from the way that I dressed in middle school. Remove the great bag and shoes and replace them with a scrunchy on her wrist and a pair of Reebok sneakers and THAT is the outfit that I wore in the 7th grade.

Cameron's hat, on the other hand, is something that I would wear right now. As usual, Cam shows us how its' done and give's an otherwise bland outfit a little sparkle with the right accessory. I love this hat, and if I looked good in hats, I would go out and get one right now.

However, if you are like me and don't look so great it hats, fear not, there are plenty other plaid options for you, sans grunge-esque button ups and plaid mini's. Check out this Burberry bag, on sale now at Distinction, or this Boyscout screened tee, priced right at under $20!

Burberry Candy Pink Nova Bag, was $425.00 now $349.99

Boyscout Plaid Tee, $19.99

Jennifer Garner's Red Carry-All Bag for Less!

Jennifer Garner (source)

Jennifer Garner knows that white carry all totes are SO two months ago...just kidding. White totes are still fun and fresh for summer, but if you are looking for something to carry you into the fall and winter months, now is the time to invest in another bag. If black or brown is too boring or basic for you, then try a lovely dark red tote instead.

What I love the most about this tote are the DETAILS...buckles, braided handles and multiple pockets make this bag truly unique. However, if you are looking for a super cute bag for hundreds less than Jenn's tote, check out this red carry all bag from Melie Bianco. A deep red color + details=1 hot bag for summer, fall and winter!

Melie Bianco "Mahala" style bag, $59.99

The Summer's Best Bathing Suits, Celeb Style

We are officially midway through the summer, but our swimsuit days aren't quite behind us yet. Check out these celebs for some of the best bathing suit looks on the beach!

Paris Hilton (source)

Oh Paris...not even a month in lockup can stop you! Whether you are sick of hearing about the infamous Miss. Hilton or not, you can't deny that this bathing suit rocks. Practical? Heavens no, the poor lamb is going to have crochet tan lines on her belly. Practical or not, this is my favorite swim suit of the season.

Lindsay Lohan (source)

Linds, sobriety becomes you! A healthy and happy looking Lohan spent her 21st birthday on the beach with friends...and with a cute bikini! Nautical bottoms + a solid top=one fabulous, fun and fashionable beach look.

Beyonce (source)

Beyonce proves that once again, yellow is THE color for this summer. Not only does this suit pop against her gorgeous skin tone, but is also a really fun look. Paired with big hoops, this is a winning look for a day out at sea. And then, there's this one...

Eva Longoria (source)

I'm not so sure of what to think of Eva's suit here. One part of me goes "ooh, that's so couture." And another part of me thinks that she is going to regret the funky tan lines it will leave for her wedding this weekend. There is no doubt that Eva's perfect figure helps her to pull off this look, but something tells me it's just a little impractical for frequent swim wear.

I hope that this little preview of celeb swim wear has given you some ideas of how to punch up your beach look. Recycle an old top from last season and pair it with a yellow or nautical striped bottom or add some crochet to your look...anything goes, and it's easier that you think to make your own unique seaside look.

Seeing Spots

Liv Tyler

Hilary Duff (source)

Stars like Liv Tyler and Hilary Duff are embracing their spotty selves this summer, and we can't say we blame them! Polka dots and dotted accents are super cute, and seem to give a retro spin to whatever you are wearing. There is something about polka dot patterns that is just SO 1950's!

However, a dotted dress or over the top dotted accents may not be for everyone, but that doesn't mean that you have to be left out of this look! Try a pair of polka dotted espadrilles with jeans and a white tee, a pair of polka dotted sunglasses or a scarf for a nice touch.

Even better? Try one of these cute polka dotted bags from Melie Bianco...also available in red and black, this is such a cute accent bag with loads of style at a working girls' budget.

Melie Bianco Polka Dot Satche in Navy, $59.99

Here Comes the White...White Dresses for Summer

Rihanna

Nicky Hilton

Claire Danes

Mischa Barton (source)

Want an easy way to get instantly on trend this summer? Then a white dress is the way to go! As long as you aren't going to a wedding, a white dress is perfect for almost any occasion. Whether you have a really formal event or just a family barbecue, a white dress will look cool and fresh (and will really play up your summer tan!).

One of the best things about white is that it is easy to accessorize with. Metallic shoes, bags and jewelry are big this summer with white, but primary colors, in moderation, will work as well. White on white is also really hot, with celebs opting for large white bags to match their white frocks.

If you are looking for the ultimate white carryall bag to go with your white summer sun dress or formal dress, then check out this bag from Melie Bianco. Also great with jeans and a tee, it is the perfect compliment to an ultra feminine look.

Melie Bianco White Bow Bag $54.99