Pop Culture Paradox

Breaking News!

2010-05-04T14:34:00.002-04:00

It's been awhile PCP readers. We know. We've been delinquent, and we're sorry. Hugs to all of our dear readers.

While we determine how to revamp PCP into the blog of our dreams, check out my new fashion-only blog, Who I'm Wearing. I promise you'll love it.

-M

Things we love. Wednesday edition.

2010-03-10T16:31:00.003-05:00

(image courtesy of styletips101.com)

Sunnies – Oversized. Wayfarer. Aviator. Sunny days like today usher in sunglass inspiration. Time to pick up a new pair for this season!

Modern Family – Tonight. ABC. 9pm. The best comedy on television. Here’s to hoping that Cam & Mitchell dress Lily up for St. Patrick’s Day (fingers crossed).

Madonna – Because she’s designing a clothing line, inspired by her daughter Lourdes. Love.

Movie screenings – Best friend and I are off to see a screening of She’s Out Of My League. Appropriate movie choice, because it’s our favorite thing to tell boys. Kidding.

And one thing that we definitely don’t love today – the need to double check the authenticity of designer merchandise from a certain retailer. Um, what's the opposite of fabulous?

-M

Things we love. Tuesday edition.

2010-03-09T15:31:00.000-05:00

(image courtesy of http://findheman.wordpress.com)

Diversity on the runways – Fellow designers, take a cue from Diane von Furstenberg.

Froyo – Of the Pinkberry kind. Temperatures in Boston finally rose above freezing, which means dinners of tart frozen yogurt are in the near future.

Alexander McQueen’s final collection – Amazing use of color, geometric shape and design. R.I.P.

Last night’s Gossip Girl – And today’s recap courtesy of NYMag.com.

-M

File > new playlist

2010-03-09T15:27:00.001-05:00

(image courtesy of unwiredview.com)

Springtime ushers in flowers, blue skies, and new playlists. Enjoy!

Trina & Keri Hilson – Million Dollar Girl

Vita Chambers – Young Money

Jason DeRulo – In My Head

Stokes & Baby Bash – All The Bad Girls

Justin Bieber & Ludacris – Baby

Ke$ha – Your Love Is My Drug

The White Tie Affair – If I Fall (Demo Version)

Rihanna – Rude Boy

Leighton Meester – Your Love’s A Drug

As always, iTunes (and other legal download sites) are your friend. Happy (legal) downloading!

-M

things we love. gossip girl monday edition.

2010-03-08T19:46:00.002-05:00

(image courtesy of gossipgirlinsider.com)

The night is here. After three long months without my guilty pleasure, it's back. As an ode to it's return, I dedicate my favorite things to the best. show. ever.

Headbands - They're as appropriate for young professionals as they are for 12-year-olds. A proper way to style hair, keep it down, and controlled. Blair Waldorf wears it best. Always.

Fitted leather jackets - A staple of Serena van der Woodsen's wardrobe. Totally chic with a bit of edge. Best with golden hardware and a heavy dose of attitude.

Veuve Cliquot champagne - For champagne lovers (and stereotypical Upper East Siders), there is no other bubbly.

Cupcakes - Because Gossip Girl makes me think of New York. New York makes me think of Magnolia Bakery. Magnolia makes me need a cupcake, immediately.

-M

Fashion Police - PCP Style.

2010-03-07T21:13:00.004-05:00

Oscar Sunday. It's a serious event, the creme de la creme of the award season. Awards aside, Oscar Sunday is when style appears in a big way. Award shows and red carpets bring out real life Cinderellas and infamous fashion moments (anyone else remember Jennifer Lopez's green dress at the 1995 Grammys?).

This year, while there were no Earth-shaking green dress moments (my roommate calls that a cautionary tale for other would-be fashion risk takers), there were certainly hits - and a few misses.

(image courtesy of justjared.buzznet.com)

It's no secret. I love Nicole Richie. Her style evolution from trendy California party girl to chic fashion designer is inspiring. Her Oscar look simply dazzled in a Reem Acra draped dress, perfect eye makeup and brunette hair. Fingers crossed that the dark locks are staying. Blondes may have more fun, but Richie as a brunette oozes class.

(image courtesy of zap2it.com)

Sandra Bullock showcases the keys to a perfect Oscar outfit. A Marchesa dress with a jaw-droppingly perfect fit and envy-worthy silhouette. A bit of metallic embellishment (but not too much!). Hair, makeup and accessories that compliment - not distract! - from the overall look. Classy and gorgeous.

(image courtesy of justjared.buzznet.com)

If Carrie Bradshaw was a real person, she would absolutely approve of Sarah Jessica Parker's Chanel Couture dress. Parker easily emulated Oscar glam and scored major bonus points with her husband, Matthew Broderick in Tom Ford. Love.

(image courtesy of justjared.buzznet.com)

Rachel McAdams ushers in spring watercolor prints in an Elie Saab Haute Couture gown. With a crisscross sweetheart neckline and long, flowing train, McAdams shines on the red carpet.

(image courtesy of instyle.com)

Women like Meryl Streep (and my mother!) ease any fear about aging. In a winter white Chris March dress, Steep looks more graceful and amazing than ever. A plunging neck gives a youthful style, without compromising age-appropriateness. Hollywood starlets, take note.

(image courtesy of zimbio.com)

The bad news? Everything can't be glamorous and chic on Oscar night. Case in point. Miley Cryus in a Jenny Packman gown. Perfect from the waist down. Cringe-worthy from the waist up. Bustier tops aren't allowed within a 50 mile radius of a red carpet. Or anywhere.

Other hits: Demi Moore in Atelier Versace (does she ever age?), Penelope Cruz in Donna Karan (I'm a sucker for burgundy gowns), and Elizabeth Banks in Versace (no one can do wrong in lavender chiffon).

Other misses: Zoe Saldana in Givenchy (save the poof-train for playing dress up, not the red carpet) and Vera Farmiga in Marchesa (how can she even sit down?).

Still questionable - Jennifer Lopez in Armani Prive. Hit or miss? Tell me at popcultureparadox [at] gmail.com

-M

Things we love. Weekend edition.

2010-03-06T21:07:00.002-05:00

Fringe bags - My 2005 obsession becomes spring 2010's ultimate handbag trend. Everyone, break out your best Sienna Miller-esque oversized hobos.

Lip applique dress by Philosophy di Alberta Feretti - Party dress splurging doesn't solely correlate with proms and formals. Such events are of the past, but breaking out a fun dress stays appropriate. Wear it out to dinner with your best friends. Wear it out for martinis. Wear it with a pair of nude platform pumps and go shopping. Watch jaws drop instantaneously.

Taro chips by Terra - Imagine a whole bag of the best chip in Terra's assorted bag. It's like a canister full of only red gummy bears. A box of only blue popsicles. A bowl of strawberry Skittles. Only, this bag of chips exists. Thank you snack gods.

-M

Tricks of the Trade

2010-03-06T20:53:00.002-05:00

(image courtesy of nioxinhairproducts.com)

Confession. I'm blessed with good hair. As a young girl, friends oohed and aahed while running their fingers through my thick locks. I quickly realized the benefits of good hair -- volume, texture, control, style. I brag, but before anyone passes judgment on my admitted bragging, I'm willing to give up a few secrets - my ultimate tricks of the trade.

Even with good hair, it's vital to know which products work best. I swear by a handful of products, day in and day out. Cross my heart, my hair isn't nearly as ooh and aah worthy without them.

Silky Sexy Hair shampoo and conditioner - Perfect for thick locks. Expect a lather with oomph, a smooth rinse, and a to-die-for scent that converts a shower into a spa session. Plus, the title is just fun to say. SilkySexyHair. Say it three times fast and it becomes a mantra.

Kerastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique - A must have leave-in nourishing heat protectant for any and all flat iron users. Overheating is a kiss of death for perfect hair, and no one likes split ends. No one.

Jonathan Product Dirt Texturizing Paste - Comb through hair ends after drying and straightening. This defines like no other, and is the best friend to choppy long layers.

Hair spray - A product that works perfectly regardless of brand. Word to the wise - please use sparingly. Please. This is not the 1980s, and Aqua Net alone never creates an appropriate look.

-M

Things We Love. Friday Edition.

2010-03-05T19:57:00.002-05:00

(image courtesy of stylebyme.net)

Ray Ban Wayfarers - Audrey Hepburn loved them. I adore them. Particularly when used to shield welcomed sunshine at 530pm.

OPI for Sephora Opening Night nail polish - More pizazz than black. Equally as chic.

Scrunched ballet flats - So comfy I could be shoeless. Scrumptious.

Homecomings - Particularly when the city is no longer tolerable. Hello north shore of Massachusetts. Did you miss me?

-M

Things We Love. Thursday Edition.

2010-03-04T18:35:00.008-05:00

(image courtesy of neimanmarcus.com)

Bubble umbrellas - Winter in Boston clings on for one more push. Today's forecast? Snow, rain and general yuck. While my weather-inappropriate footwear suffers (my poor mocassins!), my coif doesn't have to. Trusty bubble umbrella, you treat a girl in need oh-so well.

Simplenote iPhone app - Loved and used by bloggers (at least this one) when subways hit no-cell service zones.

Coral nail polish - Last seen: on a coworkers nails. A sure sign that spring is finally coming.

YSL - Confession: I had hour long daydreams of platform pumps. Paired with little black dresses. Skinny jeans. Miniskirts. Leggings. Everything in my closet. A sign to give into temptation?

-M

Public Service Announcement

2010-03-04T16:38:00.004-05:00

(image courtesy of Google image search & trend911.com)

Spotted. PCP’s all-time favorite guilty pleasure show returns (at long last!) in 4 days.

For those who forget, a quick recap. Serena is in love with Nate (and thankfully not with skeezy congressman-cousin Tripp). Lily and Rufus are on the rocks. Jenny is involved in less-than-appealing dealing of the narcotic kind. Chuck has hallucinations of his dearly departed father. Dan confesses (to himself and the world) that he loves Vanessa (we continue not to care). And Dorota’s expecting (heartwarming!).

Four days. Plenty of time to find a new headband to wear to commemorate the event.

-M

P.S. A SOS of the Gossip Girl kind. A golden star and big (virtual) hug to the reader can point me in the direction of the Catherine Malandrino dress that Serena wears in the above photo. A stylish selfish request from me. Any and all leads can be sent to popcultureparadox [at] gmail.com. Gracias!

I Really, Really, Really Want…

2010-03-04T16:11:00.002-05:00

(image courtesy of instyle.com and Victoria Beckham Collection)

Posh Spice was always my favorite Spice Girl. Sporty wore too much ADIDAS. Ginger wore too many leotards. Scary only really accessorized her tongue ring (ew). Baby just couldn’t let go of the pigtail look. But Posh in her chic LBD, platform pumps, and blunt bob screamed sophistication. Even at the tender (and fashionably not) age of 10, I knew a good thing when I saw it.

I am no longer 10 (thank goodness). And she isn’t Posh Spice anymore. Victoria Beckham grew from pouting pop star to bonafide envy-worthy fashion designer in mere years. Yes, earlier designs left much to be desired (Dvb denim for Rock & Republic, anyone?). But the growth showcased during New York Fashion Week last month? Simply astonishing.

“I’m really enjoying learning about draping this season,” Beckham told revelers at her fall 2010 show. Learning? Think mastering. An anything-but-frumpy red long sleeved mini-dress pulls off a blanket-style look with an air of class. But, then again, should anyone expect anything but class from a girl formerly known as Posh? Methinks no.

-M

The Ick Factor

2010-03-04T15:25:00.003-05:00

(image courtesy of Google images & flickr.com)

There are many, many trends that I adore. Nautical stripes. Bigger-than-necessary leather totes. Chunky cocktail rings. I write. I shop. I gush. But, I realize that not all trends are filled with fabulousity. Some simply bring on the ick factor.

Case in point? This spring’s venture into army-inspired camouflage. This look is appropriate in scarce instances. A high school powderpuff game. While starring in the sequel to GI Jane. In the woods or in the military -- when, you know, one may actually need to be camouflaged.

I do not want to see camouflage t-shirts strolling down Newbury Street. I do not want to see camouflage shorts as I sail along the Charles River. I absolutely do not want to see camouflage skirts anywhere (yes, including all college girls dressed for theme party greatness). Please stylistas, just say no to this trend and let it fade away into the summer. Embrace flip flops and cozy t-shirts as spring finally ushers in – and leave the camo garb elsewhere. Please, and thank you.

-M

Back In Action

2010-02-21T22:11:00.004-05:00

A bit of a hiatus does a body good. The New England weather got the best of my blogging inspiration (a girl can take only so much snow, bulky coats and Ugg boots). Lucky for me, I have a hefty stack of spring fashion magazines, and a sudden spark of inspiration.

A few personal must-buys for the impending season.

1.) Alexander Wang sunglasses. My go to Ray Ban Wayfarers may fall to the wayside this season. I adore the zipper hardware - they're so city chic, I can hardly stand it.

2.) A solid go-to pair of platform pumps. Preferably by YSL (a girl can dream). Perfect when paired with skinny jeans, harem pants, leggings, skirts with bright tights... The options are endless.

3.) A Marimekko tote. A brand that Jackie O loved with bold, bright colors and floral designs. Each bag screams of spring with an air of total sophistication.

4.) Nautical everything. My all-time, hands-down favorite trend is back this spring. Navy and white stripes. Chunky roped accessories. Anchor prints. All best paired with a good tan, a sailboat on the Charles River, and a cocktail or two.

-M

Ten Below Zero

2010-01-14T11:53:00.003-05:00

(image courtesy of entertainmentwise.com)

It’s officially the dead of winter in the Northeast. Mid-January hits sans an ounce of holiday-induced warmth. Spring feels infinities (or at least a few calendar page turns) away. Before we all find ourselves overly comfortable in the rut that is the dead of winter – and wearing the same cashmere sweater everyday (guilty as charged) – let’s be reminded of how style is possible even at ten below zero degrees.

Coats. The eternal winter staple and fashion statement. Opt for a heavyweight A-line coat in a classic black, navy, or brown. Find one with buttons that pop or military-inspired hardware. Instant chic.

Earmuffs. Fur (faux or real – although I find real fur keeps ears warmer). Burberry plaid. Soild or cable-knit behind-the-neck 180s. They all keep ears warm, and hat hair at bay.

Berets. My best friend finds them ridiculous. I think they're filled with Parisian sophistication. Channel in a bit of European panache - I always complete the look with a meal of brie, a baguette and a nonfat latte.

Gloves. Heavily cashmere-lined. Paired with a manicure. There’s no other way to keep hands warm (other than by cupping a steaming hot Starbucks travel mug).

Hosiery. Thin tights are no friend to legs on freezing cold days. Nina Garcia writes in The Style Strategy to own at least one opaque pair of black tights. I took her advice and multiplied it by 25. Splurge on a thick pair of Wolford cashmere silk tights. Nothing keeps legs, knees, and toes warmer when paired with a pencil skirt.

Sweaters. Cashmere. Bonus, they’re on sale now. I found some thick 100% cashmere sweaters for under $50 last weekend. Buy them before I do!

Accessories. Nothing perks up a cashmere sweater like a chunky cocktail ring or braided cuff bracelet. Experiment and be creative with jewelry, headbands, and handbags. It’s an easy way to pop color into an otherwise subdued dark-tone winter wardrobe.

Style is half about how an outfit is worn. Beat the winter rut with a positive outlook. Just think, March 1st -- and springtime getaways -- are only 44 days away.

-M

Public Service Announcement

2010-01-14T11:05:00.000-05:00

By now everyone has read the news and watched Anderson Cooper 360 on CNN to see the devastation in Haiti. Consider this a daily reminder to text “Haiti” to 90999 to donate $10 to the American Red Cross relief efforts. Donations will be tacked onto your next cell phone bill. There isn’t an excuse not to donate - $10 is less than a coffee and two croissants at Starbucks or a sandwich and San Pellegrino from your favorite deli. Believe me, it’s worth bagging meals for a few days.

-M

This year, I resolve to…

2009-12-29T15:31:00.005-05:00

(image courtesy of Google image search & www.readingpl.org/)

I am the first to admit that I do not keep resolutions. Every year I attempt to make myself feel good. I think that I'll finally join a gym, get six-pack abs a la Britney Spears in 1999, and cutback on carbs and alcohol. But, within a week into the new year, I, without fail, can be found on my couch telling my roommate how it’s, “too cold to go to the gym” with a martini (extra dirty, three olives, thank you very much) in hand.

With the new decade approaching, I have a few resolutions that I promise to keep. Hear that roommates and best friends? I’m sticking to these!

1.) Quality over quantity. I have an overflowing, unorganized, too-much-stuffed-into-a-too-small closet. I have a tendency to buy in bulk. I like a tee in one color. I buy it in five more. Fast forward six months later and the five extra tees pile in a corner. Tags still intact. Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on to-be-unworn t-shirts, I will invest the same money into one quality pair of jeans. One pair of designer sunglasses. One new tote. One new pair of pumps.

2.) Growing up is tough to do. Especially when it comes to my lack of culinary skills. I do not cool. I speed dial my favorite Thai restaurant. I will not be the next Betty Crocker, but I do resolve to find interest in creating gourmet cuisine. My refrigerator already has brie, and my pantry has baguettes. The makings of a delightfully sophisticated Parisian dinner. Maybe I should invest in an apron.

3.) Cleaning overhaul. I will set aside and donate the items of clothing I do not, and never will wear again. Scandalous Abercrombie & Fitch tees have no place in a mid-twenty something's closet. Someone may have to claw the ripped jeans from my desperate grip though.

Enjoy the new year. Here's hoping that everyone has someone to kiss at midnight. I do, and he’ll get a kiss, but believe me, I’m not sharing my Veuve.

-M

Dear Santa (and Mrs. Claus)...

2009-12-17T16:42:00.002-05:00

(image courtesy of onthebaseline.com)

Christmas season is my favorite season. Snow, piping hot mochas, my approaching Christmas Eve birthday and shopping. I can hardly contain my jubilance.

I am a very easy person to shop for. My boyfriend knows that he can walk into Bloomingdales -- blindfolded, no less -- and walk out with the future of a successful Christmas morning. My mother, however, still insists on obtaining an annual Christmas list. So here it is, mother and dear readers – consider it a gift guide for your favorite fashionista.

David Yurman Blue Topaz Moonlight Ice Ring – Roped sterling silver. My birthstone. Pave-set diamonds. Please, and thank you.

Cupcake Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon wines – My favorite wine brand of the moment. Affordable and smooth without the dreaded morning after hangover.

Cashmere pants – My new obsession. I hardly even mind doing dishes or laundry when legs are so uber comfy.

Riedel O stemless glasses – Because I need to drink my Cupcake chardonnay in style. Plus, it’s time to upgrade from the college-aged Crate & Barrel goblets.

Chanel Black Satin nail polish – I predict that the green nail trend will be short-lived. But black nails? An always chic look to match my cashmere sweaters.

-M

Anniversary Attire

2009-12-11T15:31:00.003-05:00

(image courtesy of barefootintheapple.blogspot.com)

This weekend marks my two-year anniversary with my boyfriend. The plan includes a romantic dinner in the North End. My issue? Finding an outfit to impress. My boyfriend knows me well, at times, better than myself. He’s seen me in my best (black DvF dress, skyscraper-tall heels, and a blow-out). He’s seen me at my worst (puffy eyes, oversized sweatshirt, hair after sleeping in a ponytail all night). He loves me in either look, but I prefer the former.

While searching for an outfit, I ran into a dilemma. My closet sits filled with little black dresses. Diane von Furstenburg. Theory. Missoni. Slimming and comfortable. No complaints, I But my forever-faithful standby for an evening date is starting to wear on me like a long-term relationship. Dear LBD, why can’t you impress me anymore? Here's hoping that spark will re-ignite.

-M

Thank You!!!

2009-11-21T23:22:00.004-05:00

(image courtesy of http://bigchase.files.wordpress.com & Google image search)

A quick weekend post to say a huge thank you to our readers! 10,000 hits are more than P and I ever imagined. In fact, we still believe that the only readers we have are our mothers and best friends. Apparently we're just modest. We're excited and thrilled. Thank you!

-M

Shoegasm!

2009-11-20T00:36:00.003-05:00

(image courtesy of neimanmarcus.com)

At the age of 23, I finally hand myself over to the shoe gods. I always misunderstood shoe obsessions. I blamed my small feet, impatience with finding the perfect shoe, and the pain of walking through jagged brick-lined roads in Boston in heels. In college, instead of sky-high Louboutins, I opted for wintertime Uggs and summertime Havaiana flip flops with every outfit. Yes, every outfit, including dresses, formals, and dates. Major fashion disaster.

Today? Reformed. That's what I am. I find myself planning entire outfits around new pairs of shoes. I wear heels and feel confident. There's just something about a new shoe that feels good. It ranks with new car smell and the first use of a new designer handbag. I alternate through leather booties, suede riding boots and studded flats. I have shoegasms at the sight of skyscraper heels (a la Lady GaGa in Alexander McQueen). I find myself lusting and longing for new heels. Blue suede with red soles and Swarovski-encrusted. Designer shoes are like art, and so perfectly formed. Bank account, my apologies, but I think my obsession is here for good.

-M

Tis The Season

2009-11-17T22:22:00.006-05:00

(image created on polyvore.com)

The holidays make me happy. Eggnog. Mistletoe. Presents wrapped in elegant gold wrapping paper with big red velvet bows. Few things dampen the holiday spirit, and I choose to ignore them.

Yesterday, PCP reader L asked the ever-daunting question that arrives with every holiday season. The dilemma? Attending a significant other's company holiday fiesta. Such events cause fashion meltdowns, stress and the need for an intoxicatingly therapeutic blow out at the salon.

My advice on the topic? Go big or go home. Few events (save the red carpet walks, award ceremonies, prom and wedding) create such opportunity for fashion do's. I wasted too many on weak, half-done, "I don't feel like getting all dressed up, who am I impressing anyway?" excuses on outfits. Learn from my don'ts, and please treat your credit card for a run at the boutiques.

What is appropriate. Little black dresses. Opaque black tights. A splash of holiday color with bangles, headbands or cocktail rings (please, not all three). Bows are a do, and a gasp-inducing wool peacoat is a non-option. What else is there to wear over a party outfit?

Shoes make or break a holiday outfit. Spread the Christmas cheer with some Louboutin red or a classic nude Manolo. 2009 has been a long year, and if Santa isn't going to leave a pair under the tree, treating oneself is the path to holiday sanity. The resolution to save more and spend less starts January 1st.

-M

Caught In A Bad Romance

2009-11-17T21:09:00.004-05:00

(photo courtesy of mtv.com)

It's no secret that I have a Lady GaGa obsession. I made Just Dance my unofficial summer-after-college anthem. I stood (and okay, was pushed around by overly-excited Bostonians) front row at the House of Blues for her first Boston-area show. I admire her style (hello bubble dress!) and adore her love for Andy Warhol (anyone who didn't get that her small videos at her last tour were a homage to Warhol's The Factory clearly needs to pick up a contemporary art history book).

There's a certain pop music formula that leads to success. A solid beat (as found in Alejandro), a catchy hook (as found in Monster) and some controversial lyrics (references to JonBenet Ramsey and Princess Diana in Dance In The Dark). Even untalented songwriters have this concept down like arithmetic. But Gaga isn't Britney and she goes further with The Fame Monster. She appears completely self-aware within the compass of eight new songs. All amazing. Speechless is a heartbreaking ballad about her father. Alejandro channels 1990s-era Ace of Base. Beyonce plays backup to the new pop queen in Telephone. Dance In The Dark? Consider it the anthem for my mid-twenties.

Best of all about GaGa's work, her music molds together. One song leads into the next seamlessly. Her pop opera this winter? Sure to be the best concert around.

-M

Luxe indulgences

2009-11-10T19:39:00.004-05:00

(image courtesy of http://www.luxpartythemes.com/)

Champagne is one of my favorite treats and splurges. Moet. Veuve Clicquot. The inexpensive bottle of Martini & Rossi. My Andre filled college days. The drink screams of luxe celebration. Plus I love the taste, and how the bubbles look floating through my Tiffany & Co champagne flutes.

This weekend, while shopping with my close friend T, I found a new indulgence. Hotel Chocolat on Newbury Street in Boston. Upon walking in we were greeted with a sample of their signature milk chocolate, which can turn even the most non-chocolate prone individuals (such as myself) into chocolate lovers. Stacked along the walls are fruit filled truffles. Solid bricks of milk, dark, and white chocolate. Chocolate lollipops and nutty truffles. While browsing the store, I found the holy grail of chocolates.

White chocolate champagne truffles. Color me obsessed. Smooth white chocolate with a champagne soaked ganache. I bought and I ate. Few things in life bring such happiness than the first bite of one of these truffles. My next buy? The pink champagne truffles. Life is about indulging.

-M

Shameless Self Promotion

2009-11-09T17:09:00.002-05:00

(image courtesy of ruelala.com)

Simple concept. Join through my invite link (http://www.ruelala.com/invite/mgendreau104) by December 24th. Get a $10 credit. It's the equivalent of free shipping - or further justification that you just need that cashmere sweater.

Happy shopping!

-M

Earmuffs Are The New Hat

2009-11-07T20:43:00.005-05:00

(image courtesy of www.gap.com)

Hats. Who needs them? They flatten down blow outs, give unwanted static electricity, and are never ever flattering. Today while shopping at Neiman Marcus, I discovered a love for earmuffs.

Simple concept. A headband that keeps ears warm. No ruined hair. No static-induced flyaway hairs. Could I ask for more?

My personal favorites that I chose today? Light brown rabbit fur earmuffs by Surell and the classic garnet Burberry plaid. Consider my ears covered as the winter rolls into Boston. Crisp air, bring it on.

-M

Ruffle Frenzy

2009-11-02T21:45:00.004-05:00

(image courtesy of forever21.com)

I consider myself a simple girl with lavish tastes. I love a flashy, trendy handbag. Or a really gorgeously printed coat. I love big, chunky cocktail rings and skyscraper high heels. But I love the basics more. Soft white tees. Black stretchy turtlenecks. Dark blue jeans. Black jersey dresses. Basics that spotlight every-person wearability. To me, it's the perfect artist's palette.

My love for basics once geared me away from ruffles. My old mindset? Frills = distracting and unflattering. I eat my words. The reason for my shift in ruffle morals? This burgundy sheen tiered skirt. Flattering. Slimming. Form-fitting. And in the perfect holiday season hue. Paired with a black turtleneck, tights and heels? Only the perfect outfit to juggle my iPhone and glass of eggnog at the season's first party. Ho ho hot (okay that was cheesy, forgive me).

-M

T-Shirt Heaven

2009-11-02T15:17:00.007-05:00

(image courtesy of dailycandy.com)

Halloween wasn't the only reason to celebrate in Boston last weekend. At last, another luxe store claims Boston as a home. Vince, a personal fashion favorite, finally opened it's doors to the public at Copley Plaza on October 30th.

Lushious cashmeres. Preppy solids. Luxuriously soft Pima cotton tees. Staples of any former prep school graduate's wardrobe. The best part about Vince? The quality, wear, fit and feel of each and every item remains unmatched. Consider it a step up from those Forever 21 tees.

-M

Haute Couture, International Style

2009-10-28T14:32:00.004-04:00

(image courtesy of bombayelectric.in)

PCP reader (and dear friend) L emailed me a few days ago pointing me in the direction of bombayelectric.in. She writes, “Not only are these pieces completely avant garde and reminiscent of haute couture but are extremely reasonable when converted to American dollars!”

While browsing the Indian-based site, I must agree. Even with the somewhat steep $30 flat shipping worldwide, there are definite steals (and splurges) from Bombay Electric. Among my favorites, the Handwoven Khadi Scarf. $28 and for a good cause. The site reads, “Women Weave is dedicated to empowering and improving the lives of women in rural India, helping them create a self sustaining business & livelihood.”

For those who love a splurge when shopping for good causes, the Nag Armlet (pictured above)does the trick. $720 and maybe worth every penny for those who desire an Angelina Jolie aura.

-M

A Lesson On Seasons

2009-10-26T18:39:00.002-04:00

(image courtesy of http://strengthinbodymindandspirit.blogspot.com)

Newsflash. There are four seasons. Winter. Spring. Summer. Fall. As the weather changes, so does one's wardrobe. Obvious? I thought so, until my eyes set on what I think I saw this morning on the subway.

Spotted. A woman. Late 40s or early 50s. Wearing: A Pucci-inspired tee dress that was sheerer than a burnout tee. Paired with black Reef flip flops. No jacket.

I once fell into the mistake of wearing flip flops year round. But I was 20 and in college, and personal couture consisted solely of Juicy sweats. Times have changed, and because of that here is a lesson for what is to be stored away in antique trunks during summer's offseason. Some fashion rules are meant to be broken (hello navy blue and black in the same outfit). These, however, are non-negotiable.

Fall:
Do's: Dark denim, suede boots, peacoats (post-Columbus day), turtlenecks, long sleeved tees, drapey cardigans, leggings and moccasins.

Don't: Pastels, tees or tanks with no sweater or jacket, lightweight dresses, flip flops, cutoff anything.

It's fall, so love it! Enjoy the crisp air (and apple crisp)! Embrace cashmere and please dismiss the flops (until spring break vacation, at least).

-M

The Three S's

2009-10-22T18:41:00.003-04:00

(image courtesy of thefashionrow.com)

I tend to avoid fashion advice from men in my life (no offense, but do you see what my brother and boyfriend wear?). However, today, roommate K's boyfriend summed up what a woman needs in her style. Three words. Sexy, slimming and simple. I must agree.

Sexy: Feeling sexy feels great. I don't mean lucite heel sexy (that's another s word, for another conversation). I mean the confident, power-exuding, I-can-take-over-the-world-if-I-want-to sexy. Exemplified by a curve hugging V-neck cashmere sweater. Sexy can mean heels that scream classy, a blow out, mani/pedi and a Gucci bag splurge. Wear and do what it takes for confidence to ooze out of your OPI painted nails. Your sex appeal and confidence thank you.

Slimming: I've received loads of comments and questions on what's slimming. There is no universal answer, but there are worthwhile suggestions. Anything black that creates a flattering silhouette. Long cardigans, long sweaters and turtlenecks in a quality fabric. Absolutely nothing cropped. Wrap dresses work as slimming perfection for the work week. Accessorize strategically so attention goes to a beautifully awesome cocktail ring rather than any self-conscious areas.

Simple: Simplicity is key, but simple doesn't mean boring. Simple means investing in an array of the basics that will last for seasons and seasons. This foundation should be the core of an outfit. A luxe Vince white tee. A black DvF cashmere wrap sweater. The pair of to-die-for dark denim jeans by Citizens of Humanity or Seven for all Mankind. Accessorize without making accessories a mask. My rule? No more than two eye-popping accessories at once and no more than two rings on a hand.

As I start cleaning out my wardrobe, the three s's will stay in the back of my mind. Frayed denim minis? Not so sexy. Cropped tees from 2000? Not so slimming. That crazy printed coat colllecting dust in the back of my closet? Not so simple. Even I learn something everyday.

-M

It's The Remix!

2009-10-20T19:03:00.002-04:00

(image courtesy of v-moda.com)

It's happened to each and every one of us. We're enjoying a perfect girls night out at a local club when the most intoxicatingly wonderful remix of a Britney Spears song comes on. While the original song is good, remixes make it great, and so catchy that you're humming the technoized beat for the next work week. Dying to listen to it again, you search iTunes and Google with no luck finding a download link. Where have all the remixes gone?

The answer: masterbeat.com. Roommate K pointed me in the direction of this site and I am now hooked. Every remix, new and old for sale at iTunes comparable prices (about 1.29 per song). Need that Kelly Clarkson remix of "My Life Would Suck Without You" to work out to? It's there. Randomly want a 90s remix? It's there. Sources tell me that the site's creators have exclusive rights to remixes that can't be found anywhere else plus rare remixes of older songs (think vinyl that's been turned over to a digital copy). I'm holding out to find the techno remix of some 80s goodies. "Total Eclipse of the Heart" anyone?

Bonus if you check out the site asap. Free Lady GaGa remixes of "Paparazzi." Don't worry, you can thank me later.

-M

We Have Mail.

2009-10-14T10:09:00.004-04:00

Today, reader mail.

Dear M. Please blog about what styles of sweaters to wear and how to wear them without making a stomach look pudgy!

-C

First things first, I love sweater season too. Comfy and warm - a good sweater serves as a decent substitute for a boyfriend. For me, sweaters are favored when long and ever-so-slightly chunky. Preferably over a pair of leggings (long not cropped) and a pair of patent ballet flats.

For a slimming effect, remember that chunky doesn't camouflage. Just because a sweater fits like a devastatingly large Hefty bag doesn't mean it slims me, you, or anyone out. My suggestion for a slimming sweater: try a long fitted cardigan. It creates a fantastic silhouette.

Another tip: a sweater should never be a focal point of an outfit. Accessories make an outfit and can draw attention away from worry spots (and thus boost confidence!). Try a Blair Waldorf-esque headband, a pair of golden aviators, daytime cocktail ring, or a flashy Sir Alistair Rai wrap.

Ideas? Questions? Can't figure out what to wear for your Friday night date? Hit me up. popcultureparadox@gmail.com

-M

Crisp Fall Coats For Crisp Fall Breezes

2009-10-12T20:24:00.002-04:00

(image courtesy of fashion-era.com)

Reason number three to love fall (behind leggings and spiced apple cider). Coat season. And I'm not talking North Face jackets (although I love their functional and always-acceptable wear). I'm talking knee-length, thigh-length, hip-length, single or double-breasted peacoat season. Wool and warmth. It's all a city girl needs to put a bounce in a bootie-covered step during a morning commute.

Roommate K and I justify coat shopping for the singular reason that coats are worn every day in Boston. Every single day. Would I dare expect anyone (let alone myself) wear the same pair of Seven for all Mankind jeans everyday? The same Vince white t-shirt? The same pair of Minetonka moccasins? Never. To any hesitant shoppers, there is justification in any and all warmth-loving jacket purchases. Rest assured, and pull out those American Express cards.

Tonight's personal purchase? The navy blue military coat from Victoria's Secret. Little known secret. The outerwear at VS.com is stellar. Stellar. I buy at least one coat from them every season. Not such a secret? The lustworthy outerwear choices from Neiman Marcus. Atop my list of wishful thoughts: DvF's black ruffle military coat and Burberry's check coat. Dear friends and loved ones, are you taking note?

-M

Ungaro: An Example Of The Mighty Fallen

2009-10-12T20:07:00.003-04:00

(photo courtesy of elle.com)

I wanted to refrain from touching on this subject. But as I sit, sipping my cup of tea at the end of this long weekend watching reruns of the Rachel Zoe project, I ask myself, "What happened to Emanuel Ungaro?" In this episode, my wishful best friend, Rachel Zoe, gushes at Ungaro's synonymous nature with fun and flirty party dresses. I love party dresses. Poofy. Bubble. Sleek. A-line. Tight and form-fitting. I'll wear them all. Black. Blue. Pink. Plum.

This does not scream of party dress couture to-die-for perfection. I do not blame la Lohan. Prior to her continual trainwreck nature, I was a Lohan fan. I have Confessions of a Broken Heart on my iTunes. I listen to it occasionally. I even enjoy it. Unlike her designs. Heart-shaped pasties do not amuse me (or the NYT). I beg Ungaro to pick up the pieces of this collection, and wow me for spring 2011. If that happens, everyone can pretend this never happened.

-M

File > New Playlist

2009-10-06T14:14:00.003-04:00

(image courtesy of: http://www.techdigest.tv/)

New iPhone (the 3GS, and yes, it's amazing) calls for a new playlist.

Britney Spears - 3

From The Singles Collection, my favorite pop princess delivers again. Available today on iTunes, 3 is essentially everything I love about pop music smushed into 3 minutes and 22 seconds. True story, reviewers say that, "3 is more of a surefire dance-floor stomper than anything Brit loaded onto Blackout or Circus." Agreed.

Dragonette - I Get Around

This song was the highlight of last week's episode of The Hills. Catchy and the only thing that perks me up during my morning commute.

Dashboard Confessional - Belle of the Boulevard

My emo guilty pleasure band unveils a new album on November 10th. This first single screams of the Dusk and Summer era. Essentially I'm thrilled. Songs like this make me feel like I'm 20 forever.

Kris Allen - Live Like We're Dying

It's catchy and he's cute. Enough said.

Jay Z & Alicia Keys - Empire State of Mind

I wonder why Jay Z ever said he was retiring, but with songs as good as this (and let' s be honest, the entire The Blueprint 3 album), I don't really care.

-M

Legwear Dilemma

2009-10-02T13:30:00.001-04:00

(image courtesy of http://www.popculturemadness.com)

I faced an issue this morning with my closet. As fall brisks in, leggings are rapidly becoming my legwear of choice. Stretchy and comfortable, I stocked up on black ankle-length pairs from Forever 21. They pair best under trouser shorts or long tunics. At home, with a hoodie and moccasins.

Yesterday a girl on the T wore her grey leggings with a layered long sleeve tee. Bottom uncovered, but didn’t look ridiculous or pantsless like Lady GaGa. This morning, I woke up and attempted to emulate. Long black leggings. Dark grey tank top. Green and grey long sleeved tee by Vince. It looked messy with negative effort. I felt conscious of the shirt length and exposed, but, legging-covered bum.

Leggings doubled as pants at age five. Stirrup styles. Long styles. Short styles. Does a heightened level of self-consciousness come with age? One thing’s for sure, I’m longing the acceptance of leggings as pants that I had as a kindergarten student.

-M

East Coast. West Coast. The Drama’s All The Same.

2009-10-01T16:47:00.002-04:00

(image courtesy of tvguide.com)

I’ve been holding off on this post. I can’t quite articulate how I feel after watching the premieres The Hills and The City this week.

In short. I miss Lauren Conrad. I hate Spencer Pratt’s cowboy hat. I wish Lo Bosworths’ Ray Ban aviators fit her face properly. I think Kristin Cavallari trashes up The Hills (don’t blame me for saying it, I’m merely agreeing with other bloggers), but her Missoni bikini gave her a point or two in my book. Audrina bores me. Justin Bobby’s facial hair scares me.

I found myself texting more during the episode than watching. Does that mean The Hills is boring? I'm frustrated after watching them. I know that I could make a more amusing reality show, and I know all the drama on the show is faker than Audrina's tan. Plus, I’m tired of the drama. When The Hills was a staple in my (and my best friends’) lives and we spent nights watching television in my dorm room, our drama paralleled theirs. Friendemies. Exes. Boyfriends. Since, my friends and I have all bid adieu to the drama in our lives. Goodbye relateability. Hello Heidi and Spencer house-hunting. No thanks.

On page two, The City continues to be the worst show ever. Highlights include Kelly Cutrone’s attitude, the theme song and the look on Whitney Port’s face when her new “roommate” throws a “small get together.” Why do I keep watching these shows? Does MTV slip subliminal messages into the programming? If I play a DVR’ed episode backwards will I hear Heidi Montag’s voice coercing me to keep on watching?

-M

Shoe Obsession

2009-10-01T16:33:00.002-04:00

(image courtesy of thelook4less.net)

Last night, while shopping in downtown Boston, I ventured out of my shoe comfort zone and fell in love. My feet are used to comfort. Minnetonka moccasins. Ugg boots. Havaiana flip flops. Heels happen, but never all day, and not without a grimace.

Introduce the bootie. I scoffed at the trend a few years ago. I couldn’t conceive how they could be comfortable or flattering. Apologies, dear booties. I retract all former statements, because I (and my feet) are in love.

Booties have been hugging my feet since 7:30am. No pain. No blisters. No discomfort. No need to switch out into my moccasins (that yes, are inside my tote here at work). I am four inches taller. I stood next to someone on the T shorter than I. Yes, I am officially obsessed with this shoe.

Bootie recommendation from bootie veterans? Shoot them over to me at popcultureparadox@gmail.com.

-M

To Fur Or Not To Fur?

2009-09-28T10:22:00.002-04:00

(photo courtesy of http://www.chicintuition.com)

Take note, trends create fashion victims out of fashionistas. This season’s example: fur.

PETA’s views differ, but I love fur. Taboo? Yes. Worth it? Yes. It’s the needed warmth during dreary and bitterly cold New England winters. I’ve heard of women going to get trenchcoats lined with fur jackets, fur stoles taking the place of scarves, a hidden fur vest underneath a North Face down jacket. Hidden or not, fur keeps everyone a bit toastier in the winter.

It’s no secret that fur is making a serious comeback this season. Maybe the recession has everyone thinking a bit more practically. A coat investment for a lower heat bill. Either way, there are right ways to do fur, and there are wrong. Let me elaborate.

There are certain bargain-price retailers that introduced faux fur vests to their fall and winter collections. Faux fur, when done properly, is fantastic. It can be warm, soft to the touch and realistic. No one can expect this for 22 dollars. Faux fur, when done badly, looks cheap and tacky. Unlike basic tees and trendy party dresses, this is a place to save pennies and invest.

There are also certain times where fur is appropriate – and more importantly, isn’t. Work, given the right industry and office can be a yes, but most likely not. Wear fur on a cool afternoon walking down Newbury Street in Boston. Wear it out at night in place of a jacket at a trendy lounge. Wear it when you want to feel a bit more luxe. Do not (please!) wear it at the local mall, fast-food restaurant or grocery store unless you’re Jennifer Lopez and can get away with such ridiculously in-your-face everyday attire. Play to the environment. With a 75-degree high in Boston today, no one should don their fur. Indulge in short-sleeves for one more time before October hits.

-M

Absolut Boston? Absolutely.

2009-09-19T23:05:00.002-04:00

(image courtesy of http://www.luxuo.com & Google image search)

As I type, roommate K and I sit on our living room couch, watching television (Sweet Home Alabama on TBS!) and trying this year's Absolut Boston vodka. I initially scoffed at the black tea and elderberry (what is elderberry anyway?) flavor. I assumed that, yes, I may have spent the twenty dollars on the pretty Green Monster inspired bottle. I bought it because, yes, I would be a bad Bostonian if I didn't. Plus the bottle could make do for a makeshift vase one day...

The first sip of our drinks, the Absolut Boston and Ginger (Absolut Boston, ginger ale and a twist of lime) put our worries to ease. Perfectly balanced with a subtle taste of tea (which yes, we realized after the fact was a nod to the historical Boston tea party) without any overdone vodka bite.

Need it as much as we do now? Hurry, it's a limited edition vodka - and I plan on stocking up. Feel okay about splurging on a few bottles, part of the profits benefit the local Charles River Conservancy. Here's to hoping that sales of the vodka can help clean up our beloved dirty water a little bit. It'd be nice to sail in clearer water.

-M

Choo Equals Wonderful

2009-09-17T15:17:00.003-04:00

(image courtesy of http://watchmojo.com)

There’s an abundance of diffusion lines in today’s recession-filled fashion world. I nearly passed out with excitement when word first broke of the Jimmy Choo and H&M collaboration. Today, Nitrolicious has a peek of what’s in store. I like. I like a lot.

Studded flats. Pink resin clutches. Bedazzled and jeweled cuffs. They all make me weak in the knees. November 14th cannot come soon enough. Time to start saving my pennies (and okay, at the prices the shoes will probably be – nickels, dimes and quarters too).

-M

Guilty Pleasure TV Alert!

2009-09-16T13:06:00.002-04:00

(image courtesy of wikipedia.org)

I was on the young side when the original Melrose Place aired. Seven years old when it premiered, to be exact. To say that my parents didn’t let me watch it is an understatement. If parental controls had been around in the late 1990s, Melrose Place would have topped the banned list – along with my beloved Dawson’s Creek.

Luckily, it’s now 2009. I’m in my twenties. Mom and dad are nowhere to be found in my apartment. The CW birthed a new era of Melrose Place. And I love it.

I love the boring lovey-dovey newly-engaged yet fueled by jealousy couple Riley and Jonah. Best friend A may gag, but part of me connects with Riley’s forking through her fiance’s Lucky Charms to filter out his favorite ones (the green clovers). Makes me wish my boyfriend would filter my Lucky Charms out (I only eat the marshmallows, for the record).

I love that Lauren taking the highest bidding man to pay for medical school. Moreso, I love the fact that there’s an Asian girl scandalous plotline – breaking stereotypes is my kind of thing.

I love Detective Rodriguez. Right away it’s obvious that it’s the same actor (Nicholas Gonzalez) that played DJ the Mischa Barton loving gardener in the OC. Findng nighttime soap crossovers is like Where’s Waldo. While we play ‘Where did I know him/her from?’ – Riley (Jessica Lucas) was in Cloverfield (a guilty pleasure B-movie of mine). Lauren (Stephanie Jacobson) was in Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles. Jonah (Michael Rady) was in Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants.

Lastly, I do love Ashlee Simpson Wentz. Bloggers (and friends) boo her acting, but I give the girl props. Confession. She was always my favorite Simpson sister, and her albums are still on heavy iPhone rotation.

Missed last night’s episode? Check out EW’s recap.

-M

LC & Kohls - A Perfect Match?

2009-09-15T19:23:00.003-04:00

(photo courtesy of: http://thefashionator.ivillage.com)

I'm a complete sucker for designer diffusion lines at Main Street stores. Matthew Williamson for H&M. Norma Kamali for Walmart. For months, I've waited with anticipation for Lauren Conrad's line for Kohls. After the sudden end of her high-end line at Bloomingdales, she took budget-friendly wear as her next project. Tonight, at Kohls.com, part of the fall collection is available to buy. My thoughts are undecided before I can see some pieces in person, but so far the collection seems solid for those need-to-buy basics for less.

LC's boyfriend cardigan and boyfriend blazer are solid fall options. No twenty-something girl should be without a black blazer or a long V-neck cardigan. While the prices seem a bit steep for Kohls ($60 for the blazer, $44 for the cardigan), the prices do stand a bit better than department store counterparts.

Impressive with the line? The few dresses that are currently offered. I can picture best friend A in the watercolor ruffled dress and myself in the brushstroke sheath dress while we brunch in Boston. Just call us the east coast LC and Lo.

-M

RIP

2009-09-14T21:54:00.002-04:00

(image courtesy of http://www.filmreference.com)

Word broke tonight that 57 year old Patrick Swayze passed away after a two year battle with cancer. A big RIP from us at Pop Culture Paradox. Swayze shaped part of my youth personally - as he was the object of my mother's true celebrity crush. The countless hours spent watching Ghost (and the teary eyes that my mother and I had at the end of the movie). Heartbreaking.

RIP

-M

The Row

2009-09-07T12:42:00.003-04:00

(image courtesy of http://frillr.com)

I'm find the Olsen twins everywhere I look. First in a New York Times article, and then on the cover of Marie Claire. While I'm continually up in the air about how I feel towards their boho-inspired past, it's clear that they now know fashion.

Their two lines Elizabeth & James and The Row separates them from the childhood role of scrunchie-wearing Michelle Tanner. In fact, while browsing Neimans and Bergdorfs, one forks through the racks of Olsen-designed clothing without ever realizing its Olsen creation. The Elizabeth & James website is stylishly chic, resembling a Vogue fashion shoot. Looking at the fall 2009 collection, I eye the Amaryllis skirt as something perfect for work or a night out in the city.

The twins' newer line, The Row screams luxury perfection. Created by Ashley Olsen's admitted type A personality, The New York Times writes, "Nearly four years ago, while a student at New York University and ducking the paparazzi hired to follow her and her sister everywhere, Ashley gave herself the goal of creating, in her eyes, the perfect T-shirt." As a former college student, her hunt parallels mine.

Perfect basics are always a necessity in a wardrobe, and The Row delivers. Italian V-neck cashmere sweaters that perfectly fuse slouchy with tailored. Crisp European-style blazers to pair with skinny jeans for a date night. Layered open cardigans and legging-like pants that scream the Olsens' signature style (minus the Starbucks cup and Marlboro cigarette).

Olsen twins, let's let bygones be bygones. I apologize for any negativity I emitted during your grungy boho phase. You've ended my own quest for perfected basics - just in time for cashmere season in New England.

-M

Home Is Where...

2009-09-04T12:59:00.002-04:00

(image courtesy of Google Images and wikipedia.org)

My best friend, A read my last post, and seemed apprehensive for my newfound love for Bloomingdales. She warned, “if you switch teams, I’ll switch besties.”

Point taken.

A and I have been Neiman Marcus fiends for years. It was not a lie when I said that there’s a department store that feels like Disney World. Yesterday, A mapped (and color-coded) where she’d be okay with living in the future. While reviewing her results today, we came to the conclusion that “Home is where the Neiman Marcus is.”

We love the merchandise at Neiman Marcus. We love their after-Thanksgiving and end-of-summer sales. We love the same blonde saleswoman that always seems to be working the contemporary section when we’re there. Last time I walked in, she even asked me where my friend was. “New York, she’s devastated that there’s no Neiman’s there,” I replied. Let’s face it, Bergdorf’s simply doesn’t match up.

Best yet, the Neiman Marcus website excels far past that of Bloomies, Saks or Nordstrom. An organized rolodex in comparison to the rest, the Neiman’s website is easy to navigate, always updated and somehow always has the best sale merchandise. Don’t believe me? Tell me where else anyone can find an $11 Splendid tee?

-M

Bloomies Totes. A Must Have.

2009-09-03T16:16:00.003-04:00

(image courtesy of Google images, flickr.com & Bloomingdales)

It’s come to mind that every fashion-forward (or at least shopaholic) girl has a go-to store. The department store of choice that feels like Disney World. For my friend who spent a year living in London, it was obviously Harrods. For best friend A and I, it’s Neiman Marcus. However, I feel my alliances switching hands (have no fear Neimans, I still love you!). Behold Bloomingdales. A stranger to the Boston proper shopping scene, it’s only Massachusetts location is in Chestnut Hill – luckily a hop, skip and a jump away from my new apartment.

Catching my eye on the site while I browse today? The signature Bloomingdale’s totes.

Three years ago, I relentlessly asked an now-ex for one as a birthday/holiday gift. Think the Bloomingdale’s page with the item on it magically appearing as his home webpage. Magazine clippings sprawled out on desks with photos of it. I’m a girl that knows what I want. In return, I received a birthday gift of the tote, filled with h2o bath and shower goodies.

Although the relationship ended, my love for the bag did not. In fact, it sits at my feet under my cubicle this moment, stuffed with my day planner, lunch rations, chick lit book of the week and various bags of Skittles. Three years is a long run for a bag, and it might be time for an upgrade. It might just be time for me to go green and invest in the “Medium Canvas Bag.” I owe it to the environment, right?

-M

Relocation Station

2009-09-02T21:35:00.002-04:00

(image courtesy of http://www.shelterrific.com)

For the record, no, this is not my apartment.

Those who know me personally know that I just completed a cross-city move. In Boston, this isn't very far, only a 15 minute drive from point A to B. Regardless of distance, a move is a move and nothing kills inspiration like packing boxes, labelling items, wrapping breakables in newspaper, hauling bags of clothing in and out of U-Hauls, unpacking and reorganizing. That being said, I've been a delinquent blogger. Apologies.

However, inspiration hit mid-move when the decorating process started. I moved in with K, a close friend from prep school, and our friend R, a graduate student. We're all twenty-something girls in a fairly spacious apartment on Commonwealth Avenue. One graduate student, one law school student and a full-time young professional means we're all on the dreaded B-word. Budget. Hopefully one day (sooner rather than later), budgets are a word banished from our minds, bank accounts and worries. Until then, we're decorating on minuscule funds. Something tells me we're not the only ones. Over the past week, I've compiled some observations to remember for my next move on how to design on the cheap and make an apartment feel like home without needing to eat Ramen noodles for the rest of the year.

A creative, cute and personality reflecting shower curtain is absolutely necessary for a bathroom. Don't just settle for a plain beige vinyl one. We opted for a fabric outer shower curtain with brown, pink and white vertical stripes. For funky prints and shower curtains with plenty of life to them, Urban Outfitters answers all needs. I have my eye on the Paris Collage shower curtain.

Art, art, art. It doesn't have to be expensive. It doesn't have to be tacky. I purchased A Year In Fashion with fashion-based Getty images. With some help of poster putty, I collaged a wall of favorite images that display my own personal style. With three leftover images, K and I are off to find inexpensive frames (think basic, no border needed) and hang them above our cabinet by our front door. Stylish and inexpensive. Try it with magazine advertisements, favorite Vogue covers or old issues of The Look from Neiman Marcus.

Storage doesn't have to be an eyesore. On a rent budget, enough closet space is difficult to come by. Grab furniture that Mom and Dad no longer want (thanks parents!). Find old antique trunks to store out-of-season clothing and jackets. Repaint bureaus and shelving units. Make a skinny bookcase into a jean wall. Storage doesn't have to equal plastic drawers and shoeboxes.

Movers and soon-to-be movers, good luck. I'll see you all browsing the apartment furnishing department at every Boston area store. Just don't try to nab the last cute curtain out of my hands. I don't like to share.

-M

File >> New Playlist

2009-09-02T21:17:00.002-04:00

(photo courtesy of http://www.zwtm.com)

Ah. It's fall. The air is getting crisp. I wore a cardigan to work this morning. The streets (and subway cars) of Boston are flooded with students. Some of my best memories of college were walking to and from class (and, okay, maybe skipping class) or sitting out by the campus pond at UMass Amherst listening to my iPod. With the change of season comes new music, so treat your ears and enjoy.

Boys Like Girls - Love Drunk (and okay, the entirety of their new recently-leaked album)
This Providence - Letdown
Third Eye Blind - Summer Town
Jay Z featuring Rihanna- Run This Town
Tamar Kaprelian - New Day
Panic! At The Disco - New Perspective
Leighton Meester - Body Control
Miley Cyrus - Party In The USA (my guilty pleasure, please don't tell anyone)

As always, download legally (iTunes is your friend!).

-M

Back To School

2009-08-24T12:09:00.002-04:00

(image courtesy of: artofmanliness.com)

Back to school and first day of classes status messages fill Facebook newsfeed today. While it’s a bit early for classes to start up already (law school students, I’m looking at you), seeing students gear up for back to school makes me a bit nostalgic. School shopping was comparable to Christmas in my student days. When I was eight, I took great care in choosing the perfect Trapper Keeper (my favorite was purple dolphin print) and Lisa Frank folders, pencils and pens. To this day, I’m unsure why I found myself so keen on school supplies, but find myself longing for a need to buy them. Since I don’t have any reason – and multitudes of unused notebooks piled around my room from high school and college – I give my suggested back to school product list. Read, buy and indulge. Everyone might as well have a few nice notebooks to get through those boring lecture hall presentations.

Moleskine: My new favorite notebook company. Their notebooks look classic with black leather covers and crisp lined paper. With an assortment of address books, sketch pads and even city guides (there’s one for Boston!) even non-students can buy and enjoy.

Jordi Labanda: I found Jordi Labanda notebooks first in Barcelona at a find-it-all department store called El Corte Ingles. almost six years ago. Since then, I happily found his notebooks and pens in every specialty stationary store (and even at the UMass Amherst campus bookstore!). Fun and animated covers scream fashionista with colorful cubed (not lined) paper. Confession: I’ve kept every single one of these notebooks that I’ve filled up, just because they’re too pretty to toss.

Sharpies: Everyone’s favorite marker. Non-economical (I know they bleed through pages of paper), but there’s something about writing in a fine-tip Sharpie that makes even the messiest of handwriting look artsy. I prefer to buy a bulk pack, the tips dry out fast with a lot of use.

-M

Fall Transitions

2009-08-24T11:10:00.004-04:00

(image courtesy of boston.com)

Somehow the summer slipped by me. We have entered the final week of summer. Suddenly it’s the season for back-to-school shopping (the only part of being a student that I really and truly miss) and packing away the beloved flip-flops and white jeans. I lament the loss of the last few months. I’m absolutely not ready to say goodbye to summer clothing yet.

The best part of summer clothing is the coinciding casual, laid-back attitude. There’s no need for stuffy button-up collared shirts when the sun is shining and there’s cute sundresses. The predicament while waving goodbye to summer is how to maintain the summer attitude – even in the bitterly cold Boston winters.

My tip? Trade flip flops for comfortable (but still stylish and even work appropriate) moccasins. While heels feel powerful – and taller – feet need a break from a 4 inch arch and Minnetonka moccasins are the answer. Also a good option? Moccasins by Ugg. Just as comfy and warm as Uggs, without the Ugg stigma.

With this, I’m trying to maintain a positive outlook with the impending brisk fall weather. The only thing keeping my fashion excitement afloat is my pile of cashmere in my closet. Sweater season, here I come.

-M

Jeggings, Need I Say More?

2009-08-18T12:04:00.002-04:00

(image courtesy of nymag.com)

I love leggings. I love denim. Let me make this very clear. I do not love “jeggings.”

Jeggings, for readers who may not know, are the disaster that are jean leggings. Consider them piled next to Ed Hardy tattoo style tees in the realm of fashion no-no’s and no-never’s. Hardly work appropriate (or life appropriate), I tried to ignore this impending denim trend for as long as possible. Today, however, I’m jarred by the news in The Cut that states, “Legging jeans are moving to replace skinny styles” I’m already mourning. How could the denim industry turn on me so?

-M

Recycle Your Jeans!

2009-08-12T18:37:00.003-04:00

(image courtesy of http://www.societystylist.com)

Going green has been an ongoing trend for as long as my mother has told me to recycle my used glass Snapple bottles. While I'm admittedly bad at recycling on an everyday basis, there is finally a recycling event that I can get into.

For the rest of August, participating Barney's New York locations agree to give 20% off a future denim purchase in turn for anyone's unused, too small, never will wear again jeans. Dig through closets, find those bleached jeans from high school or the pair with beading (face it, it won't be back in style anytime soon) and treat yourself to a new pair of Seven for all Mankinds or Citizens for Humanity. With fall right around the corner, is there a better way to treat yourself?

-M

Purple Nails Mark The Spot

2009-08-09T15:19:00.003-04:00

(image courtesy of teamsugar.com)

On my last night of staycation, my psuedo-younger sister MK craved purple nail polish. Like any true fashionista, she has an eye for a trend before it starts. While I've gone through the black nail polish and red nail craze, I openly welcome purple.

A few tips for those fellow purple-eyed (or rather, nailed) fashionistas who want to dip into this trend during the impending fall season. Make your polish dark, chip resistant and matte. Pearlized and glossy are no more. Dark and muted, welcome home.

Suggestion shades: Sexy Divide by Essie, Caffeine Fix by OPI for Sephora and Plum by ELF (only a dollar!).

-M

Staycation!

2009-08-04T17:15:00.002-04:00

(image courtesy of http://amyswandering.files.wordpress.com)

A staycation, by definition, is a period of time in which an individual or family stays at home and relaxes at home or takes day trips from their home to area attractions (thank you Wikipedia!). For the next few days, I will be on a staycation - and as a FYI, this may mean no blogging. Instead of writing, time will be spent with best friend A, at the beach, bargain shopping, eating lobster and re-watching DVD box sets of Laguna Beach and The Hills. It might sound boring to you, but it sounds like heaven to me. Expect posts upon my relaxation.

-M

Match Made In Heaven

2009-07-30T22:34:00.004-04:00

(image courtesy of www.sortuv.com)

My friend S asks me how I get word of so many deals in the city. While my research and sources are secrets, I'm willing to share information. Today's bargain Boston event? Match Burgers & Martinis on the corner of Mass Ave & Newbury Street in the Back Bay. Thursday nights from 5-10pm. $5 entrees for women. Yes, $5 entrees. Be prepared to wait for a table or make a reservation in advance - Boston fashionistas are slowly hearing about this event and not saying no, with good reason. Take a peek at their menu and you'll see their normal mini burgers around $5-$7 each normally, but Match Thursdays mean $5 entrees. Filet mignon. Lobster pasta dishes. Grilled rosemary chicken. Delicious. S and I each ordered the filet mignon (for $5, as if anyone can say no) and washed it down with fabulous cocktails. At $12 each, the signature martinis are steep, but when the food is so cheap, allowing one is doable. My favorite pick: their Pop Culture martini. It's no surprise that I chose it by name alone. Rimmed with strawberry Pop Rocks, the super sweet martini tastes like candy with coconut Bacardi and various juices. I love.

-M

The Perfect Tote

2009-07-28T09:22:00.001-04:00

(image courtesy of kaboodle.com)

Spotted: A Kate Spade “Coal” bag on my walk to work this morning. Black and white with the front saying "downtown" with surrounding NYC subway line numeral symbols. I'm obsessed.

I received my first Kate Spade “Coal” bag 2.5 years ago. A part of my 21st birthday gift, my then-boyfriend listened to my gift requests and took note of the Kate spade website page left open on his laptop screen when I left for classes, meals and outings. I still use the bag today (thanks to P's judgment and her saving it from being a breakup victim en route to the trash or bonfire). Tried and true, it’s the ultimate handbag, one of my must-haves. Small enough to use everyday. Space enough to squish in a day planner, beach towel, flip flops, notebook, issues of vogue and necessary keys and iPhone. Given todays’ sighting, I might need to start expanding my collection asap!

-M

Signature Scent

2009-07-27T09:38:00.003-04:00

(image courtesy of: http://johnniecraig.files.wordpress.com)

My friend J.D. lamented the loss of her Dolce & Gabbana perfume this weekend. A casualty in the 4th of July weekend, its whereabouts are unknown after a BBQ and one too many glasses of summer ale. I first didn't grasp the severity of the situation (didn’t I see three other sprays in her room?!) until I realized the importance of a woman's signature scent.

Everyone remembers the scene in 'How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days' when Andie's crazy friend's boyfriend of a nanosecond comes crawling back. He realized he missed her when the scent of her perfume wore off his pillow. Although cheesy (and okay, cute, because I doubt any guy would ever say that), it’s true. Scents link memories past to the present. My mother wears Anice Anice - and the mere name brings me back as a five year old watching her apply her perfume in the small, blue bathroom adjacent to her and my father's bedroom. I sat, hoping to steal a smear of her Cover Girl foundation - nevermind the fact that we're two completely different skin tones. The scent of cucumber melon from Bath & Body Works takes me to high school era joyrides (and covering up the scent of teenage rebellion). Juicy Couture's signature perfume sends me to my 4th floor dorm room, eating take out, drinking wine and watching Sex & The City or The Hills with P and our friend and T.

As I fully emerge (and ok, finally accept) myself as a full fledged adult, career-working, no-longer-a-child woman, I think its time for a true signature scent for myself. My almost final decision? Delices de Cartier by Cartier.

-M

Who Doesn't Need A New Necklace?

2009-07-23T14:41:00.007-04:00

(image courtesy of thebudgetfashionista.com)

Color me excited. August 31st. Pencil, circle or highlight your day planners and save your pennies. Anna Sheffield’s line for Target debuts. In this recession, who can afford whole new outfits (without racking up your Amex bill)? Tis the year for accessorizing on a budget. Sheffield’s sterling silver and rose gold-plated chains, bracelets and necklaces are perfect centerpieces for any blazer, sweater or tunic. Pieces range from $20-$80. Can't. Hardly. Wait.

-M

Obsession Alert

2009-07-20T16:19:00.004-04:00

(image courtesy of polyvore.com)

Ahhh. It's the best time of the month. New magazine week. While flipping through the August issue of Harper's Bazaar, I find larger than life images of beautiful, gorgeous, opulent Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co bracelets. Silver. Gold. Black. Obsessed.

-M

Required Shopping

2009-07-20T10:29:00.005-04:00

(image courtesy of: http://thisislavie.com/)

Nina Garcia is quickly filling my bookcase shelves. On a whim of luck, I found "The One Hundred" on sale at Urban Outfitters in the Fanueil Hall Marketplace. I devoured the book in a day and a half and feel inspired by Garcia's list of must-haves for every fashionable woman. I agree with many of her picks and have a few of my own. As Garcia writes, "It is important for everyone who reads this book to know that I have adapted and edited each item on this list to suit my style, my body, my personality. I should hope you will do the same." That being said, here are just a few of my personal must haves for every fashionista.

-Boston Red Sox Baseball Cap.

A must have for every New England girl. I've owned one for as long as I've been alive. A fashion statement in itself, it shows your regional allegiance, pride for Boston, and the belief that, yes, the Yankees suck. It also doubles as a great cover for the days you sleep through your alarm and lose precious hair straightening minutes. Available in a myriad of colors, but let's face it, the only one that matters is the ever-classic red and blue. Whatever you do, don’t be accused of being a pink hat fan!

-Tiara.

No I'm not talking about a five dollar at Claires kind of tiara. A real tiara, a la Princess Diana. Not recommended for everyday office wear (but who am i to judge?), Everyone can channel their inner princess on their birthday, holiday or any day while lounging in a silk robe. Swarovski makes some great options.

-Denim.

Specifically, jeans. I’m positive that my jean obsession started with my no-jeans-allowed prep school dress code. Much like relationships, you don’t know what you have until it’s gone – or in this case, not allowed. Garcia writes as a fun fact that the average person owns 8.3 pairs of jeans. I counted. I own 40. That are currently clean in my closet. So, let’s say 50 when taking dirty laundry into thought. It’s a lot of denim, but I have no buyers remorse. Skinny leg. Bootcut. Wide leg. Destroyed. Boyfriend fit. Dark wash. Light wash. A lot of options becomes a lot of shopping. One note with jeans: it’s great to discount shop, but I never suggest doing so with denim. Quality denim feels great, fits great and, most importantly, doesn’t stretch out. A co-worker of mine had an unfortunate jean find last week at Urban Outfitters where the denim just didn’t sit well and stretched out after one day. Forever 21 jeans are also infamous to stretch after one wear. Keep the bargains for tops, and try on pairs by Seven for all Mankind, Citizens for Humanity, J Brand, Paper Denim & Cloth and Earnest Sewn. Your legs will thank you.

-Lip gloss.

The one cosmetic necessity for every woman. I don’t care if it’s Cherry Chapstick, Chanel, Stila or anything inbetween. Lips get chapped and uncomfortable. Lips are a visual focal point during conversation. Make them look as good as the rest of you!

-Black turtleneck.

A la Audrey Hepburn. One in cashmere is a winter necessity. It screams classic, classy and professional. Always flattering and slimming, it somehow always hugs in the right places. Consider it a new best friend.

-M

R.I.P.

2009-07-17T21:03:00.004-04:00

(image courtesy of: http://newsroom-magazine.com)

Walter Cronkite passed away this evening at the age of 92. As a former journalism student with a B.A. in journalism, Cronkite was a frequent topic in classes and seen as a true icon. He covered historic moments including Neil Armstrong walking on the moon, John F. Kennedy's assassination. He was the anchorman that inspired - and will continue to inspire - journalism students. The media industry would be vastly different without him, his legacy and impact.

RIP.

-M

I’d Rather Wear Shoeboxes On My Feet

2009-07-17T11:01:00.003-04:00

(image courtesy of listentoleon.net)

I distain Crocs. When they first appeared on my friends’ feet, they claimed that they were comfortable. My friend C said they were the best shoes to have when she crewed during college. “They’re light and feel like nothing on your feet!” I maintained that they look like gardening shoes, that only my mom (who I love, but only recently tuned herself into the world of trendy fashion) would wear in her tomato patch on summer days. Crocs are best paired with graying hair and tacky rubber gloves. Not designer handbags and daisy duke shorts.

I gave in a year ago when I found a pair of Boston Red Sox themed Crocs in a random boutique on Washington Street. I had on the most uncomfortable pair of ballet flats and my feet were screaming for anything that wouldn’t pinch or blister. I paid the inflated twenty-something dollars for the two red and blue pieces of rubber in hopes of comfort. I soon learned that every single one of my friends that said they wore them for comfort lied. The footbed is prickly, the holes give an unnecessary draft into my foot and they’re cut so wide that a shoebox would be more comfortable. My pair of Crocs had a lifespan of 30 minutes that day, was worn once during Opening Day 2009 at Fenway Park and now collects dust underneath my bed.

Today, good news out of the Washington Post for myself and fellow anti-Croc fashionistas. The trend is over. Tired. Dead. And the company is broke. Long live the standby flip-flop as the summer shoe of choice.

-M

Mischa Barton: Art Imitates Life?

2009-07-17T09:00:00.004-04:00

(image courtesy of www.people.com)

File this one under unfortunate irony. Mischa Barton, The O.C.’s golden girl, is reportedly in a psychiatric unit under observation. This only a week after some rather embarrassing photos surfaced onto the interwebs. Did I bring her bad luck by finally mentioning her in yesterday’s Missoni post? Either way, send good thoughts and vibes to her.

And although it might be inappropriate, does anyone else find this the slightest bit odd? Is Barton playing out her Marissa Cooper alter-ego? Not to add to the negativity of the situation, but I’m just saying, I don’t think this would happen to the ever-perfect (and stylish) Rachel Bilson-slash-Summer Roberts. Hrm?

-M

Even the recession can be trendy

2009-07-16T17:05:00.004-04:00

(image courtesy of: http://www.feltclubboston.com)

Living in the city isn’t easy on a budget – and believe me, I know this fact firsthand. I’m known to break my budget on a twice-a-day basis. On the upside of the current dreary American economy are food specials. I live in a city that doesn’t allow happy hour (literally, legally, it’s a Blue Book law), but this doesn’t prevent food specials. Thankfully.

While I’ve scoped out several deals in the city (10 cent wings at the Asgard on Mondays, one dollar tacos at La Verdad on Tuesdays), my personal favorite weekly event is Recessionista Wednesdays at Felt on Washington Street. My three childhood best friends, K, C, L and I attended a few weeks in a row and left both times impressed, with full stomachs and wallets. The special $3 menu features appetizers such as garlicky shrimp and entrees like chicken picatta and mini chesse or veggie burgers. Desserts include apple crisp in martini glasses. Surprisingly enough, the menu as a whole was inexpensive with a half-order of lobster risotto costing a mere $8. Drinks range from about $6 to $10, so choose wisely and have only one or two. We all seem to approve of the red or white sangria (and, let’s face it, when isn’t sangria a good choice?).

Best yet, Felt sets a theme to each Recessionista Wednesday. Two weeks ago it was a chocolate theme – complete with chocolate fountain, dessert samples from a local bakery and celebrity trivia. Future themes include the Boston Red Sox, celebrities and country (as in country music). Count me in and remind me to look photo ready.

-M

M is for...

2009-07-16T15:55:00.005-04:00

(image courtesy of ruelala.com)

Me. Naturally. But when I’m in a giving, selfless mood, M also stands for Missoni. I always feel as though I channel Mischa Barton during her Marissa Cooper on The O.C days when I see Missoni. Fun, summery and kaleidoscope colorful, it exemplifies the luxury West Coast lifestyle that she encompassed. Plus, we all remember the scene when pre-boat party, Julie Cooper tells Marissa to wear a Missoni to look presentable.

I picked up the above green patent leather M Missoni tote at a sample sale within my office last week and I am obsessed. Big enough to fit all of my summer books, fashion magazines, designer frocks and Havaiana flip-flops, it’s my ultimate summer weekender bag. I was lucky enough to find it discounted, and believe you me, worth every penny. While there’s no more of this bag left, there are some M Missoni products over at the Final Sale at Rue La La. Grab them before I do!

While I gushed about my new bag purchase to P, she informed me that her city trumps mine with a Hotel Missoni just about completed in Kuwait City. Consider it Missoni Central, as Wikipedia calls it a lifestyle hotel that will “include 106 luxuriously stylish guest rooms and 63 suites (all with spectacular views of the Persian Gulf), a signature Missoni Cucina restaurant, a Mocha Missoni coffee bar, a chocolate café with an outdoor terrace, a 1530 square meter Six Senses Spa, a spacious, high-tech fitness facility and a large outdoor swimming pool overlooking the Gulf. Additional facilities will include a business center and several state-of-the-art conference rooms, as well as a spacious ballroom for large-scale events. All facilities will be decorated with Missoni's signature design elements, including lines, stripes, zig-zags and colors. Even the swimming pool will be tiled in Missoni's stripes and colors.”

Hotel Missoni and Pinkberry? Maybe it’s time to book a trip to visit P sooner rather than later…

-M

all wrapped up in love.

2009-07-15T19:21:00.004-04:00

(image courtesy of http://brand.buyma.com)

P and I have long been huge fans of scarves and wraps. They easily transformed any old outfit in college from drab to sophisticated. Our Burberry plaid kept our little necks warm in the winter and Pashminas doubled as jacket substitutes on brisk fall nights. Functional and fabulous, consider my collection growing.

Rue La La has an ongoing Sir Alistair Rai sale until tomorrow (Thursday) at 11am. A favorite of Nicole Richie and Rihanna, Sir Alistair Rai's love, peace and karma scarves are a staple in fashionistas closets. While I lusted for years before finally buying one, my own mother is jumping on the stylish scarf obsession. We both are proud owners of the navy blue Raja wrap. Good style runs in the family.

-M

do you have the time?

2009-07-15T19:06:00.004-04:00

(image courtesy of luckymag.com)

Following up on P's post on the love that is for statement necklaces, there is a need to take note of another neckline exclamation point. Pendant necklaces. Displayed in the current issue of Lucky, pendant necklaces are the trendy counterpoint to the traditional (yet always bulky) wristwatch.

I haven't been a watch person since my Casio Baby G obsession in middle school. I dislike the tan lines that watches leave and the never-ending dilemma of matching an outfit to such a minor accessory. Pendant watches are the ultimate answer that can accessorize, remain trendy and timely all at once. My personal favorites are by Kenneth Jay Lane and Tiffany & Co.

-M

Statement necklaces are still all the rage

2009-07-15T18:40:00.003-04:00

Bollywood actress Sonam Kapoor

Fashion designer Rachel Roy

The City's Whitney Port

(All images from Getty, AP or Reuters via daylife.com)

Carrying on from last year, eye-catching statement necklaces seem to be here to stay. And oh what fun they are. From Bollywood starlets to "reality" stars and everyone in between sporting them, the trend is still red-hot.

Not in on yet?

Worry not, we at Pop Culture Paradox have a few hints and tips on how to rock statement necklaces...

Although they dress up a little black dress with little effort, they are best paired with a completely relaxed ensemble...I'm thinking a worn-in tee or ribbed tank top paired with a pair of skinny jeans. Efforlessly chic!
Because your statement necklace will be doing all the talking...pair it with neutral, non-fussy attire with simple necklines (Bollywood actress Sonam Kapoor is all about the asymmetrical neckline)
Whatever you do, please don't pile on any other jewelry...no earrings (if you must, make sure they are simple studs), steer clear of bangles or cuffs...if you can't resist...add a sparkly cocktail ring or classy watch (like Whitney)
Keep big, chunky wooden beads and the likes restricted to daytime and pile on the bling in the evening.

Summer art exhibit at dar al funoon, kuwait

2009-07-15T16:46:00.004-04:00

One thing about us in Kuwait is that we are notoriously fickle. Most new things, whether they are swanky resto-lounges, great independent boutiques, sleek sports cars, coffee/sheesha places, latest top-of-the-line cell phones, nail bars, bakeries, usually see a huge surge of interest when they are first introduced to Kuwait's relatively tiny market. Most people buy/try the newest stuff out of the absolutely inexplicable need to be a part of the hype. Usually when it fades away, people move on to the next new, exciting thing...

Art gallery openings are a similar fad in Kuwait. Opening day seems to be the place to see and be seen. Conversing with the curators, meandering around the gallery and putting in your two cents (fils?), and most importantly, audibly announcing that you would like the latest flavor-of-the-week reserved to be picked up later. (Of course, 9 times out of 10, gallery owners are left chasing after these so-called art buyers...'Oh, I'm redecorating and I don't think it will go with my vision' seems to be a common cop-out)

Obviously, if something has substance, it survives and dare I say, even thrives in Kuwait. On the art scene, it is Dar Al Funoon art gallery (readers not based in Kuwait can check out this Flickr photostream to get a feel for the place).

Their summer exhibition, which will be on through August, has brought together some of the topmost names from the region, as well as Iran and Africa.

Check out a few pictures:

Karim Ghidinelli

Talk about a global citizen, the artist is originally Italian, lived in Ethiopia, Namibia and London and now calls Miami Beach, FL home. Whew. His extensive travels, and especially his time spent in Africa, reflect in his paintings which are characterized by bold uses of color and expressive brushstrokes. His constant search for identity is also evident as thumb prints feature prominently in his artwork.

Reza Derakshani

A prominent Iranian visual artist, Derakshani is also an accomplished musician (he even has his own album out). Music often plays a large part during his exhibitions. He is widely known to pull influence from his own Persian heritage, especially traditional folklore and his palette is more often than not subdued.

Nja Mahdoui

Easily one of my favorites, Mahdaoui, a Tunisian visual artist, explores traditional Arabic calligraphy and its place in the world today. His canvases are big, bold and arresting in their colorful splendor. He works mainly with acrylics, metallic paint and pen on canvas.

Farideh Lashai

Another Iranian artist, Lashai’s work often echoes elements of nature from her native Gilan, a province along the Caspian Sea. Gorgeously sublime colors and textures are abound in her work, which is usually mixed-media.

(All images my own)

Gossip girl inspired line was never off: Target

2009-07-15T10:01:00.009-04:00

Click for a larger image! :)
(Created on P's trusty mac using images courtesy http://www.cityhammer.com, gossipgirl-blog.cwtv.com and http://www.sugarscape.com)

We never thought we'd devote 3 posts to a collection we didn't even like to begin with, but we believe in setting the record straight...

Pop Culture Paradox brings its readers the REAL (we hope) deal this time around...

Stylelist.com got in touch with officials at Target who stated: "We are moving forward as planned with the four principal leads of 'Gossip Girl' as our creative muses...Unfortunately, there was misinformation passed around and we are still very excited about the collaboration."

According to the website: "....the retailer will be the official sponsor of this year's "Gossip Girl" season premiere: Commercials for Anna Sui's highly anticipated collection will run during the show's equally hyped debut on September 14." Read the entire post here.

M's Uniform Project

2009-07-14T21:52:00.005-04:00

Uniform Project by PopCultureParadox
(Featuring navy blue jumper from Old Navy, C&C California white tee, David Yurman rope bangle, Tiffany & Co chain link bracelet, Havaiana, Hollister and AE flip flops and Blair Waldorf-esque headbands)

I took a little inspiration this morning from The Uniform Project (which P and I love!) while searching through my closet. While I attended private schools for 13 years, I was blessed with the freedom of dress codes, sans formal uniforms. Today, years later, tucked away in a back corner of my closet hung a navy blue, private school uniform style jumper. A diamond in the rough found while discount shopping. The perfect summertime length, its pleated skirt falls about two inches above my knee and snugs in all the right places.

To my delight, a simple navy blue jumper is a canvas. A flattering canvas at that. Accessorizing and creating an age-appropriate look for a twenty-something proved simple with flip flops, jewelry and a headband. I paired mine with a ribbed white tee, nautical J.Crew flip-flops and silver bracelets (one Tiffany & Co chain link and one skinny roped silver bangle)

For future outfits? Ideas already pop into my mind. Leggings in the the fall with ballet flats. A blue-green plaid tie a la Serena van der Woodsen in Gossip Girl. Gold jewelry. Peacock feathered headbands. A chunky cocktail ring.

While unlike The Uniform Project's Sheena Matheiken, I cannot create such a look every day (and I commend her for doing so), finding such a simple outfit staple to create a uniquely individual outfit proves refreshing and fabulous.

-M

Fierce.

2009-07-13T16:41:00.004-04:00

(image courtesy of: www.racked.com)

We at Pop Culture Paradox nearly burst of happiness when we heard that the 'fierce' season four winner of Project Runway, Christian Siriano was in the works to design a budget-friendly line of shoes for Payless (of all places!). Now, at long last, Racked obtained a first look at the line of shoes and handbags. Consider me excited. All shoes look stylish, work-friendly and affordable (everything in the line is priced at $45 and under!). I wonder if that large black handbag looks as luscious in person...

-M

The Bargain Maven Says...

2009-07-13T16:04:00.006-04:00

(image courtesy of SmartBargains.com)

I know a good deal when I see one. I'm known to act irrationally on good deals, but I consider the action fitting the need. While doing work today, I stumbled on SmartBaragins.com (one of the sites I work for) and found their 2 for $75.00 designer dress sale.

Shocking, actually. Some of my favorite designers and brands. Dresses that are normally priced way more than $75.00 each for two for $75.00? Do my eyes deceive me?

Check out the selection for yourself, but here are my suggestions. A black dress that's perfect for cocktails and first dates (and channels your inner Lauren Conrad). A white dress that's perfect for summertime BBQ's (or any event that might include seeing your significant others' parents or family). Or a frilly dress with tulle skirt that channels an inner Carrie Bradshaw. I'm lusting.

-M

Twitter-holic

2009-07-13T15:38:00.004-04:00

(image courtesy of: http://scottwesterfeld.com)

My name is M, and I am a Twitter-holic.

I have an unfortunate habit of creating social media obsessions. Facebook landed on the mainstream internet radar during my freshman year of college in 2004. I was the first of my friends to join. I check Gmail non-stop (literally, with my iPhone synced to my account). I was a Livejournal addict during high school. I owned a Casio My Magic Diary during second grade. My mother claims I played with a Sesame Street Big Bird “computer” as a toddler. I have technology obsession issues (but so does my Dad. He still owns the original brick-sized iPod).

When Twitter came around, I joined for the sake of this blog. I thought it’d be a good marketing tool to keep readers up to speed with new posts. I initially scoffed at my personal account. Who really cares if I just ate sushi? Just took a bubble bath? Likes that it’s a sunny day? Has a case of the Mondays?

Who cares, I ask? I do. Apparently. After a few weeks of neglecting my Twitter account, I started updating on my iPhone on the subway ride to work. Then I linked it up to my Facebook status so the pesky, always-crashing Facebook mobile site is nothing but a distant memory to me and my iPhone. Mom told me that my aunt reads my Twitter page regularly. This kind of scared me and I went back through to make sure that all tweets were family-appropriate (a good idea for anyone who hasn’t done so already).

Then I started following celebrities on Twitter. Pete Wentz (who seems to never log off of Twitter, does anyone think this pesters Ashlee?). Kim Kardashian. Paris Hilton. Lindsay Lohan (a personal favorite of mine and friend L). I tracked down old friends, exes and friendemies alike on Twitter. The best (and worse) part? Like my aunt, I can read their tweets without even adding them as a friend, (or “follow them” in Twitter-speak). It’s the ultimate stalking tool. This makes me wonder who is actually reading mine. Are you?

Now I tweet throughout the day. I tweet when I’m bored. I tweet when I’m eating. I tweet on dinner dates with my boyfriend. I know it’s rude, but he’s used to it. “My little online socialite,” he told me yesterday when I quickly hopped on Twitter before leaving the apartment for a day trip. Hearing that was nothing but music to my ears.

-M

Target execs miss the bullseye

2009-07-13T12:39:00.007-04:00

(Image courtesy thefrisky.com)

Put this on the top of the list of silly decisions made by Target.

Remember the Gossip Girl-inspired line Anna Sui was designing for Target? Well, the line is still going ahead as expected, but a top Target exec reportedly got nervous about the "racy" content of the show and is trying to have the whole Gossip Girl marketing angle scrapped.

According to the New York Daily News:

“One of Target’s top executives got nervous about being that closely associated with the show, given the [debauchery] its characters get into,” says an on-the-set source. For example, Blake Lively’s character, Serena, killed a man, and most of the characters frequently get wasted, do drugs and have promiscuous sex.

A “Gossip Girl” insider tells us that a party scene featuring Blair and Chuck (played by Leighton Meester and Ed Westwick) was set to shoot at Sui’s flagship store in SoHo last Tuesday; models being used as extras were to wear Sui’s Target collection. “There was going to be signage, as well as Target symbols in purple and black — Anna’s signature colors,” says the snitch. “And it was rumored that Anna herself was going to be making a cameo appearance.”

“It’s Target’s loss, because the line would have sold better if it had played a part in the show.”

I have to say, although I am sure this "top exec" probably does not fall under Gossip Girl's targeted demographic, I find it incredibly hard to believe that nobody clued her or him into the shows premise...why didn't the marketing team go ahead and research and explain exactly what Gossip Girl was all about...the show's content and packaging has been pretty consistent since the pilot episode.

If the whole line had been canned, I would've just chalked these reports up to the fact that somebody at Target finally saw that these were just really ugly clothes that did not need to be sold to consumers who didn't know any better (tee hee hee)...but since it's not, could there be some other reason behind it?

come over to the light side

2009-07-11T15:12:00.006-04:00

white jeans 3 by PopCultureParadox featuring Marc Jacobs sunglasses

white out 1 by PopCultureParadox featuring Lanvin accessories

summer 2 by PopCultureParadox featuring Miu Miu bags

Call it a summer fling if you will. Haters say it won't last past the post-Memorial Day, pre-Labor Day summer stretch. But I don't care...I'm young and in love!

My love affair with white denims is in full swing.

I recently bought a gorgeous pair of white denims from Citizens of Humanity and it is unbelievable how they've brought about a lovely new freshness to my tired old tees and same ol' gladiators. I love wearing my usual casual outfits but mixing things up by replacing my dependable blue jeans with chic white denims. The new jeans just sort of make everything seem less stale and boring.

Whether you pair your white denims with monochromatic neutrals, pretty pastels, bright prints and geometric patterns or punk-inspired accessories...just try not to spill anything on them!

Manbags/murses

2009-07-10T17:32:00.009-04:00

(Image courtesy http://www.coutorture.com)

In our increasingly complex world, a man’s affection for his bag is no longer a love that dare not speak its name. The manbag is a style essential. Just so long as it’s not too girlie.

- The Times

While we at Pop Culture Paradox have made our distaste for Muggs (Man Uggs, duh) abundantly clear...our opinion on manbags or murses is yet to be decided.

The Gucci Men's Spring 2010 collection shown in Milan predominantly featured oversized (and frankly, a bit over the top I think) hand...err...manbags and the first image that popped into my head was Joey from Friends. Now, nearly 10 years on from then, men like Beckham, Ronaldo, Kanye West, Pharrell (he posed for the cover of a magazine with his bright purple Birkin!) and even Snoop Dogg have been spotted toting around their everyday essentials in manbags and murses.

As women, we know all too well how naked we feel without our handbags, filled with our lip gloss, compact, bronzer, eyeliner, moisturizer, cell phone, keys, sunglasses, pens, notebooks, gum, magazines or books, hair-tie, sometimes a light cardigan (do I really need to go on?)

That being said, who are we to judge if the boys embrace the everyday practicality of bags.

Check out this article from The Times for more insight into how men are embracing manbags!

Hear the White Tiger roar

2009-07-10T16:33:00.005-04:00

White Tiger by PopCultureParadox featuring Dorothy Perkins

From DVF, Stella McCartney and Manish Arora to Topshop, Forever 21 and Dorothy Perkins...seems like everyone in the fashion world has been looking at their bookshelves for inspiration! Did they all pick up Aravind Adiga's award-winning novel The White Tiger earlier this year?

The white tiger is showing its stripes everywhere this summer - on tanks layered underneath boyfriend blazers or paired with ripped denims and gladiators and accessories such as cuffs, clutches and totes.

If you're not feeling the wild-side vibe, forget the clothes but pick up the book. Adiga's spine- tinglingly dark and sarcastic narrative style offers a new lens through which to view the perpetual clash between the haves and the have-nots. Add it to your summer reading list.

Breaking News: The Wannabe Lo Bosworth Quits The Worst Show Ever

2009-07-09T22:53:00.002-04:00

(image courtesy of http://s3.amazonaws.com and nachofoto.com)

P's and my own disdain for MTV's The City is no secret. Apparently filming for season two is underway in NYC sans one cast member. Whitney Port's season one "best friend," Erin Lucas is best friend no longer. She reports a, "falling out" to New York Magazine's The Cut. Details please? More importantly, if there's no Erin, can it be the first step to The City's demise? Please please please!

-M

Strrrrike 3 for Burger King?

2009-07-09T16:21:00.004-04:00

(Image courtesy www.rediff.com)

Bad taste? The Hindu goddess Lakshmi and a new BK burger are placed under a slogan claiming 'La merienda es sagrada' – the snack is sacred.

All bad things come in 3 for Burger King apparently.

Their latest in a string of culturally insensitive advertisements depicts the Hindu Goddess of Wealth Lakshmi seated with a 'Texican Whopper' at her feet. What is in the burger you ask? An all-beef patty, a beef chilli-con-carne slice and egg-based Cajun mayonnaise. Oh, by the way, most strict Hindus avoid all of the above mentioned products.

I just can't imagine what the thought process of the ad execs who designed this ad must have been..."Hmm, I know, I'll use an image from a religion that forbids its followers to eat meat, specifically beef, to sell...ahem...BURGERS..." It just seems a bit ridiculous.

But apparently this sandwich seems to be a magnet for trouble...The Telegraph reports that

"Earlier this year, Burger King offended Mexican officials with another advertisement for the 'Texican Whopper' which depicted a dwarf dressed as a wrestler draped in the Mexican flag."

BK's other tacky ad? You know, the one for BK Super Seven Incher... guaranteed to "blow" our minds away.

The thing that bothers me about all these ads is how incredibly tacky, tasteless and just plain dumb they are. Whatever happened to clever, eye-catching and thought provoking ad campaigns?

What do you think? Are we veering towards an an era of excessive political correctness? Are we shying away from creativity for the fear of offending people or is there something seriously wrong with these ads?

High & Low. The Best Pairing Ever.

2009-07-09T13:41:00.005-04:00

High Meets Low by PopCultureParadox on polyvore.com

(image features DvF skirt, Theory tee, Pink by Victoria's Secret sandals, Forever 21 necklace and ring and H&M earrings)

I love fused together opposites. Sweet and sour dipping sauce. Black and white colorblock dresses. Hot tea with ice cubes. In fashion, it’s no different. I strive to mix and match high and low. In today’s economy, it’s finally frowned upon to wear head to toe high-end haute couture. Afterall, it’s about priorities. While I’d love to wear a $1200 top from Christian Dior with a Roberto Cavalli skirt everyday, I also love to eat and have food in my freezer.

For young twenty-something professionals, mixing high and low is easy thanks to H&M and Forever 21. Pair a DvF skirt, Theory top and Colin Stuart shoes from Victoria's Secret with a funky necklace from Forever 21 (for under $5!) and some leggings from H&M (under $10!). Another suggestion? Wear a Forever 21 skirt with a Tory Burch cardigan and flats and fool everyone into thinking you spent a fortune. Your secret's safe with me.

-M

Love Is Like A Mannequin

2009-07-07T22:05:00.004-04:00

(image courtesy of justjared.net)

Apparently B.Spears introduced a new song to her setlist during her European leg of her tour the other night. While the performance may be less than stellar (what happened to her Slave For You dancing days?), I cannot lie. It's quickly becoming my new favorite song off of Circus. No one can dispute that it's an A+ pop song off of an A+ pop album.

-M

Daria on DVD!

2009-07-06T20:14:00.005-04:00

(photo courtesy of http://www.ioffer.com)

I don't know about anyone else, but I think it might be safe to say that Daria was the best show on MTV of all time. Period. The end. Yes, better than The Real World. Better than Made. Even better than TRL - and we know how much I love me some Justin Timberlake and *NSync.

Created in 1997, I was a mere 12 years old when Daria debuted. It defined my preteen and middle school years. I wanted to be witty and sarcastic like Daria Morgendorffer, have a crush on a bad boy like Trent and ditzily girly like Quinn Morgendorffer all at once. The show as a whole stayed in tune with 1990s and early 2000s pop culture and, as a whole, was somehow deep for a cartoon.

When the show ended in 2001/2002, I was in high school and my attention changed to other teenage geared shows. Still, Daria holds a special place in my television memory. Memories that can now be reignited in my mid-twenties with murmurs this week of Daria finally - finally - coming to DVD. It's so exciting I can hardly stand it. Now if I can only dig out my Daria-style wardrobe of Doc Martens and green blazers.

Or, rather. Okay. Some things can stay in the 1990s.

-M

for technocrati

2009-07-06T15:31:00.007-04:00

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Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-02T22:03:00.003-04:00

(image courtesy of www.greenkitchen.com)

Happy 4th of July weekend to all of our US-based readers. This weekend means BBQs, beer, pool parties, fireworks and other "American" activities. For me, it means breaking out my favorite in red, white and blue apparel. The 4th of July surely isn't meant to be a fashion statement, but indeed it is (as is every other day, but that's besides the point). What's more American than blue jeans and white t-shirts? It's always a proper choice for casualwear. Pair it with a pair of Havaiana flip flops, especially if your plans include lounging poolside.

Enjoy the long holiday weekend, don't eat too many cheeseburgers and remember bug spray for any and all plans. I'll be found on the North Shore of Massachusetts, next to my friend's pool, cradling a bottomless frozen margarita and listening to endless 4th of July music staples (think Bruce Springsteen and Aerosmith).

-M

H.Duff on Gossip Girl???

2009-07-01T15:46:00.003-04:00

(image courtesy of askmen.com)

For real? According to People and E! Online, indeed, Hilary Duff (everyone's favorite former Disney star) is slated to appear on multiple episodes of Gossip Girl this season. According to E! Online, "Inside sources tell us that Duff's character Olivia is a movie star who just wants to live a simple peasant girl's life at college and date a simple, nonfamous guy." I spy a relationship with a certain whiny Dan Humphrey. Oh H.Duff. You can do so much better than him.

-M

Listen In Style

2009-06-30T21:48:00.004-04:00

(image courtesy of: http://www.bhphotovideo.com)

I strive to have my home match my personality, so it's only appropriate to have my iPhone have a home that matches it's pop nature. As seen above, I choose to house my music while I'm not out and about in an iHome iP9. While pink might seem like the choice for a 12-year-old, I embrace my inner feminine side (and so should everyone, if so desired!). Added bonus feature? A great and reliable alarm clock.

(image courtesy of www.iphonestalk.com)

However, iHome isn't the only choice for iPod/iPhone speakerware. For indulgent speaker seekers, Bose's SoundDock is sleek, loud and thin enough to fit in any windowsill.

(image courtesy of www.fabsugar.com)

Stylish speakers shouldn't be limited to the bedroom (or kitchen, living room, or wherever your iHome may reside). Shuga Buds have been popular for a few years (best friend A gave me a pair for my 20th birthday). Swarovski crystaled and juicy with color, pairs could once be found at Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Bloomingdales. Now it (sadly) appears that one can only find pairs of sparkly earbud goodness via their official order form. Also sad? Reminder for iPhone 1st Generation users. No flush headphone jack = no usage of non-Apple earbuds. Time to upgrade!

-M

"Intoxicate Me, I'm A Lush"

2009-06-30T21:36:00.003-04:00

(image courtesy of: http://www.unitedmusic.ro)

The most recent Britney Spears video leaked onto the interwebs tonight (via ontd). I must say, while Radar was one of my favorites off of Ms. Spears's Blackout days, I feel horrendously bored with it (song and video) right now. Maybe after a few viewings it'll grow on me. Or maybe not. What's with the horse innuendos? It's a bit overboard. I still prefer the scandalous If U Seek Amy video, if you ask me.

On a happier note. Brit-Brit is looking just as stellar as she did in her pre-breakdown, pre-head shaving, Slave For You days. Girl's got her abs back. How does she make it seem so easy?

-M

D is for Design

2009-06-30T19:21:00.015-04:00

The only thing that links the following few things together is design...fun, fantastic and innovative design. Enjoy!

tea= time by erez bar am

(photo by sasha filt, image courtesy shenkar academy of engineering and design via http://www.designboom.com)

Students at Tel Aviv's Shenkar Academy of Engineering and Design studied everyday coffee and tea drinking rituals and developed pieces based on their observations. The image above is entitled tea = time and is designed to encourage the tea drinker to slow down and savor the experience...the cup is low and broad and comes with sugar capsules that dissolve slowly.

Check out the other excellent designs here.

comet coffee table by skate study house

(Image courtesy http://skatestudyhouse.com/html/store.html)

Now you can have all the sk8erboi moments you want (yes M, I mean you). Skate Study House, a collaboration between designers Pierre Andre Senizergues and Gil Le Bon De LaPointe, basically takes the waste products from skateboard manufacturing and turns them into furniture and other functional things. Skate Study House combines skateboard culture, California lifestyle in an eco-friendly manner as they use recycled/2nd hand products.

You've got to check out their website to see more of their designs.

klocka clock by bvd for askul

(Image courtesy bvd.se)

Talk about the MOST appropriate clock for 9-to-5ers. Hehe. Swedish firm BVD's new Klocka clock for Askul has the 3 most important times highlighted for office-goers...9 am arrival, noon for a leisurely lunch and 5 to rush out the door. Don't you just want to buy it and hang it inside your office/somewhere in your cubicle?

glue cinderella by kartell by .normaluisa

(Images courtesy coolhunting.com)

If you ever grew up wanting to be a Disney princess (and let's face it, who didn't) then it's pretty much guaranteed that you will lust after these fantastic plastic flats. Whimsically titled "Glue Cinderella," this collection from Italian design pioneer Kartell is produced using "injection-moulding technology that allows the creation of two-tone shoes combining transparent and opaque effects." Err, right. Whatever. They're fun to look at, are waterproof and could kick Croc's ass any day of the week.

bubble necklace by marina and susanna sent

(Image courtesy momastore.org)

Ahh...bubbles! Soapy suds in the bath or blowing bubbles in the park, bubbles always make me happy, so I was thrilled to come across this piece. Designed by Italian sisters Marina and Susanna Sent and made from Murano glass beads, this piece is designed to resemble a cluster of bubbles. Gorgeous.

This is one of my worst fears...

2009-06-30T15:44:00.004-04:00

(Images courtesy Getty Images via daylife.com)

So, BET awards...singer Amerie and Kanye West's on-again, off-again girlfriend show up in the same pretty white Alexander McQueen minidress. The only difference? Accessories and a bit of attitude. While Amerie paired her dress with a pretty necklace, long flowing hair and rocker-chic booties...Amber Rose paired hers with hot pink heels and matching clutch.

They both look nice, but, I won't lie, showing up at the same event wearing the same dress...kind of horrifying. :S

Another one bites the dust...

2009-06-30T15:22:00.004-04:00

(Image courtesy theinsider.com)

Word has it that the awesome urban-music magazine Vibe is shutting down "immediately". Another victim to the recession. Sad :(

On another note though, it's really interesting to watch traditional media outlets all but fade into oblivion. I definitely see a place for newspapers and magazines in the future, but there's no denying that the content and perhaps even marketing of them must be tweaked if they are to survive the onslaught of instant and easily available news updates online. Such transitions within the contemporary media world has led to shifts in journalism education. While only a few years ago, I sat in mandatory newswriting and reporting classes, I see now at mine (and P's!) alma mater available journalism classes on Podcasts, online writing formats and how business and journalism intertwine. Who would have thought that my education could feel outdated after only a year?

Also curious about this shift to online media and news sources? What is news anymore? Is the New York Times still relevant when people can get their breaking news off of Twitterfeeds and blogs? Thoughts? Opinions? We'd love to hear them.

-M & P

Tart Soft-Serve Goodness

2009-06-29T21:45:00.003-04:00

(image courtesy of: http://www.woodenboat.org)

Since discovering Pinkberry in NYC earlier this summer (and learning that while P will be able to eat all the Pinkberry to her hearts' content in Kuwait, and I'm stuck with no Pinkberry whatsoever in Boston), I went on a one-woman-hunt for similar tart frozen yogurt in the greater Boston area. After a month, about one froyo a day and numerous pleadings with my boyfriend to, "please just take me so I can get one more today," I think I've exhausted my efforts. I've been to what I could locate as the four main soft-serve froyo venues near me (all within a MBTA subway ride distance). While Pinkberry resides within me as the creme de la creme, some of these come in awfully close behind.

In order of preference...

1.) Berryline. If I wasn't so obsessed with Pinkberry's aura, decor and atmosphere, I would maybe say that Berryline ranks #1 as the best soft-serve frozen yogurt. Their fruit is always fresh (I recommend the raspberries, strawberries and kiwi), and the workers pile it on. I went there twice today alone (true story). Prices are cheaper than Pinkberry by about a dollar and the soft-serve is creamy and delicious. Follow them on Twitter or Facebook and find their yummy deliciousness in Porter Square, Harvard Square or the Fenway area on Bolyston Street.

2.) Chill. When walking into Chill on Chestnut Hill Ave. in Brighton, I felt the Pinkberry influence. White counters. Bright lights. All radiated a certain sense of cleanliness. Also affordable (a small with two toppings runs just about $4), it's become a weekly staple in girls night dinner dates with my friend K. I still opt for raspberries and strawberries as toppings (I'm a creature of habit), while K opts for rainbow sprinkles (we're really 8 years old at heart). I find Chill's consistency to be a bit more watery than Berryline, but not so much so that it's unenjoyable.

3.) The disappointment of the bunch, U Good on Brookline Ave in Boston, next to the Regal Cinema and on the first floor of the Landmark Center. While their signs taut healthy food and healthy living, I felt awfully cheated (and angry, thereby unhealthy) when the worker piled on about 4 raspberries and 2 bits of strawberry as my "toppings" that have an additional cost. When I bit in, I swear, I tasted cardboard. Tangy and not tart. After days of fantastic froyo, my tastebuds were unfulfilled and disappointed. No good, U Good.

4.) Lastly, I put this only as a warning to others. On some internet pages, Cafe Kiraz in Cambridge is listed as having fantastic soft-serve frozen yogurt. Conveniently placed about, oh, twenty steps from my apartment, I decided to give it a try. When I ask the worker whether the soft-serve frozen yogurt is indeed my heavenly tart frozen yogurt, I get nods and affirming yes's. Negative. No tart soft-serve. Learn from my mistakes. If you want imitation Pinkberry, seek elsewhere.

Apparently in September, lucky me, Red Mango is opening on Huntington Ave. near Symphony Hall in Boston. I can hardly wait. Until then, Berryline employees can anticipate to see me every day, while Chill can be graced with my presence on Thursdays. Delish.

-M

Summertime Girls Got It Going On...

2009-06-29T18:54:00.013-04:00

(Image courtesy http://noveltyknees.files.wordpress.com)

For today's M & P joint post, we turned to our iPods and iPhones for inspiration. Temperatures in Boston finally soared past 75 degrees this afternoon (and, well, it's always hot in Kuwait). I ate my Berryline frozen yogurt (for free at their new Fenway area location until 9pm!) and wanted to drive with the top down. Unfortunately, cabs in Boston don't have convertable tops (boo), but I could jam away to some of my favorite summertime songs.

The Classics:

And by the classics, I don't mean The Beatles and Aerosmith (although I love both!). I mean classic 1999 style summery pop music anthems. Is your iTunes lacking such musical masterpieces? Consider these tracks.

LFO - Summer Girls (the ultimate New England prep school girl's summertime anthem in 2000. We all wore Abercrombie & Fitch and thought those LFO guys were incredibly attractive. Who knew they were from Massachusetts? Another reason to love them.)

Fergie - London Bridge (perfect to blast out of the car speakers on a girls' night out on the way to a club or bar. Don't lie, you know you've done it too. Although P has to ask, what was Fergie Ferg alluding to when she sang about everybody wanting to down...ohhhhh)

New Radicals - Get What You Give & Third Eye Blind - Semi Charmed Life (maybe my favorite late 1990s songs)

Michael Jackson - The Way You Make Me Feel (Okay, apart from the fact that MJ's tragic death this past week has made everyone and their mama rush out and download "The Essential Michael Jackson," there is no denying that this track is fun fun fun)

Beyonce - Crazy In Love (Oh COME ON, like I even really need to explain this pick...It's B at her finest! Uh oh uh oh uh oh oh no no)

Any Britney Spears song (Ain't no shame in it...blast that Britney...Summertime is the only time you can without fear of being looked down upon by music snobs :P)

The Strokes - Reptilia (Awesome guitar solos, energetic drumming, a sexy vocalist...equal parts rock and indie....what more could you want?)

John Mayer - No Such Thing (Remember John Mayer before his current creepalicious phase? Sigh. This song might help jog your memory.)

Jay-Z - Can I Get A...(Ok, I just picked that track randomly, but you're good to go with pretty much anything that Jay puts out....old, new...I'll take it all please, thanks.)

The Donnas - Take It Off (Most songs by The Donnas make me smile, but "The Hangover" reminded me of this particular track)

Current Music Obsessions:

Maino - All The Above
Black Eyed Peas - I Gotta Feeling
Lady GaGa - Paparazzi
Cobra Starship - Good Girls Go Bad (featuring Blair Wald... I mean Leighton Meester)
Kristina DeBarge - Goodbye

Drake - Best I Ever Had

Crazy Cousinz - The Funky Anthem (featuring DJ Reflex)

Robyn - Cobrastyle

Young Love - Find A New Way

Jay-Z - D.O.A

The Veronicas - Take Me On The Floor

Pitbull - I Know You Want Me

Oh my goodness, there are so many amazing songs we've left out and some we're sure we're going to kick ourselves for forgetting...anyway, hope this list at least gets you motivated enough to make your own playlist to enjoy while you work and play this summer.

- M & P

Accept No Substitutions

2009-06-28T22:04:00.004-04:00

(image courtesy of: http://www.topnews.in)

On June 13th, Facebook introduced usernames to its users. Despite complaints that the change made Facebook more aligned with Myspace, users snapped up their usernames quickly and swiftly. Over 6 million usernames were claimed by the 15th. Some say that this change is relatively useless, while some are baffled by the "brouhaha" surrounding the change. For Web 2.0-fluent readers and small business owners, it means a better SEO process in setting an online social media presence. For us, clearly it means an easier Facebook stalking process. Assuming people claim their own name as their searchable username that means finding your old college crush or the cute Starbucks barista is as easy as www.facebook.com/cute-guy-from-biology-labs'-name-here (just hope that his name isn't John Smith or anything like that, if so, sorry!).

That being said. We at Pop Culture Paradox jumped on this bandwagon (although admittedly a bit late). Find us. Friend us. Comment on us and send us Facebook love at out official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/popcultureparadox.

-M

Coded Messages

2009-06-28T21:31:00.003-04:00

(image courtesy of: http://www.fantasticfiction.co.uk)

While I made my rounds on the weekend party circuit, my friend (and loyal PCP reader) Mandy and I firsthand witnessed could-be hookups and girl code hand-in-hand. The scenario always is the same. Girl meets boy. Boy meets girl. Boy shameless hits on girl. Girl reciprocates. Boy seems clueless to girl's obvious signs of interest.

It occurred to me that everyone knows guy code (all too much, if you ask me), but girl code seems to be this hidden secret that no one speaks of or flaunts around. Maybe it's because as females, we're a bit more inept to subtlety. Maybe it's because as females, we don't care if there's a code or not. Maybe it's because we all have moments where we're bitches and break the code anyway so if we pretend there isn't one, then we're never in the wrong.

It feels a bit Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus (gag), but I stumbled upon The Girl Code by Diane Farr during my online search for 'girl code' terminology. As a twenty-something, post-college girl, I (and my friends) have had a fair share of flirting, dating, hooking up, breaking up and all that fun stuff. It may seem a bit Sex and The City but somehow the common thread in each relationships' bumps, endings or false starts concludes with, "He just doesn't get it!" Boys, take note. Open your eyes. We really aren't that complicated. We promise!

-M

Anna Sui's Gossip Girl inspired line for Target: Me no likey

2009-06-28T19:56:00.003-04:00

When we heard that whimsical fashion designer Anna Sui would be designing a line inspired by our beloved TV show Gossip Girl for our most beloved store Target...we thought we had died and gone to heaven (ok, the latest collaboration between Jimmy Choo and H&M is pretty damn spectacular too).

Horror of all horrors...the line is truly hideous and uninspiring. Full of frumpy prints and cuts, these clothes would've been perfect for Vanessa...when she was going through her "I'm going to wear the fugliest clothes possible" phase...AND EVEN SHE GREW OUT OF IT! Anna Sui+Target...we're not impressed. What happened? How did this collection turn out so horribly wrong? SIGH.

The lookbook can be viewed via The Cut

"OMG, anna is like...madonna"

2009-06-28T19:36:00.006-04:00

(Image courtesy wwd.com)

"September is the January in fashion..."

The September Issue, R.J. Cutler's documentary film about the making of the September 2007 issue of American Vogue seems, from the trailer at least, a caricature of life behind the scenes of what many refer to as the Fashion Bible. Intentional or not, the majority of the clips in trailer seem right out of The Devil Wears Prada and Bruno. With flavor of the week fashion designer Thakoon and Vogue's editor-at large André Leon Talley actin a fool, it seems a bit contrived...but, who am I kidding, although I am not sure how 'realistic' it will be, the trailer certainly guarantees it will be entertaining. I'd check it out. You?

Watch the trailer:

Fashion, passion and politics: No paradox here...

2009-06-26T17:06:00.006-04:00

(Image courtesy http://www.whorange.net via The Uniform Project)

I absolutely love it when people can marry their many interests together! I stumbled across The Uniform Project which documents blogger Sheena Matheiken's attempt to make sustainable fashion a reality. She plans to wear the same black shift dress for 356 days straight (alright, not the exact same garment, but 7 specially designed identical versions of the dress so its sustainable AND hygienic). In attempt to keep things interesting, she is also incorporating the use of hand-me-down accessories such as hats, shoes, jewelry, tights, scarves, gloves etc etc. Check out the above screen shot where she pays tribute to the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson.
Apart from raising awareness, she is also collecting cash donations for the Akanksha Foundation, a non-profit group that provides educational programs to children who live in Mumbai’s slums.