Did Michelle Obama Spend $50k on Lingerie?

When reports surfaced yesterday that Michelle Obama and the Queen of Qatar spent $50,000 on a shopping spree at luxury lingerie boutique Agent Provocateur, the White House just about issued one of their color-coded alerts.

Rumor had it that M'Obama and her royal gal pal closed down Madison Avenue and dropped $50k on high-end underwear. Not that we don't believe the Obamas still have the hots for each other (let's be real, it's probably the most action the White House has seen since Clinton), but Mrs. O is usually spotted at stores like Target and H&M.

Although the report was deemed ridiculous by every reputable media outlet, the White House still decided to take the time (what else would they be doing?) to have Press Secretary Jay Carney issue a statement during the daily White House briefing. Yes, that's right, Yale graduate and former Time magazine Washington Bureau Chief Jay Carney had to make a public announcement regarding the lingerie-buying tendencies of the First Lady.

The Press Secretary said, "In this case, it's utterly false, and it's irresponsible of an American news organization to repeat the story, even allowing that it could be true. So it's wrong." When asked for legitimate proof that the story isn't true, WWD reports that Carney merely stated, "I'm not going there."

Source: click here

Fashion at any size

By Sarah Bernard
Leather, faux fur, and sexy black dresses are fabulous wardrobe additions this season -- when you know how to make them work for your particular figure, that is. You do not have to look like a 6-foot-tall waif to jump on fashion trends by any means. But you do need to know how to adapt a trend to flatter your particular shape. Consider this episode your guidebook to indulging in the hottest trends for winter 2012, whether you’re 0-2, plus-sized or anything in between.

Leather
The tough-chic look of leather has an irresistible allure and the key to making it work is understanding that leather acts like a highlighter. The eye is drawn to whatever part of the body you put it on, so use leather to highlight your assets.

Size 0-2
Show off your slim legs by rocking a pair of leather pants. Balance out the proportions with a soft, slouchy knit sweater.

Size 4-8
Tuck a printed top into a tight leather pencil skirt to show off your curves. A pair of printed tights adds sophistication and personality.

Size 10-14
Sometimes opposites are the way to go. We love how a flirty floral dress looks under a rough-and-tumble motorcycle jacket.

Plus-size
A black leather vest can be the streamlining element over a bold-patterned top and leggings.

The Little Black Dress
These can be classic or racy, depending on your mood. We love them because nothing is more flattering than black -- and because they transition so well from informal to formal and back.

Size 0-2
Go bold and take a risk with a trendy gathered-lace one-shoulder dress and high heels.

Size 4-8
There are two awesome facts about peplum dresses: (1) They are very much in style this season. (2) They simultaneously hug the body AND give coverage in the belly area.

Size 10-14
There’s nothing like a perfectly fitted sheath to skim over imperfections and add polish.

Plus-size
A shirt dress with some stretch that hits at the knee or lower is a slimming, elegant look.


Faux Fur
You do not have to be a Kardashian for this one. Anyone can work a bit of faux fur into a look as accents of fur make a big impact.

Size 0-2
Try out a cozy jacket for the perfect snow-bunny effect. Fur adds bulk, but you can pull it off with skinny jeans and heels.

Size 4-8
When you go for a fur vest, the rest of you—especially your arms— look slim and svelte.

Size 10-14
Add flair with a fitted wool coat that has a fur collar. The fur will be the focal point and draw attention upwards to your face.

Plus-size
A cardigan with fur trim worn over a dress is the perfect way to showcase the trend without overwhelming your frame.

Most popular jeans

While our GIG Gurus chose Lucky Brand as their favorite denim designer, the majority of Shine users (45%) preferred Levi’s jeans. Many women have owned a pair of classic Levi’s at one time or another, and since they’re widely available at affordable prices we can certainly understand why. For those of you who haven’t tried Lucky Brand jeans, we urge you to do so—you may discover a new favorite pair.

It's time for our second Shine Get it Guide review, and for this round we're tackling a really important topic: jeans. Seriously, great jeans can mean the difference between a good day (the perfect pair makes you exude confidence and sex appeal) and a bad one (think sagging in the butt, too tight at the waist, and feeling overall frumpy). We asked our 10 gurus to test out the 4 most popular denim brands in their style of choice. Read on to see which jeans prevailed: Lucky Brand, Levi's, True Religion, or Lee.

1. Lucky Brand
Lucky Brand jeans were the clear winner, 6 out of 10 gurus preferred them. Ashley Laurel felt they were "stylish, without trying too hard" and felt the dark wash could take her from day to night. "The minute I put my right leg in a pair of Lucky Brand jeans I was in fashion and comfort heaven," said Tina Case. "I can even do a yoga mountain pose as if I was still wearing my usual yoga pants. They are the perfect length and hug me in all the right places." Jodi Grundig felt confident in her skinny Lucky style. "The fit is perfect, perfect, perfect—stretchy in the waist and thighs, but tight down the calves," she said. Katie Dillon loved the Lucky trouser denim and said to "pair them with heels and a sweater set and you'll look downright professional." Michelle Rivera, however was not a fan of the fit. She said, "baby got back, but I guess not enough of it to fill these jeans."

2. Levi's
This classic brand made our gurus feel nostalgic, and 3 out of 10 liked Levi's the best. Michelle Rivera thought they were a comfortable, everyday go-to jean, while Anne-Marie Nichols said she'd wear them "everywhere from Harley rides to lunch with the girls." When Sarah Lipoff slipped on some Levi's she felt "so amazing I wore them out of the store (really, the husband made me)." Katie Dillon liked the vintage-feel of their trouser jeans saying, "You could really go bohemian with these, if you wanted to." While many Gurus considered them old standards, Sahar Aker felt they were a little outdated, "I wore Levi's in high school and college and I will always have a soft spot for them. But I've moved on."

3. True Religion
Three of our gurus said True Religion jeans made them feel like a rock star. Other adjectives used were trendy, stylish, and expensive. Clare Yeakel is the only guru who voted them the best, but she had good reason. "I'm almost 40, but single, so that rock star thing is important, people. I will wear these jeans until they fall to pieces, and feel fabulous in them every time I pull them on." Shelby Barone said, "The only way to get around tailoring these jeans is if Michael Jordan is planning on wearing them." She also didn't like all the embellishments. "My butt is the last place I want to draw attention after having kids [and] there was more bling on the bottom pockets than Zsa Zsa Gabor's diamond rings." Ashley Laurel agreed. "Can I say blinged out here? Overall, these jeans are just too much unless you're in a place like Hollywood or New York City." Sarah Lipoff said they're perfect for hitting the scene. "Sadly, my 'scene' includes watching re-runs of 'Iron Chef' while eating ice cream straight from the container."

4. Lee
Poor old Lee jeans received no votes. Sahar Aker described them as frumpy, uncool, and cheap. Sarah Lipoff said "I felt like I was attempting to find a knock-off of the good stuff." Anne-Marie Nichols said they were comfortable but too low for her taste. She'd recommend them to "women who think, 'Gosh darnit, I paid serious coin for that tramp stamp. I'm showing it off!'" Some gurus noted that even the skinny jeans have a loose fit. Shelby Barone said "the material had a strange odor, which reminded me of a gas station convenience store." But Tina Case saw one major redeeming factor. "Starting on sale around $34 you can't beat the price for the value. These are the most affordable. And they're stylish!"

Drop-crotch Skinny Jeans

Skinny jeans are one of the most popular denim styles and we love them in all their incarnations. Dark skinny jeans, colorful skinny jeans, leopard skinny jeans, and jeggings all have serves us well. But when you combine skinny jeans with a horrible trend like drop-crotch pants the result is terrifying.

Meet Oak's Medium Indigo Drop Skinny Jeans. For $158 you can be the proud owner of droopy ill-fitting pants with "an extra low dropped crotch." The retailer says the run small and recommends ordering them one size up for a tight fit and two sizes up for a baggier fit.

Hmm. What is the ideal fit for drop-crotch skinny jeans? Do you long for that saggy diaper feel, or were you seeking more of a tights-falling-down sensation? The worst thing about these jeans? They're unisex. So men and women can enjoy they're tight-legged, droopy-butt pants all together.

10 Fashion Resolutions to Actually Follow This Year

Here are 10 classic fashion resolutions made more awesome and achievable in 2012 thanks to new technology, tide-changing trends and a little bit of positive thinking.

1: Get Thrifty
True story: In 2012, it's possible to run a tight financial ship without becoming an agoraphobic coupon clipper. With price-comparing apps like The Find downloaded onto your smartphone and sites like Gilt Groupe, eBay and Etsy firmly locked into your bookmarks bar, it'll be impossible not to keep that resolution to spend wisely and save whenever possible.

2: Get Organized
Speaking of quality-of-life-improving sites, have you tried Svpply or WantWorthy? These wish-list-making digital havens are a super-easy way to keep all your wants and needs (and OMG-somedays) organized so that, when that tax refund finally comes, you'll know exactly how to spend it.

3: Up the Ante
Is your New Year's resolution to be a little more glam, a little more polished, a little more red-carpet-ready? This year we learned that Christian Louboutin pumps and Tiffany jewelry topped most women's if-I-won-the-lottery wish list. What's on yours? In 2012, we dare you splurge on one fabulous wear-it-forever piece. Need some more inspiration? We've got your back.

4: Branch Out
Every day can't be "I tried it Tuesday," but this year, why not step outside your comfort zone in the style department in just one or two ways? Bold floral pants, hot-pink suits and exaggerated cat-eye sunglasses are just a few of the crazy trends on the horizon for 2012. Not interested in spending an arm and a leg to try one out? Look to the British digital high street (we're talking Asos, Topshop, Very.com and Oasis) for great runway-inspired pieces that don't break the bank.

5: Show Off That Rockin' Bod With Pride
While we're all for eating healthy and staying active, we think more women need to recognize that the bod they're currently rockin' is pretty awesome. Let this be the year! One way to boost your confidence: Look to all the curvy A-listers landing at the top of the best-dressed lists. Another idea: Learn what pieces flatter your body shape most.

6: Get Inspired
Sure, some people would rather get a root canal than start their own Twitter account. But have you checked out Pinterest, Tumblr or Instagram? These image-centric sites are the easiest, most exciting way to get wardrobe, beauty or even interior-design inspiration. They're also free! If you're not sure how to use 'em, come check out our pages. We'll show you the ropes.

7: Learn Something New
Speaking of inspiration, if one of your New Year's resolutions is to learn about something new, why not make it a fashion-focused lesson? After all, contrary to popular belief, fashion was around before Lady Gaga, Topshop and street-style photographers were even in existence. For tips on what to pick up, consult our essential reading list (these pretty books double as decor!) or our archive of notable fashion films.

8: Be a Better Friend
Whether you aim to be a better listener, organize more get-togethers or branch out and meet new peeps, resolving to be an even better friend is never a bad idea. And with sites like Groupon (discounts on fun, local activities) and Wantful.com (customizable gifts at every price) making your hangout suggestions and b'day surprises that much more memorable and awesome, you practically can't fail. What can we say? It's a good time to be a friend!

9: Shine a Little Brighter
While we're all for a weeknight lady pilgrimage to that super-hard hip-hop class, there's another way to get your glow on in 2012. Yep, we're talkin' jewelry. Stylish jewelry e-commerce sites like BaubleBar and JewelMint and lower-priced collections like Rachel Zoe for QVC offer cool options for frosting that falls somewhere between heirloom worthy and two-for-one at Claire's. Hallelujah.

10: Have More Fun
In 2011 Madonna wore hot pants to a public event, Chanel made a virtual coloring book and Snooki told the world she exfoliated with cat litter. If that's not reason enough to go into 2012 with a smile on your face and a spring in your step, we don't know what is.

Fashion Hasn’t Changed in 20 Years

It's a new year, and along with new stylish resolutions, we're reflecting on clothing of the past. A new Vanity Fair article claims that while music, technology, and other creative fields have made leaps and bounds over the past 20 years, fashion is in a serious rut.
While many style experts claim the '90s are back, we're wondering if they ever really left. In 1992 there were no DVDs, MP3s, or wireless Internet (most of us didn't even GO online, let alone do our shopping there). Forget about iPods - even cell phones were scarce. But in 1992 our closets looked a lot like they do today.

The style of previous decades can be easily defined. The 1950s showcased full skirts, sheath dresses, neckerchiefs, poodle skirts, cardigans, Chanel-style women's suits. The 1960s were dominated by mini skirts, mod shift dresses, go-go boots, tie-dye, paisley, psychedelic prints, and bell bottom jeans. The '70s had jersey wrap dresses, polyester leisure suits, wide lapels, platforms, and high-waisted flared trousers. The '80s had an abundance of color, preppy polos, shoulder pads, pegged and skinny jeans, leather jackets, Wayfarer sunglasses, big earrings, lace, pumps, Members Only jackets, and spandex garments like leggings and leotards.

When you watch "Dynasty" or "The Brady Bunch" you take one look at the outfits and know which era the show is from. But what about "Friends" or "Will & Grace" or "Sex and the City"? The '90s and '00s are much tougher to pin down. There was the grunge movement with plaid flannel shirts, Doc Martens, Converse sneakers, and straight leg jeans like Levi's 501s, but all these items are still incredibly popular. Floral dresses, neon, denim shirts and jackets, and graphic print t-shirts never went away, and the cropped tops of the '90s have made a comeback. Overalls and cargo pants have gotten the boot, but really not much else has changed in 20 years. The biggest fashion trends of the last decade are Ugg boots, Ed Hardy, hoodies, track suits, and jeggings. Not exactly stylish items we can be proud of.

While designers keep recycling trends from decades past, garments fit better than ever. The over-saturated denim market means there's a cut for everyone making dreaded "mom jeans" essentially nonexistent. We also love having lots of variety. Skinny jeans, flared jeans, trouser jeans, black jeans, colored jeans, high-waisted jeans, low rise jeans -- if they're all equally popular, we'll no longer look back at photos and laugh at our dated denim. And thanks to those great advancements in technology we can have everything delivered to our front door with the click of a button. That innovation in itself may be enough to tide us over for a little while, but our buying fingers are getting anxious.

What Clothes Really Are "Sexy"?

What's your sexiest outfit? I can name a dozen or so looks that make me feel sexy. (These outfits usually include gold and/or animal print.) But ask my boyfriend what he thinks is sexy, and you'd probably get a completely different answer.


To find out just how different our ideas of sexy are, we decided to try a little experiment. We asked our coworker Mandy to pick out her sexiest outfit, then asked her boyfriend Mike to do the same for her. (It's like a mini version of this weeklong dare when one of our editors let her BF dress her for a week. Check that out here.) Let's see what happened …

Mandy's Take: "I love this purple dress/blazer combo. Not only is the zipper sexy -- I can choose how much to unzip -- but I also like how the blazer adds a more fashion-forward, classy feel. This look is sexy because it's fashionable and powerful."

Mike's Take: "I definitely think this outfit is a nice mix of elegance and playfulness. (Guys do take note of good fashion!) It's definitely appreciated, just as long as everyday activities, like going to Whole Foods, do not become a runaway event."

Mike's Take: "At the end of the day, a guy wants to hang out with a girl who can kick it on the couch with TV and a beer. Makeup and a dress are fun for a night, but a fitted t-shirt and jeans are a keeper."

Mandy's Take: "This is great for cruising around during the day, but it's not something I would wear out at night. I feel sexiest when I'm dressed up -- either in going-out clothes, or even nice work clothes. I definitely feel the most confident in dresses and heels, and the more confident I feel, the sexier I feel."

Hmmm, so maybe guys just want us to wear jeans and t-shirts all the time? It would probably make things easier, but let's be honest: dressing up is way too much fun to give up.

10 Fashion Trends We Hope Disappear in 2012

Kids are dressing more fashionable than ever - which, in most respects, is a good thing. With designer Target collaborations and mini-adult looks, it's a good time to have little ones to dress. But there are the exceptions - and they're way more offensive than fanny packs and scrunchies.


These 10 fashion trends need not return in 2012:

1. Appalling, Headline-landing Graphic Tees

This year saw a slew of kids tees that caused a public outcry - from Forever 21's "Allergic to Algebra" to JC Penny's "I'm Too Pretty to Do Homework." There was even a "Nothing Tastes As Good As Skinny Feels" tee that ruffled some feathers. Can we make 2012 the year where these sexist, self-esteem-ruining, overly sexualized messages stop being printed?

2. Impractical/Sleazy Outfits

Do I need to explain to a 6-year-old girl why sequin "booty shorts" aren't appropriate winter wear, GAP?

3. Hair Feathers

The trend was cute enough for the summer months, but we can move on now - right?
See more bizarre beauty trends of 2011

4. Monster High

Promoted as a line of dolls to help kids embrace their inner "freaks" and "imperfections," Monster High has become wildly popular for Mattel. Yet the ultra-skimpy clothes, heavy makeup, and teeny-tiny body proportions of the dolls aren't the fashion icons I'd want for my 6-year-old - especially because of the Monster High-inspired clothing and costumes that have resulted. These dolls aren't likely to go away by 2012, but can parents stop letting their little girls emulate the sexualized style? At least Barbie wears jeans.
See more Monster High dolls and outfits

5. Babekins

6. Bad Retro Revivals

No, these aren't from the set of Clarissa Explains It All - they're on the racks of your local Justice. If you're going to bring back retro trends, at least make them good ones.

7. Angry Birds EVERYTHING

I'm over it. Aren't you?

8. Padded Bras for 7-year-olds

Oy. Abercrombie caused quite a stir with their padded Ashley bikini top (which is still being sold with the word "padded" hidden in the description). But there are plenty of other padded bras for the pre-pre-teens, including an AA Girls' Maidenform bra, which one commenter described as having "really thick" padding that makes her look "WAYYY bigger" than she is. Calvin Klein also has a "kids" demi bra with underwire and padding. Why? I'm not quite sure.

9. Sexy Halloween Costumes

This isn't likely to go away before Halloween 2012, but a parent can dream.

10. SUPER-Low-Rise Jeans

If her underwear is constantly hanging out, they're too low.

Celeb Bump Watch!

Bump watch! These expecting A-lister's are sure to provide some serious style inspiration from their nine-month stints.

1.Hilary Duff

Teen queen turned mother-to-be, this hockey-lovin' honey prefers to swaddle her bump in neon sequins (a bold and pretty choice for young moms).
We love how she lets her pregnancy glow shine through, thanks to dewy skin and effortlessly tousled strands. Ladies looking to minimize their blossoming bust lines should take their cues from Duff and opt for a crewnecks and cap sleeves, too.

2. Jessica And Ashlee Simpson

You would also wear head-to-toe black duds (they minimize rounder curves!), if you were photographed as often as Jessica Simpson. To dress up her look, we love how she wears her hair in flowing waves (use a one-inch curling iron to get the look at home) and adds touches of sparkly detail in the form of over-sized cocktail rings and lacquered tips.

3. Beyoncé Knowles

Of course the future heir of the world's biggest hip hop kingdom deserves a momma decked out in bling, fierce bangs, and bright pops of color. Here, Beyoncé rocks black and blue tones with a slimming scarf and open jacket. The best touch? A street-chic ponytail for some serious baby-booty shopping.

4. Elizabeth Ellis

When you're a comedian, and your husband is a famous funny man (Charlie Day!), you can expect that you'll add some quirky flair to your still-expecting ensembles. Here, Ellis pairs her sheer, black sweater with an over-sized cuff and a sweet fedora. Note to stressed-out moms: Hats are the ideal way to conceal lackluster locks!

5. Jennifer Garner

A veteran of red-carpet bump looks, Garner chooses a minimizing black lace sheath to elongate her frame for her nights out on the town. We love that her boyish blazer also has a touch of shiny paneling along the lapels to create a more slimming illusion.

6. Spencer Grammar

No, this Greek star doesn't wear a collegiate toga to conceal her bump. Instead, she subtly flaunts her growing waistline with a charcoal-gray tight top and black vest. The dual dark tones work to flatter her midsection by highlighting her momma-to-be belly with the lighter, form-fitting shirt, while minimizing the width of her torso via the slimming sleeveless pick.

7. Bryce Dallas Howard

This ravishing redhead doesn't shy away from showing off her burgeoning belly. From her crimson locks to her scarlet frock, Howard embraces her feminine form by wearing a babydoll dress and baring her, ahem, maternal assets. Pregnant ladies looking to recreate this look should search out shimmering body lotions to add sparkle to their limbs.

6 Wedding Planning Apps To Try

Cartier Bridal:
Whether a Cartier ring is in your price range or not, this app doesn't discriminate. It allows you to design your own engagement ring or wedding band by allowing you to choose from a selection of Cartier settings and diamonds. The ring you create will be completely unique, but purchase is optional!

Helper Of The Bride:
This trendy app allows you to connect with other brides via profiles and blogs.
It also provides the ability to browse through samples of many much-needed purchases, such as wedding invitations. Get a head start on your wedding theme and ideas whenever you have a minute to spare.

iWedding Deluxe:
This app is the ultimate wedding planner for your phone. It allows you to keep track of to-do lists, budget planning, seating charts and photos--a much needed organizational tool for the busiest of brides.

Wedding Checklist:
Another wedding planner, but for Blackberry, this app helps you create and organize the many lists (guests, food, schedule) that you will be making leading up to your big day. Keep it all in one place and avoid the stress of misplaced papers or unwieldy binders.

Wedding Dress Look Book by The Knot:
This wedding dress app allows you to search for your dream gown by look, your body type, price or store. Bookmark your favourite dresses for later. It's the ultimate bridal shopping tool.

Tacori Try It On:
Want to see exactly how that ring will look on your finger? All you need is a PC or Mac with a web cam. This app allows you to use an augmented virtual reality that makes a paper ring that you print and place on your finger look just like a diamond when viewed on your computer screen.

Male model Andrej Pejic models push-up bra in HEMA advertising campaign

Andrej Pejic, 20, is the androgynous darling of the modeling world. The blond Australian male model has made his career modeling both men’s and women’s fashions on major runways around the world.

Sure, the bra’s an engineering marvel — giving Pejic’s flat chest the cleavage many of us ask Santa for this time of the year. That's if by “engineering marvel” you mean “super-stuffed.”

The curves were “not achieved with any tricks, explains Judy Op Het Veld, HEMA’s manager of corporate communications. Rather, the department store’s 20€ mega push-up bras have ‘pillows’ in each cup to add volume. They are, in a word, falsies,” the Toronto Star reported.

The response has been mixed, with consumers and fashion insiders calling the campaign everything from “cheeky,” “silly” and “innovative” to dismissing the campaign as gimmicky and the bra as just “a pair of falsies.”

In Amsterdam, many don’t even recognize that the model in the bra isn’t female. (The name Andrej doesn’t give him away.) And those made aware by Grazia Fashion were more amused than anything else by the boy-in-bra ads.

“Sometimes I think we are too serious especially here in North America,” Vasilia Panagakos, owner of Toronto’s Avec Plaisir lingerie boutiques told the Toronto Star.

“I think European women have more of a sense of humour about their bodies. I think they’d have a chuckle. In North America, a campaign like that might not work. If you did go down that road you’d have to explain it more — then the joke would be lost.”

Slate gives HEMA the benefit of the doubt, assuming their campaign was part joke (The bra works too well?) and part subversive advertising, challenging the provocative images of semi-naked women we’re almost desensitized to:

“Perhaps I’m giving HEMA too much credit, but it seems like they’re deliberately playing with that male audience, taunting potential oglers: Ogle this, but then don’t get mad when you figure out exactly who you’re lusting over,” Slate’s Julia Felsenthal writes.