YOUNG AND IN STYLE

Study for Finals in Style

2011-12-02T14:58:00.006-05:00

it's that time again

The end of the semester is nearing, and the pressure is on. As we prepare for marathon study sessions assembling and re-writing a semester's worth of notes, making schedules, and dotting our desks with post-its, we think we have all our bases covered. Yet, there is yet another challenge for which we must prepare. Finals week brings a slew of style challenges. Inevitably, appearance takes second (or fifteenth) priority, and the result ain't pretty.

You know what I'm talking about. Red eyes. Saggy skin. Coffee in hand. Baggy sweats. Knotted, greasy hair. The end of the semester isn't cute. And while it is only natural that fashion will take a backseat to academic needs at this crazy time, needn't completely sacrifice your look. I promise. Think of it this way: Just as you prepare to endure the academic stress of finals, you may equally prepare for the fashion challenge that awaits you. Here's how:

Set out comfortable, stylish clothing in advance. Act as though you were a stylist prepping a photo shoot, getting all the looks arranged. Comfy pants, jackets, cotton tops, cozy scarves. Identify several go-to outfits to wear during finals mayhem that will be comfortable, and easy to pull off. Think of it as a uniform. Planning ahead will save you from contemplating clothing when you have much bigger things to worry about.

But, how can you lay your clothes out if you don't know what to wear in the first place? I suggest choosing basic pieces that require little thought in throwing together. See Blake Lively's look below:

(IMG) Lively combines trusty basics: black boots, dark-wash denim, a camel coat, and a cozy scarf. You can easily achieve this type of look during exams without a second thought. Just identify your go-to basics and throw them all together. The best part? You can probably get away with wearing all of them several times in the week. Hey-No one's judging!

Make your life easier by simplifying your beauty routine. Do you usually wash your face then follow up with a series of steps? While I don't recommend forgoing hygiene altogether (for obvious reasons), you can get ready for bed in a pinch with makeup-removing face-wipes and a quick brushing of the teeth. If you have time, slap on some moisturizer. Keep it next to your bed so you don't forget!

3 Tips for Refined Fall Style

2011-10-24T12:11:00.005-04:00

Hopefully you're all enjoying the transition to Fall as much as I am. Aside from "Snowtober", which hit the Northeast this past weekend, it's been borderline blissful here. I find myself blogging about Fall weather every year. Crisp air, leaves beginning to change (on the few trees I have encountered in Manhattan), and temperatures dropping are all great excuses to dust off your wool blazer or leather boots. Fall is the season of dignified dressing: tailored jackets, dark tights, and capes; could enough to wear your favorite pieces but not so cold that they are obscured by your bulky winter coat. Simply divine.

Here are my favorite ways to feel stylish and take advantage of the opportunities for good dressing that this weather affords you.

1) SUNGLASSES

Remember your favorite shades from summer? Wear them!

Nothing screams "celeb" like the combination of traditional woolen fall clothing with a slick pair of sunglasses. Very Gwenyth Paltrow. [See Below. IMG CRED ]

As you can see, even the chilliest of weather doesn't get between Gwen and her RayBans.

2) LAYER A LIGHTWEIGHT TURTLENECK

Who said turtlenecks have to be stuffy? Shove aside those thick, bulky knits until it's really winter. Instead, I propose you try a thin, dark-colored turtleneck for your fall dressing. Pair it with your favorite peacoat or statement necklace and you'll look slim and sophisticated.

3) COMBAT BOOTS

Did you succumb to last year's combat boot craze? So did I, and I'm dusting mine off for Fall '11. Make the look less punk and more eclectic by pairing preppier pieces, like a a woolen A-line skirt and tights, with your favorite roughed up boots.

Enjoy the season.

Emma

Ralph Lauren Rugby "Tweed Run"

2011-10-15T13:34:00.005-04:00

One of the things I love most about being in New York City is that you never know what you'll run into. Seriously. Today, as I headed back from lunch with friends, I came across an unusual roadblock: A cluster of handsome models donning tweed jackets and feathers in their caps. Turns out it was a party at the Ralph Lauren Rugby Store, a shop aimed at a younger, more Gatsby-meets-Hipster audience.

I wish I had snapped a photo of their "bicycle parking". There were rows upon rows of old-fashioned bicycles across from the store.

See their website for more info on the event: http://www.rugby.com/blog/?ab=topnav_styleblog

Sadly, I couldn't stay long. There's work to be done!

Emma

Kiko Makeup Milano: Italia's Hidden MAC

2011-10-14T11:04:00.001-04:00

I used to think that MAC Makeup offered a great variety of trendy products at moderate prices until I fell in love with Italy's chain "Kiko Makeup Milano"[See Above]. When I first saw the chain on my way to the train station in Florence, my heart skipped a beat. Sidenote: I am easily distracted from train times by makeup. For me, it was an undiscovered gem. The store's contents did not disappoint, and the low price tags (especially given the poor exchange rate) were a pleasant surprise. It was a glorious sight. Racks and racks of colored nailpolishes, domed eyeshadows doused with sparkles, and a collection of lipsticks that would make Ru Paul feel underdone. Needless to say, I made out like a bandit.

I came home with two new eyeshadows: one taupe and another shimmering black for evening. Three nailpolishes! An orange-toned lipstick to contrast the blue-red hues I'd been wearing. 2 roll-on eye shadows for ease of travel.

The difficulty came in trying to fit it all into my makeup at home...

Emma

Finally, our own domain name!

2011-10-09T21:57:00.006-04:00

WELCOME TO YOUNGANDINSTYLE.COM!

After suffering through a phone-call with the (actually quite chipper and helpful) customer service guy at GoDaddy.com, I finally bring you THE YoungAndInStyle.Com. It's far easier to remember than YoungAndInStyle.Blogspot.com, and is now easier to access than ever. And doesn't it have a ring to it?

Coming soon: fashionable observations gleaned from my life as a student, subway-rider, falafel-eater and former fashion mag intern in NYC. PhotoCred

Emma

Italian Adventures in Style: The Lipstick

2011-08-01T09:19:00.005-04:00

Before I left for my 3-week trip abroad, I decided red-lipstick was my new go-to (see post below). That lasted well until I LOST my only tube of MAC Russian Red! After searching my Florence hotel room high and low, I resolved to buy a new shade at the Italian department store La Rinascente.

There I encountered an intimidating array of makeup counters, each stocked with an Italian artist. At the Collistar counter, I eventually found my new shade of red. The process was not easy. First there was the broken communication with the makeup artist. Then the cultural gap: Do I swipe it on myself? Do I wait for him to put it on with a brush? Apparently in Italy the custom is for the customer to apply it on herself. No hygienic precautions taken. No applicators or special mirrors. Just you and the lipstick!

Once I tackled trying the lipstick on, I was relieved to find that the shade suited me. I'd hate to try to navigate the murky waters of asking to try on ANOTHER . Then came the next hurdle: How do I make it clear, in Italian, that I was ready to check out and no, thank you, I did not want to try their new eye cream? My Italian phrasebook hadn't covered this! So, with a smile and a head jerk in the direction of the cashier, I ended the transaction. It was time to take a breather at the nearest cafe with my accomplice.

Lipstick Accomplished.

More Italian Adventures in Style to come.

Emma

MAC Russian Red

2011-07-13T12:42:00.006-04:00

A friend I made in New York this summer inspired me with her go-to look: thick-rimmed glasses, side-swept bangs and a bright red pout. It was eye-catching, yet sophisticated. Her reasoning was "Well, I'm in New York. I can get away with it". I agreed, so much so that upon returning home I hurried to MAC to find my perfect red. Confronted with 10 or so variants of the same color, I faced a difficult task. The look had to be dramatic, but still flattering. After settling on Russian Red, a deep blue-red hue, I went home and traded contact lenses for my brown-rimmed glasses. Soon enough I too had the look.

Above is Penelope Cruz wearing what I believe to be the same Russian Red. The vibrant hue is gorgeous against her olive-toned skin. Of course, this is an evening look. With just some concealer and a swipe of mascara on, you can wear the same lipstick for day. It just takes guts!

Emma

I put my new shoes on...

2011-06-23T14:41:00.005-04:00

Nothing brings a fashion blogger back into the swing of things like a new pair of shoes. Laugh all you want at my (borderline unhealthy) obsession with footwear, but be warned: nothing comes between me and my new BCBGeneration50%offLadyGaga-esqueSuede WEDGES. Nothing!!!

Right now these babies are coolin' off from being suede-sprayed. Gotta protect 'em from the harsh elements!

In love.

Emma

Sonja and Anna

2011-04-11T22:40:00.003-04:00

Home from a trip to NYC that revived both my love for some good ol' fashion, but also for the city itself. Checked out one of my fave blogs, "Paris Vs.New York" and found my new favorite graphic (See below). Particularly relevant after the quality time I spent lusting after striped merchandise at the Sonya Rykiel boutique on Madison Avenue. With gamine French-accented shop clerks, Upper East Side patrons and a style that spans the cities, the Sonya Rykiel store was the crux of French-New Yorkian style. Who knew such a thing even existed?

The shop located in the heart of NYCs most luxe shopping district was the true meeting place for opposing forces Anna Wintour and Sonja Rykiel.

New York City Dreamin'

Emma

I Say, Wear Black

2011-02-14T21:16:00.005-05:00

All you need is black. Black black black. Say it. It sounds almost as delightful as it looks on you in a full length mirror.

Perhaps I'm being a bit dramatic, but you get the point. The color black, when worn well, is simple, sophisticated and versatile. Here are five reasons why you should explore it:

1) Black has no season, and it never goes out of style.

2) You can spill whatever you like on yourself.

3) No need to worry about matching.

4) Hello, it is as slimming as colors get!

5) If you're feeling dangerous, you can spice it up with colorful accent pieces.

Not yet convinced? Then you clearly haven't studied this gorgeous photo! [img]

Emma

Draper Inspiration

2011-02-03T07:13:00.008-05:00

Here's something a little glamorous to start your day off with:

With an apacolyptic ice storm hitting the Midwest, and dreary grey weather just about everywhere else, who couldn't use a little style inspiration? The characters of Don and Betty Draper from Mad Men (above) provide just that.

So smack on some Jungle Red lipstick, pretend you're cruising around or that its sunny and 75, and seize the day! Spring isn't too far…

Emma

PS. Are they not beautiful?

imgcredit

A Tragic Goodbye

2011-01-09T09:39:00.007-05:00

To my Kate Spade agenda,

I did love you,

Toting you from class to class, scribbling in you, closing your clasp.

You were, in no other terms, my friend,

A confidante in which I wrote my most heartfelt of to-do lists.

You kept me organized,

Your prim little pages reminders of appointments,

An old-fashioned record of time.

But now,

Oh, how this topic dismays me so!

Someone has taken your place,

A sleeker, newer, shinier you.

One with a glass screen, a touchpad,

With an app for more than you could ever do.

A new friend, a new calendar to track my time,

and truly a new you.

---Just a silly, albeit true post about my conversion from paper planning to digital. Although it feels wholly inappropriate to whip out my iPhone in class when I track an assignment, it is so convenient. Poor planner…

Emma

Cape-Loving

2011-01-09T09:29:00.003-05:00

If your 2011 resolution is to have more fun, or to take some risks, I have an idea for you. My suggestion is swingy, it's sassy, and it's hardly practical. The perfect subject of a stylish new year's resolution.

It's a cape.

Above, NYC "socialite" and reality TV star Olivia Palermo shows off a cape by Melene Berger.

Although, if you're looking to try this one out, you might want to wait until the weather hits the 40's or warmer (Fahrenheit). I never said a new cape would keep you warm, but it will certainly keep you chic as can be. And what's warmer than that?

Emma

2011 Shoe Purchase

2011-01-03T17:19:00.005-05:00

Never underestimate the power of a great pair of shoes. For me, even the worst of days may be turned around by the right heels or boots. Today was one of those days. Well, actually it started out fine, only to get better post shoe-purchase. You get the idea.

Since one of my style resolutions for 2011 was to take more fashion risks, I chose to spend a JCrew giftcard today on a gorgeous pair of on-sale platform heels. At 5'9" I rarely wear 4 inch heels (you do the math) but today I couldn't help myself. After all, it's a new year. Plus, they were on sale. That's justified, right?

They're prettier in person. Two-toned black and teal suede. Internal platform. They'd be great with teal or black tights, a pencil skirt, an LBD, or for dressing up a pair of jeans.

That's my first splurge/fashion risk of the new year! Here's to hoping all of you take some as well.

Emma

Happy 2011

2010-12-31T16:59:00.001-05:00

2011 by Young And In Style featuring studded handbags

Silk Bow Top by Sonia by Sonia Rykiel
216 GBP - my-wardrobe.com
Sonia by Sonia Rykiel t shirts »

Thakoon / Mongolian Fur Gilet
$895 - lagarconne.com
Cropped vests »

BALMAIN 5960351B BLACK LAMB SKIN 49046
2,969 GBP - farfetch.com
Leathers pants »

Gucci Suede platform pumps
$525 - net-a-porter.com
Suede shoes »

Lulu Guinness Studded Padded Lips Clutch Bag
$681 - asos.com
Studded handbags »

Judith Jack - Lustre Onyx Large Stone Ring (Sterling Silver/Onyx) -...
$199 - zappos.com
Stone jewelry »

MAC Nail Lacquer
$13 - nordstrom.com

Your New Years Resolution

2010-12-31T16:21:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year!!!

It is soon to be 2011, and that means more than just sparkling dresses, midnight kisses, and watching the ball drop. I know many of you have something more noble on your mind: your New Year's Resolutions. Starting a new year is a re-birth. It's a fresh, new time in your life for you to re-create any aspects of your life that you feel need improvement. And while many of us our guilty of setting unrealistic expectations for the new year, how can we expect to improve without something to aspire to? While I'm not of much use in the self-improvement sector, I can offer some stylish tips for the New Year that I know I will be working with in 2011.

Stylin' Resolutions for 2011

1) Travel Light

This year I hope we can all resist the temptation to overload our suitcases with clothes, makeup and the like. Travelling with a heavy, bulky suitcase makes going to the airport a nightmare. Long lines, checked baggage fees, giving your possessions away to airport strangers. It's just not worth it. I understand the temptation to have "options", but when you're out of town, does it really matter if you become an outfit repeater? The answer is no. No, no, and no. At least, that's what I'll try to teach myself in 2011! I'm planning a 5-6 week trip to Europe this summer and my goal is to take only a carry-on. Wish me luck- I have a feeling hand-wash soap will fast become my best friend...

2) Take More Risks

What is the fun of owning crazy-colored MAC eyeshadows or a pair of to-die-for platforms if you don't enjoy them? One of my more fun goals this year is to wear my more daring pieces and put them to good use. Fashion can be functional! Look to bloggers like Sea of Shoes or Karla's Closet for inspiration. They throw on the craziest of outfits in broad daylight and get away with it just fine. Guess what? So can you.

3) Avoid Excess

This resolution is in the same vein as #1. For me, 2011 will be about buying only what I need or want with all my heart. Anything else is fluff. The last thing we need are cluttered closets with more clothes than we can keep track of. As a recent clean-closet convert (I cleaned mine out a few weeks ago) I can speak to the importance of simplicity. Having trouble storing your clothes? Chances are it isn't because your closet is too small, rather your wardrobe is too big. In 2011 I want to buy less, but enjoy what I buy more.

Do you have any style resolutions?

H A P P Y 2 0 1 1

Emma

Makeup Reviews: Glamour To-Go II Palette

2010-12-29T15:18:00.008-05:00

Hello all! It is with a Starbucks cappuccino in hand, and Florida sunshine above that I return from Christmas madness to you. I hope you've all had a relaxing, and peaceful holiday. For those of you who've had flights cancelled and whatnot, my heart goes out to you. I myself missed out on a Christmas with extended family due to an overly cautious airport that cancelled all flights in anticipation of an apocolyptic blizzard. Unfortunately, we were left with a meager two inches of snow (not even good enough for a snowman) and a Christmas dinner table devoid of several irreplacable guests.

Luckily, I've had a chance over this break to review a couple of beauty products that were given to me as gifts this holiday season. This post is inspired by the world of YouTube beauty gurus and video bloggers, who are highly devoted to reviewing (and buying) the latest products. I thought I would give it a try myself, with YAIS readers in mind. Today I will talk about one of my new holiday sets:

Too Faced Glamour To-Go II Palette

Grade: 2.5/5 stars

This palette is by Too Faced cosmetics, a brand sold in Sephora. If you want a breakdown of the dimensions of the palette or specific ingredients I suggest you visit this link to avoid my being redundant. I was given this as a Christmas present, although it was lingering on my wishlist for awhile. I was originally attracted to it as an affordable, comprehensive palette I could throw into my school bag for ease and convenience. As you can tell from the picture, it provides four lip-gloss colors, a blush, and 8 eye shadows in varying shades.

While this palette seemed great in principle, I was quite disappointed with it when I opened it and began using it. The shadows have poor color pay-off ( the colors don't show up well) and the glosses are sticky and difficult to apply. Worst of all, the blush (perhaps the biggest draw of the palette) crumbled into pieces my first day using it! This suggests very poor quality control on the part of the brand, or just improper shipping. Without the blush, this palette is rendered useless, as neither the eye shadows nor the glosses are worth carrying around. It was the total package that once made this palette appealing.

Allow me to break it down into Pros vs. Cons:

Pros:

For $19.50 you get all the products you need for a basic face of makeup.
It is lightweight and easy to throw in your purse
Large Mirror Included
Attractive looking

Cons:

Chalky colors
Lip-glosses are difficult to apply
Blush broke!
You get what you pay for

While this review may have been more positive had the blush not crumbled, I do not hesitate to say that Too Faced's Glamour To-Go II palette is probably not worth the buy. However, if you are hellbent on having a small, all-inclusive palette to carry with you, and are not a stickler about quality, then perhaps you would want to give this a try. Otherwise, skip it.

Hope that was helpful! I definitely tried to keep it honest. Let me know if you like these makeup reviews and want to see more.

Emma

Paris Vs. NYC

2010-12-19T11:52:00.010-05:00

Sometimes I sit, and I think. And I think, and think and become overwhelmed trying to answer this unanswerable question: Paris or New York?...And think and think… But even with all this incessant pondering, I still can't decide...So I have to call in back up: Pro/Con lists. Ah, yes finally a rationale with which to approach this problem. Oh, I scribble and I try to decide between the two...

...But even weighing the pros and cons, I can't decide which city is preferable. So I enlist even more help….

Alas! http://parisvsnyc.blogspot.com/

Finally a tool to help me answer the unanswerable! The author of this blog, Vahram Muratyan, calls it "A visual but friendly match between those two cities seen by a lover of Paris wandering through New York's infinite details, clichés and contradictions : this way, please."

"Paris Versus New York" is full of adorable little sketches comparing the two cities, just the help I need in my search:

Ah, it seems I now only have more to consider. Computer architecture or actual architecture? Bagels or baguettes? Apartments or lofts?

More importantly: Paris or NYC?

Which do you prefer?

Emma

Makeup Jewelry by Tarte

2010-11-13T12:28:00.004-05:00

"Not only is it fun and girly, and you're getting all this amazing makeup. It's also good for you."

Who knew spending $52 on a set of eyeshadows could be so healthy? Thank you, Tarte cosmetics lady for giving me a pseudo-righteous reason to buy this makeup palette.

But really, after I saw this little golden jewel in Sephora the other day, I've thought of little else. I can still feel the swatches of highly-pigmented shadows on the backs of my hands...

A girl can dream.

Emma

Social Primer

2010-11-11T08:21:00.003-05:00

Social Primer. I can't believe I had not discovered you earlier. Well, thank goodness for friends. Recently, a very etiquette-conscious pal of mine pointed me towards a blog by an Auburn grad called 'Social Primer'. It's 2 days later and I can't imagine life without it.

http://www.socialprimer.com/

Though you must take his advice with a grain of salt, (I happen to disagree with his idea that once two at a dinner have been served, they may proceed to stuff their faces) it is full of lively insights as to how to behave in the modern world. From wearing tweed to 'Yacht Party Rules' (an article I can't imagine ever needing to open), Social Primer covers everything you'll need to know.

And as much as I hate to direct you all to ANOTHER blog...

Jokes.

Seriously, add it to your Google Reader! And if you have yet to create one, then get with the times.

Emma

Shoetastic

2010-11-08T17:32:00.004-05:00

Affordable Shoes at ShopRuche.Com

A friend recently tipped me off to this trendy, relatively inexpensive website called "ShopRuche". Though I have yet to investigate its reliability, the shoes are definitely cute. And they have a wide variety of styles, ranging from oxfords to heeled booties to rugged combat boots.

After having conducted a thorough investigation, I've settled on the above pair as my favorite. Unfortunately they are on the slightly more expensive side at $55.99.

I can already picture wearing them with lace tights, a wintery dress, and a chic vest. Or maybe with matchstick cords and an oversized sweater.

Emma

A Letter to Blake Lively

2010-11-06T10:45:00.003-04:00

Dear Blake Lively,

I think we can all agree that you are exceptionally good-looking, almost unnaturally so. I say this on behalf of teenage America. As much as I love to watch you play a painfully rich socialite on that hit series you're on, Gossip Girl, there's something I have to tell you. Your outfit is an atrocity of epic proportions. It's okay, just hear me out.

No, Blake, I am not criticizing you for being a risk taker. I happen to like a nice oxford cloth shirt, or a sassy sparkly mini-skirt. I'm being very reasonable about this. I'm not even going to mention that in this picture you are wearing black heeled booties, a trend of many seasons ago. The fundamental problem, you see, is that you look like you stepped out of an 80's disco for gender-confused equestrians. Okay, there I said it. I'm sorry.

I hope you take this in stride. Maybe just lose the belt and pull up the shirt?

Your friend,

Emma

When Graffiti Hits the Mainstream

2010-11-05T07:21:00.008-04:00

I remember the days when graffiti was still considered taboo, when it wasn't in vogue to be a rogue. (chuckle, chuckle). But really, memories of this now lost era make me feel more octogenarian than "Young and in Style". Once the past time of warring gangs, graffiti seems to have hit the main stream. Heck, it's practically the new Monet. Everywhere you turn is 'graffiti-inspired wall paper' or some other building being defaced [see 'artist' Banksy below]. All in the name of art? And, of course, with all this new found acceptance comes its influence in fashion.

Exhibit A: this mysterious 'Banksy' character that artsy types every where are going goo-goo ga-ga over. Even I, someone who happens to like a nice clean public building, have to admit that his work is, well, kinda cool.

Graffiti artists can be clever, too, you know.

As much as I may feign an interest in so-called 'art', what really gets me going is graffiti's influence in the luggage industry...Right?

Though when WWD announced that Tumi, your favorite over-priced suitcase-seller, is introducing the art of graffiti pioneer John "Crash" Matos, I got to thinking.

It seems that graffiti has not only hit the main stream, but also the elite. And I may even be late in my observation. Remember when these graffiti'd Louis Vuitton bags came out, causing quite a stir? Look, Paris Hilton thinks graffiti is okay, and you should too!

So if you want to get with the times, I say you grab a can of spray paint.

After all, cleanliness and, like, a fresh coat of white paint are both so 2005.

You didn't hear it from me.

Emma

2010-10-31T10:07:00.001-04:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

hoping you all spend it stylishly, whether at home passing out candy or out at a friend's

Emma

Haute Tech: iPad

2010-10-20T08:09:00.003-04:00

With each new invention, Apple seems to combine up-to-the-minute style with state of the art technology. They specialize in sleek, sophisticated designs fit to be seen carried alongside equally sleek handbags and shoes. And I don't know how they do it, but Mac bridges the gap between fashion and technology. Enter the iPad.

[image source]

Ahah! The Style.com (Vogue's website) App is now available for the iPad. Yes! Great!

Oh, wait....

No iPad....

Emma

Bobbi Brown Beauty Rules

2010-10-17T09:52:00.002-04:00

Beauty Rules by Bobbi Brown

All the time lately that I haven't been blogging has been spent reading Bobbi Brown's new book, Beauty Rules.

NOT!

Oh, how I wish that were true.

You see, even if I had wanted to spend my copious free time poring over her latest book, it wouldn't have been possible. There just isn't enough substance. In fact, I think I got through the thing in about thirty minutes. Yes, I know it's a makeup book. In other words, it's a

picture book. Still, I miss Bobbi Brown's long-winded descriptions from her books Teenage Beauty and The Makeup Manual. The old Bobbi used to walk me through her 10-step makeup technique, teaching me the basics of foundation and concealer. Now she just throws in a few pictures of her with Hilary Duff, and leaves me out to dry.

Beyond the book's lack of words, I'm a little sick of Bobbi Brown, a makeup artist, telling me how to live my life. I welcome her advice when it comes to important life lessons, like how to fluff my eyelashes or pick the right peachy lip color. It's the "live your best life" diet and exercise section that sounds more preachy and less peachy. If I had wanted a book that tells me to choose celery over barbecue chips, I would have ordered The South Beach Diet. Though, her publisher is not entirely to blame. I guess I should have known. The front cover even says "Life lessons for loving your teens and twenties". I just expected life lessons to be more about when to toss your mascara, and less about how to give yourself positive affirmations.

Perhaps I've been a little harsh. Bobbi deserves some credit where credit is due. Her use of real teenage girls as models is both comforting and relatable. And although a higher word count would have kept me from falling asleep, I guess the pictures demonstrate her technique.

Still, Beauty Rules did not teach me anything new about makeup, nor did it inspire me to better my life, as she seems to have intended it to. I can't say I'd recommend it.

Have any of you read it/seen it?

Emma

GG Style Season Four

2010-09-17T11:59:00.001-04:00

A Style Preview for GG Season Four

Emma

Style on a Schedule

2010-09-14T13:54:00.006-04:00

Picture a world where we all spent an hour and a half each morning getting ready...

Women would walk into grocery stores in droves with perfectly manicured fingers, with false eyelashes aplenty. Going to the gym would become a fashion show. Can you smell the perfume? A world glamour pusses, Beyonces, Madonnas. A dream world. A boring world.

Wake up.

Let's get back to reality- if you're doing anything worthwhile, chances are your time in the morning is limited. For me, it's college applications season. And even if I have done very little actual work on them, the mere thought gives me the illusion that I am busy. So whether you are fake busy or real busy, you've probably got enough going on that you don't have an inordinate amount of time in the AM...

So what's the best way to navigate your limited bathroom time? Here are some of my favorite tips, as someone who would always rather spend an extra 5 minutes sleeping in.

T H E L I S T

1) Have Clothes on Standby

Although you don't necessarily need to pick out your clothes the night before, always have a few comfortable, easy-to-wear options on standby. I mean the kinds of things that are hard to make look bad: a white shirt and dark denim, or an all black ensemble.

Whatever your personal style may be, it is helpful to have a few ch

oices you'll always go to during those hectic mornings.

2)Simplify Your Skincare

I have a secret- I often omit moisturizer from my morning routine. Pause for dramatic effect. Are you shocked and horrified? Thought so.

Instead of moisturizing and then applying sunscreen, pick a sunscreen for your face that will treat your skin kindly. My favorite is Clarins SPF 4o "UV Plus Day Screen High Protection", because it blends in to a smooth, lightweight finish. It'll save an extra step, but only on mornings when you're really rushing out the door. And no matter what you do, don't skip

SPF!

3) Prepare by Organizing Your Closet

Find a method and stick to it. Whether its arranged by color, type, occasion, or season, a closet that is well organized will save you serious time in the morning. Also-if you have so many clothes that you can't see what you have, it's probably time to give some away. Having to choose between too many options in too little space amounts to a serious time crunch.

4) Embrace the 'Updo'

Ever wake up to a tangled mess of hair? Don't have enough time to shower? You're in luck, because the messy bun is so in. Experiment by placing the bun on the crown of your head, like Whitney Port, or down lower by the nape of your neck. Throw in little braids and curled strands of hair for some extra pizazz, or just sleek it back.

5) Take Your Make-Up With You

I'm not suggesting you become one of those women who dab their morning's mascara on at stoplights, but make-up on-the-go can save you time in the morning. Invest in some sort of cosmetics bag, and put all of your essentials in it including: mascara, blush, lip gloss or lipstick, contact lens related products, concealer, bobby pins, and sunscreen. That way, if you truly have no time in front of the mirror, you'll still face the day prepared.

Let me know if you have any favorite tips of your own.

Emma

"Did Sleaze Bring Preppy Back?"

2010-09-09T16:07:00.004-04:00

Listening to this NPR morning broadcast online.

Knew I had to hear it when two friends had told me about it!

Featuring Simon Doonan (that little English man from Barneys), it covers the new wave of prep, and what it means for Americans today.

So slip off your penny loafers, kick up your argyle-clad tootsies, and get to listening!

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=129742908

Emma

Marc Jacobs Store in Savannah

2010-09-06T21:16:00.003-04:00

A Taste of Marc Jacobs for $1.50
Savannah, Georgia has a value beyond its charming old architecture, southern culture, and Paula Deen's restaurant. Unlike Atlanta, Savannah boasts an entire Marc by Marc Jacobs Store. That's right, a store. An entire one. Not just a section of a store. In Savannah, Georgia.

Sound delightful, but pricey? Well, I have semi-good news for you: That's only half true! The store is stocked with Marc's usual $650 wool jackets and trendy leather handbags for upwards of $400, but it also offers a line by Marc that you won't find in your local Saks. Marc Jacobs sharpies , vinyl totes, $18 tees in an array of colors, and even an orange mesh backpack, if you're feeling trendy. The boutique is stocked with unhelpful hipsters [most likely students from the nearby SCAD, Savannah College of Art and Design] who sulk in the corners of the store and look self important. Once you get over that, it truly is a gem. That is, if you ever find yourself in Savannah.

I made out like a bandit, with an entire bag of goodies to send to my trendy stepsister at college. Even the Marc by Marc Jacobs jeans were well priced, at about $75 for a pair of skinnies (about the going rate for Levis).

Some of the items sold at the store are shown on this page:

http://www.marcjacobs.com/#/en-us/specialitems

Hip Hip Hooray for MARC BY MARC!

Emma

Long Time No Post

2010-09-05T21:39:00.004-04:00

It saddens me to think of how unfashionable the world has become since I last updated Young and in Style. I mean, how would any of you know how to dress without my guidance? I can picture it now...the socks and sandals...the sweats...the horror.

Just kidding. But I do owe you all, and myself, a serious increase in posting. Mea culpa!

More importantly, I'm here to wish you all the best on a holiday that is especially important for fashionistas: Labor Day. Not just a day to celebrate the hard work of millions of Americans, or a 3 day weekend to mark the end of your blissful summers. Oh, no! It's so much more than that! Labor Day is officially the last day to wear white for the summer season. Duh. And even if the new Emily Post deems the "No white after labor day" rule to be old fashioned, it does hold some truth. After all, who would be caught dead wearing summery white eyelet dresses and white sandals after Labor Day? Not you, I hope!

But if you really want to...I suppose you can go on ahead. Just don't tell me.

Happy Labor Day!

Emma

Falling too Soon

2010-08-11T13:16:00.005-04:00

Ponchos. Khakis. Wool. Booties.
These are all I'm seeing...

It's hard to even imagine fall right now, when it feels like an oven outside. You wouldn't know that, though, from the inside of a department store. No siree! Neimans, Bloomies, Saks.

They' re thoroughly air conditioned [thank god], so it feels like winter, and you'll be hardpressed to find a pair of shorts in in even the most remote corner.

Tsk Tsk.

This whole selling clothes before it is the right season to wear them thing needs to stop. Who thinks ahead that much, anyway?

Just a thought.

XX
Emma

Glasses a la Nerd Chic

2010-08-06T13:26:00.005-04:00

Nerd Chic: Is there a such thing?

If there's one thing that will get me through going back to school for senior year, it's the knowledge that I can wear my thick-rimmed, tortoise shell glasses in complete confidence.

But other than that, I'm holding on to sweet summer...

XX
Emma

Marc Does it Again

2010-07-12T18:32:00.002-04:00

Hey there good lookin'...

It seems that practically every teenage girl North of the equator (I'm South of it at the moment) wants to get her hands on something Marc by Marc Jacobs.
Needless to say, I feel pretty unoriginal in my own penchant for the brand.

Oh, Marc, how you cast a spell on us unsuspecting girls. Why do you have to go and design something like that "Franny Bag" above, and price it so egregiously? In the name of fashion!

In all seriousness, wouldn't this look great with a pair of distressed jeans, a simple tee, and maybe some sunglasses to echo the bag's glamorous vibe?

XX
Emma

An Argentinean Style

2010-06-22T10:59:00.002-04:00

Dear blogosphere,
I´m writing from Argentina, south of the equator, down their somewhere in unruly South America. I´ve been so immersed in Spanish speaking, eating asado, and cold weather that my blog has somehow escaped my conscious. Have no fear, here in Argentina there is plenty of style to comment on.
Note to self: Grow hair out to middle of back, as is de rigeur here.

More later
xx
Emma

Bathing Suits on A Budget

2010-06-08T11:10:00.004-04:00

I love summer. Summer Summer Summer. There are dozens of things I look forward to about this season every year. Orange creamsicles, picnics in the park, catching up on reading, cruising through town, epic road trips, and of course bathing suit shopping.

Jokes. Bathing suit shopping is most certainly NOT something I look forward to with the dawn of each summer. Painful, grueling hours spent in a dressing room...it's always a mix of blood, sweat and tears. I mean, it's not easy to come up with both a top AND bottom that look good together, and that you can afford. Sometimes it seems downright impossible. Luckily, it won't be so hard this summer, as long as you know exactly where to go, even with limited cash.

A Summary of 3 Places to Buy a Bathing Suit

1. GAP

Try your local GAP or GAP Body store and you may be pleasantly surprised. Although their full price bathing suits are a little on the pricey side (ranging from about $40-60 for a set), they often have a great sale. Last year, before going to Barcelona, I stumbled upon an amazing GAP swimwear sale that landed me with two bathing suits, and a coverup for significantly under $100. However, your ability to find a cute suit depends entirely on the luck of the draw. If there's no sale to be seen, you may want to skip it.

2. Victoria's Secret

I used to shudder a little bit any time sometime recommended I direct my swimwear search to Victoria's Secret. At first glance, the suits seemed a little tacky, and not to mention, there's nothing reassuring about trying on your 5th option while photos of Adriana Lima and Gisele Bundchen stare you down. Ick. But this year, I resolved to be open-minded, and I must admit, the results were impressive. First, Victoria's Secret is primarily a lingerie company, so they do a great job making bathing suits that give a little more support in the bust. Second, they know how to flatter the female figure, offering a variety of cuts, ranging from bandeau tops to halter to push-ups (of course) and from string bottoms to boy shorts. However, if you're looking for a swimsuit that both covers and flatters, Victoria's Secret may not be the place for you. Yes, they have great options, but those push-up numbers are sure to draw some attention to you on the beach...

3. Target

What Target offers is variety at low cost. What I love about Target swimwear is that you can go there, get a bathing suit, a cover up to match, and even some sunglasses for less than what you would spend on just a suit at most places. However, the quality is not nearly as good as Victoria's Secret or GAP, and they don't go up very high in the sizing range. Still, if you want lots of cute bathing suits, or one for really cheap, you may want to check it out.

Hope this helps you on your search! Good luck to all ;)

Emma

Beauty Sleep

2010-05-06T22:18:00.004-04:00

Sleep.

We all need it. In fact, I should probably be getting it right now

That aside, this article from The National Geographic is pretty informative of the lack of information scientists have about sleep; how it works, what it

s purpose is, and why exactly we need it.

Thank god the beauty scientists at YSL have found the perfect anecdote to lack of sleep: the touche eclat.

When I think of what I'm thankful for, this beauty product is relatively high on the list. When you

're low on sleep, you can count on an extra touch of radiance. Pricey, indeed, but can you really put a price on putting your best face forward?

Okay, well I suppose sleep is free..

Emma

Column for School Newspaper

2010-05-04T21:38:00.005-04:00

So I write the fashion column for the student-run newspaper at my school. I think there are some grammar mistakes and such but don't fret, it's only a draft!

Here's the article I turned in for our last issue this year:

FRENCH FASHION

You could blame it on their history, the centuries that they have spent as the epicenter of the fashion world (Marie Antoinette, anyone?). You could also blame it on the fact that our relations with them have seriously improved since their low point during the “freedom fries” era. Any way you spin it, the French fashion fever has undoubtedly swept the US of A

Breton stripes, espadrilles, bags inspired by Coco Chanel, and a heavy dousing of perfume. These are just some of the items that Americans are buying in bulk these days, thanks to the increasing popularity of emulating French style. Luckily for all us Francophiles, authentic French designs are becoming more available in the American market. Sonia Rykiel, an established designer who boasts a flagship store on the Boulevard Saint Germain, recently collaborated with H&M on a more affordable line, bringing Parisian chic to Atlantic Station. Even when you walk into the store Madewell at Lenox Mall, you will see an array of striped, boat-neck sweaters, in the style of French sailors, displayed alongside piles and piles of canvas Bensimon shoes, also imported all the way from France.

Thanks to this growing trend, you no longer need to fly over night to achieve an authentic French-inspired look. If you admire the style of vintage fashion icons Jane Birkin and Brigitte Bardot, or even if you just want to look like you belong somewhere along The Seine, you can follow my simple advice. For one, recognize that French fashion is more about fit and sophistication than its American counterpart, which tends to be more about playing with color and proportions. Remember that your clothes need to fit, as there is nothing chic about squeezing yourself into a pair of jeans like saucisson. To get the look, stick with more subdued neutrals, like black, white and navy. To take it up another notch, jump on the Breton stripe bandwagon and buy yourself one of these classic knits. If you’re in the market, there are great options all over Lenox Mall. Add a pop of color by stopping over to Madewell and picking up a pair of canvas shoes, or try pairing your black and navy with bright red flats.

French style also differs from American style in that they tend to adopt the dogma: less is more. If you want to emulate the simplicity, go natural. That means no flat iron. If you’re a slave to hair appliances, try leaving them unplugged for once, and rocking your hair texture that you were born with.

If you’re one of those people who sometimes spends their science block imagining themselves sitting outside in a café in the left bank, looking painfully glamorous, this trend is probably right for you. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your country’s style, and try walking in the sophisticated shoes of a French woman. As for all of you expats, I hope you feel that these trends seen on the runways, in stores, and on the streets do your country justice.

Emma

Future of Fashion Blogging

2010-04-28T22:48:00.000-04:00

Thanks to IFB for this great video! Any fashion bloggers out there may wanna check it out.

XX
Emma

Glamour Envy

2010-04-25T11:55:00.004-04:00

Photo Credit: Nesha Loves

"Glamour cannot exist without personal social envy being a common and widespread emotion."

-John Berger

Phew, I guess that's a good thing. That photo seems pretty glamorous to me, and I'm definitely envious! Now to make sure it fits the above qualifications--are you envious as well? That would qualify as "widespread emotion" I believe.

But, really. Isn't that so true? If anything defines glamour, is it not the outpouring of jealousy it causes in others?

Emma

Bloglovin

2010-04-24T22:30:00.003-04:00

Follow my blog with bloglovin

Hey everyone! I've finally jumped on the "bloglovin" bandwagon.

If you'd like an RSS feed of this site, then click away.

The link is on the sidebar.

--->

Emma

Ballet Chic

2010-04-24T19:15:00.008-04:00

Ballet Chic

I used to be OBSESSED with ballet, a total bunhead, schlepping from long classes to rehearsals, spending my summers dancing 6 hours a day, thinking of little else..

As you might imagine, that didn't last long!

Emma

Inspired by Jane Birkin

2010-04-18T12:20:00.003-04:00

Like the new layout?

Thank Jane Birkin (featured above) for the inspiration to use the Hermes Birkin bag.

More news:: I've become obsessed with Tumblr! If you haven't checked out Tumblr, I urge you to do so because it is the most simple, easy to use blog platform. I've just gotten back into updating my Tumblr. [[Click the link if you wanna check it out]]

Happy Spring!

Emma

Breton Ooh La La

2010-04-17T18:02:00.003-04:00

BRETON FEVER
Call me biased, go ahead. I am plugging the "Breton Stripes" trend, and I definitely just bought a striped teeshirt on sale yesterday afternoon. So maybe the opportunity to get my new top for such a steal has led me to this overwhelming obsession with the trend. Maybe if Madewell didn't just happen to have one in my size, looking so lonely on their sale rack then I wouldn't be oohing and aah-ing over this look.

But as a self-diagnosed Francofile, did I really have a choice?

IMAGE CRED

The way she dresses it up with festive tights, a statement headband, and an exposed-zipper mini makes me want to say "Oooh La La!".

Currently wearing my navy and white striped recent purchase with denim shorts and leather gladiator samples.

These shirts are so versatile.

Okay I'm done gushing.

Emma

Shoe Art

2010-04-15T21:51:00.006-04:00

Nicholas Kirkwood: Shoes or Art?

I certainly can't imagine wearing them.

They are sculptures, essentially.

More appropriate for display purposes.

Beautiful, no doubt.

So are these Nicholas Kirkwood heels art? I'd like to think so.

Emma

Fashion Bites

2010-03-29T13:09:00.003-04:00

A little fashion tidbit for ya:

• I do not mean to suggest for a moment that all it takes to be a top executive is a custom-tailored European suit. You also need the correct shirt and tie.
Dave Barry

This made me chuckle, because it is very witty, but also very true. Not that clothes make the men, but that without clothes, there is only half a man. Or woman, of course! And beyond that, having the right suit or dress is not all that is needed to do the trick. Oh no, of course not. Accessorizing is half the battle!

Thoughts?

Emma

Bunny Ears

2010-03-29T12:00:00.002-04:00

Fashion is silly.

First MK&A, now Madonna! What has this world come to?

I'm all for taking style risks, but as far as I'm concerned, wearing bunny ears personifies the ridiculousness of fashion that is so often criticized. Just because Karl Lagerfeld says its cool, does not mean it actually looks good. The runway is one thing, but...

I'm NOT a fan.

Emma

Prom Hair

2010-03-25T23:17:00.003-04:00

PROM HAIR

Note these styles are all low-chignon type of do's. If your dress has a lot of detailing around the neck, or you're thinking of trying some statement jewelry, it might be fun to pull it up! And if you're going to get it done professionally, make sure you ask for "loose" hair, so that they don't go all crazy attacking you with gel and mousse. Prom isn't really the best time to test out looks from Jersey Shore. The best time for that would definitely be "After Prom".

UPDOS

Thoughts?

Emma

Lanvin Vs. Chanel

2010-03-21T19:27:00.003-04:00

Two classy French brands.

Two foldover logo-less handbags.

Which came first? The Lanvin or the Chanel?

Chanel on the left and Lanvin on the right

XX
Emma

Blogging=Narcissism?

2010-03-21T19:14:00.002-04:00

I had a chat with two of my friends who use Tumblr the other day about people who make the focus of their blogs their personal lives vs. people who let their personal lives seep into their blogs. We kind of came to the conclusion that making a blog about your personal business is narcissistic but isn't having a blog period a little self-centered? I mean after all, it kind of rests on the assumption that what you have to say is worth reading or valuable in some way, and therefore you are putting yourself on display. Think about it. Checking your comments, formatting your page, choosing content...isn't that just an extension of reflecting on yourself? When you refresh the page to look at your blog with it's new post in all its glory, aren't you really just looking at yourself in the mirror? And is that okay?

Okay, so I have like none of the answers, but the idea that having a blog is a bit narcissistic is kind of hard to deny. What gives any of us the right to think that anyone is going to read our stuff?

Oh hey, what's up Narcissus? Would Narcissus have a blog if he lived in the 21st century?

That said, I'm not about to stop blogging on account of it being "narcissistic" because being concerned about how self-centered you are is pretty darn self-centered!

It never ends...

XX
Emma

YAIS Cousin

2010-03-21T18:55:00.005-04:00

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, right?

My classmate and friend Nicole has thrown herself into the blogosphere with a new blog called "YAIS Cousin", which is a satirical spin-off of YAIS, and a commentary on the fashion world as a whole. Well, that is, from what I can tell from her first post.

Check it out here:
http://yaiscousin.blogspot.com

Welcome to blogging Nicole! I look forward to reading everything you have to say!

XX
Emma

Is Vogue Bringing Back the 90's?

2010-03-20T14:52:00.005-04:00

Between the denim-on-denim, the fluffy hair, big hoop earrings, beltedness, and vibrant reds in these two recent Vogue covers, I'm smelling a MAJOR 90's revival. Especially because their April cover features *gasp* a supermodel, which was their mainstay towards the end of the last century.

How do you feel about this 90's hooplah? Are we so done with decade revivals, or are they all the rage?

I'm seeing overalls in their future..

XX
Emma

The White Witch of Wonderland

2010-03-15T19:16:00.003-04:00

the white witch of wonderland

If you haven't been to see Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland 3D movie, I highly recommend that you go see it! And while you're there, take note of how great Anne Hathaway is as the "white witch" with her all white skin and dress, and only a pop of burgundy on her lips.

The costumes in this film were incredibly inventive. I'll be rooting for this movie at the Oscar's next year--hopefully it will be nominated for best costumes.

If you're feeling inspired by this look, why not try it for evening? Just don't go as drastic on the white face powder unless, of course, goth is your thing. If so, run with it!

Emma

Vampire Weekend Inspired Style

2010-03-14T20:36:00.005-04:00

The only thing I appreciate more about the band Vampire Weekend than their music is their preppy-cool aesthetic. Upon learning that the bandmates graduated from Columbia University, it became clear where that mix of nerdy, preppy, and hipster in their look may have originated from.

Even the cover of their self-titled album "Vampire Weekend" mixes elements of Gatsby and grunge, complimenting their eclectic and bright sound. The chandelier is a gesture towards high-society, while the tops of heads of college girls and jagged parts hanging off the fixture bring it down to earth.

Even the bandmates of Vampire Weekend know how to rock pastels for Spring! I'm a fan of the classic wayfarers (above) and relaxed button down shirts mixed with crisp, sharp pants.

This just makes me all the more outraged at the $98+ per ticket they are charging for their show. Tsk Tsk Tsk...

Looks like I'll just have to keep web-stalking them.

Emma

Spring 2010 Looks

2010-03-14T17:32:00.003-04:00

Spring 2010 Trends

denim shirt
clogs
quirky shades

Denim Shirt by Young And In Style featuring Miu Miu shoes

menswear inspired trousers
oversized blazers with even bigger buttons
strappy heels
nude tones
men's watches

Trousers Spring 2010 by Young And In Style featuring DKNY outerwear

XX
Emma

NARS Illuminator--Must Have?

2010-02-28T11:22:00.005-05:00

The Illuminator

NARS is introducing a new product this month exclusively at Sephora called the "NARS Orgasm Illuminator." For those of you who are less beauty-crazed than I am, NARS has a series of products in a best-selling shade called "Orgasm" that started out as a blush color, but has since segway-ed into nail varnishes, lipglosses, and the like. As a true fan of their blush, I am DYING to try this new product! It looks as though it's supposed to be a cross between a cream blush and a bronzer; perhaps perfect for achieving a healthy glow in time for Spring? Reviews on the Sephora website are very mixed, so I really have no choice but to buy it and see for myself...

So what products are you dying to try? Are you a fan of NARS?

Emma

NYC Dreamin'

2010-02-25T17:21:00.006-05:00

Going to New York

Next week, that is...

Spring Break

Headed out to the East Coast for some good ol' fashioned American college touring.

I'll be in THE BIG APPLE for several days.

I love this city. Last time I was there I ran into the one and only Tim Gunn. Sigh.

I wonder if there will be any more run-ins with the fashion authorities?

I can only dream..

Thanks, *Gisele (Not Heidi--thanks for the correction), for inspiring me to pack a thick scarf and leather boots! Doesn't she look stylishly bewildered?

[Thanks to The Fashion Spot for the photo]

Emma

Current Obsessions--Going into Spring 2010

2010-02-18T18:45:00.004-05:00

It's been awhile since I've blogged about my love of, well, things. And by things I dont just mean things, but every type of thing. You following me? Didn't think so...

So I decided, instead of studying trigonometry for tomorrow's test, that I would indulge in a little blogging.

Here's the list:

MAC lipglass in Honeylust
Vampire Weekend's new CD Contra
Givenchy Irresistible Parfum
Sons and Lovers by DH Lawrence
THE FASHION BOOK (creative title, eh?)
Lady Gaga's Shenanigans and VMA Outfit
Mom's Old Combat Boots
Random French music I don't even understand
Valentino: The Last Emperor (Incredible Movie)
Rodarte's Fall 2010 Collection
My Pottery Barn Water Bottle w/ Leaves and Birds
Nespresso Machine
Work Hard Play Hard Mentality
Random snow flurries
Seeing open-toed shoes in the shops
Denim Overdoses
Kell on Earth on Bravo
Unwearably High Heels (to look at)
The Yeah Yeah Yeah's
Fancy schmancy dog collars (on dogs, not people)

XX
Emma

Blog THAT!

2010-02-18T18:32:00.004-05:00

"The way you dress is a text. Blog THAT!"
-A memorable quote by my English teacher.

Which brings me to an interesting topic. We [fashion bloggers, and other style conscious girls] may read Vogue and Harper's Bazaar religiously, flipping through the pages as though they were some godly text, taking note of what we see in the editorials and trying out the "socks with sandals" look ourselves, but do we ever stop to think about why we care so goddamn much about our outfits or the kind of bag we carry? I know I rarely do. So, why?

Of course there is more to the world than fashion, as I think everyone is well aware. Thanks, though, for pointing it out to us, as many who don't comprehend the strange world of fashion do. As much as I like to believe that there is more to fashion than what we, the consumers, wear that is ultimately the root of it, right?

And if our daily outfits are so important, then what does that say about culture?

I guess it's kind of like this:

You only get one chance to make a first impression. It may as well be a good one. You walk into a job interview, a school hallway, a party, or just onto the streets of your city, and you are exposing yourself to everyone around you, whether you like it or not. And as Malcom Gladwell points out in his book Blink, people's first impressions stick with them. I don't care how shallow that sounds, but if you have the ability to use your appearance to your advantage, as an expression of who you are, then why not?

Thoughts?

XX
Emma

Mcqueen

2010-02-15T22:54:00.001-05:00

What a shame to see such a talented designer go. Alexander Mcqueen will be sorely missed!

Emma

Sonia Rykiel Pour H&M (and all that is FRENCH)

2010-02-06T09:42:00.008-05:00

soniaaa rykiel<33
Everyone, I have another confession to make. As I write this post, I listen to antiquated French pop (Brigitte Bardot to be specific), peruse the Sonia Rykiel collection for H&M, and my mouth waters as I think about biting into a croque monsieur, or a heaping forkful of steak tartar. I am a French poser, a francophile..or in harsh terms... a wannabe. Oui, c'est vrai. It's true. What am I to do? Think about it, Coco Chanel was French. Maybe I'm onto something!

SONYIA'S SIGNATURE STRIPES

(from her non-H&M collection)

...And I know I'm not the only blogger out there who has been bitten by the French bug. Oh, non! So let me describe to you my feelings regarding Sonia Rykiel's not-so-recent collection for H&M that I recently fell in love with:

When I first heard Sonia Rykiel was doing a collection for mass-market retailer H&M I was nonplussed. Although my mom and I are both huge fans of her real line, designer collaborations with H&M or Topshop often have the effect of cheapening the designer's image. Icky fabrics, lack of details, general tackiness, the works. So when I ran into the huge lingerie section in H&M with the words "Sonia Rykiel" plastered everywhere, I was shocked at how much I wanted to buy everything! Her signature stripes, feminine detailing, pink and orange and red, it was all so Sonia and soooo affordable.

(image property of H&M online)

It really looks as good in person as it does in the pictures. So if you haven't yet, check it out, and inject some French flair into your wardrobe!

Emma

EXAMS

2010-01-10T09:40:00.003-05:00

PLEASE FORGIVE A SHORT HIATUS FROM YAIS

Midterm exams are right around the corner.

And hitting the books has suddenly taken priority over hitting the mall, or even hitting up Who What Wear to see what brand Kate's latest bag is.

Ugh, it's a tragedy.

w i s h m e l u c k

EMMA

Make Up For Ever Eyeliner Set

2010-01-03T09:40:00.009-05:00

This makeup set I recently spotted on the Sephora website reminds me of my birthdays in years past, when friends or friends of my parents would give me lovely artistic gifts. I can still picture these perflectly arranged, beautiful sets of colored pencils or fancy markers that sat so colorfully in their brand new packaging..for years. Although I never gained the artistic know how to do anything more remarkable than just re arranging these art pencils in their containers, Make Up For Ever's palette of eyeliner shades may be something I could actually use. And not to mention, their eyeliners are probably some of the best I've used, as they really do stay on through thick and thin.

Ain't it a beaut? Too bad I can't fathom spending $250 (Sephora) on just an artsy looking eyeliner set.

...But look at all the pretty colors!

XX
Emma

Madewell Jewelry

2010-01-02T11:16:00.006-05:00

Madewell, a trendy up and coming mall-chain store owned by J Crew, may not be available at shopping destinations near you, but do not fret! Now you can browse through and buy fashionable Madewell items, like their edgy/wearable jewelry line, at Shopbop.com.

I own the necklace pictured above, and I probably wear it more than any other piece of costume jewelry I own. Check out http://www.shopbop.com/madewell-accessories-jewelry/br/v=1/2534374302165015.htm?all for more fabulous Madewell items.

XX
Emma

Highly Hydrated Fashion

2010-01-01T19:46:00.007-05:00

Is your New Year's Resolution to "drink more water?" Well, do it in style.

You'd be amazed at how many mundane items in your life could be transformed into fashion accessories. We've seen it happen with laptop bags (Hello, Tumi!), bandaids (Barbie Bandaids, anyone?), and even fanny packs (no comment). So many of the ordinary objects we carry with us, without thinking twice, could be making a fashion statement. And why not inject some excitement into your everyday routine, right?

This brings me to the latest and greatest mundane item turned fashion luxury item: The Kennet Water Bottle

Yeah, it's true: now you can be eco-friendly, healthy, and stylish! No more chucking plastic bottles. Nope, just refill, carry with you, and look very environmentally conscious. ;)

it is perhaps a little pricey at $19 (brightandbold.com)

I suppose you could always go to CVS and pick up a water bottle there, if you want..

XX
Emma

SATC 2 TRAILER

2010-01-01T10:13:00.002-05:00

I want so badly to be above the release of the second Sex and the City Movie, to be to cool for school, basically. But, I'm so not!

The trailer for SATC 2 is out! I must say, the first movie was a great chick flick if I ever saw one, and here's to hoping the second one is just as satisfying.

Enjoy, and Happy 2010! I hope the new year brings you lots of prosperity, and of course, lots of style!

XX

Emma

Got Kurves?

2009-12-30T18:52:00.003-05:00

Kardashians Got Kurves and Style

I love to idolize Kate Moss as much as every fashion obsessed girl out there, but the 'heroin chic' aesthetic isn't so relatable when it comes to body image. That's why I've started following what the Kardashian sisters are wearing, who embrace their curves and aren't afraid to take fashion risks. While they are far from plus-size, these sisters are a welcomed deviation from today's norm of pin-thin size zero models and actresses.

Kim is probably the best dressed and most famous of the three, and has considerably polished up her look in recent years. The sisters own a boutique in Calabassas, California called "Dash", and a children's boutique "Smootch". Watching their show on the E! netowork, "Keeping up with the Kardashians", has been a guilty pleasure of mine since season 1 aired. While their family dramas are interesting, I am most drawn to what the sisters wear each show. Their sexy, sophisticated, and womanly style is definitely worth emulating, and definitely helps cultivate the Kardashian image.

Some stores you could shop at to emulate their style include: Max Studio, BCBG Max Azria, Bloomingdales Contemporary Section, and cute boutiques near you!

XX

Emma

Fashionable Resolution List

2009-12-30T10:46:00.003-05:00

This year I resolve to have no resolutions. Truth be told, New Year's Resolutions, as fun as they are to make, never seem to pan out for me. Maybe because I tend not to do the work involved in reaching each particular goal..? Maybe.

Anyway, for all you fashion-minded people out there who haven't given up on the magic quality of a New Year's Reso, here are some very stylin' suggestions to help you ring in the new year. If you're like me, and you've given up on firm resolutions, these are still some nice non-reso "ideas" to keep in mind.

Fashionable Resolutions

1) Subscribe to the idea of "Quality over Quantity" in shopping.

2) Give myself one lazy day a week, but be armed with comfy-cute accoutrements for when that day rolls around.

3) Start duplicating my most essential beauty products (concealer, powder, gloss, etc..) and carrying a stash in my purse for emergency moments.

4) STOP comparing myself to models in magazines, but read them anyway.

5) Stay true to my own taste and personal style, despite what my peers wear, or what I feel I must wear because it is labeled "trendy".

6) Don't apologize to myself or others for those days when I don't feel like getting gussied up.

7) Wash my face and do a skincare regimen every single night. Every night. No exceptions. (This one is all about longevity)

8) Don't sweat it when someone else has my "special" piece of clothing. Ask myself: is it really worth the worry? (The answer should be NO)

9) Try not to look like a total slob when I travel, even overnight.

10) Take risks.

I hope these resolution ideas provide a good starting point for ways to be even more YAIS (Young and in Style) come 2010.

Happy New Year!

XX

Emma

Have a Hot Pink New Year's

2009-12-28T11:37:00.003-05:00

Whether you're staying in, or having a wild night out, the best way to welcome 2010 is with a touch of hot pink. More creative than your usual sequins or festive glitter, hot pink is a more interesting accent to what ever your New Year's Eve plans may be.

For a Fun Night Out

Hot Pink New Year's Eve by Young And In Style featuring Preen

If you're going out and you want to pull out all the stops for the new year, then why not go for a crazy pair of hot pink stilettos? Not feeling it? That's okay! Try hot pink lips mixed with a dashing black blazer, and sparkled up black accessories.

For a Night In

New Year's Hot Pink at Home by Young And In Style featuring GAP shoes

For the second look, I chose more of a salmon-y pink, as I think it gives a slightly more homey vibe. Still fun and cute, especially when mixed with rhinestone heart earrings and a metallic tank, this pink is perfect for New Year's Eve with the family, or for a small gathering of friends.

Happy New Year!

XX
Emma

Earth to Santa Claus

2009-12-10T19:16:00.002-05:00

It's true, I have been sticking to a strict J-Crew diet lately, but there is something really magnetic about these shoes. Not so magnetic, I hope, that they wouldn't clear airport security...

Anyway, the heel height is walkable, the material is buttery soft, and the color is both neutral and vibrant (against an all black/grey wardrobe).

Can you hear the Christmas bells ringing?

Earth to Santa Claus..

XX
Emma

Going Crazy With Texture

2009-11-14T10:41:00.001-05:00

Textured by Young And In Style featuring Hermes bags

It's fun to mix textures for an ultra high fashion look. Offsetting crazy shoes and an outrageous dress with timeless black Raybans and an ultralux Birkin Bag never hurts either..

XX
Emma

MKA Cool

2009-11-14T10:23:00.002-05:00

On my Blogroll, Olsens Anonymous is probably one of the most specific, and the most captivating. I can spend ages scrolling through and clicking on "previous" to see what trendy pictures have been posted.

Something about this MK&A picture strikes me as especially cool:

I'm liking the row of mismatched buttons on Ashley's jacket, and the way MK mixes that dainty gold pendant necklace with a chunkier white piece, simply dazzling.

Ahhh...

XX
Emma

J'adore Dior! Purple Eyeshadow Quint and More!

2009-11-13T12:33:00.004-05:00

Something about Dior's recent cosmetics collections has me salivating. And I think that something must be the color purple. Observe:

Dior vernis, nice. Very well done. This polish in "silver purple 782" seems ideal for looking festive around the holidays, sans cheesy red and green. Haven't tried it yet, but just may have to..

Now, don't even get me started on this eyeshadow "quint". From personal experience, I can totally vouch it for it. The colors have great pigmentation, the black works amazingly well smudged on for a smoky eye or applied with an angled eyeliner brush for precision, and the colors can be mixed in a variety of ways. It may appear ultra dramatic, and it can be, but the light purple and grey colors are fantastic for day, and make a smooth transition to night-time eyes. Definitely worth a splurge, if you're going to make one.

Bottom line, if you want to update your beauty look, purple is the best way to go. Whether its Dior or something you picked up from your local Walgreens, an ounce of purple goes a long way to making you look fantastic this fall.

Emma

Tough School Look

2009-11-13T12:25:00.004-05:00

School Rebel by Young And In Style featuring Sabina bags

A sassy tee, a men's moto jacket, and lace leggings with shorts definitely pushes the edge for a school look, perfect for those days when that's exactly what you want to do.

A look for those school days when you really feel rebellious, but still show up to class. Just don't complain to me if the dress-code police give you a hard time, you're too cool to care anyway, remember?

XX

Emma

Alexander Wang Has Me Wanting one of his fanny packs..

2009-11-03T21:50:00.002-05:00

Before I continue with this blog post, I must come clean about something. For all of my conscious memory, my younger brother and I have teased our dad mercilessly about his propensity for wearing a fanny pack. I mean, really dad? A fanny pack?

But now that I am older, I can look back on that and see why my dad has always stood fiercely by his waist-hugging companion. After all, fanny packs are practical, lightweight, and hands-free. And seeing this Alexander Wang fannypack on ShopBop has led me to almost want one for myself...almost.

It has lots of useful pockets, shiny hardware, and an overall carefree cool look. Who wouldn't want that?

Maybe I should listen to my dad's fashion advice more often...

Maybe.

XX
Ema

My Quest for the Perfect Leather Jacket

2009-10-31T12:05:00.005-04:00

ETERNALLY COOL
Ohhhh I can be such a sucker for trends sometimes, but I like to think of a great leather jacket as a piece of clothing with a longer lifespan than most. They were cool when James Dean wore his with a plain white tee and hair combed back, and all the way to now, with the Voguettes sporting them left and right.

Just because they're especially cool at the moment doesn't mean they will ever deflate in popularity, right? Maybe the leather jacket is unlike any other trend. Maybe it has eternal lasting power, somewhat like fashion's fountain of youth! Hello conquistadors we have finally found what you were looking for, just a few years later. I am of the opinion that the leather jacket will never die, and that, my friends, is why I am dying to get my hands on one.

[[Or maybe I'm just trying to justify my latest craving for the newest, hottest clothing trend?]]

Shhh.... I like the fashion's fountain of youth spin on it better.

Hmm.. this one from Vince has an awfully heavy pricetag, but it does fit the description of good-quality, classic silhouette, and great leather..

Oh dear, looks like robbing a bank may just be in order..
But can you really put a pricetag on eternity?

XX
Emma

Blog Works at School!

2009-10-30T09:48:00.002-04:00

After all the times I have been prevented from logging onto this blog from a school computer, and all the times I have written to the IT department asking them to un-block my blog, they have finally done it!

Hello world, I am blogging from school!

Now this may not seem exciting to you, but to me it is a huge deal. Now if I have spare time at lunch or study hall I can work on YAIS, without waiting until I get home.

Sorry if you don't share my excitement, I guess I understand..

YAY!

XX
Emma

Spotted: Tim Gunn on the Streets of NYC

2009-10-24T10:25:00.004-04:00

So I'm walking down a street, somewhere in New York City, with a theatre group from my school . We're minding our own business, getting from our hotel to a theatre workshop, or something, and all of the sudden I hear someone shout, "TIM GUNN!". I look around, look down, and spot myself wearing one of the worst outfits of my highschool career: Nike shorts, black leggings, a black cotton blazer, and a black tank top. (Now if it werent for the black and white striped running shorts it wouldn't have been a crime, but really, athletic clothes?) And surely enough, there he is, in the flesh: Tim Gunn. Ugh, and he was interviewing someone too, probably for their "great street style".

Here's the evidence:

In case of future Tim Gunn run-ins, I will try to stay away from the Nike Shorts. That is my new vow.

XX
Emma

All Right Now

2009-10-22T07:27:00.002-04:00

It's been ages, and I've missed blogging like none other! I only have a few seconds to type this up before I run out the door (story of my life lately-hah), but here goes nothin':

What I'm Loving this Fall (The OFFICIAL List)

*Tall Socks under Boots
Taking the layering trend one step further

*Motorcycle Boots in General
For those days when you feel like looking cool

*Warm Blazers as jackets
Boyfriend blazers, schoolboy blazers, etc.. are the jacket of my moment

*New Media
Reader entertainment/source is switching to the internet, and I'm glad to see the change! I just hope magazine companies fare well with the economy, and can catch up technologically..Kindle, anyone?

*Macarons
Not particularly fall-related, but definitely savory. I munched on them while visiting a friend in France over my school's fall break, and I'm kind of, sort of, really addicted..

*Sunglasses
Don't save them for summer, if the sun's shining, wear them. Or just pull a Rachel Zoe and wear them everywhere...

*Natural Hair
As the weather cools down your hair is likely to become drier and more sensitive. Just let it be. Your natural hair texture is probably more beautiful than you give it credit for.

*Blogging > School
School and school-related things have kept me from blogging, but I'm turning over a new leaf. Blogging matters too!

*NOT wearing jeans
It's not that I dislike jeans, that'd be close to impossible with all the cool varieties out there, but I don't like them a a "wear absolutely every day" item. Atleast not for me.

*Fall Colors
We don't have them yet where I live, but I'm waiting on them...

I've missed you! Blogging hiatuses are beyond lame.

XX
Emma

Jeggings and How to Wear Them

2009-09-26T23:13:00.010-04:00

Since their post-80's revival, leggings have taken on many new and exciting forms. In 2005 we saw the trend resurface in the form of cropped leggings to be worn with shockingly short mini skirts, which would have otherwise been deemed "inappropriate" by school dress codes worldwide. Shortly thereafter, popular chain American Apparel released leggings in all kinds of crazy colors, textures, and prints, bringing a cult-like appeal to them. We were introduced last fall to the barely wearable, skintight "liquid leather leggings"as seen on celebrities like Lindsay Lohan and pin-thin models.

Now we have moved onto a whole new realm of legging. Enter the "jegging". A synonym of denim legging, the word "jegging" originates from the fashion origins of jean and legging. Jeggings are defined as an article of clothing that falls somewhere in between jeans and leggings, fits closely to the body, and is usually made of a synthetic-denim blend. Recently popular, comfortable, and easily available in mall stores, jeggings are a new trend worthy of entrance into your closet. Naturally, you may be confused as to how to find the right pair, and maybe are wondering how to wear them. Here are the ways that I recommend wearing jeggings in different situations so that you look well put together and stylish:

Shopping for Jeggings
Most importantly, make sure when you go shopping that you buy jeggings that work well for you. The most flattering options are usually made of a slightly heavier fabric, very stretchy, and a deep indigo wash. Also, look for a pair with a waist band if you plan to wear them more as pants than as leggings.

How to Wear Jeggings to School

The most important factors to consider when dressing for school are comfort and dress-code, so take this into consideration when putting together your outfit. For school it is a good idea to pair a tunic or long top with your jeggings, and wear comfortable shoes that still look polished, like Whitney Port's flats above. A shirt with a sparkly texture, or interesting pattern, is great because it adds some flair to the outfit. Just throw your hair up and you're ready to go.

How to Wear Jeggings on the Weekend

Weekends are a great time for carefree, easy dressing. A great way to try out this trend on the weekend is to wear your hair down, throw on a long tee, an over-sized cardigan, and boots or canvas sneakers. [see Sienna Miller above. Photo credit] This looks great because the big tee-shirt and cardigan add some coverage, and still manage to look cute.

How to wear Jeggings to a Party

When getting dressed for a party, you can take more risks, so don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with your look. Now is the time to try crazy interpretations of jeggings, like the acid wash pair Ciara sports in the photo above. She dresses up the ensemble with platform pumps, a sheer tank, and a fun statement necklace. The best way to wear jeggings at night is to dress them up with accessories, and most importantly to have fun with them.

Hope this was helpful!

XX
Emma

Prada, Paris, and Paradise

2009-09-26T15:42:00.007-04:00

La casa di Prada

The most expensive shops I have seen in my life were on rue Faubourg St Honoré in Paris, period. From my experience, these stores are at an even higher level than shopping in New York, London, or Beverly Hills. I'm not kidding you. On this street there is the Hermes flagship store, the offices of French VOGUE, and many stores including Chanel, Sonia Rykiel, Guy Laroche, Lanvin, and YSL.

It's tough to compare which amazing shops are better than other out-of-this-world ones, but my criterion is simple, and straight forward...

Basically, I felt the least fashionable, and the most out of place, on this stretch of boutiques, much more so than in any other shopping district I have visited. That's why when I cruised past the new, temporary Prada store I only gawked at the window, but did not take the chance to go in. It was only one amongst a long road of opulence, haute couture, and Parisian style. It was not until I came home from this trip that I read about the "new Prada store" on rue Faubourg St Honoré, and realized that it was the very same Prada store where I had basically drooled on the outside window. It makes me wish I had gone in, for a more up close and personal feel of the space, shown below:

I think I'm drooling over Prada all over again...

I wonder if any VOGUE editors or fashion big-wigs have had the chance to shop here yet? Seeing as it is only a stone's throw from the offices..

Emma

Saw the September Issue

2009-09-22T18:22:00.008-04:00

Welcome to the world of Anna Wintour
arguably the most influential figure in the fashion industry.

Today I caught a personal glimpse into this world as I watched The September Issue, a documentary film which shows the making of Vogue's most important issue to date.

I finally got to see this film! Ever since I heard that cameras were following Anna and crew in the Conde Nast building, I began to stalk "leaked" information about the movie online, looking at little photos or clips here and there. Then the preview came out. I would say I watched that 3 or 4 times before finally dragging myself to the movie theatre to see the whole thing in person. It was definitely worth the $9.50 I spent on the movie ticket. The film focused not only on Anna Wintour, but on other key figures in the fashion world, like Grace Coddington and Andre Leon Talley. Talley was nothing short of fabulous, and Coddington came across as a likable, kind creative genius. As for Wintour, she both lived up to her "ice-queen" reputation, and brought some more respect to her industry. Never hesitating to cut out extraneous magazine spreads, or to reject Coddington's choices for a shoot, Wintour reads as an efficient businesswoman. She knows what she wants, what is best for Vogue, and how to get it. The movie made me wonder: What is wrong with that?

If you haven't yet seen The September Issue I strongly recommend you do!

XX
Emma

Boulevard Saint-Germain Style

2009-09-17T18:24:00.003-04:00

This part of Paris has such a great feel, unique to the city. I fell in love with it on my vacation there, and once more while watching this video. I remember sitting in a cafe right at the intersection video-d here (I only remember this because I took a picture) and watching the Parisian nightlife walk by.

Also, how cool is Vanessa Traina's style? And not to mention that Parisian girl's Cartier ring...

XX

Emma

My Fashion To-Do List

2009-09-16T20:51:00.008-04:00

I love to make lists. Something about scribbling little blurbs on a piece of lined paper, a napkin, or a keyboard makes me feel complete. I like to use lists to keep me sane, organized, and occupied. Call it OCD, or call it quirky, but it works for me.

And something I think could work for all of us style mavens (or even style newbies) is a fashion to-do list. Why? It is a way of encouraging yourself to grow in your personal style, or in the way you interact with fashion. Whether it be a list of wardrobe items you need to wear more, pieces you should invest in, magazines you should read, or trends you want to try, a fashion to-do list should set you straight.

Here's mine:

See The September Issue in theaters this weekend.
Come on, it's about Anna Wintour, Grace Coddington, and Andre Leon Talley, so it must be fantastic.

Wear my boyfriend blazer (and blog about it)
Finally bought one! I need to learn to work it into my transitional fall wardrobe now.

Find out about fashion internships for next summer
No such thing as too early!

Photograph my Stylish Friends
Borrowing my dad's Nikon D70-time to put it to some good use.

Figure out how to wear my tank tops with low arm holes
[in order to keep the world from seeing my undergarments]

Try Tights/Leggings and Shorts
I LOVE this look, so I am dying to try it.

Start carrying my Moleskin with me again
A present from my aunt, I have carried it with me to write or draw in, but have used it mostly whilst abroad. I want to start using it whenever I get inspired!

What are some of your fashion to-do's? I'd love to hear them! Please comment below.

XX
Emma

On Jewelry

2009-09-15T17:21:00.007-04:00

[a decorative jewelry holder in my room]

Whether you are dripping in diamonds, or sporting a plastic watch, jewelry has its place beyond adornment. It can make a woman feel confident, powerful, and suited up to face the world. Without it, many of us feel naked. Incomplete.

I'm just a bit addicted...

Like the pictures? Tell me if you want more "home-made" photography by YAIS!

XX
Emma

KronKron

2009-09-13T10:49:00.004-04:00

After seeing Susie from Style Bubble's post on an Icelandic shoeline, KronKron, I think I am in love. No, wait, I know I am in love. This is one of the most unique and creative lines I have seee in a while, and how cool is it that they are designed by two Icelandic designers.

These are some of my favorites. The cut outs are definitely on trend, as well as the gold exposed zipper and fringe detail, but something about them is eternally girly and ethereal. Maybe it's that classic combo of black and sugary pink?

And I've been seeing a lot of these platforms lately. Think, Nikolas Kirkwood? Yes?

Check out the website where you can see more styles here:

http://kronbykronkron.com/

Emma

Quick Olsen Update

2009-09-10T20:49:00.002-04:00

Just a quick update-

I found this picture of MK & A Olsen on Google Images and just had to share it, because I am LOVING their hair and makeup here. I'm guessing this photo is from winter 2009?

Love, Love, and LOVE.

I think Ashley's look is easier to pull off. If in a hurry you can just wet your hair, throw it up in a messy bun, smudge on some kohl eye liner and you're good to go.

XX
Emma

Black and Grey Go Back to School

2009-09-02T20:29:00.010-04:00

It is my strong belief that in 2009, an ideal back to school wardrobe consists of seasonally transitionable pieces in muted colors that can be worn in a multitude of ways. The hot neutrals right now are all shades of grey, pewter, and simply black. But don't forget to accent them every once and again with a bright color of your choosing. And do remember that with the right pieces in easy to combine colors anyone can be all set for the school year

Remember to look for:

Things you can wear for atleast 2/4 seasons.
like a cropped leather jacket that works for fall, with layers for winter, and over a dress for spring

Wearable Colors
If you are going to invest in a few key pieces, make sure they work well with what you already have.

Comfort
Okay, so "comfort" is a bit of a fashion taboo word. There is nothing glamorous about it. But are you really going to want to wear that skin tight leather pencil skirt to school every day? Definitely not.

[images: ShopBop.com]

See by Chloe Leather Jacket

Rachel Pally Swing Dress
Great for Layering with Jacket

Marc by Marc Jacobs Denim Skirt

JBrand Pleggings

Classic French Brand Bensimon's Sneakers

Cashmere sweater by Velvet

Marc by Marc Jacobs Plaid Tee

Inspired: Shots From Barceona

2009-08-30T15:27:00.007-04:00

If New York is the city that never sleeps, then Barcelona is the city that never EVER sleeps. Even in the daylight, the energy of Barcelona is astounding, and it picks up in intensity as the sun goes down.

This summer I was more than a little attached to my Canon Powershot camera, as you can see!

XX
Emma

French Street Chic Meets Barcelona

2009-08-30T13:53:00.005-04:00

STYLE PROFILE : ELINE

Where does the eccentric, bold Spanish style intersect with the sophisticated Parisian chic?

When a Parisian visits Barcelona, of course!

Below are photos of a French friend from the Paris area I met while in Barcelona this summer, showing how she uses her French fashion know-how to look great in Spain's July heat. (Mind you, temperatures exceeded 90 degrees Fahrenheit!)

Outside of La Sagraga Familia

"This vest is vintage", explains Eline (pictured above) "Actually, most of my clothes are vintage."

As you may or may not know, dressing for an afternoon in the summer heat is not a simple task. Here, she looks effortless in a simple black sundress, her hair in an effortlessly simple style. In the heat, accessories are your best friend, because chances are your clothes will be minimal. Eline mixes old with new, high with low, and most daringly, black with brown. Her accessories are the perfect mix of Spanish and French style, mixing demure brown Oxfords, and a funky fringe bag from Spanish chain Mango. Her most treasured accessory is her charm necklace, one she fashioned for herself out of keepsakes from all her wordly travels. "This one is from Vietnam, this one from America, I think this one is from Singapore..."

C'est trop chic!

XX
Emma

Anna Karl Moment

2009-08-25T22:13:00.001-04:00

A friend posted this on my facebook wall
And I knew I had not choice but to share it with you.

Now, why wasn't I invited to this little photo op?

XX
Emma

I think I Might Love Vince..

2009-08-22T19:19:00.004-04:00

I have found yet another favorite contemporary line, carried by Neiman's, that I can't afford.

VINCE.

I am a fan of the color scheme; grey, black, dark grey, light black, and an occasional accent color. And for you daring fashonistas out there, is that furry vest not fantastic? There is only one answer: YES!

Droooooling...

Emma

Classically Casual-Ashley Olsen

2009-08-20T19:03:00.004-04:00

Ashley Olsen: Perfectly Casual

Starting from head to toe::

A Breezy blonde hairstyle

with black shields, to keep an air of mystery, alongside

a cozy knit sweater, in a shade of creamy yellow,

topped with an all time classic: the leather jacket,

followed by the star of the show, the Givenchy Nightingale Bag,

which is both a carry-all, a symbol of style and opulence,

it's just a magnificent creation,

which is complimented by simple, skinny pants, a modern wardrobe must,

and these tucked into the perfect shoes for the rainy season:

The Hunter Wellies, which keep your feet dry and your outfit tied together.

And this is how casual fall dressing is done.

Bravo!

Emma

Summer's End

2009-08-20T18:17:00.005-04:00

Maybe to you, summer isn't over, but I knew the moment I walked up to my school again that my summer was totally gone. It was as if it evaporated through the air with the first moments of school. And with that comes new responsibilities, new classes, and a whole new slew of ideas. It's true that best blogging inspirations always seem to come to mind during chemistry class. While the teacher talks away at the board, somewhat unintelligibly, my mind tends to wander off to the land of French Vogue, Treggings, and last year's Prada sandas on sale at Neiman's. That kind of boredom and confusion can only be achieved in a school day, for me atleast. And whether your summer finishes on the official start of the autumn season, or with the end of a great vacation, all good things must come to an end. But all good things must begin as well!

After 6 weeks out of town, away from the world of blogging, I am eager to get back to Young and in Style. My month in Barcelona, and later time spent traveling with family was an experience to remember, and also opened my eyes to the benefits of European fashion, of which there are many. Needless to say, I cant wait for the new academic year, as well as a fresh start on this blog. I can only hope you will be there along for the ride!

YOUNG AND IN STYLE IS BACK!

Emma

European Vacation

2009-07-04T00:46:00.003-04:00

AWAY FOR 6 WEEKS

I am excited to report that tomorrow I depart for a 6 week trip to Europe. I'm spending a month in Barcelona studying Spanish with other international people my age, and then meeting up with family for some time in Paris, London, and Belfast (my ancestral home). This will be my first time going away by myself for so long, and I'm hoping for a great trip!

I am not sure how much internet access I will have, but I will do my best to update as much as possible. I'll also be carrying around my moleskin notebook with me so I can write about or sketch what inspires me.

Stay fabulous!

Emma

Hitting up the Neiman's Shoe Department

2009-07-02T17:15:00.005-04:00

A Day of Shoe Shopping

At Neiman Marcus

With my stylish mother

She admires a pair of stilettos in the mirror of the shoe department at Neiman Marcus.

I fell in love with this awesome platform by Marni, although I think it might have pushed me to above the 6 foot mark. Notice how my other foot, wearing a totally flat Haviana flipflop, has to point all the way in order for me to balance in that sky high platform.

I was so excited to help my mom pick out these Robert Clergerie slides (Above). They are very 70's, and like something an Olsen twin may be seen in.

It was very important to document the first time my mom ever tried on Manolos. These were steeply discounted, and needless to say she fell in love and took them home. Even the salesman

had to admit this pair was "pretty hot".

We gasped at the sight of these stilettos, and agreed they could be best described as "princess shoes". Didn't get a chance to try them on, but loved this pair from afar.

If it weren't for the gap in the back, I think my mom would have died to take these Chanel pumps with her. They are dripping with elegance, and we both loved the internal platform. Oh, well!

As you can see, I get my shopping addiction from somewhere. I think it might be genetic..

Emma

Tumblr Maniac

2009-06-26T14:45:00.002-04:00

I have some exciting news to share: thanks to the reccomendation of a friend, I made a Tumblr to accompany this blog! I plan to use it as a purely creative outlet where I can funnel all my random inspirations that keep me blogging.

http://youngandinstyle.tumblr.com/

Please check it out! I'm still new to this whole tumblr thing, but expect frequent updates.

xx

Emma

5 Summer Essentials

2009-06-22T12:47:00.002-04:00

Summer 09 Necessities

With every summer comes a new onslaught of trendy clothes and accessories. Here are my favorite pieces for summer 2009 that I think every girl can use in their wardrobe.

Denim Shorts

Denim SHorts by Young And In Style featuring True Religion

Funky Sandals

Funky Sandals by Young And In Style featuring Miss Sixty shoes

Floral Dress

Floral Dress by Young And In Style featuring Diane von Furstenberg dresses

Bikini

Bikinis by Young And In Style featuring Volcom

Canvas Tote

Canvas Tote by Young And In Style featuring Prada bags

Emma

Jimmy Choo and H&M Splendor

2009-06-17T12:26:00.007-04:00

This'll be just a quick update--I'm at my dad's office helping out. Oh, summer..

Designer collaborations with affordably priced chain stores have become increasingly common. We were all impressed when Target came out with their Go International Line, and also when they worked with Isaac Mizrahi to create a reasonably priced line of workwear. We were still impressed when Madonna and other big names like Roberto Cavalli and Stella McCartney added to the Swedish chain, H&M's impressive resume of guest designers. Now the store has announced a collaboration with shoe and accessory line Jimmy Choo, designed by Brit Tamara Mellon. Famous for sky-high, sexy heels, Jimmy Choo is one of the most sought after luxury shoe brands. I can only begin to imagine the lines outside H&M on the day this line comes out...

A preview of the accessory line, designed along with clothing. [Image Property of H&M]

And I think I just might be one of the girls lining around the block...
You think they'll have any wearable 3 inch styles? Doubtful.

XX

Emma

New Alexander Wang Jacket!

2009-06-16T21:37:00.004-04:00

Yippee!
I am so excited about my new jacket from GAP's designer collaboration line with Vena Cava and Alexander Wang. The collection debuted in stores today, with every article of clothing made from khaki fabric, all priced under $100. Unfortunately they were out of the pleated shorts and pants in my size, and almost every size by the time I made it to the mall at 4:30. Luckily they still had the cropped motorcycle jacket in stock! For $88, it is affordable, especially since I will wear it all four seasons and over just about anything.

Sorry the jacket doesn't look optimal in this photo, but as you can see it is made of khaki, and constructed with a bias cut zipper. I'm at my dad's house right now, so this is not my usual closet, but you get the idea.

I even played around with different things to wear the jacket with. Since I am on a one-week trip, my options are limited, but the above picture is one outfit I came up with. It includes a scarf (GAP), a zip-up Madewell dress, a Madewell brown leather belt, and blue Havianas.

I got a lot of other great summer pieces today at GAP, and I am loving their sale right now. I have not been a huge GAP customer until very recently, but I am glad to have discovered it. It's really a great store for summer basics like shorts and plain tees, as well as really affordable swimwear.

I recommend you run to your mall if you want to check out this collection. It is almost sold out where I went today! Check the website (www.gap.com) to see if a location by you is carrying the designer collaboration, because it is only in select stores.

Emma