The Essential Bargain Line

Miley Cyrus & Max Azria, available at Walmart

Trust me when I say that I hate writing this way more than you hate reading it, but Miley Cyrus actually got it right (for a change) with this clothing line. Of course, that can probably be attributed - at least in large part - to the fact that it was a collaboration between the popstar and fashion genius Max Azria. Azria, of BCBG fame, who is absolutely brilliant when it comes to creating high-quality, universally flattering garments. My guess is that most of the line's eye-catching appeal came from his part in the process.

Classic staples like ruffled blouses and simply tailored blazers are present in the collection, and these have the Azria stamp of simplicity written all over them. Still, the line is rounded out with flashier contemporary pieces for young girls. Items such as flouncy tank dresses, graphic tees, and - no surprise here - plaid shirts are evidence of Miley's influence.

While the collection may not be as authentic as other luxury designer's bargain attempts, it is sure to be a hit with girls who live by the "only wear once" rule. I mean, it includes a faux-leather bomber jacket for only $20. Try and beat that. I especially love the dress pictured. Is it elegant and classic? Not so much, but fabulously fun? Definitely!

Photo: Walmart.com

The Essential Girl

Whitney Port

It would be incredibly easy to write off Whitney Port as a typical celebutante with a 24-inch inch waist and an IQ to match, but this statuesque star refuses to fit that mold. Despite the success of her two reality shows, The Hills and its spin-off, The City, Whitney is fiercely committed to following her life-long dreams.

It would also be incredibly easy - on Whitney's part - to exploit the fame she has earned by pursuing a career as a television personality or model. With her 5'10" frame and pretty face, Whitney could, like so many of her co-stars (cough, Audrina, cough) simply accept a few vapid movie roles, serve as the spokesperson for a brand, and coast through life with her million-dollar presence...but that just doesn't seem to be Whitney's style.

So what is Whitney's style? She's more than happy to answer that question herself, in her own personal blog. Whitney's official website is full of candid advice and snapshots of her personal style statements. She is currently posting a blog called "14 Days of Style", a place where she shares images of looks she's rocked, a description of when and why she chose the outfit, and a poll asking viewers whether or not they approve of the look. Word on the street is that the twenty-four-year-old actually manages and writes the blog herself. The blog is great, too - filled with coversational content, real-life advice, and the star's sage observations. Whitney really gained my respect by blogging about how unhealthy body image is such a major issue for girls today. In her words:

"It is not easy to be confident in this day and age and accept what our internal makeup has planned for us. Nor is it easy to neglect the indulgences that make life so tasteful. Everyone must, at some point or another, learn to accept how we were created and make a life choice to be healthy. Let's stop trying to compare ourselves to everyone else. Obviously, this is easier said than done, for self-security is not something that just appears one day, it is something we all need to work for

I admire Whitney because she knows exactly what she wants to do and is willing to work hard for it - namely, her own fashion line, "Whitney Eve." On this past season of The City, all of America watched Whitney struggle to launch her career as a designer. While I love her friend and co-star Lauren Conrad, I have to note that Conrad wasn't willing to let the cameras depict the less glamorous side of her life. We never got to see Lauren invest time into her line, nor did we witness anyone ever critiquing it. Whitney, on the other hand, seems committed to presenting a realistic portrayal of her life, both as a single girl in the city, and as a hard-working, surprisingly human fashionista.

Make sure to check out Whitney's website for an all-access look at her life!

Photo: MTV.com

The Essential Song

"Scars" - Allison Iraheta

There's something about Allison Iraheta's voice that truly makes me believe that perfection is overrated. At only seventeen years old, Iraheta has already understood something that most people don't grasp in a lifetime: that authenticity is the most valuable thing a person - especially an artist - can possess.

Her voice is even more soulful now than it was during her hugely successful run on American Idol. Despite the fact that she made it almost all the way in the competition (Iraheta finished in fourth place), it always seemed as though Allison was there to serve a purpose. She was the token "rocker" of season 8 and armed with a gritty, raspy voice, eccentric style, and a head of flaming red hair, she was continually pigeonholed throughout the competition. Simon Cowell, the snarky, notoriously acerbic judge, made one of his typically astute observations when he told her time and time again that, while her vocal chops were impressive, her personality remained under wraps.

I never understood this assertion until now. I agree that Iraheta was misunderstood and inaccurately represented on Idol - but I also believe that all of that will change with the release of her first solo album.

The song "Scars" is a far cry from the lovestruck ballads penned by Iraheta's peers. It is equal parts melancholy and edgy, and her haunting vocals give the tune an entirely new dimension. The chorus "This is all that I've got/This is all that I'm not/All that I'll ever be/ I've got flaws, I've got faults/ Keep searching for your perfect heart, it doesn't matter who you are/We all have our scars" delivers a message of self-accepting, and when Allison sings it with heartbreaking honesty, I actually believe it.

Allison Iraheta has clearly found her place - both in the music industry and the world at large. She uses her flaws, her quirks, and her eccentricities to full advantage; she is bursting with raw talent and genuine passion. I only wish there had been an artist with her sensibilities when I was seventeen.

Allison's album, Just Like You dropped on December 1st.

Photo: Twistysdownload.com

The Essential Bag

BCBG Runway Clutch

If you the words "sleek" and "striking" appeal to you, you HAVE to see this amazing clutch from BCBG. It's part of the runway collection and comes in three fabulous shades: smoke, yellow, and grape. I personally can't get enough of the grape-colored bag, which adds a swift punch of color to any outfit. The bag also comes in two shapes: square and rectangle.

All varieties are made of see-through acrylic and framed with metal. This bag earns points for pinpointing the exact like between noticeable and flashy; it is almost free of the BCBG label, minus the discreet lettering etched into the tiny clasp. Interesting shapes, funky materials, and bold colors can be tricky, but this clutch (which combines all three elements) is so tiny that it is by no means over-the-top.

BCBG is known for superior quality, and this clutch doesn't disappoint. I couldn't resist picking up the purple square clutch, and while it certainly isn't an everyday bag, it holds my iPhone, credit cards, and cash very comfortably. Tuck this bag under your arm for a touch of modern sophistication or hold it in the palm of your hand for a more glamorous look.

If you think this rare find is a must-have, act quickly! Lucky for you, the square clutch is on sale for only $79 while the rectangle version is going for $99.

Photo: BCBG.com

The Essential Buy

Sephora Deluxe Fragrance Sampler For Her

Hello, variety! This set contains miniature versions of twelve bestselling fragrances, including one that I'm TOTALLY coveting right now: Michael Kors' "Very Hollywood." The samples come in a cute and convenient carrying case. The set (a $94 value, as the people at Sephora point out at every chance) retails for a mere $50.


Okay, now I know what you're thinking. Why shell out any cash - let alone a substantial amount - for a set of fragrances samples that could be obtained in exchange for a few well-placed smiles during a department-store trip? The fragrant fun doesn't end with a collection of tiny samples. Enclosed in this set is a coupon for one complimentary full-sized perfume. The idea is that you buy the set, sample each of the scents, choose one, and use the included coupon to redeem a bottle of perfume. Like I said, the set sells for $50, which really isn't a bad deal when you think about what you're getting: a "full-size" bottle of a bestselling fragrance, twelve purse-friendly samples, and an adorable carrying case.


Sound too good to be true? Well..it kind of is. It turns out that by "full-size bottle", the people at Sephora actually mean "tiny one ounce bottle." Yes, the tactic the store employs is a bit misleading...but the concept is so fun that I almost don't mind!

Photo: Sephora.com

The Essential Goodbye

Brittany Murphy

11/10/1977-12/20/2009

Clueless is one of my favorite movies of all time. The beautiful Alicia Silverstone gives an awesome performance as leading lady Cher, and Paul Rudd's portrayal of her awkward stepbrother is as endearing as ever. These two provide the backbone of the movie, but we all know that it never would have been a smash hit without the clumsy, fashion-challenged, adorable little mess that was Tai.

This morning, the actress who inhabited this career-launching role passed away due to cardiac arrest. She leaves behind an impressive and respectable legacy through her work as an actress. Brittany Murphy tackled everything from the gritty drama 8 Mile to the poignant Riding in Cars With Boys to the animated sitcom King Of The Hill. Her versatility was remarkable, her presence distinctive. Brittany's trademark was her throaty, lilting voice - a voice that was as impressive in a musical number as it was on camera. Murphy's eighteen year career was full of triumphs; she managed to win over critics and audiences alike with a series of hauntingly authentic performances - both comedic and dramatic.

I plan on spending the rest of the day honoring this fallen star the right way: with a good, old-fashioned Brittany Murphy movie marathon. My condolences go out to her family, friends, and husband.

RIP, B. Murph. No one will ever do quirk quite like you.

The Essential Style

Tiered Miniskirts:

Ladies, meet your new best friend. High-waisted skirts are unbelievably hot right now, and with good reason. These babies are definitely the new black – universally flattering, versatile, and totally easy to accessorize. The best part about high-waisted skirts? They don’t require hours at the gym. They’re every bit as forgiving as floaty tunics, only way sexier - espcially when they hit above the knee.

The most dressy, flirty skirts available right now are the ones with layers and layers of fabric. Pick them up in a range of colors and prepare to be amazied at the array of possibilities a tiered miniskirt presents. With the addition of tights and a turtleneck, this piece transitions effortlessly from summer to winter. The trick to nailing this look is to keep the top fitted and tucked in to the skirt, which should always be worn just below your navel for maximum waist-cinching powers. Your hourglass figure will thank you.

Photo: Forever21.com

The Essential Guy

Zac Efron:

Why do I LUV Zac Efron? There’s more to it than an intense admiration of his blue eyes and floppy hair – although I don’t exactly expect you to believe that. It’s not even about his surprisingly impressive set of theatrical skills. The basis of my respect for Zac stems from this simple fact: he’s on of the most fearless men in Hollywood. Now,hear me out before you start rolling your eyes and shaking your head. Zac made his name with the phenomenal High School Musical series - so did his co-stars and best friends, Ashley Tisdale and Vanessa Hudgens. The difference, however, lies in the fact that Efron used HSM as a platform to do bigger and (dare I say) better things. Despite the leverage he attained through his iconic protrayal of Link Larkin, he declined the chance to establish himself as the "movie musical actor of our generation" and turned down the lead role in revival of Footloose. Why did he do this? Because he simply didn't feel that it was the right direction for his career to take. Efron plays by his own rules, and for that he must be applauded.

17 Again was - for me, at least - Zac's true star moment. He plays a disenharted, shape-shifting thirty-seven year old with all the maturity and charisma of a leading man. It was this performance that led ciritics to hail him as the Leonardo DiCaprio of our genereation. Next up for Efron is the sci-fi action flick Jonny Quest, proving that he has the versatility to jump from teenybopper musical to Broadway smash to comedy to action without a single jerk. His likeability extends to his personal life, where he (unlike his girlfriend Vanessa) manages to stay out of trouble and display generosity and compassion. Not only does he support several charities, he regularly stops to speak with fans, especially disadvantaged children.

I'll make one essential prediction here: while his peers are destined to remain Disney darlings for the rest of thir lives, Zac will mark his territory all over Hollywood - all the while, remaining true to his perfectly groomed roots. If you ask me, he is well on his way to becomming a hair-flipping, jazz-hand-wielding, serious actor.

Photo: Blogpipiatbingi.com

The Essential Jewel

Marc Jacobs Lola Solid Perfume Ring:

Talk about combining function and fashion! This latest piece of bling from the fabulous Marc Jacobs is one of the most eye-catching cocktail rings I've ever seen - and it's not just a visual treat. Twist off the flower top to reveal a pat of solid fragrance of his latest scent. Lola is one of the best-selling perfumes on the market right now, and one whiff of this fragrance ring makes it very easy to see why. The scent is every bit as exotic as the gorgeous packaging, layering notes of fruity grapefruit and pear over rose, vanilla, and musk. The ring makes an awesome holiday gift and comes in a cute little bag. The only drawback I can see is that the ring only comes in a standard size 7. The good news is that small-fingered girls can wear it on their thumbs while ladies with larger digits can fit it on their pinkies. Wherever you decide to slide this ring, it will look and smell scentsational.

Only available at Sephora.com

Photo: Sephora.com

The Essential Scent

Couture Couture by Juicy Couture

When it comes to Juicy Couture's fragrances, I like to think of them with a Goldilocks mentality. The first scent, Juicy Couture, is great. It's floral, and uberfeminine...but wear the Juicy original for too long and you'll find that it's simply too overwhelmingly sweet. After this came Viva, a fun and fruity fragrance. Again, it smells great, but with all the tart fruity notes it contains, it just may not be sweet enough. Then came Couture Couture.

The newest scent is the perfect blend of sharp fruits and sotf florals. It's unlike any perfume I've ever owned before, probably because it contains grapefruit (a fruit not found in many perfumes) and is undercut with muskier notes that fill out the fragrance. It's the Juicy scent that isn't exclusively for young girls who are just starting to wear perfume; it's equal parts youthful and mature, a perfect balance of the two distinct moods that the first two scents convey.

And if the delicious scent isn't enough to entice you, maybe the gorgeous bottle will be!

Photo: Southcoast.com

The Essential Finale

The Hills:

Judge me all you want, but I absolutely LOVE to indulge my guilty pleasure by watching every episode of The Hills at least three times. I'll admit, I used to be as much of a skeptic as even the most ardent haters of fake reality televsion. After giving in and forcing myself to follow the show via onine episodes, however, I'm a die-hard Hillshead. Whether or not the situations presented on the show are real, they're entertaining. The appeal of this show is so powerful that even the loss of the previous leading lady, Lauren Conrad (love her!) couldn't stop The Hills from rising to the top.

New star Kristin Cavallari brings twice the drama as the quintessential love-to-hate-her heroine. Tonight's finale will probably be one of the juciest in the show's five-season history. Will Kristin nab Justin Bobby? Will Jayde's leash on Brody finally snap? Will Speidi return next season with child? I don't know the answers to any of these questions, but I can't wait to find out!

Photo: Justjared.com

The Essential Album

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The Essential Bag

Rebecca Minkoff’s "Stud Rocker"

Before you start cringing at the thought of studded accessories, give this beautiful bag a look. Rebecca Minkoff always does a terrific job with trendy pieces, but I can actually see this becoming a wardrobe staple. The best part is that every one of the four availabl shades conveys something different. Bad asses should go for the black version, while preppies can glam up a pair of chinos with the buttery brown bag, trendsetters can rock the deep plum, and girly girls can add a rock star edge to feminine style with the soft gray. Each is simultaneously eye catching and subtle, adding just the right amount of glam to a nighttime look. The cross body look (aside from being all the rage right now) is extremely functional and hands-free – and if you don’t see yourself slinging the bag across your chest, you can simply remove the strap and use it as a clutch. I’m personally coveting the gray bag right now. Bags are available at http://www.rebeccaminkoffstore.com

Be sure to check out the rest of her stuff – it’s all pretty essential as well!

Photo: Rebeccaminkoff.com

The Essential Show

Glee:

I’ll admit that when I first saw promos for Glee, I was more than a little skeptical. I mean, a show about a high school glee club? Talk about a narrow focus. Not to mention the fact that watching a show about the quintessential high school outcasts, the dorkiest kids in school seems a bit…well, dorky. Still, I decided to give the show a try because I’m a huge, huge fan of the fabulous Lea Michele. This Broadway star (best known for originating the role of Wendla in Spring Awakening) turned small screen leading lady has absolutely astounding talent, and is – in my opinion – the best part of the show. She’s certainly not the only reason to give Glee a chance, though.

Maybe Glee isn’t as popular as more mainstream comedies like The Office, but it’s already drawn an incredibly devoted fan base. Dubbed “gleeks”, these people embrace the underdog spirit of the show. Yes, I am a gleek. Yes, my friends make fun of me for watching this show so ardently. No, I don’t care.

So what makes Glee so groundbreaking? For one thing, it’s chock full of tasteful humor, something that is becoming increasingly rare in sexual-humor driven market. Glee manages tackle issues like social heirarchy, heterosexism, and racism in a way that is both innofffesive and genuinely hilarious. Whenever one of these issues comes up, it’s clear that the show isn’t attacking the issue itself, but the people who make it an issue; many circumstances make a mockery of people who play into stereotypes rather than those who are harmed by them.

The cast is as eclectic as it is entertaining – the world of Glee is one in which a gay, baby-faced fashion lover and a sassy black girl can be best friends. At some point or another, everyone is an outcast on Glee. No one serves as a golden standard for others; each character is equal parts endearing and reprehensible, and the honesty with which they are constructed is unspeakably refreshing.

And if the pro-social underlying theme isn’t enough, tune in for the musical performances. Lea Michele as the ingratiating, unpopular diva Rachel Barry, is clearly the musical star of the bunch, but there are solid performances from everyone involved. Like the stars of the show, the music is incredibly wide-ranging, covering everything from Broadway power ballads to old school hip hop

Get a little taste of what they can do here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0CGRwqtMDaQ. If you like what you hear, the soundtrack is available on iTunes now, and look out for the cast’s second tour.

And do I even need to mention how HOT Cory Monteith (Finn Hudson) is? YUM.

Photo: tvtropes.org