The February issue of ASOS magazine gets candid with The Hills’ Kristin Cavallari, the blonde perhaps best known for her fresh-off-the-beach good looks and her onscreen ‘bad girl’ antics.

But despite her reputation as a “foxy frenemy” on the show, in real life (and away from the Hills gang and their MTV-edited version of reality) she is “the kind of fun, stylish, effortlessly cool girl that you might walk past on the street and secretly wish you could be friends with.” Indeed she is “a million miles away from [her predecessor,] the personality shy Lauren,” with an easy confidence that scores marks with the boys as well as girls who wanna have fun.

That confidence however is what Kristen says has led to the biggest misconception about her: “I don’t let people walk over me…I’m honest and outspoken but because I’m a woman, its easy to label me a bitch…it’s b******t.” When asked if there’s anyone on the show that she is actually better friends with than we think, she coyly responds, “yeah, but I can’t say who. That would shatter the illusion.” Presumably the editing “magicians” at MTV preferred a villain in Louboutins to another sweet-as-pie BFF toting a quilted 2.55.

Kristin is the first to laugh at the ridiculousness of her day job, which has her chasing after apparently the only two available guys in L.A with Stacie the bartender as her sidekick. So what is she really serious about in her downtime? Like any other self-respecting L.A fashionista, it’s shoes, shoes, shoes. How many are we talking about here? “Too many. I only wear an eighth of them. The second bedroom in my house has been turned into a closet”. Stashed elsewhere in said closet one could expect to find luxe casual separates and sultry red carpet dresses with an edge: “I’m obsessed with LnA…Alexander Wang, but also Balmain, [and] Phillip Lim.”

She cites Kate Moss as her style icon, “[but] I think she’s everyone’s. Here in L.A, we don’t get style like the U.K…I can’t wait to go, [to the U.K] London is going to be awesome for shopping.” When it comes to her own personal style, she pays attention to what’s right for her body type, rather than blindly following trends. “I’m short, so things that look great on tall, thin models won’t necessarily look good on me. My biggest thing is to be comfortable because if you don’t have the confidence to wear something, it shows.”

So what’s next for the real life soap star turned trendsetter? Unsurprisingly, following the Hilton, Simpson, and Kardashian et al. example, she wants to “build a brand”, with acting and producing next up on her Hollywood agenda. Bearing the ‘reality TV star’ label, she says, makes it ten times harder to be taken seriously. Fortunately, she enjoys the challenge and for now, she’s having fun being the “bad girl…no one remembers the nice girl.” Hmm, looks like this bitch means business….

Visit www.asos.com to view the full interview and to shop the latest styles.

Savvy L.A girls are always quick to spot the perfect pair of jeans or emblazoned, fits-just-so tee (think True Religion, J Brand, LNA, and James Perse), hotfoot it to Kitson, gets papped, and launch that label to instant cult status.

Wildfox Couture is quintessential LA – super-soft separates that are just a little sexy and a little rock and roll. Jennifer Lopez, Halle Berry, Megan Fox, and Alessandra Ambrosio, have all donned one of the brand’s fun logoed tees for cruising around Hollywood. Being an L.A girl myself for the past few years, I can’t resist the vintage-inspired “Malibu Girl” and “My Heart Belongs in Beverly Hills” numbers.

For Spring 2010, Wildfox channels a rock-meets-80s vibe, featuring pieces inspired by an imaginary tale of good girls from the 90210 gone bad – pulling off a daring bank heist and hiding out in a gritty motel on Sunset. It’s ganster chic at its finest: love the neon hues, bright nails and the I’m-meant-to-be-inconspicuous shades. However, a true Wildfox of a girl is anything but subtle…

Available at Fred Segal, Kitson, and Planet Blue in L.A, as well Harvey Nichol’s and Selfridges in London.

Glamour Rules on the Golden Globes Red Carpet

The red carpet was unfurled, the Best Dressed lists drawn up, and the, erm, golf umbrellas were on hand as the 2010 Awards Season got off to a rather wet start Sunday in Beverly Hills. As the stars aligned to take their place in front of the flashbulbs, the heavens opened, sending stylists scrambling to ensure frizz-free beauty shots and to rescue the couture from a disastrous soaking.

I like to side with fellow Brit, Emily Blunt, on this one, who quipped in her pink Dolce & Gabbana tulle gown, “it’s just a drizzle.” Despite being a publicist’s nightmare, I thought the rain added a rather romantic drama to the oh-so familiar red carpet sauntering. Cameron Diaz playfullyaccessorized her crimson Alexander McQueen dress, Roger Vivier clutch and Ferragamo heels with a Beverly Hilton brolly, cheerfully nonchalant about the unexpected downpour. Elsewhere, Penélope Cruz was the epitome of classic European glamour, shielding her lace-detailed Armani Privé gown and dazzling Chopard jewels with an oversized black umbrella.

With stormy skies above, stars like Zoe Zaldana in Louis Vuitton, Sandra Bullock in Bottega Veneta, and Leona Lewis in Roberto Cavalli brought a much needed dose of juicy color to proceedings, most notably Diane Kruger in her strawberries-and-cream Christian Lacroix confection. A more neutral palette was seen on the likes of Kate Hudson, Drew Barrymore, and Christina Aguilera, who spiced up their creamy nude atelier creations with daring ruffles, origami-style pleating and metallic architectural details.

But being daring for the likes of ‘sexiest woman alive,’ Olivia Wilde, meant a glittering form-fitting Gucci number with a plunging neckline, joined by Jamie Pressley, Anna Paquin in embellished Stella McCartney, and Jennifer Garner in sheer Atelier Versace.

But my favourite trend on the red carpet? It has to be the ardent display of chivalry. Dapper gentlemen kept their leading ladies, and their couture, in the spotlight and out of the rain. From Josh Duhamel and Fergie, in an on-trend for spring lilac Elie Saab goddess gown, Harrison Ford and Calista Flockhart in shimmering Alberta Ferreti, Heidi Klum in ultra feminine Roberto Cavalli and Seal, to silver fox George Clooney accompanied by Italiano Elisabetta Canalis, also in slinky Roberto Cavalli. The most eye-catching pairings had to be the always slick Tom Ford with Julianne Moore, and Mad Men’s Jon Hamm, who took a turn as Gene Kelly, Singin’ In The Rain, all while keeping his lady love’s Marchesa in pristine condition. Whatta guy…

The limited edition collection features loose shimmer powder in pearly pink for the signature Kors glow

As the quintessential label for ladies who lunch, it is perfectly fitting that Michael Kors’ latest cosmetics collection would reference the fabled streets of Beverly Hills. Following on from his recent fragrance launch of the luxe Very Hollywood, the scent equivalent of a bottle of Laurent-Perrier Rosé, Kors’ limited edition makeup line captures the glamour and classic elegance of the 90210. The versatile ‘Bel Air Beige’ collection features warm shimmery peaches for cheeks and lips, beige and chocolate for the eyes, and an opaque nude nail polish. The ‘Rodeo Pink’ collection will satiate your desire for a pop of spring colour, with glosses, lipsticks and blush ranging from a sugary rose hue to a more daring fuschia. If the girlish tones need a little toughening up, go for smouldering smoky eyes with the black-and-white shadow duo.

VS Angel Rosie Hungtington-Whiteley Gets Intimate…

As one of the newest faces, and bodies, of Victoria’s Secret and the upcoming Pirelli calendar, the British model gets intimate about luxe lingerie, fake tan, and, erm, chicken fillets.

In the latest issue of The Times style magazine, Rosie dishes on a few tricks of the trade that will give you the curves, confidence and va-va-voom of a VS bombshell. For starters, she reveals that even a supermodel needs a little help from her friends. In her entourage? A pair, or three, of bust enhancing chicken fillets. “I’m not saying you have to use them, but if anyone knows me and sees me in a photoshoot, well, there are friends in there. I’m not a fan of that whole push-up look in the day. But, of course, you do need a lift with a sexy dress, so do what you’ve got to do, girls – shove them in there. I’ve been known to have three in at a time for shoots – plus padding.”

With your assets suitably pumped up with a little extra protein, Rosie, 22, also has some tips for being just as crafty with the rest of your body in the boudoir. “As a model, you learn how to use your body and how to make people believe something. So I know how to do sexy: there’s the arched back, bum out, hands on the hips pose. That’s sexy in one way, though there are a lot of different ways to be sexy.” Licking your lips, for instance, is always a turn-on, and a flick through the Victoria’s Secret catalogue provides you with handy ‘come hither’ poses.

Having recently returned from strutting her stuff down the runway for the lingerie label’s annual fashion show, she knows all about trying to look good at every possible angle. For this, she relies on the favourite weapon in every glam girl’s arsenal – the faux glow. “I won’t do a lingerie shoot unless I’m tanned,” Rosie says. “I think most women will admit that they look better when they’re brown.” Her fellow VS babe Selita Ebanks even confessed to wearing “about 20 layers of make-up on [her] butt alone” for her walk down the runway. (You’ll have to rely on your own doting bf/loyal minion to perform such pre-boudoir exposure duties)

“Hair is important before everything. Good sexy bedroom hair should be just a little tousled, nothing too neat.”

Other things guaranteed to make Rosie feel sexy include a glossy mane. “A really good tip for confidence is a good haircut,” she says. “For me, my hair is important before everything. Good sexy bedroom hair should be just a little tousled, nothing too neat. Also, drink a big bottle of water every day, as it will take away puffiness – Fiji is best. Everybody rolls their eyes at this tip, but it does work – water is the drug of God, that’s what I say.” (Note to self: New Year’s resolution to get hooked on God’s good stuff)

So what kind of undies is Rosie partial to? “I never match my underwear. It has to go together – it can’t be completely different – but it’s frustrating when you buy a set of lingerie and you can only buy one bra and one pair of matching pants. I’d like several pairs of knickers. It’s important to have good lingerie under your clothes, it makes you feel good,” she continues. “If you put a designer top over a skanky pair of knickers and an old bra, you’re not going to feel fabulous. It also shows self-respect.” She likes “girlie stuff, but I’m partial to a bit of suspender, too.”

“It’s important to have good lingerie under your clothes, it makes you feel good”

So does she, like most women, like to given underwear as a gift? “Oh yes, “ she says. “It’s quite a sensual gift and quite sweet for a man to give it – even though it’s obviously saying something. But it’s also them showing you what they think you look good in.”

It’s the six week countdown to V-Day – oodles of time to perfect the padding, the glossing and glowing, suspenders and the catalogue-esque cavorting…If only the boys knew the lengths we go to!

Your sole desire for the new season will be these tan leather Bobo booties, with classic spectator detailing and pyramid studs that run down your feet like a bar of Toblerone – in the best possible way, of course. A girl’s gotta love shoe candy…

Jet Set Style

If you'll be spending the festive season with the rest of the glitterati at Sandy Lane this year, stick to the luxe essentials: elegant and flirty dresses for shopping/cocktails/dining and late-night frolicking, sky high heels and a posing suit for wandering those silky white shores. Just another day in the life of the jet-set clique!

Object of my affection…

Love Henri!

Fall in love with the latest chic treats from Henri Bendel’s luxe holiday collection, from exclusive lust-haves to irresistible indulgences..and pretty Bendel things to love forever. At the top of your list will be the enamel bracelets, and the oh-so-cute notebooks and limited edition scarves and totes adorned with Bendel’s signature illustrations by Izak. This holiday, all the best gifts come in brown and white boxes..

Love Henri Barrel Bag $298; 2010 Milliner Pocket Journal $48 Mini Book $25; Love Henri Address Book $38; Limited Edition Izak City Scape Scarf $125; No. 7 Quilted Leather Glove $148; Rebecca Minkoff Rocker Eyelet Cross Body Bag $295

Left: Sequin Multi Stone Hinged Cuffs $68; Right: Paula Dorf Perfect Double Ended Brush Set $95; Santi Satin Clutch with Flowers $188; Child Perfume $98; Suped Up Girls Night Out Clutch $150; Rivet Print Compact $30; Glossary Lip Trio $30; Rivet Enamel Cuff $178.

Silver Plated Rivet Picture Frame $78; Lacquer Jewelry Box $298; Slim Continental Snake Wallet $198; Porcelain Trinket Hat Box $48; Debutante Ring $78; Jumbo Pave Ring with White Pearls $78; Short CZ Necklace $138; 10Oz White Spruce Holiday Candle $30; Exclusive Zippo® Lighter $20; Sequin Wristlet $108.

Jet Set Style

For the city gal who'd prefer an urban break in Barcelona to island hopping, Gucci’s resort collection should provide the perfect inspiration for Euro-chic ensembles. Opt for navy, white, and taupe separates with a tailored and luxe feel, punctuated with metallic accessories and a fabulous pair of oversized shades.

Jet Set Style

For stylistas seeking some serious winter sun, grab your LV carry-on and fill it to the brim with candy-coloured holiday essentials: a sultry fuschia bikini; a cocktail dress in a pop of yellow; and azure and tangerine accessories for flaunting poolside. Bon voyage!

Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2009: “Romantic Travel"

The VS Angels descended on New York this week for their annual extravaganza of feathers, diamonds, lace and lingerie. This year’s theme took us on a fantastical journey, based on an idea of a girl who lands from outer space in Paris. “She gets on a train that comes to a halt in Pinkland…then goes into this fairy-tale forest and little lady bugs and butterflies land on them and vines grow up on their clothes…she ends up in this regal realm of princess-ness, where the wings have Swarovski jewels and peacock feathers,” said stylist, Charlotte Stockdale. Only Victoria’s Secret could triumph with a fashion show full of such whimsy, high-octane glamour and feminine allure. Travel through the VS dreamscape below, from Lady Luxe, Enchanted Forest, and Femme Fatale…

Lady Luxe

Enchanted Forest

Femme Fatale

The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show PinkCarpet

Style Muse

    SELITA EBANKS IN BALMAIN          

Victoria’s Secret Angel Selita Ebanks looks dazzling in this jewel tone Balmain dress. The wrap style is ultra figure flattering while the amethyst underlay gives it a pop of glitz and glamour. The Balmain creation works perfectly with Selita’s skin tone and she accessories like a pro with understated makeup and jewelry. More importantly, taking tips from her red carpet pose striking will prime us for a festive season of soirees, LBDs and this-is-my-new-profile-pic snapshots....

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Iconic Moments in Beauty..

ash

Models and makeup lovers lined up to fête François Nars and his new tome 15x15, co-hosted by Marc Jacobs and couture connoisseur Daphne Guinness. The cosmetics mogul-turned-photographer's third picture book stars 15 celebrity portraits featuring a particular Nars product to showcase an iconic moment in time: Marc Jacobs opted for Dovima Nail Polish in a daring scarlet shade, while Amber Valletta chose Belle de Jour lipstick for a 60’s blonde bombshell makeover. "It's the same idea as my other books," the makeup artist said. "Taking people and transforming them." Starting November 12th, only 1,500 copies of the $80 book will be sold at www.15X15project.com.

31 Rue Cambon

The inaugural issue of the new in-house Chanel magazine    

Chanel and Purple's Olivier Zahm have collaborated on 31 Rue Cambon, the inaugural issue of the in-house Chanel magazine (named after the first Chanel boutique). Zahm posted the news on PurpleDiary along with shots of the issue, which he art-directed and designed for Karl Lagerfeld. Read more at www.nymag.com.

Karl Donoghue Sheepskin Jacket

Karl Donoghue's toffee-hued sheepskin suede leather jacket is a luxe way to combat the elements in style. Belt it over skinny jeans for warmth on winter weekend jaunts. Pictured here with a Splendid bodysuit, Christian Louboutin shoes, Denis Colomb scarf, Jil Sander bag and Current/Elliott jeans: all available at the fabulous Net-a-porter.com. Karl Donoghue ‘Toscana’ sheepskin jacket, $1,895.

The Latest Victoria’s Secret Models Earn Their Wings

Five familiar faces will be parading the glitter-strewn catwalk of the 2009 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show as the brand’s newest Angels

When the VS annual Fashion Show tapes Nov. 19 in New York City, models Emanuela de Paula, Lindsay Ellingson, Candice Swanepoel, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and Chanel Iman will join the ranks of fashion’s most celestial beings, namely Heidi Klum, Marisa Miller and Doutzen Kroes. The spectacle is a masterclass in how yards of tulle, 20-ft wings and an infinite supply of Swarovski crystals and marabou feathers can transform a simple bra and panties to full blown showgirl heaven. Now that would make for an interesting episode of Project Runway…

So how does Miss. Meester compare to her “headband-wearing, cappuccino-drinking, rumour-spreading” queen bee alter ego with the Upper East Side zip code? “She could let loose a bit,” reveals Leighton in the latest issue of Glamour UK, in which she also contemplates romance, insecurities, and her transition from Gossip Girl darling to pop star. Nevertheless, the two share similar It-girl status and a talent for making rather daring style statements. Meester admits she likes “changing it up,” whether she’s channeling a 1920s Parisian or rocking a “Spandex-y” ensemble at the Met Ball – while Blair is more at home in something a little more conservative, “like what a curtain would be made out of, but a really nice curtain…”  

Object Of My Affection…

Sometimes giving in to your inner diva can be hard, but where Brian Atwood shoes are involved, giving in just got a whole lot easier. These rainbow stitched black suede stunners are exquisitely made and need very little to enhance them…ok a little Dolce dress if you insist…

Black Suede platform courts with rainbow stitching: $2,324.70, Exclusively at Matchesfashion.com

Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson’s Wild Ride

The stars from the hotly anticipated New Moon movie get all dolled up in a darkly romantic shoot for the December issue of US Harper’s Bazaar.

While the are-they-aren’t-they-a-couple rumours reach new ridiculous heights (today’s NY Daily ‘News’ reports…The pair reportedly shared a breakfast together of Noah's bagels (a plain bagel with walnut cream cheese for him; blueberry with butter for her) before being taken to Hollywood's Deluxe Laboratories for a screening..) the paparazzi magnets managed to shoot this wistful yet dramatic spread.

The styling is spot on for Stewart, whose delicate features strike a dramatic contrast with the stop-and-stare gowns and femme fatale poses. She is a lady calling all the shots with her doting companion (who, thankfully, seems to have eased up on the brooding intensity) The Italianate setting, coupled with slinky pieces by Versace, Alexander McQueen and Gucci makes for a sweetly sultry memoir of this now iconic couple…sorry, just friends that enjoy the occasional bagel together…

Read the interview in the Dec issue of Harper’s, on newsstands November 17^th.

Images courtesy of Harpersbazaar.com.