Lulus Fashion Lounge - Blog - A La Mode

  • Holiday Dresses Made Easy: Pick a Color, Any Color!

    Posted by: Stephanie Gaito

    December
    13
    2010

    Wondering what to wear for your upcoming holiday parties? We all want to dress to impress this season, but with so many choices it can be difficult. I always try to stick to a theme, and it is usually a bright color and black mixed together in a festive way. If you need some ideas, check out the dresses below with some holiday pictures for inspiration.

    If the bright lights and colorful ornaments appeal to you, try the Bat Your Lashes One Shoulder Coral Pink Dress. The eye-catching pink is festive enough for any party and the dramatic sleeve detail will set you apart from everyone else!

    If you are inspired by snowy streets and glittering stars, you may be more inclined to choose an innocent, white dress. This beauty, the Swan Lake White Dress, is the epitome of girlie and pretty sweetness! Layers of white ruffles and the perfect sweet heart neckline make this the ideal holiday party dress.

    Holiday Images from We Heart It

    Perhaps the warm golden tones make your heart melt. If this is the case get ready to get glittery with the Glinda the Good Witch Gold Dress. This elegant dress has a golden brocade floral dress is cinched at the waist and has beautiful detail around the neck. It will surely keep you glimmering all night long!

    Whatever dress you choose make sure to have a festive holiday and make the most of your celebration!


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  • Down By The Bay. . . Food & Fashion!

    Posted by: Sienna Orlando

    July
    14
    2010

    . . .Where the Watermelons Grow!

    When the sun is high in the sky, there is nothing better than a cool and refreshing slice of watermelon. Despite the obvious share-ability of the larger and sweeter cousin to the cucumber, they are one of the most aesthetic fruits out there. Whether you've got a leftover hunk of the amino-acid rich fruit in the fridge, or you're having a summer BBQ and want to try something new check out this easy
     
    Watermelon Granita Recipe:
     
    Ingredients:
    4 cups seedless watermelon chunks
    1/2 cup sugar (optional)
    Juice of 1 Lemon

    Directions:
    Combine all ingredients in a food processor. Puree until smooth. pour into a shallow, wide pan and freeze for 1 hour. Rake mixture with a fork and freeze for another hour. Rake and freeze for one more hour. Rake and serve in cups. (Recipe courtesy of Cathy  Lowe).


    And for your fashion appetite, feast your eyes on these Watermelon inspired dresses!!!!

     

     
     
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  • The Strong and Stylish Ladies of Iron Man 2

    Posted by: Kathleen McHatton

    May
    17
    2010

    Scarlett Johansson in Iron Man 2When I went to see the new blockbuster hit, Iron Man 2, this weekend, I expected plenty of action packed scenes and stunning graphics to go with it. The last thing I expected was to be struck by the amazing wardrobe choices of the film's two hot leading ladies.

    Gwyneth Paltrow returns as Pepper Potts, the smart and faithful assistant to Tony Stark, played by Robert Downey Jr. Scarlett Johansson also joins the cast as Natasha Rushman, Tony's mysterious new assistant who's not only beautiful but kicks major butt.

     

    Scarlett's character is definitely meant to be the sultry type. Her sharp business attire accentuates her feminine features with the utmost of confidence. Her wardrobe also seems to borrow from 1940's retro style with its high waistlines, polished pumps and one leopard print dress to die for!

    Gwyneth's wardrobe is a bit more conservative. Black, grey and navy dresses pair with a tasteful boat neckline to keep her look focused on business while remaining both simplistic and lovely.

    Have you seen the film? If so, who wore your favorite look?

  • New Trend: Denim on Denim

    Posted by: Kathleen McHatton

    May
    10
    2010

    Denim is like the comfort food of clothing. Rare is the girl without a pair of blue jeans in her closet, and no matter what sundress I wear, my blue denim crop jacket always seems like the perfect companion.

    But denim on denim was a place I dared not venture. That is, until I saw the trend step stylishly on the Spring 2010 runway.

    One trick to pulling off the trend is to mix up the washes and textures. Pair a distressed jean with a crisp jacket or a light, chambray top with dark blue skinnies.

     

    I love the two looks pictured above from Ralph Lauren and D&G. For even more inspiration, check out the street stylin' bloggers below found on Lookbook.nu!

    Photos above courtesy of Frida J, Ilanka V, and Jean Pierre B.

    How would you sport the trend?

  • The Met Costume Institute Gala and One Shouldered Dresses!!

    Posted by: LuLu*s !

    May
    5
    2010

    One of the best galas of the year (or at least one of our personal favorite events) took place this Monday! This fashionista-filled event was none other than the Costume Institute Gala that takes place at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

    One major trend that we couldn’t get over was all of the one shoulder dresses. Now this is one trend Lulus.com really loves! 

    The appeal in the one shouldered dresses is the one shoulder peeking out and showing off while the other side swoops elegantly across your body to one side.

     

    Left, Blake Lively wears a Marchesa blue one shouldered dress, and on the right, Melissa George wears a rusted yellow J. Mendel. Both ladies looked ravishing while walking down the red carpet.

      

    Below are two of Lulu*s one shoulder dresses, and we have many more! Take a look, I'm sure you'll love them too!

      

    On the left is the Cerise Blossom Dress and on the right it is the I Feel Pretty Dress in Aqua!

  • How Dita Does Coachella

    Posted by: Kathleen McHatton

    May
    3
    2010

    Dita Von Teese, queen of burlesque and hot retro style, took in the sights and sounds of this year's Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.

    Dita spent the three-day event looking flawless in a variety of outfits that adapted retro glamour for life under a sunny desert sky.

    (Left): I am in love with Dita's nautical-style, high-waisted trousers. Her updo is also rockin', managing a put-together look that is also casual.

     

    (Above): From the mary jane wedges to the layers of bangles, this is Dita's awesome version of boho beauty. I love all the earthy tones on that tropical print dress!


    (Above): Ladylike charm is what it's all about in this look. Soft satin ruffles, that polished hat and a pretty chain purse keep Dita looking elegant. Psssst, recognize that lovely lady with her? Yep, it's Katy Perry looking day-glo pretty.

    What was your favorite Dita look?

    More Pictures at Zimbo

  • Jillian Clare from Miss Behave!

    Posted by: LuLu*s !

    April
    9
    2010

    Jillian Claire wearing a Lulus.com dressJillian Clare is a hot-rising 17-year-old actress most recognized from her award-winning performance as Abby Deveraux on NBC's Days of Our Lives. She is currently leading the cast of a web series and social network called Miss Behave, set to premiere in June, about real teens with everyday issues.

    Not only is she an actress, she is a LuLu*s fasionista as well! Whether she is on the red carpet, filming, or out and about around town, Jillian is always spotted wearing designs from Lulus.com.

    In the picture at left, Jillian looked fabulous on the red carpet wearing our Always Have Paris Dress at the Multicultural Harmony Benefit Gala on March 13. Below, Jillian is workin' it in a stylish outfit paired with the Sun City Handbag by Melie Bianco.

    Below is a photo from Day 1 of filming Miss Behave

    We were lucky enough to interview Jillian Clare to find out about her style, career and inspiration.

    What is your favorite thing about Lulus.com clothes and accessories?

    I love being able to go onto LuLu's and choose an entire outfit! Plus, with LuLu's, I know that I can trust the fabric, the sizes and the overall quality of the pieces.

    Do you have a favorite item on Lulus.com?

    I recently went on the site and fell in love with the Jeffrey Campbell Buckles Leather Hardware Heel! They're pretty incredible! I'm also completely in love with the Black Eyed Pea Minidress. I might just have to order those! =)

    How were you introduced to Lulus.com?

    I found out about LuLu*s through my new web series, Miss Behave. All the girls' wardrobes were provided by Lulus.com! Let's just say when it came time to take off my wardrobe, I was very reluctant. I can't tell you how many times I've wanted to wear those outfits outside of the show!

    How would you describe your style in regards to hair, make-up and clothes? Is there any particular decade that you draw inspiration from?

    I'm constantly changing how I do my eye make-up. One day, I'll go all out with smokey eyes and black eye shadow and lots of liner, and the next, it'll be very simple light eye shadow and just a little mascara. I'm also really into anything vintage and try to find pieces from the 40's and 50's that I can modernize a little.

    What are some wardrobe basics that you can't live without?

    My leather jacket! I wear it everywhere. It's become a huge staple in my wardrobe. I've also fallen into the white v-neck and black skinny jeans trend. It's simple and always looks good!

    What fashion trends have you seen recently that you love?

    The 2 finger rings! It's such a cool concept and they look incredible! Instead of wearing multiple rings and having it look a bit over the top, you can just wear your 2 finger ring! It's a statement without being too much. I also love all the ruffle collars I've been seeing; very girly and fun!

    What is one fashion item you splurge on when it comes to completing your look?

    My heels! I'm obsessed when it comes to shoes, especially my heels. I went through my closet and counted how many I had one day and lets just say it ran upward of 80 pairs!

    How did you get into acting?

    Believe it or not, my singing is what got me into acting! When I was 6 years old, I put on a 12-song show all by myself at the local state and county fairs in Washington state. After one of my performances, a talent scout had asked my parents and I if I had ever tried acting, which hadn't even crossed our minds. My parents signed me up for an acting class and I fell in love with it! I still sing but acting has taken over my life! I really can't imagine doing anything else.

    Has being an actress and being in the spotlight made you more aware of clothes that flatter your body?

    Absolutely! With all the fittings you have to do when you book a job, it becomes clear what your body can and can't pull off. For instance, I know that most jumpers won't look good on me because of my height and I know that strapless dresses look great because of my shoulders. (They're not too boney and they're not boxy looking.) I think you just have to experiment to truly know how your body handles certain pieces. Not all clothes are gonna look good on you, unless you're Marilyn Monroe, of course.

    What do you love most about your job?

    I love the fact that I get to go to work and not really feel like I'm working, because I'm truly doing what I love! I love getting in the mindset of someone completely different than me and be able to express how they feel and let that character take over. It's such an exhilarating process.

    How has your style changed throughout your career?

    Well, since I've grown up in the business, as I mature, so does my fashion sense. I'm getting into the phase of wearing things that can really show off my body while still being really classy.

    Are there any celebrities that you draw fashion inspiration from? Who is your biggest fashion influence currently?

    I love Sienna Miller's style. I read an interview once where she was asked how she chose this certain dress she wore to an event, and she said she just found it in her closet and threw it on. She pulls off that "I don't really care" look while still looking incredible. She also tends to wear dark colors and that's definitely something I lean towards also. Kim Kardashian is a huge influence lately. I love how she combines sexy and sophisticated!

    Who are your favorite designers?

    I've always loved Valentino, Dolce & Gabbana and Marc Jacobs! I've also recently become a fan of Zac Posen!

    What is a fashion must-have for Spring and Summer?

    Your classic short shorts. I've noticed that's a huge must-have on all the hot must-haves lists that have come out lately!

  • 49 Ways to Save Money on Prom

    Posted by: LuLu*s !

    April
    7
    2010

    Did you know that the average prom night costs over $1,000? These days, most families can't afford to spend as lavishly as they used to. So without further ado, here are 49 ways to be a frugal fashionista on prom night.


    GENERAL TIPS

       1. Buy your prom dress (and shoes, and jewelry, and accessories) from LuLus.com, of course! Cute clothes, reasonable prices and free shipping over $75.
       2. Plan everything well in advance. If you wait until the last minute, you're more likely to feel desperate and buy something too expensive.
       3. As early as you can, start hoarding your allowance (or income from a part-time job) so you can afford to splurge when the big event rolls around.
       4. Always compare prices. Call around to at least 5 different shops before choosing a florist, tuxedo shop, limo service, etc.
       5. When in doubt, DIY. Why spend countless hours searching for something perfect AND affordable, when you can probably make it yourself?
       6. Keep a level head. Movies make it seem like prom is the most important night of your life. But in a few years, you'll probably wonder why you got so worked up.

    DRESS & ACCESSORIES

       1. Raid your best friend's closet! No one will know that she wore the dress to a previous event; and even if they know, why would they care?
       2. Dust off that bridesmaid's dress and give it another whirl. If you don't have one, chances are you know someone who does.
       3. Go bargain hunting at your local thrift stores and consignment shops. In addition to being affordable, you can almost guarantee your look will be unique.
       4. Go bargain hunting online! You can find ridiculous deals on beautiful gowns and shoes on websites like eBay or Craigslist.
       5. Look for a shop that specializes in renting formal gowns, or check to see if your local bridal shops offer rentals.
       6. Choose your own fabrics and design, and make your dress from scratch; if you're not handy with a sewing machine, enlist the help of a friend, relative or affordable seamstress.
       7. Check to see if an organization like Donate My Dress exists in your area; these non-profit groups provide free prom dresses to low-income teens.
       8. Look for a local prom dress exchange event; if you can't find one, take the initiative and organize one for your community!
       9. See if you can borrow your mother's (or grandmother's) vintage jewelry and handbags.
      10. Head down to the bead store and make your own jewelry. If you've never tried it before, you may be surprised how it easy it is.

    HAIR & MAKEUP

       1. Almost everyone knows one friend or relative whose hair and makeup always look fabulous; enlist their help on your big day, and thank them with a lunch or a return favor.
       2. Hit up the local beauty school for bargain priced hair styling and nails.
       3. Schedule an appointment at one of the beauty counters at your local mall. Buy the lipstick so you'll be able to touch up throughout the night.
       4. Plan a Mary K or Avon party at your house the afternoon before the prom, and invite all your friends over for free makeovers.
       5. Host a manicure/pedicure party at your house; it's easier (and much more fun) when everyone helps each other!
       6. Search YouTube for hair and makeup tutorials. Practice, practice, practice!
       7. Don't spend a small fortune on tanning sessions; grab some self-tanning lotion at your local drugstore and fake the bake at home.

    TRANSPORTATION

       1. Have your heart set on a stretch limousine? You'll save money -- and probably have way more fun -- if you split the cost with other couples.
       2. If you live in a big city, consider downgrading to a chic, chauffeured but more affordable Lincoln Town Car.
       3. Make an appointment for a cab. But shop around beforehand, or you never know what might show up at your door.
       4. Really don't want to drive? Ask a responsible older friend (or non-embarrassing relative) to chauffeur you for the night.
       5. There's no law against driving your own car to prom. Just make sure it's clean. Look for coupons to your local car wash, or just bust out the hose and the vacuum.

    DINING

       1. Cook a romantic dinner for two. It's less expensive than a fancy restaurant and sets a relaxed tone for the rest of the evening.
       2. Invite a few couples over and make your own restaurant. Ask mom and dad to cook and serve. Set up a few small tables, add candles and soft music, and enjoy!
       3. Eat a hearty meal before you go out, but splurge on a fancy dessert in a restaurant -- especially if you usually say no to dessert. Prom Night's a perfect excuse to indulge.
       4. If you choose to eat a restaurant, don't go in blind. Look at menus beforehand so you'll know which eatery has the food you want at the price you can afford.
       5. Imagine walking into your local fast food joint wearing tuxedos and ball gowns. If this sounds like hilarious fun, why not do it? It'll make a great story some day.

    FLOWERS

       1. Get a price quote from at least 5 different florists before committing to a purchase. Bonus points for price-checking 10.
       2. Choose less expensive flowers. Carnations are a traditional choice because they're cheap and easy to dye in various colors.
       3. Skip the fancy florist and head to the grocery store. The selection is usually smaller, but you're sure to find something you like. They are flowers, after all.
       4. Don't go overboard with a massive bouquet. A few tasteful flowers will suffice, and it won't weigh heavy on your arm all night.
       5. Get crafty! Make your own corsage and boutonnière using a few inexpensive materials from a craft store and flowers from the grocery store.
       6. Take advantage of your region's natural beauty. Pick some gorgeous wildflowers, or ask your neighbors for donations from their gardens.

    PHOTOS

       1. Let's be honest; a lot of those professional prom photos look awful. Ask an artistic friend or relative to take pictures before prom, and forgo the expensive train wreck.
       2. Don't have a talented photographer in your social circle? Trying recruiting a photography student from the local university.
       3. If your photographer uses traditional film, ask if you can buy the negatives and have them printed yourself.
       4. If you photographer uses a digital camera, ask if you can buy the files and print your photos at home.
       5. This may sound crazy, but consider (gasp!) not taking pictures at all. Just put the cameras aside, get on the dance floor and enjoy your big night to the fullest!

    POST-PROM PARTYING

       1. If you live in a medium to large city, just take a stroll downtown. You may find live music and street performers, or just some great conversation and people-watching.
       2. Find a safe, suitable outdoor space and organize an evening picnic for two. All you need is finger foods, a warm blanket and a sky full of stars.
       3. Grab 10 of your closest friends and head to the nearest beach or lake for an old-fashioned bonfire and barbecue.
       4. Not every prom night has to be romantic. Why not throw some bowling shoes on under that formal gown? Or does evening wear go better with roller skates?
       5. Assuming your parents are cool with it, why not just party at home? They'll be relieved, you'll still have a great time with friends, and it won't cost a fortune.

    What did we miss? Leave a comment below with your best tips on how to save money on prom!

  • Meowsk Reports: Wonderland of a Wardrobe

    Posted by: LuLu*s !

    March
    23
    2010

    Brought to you by Shauna at Meowsk!

    A few weekends ago, I went to see Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland, and ever since have been enamored with the costuming and clever wardrobe changes throughout the film. Designed by Colleen Atwood, the dresses look like something that would show up on fashion runways around the world. I love that they are a modern take on the iconic Alice outfit, with bits of authenticity and bold embellishments.

    The original Alice dress. I adore the black detailing along the neckline and skirt hem.

    An edgier Alice look with fluttery fabrics and striped ribbons. This dress needs to find its way to my closet ASAP.

    A mini dress for a tiny Alice. Unfortunately, I couldn't find a better detail shot of this dress.

    Off onto other adventures Alice dress. Love that skirt.

    Don't worry if you haven't seen the movie yet; I didn't give everything away. There is still one very special dress that I left out.

    Feeling inspired by the previews, I of course had to create     my own Alice outfit which I totally wore to see the film. Have you styled an Alice-inspired outfit? Share it with us, and let me know your favorite costume in the film.

  • Favorites From Fashion Week

    Posted by: LuLu*s !

    February
    19
    2010

     Fashion Week is one of the biggest events in the fashion industry, as it allows designers to show off their new collections on the runway, and gives buyers a chance to see all upcoming trends. Jill Stuart has been one of my fashion designers for a while and so far for Fall 2010 fashion week, Jill Stuart is once again my favorite.
     
    Moving away from her risque Spring collection of short dresses with studs and spandex, Jill Stuart's Fall collection is full of dark, almost goth looking boyfriend jackets worn over a variety of tight dresses, shorts, and high-waisted trousers.
     
     
     Take a look at the pictures above for quick peek of Stuart's Fall collection for next year!

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