Elizabeth Arden Prevage Total Body Transforming Anti-Aging Moisturizer, 6.8 oz, $135.00

Once again, Elizabeth Arden has come to the rescue. As if they were reading my mind and could tell that I wanted to do something about the condition of my skin, along comes the Prevage line. Even though I’m still in my mid-20’s, pregnancy, weight loss, acne and other scars have left my bod looking like a battlefield. I’m not one to go under the knife (ok, if I get a turkey neck down the road, I’ll probably have a lift or two), so for me, a topical solution is the answer.

So what does the Prevage line promise to do? Amazingly, a number of things…using their unique formula of Idebenone, an antioxidant, Prevage has been clinically tested and proven to reduce the look of minor scars, stretch mark, sun damage and even dimpled skin. It has even been proven to reduce the look of age spots and discoloration in as little as six weeks.

I’ve only been using this product for about a week, so you’ll have to tune in for my follow up to see what kind of results I get. It has a light fragrance that disappears shortly after it absorbs into your skin, so it won’t clash with perfumes. Even though this product is meant for the body, I’m tempted to try it on the acne scars on my face to see if I get any results. But trust me…this is not just another moisturizer. Sure, the price tag is pretty steep, but consider how much it would cost to go to a derm and get your face professionally sand blasted. This is a considerably less invasive, more affordable and easier solution, in my opinion.

So check back with us in mid-December to see how my Prevage test run went…check out Elizabeth Arden’s website in the mean time and snag some if you can’t wait that long. Trust me, no matter your age, we all have sun damage, acne scars or stretch marks we’d rather make disappear. Hopefully Prevage is the answer!

Rachel Bilson (source)

What’s your dream wardrobe like? Well, if you’ve ever wondered what essential pieces Rachel Bilson counts on, then look no further than Edie Rose. Bilson’s new line for DKNY encompasses all of the “must-have” pieces that you need. In fact, it’s kind of fool-proof…all of the pieces in her collection fit seamlessly into any wardrobe so that you can create a variety of ensembles.

Edie Rose for DKNY (source)

Some of my favorite looks from this collection are the denim pencil dress and the tuxedo jacket. Yellow is a big theme in this collection, which seems a little late to me considering yellow was so big in the spring time. Red patent accents and dark denim are also staples, creating a look that is one part American girl-next-door and one part fashionista chic.

You can try to purchase some of these items right now at DKNY but unfortch most everything is selling out. Also, if you can’t squeeze into juniors sizing, then this collection isn’t for you. I have a feeling that we will be seing this collection at Macy’s in the near future (note the Macy’s ads behind Bilson above) so you may not have to scour eBay and pay twice as much for her wares as they are worth after all.

If there is one thing that you can take away from Bilson’s collection, then it is that everyone needs a few structured pieces in their wardrobe. A great shift dress, white button down and skinny jean is a must for every woman of every age. While there is nothing ground breaking about this collection (gee, another young actress turned designer?), at least it isn’t a collection entirely of overpriced leggings. Hooray for Hollywood!

What do you think of Rachel Bilson’s new line Edie Rose? Drop us a line!

Celebs Beyonce and Fergie think pink (source)

Couture in the City reader Shara asks:

Q:  Will hot pink lips be trendy for spring/summer of 2009?

A: Hmmm…that’s a tough one Shara. Hot pink lips were trendy in the spring of ‘07, and are making huge waves now (Rihanna is always softening her edgy look with hot pink lips), so it’s hard to say. If you are itching to try a hot pink trend, I would do it now, at the tail end of summer and before winter sets in. Check out your local pharmacy and grab a few different hot pink shades to see what works best with your skin tone. You can work a hot pink lip right now in a very fierce way with a smoky eye and a sleek but chic ensemble.

My most favorite hot pink lip gloss is no longer available (the MAC Fafi edition…so perfectly punk), but you can still snap up some great pink shades from MAC. For a very high fashion look, go for a paler hot pink like Wonderstruck or Ensign from MAC:

MAC Lustreglass, $14.00

The lighter shades of hot pink that were seen on the runway are the perfect compliment to winter florals, grays and muted shades of plum and navy. For a softer fall hot pink look, keep the rest of your color palette muted and make your lips the focal point.

My makeup trend forecast for fall calls for peachy lip glosses (just call it a hunch) so enjoy your pink lips now!

Got an insider tip on your favorite hot pink lip glosses? Leave a comment and let us know which is your favorite and why (not sticky, long lasting, tastes like strawberries, whatever…). Happy glossing!

A: The answer is yes, yes and yes! In the same way that Kate Winslet’s “Titanic” wardrobe and Kirsten Dunst’s “Marie Antoinette” period costumes mirrored current trends, Kiera Knightley’s look from “The Duchess” is also right on track with current styles. Ok, so bustles, rib crushing corsets and sausage curls may never come back into the mainstream, but we can all take a few cues from Keira’s 18th century style.

The Romantic:

Velvet military jackets, feathered headpieces and a smile! (source)

Feathers and velvet anyone? Feathered headpieces are big big big this fall (think Kenley from Project Runway) and are a great way to spice up your look for fall. If feathers are a little too much for you, then I must insist that you go for a velvet military jacket. You can pair this sexy topper with jeans and knee high boots or over a feminine floral dress to create an effortlessly romantic look.

Get out your scrunching spray and embrace any natural wave you may have because this romantic look is all about ringlets! I like to use hot rollers on my hair to create a more subtle version.

The Naturalist:

The natural look (source)

18th century ladies of the court didn’t exactly have a neighborhood Sephora to stock up on beauty essentials…they typically used natural dyes and pigments for their makeup routine, or simply wore nothing at all. For daytime, you can re-create this natural look with a loose low bun, minimal makeup and a gauzy top.

The Fierce Fashionista:

Flushed, feminine and fierce (source)

If you are the type of savvy fashionista that doesn’t shy away at the current trends, then you can go for an all-out 18th century style. Think flushed cheeks and porcelain doll makeup (beauty mark optional). A slightly teased updo, fitted dresses with a lace-up bodice and vintage jewelry will complete any regal ensemble. Just make sure you finish your look off with a major dose of attitude and make it work!

Check out “The Duchess” starring Keira Knightley at your local theater and drink up all of the fabulous history, scandal and most of all, fab fashion.

Enter HERE by October 28th, 2008 for your chance to win!

And to give you a little inspiration on what to look for, I’ve already done some shopping for you…I know, it was a hard job, but somebody had to do it, right? After scouring the racks, I finally decided that an awesome dress and a timeless pair of shoes were just what my fall wardrobe needed:

Dress by Maggy London, $138.00

Did I mention that I am in love with this dress? Well, I am. I was going to pick out a totally safe and fall appropriate tan or navy dress, but after I saw this one, it was all over. I got about a hundred-million compliments on my ensemble at work, so I know it was a total hit. I just think that this dress is so edgy and can be worn so many different ways…I could pair it with metallic shoes for a disco-inspired look, or wear it with jeans and make it a slouchy tunic, or I could get really bright fuchsia tights and make it pop, or I could wear it under a solid-colored pea coat to tone it down…see? I can barely contain myself, I’m so excited about this dress.

Style&co. “Fleur” T-Strap Pump, $41.30

These were perhaps the steal of the day…I got these Style&co. t-strap pumps at my local Macy’s for a little less than the website has them offered, so it would be worth your while to actually go in and check them out in the store for a better deal. They are simply gorgeous, and I can’t wait to wear them with my other fall ensembles. I’m thinking textured tights, belted sweaters, fall floral print dresses…love it!

Ready to put together your own fall fashion ensemble? Then you’ve got to get to Macy’s…they have all everything that is right on-trend to create one great look after another. Cold weather is on its way! Better get to Macy’s and stock up on sweaters and tights and boots and all of those fun articles of clothing we have missed all summer long. Happy shopping, and don’t forget to enter our contest for your chance to win!

Like with all red carpet events, there seemed to be a few underlying themes, so we are going to break down our best Emmy’s Best Dressed moments for you. Tiered dresses, classic black dresses and diaphanous gowns ruled the red carpet, with the usual list of suspects on our best dressed list. Check out our picks to see if your fave celebs make the cut:

Tiered Dresses:

Brooke Shields in Badgley Mischka

Not too flouncy, precious or skimpy…Brooke Shields manages to marry fierce and feminine in this gorgeous Badgley Mischka gown. Minimal accessories and natural makeup and hair make her look easily one of my favorites of the night.

Black Dresses:

America Ferrera in vintage

Debra Messing in Monique Lhuillier

I don’t know which one I like more; America’s ruched vintage dress or Debra’s frothy tulle number from Monique Lhuillier. All I know is that these ladies better hold on to these dresses because they are gorgeous and timeless. You can pull these dresses out again in 10, 20, 30 years and they will still look fabulous. Again, they took the minimal road in accessories and hair to create a glowing and natural red carpet look.

Diaphanous:

Christina Applegate in Reem Acra

Mariska Hargitay in Carolina Herrera

Christina and Mariska looked every bit the television goddesses that they are in these one-shouldered gowns. Oddly, they both chose colors that read more spring than fall, but somehow, their dresses work. It was extra special to see Applegate out there and rockin’ it once again after her recent bout with breast cancer.

Best Dressed:

Heidi Klum in Armani (source)

What, like you are surprised? Heidi has been seriously ruling the red carpet as of late, and this Armani number simply stuns. She looks like a mermaid disco queen and I love love love it.

Thanks for checking out our Emmy’s Best Dressed coverage…let us know what you think of your favorite celeb’s red carpet ensembles!

Couture in the City reader Lucy asks:

I have an event in Dallas tonight and it is “casual chic”. I borrowed a pair of pants from a friend and I’m not sure if they are cheesy or not.  The are black and split at the knee so when you walk it is almost like having a dress on.  Any thoughts???

Good one Lucy! Yes, split knee pants are a murky area; on one hand, you are probably going to be the only one at your event wearing them. On the other hand, that may not be such a good thing.

There are a few ways that you can wear pants like these without looking like a refugee from the midnight buffet on a Carnival cruise. Try these options for a “casual chic” event with split knee pants the next time you feel adventurous:

1) Black on black: create an ensemble that Angelina Jolie would be proud of and go for black on black. Not only will this make your outfit look more seamless, it will be slimming and sophisticated. Top off with some layered chains (very big right now) or long artsy necklaces and high heels and you are done.

2) Disco Queen: really play up the novelty of these pants with an equally edgy top. Think sequins, think glitter, and don’t look back. Ok, there could be a point where too much is more than enough. I would suggest a neutral colored tank with a sequin or bead embellished bolero jacket, metallic heels and a clutch.

3) Peek-A-Boo: take advantage of this seasons’ uber popular textured tights and wear a pair under these pants with a neutral top, belted sweater or tunic. Every time you take a step, people will get a flash of interesting texture instead of your leg. Top this look off with t-strap sandals or pumps for maximum effect.

So there you have it Lucy, and you were right to be skeptical. Generally speaking, split-to-the-knee pants are not so hot right now. Lucky for you, they are black and with a little imagination, you can make them work. Enjoy your chic soiree!

Got a question for the Couture in the City fashion experts? Drop us a line…we’ll tell you how to wear those acid wash jeans you can fit into again, and whether or not to ditch those neon pink go-go boots. Bring on the fashion quandries!

Dating Makes You Want to Die, Harper Collins, $14.95

Timid daters, beware; if you are looking for a soft and sensitive way to find your one true mate, then go to eHarmony or even a speed dating group. If you aren’t ready for the brash reality that is 21st century dating, then don’t even bother with “Dating Makes You Want to Die (but you have to do it anyway).” Authors Daniel Holloway and Dorothy Robinson will tell you so. They don’t give you warm and fuzzy advice on how to get the cute guy that works in the mail room to like you. No, they pretty much tell you how to lure the object of your affection into your love chamber so you can ravage them.

Peppered with Gen-X (and Gen-Y) jargon, this handbook for the relationship impaired is a hilarious read whether you are already wed or wish you were dead. No one is safe from the wrath of 21st century romance experts Holloway and Robinson as even Paula Abdul to Jack Nicholson are put under the microscope. Alcohol, debauchery and yes, lots and lots of (safe!) sex are the cornerstones of their dating philosophy.

So to reiterate, if you don’t believe in sex before marriage, if you aren’t willing to break out of your workaholic ways, and if you still live with your parents, then this book probably isn’t for you. But if you are a 20 or 30-something ready to change your ways in an effort to get some (and, essentially to create a long, lasting relationship), then this is a must read. Holloway and Robinson provide a wise and easy to follow guide so you can go from drinks and dinner to diamonds and “I Do’s.”

Complete with hilarious quizes, real-life situations and lots and lots of up-to-date advice, no swinging single should be without this book. Heck, even if you are married, this is a good read because it will remind you of the dating battlefield out there that you no longer have to endure. Plus, it’s pretty funny. So grab a bottle of wine, run a bath and read “Dating Makes You Want to Die (but you have to do it anyway)” and pretty soon, you may have someone to share that bubble bath with. Enjoy!

Nine West Fall Collection:

(from top) Dasolina, Galen, Iam and Yung

The guessing game is over…Nine West makes finding the perfect fall footwear a breeze with their latest collection. Incorporating all of the hottest up-to-the minute trends with classic lines, these shoes are a must for any wardrobe. And after all…they are from Nine West, so you know that these shoes will last you more than one season.

The Dasolina ($99) is perhaps the perfect dress shoe for Fall ‘08…in purple, it is a sultry winner that will take you into spring and beyond. Suede, peep toe and luxe strappy accents make this the perfect shoe to pair with a fall floral dress, textured tights and a cardigan.

The Galen ($250) is the perfect accessory for any Boho fashionista to transition from summer flip flops to fall fabulous. Tuck your skinny jeans into these with a floaty top or pair with a simple dress and a jean jacket for rugged sophistication.

Every girls’ wardrobe deserves at least one pair of pretty shoes, and the Iam ($109) fits the bill. Sure, a lacy ankle boot isn’t going to be useful for every day, but who cares? They’ll be great for the holiday season, and even better for date night. This sassy pair is available for pre-order now, so if visions of ankle boots are dancing in your head, order these now, because I bet they won’t last. Hot!

And finally, channel your inner Mary Kate with these Yung ($119) strappy heels. These fierce yet feminine high heels are the perfect companion to all of those patent mini-skirts and shrunken leather jackets that are going to be everywhere this fall and winter. These heels are super luxe, and also available for preorder, so get yours now.

If you are still feeling clueless about fall fashion shoe trends, head over to Nine West and get the scoop. Just remember to look for suede, lace and multi-trap details to put the finishing touches on your fall ensembles.

Betsey Johnson’s Spring 2009 Line (source)

It is my firm belief that Betsey Johnson and Patricia Field are cut from the same cloth, so to speak. Case in point:

Betsey Johnson, Floral Dress Vs. Patricia Field for HSN Floral Dress

In case you didn’t know, Patricia Field was the stylist for “The Devil Wears Prada” and more importantly, “Sex and the City,” and just recently launched a new line at HSN. When I saw Betsey Johnson’s Spring 2009 line, it didn’t surprise me to see that there were many similarities to their newest lines. In truth, I always thought that Betsey Johnson and La Field had very similar tastes, so it only makes sense. What blew my mind was the Pat Field beat Betsey to the punch. At least just on the circa 1989 floral print tiered dress front.

But I digress…for the most part, the show featured pure vintage Betsey’s Johnson, with a glut of designs that wouldn’t realistically transfer from runway to real way. But that’s not what fashion week is really about, is it? If you want something sensible to wear to work, then go to Target. But if you want inspiration, the avant-garde, and yes, a little taste of something innovative and exiting, then look to the Betsey Johnson’s and John Galliano’s of the world.

What we can take away from the Betsey Johnson Spring 2009 line: bold florals, cute derbys, flounce, flounce and more flounce, tiered skirts and metallic ankle-wrap wedges for Spring. Just leave the hyper-color bobbed wigs to the Britney Spears of the world, and you’ll do fine.