Posts Tagged ‘positively celebrity’

It’s a new year and our televisions have been taken over with new shows!  I love when the mid-season premieres start so I have a whole new batch of shows to watch, review, and love.  Just this week I’ve seen two new shows to report back to you about, and they have two things in common: they are both about fashion and they are both named after the main character, but that’s where the similarities end.

“It’s A Brad, Brad World,” premiered Monday on Bravo, and I’m already a raving fan!  The docu-series follows Brad Goreski, formerly Rachel Zoe’s style director, who was heavily featured in her Bravo reality show “The Rachel Zoe Project.”  Now that he’s gone solo, we get to see much more of his hilarious personality.  Throw in his boyfriend of ten years Gary who loves to display his dry (and twisted) sense of humor, and you’ve got a hit!

The show centers around Brad’s brand new career as a freelance stylist, trying to gain celebrity clients and styling magazine shoots (and p.s., it is ALL about his signature bow tie and glasses!).  Brad also auditions his first would-be assistant in the first episode, which didn’t go so well.  The trailer for the rest of the season looks fab; lots of travel, tears, and fashion!  Can’t wait!  ”It’s A Brad, Brad World,” airs Mondays at 10pm EST on Bravo.

“Jane By Design” premiered Tuesday on ABC Family, and centers around sixteen-year-old unpopular high school student Jane (played by Erica Dasher).  Jane loves to make her own clothes, and when she attempts to interview for an internship with a fashion label in New York City, she accidentally lands the job as the evil boss’ assistant, (evil boss = Andie McDowell!).

This happens to be opportune timing since her older brother has failed to pay the mortgage since their father’s death, and mom isn’t in the picture.  The half days at work (you know that doesn’t really happen anywhere, let alone fashion) give Jane some much-needed space from a mean girl/bully who her best guy friend is secretly hooking up with.

The show is much like ABC Family’s other dramas; a great looking cast with some serious problems that somehow seem light and lovable, soapy situations and fierce wardrobe, hair and makeup.  While “Jane By Design”  may not give a completely accurate portrayal of high school or the fashion world, we love their take on it.  ”Jane By Design” airs Tuesdays at 9pm EST on ABC Family.

Will you be tuning in for either of these fashion-themed shows?  Leave us a comment and let us know! And be sure to check back often for more of the latest tv news and reviews from Megan Stecher, right here on Positively Celebrity!

The first thing I can tell you about “Young Adult” is that you will laugh the whole time.  The second thing I can tell you is that you will feel bad for laughing.  Every. Single. Time.  Read on for why!

Charlize Theron nails her role as Mavis Gary, a delusional former prom queen type who writes a series of young adult novels.  It’s not so much that she has writing talent as she does a knack for eavesdropping on teenage conversations and writing them into the story.  Her days are usually spent recovering from last night’s drinking and ignoring her dog while watching reality TV shows in her pajamas in her Minneapolis apartment. When Mavis receives an email notice from her high school ex-boyfriend’s wife with a photo of their new baby, she decides to head back to her small Minnesota town of Mercury to get back her old boyfriend, Buddy Slade (wife and new baby be damned).

On Mavis’ first night back in Mercury, she runs into an old classmate she doesn’t remember, who clearly remembers her. Matt Freehauf, played by Patton Oswalt, becomes at once her only friend and the only person trying to stop her from ruining Buddy’s marriage.  The two form a dysfunctional friendship, where much of the film’s laughs come from.  Mavis doesn’t spare Matt from her biting tongue, frequently making fun of his handicap.  In fact, there’s no one Mavis doesn’t speak ill of, except, of course, Buddy Slade.

Her antics and actions are well masked behind her hair and makeup, but when she gets drunk at Buddy’s daughter’s “naming ceremony,” all hell breaks loose.  There’s no one to stop Mavis from trying to tell Buddy to leave his wife, played by Elizabeth Reaser.  Rejected and drunk, Mavis has a major meltdown, that almost leads to a moment of clarity and change.  Almost.

Charlize Theron is spot on as a delusional drunk with no filter on her mouth; and though you will laugh at her nasty comments, you then feel awful.  They’re horrible things to say to and about people, and it makes you sad to see someone who hasn’t grown up and is still her high school self.

This is a dark comedy, and it stays heavy.  Charlize’s acting makes the trip worthwhile, but don’t expect to leave the theater feeling light and fluffy.  Diablo Cody penned this one, and if you remember a little film called “Juno,”  you might remember she’s a serious subject kind of gal.

Be sure to check back often for more of the latest movie news and reviews from Megan Stecher right here on Positively Celebrity!

Wow.  Wow. Wow.  WOW.  Sorry, still recovering from seeing “The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo.”  If you can handle graphic violence, you HAVE to see this.  Sorry everyone, I haven’t read the book series, so I’m coming atcha as someone who is unfamiliar with the story and just discovered how amazing it is.  (Hopefully, I’ll get that e-reader I want for Christmas and it will be my first purchase).  Anyways – you need to see this!  Read on for why!

If you’re unfamiliar with the story, you should know it takes place in Sweden, which I loved!  Everything was so clean and minimalist. Daniel Craig opens the film as investigative journalist Mikael Blomkvist, who loses a libel case against him.  His expose on a corrupt billionaire may be correct, but he couldn’t prove it and loses most of his financial gains.  When a wealthy old business owner hires Mikael to find out who killed his niece 40 year ago, he takes the job.

In a parallel story, Lisbeth Salander, played by Rooney Mara, is living a very secretive and complicated life.  It is unclear what she has suffered through, but just looking at her punk style and withdrawn body language suggests a dark past, and an inner pain that few could understand.  As an investigator for a private firm, she excels in hacking and is amazing at her job.  Unfortunately, she is still a ward of the state and the man who once controlled her finances has been replaced with a twisted abuser, high on power.  Lisbeth suffers through some gruesome things at his hands; as a viewer, it was very tough.  I still can’t get the graphic scenes out of my head.

Lisbeth is then hired by Mikael to assist him in his investigation, which has just taken a dark turn. If they solve Harriet’s murder case, Mikael has been promised the proof he needs to reverse his libel case. Mikael and Lisbeth start piecing together the clues, but someone may be warning them that they are getting too close.

The story moves fast, and sometimes it was a little bit difficult to understand what some of the characters are saying with their accents, but it was most likely intentional.  I was on the edge of my seat THE WHOLE TIME.  Amazing story, actors, cinematography, directing, you name it.  There is a lot of graphic violence and sex in the film, so don’t take someone you would be bashful around!  If you loved the story, or you love crime dramas and thrillers, you positively must go see “The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo!”

By the way…I really appreciated the fashion in the film; how it told so much of the story.  Each character’s wardrobe was impecably chosen from Daniel Craig’s jeans and an array of perfectly tailored coats and scarves, to Rooney’s punk militant look that told me everything I needed to know.  Her clothes gave off a warning vibe; Danger, you’re too close.  If you loved Lizbeth Sanders look, go get it for yourself at H&M.  The film’s costume designer Trish Summerville designed a line for them that celebrates Lizbeth’s style, even if it is a little glammed up for the masses.

Check back for more of the latest movie news and reviews from Megan Stecher right here at Positively Celebrity!

It’s hard to believe the holidays are upon us once again. And as much as we love all the cookies, decorating and parties…shopping for gifts can be quite challenging and extremely stressful. That’s why we’ve made it easy for you to transform into the ultimate Santa with our Holiday Gift Guide!

This Christmas, give a gift that’s sure to please with Guess and Gc watches! Choose from a variety of designs to satisfy everyone’s needs…and style.

THE FASHIONISTA

Every fashionista should have this brilliantly studded silver GUESS Rocker Metal Watch in their jewelry case! After all, diva glam girls know how much we love our bling! This bracelet will turn some major heads, and keep you punctual for your busy social calendar at the same time. Featuring a daring combination of rocker style and sophisticated sensibility, this watch has an analog function, silver-tone dial, polished crystal case and adjustable bracelet. At only $125, it won’t break the bank either.

THE EDGY GIRL

For all the edgy gals out there, there’s no question you have the street smarts to match. So why not step out in a street-smart fashion watch to go with that personality? This cool watch from GUESS features a water-resistant metallic leather cuff, shiny round dial, sparkling link bracelets and smart analog function. Grab your black leather jacket, ripped jeans, rocker t-shirt and over-the-knee boots and you’ll be ready to go! This one also retails for a cool $125. Check it out online, here!

THE SPORTY GAL

This glamorous, sporty style is perfect for girls on the go! The dynamic case with rose gold accents and white ceramic bracelet are surrounded by a GORGEOUS mother of pearl dial with Swiss precision day/date movement. One thing’s for sure: the smooth lines of this SWISS-made watch create both comfort and elegance! With it’s timeless design and impeccable craftmanship, this watch will be the gift that keeps giving — year after year. Click here for more info on the ah-may-zing Sport Class XL-S Glam Timepiece.

THE SENSIBLE – STYLISH MALE

This attractive brown leather timepiece makes a statement without saying a word! That makes this the perfect gift for your dad, boyfriend, husband, son, son-in-law, friend (hey, we’re pretty sure ANY male will fall head over heels in love with this one)! The gorgeous watch features a polished rose gold case with brushed steel top ring and croco-embossed chocolate brown leather strap.  The dial features a unique dual-counter precision Swiss chronograph movement and date…which all the men in our life will appreciate and love.

Happy shopping, friends! Be sure to check back often throughout the month for more of our holiday gift guides, right here on Positively Celebrity.

Gisele Bundchen, the world’s most famous (and beautiful) supermodel, recently took some time to make an unexpected visit to children who have been stricken with cancer. The Victoria’s Secret Brazilian bombshell surprised a group of young women at Newbury Street’s Salon Pini & Co. in Boston and taught them the tricks of the trade, showing them how to strut their stuff on the catwalk, pose and a whole lot more!

Gisele’s drop in at the salon was unbeknownst to the girls, all of whom are patients at the Jimmy Fund Clinic at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston that were being treated to a weekend on the town. The weekend kicked off with a free shopping event at H&M, a fancy dinner and luxury accommodations at the Westin Hotel. Sunday the group of 29 girls were treated to a spa day at Salon Pini & Co. (fully catered by L’espalier), where they were given manicures, hair styling, makeovers and more! While the patients were receiving their much deserved pampering, Gisele popped out of an elevator to surprise them.

“I asked them to turn down the music, and said ‘Can I have your attention, because we’re not done yet. You all look beautiful. This looks like a room of supermodels. I think the only way we could raise the level of supermodel-dom in this room is to bring out the world’s most famous supermodel,’” WEEI morning radio host (and event MC) John Dennis said. “It was unbelievable. She made every one of those girls feel beautiful, loved and important. It was very, very special.”

Gisele met with each girl individually to take photos, give hugs and hand out roses. To end the event, an impromptu catwalk was formed and the young patients had a chance to strut their stuff! “We made a fake little catwalk in the salon, and we each walked down it,” one of the children said. “Then there were three girls that were in wheelchairs, and strolled them down the catwalk. Another girl and I didn’t want to walk alone, so she walked arm-in-arm with us.”

All of us here at Positively Celebrity are moved at how Gisele paused her very busy life to brighten the day of the children in Boston. She is truly as beautiful inside as she is outside! To learn more about the incredible work being done with the Jimmy Fund please visit www.jimmyfund.org.

As always, be sure to check back for all things celebrity from Richard Munassi right here at Positively Celebrity!

I would never have guessed that before I saw “J. Edgar” I would leave the theatre less than satisfied, but I did; read on for why!

Clint Eastwood and Leo DiCaprio…blockbuster in the making, right?!?!  Wrong.  Unfortunately, while the costumes and cinematography were to be applauded, the story was not.  Leo did his best to delve into the historical figure much like he approaches all of his roles, but I think the script failed him here.

The story plays out as a series of flashbacks from a senior J. Edgar Hoover dicatating his career with the FBI to an array of young men who type it for him.  Various personal life moments, most focusing on his relationship with his mother and personal secretary are interspersed.  We learn he is eager to please, hungry for power and a pioneer of the modern war on crime; and then a spotlight-loving dictator who loses his way.  Unfortunately, so does the story.  With so much bouncing back and forth between the past and the present, it becomes hard to form an opinion on the character; who in the end comes off as a miserable old man.

The handling of the relationship between J. Edgar and his lifelong number two at the FBI, Clyde Tolson, also added to the muddiness of the drama.  While Tolson’s character was clearly made out to be a homosexual, and the two men shared a kiss, the film did a bad job of walking the “is he or isn’t he gay?” line with Leo’s character.  The makeup the two wore also was terribly distracting!  It’s really hard to look at two gorgeous young men in fat suits and prosthetics with fake liver spots and believe that they were in their seventies.

All that said, Armie Hammer gave an amazing performance!  He really impressed me and stole the show.  See “J. Edgar” for that, if nothing else!  Dame Judy Dench as J. Edgar’s mother gave a superb performance, and Naomi Watts as Helen Gandy, Hoover’s secretary, was spot on.   In the end, Clint Eastwood directed a movie with lots of wonderful parts that didn’t make up a perfect whole.

Check back for more of the latest movie news and reviews from Megan Stecher right here on Positively Celebrity!

On picturesque West London shopping street, tucked neatly between Kensington High Street and the now famous Notting Hill is Manguette, a not so well-kept secret. Opened over 30 years ago by Belgian designer Michelle Manguette, this independent jewelry boutique is unique in its attention to detail, compilation and presentation of jewellery. As well as making a new collection each season in her ‘petit atelier’ in the back of the shop, Michelle travels the world keen to find new and interesting designers and the right stones for her exclusive creations.

For years Michelle was too timid to admit it was her who had made these beautiful combinations of semi precious stone, gold beads, pearls and amber. Even as they were selling out and people were begging for the name of the designer so they could order more she was too shy to say it was she! Over the years her collections have grown to include earrings and bracelets. Michelle is also curator, hand-picking an eclectic mix of young and established designers to show their work in her shop.

I am clearly not alone in thinking that this gem of a store, full of charm and most of all beautiful jewelled treasures deserves to be recognized. Not only is it a favorite of journalists, stylists, mothers, daughters, power women and very good (read well trained) husbands and boyfriends, I have spotted royalty (complete with lady in waiting) and many a well heeled celebrity (both Tamara Mellon and Lulu love to pile on the Phillipe Audibert cuffs) exchanging their gold coins for golden treasures but Manguette has recently been nominated for the Telegragh Magazine Best Small Shop in Britain Awards. You can vote for Manguette, 40 Gordon Place, in the women’s fashion category here.

Manguette was one of the first to be seduced by the distinctive style of Turkish award winning designer Gurhan. His work is favored by a host of A-list names including Angelina Jolie (above) Jennifer Lopez and Queen Rania of Jordan who has been photographed wearing several different gold designs. Always championing his exclusive designs, Manguette is delighted that Gurhan has recently launched a new line combining white silver, and oxidized dark silver with small amounts of gold. The collection is far more affordable but no less beautiful made using the same skilled craftsmanship.

Manguette is holding an event to celebrate the launch of Gurhan’s Silver collection this comingThanksgiving, on November 24 from 4pm to 8pm. Guests will receive 10% off Gurhan Gold, Silver and all other designers in store all day.

Manguette is the exclusive UK retailer of a few high profile American designers including Margo Morrison and Steven Vaubel, Brooklyn based founder of Vaubel Designs. MARGO MORRISON NEW YORK jewelry not only appeals to women of all ages, it appeals to celebrities of all ages as well! Blake Lively (below), Debra Messing, Julia Roberts, Julianne Moore, Gwyneth Paltrow, Sharon Stone, Brooke Shields, Karen Allen and Blythe Danner are all part of Margo Morrison’s growing celebrity clientele, wearing her jewelry on camera and off.

I definitely recommend a visit to Manguette if you find yourself in London Town.  There you will find an exceptional blend of jewelry for all budgets from the romantic mélange of semi-precious stones and 22kt gold in earrings by Adeline, the prolific Parisienne designer to gold or silver plates hoops by Italian designer Anticoa. Coralia Leets’ ‘mother and daughter’ pendant below would make a great gift for any woman this holiday.

If you cannot get to the shop, Manguette also does mail order and the girls in the shop have started doing what they call “Manguette Monday”. They choose an item of jewelry to post on the blog each Monday and for that M.M. day all orders will be processed FREE of postage and packing INTERNATIONALLY! Perfect if you can’t get down to the store personally! I also discovered that the Facebook account has more updated photos than the website and for a peek into the constantly evolving treasure box check out Manguette’s naughty little sister blog miss manguette and @missmanguette on twitter.

Please come back soon for more ‘International Specials’ from me, Coralie Rose, your Positively Celebrity London girl! Don’t forget to follow my pleasure hunt @tropical_rose on twitter.

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Versace, the iconic Italian fashion house with celebrity fans like Beyonce, Gisele Bundchen and Jennifer Lopez, is debuting a more affordable collection at select H&M stores on November 19.  Known for their sexy statement dresses, bold graphic prints, and outfit making accessories, Versace hits the budget friendly retailer just in time for frugal shoppers to get a fabulous holiday look for less!

Highlights of the new line include simple item pieces with a twist, like this chic black pleated silk skirt ($69.95).

What makes this so very Versace are the delicate metal corners that embellish each pleat on the hem.  Tuck a collared shirt into this skirt for an office look, or pair it with a sparkly tank and killer heels for a night on the town!

Leggings ($29.95) are also an essential item in the line, and a great way to play with fashion without breaking the bank!

Bold patterns and geometric studs adorn these affordable must haves, all in a comfortable stretch fabric with a slight sheen.  Add some drama to your everyday look with these fun and funky leggings!

If you’re looking to make a statement this New Years Eve, try one of these dazzling party dresses!  This hot pink sleeveless dress ($199) is flirty and feminine, the perfect dress for any holiday party.

The silk, sheath style dress has festive metal studs and a standout gold zipper on the back.

For an option that really says Versace, try this silver metal mesh dress ($249) that is dramatic, sexy, and sparkly!

The knee-length style comes in a mesh-like metal fabric, with a draped neckline, cross back straps and chiffon lining.  Wear it with a belt to show off your curves, or with tights and booties for an edgier look.

The Versace for H&M collection also features shoes, jewelry, and accessories (from $19.95 to $149), as well as specialty items for men and home.

Happy shopping, ladies! Be sure to check back often for more of the latest fashion news and reviews from style expert Kara Birkenstock, right here on Positively Celebrity!

Some of Hollywood’s biggest stars are venturing in to the world of fashion, launching exclusive collections with budget friendly retailers.  These leading ladies are not only stylish, but they represent real women with their curvaceous bodies!

The best part about the following lines is that they are designed for women with every body type, no matter if you’re petite or full figured.

This fall, check out these amazing designer debuts to look fabulous without breaking the bank!

Kardashian Kollection for Sears

The Kardashian sisters have taken the world by storm, and now, they’re making a statement in the world of fashion as well!  The Kardashian Kollection recently hit Sears stores nationwide, offering budget conscious fashionistas the opportunity to get celeb inspired style for less.  The specialty line features clothing, intimates, footwear, jewelry, and handbags, all priced between $20 and $150.

Highlights of the collection include feminine silhouettes and glamorous item pieces, which are signature looks of the style setting sisters.  The Tuxedo Inspired Dress ($68.99, on sale through 10/29) in plum and black is a sexy, body hugging style that beautifully showcases a woman’s hourglass figure.

For a fun night on the town, this sparkly sequined Waterfall Jacket ($68.99, also on sale through 10/29) would be perfect with skinny jeans and a platform pump!

Jennifer Lopez Collection for Kohl’s

Megastar Jennifer Lopez recently unveiled her new fashion collection at Kohl’s, with apparel, sleepwear, shoes, and accessories priced between $16 and $150.  The Jennifer Lopez Collection is the perfect representation of the multitalented diva, a combination of feminine elegance and contemporary glamour.  The line is designed with the female body in mind, with strategically placed draping, ruching and asymmetrical details to highlight a woman’s curves.

One of the most popular pieces is this Crop Faux Fur Jacket ($60, on sale from $100).  This item is one of the biggest trends of the season, and a must for every fashionista going in to the holiday season.  Wear this luxe find with everything from a floral maxi to a cocktail dress!

For a classic take on Old Hollywood, this cap sleeve Embellished Top ($28.80, on sale from $48) with beaded accents would look great tucked into a high-waisted skirt, or with a simple pair of black pants.

Sofia by Sofia Vergara for Kmart

Modern Family actress, Sofia Vergara, collaborated with Kmart to create a cool and accessible line of apparel, accessories and footwear that launched this past fall.  Sofia by Sofia Vergara features items ranging from $16.99 to $59.99, and is by far the most affordable of the new celebrity collections to hit stores this season.  The motto of the collection is “work what you got,” inspiring women to love their bodies and wear clothes that complement their shapes.  Vergara’s goal is for women to look stunning at a great price, whether you’re a busy career woman or mom on the go.

Highlights of the line include form fitting dresses that flatter all figures, and easy separates that are great for mixing and matching.  This black Bat Wing Dress ($29.99) has a blousy top and fitted skirt, making it a sexy and comfortable choice.

This royal blue Surplice Top ($22.99) features asymmetrical draping and a deep V-neck, which instantly lengthens your body and cinches your waist.  What more could a woman ask for?!

Happy shopping, ladies! Be sure to check back often for more of the latest fashion tips and trends from style expert Kara Birkenstock, right here on Positively Celebrity!

When VH-1’s “Pop Up Video” debuted in 1996, the way we viewed videos was forever changed. Gone were the days of idly watching our favorite artists’ mini movies; instead we were engaged by little nuggets of info popping up throughout the vids. Ranging from facts about the actual musicians to random tidbits taken from the videos’ different scenes, music video watching became, dare I say, educational.

After a 9 year hiatus, the pop culture phenomenon is back! And this time around, the videos are filled with way more pop ups than before…or maybe I just don’t read as quickly as I used to.

Whether you watched the show during its glory years or you’re just getting on the bubble bandwagon, “Pop Up Video” is the perfect remedy to make music video watching fun again.

Check out this Talking Heads classic. Watch closely to find out what to do (and what not to do) in case of a fire.

Baseball lovers, scenes from “I’d Do Anything” were filmed near a major baseball stadium. Hint: The team that calls this stadium home has a “dog” that’s as famous as the team itself.

Visuals in Prince’s iconic “Raspberry Beret” are the result of one inexperienced editor tampering with the animators’ hard work. Take a wild guess who that was!

Visit www.popup.vh1.com for newer videos and for television listings.

And be sure to check back often for more of the latest music news and reviews from music expert Erica Renee Davis…right here on Positively Celebrity!