Stylista

This new reality TV show features 11 contestants vying for the position of assistant to Anne Slowey, the fashion news director of Elle Magazine. While the concept of the show is interesting and I am a magazine fanatic, it is slightly embarrassing for Elle. To offer a position through competition on reality television is ridiculous as the show is focused purely on entertainment. It conveys the image of fashion magazines as shark tanks. Anne Slowey is not even the Editor in Chief of Elle, so I do not know why she is conducting this show and imitating Meryl Streep’s character in The Devil Wears Prada. It is humiliating for the magazine and for Slowey, especially to be part of show named “Stylista”. The allure of the show is its glamour and amusement, but it certainly does not advocate working for a fashion magazine. In fact, it shows the absurdity of tasks given to assistants such as preparing the perfect breakfast. I am critical of the show because I know that fashion magazines are not like this, even for assistants. I can appreciate the humor, so I find the show exciting and addictive. The show adds to the thrilling line up on CW this season. Stay tuned to see who will receive a paid, year-long junior editorial position, a paid lease on a Manhattan apartment for a year, and a $100,000 clothing allowance at H&M.

Henri Bendel

Inspired by the biggest shopping day quickly approaching (Black Friday of course...the day after Thanksgiving for those unfamiliar with the madness), I want to explain the allure of Henri Bendel. "A girl's playground," is the perfect description for this depatment store made up of boutiques. It has the largest selection of accessories I have ever seen (especially hair accessories), not to mention amazing jewelry, make-up and little Bendel logo must-haves. Seeing the crisp brown and white stripe bags on the street makes me jump. I can't help but indulge each time I enter this fashion palace. Although it is a zoo on Black Friday (and most weekends leading up to the holidays), it is a must stop shop and has everything on a girl's wishlist.

Visit http://www.henribendel.com/ to see the latest looks and even shop online.

I Love New York

From the bright lights to the bussling streets, New York City is one of the most magnificent places. Filled with hip restaurants, unique shops and the best array of museums, the excitement of the city is endless.

Besides scouting out the glitz and glamour of the department stores, stocking up on Magnolia cupcakes and seeing the holiday decorations in the next few weeks, I want to check out these major museum exhibits:

The Metropolitan Museum of Art - The Art of Dress, featuring an audio guided tour by Sarah Jessica Parker. This exhibit is organized by The Costume Institute and will cover the Museum's permanent collections of fashion through the ages from the ancient world to the present.

Museum of Natural History - Planitarium and The Butterfly Conservatory: Tropical Butterflies Alive in Winter

Museum of Modern Art - Van Gogh and the Colors of the Night

The Morgan Library and Museum - Drawing Babar. This exhibit revolves around the classic children's stories about Babar the Elephant. The Morgan Library has the working-drafts and early watercolors used in the book. You're never too old to appreciate Babar.
So in between your holiday shopping and sipping hot chocolate, stop at these museums to expand your appreciation of art, culture and fashion. I know I will.

My Weekend With Shooter McGavin

Actor Chris MacDonald, more commonly known as Shooter McGavin (from the popular comedy Happy Gilmore), returned to his alma mater this weekend to celebrate 100 years of William Smith College. He was largely involved in the weekend festivities from a presentation Friday afternoon, to serving as the master of ceremonies Saturday night and a screening of a film he stared in entitled Quiz Show on Monday night. (Not to mention Saturday night on the town in Geneva, NY with HWS students). Chris has premiered in over 85 films and television shows, including his best known movies (Happy Gilmore,) Leave It To Beaver, The American Pie Series and Flubber to name a few (see imdb.com for a complete list). Chris is very much like his character in these movies, extremly funny, (but slightly aggressive). Nevertheless, Chris was eager to engage in the HWS community - from walking through Scandling Center and having students chant "shooterrrrr!!!!!!" to a personal dinner at the Presidents' house with a few students and faculty members. I fortunatley was able to attend this event (how many people can say they ate dinner with an actor?). I was thoroughly impressed by his friendliness and his willingness to speak about his ups and downs before making it in Hollywood. The film he screened afterwards, Quiz Show, is quite an entertaining and informative movie that I thoroughly recommend.

Chris as the MC

A famous scene from Happy Gilmore

Grab Hold of These

Fabulous Clutches: Featuring Marc by Marc Jacobs

Lock It Up ClutchAirliner Magazine Clutch

The Sweetie Clutch

The Handy Clutch

Opening Ceremony

Located in Soho, this avant-garde boutique features the most unique and diverse selection of fashion in New York City. The owners, Carol Lim and Humberto Leon, travel each year to a different country and experience the culture. They buy two season's worth of collections from about 10 designers. Imagine traveling around the world for business and studying the new styles and trends. Check out the store on 35 Howard St. to have the coolest looks!

Political Fashion

With just 2 days left until the presidential election, it's time to show your political views in style. Check out these designer duds...

PS - Make sure to vote if you haven't already!

Nanette Lepore T-Shirt
Marc by Marc Jacobs Tote

Derek Lam Tote

Vera Wang T-Shirt