AOL RED Blogs: RED Fashion Blog

Top 12 Spring Trends

Thu, 6 Mar 2008 17:47:51 PST

I am so excited about the spring trends. Here are some of my favorites. Post a comment and let me know what you think ... 12. OmbreIf you are scratching your head, it is okay. Ombre is a form of tie-dye that is going to be SUPER hot this spring. This is a distinct kind of tie-dye that gradually goes from dark to light. It is really cute! 11. One-Strap DressesThe asymmetrical-strap dress will be all the rage this spring. Find it in nude or white to channel your inner goddess, or a bold color to turn heads. 10. Art ClassMod-inspired and artsy pieces are a must. Find a color and print that compliments your body. 9. RufflesFeeling a little flirty? Find a ruffled skirt to sweeten up your style. You can even look for cap-sleeved tops with a little ruffle on the shoulder hem. Just add a couple of pieces like this to your wardrobe to show off your feminine side. 8. Gladiator heelsMary Kate Olsen is known for sporting this trend and now it had snowballed into an accessory must-have for the spring season. Don’t be caught off step by not having a pair of these. 7. Neutral handbagsYou can keep your bright clutches for nights out, but for your day to day outfits, opt for a neutral handbag. 6. Light denimsLeave your dark denims in the cold. Spring means it is time for a more airy and light feel. Snag a pair of light denims for this spring season and you won’t be sorry. 5. Graphic JewelryFind that inner art chick and go bold with your jewelry this spring. 4. Bright ColorsUm, hello … it’s spring. Go bold with spring-inspired colors like pink, green, red and yellow. 3. Bold FloralsBirds are singing and flowers are blooming … channel your inner girlie girl and sport some flowers with your wardrobe this spring. 2. ShirtdressesI LOVE LOVE LOVE this trend. Make sure to find a flattering shirtdress to incorporate into your wardrobe this season. With the perfect heels you can really rock this look. 1. Trench coatsA girl has to layer, especially with iffy spring weather. Trench coats are huge this season and in a bold color, you will be turning heads in the hallways … without a doubt. I hope you all have a wonderful and fashion-inspired weekend! Ciao,Jen

Guess Who's Back? ... ME!!!

Tue, 4 Mar 2008 11:03:58 PST

Fashionistas! I got the nicest e-mail from a beRED.com fashionista named Sarah that really warmed my heart. It made me realize just how much I miss you all. I have decided to start up my blog again even though I am no longer the Style Editor for RED. I hope you all will come back and dish with me about celebrity style, fashion do's and don'ts and more. Check back later this week for a brand new, fashionable post! If you have questions about fashion, beauty or anything else that's on your mind send them to me at REDFashionGirl@aol.com. Ciao,Jen

So Long, Farewell Fashionistas

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 06:52:38 PDT

My Fellow Fashionistas- It is with a heavy heart that I write this blog entry ... for it is my last. I have really enjoyed writing this blog over the last few months and getting to dish with you all about new products, hot trends and celebrity red carpet styles. I appreciate all your comments (both good and bad) and emails and I hope that you got something out of this blog, too. I will miss you all very much and I wish you the best in all that you do. As for the RED team, we are a tight knit group and it will be hard for us all to say goodbye and go our separate ways, but I am certain we will stay in touch. RED is made up of the most amazing group of people that I have ever worked with and I will miss them all dearly. (Yes, even James. Psh!) Stay stylish! Ciao,Jen

Knee-High Boots: Who Wears 'Em Better?

Sun, 7 Oct 2007 14:30:08 PDT

Knee-high boots are already taking over the red carpets. Celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Hilary Duff. I love this trend, but am surprised how early celebrities are already wearing it. Are you a fan of knee-high boots? Which celebrity do you think pulls off the trend better: Jennifer Lopez or Hilary Duff? Post a comment and let me know! Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of Oct. 1

Thu, 4 Oct 2007 12:28:07 PDT

Could Kristen Bell seriously be any more adorable? I think not! These gray-wash jeans are adorable and I love them tucked into black knee-high boots. She wore a cute tunic-style top and her hair pulled back in a ponytail, like she usually does. This outfit was really trendy and unique. Grade: A Emma Watson looks amazing in the color blue, but this shirtdress was all wrong on her. The dress was too body on her thin, curve-less figure and the sash belt just didn't really do enough to add form. It looked like she borrowed her older sisters dress for this event. Grade: D Audrina Patridge has this deep brunette hair color and olive skin, so the turtleneck dress she chose in cream looked amazing on her. The detailing around the hemline, sleeves and chest was a great touch. The only thing is, she looked like she could have used a trim on her hair. The roots are looking a little dry. Grade: B+Hayden Panettiere can seriously do no wrong when it comes to her red carpet look. I am usually not a huge fan of floor-length dresses on petite girls, but Hayden pulled it off well. The darted neckline added length to her look and the deep mustard color was incredibly vibrant. She took a chance and it WORKED! Grade: A+What do you think of the red carpet looks this week? Post a comment and grade these celebrities yourself! Ciao,Jen

Too-Thin Celebrities, Big Bust and Eyebrow Plucking Pain

Tue, 2 Oct 2007 12:57:10 PDT

I must say that, for someone who hates Paris Hilton, you have a lot of pictures of her! One of the reasons she is so famous is because people like you send her image out to girls all over. All of the celebrities you show are stick-thin. It is so irritating! I understand that there aren't very many voluptuous celebrities, but you are sending the wrong image. By the way, I am not bashing thin people. I am way too thin for my age, but I just don't like very many foods. Which brings me to my question, how do I gain weight or which type of clothing makes me look like I have at least some body? Thanks so much! Ouch! We do cover Paris Hilton a lot on RED, because she is what people are talking about. We can't help that she is a disaster and we find her actions ridiculous! There aren't enough young, curvaceous celebrities and I really wish there were. The most recent celebrity has been Jennifer Hudson. I have covered her outfits in several red carpet roll call galleries. I love her style. I agree that it is irritating that the only young celebrities we cover (and who are popular) are stick-thin. Now, onto your question ... if you want to add some curves to your body using clothing look for structured pieces. First, any thin girl should have a couple of structured blazers. Blazers add an additional layer to your outfit and if darted at the waist, they will give you an hour-glass shape. Also, go for jeans with decorative back pockets. This will not only make people look at your butt, but will also add more tush visually. These little tips and tricks can help make your body look more of a feminine figure. Dear Jen, First, I must say that I love to read your blog! Now, I am 13 years old and I am a D cup. Can you recommend clothes that will help minimize my bust? Also, can you recommend good types of sports bras that work? You can minimize your bust area with cross-over style tees and tanks and wrap-style tops. Ponchos and poncho-style tops are all the rage this fall and they're perfect for keeping attention away from fuller breasts. An unzipped hoodie or open cardigan creates a vertical line, lengthening the neckline and torso. Scoop neck tees with their deep, wide neckline work to break up an ample chest area. I have read some great reviews about the Champion Action Sports Bra. I cannot speak from experience since I have a small bust, but the reviews have been really positive. If you are a serious athlete you may benefit from the support of the Shock Absorber Support Level 4 D+ Sports Bra. This completely eliminates bouncing. I'm 15, but I'm not allowed to get my eyebrows threaded or waxed yet. So I decide to pluck them myself at home. I'm ok with doing it on the top of my brow, but plucking from the bottom (right above my eyelid) really hurts and makes my eyes water from pain. What should I do? Should I pluck them anyway? Or should I leave them alone like I'm currently doing? The best thing to do is wait since you have sensitive skin. But, if you are convinced that you want to try it again, make sure to prep your skin before plucking. Cleanse your skin by exfoliating with a gentle scrub (I like Biore). This will help prep the area. If you're worried about pain, experts suggest applying Anbesol, Orajel or any teething gel for babies to the brow. Brush brows up and out. Once you have done this, proceed to plucking. Once you are finished, make sure to use a smoothing moisturizer with aloe in it. The aloe will help sooth the skin. Have a question? Send it to me at RedFashionGirl@aol.com. Ciao,Jen

Leather Jackets: Who Wears Them Better?

Sun, 30 Sep 2007 19:07:26 PDT

Isn't it a little too warm outside to be wearing leather jackets? I think so, but apparently Hollywood's finest think that they are perfect for the fall months. You typically don't see leather jackets until the cold winter months, but that hasn't stopped stars like Beyonce Knowles and Maria Menounos. Who do you think wore this trend better? Beyonce's jacket is cute, but I LOVE Maria's cropped jackets with the puffy sleeves. Post a comment and let me know who you would vote for. Ciao,Jen

Leather Jackets: Who Wears The Better?

Sun, 30 Sep 2007 19:07:25 PDT

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of Sept. 24

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:24:30 PDT

I know Hollywood can feel like a circus some times, but it seems like some celebrities really took the whole "circus"-look way too far. I am all for bold punches of color, but some of these stars just looked ridiculous. Mod met flapper with this weird orange and green dress. Nothing about this dress really worked on Lauren Conrad. The color blended with her skin tone, the cut was just blah ... there was nothing attractive about it at all. She wore her hair back, as usual. There was nothing exciting about this look at all. Grade: DI'm a Jennifer Lopez fan and I really love the risks she takes with her fashion. This week she wore black tights with a flowing gray dress with a scarf neckline. I loved the black hat and wispy pieces of hair around her face. The vibrant bracelets were a little random, but she still looked good. Grade: BMischa Barton is all about the retro and mod pieces of clothing and I love that about her, but this graphic dress was all wrong. The white background of the dress really washed out Mischa's fair skin. The shape was boxy and just not flattering on her figure at all. I really hated this dress on her. The more I look at it, the more I hate it. Grade: FWow ... talk about a dress fitting like a glove. Amanda Bynes looked amazing in this black and blue dress. The black band around the waist drew attention to her tiny tummy. Her long blonde locks looked shiny and healthy. She really just looked amazing! Grade: A+How would you grade these looks? Post a comment. Ciao,Jen

Purple Dresses: Who Wears 'Em Better?

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 07:24:04 PDT

Purple is one of the trendiest colors this fall and I am crazy about it. With that lingering summer tan, this vibrant color can really make your skin look radiant. Stars all over Hollywood are wearing this colorful trend. Kristen Bell and Audrina Patridge both look amazing in purple, but I think I like Audrina's dress better. It's more youthful, the flirty pleats are sexy and the bubble-skirted bottom is really adorable. Who do you think wore this trend better? Post a comment! Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of Sept. 17

Thu, 20 Sep 2007 19:31:27 PDT

Jessica Alba looks amazing in this black sequin dress. The cut of the dress looked amazing on her fit body and the simple clutch was the perfect, subtle accessory. She couldn't have picked a better look to wear to the premiere of her movie, 'Good Luck Chuck.' Grade: A+ Lauren Conrad wore this ruffled black dress on the red carpet this week. It was just way too much fabric for her tiny frame and just made her look unproportionate. Her round-toe pumps were cute and we love her curled ponytail. I just could have done without all that fabric. Grade: C- This baby doll-style dress that Ashanti wore was interesting. It was fitted up top and then flowed from the natural waistline. The black and white pattern around the base of the sequin dress was really busy and the large bangles were a bit over-the-top. Grade: B I'm not sure what Alyson Hannigan was going for with this black dress. The decorative neckline is beautiful, but what was with the knee-high boots? Separately, I loved the boots and the dress, but together it just looked strange to me. Am I over analyzing this? Grade: D What do you think of these red carpet looks? Post a comment and grade each celebrity! Ciao,Jen

Brown-Eyed Girl, Skinny Jeans and Thin Hair

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 09:20:57 PDT

Dear Jen, I adore your blog. Every day, I sign on just to look at your page. I have big brown eyes and I love them! Do you have any recommendations to make them pop more (like what color eye-shadow, what mascara to use, etc.)? Tell me when you get a chance. Brown Eyed JuliaHi Julia! Thanks for reading my blog so often. I am happy you like it. Whether you have light brown eyes like Jessica Simpson (left) or deep brown eyes like Keira Knightley, there are plenty of color choices. (Here is an eyeshadow guide to find the right colors based on your eye shade.)Classic Choices: Copper, bronze, champagne (soft pink with a touch of apricot), brown, beige, and khaki-greenFunky Favorites: Tangerine, royal blue, hot pink, lime-green (the contrast adds punch to brown)As far as mascara, stay away from brown. Instead, use black or very black in order to really make your eyes pop. Don't forget to curl your lashes before applying mascara. This will give you the dramatic curve you are seeking. Always do two coats on the top lashes for more drama and add more to the lashes furthest from your nose. This will give you a more feminine and sexy look.Dear Jen, I am really into the skinny fit jeans this year! I want to know what kind of tops and shoes would look good with these awesome jeans! But I want you to keep in mind that my school is not one of crazy fashion so nothing too over the top! Thanks & Love your blog! Skinny jeans are great because you can go with a more flowing top to balance the thin legs. Tunics are really huge right now, so I would suggest pairing those with skinny jeans. I know school is not over-the-top, but if you can add a heel to your skinny jeans, that will give your legs a leaner look. Oversized sweaters are going to be huge this fall too and they would look great with skinny jeans. Play around with a couple different looks and shapes that work on you, but definitely pick up a tunic or two. They are a sure match with skinny jeans.Hey Jen. I was reading how you said thin hair is better short, but I have thin, dark blonde hair with light blonde highlights and it is almost down to my butt, maybe 3 inches off. I really like it long, but is there a style or something that can make it appear thicker? It's good for about 3 minutes when I flip it around in the bathroom in between classes and stuff, but I need an "all-day-thick" hairstyle without having to go short. thanx. oh, and I LOVE ur blog. AWESOME!!! Layers are the answer for thin hair, in addition to volumizing products. I would suggest having a couple of inches cut off your hair (since the weight will keep it lifeless), then have a hairdresser put long layers into your hair. This will add movement and body that you need. Try the Garnier Fructis Body and Volume line of hair products. It's reasonably priced and will add the fullness that you are after. Have a question for me? E-mail REDFashionGirl@aol.com. Ciao,Jen

Chain-Strap Purses: Who Wears 'Em Better?

Sun, 16 Sep 2007 19:46:23 PDT

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this new trend. Celebrities all over Hollywood are accessorizing with chain-strap handbags and I think they are adorable. Not only do they look chic, but they mix metal with your outfit. Who do you think pulls off this trend better ... Mischa Barton or Nicky Hilton. Although both bags are adorable, I think I like Nicky's white bag best because she paired it with her light-blue dress. Post a comment and let me know who your favorite is. Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of Sept. 10

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 07:13:18 PDT

Wow ... who ever dressed America Ferrera in this space suit should be admitted into a mental institution. I think this may be the most hideous dress I have ever seen. And when cute pointed-toe pumps can't make it better, that's when you know it's BAD! Grade: F Does Zac Efron ever NOT look good? I think he could wear a potato sack and still look delicious. He wore a simple black suit on the red carpet this week, but he accented it with a bright blue tie that really brought out his eyes. He looked amazing! Grade: A JoJo gets more and more beautiful as she gets older. This strapless purple dress fit JoJo like a glove. I loved that it hit right above the knee and had a cute belt with bow detail around her natural waistline. Even her chestnut brown hair looked perfect. Grade: A+ Hmm ... this dress isn't that big of an improvement from last week. These torn and tattered dresses Keira Knightley has been wearing lately are just not flattering at all. The shape of this dress is OK, but the stark white color washes Keira out completely. I like her much better in simple lines and richer colors. Grade: D What did you think of these red carpet looks? Post a comment and give these stars your grade! Ciao,Jen

Brunette Hair, Houndstooth and Big Eyes

Tue, 11 Sep 2007 15:28:50 PDT

Dear Jen, I'm Puerto Rican, so I have olive-toned, tan skin. because I've been out in the sun so much this summer, my hair has started to bleach out from my medium brown to a lighter brownish blond highlight. It is blending almost too well with my skin nowadays, and I want to dye it. The question is, will it look weird to have dark brown hair this time of year? Or is there something I can do to just tone down the highlights? Also, a quick question on light brows. Brow liner looks just plain foolish on me, I've tried. Is it safe to dye my eyebrows with my hair? Thanks, Bry Hi Bry, brunette locks are all the rage this fall. If you want to tone down your summer highlights, then you can always choose a medium brown color and bring some balance back to your appearance. If you don't want to go all out with a full color, do a color wash. Basically, take hair color and mix it with conditioner to dilute it, then apply through your hair and brush it in. Let it sit for 15 minutes or so and wash it out. It will add some richness back into your natural hair color. As for your brows, you can certainly color them, but just remember that if you change your hair color, you may need to change your brows again. Instead of using a pencil, you make want to opt for eye shadow in your brow color. It looks more natural. I just want to say I love your advice and sense of fashion, so when I first thought of this question, you were the one I thought to ask. I've been seeing a lot of hounds tooth patterned clothing in stores. Do you think the trend will stick and be popular this school year or won't it be? Houndstooth is a classic print and this season I am seeing it in a larger print. It's classic meets mod. This trend will stick throughout the fall and winter seasons. I love it this pattern and plan to get one or two pieces of my own to mix and match with my wardrobe. I love when classic gets reinvented. Hi Jen, I love your blog but I have a problem. My eyes are always really wide open. It's like a permanent muscle, and I have to purposely squint if I don't want to look like a freak. I'm talking scary big. I get comments like "You look like you're hypnotized" or "I used to be afraid of you." On picture day I look even worse. And its hard to remember to squint. Is there anyway to cure big eyes? Thank you! - Can't Squint 4Ever Big eyes are a good thing. Don't diss your eyes! If you want to minimize the size of them use eyeliner. Eyeliner and even shadow across the lash line will help make eyes appear smaller. If you don't believe me, just try it. If you want to make your eyes appear more oval and less round, then use your eyeliner pencil or shadow and pull out the color at the ends of your eyes. This is how you get a cat eye look. This will make your eyes appear smaller and more slanted.

Bow-Straps: Who Wears Them Better

Sun, 9 Sep 2007 14:43:34 PDT

Bow-strapped dresses are taking the place of flower-strapped dresses we saw a few seasons ago. These big bows make a huge statement, so if you are going to dare to wear one of these frocks, be sure to keep your accessories simple. The bows act as an accessory on their own. Who do you think wears this trend better: Vanessa Hudgens or Cameron Diaz? Cameron's dress seems to busy, whereas Vanessa's has just one single strap and the dress is in a velvet texture. Between the two of them, my vote goes to Vanessa. Post a comment and tell me what YOU think! Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of Sept. 3

Thu, 6 Sep 2007 11:50:57 PDT

Seriously, what is the deal with this dress? It looks like Keira Knightley's dress was torn to shreads by a cat. The color of the dress just washed out Keira's already pale skin and the shape really did nothing for her. All around, it was a really bad choice. Grade: F Leave it to Gwen Stefani to take an old school pattern and turn it into a mod new look. These oversized herringbone mini dress looked amazing on her. And I love how she did her hair in a retro updo. Overall this look was GREAT! Grade: B+ Could Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie be any more perfect together? Besides Angelina's hair being a little poofy, these two looked amazing. Angelina wore a below-the-knee pencil skirt with a black silk top. Brad wore a three piece suit with a vest and button-front white shirt. Grade: A+ I'm not quite sure what Ashley Olsen was going for here with a white dress and sheer white shawl. Her rings were a bit over-the-top, but we did love the colorful clutch. She didn't seem to happy ... maybe she disliked her outfit as much as I did. Grade: D What did you think of these red carpet looks? Post a comment and tell me what grade you would have given them! Ciao,Jen

Vertically Challenged, Fashion Envy, New Hairdo

Tue, 4 Sep 2007 16:14:37 PDT

Okay, so I am sick of just being that pretty little short girl. At 4'10 going into the 8th grade I've always been the "midget" in my grade, and it really bugs me that everyone is so hung up on my small stature. How can I wear clothes and shoes that make me appear taller with losing sense of my true preppy and funky style? P.S. How can I stop getting mistaken for a 4th grader? Thanks a million, Vertically ChallengedYou will look back on this in a couple of years and love that you are tiny. Trust me. I am 5 foot and weight 100 pounds. People are hung up on your small statue because it is adorable and they are jealous. You can wear things that no one else can. Petite girls have cute options when it comes to clothes and accessories. If you want to make yourself appear taller, go with pinstripes, pointed-toe shoes and anything that will elongate your body and torso. You may even want to try hairstyles where you do a bump in the front. Anything to add height will make you appear taller. I know it sucks to be mistaken for being younger, but just think ... when you're 30 and all your friends look older, you'll be looking like a 21-year-old hottie. Right now, just use your clothes, accessories and makeup to help make you feel like your age. Embrace your tiny statue ... you'll come to love it.Hi, my name is Kathryn and I have a problem at school. Everyone keeps stealing my fashions and I get really tired of that. They even do it when I wear something that I think is ugly. Then they copy my hair too. I try to tell them to back off and make their own fashions but then they just ask me what I'm going to wear the next day. I know that I'm popular but it sucks sometimes. So then I tell them that I'm going to wear pink so then they do. Please help me. I really need it! Best Dressed Seriously, I know it's annoying, but imitation is the best form of flattery. Take this as an opportunity to help other people find their own style. The people in your school are looking to you and admire you because of your fashion sense. Be flattered by that and help them with their style. Instead of lying to them about your wardrobe for tomorrow or getting upset with them, reach out. Once you show that you care, then they will value your advice even more. Hi! I start high school really soon, and I want to make a great first impression with my hairstyle. What's a great cut that's at least a little low-maintenance, looks good either straightened or wavy, and is longer than the shoulders? Love your blog!If you're looking to switch up your look some, but still keep your hair long, opt for some long layers and wispy bangs. Layers give softness and movement to your look and they are great for both curly and straight hair. See all the hot fall hairstyles.

Chunky Necklaces: Who Wears Them Better?

Sun, 2 Sep 2007 07:44:55 PDT

I thought this trend had come and gone, but it looks like it has been updated and is even stronger than ever with celebrities! If you are going to attempt to wear a shunky necklace, remember to keep the rest of your outfit subtle. The chunky necklace should be the only focal point and shouldn't have to fight for attention with loud colors or overdone makeup. Just keep the rest of your look REALLY natural. I love these two necklaces worn by Amanda Bynes and Drew Barrymore. Although I am personally a bigger fan of Amanda as a celebrity, I think Drew pulled off this trend better. Amanda's necklace was too close to her face and really took away from her natural beauty. Drew's necklace hung further from her face in several metallic layers. It really complimented her well. What do you think? Post a comment and tell me who you think pulled off this trend better! Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of August 27

Fri, 31 Aug 2007 06:41:12 PDT

On anyone else I think I would have appreciated this sexy, slinky dress, but on Paris Hilton it seems like everything looks skanky. I know ... I shouldn't be so harsh, but she's seriously a dirty girl! The periwinkle color was really beautiful on her, but the cut was a bit over-the-top. Grade: C Seriously, what is happening to Mischa Barton? This black sequin dress just hung lifelessly on her body and the hippy headband looked ridiculous. It looked like she didn't even brush her hair. Ugh ... she just looked horrible all around. Grade: F Brittany Snow is adorable and this fuchsia dress with a bubble-skirt bottom was adorable. I loved that she accented the black buttons on the dress with black heels. I wasn't loving her hair though. She kind of had a sloppy updo that didn't mesh well with her outfit. It was too busy. Grade: B+ There's nothing cuter on Keira Knightley than nautical colors. It makes me think of her on a ship in the Caribbean with my boyfriend Orlando Bloom. Um, what was I talking about? Riiight! This strapless dress in white and navy is adorable on Keira's tiny frame. I loved the white stripe around the hemline. Super cute! Grade: A+

Suntan Lines, Creasing Eye Shadow and Abs

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 06:26:34 PDT

Hi! Well, I have been outside a lot and used sunblock. Though, I still got a tan. My top is thick halter straps, so I have huge lines on my shoulder where the straps go. Do you have any tips to cover it up?I would suggest applying a bronzer in the areas you want to make look darker. The only problem with this is that the tan created by the bronzer may not match your own. It may be better to use cover-up or even an all-over bronzer. The places that have not tanned will still stand out, but it won't be as obvious.Hi Jen, I have started to wear makeup and have noticed that my eye shadow is creasing in the middle of my eye lid. How do you keep that from happening? It's really annoying to be putting my eye shadow on twice in the same day. Also what is a good water proof mascara? I like the one I use (CoverGirl Lash Exact) but it's not water proof. Thanks, EmilieHi Emilie! A lot of people have this same issue. The formula in the eye shadow does not mix well with your skin. Before applying your shadow, you need to put a base layer on your eye lids. Some options are Elizabeth Arden's eye fix primer and Cool Effect cream eyecolor by Maybelline. The new cream eye shadows are supposed to help decrease the color, so try that. You can also apply a powder (like your foundation) before using your eye shadow. This will add a nice base and allow your eye shadow a surface to stick to. Dear Jen, For starters ... I LOVE YOU BLOG! I do 50 crunches every night. I have a four pack. But, I seriously hurt my calf and I have to wear that boot thing for two to three weeks. I can't hook my feet on under the couch, put them on the table or put them on the ground. It causes my foot to hurt and I can't walk. So, do you know any other exercises to help me gain a six pack without my right foot hurting? Thanks, JuliaHi Julia! You can continue exercising your abs without even using your feet. You can lay on the floor on your back with your legs straight and just raise your upper body (with arms behind your head, or over your head). You can turn your legs to each side to sculpt the sides of your abs too. Get creative! You can even sit in a chair and concentrate on tightening your abs (even while in class). This will help keep your muscles tone and strong. Hope your calf gets better soon!

Fedora Hats: Who Wears It Better?

Sun, 26 Aug 2007 10:56:16 PDT

Fedora Hats are one of the hottest trends this summer and into the fall season. This trend is adorable on both guys and girls. For girls, this plays up the masculine look, which is so trendy right now. What do you think of this trend? Post a comment and let me know! Both Hilary Duff and Ashlee Simpson have been spotted wearing this trend, along with several other stars. I think that with Ashlee's personality, that she pulls off the Fedora hat better. They both look adorable in the trend, but Ashlee looks best in my opinion. Who do you think looks better? Ciao, Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of August 20

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 19:58:24 PDT

Even with a medical boot on, Rihanna looks hot. I love her new bad girl, sexy look. Her silky bob really complimented her overall look. The bubble skirt added a soft edge to Rihanna's bad girl-look. Poor thing had to hop around with a high heel on one foot and a clunky medical boot on the other. Grade: A (only she can make that boot look good) America Fererra wore this black dress on the red carpet this week with a teal-colored cropped sweater with crochet accents. This outfit was really adorable, but it also seemed to make her look a lot older than she is. I wish she would play with some more youthful colors and try for a more trendy and daring look. Grade: C Kelly Osbourne has really impressed me lately. She wore this fitted blazer jacket with black leggings with a black skirt over top. She accessorized with black round-toe flats. Her hair was in a simple bob with subtle red highlights. Although I like her in more mod prints and retro colors, this look was pretty cute on her. Grade: B+ Wow ... I'm not sure who advised Alicia Keys that this demin jumpsuit was a must have, but she was mistaken. Yikes! One size does not fit all, and in this case, the jumper really draws attention to Alicia's thighs and hips. She needs an outfit that balances her curves to make her body look more proportional. This look was horrible. Grade: D

Choosing Jeans, Uni-Brow and Hair That Won't Grow

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 19:42:52 PDT

With the new school year approaching super fast I wanted to get a few answers about jeans! A little information: I will be a junior in high school this September. I am VERY short, hovering around 5'0 to 5'1, weighing in at 120 lbs, and I have both a booty and some thighs. I was wondering what cuts and styles of jeans would look the best for my frame. Should I avoid certain washes?! I love the look of skinny jeans, should I even try them out?!If you are petite with hips and a booty, skinny jeans will not be flattering. You need a cut of jeans that will balance your hips and booty, so go with a flare or boot cut jeans that will add more of an hourglass shape to your bod. People get all consumed with the size of jeans. DON'T ... this goes for all body types. I can squeeze into a size zero if I really want to, but a size 2 looks so much flattering on my figure. Don't concentrate on the size ... instead, you need to focus on the fit.Having washes that pull vertically across your hips will only make you look wider up top. Also, don't go with a wash focused right on the thigh. Go with a sophisticated dark wash or even a light wash with subtle threading running vertically. If you want to keep attention off of your booty, then pick jeans with plain butt pockets. Any embellishments on the pockets will just draw people's attention there.Dear REDfashiongirl, I have a uni-brow and am allowed to get it waxed and do. But some people still notice hair and some even ask if I shave it! At those times I get embarrassed and shy. What should I do to prevent people from doing so?People are going to be people and look for flaws in others in order to make themselves feel better. It's really sad, but unfortunately, it's human nature. If you are uncomfortable with the hair that grows in between getting your brows waxed you can try using eyeshadow or foundation matching your skin tone, and basically coloring the hair so that it blends more into your skin. Does that make sense? You may need to try a couple of shades in order to find the color that works best. This should help stop the teasing and help you feel more confident about your appearance.My hair is so thin! I want to have long hair but it seems as if its stopped growing now. I used to straighten my hair all the time. I hated my curly hair but now I like it and I'm leaving it curly. Still my hair hasn't grown an inch! How can I help it grow???We actually all go through stages in our lives when our hair slows down and doesn't grow at the pace we're used to. Follow these steps and talk to your hairdresser. 1. Avoid extreme diets. If your body isn't getting enough nutrition, neither is your hair. Even if you try to avoid fat, it's essential that you don't completely eliminate all fat from your diet. 2. In order to have long healthy hair you absolutely have to start with healthy hair. You must cut off every inch that is damaged. 3. Trim your hair often. Damage to your hair will move up from the ends and the only way to stop the damage in its tracks is to remove it as soon as it happens. If you are actively growing your hair, trim it a half inch every three or four months. 4. Avoid using any heated appliances whenever possible. No blow drying, no curling irons, no hot rollers, and especially no flat irons! 5. Avoid chlorine and saltwater. If you go swimming in either, shampoo your hair as soon as possible after exposure. 6. Be extremely careful of what kind of hair jewelry you use. Never use metal barrettes (the "French" style) and absolutely NEVER use rubber bands, they will tear your hair when you try to remove them. 7. Never put your hair in any kind of style that will put undue stress on the individual hairs... no tiny braids, no extremely tight coils. 8. Be extremely gentle with your hair when it is wet. Don't rub your hair vigorously with a towel, gently squeeze the towel down the length of your hair. 9. Let your hair get dirty once in awhile. That's right ... permission to be lazy, what more could you ask for? Try to go a couple of days before shampooing to give your hair a rest. 10. Become familiar with the ingredients in your styling products. Once you know what affects your hair positively or detrimentally, you will be able to effectively choose products that contain ingredients that are best for your hair type.

Striped Dresses: Who Wears It Better?

Sun, 19 Aug 2007 20:20:10 PDT

Striped dresses are hot right now and we're talking about the one's that converge on the center of the dress. This trend goes with the whole mod-style that is popular this fall. Both Brittany Snow and Paris Hilton have been seen wearing this trend. I have to say that I like Brittany's dress better because the bold black and white stripes look amazing on her. Paris' dress kind of has a rainbow-ish feel that is cute, but I still favor Brittany's dress. Which celebity do you think wears this trend better? Post a comment and tell me. Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call August 17

Thu, 16 Aug 2007 18:41:58 PDT

I love Mandy Moore, but (how do I put this nicely?) whoever chose this dress and makeup for her really needs to be fired and never work in the business again. I adore Mandy's cute, sweet-girl look and this new vampire-ish style is WAY over-the-top. From the fitted black dress to the new dark locks and blood-colored lipstick ... she looked horrible. Seriously, no one looks good in that shade of lipstick. Grade: D OK, I LOVED this dress on Miley Cyrus, but the shoes were really just a strange choice. The fuchsia-colored dress with a fitted skirt and sequin top was an amazing choice. The sandals she wore were white with a blue ankle strap. Grade: B+ (only because of the shoes) It's almost as if Mischa Barton doesn't even care how she looks on the red carpet anymore. She wore skinny jeans with sandals and a wite and orange tunic. Just a really weird choice. But I HAVE to say that I LOVE her new auburn hair color. I wish she would have chosen an outfit or color that would really have made it stand out even more. Grade: C (She would have gotten a lower grade, but I love her new hair color.) I LOVED Ashley Olsen's outfit this week. She wore a silky, flowing skirt with a black top and jacket, bold black belt and her signature Greek-tied sandals that she has been seen wearing recently. She went with cat-eye makeup that really complimented her outfit. I thought she looked amazing! Grade: A What grades would you give these celebrities looks? Post a comment and let me know! Ciao,Jen

Cheekbones, Bangs and Modeling

Tue, 14 Aug 2007 14:33:43 PDT

Hey Jen, I <3 ur blog. U give great advice! And I totally need ur help right now! I want to make my check bones pop more. Like they're noticeable, but I would love to know what to use to make them pop more like how the celebrities do it. Thanks so much! OK, here's the secret to super model cheekbones. Prepare yourself! To accentuate cheekbones, use a blush that compliments your skin tone. For fair complexions, pale pinks, medium, browns, olives and coral colors work beautifully. To make your cheekbones stand out, suck your cheeks in and sweep blush onto the hollows of your cheeks. If you already have super model cheekbones, simply smile and dab the apples of your cheeks with your complimenting blusher. Cream blush is my favorite for the fall season because they blend easily so they look natural.I'm a girl and I'm 14 years old. I'm going into a new high school in the fall and I just got a haircut where my bangs are too long to sit on my forehead but too short to go behind my ears. And they're also too fluffy to go to the side and I don't want to cut them and I don't want to look like this at high school. So, I was wondering if you had any advice? Thanks. Don't stress over your bangs. You just need to get used to them and learn how to make them do what you want them to do. Medium-length bangs are perfect for this fall, especially if you can encourage them to sweep to the side. If they are too fluffy, try using a straightener to calm them down, then a holding spray or mousse to keep them in place. Once you do this a couple of times, your hair will get used to it and start doing what you want more easily. You have to train it and it takes time and patience. Lucky for you, when you get sick of your bangs, throw them back in a scarf headband, because those are hot this fall too. Bangs are the best ... you just need to work with them. Hi Jen! Just recently, I made an appointment to be looked at by a pretty big modeling agency. This is my first time being looked at and I have absolutely no idea what to wear. I was hoping you could tell me what modeling agencies might like to see and what some of the latest trends are. Thank you so much! Congrats! That is VERY exciting. Have you watched 'America's Next Top Model'? If you haven't, then you should. Listen to what the panel and Tyra Banks tell the models about what they expect during the elimination round. When you go before a modeling agency or panel, you need to look natural and not overdone. For instance, wear makeup, but keep it light and natural. A little blush, mascara and gloss to enhance your natural features ... nothing more. Your clothes should be fitted well, so that they can see your body structure, but not slutty. Sometimes a pair of nice fitted jeans and a trendy top are all you need. Keep to a minimal amount of accessories ... less is more during these meetings because you don't want your jewelry taking attention away from your natural beauty. Let your confidence shine through, practice your walk the evening before, get a good night sleep and don't overdo it ... let yourself shine. Good luck! Need advice? E-mail me at REDFashionGirl@aol.com. Ciao,Jen

Plaid Skirts: Who Wears Them Better?

Sun, 12 Aug 2007 19:06:11 PDT

The school girl-look is back and more popular than ever. Take a lesson from Miley Cyrus and Fergie this fall and add a school girl-skirt to your wardrobe for a fashion-perfect look. Between these two, it's hard for me to decide which celebrity I think pulls of the trend better. Fergie kind of went all out with the school girl-look, whereas Miley mixed her plaid skirt into a more modern style. So, I think my vote goes to Miley. What do you think? Post a comment and let me know! Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call August 6

Thu, 9 Aug 2007 16:35:08 PDT

If anyone else was wearing this we wouldn't have liked it as much, but this long, white strapless dress with green leaves looked amazing on Ashley Tisdale. I usually like to see her in shorter dresses because her legs are so gorgeous, but in this case, she looked great. Grade: A Rihanna went masculine-sexy with wide-legged gray pants, a white corset and cane. I loved the bangles and simple earrings with lightly curled locks, but the outfit overall didn't have the wow factor she usually has. Grade: B Amanda Bynes could have worn a potato sack and still would have looked amazing to me. She wore a simple, black mini-dress in a trapeze style. It looked adorable and we loved seeing her extra long legs. Grade: A+ Lauren Conrad surprised us with this black skirt and beige top ensemble. It was a cute effort, but made her look really wide in the hips. The top was adorable with a darted neckline and a black belt around the waist. Fitted black pants would have been a better choice as a bottom. Grade: D Post a comment and tell me what grades you would give these stars and their styles. Ciao,Jen

Locks of Love = New 'Do

Tue, 7 Aug 2007 18:22:43 PDT

Dear Jen: I am going into high school this year and I need some advice about my hair. I donated it in December to Locks of Love and it has grown to the stage where it is too short to pull back and to long to just leave hanging. My hair is light brown with two natural blonde highlights by my face and is naturally wavy. I want to know if you have any advice on how to keep it back and still have it look stylish. Cutting it is out of the option because I want it to grow out again. Thank you.Lucky for you one of the most popular trends this fall is having your hair pulled back in a bun or ponytail with a headband. If your hair is too short to pull back into a bun or ponytail, just use the scarf headbands to add some color and flare to your fall hairstyle. Hey Jen! First of all, I would like to say that you are my favorite blogger on the red staff! But this is my problem: uniform. Is there any way to make private school plaid cute? Thanks for the compliment! You need to check with your school to see how much freedom you have with your appearance. Once you know that, I would suggest playing around with her accessories (handbag and jewelry) as much as you are allowed to. If you are unable to do that, then I would get a trendy fall hairstyle. Use your accessories, hair and makeup to make you stand apart from the crowd.Hi Jen, I recently went through a miserable time with my family, and gained a lot of weight, only wore hoodies and jeans, and well lets just say looked TERRIBLE! But I have moved on and things are a lot better now, I still need to lose all that weight though, I really want to get back into fashion and feel beautiful, but I can't when I have such a bad self image because of my weight! Any advice? ThanxI am sorry to hear about the difficult time you went through with your family. A lot of people gain weight when they are dealing with stressful situations, so you shouldn't feel like you're the only one that this type of thing happens to. You're not alone. You need to dress your body the way it is now. Otherwise, you will continue feeling negatively about your body and will not lose the weight. When you look good, you feel good. Ever heard that? Buy a couple of nice back to school outfits that you feel good in and you will see that you will start losing weight as your life balances back out again. Just be patient and appreciate your current beauty. If you keep wearing hoodies and jeans, waiting until you lose the weight so that you can buy new clothes, it will be very difficult. Go out and treat yourself to some nice things. Even if it's accessories to make you feel a little better about yourself and embrace this change you are going through. Have questions? E-mail me at REDFashionGirl@aol.com. Ciao,Jen

Head Scarves: Who Wears It Better?

Sun, 5 Aug 2007 08:40:04 PDT

Head scarves are all the rage right now. It doesn't matter whether you wear your hair up or down with them, although many celebrities are accessorizing their updos with scarves. I have a couple that I just LOVE. Who do you think wears this trend better ... Paris Hilton or Tara Reid? I'm not a huge Paris fan, but I actually think she wears her head scarf better than Tara. What do you think? Post a comment! Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call July 30

Thu, 2 Aug 2007 16:29:02 PDT

It's nice to see Mary-Kate Olsen all dolled up. Usually she is all about the bohemian style, but this outfit was MUCH more sophisticated and sexy. She wore a long black shirt that flared at the bottom and a white top with a darted neckline. We love her loose updo and that she kept her accessories simple. So sophisticated, Mary-Kate. Grade: A Now, I have given Anne Hathaway crap in the past for always wearing black, but I did not want her going to the light side and wear white on the red carpet. Anne has beautiful skin, but it is VERY light and wearing white is just a horrible idea. Ugh. Even the shape of the dress wasn't great. All around it was a horrible choice. Grade: D Although I like seeing way more of Eva Longoria's bod on the red carpet (since she has it, why not flaunt it?) I am OK with this choice of dress. The cut was cute with the high neck and bold, black buttons, but the color was kind of blah against her gorgeous skin. If the dress had been in red, fuchsia or bright blue I would have liked it a lot more. Grade: B- If anyone can pull off a long, white, peasant dress with a darted neckline, it's Jennifer Lopez. Wow! She has the right curves in the right places and this dress looked absolutely stunning on her. Although she was completely covered in the middle of summer, it still was a lovely look on her. Her hair parted in the middle and the colorful necklace were beautiful additions. Grade: A Post a comment and let me know how you would grade these celebrity looks.

Following the Crowd

Wed, 1 Aug 2007 14:00:28 PDT

I am hanging out with a bunch of new people who are 'scene'. They have long bangs that cover their eyes/side(s) of their faces, wear black and white, and wear Hello Kitty or Gloomy Bear charms/ necklaces. Their brands are Gwen Stefani's (I have no idea how to spell it) line of clothing and tight jeans.I like their clothing, and I think they are cool. They don't pick on me because I stand out, wearing American Eagle and other brighter clothing, but I feel strange being around them. They pile on makeup, straighten and cut their own hair, and do other things I certainly cannot and will not do. My mother won't let me have long bangs, and she is irritable that I asked her for more different clothes, when she just bought me some. I feel left out because I am new in that group, and I hope they won't kick me out because I don't wear the right clothes. I want to stick with this group; I don't want my individuality to come in the way ... but I really wanna fit in. What do you think I should do? Sincerely, The Newbee We have a couple of issues here. First, the fact that you're hanging out with a group that does things that you "cannot and will not do" is an issue. Are you sure this is the right crowd for you to be hanging out with? Sounds like they do things that you are not comfortable with. Maybe you should rethink being part of their group. Second, if you're worried about them kicking you out because of who you are and the way you dress, then they shouldn't be your friends. Friends shouldn't judge you and make you feel like you don't fit in. You're worried about your individuality getting in the way? Do you hear what you're saying? The great thing about you is that you ARE unique and if your friends don't accept you for that ... then it's time to find new friends. Take some time to evaluate who you are and what you want out of your friends. Once you know those answers you can make a better decision. No matter what happens, you need to feel comfortable with who you are. Hey, Jen! I'm trying to decide whether or not to get side-swept bangs. My hair is brown, side-parted and naturally has loose curls from where I tie my hair back (where the ponytail holder is) down. My buds say that I shouldn't because they think it will curl, but I don't think they will. Do you? -- Mo Mae Side-swept bangs are hot this fall and a perfect option for a versatile look. If your hair is naturally wavy, just know that your bangs will also be wavy. So, you have two options. First, make sure your hairstylist knows that your hair is wavy and ask for a longer, wispy bang that you can tuck behind your ear if it gets annoying. Second, you can leave the rest of your hair wavy and just straighten your bang so it lays the way you want it to. I have naturally wavy hair and side-swept bangs, and I can tell you from personal experience that it can definitely work. As long as you talk to your hairstylist and tell him/her that you want the option to wear them both straight and curly, then they can guide you. My mother and father (well, all my family mostly) say I'm beautiful, however I don't think so. My lips are huge! How could I play them down? Or is this not a question you would answer? I know you have probably heard this a million times, but you really need to embrace your beauty. People pay a lot of money and try all different kinds of products in order to make their lips more plump. Big lips are a sign of femininity and beauty. If you insist on toning down your lips then avoid using a lip liner and anything glossy. Lining your lips will draw attention to where your lips stop and how large they are. Using a gloss or lipstick with sheen will only make people notice your lips even more. If you want to use lip color, go with a stain or flat lipstick. Stains are one of the most popular fall beauty trends. Have a question for me? E-mail it to REDFashionGirl@aol.com. Ciao,Jen

Bermuda Shorts: Who Wears It Better?

Sun, 29 Jul 2007 20:16:37 PDT

Bermuda shorts (or long shorts) are really popular this summer season and are the perfect transitional piece of clothing to lead you into the fall season. I am a huge fan of these shorts and have a couple of pairs of my own. I love dressing them up with heels. Both Paris Hilton and Kate Bosworth love this trend. Who do you think wears this trend better? I think between Paris and Kate, I like Kate's torn denim shorts better with her white tunic. Post a comment and tell me what you think of the trend and who wears it better. Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of July 23

Thu, 26 Jul 2007 19:55:10 PDT

Could they have been standing any further apart? Weird. Later that evening Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes hit the dance floor and Tom was all about getting as close as he could to his wife. (Just saying that makes me want to puke.) Regardless of what I think about their relationship, they really looked incredible. Tom wore a blue suit with brown shoes and a purple tie. Katie stole the show with a strapless red gown with a stunning heart-shaped neckline. And Katie's bob has taken over Hollywood as the must-have hairstyle for the fall season. Grade: Tom: B and Katie: A+ Eva Longoria is worrying me some. I know she is a petite woman, but she is looking AWFULLY thin. Eva, please don't get too skinny. She wore a yellow bubble dress with a darted neckline and detailing that pulls in at the waist. OMG ... and her peep-toe green shoes with sheen were really risky, but they worked. She made us think of citrus and summer. It was really an adorable outfit. Grade: A (not a plus because she's TOO thin.) I'm pumped that the Beckhams have come to America, but Victoria is not complimenting her handsome husband. David Beckham wore a thin-legged gray suit with a subtle pinstripe and thin black tie. He looked very sharp and European chic. Victoria, on the other hand, wore the sluttiest dress she could find with super-high platforms. It was totally inappropriate and she didn't look complimentary to her husband. Tisk! Grade: David: A and Victoria: F Jennifer Lopez is a beautiful woman and I am all about embracing her curves, but this dress does NOTHING for her. First, the neckline is really weird and the color is just so blah against Jen's beautiful skin tone. The only thing I really liked was her sophisticated low ponytail. Grade: D Post a comment and let me know what you think of these outfits and how you would grade them. Ciao,Jen

White Fitted Jeans: Who Wears It Better?

Sun, 22 Jul 2007 07:08:27 PDT

It's summer, so celebrities are all about wearing white. Recently, I have noticed a number of stars wearing white fitted jeans. Fitted jeans don't really work on my body type, so I personally am not into this trend, but I think some tall, thin stars can really pull off this look well. Who do you think wears fitted white jeans better: Cameron Diaz or Victoria Beckham? My vote is for Cameron. I like the tunic-style top that went over her hips. Post a comment and let me know what you think. Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of July 16

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 13:39:16 PDT

It's nice to see Nick Lachey and Vanessa Minnillo in clothes. ZING! Nick wore a gray suit with a black shirt that had white pinstripes. Vanessa wore a black dress with a wide cinched waist and a lacy halter darted neckline. They complimented each other really well and I thought they looked adorable. Grade: A and A+ Paris Hilton was certainly not going for a good girl look with this black mini dress and leather jacket. The dress had a gold stripe down the front and she wore thick ankle-strap pumps. She was just packing way too much attitude with this look. It was just really over-the-top. Grade: CHaylie and Hilary Duff were both in fitted dresses on the red carpet this week. Haylie wore this boring beige gown with a trumpet-style skirt. The cut of the dress was perfect on her body, but the color was SO boring. Hilary wore a plum-colored gown that had a strange neckline with a large ruffle or floral thing. It just looked hideous. Grade: Haylie: B, Hilary: D Amanda Bynes can do no wrong in my eyes. She wore this beige-colored, flapper-inspired dress this week. It was short and covered with layers of tassels. This is the kind of dress you go dancing in so that you can see all the tassels move and shake. Although I like her in bolder colors, this dress really worked for her. Grade: A

Body Image Issues

Tue, 17 Jul 2007 11:26:57 PDT

I love the summer but since it's bathing suit season I've been finding faults on myself that people will see if I'm wearing a bathing suit. I have birthmarks below my neck and I think they're okay but what if someone thinks they're gross? My friends tell me I'm not fat and not too skinny but what if my thighs look huge or my stomach? I also am not big in my chest area but most bathing suits for girls my age have that REALLY low neck that I don't like but I love the rest of the suit. Please help I really want to wear a bikini this summer. OK, I get a lot of e-mails about this, so let's just talk about it once and for all. We all are WAY too critical of how we look and we need to appreciate our beauty and strengths. I know it's not easy since we are constantly bombarded with images of perfect women with gorgeous faces and flawless bodies in the media, but that's not realistic. You need to find a balance and an inner appreciation for your inner and outer beauty. If you are OK with your birthmarks, then that's all that matters. And if someone really cares about you, then they won't care about them either. It's such a small thing and does not represent your beauty. Learn to accept the things you see as flaws and you will find that you are much happier. Your friends tell you you're not fat. That's great, but even if you were, they'd still be your friends and think you are beautiful. You don't need others opinions to feel good about you ... find that from the inside. If you have a small bust, you are lucky that you have the body to wear ruffled bikinis and tiny tri-tops. And as for bandeau tops, only you can wear those well. Bright colors are what you want to wear on the beach this summer, so take a risk with a color like pink. Avoid bikini tops with too much fabric or that have a poor fit. Opt for separate tops and bottoms. Read the Swimsuit Guide for more tips. I have really thin hair that reaches the middle of my back. It's been like this for a while and I need a haircut. Do you have any ideas or styles for my hair? And, would side bangs work? Thanks, Jess Hi, Jess! If you have thin hair, the best option is a short cut that's about chin length or slightly longer. Because longer hair often seems brittle and coarse, short hairstyles are the dominant type. Short hairstyles that take the attention away from the hair and to the face are great choices. These include styles that have hair bangs lightly covering the face, light curls at the ends, or even pinned back behind the ears. These hairstyles keep hair together to provide an appearance of thicker, fuller hair. For longer hairstyles, the only really great choices are the updo or the braids. Updos hide the fact that hair is very thin and with the many styles of updos, there are plenty of looks. Braids offer a look for wearing out and about. Braids pretty much have the same effect as updos in bunching hair together to keep hair looking thick and full. There are often techniques that can help keep hair from being thin. Keeping hair out of the sun for an extended amount of time can really help. Using curling irons and hair straighteners too often can also damage hair. Keeping good hygiene when it comes to hair will really help. Washing out dirt and old oils and restoring hair with vitamins will keep hair healthy and strong. There are many products that will help straighten hair and help it grow out more full. Eating right also helps keep hair healthy. Eating too much junk food, fast foods, and fattening food will limit healthy hair growth and cause hair to be more brittle and coarse. There are many factors to healthy hair. Dear Jen, I am a sophomore in high school and I'm thinking of going into fashion merchandising (when I go to college), although I don't know much about it. Do you think that would be a solid choice, since I want to go into fashion but I can't draw to save my life? Also, I just wanted to say how awesome it is that you are so into fashion but have morals, too. Lately, it seems like everyone is showing off everything, but I'm glad you're giving advice that is actually reasonable, like to be proud of your unique characteristics and not care what others think. I love your blog and totally agree about the Seventeen magazine thing -- I stopped reading that awhile ago because of some of its questionable content -- although it did have great fashion tips. Thanks for everything! Sincerely, Angela :) Thanks for your flattering comments, Angela. I appreciate the kind words. I know what you mean about not being able to draw. I would love to be gifted in that way. If you are really into fashion but cannot draw, there are several options for you. The first is fashion merchandising which teaches you how to manufacture, buy, promote, and sell fashion items, from clothing and jewelry to cosmetics and furniture. If you're interesting in writing about fashion, or covering events, you can always obtain a journalism degree and work for a magazine, or website. And just because you can't draw doesn't mean you can't design ... as long as your style comes through, people will see what you're going for.

Draping Dresses: Who Wears Them Better?

Sat, 7 Jul 2007 14:57:22 PDT

Celebrities are all about strapless, draping dresses and I have to say that I love them. Both Eva Mendes and Jessica Alba have worn these dresses lately and I love how they make them look incredibly tall. The dresses flow away from the body with a pleated look. Who do you think wears this trend better: Eva Mendes in the black draped dress with the deep heart-shaped neckline, or Jessica Alba's bright green dress with an uneven hemline? Although I love them both, if I had to choose, I would pick Jessica. I love the green color and the uneven hemline almost gives the bottom of the dress a mermaid effect. I love it. Post a comment and vote on who wears the draping dress trend better. Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of July 2

Thu, 5 Jul 2007 19:44:30 PDT

The outfits this week were decent for the most part. Celebrities have really gravitated toward jewel-toned colors and I really love the trend. Emma Watson wore this cobalt blue dress this week with a brooch at the waist. The color and style of this dress were perfect on her. And she didn't let the rainy weather get her flustered ... she had a large clear umbrella that kept her dry. Her hair looked amazing and stayed in place with the weather. She went with a deep part that I haven't seen pulled off well in awhile. I loved it. Grade: A+ Oh my. Haylie Duff chose this polka-dotted dress this week with a large bow across the chest. Um, anyone else think this looked ridiculous? I am just NOT a fan of these baggy trapeze dresses at all. Ugh. And her hair was pulled back in a high ponytail and her highlights looked like they needed to be touched up. I don't know ... she just looked not very put together. What do you think? Grade: D OK, the color of Jewel's dress is beautiful and the cut along the neckline was really gorgeous. Now, what was the deal with the bottom of the dress? Is Jewel pregnant? The cut of the dress made her look as though she was covering a baby bump. It's a really beautiful dress, I just wish it was more fitted around her waist instead of flowing so far away. Grade: C Wearing blue and black together is one of the hottest trends for this coming fall. Lauren Conrad is ADORABLE and I loved these fitted black pants with the silky blue top on her. She accessorized with a black sash belt in black and platform pumps. Her wispy bangs just added to the sassy look. Grade: A What do you think? Post a comment and let me know.

No Time to Tan

Mon, 2 Jul 2007 10:27:48 PDT

Dear REDFashionGirl, when I tan it's gorgeous but I don't get out much to tan with my busy schedule. What do you suggest? Thanks! We all wish we could get out and relax in the sun more than we do. I know I do. It's probably a better thing that we don't though, since the sun can damage our skin and not only cause wrinkles early, but possibly disease. Because people have become more sun conscious, there are tons of sunless tanner options on the market right now. If you are looking for a summer glow, then I would suggest using one of these tanners. Most of them come in different tones, such as light, medium and dark, so choose the one that best matches your skin. Follow the directions on the bottle. It will explain how much to apply, how to apply it and how long it needs to set before putting on clothes. This is the best way to look like you had a glamorous summer vacation without evening stepping foot on a beach. Hey!! Love your fashion blog! My problem is with my hair. My hair is partially straight and curly, but not wavy. It's hard to explain. Some of my hair gets really curly like a... pig's tail, and then some of it is straight. Anyway it's very hard to style, as in straighten or curl (it will never curl). The style won't hold. So I have two questions. Do you know of any styling products to help curl hair? And do you know of any products to help hold the style (besides hair spray)? Thanks a bunch!! If you want to encourage your hair to curl, then you need to use products that will activate the curl and help to define it. One of my favorite products is Garnier Fructis Style Curl Construct Mousse. Rub the mousse into your hands, scrunch it into your hair, then take the pieces that have a harder time curling and wrap them around your finger into a ringlet. Hold them like this for a couple of seconds then let them loose. Once your hair is curled and in place use a spray gel or hairspray to keep your locks curled. I have a HUGE problem, my friend disappeared, well she's still here but she's not my tomboy friend who used to refuse to wear a two-piece swimsuit. I come over one day and she was wearing a bikini top and skirt. I hate to say this but I want my tomboy friend back so I can have back my style. How do I change her look ... SOON! Help! I'm not sure why this is such a big problem for YOU. Your friend is changing and trying something different. It shouldn't change the way you feel about her. She should be your friend regardless of what she wears, right? She may be going through a phase, or perhaps she wants to take on a more feminine look. There's nothing wrong with that. You should support her, regardless of her clothes. It really shouldn't matter. Have a style dilemma? E-mail me at REDFashionGirl@aol.com. Ciao,Jen

Jeweled Necklines: Who Wears It Better?

Sat, 30 Jun 2007 11:05:04 PDT

Heavy necking is all the rage in Hollywood right now, and I'm not referring to all the hooking up. Jeweled necklines are glamorous and they draw attention to your face. Another great thing about this trend is that you don't have to wear a lot of jewelry. Keep your accessories simple and let the neckline do all the work. Nicole Richie wore this floor-length white dress recently and the beading around the neck was beautiful. However, I think all the embellishments may have been too much for her tiny frame. Beading can be glamorous, but if you are a tiny girl, keep the flossiness minimal. America Ferrera wore this floor-length brown dress with a darted neckline highlighted by brown tones jewels. She looked incredible. The cut of the dress worked well for her and the color complimented her skin well. Who do you think looked best wearing jeweled neckline dresses? I think America looked best. Post a comment and let me know what YOU think. Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of June 25

Thu, 28 Jun 2007 15:38:59 PDT

This was actually a really good week on the red carpet. There were some interesting choices, but it looks like celebrities have finally embraced the summer season and are dressing more fashionably. Miley Cyrus wore an interesting outfit this week. And by interesting, I mean, what's the deal? If this is what the Hannah Montana line looks like, I will NOT be waiting in line to buy anything! Yikes. The outfit was just over the top and it looked as though she was heading to a tennis match or something. I just didn't understand why this needed to be worn on the red carpet. Next time Miley, go classy, please. Grade: D Rihanna was all over the red carpet this week. Although I was a huge fan of her dress at the BET Awards, I must say that this dress really was amazing. The baby-doll style was great on her figure and I liked the deep-v neckline with the accented design around the bust. She looked amazing and her sleek hair definitely fit the whole sexy look. Grade: A If Christina Aguilera is pregnant, she sure is doing a great job hiding her baby bump with this wrap-around flowing dress. From the puffy sleeves to the blue and white stripes, Christina really rocked this look. The only thing is that Christina is quite busty and since the dress is a more conservative style, she may wanted to have covered herself up a little more. Grade: B Ashlee Simpson has a gorgeous bronze skin tone so this bright fuchsia dress really works well on her. Although I am not a huge fan of the trapeze style dress, I really think this works well on her. From the single strap to the black nails and leather arm band ... I loved it all. Ashlee is really maturing and taking on a style that is both feminine, but with her own personal edge. Grade: B+ Do you agree or disagree with my grades? Post a comment and let me know what you think about this week's styles. I want to hear from you!Ciao,Jen

Battling Beastly Eyebrows

Tue, 26 Jun 2007 14:27:17 PDT

Dear Jen, I have EXTREMELY thick, straight and ugly eyebrows. This sucks even more because my best feature is my eyes, and my eyebrows cover them up and make me look really bad. My mom won't let me wax them, and I've tried plucking them, but I can't do it very well. Can you think of any way I can convince my mom that looking like a gorilla isn't a good thing? Please help me, because I'm considering just waxing them without her permission and getting in trouble anyway. PLEASE HELP ME, The Eyebrow Ogre Oh my. That sounds like quite the dilemma. Obviously, you don't want to do anything without your mother's permission, so you need to figure out a way to convince her. Ask her one evening if you can talk to her about something important. Once you two are alone, in a mature and responsible manner tell her that you would like to have your eyebrows waxed. Tell her that you understand where she is coming from, but that this is really important to you and that you want her to help you. Don't whine and if she says no, you need to respect that. Don't pluck your eyebrows on your own since it can be a real challenge and doing it incorrectly can cause a lot of problems in the long run. You want to have it professionally done by someone who knows what they are doing so you don't end up making matters worse. Talk to your Mom while being respectful and mature, I am sure that she will start to understand that this is important to you. Hey Jen! The other day, I woke up in the morning with awful bags under my eyes. (To make a long story short, I couldn't get any sleep because my baby cousin kept crying.) Do you know of a quick (five-minute) fix for bags for the next time this happens, other than makeup? My mom won't let me wear makeup. Thanks! I know what that's like. Yikes. There are a couple of options to help reduce swelling and baggy skin around the eye. You can either slice cucumber or potatoes, wet them, then lay down for 10 to 15 minutes with them on your eyes. Also, some people swear by warm (pre-steeped) tea bags. Just place them on your eyelids while laying down for 10 to 15 minutes. Causes for bags under your eyes include: lack of vitamins, poor diet, overexposure to sunlight, overusing your computer, lack of sleep, allergies, genetics, smoking and stress. Try to get enough rest and keep your skin hydrated, especially when you are experiencing more stress, like around exam time. Dear Jen, I just have one question about jewelry. If I'm wearing a big beaded necklace, is it better to wear small earrings or big earrings? Thanks, Theresa It depends on the size of your face, believe it or not. For instance, I am petite, so if I wear a big necklace and big earrings I look like a 5 year old girl playing dress up. I try to either wear a big necklace and then compliment it with small earrings. Or, if I want to wear big earrings, I will wear a big bangle bracelet. You want people to look at your pretty face and not get distracted by too much jewelry. Just think about the proportion of your face and the size of your jewelry and keep it in moderation.

Bra Sightings: Who Wears It Better?

Mon, 25 Jun 2007 07:58:10 PDT

All over, Hollywood stars are showing off their bras on the red carpet and I'm not exactly sure why. Celebrities like Jessica Simpson, Rihanna, Victoria Beckham and Ashley Tisdale have been seen sporting this trend. I am not a fan of this at all and wish that stars would leave something to the imagination. It's not that I am a prude or old-fashion by any means ... I just don't think it is classy or even attractive. Regardless, which star do you think looks better in this trend, Rihanna or Ashley Tisdale? Post a comment and let me know!

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of June 18

Wed, 20 Jun 2007 11:56:24 PDT

I was not impressed by the red carpet trends this week. I know that last week, a lot of you thought I got it all wrong, so be sure to post a comment and let me know what you think of these outfits. First up is Tyra Banks. I am all for metallic (especially copper) with Tyra's gorgeous skin tone. But this dress made her look as though she spun around while someone held up copper-colored foil. And viola ... a dress! I know Tyra is all about looking fierce, but this outfit was just ferocious. Yikes! Grade: F I am actually a pretty big Avril Lavigne fan and although I love her individuality, this outfit was just OK for me. The school girl outfit in bold plaid with a lace hemline was cute, and the striped socks and red shoes were a great accent, but the Canadian sweatshirt was just a bit cheesy to me. Perhaps I am totally off here, and I have nothing against Canadians (especially the ones I met in Punta Cana ... hiya guys!), but it just seemed unnecessary. It was an OK outfit, but I think she could have done better. Grade: B Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore hit the red carpet this week, and their outfits really weren't all that memorable. I mean, where have they been? Seems like we haven't seen them in ages. Ashton wore jeans, a red sweater with a black shirt underneath and a newsboy cap. Demi wore this blah dress with some embroidery around the top. All in all, they were just boring. Perhaps they are becoming too comfortable in their relationship. They need some drama. Grade: C I really love the mod print of Hilary Duff's dress, but I am not a huge fan of trapeze dresses. They make celebrities look as though they are wearing a colorful potato sack. I mean, am I the only one that thinks this trend is so not cute? What was the deal with the random black box at the bust? And speaking of the bust ... holy hell, the girls are HUGE. When did that happen? Did she go under the knife? The neutral pumps were a good choice and the large gold earrings were a great touch. Grade: D Post a comment and let me know how you would grade these outfits this week. Ciao,Jen

Eyelet Dresses: Who Wears It Better?

Sun, 17 Jun 2007 18:03:56 PDT

Personally, I am pretty obsessed with this trend. Eyelet dresses are romantic, sweet and very feminine. They are usually made of white cotton, but you can also find them in bright colors and pastels. You can add some balance to an eyelet dress with a denim jacket or a more masculine fabric. Mischa Barton is known for mixing eyelet dresses with denim. Which of these celebrities do you think wears this trend best ... Jessica Biel or Nicky Hilton? Post a comment and let me know who you think looks best in their eyelet dress. Jessica Biel Nicky Hilton Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of June 11

Thu, 14 Jun 2007 20:42:16 PDT

This was a pretty decent week on the red carpet. Let's just jump right into it ... Vanessa Minnillo wore this light blue dress this week. I guess she felt the need to try to present herself in an appropriate way after those pictures surfaced of her and Lindsay Lohan. It's hard to redeem yourself after something like that. I am torn about her dress because it seemed as though it was a strapless dress with a pleated halter section that hung overtop. However, the color was great and I liked the length of the dress. Grade: B+ Jamie Lynn Spears knows that the color orange works on her, after she wore that bold orange dress at the Nickelodeon Awards. I really loved getting the chance to see her in this color again. This week, she wore a one-piece orange outfit accented with gold accessories. This look is youthful, trendy and was really a perfect cut for her body. I thought she looked absolutely adorable. Grade: A Emma Roberts is making her big break with the movie, 'Nancy Drew.' She's a cute girl, but what is with her style? This black dress looked way to old. The sheer top and heart-shaped neckline was all too bland on her. She needs to find a way to stand out from the crowd while still looking trendy and HER AGE. I wish she would hire me as her stylist. Wouldn't that be fun? You know, to shop with someone else's money all day. Ah, a girl can dream. Grade: DOK, Elisha Cuthbert is growing out her pixie cut and it's looking a bit mullet-esque, but her outfit was SO cute this week. She wore a dress with a white ruffled neckline and a black a-line skirt. The band at the waist drew attention to her cute figure and the red clutch was the perfect pop of color. Yes, the outfit was simple, but she pulled it off very well. Grade: A+ (minus the mullet) Post a comment and let me know if you agree or disagree. Give these celebrities YOUR grades.

Battle of the Bulge

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 15:10:19 PDT

Dear Red Fashion Girl, I absolutely LOVE clothes (mostly tops). But I feel as if when I sit my stomach pops out, even though everyone says I'm skinny. (I think they just say that because they are my friends). I am in 8th grade, I'm 5ft. 3in. and I weigh 119 pounds. I don't like bringing attention to my stomach, so I have been wearing big t-shirts, and I hate it. What do you recommend I wear? Unfortunately, we all have this issue. No one sits down and has a flat tummy ... and if they do, they are TOO thin. One of my high school friends is the most in-shape person I know (with killer abs), and even she gets three stomach rolls when she sits down. It's just the laws of nature. Luckily the waistline of jeans are coming up, which will help with concealing this area. And one of the most popular tops is the tunic top, which flows away from the body and is a bit longer to cover anything you are not too thrilled about. Just like your legs flatten and look wider when you sit, your stomach will roll when relaxed unless you are sucking it in. And that is just not comfortable. Embrace your body. It is just natural for it to behave that way. Want a sexy summer body? Try these tips and tricks. I'm a guy, 14 years old, and I want to change my hair. Right now, I make it into a faux hawk, which I like, but I also like to be different, and there are a few other people at my school who have it now. I'm more into the rock scene (not like the emo rock, just generic rocker, you know?) and my parents are kind of strict about my appearance. I want a hair style that's original, and something that won't be considered preppy. No buzz cuts, no growing my hair out. Something completely unique. I live in a small town, and not a lot of stuff gets around here, so it shouldn't be so hard. Any suggestions? If you want to get a jump-start on the newest trend that's got a bit of edge, then try a haircut like Pete Wentz. Pull all the hair forward and leave some uneven layered pieces for a edgy look. Also, this fall I am seeing more European-inspired haircuts for guys. Since fall fashion is leaning more romantic with velvets and cashmeres, you may want to consider the mid-length coif that was all the rage on the catwalk at the NYC Fashion Shows. A softer looser look is great. Think John Mayer, minus the fat. If you want to play with color, either go deep black like Pete Wentz for an edgier look, or kick up your hair with a chunky highlight in the front like Blake Lewis. I really want to wear a bikini but I am allergic to nickel. I know that has nothing to do with a bikini but every time I wear jeans the nickel button rubs against my tummy and I'm left with this dark bumpy stomach. My friend's pool party is coming up and I want to wear a bikini. But I really don't want people to see my bumpy stomach. I'm thinking about telling people it's just a birth mark. So I'm asking you should I wear a bikini or not. Signed, Bikini Madness My Mom is actually allergic to nickel, so I can relate with what's happening with you. Before we talk about whether or not you should go with the bikini for the pool party, let's talk about prevention. Believe it or not, a lot of people are allergic to nickel. What you can do is cut out the sticky part of a Band Aid and make a circle with it to fit on the back of the button on the inside of your jeans. This will keep your stomach from breaking out. My Mom had to do this with her jeans and also on the back of her watch. It kept her from getting those red and irritated bumps. Now, I would suggest talking to your doctor about what he or she suggests for your break out. Most likely your doctor will want you to use a cream that has an antihistamine in it. There is a Benedryl Itch Stopping Cream and Calamine Lotion also works well. These medicines will make the redness, itching and bumps less noticeable. Once the irritation has subsided, then I would definitely wear a bikini to your pool party. If you still don't feel comfortable about it, then try some waterproof concealer over the irritated area. Have a fashion or beauty question? E-mail me at REDFashionGirl@aol.com Ciao,Jen

Thin Belts: Who Wears It Better?

Sun, 10 Jun 2007 19:11:15 PDT

It was just last season that wide belts were the only way to go and now thin belts have moved into the fashion scene and taken over. Whether you like them or not, they actually go well with the new high-waisted trend. I'm not such a huge fan of that, but I still think the belts are cute with dresses and worn along the natural waistline of a tailored shirt. Are you a fan of this trend? Post a comment and let me know! Between Andrea Bowen and Kim Kardashian ... who wears this trend better? Andrea Bowen Kim Kardashian Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of June 4

Thu, 7 Jun 2007 18:57:50 PDT

Let's just jump into this week's red carpet hits and misses because I have a lot to say ... OMG ... what was Victoria Beckham thinking, wearing this outfit on the red carpet!? It's like a trainwreck ... you just can't look away. I love how Victoria always goes mod and pushed the envelope, but YIKES! This outfit should be saved for her alone time with HOT hubby David Beckham. Seriously. I wonder what he thought about her wearing this outfit. It was SO inappropriate! Grade: F Jennifer Hudson can do no wrong in my book. She is a curvy woman with tons of confidence and style sense. This floor-length blue and white floral dress was breathtaking. The halter neckline showed off her "assets" and the solid band of blue under her bust made her waist look smaller. Her curled hair and gold bangles were the perfect accents. She really looked amazing. Grade: A I was bitter about the whole Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston breakup and disliked Brad for awhile ... but how can you possibly dislike Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie? Not only are they adorable together, but they are proactive about world issues and are wonderful parents. I just love that. This week they were spotted wearing coordinating black and gray and they really looked great. Since it is spring, I would have loved to have seen some bright colors, at least in their accents. But overall, they did well. Grade: B+ So, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen hit the red carpet this week still sporting the '40s style trend that they seem to be obsessed with. Ashley wore a black dress with a darted neckline. The dress actually had the double-breasted feel of a suit jacket, but at the waist. Her cuff bracelet and white clutch were great accents and her hair looked sophisticated pulled back. Grade: C Mary-Kate, on the other hand, wore a white dress with a darted neckline. The kimono sleeves added a nice accent, but what was up with her HUGE handbag and her hair. OMG ... her hair!!! Not only were her roots horrible, but what is with the long, stringy hair? It looks as though she needs six inches of dead ends cut off her hair. It looks HORRIBLE. Grade: D Am I totally off? Did you love the outfits I hate or hate the one's I love? Post a comment and give these celebs grades for their outfits. Ciao,Jen

Wrap Dresses: Who Wears It Better?

Sun, 3 Jun 2007 14:31:32 PDT

Oh man ... I am really torn on this one. On one hand, I love Beyonce Knowles' wrap dress best because of the deep-v cut and that she paired it with a metallic bag and sassy curls. But then, I also really like Tyra Banks' wrap dress because of the cargo-style folded sleeves with the strap and the mix of casual and formal. Not only that, but the low ponytail was the perfect way to pull this look together. I think they both look amazing in this hot trend. Ugh ... I seriously can't choose. I need your help. Post a comment and tell me who wears wrap dresses better ... Beyonce or Tyra?

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of May 28

Thu, 31 May 2007 18:21:28 PDT

This was a strange week on the red carpet. I'm interested in hearing what you all have to say about these outfits, so be sure to post a comment and let me know! Cameron Diaz wore this gold gown on the red carpet. It was very glamorous with a bit of a mod retro vibe. I think it was a little over the top with her golden skin, gold locks and then the vibrant gold dress. I wasn't crazy about the sleeves and the neckline, but all in all, it was a beautiful gown. Grade: B Gwen Stefani is one of my favorite fashionistas and this outfit was awesome. I know some of you will not agree, and I'm not 100 percent sold on the high-waisted shorts or anything, but overall it is adorable. The bold plaid colors, fitted black turtleneck and black tights are so '80s and I love it. She's an individual and I may not like this outfit as much on someone else. What do you think? Grade: B+ All I can say is wow. Eva Mendes wore this dress on the red carpet this week with a black overlay. The heart-shaped neckline and the fit of the dress looked amazing on Eva. From her sexy updo to her train, she looked amazing. I have no suggestions for improvement. Typically I love to see Eva in color since she has gorgeous skin, but, in this case, the black dress really works. Grade: A+ OK, so I know I got crap last week when I made the comment that I thought Katharine McPhee should have dressed up some when she arrived on the red carpet. Let me clarify. I am all for celebrities looking casual when they are grocery shopping or hanging out with their friends ... but I expect more from them when they are on the red carpet. Only because I know they can look better. Whether they dress up or not is not a issue for me ... I just like when they look their best. I hope that makes sense. Now, on that note ... Kristen Bell pulled a Katharine McPhee on the red carpet this week. She showed her pride for Star Wars at this event for the movie by wearing a Chewbacca shirt. She also wore jeans with black Converse shoes. She looked put together and her softly curled hair was gorgeous, but I still would have loved to see her in a trendier, yet still casual outfit. Perhaps a denim skirt and some bold accessories could have punched up this outfit. Grade: D

Case of the Clumpy Mascara

Wed, 30 May 2007 14:36:00 PDT

Hey! To start off, I love your flog! It is truly amazing. Keep up the good work. Okay, my real problem is my mascara. It's a weird phenomenon. When I apply my mascara, my eyelashes tend to stick together when I blink. I've tried different brands, and I've tried just applying my upper lashes too. Nothing really helps, unless I barely apply it at all. In which case, one can barely see it, so there's no point in me almost poking my eye out during my rush to school. My friend suggested an eyelash curler, but my mother refuses to let me use one for some unknown reason. I think it's because she's afraid to use one herself (You've got to admit those things look pretty scary). Help me Jen! I don't think I could go through my life with my eyelids sticking together! Clumpy mascara is typically caused by out-of-date mascara, a mascara formula that is not right for your lashes, or mascara build-up. Unfortunately makeup doesn't come with expiration dates, so when you buy a tube of mascara you have no idea how long it's been sitting there on the self. I have bought several tubes that I have had to throw away immediately because they are so dried out and clumpy. Always date your mascara tube and replace it every three months. To avoid mascara drying out avoid ‘pumping' the brush in and out of the tube. Also, make sure to apply mascara by wiggling into the root of the lashes and pulling through to the end to get more even distribution of product. One of the best products that eliminates clumps is Clinique's Naturally Glossy Mascara. It is a great mascara to use for ultra soft separated lashes. If that does not solve the issue you may want to consider using an eyelash curler. Curlers help to ensure that all of your eyelashes are going in the same direction. This will hopefully cut down on them sticking together. When using an eyelash curler, start as close as you can to the root of the lash and pump the curler gently. Then, move the curler toward the middle and pump once, then again toward the ends. This should get you an extended and natural-looking curl. Hey Jen! I LOVE your blog! I have really bad dandruff and it can get embarrassing. I use head and shoulders but it doesn't help me that much. Do you have any ideas on how to make it go away or at least make it less noticeable? Any help would be great. Thanks! Liz Unfortunately there is no definite answer here. People are still perplexed by why dandruff even happens. Some believe it is a nutritional issue, or an allergic reaction while others believe it has to do with oils, acids and even fungus.Losing skin cells is normal. We shed skin all the time. But if you find it to be a lot and very noticeable, then you need to take the following actions:1.) Shampoo more often and make sure to give your scalp a good rub each time. If the problem persists, then move to step 2.2.) Change your shampoo, conditioner and any styling products. If the problem persists, then move to step 3.3.) Find an anti-fungal product to use on your scalp. It will not only treat the dandruff you have, but stop it from recurring. I know it doesn't sound pretty, but it will work. Hey Jen, here's my problem ... I am sooo flat chested. How can I make myself look not so flat ... without stuffing? Any advice will help. If you want to make your chest appear larger, here are some things you should do ... 1.) Get a well-fitted bra with a bit of padding for emphasis. 2.) Choose high-necked tops (turtlenecks, cowl necks, etc.). They give the illusion of broader shoulders and a bigger bust. 3.) Avoid scoop necks and V-necks that only call attention to a small chest. 4.) Wear blouses with bold patterns and horizontal stripes. Or look for tops with sayings across the bust or designs there. 5.) Look for tops with details like ruffles, gathering and breast pockets to add dimension. 6.) Choose shirts and jackets with wide lapels and collars. Have question about fashion, beauty or fitness? E-mail me at REDFashionGirl@aol.com. Ciao,Jen

Dresses With Buttons: Who Wears It Better?

Sun, 27 May 2007 21:11:44 PDT

There is nothing more annoying than showing up at school in a killer outfit and someone else is wearing the EXACT SAME THING. UGH! Sometimes it can be flattering that people want to dress like you, but still ... you want to have your OWN unique look. Celebrities are the same way. They don't want to show up to a red carpet event wearing the same outfit as someone else. Now that the weather has warmed up, celebrities are all about dresses and especially ones with gold button detailing. Both Fergie and Molly Sims wore the same white dress with sheer sleeves and gold buttons on the red carpet recently. Who do you think wore this trend better: Fergie or Molly Sims? Although both ladies pull this trend off well, my vote is for Fergie. I think the dress compliments her curvy bod and her curly golden locks, and metallic pumps are the perfect accessories. Post a comment and tell me who you think rocks this look better. Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of May 21

Fri, 25 May 2007 08:32:15 PDT

There is no denying that Jessica Alba is a gorgeous girl, but she looked really horrible in this dress. Not only was the color horrible with her skin tone, but the black tights and shoes just really didn't work for spring. The neckline of this dress was also really strange. The black accent was just weird and made the dress look even more nude against her skin. Grade: FDoes Carrie Underwood ever look bad? Seriously. I have never seen her have a bad day. This week she wore a gold-toned dress with a bubble skirt. Carrie looks amazing in metallic colors, and because the dress had a dropped waist it really complimented her body well. Her makeup was natural and flawless, and her gold locks were incredible. Grade: A+ Kelly Osbourne is all about being an individual, which I love, but this dress was pretty bad. The shape worked well on her body, but her skin is so pale that the white dress completely washed her out. I am all for looking girlie every once in awhile, but this was like a four-year-old's Easter dress. I like Kelly with some edginess and this dress had NONE. Grade: DKatharine McPhee is gorgeous and it made me sad to see her SO dressed down on the red carpet this week. It was as though she rolled out of bed and didn't care to even look at what she put on. Jeans and a gray t-shirt? BORING! It's not a bad outfit, I just expect more from an 'Idol.' Not only that, but she looked as though she didn't even bother to style her hair. Ugh, it's sad to see someone so beautiful just not even put any time into how they look. Grade: C

Black vs. Red Nail Polish

Tue, 22 May 2007 17:18:45 PDT

Are black fingernails still OK to wear? I was watching E! News and they said red fingers nails are "in" or whatever ... or are they both ok? Thanks, Kinsley Hi Kinsley,E! News is dead on. Red nails are all the rage right now with celebrities on the red carpet. However, black nails are still HOT. Just because something becomes popular doesn't mean that what has been hot for almost two years now will drop off the fashion scene. Celebrities, such as Ashley Tisdale, Hilary Duff and Fergie love black nail polish and wear it almost all the time. It used to be known as just a "goth" thing, but celebrities have even been wearing this trend with formal gowns. I am a personal fan of this trend ... I even have my nails polished black right now. Hi Jen, I don't have any obsession, and think it's a waste of money to buy SO many shoes and bags. I don't think somebody needs more then maybe 5 bags and 10 pairs of shoes. I have 2 bags and 4 pairs of shoes. Maybe you could try to do something like sell some of your bags and shoes on Ebay or something, and then donate that money for building schools in Africa, or HERE for that matter. Or if you want just save that money for something necessary?! Remember there is a big difference between wanting and needing ... I'm sure you are aware of that. Everyone has different things that they like and I don't think anyone has a right to judge them because of it. Just because I like shoes and handbags does not mean that I am materialistic, or that I don't believe in charity. I think you bring up a great point about donating clothes. I actually clean out my closet twice a year and donate all my clothing to either Red Cross or Salvation Army. If you haven't worn it in two years, it doesn't fit or you know you will never wear it again, you should give it to someone who would actually wear it and enjoy it. It is pointless to have a bunch of things that you never use or wear, right? All of the shoes and handbags that I have, I love, and I wear them all the time. If I don't, then I give them to someone who can. There is a big difference between wanting and needing, and I am happy you realize that. I have some questions on what's still hot, or what's totally last season:1) Skinny Pants2) Beach Waves3) Full Curls4) Wedges5) Peep-Toes6) Chunky Jewelry7) Smokey Eye8) Empire-Waist TopsThank you for your help!Ashleigh PS -- Your blog is awesome! I read it every day Hi Ashleigh,Let me tackle your list for you ... then check out what the summer trends will be. 1) Skinny Pants -- Skinny pants are still popular, but wide leg pants seem to be the "it" pants now. And flares are always a staple.2) Beach Waves -- Beach waves are classic, although tweaking them a bit to make them into flapper curls will update your look.3) Full Curls -- Full curls are out. They are too stiff for the spring and summer look.4) Wedges -- Wedges are the must-have shoe for spring and summer. Get the heel in straw or cork for an even more up-to-date look. 5) Peep-Toes -- They are still in, especially if you can find peep-toe wedges. It's the perfect mix.6) Chunky Jewelry -- Yes, but make sure to go with plastic or a natural Earth element.7) Smokey Eye -- Smokey eye is fun from time to time, but the spring and summer is more about natural and sun-kissed makeup.8) Empire-Waist Tops -- Yes, empire-waist tops are still popular, although I foresee them fading out as we move into the fall season. With high-waisted jeans and blouses entering the fashion world, I think the silhouette will also change, and empire waists will become less popular.

Off-the-Shoulder Dresses: Who Wears It Better?

Sun, 20 May 2007 15:00:12 PDT

Asymmetrical cuts are going to be one of the most popular trends this summer, and I am already seeing celebrities embrace this trend with off-the-shoulder dresses that draw attention to their face. It's all about the little details this spring and summer, and manipulating your clothing to show off your best assets. Between Nicole Richie's copper-colored dress and Maria Menounos' short and flirty green dress, who do you think wears this trend better? My vote is for Maria. I love the color and how it compliments her tone arms and gorgeous neck. Nicole's dress just draws attention to her too-skinny body. The color made her look really washed out with her fair skin and ultra-blonde locks. What do you think? Post a comment. Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of May 14

Fri, 18 May 2007 08:08:23 PDT

Celebrities have finally embraced the spring season with colorful and flirty fashions. I LOVED the outfits this week and cannot wait to show you some of them. Check them out then post a comment and let me know what you thought. Carrie Underwood wore one of the most popular spring and summer trends, which is metallic fabrics. From the cut to the colors, this dress was just amazing. Carrie could seriously wear a potato sack and I would still think she is flawless. I have never seen her not look amazing on the red carpet. Grade: A+ Haylie and Hilary Duff hit the red carpet this week in complimenting outfits. As a pair they looked really cute. Both wore strapless dresses with black, white and purple tones. We especially loved Haylie's dress with the black stripe across the waist. Hilary is still into this baggy dress look and it really doesn't compliment her tiny frame. We wish she'd take some fashion ideas from her sister. Grade: Haylie A, Hilary B Eva Longoria went with this taupe-colored dress this week and although I liked the cut, I thought the color was boring. Eva has amazing skin and she can wear bold, bright colors. So, when she wears a color as boring as taupe, I am disappointed. The strapless neckline and flowing skirt were really classic on her. And her flowing soft curls were flawless. Grade: B+ Cameron Diaz was channeling the '60s this week wearing this mini blue dress with a turtleneck and puffy elbow sleeves. I actually really loved this color on her and the style since she typically is drawn to more retro clothing. The copper-colored flats were a perfect choice and I loved that her hair is a little lighter now. I wasn't a huge fan of her dark locks. Grade: A

Hot Pants: Who wears 'em better?

Sun, 13 May 2007 18:39:31 PDT

Hot pants were really popular last summer and I wasn't sure whether or not they would make a comeback, but I am starting to see celebrities wearing them again. Hot pants are basically short shorts, but they come in a more tailored cut and fabric. Are you a fan of this summer trend? If you are, would you ever wear these to school? Who do you think wears hot pants better: Fergie or Miley Cyrus? I personally like Miley's look a whole lot better. I'm not a huge fan of Fergie's suspenders. Post a comment and tell me what you think! Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of May 7

Thu, 10 May 2007 18:49:56 PDT

The Annual Costume Institute Gala is an annual fashion fest in New York City that celebrities just can't miss. And they come dressed in bold and outrageous outfits that I can hardly wait to see. The dresses this year were fun and funky. See what your favorite celebrities wore, then post a comment and let me know what you think. Jessica Simpson wore this floor-length sequin gown in metallic colors. The cut of the dress was really not working for Jess, although I'm sure most guys out there would disagree. Her lip color was too dark for spring -- it actually was a fall/winter color. I did, however, love her caramel-colored hair. Lindsay Lohan wore this goth glam dress with a full skirt and fitted bodice. The shape of the dress was perfect for Lindsay's body, but I'm not quite sure about the sheer top. Was it see-through, or did it just have a nude layer underneath? Either way, it's a bit much. The keyhole cutout in the middle was sexy, though, and her red hair pulled back looked stunning. Cameron Diaz went bold and flirty in this tiered fuchsia-colored dress. The strapless neckline is perfect to camouflage her wide shoulders. The color really complimented her fair skin and golden brown hair. I love that she went with turquoise-colored jewelry to add more drama to her outfit. She really stood out from the crowd. Seriously, what was Scarlett Johansson thinking, wearing this dress? Her chest looked amazing and busty as usual, but the mini bubble skirt looked awkward and unattractive. Not only that, but did you like the color? I think it was much too close to her skin tone, and just washed her out. I wish she would have gone with a richer color. Mary-Kate Olsen seriously reminded me of Cruella De Vil from '101 Dalmations' in this dress. She has such a petite frame that this dress just seemed like a bit much. The darted neckline and cinched waist were very flattering. I just want to know how many bird feathers it took to make that dress. It was certainly different and I am all for that, but it was just way too much on her tiny body.

Headbands With Updos: Who wears it better?

Mon, 7 May 2007 06:16:09 PDT

Wearing your hair in an updo and accessorizing with a headband is all the rage right now. This is a great trend for someone that has bangs and wants to pull them off their face for a different look. Someone who wears this trend all the time is our RED Editor Kori and she was psyched to hear that it's so popular. I am a huge fan of this trend. Do you love it or hate it? Who do you think wears it better ... Christina Aguilera or Jennifer Garner? Speak out by posting a comment.

Red Carpet Roll Call: Week of April 30

Thu, 3 May 2007 07:14:52 PDT

Talk about an extreme week in fashion. We had everything from futuristic to lovely lace. See what some of your favorites wore and post a comment at the end to tell me how you would rate their looks.Mischa Barton's outfit confused me greatly. I am all for the denim hot pants (also know as short shorts) and I could even handle the boots, but the busy graphic tee, the hat and the sweater were all just overboard. Sometimes when you make your outfit this busy it's distracting, and people won't even look at your face. I would take her crazy mod '80s outfits over this one any day. Grade: F This cream-colored lace dress is really beautiful on Pink. The spaghetti-straps looked great on her toned shoulders and the v-shaped top was really flattering. I am not IN LOVE with this look only because I don't think it really reflects her personality. I love the rocker girl in Pink and it really doesn't shine through in such a feminine dress. But she did pull it off and looked amazing doing it. Grade: A- Um, how old is America Ferrera? That's right ... only 23. So why is she dressing like an old lady? Maybe I would have liked it more if it were in a bolder, more youthful color than black. The style of this dress works with her body type, but I still think it ages her up A LOT. Grade: C- So, I am not the biggest fan of the whole futuristic look, but I actually don't think Kirsten Dunst looks horrible in this metallic dress. Yeah, it was a little strange, but with her hair straight and shaggy, and pairing the metallic dress with black tights ... it kind of made this Spidey chick look hot. Walking down the street in the day it would have been completely ridiculous and over the top, but for an evening event, it was brave and for that, I give her credit. Grade: B

Wide-Legged Pants: Who wears 'em better?

Sun, 29 Apr 2007 13:07:01 PDT

Wide is the new skinny? Yeah, that's right! Although skinny jeans and pants are still cool to wear, wide-legged trousers and even jeans are all the rage. I don't think I am as big of a fan of the wide-leg jeans, just because I think they only really work well on certain people. (Certainly NOT me.) But the wide-legged trousers can be really adorable. I have a couple of pairs and especially love wearing my black ones with wide cuffs and pairing them with a fitted shirt. Many stars have been spotted wearing this trend. Who do you think wears it better ... Eva Mendes (first) or Emily Vancamp (second)? Post a comment and speak out on this trend! Ciao,Jen

Red Carpet Roll Call -- Week of April 23

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 17:56:45 PDT

Gavin Rossdale and Gwen Stefani are the cutest couple ever and we love that even though their styles are different, they still compliment each other well. Gwen dressed in this edgy black and white diagonal-striped dress with one sleeve. Gavin wore jeans, a black shirt and a military-style jacket. Seriously, could they be any more adorable? Grade: A+ Oh, sunny little Hayden Panettiere is so adorable in this yellow and white striped dress. I am not usually a fan of horizontal stripes, especially on a girl with broad shoulders, but this actually looked really cute. The colors were youthful and her little peep-toe pumps were fantastic. Grade: A I'm not exactly sure what to think of this black sequin dress with a halter-neckline that Ashley Tisdale wore on the red carpet this week. The cut of the dress was flattering, but it looked kind of old for her. The hairstyle was a little bit crazy, but the big black hoops were edgy. Grade: C Kristin Cavallari is gorgeous and this fuchsia-colored dress was really the perfect shade to highlight her features. The length of the dress drew attention to her tone legs, and her wavy beach curls were perfect. I only wish the dress had a little more shape as opposed to being so boxy. Grade: B+ What grade would you give these outfits? Post a comment. Ciao,Jen