Fall Fashion

Fall Fashion 2010

I wanted to link over to my newest fashion post. I've fallen a bit behind, so I'm going to provide links below for the past three weeks of posts I've written on http://www.skirt.com/. I also want to leave you with a beautiful image. These Louis Vuitton boots.

• Fall Fashion 2010
• Dining Out 2010 Style


• A Lesson in Humility


• True Blood Season Finale


• The History and Haunting of Heritage Hall


• All I Ever Really Needed to Know I Learned From Daria

(Photo Louis Vuitton)

www,skirt.com

As I said earlier this week, I will be posting most of my work on the http://www.skirt.com/. I still want for you to see it if you'd like. Just click on the word fishing below to see it.

FISHING

So, in case you couldn't guess, that's sorta what my latest post was about. I got reeled into fishing (ha!) and had some epiphanies while out on the Chattahoochee River. In case you're wondering, that's me on the left. Turns out I'm really good...just kidding... I'm the worst!

(Photo http://www.smh.com.au/)

Skirt.com

I've recently been accepted as a blogger on skirt.com. What you might finding me doing from time to time now is linking you over to my work on their website. Topics at Skirt include everything from work and family to travel and pet peeves.

My very first post is a tongue-in-cheek look at hologram cell phones, which are expected to be released this year. Looks like we're one step closer to George Lucas technology. Think he'll get any royalties? If you want to take a look at what I had to say, just follow the link below cleverly named Skirt.

Skirt

(Photo Free Images)

She's Having A Baby!

This morning, I got a text from one of my oldest and best friends in the world to let me know that the Grimwade family will soon be three. I've decided to take a pause in my work day (shhh, don't tell) and on my blog to celebrate this tiny miracle that will soon be a part of the world. Of course, Kelly Grimwade is not my first BEST friend to have a baby, so let me just say that I wish I had a blog when Jessica's Kailyn and Ali's Cade were born. So ladies, please take this message for yourselves as well.

For the people that don't know me, kids aren't my thing. I have no harsh feelings towards them, I just personally haven't caught the mother bug (it runs in my family). That being said, I had to excuse myself from my desk and to the bathroom when I heard the news because tears were inexplicably welling up in my eyes. I guess it's all relative when the good things are happening to the ones you love. And I have so much love for my friends, and to see them get what they want in life strangely makes me feel like I'm getting what I want--to see those I care most about happy.

A thought crossed my mind since I heard the good news; when does a baby get its soul? Is it immediatly, or not until after they're literally here and separated from their mother? Well, I certainly don't have the answer to that seeing that I'm not a superior being, but I do have an opinion (no shock there). It seems to me that baby probably gets its soul a little bit at a time. Each time its mother or father caresses the mamma's belly. Each time someone mentions their name. Each time a loved one says a prayer for the little one. So by the time they join the world and get placed in their parents loving arms, the equation is complete--one baby, one soul.

So, Kelly, many blessings to you and all your loved ones during this time of joy! I'll be praying for you till I get that next text. Your still down for this weekend though, right?

(Photo bestpreciousmomentsfigurines.com)

Kristen Stewart

Oh Kristen, Why Is Your Highest Selling Movie Your Worst Acting Job?


The Twilight saga continues to rake in the dough, but good grief, it's the worst acting Kristen Stewart's ever done. While I'll certainly get raked over the coals for saying this, I mean it as a compliment to her. It's my true belief that of all the young stars, Stewart might be the most talented. Aside from her sexual magnetism with Robert Pattinson, she is all wrong for the part of Bella. To make up for letting this sacrilege cross my lips, I'm exposing two lesser known movies she's done right and one I anticipate to be a winner (not at the box office):

The Runaways

Despite what some critics said, I felt the movie was a raw coming-of-age story not glamorizing the rock-and-roll lifestyle, but exposing it for the addictions that tend to break up bands and kill success stories before they're even told. Learning about the hard road travelled by the first all-girl band, The Runaways, should be a rather enlightening experience for younger female generations. Kristen Stewart nailed the part of Joan Jett, and she certainly has that whole teen angst thing covered. Her obvious, but not so obvious, love for Cherie Currie was really moving, and I sensed her pain grow as she witnessed Currie, played by Dakota Fanning, throwing her career away.

The Cake Eaters

This is quite possibly my favorite role played by Stewart. In the film, Stewart plays Georgia who is a young girl with an extreme neurological disorder shortening her lifespan. Wanting to break free and experience life, she seduces a geeky, good-hearted 20-something man named Beagle (played by Aaron Stanford). Unfortunately, the young man discovers that it was Stewart's grandmother who was having an affair with his father while his mother was dying of Cancer. The plot twists and turns through the lives of this small town's inhabitants who all turn out to have more common bonds than they ever knew possible. Stewart's performance was refreshing and no doubt it was challenging to portray the neurological ticks and problems her character faced on a daily basis.

Welcome to the Rileys

Coming to theatres in November, I've already got this one pegged as the kind of movie that makes you feel like someone yanked out your heart with a rusty spoon. James Gandolfini, of Sopranos fame, plays Doug who along with his wife Lois, played by Melissa Leo, lost their only child eight years prior. Each parent has dealt with their daughter's death unsuccessfully and differently. Lois has become agoraphobic and Doug has been having an affair. When his affairee suddenly dies, Doug escapes to Louisiana where he meets Kristen Stewart's character Mallory who reminds him of his daughter. Unlike his daughter, Mallory is an under aged stripper/prostitute. Somehow she manages to reunite the grieving parents, but not without complications.

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(Photo courtesy Bill Davila/ Startraks)

Fall Fashion

Every summer is the "hottest year on record", but today I proclaim that it must come to an end. I'm tired of endless shaving and sweating and sweating and shaving. Go away over 100 percent humidity, you're ruining my hair. Disappear endless UV sun rays damaging my skin. I long for the more temperate times of fall and the new fashion it brings. So goodbye bright summer colors; you look ridiculous on my paleness anyways.

Summer Summer, Go Away: An ode to fall fashion

Oh glorious fall, how I love thee.

Your golden and crimson leaves-

Will match perfectly with this season's palette

of stylish red dresses and neutral colors.

Splashes of grey and clumps of camel

will adorn the masses-

A perfect ornament

to the silhouette of autumn's warm glow.

The sounds of crunching leaves beneath my nude kitten heels-

and the wind sweeping around my below-the-knee hemline

is just what the doctor ordered

to kick my summer time blues.

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Atlanta Botanical Garden

It's difficult to keep up your own gardening; there's the trimming, cutting, planting, watering and so much more. Your own garden's always in some sort of transition.

"We're fixing the pond.'' OR "We're repotting our planters."

Whatever the case, home gardens remain in a state of flux and are never quite the way the gardener envisions them. This is why people enjoy going to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Here there's teams of landscapers, horticulturists, and others who make these gardens their full time job. The best part: You get to take in the multiple lush gardens with no work. Take notes in the outdoor gardens and stare in awe at the inside life-sized terrariums showcasing everything from desert to tropical plants and atmospheres.

New Addition:

The Canopy Walk offers a chance to view the garden from a Birdseye perspective--literally. Stroll at your own pace while suspended mid-air amongst the trees. Lounge and relax on the sporatic benches and gaze at the Atlanta skyline. It's never looked more beautiful, and you'll swear the air quality is better.

Summer Treats

1. "Cocktails in the Garden": Nothing eliminates that heavy summer heat better than a cool refreshment. Take in the sweet floral smells and sights while basking in the knowledge that the only decision you made today was shaken or stirred.
2. "Garden Chef Demos" : On Saturdays and Sundays at 12 p.m. and 1 p.m., garden chefs use veggies, herbs and more from their edible garden to make delectable treats for viewers. Eat up that day and then use these recipes in your own kitchens.

Other Worthy Stops

1. Fuqua Orchid Center: Ooh-la-la. Orchids aren't just for Mother's Day anymore! You'll find yourself oohing and awwing over the dozens and dozens of breathtaking orchid types. If you thought purple orchids were exotic, you'll flip for this display, and you'll never look at a purple orchid the same.
2. Cascade Garden: Much of the garden touring involves walking, but here visitors get a real chance to relax. Recline yourself onto one of the many available benches and soak up the sun while listening to the calming sounds of falling waters. Feast your eyes on the surrounding flowers like hibiscus bursting with color.
3. Aquatic Plant Pool: Be sure to stop by this massive pool housing lily pads and the biggest frogs you've ever seen

$12-$15. Tues.-Sun. 9 a.m.-7.pm. through October.

Charleston

South Carolina Makes Waves for Vacationers

The best part about Charleston is that you can make this town your own. No matter what you seek in a vacation, Charleston can provide it. If you crave an Epicurean-style trip of endless wine, food and nightlife, you can find it. If you're feeling the explorer within bubbling to the surface, there's no better place to experience art, architecture and historic sites. And for the shoppers out there, the historic downtown area offers a plethora of high-end retail cloaked in 18th century structural integrity.

Points of Interest:

• South Carolina Aquarium: Makes a good pit stop because although it's small, it packs some big punches with a bald eagle, an albino alligator and a two story tank mimicking the mysteries of the deep.


• Cinebarre: This theatre isn't your cookie-cutter AMC. No need to sneak your beer in here because the front is a huge bar surrounded by pool tables and other goodies. After buying tickets (and drinks) from the bartender, head straight back to the stadium theatre seating equipped with counters right in front of each row. Cinebarre boasts a full menu including Princess Leias, which are scrumptious handmade cinnamon rolls served with vanilla cream frosting dip. Guests enjoy full service for the entirety of the movie.


• Magnolia Plantation and Gardens: This 500 acre, 17th century plantation offers a full day of activities, so be sure to dedicate a good five hours (at least!) to take in all the sights. There are several tours including the house, gardens, boat tour, nature train, swamp garden, petting zoo and their newest tour, slavery to freedom. Walking the grounds is truly an astonishing experience, especially the swamp garden where you stand less than 40 feet from 12 foot alligators and countless species of birds.


• Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum: Regardless of how you feel about war, you can't help but become swept up in the history and grandeur of the USS Yorktown. This self-guided tour includes multiple sites including a Cold War submarine, a Vietnam support base, Medal of Honor Museum and a planes and flightdeck aboard the USS Yorktown.

Whether you consider yourself an adventurer, romantic, or historian, Charleston can provide what many places can't--all three.

(Picture Magnolia Plantation)

Summer Fun

Get Outta Town

Summer's just a few perfect days away. Before southern heat and humidity becomes unbearable, I suggest you get on the road. My favorite stops include a touch of history, a taste of southern cuisine and a return to nature. It was all a part of Creative Loafing's Summer Guide. We did the research and now all you have to do is take the trip.

Unfortunately, due to print space, I was unable to say all the things I wanted to about my experience at Stately Oaks Plantation. The house tour was absolutely delightful with tour guides knowledgeable not only about the house itself but about the ins and outs of work and family life during the antebellum period. The guides dressed for the period, pantaloons and all. Turns out they work on a voluntary basis making their work all the more impressive.

If you ever feel a call to nature (other than the restroom), you should also check out Tallulah Gorge. The views from the trails surrounding the gorge are absolutely breathtaking. Whether you prefer take the two mile scenic route, or test your strength with the more athletically challenging courses; you're sure to enjoy the peaceful waters and fresh north Georgia air.

Upcoming on the blog: Fun things to do while in Charleston.

(Photo Stately Oaks Plantation)

Fashion Benefit in Atlanta

You can check out my fashion benefit review online at Creative Loafing's Culture Surfing blog. The clothes were killer and the cause was more than worthwhile. The event raised around $5,000 for Alzheimer's and author Jeannette Montgomery Barron sold 150 books.

(Photo Cullen Branch)

My Mother's Clothes

In honor of Mother's Day, which is only a few weeks away, I'm linking the book review I did for Creative Loafing. My Mother's Clothes by Jeanette Montgomery Barron is a simple and powerful tribute to the complicated and wonderful ins and outs of the mother-daughter relationship. While it pertains to her specific situation, it speaks volumes to us all.

The book reflects on her mother's last years with Alzheimer's and the author's use of fashion to reignite her mother's memories. Yesterday, April 27, she appeared in two benefit fashion shows at Saks in Phipps Plaza, as well as two other book signings in Atlanta on April 26 and 28. Proceeds from the show go to the Georgia Chapter's Alzheimer's Association.

My Mother’s Clothes By Jeannette Montgomery Barron. Welcome Books. $24.95; 112 pp.

The Runaways Finally Hits Atlanta

The Runaways released in other cities three weeks ago. But today, the movie finally comes south. For reasons why this movie rocks visit the link below:

http://blogs.creativeloafing.com/screengrab/

(Photo Apparition)

Interview at Creative Loafing

Yesterday, I did my first phone interview with Creative Loafing and it went live today on CL's Culture Surfing.

You can check it out here.

http://blogs.creativeloafing.com/culturesurfing/2010/04/06/a-few-questions-with-ellen-lyle-of-open-collision-dance/

Latest Post on Creative Loafing

One of the most mythical and misunderstood things in this world is the female image. In honor of Women's History Month, (today's the last day!) I went to Hagedorn Gallery and viewed Women's Image. To soak in the last few hours we have, take at look at this post I wrote last week:

http://blogs.creativeloafing.com/culturesurfing/2010/03/22/girls-girls-girls-hagedorn-gallery/

*Okay, this image isn't from the exhibit, but it's a good modern woman!

And the Award Goes to...

Best Nod to Fashion Royalty: Diane Kruger

Well, apparently, the cheese stands alone. And in this case, I'm the cheese. But, I care not because I believe this dress is lovely. Many have commented that it's too old school. Well, if it wasn't for that old school, we would all be at a loss. And last time I checked, when it comes to Coco Chanel, she's not old, she's a classic. To begin, the dress embraces 20s French fashion, which is nothing to be upset over. The black feathers break Kruger's gown into three distinct portions. The top and bottom portion parallel one another, while the frilly middle portion contrasts the two creating balance in its overall form. Don't listen to the critics Kruger, you've got style!

And the Award Goes to...

Bow Down to the Queen

Sexy Sans Sample Size: Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah proves that's sexy doesn't equal a size two. Gown's high points: jeweled shoulder strap, sweeping bust line with matching jewels, soft pinkish/lavender color. The dress alone is a heavy-hitter, but add to that her glowing skin, good hair, and dazzling makeup, and what do you have? This Queen rules the red carpet.

And the Award Goes to...

Hottest Grandma: Dame Helen Mirren

A. Mirren doesn't look like a Grandmother. B. This is not an insult. This dame is a fox. Somehow she manages to balance elegance, a hint of sexy, and still be age appropriate. Truth is, most young women don't have this much style and beauty in their little pinkie. As far as the dress goes, it really is something. Between the sparkling tool over the dress's base and the sheer sleeves, Mirren takes British sophistication to a whole new level. Whatever her secret is, it's definitely working!

And the Award Goes To....

Kathryn Bigelow

Sometimes it has little to do with the fashion, and more to do with the accomplishment.

In the 82 years of the Academy, this year, 2010, is the first time a woman has won BEST DIRECTOR.

This beautiful lady, James Cameron's ex, put him to shame with her win for The Hurt Locker.

So, was it the most stunning dress of the evening. No, but she could have worn a potato sack and the night still belonged to her. It belonged to all women who ever had big dream. Her win is a win for all womankind, that we can achieve, that we can triumph, and we can do it all!

Congratulations, Kathryn Bigelow!

Ladies: Take a Cue from Ms. Sidebe

If forty is the new 20, then some of these ladies aren't even born yet. Remember, you gotta crawl before you walk. That being said, ladies where is your confidence?

Miley, Hannah, whoever you are, you're practically a zillionaire, so act like it. That doesn't mean act like a snotty bitch, but we encourage you to stand up straight, hold those shoulders back, and stick out those ta-ta's. And if it was that your dress was too tight and you were afraid a ta was going to pop out, go a size larger. What does that put you in, a double zero? I heard someone say what a great a figure she has. Of course she has a perfect figure! She's 17! But really, Miley, you are a adorable, talented, and (from the interviews I've seen) a genuine person. So walk that carpet with some confidence girl!

Oh, Kristen, Kristen. We get it, your dark, beautiful, nobody gets you, and you just want to be left alone. Well, you might be in the wrong business. The tragedy is many people don't know how good you really are. Your talented. The Cake Eaters was an excellent movie that didn't get near the credit it should have. And besides the fact that we aren't clear if you like people at all, you're really something. So stop acting so socially awkward. That tortured artist thing is so 1990's.

To Kristen and Miley:

Take a page from Gabourey Sidibe's book. Man, that's one charismatic babe. Never once on camera did I see this brazen, new talent slump over, look bored, or uninterested in being there. Young talent in Hollywood, pay attention to this force because you'll all be reckoning with her for years to come.

Oscar Night: super messes

Super Messes

In some ways, having some of these ladies on here is truly painful. Some have been on the Hollywood radar for years, some have even been considered fashion icons, and some, I've just always liked. But it's time to separate the fashion from the person. Remember, being perfect is not always possible.

1. Mariah Carey: I'm not sure the above applies to Mariah, although she has been around for quite a while. What girl around my age did not bounce around to her award winning Forever Album? Where to start? Color might be appropriate. Plain and simple, navy rarely works on the red carpet (one pass to Hilary Swank who rocked it in 2005, though it might have something to do with her perfect figure). This number has slutty bridesmaid written all over it. And what is this jewel at the hip? It's not that the color doesn't match, it's just seems out of place, like a missed price tag attached.
2. Charlize Theron: First, you are so beautiful, and so many times you have been the beacon of what is correct about the red carpet. But this is not one of those times. The fitting is perfect, the color is beautiful, but then we reach your rosebuds, our eyes never leave them. Little extra goodies like these (the dress's rosebuds, not hers) shouldn't detract our attention from the rest of this dress.
3. Maggie Gyllenhaal: At first, I hated this dress. And after four hours of seeing over and over again, it finally hit me: it's not the dress's fault, it's Maggie's stylist's fault. There's nothing wrong with the dress, necessarily. It's just NOT the correct venue. Truth is, I like the pops of color, it's almost like a canvas, and Maggie was truly stunning. It's just too casual for the biggest night of entertainment.
4. Amanda Seyfried: Another dress I instantly didn't like. First, though I have heard many say it compliments her skin, again no. I too am the color of a sheet, and no matter how many times I reach for light colors, I put them back. This is Armani Prive, quite similar to what Jennifer Lopez wore, but here's the difference: Jennifer filled out the dress, and Amanda, well didn't.
5. Zoe Saldana: I loved you long before any of these people knew who you were. I have seen Center Stage over 20 times recognizing your talent long before Hollywood caught on. But, while I love you, I did not love your dress. I get it, but, no. Much like other critics have said, you've got three distinct styles going on and they just don't meld together. Each one alone is stunning, but all together, it's just one big mess.

Again, each one of you can come back from this. Bad fashion happens to good people and just remember, 2011 is another season for second chances.