Lauren Conrad's Engagement Photo Is Just As Perfect As You'd Expect

February 4, 2014, 12:12 pm

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Lauren Conrad and her fiancé William Tell are a picture-perfect couple (look no further than here, here and here if you don't believe us). So when we we heard last week that the former "Hills" star had received a package from renowned wedding photographer Elizabeth Messina, we had a hunch something beautiful was coming our way.

And right we were! On Monday evening, Conrad posted a photo from her engagement photo shoot to Instagram, which you can check out below.



"The photo above is from my engagement shoot with William," she wrote on her blog. "The very talented Elizabeth Messina came to our home to photograph us in our element. I love how the photos turned out!"

Tell -- a law student and former member of the band Something Corporate -- proposed to Conrad in October 2013 after almost two years of dating.

In an interview in the January 2014 issue of Cosmopolitan, the fashion designer told the magazine:

William hates it when I say this, but he really is a very nice guy, and when you meet a nice guy who also manages to keep your interest, that is the dream. If you’re going to settle down, it should be with someone you can’t stop thinking about. Especially if you’re in your 20s. If I were single in my 60s, I would totally settle. I would!

And in case you missed it, this is her beautiful engagement ring. Tell has some seriously good taste.



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5 Ways To Wear A Beanie Hat Without Trying Too Hard

February 4, 2014, 12:40 pm

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Beanie hats are our saving grace during the cold weather months. But we never seem to look as cool as those girls and guys we see around the city sporting the slouchy winter accessory -- you know, like when someone's beanie hat is propped effortlessly atop flowing hair. (Yeah, we haven't quite nailed that look yet.)

So in an attempt to get it right before the temperatures rise, we've scoured the web for some inspiration. Here are five ways to wear a beanie hat (and style your hair) without trying too hard. And be sure to check out our solutions to win the war on static hair.

1.Beanie and bangs
Show off your fringe by slightly pushing your beanie hat back towards your crown.



2. Beanie and side-swept hair
This super casual look is simple with longer lengths, but can easily be worn on short-to-medium length hair by using hairspray and bobby pins to keep everything in place.



3. Beanie and loose locks
For a slightly undone finish, shake up your strands (texturizing sea salt spray helps to build volume) and slip on a beanie.



4. Beanie and braids
This is the perfect weekend hairstyle for when you're running around doing chores (or shopping).



5. Beanie with hair tucked in
And for those bad hair days, you can never go wrong by just covering up completely with a beanie.



More ways to liven up your winter wardrobe:


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Five Reasons Why You're Wearing the Wrong Size Bra

February 4, 2014, 12:41 pm

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Women are always told that they are wearing the wrong size bra. It's the constant refrain we hear from bra manufacturers, fitters and stylists.

Oprah tried to solve the problem a couple of times by televising mass bra fittings on her show. But not much has changed over the years. Just recently, lingerie giant Triumph conducted a survey of 10,000 women and found that over 75 percent admit to wearing the wrong size bra.

Why is it that we choose to be uncomfortable in our own foundations, and does it even matter?

Here are five reasons why women could be wearing the wrong size bra:

1. No two bras fit or wear alike. Think about other pieces of clothing in your wardrobe, like your jeans. Different brands and styles don't "fit" the exact same way. Quality of design and materials drastically change how the item looks and fits. Some pieces wash and wear longer than others. And bras are way more complicated. There are options like wires, padding, strap placement, number of hooks, etc. If you fit into more than one size, they can still both be "right."

2. No two breasts are are the same, even on the same woman. Breasts can rest just about anywhere on our chest, from low to high up or be widely or more narrowly spaced. Breast density and percentage of fat can change their weight or fullness. One of our breasts is always slightly different than the other. Two women who measure into the same bra size may not be able to wear the same bra brand and style (see #1 above).

3. Fit is subjective. I can be sized into a technically well-fitting bra, but if I don't like it, who cares? Bra fitting is more art than science because it's about more than calculating the band number and cup letter. In the end the customer has to be happy with how the bra looks and feels.

4. Women's breasts are moving targets. We grow up, older, gain or lose weight, get pregnant, go through menopause; all resulting in body and boob changes and different bra sizes. Thanks to monthly cycles, most of us wear two different bra sizes in one month. Which one is the wrong size? It depends on the day or week.

5. Fashion changes. What I found appealing in bra and clothing styles in my teens has evolved and changed through my 20s, 30s and 40s. Even my nearly new bras don't always "fit" under every style of clothing I own.

I could be wearing the "wrong" or "right" size bra on any given day. If it makes me feel uncomfortable, I look for something else to wear. And I turn to the fitting experts to find solutions to my fashion and support problems. But it's no big deal. I've learned to accept, embrace and love the ups and downs of my breast life.

What about you? Are you wearing the wrong size bra? Does it bother you? How do you handle your breast changes?

This article first appeared on The Breast Life.

10 Valentine's Day Gifts and Gadgets to Score With

February 4, 2014, 12:58 pm

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The pressure's not on just yet. But, this Valentine's Day, we'd all probably do well to avoid the last minute gifts. Because, if we're being honest, those don't fool anybody.

Of course, starting earlier doesn't make shopping for the perfect gift for your favorite person any easier. There are tons of gifts out there to choose from, and you have to deal with the fear that you missed out on a hint or two that they've dropped in the past couple of weeks. It's a dilemma millions are well acquainted with. Fortunately, we're here to help you separate the wheat from the chaff, and get right down to the great gifts that are sure to get smiles (and maybe a little something else) this Valentine's Day.





Teleflora Flowers

Hey, no need to overthink things. Sometimes, a bouquet of flowers really is all you need to make Valentine's Day go off without a hitch. Some people are into the classic, traditional gestures, and nothing is more classic or traditional than a dozen fresh roses. Teleflora has a whole host of bouquets and arrangements prepared just for Valentine's Day, and you can have them hand-delivered to your sweetheart.




LEGO Be Mine Watch

All right, now we're getting into the good stuff. Many a lovebird will swoon over the LEGO Be Mine watch, which features a LEGO brick-style heart in the middle of the face and multi-colored, interchangeable links. In the 21st century, nothing says love like LEGO.




Red Diamond 2011 Wine Collection

Few things say Valentine's Day like a good bottle of wine. The Red Diamond 2011 Pinot Noir and Merlot are just that -- rich bottles of red wine with a fruit-forward profile that should easily loosen up you and your lover this Valentine's Day. Best of all, the wine comes in a slick black and red bottle that will perfectly set the mood for the big day.




Ultimate Ears Boom Speaker

Want to put hearts in the eyes of your music lover? Give them the Boom, from Ultimate Ears -- this 360 degree portable Bluetooth speaker delivers massive sound that puts it near the top of the market. It gets even better -- as of January 30th, a new voice greeting feature has become available on the UE BOOM -- so you can give that special someone a customized, one-of-a-kind UE BOOM this Valentine's Day. You can tailor the UE BOOM with a personalized message (up to 10 seconds) for your loved one to hear every time they turn on the speaker. Not only that, but you can get it in a nice, Valentine's Day friendly shade of red.




Fannie May Chocolates

If you're going to go the chocolate route, there's nothing wrong with that. Just know that you should go all out if you do -- don't get the run-of-the-mill box of chocolates when you can bring her delicious artisanal chocolates. It'll be a sweet feast that will perfectly kick off the 2014-2015 relationship year.




Couples Chemistry

Go the mysterious route with Couples Chemistry, the ultimate Valentine's Day grab bag. You and your partner take a short quiz exploring your desires, and Couples Chemistry sends you two little deviants a Love Kit, chock full of things to spice up your relationship. And, like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're going to get -- not until the Love Kit shows up at your doorstop.




Romeo and Juliet iPhone 5/5S Case

Would an iPhone case by another name look as sweet? Not if your significant other is a big Shakespeare fan -- celebrate Valentine's Day with a tribute to the most famous pair of star-crossed lovers. The Romeo and Juliet iPhone 5/5S Case is a hard shell case with a matte finish, and will hopefully do a better job of keeping your sweetheart's iPhone alive than Romeo and Juliet did for each other.




Bella 12-Piece Rocket Blender

For the guy or girl who makes the kitchen their kingdom, this 12 piece Rocket Blender from Bella is going to be a dream come true. The fact that it's a 12-piece blender should pretty much seal the deal straightaway -- there's enough here to perfectly serve any kind of mixed drink, along with tools for food prep. Combine that with a deep red base, and you have the makings of a Valentine's Day winner.




Kiss Me Socks

Last I checked, Valentine's Day was still in winter. That means it's still probably freezing outside, unless you're in California right now. So, yes, your significant other will absolutely love it if they get a warm new pair of socks for Valentine's Day, especially when they have "Kiss Me" stitched on the soles. Plus, they're well-cushioned, and cushy socks are just the best.




Jam Jar Wines

Sweet wine for your sweetheart. Jam Jar Wines make Sweet White and Sweet Shiraz, a white wine and a red wine infused with sweet, fruity flavors that should add the perfect finishing touch to whatever grand dinner plans you have laid out for the 14th.

'Sports Illustrated Swimsuit: 50 Years Of Beautiful' Declares Kathy Ireland 1989 'Greatest Cover Of All Time'

February 4, 2014, 1:14 pm

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Sports Illustrated celebrated 50 years of the most famous single-issue magazine franchise in the world -- as well as the most profitable at more than $1.5 billion. "Sports Illustrated Swimsuit: 50 Years of Beautiful" was a star-studded event, featuring many of the magazine's cover girls. But only one could take home the coveted title of "greatest cover of all time."

In the end, Kathy Ireland was declared the top of the heap for her iconic 1989 issue. "Oh my goodness. 25 years ago?" Ireland marveled. "We never dreamed that that image would be celebrated in this way.”

The honor stands alongside Ireland's other impressive SI Swimsuit Issue feats. She appeared in the Swimsuit Issue for 13 consecutive years, including three covers -- in one of those, she was pregnant.

The 2014 edition of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue hits newsstands on Tuesday, February 18, kicking off the next 50 years of beautiful women.

TV Replay scours the vast television landscape to find the most interesting, amusing, and, on a good day, amazing moments, and delivers them right to your browser.

Rare Celebrity Photos Show Stars' Endearing, Goofy Sides

February 4, 2014, 1:26 pm

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We're used to seeing celebrities red-carpet ready or in calculated poses on Instagram. But it's those off-beat moments, the rare and intimate instances that capture their true nature that we cherish most. Imgur user AllDaySonAllDay ("New Girl" reference, anyone?) curated this wonderful assortment of rare celebrity photos and we just had to share:

Bill Murray



Morgan Freeman



Harrison Ford



Kurt Cobain



Dr. Dre with Slim Shady look-alikes



Brooke Shields and Robert Downey Jr.



John and Julian Lennon



Emma Watson



There's plenty more where these came from. Head over to imgur for dozens of great photos.

How Do You Balance Formal Wear With Underwear?

February 4, 2014, 1:50 pm

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Let's set the scene. It's event season. You've got a handful of weddings this spring, or after parties, or black tie ceremonies. Whatever the case may be -- chances are, you're going to have to wear a suit. And we over at The Underwear Expert want to make sure you've got all your bases covered while dressed to the nines, which means starting with your underwear.

1. Hanro Silk Modal Brief w/Fly
Why not start with silk? This brief from Hanro is timeless and luxurious. It's made from a 76% modal, 20% silk and 4% elastane blend for ultimate comfort and stretch. The seat is seamless, so it'll look perfect under your suit, and it also features a double-lined pouch with fly.

2. Tani Silk Touch Boxer Brief
Made out of Micro Modal® Air fiber, this boxer brief may actually wind up rivaling your suit. It's finer and lighter than silk, and the naturally wicking material keeps you cool and dry all day long. Tani collections come in neutral colors, so they're always classic, with a few limited seasonal options.

3. Mack Weldon Woven Boxer
For those of you who can't stray from boxer shorts. This woven boxer from Mack Weldon is tailored with a button fly as well as side vents, so it's sure to keep you comfortable and supported. It's constructed from a blend of 98% cotton poplin and 2% spandex. For under formalwear, we recommend it in true black.

4. Gregg Homme Tuxedo Thong
If you're feeling adventurous, this tuxedo thong from Gregg Homme is the perfect undergarment for an after party. Adorned with two small black buttons and a bow tie on the pouch, it's sexy and playful.

5. Equmen Short Sleeve V-Neck
We love this white undershirt by Equmen, which is composed from a blend of 73% polyester cationi, 13% nylon, and 14% spandex for premium comfort and flexibility. This v-neck also helps build your posture and reduce back pain by pulling your shoulders back.

For even more under formalwear picks, make your way over to The Underwear Expert.

The Underwear Expert is the ultimate resource for 200+ men's underwear brands. Visit us for the latest men's underwear trends and more. Like us on Facebook.

Miranda Kerr Named New Face Of H&M

February 4, 2014, 2:22 pm

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Miranda Kerr has had quite an impressive career. From her humble beginnings as a Victoria's Secret Angel to stint as the face of Mango, to starring in e-retailer ShopStyle's catchy ads, she has been just about everywhere. Now, Kerr has another huge title to add to her resumé -- she is the new face of H&M.

The retail giant announced the news Tuesday on their Instagram, asking followers to "guess who" the star of their Spring 2014 campaign would be, before Kerr revealed the news herself in a short video.

We can hardly wait until March to see the photos. Until then, have a look at the announcement below.





See how the model's transformed her style throughout the years:


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Super Glam Fashion Week

February 4, 2014, 2:23 pm

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"Come with me, and you'll be, in a world of pure imagination....".

Ah... the magnificence of those simple songs lyrics from my childhood came rushing forth the second I walked into Giuseppe Zanotti's showroom, in the pulsating heart of Milan. The parallels between the scene from the 1971 classic film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, when the door was opened into this land of flowing chocolate, edible flowers and Oompa Loompas and where I stood awestruck, was undeniable. I was venturing into a fairyland of fashion, where the shoes and sneakers had supplanted the candy and confectionary. The proverbial Magic Box had just been opened for me, where in the rarest of mystical moments, fantasy had become reality.

"We'll begin with a spin, traveling in the world of my creation. What we'll see will defy explanation."

My god, the words from the song kept coming, flowing effortlessly and wistfully from somewhere in the subconscious of my youth to this here and now moment. The magic in the air was palpable to the point where you could almost grab it with your hand. I was on the threshold of a journey. Bolstering this venture was the fact that where I standing was once the former residence of Napolean Bonaparte. Dripping chandeliers adorned the room lending not only to its 18th Century charm, but emboldening its sense of history that permeated my already enlightened senses. But this, pardon the pun, was only the window dressing. The real allure here were the works of Zanotti, whose shoes, sneakers and boots almost seemed to say hello with each passing view. I first noticed the leopard calfskin boot -- which has always been a favorite of mine. But there was something different about this year's debut -- the heel. Zanotti had wrapped the entire 2-inch heel with thin metal plates, giving the boot a more contemporary artistic design. It was the perfect amount of "right", as it brought the boot from a place of great to epic, in a rock & roll, superstar superglam type of way.

Super Glam from Cary Nokey on Vimeo.

My gaze quickly shifted upon a pair of radiant red, high top sneakers, perched in the corner of the showroom, which beckoned me like a beacon spilling its effulgence over the crowd. I had realized that this was not only a unique piece of fashion but a work of art. With its Asian gold metallic dragon design complimenting its sanguine motif, Zanotti's fantastical vision was becoming more and more apparent with each glance of this breath-taking shoe. This man was obviously well aware of the undeniable synergy between music and fashion.

Turning away I was struck by a sense of warmth, which seemed to tap me on the shoulder like an old friend saying hello. I then realized I was standing next to this Willy Wonka of the Fashion world. His gentle aura and disarming smile greeted me with a welcomeness only few people can relay. As he began too speak of his new line, Mr. Zanotti's eyes aglow and replete with wonderment, he explained how the sheer spirit of rock & roll plays a major influence on the designs of some of his new men's boots and sneakers. He referenced artists like Kurt Cobain and Janis Joplin; and excitedly intoned how he views his showroom collection as a candy store, with something for everyone. He loves how people express themselves through his creations, and he strives to give people as much of an imaginative palette as possible. On the flip side, he does opine on the banality of looking through a showroom window with lifeless mannequins and almost wooden shoe accoutrements. The words average and mundane are just not in this man's vocabulary.

But his genius lies in breathing life into this world of fashion. Much like Mr. Wonka, the laces are woven like vibrant strands of taffy, to be pulled to and fro. The high-end fabrics and materials are carefully selected, each delectable ingredients that comprise each work giving them uniqueness and luminescence.

"Want to change the world? There's nothing to it."

My admiration for this man's work goes without saying. His work, vision, and candor all dipped into a big swirling pot of Pure Imagination has made such a profound impact on me, I can still taste it as I wear it. I was going to say that I was simply gobsmacked but I think I'll add everlasting to that. Shit, I was everlasting gobsmacked. Viva La Pure Imagination, Mr.Wonka and Pure Genius, Mr Zanotti!

And now it's Fashion Week in New York --- SUPER GLAM!!!

Newspaper Publishes Celebrity Cleavage Poll, Everyone Hates It

February 4, 2014, 2:30 pm

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A recent poll asking readers to weigh in on Taylor Swift and Heidi Klum's cleavage may be a new low for the Detroit Free Press -- and yes, that pun is intended.

Last month, the newspaper published a poll online that gave readers the chance to vote "good" or "bad" on the cleavage of 12 celebrities. "When cleavage is good, it’s very, very good. When it’s bad, it’s atrocious," the paper explained.

Georgea Kovanis, the Free Press writer who is credited for the poll, also offered "Dos and Don'ts of Cleavage" and listed the celebs on her good and bad lists in an accompanying column.

Those who bothered to vote were most impressed with Sofia Vergara (3,200 "good" votes) and least with Lena Dunham (2,514 "bad" votes), but plenty of readers had stronger opinions about the paper's judgement.

"Detroit Free Press, you've sunk to a new low in journalism. And there are a lot of lows to compare with," reader Marla Cone commented on the article. "Please keep your comments smart and civil. Unlike, of course, the poll itself," said Stephen Whitty. "This paper has finally jumped the shark," wrote Benny Leibhan.

After media blog JimRomenesko.com linked to the story Tuesday, the outrage spilled onto Twitter.

Yikes, @freep, did you accidentally publish an article from 1950?http://t.co/Q7LPZybXB2 @HannaRosin @NoreenMalone @DoubleXMag @meganharris13

— June Thomas (@junethomas) February 4, 2014

I can't express how utterly flabbergasted I am at this in 120 characters. http://t.co/ywiCefI5C2 Journalist integrity is dead at the @freep.

— Benny Vasquez (@bennyvasquez) February 4, 2014

OMG -- RT Judging women's breasts not "news".MT @HiddenBrain: Shouldn't @freep change its twitter handle 2 @sexist? http://t.co/nwqqMO34pt

— Ellen Comisar (@elesscom) February 4, 2014

I'll say it first: The Detroit Free Press must be run by boobs. "Vote: Good cleavage or bad cleavage" http://t.co/4hJpuxGQfo via @freep

— Kevin McDermott (@kevinmcdermott) February 4, 2014

Free Press Managing Editors Julie Topping and Nancy Andrews told The Huffington Post that the poll, which initially only had a line of two of text leading into the voting, went along with Kovanis' column leading into the Grammys.

"Online, we asked people to vote on which celebrities showed cleavage in the best way," they said in an email. "Unfortunately, the language of the poll lost the context of the column. We have since added more context."

The poll now includes part of Kovanis' column, which weighs in on the celebrity cleavage "trend." As red carpet style filters into the mainstream, "we’re going to be seeing even more cleavage, coping with a cleavage explosion at work, at social events, even in front of our own mirrors," she wrote. "Cleavage can make women feel feminine, which often makes them feel pretty and sexy and confident."

But certain parts of Kovanis' column might not make those who took issue with the poll any happier, like when she writes about how women use their breasts.

"No matter how feminist their leanings, most women get a certain charge, a certain power from using their femininity to catch a man’s eye or, in some cases, using it as a form of Kryptonite," Kovanis said.

"Cleavage also can distract from anything its wearer is trying to say, any point she wants to make," she wrote. "Instead of being seen as someone with a valid opinion, she runs the risk of being seen as someone with nothing to offer but breasts. Because that’s where all eyes will be."

Though the few readers who responded to the poll itself may not have thought so, both Vergara and Dunham are winners in our book for loving their bodies and not apologizing for it.

'WeWoreWhat.com' Fashion Blogger Danielle Bernstein On Turning Down Free Clothes (VIDEO)

February 4, 2014, 2:35 pm

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So it turns out a lot of fashion bloggers get a lot of free stuff. All those designer clothes they're wearing? Yeah, they probably didn't pay for them. And while getting packages of designer duds sent to your doorstep may seem like a dream come true, bloggers need to tactfully reject items that "aren't their style," while still maintaining relationships with the brands.

Danielle Bernstein, the blogger behind WeWoreWhat.com, definitely knows a thing or two about declining free clothes. The immensely successful fashion guru stopped by HuffPost Live today to chat about the ethics behind fashion blogging. When asked how she navigates all the free merch, here's what she had to say:

"PR companies will get a hold of your address and they'll just start sending you products and everything. You know, I really stay true to my style on my blog and I don't put anything out there that I don't actually like. So sometimes saying no and saying to a PR company, 'Hey, I know you sent me this but I don't really think I'm going to wear it.' Or, 'It's not really my style, what if we do something else or we pick out something else from the lookbook.' It's been really hard. I've definitely gotten myself into a little trouble there."

Though it's safe to assume that not all fashion bloggers are this responsible, it's nice to know that some have a line they aren't willing to cross.

Watch the full segment on HuffPost Live to hear Bernstein talk about how she started blogging and why she is stressed about Fashion Week.

This is why Danielle Bernstein is a top fashion blogger:



Want more? Be sure to check out HuffPost Style on Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, Pinterest and Instagram at @HuffPostStyle.

Lands' End Bans Use Of Angora Fur After Watching PETA Video

February 4, 2014, 3:19 pm

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Lands' End has agreed to stop making clothes using Angora fur after company executives saw disturbing footage showing cruel treatment on Angora rabbit farms.

"We take the treatment of animals very seriously at Lands' End," company spokesperson Michele Casper told The Huffington Post. "We have made the decision that we will not be sourcing or developing any new merchandise at Lands' End that includes Angora."

Angora fur is valued for being lightweight, warm and silky to the touch. It is plucked or shorn from Angora rabbits about once every three months, and is used to make clothing items like sweaters, scarves and earmuffs.

But a troubling video filmed undercover by animal rights activists at nine Angora fur farms in China last summer has raised questions about how Angora is sourced. The video, which was filmed by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), shows rabbits screaming while their hair is torn out by workers. Several rabbits are also seen being left alone in dirty cages afterward.

Lands' End made its decision after seeing the disturbing footage, PETA Corporate Liason Anne Kellogg told HuffPost on Monday. PETA announced the news in a press release Monday morning.

A number of major retailers, from H&M and The Gap to Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein, have suspended Angora production until they can verify that the farms they contract with are not engaged in abusive treatment of animals.

WATCH PETA's video, below:

Valentine's Day Gift Guide

February 4, 2014, 3:55 pm

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This Valentine's Day, have your Valentine falling for these unique, whimsical and romantic gifts.

Romance is in the air. Created with the finest ingredients the Aerin Fragrance collection with five distinct scents: Gardenia Rattan, Amber Musk, Lilac Path, Ikat Jasmine and my favorite for this time of year, Evening Rose. Choose one that tells your story.


Classic with a distinctive downtown edge Illesteva glasses are designed in New York and made in Italy, how fabulous is that? Celebrity fans include Beyonce, Daniel Craig and Elton John. Join the hipsters and get a pair of glossy red shades this Valentine's day, you'll have everyone seeing red.

Chic and stylish, just like your Valentine these one of a kind pieces from designer Reggie Stone will make a statement of love. We are swooning over this La Vie en Rose from her La Bohemienne Collection. A playful, deconstructed necklace of luxurious knotted tie-dyed silk, hand sewn beaded crystals and silk ribbons. $275.00 retail.

I like my charms in the form of gold -- fondant that is, Georgetown Cupcake's Charm Dozen are indulgent, gorgeous and delicious, all at the same time. Thank goodness there is a dozen because it's Valentine's Day, and who's going to stop at one? Georgetown Cupcake Charm Dozen -- 6 Red Velvet with gold 'love' heart charm fondant, 3 Chocolate Squared with gold 'xo' heart charm fondant and 3 Bubblegum Pink Vanilla with gold 'xo' heart charm fondant. $29/dozen.

A great gift for sharing and enjoying with a loved one, Veuve Clicquot Rosé Couture is a chic offering for Veuve Clicquot Rosé. Designed to celebrate haute couture, this elegant case is designed to keep a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Rosé chilled for up to two hours and is perfect for a stylish Valentine. Retailing for $69.00, Veuve Clicquot Rosé Couture is available at fine wine and liquor stores nationwide.

Sucre' A sweet Boutique from New Orleans, is a most magical place, where chef Tariq spins sugar like none other. They offer a Sweet Macaron Collection that is handmade with love from flavors inspired by the most romantic city in the world. Red and white Macarons filled with the perfect pairing of white chocolate and raspberry mousseline make for the sweetest treat! They're my latest addiction!

Wear your love not on your sleeve, but right smack in the front for maximum attention! How fun! C.Wonder's Je T'aime Intarsia Colorblock sweater is incredibly chic, perfect for your fashion-forward Valentine.

Moët & Chandon Rosé Impérial is a spontaneous and radiant champagne, with bright fruitiness, a seductive palate, elegant maturity and a lively, intense bouquet of red fruits, floral nuances of rose, and a slight peppery touch. This February, find it dressed to impress in the new Black Tie Box, a chic pink isothermal box which keeps your bottle of Moët Impérial Rosé chilled for up to 2 hours, preserving the crispness and supple qualities of the bubbly, with a convenient handle for carrying. Available for $59 at ReserveBar.com.

Light up your romance with a delightfully delicious candle, Duchess Peony from LAFCO. You can smell the blooms as if it was spring. Romantic, full and floral, it's a blend of full Camellia and Peony blossoms. Set in a rose toned blown glass container that looks undeniably chic in any room.

Zac Posen Unveils Wedding Dress Line For David's Bridal (PHOTOS)

February 4, 2014, 5:26 pm

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Ever dreamed of walking down the aisle in a designer dress that only celebrities can afford? Look no further than Zac Posen's new bridal line, Truly Zac Posen!

The designer's collection of wallet-friendly wedding dresses, ranging in price from from $850 to $1,350 and available in sizes 0 to 26, will be available exclusively at David's Bridal beginning February 6.

"We have jointly created love notes to brides everywhere," Posen said of the collaboration with David's Bridal in a press release. "Each design in this collection depicts a romantic femininity with silhouettes that embrace and enhance every woman’s body."

(Story continues below the photo.)




The collection features seven styles to choose from, including a satin fit-and-flare gown with corset detailing and embellishments and a champagne-colored tulle dress with a lace overlay.

Posen tells The Huffington Post that, after years of creating custom gowns for friends and family, he was inspired to create a line for a larger audience.

"Wearing a bridal gown is always an empowering moment," he said. "For me, it’s about making a woman feel beautiful. It’s important that the gown is worn with a sense of sophistication and ease; it needs to feel part of who the woman is, but not the only thing she is about."



Posen said that he envisions the Truly Zac Posen bride-to-be as "feminine, confident, and sophisticated."

"She is someone who embodies a true sense of identity. She is empowered, glamorous, enjoys the transformative power of bridal wear, and is not dictated by trends," he added.

His collection for David's Bridal includes special occasion dresses and accessories as well.



Keep in touch! Check out HuffPost Weddings on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

Awkward Russian Wedding Photos Are A Whole New Level Of WTF (NSFW)

February 4, 2014, 6:03 pm

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When you open up a wedding album, you are bound to find at least a few corny pictures that feature the obligatory hand-holding on the beach and a backwards glance from the bride as she walks through a meadow.

Judging from the pictures below -- which we can only describe as WTF? -- we can safely say that Russians aren't afraid to break the mold when it comes to their own wedding photos.

(H/T Sad and Useless )

Meet the "little woman."




Meet the meat.




Groomzilla's on the attack! Run for the hills!




How... romantic?




Any good wedding photo should inform viewers that carbs can kill.




It's okay, you don't have to do that. You really don't!




Transformers and explosions are a precursor to a happy married life.




Meanwhile, in Russia...




"Swan Lake" takes on whole new meaning.




Not trying to burst your bubble...




Here comes the bride, all dressed in insane sparkles.




This.




A classy lady.




A short-lived wedding.




Holy cow!




No Russian wedding is complete without an accordion.




See, told ya so.




Where can we buy that painting?




A wedding is a party, after all.




Let the drinking festivities begin.




A strong groom makes for a strong marriage.




To the window, to the wall?




This made sense at the time, we're sure.




Why? We couldn't tell you.


Keep in touch! Check out HuffPost Weddings on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

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Beyonce Poses In Bra, Lets Blue Ivy Play With An iPhone In New Pic

February 5, 2014, 12:01 pm

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Beyonce is one sexy mama.

The singer superstar posted a couple of new shots to her Tumblr page, Beyonce | I Am, on Wednesday (Feb. 5). In them, she's seen slouched in a chair, wearing a white silk bra, high-waisted undies and a robe. Her beautiful baby girl, Blue Ivy, plays around her, holding an iPhone.





Bey's been generous lately with the behind-the-scenes sneak peeks; over the last few weeks, she has provided a glimpse into her life with her 2-year-old and her loving husband Jay Z, as well as her rigorous preps for that epic Grammys performance.

10 Things to Know About Fashion Week

February 5, 2014, 12:06 pm

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Starting this week in New York, the fashion industry begins its four-city marathon known as Fashion Month. Sure, nobody is curing cancer, but the designers, editors, models, photographers, interns, etc. work much harder and withstand more pressure than the outside world is willing or able to acknowledge.

Having several Fashion Week's under my belt, I have come to know the following ten truths:

1. There is a very fine line between street style, and looking like Becky Bloomwood.
No disrespect to Becky Bloomwood.

2. Models work harder than you think.
During Fashion Month, their hours rival that of an investment banker.

3. Publicists are people, too.
Try swearing off sleep for weeks and then keeping your patience when an another anonymous fashion student throws a fit about being in Standing.

4. The general public cannot just "get tickets" to a fashion show.
This is not a Ricky Martin concert.

5. Wearing sunglasses at a show is only acceptable for a very select few.
No offense, but if you're in the fifth row wearing your Céline Teddy's, people may think you just had laser eye surgery.

6. Assistants make the world go round.
Then after the show it's the after party... and after the party it's the... office. Until 2am.

7. Not all bloggers are "peacocks."
Some are. But many, namely Leandra Medine and Emily Weiss, are incredibly talented entrepreneurs.

8. You may think fashion is silly, but there's no escaping it unless you take a cue from Adam and Eve and forgo clothing forever.
As Miranda Priestly would say, "...it's sort of comical how you think that you've made a choice that exempts you from the fashion industry when, in fact, you're wearing the sweater that was selected for you by the people in this room. From a pile of stuff."

9. A 5-minute runway production makes it look effortless.
But really, months of blood, sweat, and tears, went into that collection.

10. Fashion is a business. Period.
For many, it is simply work. It is not a carnival (although some people hanging by the fountains in Lincoln Center look like they're about to hop on that Tilt-a-Whirl). So keep it professional, people.

Bethann Hardison Continues Push For Racial Diversity On The Runway, Sends New Letter

February 5, 2014, 12:55 pm

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When New York Fashion Week kicks off on Thursday, many commentators will be watching the runways closely -- not just to see which collections will be most coveted come fall, but also to see whether designers have heeded the call to showcase more black models.

That call for action was sent out in September, at the start of the previous NYFW, by Bethann Hardison, a prominent fashion activist and former model. On behalf of the Diversity Coalition, a group of like-minded advocates and industry members, Hardison wrote a letter to the governing bodies of Fashion Weeks in New York, Paris, London and Milan, asking why "fashion design houses consistently use ... one or no models of color," and accusing specific designers of racism on the runway.

"Whether it's the decision of the designer, stylist or casting director, that decision to use basically all white models reveals a trait that is unbecoming to modern society," the letter read in part. "No matter the intention, the result is racism."

"This is just round one. There's more," Hardison told The Huffington Post at the time.

This week, she delivered on that promise.

Hardison and the Diversity Coalition sent out another email to the governing bodies of the world’s Fashion Weeks Tuesday, detailing the progress -- and lack thereof -- seen on the runway this past season.

The letter reads:

Last season we addressed the international fashion industry for their lack of conduct in being racially diverse. There was a marked improvement on the runways and a positive response to the letters received by the major fashion councils and the designer brands they count as members. First we will share the results.

It is important to say that there are design houses serviced by casting directors and stylists who are latent, as they seem comfortable with stereotypical images.

Although progress was made last season within certain houses, the objective is to continue this improvement across the entire industry. We look for consistency and not because of advocacy or a season lending to darker skin.

So we will continue to watch and reveal season to season.

Diversifying is not difficult. The resistance to do so is intriguing.

Hardison and the Coalition provide a tally of models of color employed during the September 2013 shows by several designers, all of which had previously cast one or no non-Caucasian models during the February 2013 shows. Overall, as Jezebel noted at the time, there was an uptick, with some design houses adding as many as four or five models of color.

Here is a breakdown of New York Fashion Week's numbers in the letter:


The Coalition also provided numbers for Paris, Milan and London.

As seen above, Calvin Klein, Narciso Rodriguez and The Row spearhead a trend toward runway diversity among New York designers -- with the exception of MM6 Maison Martin Margiela, which hasn't cast a single model of color in the past two seasons. Bright spots on a global level came courtesy of Alexander McQueen, Roland Mouret, Giorgio Armani and Moschino, all of which made significant changes in their lineups.

Hardison is optimistic about the forthcoming season.

"I'm looking forward to seeing what happens -- I'm hopeful," she told The Huffington Post. "Diversity is just good for the world. And images have much more power than words. When people start putting those colorful images out and people of power start standing behind them, it starts to create a paradigm shift. And I believe it can happen."

Hardison pointed to prominent examples of increased diversity in magazines and advertisements. She praised the designer Prabal Gurung, who just launched his debut ad campaign, featuring the black supermodel Liya Kebede. She also singled out Vogue’s January 2014 issue, calling it a "brilliant example of organic diversity" that featured several fashion editorials with models of color and stories showing celebrities like Idris Elba and Lupita Nyong'o. Hardison said that she met with Vogue staff members in November, after the January issue had been pulled together, to discuss the importance of diversity in the fashion world.

In an effort to provide more guidance for the industry in terms of promoting diversity, Hardison and the Diversity Coalition also submitted a list of best practices to Diane von Furstenberg and Steven Kolb, the president and chief executive officer, respectively, of the Council of Fashion Designers of America.

The list includes the following guidelines:

• Encourage the industry to be inclusive of racial diversity when preparing casting of models for their company needs.



• Ask model agencies to include and send models of color when casting. Do not assume agents will automatically do so. It's good for them to hear the interest and important to see what models of color are available.



• Request models of color every season and not be limited to Spring/Summer collections and hesitate when it comes to Fall/Winter collections.



• When speaking to model agencies suggest to them to scout for more models of color encouraging a better selection.



• Be open minded to models of color. Make an effort to add diversity to your lineup. It affects how we see things globally and how we are seen as an industry.



• Our objective is to make a shift on how the model of color is viewed so it becomes natural to see them participating each season in a greater number than seasons past.

Ladies Of Russian Olympics Team Strip Down For Controversial Pre-Games Pinup Shoots

February 5, 2014, 1:19 pm

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We're finding out early what Russia's Winter Olympics athletes are made of.

Ahead of the Sochi Games, the women on the team donned lingerie and other barely-there clothing and posed for what turned out to be a set of controversial photos.

According to the Weird Russia news blog, the competitors in the provocative pinup presentations included curling's Anna Sidorova, speed skater Tatiana Borodulina, figure skater Ekaterina Bobrova, freestyle skier Ekaterina Stolyarova (shown in the photo shoot video above) and ice hockey goalie Anna Prugova (pictured below).



The pictures, meant to generate positive PR for the Games, went viral in the host country, according to reports, but the come-hither vibe won no medals for furthering the cause of female athletes, Rachael Oakes-Ash wrote in Australia's Daily Life:

I have heard the arguments that stripping off brings much needed focus and a new audience to women in sport, the same women who earn lesser prize money and get lesser sponsorship dollars despite the same travel costs as the men on the competition circuit. But is it the audience we want and what about the young girls looking to make it on the world stage, must they worry that they are pretty enough not just good enough to make it too?

Indeed, when athletes say they are checking out the competition, it usually doesn't mean this:

Александра Саитова, керлинг. pic.twitter.com/lwySHZNNl0

— РосТролль (@rostroll) February 4, 2014

Анна Пругова-российская хоккеистка, вратарь молодёжной и первой женских сб.России. Родилась в Хабаровске в 1993 году. pic.twitter.com/06nPX5QcC4

— НикитаNEO (@NEOMagnitka) January 24, 2014

Екатерина Боброва, фигурное катание.Чемпион Европы, двукратный серебряный призёр чемпионатов Европы 2011 и 2012 годов pic.twitter.com/yeyznFPcIi

— РосТролль (@rostroll) February 4, 2014

#СпортсменкиСочи Ирина Аввакумова, прыжки с трамплина … pic.twitter.com/EI1TI4uRDy

— Кот Вопроскин (@Voproskin) February 5, 2014

Ольга Зябликова, керлинг. Бронзовый призер молодежного чемпионата мира. pic.twitter.com/q2PDgxUhYf

— РосТролль (@rostroll) February 4, 2014

Татьяна Бородулина, шорт-трек. Заслуженный мастер спорта России, четырёхкратная чемпионка Европы 2005 года. pic.twitter.com/A3WpR0dijb

— РосТролль (@rostroll) February 4, 2014

(Hat tip, Daily Mail)

Farrah Abraham Says She's Been Raped More Than Once

February 5, 2014, 1:31 pm

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Just last month, former "Teen Mom" star Farrah Abraham admitted doing porn "ruined" her life, and now she's come forward to say she's a rape survivor.

"I was drugged and raped more than once. I allowed the [wrong] type of people into my life,” she told In Touch magazine. She added that after the release of her porn movie with James Deen, "Farrah Superstar: Backdoor Teen Mom," she booked gigs at strip clubs and adult conventions that placed her in unsafe situations.

The 22-year-old also opened up about her troubled childhood, alleging that her parents Debra Danielson and Michael Abraham physically abused her.

“[They] would beat me with a belt if I acted out. I had cuts, bruises, welts, swelling and scars," she told the magazine. Additionally, she said that it wasn't until a 2010 fight, which led to her mother being arrested for suspicion of domestic abuse, that it came to an end.

Abraham, who appeared solo on the reality show "Couples Therapy," says she's now in a better place emotionally, telling Wetpaint, "I'm more comfortable because I've done a lot of work. Like, how can I be comfortable with some of the choices that I've made? And I think I am more comfortable, in a better place. I just say keep progressing, keep learning from your past, watch yourself back. When you watch yourself back you learn a lot."