With St. Patrick’s Day just around the corner La vie… J’aime is here to share a few tips on how to look stylish and avoid getting pinched all at the same time! Be sure to check out Jaime’s blog highlighting the best of fashion, art, entertainment, beauty, lifestyle, and pop culture.

St. Patrick’s Day: the day when everyone’s Irish. A time to celebrate by wearing green, watching parades, and sharing a pint with friends and family. Being in Boston, my friends and I head to Southie (a.k.a South Boston) where Irish pride runs amuck and an annual parade heads down Broadway all day on the Sunday before St. Patty’s.

I always bring out my green finest- beads, shamrock glasses, a festive t-shirt, pins, you name it!

No matter if you are 100% Irish or “just a pinch” like me, here are some ways to show your spirit, in style, at any price.

Tops: Urban Outfitters, Old Navy, Lucky Brand

Jewelry: Juicy Couture, Jennifer Meyer, Erica Anenberg

Accessories: Adidas Originals, Nordstrom, Juicy Couture

Extras: Party City, Old Navy, Party City

For more St. Patrick’s Day fashion, check out my Style you Sunday: St. Patrick’s Day post this Sunday!

Spring is almost here! With Daylight Savings just around the corner, get ready to enjoy the sun for longer and refresh your wardrobe accordingly. Elisa from

Spring officially begins in less than 3 weeks, and it’s about time, isn’t it?

But what about our wardrobes? Here are a few tips to help you transition to spring:

Switch to lighter layers

If the weather allows, start “lightening up”:

- choose a thin cardi and a top over a chunky knit;

- swap your faithful boots for a peep-toe version;

- grab a few spring dresses and wear them with opaque stockings and boots, and if needed, a thin turtleneck underneath.

Add spring trends to your winter wardrobe

Add some clear accessories to your look, like a cuff, a lucite beaded necklace or a pump with a see-through heel;

- swap your classic mini or pencil skirt for a full skirt. Full skirts have a vintage, feminine vibe –but the Spring runway version, with its shorter hemline is also young and playful.

- try on the lingerie trend: pair a corset top with pants or top a delicate nightie dress with an edgy leather jacket or a trench coat.

Include brighter colors and prints

The color of Spring 2010, turquoise is bright, fun, and it pairs well with most neutrals. Try adding a touch of turquoise to your winter outfits: wear a turquoise top under your suit, or brighten up your outfit with a turquoise handbag.

Explore a new interpretation of the classic spring trend, florals, by opting for accessories featuring rosettes, sculpted flowers and the like.

Sailor stripes can add a playful tone to your work wardrobe when you pair a striped boat neck tee to simple navy pants, and to your after-work wardrobe with a flirty striped dress.

In fashion the line between the seasons is often blurry – so don’t be afraid to experiment with upcoming trends. Experimenting is half the fun, anyway

Elisa is a professional translator, freelance writer and blogger. She is also a self-proclaimed “stiletto fiend and global nomad”: originally from Italy, she has been travelling and moving around in the past 15 years, going from Milan to Los Angeles, then Copenhagen, Zurich, New York. She currently resides in Zurich, Switzerland and blogs at Globetrotting in Heels.

Passion For Pretty is here to dish on her love for fashion and share with us a few of her top wardrobe picks for spring! Be sure to check out her fabulously over the top blog for fashion, beauty, and celebrity gossip enthusiasts to manifest their obsessions.

I have a passion for all things pretty. I LIVE for moments to garnish my body in fabulous high/low finds, nothing puts a pep in my step like an haute ensemble – shoes, outfit, and accessories (yes, including makeup)! I feel invincible when I am in love with my look, sashaying through the world and stopping traffic as I go. I love the power of fashion…am I the only one obsessed? *blink* If not, equally minded fashion and beauty enthusiasts can get a quick fix at Passion for Pretty.

I am uber excited every year as March approaches; I can start to feel spring in the air! I begin my finding pieces that bridge the gap between the two seasons and build up my wardrobe from there. Above are 3 pieces (selected separately, not as an outfit) chosen from my closets that have made my “spring cut”:

1. Statement pieces are the easiest way to glam up an outfit. A chunky bangle, eye-catching earrings, a stunning cocktail ring; whatever your poison, go hard! This bracelet, ring, and earring trio is from Lia Sophia.

2. LBD, period. I love this Cap Sleeve Control Dress, $69-$79, by Shape FX! (it’s currently in the cleaners) The flattering neckline, simple cut, built-in mesh power slip (get excited), and silicone gripper hem to prevent ride-up. The simplicity of the LBD allows me to create unlimited looks based on my shoe/accessory selections.

3. A multi-seasonal shoe is the best shoe! My Finsbury Mary Janes by L.A.M.B. work well with tights in the winter and I am looking forward to pairing them with nude fishnets for the spring or a straight leg pant.

Now on the count of 3, go see what makes your “spring cut”. 1, 2, 3…….

Smooches & Quick Claps

*image from ShapeFX

Over at SporkFashion.com, we focus on indie and emerging fashion designers, but that doesn’t mean that we don’t love the big runway shows, where established names can afford to go over-the-top.  While the true theatrics don’t get underway until the couture shows, ready-to-wear offered some weird, wonderful, and wacky pieces.  Below are some of our favorites from the New York and London fall collections.

Vivienne Westwood – Too timid to let it all hang out?  Vivienne Westwood can help you out with her t-shirt sporting a pair of photo-realistic breasts across the front.  Be prepared for flushed faces, stammered speech, and a shifting gaze.

Todd Lynn – Big shoulders got bigger at Todd Lynn’s London show – and they sprouted fur.

L.A.M.B. – A conservative button-down blouse and black slacks are not exactly the L.A.M.B. way.  Gwen Stefani spiced it up with a vintage-style garter belt.  It looks like it came from Madonna’s Blonde Ambition Tour costume rack

Unique – This London label lives up to its name with a warm, cozy, layered collection.  Perfect for cold November evenings, or a Where the Wild Things Are reenactment.

Louise Gray – It’s a coat! It’s a shawl!  It’s a quilt!  Snuggies go high end with Louise Gray’s eclectic hobo-boho look.

Meadham Kirchhoff – The first thing you notice about this ensemble is the near-opaque veil topped with a bright pink crown.  But poke around, and you will find all sorts of odd quirks: nylon harem pants, peep-toe clogs (with socks, of course), and some hot pink accents that defy description.

Betsey Johnson – The always lovable Betsey Johnson took the wild west theme to a whole new plane of existence.  Old-fashioned long johns are topped off by saloon-style dresses made in a revolver print.  No outlaw’s outfit would be complete without a six-shooter, badge, and a “stick-em-up” mask.

About Alyse Wax: A native of Los Angeles, Alyse has turned her obsessive need to shop into something productive with her Spork Empire: SporkFashion.com, SporkBeauty.com, and SporkLiving.com.  When she isn’t shopping, she is a television producer and writer.  Alyse’s TV credits include Big Brother, Style Star, and Penn & Teller: Off the Deep End.  Her articles have appeared in Teen People magazine, Hollywood.com, and FearNet.com.  She lives in Los Angeles with a house full of boys: one husband, two dogs, and a rabbit.  They live walking distance to a mall.

I would say my personal style can be described as exotic glamour. I live for snakeskin, diamonds and a touch of pink. I dare to be bold with my fashion but still pair my statement-making pieces with more subtle basics for balanced style perfection. I have come to love a few things more than others and I believe every wardrobe could use my three style must-haves.

Small Patent Leather Bag, Fendi, $785; Stretch Cotton-Blend Dress, RM by Roland Mouret, $1,580; Gold-Plated Star Cuff, Kenneth Jay Lane, $135

#1 The Little Black Dress (LBD)
I have many little black dresses.You should own at least one. The love affair with LBDs began during the 1920s when Coco Chanel introduced it as an everyday dress that can go from day to night with a raise in the heel, a switch from a handbag to a clutch and a dash of red lipstick. The LBD is even more stylish today and comes in an array of cuts and detailing. I personally love Roland Mouret’s take on the LBD.

#2 Chainlink Handbag
Nothing says sophisticated more than a chain link handbag. Although it’s been very trendy this season, this classic style will always be in vogue. I would suggest you buy one from Lanvin as they are not as ubiquitous as Chanel but still maintain high quality and aesthetics.

#3 Bold Jewelry
Bold jewelry can add a little spice to your outfit. I love daring necklaces, cuffs and cocktail rings. Jewelry is also a great way to incorporate a season’s trends into your closet without breaking the bank. I suggest you find pieces that you will wear forever. You have to really make sure your collection screams you. The best costume jewelry is always found during your travels. Whether it be real or costume, jewelry will always look fabulous with minimal care.

Some items every girl should have:

• Cuffs: Try to find exotic styles with eye catching details.
• Hoop earrings: Thin is in.
• Statement necklaces
• Cocktail rings: Don’t be shy — wear them during the day.

I’m not sure where it came from – my mother, my grandmother, Emily Post, perhaps – but for as  long as I can remember, I’ve always been told there are two colors you never wear with black – brown and navy. However, I’m here to tell you, that by following a few simple guidelines, you can easily combine these neutrals to create classic looks that even the harshest critics would approve of.

1. Keep it subtle

One of easiest ways to wear either black and navy or black and brown is by keeping it subtle. Choose of the colors to be your dominant in the ensemble, whether it’s black accented with brown or navy accented with black, and go from there. For example, Anne Hathaway looks stunning in this navy dress, even when it’s paired with black shoes. By letting the navy dress be the dominant color, and accenting it with black shoes, she created a fabulous red carpet look.

2. Layer

Another easy way to arrange black with navy or brown is to layer them under or over each other. One of my favorite ways to ‘winterize’ my navy summer shift dresses is to add a pair of black tights.  Not only does this look great, but it allows me to wear the dress year-round. Another of my favorites is to add a brown cardigan to a little black dress, creating a conservative yet sophisticated ensemble.

3. Break it up

A nice way to integrate these colors is to break them up on your body. One of my favorite winter outfits is my dark brown riding boots, skinny jeans and a black turtleneck. By creating distance between my turtleneck and boots, I can easily wear these colors together for a preppy and low-key weekend look.

The smoky eye always comes to mind whenever we think of nighttime makeup, the look is usually paired with nude lips to give off that sultry smouldering look that many find attractive. As much as I love a sexy smoky eye, I also love all the other options. Here are three ideas for your next glam night out:

1. The Classic Glam:

You really can’t go wrong with this look! It features neutral eyes accented with bold red lips that scream siren. This look reminds us that you don’t always have to pack on the eye makeup to stand out — other parts of your face should have a spotlight too.

2. The Natural Goddess

The smoky effect is not the only way to dress up your eyes — big lashes draw some serious attention to your peepers. If you’re not blessed with naturally long, fluttery lashes, don’t be afraid to try some false lashes. They’re a ton of fun for a night out.

Do you have a favorite amongst these looks?

I have to confess: I have very strong feelings against wearing loungewear in public, and I generally don’t do it.  But lately I’ve been tempted to break my self-imposed rule, because I pretty much live in sweatpants when I’m at home, and changing out of them just for a quick Target run (especially in winter) is starting to seem downright crazy.  To compromise, I’ve found some chic (and affordable) loungewear that will give the impression that you put effort into your look, even if you just rolled out of bed.

To make loungewear look stylish, focus on how it fits.  Avoid the baggy hooded sweatshirt and sweatpants and go for a slimmer fit.  I’m a big fan of yoga pants, which are just as comfortable as sweats but look a lot more pulled together.  Tuck them into boots in winter for an extra sleek look.

Foldover Yoga Pant from Victoria’s Secret

You can even trick people into believing that you’re wearing denim by mimicking the color, cut, and details of jeans, without sacrificing any of the comfort.

Bettona Pant from Athleta

If you’re looking for a looser fit, similar rules apply.  Make sure the shape of the pant is flattering, and look for a thin fabric to cut down on unnecessary bulk.

Boyfriend Pant from Victoria’s Secret

When pairing a top with your stylish sweats, skip the concert t-shirt or college sweatshirt and stick with the theme of lightweight fabrics and slim fits.

Three-Quarter Sleeve Lounge Hoodie from Old Navy

I love Old Navy for their basics: comfortable, affordable, and available in a rainbow of colors.

Lightweight Scoop-Neck Tee from Old Navy

A long boyfriend cardigan is perfect with yoga pants – so effortlessly chic.

Roll-Sleeve Jersey Boyfriend Cardigan from Old Navy

In sum, when choosing loungewear, go for a slim fit, look for lightweight fabrics, and choose tops you could also wear with jeans.  You’ll be stylish and comfortable!

Whether you are heading to Cabo with your girlfriends, taking a short tropical vacation with your man, or cruising along the Caribbean with your family, one thing’s for sure: you are looking for a break from the jackets, scarves, and layered looks of the winter season. Thankfully, this spring season offers some refreshing trends. When it comes time to packing for that weeklong getaway, consider putting some of these items, all from Shop It To Me brands, in your suitcase.

Stripes

Get funky and pair this J. Crew striped top with red shorts, keep it more subdued and beachy with destroyed denim, or pair with white shorts for a crisp and classic look.

Rompers

Slip into this silky romper from Free People. It’s perfect for strolling down the boardwalk, ice cream cone in hand, or it can even double as a swimsuit cover-up. Versatility is key when packing that suitcase.

Whites

Celebrities have been showing us lately that all-white dresses do not have to be restricted to weddings. Yes, white is a tricky fabric. To hide pantylines and other unwanted sights, opt for a thicker fabric. This white dress from Express is particularly eye-catching.

Swimwear

On spring break, your swimsuit may very well be the piece of clothing you will wear most of the time. That means splurge on this piece! This season offers 1950s and pinup-girl inspired cuts, which are very flattering for shapely bodies. Have fun with bright colors, or stick to the always-chic all-black swimsuit.

Cover-up

A necessity on beach vacations is the swim cover-up.  This Victoria’s Secret cover-up not only comes in an array of colors, but it is also very stylish and affordable.

Neutrals

Khakis, creams, and neutral colors are popping up all over the place this season. Incorporate it into your spring wardrobe with a sandstorm blazer for chilly nights, a jumpsuit, or my personal favorite, this dress from Asos.

Which of these spring trends is your favorite?

Whether you have a hot date or you’re flying solo, standing out on Valentine’s day is a must! Kristina from

This Valentine’s Day (or S.A.D., Singles Awareness Day depending on your relationship with that chubby cherub we hate to love), I challenge you. I challenge you to stay away from red, and stand out. Drape yourself in shimmery fabrics with delicate details, like one-shoulder bows or soft ruffles. Do you really want to be the 30th girl in the restaurant (S.A.D.-ers: bar) wearing a red dress?

You have been hereby challenged. Let’s see what you make of it!

D&G Ruffle Embellished Silk Bustier Dress, Net-A-Porter.com, $745

It’s the delicate ruffles and soft color that provide a nice backdrop for the pop of bold fuschia in this attention-getting yet classy little piece by D&G.

D&G Jersey One Shoulder Dress, Nordstrom, $535

Another romantic dress from D&G, but completely different in every way. And fabulous. I love the subtle elements like the uneven, flirty folds at the hemline, the drape of the pleats and folds across the chest, and that big gorgeous bow that’s not overdone, as so many are.

Truly, Madly, Deeply Dress, Nicole Miller, $420

Nicole Miller’s aptly-named “Truly Madly Deeply” dress will help you on your path to love. New love, or just love rekindled: this feminine, curve-hugging sheath is extremely flattering to those of us who overindulged a little during the holidays.

Black Rose Cocktail Dress by Sue Wong, edressme, $415

If you follow my blog you know of my serious obsession with sparkly things. Sequins are, by definition, an addiction. But if loving them is wrong, I don’t want to be right. I’ll spare you the rhyme I considered writing about in regards to this dress’s designer, but it involved “wrong” and “Wong” (as in Sue Wong, for the fabulous new Walt Disney Signature collection). Hello Wonderland! Call me Alice.

Alice + Olivia Asymmetrical Dress with Flutter Sleeves, Shopbop, $269.50

For a younger, fresher look, slip on this Alice + Olivia asymmetrical dress with flutter sleeves. I recommend adding some brightly-colored opaque tights, and some bootie platforms. Don’t pick ones that go as high in the ankle as the model wears above: it will make your legs appear shorter than they are, and this dress is made for showing those stems off!

You have your challenge: should you choose to accept it, please let us know what you wear and how it worked out for you!