Taylor Swift may have looked picture perfect in her regal-looking, backless purple dress at the recent Golden Globes, but she might have been seeing red by the time the festivities came to a close!
Not only did the 23-year-old songstress lose out on the award for ‘Best Original Theme Song’ to Adele, but she also found herself the cause of some considerable mirth when host Tina Fey jokingly warned Taylor to stay away from Michael J Fox’s young son, because she “needed some me time” after her split from One Direction’s Harry Styles.
Fey’s words seem to echo public sentiment, with Jack Osbourne’s wife Lisa Stelly being one of the many who expressed amazement at the rapid turnover of Swift’s boyfriends.
“Either Taylor Swift is batsh*t crazy and causes every guy to dump her, or she has too high standards for these poor guys! Droppin’ like flies”, Lisa tweeted after hearing the news about Harry.
Not only this, but it seems that Taylor’s serial dating (recent beaus include Joe Jonas, Taylor Lautner, John Mayer, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Conor Kennedy) could be causing a backlash among certain sections of her fan base as well.
HollywoodLife.com’s Katrina Mitzeliotis commented that: “A lot of the peripheral fans who have come to Taylor in the last few months, I think they’re just thinking twice about it because they’re attracted to her because of her music, and they don’t want the drama that goes along with her music.” She also added that the star should try and focus on other areas of her life.
Will Taylor take heed of these warnings? It appears that the answer may be yes, after being quoted as saying: “Being in love is the most wonderful thing that can happen to you, though you don’t want to be monkey-barring from one relationship to the next.”
Hopefully, after a bit of me-time, America may very well get its sweetheart back.

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Fall and winter 2012 has a much needed edge to it. Embellishments are the name of the game, and there’s one I literally cannot get enough of: spiked shoulders.

Everyone from Zara to Asos is pumping out the trend this season and it’s surprisingly easy to incorporate. I love it as an accent on a simple black dress. I’ve also been coveting a few blazers I’ve noticed with the studs.

Seriously, how adorbs is this Zara blazer above? Just $99.

We all love a bargain, but sometimes it is too easy to be swayed by a hefty discount, especially where designer brands are concerned! An item might seem like a steal at 50% off but do you really want that product? Will you ever wear it? And more importantly do you need it? A true bargain is when you get an item you both want and need and, at the right price. We share our survival guide on how to keep a cool head when buying designer brands, making sure you come away from the shops with the right items at the right price.

Before you begin your shopping trip, decide what items you are looking for. Sit down with a pen and paper and decide what you want to buy. If you want to be really strict, decide on what you don’t want to buy. Perhaps your wardrobe is already stuffed full of handbags or maybe you already have an excessive amount of shoes. We all have our shopping weaknesses, but be honest with yourself – if you don’t really need it.

Set yourself a budget and stick to it. It’s very easy to end up spending much more than you anticipated if you aren’t thinking about how much you’re spending. By setting yourself a maximum allowance before you enter the shops, it can help mentally prepare you to avoid those impulse buys. Using your credit card for everyday spending can have its benefits – especially if your card rewards you with points as you spend and you always clear the balance by the end of the month.

Make sure to try on any items of clothing you spot. It might be by your favourite designer, and it might have a 30% discount but if it doesn’t fit properly or isn’t flattering to your body shape then you can guarantee it will hang at the back of your wardrobe unworn.

Shop for timeless classics. Trends come and go, and even a designer item in the sale might only last for one season. Sticking to classic items that never go out of fashion such as the little black dress or a tailored blazer is a great way to get the most for your money. Even if the price tag is a little bit more expensive, if it lasts for years to come then it’ll be money well spent.

Hesitation is often a sign you don’t really want an item, so if you find yourself wavering then put that dress back on the rail! If you are still undecided then why not try leaving the shop and going back later on. This will ensure you have thought about the purchase rationally, and haven’t succumbed to an impulse buy.

Spot something you really like but that is out of your price range? Try using an app such as Snap Fashion that helps you decide on the best place to buy the items you’re interested in before you hand over your money. Simply take a photo of any item you like and the app will display similar pieces that suit your price range.

By only spend on the items you really want and at a price that you are happy with, you’ll be much more likely to enjoy your shopping experience, and the designer clothes you take home.

This guest post was written by Fran Swaine on behalf of Money Matters, the Sainsbury’s Bank blog.

At LensWay.co.uk, we are proud of our collection of designer glasses and want to highlight the distinctive Calvin Klein rectangle style which is suitable for men and women.

Calvin Klein has long been regarded as one of the world’s most stylish and durable brands, providing minimalist style alongside great craft. The same fashion philosophy can be found in the brand’s range of glasses, which represent some of the best designs on the market in terms of wearability and style. Calvin Klein glasses are designed in both full plastic and thin metal styles, and are further distinguished in terms of their suitability for classic, sports, casual and business wear for men and women.

Full Plastic or Thin Metal Frames?

The two key stylistic options available for the Calvin Klein brand are full plastic and thin metal frames. Full plastic frames are ideal for men and women wanting casual glasses, and are also useful as part of a retro inspired outfit. The thick frames and mix of metallic and bolder orange colours of the plastic series make them stand out as a fashion statement.

Recommended glasses in this range are the CK 5691 and CK 5699 types, as well as the 7759 233 Brown Crystal and 5541 Orange Grey 173 designs. If you like acetate frames, try the CK 5691 and CK 5699 types or the 7759 233 Brown Crystal and 5541 Orange Grey 173 designs. These also come with adjustable spring hinges, so are more resilient to distortion!

Thin metal style glasses are more suitable for those looking to wear Calvin Klein branded glasses in a formal setting or the workplace. The CK 530 and CK 531 rimless pairs are recommended for their sharp lines and comfort, while the CK 7276 type make use of plastic temples to soften their metal look.

Classic Wear

Calvin Klein glasses are particularly distinguished by their timeless style, as well as by their adaptation of retro looks. Among these glasses, the 7211 051 Black White Horn feature white acetate and larger rims for added impact. In the same way, the CK 7718 Cocoa style include dark brown colours, comfortably thick arms, and striking rectangular frames for everyday and long-term use.

Business

The lightweight but sharp design of rimless and plastic Calvin Klein glasses make them an excellent choice for business. The 7231 210 Coffee style is popular with women for their rimless look and acetate temples, while the 7204 278 Sand design in orange is suitable for men and women.

Sports

While primarily worn as a complement to everyday office wear, and as a retro statement in their own right, glasses can sometimes be worn for sports. Calvin Klein offer Unisex styles like the 5541 Orange Grey 173,whichare made from orange acetate, and share the brand’s signature rectangle lenses and lightweight design.

Just because the sun is starting to retire, it doesn’t mean you have to hang up your sandals and maxi dresses! Take this most feminine of dresses from summer to autumn by embracing the new shapes, colours and patterns, while pairing with more appropriate accessories for the new season. Celebrities like sassy Tulisa Contostavlos take the dress to fall with flair and you can easily join the fashionable group.

New Shape

With autumn comes new shapes for maxi dresses. Add sleeves and lower the length of the dress to make it more appropriate for the cooler weather.

Although there is more fabric to the piece as it transitions from summer, style is never compromised. The dress hugs your curves and sleeves are fitted rather than the billowy shapes from summer.

The House of Dereon Fishnet Maxi Dress is the ideal dress to take from summer to autumn. The black, floor-length jersey piece with fishnet panelling is easily convertible from day to night by adding sparkling jewellery and a great pair of heels.

Colour and Pattern

Prints continue to shine in the autumn season and the trend is perfect for the maxi dress. Turn heads as you enter the room wearing prints that range from stripes to leopard. The fun patterns ensure autumn is anything but dull.

A deep, warm colour palette is trending for fall 2012. While bright shades dominated summer, the maxi dresses of autumn favour rich tones of purples and reds. Red offers heat for the chilly mornings of autumn, while purple is elegant and classic.

 Accessories

Accessories are a great way to take your favourite maxi dress from summer to autumn. Swap your sandals for a great pair of velvet loafers or a kitten heel. The shoes add an appropriate look for the cooler season.

You can take your summer maxi straight through fall by adding a trendy jacket or blazer. One example is the nude blazer with leopard print lining from Glamorous which has a sleek fitted look that flatters the torso with a pop of leopard cuffs. The pattern is perfect for autumn and the blazer is practical yet feminine.

The maxi dress remains a wardrobe staple as the season transitions from summer to autumn. The piece easily takes you from day to night and is the epitome of elegance. Embrace the new shape of fall maxi dresses, with long sleeves and floor-length hems. Colours are richer and patterns are popular. Pair a summer maxi with a blazer and heels to transition appropriately to autumn. Look and feel beautiful in your maxi dress!

 Call me a peplum addict. You know it’s bad when your (male) boss comments to you: That’s the third day in a row that you’re wearing peplum.

Sorry I’m not sorry. I love everything about this trend, and my boss is just going to have to get used to seeing it around the office. Confession: I’m wearing leopard peplum today.

I know some of you are wary of it, being that it flows out at the hips, but trust me – it’s an oddly flattering look. Here are some of our picks to help you get in on the trend.

Love this faux leather peplum top from Zara. $69

This peplum dress from ASOS is on trend in a number of ways, especuially with the bold cobalt

This fun lace ASOS number with a Peter Pan collar is a good look too, and on sale for $25.

Might be wearing this Alice & Olivia number to an upcoming wedding.

The Olympics have come to an end, sadly, but we thought this would be a good opportunity to pull together some of our favorite outfits Kate Middleton pulled off. Also, links to some of the looks, if you want to dress like the Duchess!

She opted for a Bella silk dress made by Whistles to the closing ceremony. Dress here

She wore a blue Stella Mcartney shift dress and her favorite Smythe blazer on August 2. Note: part of why we love her? She’s been spotted wearing both out before. Love it? Get it here

Again in her trusty Smythe blazer with J Brand jeans looking casual.

Here’s the Duchess looking more formal in a Christopher Kane coat dress. Ladies- – coatdresses will be big this fall. Start keeping an eye out.

A woman after my own heart — the Duchess in a red Zara blazer. Available here

Yes, I love clothes as much as the next woman (unless, of course, the next woman is Victoria Beckham). Yes, I love a good bargain. But the prospect of going sales shopping fills me with about as much joy as the prospect of an afternoon spent damp-dusting the skirting board. The frenzied elbowing.The endless trawling through racks of clothes so last season even my Gran would call them dated.The monotony of trudging up and down a rain-soaked high street.It’s all such a waste of good stiletto leather.

 If only there was a way I could indulge my love of brand name fashion at bargain prices, without all the unseemly tussles over the last size 12 diamante cardigan. Luckily, there is. Two words, ladies – discount outlets.

These shining meccas of shopping joy are perfect for money-conscious fashionistas. Blissfully calm, well set-out boutiques all under one roof, and typically promising up to two-thirds off the original price (though you may have to search fairly hard to find this kind of deal).

Discount outlets can be a great way to shop, provided you follow some simple rules – before and during your trip. I’ve learned these rules the hard way via some very odd choices made in the heat of the moment. I won’t go into details, but let’s just say the designer velour tracksuit didn’t even sell on eBay. Here’s how to make your visit to the discount outlet more successful than a dog act on ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent.

• Know your brands

If you know exactly which brands float your boat, then so much the better – you are going to sniff out your favourite gear pretty easily. But even so, it makes sense to research the shops you want to visit. While many high street names mayhave some special, outlet-only lines,you’re far more likely to be interested in the top designer names.

When you know the sort of brand you are interested in, do a little research on what they will stock. Look online at their retail site and get a feel for their current lines and prices. Then compare this with other shops selling the same products online to get a good idea of how much the clothes are worth – and the range of prices you could pay for the same products. This will stand you in good stead when you get into the shop itself; you will know whether you are looking at something that is new stock – or last season’s leftovers.

• Make a list

Before you go, open your closet for an honest appraisal of your current wardrobe. Make a list of the things you actually need before you go – and then stick to it. If you were already planning to buy smart black trousers for work on the high street, then making a great saving at an outlet makes sense. But if your cupboard’s already bursting at the seams with black trousers, any saving becomes academic.

• Dig in

As much as I hate having to root around through piles of clothes, the fact of the matter is the best bargains are normally to be found on the long trestle tables piled high with garments. If you can face it, having a dig about may find something that is perfect for you. This is especially likely to be the case if you are an unusual size.

• Don’t buy just because it’s cheap

The classic mistake – and one that anyone who has frequented an outlet is likely to have made – is to buy something inappropriate just because it is cheap. A blazerthat has been reduced from £100 to £30 is only a great deal if you are going to wear it; otherwise it is simply more detritus that will clog up your wardrobe, adding precious minutes to your already stretched morning routine as you hunt around for something to wear.

• Keep a cool head

Of course, while you should have done your research before your visit, and you should do your best to maintain a cool head while you are there, there’s no point in being so disciplined that you ignore something that is perfect for you, simply because it wasn’t initially on your agenda. Only you know if you truly like something, and if you are likely to use it.

• Hold onto things

If you find something you love, hold on to it. If you put it down, it’s fair game for other bargain hunters. This can also apply to your own clothes – I once put my jacket down to try something on, only to spot someone waltzing off to the changing rooms with it!

• Spread the cost

You may find it easier to spread the cost of your fashion fix by paying using a credit card, especially if you have a credit card which rewards your spending and you always clear the balance at the end of the month.  Just remember that if you don’t clear the balance outside the introductory period, you will be charged interest.

 – Guest Blog Post by Rachel Turner, Sainsbury Bank

Ladies, do I have a great place for you to try out. I recently visited Dry Bar, a blow-out bar in Manhattan that is also opening other locations, before a big event. I have to say, I went in skeptical. VERY skeptical. I’ve had my hair blown out a number of times only to have it fall flat a few hours later or not look the way I want it to which then results in me going home, washing my hair and doing it myself. Alas, this was entirely different.

Dry bar has a “menu” of hair blow-outs to choose from like the “Cosmo” (loose curls) or the “Mai Tai” (messy beach waves). The result – you can perfectly articulate the look you want without mis-describing it and having to find photos of your favorite celebs on your cell phone. I opted for a mix of the Cosmo and Mai Tai and was extremely pleased with the outcome.

Let’s take a second to talk about the environment – SUPER cute. First off, they have cappuccinos and tea cookies and pastries for you to nibble on. The flat-screen TV’s play a loop of chick flicks (Sex & The City Movie was on while I was there), the salon is adorned with chandeliers and ipad docks.

And, I’ve saved the best for last, blow outs are $40. Mine lasted two days, which never happens. Totally worth a try. Be sure to make an appointment. Also something I love – they open at 7am and close at 10pm. Perfect for before work or events, and a cute place for a bunch of girlfriends to get together before a big night out.

It’s summertime once again, and that can mean one thing: swimsuit season! Before packing your bags, and your skimpiest string bikini, to jet off on your sunny holidays it’s important to do some post-winter hair removal. There a variety of ways to remove hair from your bikini line, but it all depends on how much time and money you’re willing to invest, your pain threshold, and what is going to make you feel the most confident and sexy while wearing your swimsuit or short shorts.

Popular Methods

Shaving – Convenient, easy and economical, shaving at home gives you flexibility to work around your own schedule and privacy if you’re body-conscious. This tends to be time-consuming, requires frequent upkeep, and itchy stubble can be a problem. Tip: use hair conditioner instead of shave cream to achieve a smoother bikini line.

Depilatory Creams – These work well, but are not for the fidgety and impatient, since you can’t do much till the cream comes off. However, it’s an inexpensive and painless way to remove unwanted hair without the threat of cutting yourself. If you’ve never used hair removal cream on your bikini area before, start with a sensitive skin formula and do a patch test before slathering it on.

Waxing – Either at home or a salon, waxing is an efficient way to get amazing looks-like-you-never-even-had-hair results. On the downside, it’s more expensive than shaving or creams, and spreading a mess of hot wax on your skin while yanking up linen strips of hair can hurt like hell. So, unless you’re already skilled at this technique, it’s best to leave the pain-giving and the cleanup to the pros.

Tweezing – First of all…ouch! Yet, if there aren’t many wayward hairs to pluck, there really is no need to bother with other methods. In order to make the tweezing process as painless as possible, only attempt itafter a hot shower and before toweling off. The heat and water relax the follicles, making hairs easier to pull out. To combat irritation afterward, pat the area dry (never rub!) and apply some soothing aftershave balm with aloe and tea tree oil, which is a natural antiseptic.

Laser/ Electrolysis – If you’re not achieving the results you want at home, and have a bit of money to burn for repetitive treatments, seek professional help. Effects can last longer than most methods, and some even eliminate hair regrowth.

Whatever method you choose, do it for the right reasons and do it with proper care. If you want to wear a low cut or ultra-revealing swimsuit on your next holiday and don’t want stray hairs ruining your sleek new look, that’s fine. However, getting a Brazilian wax simply because your friends have done it probably isn’t the best idea. Finally, if you’ve maintained your bikini area a particular way for years and want to see if changing things up works better, do a trial run about 2 to 3 weeks before sporting your bikini-clad self in public. Any irritation, ingrown hairs or adverse reactions to treatments will have calmed down in that time frame.

This article was written by the experienced beauty therapist, Monica Dwyer who has over 5 years experience in hair removal and waxing. Monica Dwyer writes on behalf of www.urbana.ie.

I’m on a total baroque and Victorian kick right now when it comes to lingerie. And we’re not talking the demure Victorian lingerie, we’re talking bodice rippers. Lingerie is one of the easiest ways to bring out the femme whether it’s just for you or your guy.

We saw accents of this on the runway, with see-through blouses showing off highly-adorned bras underneath, lace accents on blouses and even lacy shorts.

I love finding embellished looks and came across a new site MyCurves.com that has brands like Superbra, Cleo, Masquerade and Atlantis that will help you update your boudoir.

Ladies, we are excited to announce a contest with Breil to celebrate the launch of their new Orchestra Collection. This Italian designer is known for well-crafted, timeless looks that are perfect for the wrist of any fashionista.

I’m in love with the large watch look right now. We’ve seen women sporting men’s watches for a while, but what I love about Breil’s new collection is that the large faces and bands give it that effect, but the details – like rose gold tinting or crystal accent – also make it feminine.

From now until Wednesday ^{February 1st}, you have a chance to win this women’s Crystal Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch. The watch is stainless steel and Swarovski crystals, and usually retails for $375. I love the crystal detailign aroudn the bezel.

But don’t stop there, look at the rest of the collection, which is also to die for. Right in time for Valentine’s day, you should tactfully pass along the links of the following watches to your boyfriend

I love the pink mother of pearl face and rose gold coloring of this Rose IP Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch. It retails for $350.

This Lizard Leather watch has a great black leather strap and crystal details around the bezel.

Want a chance to win the Stainless Steal Bracelet Watch? There are two ways to win: Tweet us: “@bellavitastyle, enter me to win the Breil bracelet watch”

Or Like us on facebook and say the same thing on our wall. Here’s our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/BellavitaStyle

Good luck!

With the holiday come and gone, and a bevy of new gift cards in your wallet. We’ve come up with some fun, fashionable ways to spend those gift cards. Some include items Bella received under the tree this holiday:

For the thousands of fashionistas who got iPads under the tree this year, it’s equally important to have that iPad looking good. A spate of hot designers have fun iPad cases and holders. Some of our faves:

How adorable is this Diane von Furstenburg printed iPad case above? It’s $135 and comes in a blue and black variety too. Printed, of course, to keep with her forte.

We are also loving this metallic Michael Kors case. It’s $128 at Nordstrom.

I gave myself these Sam Edelman Roza shoes to myself this year. I can’t even explain how many random people have stopped me on the street and while I’m out to comment on them aor ask where I bought them. To me, that’s a true sign of money well spent. And, get this, they are SUPER comfortable and double as a weapon.

Let’s face it, we’re becoming a tech society with tons of gadgets at our finegrtips all day, everyday. This poses a predicament once the cold weather rolls around. But, luckily, Etre has come up with a solution. Their Fivepoints Gloves will keep your hands warm while allowing you to interact with your iPhone, iPad and loads of other devices.

Everything is right about this Tory Burch Nora Flap Clutch. Bold color? Check. Chain link straps? Check? Perfect clutch for a night out or dinner? Check and check.

I love this look and it’s only $275.

It’s that time of year ladies — when you get to scoop up items you’ve been eyeing for months at a fraction of their price, all without leaving your computer or iPad. We’ve scoured the web for some great deals and coupon codes to get you started. Happy Shopping!

• Saks: 50% off many gifts for 24hours. Free shipping with code “HOLIDAY”
• Bloomingdales: $50 off $250 purchases today only; Free shipping with coupon code “FREESHIP11″
• BCBG: 30% off many items and free shipping on everything
• Modern Vintage: 40% off with code: “CYBERSALE”
• Tory Burch: Free Tote with orders over $150; Spend $250 get 20% off. Enter code “GETGIFTS”
• Express: 30% off everything and Free Shipping
• Bebe: 20% off everything with coupon code “REDHAUTE”
• The Limited: 50% off of everything and Free Shipping with coupn code “CYBER”
• CoutureCandy: 27% off the entire site with coupon code “MONDAY”
• C&C California: 42% off entire site with coupon code “CCCYBER42″