by Renae Virata

I miss the South!  The semi-formal attire that is required of many events was always such a great opportunity to get a little “gussied up”.  The 138th Kentucky Derby, taking place May 5 this year at Churchill Downs in Louisville, is probably one of the best known Southern events requiring such a refined look – if you go to a Derby party or have reserved-seating tickets (if not, celebrate in Louisville at the famed infield party!). Take some cues from the actual event to plan your fabulous look for a Derby-themed party. Read the rest of this entry »

So I was at Ikea picking up more of my favorite wooden hangers when I spotted a lady in line draped in her beautiful traditional Indian garb.  The bright combination of sky blue and tangerine caught my eye immediately.  I couldn’t suppress a smile as it started to hit me – I was going to India soon!  Her outfit was my first inspiration on what to pack.

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by Renae Virata

Since my trips to Thailand and India will be fast-paced and limited on proper beauty prep areas (I’m not bringing a hairdryer, products and must share two bathrooms with 7 other gals!), I decided to take some beauty shortcuts to make my trip a little easier.  Two weeks ago I did the keratin smoothing treatment and tomorrow, I am getting gel nails! Read the rest of this entry »

by Renae Virata

The holidays are over, but it’s still winter, right?  If you are lucky enough to squeeze in a couple more good ski trips in through March, then good for you!  I got some great insight from John Gates over at the fabulous European-based ski-wear boutique Jet Set for trends and tips on what to wear in the ever-popular snow sport destination, Aspen, Colorado. Thanks for the great advice, John! Read the rest of this entry »

Photo | WeareverTheWeather.com

by Renae Virata

If you’re the adventurous type, the best way to cross over the hundreds of grachten (canals) in Amsterdam is to hop on a bicycle.  Everywhere you go, you’ll see rows and rows if not whole clumps of bikes parked next to storefronts or chained to bridge rails.  Be prepared with an outfit that will make those vacation pics worth sharing yet comfortable while you pedal your way through this historic and enchanting city. Read the rest of this entry »

Photo | Eva Solberg

by Renae Virata

Travelista Eva couldn’t wait for her recent visit to Machu Picchu, the 15th century Inca site located almost 8,000 feet (more than 1 mile!) above sea level.  Once she and her crew set foot on the romantically cobble-stoned roads of nearby Cusco, they knew it would be an experience they would never forget. Read the rest of this entry »

All white and bright...Click to see this popular jacket up close.

by Renae Virata

I love the freedom that winter sports gives you to brave the cold and get active! I remember my first snowboarding trip and how much fun I had picking out the perfect outfit. Being the city girl I am, I had to have the city-slicker tweed print jacket. (This year, I have my eye on Obermeyer’s leopard-print jacket below!).  This year’s trends, especially in jackets, feature a fantastic array of styles and colors that make it hard to choose just one. Read the rest of this entry »

Click image to see entire outfit.

by Renae Virata

So after a brief hiatus from my running schedule, I finally decided to bite the bullet and brave the chilly weather to get back that runner’s high I so covet (and need).  First concern: stay warm.  Second: stay mobile.  And I can’t help thinking that my improvement in stride and pace might have a little bit to do with how good I feel in a stylish running ensemble.    Below is everything you need to make sure you have a good run…and look good doing it.

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by Halee Watel

Let’s face it: Summer in the states is hot. You can’t escape it, and you definitely shouldn’t ignore it. Dressing appropriately will make your outing infinitely more enjoyable. Here are the tips you need to look your best whether you are at the pool, a barbeque or swanky soiree during the heat of Independence Day celebrations.

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East Coast-style by Gabrielle Union. Photo credit: FabSugar.com

by Halee Watel

After what seems like an eternity of slaving over tests, papers and then finals, graduation can seem like a relief to most. But the stress is not over—the question still remains. What to wear? Read the rest of this entry »