Kitten Lounge

Sippin Saturdays ~ Coach's Holiday Blog a Day

KittenCouture — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 09:07:21 -0800

This week has been a busy week whether I was at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, the launch of Same Sky or the Wired Store Launch Party - it was just a good week to be out and about, meet people that I have only know from online to IRL and to see my friends that I don't always get to see! It has been an amazing week. The kick off for my holiday season obviously started when I launched Kitten Lounge's Holiday Gift Guide on Nov 1st - Jan 15th! We are still adding great brands to this site so you'll see lots of goodies so continue to check back for ideas and events such as La Femme Fete's Shopping Event which is tonight .

Now another huge event is Coach's Holiday Blog a Day which kicked off yesterday with one of my favorite sites, The Coveted and today has Juicy Star 07 which is a super cute vlogger that I have recently been introduced to via this program. From now through Dec 19th you'll see a blog a day show how they have styled their Coach bags. I'm so honored that I know some fab bloggers who will be apart of this including myself (sorry had to do the self promotion) Kitten Lounge will be on Dec 9th and Jeaninne of Beauty Sweet Spot will be on Dec 18th and in case I forgot to mention, all of us are doing giveaways of the bags so stay tuned that's a lot of opportunities to try to not only win a bag but to add fab sites to your Google Reader! If you missed a day, no worries they have an archive and to my fellow bloggers and vloggers - I'm glad to share this space with you!

Mingling Mondays ~ Kitten Lounge's Holiday Gift Guide

KittenCouture — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 09:39:58 -0800

Kitten Lounge's Holiday Gift Guide launched yesterday and we will continue to have additional brands included over the next few weeks as this will be up through Jan 15th of 2010! Of course our spread includes just a few of the goodies that are on the site including Ted Rossi, Purple Lab NYC and our sponsor, Tasty Morsels Bakery! Continue to check back as we will not only have additional items but this is a great way to begin thinking about what gifts you can get to cross it off your list! Not only is this a guide that focuses on gifting but it includes events as well that you'll want to know more about as well as restaurants and information for New Years Eve!

We're in our 3rd year of this guide and we also have a fun component known as the 25 Days of Holiday Glam. This segment kicks of Dec 1st through Dec 25th. There will be giveaways each of these days that you can win and is a way to not only introduce you to a fab brand and item but to also say thank you as well! This will be apart of the Holiday Gift Guide and also as a separate post within the main site. Although both of these items have been apart of the Holiday Gift Guide, we're adding in something new. We will include 12 Stars on the Horizon. These are individuals that work in the fashion industry (or are associated) that are either establihed or emerging people that you will want to know about. They work in the industry and defintiely deserve to be recognized as they do amazing work which you may need for future use! This will kick off Dec 20th and run through New Years Eve as a countdown of sorts!

Fashionable Fridays ~ Checkin' in With Kimmie

KittenCouture — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 04:00:00 -0700

Whether you catch me at an event, see me talking to someone on a show or you just happen to catch me out, you know that clearly I'm all about style. When I'm out and about, people will ask what made me think of Kitten Lounge back in 2007 and I always let them know that Kitten Lounge actually originated as an Internet show back in 2004 when it covered my favorite artists and blended my love of fashion but even that is not an accurate description so I thought it would be good to tell you how it came to be and why it is such a driving force for everything that I do. First off, hi - I'm Kimmie, the Editor in Chief of this site and although I'm not really into the whole "Letter from the Editor" setup, it's nice to understand who is bringing you all of this content and why it's all here!

I fell in love significantly twice when I was younger the first time was at the age of 3 when I remember looking through Vogue and loving gorgeous dresses that showed me that you could be a princess everyday. For those that know my love for accessories, only the big baubles caught my eye! I loved going with my mom to fabric stores where she would make items from Vogue patterns into reality and when she later opened a boutique of custom design clothing in Indianapolis, I was in love. My world opened up to gorgeous brides, sequins, shantung, gaberdines and more and I had an AMAZING closet. That love came from my mother.

My father gave me a second love - at the age of 5, he taught me how to use a computer. We had an Apple and I loved it (don't ask me why I have an HP now although I have to give it some love too even though I continue to dream about a Mac book haha). I loved playing games on it and wondered what would the possibilities of that machine be? Who knew that in college one of my majors would be Telecommunications with a focus in New Media? Leaving IU and coming to NYC, I began doing PR for independent music artists who were only available online and I assisted them in getting spins and getting them booked. Why not, my Great Uncle was Joe Henderson, tenor saxophonist with Blue Note, Verve, etc so it was in my blood and I loved it. But then again fashion kept pulling me back in.

Is it true that I modeled (yes lingerie/swimwear), had a fashion line and currently have my own jewelry line Kitten Couture, and also assist firms with their Social Media via my other company Sikara Designs Group - check it all. But is it true that Kitten Lounge has been around more than two years? Absolutely. It initially came on board in 2004 as an Internet Radio show that I hosted daily for an hour each day for 3 years. Then I played DJ's who had crazy mixes and then talked with indie artists about their personal style. I loved it but realized after I began blogging for another site that I wanted to talk about more than just accessories on that site and do more than just host a radio show. The Kitten Lounge became my place to talk about fashion, style, beauty, food, music and travel. I believed that as a whole person all of this was important to me and that I wasn't alone.

I realized that I'm around stylish and amazing people who they need advice on where to go or how to dress when they are not in the settings that tend to go to all the time. People have always gravitated towards the way I present things and what better way then to introduce my world of showrooms, designers, industry shakers and more to you! Where do I go from here? Because of Kitten Lounge, I have been able to attend Fashion Weeks, go to Project, Magic, see private presentations, launches of all kinds and more. But I truly loved it when I made the cross over to personality when I shot an episode of To Be a Star which comes out later this year. Sharing the importance of accessories, finding your signature look and ultimately branding yourself was so important to me and to the 6 aspiring models that I worked with to achieve it, I'm very proud that I could be apart of that experience.

It is my goal and vision to continue to push various themes that are not only keys to my success but are core mental investments: I feel that accessories are an essential way to set yourself apart and that in the vein of Audrey Hepburn, you can take great classic pieces and look amazing. In addition, you can be someone that crosses over into a lot of areas (hello - I run a style blog, have my own jewelry line, create Social Media strategies for fashion/entertainment firms and am a personality as well) and yet still make it truly your own. Finally and most importantly, Kitten Lounge is about community whether it's introducing you to my favorites that you may not be aware of, reaching out via Twitter (@cocoabebe) or checking in with such favorites as the Holiday Gift Guide which launches Nov 1st (I can't wait to share the fab giveaways that we'll have, those who will be in the guide and a list on who to keep an eye out for in terms of industry must knows for your business). The experiences that I have had and those that will come have come to pass as I'm always open to reaching out, learning and helping someone else. In doing so it has created friendship, trust and has allowed me to interact with groups that I would have never come across if I had done it alone. The power of collaborations and having good people as your checks and balances definitely come in handy when you're running 300 miles an hour - no you're not crazy, you just know that you can do 48 hours of work in a 24 hour cycle and still go out to grab drinks and have a little fun! I want to thank everyone that has made this brand successful and who has been with me in each phase of re-invention that I have been through and look forward to sharing a lot of AMAZING items that are coming up soon!

Sippin Saturdays ~ Jessica 6

KittenCouture — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 06:00:00 -0700

Oh yes we're back to covering bands on Kitten Lounge! I love attending shows and can't wait to see Jessica 6 on Oct 6th for their record release party! I'll be honest that beyond hearing songs online or snippets here and there, I'm not familiar with the group; however, the comments that I have heard all over the sphere lead me to believe that this will be a group whose melodies will not be easily forgotten. Individually, they have done so many collaborations with artists that I have loved such as Massive Attack and Goldfrapp that I'm very excited to see them. Of course that means that next week, I'll have to let you know how the show went and much like other shows, I will post some footage! It's always fun to go to release parties and I'm sure that this won't be any different. Until then, I wanted to give you a peek into their Fun Girls video which was shot live at Le Poisson Rouge here in NYC. If the song is any indication, it will be a great show!

Trendy Thursdays ~ Rachel Zoe & Koh Gen Do!

KittenCouture — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 04:00:00 -0700

Daniel Martin will be Kitten Lounge's Guru Celebrity Makeup Artists giving us tips to look amazing and letting us know who he is working on now!

Daniel Martin used the above Koh Gen Do products on Rachel Zoe!

Rachel Zoe on The View Sept 18th

I swear that anyone that comes over my house and has the opportunity to stay over will hear about my new found love for Koh Gen Do! What is it that fascinates me? I love that it's natural and never leaves my skin feeling like chemicals have been placed on it whether I'm washing my face or doing various treatments that keep my skin feeling fresh. I love that when you start using the makeup line, you find that everything is natural and light and your skin doesn't feel like a mask! I also love that I use it in conjunction with other lines and I look flawless and camera ready (you do know that this line is amazing for HD). Daniel Martin is a celebrity makeup artist who understands the art of putting on your face so to speak and has worked on so many projects and amazing people! Recently, Rachel Zoe was on The View and although she talked about breaking into the industry, who could help but look at how flawless her skin looked! I love that it's not over the top and if you want to achieve this look, take some time to check out the products above and listen to a tip that Daniel shared, "I always prep and hydrate the skin with KohGenDo’s Oriental Plants Essence. Then I apply KohGenDo’s Moisture Foundation with a foundation brush. I find that a little goes a long way, blending seamlessly for all over coverage"! Absolutely flawless and knowing that I have a photoshoot coming up on Oct 10th, I know I would love to have him on site! Now if you love that tip, stay tuned as Daniel will provide Kitten Lounge with more tidbits that will help to achieve that red carpet look for the everyday (and of course we'll get the inside scoop on who he has worked on)!

Wearable Wednesdays ~ Editor or Stylist

KittenCouture — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 05:00:00 -0700

Casey of Hudson Jeans & I at ENK Shows Vegas wearing my fave Ted Rossi cuff!

Marc by Marc Jacobs MMJ090S $124 - Zappos Couture

Ranjana Khan Mother-of-Pearl Medallion Tie Necklace $1000 - Saks Fifth Avenue

Tre Anita Large Bubble Ring $85 - Kirna Zabete

Diana Cuffs by Francesca Romana Diana $275 - Vivre

I love hump days! It's the middle of the week and a great benchmark to see what has been worked on and what can still be done with a few days ahead! As Editor in Chief of Kitten Lounge, I get an amazing opportunity to see a lot of great products and to interact with so many great showrooms, brands, designers and so much more. While in Vegas in August, I was so happy to meet Casey of Hudson Jeans (she does their Social Media and various elements of marketing) and to walk with her at ENK Shows Vegas. With so many days hitting all the shows, I started to embrace my love for the maxi dress, Ted Rossi cuffs (I never travel without a number of them), large cocktail ring and of course a cute necklace. It's the act of styling a simple look to show my personality and to present an effortless look whether I'm walking the red carpet, tradeshows, showrooms or wherever I happen to be! I'm obsessed with accessories and I love large pieces. I brought a little of a boho-chic Grecian vibe to everyday that I was at the shows (you would too if it was 100 degrees). As I walked around people asked if I styled (especially when I told them I had just completed an episode of the reality show, To Be a Star, where I was the Style Mentor/Judge for aspiring models who were learning about the importance of having a look. Although I have worked with a select group of people, work with a few showrooms in the city and have been called in on a photoshoot - it wasn't something that I really thought I was doing. But the fact of the matter is that there is no better reward than showing someone how they can take elements of their style and add to it to create an enhanced look! If you're a busy individual who loves the idea of working with someone with great relationships of designers that you may not be familiar with, want to embrace accessories (I feel that they are the outfit) and love seeing your style progression, then feel free to contact me as I would love to work with you! So the answer is yes, I'm an Editor and Stylist!

To Be a Star ~ They're Looking For You

KittenCouture — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 14:16:37 -0700

Throughout the next few weeks, you'll find that Kitten Lounge will be talking about To Be a Star, a non-elimination reality show that follows 10 women who have star quality and how they evolve into learning various tools that will assist them in their careers! 9 girls have been chosen and 1 more will be added! If you're interested in being considered, you'll want to watch this video and to make sure that you make a 3 min video as well. I can't wait to continue sharing all of the information about this show as well as letting you in on some inside info as well! In addition to the To Be a Star YouTube Channel, you'll want to make sure that you become a fan on their Facebook Page!

Trendy Thursdays: How Do You Glow?

KittenCouture — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 05:00:00 -0700

We've all hit the gym, been out in the sun or had a night out at the bars. All of these produce some kind of a glow that makes you look like your full of life; however, how about something that not only creates the glow, but is also easily obtained and good for your body? Glowelle, is a dietary supplement (from Nestle gasp)that you can ingest in your water or favorite juice so that you have that glow and plenty of antioxidants which are essential! I took the 30 day challenge and am currently still in it! My 30 day pack is in a cute box and is Raspberry/Jasmine (also comes in Pomegranate/Lychee) flavored. I found that pairing this with one of the larger SmartWater bottles was perfect as there is a lot of powder within each pouch (some people also split the packet if they feel it is too much). If you feel that you taste too much of the vitamin or flavor, consider putting this in with apple juice, cranberry, etc.

Whether you get the 30 day pack or you try out the 7 day pack, you'll find that drinking this assists in protecting the skin from the sun rays (not to say that you shouldn't have your SPF handy; however, it does reduce it. You'll replenish your antioxidants and also you'll have an even skin tone which gives it that healthy glow and lets you know that you're giving off your best look! I love that you can enjoy this in a pre-made or you can grab your favorite water and put it in n the go. Each sip is packed various vitamins which ensures you're getting your daily intake while also being very convenient! For those who are ready to jump in with Glowelle, you can enjoy the 30 day pack for $112 which comes out to taking vitamins for under $4 dollars a day! That's basically deciding that you'll have one less latte a day to put back into your health! Since when has caffeine given you a healthy glow that make up couldn't do for you naturally? I will continue to let you know about Glowelle as I continue to take more of the packets.

I also want you to know that we will have a series about fitness for your body and also beauty regimine that you guys will want to tune into as well! Make sure to read here and on Kitten Lounge's Fan Page on Facebook to find out about exclusive giveaways!

Wearable Wednesdays: Project Detox

KittenCouture — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 11:54:08 -0700

I'm so excited to temporarily break from our normal fashion lineup to share information about a friend who is launching an amazing site that is being launched with it's first focus: Project Detox. We may be in different life stages but all of us juggle a million balls at once and we may find that one of two things happen - we have no time to simply breathe or our personal/business goals seem to go on the back burner. Maybe you're all about your day job as you love a challenge, but when you leave the office, you're running to do your second gig - where you hope to become a pastry chef full time! These are situations that we have to deal with and I feel that it's important to share these issues on the site from time to time. I wanted to introduce a soon-to-launch blog about infusing balance into every day life which is filled with philosophies that I share.

Recently my friend Keren, who has worked within the beauty and fashion industry for over a decade and who has worked with amazing brands like L'Oreal Paris to styling for Celebrities and Photo Shoots, told me that she wanted to provide insight into what it means to have the elusive life balance whether you're running multiple companies or are balancing being a mother who works full time but still wants to achieve a number of goals. Throughout various posts, Keren's Journey will include her week away, where she will travel to various spas in the west coast in Arizona and California and they will be included within future Trendy Thursday posts to include within our beauty segment. I'm so excited to bring Keren in as a Guest Life Balance Editor, here on Kitten Lounge! As someone who works in the fashion industry, is a mother and comes with a lot of experience and know how; however, she is pulled in a million directions and is 'off-balance'. It took her hubby and son traveling overseas for her to not only take some much needed Me Time to travel but to finally get her interests on the table as well. I'm excited for this project and we will continue to check in on her as it goes from the planning stages to the launch but please take a moment to read on about Keren, her new blog and Project Detox in her own words (yes that is Keren with her adorable son, Etamar). Sneak peak at what's to come...

Speed of NYC. Commute. Pollution. Recession. Relationships. Full-time working Motherhood & Momtrepreneurism.

This Libra is way off-balance and is leaving the East Coast (and all else) behind to scour the West for equilibrium.

No life jacket required.

Just hiking gear, swimsuit & my BB Storm. (Ok, Ok ...and my poly jersey Norma Kamali convertible skirt that I dare not travel without)

'Project Detox' is Phase One of the ‘Journey into Myself’ in order to hop back on to the balance beam of life.

Step One: Send the boys away on a fun bonding trip for two weeks (aka perfect time to visit in-laws overseas)

Step Two: Spend the first few days "having a plan and going with the flow"

Step Three: Trade in the high-speed-pollution-infested NYC for a few days in healing-dessert-stillness of Tucson followed by the coastal hiking-alfresco dining-soothing waters of sunny L.A. Sure it’s only 7 days, but in Mommy Years--where one hour of Me time is like a full day massage B.K. (Before Kids)--this trip will feel like a lifetime and be life changing!

Step Four: Chuck-out before you Check-in.

Chuck the Universal Mommy Guilt at the airport & know that your little one's perspective of Mommy Years offsets your own. One hour of quality time with the Real you is better for him than 2 full days of being with the stressed, busy & overworked version

Step Five: Explore. Infuse balance into every part of your being. Get inspired ...& inspire!

Keren Weinstein is a seasoned professional in Fashion & Beauty with over 12 years in Integrated Marketing, Advertising and Celebrity Fashion Styling.

Fashionable Fridays: Fashionably Fun Together

KittenCouture — Fri, 22 May 2009 04:00:00 -0700

The past two weeks have been a blur; however, unlike my normal running around, it's awesome to know that you have someone else who is running a strong race even if you're not doing the same thing! So as you know, I obviously run this site and I am also a jewelry designer of my own line, Kitten Couture (and yes I assist companies in establishing their place within Social Media) and my friend Crystal (who is on the right of the pictures obviously) is the founder and cookie designer of Tasty Morsels Bakery. I feel like we have done so many events and have had so much going on that we stay in contact via email/gchat; however, as we hung out at the Pink & Black Tie Gala hosted by Stacy London for the American Cancer Society in Brooklyn (I covered it and provided a piece for auction while Crystal made over 250 cookies for the goodie bag), we were able to just hang out to eat, drink and dance!

No matter how crazy your days are and no matter how many events you go to for whatever reason, whenever you have the chance, make sure that you go out there and enjoy it with someone when you can! It's amazing how it adds a different perspective and allows you to drink in the moment! I have spent the past few years seriously pushing and moving forward and I'm at the point now where it's fun to be invited somewhere to see familiar faces and of course to bring my friend as well! Always remember to take a moment and of course to do it fashionably - we work hard so that we can truly enjoy our accomplishments!

On The Radar: Episode 1

KittenCouture — Sat, 09 May 2009 18:46:22 -0700

Each week, I will share random facts with you that are way too long for Twitter (sometimes 140 characters isn't enough) and yet a blog post would be too random. So enjoy hearing what's going on and all the events that I attended this week and will go to next week!

Trendy Thursdays: Go Koh Gen Do!

KittenCouture — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 05:00:00 -0700

Earth Week continues and you know, Kitten Lounge will continue to talk about various items within this category. The response for our Earth conscious items has been so great that it will actually get a day to itself once we get to the month of May! I love how people are sending items about sustainable lifestyles, food and so much more! But of course, we will never give up our beauty segments and I have a great one to share with you that I started using. Can I just say that I have been a Dove user for a number of years (I loved the face pads and use the deodarent but I have found something that I truly love)!

Koh Gen Do is a very sleek line of cosmetics, body products and more. I love that no animals are tested with this line and that it is comprised of raw ingredients. This is not only better for the environment but also for your skin. In addition to the benefits of the products, who doesn't love the packaging? Whether it's makeup or the skincare portion, I love that your bathroom turns into a personal spa simply because the packages have a boutique luxe look to them. I love the idea of having a home spa whether you have a routine or whether you simply decided to take some time for yourself just because.

What pieces do I like and what's considered on my "list" of items for this line? I love the Organic Cotton pads that are super soft! It's so plush that even when you're makeup is on, it doesn't leave fuzzies on your face. The Cleansing Spa Water is literally the best solution when it comes to ensuring that your face is clean and that all of your makeup has been removed. I love the fact that everything this beauty line uses is good for you and the environment at large. I do have a few of the cosmetics; however, I have yet to use them (I will have to try it this weekend when I go out). Find out more about the line by visiting the site and you can order online as well! Your face and body are the ultimate calling card so choose wisely what brands you use and definitely consider Koh Gen Do!

Sippin Saturdays ~ Who's Next, Writers on the Rise

KittenCouture — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 21:30:46 -0700

This week, I enjoyed meeting a series of amazing songwriters who have worked with such artists as Rhianna, Chris Brown, Jaheim, Britney Spears, Toni Braxton, Beyonce, Shinedown and so much more! We were given the chance to chat with them and to see what projects they were working on! BMI, a songwriter's advocacy group has amazing sessions to introduce those who are apart of their organization to the press. Two years ago, (this was the first time they had created this function) Lady Gaga was apart of this group and deemed a person to watch. I also love that many of these songwriters also have their own albums being released. With so many stories, I will share a profile of the following: Michael Allen, Tina Parol, Shawn Fisher, Jaicko and REO. Each Saturday, you can learn more about them right here on Kitten Lounge.

Sippin Saturdays: Chicago Edition ~ Pops Champagne

KittenCouture — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 04:00:00 -0700

This weeked I'm in Chicago and if you are avid readers of the Kitten Lounge, you know that I covered Pops for Champagne in the holiday gift guide last year. Pops for Champagne is a super cute bar that has a number of champagnes available, a great crowd and a jazz bar that has music Thurs - Sun (I definitely want to come back to watch a show as I am a fan of jazz being the great neice to tenor saxophonist, Joe Henderson). Tonight, we enjoyed the Flat Bread Lamb which was an amazing combination of lamb, garlic puree, apples and this tasty melt in your mouth flat bread! This complimented our champagne which I am sad to say, I don't know the label.

This is the kind of place that you can test your champagne knowledge or put your tastebuds in the hands of staff that can find what works best for you and what compliments your meal the best. When it comes to a great night out to begin, end or stay - this is definitely a top place in Chicago to come to. I have to say, that I wish this champagne bar would be amazing to have in NYC and maybe one day it will come here (sorry Bubble Lounge). If you're in the area - come by and yes, you can still enjoy the game!

Treasure Tuesdays: Bring NK Henry Into Your Closet

KittenCouture — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 05:00:00 -0800

People ask where I get my leads from. Sometimes its while shopping or PR people emailing me. But in some cases, it could be that I am connected to you via Facebook, Twitter, etc. This is how I found out about NK Henry. I have been connected for awhile; however, she (Nikki Henry), has a video out about her collection and after seeing it, I ran to her site and found amazing finds that I think are perfect for spring. In fact, you'll find that I have included her within our Spring Break Picks Guide as I am all about indie designers! I love that she has cute leather handbags, bangles that look like denim and totes that are perfect for going out and about during any season that you happen to be in! This is a must to be within your wardrobe and I can only imagine that she will have her designs on various celebs, shows and more - I would definitely get in now so that everyone knows how stylish you are!

Mingling Mondays: Pink & Black For a Cause

KittenCouture — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 05:00:00 -0800

On May 7th, Brooklyn will have a huge event that I am very excited about! The American Cancer Society will put on a gala to increase the awareness of cancer. This star studded event will be hosted by TLC's "What Not To Wear", Stacy London! In addition, the attire is pink and black! I think that this will be a fashionable event and one with a very strong message - all efforts will go towards raising funds for cancer research, education/adcovacy programs and services for cancer patients and their families. This event will have silent auctions (Kitten Couture, my jewelry line will have a piece created exclusively for this event), along with many others. If you're a designer and are interested in including your items, please contact me so that I can get you in touch with the amazing organizers of the ACS! In addition, there will be goodie bags and Crystal Horton, Brooklyn based cookie baker will include Tasty Morsels Bakery items which is very exciting.

On May 7th at Stage 6 at Steiner Studios the "Brooklyn Rocks" theme will include music, fashion and so much more. If you're interested in tickets, make sure that you visit the site so that you can be apart of the Pink and Black Tie Gala. Kitten Lounge is committed to keeping you up to date on what's going on as we will continue to provide additional information and to cover the event as well so definitely check back with us as well!

Wearable Wednesdays: Lien Ta Gives Oscar Insights

KittenCouture — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 05:00:00 -0800

In NY, we're enjoying Fashion Week; however, this Sun the world turns its attention to the Oscar's in LA. This is always a great time to check out great designs and what the celebs will appear in. Lien Ta, Hollywood.com's celebrity/fashion editor knows a lot about the red carpet and is never too shy to share her thoughts! Below she dishes on her thoughts on the red carpet and answers Kitten Lounge's most important question - how we can bring the looks we see into our everyday lives! Make sure to tune into the 81st annual Oscar's on Feb, 22nd at 8pm on ABC to see all the glam and we will make sure to get additional comments from Lien about her thoughts on the red carpet!

What are the latest red carpet no-no's?

1. Mimicking Jennifer Aniston's snooze-style (I call it: "If Audrina Went to College ..."). Penelope Cruz is doing a helluva job at this.
2. Going all bridal, all the time. Not-so-new bride Nicole Kidman has got to start saying no to white gowns.
3. Slits cut WAY too high. Ahem, Beyonce. The red carpet isn't a music video. Vintage No-No: Refrain from bad fake tanning, a la Charlize Theron.

Who are repeat offenders and who will rise above?

Speaking for major red-carpet events specifically, Angelina Jolie has repeatedly given herself a muffin top with her poorly shaped Max Azria dresses. She often skews "too simple," but quiet glamour works for her -- so long as the muffin top is OUT.

Since her breakup with Mr. Scum, Anne Hathaway = heaven. Buuuuut, lately, she's erred on too weird or too-too daring, so she'll have to be very smart for her first Oscars. I think she will. She'll opt for something very glamorous and special.

Marisa Tomei is a bit of a loose cannon on the red carpet. She's worn some pretty hideous things and some very acceptable things. (I loved her butter-yellow SAG gown but what the heck with the lack of makeup?) She'll look beautiful for the Oscars ... but I imagine at least one thing will be off.

Scarlett Johansson, who's really overdone the "old Hollywood" look. She's made it look almost passe. And I'm sick of the bold, disgusting floral patterns she's been ga-ga for of late.

Cameron Diaz is always kind of crazy. But, really, it's the best way for Cameron to get a little bit of attention, but she has no business being at the Oscars, Globes, et al.

Renee Zellweger is a mess. Always. If it's not her gown (oh, God, the Globes), it's her hair that looks like a brokedown bird's nest.

And though Penelope Cruz skews boring, I think she'll surprise us all for the big night.

How can we apply the trends that will hit the carpet into our "going out looks" when we're hanging out in the Hamptons, Meat Packing District etc?

I think many people feel that the red carpet looks are so glam that we can't take portions of that into how we dress and I believe we can!

The best two ways at adopting a red-carpet flair to your everyday going-out attire is (a.) jewelry and (b.) shoes. Naturally, you wouldn't want to wear a mermaid gown whilst on a bar crawl, but you can flaunt a pair of outrageous Louboutins or wear turquoise jewelry (like Cameron Diaz) and long strands of (fake) diamonds (like Christina Applegate) or one very cool, very big earring (like Angelina Jolie). Next: Try out a short dress.

Mingling Mondays: The Ultimate Runway Show

KittenCouture — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 05:00:00 -0800

With it being Fashion Week, all attention is focused on the runways at the tents, presentations that are outside of Bryant Park and so much more. I love this time of year as it makes me think of the spring/summer being closer together, but I'm also thinking of another runway that is even more impacting in terms of helping so many that fight every day! On April 30th, St Jude Children's Research Hospital will present the Design Cares fashion show which is a collaboration of so many designers (including my fave Diane Von Furstenburg) whose pieces will hit the runways and will later be auctioned off in order to benefit pediatric cancer research. The sketch above is a custom couture gown for Design Cares by Maggie Norris Couture which is being donated for this worthy cause. I think this is such an important cause and Kitten Lounge (along with other sites that I write for) will keep you in the loop on this event up to the day (and of course the day after). There are so many amazing stories and interests that are associated with this amazing event, that it would be unfair to share it within one post. Definitely stay in touch as Kitten Lounge presents more posts about this and of course, you can see this event first hand by purchasing tickets to attend!

Trendy Thursdays: Get Fatty

KittenCouture — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 05:00:00 -0800

Oh yes, I am all about Big Fatty Mascara by Urban Decay! Not only are they the sponsors of the Kitten Lounge Valentine's Gift Guide which kicks off officially this Sunday but it makes your lashes thick and lovely! I have been using this off and on but tonight during a team dinner, I definitely wanted to be ultra glam! Even in the resort town of Orlando, you can still bring a bit of spicy to your overall look (this was also a great look when we went to Blue Martini). This is a must for your cometic bag. Of course you must pair this with their 24/7 Eyeliner in a color of your choice. Check out the site and decide what you'll add to your collection of Glamazon products!

Snazzy Sundays: Kitten Lounge Episode 1

KittenCouture — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 14:36:13 -0800

So one of many surprises was released today! Each Sunday, I will come to you live via Mogulus talking about what's going on, giving sneak peeks and more! On Mogulus, Kitten Lounge has it's own channel which is available at any time! Currently, you can enjoy this post, DVF's induction into the Walk of Fame and also an interview during last Fashion Week with Robert Cleary of Dashing Diva!

In today's show, I let you know about Kate Hanley, the author of Chill Anywhere. She will be at East West Books at 5th Ave on 14th St on Mon Jan 12th from 7:30 - 8:30. This is a great way to get the book, get it signed and of course to meet the author that can also be seen contributing to Body + Soul, Good Housekeeping and on Martha Stewart Live! In addition, I let you know about Soul's Calling giveaway and about the need for Yes to Carrots. Finally, you got a sneek peak on Tuesday's post which will talk about the Orbit. Take some time to check in with my new station which will be live each Sunday at 3pm!

Techie Tuesdays: Blue Mic's Snowflake

KittenCouture — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 06:25:05 -0800

As promised, you will see new segments popping up this week due to various requests. I use a lot of technology and people like asking what I use and why. So I decided that it would definitely be a good idea to bring this into Kitten Lounge. I'd love to know what you're using and why and if you have questions, ask away.

In the Holiday Guide, I had included Blue Mic's Snowflake. I don't like the microphone that comes with my laptop and since I have been increasing my interviews via Blog Radio and more, I wanted something that was easy to use, didn't require me to download various software and that it could be very portable. I was torn between the Snowball and the Snowflake. Both were quite simple to use but the Snowball is a bit heavy and is meant to be in your home studio or someplace that you don't need to move it a lot. When you're running around, the Snowflake makes set up easy and storage is not a problem. I love that it can move into various positions and it has an amazing quality! Blue Mic has various equipment that are essential for those that do podcasting or other projects on their computers so I would defintiely check it out!

Sippin Saturdays: Not too Far From Spring

KittenCouture — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 05:33:36 -0800

Today looks gorgeous but yet I know that it is super cold! I have a social media seminar that I am giving today, some errands in the city and then hopefully I can figure out a few things that I need for my laptop so that I can bring in some great content for the new Kitten Lounge starting on Monday! I think I will also buy this bathing suit and a few other items as well. I had to get up early and I won't get back in until this evening but I'm excited to get moving and grooving today. I am also planning my vacation today as I need to get a bit of that summer feel! Somehow with all the excitement, I still wish for South Beach breezes!

Snazzy Sundays: Kitten Lounge & Beyond

KittenCouture — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 05:00:00 -0800

Happy Sunday - this is the last Sunday of 2008! I am thankful of so many things and although many are eager to close 2008, I have to say that this year has been a lot of positive change that has allows me to grow in a number of ways with Kitten Couture, Sikara Designs Group and more! Most importantly, I love that I have been doing a lot of thinking about Kitten Lounge and where I want it to go to be ready for 2009. What can you expect?

Monday: Mingling Mondays (We will continue to bring the best of Mingling Mondays with foods. We will continue to share food tidbits and of course the Food Editor Paul, will continue to show you great finds and recipes)

Tuesday: Tech Tuesdays (I want to bring gadgets to your intention and this will be shared by the Tech Editor Paul. We're excited to let you know all the goodies that are bound to be your essential)

Wednesday: Wired Wednesdays (I love the fact that I will bring various industry news to this site in the realm of the Internet ! I'm really excited to share new items in Social Media, laws and much more)

Thursday: Trendy Thursdays (I enjoy bringing you my beauty finds and will continue this into the new year)

Friday: Fashionable Fridays (I will continue to share fashionable finds with you! So you'll be able to read about fashion, style and accessories.)

Saturday: Sippin Saturdays ( I still love music and have much to share in this area with you - so look forward to this)

Sunday: Snazzy Sundays (Home decor is still a great theme and one that will continue to be included within Kitten Lounge)

With all of those goodies, I can't wait to add in video posts too! I will include weekly recaps just to touch base with you on what's going on and what giveaways are currently being run as well! 2009 will be tons of fun and I can't wait to share this with you!

Sippin Saturdays: Rest & Relaxation

KittenCouture — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 08:03:11 -0800

Well I am definitely enjoying the resting part of today as I am working on some projects, I had the second part of my Christmas last night and am already thinking of a few items that I need to pick up later on this weekend. Of course, I am also glued to my laptop today as I continue tweaking a few of my sites and to also include additional components that will be apart of Kitten Lounge as well! Enjoy the day wherever you are! Starting Mon, we will have posts dedicated to New Years Eve and the rest of the week we will start on the new focus of Kitten Lounge - exciting times are ahead!

Fashionable Fridays: Kitten Couture My Jewelry Line

KittenCouture — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 04:57:53 -0800

Today I am doing a lot of work on what Kitten Lounge will be like for Jan 1st and also reworking Kitten Couture (of course when I work on those, I also think about Sikara Designs Group and some of the other sites I have as well)! Kitten Couture is my lariat line of jewelry that includes natural stones and seashells! So there will be some minor dust this weekend and I suppose resolutions will be made from a business stand point! With that said this is the current collection of Kitten Couture so enjoy and I love hearing feedback!