France has just passed a law on skinniness and I am hoping that the rest of the world follows suit.

They have just adopted a groundbreaking bill that makes it illegal for anyone in the country - including magazines and websites - to promote extreme thinness.

I think it is about time that a law like this was passed, what with the issue of weight and how serious it is in our world today.

Take a look even just a few decades ago, and our icons looked a heck of a lot different than they do today. Keep in mind that weight is an issue that affects both men and women alike but which is much, much more predominant an issue among women.

We always hear about which female celebrity has lost or gained weight and what it is doing to their career, and don’t even get me started on the fashion shows - I swear sometimes when those girls hit the end of the runway and turn to go back they are invisible for a minute as they turn to the side. This is not surprising since their waists are about the size of my pinky finger around.

I am a thin girl myself so don’t think I’m here having a hate on for these skinny ladies, but I do have a problem once I can count all of their ribs.

The biggest problem I have is that these women are creating an image for young girls to look up to, whether they know and care or not.

I don’t really think it is only the celebrities that we should be blaming, because they are having this sort of standard put in front of them and if they don’t meet it they have even more to deal with than us regular woman because everything they do is put on display for the world to see.

I don’t think any of us should be completely demeaning on celebrities or designers on this issue but instead help people everywhere to start realizing skinniness is not fashionable, and why is beauty such an important issue to us anyway?

We can still have fashion and all the wonderful things that come along with it without having to put a standard on the body size and shape that someone should have.

Taking a look at some of the other countries around the world, namely those that have bigger issues to worry about other than the way they look, countries where people really are starving and who do not have the means to resources as we do.

If we could all stop thinking about how we can take more and start giving to those who need it, we may find that we have some more important issues to worry about.

I have a daughter myself and the last thing I want is for her to grow up thinking she has to look like she hasn’t eaten in a couple years to feel beautiful.

I think if we were able to go back to an era like the ’50s where we had gorgeous curvy sexpots like Ava Gardner and Marilyn Monroe that we would understand, what we are seeing now is not beautiful at all, we are just used to it.

I’m sure that these women also had concerns about their weight but the difference is that they were not striving to be pin thin, and they had healthy, womanly figures.

I remember even just a few years back when the Olsen twins started losing a ton of weight - like they had any weight on them to lose in the first place - and everyone was shocked.

At that point, even in the media, skinniness was not considered “beautiful” or “in style”, at least not as much as it is now.

It seems that every single woman, especially celebrities, are worried about their weight - most of them openly - and are constantly trying new fad diets to get skinnier.

There are a ton of stars I could name just off the top of my head who have experienced a dramatic weight loss, and whether they claimed it was due to “drug problems”, “stress” or any of the other lame excuses they come up with, the point is that they are in the spotlight and have a significant effect on the way young girls think and feel about themselves, and so because of this they have a responsibility to take their role model persona at least remotely seriously.

I have to tell you, I have had just about enough of this nonsense. This is not to say that I agree with women - men too for that matter - being unhealthy and overweight, but for god’s sake eat something, just do it in moderation.

We all seem to have a problem with limits. We never know how little is too little and how much is too much.

The new law passed in France may not end up having as dramatic an effect as many of us would like, but I definitely hope that it raises a few more eyebrows and makes people - especially the authority figures in the fashion world - start to realize that this is not a joke and that it may be “funny” or “tabloid material” in the celebrity world but that there are real people in the real world who are growing up and believing that this is the norm.

Keep in mind that I am not trying to criticize anyone, celebrity or not, for having an issue with the way they look, everyone has issues to deal with and I think it is that much harder for celebrities sometimes because everything they do is set in the spotlight.

But what I am saying is that something needs to be done so that women around the world can stop feeling as though they are not beautiful just because they may not look like that super skinny model on the magazine.

We can still have fashion and everything that goes along with it without making anyone over a size zero feels as though they are worthless. I love fashion I always have and always will and I just can’t wait until our view of beauty gets even a little bit back to the norm. When we start to focus once more on the actual fashion, the beautiful clothes that are created and not on how skinny the person underneath is.

Gwyneth Paltrow has done it again. We didn’t see her out for a while, no doubt she has been busy, but over the past few months she has started taking her claim to fame once back and it is nice to see her pretty face again.

Recently she was spotted at an Iron Man promotion dressed in a black Preen mini-dress and sky-high McQueen heels.

She definitely looked picture perfect, her luminous blonde hair and sparkling eyes, and those mile high legs … bonjour!

Gwyneth has been appearing at one event after another, looking fit and absolutely stellar each and every time. I’m so glad to see the Gwyn out there again. She’s not only beautiful but she’s real, and that’s something we can all look up to.

Via: FabSugar

I work as a full-time freelance writer who has two small little ones to watch after so unfortunately I don’t have the opportunity as much as I would like to when it comes to wearing sexy workwear. I still do when I get the chance however, and think that some of the sexy women’s workwear pieces are some of the most modern and appealing I have ever seen.

I love that women can look professional and respectable and yet sexy and elegant at the same time, and if you are looking for some of the hottest women’s workwear pieces, here are a few to start you off.

Not only did I select for you some of the most high quality, versatile and fashionable pieces but as well used them to create three separate outfits for you. Remember that you can always mix and match the different outfits, switch the shoes or handbags from one to another and come up with some really terrific outfits.

I am going to continue with the Designer or Deal posts in the future, so you can either splurge on the designer duds or if you are strapped for cash or just want to be a bit more conservative with your spending, can stick to a similar look for less.

It is important to look good and take pride in your appearance, but also to make sure you know your limits and are only spending what you can afford to.

Designer

Here is a blazer that will hug your curves in all the right places. This Nanette Lepore brown cotton blend ‘Hepcat’ cropped blazer is fresh and sexy, and perfect for all body types. It is trendy and oh-so-modern, featuring a notched and rounded collar, single button closure, pleats along the back to add a bit of detail, and is made of lightweight cotton blend two-tone oxford. Designed to fit a woman’s body to perfection, it will really nip you in at the waist to boot, for $275.

I really prefer a simple top with this blazer, so I chose the white mesh and rib knit tank top from Robert Rodriguez. You want to keep it simple and keep the outfit tied together, and I really like the white contrast against the gray of the blazer. The mesh and rib knit feature also helps by adding a more interesting aspect to it. This tank retails for $120 via the Robert Rodriguez Collection website.

This Nanette Lepore skirt is actually part of a set and goes with the blazer shown above. As with all Nanette’s fashion creations, this high-waisted skirt is sexy with a girlish charm, for $295. It features a zip fly with tab at waist and five overlay buttons, and a decorative lace-up back waist which is very reminecent of lingerie. The high waist of this skirt goes perfect with the cropped jacket and helps even more to slim your waist.

This Marc Jacobs handbag is great for this outfit because it adds a splash of color to an otherwise pretty conservative and toned down look. Made of smooth calf leather this bag features contrast topstitching, polished silver metal hardware, flat grained leather shoulder straps with double-layered link chain attachments, and a flap top with magnetic closure. It is available from Marc Jacobs and retails for $995.

They may be a bit pricey but definitely worth the splurge for these gorgeous Jimmy Choo black velvet ‘Clue’ platform slingbacks. Every woman needs a pair of Jimmy Choo’s in her closet, and what better pair than these timeless square peep toe slingbacks that feature a buckle adjustable slingback strap, lightly padded insole and 4 1/4″ covered heel. Sweet and sexy, these shoes are so versatile they can be incorporated into almost any outfit, for $640.

Deal

This Wendy Katlen grey woven swing crop jacket is slimming and modern, and retails for only $225. Made of lightweight woven fabrics to keep you cool even in warmer weather, this trendy blazer features a circular front yoke with three button front, inverted pleats at front princess seams and centerback seams, and three quarter flare sleeves.

Almost identical to the Robert Rodriguez version featured here, this Petit Bateau tank top is available for just $30. It is available in a few colors but I prefer the white and light pink stripe version with this particular ensemble. This fitted tank of soft cotton knit with stripe pattern is comfortable and dressed up underneath the blazer.

This Alvin Valley gray linen pleated pencil skirt is almost identical to the Nanette Lepore version but for less, at just $286. Designed from lightweight stretch linen blend chambray, this fashionable skirt is straight cut and features an invisible back zip closure to keep you streamlined and pulled together. The pleated front helps to cover up any tummy that you might want to hide, and really helps to give the ensemble a sort of retro feel.

For this look I decided to go with this Kenneth Cole New York black leather ‘Key Hole’ hobo bag. It comes with a top zip closure with oversized pull, satin lining with interior cell phone, pen, patch, and zip pockets, and two leather feet at the base. It also retails for nearly 1/4 of the price of the Marc Jacobs version, at just $268 from Kenneth Cole New York.

These black satin ‘Incarte’ peep-toe slingbacks are simple and pretty, featuring a lustrous satin upper and rounded peep-toe with cut-out details. The leather lining makes these shoes incredibly comfortable so you can wear them all day at work, and the 4″ heel on this shoe keeps it very sexy. You can grab these shoes from any Max Azria retailer or over their website for $198.

Michael Kors is a fabulous fashion designer as we all know, and he has a gorgeous handbag selection to choose from.

The problem is deciding which one of these hot accessories you want for yourself. Here are a few of my personal favorites.

Brookville Medium Bowling Bag

The Brookville Medium Bowling Bag is a gorgeous Michael Kors creation that features double straps with a 10-inch drop, and a magnetic snap closure to ensure your valuables stay protected.

There is an inside zip pocket as well as a cell phone pocket and three open pockets.

This would be the perfect bag for going out at night with the girls. It will carry your makeup, wallet, phone, PDA, keys, and everything else you need to fit in there, with room to spare.

Hudson Pebble Large Tote

This is a great daywear bag. It is a bit smaller and features double handles with a 7-inch drop, so it is tighter over the shoulder but super cute when paired with jeans and a t-shirt or a cute summer dress.

I love the buckle detail on the front and sides, and the canvas lining with zip pocket, 3 open pocks and cell phone and key keepers are great because you don’t have to scrounge through your bag to find what you are looking for.

Joplin Giraffe Medium Shoulder Satchel

This is a really fun, funky bag. It is actually ideal for either day or night which is nice, and comes with a printed canvas in giraffe print.

The shoulder strap has a 8 1/2-inch drop, and features a magnetic snap closure, hinged hardware detail at the straps and an interior zip pocket, 2 open pockets, a cell phone pocket and key keeper.

I envision this hot little number with a little black dress or even a modern workwear ensemble, maybe in chocolate brown to not make the outfit too dark.

I’ll tell you right now that if you are looking for more than just a fashionable and modern handbag, one that is also durable and timeless, a Michael Kors handbag will be perfect for you.

I have several myself and if I could afford to buy his entire line I would, in a second. You will certainly not regret a purchase like this, and I would also advise that you check out what else he has to offer, everything from sunglasses and sandals to watches and fragrances.

If you are interested in any of these handbags or any other pieces from the Michael Kors’ collection, you can purchase them through the Michael Kors website as well as through retailers that offer his line.

I love lingerie. Love, love, love it. I know that many women are afraid to wear lingerie, but it is important to know that there are enough styles and designs of lingerie out there that you will find the perfect lingerie.

Whether you are looking for something more demure or are ready to go for all out sex appeal, here are a few of my favorite pieces of lingerie which will help you to look your sexiest.

Frederick’s of Hollywood I Love LA Corset

With summer coming up, this is the the perfect piece of lingerie. This stunning retro halter style corset can be worn in the bedroom or out for a special date.

Made of cotton poplin this corset fits your body like a glove, smoothing and streamlining your figure.

The bright red color is fabulous and eye-catching and the white polka dots make it flirty and fun. If you are wearing it to a day event, consider covering up a bit with a cute shrug or light sweater.

The corset is availbale from Frederick’s of Hollywood for $54 USD in sizes 32-38.

La Senza Glam Girl Garter Panty, Bra and Stockings

This entire ensemble from La Senza is innocent and sexy, from top to bottom.

The garter panty, bra and stockings all come separately, and together give a sort of school girl-burlesque look.

I love the ruffled layers on the panties because it gives a flirty touch, and the cotton candy pink color.

I loved this outfit the minute I saw it, and I am heading out tomorrow to get it for myself.

The entire outfit tallies up at under $100 to boot. There are also other styles and colors of stockings to choose from.

Heart Throb Lingerie Emotion Bra, Panty Garter Set

I found this lingerie shop one day while browsing the Net, and I’m so glad I did.

Like I said before, I am definitely a huge lingerie fan, and Heart Throb Lingerie has one of the largest, sexiest collections of lingerie I have ever seen.

I especially adored this Emotion bra, panty garter set which is frilly and lacy and oh-so-beautiful.

This is a really adorable little three-piece ensemble that includes an embroidered flower eyelet mesh ruffle bra top, garter belt and g-string panty.

Sweet yet saucy - I love it.

3 Wishes Kitty Delish

Here is a great lingerie retailer if you are looking for the whole package.

Not only do they offer one of the world’s largest collections of lingerie, but as well sexy Halloween costumes and much more.

One of my favorite ensembles from 3 Wishes is this gorgeous little number. It is an off the shoulder fishnet bra top with a little leopard print ruffle trim on both the bra and panty.

Sure there’s not much there but that is all the fun, and it is definitely an eye-catching lingerie set.

These are just a few of the many gorgeous pieces of lingerie out there, and I will definitely be sure to keep you updated on what else I find.

In the meantime, take a bit of time to browse through the selections from the lingerie retailers featured here and you are sure to find some great pieces.

Yay! One of my favorite designers, Betsey Johnson, has released her Fall/Winter 2008/2009 collections, and to no surprise, I love every single thing.

The collections were actually unveiled in New York a few months back, but I only now have really had a chance to check it out.

Betsey always makes a big splash when she has fashion shows, and there was no difference here, with loud colors and lots of balloons on display.

She had a lot of rocker-chic pieces in these collections, and I love how she always maintains a youthful look in her clothing but never childish. She always keeps it mature and sophisticated yet fresh and fun, which is certainly no easy task.

This particular outfit screams volumes about Betsey’s work, and any woman from teenager to middle-age could pull this look off.

She makes the all black ensemble look modern and chic, and I love the beret and retro sunglasses to top it all off.

I absolutely love these adorable skull-patterned black dresses and white tights, and don’t even get me started on the gorgeous high heeled chap type shoes.

Of course the girls themselves don’t hurt anything by playing it up and having fun, and they definitely make me want to head to Betsey Johnson and get this ensemble for myself.

If you want to check out the rest of the pictures from the show you can view them on PopCrunch.

I love checking out celebrity styles, watching to see what they are going to wear to one event or another.

There are definitely some hot and not so hot ensembles displayed over the past couple of months, and here are a few of my favorite hot or not styles.

Carrie Underwood

I cannot say enough about this look. Singer Carrie Underwood showed up at the 2008 CMT Music Awards looking like a true star.

In an eye-catching cobalt-blue Badgley Mischka mini-dress and gorgeous silver strappy Rene Caovilla sandals, she is absolutely stunning.

It was very smart of her to keep her accessories minimal, as this draws all the attention to this super sexy and elegant dress.

The vibrant color is dynamite with her blonde hair and plays up her best features.

I am not always impressed with Miss Underwood’s fashion sense but this outfit I definitely give the thumbs up to.

Mary-Kate Olsen

This was definitely one of the biggest style nots in the past week that I have seen.

I constantly hear of people talking about how the Olsen twins have fabulous style and creativity, but while Ashley at least looks half decent most of the time, Mary-Kate always seems to manage to look like a hobo.

This outfit is no different, and although the floor-length vintage Missoni dress could look great on someone else, it makes Mary-Kate look huge and uncoordinated because it floods over her tiny frame.

Oh, and I didn’t even make it to the Marc Jacobs headband yet. Please Mary-Kate, just take off this disastrous outfit!

Heidi Klum

Now here is one girl who always has style. Heidi Klum always has it going on, and she looked beautiful and glowing in a purple mini-dress designed by Project Runway finalist Rami Kashou.

Recently Heidi was declared as US Magazine’s Style Icon of the Year, and it is really no wonder why.

She is definitely a winner in this figure flattering strapless dress, but then again, could anything not be figure flattering on Heidi?

The beautiful plum color is very summery and fresh, and contrasts against her ash blonde hair.

Heidi Klum is a beautiful woman and always knows how to play up her best features, as she has done here.

Gwyneth Paltrow

The ’80s style is definitely back and is … Ah, ha, ha, ha, stayin’ alive?

Anyways, Gwyneth Paltrow, although we rarely see her out on the red carpet anymore, certainly knows how to wow us when she does appear.

Glowing in a vintage Christian Dior gown in hot pink, Gwyneth was positively stunning, pairing a cute black clutch with her black sash belt.

The outfit is a little too matchy-matchy for my liking and I think she could have kept the belt and bag black and added a little something special in the shoes, but regardless she was striking.

All she needs now is her other accessory Chris Martin and she’s good to go.

Molly Sims

Simple definitely can be sexy, as the beautiful Molly Sims shows us in her sunny Calvin Klein sheath.

The dress, which is available from the designer’s Fall 2008 Collection, looks fabulous with Molly’s golden complexion and dirty blonde hair.

She kept the accessories very minimal, wearing only a small black clutch, black nylons and mules and small hoop earrings.

Not many stars would be able to pull this look off and it would probably just come off as boring, but with Molly’s gorgeous face and body it is definitely a winner on her.

I first saw these Givenchy jelly gladiator sandals on Style, and although I was not sure whether I liked them or not at first, they definitely caught my eye.

They called them “the must-have shoe for spring”, and although I am usually a fan of Givenchy I have to say that I do not agree here.

They remind me of a more retro version of the “croc”, which I never really took a liking to, no matter how many thousands of feet I saw wearing them around me.

Givenchy has spun a cheeky take on Roman style with this innovative new shoe, and they are not the only one. Other luxury brands such as Gucci, Marc Jacobs and Fendi have all brought their own version of this jelly sandal to the table as well.

Chanel is also doing the jelly, with a sandal that is clean with minimal adornment, only a rhinestone by the big toe. The price of their sandals are pretty staggering at $295, especially since it is, after all, a jelly sandal, but other versions such as Steve Madden’s are much more affordable at just $39.95.

These sandals have not really been out long enough to tell whether they are going to take off or not, but I know that I will certainly not be rushing out to the stores to buy them, that’s for sure.

Okay so we already have news of clothing lines from Lauren Conrad and Whitney Port of The Hills, and now Heidi Montag is launching her own line, Heidiwood.

Not such a creative title, since we already have so many copies of the Hollywood name and this little Heidiwood thing reminds me of a lame spinoff of the lovely Dolly Parton’s Dollywood … but moving on.

Heidi debuted her new fashion range last week in Hollywood, looking cute in giant black stilettos and a skimpy zebra print halter top.

Her style is decent but I certainly do not think that sales will skyrocket for this clothing line she has just released.

Oh, did I mention that her boyfriend Spencer Pratt proposed to her on stage, giving her two dozen long-stemmed pink roses before kissing her on the lips?

So her clothing line may be a little stripper-esque and her claim to fame came from an … ahem … reality TV show, at least she and good ole Spence are happy.

Via: The Hollywood Gossip

When most of us think of riding on an escalator we think of hurrying through the airport in sneakers and sweats or shopping at the mall in jeans and a t-shirt.

Dita Von Teese has now shown us how to really ride an escalator and look great doing it.

In a gray swing coat and gorgeous Christian Louboutin mary janes, Dita looked every bit the ’40s pinup beauty.

I have always admired this dark haired beauty for her classic style of authentic retro mixed with punches of modernity.

She is truly the leading woman behind a renaissance of vintage glamour, a look that no one can pull off better than her.

This escalator pic reminds us of just how impossibly gorgeous this lady really is, but then again we all know that Dita Von Teese could be working in a dump and still look picture perfect, so let’s not be too hard on ourselves.

Via: OSoYou