Fashion is the Only Cure

Best new music of the week

2009-04-26T09:16:00.001-07:00

Boy In Static- Osaka
Boy In Static uniquely combines fun beats with string instruments to make an interesting record. Featuring Ulrich Schnauss on keyboards, "Osaka" steals my favorite on the album. The vocals are simple, which allows the listener to focus on the beautifully orchestrated music. If you like music with great instrumentation and amazing keyboard, check out Boy In Static.

Band of Skulls- I Know What I Am
If you do not already know this trio from London, check out "I Know What I Am." Band of Skulls' combination of garage rock and catchy pop makes each song interesting. Also, the mix of bassist Emma Richardson and guitarist Russell Marsden voices together makes the song come alive. The heavy guitar and clapping in "I Know What I Am" will instantly win any listener over.

JD Souther- House of Pride Feat. Bela Fleck
JD Souther is a true music veteran in the music business. He has written countless songs for big artists, such as Bonnie Raitt and the Eagles. Souther ventured into making his own music years ago, but "House of Pride" shows his timeless approach to creating songs. Souther's voice brings soul, while Bela Fleck wails away on the banjo. If you are a fan of Americana, check out JD Souther.

Easy Star All-Stars- Lucy In the Sky With Diamonds
The Easy Star All-Stars are infamous for covering classic rock artists, such as Radiohead and Pink Floyd. For their newest album, the All-Stars covered 15 classic Beatles songs. Obviously, this could have been a disaster, but the reggae versions of Beatles' favorites sounds refreshing. Even if you are not a fan of covers, listen to "Lucy In the Sky With Diamonds" and try to view it with an open perspective.

The Shins- Plenty Is Never Enough
Merge Records just turned 20 and it is celebrating by releasing an entire album of popular bands covering lesser well-known artists on the indie label. The New Pornographers and Death Cab For Cutie are also featured on the album, but I prefer the Shins' version of Tenement Halls' "Plenty Is Never Enough." The original is a great song, but the Shins turn it into a pop-filled and fun version.

Me gusta Kirsten Dunst

2009-04-13T21:29:00.000-07:00

I still fantasize about Miu Miu's Spring 2009 collection. The full skirts and dark lighting gave an errie vibe to the Lolita mary-janes and bright red lipstick. Just my cup of tea. I starting looking over the ads with Kirsten Dunst and the swooning happened all over again.

Source: tfs

Looks Im Lovin

2009-04-06T16:26:00.001-07:00

All of them very different, but nonetheless inspiring. Bridget's is more work-to-party style; Taylor Momsen's looks very rocker; Sienna has a great laid-back style.

Best new music of the week

2009-03-31T19:37:00.000-07:00

Swan Lake- Spanish Gold, 2044
Canadian group Swan Lake just released their second album, and it greatly surpasses their debut. “Spanish Gold, 2044” showcases their unyielding ability to produce a melodic masterpiece. The song comes in at a whopping five minutes, but the constant rhythm variation and instrument additions keeps it from getting boring. If you like music with interesting instrumentation, check out Swan Lake’s sophomore album Enemy Mine.

William Fitzsimmons- I Don’t Feel It Anymore (Song of the Sparrow)
This song reminds me of early Sufjan Stevens, which is far from a bad thing. Simple guitar parts allow Fitzsimmons mesmerizing voice to lull the listener into an alternate state of mind. “I Don’t Feel It Anymore” could possibly be one of the most beautifully captivating songs recorded recently. The song is pretty somber (hence the name), so I recommend it for a long and dreary day.

The Arrest- Sleepy John
Since the band has two lead singers, this song is heavy on vocal harmonies. Their voices are really the highlight of the song, but repetitive guitar rifts keep the song interesting. The Arrest sounds like a better version of Interpol, so check this out if you are a fan of indie rock with sparse guitar and heavy vocals.

Balkan Beat Box- Adir Adirim (Nickodemus Remix)
Although this song is different than other things coming out recently, I think it will appeal to various music tastes. The song starts off with simple beats and then explodes into a unique blend of Middle Eastern hip-hop and electronica. Balkan Beat Box sounds similar to groups Medeski Martin and Wood or STS9, but fused with a more worldly style.

Peter Bjorn & John- Nothing To Worry About
Living Thing, Peter Bjorn & John’s newest album, sounds completely different from their other works. The Swedish band experimented with several types of instruments and effects to make a truly amazing album. The punchy drums and high-pitched children voices add a unique mix to the song. I recommend the entire cd, but especially check out “Nothing To Worry About.” The song will appeal to anyone who likes rock music to be a little quirky.

Best look of the week

2009-03-30T16:09:00.000-07:00

Leighton Meester, courtesy of splashnews

Tri-blend racerback look for less

2009-03-23T15:03:00.000-07:00

Ah, the must have tank for spring- lightweight, sexy, goes with everything. Sorry American Apparel, but I cannot fathom paying $19 for a simple tank. The price might be agreeable, but what if i said that you could get 2 identical tanks for less than that?
Found! You can pick up this ringer for a mere $8 from Target. Additional colors include black, white, purple, and neon yellow. I picked up the black and the grey, and they fit really nicely. Basics for under $10...you're welcome.

Best new music of the week + best look

2009-03-13T17:21:00.000-07:00

The best new music this week ranges from French indie rock to Americana, so there is a little something for every music taste. Be sure to check all of these tracks out and let me know what you think.

Bonnie "Prince" Billy- Beware Your Only Friend
Since the 90s, Billy has been performing beautiful folk music. In "Beware Your Only Friend," his heartfelt voice mixes with the simple guitar to create a notable title track on the newest album. At one point of the song, everything breaks down and the focus shifts to the pain in his voice, which only makes it better. If you like this song, check Billy out at the Bijou Theatre on May 26.

Anavan- The Perfect Sound
Anavan may be from freezing cold Alaska, but their music sounds more like walking into a giant rave than a snow storm. They mix heavy synth beats with various vocal effects to make a truly fun album. Some of the other songs on Cover Story are good, but "Perfect Sound" remains the stand out.

Coconut Records-Microphone
Coconut records is the solo project of Jason Schwartzman, who is part of the band Phantom Planet. Although a new Phantom Planet record would be great, I completely praise Schwartzman for his solo effort. Every song on Davy, his latest album, is better than the next. I recommend "Microphone" to anyone who generally enjoys catchy indie rock.

Malajube- Porte Disparu
For some odd reason, I cannot get enough of this French Canadian band. Even though all the words are in French, I still find myself singing along. I may not know what any of the words mean, but "Porte Disparu" is just too good to refrain myself. The keyboards and repetitive drum beats add an eerie sound to the song, while the vocals insert a dose of tranquility. Please, check out Malajube, you will not be disappointed.

Say Hi- November Was White, December Was Grey
Formerly known as Say Hi To Your Mom, this seattle-based band is one of my favorite indie pop bands. Their name may be different, but the newest album still has their signature happy sound. "November Was White" mixes simple instrumentation with eccentric lyrics, which makes it one of the best songs on the cd.

And now onto the best look of the week:

Miranda Kerr looking effortlessly adorable. photo: splashnews

What has capitalism done to me?

2009-03-10T14:19:00.000-07:00

I have no money to go buy groceries, yet I am somehow planning a way to purchase a new pair of sunglasses. It is amazing what a nice pair of shades can do to a girl. Hey Forever 21, its me Brittney, can you please produce a replica of these on the cheap? Thanks.

Super Tie-Dye sunglasses, $250 available at the Super Shop

Best new music of the week

2009-03-02T22:46:00.000-08:00

I work for a local radio station, so i stay constantly up to date on the newest music. This will be a weekly list of my favorite adds each week so be ure to keep checking back!

Matt & Kim- Daylight
The Brooklyn-based duo just dropped their new album Grand, and it greatly surpasses their last effort. If you like indie rock with a dose of electronica beats, you will love Matt & Kim. With catchy beats and keyboard, "Daylight" wins for my favorite song, though. Also, be sure to check them out when they come to Knoxville on March 1 at the Catalyst.

Lord T & Eloise- Gettin Richer ft. Skinny Pimp
Ordinarily I hate stupid hip hop, but I cannot stop listening to the new Lord T & Eloise. The Memphis boys brought in some rap legends for the new album-8 Ball, Al Kapone and Skinny Pimp just to name a few. Their music borders between funny and ridiculous, but encompasses true rap beats.

The Decemberists- The Rake's Song
The Decemberists have been overtaking the indie music for quite some time now, and it does not look like they are slowing down. The music on the newest album sounds relatively similar to their previous works, but with more emphasis on aggressive guitar parts. Although the Hazards of Love album will not be released until Mar 24, you can still get this single off iTunes or their website.

Gringo Star- All Yall
The Atlanta-based band sounds like 60s Brit rock with a dose of southern influence. The band's newest album has had some major buzz around it, which is for good reason. With clapping and catchy guitar rifts, "All Yall" is the shining star of their debut effort. If you like Vampire Weekend, check out Gringo Star.

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart- Come Saturday
The Pains of Being Young at Heart includes a girl and guy singer with distorted guitars, which happens to be a musical weakness of mine. In this song, the melodies beautifully blend with the noisy instruments to create a great piece of music. If you happen to share my weakness, check out "Come Saturday."

Best looks of the week

2009-02-09T20:23:00.000-08:00

Source: celebrity style guide, splash news, fabsugar

2009-02-01T12:40:00.000-08:00

Tony Roberts- Up, Up and Away
When I get sick of the freezing cold, I put on this song. It reminds me of driving in the spring with the windows down. If you like Jack Johnson, check out Tony Roberts.

Common- Public Service Announcement
Common’s new cd is amazing, and this song pretty much defines his style. The beats are great and his lyrics are impressive, which most hip-hop artists fail to produce these days. Also, Pharrell is featured in the song, which only adds to the its appeal.

Toubab Krewe- 51 Ft Ladder (Live)
The live version is even better than the original. If you love Umphreys Mcgee or Tea Leaf Green, than download this song. The song is from their sophomore album Live At the Orange Peel, which was produced by Grammy winner Steven Heller.

The Knux- Bang! Bang!
Straight from New Orleans, the Knux produce unique southern hip-hop. “Bang! Bang!” makes great going out music. When you get tired of generic rap, turn on the Knux.

Cat Power- I’ve Been Loving You Too Long
She sings a classic like it is 1968, and you cannot help but get lost in her voice. If you are having a bad day, turn on this song. Cat Power feels your pain.

Andrew Bird- Oh No
Bird has fun with his music. He mixes amazing vocals and lyrics with interesting guitar rifts and whistling. The entire Noble Beast album is worthy of praise, but I especially like “Oh No.”

sort of warm day

2009-01-23T13:36:00.000-08:00

shirt-urban
leggings-unknown
scarf-forever 21
skirt-target
boots-uggs...i know.

New Years Eve Attire

2008-12-30T15:36:00.000-08:00

When I think of New Years, I picture glamour and glitz. I want sequins and feathers and metallics! This is the one time of the year when over-the-top is completely acceptable.

Here is my inspiration:
The sequin headband spices up Nicole's black and white ensemble.

The red belt, metallic gold dress and peep toe booties make me drool.
The subtle gold makes this look snazzy enough for the new year.
I looove this top shop sequin bow dress. I would lose the tights and pile on bracelets to make the look even more sexy.
This Phillip Lim dress fits Lauren like a glove, and I love how she paired the dress with bronze peep-toes.
A skinny-studded belt would make this outfit perfection.

Fall Inspiration

2008-12-02T15:05:00.000-08:00

I would love all the cute west coast style, but in reality the weather is way too cold here. If you are walking to class in 30 degree weather, warm clothes are an absolute necessity. I pulled together some warm looks for inspiration.

I love how Reese breaks up the black with brown boots and a purple scarf.

Mischa makes the latex leggings look casual with classic chucks.
I would definitely add a warm coat to both of these looks, but I like the idea of both their trendy outfits.
I adore this look; the layering is impeccable.

Oh, Sienna. She just knows exactly how to look amazing in the cold London weather.

All photos: Splashnews

But is fashion the only cure?

2008-11-11T20:51:00.000-08:00

When i started this blog, I decided to name it after the catchy Rogue Traders song, "Fashion is the Only Cure." At the time I wanted this to be a strictly fashion blog, but recently I have noticed the lack of music blogs. I love music; I love fashion. I want more out of both, so I am sure the rest of America does too. Usually, even if it is subconsciously, musicians influence style and vice versus. I admit that I am not the hugest fan of Rogue Traders, but I do appreciate their attempt to fuse the two topics. Thank you Australian electronica music...
PLUS! I do not know if I have ever seen such an exquisite all-satin ensemble. The black accessories give the outfit some edge. I would have maybe preferred a bootie, though.

Fall fashion offers something for everyone

2008-11-11T20:43:00.000-08:00

Fall runways this season showed a wide array of different trends. Whether you are girly, hippie or more sophisticated, you are sure to find a trend to wear this fall. I know the fall lists came out months ago, but I feel now is the appropriate time to explain how to dress for the plummeting temperatures.

Florals- Florals for fall? Strangely, yes. The usual spring/summer staple has carried on into fall. The fall florals are more muted and dark than previous seasons. Such as at Derek Lam and Erin Fetherson, fall florals should be paired with dark tights and a jacket to keep from looking too summery. Since you probably do not have $1000 to spend on a designer dress, Forever 21's Jasmine Floral Strapless Dress is a cheaper alternative.

Plaid- The grunge favorite has made a comeback. Everything from plaid shirts to hats and bags were shown on the fall runways. The look is more British countryside than Kurt Cobain, though. The Fall 2008 Ralph Lauren runway showed plaid shirts and jackets paired with black pencil skirts and pants. Urban Outfitters offers several options for under $60, such as the BDG Fitted Buffalo Plaid Tunic. Local thrift stores have an array of plaid shirts for less than $10.

Bohemian- The boho trend has been a continuing for several seasons and is here to stay this fall. The Gucci runway outfitted models in fringe boots, flowy blouses and layered chain jewelry. Channel Kate Hudson in Almost Famous. Try Nine West's Dakota Large Fringe Tote or Steve Madden's Arizonaa Boots for a subtle take on the trend.

Black- Maybe it is the recession or the colder weather, but several runways embraced the all black look. This fall black is more vixen and less gothic. Prada went ladylike with lacy black dresses and sheer black blouses paired with skinny black pants. If you are not ready to foray into all black, look at the Ralph Lauren runway for inspiration, which showcased all black with colorful scarves and jackets. The Rayna Lace Top from Delias and the Silence and Noise Ruffle Tieback Dress from Urban Outfitters are cheaper options.

Hats- Hats are the accessory for fall, which comes in handy for the chilly winds in Knoxville. Marc by Marc Jacobs sent models down the runway in slouchy beanies, which added an urban appeal to the ladylike ensembles. Fedoras, berets, and beanies can be found everywhere from your local drugstore to the mall, so the trend is easily accessible for everyone. Forever 21 offers several hat options for $10 or less.

Layering- The layering trend is a no-brainer for the fall months, but many people do not know how to properly do it. The key to layering is piling light layers under a thick layer, which will prevent bulkiness. Alexander Wang beautifully executed layering by pairing tights with a skirt, layered tanks, a vest, a jacket, a scarf and a hat. A good coat, warm scarf, and thick tights are an absolute must for fall.

LATE SUMMER WISH LIST

2008-07-10T09:54:00.000-07:00

heart necklace and earrings-Dean Harris for Target
bracelet and skull necklace- asos.com
Alex Monroe bee necklace-net-a-porter.com
ring-vivre.com

clockwise:
silver snake sandals- asos.com
white flats-forever 21
bronze sandals- urban outfitters
green laceups- asos
white gladiators-american eagle
black oxfords-steve madden

clockwise:
asos
asos
topshop
asos
net-a-porter
forever 21

black star-asos
urbn outfitters
asos

net-a-porter
forever 21
forever 21
asos

forever 21
topshop
forever 21
urbn outfitters

i will post links if anyone wants them but right now i am horribly hungover..

Pepto Bismol

2008-06-21T17:02:00.000-07:00

my mom gave me this skirt a few years ago from her closet and i love it. the high waist, short cut, and obnoxious pink are incredible. thank you the 80s! i havent been posting hardly at all. what can i say... laziness and partying get the best of me sometimes.

jewelry-forever 21 and vintage
skirt-vintage
shirt- mens urban
shoes-nine west
bag-gucci
belt-express
sunnies-vintage

Shes got it

2008-05-26T14:32:00.000-07:00

Juliette Lewis. I am just loving everything about these photos. Boyfriend blazer, fierce heels, messy hair, crazy pose. This is definitely a change from the latex jumpsuits she rocks onstage.

tears for fears

2008-05-18T14:09:00.001-07:00

so me and the boyfriend broke up. Honestly even after the year of fighting and crying, I am still upset. I wish there was a button you could press to automatically make you not care and be happy... someone invent that asap because i need it pretty bad. Oh well, these experiences only make you stronger and toughen up for the next asshole that roles around. I mean if it wasnt for heartbreak we would not have chick flicks, Shakespeare, or emo music. Thank god for those shitty people who crush hearts...i dont know what i would do without the Notebook haha. Anyways, I am finally home so my brother has taken over as photographer.

shirt, forever 21
bracelets and rings, vintage and forever 21
shorts, express
shoes, old navy
bag, Dior

COACHELLA 2008!

2008-04-28T18:51:00.001-07:00

Every year i patiently await for Coachella pictures to surface. The stylish women at Coachella are the epitome of hot weather boho cool. I think i found some pretty great photos of some stylish girls you know pretty well and some girls that only look famous. I am going to Rothbury music festival in July, so these were a great inspiration. I hope you enjoy these as much as i do!

solange knowles(love her yellow gladiators)

Sienna Miller in those Vivienne Westwood boots shes been loving and a Young, Fabulous & Broke playsuit(!)

Nicole Richie with b/f Joel Madden in Minnetonka booties.

ALSO there are some more great stylish photos from the fest on here

These photos make me want to get 100 pairs of high waist shorts and wear them every day!
(photos from stylesightings.com and celebrity-gossip.net)

Shocking

2008-04-27T10:14:00.000-07:00

Kristin Cavallari. what? yeah...i love this outfit, though. The Ditto wide legs, flowy shirt, armful of bracelets, earthy leaf earrings...70's perfection.

Looks of the week

2008-04-26T14:51:00.000-07:00

AND THE UGLIEST LOOK OF THE WEEK GOES TO...

Hilary Duff in a Prada bag, cowboy boots, hideous green shorts, and an unflattering striped sweater. Usually Hil is pretty descent at putting together outfits, but this is just atrocious. She looks like trailer trash with a Prada bag...what a shame.

THE BEST LOOK OF THE WEEK GOES TO...drum roll please.

Alexa Chung looking insanely hot on the UK's Radio One. She looks great in knee highs, badass boots, adorable denim dress, brown bag, and Juicy Couture coat.

Killing me softly

2008-04-23T12:36:00.000-07:00

school is whooping my ass. seriously. It is the end of the semester and teachers are piling extensive amounts of work onto my pathetic, stressed body. Due to this, my style is suffering...greatly. My roommate was in the library so i had no one to document my outfit, but whatever. I think i am going out tonight so i should have some better pictures of my outfit to post tomorrow.

rugby polo, stolen from little brother
jeans, true religion
gladiator shoes(not pictured), old navy

Suited for play

2008-04-22T09:37:00.000-07:00

I am absolutely dying for a playsuit. I see myself at Rothbury dancing wildly in a nice black or maybe even a bright colored one with gladiators and an armful of my ridiculous bracelets.

Alexander Wang silk racerback playsuit from Browns Fashion,$355
Sparkle and Fade Crochet Onesie from Urban Outfitters,$32
Tie-Waist playsuit by Top Shop,$56