Blog Posts by Ariel Rivera

No, "The Backup Plan" isn't the first romantic comedy starring Jennifer Lopez. But, it's the first time she'll play a woman who meets her dream man and becomes artificially inseminated with twins (after becoming fed up with waiting for Mr. Right) on the same day! I'm sure the formula will be the same -- hilarity will ensue, meaningful things will be said, taken back, and said again, before more hilarity ensues. But, one thing we can be sure of is that - like her red carpet formula - it will be successful. Her tried-and-true way of being over-the-top while still being feminine, overly sexy while remaining classic - this is what makes J.Lo a pro. Below, a gallery of this last year's best moments.

These aren't your grandmother's clogs, ladies. Nor are they Crocs (thank GOD). While I thought I had sworn off clogs until I saw them stomp down the Spring runways of Chanel and Miu Miu, among others, it seems I'm changing my tune. Fashion IS cyclical, and it seems I'm again lusting over footwear I haven't seen since my hippie-chick phase in middle school. Luckily, the newest crop includes details like tough-girl studs, stacked wood cone heels, and even chains. And all of these click-to-buy options are under $100 each. Now THAT'S what's up. So, weave some flowers through your hair, turn up the Grateful Dead and get on board, people.

Seychelles Lucky Brand Mia


Matisse












Newport News platform clog, $34.00.BCBG black leather clog, $54.02.Steve Madden studs and chains clog, $79.95.

Steve Madden peep-toe clog, $89.00.

Rumor has it that this August Madonna will release a junior's line of clothing called Material Girl, ranging in price from $12 to $40. It's also said to be inspired by her 13-year-old daughter, Lourdes. The CFO of Macy's says, "Lourdes has an incredible sense of style and her point of view on fashion has definitely been an inspiration for the line." This isn't her first foray into merchandising for the younger set; Madonna authored five children's books in 2003 and 2004. The first one, "The English Roses," was inspired by Lourdes, as well. So keep your eyes on this stylish teen muse, people. She's only 13 now, but give her a few years and i'm sure we'll all want to be her.

"The Yellow Handkerchief" bills itself as an indie drama in which the characters search for love lost in the past and love struggling for a future. Kristen Stewart plays Martine, an awkward, yet alluring teenager -- surprise, surprise. And the role of May, the ex-lover who haunts Brett's (William Hurt) memory, is played by Maria Bello. Add Gordy (Eddie Redmayne) as the teenage boy infatuated with Martine, and you've got the makings for a seriously intense road trip through post-Katrina Louisiana, where the film takes place.

The pairing of these female co-stars is so compelling, I decided to take a look at the two actresses side by side on the red carpet. They may often choose similar trends and styles, but they definitely put their own spins on them. Each woman stays true to her personality, and, even rarer, her age. Below, a round-up of their interpretations.

Today the fashion world lost a brilliant mind. Alexander McQueen, 40, was found dead in his London home early this morning. Widely admired for his imaginative and avant-garde (in a world where the term is rarely deserved) designs, he also knew how to make a woman look sexy while remaining unique. Everything he created was a statement-from his most recent lavish Spring 2010 runway show featuring an unprecedented use of computer technology to his dramatic red carpet gowns worn by cool girls who want to stand out. In the celebrity gallery of red carpet moments below, we give tribute to the incredibly talented Alexander McQueen.

Do you ever wonder why some celebrities look so comfortable wearing couture on the red carpet while millions of people dissect their every move? I credit this impressive feat with the unshakable bond between designer and muse. Although it's hard to tell which came first- did the actress blindly choose the dress or did the designer reach out to the actress? - it's an irrefutable fact that a mutual love between the two is the key to a flawless red carpet moment. The partnership is win-win: free advertising for the brand and tried-and-true glamour for the wearer. In the gallery below, a round-up of actresses in their red carpet second skin. Dior, YSL, Alexander McQueen, Chanel: call me!

If you're like me, you have little interest in activities like bird-watching, say, or aviation-tracking, which require high-intensity concentration and a sharp eye, yet you DO have a knack for correctly identifying designers on the red carpet. If you happen to lack this useful and expertly-honed skill, consider the following information your awards season cheat sheet. Each designer has his or her own calling card. While a general goal in executing a collection is to achieve something different than the season prior, there are tell-tale stylistic themes that are unique to each person's art form. Some of these themes are pointed out for you in the gallery below. Welcome to your new hobby.