A Public Service Message

elisha cuthbert girl next door

2012-01-18T04:06:00.000-08:00

elisha cuthbert girl next door

splash

2012-01-16T11:18:00.000-08:00

Skirt: ASOS. Dress worn as top: Missoni. Bag: Coach (also seen here). Scarf: Vintage. Jacket: Zara. Nails: Milani 'Juicy Glo'. Nail ring (new love): Bijules. Jewelry: Pomellato, David Yurman, YSL, Lydell NYC, Michael Kors, Aqua.

Natalia Inoue

2012-01-15T08:13:00.000-08:00

Natalia Inoue

selena gomez hot

2012-01-15T08:12:00.001-08:00

selena gomez hot

layered

2012-01-13T18:40:00.000-08:00

Jacket: Cynthia Steffe. Dress: Gap. Top: Equipment. Tights: H&M. Socks: Madewell. Shoes: Theysken's Theory. Purse: Celine. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: David Yurman, Gap, BR, Stella&Dot, YSL, Pomellato, C Wonder.

emma watson 2011

2012-01-09T22:13:00.001-08:00

emma watson 2011

stripe/stripe/stripe

2012-01-09T08:25:00.000-08:00

Shorts: Forever 21 (old). Top: Equipment c/o (you can buy here) Bag: Celine. Shoes: Theysken's Theory. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Nails: Essie 'Lollipop'. Necklaces: Saks5th (old), Max&Chloe. Jewelry: Gap, BR, Michele, Lydell, Stella&Dot, YSL.

lindsay lohan hot

2012-01-09T02:18:00.000-08:00

lindsay lohan hot

kim kardashian body

2012-01-09T02:17:00.001-08:00

kim kardashian body

scarlett johansson body

2012-01-09T02:16:00.001-08:00

scarlett johansson body

rihanna 2011

2012-01-09T02:15:00.001-08:00

rihanna 2011

pamela anderson 2012

2012-01-09T02:13:00.000-08:00

pamela anderson 2012

dreaming of spring

2012-01-07T17:35:00.000-08:00

Dress: Topshop. Shoes: ZARA. Purse: Coach (last seen here). Hat: H&M. Belt: Jcrew. Sunglasses: H&M. Jewelry: Michael Kors, Jcrew, GAP, BR, David Yurman, YSL, Pomellato, Lydell. Nails: Essie 'Lollipop'.

zing

2012-01-05T09:00:00.000-08:00

Sweater: Jcrew (old). Bag: Celine. Shoes: Tory Burch (last seen here). Skirt: ASOS. Jacket: Jbrand X ChristopherKane c/o (available here also). Sunglasses: Icing. Cuffs: Nordstrom (similar here). Ring: Pomellato.

casual crew

2012-01-03T05:15:00.000-08:00

Sweater: Jcrew. Jeans: Current/Elliott. Tights: F21. Shoes: Giuseppe Zanotti. Gloves: Saks5th. Purse: c/o Coach. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Belt: Gap. Lips: NARS Schiap. Jewelry: Bauble Bar, David Yurman, Gap, BR, Michael Kors, Pomellato.

navy/pink

2012-01-02T05:30:00.000-08:00

Top: Saint James. Pants: c/o Rachel Roy. Shoes: Pour La Victoire. Sweater: H&M (recent). Bag: Celine. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Nail: Butter 'Teddy Girl'. Belt: Gap. Necklaces: Max&Chloe and Saks5th (old). Jewelry: Michael Kors, David Yurman, Jcrew, Gap, BR.

goodbye, hello

2011-12-27T07:50:00.000-08:00

...goodbye 2011, hello 2012...

merry, merry

2011-12-25T07:45:00.000-08:00

Skirt: ASOS. Chambray Shirt: Jcrew. Plaid: Jcrew. Shoes: Zara (old). Bag: YSL. Belt: Vendor Sample. Jewelry: YSL, David Yurman, Micahel Kors, Gap, BR, Jcrew. Lips: YSL. Necklace: Banana Republic (old).

All photographs were taken by the talented Bess Friday...visit her blog here!

ready

2011-12-23T07:53:00.000-08:00

Shorts: Topshop. Top: MinkPink. Shoes: Theysken's Theory. Jacket: Zara (sadly sold out). Tights: Hue. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Bag: Chanel. Jewelry: YSL, Michael Kors, Gap, Pomallato.

take it easy

2011-12-20T05:15:00.000-08:00

Jacket: Malene Birger. Denim: Current/Elliott. Shoes: Zara. Chambray Shirt: Jcrew. Bag: Celine. Sunglasses: Burberry. Sweater: Jcrew Mens. Nails: Pop 'Radioactive'. Jewelry: David Yurman, YSL, Jennifer Zeuner c/o, Pomellato, Michael Kors, Gap, BR.

stripes & sparkles

2011-12-17T17:30:00.000-08:00

Sweater: Jcrew (old). Skirt: Topshop. Shoes: Giuseppe Zanotti. Jacket: F21 (old). Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Nails: Chanel 'Black Pearl'. Jewelry: Michael Kors, David Yurman, Pomellato, YSL, Lydell NYC.

pretty pastels

2011-12-14T05:30:00.000-08:00

Denim: Jbrand. Sweater: Jcrew. Shoes: Pour La Victoire. Jacket: Zara. Bag: Celine. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Faux Fur Shrug: H&M. Pin: Chanel. Jewelry: Michael Kors, Gap, BR, David Yurman, AE, YSL.

black

2011-12-12T11:47:00.000-08:00

Dress: Zara. Bag: Celine. Scarf: BR (old). Shoes: Zara (old). Sunglasses: Icing. Nails: FACE. Jacket: Zara. Lips: YSL. Jewelry: David Yurman, Jcrew, Michele, Pomellato, Gap, BR.

weekend prep

2011-12-11T14:10:00.000-08:00

Tops: Jcrew & Madewell. Jacket: Zara. Purse: Foley and Corinna (last seen here). Shoes: Del Toro c/o Satine. Denim: Old Navy. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Lips: YSL. Jewelry: Max&Chloe, David Yurman, Michael Kors, Gap, BR, Pomellato.

pink/pink/pink

2011-12-09T04:30:00.000-08:00

Jacket: Malene Birger. Top: H&M. Pants: Jcrew. Shoes: Pour La Victoire. Bag: Celine. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Neon Bracelet: Spike the Punch Necklace c/0 (new love). Necklace: Saks 5th (old). Jewelry: Jcrew. David Yurman, YSL, Michael Kors, Jennifer Zeuner, Gap, BR, Pomellato. Nails: Butter London 'Teddy Girl' & FACE 'Top Ten'.

summer flashbacks

2011-12-08T08:00:00.000-08:00

Shoes: Jcrew. Bag: YSL (similar here). Dress: Zara Maxi belted (seen here). Jacket: Gap. Sunglasses: Burberry. Jewelry: David Yurman, Bauble Bar, Gap, BR, Michael Kors, H&M. Lips: MAC Impassioned.

classic bee

2011-12-07T07:10:00.000-08:00

Purse: Celine. Necklace: Banana Republic (old). Jacket: Zara. Dress: ASOS. Shoes: c/o Steve Madden. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Gloves: All Saints. Jewelry: David Yurman, Gap, BR, Michael Kors. Lips: Make Up For Ever Professionals.

studded

2011-12-05T09:30:00.000-08:00

Jacket: Zara. Dress: BR Monogram (old). Blouse: DIY studded (similar to this post). Shoes: Valentino (c/o Holts Renfrew). Sunglasses: House of Harlow. Bag: Coach (last seen here). Jewelry: David Yurman, Michael Kors, BR, Gap, YSL.

blue crush

2011-12-03T16:30:00.000-08:00

Dress: ASOS. Shoes: c/o Loeffler Randall. Jacket: Jcrew (old). Purse: Celine. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: David Yurman, Pomellato, Stella&Dot.

tidbit

2011-12-01T07:30:00.000-08:00

...just a little snapshot of my instagram obsession over the past couple of weeks.

perfect pair

2011-11-30T07:40:00.000-08:00

Jacket: Cynthia Steffe. Dress: Jcrew. Scarf: H&M. Shoes: Givenchy. Purse: Coach (last seen here). Sunglasses: Burberry. Nails: Butter London 'Teddy Girl'. Jewelry: Michael Kors, David Yurman, YSL, Gap, BR, Jennifer Zeuner. (last seen here)

from place to place

2011-11-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

Trench: Banana Republic. Sweater: Zara. Pants: DVF (similar here). Bag: Chanel. Blazer: Zara. Sunglasses: House of Harlow. Shoes: c/o Steve Madden. Lips: Make Up For Ever Professionals. Jewelry: Gap, BR, Michael Kors, David Yurman, Pomellato.

hello holidays

2011-11-27T06:00:00.000-08:00

Shoes: Theysken's Theory. Skirt: ASOS. Top: Jcrew (similar here). Necklace: BR (old). Bag: Chanel. Belt: Robert Rodriguez. Sunglasses: House of Harlow. Nails: Chanel Peridot. Lips: YSL. Jacket: H&M. Headband: c/o Ban.do. Jewelry: David Yurman, Michael Kors, Pomellato, Max&Chloe, YSL, Gap, BR.

Golden Gate

2011-11-24T11:40:00.000-08:00

Shirt: Jcrew. Jacket: H&M. Shoes: Pour La Victoire. Bag: Celine. Pants: Jcrew. Necklace: Banana Republic (old). Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Lips: NARS 'Schiap'. Nails: FACE 'Unclear'. Jewelry: David Yurman, Michael Kors, Stella&Dot.

I am thankful for so many things this holiday season- including your incredible support. To those who celebrate, I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. xo

rock

2011-11-22T04:45:00.000-08:00

Skirt: Kaelen via Satine (last seen here). Jacket: Zara. Faux Fur Throw: H&M (old). Purse: Celine. Top: Jcrew. Shoes: Zara. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Necklaces: Max&Chloe, Saks 5th. Jewelry: Gap, BR, Michael Kors, Jcrew. Ring: Jennifer Zeuner c/o. Lips: Make Up Forever Professionals #41. Nails: Face 'unclear'.

weekender

2011-11-20T10:27:00.000-08:00

Skirt: BCBG. Sweater: Zara (old). Blouse: Unknown. Shoes: Zara. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Belt: Jcrew. Jewelry: David Yurman, Pomellato, Michael Kors, Gap, BR.

double dot

2011-11-17T08:01:00.000-08:00

Sweater: Madewell. Blouse: Equipment (remember it here?). Denim: Current/Elliott (last seen here). Shoes: Jcrew. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Bag: Celine. Jewels: David Yurman, Michael Kors, Jcrew, Gap, BR, YSL. Jacket: Gap (old).

drama

2011-11-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

Dress: Zara. Shoes: c/o Steve Madden. Sunglasses: House of Harlow. Purse: Celine. Faux Fur Shrug: H&M. Pearl Necklace: Banana Republic (old). Jacket: last seen here. Nails: Essie Pink Parka. Jewelry: David Yurman, Michael Kors, Pomellato, Style Liner, last seen here.

shades of

2011-11-14T07:10:00.000-08:00

Dress: Zara. Vest: H&M. Tights: Gap. Sunglasses: House of Harlow. Purse: Celine. Lips: Nars Schiap. Shoes: Zara. Jewelry: Michael Kors, Gap, BR, David Yurman, YSL. Hat: H&M.

Tahoe

2011-11-08T05:30:00.000-08:00

Outfit One// Turtleneck: Zara. Top: RL. Skirt: Blaque Label. Tights: Hue. Socks: Madewell. Boots: Hunter. Purse: Coach c/0. Sunglasses: Karen Walker.

Outfit Two// Denim: Current Elliott. Top: Jcrew. Vest: Old Navy. Jacket: Jcrew. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Flats: Jcrew. Purse: Coach c/o.

Outfit Three// Shirt: Saint James. Denim: Current Elliott. Jacket: Old Navy (old, but similar here). Sunglasses: Burberry.

Outfit Four: Jacket: Vintage Barbour (new here). Top: Madewell. Vest: Old Navy. Sweater: RL Denim & Supply c/o. Denim: Old Navy. Socks: Madewell. Boots: Hunter. Sunglasses: Karen Walker.

on the run

2011-11-04T08:45:00.000-07:00

Jacket: Club Monaco. Dress: Gap. Blouse: unknown. Cuffs: Nordstrom. Shoes: Tory Burch c/o. Sunglasses: House of Harlow.

fall floral

2011-11-02T07:35:00.000-07:00

Dress: ASOS. Cape: DKNY (old, but similar here). Shoes: Theyskens Theory. Bag: Celine. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Michael Kors, Gap, BR, Pomellato, c/o The StyleLiner.

two-toned

2011-10-31T09:45:00.000-07:00

Sweater: Tory Burch c/o. Jacket: Zara (recent). Shoes: Zara (old). Skirt: Zara (recent). Clutch: Tory Burch c/o. Bag: Celine. Suinglasses: House of Harlow. Jewelry: YSL, David Yurman, GAP, BR, Pomellato, Michael Kors. Nails: Essie 'Pink Parka'.

P.S. Have you checked out the new Tory Burch accessories only store in San Francisco? It is full of amazing goodies- including the bag I picked out!

happy weekend

2011-10-30T09:23:00.000-07:00

Dress: Zara (old). Jacket: Gap (similar here). Shoes: Pour La Victoire 'Eddie'. Belt: Jcrew. Bag: Celine. Necklace: Max&Chloe. Bracelets: David Yurman (chain link c/o), Jcrew, Gap, BR. Watch: Michael Kors. Rings: David Yurman, Pomellato, family. Lips: Nars 'Schiap'. Nails: Essie 'Pink Parka;'. Sunglasses: Karen Walker.

transitions

2011-10-28T09:33:00.000-07:00

Cape: Zara. Shoes: Topshop (similar here). Hat: Jcrew. Shorts: Forever 21 (old). Sweater: DVF. Blazer: Kenya T. Sunglasses: House of Harlow. Purse: Chanel. Jewelry: Michael Kors, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Jcrew. Bangles: Gap, BR, & coach.

spy vs. spy

2011-10-26T04:45:00.000-07:00

Dress: H&M. Jacket: c/o Kelly Wearstler. Shoes: Theyskens Theory. Turtleneck: Martin&Osa. Sunglasses: gifted David Yurman. Jewelry: Michael Kors, Gap, BR, David Yurman, Pomellato, YSL.

dvf & bee

2011-10-22T08:25:00.000-07:00

I spent the day in LA making a fun video with the lovely Brad Goreski to highlight DVF's fall shoe collection. You can check out my video as well as the three other fabulous bloggers who participated here.

city slicker

2011-10-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

Denim: Current/Elliott. Chambray Shirt: Jcrew. Plaid Shirt: Ralph Lauren. Shoes: Zara (old). Sunglasses: Burberry (similar here). Jacket: Zara (recent). Bag: c/o Coach. Lips: Dior 752. Nails: Deborah Lippmann. Jewelry: Michael Kors, GAP, BR, YSL, Pomellato, Maya Brenner c/o, David Yurman.

retro

2011-10-18T15:00:00.000-07:00

Dress: Charlotte Taylor. Shoes: Banana Republic. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: Jcrew, David Yurman, Michael Kors, Gap, BR, YSL. Necklaces: Max&Chloe, Banana Republic Pearls (old). Nails: Essie 'Mint Candy Apple'.

highlights

2011-10-17T08:45:00.000-07:00

Outfit #1: Band Jacket: Stella McCartney for GapKids. Jeans: Old Navy Rockstar. Top: Gap. Shoes: Zara. Bag: Chanel. Sunglasses: House of Harlow. Dog: Boo (the most adorable dog, who is sadly not mine). Belt: Theory. Jewelry: David Yurman, Gap, BR, Michele. Lips: Dior.
Outfit #2: Sweater: Zara. Jeans: Old Navy Rockstar. Shoes: Zara. Bag: YSL. Scarf c/o: Shawlsmith. Belt: Jcrew. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Michele, Gap, c/o Bauble Bar, YSL, Pomellato. Lips: NARS Schiap. Sunglasses: Karen Walker Deep Freeze.
Outfit #3: Dress: Milly. Chambray Shirt: Jcrew. Trench: Gap. Shoes: Sperry. Sunglasses: Karen Walker Deep Freeze. Purse: Coach (last seen here). Scarf: Jcrew. Jewelry: Gap, BR, Jcrew, Michele, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Pomellato, YSL.

My weekend consisted of oyster shucking, brunching and a meet up with Boo!

a simple state

2011-10-13T07:30:00.000-07:00

Jacket: Jcrew. Top: Haute Hippie. Pants: DVF (old, but here is a similar pair). Shoes: Topshop. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Necklace: Banana Republic (old). Jewelry: Michael Kors, Pomellato, Jcrew, Gap, BR, David Yurman (bracelet c/o). Lips: Make Up Forever Professionals #40.

fall palette

2011-10-12T07:12:00.000-07:00

Jacket: Zara (last year). Faux Fur Vest: Rachel by Rachel Roy. Dress: Parker (c/o Piperlime). Sunglasses: H&M. Bag: Coach: Last seen here. Shoes: Zara. Necklace: Saks 5th. Jewelry: Gap, Jcrew, Michael Kors, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Max&Chloe. Branch Bracelets: Banana Republic from 2 years ago. Lips: YSL (unforunately no color name).

blushing

2011-10-10T04:10:00.000-07:00

Sweater: Zara. Blouse: DIY (inspired by Alicia's post here). Shorts: Forever 21. Shoes: Theysken's Theory. Bag: YSL Muse (similar here). Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Nails: Butter London 'Teddy Girl'. Jewelry: Jcrew, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), YSL, Bvlgari c/o Vogue Influencer Network.

polish

2011-10-07T04:00:00.000-07:00

Top: Asos. Skirt: BCBG (bought at Macys). Shoes: Theyskens' Theory. Jacket: Gap. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: Alexis Bittar ring, David Yurman bracelets.

hope

2011-10-06T04:00:00.000-07:00

Both tops: Ralph Lauren. Sunglasses: House of Harlow. Jewelry: Michael Kors, YSL, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Pomellato, Jcrew, Gap, BR.

I am so proud to partner with Ralph Lauren and Paperless Post to help create the first ever Pink Pony Hope Card Line. Please visit the site here to send a card and see the three other fabulous women who also created cards for this amazing cause.

"Breast cancer is not just a women's issue- it affects all of us: the brothers, husbands, fathers, children, friends. Pink pony is our effort to fight against cancer" - Ralph Lauren

two timer

2011-10-03T04:45:00.000-07:00

Shoes: c/o Loeffler Randall. Outfit #1: Top: Forever 21. Skirt: Kaelen c/o Satine. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Necklace: Saks5th. Jewelry: Michael Kors, Gap, BR, Jcrew, David Yurman (bracelet c/o). Outfit #2: Dress worn as skirt: BB Dakota. Top: GAP, Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Necklace: Banana Republic. Jewelry: Michael Kors, Gap, BR, David Yurman (bracelet c/o). Nailpolish: Chanel 'Black Pearl'. Lips: YSL.

White Out

2011-09-29T05:15:00.000-07:00

Jacket: Zara. Tee: Madewell. Shorts: DIY cut offs. Shoes: Theory Theyskens. Sunglasses: Spitfire. Bag: Coach (c/o). Jewelry: Michael Kors, Gap, BR, Pomellato, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), YSL. Nails: Chanel 'Black Pearl'.

let it ride

2011-09-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

Shorts: Vintage Levis. Shoes: Alexander Wang. Top: Saint James. Vest: Old Navy. Jacket: H&M. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Belt: Gap. Lips: Nars Schiap. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o) Gap. BR, Michael Kors, The Ropes, YSL.

city escape

2011-09-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

Dress: Zara. Scarves: Unknown & Vintage. Shoes: Pierre Hardy for Gap. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Lips: Nars Schiap. Nails: OPI 'Leotard-Optional'. Neckalces: Noble House Designs (c/o) & Kenneth J Lane. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Michael Kors, Gap, BR, Bauble Bar (c/o), Coach, YSL. Iphone Case: Plum Street Prints

A Public Service Message About Writing Forums

2011-09-25T12:20:00.001-07:00

There are hundreds, if not thousands of writing forums on the Internet. Some charge for membership, others don't.

It's the ones that charge I'd like to warn people about. Whilst there have been some good writing forums that charge for membership, such as Write Words, there are also a lot of shysters out there. Be very careful when parting with your money. What exactly are you getting for you annual fee?

Is the person running it a recognised expert in the writing field? Or just someone who thought 'hey, I'll run a writing site and make money from gullible writers?' Before you part with money, google them. Check their credentials. Check what other sites they've owned. Check if others have heard of them, and what's been said.

Be careful of sites that lead to sites that lead to sites. What I mean is a labyrinth of defunct forums and websites that lead to each other, all ending in the one that's now asking you to pay a fee to join. Google the owner of the site. If the google search turns up a dozen people on the first page who are nothing to do with the person you're googling, ask yourself why. Because that writing expert charging you for services should be near the top of that list, and most importantly listed as a writer. You should be able to find their work or details of it online (and not just on sites they've owned, by the way, but independent sites not connected with them). The Who Is database is an excellent resource for finding out who really owns a website.

If the owner of the site doesn't have a list of writing credits as long as your arm, or haven't appeared on other forums etc, then ask yourself why. Where have they come from? What do they hope to achieve by charging for writing services? What qualifications do they have for offering writing services? Are they published themselves? Does their name turn up in magazines, either as fiction or article writers? Or as novelists published by recognised publishers? Are their only contributions to the writing world books on writing that they sell for inflated prices? If they tick one or more of those boxes, then beware before you part with any money. Anyone charging for advice on writing fiction, articles or novels should be heavily involved in those activities, with credits to their name.

If what they offer on their forums is 'exclusive' access to news about writing markets and comps etc, ask yourself whether you can just as easily find these for free elsewhere on the net. The answer is invariably yes, you can. My writing calendar is completely free to use. You don't have to sign up to anything, and you don't even have to have anything to do with me if you don't want to. I also try to be very careful what comps I list on there, having my own selection criteria for those I post. I get it wrong sometimes, and rely on you good people to alert me to the bad comps, which happens occasionally. But for the most part, the comps I list are kosher. There are also other free writing comp listings out there, most of which I link to from my website.

As for markets, there are loads of free to use places you can find for writing markets. Womagwriter is devoted to ... well ... womag writing. http://www.duotrope.com/ lists lots of ezine and print markets for free. Ralan.com does the same for speculative fiction markets. The Writers & Artists Yearbook whilst costing money, is another good resource for market listings which you can then google for more up to date news.

But other, free to join, writing forums are good too. Writers, for the most part, are very generous about sharing market news for free, which begs the question of why anyone would need to pay for the same information. So there's never any need to pay for any 'exclusive' content. In the writing world there is no such thing as exclusive content relating to comps, markets, publishers. It's all out there in the public domain.

As for writing advice, good God, the Internet is full of it. Admittedly a lot of it is absolute tosh and too obsessed with the 'rules', but there are some helpful bits amongst the dross. You won't find anything about, for example, show not tell, on a paid for writing forum that you won't find on any number of other forums, blogs and writing sites.

If the idea of charging is just to keep the forum private and free from trolls, then you could easily do that yourself with some trusted friends and simply don't give out the address to anyone other than the people whom you invite to join you. There are free forums all over the place, and they cost nothing to run. Even if someone buys a domain name for it, it's not expensive. The domain name for this blog costs me about £7 every two years. Certainly not enough to justify charging you all £20 odd pounds per month/quarter/year to read it.

Be savvy folks. When you're a writer money is supposed to flow in your direction, not away from it. There's nothing wrong with paying for decent writing courses, such as the OU and places like Arvon and Caearleon provide. There's nothing wrong in paying to attend a workshop run by someone like Della Galton or Kate Walker. What is unwise is to pay to join a forum run by someone whose own writing credentials are murky to say the least. What's more, whilst paying for a course or workshop will help your writing, paying to join a writing forum won't. Not when you can get the same support and information for free in so many other places.

All you have to ask yourself when faced with a forum or site that asks for a membership fee is: Can I get all this for free elsewhere? The answer is nearly always yes.

crisp

2011-09-24T10:16:00.000-07:00

Top: Marc by Marc Jacobs (c/o Macys), Jacket: Jcrew. Shoes: Luxury Rebel. Tights: Hue. Bag: Coach c/o. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Belt: Jcrew. Shorts: BB Dakota c/o. Jewelry: Max&Chloe, Michael Kors, Gap, BR, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), YSL.

why hello

2011-09-20T05:30:00.000-07:00

Dress: ASOS (last seen here). Shoes: c/o Tory Burch. Blazer: Zara. Purse: DIY American Apparel. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Gap, BR, Michael Kors, Max&Chloe, Jcrew

pop/pop/pop

2011-09-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

Dress: Missoni. Shoes: Zara. Scarf: Vintage. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Purse: c/o Coach. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Michael Kors, Gap, BR, c/o Coach, Max&Chloe, YSL, c/o Bauble Bar.

snapshots

2011-09-17T19:20:00.000-07:00

*missoni c/o target, wallet and rings c/o coach

mixed messages

2011-09-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

Coat: DKNY. Sweater: H&M. Dress worn as Skirt: Gap Leather. Shoes: ZARA. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Bag: c/o Coach. Jewelry: Michael Kors, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Gap, BR, Pomellato, YSL.

All photos taken by the talented Bess Friday- visit her here.

stop motion

2011-09-14T07:56:00.000-07:00

Dress Worn as Skirt: DVF. Jacket: Club Monaco. Sweater Wrap: DVF. Shoes: c/o Tory Burch. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: Michale Kors, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Gap, BR, Max&Chloe, YSL. Belt: Jcrew. Bag: c/o Coach.

Black Watch

2011-09-12T04:55:00.000-07:00

Scarf: Forever 21. Jacket: Jcrew. Skirt: Zara. Top: Jcrew. Shoes: Zara. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Bag: YSL. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Michael Kors, Gap, BR, Max&Chloe, YSL.

All pictures taken by the lovely Bess Friday- visit her here.

FNO

2011-09-10T12:20:00.000-07:00

Top: Marc by Marc Jacobs c/o Macy's (get it here). Skirt: Marc by Marc Jacobs c/o Macy's (get it here). Shoes: Rachel by Rachel Roy c/o Macy's (get it here). Jewelry: Chains from Saks 5th, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Gap, BR, Micahel Kors. Nails: OPI for Sephora 'Caliente Coral'.

A huge thank you to all of those who came out to Macy's for FNO. I cannot thank Macy's enough for such a fabulous event and I loved meeting each and every one of you!! xo BEE

dalmatian

2011-09-08T05:30:00.000-07:00

Top: Haute Hippie. Sweater: BR. Shoes: Zara. Skirt: c/o Blaque Label. Purse: Chanel. Sunglasses: House of Harlow. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Michael Kors, Pomellato, BR, GAP, YSL.

mean green

2011-09-07T05:30:00.000-07:00

Cape: Banana Republic. Pants: Zara. Scarf: Madewell. Shoes: Pour La Victoire. Bag: YSL Muse. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Pomellato, BR, GAP, Michael Kors. Nails: OPI for Sephora 'Leotard Optional'. Lipstick: Make Up Forever Professionals.

mash-up

2011-09-02T11:28:00.000-07:00

// Jacket: GAP. Bracelets: DVF, c/o Lauren Elan, GAP, BR. // Gingham: F21, GAP, Old Navy, Jcrew. // Jacket: Jcrew. Pin: Chanel. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Shorts: Levis. Jewelry: Michael Kors, GAP, BR. Lips: Make Up Forever Professionals #41. // Shoes: Pour La Victoire. Pants: Jcrew. // Skirts: ASOS. Stripe Top: F21. Oxford: Haute Hippie. Scarf: ShawlSmith. Bracelet: The Ropes. Jewelry: Michael Kors, GAP. // Jacket: GAP. Top: Jcrew. Shorts: GAP. Tassel Necklace: c/o JewelMint. Jewelry: Jcrew, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Pomellato, BR, GAP. Nails: Essie 'Pink Parka' // Sunglasses: Karen Walker, Karen Walker Deep freeze, Burberry, Chanel, Icing, H&M, Gap, House of Harlow, c/o Tory Burch. // Jacket: GAP. Top: Jcrew. Shorts: GAP. Shoes: Elizabeth and James. Laces: Crew Cuts. Tassel Necklace: c/o JewelMint. Jewelry: Jcrew, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Pomellato, BR, GAP. Nails: Essie 'Pink Parka' // Jewelry: Jcrew, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Pomellato, BR, GAP. // Jacket: Jcrew. Pin: Chanel. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Shorts: Levis. Shoes: Zara. Bag: c/o Coach. Jewelry: Michael Kors, GAP, BR. Lips: Mak Up Forever Professionals #41. // Sofia Champagne // Pants: Jcrew. Top: Haute Hippie. Scarf: Epice. Sunglasses: House of Harlow. Bag: Vintage LV. Jewelry: Jcrew, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Pomellato, BR, GAP, Michael Kors. // Shoes: Topshop. Skirt: H&M. // Jacket: GAP. Top: Jcrew. Shorts: GAP. Shoes: Elizabeth and James. Laces: Crew Cuts. Tassel Necklace: c/o JewelMint. Jewelry: Jcrew, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Pomellato, BR, GAP. Nails: Essie 'Pink Parka' //

high/low

2011-08-31T05:25:00.000-07:00

Sweater: Zara. Polka Dot Top: Equipment. Skirt: c/o Ruche. Bag: DIY American Apparel Clutch. Sunglasses: Karen Walker Deep Freeze. Shoes: Pour La Victoire. Jewelry: YSL Ring, David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Michael Kors, Jcrew, Pomellato. Nails: Butter London 'Teddy Girl'.

wild horses

2011-08-29T07:20:00.000-07:00

Dress: ASOS. Trench: Gap. Shoes: Banana Republic. Bag: c/o Coach. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Pomellato, Gap, BR, Michael Kors. Ring: c/o Bauble Bar (new favorite). Lips: Estee Lauder Red Velvet c/o. Nails: Strange/Beautiful.

bright dahlia

2011-08-25T05:45:00.000-07:00

Jacket: Gap. Shirt: Jcrew. Pants: Jcrew. Shoes: Zara. Purse: Coach Classic c/o. Sunglasses: House of Harlow. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o). Pomellato, Saks 5th, GAP, BR, Michael Kors, Max&Chloe. Lips: Nars Schiap.

sonoma square

2011-08-22T08:51:00.000-07:00

Jacket: H&M, Dress: c/o BB Dakota. Shoes: Ash. Bag: YSL Muse (similar style). Scarf: Epice. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Hat: H&M. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Michael Kors, Gap, BR, AE.

dottie

2011-08-19T12:48:00.000-07:00

Blouse: MinkPink. Skirt: ASOS. Blazer: Zara. Boots: Givenchy. Bag: YSL Muse (similar here). Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Michael Kors, Pomellato, Gap, BR, Rings c/o Stella&Dot, Max&Chloe. Lips: Make Up For Ever Professionals. Nails: Pop.

The September Issue

2011-08-17T05:30:00.000-07:00

I had the incredible honor of being featured in the September issue of Vogue as a Vogue Influencer. It was the experience of a lifetime and I cannot thank everyone involved- including Vogue and CoverGirl- enough.

Congratulations to the incredible ladies Beth, Karen & Tess who I shared the honor with.

BEE

r.e.d.

2011-08-16T05:30:00.000-07:00

Blazer: Zara. Top: Aqua. Pants: Alice+Olivia. Shoes: Loeffler Randall. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Belt: Vendor Sample. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Michael Kors, Lydell NYC, c/o Accessorize, Max&Chloe, Gap, BR.

tomboy

2011-08-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

Stripe top: Saint James. Sweater: Zara. Shorts: Vintage Levis. Shoes: Sperry. Blanket: Pendleton. Sunglasses: Burberry. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Michael Kors, Gap, BR, The Ropes.

b&w

2011-08-11T05:30:00.000-07:00

Jacket: BR. Dress: c/o Ali Ro. Shoes: Zara. Purse: Chanel. Bow: F21. Sunglasses: House of Harlow. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/0) Pomellato, Gap, BR, Michele, accessorize c/o. Nails: Deborah Lippmann Billionare.

greens

2011-08-09T05:30:00.000-07:00

Top: Equipment. Jacket: Gap. Skirt: Asos. Shoes: c/o Pour La Victoire. Bag: YSL (similar bag). Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Pomellato, IWC Watch, Chan Luu, Gap, BR. Sweater: Zara. Lips: Nars Schiap.

chevron

2011-08-06T19:57:00.000-07:00

Pants: Zara. Top: DVF dress worn as top. Shoes: Pour La Victoire. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: David Yurman, Michael Kors, Pomellato, Max&Chloe, Saks 5th (gold chains), Lydell NYC, c/o accessorize. Nails: Butter London 'Teddy Girl'. Lips: Nars 'Schiap'.

All photos by the talented Lydia Hudgens.

always buzzing

2011-08-04T05:30:00.000-07:00

Dress: Zara. Vest: Wilfred. Boots: Elizabeth&James. Laces: CrewCuts. Sunglasses: Icing. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Pomellato, Michael Kors, BR, Gap, The Ropes.

prime

2011-08-02T05:30:00.000-07:00

Shirt: Ralph Lauren. Sweater: Ralph Lauren. Jacket: J.crew. Pants: J.crew. Shoes: Topshop. Belt: Gap. Sunglasses: House of Harlow. Jewelry: David Yurman (bracelet c/o), Michael Kors, Gap, BR, Pomelatto. Lips: Make Up For Ever Professionals.

Pastel Palette

2011-08-01T05:30:00.000-07:00

Shirt: RL. Vest: Old Navy (similar style). Skirt: Jcrew. Shoes: Pour La Victoire. Bag: Vintage LV. Pin: c/o Ban.do. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Hat: H&M. Jewelry: David Yurman, Jcrew, Michael Kors, Gap, BR, c/o Accessorize, Pomellato. Lips: Nars. Nails: Butter London 'Teddy Girl'.

Photos by the talented Lydia Hudgens

A Summer Soiree

2011-07-30T11:24:00.000-07:00

Dress: DVF. Shoes: c/o Tory Burch. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: borrowed David Yurman. Bag: Chanel.

What I wore to the David Yurman Summer Soiree on a perfect NYC night. Many thanks to the fantastic DY team for a magical day in the city.

stars/stars

2011-07-29T00:18:00.000-07:00

Top: Zara. Scarf: Jcrew. Short: Alice+Olivia. Shoes: Zara. Bag: Chanel. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: David Yurman, Pomellato, BR, Michael Kors, GAP. Lips: Dior. Nails: Butter London 'Teddy Girl'.

This past week I made a trip out to NYC to get a closer look at one of my all time favorite brands, David Yurman. I got a chance to tour the David Yurman townhouse and try on some amazing pieces. Needless to say, I want it all now.

the classics

2011-07-28T09:22:00.000-07:00

I have the honor of participating in the Coach guest blogger series, highlighting the fabulous new classic collection. The Coach Classics are a celebration of the brand's heritage and some of their iconic shapes and designs. To see the full spread as well as the amazing bags head over here.

Cheer

2011-07-25T05:30:00.000-07:00

Shirts:Jcrew/RL. Skirt: c/o Lulus.com. Shoes: Zara. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: David Yurman, Pomellato, Michael Kors, Gap, BR, Max& Chloe c/o accessorize. Nails: Butter London 'Teddy Girl'.

Floral Fields

2011-07-22T07:42:00.000-07:00

Dress: ASOS. Shoes: Zara. Bag: Chanel. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: David Yurman, Lydell NYC, Michael Kors, Gap, BR.

neapolitan scoop

2011-07-20T08:17:00.000-07:00

Dress: Marc by Marc Jacobs. Shoes: Pour La Victoire. Cardi: BR Monogram. Bag: YSL Muse (similar one here). Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: Michael Kors, David Yurman, Pomellato, AE, GAP, BR, Max&Chloe, Accessorize. Nails: Butter London 'Teddy Girl'.

Summer Uniform

2011-07-19T05:30:00.000-07:00

Dress worn as skirt: Zara. Gingham Shirt: Old Navy. Chambray Shirt: Rugby Mens. Trench: Gap. Shoes: Sperry. Purse: Vintage Louis Vuitton. Sunglasses: Karen Walker Deep Freeze. Jewelry: David Yurman, Max&Chloe, Michael Kors, Gap, BR, Jcrew, Stella&Dot. Lips: YSL. Nails: Chanel Peridot.

...Atlantic-Pacific is now on Facebook here....

Good As Gold

2011-07-16T11:30:00.000-07:00

Top: Vintage. Shorts: Forever 21. Shoes: c/o Tory Burch. Bag: Chanel. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Necklaces: BR, Max&Chloe. Jewelry: David Yurman, Pomellato, Lydell NYC. Michael Kors, BR, Gap. Nails: Chanel 'Peridot'. Lips: Dior.

Thank you so much to all of you who have voted for Atlantic-Pacific in the Polyvore contest.

BEE

like a lady

2011-07-13T06:40:00.000-07:00

Top: Equipment (similar style here). Pants: Zara. Shoes: Pour La Victoire. Bag: YSL Muse. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: David Yurman, Pomellato, Micahel Kors, Jcrew, Lydell NYC, Saks 5th, GAP, BR. Max&Chloe, Stella&Dot. Lips: Nars 'Schiap'. Nails: Butter 'Teddy Girl'.

Signs

2011-07-11T05:15:00.000-07:00

Skirt: BB Dakota Dress worn as skirt. Top: Haute Hippie. Shoes: Banana Republic. Stripe Top: Saint James. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: David Yurman, Pomellato, Michele, Lydell NYC, GAP, BR. Lips: Make Up For Ever Professionals #41. Nails: Milani Pool Party.

All photos for this post were taken by the talented Lydia Hudgens.

pure

2011-07-08T06:46:00.000-07:00

Dress: ADAM. Shoes: Zara. Bow: F21. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: David Yurman, Pomellato, Michele, Gap, BR, Lydell NYC. Lips: YSL. Nails: Milani: Pool Party.

Photos for this post were taken by the talented Lydia Hudgens.

Sideways

2011-07-06T05:30:00.000-07:00

Dress: Milly. Vest: Old Navy. Jacket: Jcrew. Shoes: Ash. Bag: c/o Foley+Corinna. Belt: RL. Sunlgasses: RLCollection. Watch: c/o Skywatch. Jewelry: David Yurman, Lydell NYC, Pomellato, Gap, BR, Max&Chloe, JCrew. Nails: Chanel Black Pearl. Lips: Nars Schiap.

the fourth

2011-07-04T11:12:00.000-07:00

Sweater: Zara. Shorts: Gap. Belt: Vendor Sample. Shoes: Sperry. Bag: Rebecca Minkoff. Hat: H&M. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Jewelry: Michele, David Yurman, Pomellato, GAP, BR, Lydell NYC, Max&Chloe, c/o Tiffany Chou, c/o Doctor's Closet.

PS you can get 15% off anything from Tiffany Chou by using the code 'AtlanticPacific15'. Happy shopping.

swing

2011-07-01T08:48:00.000-07:00

Dress: ASOS. Shoes: Pour La Victoire. Trench: Gap. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Bag: YSL. Flower Pin: c/o Ban.do. Jewelry: David Yurman, Pomellato, Michele, Gap, BR, c/o accessorize.

Business

2011-06-30T07:51:00.000-07:00

Blazer: Madewell. Shirt: Haute Hippie. Coat: Zara. Shorts: Alice + Olivia. Shoes: Loeffler Randall. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Bow: AA. Jewelry: David Yurman, Michele, Pomellato, Jcrew, Gap, Lydell NYC, Max&Chloe.