DR JAYS LAUNCHES "CELEBRTY GIFT GUIDE"

The urban fashion retailer features exclusive holiday picks from your favorite celebrities.

World Wide Web - Dr Jays has your favorite celebrities helping you with your shopping this holiday. The urban fashion retailer has launched “Celebrity Gift Guide,” featuring exclusive holiday picks from Melanie Fiona, Trey Songz, Ghostface Killah, New Boyz, Teyana Taylor, Redman, Dawn Richard, DJ Drama, Terrence J, Kerry Rhodes, Snoop Dogg, Pooch Hall, Drumma Boy, Sheek Louch and Electrik Red. From footwear and accessories to womenswear and menswear, the celebrities have picked out gifts that will certainly bring holiday cheers to your family and friends. Since the opening of their first store in 1975 in South Bronx of New York, Dr Jays has become the pioneer in providing urban fashion with brands such as Nike, Ecko Red, Dereon, Adidas, Reebok, Rocawear, Puma, Timberland, Sean John, Baby Phat, L.A.M.B, Converse and Akademiks.

To see more from the “Celebrity Gift Guide” Lookbook, visit Dr Jays.com.

Kristina Bustos

THE BLAY REPORT INTERVIEWS ANDREW YOUNG

The THINK PR account executive talks to us about how he got his start with the agency, what are the perks of working in public relations and marketing, and of course, it won’t be a Blay Report interview without touching on fashion.

New York - Andrew Young has been living in New York City for a year and a half now and already the 23-year-old Australian native is living his dream. “New York was a place I knew I would fall for before I’d even visited,” he says. “When I was younger I used to cut out photos of New York City and keep them in a shoe box under my bed. For only the arts and music it would be an excuse enough to move here from the other side of the world; however, when I had the opportunity to come on board with THINK PR, I didn’t wait a second to say yes. Maybe it was providence but everything just seemed to fall right into place.” THINK PR was founded in 2001 by two publicists who have worked together for the past nine years. The public relations and marketing agency specializes in fashion, beauty, art and entertainment. Today the agency consists of 18 publicists with offices in New York City and Los Angeles. Young is the account executive in charge of the footwear accounts for THINK PR. Here is what he has to say:

How did you find out about THINK PR?
A good friend of mine, who was in the industry, recommended them to me. I spoke to a few other contacts I had in fashion and publishing, and I heard nothing but good things so I sent through my details and the rest is history.

Describe what would a general day working at THINK PR be like for you?
No two days in PR are ever the same. The one thing you can count on though is a lot of e-mails and phone calls. The best part about the day is that it’s very communal. I spend a lot of it in meetings, on conference calls or just speaking to editors who are always a lot of fun. Between the meetings, I might be pulling samples for shoots or helping dress celebrities in THINK PRs lines for their upcoming press tours.

What are some of the perks of working for THINK PR?
Working for a bigger PR company gives individual publicists the opportunity to work together with other publicists in the firm to cover more ground. The biggest perk is having a support network and colleagues to help brainstorm new ideas and initiatives for your client.

Are there any blogs you keep up with?

The blog I read most regularly, and it’s really more of a forum actually, is Skyscrapercity.com. Basically the website is divided into cities around the world, and as new buildings are being constructed, locals submit photos of their progression. It’s a little dorky, but I love being able to see the amazing architecture that’s unfolding in places all over the world. There are always brilliant things happening in Berlin, The Netherlands and Beijing that I try to keep up with. I think its websites and blogs, such as this one, that really stand out. Magazines could never provide that kind of immediate, international coverage.

Has your sense of style changed after you moved to New York City?
The biggest change has definitely been taking on a more of a seasonal approach to style. In Australia the weather is far more constant; it never gets much cooler than 50 degrees so there is less opportunity to dress up or down depending on the weather. Apart from an excuse to wear a lot more jackets and boots, New York City really gives you the chance to dress however you want, whenever you want. I’ve never once felt the pressure to conform, even in the workplace. I love that in New York City, if you look good and feel good, you’re ready to go.

Who are your favorite designers?
The great thing about New York City is the access to clothes from almost every designer in the world. Nicolas Ghesquiere and Rick Owens are probably some of the more established favorites of mine, but Christian Wijnants and Stephan Schneider out of Antwerp are pretty incredible too. There is a new men’s store on the Lower East Side called Project 8b that carries an unbelievable selection of up and coming designers and probably has the best curated collection of apparel in North America.

Any must have clothing items or accessories?
A watch for sure. I think it’s the finishing touch for any outfit no matter how casual or formal and it seems to pull it all together.

And lastly what is one style rule you think people should break?
Socks. Its traditional for men to wear socks that match the color of the pants they’re wearing, but I feel that’s a little bit Victorian. A pattern or color goes a long way. To quote Glenn O'Brien from GQ magazine, "You will ultimately realize that beyond the valley of rules rises the mountain of aesthetics, the peak of which (if there is one) is always shrouded in beautiful clouds of various hues, many of them resembling certain of my more unusually hued socks." Amen.

To know more about THINK PR visit thinkpublicrelations.com.

Kristina Bustos

CHEAP CLOTHES - TO BUY OR NOT TO BUY

ANATOMY OF A REALLY BAD PURCHASE - OR RATHER THE KIND I AM CUTTING BACK ON

If you live in London or in the UK, you know the bag says it all...Primark is the King of Cheap Retailers. Honestly, they are uber-good and efficient at what they do.

Initially, I loved the dress above because of the print. It reminds me of the traditional cloth worn in my country, Ghana.

This piece caught my eye too because of the print. I loved how free and easy and comfy it looks. But i just cant get over the cheap fabric and the lack of lining. (I am growing modest in my old age.)

The one above is Sexiness personified. It has lining. I actually love the fabric too. I might keep this one. 

Ugh! Bad move all around. Cheap fabric! Plus it fit my waist and chest, but not my bum. Hated it!

ANATOMY OF A REALLY GOOD JACKET

the jacket is yves saint laurent rive gauche and i purchased it from nyc vintage store amarcord. they've got amazing things. it caught my eye because of how slee, slimming and structured it was. and it goes with everything - or rather - i wear it with everything.

an upclose at the ornate gold buttons. i am guessing this jacket is a good 20 years old, but the buttons have worn extremely well.

inside the jacket where you really see the care and craftsmanship...i can stare at the folds for days. (primarily because i am a geek.)

the label.

more of the inside.

worldwide - first i draw your eyes to the right of the screen where myself, anonymous and camille acey have been discussing the virtues and evils of cheap clothing as per h&m, forever 21, joyce leslie (you deserve a gold star if you know about joyce leslie cause that's a hard core, hood-figga, cheap clothing store). as i go on in years , i am now a wisened old 25, i have decided to forgo as much as possible cheap clothing. if i calculate how much i've spent on cheap clothes in the past eight years alone - from university until present - it's been thousands upon thousands upon thousands. the sad part is, i don't really remember any of them. please pardon the comparison, but it's almost like a one night stand (or as i imagine them to be. i don't judge them, but i also don't participate in them.) but i digress....i am at the point now where i want more than a cheap thrill or a quick fling with my clothes. i want something that will last me through a season and beyond. i want garments i can grow old in. that means that now, i am looking for the two F's: FIT and FABRIC. the color and texture of a garment have become increasingly important to me as i regard them as the hallmark.i am also looking for something that fits seamlessly in my wardrobe and hugs my body as much as is appropriate and flattering. now that doesn't necessarily mean they have to be chanel or dior - though to my chagrin that's what they've been for me lately. but they can simply be those one-off boutiqey pieces off the high street or...if you can swing it...from another country. now does that make me a clothes snob, or a shopper who now demands integrity from her pieces? and what is your philosophy?

NOTE: STAY TUNED FOR PHOTOS/VIDEO ON THIS POST...

BUT CAN BIRTH CONTROL BE CHIC? YES! IF NINA GARCIA & YAZ HAVE THEIR WAY

nina giving sexy during fashion week! (projectrunwayblog.blogspot.com)

yaz is an oral contraceptive, a break through in the industry. and now in addition to being very effective, it's fixing to be very chic.

worldwide - so really, it's not enough that as a judge on project runway, she's shaping how many americans view fashion. now nina garcia wants to change how they view birth control. no, she's not championing couture contraception - but it's something close. she's teamed up with yaz, the new contraceptive that's growing in popularity, (along with bayer healthcare and step up womens network) to promote a brand new designer contest. it's called the "yaz: step up and go beyond contest." and it encourages aspiring designers to create a brand new bag to hold the pill. " the design challenge we're posing is a fashion transformation unlike any other, " said garcia. "we're taking an iconic accessory - the birth control case - and asking aspiring designers to take as hot at redesigning it into a chic, more sophisticated carrying case that they could slip into their purses." if that doesn't sell you, maybe this will: $10,000. that's what the winner of the design contest will get towards their own collection, materials, or education. the contest starts now and ends june 20th. log on to www.pillpackmakeover.com for more deets!

HIT OR MISS? ZANDILE IN GRAY HAIR + ME AND DAPHNE GUINESS + COLIN MCDOWELL

london - okaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyy. if you don't have anything nice to say - find a diplomatic way to say it. these pics are from over a month ago when i decided to take a walk on the wild side and try gray hair. i've always, always wanted gray hair because it reminds me of my dad who has a shock of gray hair, and has had it since his early twenties. but mine didn't look so distinguished. i sorta felt like storm from x-men. so i did away with the super hero do. but should i bring it back!? the top photos are of me and fashion muse lulu guiness and legendary fashion writer colin mcdowell both of whom i interviewed at the fash fringe party. shout out to the wonderful alexandra who reps the event for sputnik.

KELLY OSBOURNE HAD A LOT O LAUGH ABOUT LAST NIGHT! WHAT HAD HER FEELING SO HIGH!? WISH I KNEW!

i gotta say this about her - the girl is beautiful. seriously. this wasn't my first time seeing her upclose, but i don't remember being this struck by her. the skin was flawless, hair was fab, and body looked trim. but the way her and luke were giggling, something in the milk just wasn't clean. but great girl - and totally pleasant to interview.

me outside of poland house on greek street in soho where the event was held. yeah, after a while i feel like a nerd being the only girl at a party with a notebook, record, pen and camera. but i'm working so, what can ya do. dontcha love my hair and my peep of cleavage though. dontcha!?

JUST HAD TO SHARE: AGANOVICH'S POETIC MANIFESTO

above the founders of the label, nana aganovich and brooke taylor. (aganovich.com)

london - hey blaynistas. i know the posting is kind of slow today. clearly it's deadline day. i literally have about five articles due - so i'm trying to grind it out. one of the pieces i'm working on mentions aganovich, a label i noticed in london and loved right away. i am on their website doing some research and came across their absolutely awesome manifestor. see it below:

The Aganovich ‘Pussy Grenade Manifesto’

Our aim is:
To be as ambitious as we are humble
To be as iconic as we are iconoclastic
To bring humour where it is least appropriate
To demand elegance where it is least welcome
To requisition style over substance
To distinguish altruism in the superficial
To find, like Proust, delight in the proscriptions of the mundane
To make of generosity a weapon
To make of kindness a ransom
To make of integrity a threat
To make greeting cards of manifestoes
To make anarchy through elegance

“If she can’t dance it’s not her revolution”

THIS HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH INTERNATIONAL FASHION NEWS - BUT IT'S SOOOOOO TASTY

worldwide - blaynistas. you know me. i am a writer. writing and reading is my life. and in my 25 years, i've read lots. trust me. but my eyes have never come across something as funny and readable as this review of red lobster which i saw online at www.yelp.com. without further ado, see the review by mike w below.

a photo of the outside of a red lobster which i saw online.

"The Red Lobster night will go down in infamy. In! Famy! Well, maybe not. But at least now I'll think twice before eating another bucketful of breaded, bite-sized crustaceans. Here's the mise-en-scene. Phillip, Mrs. Phillip, Havy and yours truly, after several weeks of lightheartedly suggesting a dinner at R.Lobst finally decide to make good and go on the rainiest, weather-suckiest Friday night ever. After a considerable wait, we finally got the call on our Red Lobster Cellular Communicator that we could take our seats in the modestly decorated dining room. There weren't even those wooden lobster traps on the walls! Clearly, New York does it classy. First off, our waitress was rad and had the ironic sense of humor that I presume is necessary to work at the Times Square Red Lobster. I want her to be my friend. Phillip and I got the gluttony ball rolling by each ordering a Lobsterita. The Lobsterita can only be described as a stadium full of sugar and nothing but sugar. "Lobsterita" is, in fact, a bit of a misnomer. Not present: a noticeable amount of alcohol. Or lobster, but that's neither here nor there. No one should consume the Lobsterita ever. So after getting an extreme sugar high and making the requisite, inappropriate "Thanks for the Type II" jokes, the Cheddar Bay Biscuits came and we each had about seventy-three. Finally our entrees came. We, of course, all got Never-Ending Shrimp or All-You-Can-Eat-Shrimp or Shrimpus Infinitum or whatever it's called. You get two different kinds of shrimp (Breaded, Garlic Scampi, etc.) and you can keep ordering more to your now-sluggishly beating heart's (mal)content. Radness of the waitress Exhibit B: While putting down our first plates, "Do you want to put in your second order now, so it's ready right when you're done with these?" Do you even have to ask, my friend? By the time I was halfway through my plate I couldn't see straight."

an upclose photo of red lobsters' epic cheddar bay biscuits. i live and die for these. do you?

"My memory is all kind of blurry and shrimpy after that, which was all due to the volume and butterosity of the food combined with the sugar from the Not-sterita. By the time my second plate came (Spicy Buffalo Shrimp) I was so full that I started fearing Kevin Spacey-like serial killers were coming to kick me in my gluttonous belly and cause my inevitable bodily fulmination. Naturally, I picked at my plate a little more. Then I went home and fell asleep at ten o'clock on a Friday night. I now hate the following: shrimp, neon lobsters, food, myself, life. It was fun. No, really. I got exactly what I wanted, albeit in such a quantity that I now wonder if Red Lobster is actually part of Dante's ironic construction of hell. You should go!"

I WANT THAT JOB: LOGISTICS COORDINATOR AT MARC JACOBS

regine strikes a very pretty pose. we are living for that roland mouret inspired dress and that fierce lipstick!

new york - blaynistas if you are currently in college, please be super nice to your friends. you know why? because one day, they will grow up to be super fly fashionistas working at marc jacobs and living a fabulous life. in fact, it will be so fab, that you will beg them for an exclusive interview on your daily fashion blog. that's exactly what happened to me. i've known ms. regine lahens since the age of 17. even back then, she was a self-assured, elegant young lady and the years have done her well. today she is channelling on that chic into her job at marc jacobs. she sat down with shavon greene, one of my wonderful reporters, to talk style, career, and her burning desire to be a writer.

why does this shot remind us of the juergen teller ads for marc jacobs?

shavone: do you care to give your age?

regine: 25

shavone: where were you born/raised? regine: Brooklyn, NY

shavone: where did you attend school? interned? what led up to your current position?

regine: I graduated from Syracuse University with a degree in Communication and Rhetorical Studies. I actually wanted (and still want) to be a writer and ended up interning for a boutique PR company with the goal of writing press releases for emerging brands. I ended up hooking up with one of those brands, a shoe company called Detny where I reluctantly fell into the business end of fashion. After 2 years as the Operations Manager for Detny, I was ready to take on a larger name and lucky for me Marc Jacobs snatched me up.

shavone: i understand you are currently a coordinator for Marc Jacobs, which i bet entails many things...please elaborate on your position? what are some daily duties? who do you interact with? how many hours do you work?


regine: I am actually the Logistics Coordinator for Marc Jacobs International so I coordinate (obviously) the global shipping of Marc by Marc Jacobs Ready-to-Wear and Accessories as well as Marc Jacobs Collection Accessories. So, day to day work consists of monitoring the movement of thousands of units a day and hundreds of thousands of units per season. That's just a normal day. During market my team is responsible for getting the samples for the shows, even if it means flying to Italy to get it ourselves. I work closely with the production teams-the girls who get the items you see in stores produced in bulk. Do I get to work with Marc? No, I'm not that lucky but I do get to see him a couple of times a season :)

shavon: what have you learned from working for a major designer like Marc Jacobs?

regine: Nothing is impossible.

shavon: working for a designer like Marc Jacobs, i can imagine all the fab clothes...describe your typical outfit for the office.

we love this pose too! this chic gives good face!

regine: It's a pretty laid back atmosphere but it definitely encourages me to express myself however I want, whether I'm feeling pin-up and I wear a pencil skirt, sweater and platform pumps and bright red lipstick or I'm feeling up to the minute chic with high waisted wide-legged denim trousers,ankle boots and chunky jewelry. It's a great environment for experimenting.

shavone: so besides Mr. Jacobs, who are the designers you have been eyeing lately?

regine: Proenza Schouler...love it!

shavone: for someone hoping to model your steps...give me a checklist of 3 do's and don'ts in your field?

regine: 1. Do take advantage of every opportunity given to you. Don't think you're above dirty work...stay humble. 2. Do find a mentor or someone who'll show you the ropes and allow you to pick their brain. Don't be afraid to ask questions 3. Do share your ideas or suggestions in a constructive way. Don't ever take "No" for an answer

shavone: thank you so much for your time, but I have one more favor: - i heard you were an avid reader of The Blay Report..tell us why you love it!

regine - Besides being written by my old college comrade, The Blay Report is wittyas well as informative. Whether you're a budding fashionista or a stylesavant, The Report has got you covered.

THE PERFECT ELIXIR COMES TO AMERICA: THE BLAY REPORT GETS DETAILS FROM COTY

usa - blaynistas! so you know how much i love the girls at coty prestige! well the love affair continues. tara eisenberg, publicity manager at the fragrance firm, was kind enough to let me know about a new development in the market: Lancastaer 365 has finally hit stateside. the luxury beauty line, which is enjoying a rennaisance at the moment, is a cult classic among those in the know in europe and america. luckily for american fans of the product, they no longer have to travel abroad to buy it! we sat down this week with tara to talk about the reasons why the brand is now in the u.s and exactly what makes lancaster, and it's singnature product "365 Cellular Elixir" so lustworthy! enjoy! xo, zb

--------------

bottles of the precious lancaster "365 cellular elixir." (coty)

ZANDILE: So today, we aren't even talking fragrance. We are talking beauty, specifically Lancastar 365 Cellular Elixir. What's so special about it?

TARA: For the first time with “365 Cellular Elixir”, Lancaster has developed a technology that helps safeguard the skin’s gene code via a unique combination of protecting DNA and supporting the natural skin DNA repair process day and night. Lancaster’s patented RPF technology, enriched with a Mediterranean plant complex, provides the protection, while specific enzymes photolyases and endonucleases encapsulated in liposomes (photosomes and ultrasomes) support the natural skin DNA process day and night.

ZANDILE: Why is it entering the U.S market at this point in time?

TARA: Simply because it is a true scientific breakthrough for Lancaster, and also because it will be the first time in skincare that we are launching a product that represents all the values of the Lancaster renaissance.

ZANDILE: Do you think that skin care aficionados in this country will really respond to it?

TARA: Definitely! We are the first to work in this way on DNA, supporting the skin’s own protection and repair systems with, on one hand, Lancaster’s exclusive RPF technology and, on the other, the “intelligent” combination of photosomes and ultrasomes.

But how is it any better/different from some of the "legendary" rejuvinative products on the market, (i.e. Creme De La Mer)?

TARA: The aim of “365 Cellular Elixir” is to preserve the youthful quality of the skin’s DNA by helping to support and optimize the skin’s own natural metabolic and renewal systems. In the first place, the RPF complex helps protect skin’s DNA from free radicals attack. Secondly, the “intelligent” combination of photosomes and ultrasomes delivers enzymes, which are acting naturally in the skin. During the day, photosomes release the enzyme photolyase, which, activated by light, goes to work immediately as DNA damages occur. At night, ultrasomes release the enzyme endonuclease, which works to support the DNA repair process. In other words, “365 Cellular Elixir” uses leading-edge “intelligent” technology to work in harmony with nature directly on skin’s DNA.

No other product on the market can do what 365 can do.

ZANDILE: Does this line have a targeted age group or can mothers/daughters alike use it?

TARA: It’s never too early to start protecting your skin’s DNA! The beauty of this product, and of the science behind it, is that it is for all ages, all skin types, and all skin tones.

ZANDILE: Most importantly, where can we buy it?

TARA: Lancaster 365 Cellular Elixir will be available April 2008 at select Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, Ulta and Lord & Taylor stores nationwide, as well as skinstore.com and beauty.com. Beginning March 10, New Yorkers can go to Bloomingdale’s 59^th street to pre-buy their 365!

ZANDILE: Finally - we are absolute HAM's at the Blay Report, so do tell us exactly why you LOVE reading it!

TARA: I love the witty and honest writing and up-to-the-minute info on all things fashion and beauty!
ZANDILE: You have such good taste in blogs! Thanks so much for reading us, and thanks even more for the interview!

SMARTS, STYLE AND A SIZZLING HAUTE JOB: STEPHANIE SCOTT HAS IT ALL

new york - so usually, i like to keep these blay report exclusives for wednesday's, but really stephanie scott, public relations director at luxury skin care line 3Lab Cosmetics is totally worth breaking tradition. besides a fabulous job and an amazing personality that inspires us, scott is also full of spot-on style and career advice. she held nothing back during the recent interview that t.b.r reporter danielle prescod had with her. check out the dish on everything from her favorite labels (tracy reese, anyone?) to what customers can expact from 3Lab ("nothing but the best!")

beautiful: a portrait of stephanie scott in black and white

So we know your name, but care to tell us your age? A lady never tells…

Fair enough! We try not to tell either. So where were you born and raised? Englewood, NJ

We love that city! Where did you go to school? SPELMAN COLLEGE. I majored in sociology with a concentration in media studies.

What's your current job and title? I am the Director of Public Relations for 3LAB, Inc.

You have a fabulous job that probably a million people want. What did you do to get where you are? I work hard and I work smart. I started working in this industry at a young age making smart sacrifices – like skipping the nightclub to assist stylists at fashion shows - that would allow me to learn the craft. I let my passion lead me to excel.

stephanie in one of her trademark dresses.

Being young and successful in this industry is no easy feat. How do you dress yourself (mentally and in actuality) for the work place? I try to present myself professionally in all situations so that others will in turn treat me professionally. I look young and upon first impression, some people have equated that with being inexperienced. But when they see how I work, they realize that that’s not the case. I try to be humble in everything that I do and work hard to achieve the goals. As far as my attire, I love dresses and being feminine so I’d say that I’m probably in a dress 98% of the time. I like to have fun and enjoy myself – even at work.

clearly, the lady wasn't lying when she said she likes to have fun!

Who are your favorite designers? Where to begin…I’m not a “label” person but I have found a few designers that make my eyes light up. I love almost anything and everything Tracy Reese, Diane Von Furstenberg and Christian Louboutin.

What is your guilty fashion pleasure? Hair accessories. I have really long sometimes curly, sometimes straight super thick and healthy hair and l-o-v-e pretty hair accoutrement. I’ve also got my eye on those new Gucci loves NY bags. So cute!

We've got our eyes on those too Stephanie. If you buy it first, let us borrow it! So, what are your style secrets? When it comes to style tips, I’ve been lucky and have had the pleasure of learning from the best: style expert Lloyd Boston. So I keep it simple, dress what fits – not the number inside the garment, and take one thing

off before leaving the house. Also, I make sure that I pamper myself with monthly facials, massages, going to the gym, etc. If you don’t feel good, you won’t look good no matter what you put on.

How has your job impacted your personal style? Luckily for me, I work in the beauty industry so I’m still able to feel like myself when I dress for work opposed to a corporate uniform. I am comfortable at work and I think that people get a genuine sense of who I am and who they are speaking with as a result. Also, I wear more red – our company colors are red and white.

thank god for lace front wigs! if not we'd be extremely jealous of stephanie's luxurious, healthy, beautiful head of hair.

What is your typical day at work like? No day is e

ver the same but on any given day, my time is spent on the phone with editors or celebrity makeup artists talking about our products, writing up new marketing concepts and managing pr for our global business (in addition to Barneys New York and Saks, we just opened up in Germany, Selfridges in the UK, Harvey Nichols in Hong Kong and 2 Lotte Department stores in Korea in the past four months).

How does it feel to make the transition from student (or intern) to employee? It felt great, nothing feels as good as your first paycheck out of college. It also felt right and very fulfilling to be able to do what I wanted to do not had to do for work.

What can you tell us about the new line? 3LAB is a luxury cosmeceutical brand available at Barneys New York (barneys.com) and Saks Fifth Avenue (saks.com). We have our own R&D facility where make and manufacture our products - 20 in total including our key products WW Cream, “h” Serum and WW Eye Cream. This Spring, we will be launching our Perfect Repair, a new serum which contains the highest quality and highest quantity of stable Vitamin C on the market. It’s already been written up in ALLURE and is very exciting!!!

What can customers expect? Nothing but the best.

BECAUSE HE IS THE TRUTH: ALEXANDER ALLEN, CELEBRITY FASHION STYLIST

this is why he's haute: mr. allen is impecabble when it comes to blending street inspired style with luxury labels. readers: can we get into the vuitton scarf and the SICK, oversized hermes birkin bag? insanity! this pic is a throwback to this past new york fashion week, where allen was showing fashionista's of evey race, gender and creed how to do it son.

worldwide - as i've written before, the fashion industry has a great number of people who know how to look fabulous and important but have no career (or at times, personality) to back it up. that's exactly why when i find genuine and genuinely fabulous people i scoop them up and make them friends. celebrity fashion stylist, alexander allen, is a perfect example. we met years ago when i was still at seventeen magazine. since then he's continued his stella career, styling everyone from actress, laura linney to pop-star beyonce to beauty industry legend, pat mcgrath.
the current, march issue of ebony, which prominently features allen. (gozack.blogspot.com)

no wonder ebony magazine has labeled him a "fashion heavyweight champion" in its march issue. it's a title he's fought hard for, earned and deserves. pick up the march issue and check it out. also log on to alex's website, www.alexandeallensworld.com, to learn more about the amazing projects he has going on this year.

THE G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S LIFE WITH NICOLE KMIOTEK: FASHION P.R GIRL OF THE YEAR

her elegance is matched only by her professionalism and talent. here, nicole raises a toast along with her cute guy friend.

new york - time flies when you love your friends! i can't believe that 2008 marks the fourth year i've known nicole kmiotek. we met during my days as an intern at instyle magazine where i was doing double duty reporting on a brand new boutique in the meatpacking district. nicole, 24, wasn't even representing the company, but some how we just met and fell in instant love. the connection isn't too much of a mystery though, i adore bright, beautiful, accomplished and driven women - and nicole is all that and more. the fordham university graduate is a true new yorker: born and raised in long island, and educated and working in new york city. she's shot quickly up the ladder in the last few years and today she is a fashion account executive at renowned pr agency, the krupp group where she represents amazing designers. she sat down with one of my fabulous reporters, danielle prescod to dish about style and success.

the blay report (tbr): you have a fabulous job that probably a million people want. what did you do to get where you are?
nicole kimiotek (nk): INTERNSHIPS! My first job at d2 publicity was a direct result of me working hard at my internship there. I started at the company as an intern, was hired part-time my senior year in college and then was hired full-time upon graduation. I loved working there and never minded going the extra mile because I was so passionate about the job and the people I worked for.

pretty girls keep pretty friends: nicole, on the right, with a close friend. both look fabulous!

tbr: being young and successful in the fashion industry comes with a lot of territory. How do you dress yourself (mentally and in actuality) for the work place?
nk: I think the key to success is feeling comfortable in your own skin. Embrace who you are and confidence will exude, plus people tend to gravitate towards others who have a strong sense of self. When it comes to dressing the same rule applies. Pick clothing that reflects your own sense of style and that makes you feel like yourself but 100 times better when you wear it. The best pieces in your wardrobe should have the power to immediately transform your mood when you wear them.

tbr: who are your favorite designers?
nk: Currently I am obsessed with Lake & Stars vintage inspired lingerie. They have a beautiful bodysuit that can be worn alone in the bedroom or with a pair of wide leg trousers for a cocktail out at night. INHABIT will be forever my favorite label. I could wear ever day not only because the cashmere used in most pieces is ultra soft but the cuts are both modern and sexy- drop dead gorgeous! I also love MINT jodi arnold and Eventide for sweet, sophisticated dresses to get me from the office to dinner this spring and Sang-A's luxurious, exotic leather bags! I am ready to break the bank on her arm candy!

nicole maintains her sexy on the dance floor. we love it!

tbr: What is your guilty fashion pleasure?
nk: Purchasing way too many dresses for special events rather than practical pieces…sometimes I think going to dinner should require a red-carpet creation!

tbr: What are your style secrets?
nk: Buying beautiful, quality basics that will last season after season and a few great trendy accessories each season to update your look.

tbr: How has your job impacted your personal style?
nk: I have never been much of a jewelry girl but since I have started at Krupp Group I find myself lusting after cocktail rings from clients like Irene Neuwirth and big beautiful hoops from Phillip Crangi!

tbr: What is your typical day at work like?
nk: There is no typical day! My favorite days are during market season when you have the privilege to present your clients collection to editors and stylists and see them get excited about the new designs. Once and while I do crave a day where I can plow through emails and jet out for a lunch with one of the amazing editors that I have both a personal and professional relationship with- always fun to get to know someone better when you work with them so often!

tbr: How does it feel to make the transition from student (or intern) to employee?
nk: Landing your first job gives you an amazing sense of accomplishment (and a healthier bank account J ) but is also wonderful because it opens a world of new opportunities and challenges. It is your first foot in the door so make sure you are wearing great shoes!

SOMETHING FABULOUS FOR FEBRUARY

behold m.j's new fragrance ring. this is just too posh!

world wide - so you know our obsession with coty prestige and our love for ms. alana stahl. well, she's passed another lovely scoop our way, and i want to share it with you. marc jacobs' amazing new fragrance, daisy (the bottle alone seduced me!) is now available in a portable form. the bottle makes me melt!

i'm not talking tiny sample bottles though. instead, they are offering stylish options like a perfume ring ($30 usd) or a portable purse spray ($40 usd) that comes with a refill. starting this february, they are available at bloomingdales in america on online, worldwide.

CARLY ZIPP: THE DASHING DIVA DISHES ABOUT WORK, STYLE, AND HER PAST AS A SUPER INTERN

new york - sometimes life isn't fair. it's one thing to be young. another to be beautiful. and yet another (and total rareity) to have a fabulous job. well carly zipp, 25, has all three. and if she wasn't such a phenomenal person to boot, we'd have a really hard time liking her. but she is! that's exactly why we had to scoop the vanderbilt university grad for our latest edition of "i want that job." as the public relations guru for both real simple and essence magazines, the washington d.c. native, does double duty getting the magazines we love the attention they deserve. but what did it take to get there? danielle prescod, my ace reporter, sat down with carly on a brisk new york day to investigage....

carly is getting enjoying the san diego sun in this photo...

You have a fabulous job that probably a million people want. What did you do to get where you are? Oh man, well this is a little bit of a story so hope I don't ramble too much. I decided to take a year off after High School. I went to a really intense high school both socially and academically (the movie Mean Girls was based off the book that was based off of my high school if that gives you any reference!) and just needed a year off before going to Vanderbilt in Nashville, TN. I decided to intern at the local Top 40 radio station, Z104. At the time, Billy Bush (the co-host of Access Hollywood) was the main DJ and I worked under him and the morning show as a morning intern. I'd get up at 4:00 AM and drive 45 minutes to sit at the station and I'd be their little "go to girl", so any time you hear the radio and they're having some moron do something ridiculously embarrassing on a morning show – that was me. After about 5 months, a new radio station came on the scene called Hot99.5 and it beat out Z104 in ratings; they were looking for a fun midday DJ to act as a sidekick to the host and they had heard about me at Z104. I came in and got the job. So for the rest of my year off I was the DJ and co-host of this "girl power" midday show on the hottest Top 40 channel in DC; we had male beauty pageants, fashion shows, hosted weekly club events, concerts, etc. Through that I met so many amazing people in the entertainment and music industry, and decided to continue with it. The summer after my Freshman year, I went back to Hot99.5 and helped out with the midday show but also interned at CBS in the White House bureau. It was really fun to see another side of the media – they sent me to cover a lot of protests on Capitol Hill and even presidential footage, but I knew hard journalism was not for me. Anyway, I formed a great relationship with the Executive Producer at CBS and she took me to New York with her one day to meet Dan Rather and the whole NYC CBS team. I loved New York, and she knew I wanted to be in entertainment. At the time, Viacom owned CBS and MTV networks and so the Executive Producer made some calls on my behalf and got me an interview with VH1. I landed an internship in the booking department for VH1 and the summer after my Sophomore year interned as a booker for I Love The 80's and I Love The 90's – which means that I helped the booking department to get the comedians and washed up celebrities booked for our shows. It was quite an experience. I became very close with my department and they recommended me for a job as an MTV campus representative, which I did my Junior year at Vanderbilt. It was fun! I basically got to work with MTV to tell them the trends on campus, and then give my friends free MTV swag. The summer after Junior year I was hired as a summer associate in the booking department and worked again to book the comedians and secure some on-air talent. I met a lot of fun celebrities (actual stars, and then of course people who used to be cool) but the best part was how close I became with my department. So, come Senior year my bosses at VH1 got me an interview with CMT (oh yes, Country Music Television) in Nashville – another Viacom connection – and instead of most of my classes I interned for school credit in the publicity department. It was the first time I was introduced to being a part of the press, and I loved it! I mean yeah, I don't have a passion for country music, but it was really fun to be able to publicize events and upcoming shows on the station. I loved it. The highlight of CMT was walking Orlando Bloom down the red carpet for the premiere of Elizabethtown. I'm a sucker for accents. My biggest project was working on the Miss America pageant, which CMT took over. Talk about fashion faux pas. So by the time I graduated, I had an idea that I liked publicity. I had met so many people along the way that by the time I started interviewing, I had so many contacts that I was able to choose the best offer I received – which was at Time Inc!

we are loving this gold and white dress. and loving carly's dance moves even more.

Being young and successful in the fashion industry comes with a lot of territory. How do you dress yourself (mentally and in actuality) for the work place? Sassy. I like what I wear to reflect my attitude – and everyone expects me to come into work everyday as this young, cute, bubbly girl with edge. That's how I try to dress. Yesterday my coworker said I looked very "Jackie O. meets Katie Holmes" – I try to go for that!

Who are your favorite designers? Miu Miu, Ted Baker, Karen Millen, Theory for the basics, Madison Marcus, Foley + Corinna, Cynthia Steffe. Julie Haus in also my fave designers. She has the most feminine dresses!!!


What is your guilty fashion pleasure? SHOES! They make of break an outfit in my mind. And oh to splurge on a good pair of heels every now and then…yum.

What are your style secrets? Accessorize lightly but with nice pieces. You can be wearing some old t-shirt from a vintage store and jeans you bought for $40 in the early 90's, but if you accessorize with a hot bracelet or sassy bag (there I go saying sassy again), you're golden.

carly strikes a pose a vegas.

How has your job impacted your personal style? Definitely has forced me to step up my game. I keep up with the trends (mainly because I publicize them!) but never go overboard. My mom always told me "the trend is your friend", but I like to be trendy-classic.

What is your typical day at work like? Typical? Ha, I wish any day was like the next. I am responsible for building TV segments off of articles and for publicizing (and working) our large events, so on any given day I'm pitching producers and reporters, running around the city getting samples and props, dressing up for events (most recently we had a Weddings event to promote our new book – I was a bridesmaid), or writing press releases and scripts. Oh, and dancing. We have a radio in the office that gets cranked any time a good song comes on. It's the DJ in me.

How does it feel to make the transition from student (or intern) to employee? Bittersweet. I LOVED college. Loved the theme parties, the carefree attitude and making bad decisions, loved even my classes (yes, I still keep in touch my professors – nerd alert). I loved being the big fish in the little pond. Being in the real world is scary, definitely tiny little fish now! But I really like where I am at, both professionally and mentally. I have worked really hard to move up in the industry and it has paid off!