THE TRENCH COAT

Here are some of my favorite Trench silhouettes for this Spring.  I can't wait to show you the AWESOME trench my boy toy bought me; just have to wait til I get my camera working...bummer!

With a Belt, Burberry Prorsum

Military-esque with no sleeves, Celine

With a soft vintage feel, Hermes

With bold shoulders and new colors, Christian Dior

Stay warm on chilly Spring nights,

Elisa

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SPRING ESSENTIALS

Some essentials for spring include rompers, stripes, pastels, feminine ruffles, lingerie and lace! Heres some picks all for under $100 (for students you get an additional 10% off your purchases) and all from my favorite store topshop! Excluding the splurge which is a beautifully designed shoe by Valentino, as you can tell I'm kind of a shoe addict!!

1. Striped Playsuit
2. Grey Bow Shirt
3. Lace Tunic
4. Lace and Bow Dress
5. Printed Lace Tunic

xoxo,
Jackie

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LETS MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Ben Avon, Pittsburgh, PA

A few weeks after that terrifying earthquake hit Haiti, this generous family set up a donation area in their front yard.  There were so many injured, and all too often in a natural disaster of this size supplies and resources are scarce.  But those in a position to help did, and that's why I believe in people!  Ps my boyfriend and I donated three sets; he's kinda injury-prone.

Here's another more then deserving cause; it'll take literally, 2 minutes of your time: AnimalSaviors.org

I stumbled across this site last week; needless to say, I was devistated!  We all have seen PETA and there often, outrageous attempts to demonize the fur industry.  Well, I understand that there are going to be individuals who always care about themselves, and their perceived status, before anyone and anything else; whether that be a helpless animal or not.  But here's the thing, if you are going to kill an animal solely for its fur, do it humanely!

China

Factories in China are skinning animals ALIVE! They claim that it's easier and cheaper.  Well here's my thoughts on a very fundamental level: if you can't cover your business expenses...like running-costs (the civilized killing the animals you're making money off of)...then what the hell are you doing running a business?  You are killing these poor animals for no other reason then their pelts, don't they deserve to at least be killed painlessly?! Yes.

So here's how you can help make this come to an end. Visit this site, and sign the petition.  All they need is your name, email and address.  They haven't sent me any junk mail and it's been over a week, to relieve any concern.  Help protect these more then 2 million animals a year that are brutually murdered.  If you can stand to watch videos or read more in depth about what actually takes place, you can do so on the site. 

Canberra, Australia

I also want to send a special thank you to those of you who participated in Earth Hour (click to learn more) this past Saturday.  Multiple cities in multiple countries all over the world, turned off their lights for an hour to save energy and help the planet! It's amazing how much money and energy is saved from just one hour of turning off these huge citie's lights!  My boyfriend and I were in Toronto for the weekend and had a candle lit dinner at the cutest bistro; candle lit because they'd turned off their lights for Earth Hour! :) More details and photos from the trip to come this week! Stay tuned.

Thank you for helping Fashionista Barista, and the rest of the world, make this Earth a better place!

Stay Aware!

Elisa

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BOOK CLUB ENTRY # 3

Paint it Black

Following the huge success of White Oleander, Janet Fitch has written another best seller. This one is set in the 80's LA punk rock scene. Josie Tyrell, art model, teen runaway, actress in student films, thinks she’s found her chance at real love and entre to a greater world in Michael Faraday—artist and Harvard dropout, son of a renowned concert pianist and grandson of a legendary film composer--until the day she receives a call from the Los Angeles County Coroner, asking her to identify her lover’s body. “What happens to a dream when the dreamer is gone?” is the central question of Paint It Black, the story of the aftermath of Michael’s death, and Josie’s struggle to hold on to the true world he had shared with her. Compounding her grief and rage is Michael’s pianist mother, Meredith Loewy, who returns to her native city with the news of her only son’s death. Despite a fierce mutual enmity, the two women find themselves drawn into an eerie relationship reflecting equal parts distrust and blind need.

xoxo,
Jackie

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BRIAN LICHTENBERG

So, finally Forever 21 is hopping on the bandwagon and getting their first designer collaboration, and I was super excited when I found out that it's with Brian Lichtenberg; he's one of my favorite designers! He has an eclectic style, incorporates funky cutouts, and uses out-landish designs. He's very popular among celebrities too; they range from Paris Hilton, Kim Kardashian, Rihanna, and Lindsey Lohan to say the least. You may also know him for his recent design in the new Lady Gaga ft Beyonce video "Telephone," he designed her "caution tape" outfit. No news is set on an exact launch date, but it's said that they will be announcing it in the upcoming month! And above are some of my favorite peices, make sure to check back for the launch dates!

1. Padded one shoulder mini dress
2. Hooded sculpted glitter dress
3. Padded one should glitter dress

xoxo,
Jackie Cravener

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THE SEPTEMBER ISSUE

So even though I'm a little late, considering the movie has been out for a couple weeks I FINALLY got my copy of The September Issue today in the mail! The documentary revolves around the making of the Vogue September Issue 2007; and I have to say that it was way better than I thought it would be, if you havent had a chance to check it out I highly advise you to do so!

xoxo,
Jackie Cravener

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FIGHT FOR THIS LOVE

So tomorrow is my last final and after that our posts won't be late.  We're really sorry for any inconvenience!  This quarter I had my fashion show production class, on top of a full course load and two jobs!  Producing fashion shows are some people's full time jobs; meaning, that's all they have to focus on.  So you can imagine how hectic these past three months have been.  When I get the video and professional photos back from the show I'll share them with you!  It was a sell out :)

Anyway, I want to share with you my newest obsession.  I've been listening to this song non-stop for two weeks now.  The singer's name is Cheryl Cole.  She got her start on the UK version of American Idol, but for groups instead of solo singers.  The group that was produced from the show is called Girls Aloud; you can hear their music at Victoria Secret in the US. They are a smash hit in England; they're the number one band!  But it's been years, so they decided to take a break...a perfect time for Cheryl to get her solo start.  And here is one of her singles, "Fight for This Love."

It's a great song! So catchy and with an awesome beat!  But most of all, her outfits are fantastic!  She has a really rebellious & sexy look, a slouchy & urban look and my favorite, a military look too.  The make up was great too!  Here is a clip of the making of the video.  You get to meet the stylist and see all the outfits that were chosen as options.

Check out the final video HERE!  I challenge you to not dance/wiggle while you watch!

Here's to happy ears,
Elisa

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RENEGADE

So Friday was the Renegade fashion show at Altar bar. With a mash of art, music and fashion, their mission was to bring art of all medias to Pittsburgh while bringing relief and peace of mind to Haiti. There were several boutiques and designers that took part in Friday night's activities, that I wish I could share them all with you! But for now here's some highlights from Fridays show!

xoxo,
Jackie

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LIFE AS ART

While browsing Flikr, I came across this amazing artist.  When I saw this piece I was totally inspired!  I love the loose, fun spirit, the bright colors and dreamy quality.

And look at this fun, young beauty; with her shoes kicked off and the tea in her hands, it's representative of the feeling and lifestyle of Fashionista Barista.  A mix of fashion, spirit, food and life.

The artist's name is Ohla Pryymak and she's based out of London, England.  She is part of a blog called Urban Sketchers.  This blog is full of artists from around the world [30 different countries], they all submit pieces they've created from the scenery around them, and often with a spunky story.  If you're anything like me, and dying to get over to Europe, visit this blog to vicariously experience European life through these amazing pieces!

Totally inspired and craving tea,

Elisa

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FASHION SHOW!

Special Coverage! Tonight the Art Institute of Pittsburgh fashion show production class will be holding a fashion show with an edgy, rebellious theme!  And guess who has tickets!  Stay tuned for fashion, photos and commentary.

Happy Friday,
Elisa

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LAUREN CONRAD

So I randomly came across Lauren Conrad's Spring 2010 lookbook for her Kohl's line while blogging the other day and was actually quite suprised; I'm loving all of the floral prints and spring dresses! And to my surprise everything was under $40.00. Here's some of my favorite pieces from the collection.

1. Floral Peasant Top $21.99
2. Sequin Dress $39.00
3. Floral Chiffon Dress $21.00
4. Lace Skirt $29.00
5. Boyfriend Blazer $39.00
6. Ruffled Dress $39.00

xoxo,
Jackie

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STREET STYLE: WWR

As you may know, I am a fashion major at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh.  And this lovely lady is a fellow fashionista...but you knew that. Kristy was rocking this romantic dress and cover-up combo with a western twist, cowboy boots, when I saw her in class yesterday.  I nearly ran into her with excitement when I asked if she'd be on Fashionista Barista.  She graciously accepted, thank goodness for us!  She looked effortless but put together, cutesy but totally sexy!  I hope she doesn't mind me copy-catting ;]

Where she got the look:

Dress, Scarf & Boots- Forever 21

Tights & Belt-Urban Outfitters

Cover Up- H&M

Rock your western wear,

Elisa

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IN FULL BLOOM

My favorite part about Spring is that I can finally dust off my dresses and start wearing some floral! Anthropologie is one of my favorite places to shop; if I were looking for something new these would be my picks. If you're weary of bold floral patterns, choose a dress with a cute floral applique or add a cute floral bib necklace [just like the one in the upper right corner]!

xoxo,
Jackie

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LIVING FOR SPRING

It's almost officially spring and boy, am I excited!  I can't believe I got to wear shorts this weekend; better yet, I bought my very first ROMPER!  Unfortunately, it's still a little chilly out to wear on its own. So I paired it with a drapey cover-up, scarf and tights [which made me feel more comfortable].  To add some fun, I accessorized with my funky, nerd glasses.  I was so excited to get a few compliments; it feels good when you try something new, and out of the box, and people appreciate it.

Romper: Target

Cover-Up: Charlotte Russe

Scarf & Tights: Target

Glasses: Claire's

Express your true FashionistaBarista,

Elisa

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BOOK CLUB ENTRY #2

Entry 2: Alphabet Weekends

This book was a GREAT read; I finished it in 3 days!  It is about three different relationships within a family: Nat and Tom (childhood friends),  Lucy and Patrick (Tom's brother and sister-in-law) and Nicholas and Anna (Natalie's parents).  With a family affair, like this one, you know it'll get hairy.  It showed both sides of all types of relationships: unrequited love, cheated spouses and life after tragedy.  It was fun and exciting as you got to travel along with Natalie and Tom and feel the thrill of a blossoming friendship and the potential for young love.  You struggled along with Lucy as she finds out that even after being left alone to care for a two year old and being rescued by a providing and all-accepting man love can't withstand diluted desire just for stability; especially when pure passion is tempting you. It was eye-opening as you follow Nat's mom struggle after her cancer scare and how it affects not just her or her marriage, but her whole family.  It was definitely an insight to all types of love; how love can come to be, fast or slow, and what love and relationships really take.  I would more then recommend this book!

For the professional blurb and insight as to why its called Alphabet Weekends, which I recommend you read to really understand, go here. 

Wish you well and good readings,

Elisa

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LOOK FOR LESS: VALENTINO

In one of my earlier post's for some cute spring essentials I had brought up the gorgeous Valentino bag that is above on the bottom left which retails for $1400, recently I've been seeing all kinds of replica's of this piece. Above is the Nine West version that you can get for only $49.00!


xoxo,
Jackie

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PARIS FASHION WEEK: ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

During Paris Fashion Week Alexander McQueen's last show was presented, which had a medievel touch to it. Only 80% was finished at the time of his death and above are some of my favorites from the 16 piece collection!

xoxo,
Jackie

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ITS A QUICKIE ;)

Sorry for the delay!  Finals are creeping up and they've been kicking my butt!

Those of you that don't no me personally, may not know that I've been a die hard Twilight fan for years!  Yes, I read the books way before the movies came out :)  And if you share the same obsession...I mean passion...for the series, you will be ECSTATIC to know that a 10 second sneak peak of the Twilight Saga: Eclipse trailer was released today!!!  The full trailer is to be released tomorrow, but damn is this ten seconds good!  Funny thing is, I was just thinking how it had been awhile since I reread any of the books [I've reread the series 4 times]; should I go for Eclipse or Breaking Dawn?

To True Love,

Elisa

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PARIS FASHION WEEK

Diors equestrian themed Fall RTW 2010 show was gorgeous to say the least. It featured ruffled pink chiffon dresses paired with brown leather thigh high boots. One of my favorite peices from the show was the oversized cardigan - coat, that was threaded through with blue satin ribbon, that's actually featured in the above picture on the bottom right.

Then there was the Victor and Rolf show which is always entertaining, this year their theme was "Glamour Factory" which started off with the main model coming onto the runway with multiple layers of clothes, then was joined by Horsting and Snocren who then removed one peice of her clothing at a time adn dressed the younger models in the items as they marched down the runway. You can catch the show below!

xoxo,
Jackie

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OH OSCAR!

The red carpet was gleaming with sparkles, silky fabrics and bright white smiles last night.  I was so impressed with everyone's choices, only a couple shocked me.  Here are some of my favorites from last night's Oscars:

These two women have been winning awards for ages; Meryl Streep is actually the most "metaled" actress in history.  But it wasn't their awards that caught my eye last night. Look at how beautiful they look!  I'd be honored to look this gorgeous at their age!

Meryl: Chris March dress, Helen Mirren: Badgley Mischka dress

Here are the budding, young starlets at the opposite side of spectrum.  These beautiful ladies had just enough sparkle and both in strapless gowns.  I love the hem on Carey's dress, it gives us a peep at her gorgeous shoes; those shoes were perfect for her dress.  As for Miley, she was my favorite of the night!  I want this dress for myself!  The mix of the constructed bodice and full skirt, the silk and the tulle, the sheen and the glitz, all perfect!  Her hair had that perfectly undone up-do look.  Lastly, her jewelry was just enough.

Carey Mulligan: Prada, Miley Cryus: Jenny Packham

As for the ladies we grew up with, Jennifer and Sarah Jessica, they did a great job!  I love Sarah Jessica's Chanel dress; the light yellow was so radiant on her.  Jenny looked stunning in this sculptural dress; it was so flattering on her.

Jennifer Lopez: Armani Prive, Sarah Jessica Parker: Chanel

Here's to glam gowns and glammer women,

Elisa

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THE PERFECT AFTERNOON SNACK

What is better then Funfetti cupcakes, rubbed down in pink icing and sprinkled with color?  NOTHING.  One afternoon, I decided to make them mini and pair them with tea.  It was the cutest, yummiest quick afternoon snack I'd had in a while.  To make your own perfect afternoon snack go here.

Power to the cupcake,

Elisa

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STEP INTO SPRING: FLATS

 

I had a special request after I posted this, so I thought I would do a post on Spring flats and sandals!

1. You can get the first pair at Steve Madden for $49 or there's a cheaper version here for $12

2. gojane.com $11

3. Jeffrey Campbell Pearl Flat $72

4. Enzo Angiolini Jeweled Sandals $79

5. Miu Miu Splurge $337

xoxo,
Jackie

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THINKING OF SPRING

A great way to get a taste of Spring, without wearing flip flops in 30 degree weather, is pairing you favorite sundress with tights.  Adding tights, and boots, are a great way to stay warm and have another opportunity to add pizzaz to your outfit.  Sundresses and cardigans are adorable year round, so don't be shy to throw one on; it adds warmth and classic style.  Something that has become part of my signature look is wearing blouses under dresses, like you can see above.  I love the lace and detail of this top, it adds flirtation to this outfit.  Do you think you could rock the shirt and dress?

Be creative with your style,

Elisa

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DIY: EARRING HOLDER

One of my roommates favorite things are huge, dangly earrings; she's had her jewelry box overflowing with them since I can remember. She recently came up with this cute and simple idea for an earring holder. 

1. First thing you need is a frame: whether its an an old window, half of an old door, maybe even an old mirror.  Sand it to make it look vintage, or paint it to make it look fresh.

2. Then use chicken wire, or a similar type of screening, and nail or staple it to the back of the frame.

3. Its that simple!  Your next step is to hang all you earrings!

I like how my roommate left it worn, it gave it more of a vintage feel.  What do you use to keep your jewelry organized?

xoxo,
Jackie

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MIDNIGHT SNACK

Heres a quick and tasty idea for a snack; whether your hanging out with the girls, having a couples night, or just merely experienceing the midnight grumbles.

Avocado Salad:

Freshly sliced avocado, chopped red onion, drizzled in vinegar

Cheese and Crackers:

Block of brie, sliced and paired with thin crisps

A glassful of White Zinfandel

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