- Who else but Ralph Lauren would design the US Olympic and Paralympic teams’ opening and closing ceremony looks? The US Olympic Committee revealed the quintessentially American designer’s vision for the latter yesterday and naturally the only thing missing is a gold medal or two. [WWD, sub req'd]

- Chloë Moretz sports a black bob and a fair amount of cheek in the latest issue of Vogue Russia. [Image Amplified]

- Since Nicki Minaj is hellbent on sucking these days, I’m openly pinning my raptress hopes on Azealia Banks who recently signed with Troy Carter, the manager behind her Monstrosity, Lady Gaga. The bad bitch’s album Broke with Expensive Taste drops in September. [THR]

- Max Azria is being sued for $220 million over some Playboy condoms that sadly never came to fruition in Walmart stores. As if that weren’t enough to warrant a comedic spit-take, the reason behind the condom collapse was allegedly the high level of lead in Walmart’s BCBG clothes. [TMZ]

UPDATE: A spokesperson for Azria states the quotes in the cited TMZ story have been “completely taken out of context, and the allegation regarding lead in BCBG clothing sold at Wal-Mart is completely inaccurate.”

- Hallelujer! The official trailer for Magic Mike — otherwise known as the reason I’ll be locked inside a movie theater for all of summer — has finally surfaced. Check out all the mantastic stripper action below.

Tomboy Girlfriend

Neil Moodie engineered the “tough pony” for the BCBG Max Azria show here in NY, but it was also seen at Rochas and Calvin Klein. This self-wrapped pony is easy to do yourself.

Color palette: Dusty lemon and lime over over bold red, cobalt and neutrals.
Mood: Sharp angles of soft silk and low slung hips set to Navajo prints, tennis pleats and sheer hoods, cut with a twenties vibe.
Statement Pieces: JLo-low cut, cut-out shouldered floor touching dress, with a near hem sheer inset and a native american, quasi-Missoni print.
Front Row Name Drops: Primetime took prime seating: Sophia Bush of One Tree Hill, Elisha Cuthbert of 24.
Gossip: @SophiaBush proclaims “my favorite collection of theirs for years!! Stunning.” http://say.ly/SHIGml
Runway Music: Beat boxing scat/pop up techno.

Despite a solid showing from the monochrome palette, orange stole the spotlight this year. Bottega Veneta, Phillip Lim and Dianne von Furstenberg were just a few who made a statement with solid, orange pieces in their collections. And orange you glad they did? I, for one, can’t wait to add this pop of color to my wardrobe!

Top left: 3.1 Phillip Lim, Top right: DVF, Bottom left: Bottega Veneta, Bottom right: McQ

Nima Taherzadeh

With a new color palette came a more “sporty,” laid-back group of collections. Many collections featured swimwear for the first time this year, and Michael Kors, Herve Ledger, Donna Karan, and McQ took the swimwear analogy one step further. That’s right, dear readers, we’re talking about “scuba-influenced silhouettes” (Style.com).  Take a look at these neon delights and tell us what you think.

Top left: Michael Kors, Bottom left: Donna Karan, Right: McQ

Notable themes on the runway were represented by Max Azria (“a city-inspired undercurrent with a feminine ease”) and Dianne von Furstenberg (a collection of “matchy/clashy prints”). This year there was a general trend towards more urban, jet-setter style in the collections.

Marc by Marc Jacobs and Missoni both included the “emerging must-have” that is the pajama suit in their collections.  This colorful, loose pant was represented in more subdued tones in numerous other collections, and retained its characteristic exaggerated length in all. Petite girls everywhere, ready your platforms!

Top left: Louis Vuitton, Top right: Jason Wu, Bottom left: Marc Jacobs, Bottom right: Missoni

On the other side of the pant spectrum, above-the-ankle, straight-leg cigarette pants were also popular with the likes of Helmut Lang, Monique Lhuillier and Elie Tahari featuring them in their collections. I’d like one in every color, please.

Top left: YSL, Top right: Monique Lhuillier, Bottom left: Elie Tahari, Bottom right: Helmut Lang

Of course, to my delight, leather separates were also popular with quite a few designers this year, including Derek Lam, Thakoon and Jason Wu, who featured leather skirts, shorts, and pants. Calvin Klein and others were also fans of thin leather belts, sending a clear message: when in doubt – belt it!

Top left: Helmut Lang, Top right: Derek Lam, Bottom left: YSL, Bottom right: Thakoon

Perhaps to balance this blast of color and print (and leather, oh my!), the resort collections were significantly more buttoned up this year – and I mean that literally. The runway was up to its proverbial neck in collared shirts and high necklines this season.

Top left: Jason Wu, Top right: Monique Lhuillier, Bottom left: Marc Jacobs, Bottom right: Carolina Hererra

In particular, the boat neck was an popular look for both separates and dresses, with Jason Wu, Louis Vuitton, Max Azria and a plethora of other designers featuring the look.

Top left: Max Azria, Top right: Derek Lam, Bottom left: Donna Karan, Bottom right: Jason Wu

Outerwear took on a boxy silhouette, and squared-off coats were popular with Louis Vuitton, Rachel Roy and others. Oscar de la Renta fittingly featured the silhouette in his Cubism-inspired collection.

Top left: Rachel Roy, Top right: Oscar de la Renta, Bottom left: Naeem Kahn, Bottom right: Monique Lhuillier

Honorable mentions go out to A-line skirts (Jason Wu, Louis Vuitton) and lace (Monique Lhuillier), both trends popping up here and there on the runway this year – always good staples to have in your closet.

Top left: Monique Lhuillier, Bottom left: Louis Vuitton, Top Right: Louis Vuitton, Botom right: Jason Wu

Will you be wearing any of these looks on your next getaway?

Source Love: Style.com

BCBGMaxAzria
BCBGMaxAzria is known for dressing the youthful, stylish and sometimes flashy woman. The same chic lady will love the brand’s watches, which are both elegant and extremely wearable. If you have the attitude and confidence that lands you in BCBG threads, you’ll love these timepieces as well.

From the VIP Glam collection, this rose gold plated watch features rhinestones, a mother of pearl face and white leather band. It’s perfect for the girl who needs a little bling in her everyday life.

How ideal for spring! From the Icon Voyage collection, this adorable green watch with flower print and snakeskin textured band will brighten your day with every glance. The gold plated case adds a luxe touch to the delightful design.

If a watch isn’t quite badass enough for you, this one will change your mind. From the Prism collection, gold and silver pyramid studs and a thick leather strap won’t cramp your style.

Kenneth Cole
If you have classic fashion sense but add an edgy, urban slant every now and then, Kenneth Cole has something for you. Its S/S 2011 watch collections use new technology and materials, turning the hands of the brand far into the future. If cosmopolitan chic is the vibe you’re going for, you will love these watches.

Can’t decide between a digital and analog watch? You don’t have to! This double watch is way to cool for words, displaying both the gears behind the automatic display and an easy-to-read digital screen with hour, minute and second spots.

Taxi cabs have touch screens and so do our cell phones, so what not snag a watch with the same advanced technology? This rose gold and silicone watch is both sporty and opulent with time, date, stopwatch, alarm and 32 city world timer touch screen functions.

Deciding between a black and brown watch can be frustrating, so why not go for the underrated and elegant navy blue? One of my favorites from the collection, it features a rose gold plated round case, transparent dial and gorgeous blue crocodile leather strap.

Breil
From one of the chicest Italian accessories brands comes the spring/summer 2011 watch collection. Breil captures the essence of today’s stylish European customer with classic materials and the highest level of quality and Italian design tradition. If you’re looking for a polished and chic time piece, this is the brand for you.

This automatic watch from the New Globe collection allows the wearer to see inside with an exposed-gear feature. A stainless steel case, mineral glass hands and genuine leather band makes it the perfect style for everyday wear.

The iconic Manta collection has some amazing new additions for spring, this blue bezel and stainless steel piece included. The timeless “diver” design is water resistant up to 10 ATM and features a safety lock. Utilitarian and sophisticated for the manly man.

Also from the Manta collection, this gorgeous women’s watch features a pearly, white patent leather strap and Swarovski crystals. Contemporary and glamorous, even the most refined, classic Italian lady would adore this piece.

D&G
The cool and contemporary side of Italian fashion comes through with these D&G watches. Young and fresh styles feature details like arcane logos, bright colors and tons of bling for accessories you won’t want to go without.

Casual, fun and perfect for summer, this fuchsia watch from the Hoop-La collection features a comfortable silicone band. The silver D&G logo is partly hidden in the strap connector, creating an artistic and mysterious edge to this energetic piece.

I almost fell over on my face when I saw this watch from the Medicine Man collection, I adore it so much. With both tons of color and that edgy, stainless steel bracelet, it is a perfect time piece for men and women on any occasion.

Small and elegant with just enough flash, this watch has a silver dial with rhinestones and white leather strap. From the feminine Flock collection, a hidden D&G logo is included in the band hardware for a little added mystique.

Freestyle
Thirty years after it became the go-to watch brand for surfers, Freestyle is branching out to fashion-forward, active individuals looking for performance timing accessories. Always supporting athletic independence and creative expression, these watches are waterproof up to 100 meters and perfect for those looking to equip themselves for spring/summer activities.

This most excellent watch from the Blush collection is a sporty breath of fresh air. The bright jelly color looks great both in and out of the water while an intricate face won’t let you get too lost in a day of summer fun.

The Hammerhead XS collection was developed out of demand for dive-style watches made to fit tiny wrists, but this accessory can be worn for any casual occasion. The sea foam/stainless steel combination gives this classic style and fashion-forward edge.

Surfers need bling too, right? This practical and chic watch from the Shark Bling collection features genuine crystal, a colored display and high gloss durable polyurethane strap.

I hope you have been getting into the watch trend as much as I have. Which of these spring styles is your favorite?

close-up of the workings of a wristwatch

Backstage after the show I got to meet Max Azria, I nearly died. I gushed to him how stunning the show was noted the square theme. I asked the only question I had time to squeeze out before he was whisked away: How does he think a woman wants to dress, the core philosophy that fuels BCBG:

“Women ultimately want to look cool. They want to look classy, and yes, chic.” – Max Azria

Simple as that. And he certainly knows how to oblige.

Runway Photos courtesy of Elle.com

Read more on InStyle

I’m not a huge fan of  this Max Azria collection, I think the color palette and the “clean lines” are BORING… Just my point of view!

We were sitting and discussing BCBG with the girls from iFashionNetwork, and decided that besides the random bursts of color at the show, the looks were sort of boring.

‘Maz Azria was inspired by a clean, modern approach for Fall 2010.  Gravitating towards a neutral tones infused with surprise POPS of neon yellow and blue.  Prints were geometric and kind of gave me an avatar-ish, galactic vibe.  The models wore white tights contrasting with the dark neutrals.  The silhouettes coming down the runway were linear with asymmetrical draping, transparent pleats.  The styles were belted, giving shape and a vision of cool, easy sophistication.’

Read more here.

More pics here.

Fashion people love award shows, gives us something to gaga over/make fun of. Here is our list of the ten worst dressed celebs at last nights Golden Globes.

1. Mariah Carey in Herve Leger by Max Azria

What a mess! How many people did it require to get her to fit into this dress?

2.  Jennifer Aniston in Valentino couture

Jennifer needs to do something different to her hair, and wear something other than black with a slit!

3. Christina Hendricks in Christian Siriano

Way too many shades of red, with the hair, lips and dress…the ruffles add weight to her body and the boobs are so distracting and in your face!

4. Anna Paquin in Stella McCartney

Maybe it’s because I just don’t like her, but this full sequin dress is very overwhelming on her little frame.

5. Kate Winslet in Yves Saint Laurent

An overall boring look, I expected more from her!

6. Mo’Nique in Reem Acra

Not loving the gold, or the way it fit her, seemed really tight on top!

7. Julia Roberts in Yves Saint Laurent

I’m not a fan of short dresses on the red carpet, along with how boring the cut of this dress was, mixed with the overwhelming jewels, the entire look was just badly styled.

8. Courtney Cox in Victoria Beckham

A bit too safe as well, I always expect celebs to go all out when they are nominated for an award…

9. Heidi Klum in Roberto Cavalli

I always look forward to seeing Heidi, this time I’m disappointed, really don’t like the hair, color, or fit of this dress, looks like a last min choice…

10. Marion Cotillard in Christian Dior

Not sure why I don’t like this look, but the peek a boo slip is really bothering me.

Bonus: What the F*** is Cher wearing???

ALL IMAGES VIA JUST JARED

BEVERLY HILLS, CA - JANUARY 17: Actress Kate Winslet poses in the press room at the 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards held at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 17, 2010 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

BEVERLY HILLS, CA - JANUARY 17: Actors Stephen Moyer and Anna Paquin arrive at the 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards held at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 17, 2010 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

BEVERLY HILLS, CA - JANUARY 17: Actress Julia Roberts arrives at the 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards held at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 17, 2010 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

BEVERLY HILLS, CA - JANUARY 17: Actors Courteney Cox-Arquette and David Arquette arrive at the 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards held at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 17, 2010 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

BEVERLY HILLS, CA - JANUARY 17: Singers Cher (L) and Christina Aguilera pose in the press room at the 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards held at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 17, 2010 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

BEVERLY HILLS, CA - JANUARY 17: Model Heidi Klum and singer Seal arrive at the 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards held at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 17, 2010 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

BEVERLY HILLS, CA - JANUARY 17: Singer/actress Mariah Carey arrives at the 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards held at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 17, 2010 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

BEVERLY HILLS, CA - JANUARY 17: Actress Marion Cotillard arrives at the 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards held at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 17, 2010 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

BEVERLY HILLS, CA - JANUARY 17: Actress Christina Hendricks arrives at the 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards held at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 17, 2010 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

If you are over winter and already looking forward to all the things that spring and summer bring, then get started with these three trends for the warmer months of this new year.

A drastic change from the bright and often neon colors that we saw this time last year, neutrals ran the runways. Designers like Erin Fetherston and Nina Ricci used a very soft color palette throughout their collections, so expect to see these simple colors around for awhile this year.

Max Azria’s and Marc Jacobs’ collections for the spring both incorporated cut-out designs. This peek-a-boo trend gives a very subtle sexy feel to an outfit. It also leaves room for a great layering effect when these cut-outs are worn above other pieces.

From brightly colored to more natural—feathers were seen in many designers’ collections. Chris Benz had a few pieces that featured multicolored feathers, while Chado Ralph Rucci used the feathers in a more elegant shade. Feathers can give a great and playful texture to an outfit. They can also be used to make a statement, like Chris Benz’ feather skirt seen here

Max Azria had bones on the brain when creating his Spring 2010 collection. While the minimalist collection was rather simple, asymmetrical silk dresses with peek-a-boo slashes, Azria accentuated the structure of the human body with his metallic strap detailing and slit placement. It’s interesting to see slits, which are commonly seen on black or white skinny jeans these days, appear in a more elegant fashion on the runway.

GALLERY: RUNWAY RUNDOWN: Max Azria S/S 2010

Thanks Style!

When he’s not dancing on tables with Corey and I at Griffin, Mikey Rourke prides himself in giving fashion advice……huh? He told NY Mag at Max Azria:

“I liked it because it’s stuff you can really wear.  Even girls with a big ass and big tits can wear those clothes. You know what I’m saying?”

“Not these girls that need a meal,” he clarified. “They should feed them all.”

Mickey Rourke, partier extraordinaire, actor, and fashion critic…who could’ve guessed

LINK LOVE: NY Mag

If someone told me that BCBG designer, Max Azria, somehow survived thousands of blows to the head, I wouldn’t be terribly surprised. Anyone who decides to collaborate with Miley Cyrus is one of two things: Money hungry to the point that they will siphon celebrity status from a 16-year-old to make a Wal-Mart collaboration, slightly nicer than toilet paper -OR- mentally deranged. I’ll take the latter. 

Just in time for back-to-school, Azria’s and Cyrus’ collection will hit the Wal-Mart shelves, tantalizing tweens and causing their parents to waste more money on Cyrus paraphernalia. The majority of the collection, consisting of tops, pants, graphic tees and shoes, will sell for about $20 or less…is this really something you’d want your name tied to?

Wasn’t Cyrus’ peak last year? I feel like kids are more interested in The Jonas Brothers than that “she’s so yesterday” Hannah Montana. Maybe it’s just me, but I won’t be surprised if many pieces from this collection sat on the shelves. 

Thanks Pop Crunch! 

But is it a good idea for BCBG?

I say, no way! The label, which has had its ups and downs of the years, is currently going strong both in concept and execution. Recent runway shows have illustrated a desire to elevate the label beyond a shopping mall standard, with better construction and more fashion-forward styles.

So why Walmart now? Unlike uber-designers Alexander Mc Queen and Anna Sui, whom have created limited release collections for Target stores, BCBG is not sold at a completely–out of reach for regular people price point, and frankly BCBG is not at the design echelon that would make company invincible to negative mass-market associations. Working with Walmart not only solidifies BCBG squarely into the mall-standard set, but it gives the impression that the company is trending down market. And let’s face it, even with the idea of recessionista chic spreading all over the US, no fashion company wants to reinvent it’s image as ‘cheap’. Consumers want BCBG on sale, not cheap BCBG.

To make matters worse, the collaboration with ‘tween star Miley Cyrus, further erodes the brand’s image. Working with Miley instantly casts a “celebrity line” image on the company. What’s next BCBGENERATIONS and The Olsen twin’s shoe line? How about a Lindsay Lohan handbag?

All and all I can’t see the Walmart collection not hurting the BCBG label. As popular as ‘affordable’ items are during these tough times, the association with the big-box (and somewhat infamous for bad business practices) retailer is sure to turn off the pre-existing customer, and I can’t imagine Miley’s popularity will do much to offset that loss.

Max Azria’s pad is quite the colorful contraption. It’s filled with the eccentricities you’d expect from this formidable women’s wear designer. I would totally feel at home in this little pad, just as long as all those book on the shelf are fashion focused.

LINKAGE: Max’s Colorful Lair

This rough cut documentary gets up-close and personal with Lubov Azria, Max’s wife, as she heads to New York to prepare for three major fashion shows: BCBG, Max Azria and Herve Leger.

She discusses the importance of celebrities wearing their clothes and delves into the major differences between the three brands. It’s interesting to see how six months of work culminates in ten minutes on a runway.

LINKAGE: Fashionista

Angelina Jolie’s stylist Jen Rade told Us Weekly that Angie wore her Max Azria gown backward at the SAG Awards “to make it ‘more blouson.’” AND the dress was reportedly designed to be reversible.

Uh, OK.  Now we can all get some sleep.

Nastia Liukin is the new face of Max Azria’s most recent campaign. The Olympic gold-medal-winning gymnast is the perfect model for Azria’s flowing dresses. I am obsessed with the photo of her in the white dress; amazing shoes, amazing hair, beautiful dancer’s pose. Definitely a big step in the right direction for the designer.

Thanks to Trendnista for the photos.

Find more photos like this on Fashion Indie

Max Azria decided to go for the gold in their newest ads featuring the very flexible Olympian Nastia Liukin. With this and Madonna’s yoga poses for Louis Vuitton I’m thinking that flexibility is gonna be next seasons real must have.

Linkage: WWD.com

This girl can do no wrong.  She rocked a look that should only be attempted by the best. And Max Azaria seems pleased. Watch this girlie, she’s about to blow up.

WARNING!!! If you are above the age of 25, please don’t attempt this look.

According to style.com, designer Lubov Azria drew inspiration for the 2009 Max Azria Resort Collection from her recent honeymoon to a remote island paradise. But, upon closer inspection, the gauzy abstract dresses look less like a deserted island and more like timless Van Gogh paintings.

Source: Trenddelacreme