Anyone else calling Nina Dobrevs bluff?

According to a recent article in Seventeen magazine, Nina Dobrev--the 21 year old star of CW's The Vampire Diaries--thinks: "it could definitely get sticky if you dated your costar.” Well, obviously. There are countless examples of just how "sticky" things can get. Hmmm...does Mr. and Mrs. Smith ring any bells? Exactly. So, I guess what I'm trying to say is...don't discount that happening just yet. In fact, I'm gonna go out on a limb here and speculate that there is already something brewing between her and costar Ian Somerhalder. I'm not saying they're "secretly dating," or sleeping with each other, I'm just a very convinced observer, and from what I've seen they are attracted to each other in a way that goes beyond friendship or brother/sister relationship.

See here's the thing. It is often said that the words we speak actually account for less than 10% of the message that we convey, while body language accounts for more than half of our message--our tone of voice supposedly communicates the rest. Looking at photos and videos of Nina and Ian, it is hardly surprising that people assume they are a couple. All the excuses in the world (i.e. age difference, "just friends," significant others, etc.) can't hide what is displayed.

Let me just show you:

Exhibit A: While Paul Wesley is looking very vampy with Crazy Nanny Carrie--yes, the one from One Tree Hill--Nina and Ian are having a rather intimate moment. He seems intoxicated, she seems to be holding him up to a certain extent. It's all VERY friendly, I'm sure.



Exhibit B: Oh boy, where to begin. Ah, the gazing. Yes, and the smiling and laughing. If you look at the 3 photos at the bottom, you'll notice the side images are practically mirror images of the other. In one Nina is gazing up at Ian and the other, you get the picture. Body language experts would have a field day. Their bodies are turned towards each other--an unspoken invite--and her placing her hand on his hand/knee is a classic sign of intimacy.



Exhibit C: Here, Nina's crossed legs are pointing at Ian--another "classic" sign of intent. And, in comparison to Paul, who is slightly leaning in to Nina, she and Ian are both leaning towards each other--even when she is physically pointing at Paul. Poor Paul.lol



Exhibit D: This is a "behind the scenes" shot--another one that BL experts would run with. Actions such as, brushing lint off a man's shirt, or in this case, wipeing something from the face, are seen as showing affection. Granted you would do so for a friend, but would you doing so "longingly?" I doubt it.



Exhibit E: The following 3 photos show a distinct difference in how Nina interacts with Paul vs. Ian. In the 1st photo you can see that her hip and knee are again turned toward Ian. It also looks like her arm is holding lower on Ian --though this could be due to height differences--which suggests she is more comfortable with Ian. The 2nd and 3rd photos are clearly from the same event. In both, Nina and Ian are engaging each other. Nina's back is blocking Paul out completely in the 3rd picture.





Exhibit F: I don't know where they were, but this photo is one of more than 10, which has them interviewing as if they were hand cuffed to each other. Literally, Nina looks like she's sitting on his lap half the time. And,they are both so interested in what the other is saying. I mean, come on, you know they've done a million of these things. What could possibly be THAT interesting? Well, other than an opportunity to undress each other with their eyes. That anticipitory look she's giving him, too, it's totally the "don't you remember that, hunny, when [insert personal story]" look!



Exhibit G: What do you think Paul is thinking at this very moment? How bout...what the hell am I doing here? I know the "third wheel" look and that is exactly what is going on. Nina is an obvious 4+ inches closer to Ian than she is Paul. Ian places his hand over her's and whatever he just said must have been facinating, judging by her enamoured smile.

Ian, Nina & Paul^^ by FloJu on Polyvore.com

Exhibit H: Last but not least...the freakin old school, arm extended, impromtu shot, that before myspace and facebook would have gone front and center in Nina's locker. They have heavy jackets on, what did they just stop on a random corner and feel the need to document their cuddling? His face is rested on her head! I bet his hands are encirled around her waist all playful and shit.



Now, in comparison, here are a few pictures of him with said "girlfriend," Megan Auld.




Ian Somerhalder and Megan Auld Photos



They can barely keep their hands off each other right? Sense sarcasm.

Anyways. I'm not exactly sure if he is still dating Megan, or anyone, so nothing I've eluded to is fact. For all we know he and Nina could just share an abnormally strong platonic relationship, and they may both be seeing others. Still, my bets are on an official romantic relationship somewhere down the line. I'll have to consult with my "Eye" first though.

Fashion Democracy...Polyvore

I dedicated this last set to Polyvore for giving me the opportunity to put these sets together. It's a great concept. If you haven't checked it out you should.

Polyvore...The New Yorker by T.Rece featuring Stella McCartney dresses

Items in this set:
ROSE PRINT PLEATED TOP, 935 GBP
Black Katie Button Skirt, 80 GBP
Welikefashion.com - Pump Lisa by Friis & Company, 150 EUR
METALLIC CROC CLUTCH, 895 GBP
Morpho Butterfly Pendant, $1,750

Here is a link to the article about Polyvore in The New Yorker a few months ago:
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2010/03/29/100329fa_fact_jacobs

Six Friends Every Girl Deserves to Have at Their Side

I am a firm believer in the principle of: "everything happens for a reason." Likewise, I feel we take something from every person that comes into our lives. Since my blog is intended to serve as a virtual "friend," I thought it was only right to showcase the special people in my life--the ones who have shaped me into the person that I am today. Separately, they serve a singular function--each with their own strengths. Together, through my voice, I give you the insights of a well-rounded team of experts. I have to say, I am very lucky to have them at my side.

Here are the "Six Friends Every Girl Deserves to Have at Their Side," and the lessons we ought to take from them:

1. The "Eye"--This friend basically doubles as your own personal paparazzi, private investigator and polygraph. Nothing, and I mean nothing, gets past her. She will be the first to warn you about dating any shady characters, and, believe me, a true "Eye" has uncanny reliability. Don't assume she is crazy just because she has no tangible evidence at the time. The crazy part will occur three months from then when you catch said shademiester shaking up with another woman. It will happen, and you will learn to take her advice religiously.

#1 Lesson: No matter how often you "think" you are around your boyfriend, it is not a valid argument for why he could not possibly be cheating on you. There are 24 hours in a day, 7 days in a week...if he wants to find the time, he will. Period.

2. The "Lady"--This friend had perfected the art of being classy--the real kind, not the Franzia chugging version--before her sixteenth birthday. Everything about her, from her delicately manicured toes to the impeccability of her closet, is done with ease. Cussing, eating with one's elbows on the table and attending a party without offering some sort of baked/prepared good in return is just simply intolerable. A true "lady" would put Nicole Kidman, in The Stepford Wives, to shame in her sleep. Yes, I'll admit, there are moments when I check to see if this particular friend of mine has an on/off switch at the base of her neck. She doesn't. Damn it! I know, it is hard to swallow how inadequate I am to her. She really is the epitome of what, on some level as women, we all strive to be. Luckily, being around her not only makes us appear "in better company," it also elicits a sense of urgency, to raise our own personal level of expectation. Therefore, it seems logical to assume that someday--far, far into the future--we may possess these same qualities to some degree in ourselves. In the meantime, don't hesitate to consult with your "lady." She is a perfect complement; the etiquette police to your lie detecting "Eye."

#1 Lesson: Be prepared; playing the part is half the battle.

3. The "Shoulder"--Having a friend like this means always having someone to turn to. She takes the phrase, "having a shoulder to lean on," to the next level. Hence, the name. When you are stranded in the middle of nowhere, she is the one you can call . If she can, she'll come to get you herself--smile included--even if it's in the middle of the night, and her husband is lying next to her shaking his head in disbelief. Need to talk, cry, complain? Whatever the case, she is your girl; always there to listen, understand and give the best advice. A home-cooked meal and some quality Eric Bana fangirling is usually part of the standard package as well. With a true "Shoulder" there is no limit; that instinct to unconditionally support and protect is innate. Those who know her are extremely fortunate. If you are anything like me, you might even owe your existence to her.

#1 Lesson: Figure out who your real friends are--the ones who would do anything for you--and be ready to return the favor.

4. The "Clydesdale"--She's the friend who humbles you without trying, because her kindness, generosity and contentment are unmatched by anyone you have ever known. Working multiple jobs and having only one day off a month is not uncommon. In fact, it's typical. On the outside, she appears docile, but when you get her going--insert martini--she can pack a mean punch. So, whether it's time for your monthly "reality check," or you just need someone to attend the midnight showing of Twilight with, count on her. And know, to be around her is both an honor and a gift.

# 1 Lesson: True happiness comes when we are content with ourselves; it is measured not by how much we own or what we have or haven't accomplished, but by the people who we share our greatest moments with.

5. The "Inspiration"--There's always that friend you "know" will make it. She's the girl who wanted to be the first female President back in junior high, the one who wouldn't take "no" for an answer. She's the girl who single-handedly babysat her way to France, over a single summer in high school, because she didn't want to ask her family for help. She's the same girl who told you she was moving to Hollywood--to become an actress--instead of pursuing the career she had spent four years preparing for in college. What separates this friend from all the rest is that you never, not even for a minute, questioned her judgment. Not once. Not when the outcome was unlikely...or, when the risks clearly outweighed the immediate benefits. Why? Because she inspires hope; you believe in her. A true "Inspiration," also has the ability to make you believe in yourself. She emits a confidence and positivity that makes you forget all the failures you may have faced along the way and focus on the possibilities of the future. Just think, without her you may have given up already.

# 1 Lesson: Don't be scared to follow your dreams. Get out and make it happen.

6. The "Missing Piece"--She is the ying to your yang, the north to your south...she completes the puzzle that is your life. There is no one who can better diffuse a sticky situation than her. No matter if you're upset, angry, confused; she knows how to reach you. It could be something as silly as fake-tossing an apple, while standing against the wall, or knowing the perfect ratio of peanut butter to vanilla soft serve ice-cream. It is impossible to stay mad at her, because it is funnier to acknowledge how idiotic the fight was in the first place. Where you lack in character, she makes up for it. Those differences make you a better person in the long run. She forces you to see yourself in a different light, confront those issues and serves as an example to follow. A true "Missing Piece" will impart harmony in your life, which will replace any toxic, pre-existing influences. This friend is referred to as the "Missing Piece" for a specific reason: she is a catalyst. Having that balance in your life allows for positive growth--something that, as far as I'm concerned, is always welcomed.

#1 Lesson: Our families might be unusual, complicated and just plain difficult, but they are family, and unlike so many other people that come and go in life, they will always be around. Know that and treat them accordingly. Oh, and good thing we didn't let him like us!

FYI, I didn't mention names for the obvious reasons of confidentiality, but I think you all know who you are. Thanks for the wisdom!

This One's for You Sookie...

For those of you who read the Southern Vampire Mysteries or watch True Blood, one thing is probably unanimous: Sookie Stackhouse needs some help in the fashion department. It is even more apparent in Charlaine Harris's series, as opposed to Alan Ball's HBO version. Still, they are both victims of poor styling.

With the tenth book coming out on May 4th and the 3rd season starting in June, I figured it was time to tackle this issue. At this point, any mention of silk T's, scrunchies, "slacks," lace up jeans or detachable sleeves makes me run for the hills.
Before it is too late, I decided to try and help our girl Sookie out. I've chosen one specific outfit from each of the books and reinvented them as best I could without completely losing the integrity of the scene.

Dead Until Dark

A different take on Sookie's outfit when she first meets Eric. Keeping my fingers crossed that True Blood will redeem Eric & Sookie.

Don't believe anything until it's offically denied... by T.Rece featuring Rebecca Taylor dresses

Living Dead in Dallas

When she arrives in Dallas with Bill.

Living Dead In Dallas...Sookie Stackhouse by T.Rece featuring Carvela shoes

Club Dead

The infamous red dress!lol I couldn't allow Sookie to commit such heinous crimes of fashion. Granted she would never agree to spend the money for most of these items (i.e.the shoes) but I pretend she doesn't know.hehe What she doesn't know won't hurt her right? Plus, in the book she describes the dress and claims to have purchased the matching shoes and purse. All that with her red lips and nails was just TOO MUCH RED! So, I had to put some black and creme pieces into the mix. My goal was to create a more modern take on the existing outfit. It's still 80's at heart but I tried to incorporate some gothic elements--perfect for a night out with the undead.

Clud Dead...Sookie Stackhouse by T.Rece featuring Forever21 dresses

Dead to the World

Because Sookie spent the majority of her time naked in this book, there weren't alot of scenes to work with. She mentions wearing a red shirt, jeans and blue coat to the "witch war" so that is about the closest.

Dead to the World...Sookie Stackhouse by T.Rece featuring Marc Jacobs jackets

Dead as a Doornail

Scene when she goes to Fangstatisa to ask Eric for help at Merlottes.

Dead as a Doornail...Sookie Stackhouse by T.Rece featuring Moschino coats

Definitely Dead

"It was chiffon, short-sleeved, and it had lots of colors in it: turquoise, copper, brown, ivory. The strappy sandals that I wore with it were brown." -- Sookie describing the Diane von Furstenburg dress she bought with Claudine for meeting the Queen. (pg. 196)

It's not chiffon but it was the closest I could find.

Definitely Dead...Sookie Stackhouse by T.Rece featuring Gucci shoes

All Together Dead

Sure Sookie would never wear items this pricey but my hope is that Pam would insist Eric buy them to spare herself the humiliation of being present with Sookie.

Sookie's Ball Look-All Together Dead by T.Rece featuring Dune shoes

From Dead to Worse

Based on her outfit she described when going to meet Niall for the first time: "a sky blue silk t-shirt that Amelia had said was too big for her and some black dress slacks with black heels." She wore it with minimalist gold jewelry-- I prefer white gold w/ sky blue.

From Dead to Worse...Sookie Stackhouse by T.Rece featuring Habitual pants

Dead and Gone

Sookie really doesn't describe any particular outfit in this book that I can find, other than hospital gown. So, this is what I picture her wearing when she decides to go see Eric at Fangstasia--after the pledging.

Dead & Gone...Sookie Stackhouse by T.Rece featuring Sam Edelman shoes

At least it is a step in the right direction!

Debunking the Cheaters Anthem...

With the fabulous weather we've had here in Chicago the past month, I've have a lot of time to ride around with my windows down, jamming the latest hits. Now, as much as I love a good beat and inviting melody, at some point I had to actually listen to some of the lyrics.
One song, "What'cha Say," seemed to be a particular fan favorite. After hearing it play what seemed like a million times, I got to thinking: who does this guy think he is? Tiger Woods? He is literally singing the national anthem for cheaters!

The scary thing is this Jason Derulo character is far from being alone. And, I'm not talking about the 50 cent, pour champagne down clapping ass cheek songs--those are in a league of their own. I'm talking about songs that suggest infidelity is the norm. Off the top of my head I can think of two other songs that showcase this relationship pitfall: R. Kelly remix of Jazmine's "Bust Your Windows," and "Leaving Tonight," by Jennifer Hudson feat. Neyo.

I'm not an overt feminist, I'm not a "hater," I simply find this behavior disgusting. Everyone from Tiger Woods to Jesse James to John Edwards has been caught in the act. It's like an epidemic! For those of us who don't have the "luxury" of leaving the detective work to the paparazzi, social networking sites can pretty much do the trick. They are a cheater's kryptonite. Use them responsibly.

Let's just put it this way: if he smells like a cheater, looks like a cheater and acts like a cheater...9 time out of 10...HE IS A CHEATER. And, by god, don't think you are an anomaly. If a man cheats on you once...he will do it again. If you catch him, he'll only work harder to conceal it thereafter. Listen to your gut, listen to your friends--the real ones--and don't enable.

As an experiment, I decided to translate the following lyrics into their true form. So, next time you hear a song like this...laugh, and promise yourself you won't ever fall for this nonsense!

Here's the video just incase you want the total ambiance experience...

What'cha Say lyrics

Verse 1

...I was so wrong for so long
Only tryin' to please myself (myself)
Girl, I was caught up in her lust
When I don't really want no one else
So, no I know I should of treated you better
But me and you were meant to last forever...

Translation: I treated you like shit...I only cared about myself...I was by no means faithful, BUT (and this is where it gets good) despite all that...you and I (and my bad grammar) were meant to last forever, so I must convince you that I will reform my ways. That way, I can once again have my cake and eat it too--until I get caught again, of course.

The Hook--and might I point out how appropriate "hook" is in this sense

...So let me in (let me in) give me another chance (another chance)
To really be your man
Cause when the roof cave in and the truth came out
I just didn't know what to do
But when I become a star we'll be living so large
I'll do anything for you
So tell me girl...


Translation: Let me in so that I can spit some more bull shit...let me kiss your ass for a while--just long enough to make you forget that I probably came up with some REAL STUPID excuses when you caught me, pants down with another woman. I couldn't help it, I panicked and my "man-whore instincts" wouldn't let me go down without a fight. BUT (and the buts are always so entertaining.lol) at least I'm about to be a famous, which (like good ol Tiger) entitles me, at the very least, to try to buy your forgiveness. So, what do you think?

Verse 2

How, could I live with myself
Knowing that I let our love go (love go)
And ooh, when I do with one chance
I just gotta let you know
I know what I did wasn't clever
But me and you we're meant to be together

Translation: How will I live under the scrutiny of my own actions? And, worse...what will my boys think if I can't get you back? Ooh, what I would give for one more chance. Don't fool yourself, I'll likely eventually do the same, but I can promise you one thing: I'll be more clever with my infidelity next time. The longer I can fool you--the easier it will be to manipulate you and convince you that all of my indiscretions ought to be forgotten--given my laziness and overall disinterest in courting another female when I have you to fall back on.

Verse 3

Girl, tell me whatcha said (said)
I don't want you to leave me
Though you caught me cheatin'
Tell me, tell me whatcha said (said)
I really need you in my life
Cuz things ain't right, girl
Tell me, tell me whatcha said (said)
I don't want you to leave me
Though you caught me cheatin'
Tell me, tell me whatcha said (said)
I really need you in my life
Cuz things ain't right

Translation: I will pout incessantly if you leave me, because I need you in my life...to perpetuate my false dignity. Please, don't make me stomp around like a two year old and revert to being hostile with you, because I'm not getting my way. So, now that I gave you that heartfelt and agonizing **sense sarcasm** apology, what is your decision?

Alright, what did we learn? A fascinating principle: "When we expect better, we receive better." Bottomline: Raise our level of expectation in relationships, friends.

My Summer Look...2010

My Summer Look...2010 by T.Rece featuring French Connection

Items in this set:
By Malene Birger | Silk floral-print tiered dress | NET-A-PORTER.COM, $395
Candy Stripe Dress, 75 GBP
Perry linen-blend dress, $225
バックリボン　スウェットＰＯ, 27,300 JPY
Pringle of Scotland | Handmade cable-knit cardigan | NET-A-PORTER.COM, $1,795

Summer is right around the corner, and I can't wait to spend my days at street festivals, nights in beer gardens and weekends on Lake Michigan. Those destinations were the inspiration for my overall look and the specific pieces. On the whole, I wanted to choose complimentary things to eliminate the need for extensive wardrobe changes. The color combination of blues, peachy pinks, creams and natural browns (especially in the leather) look fresh and summery (IMO) and tend to work best with my coloring ("bronde" or blondish brown, long hair, green eyes and medium complexion. I'm happy to say, literally everything here can be worn together, which (with 37 individual pieces) amounts to over 100 combinations of outfits.

Another thing I like about this look is that you can find similar items at much lower prices. Net-a-Porter is great, but for some of us (myself included) $2,000 for a sweater is just not possible. To be honest, my go to store for fun dresses, skirts, tops and accessories is Forever 21. It takes some patience to try everything on because the sizing is bogus, but the price tag is worth it. I also find super cute cable knit sweaters, natural leather skinny belts, and nautical bathing suits at Banana Republic/Gap-- all under $100. For shorts, I've always find that American Eagle has the most forgiving dimensions--a little wider in the thigh. To get vintage inspired dresses and tops, Anthropologie is a favorite of mine. Even still, I try to reserve my purchases for special pieces (like the zip front, plaid tank) or hold out until things go on sale.

When I need designer jeans, handbags and/or shoes, I generally turn to Nordstrom and Coach. I used to work at both, so I have an affinity towards them. If I have to get anything brand name (i.e. Longchamp, Sperry Top-Side, RayBan, Hobo), and I can, I'll get my stuff at one of these two stores. I always make sure to check Nordstrom Rack--their discount store--beforehand. It is incredible what you can find there, especially shoes wise, and pay half the price.

For denim, I'm a particular fan of Citizens of Humanity and Rich & Skinny. Michael Glasser, one of the masterminds behind the famous Seven jeans, created both of these lines and they are heaven on my body type. The longer inseam, shorter crotch, higher back (no more butt cleavage...yeah!) and pockets are the keys for me. I say, shop around until you find that "perfect" jean--the one that makes you feel like you can take on the world. Trust me they are out there! And, when you find them don't stray, be loyal and show your gratitude--there really isn't another article of clothing that can have the impact that a great pair of jeans can.

My philosophy on accessories is this: more layers & two-tones!lol Mixing up gold and silver can be difficult, but if you have a necklace or watch, etc. that showcases the two together--in an obvious way-- it is much easier to pull off. You can also achieve a similar affect by layering, which in any event, I am all for. Spend your money on the statement pieces, like a nice watch or a versatile necklace or pair of earrings. For the most part you can get away with skimping out on the others. I judge my jewelry purchases on a sliding scale based on the practicality of the item--how much use I'll get out of it.

Bottomline: you can re-create this look on any budget.

The Pieces

--6 Tops: 1 cable knit long sweater, 1 sweater tee, 1 denim button up, and 3 tank tops (1 strapless corset; 1 halter; 1 draped).
--6 Bottoms: 3 jeans (light wash, high waist wide leg; dark wash, low rise, boot cut; white, med rise, skinny), 2 shorts (brown pleated; 3" denim), and 1 mini skirt.
--3 Dresses: 1 cap sleeved variation of LBD (night), 1 floral & flowy (day), and 1 T-shirt dress (weekend).
--1 bathing suit
--5 Shoes: 3 flats (Sperry deck shoe; roll up ballet; gladiator sandal), 2 heels (cowboy boot; open toe platform sandal).
--3 Bags: 1 clutch(night), 1 large tote (weekend), and 1 med flap (day).
--13 Accessories: 1 natural skinny belt, 1 watch, 1 wide brimmed hat, 2 sunglasses (RayBan Aviators; Oversized), 1 scarf, 3 necklaces (varied lengths, two-one), 2 bracelets, 1 two-tone ring, 1 pair two-tone stud earrings.

Look of the Week...

Styling with Piperlime...Modern Twist on Vintage by T.Rece featuring Big Buddha bags

Items in this set:
Elizabeth and James Parachute Peplum Sleeveless Top - Chartreuse, $225
BB Dakota Nicole Washed Leather Moto Jacket - Black, $175
AG Adriano Goldschmied The Premiere Skinny Straight Jeans - 23 year..., $255
Elizabeth and James Mason, $350
Big Buddha Tahiti Clutch, $55

With spring quickly approaching I wanted to highlight this combination of vintage-modern. March doesn't always mean "fun in the sun" for Chicagoan's like myself. So, jeans and jacket are still a must. Among other things, this look allows for some wardrobe recycling--always a plus! It seems leather jackets, skinny jeans and statement necklaces aren't going anywhere. So, make the most of it!

Key things to remember:

1. Keep the look fresh and colorful. Make sure to complement blacks, greys, whites and browns with brighter selections to offset a monotone look.

2. The idea is to merge vintage and modern into one cohesive look. The balance of vintage to modern is up to you but make sure you're not neglecting one or the other.

HAVE FUN!