School girl, schmool girl—this isn’t your throwback to Britney Spears circa 1998, nor is it a tribute to Red Hot Chili Peppers era Seattle grunge wear; spring is turning up the volume on plaid print, and it’s all new, all now, chic and playful. You can go practical and choice a button-up top and check plaid off your list—but why?? when there are so many new ways to wear it. We’re not kidding when we say—you haven’t seen plaid like this before—but after this we think you’ll want to see more. Here’s the newly minted take on this traditional pattern, as seen from the fresh eyes of spring 2011’s hottest designers:

Edgy squared

Think plaid’s got an overly innocent vibe? Not when it’s studded and striped like this trend-forward, mesh clutch from Lane Bryant at Inland Center ($190). Denounce your girly reputation when you pair this with the season’s muted neutrals during your next table-top for two night out.

Perked up patterns

Revive old looks with new ideas–florals and plaid forge new ground when mixed over spring’s full skirts. Pair with a fitted and tucked-in t and a strappy wedge for a warm weather showstopper. This eye-catching pick is from Anthropologie at The Oaks ($98).

Plaid to be had

We’re all in a twist about swimwear’s sexy take on the plaid one piece this season. From vivaciously bright hues, to this version’s twist on tribal—plaid’s got us percolating for more this spring. We snapped this up from Anthropologie at The Oaks ($298).

Pretty Prints-ess

A little sparkle never hurt anyone—get glamorous in the new metallic plaids. Traditional tartan or a modern fade, a little shine can transform a simple T and your style. Our new favorite top is Burberry from Nordstrom at Los Cerritos Center ($150).

Make a break for spring a couple of weeks early, and infuse your beauty routine with a little citrus sunshine.   Peach, coral and an over-the-top pop of orange lips are a staple for this upcoming spring and summer seasons.  We get that this isn’t your everyday go-to lip shade, so we thought we’d run a brief tutorial on how to max out this vibrant and versatile look, starting today.   First—don’t be afraid—you will find the perfect for you hue of orange that will make you fall head over smoochy lips in love with this fun new trend.

Tricks of the trade:

Lay the right foundation. Prime your lips for all day staying power, and to ensure that the cheeky orange color stays put and doesn’t gravitate towards your teeth.

Find your match made in color heaven. Not every orange is for every girl.  If you’re fair and flushed—pink toned corals or peaches will be most flattering, and still be right on trend; if you’re a chic shade of olive or medium to dark skinned—you can go big and bold, and very, very orange.

By day or by night? All typical rules of lip intensity apply: for a perfect pout before the sun sets, look for sheer shades or shiny glosses.  Pair with a complimentary lip liner if needed to boost your color, but keep it on the mild side.  When headed out in the eve, pile on the creamy or matte, all out, opaque color.  Line your lips with foundation to keep your lines sharp and your color from bleeding.

All that being said—here’s our favorite celebrity approved looks and your best picks:

Leighton Meester. Sephora at The Oaks ($30, Raven).

Leighton Meester gets it right with a ruddy orange-red that’s a rousing success.  She keeps it fresh and neat with a touch of peach blush and neutral eyes.  Super chic.  We love this similar red-orange shade from Sephora at The Oaks ($30, Raven).

Jennifer Lopez. Bloomingdale’s at Santa Monica Place ($24, Love Devotion).

Jennifer Lopez makes coral look craze-worthy and pairs it with deep brown shades to take it out on the town.  We love this NARS version from Bloomingdale’s at Santa Monica Place, that’s along these same lines ($24, Love Devotion).

Scarlett Johanssen. Estee Lauder at Nordstrom in Westside Pavilion ($20, Orange Poppy).

Scarlett Johanssen shows off a bright crayon orange and highlights the look with matching blush and gold shadow for a glowing standing ovation.  We like this same orange from Estee Lauder at Nordstrom in Westside Pavilion ($20, Orange Poppy).

If evidence of the holidays is still lingering around the midsection—instead of layering on your saggy sweats and calling it a day– step out in knit.  No matter how you’re feeling, don’t succumb to the temptation to hide in shapeless loungewear—pick a cozy chic sweater in this season’s sexy new shapes, and stay comfortable without sacrificing your style.    Tunics, cardigans and sultry slouches—we surveyed them all to find our favorites.  We went shopping at Santa Monica Place–here’s our top three picks to wear now for strategic reasons, and to wear again later just because you love ‘em:

Easy Breezy

Barney's Co-op, Theory "Aprily C" $270.

Style is a cinch with the sassy slouch sweater.  Pair with leggy skinnys to keep your proportions straight, and bask in that effortless put together style.   Look for subtle stripes or chunkier knits to add that special je ne sa qois.   We found ours at the Barney’s Co-op ($270).

Open Look

Bloomingdale's, Ellie Tahari "Demsey" $171.

All buttoned up all the time makes Jane a dull girl.  Let loose with dramatic draping ruffles and a blush of very-un-wallflower like color.  We saw this breath of fresh air at Bloomie’s ($171).

Tune in to Tunics

Ted Baker, $89.

More length equals more possibilities—find your way out of the winter wardrobe woes and turn up the style volume.  Double with leggings and boots for your out and abouts, or pair with heels and tights for a just-the-right-amount-of-loud look.  Our find falls into the latter category—this sparkling version was at Ted Baker this week for just $89.

Mila Kuniz at the 68th Golden Globes, 2011.

There were highs, there were lows, there were sighs of confusion—what is she wearing and why??  The 68^th annual Golden Globes put out this year, as usual, an exciting array of designer gowned celebrities for all us normal fashion frenzied folks to feast our eyes upon.  Now that we’re a few days out we’ve had time to digest the looks and declare the victories in our review below of the finest and fairest.  And, as the of-course-you-want-to-know bonus, we’ve included ideas for how to take the trends of the red carpet and make them yours.  Dig in and feel free to sound off—we’ve been won over by these top leading ladies—which are your winners?

Green and Gathered

We’re teeming with green envy—the ethereal emeralds and jolting jades of the red carpet gowns this year have us in a lock down pattern—Need. One. Now.   Whether laced with ruffles, or cinched with rich draping at the waist, pair with strappy nude or gold heels and understated jewelry and channel the elegance of Catherine Zeta-Jones and the sultry Mila Kuniz—two hands down favorites of the evening.  We loved the vibrant green of this dress from Nordstrom at The Oaks ($178).

Nordstrom, $178.

Anything but Neutral

Carrie Underwood at the 68th Golden Globes, 2011.

Kick your look into overdrive with barely there color. A hint of pink, a soft winter white, or a blush of just the right nude—and suddenly it’s all about you.  Diana Aragon’s stunning cream gown lingered long after she stepped inside, and Carrie Underwood’s pale sparkler called all the right attention to her glowing skin—we want some of what they’ve got. This Sue Wong dress is the subtle and stunning; we found it at Bloomingdale’s in Santa Monica Place ($411.60).

Bloomingdale's, $411.

Long-Sleeved Love

Anne Hathaway at the 68th Golden Globes, 2011.

We’re seeing stars after watching Angelina Jolie and Anne Hathaway dare to not bare their arms.  We love the fun fresh twist on traditional red-carpet looks and the kickback to more conservative times.   Don’t forget to bring on the bling—adorning many of our favorites this year was an abundance of glittering beading and shiny sequins.  This mini dress makes us mega happy with its perfect pairing of these two hot trends.  We snatched it up at Nordstrom at Westside Pavilion ($295).

Nordstrom, $295.

It’s a countdown to couture — when the clock strikes midnight, let your look be part of defining the moment and making a memory.  Get a jump start on 2011 with a sizzling haute holiday look and set the tone for the 12 sparkling new months ahead.  Whether you’re staying in with your close set, or buzzing around town at all the hot spots — slip into a scene stealing dress and ring in the new year.  We searched high and low for our top picks and present to you these three fab finds — all for under $200.

Get Golden

Every other look is just the runner-up.  Glittering gold takes first place hands down, and this leggy dress with draping cut out sleeves is just the ticket.  Paired with strappy sandals and bold bangles, you’ll feel worth every ounce.  We chose this dress from Bloomingdale’s at Santa Monica Place ($188).

Bet on Black

The Kardashians have the corner market on sexy, and this fashion-forward anything-but-basic little black dress is no exception.  With lace up detail and attention-getting lines, this mini dress is mega hot.  Pick this up this dress from the Kardashian collection at bebe in Los Cerritos Center ($149).

Shiny and New

Sequins are a given, but swathed in pure winter white—take on whole new meaning.  Go for the glow–everything looks brighter against the shimmering canvas of this sheath dress.  We picked ours up White House Black Market at Paseo Nuevo ($99).

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Get ready for red this season—whether it’s oxblood, burgundy, poppy, crimson, or cherry—the more the merrier.  Not only is this extroverted color festive and apropos as always for your holiday fete, it’s hot on the list of this year’s on-trend hues for fall and winter.  The runways were alight with dresses, tops, handbags, outerwear and accessories in this unabashed shade, so lucky for us, we should have plenty to choose from when pouring over the options.  We’ll show you our favorite pieces for bundling up, puckering up, stepping out and going-out on the town, all in raring-to-go red.

XOXO

This neutral red from Sisley is a safe bet—this classic color is flattering to all. We found it at Nordstrom at The Oaks ($50, Sheer Plum).

There is no hotter accessory this year than your perfectly pouted and flushed red lips.  If you’d call yourself olive complected—look to brick tones, or if you’re pale or have pink undertones you’ll want to look to berry shades.  You’ll know when you have “the one” when your face glows and your eyes look brighter.  This neutral red from Sisley is a safe bet—this classic color is flattering to all.  We found it at Nordstrom at The Oaks ($50, Sheer Plum).

Lady in Red

Here’s a dress to dance the night away in: Besoni from Barney’s Co-op in Santa Monica Place ($625).

Make this the year you break away from the safety of that little black dress, and try on something song’s are written about.  Stand out in the crowd with an alluring ruffled red dress, but be sure to keep your look current.  When considering your heels, belt and handbag, pair this firey hue with camel, purple, teal or even leopard print—just stay away from basic black.  Here’s a dress to dance the night away in:  Besoni  from Barney’s Co-op in Santa Monica Place ($625).

Ruby Red Slippers

These peep-toe platforms from Betsey Johnson at Santa Monica Place ($238) will liven up your denim for your next night out with the gals, or will give your camel colored sweater dress a little pop of “wow”.

Dorthy’s glittering flats are all grown-up and glamorous.  Sparkling, shiny patent leather, or matte—look to rosy-red heels this fall as an easy  and on-trend upgrade to any look this fall.  These peep-toe platforms from Betsey Johnson at Santa Monica Place ($238) will liven up your denim for your next night out with the gals, or will give your camel colored sweater dress a little pop of “wow”.

Wrap Her Up in Red

This is one must-have, that everyone really must have. We found ours at Louis Vuitton at La Cumbre Plaza ($500).

For those who are already knee-deep in holiday shopping, and those who aren’t—gift her with a cozy n’ chic red-hot cashmere scarf.  This is one must-have, that everyone really must have.   We found ours at Louis Vuitton at La Cumbre Plaza ($500).

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They’re haute and they’re hot—we know you’re knee deep in your holiday shopping and we’d thought we’d put together a little something to take the clock-ticking edge off; below are five favorite gift ideas we’ve scouted out on your behalf.  No one has to be the wiser that you had a little help this year—go ahead, enjoy a little more time relaxing this season, spend a little less time schlepping in the aisles—and we’ll keep it just between us.

Re-Boot

Give her style a boost this season with super sexy, trend-forward leather boots.   Pick over-the-knee riding boots, or knee-high with heels like this strut-worthy pair from Michael Kors at Santa Monica Place ($350).

For the “Kids”

The things that bring him joy haven’t changed—indulge his inner adolescent and gift him with a toy that will keep him busy for a while.  This quadricopter is four times the fun—he can control it from his iPhone or iPad or by hand held remote and has video capabilities that allow him to see a helicopter’s eye view of the flight.   These are selling fast at Brookstone at Paseo Nuevo ($299).

Style Rx

Does he need a little style revival?  Wrapping it is so much better received than giving “advice”.  Give him the gift of looking great—he will thank you for it later.  Start with this D&G wool peacoat from Nordstrom at Westside Pavilion ($1,015).

Lock in the Love

You can never spoil her too much—it’s a myth.  For a sure-thing, pick one of Tiffany’s diamond key necklaces, and watch her sparkle.  We saw this one at La Cumbre Plaza’s Tiffany & Co. location ($12,325).

King and Queen of the Kitchen

You know who rules this domain—and you know how a professional grade full set of cookware will earn you some serious brownie points.  Or, filet mignon points…or, crème brulee points—you see where this is going.  Pick up this 30 piece all clad copper core ensemble from Williams-Somoma at The Oaks ($3,999.95).  It’s the gift that keeps on giving.

Gold is not only an excellent investment but it is also an excellent addition to your wardrobe. Step out for a night on the town in a full on gold dress or to the office with some accessory bling.  Wherever you go, make sure to get in on the gold rush and incorporate this trend into your style.   There are different shades of gold, including metallic, rose and vegas. And there are different ways to wear these varying shades.  We have done the digging and discovered these fabulous fashion nuggets for you.

Rock Out In Metallic Gold

We like this Maggy London Sleeveless Silk Dress from Nordstrom, Westside Pavilion, $148.

To avoid looking too busy in metallic, build an entire outfit around one solid metallic print.  Brown-eyed redheads, brunettes and people with black hair who have a golden skin undertone stand out in metallic gold.   We like this Maggy London Sleeveless Silk Dress from Nordstrom, Westside Pavilion, $148.  The bateau-neck dress is classy and the bubble hem gives it a fun feel – a far cry from the metallic of the 80s.

Everything’s coming up Rose Gold

We like this Michael Kors Runway Rose Gold Watch from Kitson, Santa Monica Place, $250.

Accessories like earrings, necklaces, belts and watches are popping up everywhere in rose gold.  Rose gold compliments strawberry blondes or blonde with very white skin, skin with red or pink undertola 2daynes.  We like this Michael Kors Runway Rose Gold Watch from Kitson, Santa Monica Place, $250.  This watch is oversized, giving it a sporty feel while the rose gold allows you to wear it anytime, anywhere.

Feel lucky in Vegas Gold

We like this rouched logo plate wristlet at Express, $22, The Oaks.

To really add some flash, go with bright shiny vegas gold.  Stay away from looking like a gold digger and tone this style down.  A bright wristlet keeps you on the money with fashion.  We like this rouched logo plate wristlet at Express, $22, The Oaks.

1st Look Crew Eric Wong with Style Seen Daily Co Founder Crystal Fambrini and 1st Look Co Host Viviana Vigil at Ted Baker, Santa Monica Place..

One place most people expect to see gold in fashion is jewelry, but for this upcoming fall season gold will be making a much larger statement. From handbags and wallets, to shoes, and even dresses, gold will be popping up everywhere. Style Seen Daily Co-Founder Crystal Fambrini appeared on NBC’s 1st Look highlighting some key gold pieces to add to every fall wardrobe. In the segment, Crystal pulled  pieces from several retailers at the recently renovated Santa Monica Place, like Ted Baker and Bloomingdale’s Santa Monica, to create versatile looks.

"1st Look" Co Host Viviana Vigil in a gold Sue Wong Beaded Tulle and Ostrich Feather Dress in Bloomingdale's Santa Monica Style Bar at Santa Monica Place.

In the Bloomingdale’s Santa Monica Style Bar, Crystal styled day, office, and night looks for 1st Look co host Viviana Vigil.

1st Look host Viviana Vigil in a head-to-toe gold inspired Elie Tahari look at the Bloomingdale's Santa Monica Style Bar at Santa Monica Place.

A gold Sue Wong tulle and ostrich feather dress paired effortlessly with Badgley Mischka satin heels to create an elegant, yet fun cocktail look, while an Elie Tahari metallic ruffle blouse and an orange Elie Tahari wrap skirt with metallic gold accents made an fashionable work ensemble.

1st Look Co Host Viviana Vigil, Bloomingdale's Santa Monica Rep Kerry Borland, and SSD Co Founder Crystal Fambrini.

The casual, day look that Crystal put together consisted of an Aqua metallic striped tee, black BCBG leggings, and Juicy Couture puffer vest (you’ll have to watch the video above for that look). This style, which is perfect for spending the day at shopping, was all pulled together with a shiny, gold Coach bag.

SSD Co-Founder Crystal Fambrini styling looks for 1st Look host Viviana Vigil at Ted Baker in Santa Monica Place.

Crystal found some fabulous pieces to complement that dress that Viviana was wearing at Ted Baker, which is known for always adding a twist to their pieces. A gold accented, skinny cinch-waist belt, aviator sunglasses, a black quilted leather bag with gold buckles were the perfect additions from Ted Baker to complete Viviana’s look.

And if you are interested in more ways to wear gold check out…

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SHOP NOW

Gold leather mini wallet and card holder