DAY or NIGHT

STYLE STYLE STYLE STYLE STYLE STYLE STYLE STYLE

STYLE.. DAY OR NIGHT these women always look fab. I personally prefer comfy, cute casual styles most of the time. When I do get dressed up it's fun and I look totally different. Either way, these ladies sure clean up well. Ummmmm whatcha' think?

XO,
Amanda Lalique

FASHIONABLE Food

American Fashion Cookbook Serves Up Designers' Favorites

It's no secret that Isaac Mizrahi is a talented cook (he's been known to appear as a guest on the delicious public radio program, The Splendid Table), but did you know that Carolina Herrera makes a mean pommes toupinel? Or that Derek Lam likes to whip up yellowtail crudo, complete with pickled watermelon and mustard crème? The favorite dishes of 100 fashion designers are revealed in the American Fashion Cookbook, out this month from Assouline (just in time for your fashion week dinner party).

A project of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, the book is a tasty mix of recipes, illustrations, and preparation pointers from the designers themselves. And while die-hard fashionistas may be more likely to sip Donna Karan's green juice than tuck into Edmundo Castillo's croissant French toast, perhaps a common ground can be found somewhere between Zac Posen's favorite butterscotch wafers and the family recipe for Andalusian gazpacho contributed by Tory Burch. (Source: Mediabistro.com)

Thanks to my sister-in-law Nicole for telling me about this amazing collaboration. I cannot wait to get a copy of this book featuring two of my favorite things: FOOD and FASHION. Genius! Have you gotten a copy yet? Thoughts?

XO,

Amanda Lalique

Up Close with KRISTEN KASSINGER

I worked with Kristen Kassinger on a photo shoot over the summer and have been following her career ever since. I recognized her on the Forever 21 website and have seen her in numerous ads and commercials. She was so much fun to work with and has such a laid back, cool style I wanted to do a feature on her.

Here's what Kristen had to say about style and modeling:

Who is your style icon/ influences?
I love classic style. I would say Grace Kelley is one of my main influences. She was such an iconic beauty. I also love the styles of the 60s and 70s, where music, peace, and love influenced a generation of fashion.

What's your personal style like?
I would like to say my personal style is always changing. I think comfort is key and I will usually only buy clothes that are comfortable. I like mixing vintage clothing with new pieces.

Where are some of your fave spots to shop?

My favorite places to shop in LA are Opening Ceremony, American Rag, The Reformation.

Could you share some of your fave insider style tips?

Be yourself and stay true to your personal style. Don't let yourself get too influenced by the latest trends, and wear what you feel comfortable in.

What are some things you have learned from modeling that has helped change/transform your life?

Modeling has allowed me to meet lifelong friends and has provided great travel opportunities. It is a job that has also enabled me to attend college and work simultaneously.