The Big Move: To NYC and OnSugar

Hi DHo Style readers! I have two big announcements to make:

First is that I'm officially moving to my new apartment in New York City in a week. Earlier this month, I began working as an intern and editor for MyItThings.com, an online fashion magazine. The experience has been great so far and there's nothing better than working in one of the biggest fashion capitals of the world.

Secondly, DHo Style will be moving to DHoStyle.OnSugar.com. I've been contemplating my decision to redesign and make-over my blog and I believe this is the best direction for it. I will still write regularly with the latest fashion news and editions of my Beauty Bag.

Wish me luck as I embark on a new adventure in the Big Apple. I'm going to call it... The City: Donna Ho Style. :)

Anna Sui: Gossip Girl-Inspired Collection for Target

There's another designer collaboration for Target coming our way. For all you Gossip Girl lovers, Anna Sui has created a collection inspired by the hit TV show. The line, which consists of nineteen looks is set to be in stores and online on September 13. Take a look at some of the looks here. From Blair's bows to Vanessa's hippie-chic pieces, I can't wait to get my hands on these items!

Run-in with Tim Gunn!

Update: Here is the photo of me with Tim Gunn and my friend Lauren from the Syracuse University Juried Fashion Show in NYC. I'm such a fan and still can't believe I met him!



Last week, I had the honor of meeting the famous Tim Gunn from Project Runway. I took a picture with him and will post it as soon as I get it from a friend's camera. In the meantime, enjoy this wonderful video of Tim Gunn's confrontation with Santino from Season 2 of Project Runway.

My Summer '09 Fashion Picks

Summer has really just begun and that also means so has the beginning of the shopping season. Here are my top picks for summer '09.
Need I even say anything? This Banana Republic Floral Fringe Cuff ($55) speaks for itself. I always love layering bangles and cuffs and this version would be a great addition on my wrist. It's pretty and powerful.

I still have yet to purchase this season's popular trend-- the maxi dress. But not to worry, there is plenty of time to wear this goddess-like look. My pick? A Frenzii Strapless Maxi Dress in Fuchsia ($128).

And finally on my wish list is this Rebecca Minkoff Supernova Stud Devote Handbag ($695). The tan color, soft leather, and studs are irresistible. With the hefty price tag, I may have to wait on this one. If anyone wants to contribute to my handbag fund, please contact me.

Weekend Cool: Memorial Day '09

I still don't have plans for Memorial Day but either way, I know what I would want to wear. Whether you're going to a summer barbecue or to the beach, the options are endless.

My favorite summer piece are my denim cutoff shorts. Try a pair like these destroyed cut-offs from American Eagle ($34.50) with a button-down shirt (Splendid Gauze Button-Down Shirt, on sale for $64) and some Ray-Ban Aviators (on sale for $80.10) and you'll look casual cool. As you can see in the post below, this is my go-to outfit.

If you want a dressier option, go ahead and try this season's big trends--the maxi dress and gladiator sandals. Forever 21 has a variety of affordable maxi dresses. I like this simple Kayza Maxi ($24.80) paired with these Lovely People Teeny Sandals ($98). The sliver wedge gives you a little bit of height and the studs are a great addition. Keep jewelry to a minimum with a few gold bangles for a goddess-feel and you'll be ready for the Memorial Day festivities.

Enjoy your day off!

Beauty Bag: Mani/Pedis

It's summer and the mani/pedi season has begun. No matter the time of the year, I usually paint both my nails and toenails with my staple dark polish, Essie's Wicked.

But I've begun to branch out into lighter and brighter colors for the season and here are my current faves. I just tried Essie's popular "Ballet Slippers" last week and absolutely loved it! I can understand why women love the pale-pink color-- it goes with everything.

My other favorite color for the season is OPI's "OPI Red." Red is of course a classic nail color and this version is the perfect red that will look great with your summer sandals.

Can I Graduate?: Shoes for Graduation

There are three days left until I'm officially a Syracuse University alum and I'm getting excited about the big day. Since I'm going to covered in an ugly navy gown for most of the day, my shoes have to be rockin'.

So I took a trip to DSW last weekend and found these amazing Steve Madden peep toe heels! I'm a huge fan of the nude colored shoes this season and the added ruffles near the toe make me feel extra girly. What do you think?

A Different Kind of Fashion Show

Earlier this month, I attended the Conceptual Coverings fashion exhibition where students showcased some of their some of their fashion collections and artwork. Here's a look at my video coverage of the unique fashion show at S.U. for CNY Style!

Shop: Bold and Beautiful Shoes

Now is the time to experiment with your shoes. Shop for strong shoes that will make statement but not shock others when you walk into a room. From studs, platforms, striking colors, to the highest of heels, choose a style that fits your personality and don't be afraid to strut your stuff!

Bluefly.com has an amazing selection of statement shoes so take a look at some of my favorites that will definitely make you feel fun and sexy.

1) Report Signature Coral Patent "Pamona"Cut-out Pumps ($117)
2) Report Signature Black Studded Patent "Masonic 2" Platforms ($156)
3) Sam Edelman Pewter Snake Leather "Mariella" T-Strap Sandals ($83)

Eco-Craze: Earth Day Sale at edressme.com

More and more people are choosing to be eco-friendly when it comes to buying their clothes and since today is Earth Day, fashion websites all over have dedicated posts to the hottest organic clothing lines. I don't own very many organic pieces but would love to expand my collection.

Thanks to FabSugar, I discovered that eDressMe is having a 20% off sale on all eco-friendly dresses. The sale ends tomorrow, April 23, so make sure to place your order. I'm currently eyeing this Stone Gray Cotton Dress ($52) which would work for both day and night. With that price tag, I don't know if I can pass up the offer!

Go Floral!: Spring Handbag Trend

It's safe to say that florals will always be a top "trend" for every spring. But it's time to try something different--instead of buying only floral print dresses and tops, try incorporating the print into your accessories like your handbag.

This Nearly Needpoint Satchel ($90) from Anthropologie is one that would look great with just a pair of jeans and a white t-shirt or a white eyelet dress and sandals. I usually prefer leather handbags, but I can make an exception for a cute floral handbag like this one!

Barefoot in the Park: Summer Dresses

After browsing Perez Hilton, an ad for ModCloth.com, an online vintage store, caught my eye (yes, I read Perez once in a while and I'm a sucker for clothing ads). The ad featured some adorable, lightweight dresses perfect for the warmer weather.

I particularly love this "Barefoot in the Park Dress" ($54.99) and just as the name suggests, it's perfect for those days you can kick off your sandals and enjoy the breezy summer afternoons.

Alternatives to the "Boyfriend Jean"

Don't get me wrong, the boyfriend trend is still hot for the season, but the shapeless and ill-fitting boyfriend jeans I've seen all over magazines and on the street is not. There are other ways to incorporate the casual look into your everyday style. Update your denim wardrobe for the season by finding a light-washed, destroyed, and relaxed, but not baggy pair of jeans. The fit will be much more flattering and feminine but still achieve this popular denim look.

Try this pair of Joe's Provocateur Jeans (Top, $158) for a more laid-back style or this wallet-friendly pair by American Eagle (Bottom, $49.50).

You can still roll up a pair of skinny or cropped jeans during the warmer months. The taller you are, the longer your cuffs can be. For petites out there, make sure you don't cuff your jeans too much and remember to wear heels! I'm sure your boyfriend will like what he sees.

Beauty Bag: BalmShelter Tinted Moisturizer Review

I purchased quite a few goodies during my last trip to Sephora. One of the newest products I picked up was TheBalm BalmShelter Tinted Moisturizer SPF 18 ($25) in the light/medium shade.

This tinted moisturizer has everything that I've been looking for. The product goes on very smoothly, blends in well, and gives me decent coverage. It moisturizes my skin enough without making my face feel greasy and I've even noticed a slight improvement in my skin. I've been able to use less product during each application and since the bottle is also a good size... I know it will last for a while.

The only downside is that the tinted moisturizer only comes in three shades so it could be difficult to find a color that matches your skin tone. Overall, I give this product an A!

Conceptual Coverings Fashion Exhibition

Mannequins and live models filled the Coyne Gallery at SU this weekend during the opening of the First Annual Conceptual Coverings exhibition. With the use of different materials and fabrics-- this may not seem like your average runway fashion show. The "Conceptual Coverings" show is an exhibition for Syracuse University students who make wearable or body-related artwork to show their designs. Instead of using the runway, designers from all majors had the chance to create an environment for their creations.

Since the show was more set up more like an art gallery, I was able to get a close look at the designs and watch the models perform. If you are in the Syracuse area, be sure to check out the work which will be on display until April 8.

Behind the Scenes: VPA/Newhouse Milestone Fashion Show

It's been a fun weekend with two fashion shows at SU. Before I had to shoot video of the runway show on Friday evening, I had the chance to go backstage to get a behind the scenes look at the VPA/Newhouse Milestone Fashion Show. I really enjoyed the music, environment, and being able to see some student work. Be sure to check out our full fashion show coverage at CNY Style coming soon!

Fashion Shows This Week

Hi everyone! It's going to be a very busy weekend but I'm really excited to be covering not one but two fashion shows this week. I'll be shooting video for the VPA/Newhouse Milestone Fashion Show for CNY Style Friday evening and on Saturday, I'm going to be covering the Conceptual Coverings Exhibition. So make sure to check back for updates!

Style It: Engagement Photos

My oldest sister Darlene recently asked me to help her pick out a few outfits for her engagement photo shoot. I love any opportunity to be a personal stylist! I wanted to be able to shop with her in D.C. but since I can't visit now, we decided to style one of her outfits using items from online stores.

She picked out the dress and I helped with the rest. She chose this fun, coral dress from the Gap. The dress is very summery so I decided to the coordinate the dress with a pair of tan gladiator sandals. Since the dress already has a little embellishment at the top, I just added a delicate gold necklace to the top.

While she may not use these exact items, she can use this as an inspiration for her outfit! It is also better to try everything on in person, especially for engagement photos!

1) Giselle Necklace, Anthropologie ($38)
2) Strapless Pom Pom Dress, Gap ($69.50)
3) Nine West Jamil Gladiator Sandal ($88.95)

H&M Spring/Summer 2009

H&M is one of my favorite stores and I have to say that I'm impressed with their current campaign. The ad is not only cool but it showcases some of the awesome items in the store's Spring/Summer 2009 collection.

Lauren Conrad Collection On Hold

I have a confession. Although I was never a fan of Laguna Beach, The Hills, or Lauren Conrad in particular, I secretly loved her clothing line. A bit overpriced... yes, but her designs were very cute, comfy, and girly.

Now the 23-year-old fashion designer is taking a break from her clothing line. Despite rumors that her line was being discontinued, Conrad wrote on her blog that she's just taking a few seasons off.

She wrote, "I have learned so much in the past year and I want to apply that to the improvement of my clothing line. I also wanted to make some changes in production so I would be able to lower the price point."

So if you love her line as much as I do, don't worry... she'll be back!

Spring Trend: Statement Necklaces

This season, I'm completely obsessed with finding the perfect statement necklace... the bigger, the better. These necklaces are beautiful, striking and all under $50.

1) White House Black Market Feather Faceted Necklace ($49.30)
2) M. Haskell Large-Bead Illusion Necklace ($28)
3) Banana Republic Layered Chain Necklace ($49)

Hair Removal: Threading

(Photo: The Pantagraph/Lori Ann Cook)

During my recent trip to California, I had my first experience getting my eyebrows and upper lip threaded at Vinita's Beauty & Threading Studio in L.A. Threading is the process of removing unwanted hair using cotton thread to grab and remove hair from the follicle. The method has been known to be practiced in countries like Egypt and India but has recently become more popular in the U.S.

The experience was not painful and felt very similar to tweezing. I now prefer it over waxing since waxing often leaves my eyebrows too thin. I really enjoyed the experience and loved the results!

Style Inspiration: California Here I Come

In honor of my trip to L.A., I decided to show a California-inspired outfit. While I consider myself more of a East Coast kinda girl, I always loved the laid back style of the West Coast. Take a look at some of my picks to create this effortless look. L.A., here I come!

1. Free People Dreamer's Seamed and Strappy Dress ($138)

2. Alex and Ani Owl Expandable Bangle ($28)

3. Twist Filigree Gladiator ($38)

How-to-Guide for Sexy Spring Hair

I'll admit that I'm pretty good at applying makeup, but styling my own hair is not my strongest skill. So take a look at some of my favorite how-to-guides to get the hottest hairstyles for the season.

1) The Boho Braid - The boho braid trend always looks fresh and makes me feel hippie chic. Supermodel Molly Sims changes the average boho braid with her version of it with a wavy side ponytail.

2) The Bedhead Bun - A messy do always look so great and best of all, it's easy. Let some of your waves fall your hair fall out in the front like actress Becki Newton.

3) The Beach Waves - Actress Jennifer Aniston pulls off this look so well. The "just came from the beach look" works for more dressy events as well as for everyday.

Important tip: If you do not have naturally wavy or curly hair, do not scrunch because this will flatten out your waves. Rather, twist it to form a wave while your hair is still wet. After it dries, use a 1-inch curling iron to enhance the curls. Finish off with hairspray and you're ready to go!

Spring Trend: It's all about the boyfriend...

or your pretend boyfriend if you don't have one. The "borrowed from your boyfriend" look has been popular for a while and the trend is going strong.

1) The Blazer
Aqua Boyfriend Jacket with Stripe Cuffs ($88)
Great over dresses and with jeans.... a simple black blazer adds a nice finishing touch to any outfit.

2) The Boyfriend Jean
7 for All Mankind Vintage Stretch Boot Cut ($189)
I was originally not a fan of this look, but I still love the idea of a more casual jean. So I decided to modify the rolled up jeans with a pair of distressed, more loose fitting denim. You get the same idea but a more flattering fit since the jeans do not cut off your legs.

3) The White T-Shirt
Hanes Tagless V-Neck T-Shirts 5-Pack ($11)
Lightweight and easy, a white t-shirt is essential in any closet. Wear under a cardigan with a pair of jeans for a comfy, everyday outfit.

4) The Oversized Watch
Michael Kors Chronograph Sports Watch ($225)
My favorite boyfriend trend of them all. The man's watch is not new but more like a modern classic. I always get compliments on mine from Michael Kors, who makes great watches.

Sneak Peek: My Fashion Photo Shoot

For our next project for CNY Style, we are each creating a Soundslides show with audio and photos. Our goal is to portray our sense of style. Here's a sneak peek at some of the photos my good friend Carrie Jordan took of me today.