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15 Craic Essentials for Memorial Day Weekend!

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It's almost upon us! That long Memorial Day Weekend that kicks of Summer is finally upon us and I have all the Craic essentials you need for your weekend get away! It all starts with your weekender bag (pictured middle from ASOS) You should be able to fit it all in there. Yes its fun packing, but let's face it no one ever wants to unpack...especially when you realize you have to go right back to work. So follow this list and you will be set and ready to jet set!


1. Bathing Suit: Obvious choice, bring one chic and simple suit that you can wear all weekend and look good doing it. Try this super cute one from Old Navy
2. Black Tank Top: This is your chameleon. Whether you wear it over your bathing suit by the pool, under a blazer, or with jeans for a day or night on the town this will be your best friend
3. Bangles: No need to pack an exurbanite amount of jewelery, just pack a set of bangles. You can put as many or as little on as you want.
4. Fedora: By the pool, day trips or a sexy cool night out with jeans and your black tank you will feel cool whether its in the sun or in the dark
5. Statement Necklace: Choose just one or two pieces to bring with you, something bold that will stand out in a sea of vacationers and make you feel special. There is no jewelery store that can make you feel more special like Charm and Chain
6. Jersey Dress: Easy to pack, doesn't take up much room nor does it require too much care. This white one is easy effortless and just says I'm on vacation!
7. Flat Sandal: Whether you are hitting the pool or running around town, even I understand that you can't be in 5" platform pumps all the time. I like these because they have multiple colors but aren't overtly flashy. They will go with whatever you wear which saves on the packing.
8.Skinny Jeans: Staple. Do I need to say any more?
9. Lip Balm with SPF: You have to protect your lips while laying out and keep them kiss ably smooth all day
10. Sandal: Now I chose this orange one because it is fun but if you notice it still compliments all the other pieces that I am bringing. It works with my white dress, adds a pop to my black tank and adds an edge to my green sweater. Now you can choose any color you want, most will choose nude or black but don't be afraid to have a little fun! Even if you make a faux pas who cares you're on vacation! You wont see a majority of these people ever again.
11. Ipod Dock: Not every hotel has one, if yours doesn't you certainly don't want to leave without one! What fun is getting ready to go out in utter silence. This is a must must have. The great thing about this particular one is that its small, lightweight and inexpensive. $17 at Amazon
12. Clutch: You don't want to lug around your weekender everywhere you go, so pack a small clutch. Big enough to fit your essentials but small enough that you don't have to be bothered. This Marc by Marc Jacobs clutch from Endless does that duty
13. Lightweight Sweater: It may feel like Summer but we all know that those Summer nights aren't here just yet. Pack a cozy lightweight sweater to take the chill of those cozy moonlight nights.
14. Denim Shorts: Run around town, throw on after the pool or pair it with your black tank and boyfriend blazer; like your skinny jeans these are another staple
15. Boyfriend Blazer: Chic, easy and comfortable this is a great throw on when you just don't know what to wear. It will dress up even the most casual outfit.

All clothing is from Polyvore

To all my Craic readers have a fantastic, fabulous and above all else safe Memorial Day Weekend!! X

Craic Double Take: Blu Bijoux Deco Cuff!


Well well I spy with my little eye a knock off! I have featured the Blu Bijoux silver art deco cuff on the blog before but while touring Forever 21 I spotted this look alike. If you want to spend the $42.00 on the Bijoux cuff which is available at Max and Chloe be my guest but I have a feeling many of you out there will be swayed but the tempting price of the Forever21  cuff which comes in at a whopping $4.80. The choice is yours!

Craic'y Trend Report: Pretty Pleats!

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I hope everyone is having a fabulous week and gearing up for the long holiday weekend! Summer has finally arrived in NYC and everyone is itching to get out and play. So if you are struggling this weekend what to wear why not try some flirty pleated skirts? For the nay sayers out there this isn't the parochial school girl look, it's a much more refined, edgier, sexier take on it. Just make sure that your top is fitted and you will be feeling yummy from head to toe! X

All clothing is from Polyvore
All shoes are from Endless
All jewelery is from Max and Chloe

Kylie Minogue: Black Billboard Bombshell



What a fantastic suprise! Kylie Minogue heated up the 2011 Billboard Awards last night wearing a chic sheer rose and sequin detailed dress and Christian Louboutin fringe booties. It's amazing to see Kylie in the U.S. hanging with other celebs. It would have been amazing to see her perform "Higher" with Taio Cruz seeing as it was not released in the U.S. and has far much more commercial appeal then his duet with Travis but I digress. Hopefully Kylie made some fabulous connections and we can get her a smash hit in the states. I recently saw Kylie on tour and it was one of the most magical experiences of my life. I danced, I cried, I danced again. Thank you for brightening up my day Ms. Minogue. X Watch the video for "Higher" below

Rihanna's Suits Up Sexy



Rihanna keeps it cool at the 2011 Billboard Awards in a white Max Axria suit and nude Christian Louboutin pumps. This is a huge improvement from some of the choices that she has been making lately. This is how i love Ri, cool, confident, sexy and effortless.  Although I wouldn't have worn on a white suit on a white carpet with a white step and repeat but that's just me. You can barely see the details of her suit. Someones assistant and stylist dropped the ball! Tsk tsk. In any case Rihanna didn't disappoint when the show started opening with her smash hit "S&M" and bringing out pop star heavy weight Britney Spears to join her for the remix. HOT! Check out the performance below!




Justin Bieber: Billboard's Golden Boy


Justin Bieber had a magical night at the 2011 Billboard Awards last night. Looking great in a gold tuxedo jacket jeans and patent leather high tops the star was fashion forward and mature. Hopefully this means we will stop seeing kids in purple hoodies and high tops all over the world. Bieber had a great night winning five awards including Top New Artist, Top Streaming Artist, Top Social Artist, Top Digital Media Artist, and the Fan Favorite Award. The singer is adding much more to his growing empire including a perfume for his female fans named Someday that will launch at Walmart this month and expand to major department stores later in the month and retails for $35-$55. Will you be wearing Someday? Check out the perfume below!

Selena Gomez Shows Some Skin


Selena Gomez takes a risk on the red carpet at the 2011 Billboard Awards wearing a racy black Dolce & Gabbana dress and Guiseppe Zanotti pumps. She attended with boyfriend Justin Beiber and even gave him a smooch when he picked up one of his five awards last night. I am sure there are a bunch of broken hearts everywhere. What do you think of Selena's sexy side slit? Appropriate or no?

Craic Look For Less: Alexander McQueen Dress



Everyone is buzzing about how fabulous Kim Kardashian looked while out to lunch in Beverly Hills yesterday. Wearing Alexander McQueen and Christian Louboutin how can you not? If you don't have the McQueen budget fear not, I have you covered. Try this jewel neck body con dress from Jane Norman. At $68 this dress is a definite bargain and the perfect dress for a hot summer night out in the city. You will definitely have a few people sweating when they see you in it. Enjoy X

Gwen Stefani Does it Again..Beautiful in Bows!


Much like Rachel McAdams, Gwen Stefani is having quite the fashionable time at Cannes. Gwen Stefani stepped out in another gorgeous gown, this time choosing a white silk Giorgio Armani gown. The dress has a lot going on but is so simple and understated at the same time. If someone said to me, I am going to wear this one strapped dress with bows and cut outs I would tell them to up their dosage but this is all chic all the way. Thank you Gwen for kicking of my weekend in such a fabulous way! X

Craic'y Trend Report: Pretty Polka Dots

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I reported the emerging polka dot trend a while back when there wasn't much in stores as of yet. Happily that is not the case now. All your favorite retailers are busting out the dots in not only classic ways but in unusual cuts and combinations. If you are a little self conscious about rocking such a classic print don't worry you are in good company; Rihanna, Demi Moore, Christina Ricci and Natalie Portman are just a few that have been seen rocking the spots! Work it out ladies! X

Craic'ed Out Deal: Diesel Fade Watch!




This can be categorized as a Craic Crush too! I am dying for this watch from Diesel. The unisex silicone watch fades from one color to the next and is for sure a conversation piece. My only problem with this watch is do i buy one or all four...at $85 you can certainly afford to purchase all four fabulous colors. Perfect for summer! I have this watch in solid purple and not only is it stylish the silicone also makes it extremely comfortable. Get yours at Diesel

Gwen Stefani: Beautiful in Black



Gwen Stefani attends amfAR's Cinema Against Aids Gala in France looking all kinds of amazing. Wearing a L.A.M.B dress and a Roger Vivier feather clutch, her black gown hugged her body in all the right places. Can you believe that Gwen is 41?! She doesn't look any older then when she first burst on to the scene with No Doubt. She definitely stole the show with her signature style and diva poses! Someones been watching Top Model! X

Craic'y Trend Report: High Waisted Hottie!

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Ladies, its time to cinch that waist and show the world what you got with high waisted skirts. The great thing about a high waisted skirt is that it looks fabulous on every woman of every size. It hits you at the smallest part of your body and accentuates the curves you have. I usually like a belt when doing a high waisted skirt and top to cover the seams. It looks well seamless then, in addition to looking more poised and put together. Work it out ladies! X

All clothing and belts are from Polyvore
All jewelery is from Charm and Chain
All bags and shoes are from Endless

Get Beyonce's "Who Run The World" Nail Color



 So by now I am sure you have all seen Beyonce's "Who Run The World" (Girls) music video which is absolutely amazing for so many reasons. Not only is the fashion on point wearing designs from Alexander McQueen, Givenchy, Norma Kamali and Gareth Pugh. The video was directed by David Lawrence, who recently directed Lady Gaga's "Judas" video. I guess he put all his effort into Beyonce's clip because she wins this battle. While the song is not the greatest the video definitely helps the music. Now one of my favorite moments in the big budget video was that nail polish B was sporting. You can find similar colors with Opi's Teal The Cows Come Home and  No Room for the Blues which you can buy at your local drug stores and will run you anywhere from $2-7. For more Opi colors visit Opi: Nail Colors. Great colors with great names! For those of you who haven't seen Beyonce's video check it out below. Her new album 4 is slated to hit shelves June 28th!




Craic'y Trend Report: Beautiful Brocade

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It's time to get a little fancy ladies! Brocade is back and in a big way, on jackets, pants and dresses you will see this trend everywhere. Isn't it so Upper East Side, Gossip Girl'esque? Love it! Originating from the Italian word brocotta, brocade is a print made up of rich decorative shuttle woven fabrics. Typically seen in the home you can now wear it out to cocktail parties and social events without looking like you just made a dress from your curtains. If still a little shaky on this trend just look at your favorite celebs like Kristen Stewart, Kim Kardashian, Taylor Swift and Megan Fox. Try it on and get luxurious ladies! You've earned it!

All clothing is from Polyvore
All jewelery is from Charm and Chain
All bags and shoes are from Endless

Taylor Swift Sexes Up In Style

Taylor Swift gives sum sultry stares for the June issue of In Style magazine for which she is the cover girl for. Wearing a gorgeous Victoria Beckham yellow dress on the cover and a soft and sexy Louis Vuitton blouse and pants. Although Swift has stayed out of the headlines as of late, that doesn't mean she isn't busy. She is currently in the midst of her Speak Now tour, touring a whopping 98 days. She also has an animated  part in the upcoming Dr. Suess movie entitled The Lorax and will launch her first fragrance later this year with Elizabeth Arden. She currently has two singles circling the radio "The Story of Us" and "Mean" You can listen to "Mean" and watch the video for "The Story of Us" below. In Style hits newsstands Friday!

Craic'y Must Have: Penny Loves Kenny Pump!




Hello lover! I have blogged about the Penny Loves Kenny pump before but with these brand new colors I couldnt resist blogging again! The 4 3/4" pump sits on top of a 1" platform and is available at Heels for $89.00! Quite the bargain for all you fashionistas on a budget out there. I am mad for the turquiose/green combo as well as the orange/fuschia. Nothing like a pop of color to turn heads. If you are looking for something a little more demaure try the ivory/black combo which is still sexy, edgy but also very classy. Get them now because I can guarantee these will be a hot seller this season!

Craic Crush: Christian Louboutin Daffodil Pump


I have been all about yellow pumps for a couple of months now and have been facing much ridicule from my friends. I am sure now with the Christian Louboutin Daffodil Suede 160 Platform Pump that will all change. The $995.00 pump available at Net-A-Porter is 6.5" high with a 2.5" platform! Talk about reaching new heights! Pair it with dark grey to really make the color pop. If you are still a little leery on this hot color look to celebs like Beyonce', Heidi Klum and Victoria Beckham for inspiration.

Move Over Paltrow...Hello McAdams


Watch out Gwyneth Paltrow there is another hot blonde ready to take the fashion throne from you. Rachel McAdams hits the Cannes carpet arriving in high style for the Sleeping Beauty premiere. This time choosing a sequin bustier with high waisted trousers, she kept the look mono chromatic which really showed off her toned physique. She kicked up a notch with some sparkly stacked bangles and clutch and a bright red lip. I hope that we see more and more of these fabulous choices from Adams, because she is spoiling me right now! I am in fashion heaven!

Craic'ed Out Deal!! Ariella Talon 2 Finger Ring!


I have loved this ring from Ariella Collection available at Nordstrom for the longest time. The talon two finger ring comes in gold and silver and is adorned with pave' crystals. The best part is that it's now on sale for $33.90, more then half off  the original price which was $68.00. Sexy, edgy...slightly falic this ring is a must have for every woman this season. Get it now before its gone!

Rachel McAdams is Radient in Red!


WOW! This is one of those red carpet moments that people wont soon forget. It's also one of those moments that can shape a young movie stars career. Rachel McAdams followed up her first Cannes appearance (Rachel McAdams is Wonderful in White) with a show stopping red lace laser cut out gown that is what else but signature Marchesa. She paired her sheer gown with jewelery from Bulgari. From the minimal makeup to soft hair and subtle jewelry she lets the dress do the talking. This is why i love Marchesa, they make beautiful intricate clothing that speaks volumes and makes my heart go pitter patter! Definitely a moment that wont soon be forgotten and certainly better then what most wore to the MET Ball last week! A fabulous Humpday treat!

Craic'y Trend Report: Kaftan Cutie

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Kaftan's will be everywhere this summer so you might as well get used to it. Not just for the beach anymore these over sized comfortable sheaths are perfect for hiding a little extra or adding a little mystery to whats underneath. You can pair it with shorts, skinny jeans or go ooh la la bare underneath like in the fourth look. The point is have fun with it, pair it with summer brights, eclectic jewels and get ready for those long magical summer nights! X

Rachel McAdams: Wonderful in White


Rachel McAdams looks gorgeous at 2011 Cannes Film Festival in France where she was premiering her new movie Midnight in Paris. The star chose a Maxime Simoens dress with floral accents at the collar and waist which really higlighted her petite frame. McAdams is also filming The Vow and Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows which will come out later this year. Very busy lady! You can also check her out as this months cover girl on Elle Magazine below! Check out the trailer for Midnight in Paris below


Craic'y Trend Report: Beautiful Bows

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I know when you think of bows you think of ribbons in hair and all that sweet stuff but I can assure you that with this trend it is not the case. The bows are not the ones on top of a birthday present. They are put on classic and timeless pieces and done in new ways, like the abstract tie on look four and in sequins like in look two. Pair it with edgy, sexy stilletos to keep the look fresh and give it an unexpected kick like the amazing sandals in look three. Some of your favorite celebs have already been working this trend like Olivia Palermo, Nicole Kidman and Michelle Williams. So tie it up in a bow all spring and summer long with this craic'y trend! X

Whoa! SJP's New Do is a Big Don't!


Yowza! Sarah Jessica Parker attended The 2011 Robin Hood Foundation Gala in NYC with a big hair that raised a lot of eyebrows. I would hate to be sitting behind her! SJP I don't know what has happened to you over the last couple of years. You used to be so stylish, so chic, so cutting edge and now...we get a purple tank dress and some southern belle game show hair!? I think it's time you put on your Carrie Bradshaw hat and started acting more like the character that the world adores and less like yourself. Look who pretty you look in the picture on the right. Lets go back to that. X

Craic'y Must Have: Top Shop Magenta Sandal


Hello lover! Check out the Lucious Magenta Suede Rope Platform Sandal from Top Shop The $160.00 sandal is 5" tall and sits on a 1" platform. The perfect pop of color for spring and summer, sure to add a much needed punch to any ensemble. If the color is too much don't worry they also come in brown/burnt orange. Get them now because they are selling out fast!