Short on money, Palmdale teen crafts a soda can prom dress

he two-story house in the Palmdale subdivision looks like so many others. Green lawn out front, pool out back. Solid, comfortable, secure.

Inside, a teenager does her homework by candlelight whenever the power gets cut off. If the water goes too, she fills empty bottles at school to wash her hair.

Brie Fainblit just turned 19. She is used to not having what others have. Mostly she just accepts it.

But not for prom dress .

She wants to be Highland High's prom queen. She wants to turn heads.

Brie lives with her mother, who is disabled, and her aunt, who works two part-time jobs to support them.

Often there is not enough money for food. There is never enough for new clothes. Usually Brie finds what she can at the local Goodwill, but the prom dresses there are too big and too froufrou.

So back in September, with the dance a distant dot on a calendar, she decided to make one of her own — out of soda-can tabs, for free.Prom is Friday. The dress is not finished. The tabs, meanwhile, have taken their toll: Brie and her mother both have Band-Aid fingers.::At the house Brie's mother, B.G. Watson, inherited from her mother, tin foil covers the windows to keep the hot sun out. Inside, the living-room ceiling soars, swallowing up the sparse furnishings.The staircase leads to bedrooms barely used. To conserve energy, the three women sleep in the den. They don't use the central air or heat. They turn off lights. They light candles. They watch movies — there is no cable — on the small TV that sits in front of the big broken one.They can't swim in the pool. The pump is broken too.When the food runs out, mother and aunt collect bottles and cans. They try to go late at night so as not to humiliate Brie.But collecting soda tabs is different. It's become a community project.

For months, Brie's aunt, Sylvia Davalos, has asked everyone at her jobs to help. She has put out jars at the 10th Street Wal-Mart, where she floats between departments, and at a local elementary school, where she works a few hours a day as a playground supervisor and instructional assistant.Brie, her boyfriend and assorted friends and family have turned the dining-room table into an assembly line — threading together neon tabs from energy drinks and beers to make what they call "note to self" bracelets. They are thank-yous for donations, but also reminders to keep the tabs coming until the prom project's done.Who knew that tabs came in so many colors, shapes and sizes? That some had holes and some didn't? That a lot had sharp edges that would need to be smoothed out with pliers? That they would all have to be soaked, swished around in sudsy water and then carefully dried to keep them from corroding or oxidizing?

related : Short on Money Choose Cheap Bridesmaid Dresses & Wedding Dresses Online

Georgia student’s yearbook quote could get her banned from graduation

A high school senior in Georgia could be banned from graduation after the fallout following her quote that appeared in the yearbook, according to WSB-TV. Paris Gray is the senior class vice president, a member of SADD and the Beta Club, and a leader on campus. However, she could be kept from walking at graduation next week, according to the report. Gray received in-school suspension and was kept from a senior walk event last week after yearbooks were distributed to students. Inside the yearbook was Gray’s quote. The message read: “When the going gets tough, just remember to Barium Carbon Potassium Thorium Astatine Arsenic Sulfer[sic] Utranium[sic] Phospheros[sic].” However, it’s the abbreviation for those elements that got her in trouble. “I think their reaction was beyond what it should have been because nobody understood it,” Gray told WSB-TV. Gray said the message was not flagged by editors. Gray was told her planned graduation ceremony speech has been canceled. A school district spokesperson says that no final decision has been made. A high school senior in Georgia included a clever quote in the school yearbook. Despite getting approval, her witty humor earned her in-school suspension and could prevent her from graduating. But why is everyone upset about her quote? More check : Wedding Dresses

Yummy mummy Myleene Klass flaunts her curves in a skintight snakeskin print dress

SHE'S spent the last few days in Cannes, so it came as no surprise that Myleene Klass wanted to show off her glowing tan yesterday.



Myleene Klass at the Miss Saigon press night yesterday[WENN/FLYNET]

The mother-of-two arrived for the Miss Saigon press night in London's West End wearing a skintight, snakeskin-print dress from her very own Littlewoods collection.

The £49 dress clung to Myleene in all the right places and showed off her hourglass figure perfectly as she posed with one hand on her hip.

Myleene teamed the skimpy garment with a pair of white stilettos and a simple gold necklace whilst grinning for the cameras.



The 36-year-old star showed off her curves in a dress from her own Littlewoods collection [FLYNET] | Wedding Dresses online

The former pop star wore her hair down in a loose curl and completed her look with bright red nails.

She was accompanied by her manager as she headed inside to watch the revival of the classic musical the Prince Edward Theatre in London.

Also in attendance was actor James Corden and his wife Julia Carey, who is expecting her second child later this year.



Myleene Klass | Beach Wedding Dresses

The Holiday Treasure To Wear Right Now

YOU may not know British label Mochi by name, but you will probably have noticed its colourful designs over the past three seasons. Loved by London girls from Rita Ora to Poppy Delevingne, the collection focuses on "the art of embroidery" - its vibrant palette and rich textures becoming a brand signature. "Each collection is hand-embroidered and produced in the countries that I gain inspiration from," designer and founder Ayah Tabari explained. "Jaipur was made in Jaipur, Thailand in Thailand, Hungary in Hungary and so on. So for me what's important is when wearing the clothes you get a sense of the country in terms of production and in terms of workmanship. Quality is very important to me." Quality - that one might find in a cashmere jumper or crisp cotton shirt - however, does not adequately express the detail and craftsmanship in each piece. Almost couture-grade in their intricacy, the pieces nevertheless ooze a carefree easiness - like the best holiday treasure you ever discovered. "I'm so happy to see women appreciating embroidery and artisan work," Tabari added. "There's a great sense of pride when I see women in my designs. I plan to keep travelling and finding uniquely talented and skilful artisans who will help me produce the collections. I'm always looking for inspiration wherever I am." More information : wedding dresses online | Cheap Bridesmaid Dresses

Ashley Roberts reveals her pins in retro shirt dress as she attends Hugo Taylor's sunglasses launch

She appeared alongside him the twelfth series of I’m A Celebrity back in 2012.

And it seems Ashley Roberts and Hugo Taylor have remained pals as she was spotted supporting him at the launch of his Taylor Morris Collection launch on Tuesday evening.

The former Pussycat Doll dressed to impress for the occasion wearing a sexy shirt dress and in keeping with the eyewear theme, wore a pair of dark rimmed frames.




Ashley’s dress, which showed off her long legs,  had a retro feel to it as it was covered in a dark floral print.

She teamed it with a pair of gold heels which elongated her pins even further, making them appear almost endless as she walked.

Taking to Twitter during the evening she wrote:  ‘At the launch of @TaylorMorrisLDN So proud of my friend @hugo_london .’



Show : Formal Dress && Ashley
Hugo was joined by his former flame and costar Rosie Fortescue, who pulled out all the stops for the occasion.

She wore a pale green dress which not only featured cut-out sections but also sheer panels that helped highlight her slim frame.

Rosie, who is still in Made In Chelsea, teamed it with a pair of white stiletto heels and a fluffy purple handbag.




This month Hugo, who was the brains behind MIC, unveiled the latest sunglasses designs from Taylor Morris Eyewear - which he launched last year with his best friend Charlie Morris.

The brand is already a hit with celebrities - with everyone from Cara Delevingne and Suki Waterhouse, to Rita Ora and even super Sloane, Pippa Middleton stepping out wearing the shades.

Speaking about his range, which is stock exclusively at Harvey Nichols, he said: 'It has been a wonderful and challenging process.




'It’s one thing conceiving an idea or design in your head but totally different to develop the idea into a tangible, beautiful and well-crafted product.

'We have worked tirelessly to ensure every element of Taylor Morris meets our own high standards.

'A millimetre makes a tremendous difference and our glasses have been designed and redesigned several times to produce a final product we are very proud of.'



Also in attendance on the night was presenter Emily Hartridge, who showed off her pins in a flared leather skirt.



Lace Wedding Dress Online Ashley Roberts

She teamed the thigh-skimming look with a long-sleeved lace, top, complete with backless design, and small ankle boots.

Sarah Jane Crawford, who opted for a tiny pair of shorts and blue blouse, later tweeted: 'Well done guys... Loving the eyewear @TaylorMorrisLDN'.

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Marion Cotillard dazzles in sequin encrusted mini dress for Two Days, One Night photo call at the 67th International Cannes Film Festival

When one looks like they have rolled around on the floor of a haberdashery in a mini dress, it shouldn't work, but it does.

Actress Marion Cotillard made a stylish impression in a showstopping sequin encrusted mini dress, which featured a colourful array of shimmering materials for the photo call of Two Days, One Night in Cannes on Tuesday.

The 38-year-old actress looked stunning in her statement dress, matching the look with paired back black open toe heeled boots.



The Oscar winning French actress revealed her deepest desire to the Daily Mail's Baz Bamigboye in Cannes, to play a man on the big screen.

But one onlooker said the actress would never get away with it.

'Not looking as fabulous as she does today in that dress, with those legs', joked Peggy Siegal, one of New York's leading social and fashion commentators.



Marion did indeed look more feminine than masculine in a Sixties-style, disco mini-dress encrusted with jewels, stones and beads which had been created for her by Margiella couture.

The star, who won an Academy Award for her portrayal of singer Edith Piaf in La Vie En Rose, and starred in blockbusters Inception and The Dark Knight Rises, was at the Cannes Film Festival for the gala of her new movie Two Days, One Night.

In the film she plays a woman fighting to retain her job after fellow workers vote for a pay bonus rather than allow her to stay at work.


Picture : Formal Dresses Online Australia

When Margiela creates a dress for you based on their SS14 Couture collection, you’re bound to capture the glare of the fashion world’s beady eye.

And that’s exactly what actress Marion Cotillard did at the photo call of Two Days, One night in Cannes when she dazzled in a multi-coloured gemstone mini dress.

Taking the chance of looking like she’d dipped herself in super glue and rolled around in a bead shop, Marion pulled off the vivacious frock with sophisticated ease.

Playing the edgy card with open toe biker chick black ankle boots and no accessories, we think Marion’s uber cool outfit can be worked into a variety of wardrobes due to its short hemline and youthfulness.

Why not try Pink Soda’s similar multi-coloured embellished dress, available at Bank Fashion for just £35, or Asos’ super fun sequin mini dress now reduced to £26.

Tousle your tresses and slick on some red lipstick to rank high in the glamour-puss charts. You Cannes do it!

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Kacey Musgraves, Katy Perry ‘CMT Crossroads’ Airing in June

Pop superstar Katy Perry and country’s darling and Grammy winner Kacey Musgraves are joining forces for ‘CMT Crossroads,’ and their episode will premiere on June 13 on CMT.

The two singers will share songs and stories, featuring exclusive collaborations of their hits. Included in the mix will be Perry’s hits ‘Roar’ and ‘Teenage Dream’ and Musgraves’ ‘Follow Your Arrow’ and ‘Merry Go ‘Round.’

         

Fromal Dresses && Kacey Musgraves, Katy Perry

Perry and Musgraves’ episode marks the 50th episode of the network’s longest-running music series, making it an especially exciting venture, as both women are stars in their field. In addition to airing on CMT, the episode, for the first time ever, will air on  VH1, MTV, MTV Hits and Palladia.

The episode will be a sneak peek into what fans may see on Perry’s Prismatic Tour, when Musgraves will join her in August.

“I’ve been such a huge fan of Katy and her vision since I found out about her,” Musgraves says. ”And since she’s found out about me she’s been an amazing light and friend to me … In some ways we’re on opposite ends of the spectrum, but in a lot of ways our music makes total sense together. Her songs, while having grit, are so fun and it’ll be a cool challenge to throw a little country on ‘em.”

‘CMT Crossroads’ always makes great collaborations happen, showing that top-quality music knows no boundaries, and country music can create some pretty exciting partnerships. Recently, Dierks Bentley teamed up with OneRepublic and Lady Antebellum took the stage with Stevie Nicks.

Related :  Kacey Musgraves, Katy Perry ‘CMT Crossroads’ Airing in June and Beach Wedding Dresses

Miranda Lambert’s Billboard Dress Gets Rave Reviews

Miranda Lambert made quite a splash at the 2014 Billboard Music Awards on Sunday (May 18) when she debuted ‘Something Bad’ with Carrie Underwood. She also had everyone buzzing about something else — her red carpet dress.

Picture : Pink Bridesmaid Dresses AUS 

The ‘Automatic’ singer showed off her sleek physique in a hot pink mini dress by Georges Hobeika Signature. The sleeveless dress featured a sheer panel down the front, which also showed a glimpse of the abs she’s worked so hard to obtain. Black heels and long, sparkling earrings completed her sophisticated, sexy, and modern ensemble.

Another country starlet also shined on the red carpet — Lambert’s duet partner, Underwood. Her dress approach was quite different, but equally stunning. She wore a floor-length chartreuse Oriett Domenech gown that shimmered with a silver embroidered bodice overlay and Brian Atwood heels. The dress was more low-cut than usual for Underwood, but she still looked utterly classy and jaw-dropping gorgeous.

Both country gals were picked for US Weekly’s Best Dressed Stars list. Other ladies on the list included country newcomer Lucy Hale, Kesha, and John Legend. It’s safe to say that country women can also rock — onstage and on the red carpet.

Find more Dresses && Miranda Lambert’s please check : Lace Wedding Dresses

‘Bachelorette’ Andi Dorfman ‘Devastated’ Over Eric Hill’s Death

While Andi is happy to be on her journey of love, she was completely heartbroken when she heard about the sad death of Eric Hill, the contestant who died in paragliding accident on April 23.


Eric Hill, the 32-year-old adventurer that we will meet on the May 19th premiere of The Bachelorette passed away too soon while doing what he loves — paragliding in Draper, Utah. He competed for Andi Dorfman‘s heart on season ten of the show, and was eliminated a few weeks before the tragic accident. Andi has now revealed how she felt when she found out the horrific news.


Picture : Bachelorette && Bridesmaid Dresses AUS Andi Dorfman Devastated Over Eric Hill’s Death: He ‘Was Part Of Our Family’

“Shock, devastation, grief. It’s something you never could have predicted [or] expected,” Andi told People about her reaction to the news. He “was part of our family, and I had just seen him. He was a member of our cast and we had an inherent bond. The [other contestants] shared that bond too. It was shocking and devastating to all of us and it’s still a tough thing that we’re going through.”


‘Bachelorette’ Premiere Recap: Andi Meets 25 Hot Men & Avoids 1 Stalker | Simple Wedding Dresses

However, she definitely will remember him the way that he wanted to be remembered — a risk taker. Eric loved to travel and was on a mission to hit every country on Earth in under 1,200 days — “The Global Odyssey.”

Juan Pablo Says He Won’t Watch Andi Dorfman On ‘The Bachelorette’

“I will always remember Eric’s love for life,” Andi, 26, said. “People say, ‘Oh he lived life to the fullest.’ But Eric really was the epitome of someone who lived life to the fullest. This man had amazing stories and great experiences. His sense of adventure inspired not only me, but every guy in the house, every producer, every crew member. Everybody says they want to do stuff in their life but he was really doing it.”

So so sad. Eric will not be edited out of the season, but they did pay tribute to him on the premiere. Tune in to The Bachelorette on May 19 at 9:30 PM ET on ABC.

Fashion designer Ruth Tarvydas found dead at East Perth home

 Fashion designer Ruth Tarvydas during the ABC documentary Boomtown. Picture: supplied by ABC Source: Supplied

REBECCA Judd has led tributes to Ruth Tarvydas, as the fashion industry comes to grips with her sudden death yesterday.

Ms Tarvydas, who was aged in her late 60s, was found dead on the street outside her East Perth apartment at about 8am yesterday morning.

WA Police said a report would be prepared for the coroner.

The Australian and global fashion world is reeling after the shock death of the Perth fashion icon.

Ms Tarvydas was best remembered for designing Rebecca Judd’s famous red dress that she wore to the 2004 Brownlow Medal beside now-husband and AFL footballer Chris Judd.

Mrs Judd paid tribute on social media, saying: “you changed my life.”

Born in Lithuania, Ms Tarvydas arrived in Fremantle as a two-year-old with her family, after fleeing post-WWII Germany.

A fashion icon who has been dressing models and celebrities for decades, Ms Tarvydas opened her first boutique in Perth in the 1960s.

She built a global fashion empire that included boutiques in Paris, Malaysia and Sydney.

Her fortunes took a devastating turn last year when her company, RTI, was liquidated, just 12 months after she was forced to close the doors of her high-profile King Street boutique.

She maintained a store in Claremont thanks to the generosity of landlord John Bond.



Mr Bond today said he was deeply shocked and saddened at the loss of Ms Tarvydas.

“She was and remains a founder of high end fashion within Western Australia, and

he work has been embraced worldwide,” he said

“I know that over the past few years Ruth has been under enormous economic pressure, and

suffered a huge blow at having to close her King Street store.

“Nevertheless she worked really hard to solve her financial issues and whenever she came to seek my advice or update me on her plans (including the Paris Fashion Show in July), she was full of determination and always maintained a positive attitude.

“Ruth lived her life inspiring all those around her and will be greatly missed within Western

Australia’s fashion industry. I offer my condolences and support to all of Ruth’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

Ms Tarvydas’ business partner Jeremy Balius spoke to TV crews outside the designer’s apartment block today.

“When I spoke with her yesterday we laughed and talked at length about what the future holds and the bright horizon we could see,” he said

“Our final words to each other were that we felt blessed to have each other in our lives. I’m thankful of the time we had together.”

The Sunday Times reported in December that Ms Tarvydas owed almost $1 million to ANZ bank over the collapse of her business.

A documentary looking at the lives of several prominent West Australians, Boomtown, aired on ABC TV last year and featured Tarvydas’ during her lowest moment when her King Street street was liquidated.

Today series producer Roz Silvestrin said: “Everyone at Electric Pictures who tailed her for a year to film her during her highs and lows is shell shocked.

“Ruth was one of the most talented and generous and caring people we have ever worked with. She was very brave in allowing us to film, not just the highlights in that year but also the lows and challenges and troubles that beset the business.

“At all times she was dignified and very generous and she will be missed. She was such a positive person, even when the chips were down she always said “we’ll come out of this.” She was such a survivor.”

At the time, Ms Tarvydas told The Sunday Times that she hoped the documentary would show her glamorous gowns to a new audience, and encourage new buyers to shell out for a $1000 dress.

Telstra Perth Fashion Festival director Mariella Harvey-Hanrahan said it was a “very sad day for fashion”.

In a statement, Ms Harvey-Hanrahan asked for Ms Tarvydas’ friends and family to be given the privacy to grieve.

“Ruth was a close friend, a hallmark WA designer and aside from this, had the most beautiful genuine heart,” she said.

“Her work will be remembered, as well as her shining personality, and she will be sorely missed by her family and friends, Western Australia and the Festival team.”

Christine Fox, head of Vivien’s model management in Perth, said: “Ruth was one hip, groovy and sexy woman. I loved her eccentricities, her tenacity and her style.

She definitely lit up a room! She was always very encouraging and supportive to me during my career and I will never forget that. Rest in peace beautiful lady. You will be sadly missed.”

Melanie Greensmith, of fashion label Wheels & Dollbaby, said: “Ruth was cool. No one could rock a Luftwaffe captain’s hat quite like her. She was an original.”

Perth Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi said: “She was a Perth treasure.



“Every woman that’s ever worn a Tarvydas gown has felt like a million dollars.

“And I’m sure she still had a lot of designs still in her.

“It is a tragic loss for the industry, for our city and for everyone that knows her.”

Former perth model and friend of Ruth’s for four decades said: “No words can describe it. Ruth was so much more than the clothes and the shows that she was loved for. A passionate and compassionate loving soul. Ruth and Harvey together forever."



Marcia Ball, who runs popular fashion blog Style Voyeur, said she was devastated by Ms Tarvydas’ death.

“She was just such a shining light and such a beautiful person,’’ a distraught Ms Ball said.

“It’s quite hard for the industry. I don’t know why it keeps happening to fashion people at the moment.”

The Perth tragedy comes two months after the death of New York fashion designer L’Wren Scott, whose label hit similarly hard times.

Formal Dress

Winthrop Professor Ted Snell, who was director of John Curtin Gallery at Curtin University when her 40-year retrospective exhibition, House of Tarvydas was held in August, 2008, said:

“I think we have lost a very significant WA designer. She was someone who took WA fashion to an international audience very early on. She was showing in London in the sixties at the height Carnaby Street. She made an excellent contribution very early on.”

Plus Size Wedding Dresses

Denise Cheir, head of public relations at Crown said: “I think one of fashion’s most unique and interesting designers has been lost. She lit a beautiful path wherever she trod.”

Nine News reporter Jerrie Demasi said: “I am just overwhelmed with sadness. Ruth was one of the most kind and gentle souls I have ever known.

“She had this wonderfully bohemian outlook on life that touched so many people. This world isn’t built for that kind of sensitivity. I truly hope she has found peace.”

More Wedding Dresses .

Front Row at Louis Vuitton Resort

Charlotte Gainsbourg, who will star in the French designer’s first fashion campaign for the brand, said she was glad to make the jump from Balenciaga muse to one of the faces of Louis Vuitton. “I was happy Nicolas asked me, that it worked out and to continue... this is of course a new adventure but he’s a friend so there is a bond there,” she said. “There was no separation for me.”

Jennifer Connelly is another fixture of Ghesquière’s inner circle. She was the first to wear one of his Vuitton designs on the red carpet, donning a varnished leather and tweed dress to the New York premiere of “Noah” in March. After co-starring with husband Paul Bettany in a number of films, Connelly worked under his direction in the upcoming “Shelter,” in which she plays a homeless woman. “I didn’t sleep on the streets but I spent a lot of time walking around, meeting people, talking to people,” she said.

Picture : Wedding Dresses

Zipping over from the neighboring Cannes Film Festival by helicopter, Gong Li and Zhang Ziyi barely made it to the Vuitton show on time. As for Brit Marling, who has been in London working with Danny Boyle on the Channel Four series “Babylon,” she combined her trip to Monaco with a writing break.

“I think there’s a reason why so many artists are drawn here — something about the quality of the light,” Marling mused, sitting in a glass box built in front of the Prince’s Palace of Monaco. “I’ve heard this is the first time they’ve done a show [here]. The first and last — so we’re about to be part of an epic moment.”

Find more :  Wedding Dresses Melbourne

Cate Blanchett breaks fashion mould at Cannes

Radiant academy award-winner Cate Blanchett broke the fashion mould with panache at Friday’s How to Train Your Dragon 2 screening at Cannes in a multi-coloured, bejewelled bodice and a chic black pleated floor length chiffon skirt, courtesy of Givenchy.

While Cannes is a mainstay of va-va-voom ball gowns, Blanchett stayed ahead of the fashion pack by thinking outside the box. Her bold look got her noticed for all the right reasons — sapphire chandelier Chopard earrings added a touch of class.

The colourful, tropical plume embellishments on the bust, taken from a fall-winter 2014 ready-to-wear look by Riccardo Tisci, also nicely mirrored the dragon-theme of Dreamworks’ latest animated picture, for which she lends her vocal talents.

Blanchett had plenty of witty replies — a couple on the saucy side — as she answered sometimes wacky questions during a Cannes news conference for the upcoming How to Train Your Dragon 2.

The two-time Oscar-winner got most of the questions at Friday’s event, which also included stars America Ferrera, Jay Baruchel, Djimon Hounsou and DreamWorks co-founder Jeffery Katzenberg.

Red Fromal Dress

Some of the queries were a bit off-kilter: One reporter asked if Blanchett let her children play with her trophies.

“Every morning, mommy sits them down, and I get my two Oscars out and I let them stroke them for 15 minutes before they go to school if they are good,” she said to laughter.

Another reporter mistakenly called her by the wrong prefix. “It’s Ms. Blanchett, not Mr. Blanchett. I’ve played a few men though,” she quipped.

The biggest laughs came when a reporter asked how was “the experience of training your dragon?”

“How do I train my dragon?” she said naughtily. “I don’t know if I want to answer that in public.”

How To Train Your Dragon 2 premiered on Friday at the Cannes Film Festival out of competition.

Man dives under Ferrera’s dress

A man rushed onto the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival and dove beneath actress America Ferrera’s dress.

Wedding dresses online

Security officials quickly pulled the man away as he tried to hide under Ferrera’s voluminous dress before the Friday premiere of How to Train Your Dragon 2.

It was a surprising and rather bizarre development on a red carpet renowned for its strict decorum.

Yet Ferrera didn’t seem ruffled on the carpet and was in good spirits at the movie’s after-party, laughing with guests and taking pictures. She declined comment on the incident, however, and festival organisers didn’t immediately return messages about the matter.

The former Ugly Betty star was on her way into the Palais des Festivals for the world premiere of the DreamWorks animated sequel.

Solidarity with Turkey miners

The stars of the Turkish film Winter’s Sleep are showing their solidarity for those affected by a mining tragedy at home as they promote their film in Cannes.

Picture show : BRIDESMAID DRESSES 

The actors and director held up signs with the hashtag Soma during their photo call Friday for the movie.

Soma is the Turkish city where at least 284 people were killed in a fire in a coal mine, the country’s worst mining accident. There has been an outcry of anger and protests from the public, some of whom blame the government for not taking action to correct alleged safety problems in Turkey’s mines.

Winter’s Sleep, by director Nuri Blige Ceylan, is a family drama starring Haluk Bilginer, Demet Akbag and Melisa Sozen. All four held the signs for photographers on Friday.

Watts: Stop male comparisons

Oscar-nominated Naomi Watts says she’s had enough with female directors constantly being sized up to their male counterparts.

The Impossible star said that “female directors and actresses have a different voice, different stories. It’s not helpful to be compared to men.”

Watts was in Cannes on Thursday night to attend Calvin Klein’s Women in Film alongside Julianne Moore, Lupita Nyong’o and Rooney Mara.

The underrepresentation of women in directorial roles has been a hot topic at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, with Jane Campion — the first female filmmaker to have ever won the Palme d’Or — sitting as jury president.

“Jane Campion is right to say that there’s an inherent sexism in the film industry. But there’s also a lack of women putting themselves forward,” Watts added.

Phoenix’s last film to release

More than 20 years after his death, River Phoenix’s last film is finally getting a release.

Cinemavault announced on Friday that it has sold the North American distribution rights of Dark Blood to Lionsgate. The film has been in limbo since Phoenix died of a drug overdose in 1993. He was in production on the movie at the time.

Dark Blood was left unfinished and most expected it would never see the light of day. Director and co-writer George Sluizer, however, pushed to complete it, despite spending years battling an insurance company that made a claim about Phoenix’s drug use.

In 2012, Sluizer edited together an unfinished version that premiered last year at the Berlin Film Festival. Lionsgate is planning to release the film on video-on-demand. In Dark Blood, Phoenix plays a young widower who retreats to the desert after his wife dies of radiation following nuclear tests near their home.

Weinstein arrives for presentation

Harvey Weinstein’s annual Cannes presentation promoted films featuring a buff Jake Gyllenhaal, a Shakespearean Michael Fassbender and an old-school Bill Murray.

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How to dress Russian -- St. Petersburg-style

(CNN) -- When you think about Russian style, don't think Moscow, think St. Petersburg.

Like the city -- which is crammed with elegant architecture -- the citizens of Russia's fashion capital know how to look good.

Their reputation for being easygoing and adventurous is often expressed in clothing.

Gaudy colors and bad leisurewear aren't the thing in St. Petersburg -- here fashionistas are more likely to mix designer threads with Grandma's castoffs.

But getting the look can take some effort; it requires legwork.

St. Petersburg isn't about grabbing something boring off the peg, its about experimenting.

Best street market

Good street markets are hard to find in St. Petersburg, but a 30-minute subway trip to the northern suburbs takes you to a clothing goldmine where you can find just about anything.

MORE: St. Petersburg's 10 best sights

Udelnaya station, on Line 2, gives its name to Udelka, a nearby market featuring row after row of commercial "secondhand from Europe" outlets.

These are best ignored en route to the main attraction: a huge field where on weekends hundreds of locals gather to sell attic plunder.

Vintage Soviet clothes, furniture, cameras, antiques, musical instruments, vinyl, old military outfits, pins and medals are all on sale -- as are weirder items such as breast enlargers.

Half the sellers are professional rag men, so they're usually able to help in the hunt for something special -- although their definition of special may differ from their customer's.


Best garage sale

A hipper version of Udelka featuring fewer mothballs and considerably more fashionable goods is held regularly in the Loft Project Etagi (74, Ligovsky Prospekt), a cultural center in an old bread factory.

During summer, the monthly "Garage Sale" occupies the whole building, but the best finds can be made in the yard or on the terrace.

MORE: Russia's 10 ritziest hotels

Even if there's no market, it's worth a visit Etagi to check out art and photo exhibitions and cupboard-sized shops such as Milnaya Belka (2/F, Loft Project Etagi +7 812 980 11 66), which sells Russian and Asian designers.

There's also the Green Room (+7 812 458 80 03), a cheap but cheerful café.

Best retro shops

When the markets aren't on, you can still bag a bargain.

Worth a look is St. Petersburg's legendary second hand and clothing rental shop, Off (60 Obvodnogo Canal Quay, +7 8 812 929 92 03).

Run by a pair of extravagant shopkeepers, Off features an extensive collection of Soviet retro and vintage clothes and was favorite with Vladislav Mamyshev-Monroe, a Russian artist and gay rights icon who died last year.

Off is located in a popular loft called Tkachi, where locals come to lay their hands on bicycles, furniture, shoes and musical instruments.

Best place for boots

They're not particularly stylish, but when it comes to handling the St. Petersburg rainy seasons -- all three of them -- it's hard to beat a pair of Soviet gumboots.

These can still be picked up at the vast Red Triangle factory (136 Obvodnogo Canal Quay) that once produced them.

If you're not interested in the boots, it's still worth a trip for a glimpse into St. Petersburg's industrial communist past -- one that's slowly being reclaimed by its capitalistic future.


Best places for designer clothes

Russia's fashion industry is just emerging, but with St. Petersburg is at the forefront it's slowly making a name for itself.

Leonid Alexeev (4, Veselnaya Street, 4, +7 812 322 08 96), the engine of the local fashion scene and one its most productive designers, sells haute couture and pret-a-porter clothes, plus accessories and perfumes.

Another leading light is Tatyana Parfionova (Nevski Prospekt, 51, +7 812 713 14 15).

Parfionova is one the city's most popular designers and while her striking outfits might not protect against the snowy rigors of a Russian winter, they regularly appear on fashion week runways and represent the country abroad.

One of St. Petersburg's youngest and most challenging designers is Asya Malbershtein (Kazanskaya, 5, +7 812 6491699; by appointment only), who specializes in minimalistic leather goods.

Best places for accessories

Sticking with Asya Malbershtein, her accessories can also be found in 8-Store (Dvortsovaya Quay 20), one of several designer outlets in Taigaspace -- a beautiful 18th-century merchant house that also houses creative start-ups.

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Marmeladova buketik (Rubenstein St., 40, +7 812 988 0448) is a somewhat girly outlet named after the heroine of Fyodor Dostoevsky's "Crime and Punishment."

This clothing, accessories and flower shop is owned by a St. Petersburg socialite who, in addition to making the clothes himself, also runs a chic Sixties-style barbershop around the corner.


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Best places to people-watch

For those who have mastered St. Petersburg style, there are plenty of places to show it off.

The best people-watching can be found in the large-windowed cafes on Nevsky Prospekt, a central street that's busy and crowded day and night -- particularly in summer when the day is almost indistinguishable from night.

In the fashionable Rubenstein Street, party animals, foodies and local celebrities can be found mingling among the dozens of bars, upscale restaurants and coffee bars that include Mitte Café (27 Rubenstein St.; +7 812 416 14 16).

A more highbrow scene can be found at the art house foreign language film screenings in the elegant Angleterre hotel (Malaya Morskaya, 24; +7 981 870 7757).

And because this is the city Dostoevsky once called home, there's St. Petersburg's best independent book retailer, Word Order (Fontanka Quay, 15).

Offering more than just books, and surrounded by popular bars such as Produkty (Fontanka Quay 17; +7 812 312-57-54) this tiny shop has long been the unofficial center of the city's intellectual activities and regularly hosts discussions on contemporary Russian cinema, philosophy and media.

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What's your parenting style?

 Every child is different. So is every parent. And there’s no formula to perfect parenting, though a democratic approach to matters of discipline is known to work best, writes Dr Anjali Chhabria.

it is not easy being a parent. It has never been. But in today’s day and age, with a plethora of parenting information at our disposal, it is perhaps all the more challenging. Should you be your child’s friend, whom s/he can confide in? Or should you be the disciplinarian, who ensures that the child is fit to face the many challenges of life? 

Every child is different. So is every parent. What works for one may not work for another. Parenting is a full-time job. There are no breaks, no weekly offs, no vacations. Even when ‘the child’ is 60, parents continue to worry about ‘the boy’s/girl’s wellbeing. 

There are parents – mostly mothers – who feel compelled to keep close tabs on their children. They are called ‘helicopter parents’, as they constantly hover around their little ones and not-so-little ones. The intention may be noble – to prevent the child from any harm or danger – but the outcome can be disastrous. Such children tend to resort to lying to prevent the constant patrolling and often have low self-esteem and trust issues. 

The thing with parenting is that it’s, often, a thankless job. But you make one mistake and the price to pay might be too high. Being an extreme parent - whether too strict or too lenient - can be harmful for your child’s wellbeing. It's important for parents to strike a balance. Most parents fail to understand that there is a difference between assertiveness and aggressiveness. Being aggressive will only make the child either overtly or passively aggressive.

In my opinion, the question of being a tiger mom - wherein the emphasis is always on hyper discipline and achievement - is a complete no-no. Instead, parents must try to understand their children and help them grow into happy, self-sufficient, self-disciplined, independent, successful individuals. It’s best to encourage the child to have goals and dreams, and support them when the need arises.

Parents are the key people who influence a child's development right from the time s/he is in the mother's womb. We have seen the effects of both nature and nurture on children. Research has proved children of the same genetic make up (twins) when kept in different environments grow up to be two very different individuals. Thus, the parenting approach adopted in raising a child is very important, as it will reflect in the child's personality and behaviour as s/he grows up.

Over the years, we have seen parents trying to approach different styles of parenting in order to discipline their child. But often people forget the boundaries of these styles. Let's discuss some parenting styles and their effects on children.

The boss is always right

The mantra: In the authoritarian parenting style, the parents are the boss. They lay down strict rules, which the child is expected to follow. And if the child fails to do so, it would result in punishment.

The ground reality: The child is never made to understand the reason behind the rules; s/he is just expected to follow them without asking any questions. These parents are the ones who maintain their own status as superior to the children. This often results in children following their parents out of fear. There’s often a lack of close, loving relationship between these parents and children. Such kids may look obedient and well-mannered, but usually score low on the emotional quotient.

Who’s the boss, anyway?

The mantra: In the permissive parenting style, parents believe in being more of friend to their child than a parent. They do not expect much in terms of discipline and maturity from their child and just believe in nurturing and communicating more with their offspring. 

The ground 

reality: It’s more of a free relationship between the parent and child. But,  these children are often observed to perform poorly at school. They may also lack self-discipline. To quote Maria Montessori, “The mother who feeds her child without making the least effort to teach him to hold the spoon for himself and try to find his way with it is not a good mother.”

There’s no boss here

The mantra: In the authoritative parenting style, parents set up rules for children to follow, but in a more democratic manner. The rules made are often discussed with the children and parents are willing to listen to any questions the child may have. If the child fails to follow any rule, the approach of the parent is more loving and forgiving.The ground reality: These parents are more assertive than aggressive. Discipline is expected through a supportive method and children are encouraged more towards independence and self-regulation. These children have been observed to be more confident, ethical, happy and successful.

Experts agree that the best way of raising a child is the authoritative parenting style. Such an approach leads to more understanding, trust, love and respect between the children and parents. 

The way we discipline our children will have huge impact on what they become tomorrow. When a child feels that s/he is a valuable member and that the parents genuinely care about his/her thoughts and feelings, the child willingly respects the parents and follows the rules set.

There’s no formula to perfect parenting. But here go a few tips that’ll help you become a better parent:

n  Trust your childn  Listen to your childn  Empathise with your childn  Don't compare your child to othersn  Don't label your childn  Do not force your aspirations on your childn  Reason with your child; don't impose your decisions on him/hern  Respect his/her thoughts and feelingsn  Be there when your child needs you, unconditionallyn  Be a good role model; practise what you preachn  Take interest in your child's life, beside his/her academic performancen  Spend quality time with your childn  Know your child's surrounding (school, teachers, friends and the like)n  Ask for inputs from your child in family discussions

Parenting can be quite overwhelming. But it’s important to stay true to yourself, not get stressed and do your best. And once in a while, it’s good to even give yourself a pat on the back and say, "Great job!"

(The writer is a psychiatrist and founder of Mindtemple) 

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Movie Review: 'Million Dollar Arm' Poor country cousin of 'Slum Dog Millionaire'

Cast: Jon Hamm, Pitobash, Suraj Sharma, Madhur Mittal, Aasif Mandvi, Darshan Jariwala, Lake Bell, Alan Arkin, Bill Paxton, Greg Alan Williams, Allyn Rachel, Tzi Ma;


By Santa Banta News Network | Bridesmaid dresses AUSTRALIA
Director: Craig Gillespie;

Rating: ** 1/2 Based on a true story, `Million Dollar Arm` is a predictable motivating sport film from the Disney stable, made not from the heart, but with economics at its core. Its intention seems to entice and convert youngsters, who have never played the national sport of the United States before. Wonder if they will succeed in striking the right chord.

Having said that, there is something seriously brewing within the baseball community in America. The Americans seem to be going all out of their way to promote their national sport, considering that hardly anyone in India plays baseball.

Films promoting the sport are hitting the marquee. But these films definitely do not seem to rise from randomness.

Late last year, backed by First Pitch: The US-Manipur Baseball Project, Director Producer Mirra Banks' documentary, `The Only Real Game` revealed some startling facts about baseball in Manipur. And now, `Million Dollar Arm` goes a step further to reveal how a reality show conducted in India, helped its promoters identify talent who played for Pittsburgh Pirates.

The film charts the journey of an opportunistic sport agent JB Bernstein's desperate attempt to revive his sinking enterprise, which he operates along with his partner, Ash Vasudevan.

After failing to sign a prominent sports personality they've been courting for over a year, JB hits upon an idea to create a reality contest that will take place in India. They reach out to cricket players and see if they can find a few players who they could groom to become baseball players. This they do with the hope that they would end up with an in-house star.

Easier said than done. Bernstein travels all over India with the help of a keen enthusiastic assistant, Amit, who offers his service "for free` and a retired baseball scout Ray Poitevint, played in classic killjoy fashion by Alan Arkin whose finely tuned ears tell him all he needs to know.

Their labour of love comes to an end when they identify two promising prospects - Rinku Singh and Dinesh Kumar Patil.

What follow is trials and tribulations of the two youngsters who strive for a future. Their story is inter-laced with JB Bernstein's romance and evolution from a hard-core marketing professional to a humane promoter.

Jon Hamm with his perfectly groomed stubble and cocky grin plays the arrogant Bernstein with ease. In fact, it is his romantic pairing with Lake Bell as Brenda the no-nonsense doctor-cum-neighbour that brings out the best in him.

Suraj Sharma, the star of `Life of Pi`, as Rinku Singh and Madhur Mittal, who played the wayward older brother in `Slumdog Millionaire`, as Dinesh Kumar Patil are endearing.

So is Pitobash as Amit. In fact, he tries to ape Irrfan in his style, which is so notable in the pep talk scene, when he goes over the top rolling his eyes and gesticulating dramatically.

Darshan Jariwala as the agent in Mumbai is wasted.

Similarly, Tom McCarthy's script does not do justice to Aasif Mandvi, who plays Ash Vasudevan and Tzi Ma as the rich investor Mr. Chang.

The background score is typical of A.R. Rahman. In fact, the 'aalap' prior to the crescendo music during the climax is a perfect set piece that injects the adrenaline boost. In the otherwise soothing background score, the final piece in Tamil seems to be a hurriedly done short-cut job, which is pretty jarring to the ear.

Visually, Director Craig Gillespie looks at India through the Hollywood prism, representing it as an uncanny bizarre country packed with weird living conditions with locals who unwittingly admit that "Here in India, we do things a little differently", making it look like a poor country cousin of `Slumdog Millionaire`.

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Terrible Personal Hygiene and super star

You'd think that as a celebrity constantly in the public eye, you'd put some effort into at least keeping yourself clean and presentable. These stars don't agree! From phobias of brushing teeth to a general aversion to soap, water or deodorant, you might want to keep these seven Hollywood celebs out of smelling distance.



Robert Pattinson 

 You can tell just by looking at this "Twilight" star that he doesn't exactly smell of roses. RPattz has willingly admitted to his poor personal hygiene in the past, stating that he often doesn't have the time to wash or change clothes among his hectic schedule.

 
 Robert Pattinson 
 He once told a UK tabloid that he only changes sometimes "because it gets to the point where even I can't stand the air around me."

 
 Robert Pattinson 
 Not letting this vampire near our necks anytime soon!

 
Johnny Depp 
 With all of his multi-million dollar movies and publicity events, its understandable that Depp may not have the time to make hygiene his first priority. Several different sources have stated that the A-list actor isn't the biggest fan of showering and can go days without it.

 

Johnny Depp No wonder he fit the role of unwashed pirate so perfectly.
 


====================================================


 Jessica Simpson  

 While this fresh-faced singer and entrepreneur usually has gleaming blonde locks and a glowing complexion, she doesn't fare so well in the dental department. While on the Ellen show, she admitted that while she uses mouthwash and floss daily, she doesn't brush her teeth more than three times a week.
 

Jessica Simpson && Plus Size Wedding Dress AUS
She says " I don't like them to feel too slippery...I'll use a shirt or something. I know it's gross but I always have fresh breath."


Jessica Simpson At least Jess can admit to her bad habit.

 
Matthew McConaughey 
 t's hard to look at rom-com heartthrob Matthew McConaughey the same way after learning that he hasn't worn deodorant in years. He admitted to People magazine that he doesn't "like to smell like someone or something else".

 

Matthew McConaughey 
 Apparently, if his stench gets too overwhelming, he'll just take a shower.

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Taylor Swift Surprises Fan at Los Angeles Children’s Hospital

It’s no secret that Taylor Swift is a charitable celebrity who loves to surprise her fans. This week she once again let her generosity and caring shine by visiting some of her biggest fans at a children’s hospital.

According to the Facebook group ‘Stay Fearless Khloe,’ five-year-old Khloe, a huge Swiftie, is courageously battling cancer. Her family is tracking her brave journey on social media, tagging each post with the hash tags ‘StayFearlessKhloe’ and ‘FaithFamilyandTaylorSwift,’ as encouragement to the little girl and to show how much Taylor’s music means to Khloe during this time.

Taylor decided to pay a visit after learning about Khloe’s battle and her status as major fan. Khloe looks overjoyed in the photos of the ‘Red’ singer visiting the Los Angeles hospital, her smile big and bright in an especially heartwarming picture of the two of them holding a sign that reads, “Today I broke up with my tumor and we are never, ever getting back together!”

This isn’t the first visit Taylor has made to a children’s hospital — or even the second, third, or fourth — but you won’t hear her bragging about it to PR any time soon. The look on Khloe’s face seems like all the encouragement she needs to keep up the acts of kindness.

Take a look below to see more of the sweet photos from that day.

Taylor Swift Wearing Formal Dress



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