All I want for Christmas…

Is an iPhone.

Seriously, I need one.  Yeah, there are other options out there, such as the Droid by Google, but nothing comes close to competing with the iPhone’s abilities.  The apps alone would make my life a thousand times less complicated.  I mean, I am asking for a Garmin GPS anyways, so why not just give me a phone that has GPS capabilities?  Another plus: The weight of my purse would dramatically decrease–since I would be able to scrap my iPod, planner and almost everything else.  

There’s only one problem: I’m on the Sprint network.  Sadly, the iPhone hasn’t merged with any other carriers yet, which is just one of the larger obstacles when it comes to persuading my parents to make the cell phone purchase.  I keep telling them that we’ve got to focus on the positives, like the internet accessibility, Microsoft capability, ect.  Another key point is that I am a journalism major who needs to take advantage of every outlet of social media available–HELLO, iPhone.  I mean GQ came out with a subscription app for only $2.99, how legit is that.  And, and a celebrity app allows you to put your face on the cover of hundreds of magazines and even forward the fake publication to others.  With my complicated life I need all the help there is out there–I know there’s an app for that.

Despite my constant begging, I will be shocked if my parents cave on this one.  Therefore, I may as well start to enjoy all the clutter in my life and continue to experience the rush of jealousy I feel when classmates pull out their iPhones.  Let’s just hope Santa can pull through on this one.

After all, I’ve been nothing but good this year. =)

XOXO,

Clara

New Moon Movie Review

The second Twilight film was by far better than the first–thanks to Jacob Black of course.  I drug one of my friends along who was not a big fan of the series and she ended up thanking me for making her go.  The story line was exciting and the cliff hanger at the end will leave you craving even more werewolves and vampires.  Let’s just say I cannot wait for Twilight: Eclipse to come out.  I highly recommend you all going to see it.  It isn’t the highest grossing movie right now for nothing!

Team Jacob all the way.

photo courtesy of Google

XOXO,

Clara

Twilight Mania

November 20th may not be a significant date on your calendar, but for a majority of teenage girls it’s right up there with Christmas. Tonight at midnight is the premiere of Twilight:New Moon.  So once again Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart fans can come reunite and rejoice for the sequel to the box-office-breaking original film.  Now, I know I am not the most legit Twilight fan–I haven’t read any of the books and waited until the first one came out on DVD before I saw it–but I gotta admit, I liked the first movie.  The Cullin Family and Co. have drawn more than just blood–their fans are right up there with the Happy Potter stalkers.

After watching that trailer how can you tell me you aren’t enthused?  Edward ditches Bella and Jacob is a wolf–who knows what else is to be unveiled by New Moon?  All i have to say is the movie better be good.  With all the hype surrounding it and the vampires’ ever-growing fan base, they need to come through for their viewers.

I won’t be scrambling to the theaters tonight, but this weekend I will definitely be making an appearance to catch the new Twilight film.  I have to show support for my boys: Edward and Jacob.

Half moon, full moon, old moon, what?

XOXO,

Clara

Q&A: Melissa Dukovac

 

image courtesy of People Magazine

 

Since my blog is about pop culture and I am a magazine journalism major, I decided to try and track down someone to interview from one of my favorite publications, “People Magazine.”  Through my aunt who works for Bernstein and Rein, I somehow got in contact with Melissa Dukovac, an account manager for “People.”  Thank god for connections, right? Because her job is immersed in the world of entertainment and celebrity news, I felt she was more than qualified to appear on the pages of “Dirty Pop.”  Here’s how it went down:

Q: What is your job title and what do you do for “People Magazine”?
A: I am an account manager for people and I sell advertising into the pages of “People.”  I have everything to do with the advertising.

Q: What is special about “People Magazine” and what do you pride yourself on by being a account manager for the publication?
A: ”People Magazine” is a distinct brand within the celebrity coverage category.  We don’t publish on rumor and speculation.  What a lot of people don’t know is that “People” got its start through “Time Magazine.”  Originally, it was a page within “Time” called the “People Page.”  ”Time Magazine” tested it, and here we are 35 years later.  ”People” is still held to the same level of credibility as Time, so we have to make sure we have the story right.  Of course there are going to be rumors, but unless proven and fact-checked, they won’t be published.  ”People” may have some ideas on some things that are going on, but they can’t be published unless confirmed.

Q: Do you have an idea of what the cover story is going to be before the issue has gone to print so you can pick ads and place them accordingly?
A: It goes along the same lines as the separation of church and state.  The advertisers are not aware of who is on the cover–it’s very secret and breaking news when it hits the stands.  We don’t want other magazines to steal our cover story.  So who is on the cover does not affect what ads we put in the issue.  Sometimes we do get a slight heads-up when “People” is paying for baby photos.  News about “People” purchasing Britney Spears’ baby photos was released to the public, but we still weren’t allowed to put it in writing.  Sometimes we have a glimpse of what the cover may be, but we can’t say a word.

Q: Are there certain ads or advertisers that “People Magazine” tries to include in its issues?
A: Well, 70 percent of “People” readers are women, so the ads usually cater more to females.  We have to target everybody though.  If you are into celebrity entertainment, you read “People Magazine.”  That goes for men and women.

Q: Have you noticed any trends in ads throughout “People Magazine’s” 35 years?
A: The trends are mainly Middle-America, and for the most part consumer package goods.  Some of the big names include: Coca-Cola, P&G, and Kraft.  We reach everybody, so it’s really a broad range of ads that have been published throughout the years.

Q: Can you give me a scoop on any celebrity gossip?
A: Nothing comes to mind as of right now.  We didn’t have an edit call last week, so I didn’t get any new information.  Our next meeting is on Friday.  For the most part, it’s like the magazine cover—it’s always a secret.  And when you see it in “People,” you know it’s true.

Until next time,

XOXO-
Clara

Single= Uh Oh.

I feel that it is my duty as a well-informed user of social media, (thank you journalism courses,) to share with you the Youtube video that has provided me with plenty of laughs the last few weeks.  I find myself watching this clip every time it pops up on my Facebook mini-feed, which is often, and sharing it with my friends to provide a 38 second break from the fact that we’re in class.  With nearly two million hits on this particular video upload–there are several versions of varying lengths–it is obvious I’m not the only one laughing.  Although I must admit, I may have contributed to 80 or so of those video views.  OK, now 81.

A valiant attempt of  reenacting Beyonce’s “Single Ladies” video, comes the video accurately titled “Single Ladies Gone Wrong.”  Now I know Kanye West argued that the video was the best of 2009 during the MTV Music Awards, but that doesn’t mean everyone should go around attempting to remake that dance routine.  Case in point, a masked woman and friend who tried their hand, and body, at the video’s moves.  All was going fine until… let’s just say the Bozo mask may have inhibited the wearer’s vision.

Don’t worry, I did the actual work of searching for Youtube clip for you–see below.  Just know if you don’t at least chuckle, well, that says something about you my friend.  For reference on how the Single Ladies dip should actually go, check out Beyonce’s hit video.

Enjoy!
XOXO,

Clara

Movie Review: Couples Retreat

image courtesy of Google

Deciding against the newest Saw movie, and not up for waiting until Nov. 20th to see Twilight: New Moon, I decided to check out the fun-loving comedy–Couples Retreat.  Starring big names such as Vince Vaghn and Kristen Bell, the film included plenty of laughs to keep my attention.  

The basic story line revolves around four couples who are experiencing different levels of relationship stress–some well aware of their struggles–others not.  You have the recently divorced, now dating a girl half his age couple, the waiting for the kids to graduate high school so we can split up couple, the too busy to pay attention to your partner couple, and the too perfect for each other so we find reasons to fight couple.  As you may have predicted, they all wind up going on a couples retreat together.  Filled with bonding activities from sexual yoga training, massage rub-downs, and of course relationship therapy sessions, soon enough all the partners realized they had some problems of their own.

After one partner wanders off to the neighboring singles retreat, the others are forced to go and find her.  Along the way, the remaining members hit some bumps in the road that help knock the sense into them.  I’m not going to give away the ending, but… let’s just say I was happy.

Take a sneak peak at the movie’s trailer below:

Be sure to check it out while it’s still at theaters or to Redbox it when it comes out on DVD.  I promise, you won’t be disappointed.

XOXO,
Clara

Get your bird on–literally.

 

image courtesy of Juicy Couture

Juicy Couture’s newest collection, Bird, defines casual luxury with their more fitted and sophisticated pieces.  Unlike the embellished sweatsuits, graphic t-shirts and cute purses you’ve grown to expect from Juicy, Bird brings something entirely different to the table.  For the most part, Bird sticks to darker hues like black and gray–targeting and luring in and entirely different demographic of shoppers.  Tailored jackets, metallic jumpsuits, and cutout cashmere tops are just a few of their key ensemble selections.  

Unfortunately, Bird’s boost in quality and style results in higher prices.  The line’s jackets average around $500, and those sultry tops, just under $300.  But trust me, you’re definitely getting the bang for your buck.  For the inside scoop of everything Juicy, subscribe to their blog.  And, if your local mall department stores like Nordstrom or Macy’s don’t carry Juicy Couture’s new Bird line–order online from their website.  Take a peak at their collection courtesy of Nylon TV below:

So go ahead and flap your wings and purchase some Bird of your own.
I’m going to start saving up now!

XOXO,
Clara

Fall fashion frenzy

I think it’s safe to say that fall is here.  If the 40 degree Fahrenheit temperatures aren’t enough of a reality check, then the overdose of Ugg boots and Northface jackets on the street should do it for you.  Luckily, I’m here to give you tips on fashionable fall trends that not only look good, but keep you warm.  

Get spotty 
Leopard spots are everywhere right now.  Boots, jackets, scarves–you name it and it comes in spots.  Take caution: don’t wear too much of this feline pattern, or you will be caged by the fashion police.

 

 

Express jacket $59.50

 

 

Rep MJ

 Military jackets a la Michael Jackson are a must for the fall.  Perfect for layering and adding a bit of punk to your style, these jackets can replace your not-so-cute Columbia fleece. 

Bright lights
Don’t be shy and add some color.  As tempting as it is to stick to shades of black, brown and gray in the fall and winter, don’t be scared to throw some lime green or raging red in the mix.  A bright orange scarf and gloves will make you stand out on that walk to class in the single-digits. 

Go grandma
Come on you know cardigans are sexy.  And with the various styles and patterns that are available right now the extra layer for added warmth will surely be a hit.  Take your summer dresses and add a cardigan for the fall and you are set.   

 

 

Forever 21 leopard leggings $17.80

 

Show some leg
And by leg, I mean leggings.  With embellished styles with zippers and studs, to “jeaggins” or jean leggings, there are plenty of ways to change-up your style.  Pair with a cute pair of heels and a long sweater and you’re set for your night out.

Go big or go home
Let your outfit speak for you by adding some statement jewelry.  Oversized beaded necklaces and ginormous stud earrings are a must for completing your autumn ensemble.

So don’t find yourself out in the cold when it comes to fashion this fall.  Follow these tips and you’ll be guaranteed a compliment or two during your next public outing.  Remember, the key word is moderation.  So please don’t try and be ultra-trendy by wearing all of these suggestions at once–that would be a fashion-no.  

Stay fine in ’09.

XOXO,
Clara 

P.S. On a budget?  No worries.  Forever21 is my one-stop shop for the latest fashion necessities.

Someone’s short on gossip

photo courtesy of thecw.com

 

It may the show’s switch from the high school to college scene, or it may be that Gossip Girl‘s all out of gossip–either way something is to blame for the hit television series slumping viewing rates.  Those who used to be Blair’s loyal followers, (like myself,) are ditching the prep scene for shows like Dancing With the Stars or are just over the NYC social scene altogether.  For me, catching up the cast on Mondays at 7 p.m. just isn’t possible anymore thanks to my JMC 059 class at 6-7:50 p.m.  But, I am still a loyal viewer and keep up-to-date with Georgina’s shenanigans and Chuck’s latest conquests by watching the full episodes online.  

New guest actress, Hilary Duff can hopefully add some juice to the series by bringing even more drama to NYU.  God knows I’ll be even more of a gossip fanatic because of her addition.  New romances such as Nate’s swooning of Bree Buckley, Jenny’s new beau Damien, and Vanessa’s love interest for Dan’s supposed half-brother will add some much needed dimension to the show.  Chuck’s new hotel purchase could pull in even more characters and story ideas to the show and Blair’s plummeting social status is proving to be an interesting ride.  Tyra Banks even plays the role of a movie star in Monday’s episode.  Spoiler: if you want an even bigger scoop check out the Gossip Girl Insider site.

I have faith that the CW’s hit show will regain their fans and be back on top ASAP.  One thing’s for sure, I know that I’m as hooked as ever.

photo courtesy of thecw.com

Long live forever Gossip Girl.

 XOXO,
Clara

To the hills and beyond!

photos courtesy of mtv.com

So, tonight was MTV’s premiere of The Hills and The City, and I’ve gotta say, I’m slightly let down.  The warm L.A. breeze just isn’t as refreshing without Lauren Conrad causing a ruckus, and Whitney’s fashion line ambitions seem rather reminiscent of LC’s once upon a dream.  There are also several new catty stars on the west and east coast that are guaranteed to cause enough drama for one 20 minute show a week.  Oh, and prediction: Kristen Cavallari turns everything upside-down, oh wait–she already has.

Positives:
-Oliva got a job at Elle magazine (I’m so jealous), although she is completely unqualified and argumentative.
-Justin Bobby still has his hott ride.
-The commercial advertising for both premieres was quite classy I’ve got to admit. MTV is stepping it up a bit.

The question of how fake the “reality” t.v. shows are is yet to be answered.  Rumors are flying around of how the The Hills has been scripted for seasons now, but that has never stopped viewers.

If you missed the premieres, there’s no need to fret because you can watch all of the episodes online.

I’ll update soon,

xoxo,
Clara