Celeb Style: Rachel Bilson's Madewell Lake House Shirt

Plaid is everywhere this summer, a trend that is likely to extend into fall. We don't know about you, but we're kind of digging this laid back, comfy sort of look. Here we have former OC cutie Rachel Bilson stepping out in a casual Madwell Lake House top. Rachel's cutoff shorts dress down the shirt, but according to the Madewell website, all we'd need to dress it back up is a smart jacket and a nice pair of slacks. With the cut of this shirt, we can definitely see its potential.

Personal Shopper: Cassie from Skins' Gold Dress for Anna M

Anna M. wrote, "Hey Outblush! I can't get enough of your site and thought of your personal shopper immediately when I saw this dress on Cassie from the Brit TV show, Skins. The gold dress has the possibility to be so elegant, or just party-all-night like she wears it. I love the gold color, the dropped back, and the embellished neckline and bust. All I could find to send you was this video - hope it isn't too crazy! Thanks so much!"

Anna, try as we might, we couldn't find this dress or a decent copy, but we *did* find some other cute, short gold cocktail dresses. Let us know which one you like!

1 - Jovani Gold Sequined Short Dress ($500)

2 - Scala Gold Short Prom Dress (Style #19873) ($198)

3 - ABS by Allen Schwartz Illusion Yoke Sequin Shift Dress ($360)

4 - Aidan Mattox One-Shoulder Sequin Mini Dress ($295, available for pre-order)

5 - Anjali Kumar Sexy Gold Cocktail Dress ($250)

Frustrated in your search for that perfect leather handbag, red stiletto pump, or whatever makes your heart go thump in the night? Send us a request and we might do the shopping work for you in a future Personal Shopper feature!

Sagaform of Sweden Club All-Purpose Wine Glasses

Maybe we're clumsy (shaddup), but wineglasses with delicate, spindly stems always make us nervous that we'll shatter it with one accidental squeeze. Sagaform of Sweden's pleasingly chunky, graphic Club All-Purpose Wine Glasses ($35) might be just what the doctor - and our minibar - ordered. The thick-walled glasses and sturdy tinted stems are easy to hold, and pleasing to the eye. What's not to like?

See more colored wine glasses.

Too Faced Leopard Love Complexion Perfection

We were already fans of Too Faced Pink Leopard Powder for its sallow complexion-banishing powers, so when we found out about their new set, Leopard Love Complexion Perfection ($30), we nearly had a case of jungle fever. Two new shades of Leopard powder, one blusher and one bronzer, compliment the original allover glow-inducing Pink Leopard. Rawr!

See more skin brightening powders.

Love Hurts Decal

Girl meets boy. Boy brings girl flowers. Girl hits boy over the head with a baseball bat. My how the tables have turned!

The Love Hurts Decal ($7) - just the kind of icing your computer needs.

Culture Club: Composition VII Hat

We're afraid the Composition VII Hat ($35) teeters between so-weird-it's-cute and so-busy-it's-ugly in our minds. At least it has real retro flair and a ton of great colors. Swooping lines, crazy colors and a big bow are a challenge for most of us, but we think the right zany gal could pull this one off.

Composition VII is one of Wassily Kandinsky's most famous paintings. Painted in 1913, in Munich, Germany, this is one of the biggest productions of his Compositions. In his attempt to reach a state of "pure painting," Kandinksy tried to translate the essence and emotional impact of music into abstract visual art. Read up on his journey of fusing color theory, music theory and spiritualism in his manifesto, Concerning the Spiritual in Art.

Personal Shopper: Paper Anniversary Gifts for Catherine's Husband

Says Catherine: "HELP! My first anniversary is coming up and I don't have any idea what to get my husband. We decided to go with the traditional categories for anniversary gift with the 1st one being paper. We give each other art posters pretty regularly and I thought about tickets to a game or concert but again, we attend one of those once a month so it doesn't seem special at all. Any idea? We said we'd keep gifts to the $50-60 range. I only have 2 weeks to find a gift."

Marian the Contrarian, at your service! Catherine, I've always loved the anniversary gift categories, and this one in particular should be a lot of fun. (There's something magically DIY about it.) First off, I'm sure you're aware that the "traditional" and "modern" anniversary gift lists take decades and then some to match up. While paper is the traditional first anniversary gift, clocks are the modern choice, and you could cover both bases (and get a big smile) with this 1) paper clock kit ($12). It arrives looking like a book (with a preface by Isaac Asimov, no less!) but once it's cut to bits, it becomes a working timepiece.

Is there anywhere that the two of you have wanted to go together? An 2) atlas (this one from Rand McNally is $36) could convey a romantic promise of future travel - even more so if there were (paper) tickets tucked inside. And to finish up with the books, since your remark about posters suggests that you and your husband enjoy art, Out of Nothing ($34) collects photos of paper sculptor Peter Callesen's works, like 3) this one.

If you have the time or inclination to set this up, there are also these 4) paper streamers that magicians use ($11) - you know, the really really long multi-colored ones that coil up really tiny and sort of burst out into the air? That would be a great way to start your celebration, don't you think?

Do you know a few simple origami patterns, or can you take a few minutes on the sly and learn some? (This site has traditionally lovey options like hearts and flowers, but plenty of other things as well - you might be able to find something of special significance to you both.) Give the origami an extra twist by making them from 5) edible paper ($6 a pack), written or drawn on with edible ink (included with paper).

The challenge of getting a great paper gift together, of course, is that most of the paper products we use regularly are sort of . . . cheap. And not very interesting. But you could still top off the package with a collection of little, but thoughtful, things: 7) pocket tissue packs (8 for $3), a 8) quirky deck of playing cards ($4 for this one, featuring cover art from Beatles singles), and a really nice letter. Folded into 9) a paper airplane.

Keep yourself safe from paper cuts, Catherine, and have a lovely anniversary!

Personal Shopper: Blue Fairy Dresses for Emily

Emily J. wrote in with one of the more intriguing requests we've had: "Hi! I have been a long time fan of outblush and have really enjoyed seeing the personal shopper posts. I wasn't sure what I would ever request help on...until today! I was recently cast in a local musical production of Pinocchio and am searching for a bright blue party dress that would work for my role as the Blue Fairy. I would also love the dress to be able to work for a few upcoming late summer/fall weddings. Your help would be very much appreciated! I am usually a size 14 in dresses and looking to spend around $150 (or less!). Thank you for considering my random request, Emily"

Janetor here: Hmmm, interesting, Emily! According to Google, this is what the Blue Fairy looked like in the original Disney movie. I wasn't sure how true-to-stereotype your director would want you to look, so here's a mix of short and long dresses that could work on stage, with accessories and props, then double duty as wedding/party guest dresses down the line. Let us know which one you like!

1 - J. Crew Silk Chiffon Twist-Tank Dress in Hazel Blue ($100 on sale)

2 - Alex Evenings Ruched Mesh Gown with shawl ($136)

3 - JS Collections One Shoulder Mesh & Jersey Gown ($118 on sale)

4 - Honor Gold Draped Back Belted Maxi Dress ($54 on sale)

5 - MaxStudio Pleated Babydoll Dress ($38 on sale, only left in size L)

6 - J. Crew Silk Chiffon Juliet Dress in Blue Sapphire ($130 on sale)

Frustrated in your search for that perfect leather handbag, red stiletto pump, or whatever makes your heart go thump in the night? Send us a request and we might do the shopping work for you in a future Personal Shopper feature!

Gifted: Lovely Little Things to Knit and Crochet

The handmade revolution has born a new generation of hip knitters, and Mags Kandis has something for everybody in her book, Gifted: Lovely Little Things to Knit and Crochet ($16). Combining felting and embroidery with traditional knitting, Kandis teaches us how to make wearable accessories with smart little embellishments. Personally, we have our eye on these fuzzy bangles for Fall.

Hem Gems

Brilliance alert! We're about to change life as you know it for you ladies who rock legs on the shorter side (and those of you who prefer to buy your pants l-o-n-g to accommodate heels). Hem Gems ($20) are stylized pins that allow you to temporarily hem your pants without having to pay a tailor or forgo the instant gratification of getting pants the right length off the rack. Available in rivets or pyramid studs, these packs of 8 allow you to tack up each pant leg securely to keep your pants from skimming the ground.

BC Anchors Aweigh

We had to take a second look at these Anchors Aweigh ($42) from BC. They're like a shoe/sandal hybrid. Not quite open toe, but they'd definitely be cool and breezy. We think they'd make an adorable transition shoe - how cute would some colorful tights or socks be with these babies in fall?

You're A Horrible Person, But I Like You

Comedians offering us life advice? This we had to read. You're a Horrible Person, But I Like You: The Believer Book of Advice ($10) left us gasping for breath on the floor at the "advice" written by Amy Sedaris, Sarah Silverman, Judd Apatow, Harold Ramis, Michael Cera, and Zach Galifinakis, among others. Wanna get to a man's heart? Bone saw through the chest cavity, duh. How to tell your dad you're a lesbian? Give Fred Armisen the phone number, and he'll do it for you. We could go on, but we don't want to spoil it for you. Just... buy it. Trust us.

See more bad advice books.

Vintage Coat Rack Jewelry Stand

What a cute idea! This Vintage Mini Coat Rack Jewelry Stand ($13) is a unique, novel way to display your favorite baubles, and is sure to invite plenty of compliments. But, there's only one available, so if you miss out, you can still snag a similar piece here for $28.

See more jewelry stands.

Personal Shopper: A Smile for Susie Sourpuss

We realize that there are few things that all our readers will agree on in terms of things that melt their butter, turn them on, or ring their bells... hell, even puppies and candy can bring dissenters. However, there may be, just may be one thing that will please every woman on the planet, not to mention all of our spectacular readers... the Big O.

It is in that spirit that we dedicate this Personal Shopper feature to Susie Sourpuss, Crabby Customers, Negative Nellys and yes you, our already fabulous and joyous readers who simply need a great new toy.

Note - Those of you not working in super sexually liberal offices might want to careful when opening links in this here post.

Delight ($78).
Ophoria Bliss 3 ($90).
Fun Factory Patchy Paul II ($55).
Jimmyjane Little Something ($275).
California Exotic Novelties Cyclone ($50).
LELO Ina ($159).
Ella Deep Rose Premium ($30).
Trinity Pocket Bunny ($7).
Vibratex Magic Wand ($36).

Art to Go Bag

OB fanatics, you've probably already figured out that some of us are Art History nerds. If you haven't put the puzzle pieces together yet, here you go: we think the Art to Go Bag ($150) is super sweet, in that sexy librarian kind of way. Thirty assorted slides of objects in the Getty's collection line the walls of this bag, so it's like we're in a museum all day.

We'd do an Eye Spy style Culture Club on this one, but too bad, so sad, we can't quite make out the individual images.

Princess Leia Apron

We're pretty sure every guy wants his lady to dress up like Slave Leia at some point, but a) we don't all have the body of a young Carrie Fisher and b) even if we did, a metal bikini? No thanks. Fulfill the fantasy in the simplest way possible with the Princess Leia Bikini Apron ($25) . He can't complain - you're putting in a little effort and cooking, damnit!

Antenn-aids

Sometimes being an early adopter bites you in the ass, as with the iPhone 4's antenna issues. Hey! You have a cool new phone, but only hold it this way otherwise it's a pricey paperweight. If you're not keen on the free case Apple is giving away to iPhone 4 users, here's a much cuter solution: Antenn-aids ($5) are a pack of 6 colorful stickers that work to improve the reception on the 1Phone 4's antenna. Very tongue in geek cheek.

J. Crew Dolmina Shirt-Jacket

J. Crew has this uncanny ability to interpret runway trends in a way that us real women can actually wear and not feel like an overdressed idiot. Case in point? This Dolmina Shirt-Jacket ($138). Similar to the slouchy silk pieces seen on runways for fall '10, but with an elastic waist to give it more shape and definition, this mossy brown silk top will look good on a variety of figures. Add a ribbon or belt at the waist, and wear it over a simple cami and pencil skirt for a vintage librarian-inspired vibe, or pair with jeans and flats for weekend brunches.

Kat Von D Adora True Romance Eyeshadow Palette

Kat Von D, tattoo artist and reality star extraordinaire, isn't exactly known for her shy, retiring personality and personal style. It comes as no surprise, then, that her makeup line is known for ink-intense pigments and serious glam. If you're ready to tap into your inner bad grrrl, but are a little afraid of getting tats done (owwie!), the limited edition True Romance Eyeshadow Palette in Adora ($34) could be just what you're looking for. Eight shades ranging from icy white & silver to deep, glittery maroon and black give you an intoxicating amount of possible eye shadow looks.

See more smoky eye shadow palettes.

Shocking Pink Rosebud Grosgrain Ribbon

Yeah, yeah, when it comes to a gift it's the thought that counts. But the gift itself isn't entirely insignificant. And even the packaging can matter a little - so we're taking a break from starlet-priced couture to suggest a very small, very affordable item. A little less than $4 will get you five yards of this adorable shocking pink rosebud grosgrain ribbon, which should make all those who receive gifts from you pause a little before opening them to make happy vowels. And that's what all good wrapping should do.

Personal Shopper: Dangly Feather Earrings for Alena

Alena wrote, "I love your site so much, and check it everyday! I was wondering if you could help me out with something. I have an obsession with dangling feather earrings, but sadly I have only been able to find one pair that I really like, and they are starting to fall apart. I've looked in countless stores and on the internet but I can't seem to find that great a selection. I would love it if you guys could help me out! Thanks so much, Alena"

Alena, Janetor here: We must be birds of a feather (heh, sorry), because I *heart* dangly feather earrings, be they actual feathers or metal/gem ones. They're perfect for those boho chic outfits worn with long, wavy hairstyles - and look phenomenal on chiquitas with pixie cuts, like me! Here are six pairs of my favorites, hope you like 'em!

1 - Peacock Feather Earrings ($13)

2 - Forever 21 Feather Strand Earrings ($4, in 3 colors)

3 - Urban Posh Blair Apatite Quartz Earrings ($50)

4 - Jeweled Feathers Earrings ($20, in 3 colors)

5 - CC Skye Gold Feather Earrings ($125)

6 - Campise Feather Earrings ($75)

Frustrated in your search for that perfect leather handbag, red stiletto pump, or whatever makes your heart go thump in the night? Send us a request and we might do the shopping work for you in a future Personal Shopper feature!

PenFelt Badges

We're anticipating the military trend to stay strong this Fall, and PenFelt Badges ($20) are a softer take on the stylized armor, metallic epaulets and hard-lined tailoring. Ya know, not everyone can wear a big double breasted military jacket without looking masculine, so tame the hard edges of this trend with some soft felt.

Astroglide

If you've never had the immense pleasure that comes from a little extra slip and slide in your bedroom antics, that needs to change - ASAP! Don't believe us? Try it for yourself! Astroglide (FREE) is so sure your world will be rocked, they're giving you some - for free! Your sample will arrive in four to six weeks and Astroglide suggests you "use that time to do some serious endurance training."

Maxine Gown

We keep finding ourselves struggling with the bridal shower dilemma - we want to get our bestie something that'll make her feel like a sexy knockout, but we don't want to give Aunt Mildred the shock of her life when the bride-to-be opens a barely there nightie. The Flora Nikrooz Maxine Long Gown ($59) is a good compromise, since it's sure to make the honeymooners smile without making anyone at the afternoon tea bridal shower avert their eyes.

Nina Ricci Jackie Sunglasses

Every woman deserves to feel as put together as Jackie O. Recreated from Jackie Kennedy's 1978 model, the Nina Ricci Jackie Sunglasses ($102) are minty fresh. Look like an instant classic with these cool gray tinted lenses and silver striped arm.

Culture Club: Baldessari Wrong Eraser

Say "oops" without saying anything with the hilarious Baldessari Wrong Eraser ($5). We wish there was some game show buzzer sound effects to go along with this fun piece, but that's just asking to much. We need a giant eraser for giant mistakes.

If you didn't know, John Baldessari is an iconic artist with a major sense of humor. This eraser references his photo Wrong c. 1967, which is being shown in John Baldessari: Pure Beauty on view at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art through September 12th. Famous for making fun of art theory in his works, he often uses photography and text to get his point across.

Today Is The Day

It's true folks - Today Is The Day ($20).

Let's rock it out!

Personal Shopper: Newbie Camping Wear for Rocio

Rocio says, "Hey Outblush! I'm having trouble with this myself, so I thought I'd see what you guys can come up with: My bf invited me to a Michigan camping trip with him and his fam in August, but the closest I've ever come to camping is staying in a Holiday Inn Express. Knowing I can't bring along my sundress/wedges summer staples, I was just going to settle on packing my workout/yoga wear, but do you have any other camping-friendly clothing ideas? Thanks so much for your help!"

Janetor here: Rocio, your workout gear should work fairly well, so long as you've got long pants and long-sleeved tee shirts - if you're tromping around the forest, long pants will help protect you from bugs (i.e ticks) and foliage. Lightweight, lighter colored layers will suit best, as will a pair of hiking sneakers and a light jacket for nighttime.

1 - REI Women's Ultra Light Jacket ($119, in 6 colors)

2 - Totem Graphic Crewneck T-Shirt ($15 on sale)

3 - Royal Robbins Kick Back Crossover T-Shirt ($26, in 5 colors)

4 - Eddie Bauer Mercer Fit Cargo Pants ($50 on sale, in 3 colors)

5 - The North Face Paramount Peak Convertible Pants ($45-65, in 3 colors)

6 - Vasque Women's Opportunist Light Hiker ($80)

Frustrated in your search for that perfect leather handbag, red stiletto pump, or whatever makes your heart go thump in the night? Send us a request and we might do the shopping work for you in a future Personal Shopper feature!

Golden Girl: Sippin' Seat Flask Stadium Seat Cushion

Us girls can't be the only ones boozing it up on the sly around here, so we're getting the boys in on the action. The Sippin' Seat Flask Stadium Seat Cushion ($35) allows you to sneak take 36 ounces of your favorite tasty bev into a concert, sporting event, camping trip or any place you need a seat and a drink! Not only is it convenient but it's also comfortable, durable and will hold up to 300 pounds. Sorry guys, it won't enhance your package like the Wine Rack, but it will get you drunk!

This Is Why You're Fat (And How to Get Thin Forever): Eat More, Cheat More, Lose More--and Keep the Weight Off

We'll admit it - Jackie Warner scares us. Have you seen those abs, or the way she trains her clients? She's intense, result driven and fierce, so when she writes a work-out/ diet book, we're paying attention! This Is Why You're Fat (And How to Get Thin Forever): Eat More, Cheat More, Lose More--and Keep the Weight Off ($15) is an amazing book aimed at providing you with tools to drop pounds and inches fast without grueling workouts or deprivation. You'll undergo a nutritional makeover and learn a condensed workout routine for maximum results. Cheating is allowed and there are no crunches - we're sold!