Friday, July 13, 2007

Can Beckham bend his charisma to fit the U.S.?

Is David Beckham U.S. Superstar Material?
Tiger Woods has it. So does Arnold Schwarzenegger and George Clooney. Mickey Mantle certainly had it. And Magic Johnson still does. It's charisma, and you can't manufacture it, bottle it or buy it. It seems you're just born with it. David Beckham had it in his native England. But is it transferable to America? And, if it is, does he have enough of it to outshine other mega-celebrities in L.A. and lift the fortunes of an entire sport that Americans never have embraced at the professional level? Pele, perhaps the best soccer player the game has ever known and a charismatic figure, couldn't do it. He arrived in the United States in 1972 amid much hoopla. Three years later, after he led the New York Cosmos to a North American Soccer League championship, Americans saluted his effort and talent. Then they got back to watching baseball, football and basketball. Time will tell with Beckham, who makes his American debut with the Los Angeles Galaxy at a practice Monday. But there are reasons the 32-year-old midfielder could succeed that have nothing to do with soccer: He's handsome, he's got a superstar wife (Victoria "Posh Spice" Beckham) who seeks and attracts attention, and he's got endorsements that will put his image in front of Americans regardless of whether they ever watch him play. He's already had his name in Hollywood lights. The 2002 movie "Bend it Like Beckham" put his name on Americans' lips even if they weren't sure who he was and what he bends. The movie and Beckham's wife make him recognizable to many Americans who don't follow soccer. Leo Braudy, a USC English professor and expert in pop culture trends, says that increases the chances Beckham's charisma will become a "radiating force" in the U.S. Dr. Joyce Brothers, the celebrity psychologist, sees other things working in Beckham's favor: an athletic body, "gorgeous face" and likable personality. "We've reached a point now where women will say they like looking at attractive men," Brothers says. "If he gets along with all the guys and he makes all the women swoon, then he's got it all." Still, charisma is more than just looks and personality. Though few seem capable of defining it, let alone explaining why some people have it and others don't. We know Michael Jordan had it. So did Mantle while his teammate, Roger Maris, never did, even though it was he -- not Mantle -- who broke Babe Ruth's single-season home run record. Muhammad Ali, even as a frail, 65-year-old version of the brash, young boxer he once was, still has it. When it's strong enough, Braudy says, people who don't care about what you do still will care about you. But that's difficult to maintain, particularly for athletes. Hollywood actors have publicity machines behind them and their careers can be carefully managed to ensure the persona that brought them fame never fades. Athletes also get help but, ultimately, they have to perform and all the managing in the world won't return the luster after a series of strikeouts in the World Series, dropped catches in the Super Bowl or missed shots at the buzzer. Think about it: How many people would like to be like Mike if Jordan never made a game-winning shot? Sports marketing expert David Carter says Beckham and the Galaxy, who are paying him a Major League Soccer-record $5.5 million this season, are taking a risk. "What if he gets hurt? What if he does not help impact the Galaxy's winning percentage?" he says. Still, Carter believes Beckham likely will deliver enough of a boost that his team will fill stadiums around the country and its star player's image will sell plenty of T-shirts, shorts and shoes. UCLA sociologist David Halle, a native of England who has followed Beckham's career, believes Americans will be attracted by the dignity and humility with which he says Beckham carries himself. Even when much of England angrily blamed Beckham for losing a shot at a World Cup title in 1998 by drawing a penalty, he says, the athlete didn't appear to let it bother him. "He's not a whiner," Halle says. But it's more than that, says Laura Bahr, a Los Angeles actress and screenwriter. "It's this star quality. Some people have it and some don't," she says. "It's about this ability to connect with people on various levels." Like so many other Gen Xers, Bahr grew up playing soccer but abandoned it in adulthood. Beckham has her interested again. He seems kind, unselfish and, at least as far as she can tell from TV interviews, not as ego-driven as most star athletes. Add his looks and it's a given she'll be cheering for the Galaxy this year. "With a face like his, how couldn't I," Bahr giggles.

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Stars Celebrate Valentino!

Stars Celebrate Valentino
Most events need only one dress, but Hollywood's most fashionable had fun showing off multiple frocks this weekend in Rome. Anne, Uma, Sarah Jessica and more celebrate the fashion house's 45th anniversary in high style. By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg
SIENNA MILLER After shooting a campaign for Valentino, the star switched back to red-carpet mode in a hot-off-the-runway feathered gown in the designer's signature red. UMA THURMAN The statuesque star stuck to pale colored vintage couture pieces, switching between short and beaded to long and stark to peekaboo lace at Valentino's exhibit opening. Valentino's designs make her feel "very special" whenever she can wear them. ANNE HATHAWAY Turned out in his sparkling minis and a long sweeping vintage gown for the gala ball, the actress enthused of Valentino, "I want him to continue designing for 100 years!" CLAIRE DANES The Evening star stuck to a strict black and white palette for the gala weekend with sweet white ready-to-wear frocks and a snake-embellished black vintage gown for the gala. EVA MENDES The actress sets off her tan from her recent vacation with Valentino's dazzling frocks, including a plunging black vintage couture gown at the afterparty for his couture collection. JENNIFER HUDSON The Oscar winner showed off her red-carpet know-how in Valentino's Custom Couture sari-inspired gown, along with a chocolate satin stunner at the gala and a simply elegant black dress at the haute couture show. SARAH JESSICA PARKER The actress stunned in a lace-trim floral vintage frock at the designer's haute couture presentation, which she called "one of the great fashion shows of all time." She turned up in his vintage couture beaded sheath and striking black ballgown to other events over the weekend.

Saturday, July 7, 2007

Celeb Sighting - Cape Cod, MA

Hit series The Shield actor Michael Chiklis aka Vic Mackey was spotted today on the beach by yours truly! He sat 3 chairs down from me sporting sunglasses and red swim trunks at South Yarmouth's own Smuggler's Beach, located in Cape Cod, MA. Being a big fan of The Shield I was very excited to see him live and in person! Michael Chiklis is native af Andover, Mass. and was soaking up the sun and enjoying the water at one of my favorite beaches which sits right next to the Ocean Club Resort where I thought he might be staying. Based in a hunch I called the resort and inquired about wether the star was in fact staying there, the Ocean Club wouldn't comment!

Friday, July 6, 2007

The Best Kept Secret In Cosmetics!

Elf Cosmetics
We've been searching far and wide for the best cosmetics at the best possible prices, that's what Ailani is all about, getting the look for less! Our search is over! E.L.F Cosmetics is the hottest place online to get cosmetics. The best part is that their $1.00 theme isn't a gimmick! You really can get the things you want for a buck each!!!
Not only does E.L.F offer amazing make up and tools for a buck each, they have so much more to offer! They show you exactly how to get certain looks, endless Beauty Secrets for eyes, lips, face and more! You can set up your own beauty profile and they even offer a live chat with a beauty professional!
Click the link above to see for yourself!
Remember - If Ailani isn't taking about it, then you just don't need it!

Which Spice Has The Most Spice?

It’s been six years since we last saw them together on stage, but The Spice Girls are back together for one last tour! Victoria Beckham, Melanie C, Geri Halliwell, Emma Bunton and Melanie Brown have changed a lot since their days as Posh, Sporty, Ginger, Baby and Scary — remember their original themed costumes?
So - Which Spice Has The Most Spice?
Ailani's Vote: Victoria Beckham
Post a comment and let us know what you think!

Thursday, July 5, 2007

What's Her Best Look?

Alicia Keys
The singer rocked a curly do at the Fresh Air Fund Benefit recently, but turned up at Samsung's 6th annual Four Seasons of Hope Gala in N.Y.C. this week with pin-straight hair.
How Do You Like Her Best?
Curly or Straight?
Post A Comment and Share Your Opinion!

Friday, June 29, 2007

Win It!

There are 2 Gucci Cuff Bracelets & 98 PayPal Ca$h Prizes Up For Grabs!
There are 100 chances available at just $5.00 a piece! Every chnace is guaranteed a prize. 98 winners will recieve a cash prize deposited directly into their PayPal account, and 2 very lucky winners will win a Gucci Cuff Bracelet from AilanisPlace.com!
Promotional Specials: Buy 2 Chances Get 1 FREE
Buy 3 Chances Get 2 Free

Thursday, June 28, 2007

Love Them or Hate Them?

OPEN-TOED BOOTIES
Bridging the gap between peep-toe pumps and boots, Sarah Jessica Parker, Victoria Beckham and Lindsay Lohan show off their pedicures while keeping their feet covered.
Love Them or Hate Them? Post a comment and let the world know!

Sunday, June 24, 2007

Find Your Perfect Sunglasses

Find The Right Shades
LONG FACE If you have a long face like Sarah Jessica Parker, look for wide frames to break up the length and oval or round shapes to give the illusion of greater width. Avoid anything with vertical lines – it will only make you look longer. OVAL FACE If you have an oval face like Halle Berry, you're a lucky gal. You can wear any style you'd like, as long as it works with your proportions. Just avoid swooping sidepieces that can drag your look down. ROUND FACE If you have a round face like Kate Bosworth, look for angular frames that contrast with your curves to create a longer and slimmer look. Opt for shades with squared-off bottoms, and skip very rounded or curved styles. SQUARE FACE If you have a square face like Paris Hilton, look for gently curved oval or round frames to lengthen the face – think aviators over any square styles. HEART-SHAPED FACE If you have a sweetheart shape like Reese Witherspoon, look for frames with rounded upper corners to draw attention away from the forehead. Square bottoms will soften the chin, but on top, stay clear of any hard horizontals.

Now that you've found the right style Ailani's Place has got you covered with the designer shades for less!

Click Here To Shop

-OR-

Shop By Brand

Gucci - Chanel - Dolce & Gabbana - Versace

New Sunglasses Being Added Daily So Be Sure To Browse All of Our Designer Brands!

Saturday, June 23, 2007

Who Wears It Better?

JESSICA BIEL VS. SARAH JESSICA PARKER
Biel turned up to support designer Giambattista Valli at his fall show in Paris in his graphic frock, while Parker chose her patterned dress for a screening in New York this week.
So who wears it better? Our vote goes to Jessica Biel. Jessica Biel looks more natural and comfortable in this dress where Sarah Jessica Parker looks like she is sucking in her gut and praying to god the zipper doesn't bust! The dark tones in the dress bring out and accentuate Jessica Biel's dark hair. It doesn't compliment Sarah Jessica Parker's blonde locks at all, making her hair appear much darker than usual.
Winner: Jessica Biel

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

Swim Suits - Find Your Perfect Fit

Tips to help you determine the best styles for your shape.
Slim Yourself All Over
• An Empire waist and detailing at the chest balance big hips by drawing the eye up.
• Opt for a built-in tummy control panel or a suit that has significantly more spandex; the Miraclesuit, for instance, has up to three times more than the usual swimsuit.
Maximize a Small Bust
• Underwires, boning and padding add shape and fullness to your chest, says stylist Julie Weiss, who has worked with Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Gabrielle Union.
• Jeanne Yang, who has styled Katie Holmes and Brooke Shields, says a top with a funky pattern, polka dots or embellishments will distract from a petite chest.

Trim a Long Torso

• Tankinis and bandeau tops shorten the length of the body.

• A one-piece needs an Empire waist or detailing below the bust to reduce the expanse of fabric covering an elongated torso.• Avoid high-neck tops, which can call attention to the body’s length.

Lower Body Help

• A high cut in the leg (but nothing higher than the hip bone) helps heavy thighs look slimmer.

• Leave boy shorts at the store—they make the derrière and thighs look bigger.

• Emphasize your top with color blocks, light colors or embellishment at the chest—they’ll draw the eye away from a heavier bottom.

Minimize a Large Bust

• An underwire or built-in bra gives structure and support, says Weiss. Straps also help prevent sag.

• Keyhole or string-bikini triangle tops and demi bras aren’t ideal for big busts, says Yang, since they don’t provide enough coverage or support.

Banish Belly Bulge

• A plunging halter top draws the eye up and away from any pooch below.

• Details or a bold pattern on the midsection can also be positively distracting—a busy print keeps the eye moving so it doesn’t settle on a less-than-flat tummy.

Shop By Designer @ Ailani's Place:

Gucci - Dior - Louis Vuitton - Chanel - Prada - Dolce & Gabbana - Fendi - Juicy Couture - Coach - Burberry

Monday, June 18, 2007

Affiliates Wanted!

Ailani's Place now has open affiliate positions available to anyone with a website who is looking to make a commission. Affiliates can either put a text or photo link on their sites and any sales generated from their leads will be paid 2% commission from the order. We are able to track where our sales are referred to us by with out software so there is no need for you to try and keep track yourself! If you are interested contact us at info@ailanisplace.com

Trend Alert Product Match

You asked for it and we've got them! Red sunglasses are a hit, which pair will be yours?
Red Versace Rhinestone Shades
Ailani's Price: $49.99

Red aviators by Chanel! Ailani's Price : $59.99

Click Here To Get Yours

Great Way To Make Easy Money!

http://www.treasuretrooper.com/280354 After reading an article in People Magazine about this program we decided to test it out. We only tried the offers where you enter your e-mail address or zip code, they generally paid .25-.75 cents each and in just a few hours we made $25 bucks! We are now passing this on to our readers. You really can make some extra cash without using your credit card and getting charges you don't want, like some other offer sites we've tried! Click either of the links above to try it for yourself!

Friday, June 15, 2007

Trend Alert

If you weren't so keen on this spring's ubiquitous white shades, try red! They may seem a little bold at first , but they flatter most skin tones and range from deep burgundy to eye-popping cherry.
Check back for Ailani's Trend Alert Product Match!

Tuesday, June 12, 2007

Trend Alert Product Match

As promised Ailani's Place brings you the hottest in silver pumps for much less! These silver open toed heels by Gucci are hott!
Ailani's Price: $99.99

Trend Alert

Trend Alert! Newest Trend: Silver Pumps
Victoria Beckham (wearing Christian Louboutin) and Cameron Diaz (wearing Sergio Rossi) went for classic pointy-toe pumps with a high shine factor, while Mandy Moore added a touch of sweetness to her David Meister satin frock with peep-toes with sparkling bows.
Add a hit of shine to any of your evening outfits with one of our favorite silver heels.
Don't worry! Ailani's Place is bringing them to you - for LESS!

Monday, June 11, 2007

This Week's Fashion Hit or Miss

Today's Celeb: Cameron Diaz
What shes wearing: A micro mini dress by Luella & silver pumps by Sergio Rossi.
We love Cameron Diaz but hate the dress! Cameron is not using here height to her advantage here in this fashion miss. The micro mini dress is too short for body making her look like a giant.
Verdict: Miss
Check back next week, and every week for a new fashion hit or miss!

Prada Pink Leather Slingbacks

Rating 10 of 10

Ailani's Price: $99.99

These pink slingbacks by Prada are a must have this summer! We took pleasure in testing these for you. The shoes are a textured pink leather and have great leather smell. We also found that thanks to the thick leather these slingbacks don't crease very easily, which is a big plus. They have a low heel, about an inch to an inch and a half. The heel has an adjustable strap for the best possible fit. The passed our comfort test with flying colors as I was able to wear them all day long without as much as a pinch! These come in a Prada dustbag and really just are quite stunning.

Gucci 925 Silver Cuff Bracelet

Rating: 10 of 10 Ailani's Price: $59.99 We personally tested this cuff bracelet by Gucci. It is a .925 silver cuff bracelet and is engraved GUCCI on the front. Inside the bracelet is stamped 925 "Made In Italy". The very first thing we notices about this bracelet was it's weight, it's heavy and solid. The thickness is about 2/16th's of an inch all the way around. The width at top is just over a half inch wide. The cuff itself is about 6 inches long with a 1 1/2 inch opening between the ends of the cuff. This bracelet is very easy to put on and does not scratch you wrist like many other cuff bracelets. This cuff is very comfortable to wear and sits well at the base of your hand. The bracelet comes in a Gucci pouch and includes the Gucci gift box and Gucci shopping bag. This bracelet is well worth the cost.