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Celebrity Chic: Anna Paquin

 

While most of us liked her Alexander McQueen at the Emmys, Anna Paquin dazzled in Preen's Plaza Dress. It's somewhat shocking to see her in red, but it definitely works. What do you think of her look?

 

Anna Pacquin in PreenPreen Plaza Dress

 

 

Adventures at Duke

 

Check out this great pic from the RTR Road Warrior's adventures on campus. Jenn & Jenny recruited some upperclassmen to help spread the word - everyone wants to have a one night stand...with fashion!

 

On campus at Duke

Emmy Fashion Trends

 

The Emmys are over and other than Modern Family, the theme of the night was definitely navy blue. It came as something of a surprise that this always stylish color dominated the red carpet, but almost everyone who came out in the blue stunned and amazed.

 

In the Navy Now

Both Lea Michele and Julie Bowen looked spectacular in their one shoulder navy gowns.

Lea Michelle at the Emmy'sJulie Bowen in J Mendel

 

For some of that asymetric navy glamour, try this Christian Sirano or this Catherine Malandrino.

Christian Siriano Royal Rage Ruffle DressCatherine Malandrino Midnight Ruffle Detail Gown

 

In fact, blue was so prevalent it was almost difficult to find another trend. But then we let the sea of sparkle take us over. Dazzling elegantly, several small screen sirens made a statement in some gorgeous sequins.

 

Razzle Dazzle

Claire Danes is simple and flawless while Heather Morris from Glee makes it a bit more exciting with a black belt to break it up.

Claire Danes in Armani PriveHeather Morris

 

To get this look on RTR, try this Nicole Miller gown. Or, this Robert Rodriguez, which you could add a black belt to a la Heather Morris.

 

Nicole Miller Drop Dead Gorgeous GownRobert Rodriguez Collection Golden Tank Dress

 

Finally, if you're looking to combine the trends, you can always try this sparkling navy Nicole Miller gown. Who says you can't have it all?

Nicole Miller Navy Sequin Gown

10 Things We Love This Week (8.31.10)

 

1 RTR's Road Warrior

Jenn, Jenny, & Brooke are hitting the road this week in RTR’s decked out van. They’ll be making stops at Duke, UNC, University of South Carolina, and UVA, so look out and honk if you love Rent the Runway!

 

Jenn Hyman and Jenny Fleiss

 

2 The Emmys

Award season is back! Fashion, glorious television, and Glee-ful singing numbers – hooray for Jimmy Fallon! Our fashion recap will come later.

 

 

3 New Arrivals

The fall collections keep rolling in and we can’t believe how much there is to love.

Lela Rose Retro Brocade DressChristian Siriano Silver Metallic Tweed Sheath

 

 

4 Flag That

Anushka’s in love with the new iPhone app "flagthat". It helps keep track of your favorite bars and restaurants, and you can get recommendations from your friends too.

 

Flag That

 

5 Riondo Pink Champagne

Nadia had this at a dinner party on Friday and it was perfect for a summer meal. Light, fruity, sweet, bubbly and pretty. Plus, it’s relatively affordable at ~$12.

Riondo Pink Champagne

 

6 The Matisse Exhibit at Moma

Chondita visited the Matisse exhibit at MOMA this weekend, which is on till October 11th. Perfect if you have family in town and the show does not disappoint. Matisse loved color and print nearly as much as RTR does...

 Matisse at MOMA

 

7 Staten Island Yankees

Jenn loves this Single-A team that you can enjoy with city skyline of NYC in the background. Throw in the fireworks show and it’s a perfect way to spend a summer night.

 

 

8 Non-traditional Bachelorette Destinations

Lara spent a great weekend at Cornell for a bachelorette party this weekend. Just beautiful weather, a casual vibe, a speedy zipcar, and great friends.

 

 

9 Mad Men

Yes, we’re always loving it, but this season just keeps getting better! The past two weeks have been A-mazing. And here are Jenn & Jenny as Mad Men characters...

Jenn Hyman

 

 

10 Tantztheater Wuppertal

Jenna loves herself some dance-theater and was blown away by this spectacular performance.

Vollmond (Full Moon)

Labor Day Weekend Editor's Picks

With summer’s end sneaking up on us, somehow next weekend is Labor Day already! Here are our picks to end the summer with style. What are yours? –Lara

 

For effortless cool by the pool, you can't go wrong with these styles from Proenza Schouler and See by Chloe.

Proenza Schouler Tie-Dye Drape Back Mini DressSee by Chloe Fuschia Ruffle Girl

 

For that last summer wedding, this fabulous new electric blue gown from Carlos Miele is somehow beachy and glamorous at the same time.

Carlos Miele Draped Sapphire Gown

 

Finally, for making the most of the end of the season and the summer sale, these LWDs will treat you right.

Helmut Lang Mesh Tank DressMoschino Rose Jacquard Dress

 

P.S. Don’t worry about extended rentals – Since next Monday’s a holiday, you can keep any dress that’s delivered next Thursday or Friday until the following Tuesday morning!

 

Style Out 2010

The past two nights we hosted a fun-filled evening of fashion in our offices. For the first time ever, we invited all of our NYC members into our closet - It was quite amazing to see everyone in action!

Here are some of the pics. Thanks to everyone who came! -- Lara

 

Dressing for your Body Type - Petite

Petite

 

Generally speaking, petites are small, slender and shorter women (5’3” and shorter); BIG fashionistas in small packages!

 

We recommend deep necklines and empire waistlines, which will help elongate petite figures.  Go for bright colors and patterns – you can pull it off! Avoid oversized styles and loose fitting dresses such as ponchos – they are too much for your small frame. Use the Petite body filter when searching for dresses.

 


 

Dressing for your Body Type - Athletic

Athletic

 

Don’t take this one too literally – you don’t actually have to run marathons to have an athletic body type! With broader shoulders, a phenomenal build and toned arms and legs, you’ve got a lot to show off!

 

We recommend steering clear of cap-sleeves, high neck tanks and loose-sleeved dresses that add “bulk” to the upper body.  Emphasize your phenomenal stature with full skirts and dresses with detail on the bottom. Athletic body type women look stunning in one-shoulder dresses that detract from wider-built shoulders. Use the Athletic body type filter when searching for dresses.

 


 

Dressing for your Body Type - Full Bust

Full Bust

 

Attention Pam Andersons of the world! We’re only kidding… But if you’ve got it, flaunt it! Full Busted women have bust measurements that are fuller than their hips and rear. We are jealous!

 

We recommend that full busted women wear dresses that are more structured in the bust and bodice to keep you feeling comfortable and supported all day and night long. V-necklines and halter styles create a slimming effect. Steer clear of backless styles – bra friendly styles are key! Use the Full Bust body type filter when searching for dresses.

 

 

 

Dressing for your Body Type - Straight & Narrow

Straight & Narrow

 

Congrats! You’ve got the body of a model and can wear most of our styles with ease. Straight & narrow women have little definition between their bust, waist and hip measurements. This body type benefits from dresses that give the illusion of curves.

 

Depending on your personal style, we recommend higher necklines if you have a smaller bust, as well as empire or natural waist styles. Dresses with detail and/or texture (especially on the bottom) help create an hourglass silhouette. Styles with belts, cinched waistlines, and structured gowns will look stunning as they help create the illusion of curves.  At the same time, wearing looser ponchos and free-flowing dresses are a straight & narrow’s specialty! Use the Straight & Narrow body type filter when searching for dresses.

 


 

Dressing for your Body Type - Hourglass

Hourglass

 

You don’t have to look like Kim Kardashian to have an hourglass figure! You simply have a full bust and full hips with similar measurements; your waist is the narrowest part of their frame. 

 

For an hourglass figure, we recommend wrap dresses, which draw attention to your narrow waistline.  Looser fitting styles won’t emphasize your assets – go for dresses that embrace and highlight curves. Stretchy fabrics that hug every inch of your curvy body will have your friends talking for days! Use the Hourglass body type filter when searching for dresses.

 


 

Dressing for your Body Type - Apple

Apple

 

Apples most narrow point is above their natural waist, right below or at the ribs - show off your shoulders, chests, and legs for an elongated look!

 

We recommend that apples opt for lower necklines and empire waistlines to draw eyes upward.  If you’re self-conscious about your midsection, steer clear of overly large pleats, pockets, or extremely fitted styles. Shorter skirt lengths or rompers will help draw attention to your slimmer legs. Use the Apple body type filter when searching for dresses.

 


 

Dressing for your Body Type - Pear

Pear

 

You’ve got killer hips and backside curves! You are smaller on top than on the bottom so wear garments that accentuate your bust and create balanced proportions.

 

We recommend that Pear body types wear strapless dresses or dresses with open necks; these will highlight the upper body.  Empire waistlines and brighter colors on the upper portion of the dress are also great for drawing attention to your top half. Stay away from straight-cut dresses or narrow skirts and instead, opt for A-Cut or full skirt dresses that will fit more comfortably around your hips and backside. Use the Pear body type filter when searching for dresses.

 

 


10 Things We Love This Week

 

1 Erickson Beamon

Our whole office is dying for these stunning pieces from our newest jewelry designer. Gorgeous and glittering!

 

Erickson Beamon L'Age D'Or RingErickson Beamon Heart of Glass EarringsErickson Beamon Glenda Necklace

 

2 College Girls Getting Rush Ready With RTR

Amanda, President of Delta Zeta at University of Kentucky, looked amazing in Tibi during recruitment!

 

College Girl Getting Rush Ready

 

3 Color War

Jenn’s birthday party this weekend in New Hampshire was a good old fashioned color war with an amazing Apache Relay. As expected, the Best Team Ever triumphed over The Most Amazing.

 

4 Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka

Clearly, the best way to celebrate the end of the summer is sweet tea vodka (drink responsibly, of course). Mix with a little lemonade, and enjoy.

 

Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka

 

5 Wineries on the North Fork

Such a great escape from the City and just a train (or zipcar) away…

 

6 Robyn's Body Talk Part 1

Non-stop dance jams

 

7 Mao's Last Dancer

Derek’s obsessed with this movie that tells the story of Li Cunxin, who was handpicked as a child to train to become one of the world's greatest ballet dancers and his struggle to balance living in the US while remaining loyal to China and the communist regime established by Mao Zedong.

 

Mao's Last Dancer

 

8 Jet Skiing

Jenny's a maniac on the water - watch out!

 

9 Wellies

The rain’s set to fall all week, so we’ll embrace the fashions that go along with it. With these boots we may not even mind….

 

Hunter Regent Savoy Tall Wellington Boots

 

10 RTR Cameos

Yes that was our dress Eric’s assistant was wearing on Entourage last night…

Theory Abstract Grid Print Dress

What I'm Wearing Today: Double Trouble

Blaire's mastered the look of the coolest girl in school, and Jenny's strutting her stuff in our Prabal Gurung Bloussant Halter Dress. Check out what Blaire and Jenny had to say about their looks! -- Lara

 

Blaire: "I love drapey, exaggerated styles in clothing. Today's luckily not too hot, so I decided to go with a very light, graphic printed open blazer and these amazing gray, huge flare pants - from Forever 21! Can you believe it? I found these crazy pants there a few years ago and they could pass for any high end designer pants."

 

Blaire's Outfit

 

Jenny: "Obviously not my normal office wear, but what a fabulous dress! I had a press appearance today and this gorgeous blue color is great on camera. Plus, I added these fabulous new Azaara Silver Crystal Hoop Earrings - which are AMAZING, and only $15 to rent!"

 

 Jenny Fleiss in Prabal Gurung

 

 

Jenn & Jenny's Five Things To Wear This Week

 

1 Rough Rocks Glitter with some edge

 Coralia Leets Smokey Droplet EarringsDannijo Bassett Necklace

 

2 Summer Shine Light up the night in glowing gold

Herve Leger Gold Glimmer Strapless Dress

 

3 Urban Cool Keep it playful with easy breezy style

Camilla and Marc Linen One Sleeve Romper

 

4 Tribal Gems Add an exotic touch to any LBD

Miguel Ases Bohemian Traveler EarringsAV Max Exotic Glamour Cuff

 

5 Boho Breezy Carefree and flirty

Gyphon Beaded Bib Flirty Dress

 

 

10 Things We Love This Week

 

1 Carlos Miele

Check out the fabulous party dresses from RTR’s latest addition. The Brazilian designer does not disappoint with his latest collection of glamorous dresses.

Carlos Miele Formal Affair DressCarlos Miele Knock Em Dead Gown

 

2 E-Creamery.com

Design and name your own ice cream flavor - the ultimate thank you gift! 

 

3 Ellen Degeneres on So You Think You Can Dance

Hilarious! Girl's got moves.

 

4 The Fall-like weather in NYC this weekend

Makes us want to shop for fall...lace, boots, camel, and more. What’s on your fall wishlist?

Net-a-porter Sandro Rancoeur white lace dressMadewell Boots

 

5 RTR's Style Out

We’re opening our closet next Monday and Tuesday. For the first time ever, join us in our office and try on your favorite dresses in person! To attend, send an email to rsvp@renttherunway.com and include your size.

 

6 This Flash Drive

Adorable! And available at Urban Outfitters.

Russian Matryoshkas Flash Drive

 

7 Step Up 3D

Chondita doesn’t care what IMDB ratings says, Step Up 3D rocks. Rick Malambri is imminently watchable, particularly in 3d. Best 3d feature length music video EVER!!!

 

8 The Meatball Shop on the LES

Gi-normous meatballs...saucy, cheezy, and messy goodness. And for dessert? Custom-made 3 inch tall ice cream sandwiches. AMAZING!

Meatball Shop

 

9 Teen Fiction

Hunger Games is filling the hole that was left when the Twilight series finished.

 Hunger Games

 

10 Biore

We love this amazing makeup remover from Biore and so will you! Order from us today and you’ll receive a free Biore Make-Up Remover sample.

Biore Make-Up Removing Towelette

Summer Sale Editor's Picks

If you haven't noticed - we're having our first ever sale! With dresses as low as $30, its easier than ever to try Rent the Runway for any night out. Not only are there some great prices, there's some great steals! Here's some of my faves and suggestions for where to wear them.  --Lara

 

Yigal Azrouel Cold Shoulder Dress - $75. Yes, its white. And tight. But it is somehow the most flattering dress ever. The ruching works like a magic trick, hiding all your flaws. It's a great summer choice that can be dressed up or down. You can wear it to a cocktail party or just for a night out. The original retail was $1000 and the original rental was $150, so this is an amazing steal.

 

Yigal Azrouel Cold Shoulder Dress

 

Shoshanna Bright Bold Floral Dress - $35. This dress works absolutely anywhere. Day, night, an outdoor bbq, dinner with friends, a day at the country club, a party in the Hamptons, a friend's birthday, etc. And it's only $35 for a 4-day rental. So basically, it's perfect.

 

Shoshanna Bright Bold Floral Dress

 

Brian Reyes Watercolor Wonder Dress - $75. This has always been one of my favorites. It's a great standout piece that is perfect for cocktails and oozes sophisticated style. Another great deal - original retail $1,250 and original rental $150.

 

Brian Reyes Watercolor Wonder Dress

 

Getaway with Rent the Runway Winners!

Check out the fabulous winners of our contest on Polyvore - each one created the ultimate summer destination wardrobe from RTR. From Cape Cod to Milan - Happy travels! --Lara

 

 

See more on Polyvore

Winners!

Thanks to everyone who entered and congrats to our 2 winners - Shilpa Pandya and Amy Ellingson who will receive a free copy of NINA GARCIA'S LOOK BOOK: What to Wear for Every Occasion!

 

It was close, but it looks like look # 1 was your favorite... -- Lara

 

LOOK 1

  

 

 

P.S. Check out this interview with Nina Garcia on The Cut for more inside info from the style expert.

 

10 Things We Love This Week

 

1 Our Latest Arrivals

Sometimes we play favorites. This Vena Cava, this Roksanda Ilincic, and this Preen. Why wait for Fall when you can be the first to sport these fashions?

Roksanda Ilincic Belted Copper GownPreen Perfect Plum DressVena Cava Fit n Flare Dress

 

2 Lots of Bravo

Lauren’s a fan of her hometown city finally getting its own Real Housewives franchise, and we’re all enjoying the new season of The Rachel Zoe Project. Plus, Jenny and Lara heart Jason Hoppy. Bring back Bethanny!

 

3 Water Taxi Beach

 

Jenn was whisked away for a cocktail at Water Taxi Beach in Long Island City this weekend. In just a short hour, she was able to witness the beginnings of a rave, a flip-cup tournament, drunken slobs getting arrested, romance - all with the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline. A very interesting place to put into the once-a-year repertoire. Also, a guy who she sat next to on the train told her that Water Taxi Beach also sports highly competitive beach volleyball tournaments...

 

4 SELF.com's Workout Builder

Choose from SELF's workout library, drag and drop your fave moves and create your own workout video!

 

5 Stress Relief Eucalyptus Spearmint Plug-In Diffusers

Clair swears by these stress relief diffusers from Bath & Body Works.

6 The Eat Pray Love Trailer

Jenny says she “can watch it a million times and not get sick of it!”

 

7 Stubbs & Wootton Espadrilles

Lara is completely obsessed. They have adorable turquoise bottoms, offer height and comfort, and come in an array of colors including the ever versatile natural. What more could you want!

 

8 Cat Eye Sunglasses

Purr-fect.

9 NYC Icy

Lauren’s offering another pop shop to throw into the mix. This East Village one has flavors like Mango Basil, Cilantro Lime and Oatmeal Cookie.

 

10 Teach for America's 2010 Fall Fling

We love Teach For America and all that they do bring the best and the brightest into our schools. They’re throwing a serious bash in September to help their cause. Why not dress up in one of our hot RTR dresses and party it up while helping a great organization? Click here for details.

 

Nina Garcia's Rent the Runway Picks

  

Out tomorrow, NINA GARCIA'S LOOK BOOK: What to Wear for Every Occasion offers her take on what to wear for that all-important job interview, first date, black tie gala, and more. Naturally, we asked the style guru for her Rent the Runway picks. Check them out below and tell us your favorite in the comments. We've got two copies of her fabulous book reserved for two random entries. Enter now - we'll announce the winners tomorrow! -- Lara

 

LOOK 1

 

“Proenza Schouler’s Jack McCullough and Lazaro Hernandez make great little structured dresses that are perfect for the office—colorful and interesting, yet still conservative in silhouette. I would throw on this CC Skye pyramid-studded bracelet for a little added sparkle.”

 

LOOK 2

Mark & James by Badgley Mischka Sequin Petal Perplexion Dress 

“This Mark & James one-shouldered number is perfect for the dance floor. I love sequins for evening! Add a bold cuff and you’re ready to party.”

 

LOOK 3

 

“Nautical-style striped shirts are a dime a dozen, but I love how Gryphon’s integrated that same sailor-chic feel into a sequined skirt. Pair it with a simple navy top and chunky silver necklace for a look that doesn’t go overboard—pun intended.”

 

LOOK 4

 

“Talk about a conversation piece. By slipping on this shimmering blazer by Gryphon, you’ll add instant interest to whatever you’re wearing underneath, be it your favorite jeans or a body-con cocktail dress. And how fantastic is this Badgley Mischka necklace? I always find inspiration in Art Deco designs.”

 

LOOK 5

 

“This simple, studded Vena Cava dress would be the perfect piece to pack for a beach vacation. Not only is it easy to pack, but it could take you from a stroll on the shore to evening drinks. The mix of crystal quartz and blue agate on Susan Hanover’s organic-looking cuff ups the exotic look even further.”

 

Behind the Seams: Prabal Gurung

Prabal GurungPrabal Gurung Studio

 

What inspired your Fall 2010 collection?

Fall 2010 was inspired by the dynamic sport of motorcross and an American classic – Hells Angels, drawing in energy and graphic elements juxtaposed with intricate draping and detailed tailoring.

 

Which part of the design process do you like the best?

While I do love sketching and coming up with new silhouettes, there is nothing like seeing the looks come together to form a complete collection and have them walk down the runway.  It is months of hard work and to see the vision come to life is incredible.

 

Prabal Sketch

 

Where do you see the Prabal Gurung brand in ten years?

In ten years I hope to continue developing a lifestyle brand that offers all kinds of product categories from accessories to interior.  I hope that the opportunities are endless as my brand continues to evolve.

 

If you could sit front row at a fashion show for any designer in history, who would it be and why?

Coco Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent. I would say that’s self-explanatory.

 

How do you celebrate finishing a collection?

Each season I go with my team, supporters and dearest family and friends to a great dinner to celebrate and re-hash.

 

If a girl was going to purchase her first Prabal Gurung piece, what would you want it to be?

That is almost like asking if I have a favorite finger.  I love them all the same but each for a different reason.  Ultimately I want my consumers to buy the silhouette they look and feel the most comfortable in. 

 

Prabal Inspiration

 

Which fabrics are your favorite to work with?

I love experimenting with new fabrics and fabric combinations but I would have to say my favorites are the rich, silk gazars and duchess satins that I learned to love from my days at Blass.

 

10 Things We Love This Week

 

1 GTL

Jersey Shore is back and while we aren’t finding a lot of fashion inspiration, we are finding some much needed delicious drama.

 

 Jersey Shore Cast

 

2 New Prabal Gurung

So pretty. Reserve now because these perfect cocktail dresses are surely on every girl’s wishlist.

Prabal Gurung Mini Envy Corset DressPrabal Gurung Perfect Hourglass Dress

 

3 Twenty-Four Hour Gyms

Who knew? After a late night at the office, several of us indulged our inner fitness freaks with a late night workout. We did find it a little strange that the guard at NYSC Sheridan Square didn’t blink an eye when we walked in at 1am…

 

4 Mark Ruffalo in The Kids Are All Right

Yum!

Mark Ruffalo The Kids Are Alright

 

5 Bachelorette Season Finale

More to come on that later…

 

6 Pop-bar

Who needs sorbet with a spoon? Ashleyn hearts this place.

 

7 Magnetic Paint

You paint it on, and things stick! It's magic!!!

 

8 Zoku Quick Pop Maker

Speaking of pops, this thing looks amazing!

Zoku Quick Pop Maker

 

9 Project Runway

Even though we still miss Bravo. Who’s your favorite?

 

10 And We Cannot Lie...

Between the triumphant return of the Kardashians and Nike's latest ad campaign, the RTR office is loving big bedonks this week. If you've got it, flaunt it in one of our new Herve's…

Herve Leger Gold Glimmer Strapless DressHerve Leger Papaya Bandage Dress