Your Number Doesn't Matter

Anna Faris worries her number will affect her love life.
(via Claire Folger, Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation)

I have never initially watched a movie trailer and been left wondering what the film was about, until What's Your Number?

Anna Faris is adorable in The House Bunny, always good for a laugh in the Scary Movie franchise and pulled off the leading lady role in the animated Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (one of my favorite childhood stories from third grade). So, when I saw her in a lead role, I thought, good for her.

However, after watching all 50 or so seconds of the original TV spot, I left with more questions than What's My Number? Such as, "What's the plot?" and "Why does it matter?" 

Surely, I wasn't the only one.

All I took from the TV promo was that Faris' character, Ally, is chasing after her exes (including major hotties Zachary Quinto and Joel McHale) for some unknown reason relating to a previous scene in which she ripped up a number on a piece of paper that was either 19 or 91. I guessed the number was her number of exes, but other than that, I was stumped.

Then, when the longer trailer emerged, I found out the film's actual plot. After playing a game, it's revealed Ally has slept with 19 guys over the years. Okay. Big deal. When some book states if a woman's with 20 guys, chances are she won't get married, Ally freaks out and tries to rekindle one of her past relationships. 

Needless to say, I'm not a fan of the film's message. How pathetic of a character is Ally to believe this nonsense? The number of guys you're with definitely does NOT predict your marriage success rate (maybe if you're with over 100—kidding). You may as well listen to a fifth grader's fortune teller or M.A.S.H. sheet.

The film opens today, and after reading reviews, I don't think I'll be heading out to see it. Good thing The Lion King 3D has been extended in theaters.

Editors' Picks: Fall Nail Color

We believe that when the leaves start changing, so should your nail color. So say goodbye to your summer shades and make room for new hues. Check out our polish picks for this fall!

1. Brianti [Dating a Royal by O.P.I.] 2. Jeni [Glamour Purse by essie] 3. Kirsten [Lolly by Zoya] 4. Catrina [Lady Like by essie] 5. Jenny [Graphite by Chanel] 

How will you dress up your digits this season? 

Heard It Through the Grapevine: Office Gossip

While the gossip may be juicy, the repercussions could really hurt your career.
(via Woman's Day)

I would be lying if I said I didn't like to hear gossip. I'm not fond of spreading it around, but if someone has a good story about a mutual acquaintance or even someone I barely know, my nosy nature takes over and I'm more attentive than I was in some of my college courses.

A little gossip during movie night with the girls is one thing, but at the workplace it's a completely different situation.

No matter how much you love your co-workers, you should always remember that you're in competition. You work in the same field and when a promotion comes up, everyone can't take it. Some people will do anything for that corner office, including sell you out to the boss.

I worked for a company a few years ago that gave out bonuses on Christmas. Bonuses were based on how long you were with the company and your position. I went away for college during the fall, so, since I was only there for the holidays, I didn't get a bonus. A few of my co-workers were disgruntled about the differences in their checks one year and decided to vent about it. I simply said that I didn't get one when they looked at me for my input.

Guess who got in trouble?

Even though I was only 19 years old and they were all at least 35 with children, when the office manager got word that someone had been talking about the bonuses, they all pointed to me. I never went back to work during any other holiday.

When I hear gossip about other employees or supervisors at my current job, I never engage at all. That doesn't mean you can't bond with your co-workers. If they want to talk about celebrities or a news event, I'm definitely a part of the conversation.

If you have gripes with your boss or other employees, take it up with them or go to human resources. It's better if they hear it from you than someone else because person will probably deny they had a role in it.

When it comes to workplace conversation, it's definitely better to be safe than sorry.

When Social Media Past Meets Present

Even Tom can't deny the power of Facebook.

Amidst the many complaints about Facebook changes last week, I saw a list of recommended "subscriptions," on my sidebar. Among a few celebrities I forget were still alive, I saw Tom Anderson's profile.

MySpace Tom has a Facebook.

Tom apparently left MySpace, aka the Internet's abandoned playground, in 2009 because he didn't like what the corporate bigwigs were doing to the company. That's also around the same time Facebook was rapidly taking away MySpace users who were looking for something different.


Despite pretty compelling evidence that Facebook basically made MySpace irrelevant, Tom gushes about it on his page, writing:

People often ask me what I think of Facebook? Put simply, I love it. Facebook has accomplished what I wanted to accomplish when I started MySpace--that "everyone" would be online, and "everything" online would get more fun & useful because its social. To me, Facebook just keeps getting better & better.

As Facebook moves forward into the future (just like they do every couple of months), it was nice to see a bit of the past. Sometimes I miss that customization we had with MySpace. Facebook requires absolutely no creativity and your profile design is definitely not reflective of your creativity. Since every member of your family has one now and can stalk you at their leisure, most of us are probably plotting our move to the next viable social network that appears.

I wonder if Mark Zuckerberg would make a profile on it.

First Look: Forever 21 Holiday Preview

These Sanrio items will hit stores in October. 
We've definitely got our eye on that coat!
(via Forever 21)

Special guest post by Senior Beauty/Fashion Writer Araceli Cruz

Amidst their legal/copyright woes, Forever 21 is stepping up to the plate by creating a bridge between creative minds and its corporation by developing exclusive lines with brands and the designers themselves.  This fall, the clothing store will launch three collections, including their second collaboration with designer Rory Beca in October, a first-time union with Sanrio in November and a capsule collection with jewelry designers Alex & Chloe in December. 

We got an exclusive look at these collections in their New York showroom last week. Let us be the first to say we were surprisingly very delighted with what we found.

Rory Beca

 
The second collaboration by the 28-year-old designer brings a stark transition from the first boho line she designed for Forever 21. This time around the California native created a more glamorous and festive line that can be dressed up or worn casually.  She was inspired by the disco glam of legendary nightclub Studio 54, where entrance was based more on your attire than the club's capacity. We saw short, one-sided dresses in bold colors, like blue and fuchsia. This new spin on the cocktail dress mixes intrigue with coquettishness.

 

Hello Kitty Collection by Sanrio

This Hello Kitty cardigan and bag show the more
sophisticated side of the beloved childhood character.
(via Forever 21)

We first noticed the animated character trend several years ago when Micky Mouse's face graced sweaters and vintage tees everywhere. It seems these nostalgic characters are making a comeback on hipster smocks and blouses with the new Muppets film out this year and Hello Kitty's reign going stronger than ever. The new line at Forever 21 features the iconic feline on apparel, intimates, hosiery, jewelry and accessories. At first, we were skeptical about sporting the cute cat on every day wear, but then we saw the gorgeous tan blouse with loose bow in front and the cozy cardigan, we were sold. They also found a way to brilliantly  style a childhood figure onto sophisticated blazers and skirts.

 

Alex & Chloe 

 
Fashion from the 1980s has never really gone away completely, and now another fabulous style from that era returns in a chic and contemporary way.  The new jewelry line by Alex & Chloe brings two of our favorite looks: punk and goth. We love it how it breaks the Forever 21 mold by catering to a less trend-based audience. The limited line features geometric shapes, pearls, spikes and crystals in gray and black. We especially liked the black triangle studded earrings.  

Here are a few more photos from the three fall lines:

We snapped a picture of these Rory Beca pieces. We love the pairing of a long
black skirt with a loose hot pink tank.

The sophisticated silhouette of this Hello Kitty blouse
brings the childhood fascination into your adult life.
(via Forever 21)

The punk and goth pieces by Alex & Chloe will bring a welcome edginess to the accessories section.
(via Forever 21)

This understated metal piece can add 1980s nostalgia to a modern rocker look.
(via Forever 21)

We think these earrings would go great with a messy bun and black jeans.
(via Forever 21)

While these dangling earrings have a punk quality, they can 
be worn with other styles to add a little rebellion to your outfit.
(via Forever 21)

What's your favorite piece?

Office Obsessions

Confession: I love office supplies.

When I'm not working as Editor-in-Chief at Feather, I work in an office and getting supplies delivered is one of the highlights of my work days.

I think my obsession comes from my love of organizing. When I was a student, I was always looking for a better way to organize my class notes and handouts. As an editor, I'm always looking for new ways to keep our staff organized. At my job, I spend my free time looking for better ways to manage with our filing system so it's easier to find things.

While I'm sure most of you find office supplies dull, who says they have to look boring? Sure, I have to deal with the standard black metal stapler and silver paper clips at work, but when I'm at home it's a completely different work area.

I love to use bold, bright office supplies in my home desk area. If I'm spending hours at my computer drafting emails and writing articles, I should at least be able to write  notes on my cute desk cards or staple printed documents with my pink stapler.

If you think office supplies are just the most boring thing in the universe, these bold items are a great way to get a little joy from those mundane organizational tasks.

Editors' Picks: Post-Grad Internship Must-Haves

So you've landed yourself a fall internship, post-grad position or your first real-world job. Our must-have items will help you exude professionalism with panache, since we'd like to think we entered the workforce with more than just a diploma. 

1. Catrina [pointed-toe flats and a personal calendar] 2. Jeni [a black blazer and a pretty travel mug] 3. Kirsten [a bag with separate sections and a voice recorder] 4. Brianti [a cardigan and a small notebook] 5. Jenny [black patent square-toe pumps and a sweet pink lipstick] 

What are your post-grad internship must-haves?

Lost in Foundation

I received a text from my friend Diana the other day, reading: "Foundation. Too much. People are crazy. Please write about it!"

Now, I'll preface this post by admitting that Diana is a beauty consultant for Clinique, a brand notorious for their uber-natural approach to cosmetics. She's also a bit of a tree hugger and not one to take huge chances in the makeup department. That said, my fresh-faced friend had a point. A lot of young girls these days are just wearing too much darn makeup. Let's discuss.

Katy Perry via MSN.com

Take Miss Perry for example. Now, I love her. And I am all about a smoky eye, a neon lip, a dramatic faux lash or a funky streak of highlights. But this much foundation is just a no-no. Acne blemishes are a major problem for our age group. Believe me, I'm not exempt. But there is a point at which the cover-up becomes an even bigger, worse reveal. Do you see how the caking of her makeup is aging her? Let's all step back, wash our faces, and try something new.

As a general rule, women under 30 should not be using a heavy foundation. If your skin is pretty even-toned and you're lucky enough not to suffer much from acne, reach for a tinted moisturizer and handle under-eye circles with a creamy concealer. If, like me, you suffer from enlarged pores, blackheads, and/or acne breakouts, keep a more intense regimen at the ready. Clinique acne solutions liquid makeup (clinique.com, $24) contains salicyclic acid to kick your pimples' butt. It also creates a smooth and fresh appearance without a dramatically "made-up" appearance. When you use this or a similar product over a few weeks, you will notice clearer skin. And that means less makeup! That's something to celebrate.

After all, we're only young once. Let's enjoy it!

Monotonous Meals and The Veganizer

Ah, the taste of frozen monotony. (via Caroline Jhingory)

As a vegetarian, I'm always looking for helpful resources and healthful recipes. Sadly, I often find myself stuck in a culinary rut, eating frozen blocks of vegetables or beans out of a can. My refrigerator is less than inspiring, as my gym-aholic boyfriend keeps the shelves stocked with chicken, eggs, milk and whey protein shakes (no offense, darling, but our fridge is a veg's nightmare). Dining whining aside, I'm very excited to share my latest discovery: Vegetarian Times' Vegetarian Starter Kit. There are many starter kits available to vegetarians but I have yet to see one of this caliber. I'm quite impressed by the quality of this publication, from the design elements and diverse information to the meat-free recipes and helpful tips for new vegetarians.

The comprehensive guide explains protein myths and calcium misconceptions, as well as vegetarian diets for pregnant women and for children. There's also a section called "The Veganizer," which outlines several meals that can be altered slightly (or "veganized").

If only I could veganize my fridge.

If you're new to vegetarianism or are interested in giving up meat, I encourage you to read the Vegetarian Starter Kit below. And if you're an unyielding, burger-wielding Feather Girl, I guess we can still be friends. Omnivores should still browse the (free!) vegan recipes—lower calorie peanut butter cookies, anyone?

Are you a vegetarian, too? Do you know of any other vegan/vegetarian starter kits or free recipe books? Please share, I love learning new things and comparing recipes!

There's a 'New Girl' in Town

Calling all fans of Three's Company! (via Fox)

What do I love more than Missoni for Target and New York Fashion Week? Fall premieres and awards season, of course! There's only one hang-up: being forced to wait until the end of September for my favorite shows to return and for new ones to premiere.

Fox must have heard my impatient pleas because last week they released the first episode of New Girl on both Hulu and iTunes for free. The new show lived up to everything the promo promised: Zooey Deschanel playing an adorkable character, along with plenty of Dirty Dancing clips and a water cooler moment everyone will be talking about (see Douchebag Jar).

The reverse Three's Company comedy follows Jess (Zooey Deschanel), heartbroken and homeless, moving in with three bachelors after catching her man with his pants down. Plus, the guys aren't too shabby (Max Greenfield; Lamorne Morris, replacing Damon Wayans Jr. after the pilot; Jake M. Johnson). Although, if Schmidt (Greenfield) flashes his white, ab-less chest once more, I may go blind.

What's sure to be a top watercooler moment. (via Fox)

I'm not going to lie, there are a lot of woe-is-me, tissues everywhere, cue Dirty Dancing clips with Jess. However, the guys' humor evens out Jess' over-the-top dramatics. (Spoiler: Whenever Schmidt says something inappropriate—a bad pick-up line, for example—he must put a dollar in the Douchebag Jar). When they prove too much testosterone to handle, there's Jess' level-headed friend to add balance.

From Jess' charismatic geeky charm (playing with her glasses, making up theme songs) to Coach's inability to understand females, there's something for everyone.

At the very least, you'll start a Douchebag Jar for your house.

Editors' Picks: Song of the Summer

You know that one song that defines an entire summer? The one that you've had on repeat since you first heard it, or the one that conjures up those beach 'n' barbecue memories, or the one that you're almost sick of now that it's September? Okay, maybe it's just us. Well regardless, we're sharing our sentimental sun-drenched songs with you!

1. Jeni [Moves Like Jagger by Maroon 5 and Christina Aguilera] 2. Catrina [Call Your Girlfriend (Feed Me Remix) by Robyn] 3. Kirsten [Stereo Love by Edward Maya and Vika Jigulina] 4. Brianti [Gucci Gucci by Kreayshawn] 5. Jenny [Born This Way by Lady Gaga] 

What song did you have on repeat all summer? We want to know!

Fashion Week Diaries: Cathy Horyn's Fashion Run-In

Cathy Horyn via Jezebel

We are not the only ones getting our feathers ruffled! Check out what Fashion Indie had to say (we like their verbiage). Some designers are in a bit of a hussy as per usual because they were not chosen as one of NYFW's "must-see" shows by The New York Times style critic. Cathy Horyn is ruffling some feathers. She mentioned Proenza Schouler, Narciso Rodriquez, Alexander Wang, Sophie Theallet, and Marc Jacobs, to name a few. Apparently the head honchos were not so pleased—share the spotlight already! Check out her blog and see what she thinks at On the Runway.

The Limbo Generation

(via WeHeartIt)

I read an article on The New York Times website about twenty-something college graduates that really shed light on our employment problems. They called us "Generation Limbo."

It's really easy to internalize your own experiences as a barista at Starbucks with a biology degree, a costume designer working as a receptionist or a former music major folding clothes at Gap, but those experiences are increasingly becoming the norm. 

Although they weren't exactly thrilled about their current jobs, a couple of the men and women interviewed were using the free time they had productively. One subject volunteers her time doing media relations for an animal rescue shelter and another plays in an experimental rock band. 

If you're only working three days a week, that doesn't mean you have to spend the other days watching talk shows on the couch with your mom or weeping over your seemingly lost career goals while you watch The Apprentice.

Maybe the limbo we're experiencing is an opportunity. Instead of working for 20 years and then having time to devote to side projects, we can have a little fun before our careers start, spend a couple of decades at a job we love and then spend retirement on more things we always wanted to do.

If you're still in limbo, what do you do in your spare time?

Work Frenemies

In Bad Teacher Carmen's Diaz's character has a co-worker who does
whatever she can do sabotage her job. Diaz's character was doing
shady things, but her colleague handled their work relationship badly.
(via IF Movies)

No matter how awesome your weekend was, her story always tops yours. She kindly points out when you're even two minutes late for work. She lectures you on proper work etiquette if you wear a sleeveless dress. And if you make a typo, she points it out—at the staff meeting, of course.


This is your work frenemy. She's been placed at your office to make your life, and the lives of countless other women, a living hell. Even if she's been with the company longer than you and has a higher position, your youth is enough of a threat for her to go out of the way to make you look bad. But she always masks her evil ways with a smile so you'd look like a complete jerk if the you told her exactly where she could shove her notes on your latest presentation.


I had a workplace frenemy once, looking over my shoulder for any small mistake. In between her comments about the errors I made, she was really nice and we got along well. I just couldn't trust her not to throw me under the bus whenever I made a simple mistake. Thankfully, she moved away a few months after I started and I was able to work in peace.


Not everyone can be so lucky. I read an article that suggests talking to your work frenemy outside of the office and asking them to consult you about problems they have with your performance or anything else before they broadcast it to the office. Whatever your job is, the main goal is to use your skills to benefit the company. Unhappy employees don't benefit anyone.


How would you deal with your frenemy?

Fashion Week Diaries: Gen Art's Fresh Faces Fashion Show

(via Gen Art by Jason Eric Hardwick)

(via Gen Art by Jason Eric Hardwick)

Side by side with Jay McCarroll, Project Runway's Season 1 winner, I was exposed to a select few "fresh faced" designers of 2011. On September 9, the Grand Ballroom of the Manhattan Center displayed an impressive, blue light runway surrounded by New York's most dashing and fashion daring. 

(via Gen Art by Jason Eric Hardwick)

(via Gen Art by Jason Eric Hardwick)

Hand picked by Gen Art's fashion gurus, youthful designers such as Sunghee Bang, Ann Yee, Eighteenth, and Jennifer Chun graced the runways. Even the men's wear line Baron Wells had me all giddy!

(via Gen Art by Jason Eric Hardwick)

Sparkling wine in hand, attendees proceeded to browse the booths of the latest of accessory designers (placed around the ballroom), my favorite being Wool and the Gang. 

Such innovators of fashion couldn't have had a better debut!

Big Dreams, Small Space

An example of a floor plan. Much better than my
personal drawing. (via Better Homes and Gardens)

Since I still work in the same city where I attended college, staying in the apartment I lived in during my senior year seemed like a great way to save money. Then, I started to realize how limited I am. My space—a bathroom, living area and small walk-in closet—feels like a dorm room and I’m starting to hate coming home to it.

Every time I try to recreate a look I saw in a shelter magazine, it never seems to look right. A couple of weeks ago, after I found my shoes under my desk, I figured out my problem—I need to define my space.

I eat in front of my desktop computer in my work area, I send emails to the Feather staff on my laptop from my bed and you can find my clothing in absolutely any part of my bedroom. This causes a problem with decorating because items should be chosen to complement the function of an area. I’ve just been putting lamps in empty corners.

I know I’m not the only one with this issue, right?

I thought of a few steps to define my space you may find useful.

Draw a floor plan. I’m the worst artist ever, but I drew what my room would be like empty on a legal pad. Then, I considered where I wanted things to be and drew them in those spaces. My bed is against a wall and, although that gives me more floor space, I don’t like that it’s also against the only window.

This kitchen counter also acts as storage for kitchenware
and a table. (via Ikea Family Live)

Storage is key. When your space is really small, you can't have a lot of stuff in the main area without it looking cluttered. I’m going to put off-season clothes in a Rubbermaid bin under my bed.
 
Multipurpose furniture. I already use my dresser as a television stand. I'm also going to turn a bookcase on its side, put cushions on top of it and use it as seating for visitors.

Next—decorating. If you’ve got tips on decorating a small space, I’d love to hear them.

Fashion Week Diaries: Backstage at Mara Hoffman

Maria Hoffman SS2012 via Uptown Magazine

Designer Mara Hoffman's show was at the coveted Box at Lincoln Center this year, and the collection featured bright, bold prints in a variety of silks and cottons. High, patterned platforms let the models tower to unbelievable heights, and chunky, eye-catching jewelry was everywhere. I was absolutely dying for the shimmering makeup by Lottie from the MAKE UP FOR EVER ALLIANCE and crazy-cool hair from Tigi.

Inspired by Frida Kahlo, Lottie wanted the models to look like "strong powerful women," and she employed a bold brow, glowing cheeks, and greasy black eyeliner to achieve the look. As glistening models slithered from hair to makeup to test shots, purple-haired Lottie could be heard saying to the other makeup artists, "Don't be afraid of the brow!" The look was polished off with a pale peach-pink lip and topped with MAKE UP FOR EVER's Glossy Full #10 for mega-watt shine.

Over at the hair section, celebrity stylists at Tigi were braiding long, messily crimped sections of extensions with lengths of silk fabric used by Mara Hoffman in the collection. These chunky braided creations were then piled on top of models' heads and affixed with plenty of Tigi spray. "We wanted this bright, bold and beautiful," they explained, a perfect pairing for the Mexican-meets-ethereal makeup. We'll have tons more to say about this and everything else we learned backstage at NYFW when Feather Magazine launches!

Fashion Week Diaries: FNO New York City

 A whirlwind of celebrity socialites and crazed fashionistas marched out in five-inch heels and flawless style to experience New York City’s 3^rd annual Fashion’s Night Out. To no surprise the streets were a buzz in Soho and QVC was my target spot. Entering 428 Broadway red carpet style and having been only inches away from Heidi Klum herself, I would say this was the best party of the night. The three floor venue was spacious and filled with celebrity designers and life changing beauty products.

Not to mention the flow of complimentary drinks! 

Rachel Zoe's play closet 

Judith Ripka and her jewelry collection

Bangles from Judith Ripka and a play closet of Rachel Zoe’s new collection was only the beginning. I even swooped over the beauty side (shhh! don't tell Beauty Editor Jenny!) and had my hair styled with T3 tools and lips plumed with Tarte gloss! Appearances by the fashion guru herself, Anna Wintor , Sarah Jessica Parker, and more completed my FNO glee!

hovering around fabulous Judith Ripka bags

 

preparing for live coverage

entering the scene

mingling 

Editors' Picks: Fall Fashion Trend

We rounded up our favorite trends of the season—just in time for fashion week.

1. Jenny [funky animal sweaters] 2. Catrina [blush colors and maxi lengths] 3. Brianti [pleated skirts with animal prints] 4. Jeni [peplum silhouettes] 5. Kirsten [polka dots in dresses, scarves and shoes]

What are you coveting this fall? Let us know in the comments!

True Blood Season 4

HBO was right. Waiting sucks. This season, waiting for scenes with Eric and Sookie or Bill and Sookie, waiting for action, or just waiting for something in general to happen does suck. Maybe they were too hyped up on V or just under Marnie's spell, but the tagline for season four of True Blood was the only thing the creators of the blood-lusting vamp show got correct.

I'm a True Blood nut. I've read almost all of the books—up until the eighth when Charlaine Harris started running out of men for Sookie (I just wanted her back with Bill...or Eric) and mythical creatures to shove down our throats (weretigers anyone?). After the debatable LOST finale aired, I've been trying to find a show to take it's place. So far, Modern Family and True Blood have been holding me over. Sofia Vergara and Ty Burrell get more laughs out of me than Sawyer and Hurley ever did and when I need a mythical/sci-fi fix, I turn to HBO.

The only good part of Season 4 has been Eric and Sookie. (via HBO)

Season 4 had the potential to be a spectacular season—Eric's been pining after Sookie for so long, so, as a long-time reader, I was excited since I knew Sookie would end up with him once under the witch's spell. However, it has done anything but live up to what the book promised. Unfortunately, the spell cast must have hit more than just Eric. With so many subplots, unanswered questions and extra characters—Tara's random girlfriend, the werepack and werepanthers—the show has felt a bit bloated and, therefore, difficult to watch. The only thing worth watching, and consistent, has been Eric and Sookie.

Here are ten story lines ruffling my feathers this season.

1. The Demon Baby

At first it was cute—albeit creepy—and it had me intrigued. A small baby with a glint of evil in its eyes—defaming both Barbie dolls and walls. At first, it was kind of cool seeing Arlene's worries from last season about her unborn child become a reality. However, I thought this would lead to a potential paranoia story line.

What we got instead: The demon baby story line was dropped for a mysterious mama ghost to steal him away. No explanation was ever given for why Baby Rene seemed to hate Arlene and the strange occurrences that continued taking place whenever he was around. No real motive was given for burning down her house, if it truly was the baby and how the baby escaped from harm's way.

2. Mysterious Ghost from the Past

Sort of in line with the last subplot, a spirit who has nothing to do with Arlene or her baby are following her around in hopes to snatch Baby Rene away as her own. Only after taking over Lafayette's body (don't ask), and successfully kidnapping the child she believes is her own, does she realize that she's dead and that both she and her baby died long ago. After coming to peace with this realization, she moves on in true "poof-away" fashion, never to be seen again, returning the baby to Arlene and allowing Lafayette to control his own body.

The issue: I still don't get what the point of this side story line was. It didn't further any other plot lines, this woman wasn't connected to anyone else important on the show. As far as I could tell, it wasted valuable Eric and Sookie air time.

3. Lafayette's BF is a Bruha

When did the writers decide Lafayette's boyfriend was a witch? I never had any indication of this last season. Apparently, everyone on this show needs magical powers. I can't wait to find out what secret Andy Bellefleur possesses. This brings us to the fourth most pointless subplot this season.

4. Andy Bellefleur

This V addiction needs to stop. Not only is this out of character for this no-nonsense cop, but now, the poor man is hallucinating, believing he's having sex with beautiful fairies in the woods. It's just downright mean. Honestly, I just think the creators are getting bored with Andy and aren't sure what to do with the character, so he's the go-to comic relief. Even that's backfiring. As for the fairy stint, is this supposed to bring the misfired season opener full circle somehow?

Speaking of fairies...

5. The Opening Sequence

We opened the season in fairy world, and after the second episode, they were never brought up again until last week. What was the point of showing Sookie's grandpa and making her disappear for a year? It was like the show planned on doing something with the fairy world and gave up.

6. Pam Rotting

The only thing more disgusting and unattractive than seeing a vamp after they've had a wooden bullet driven into their chest is seeing one literally fall apart from a flesh-eating spell. This was just one more thing to divert our attention from the main plot line because a few episodes later, our Pam is fine. Shocker.

7. Most Wasted Character this Season: Alcide

Why bother bringing such a talented—and hot—actor to the set if he has to stand around in the background and play THIRD fiddle to both Alexander Skarsgard and Stephen Moyer. He doesn't even have a chance. And, honestly, no one cares to see his relationship with Debbie onscreen.

8. Most Wasted Opportunity this Season: Jason

In the books, no one ever raped Jason. He became a werepanther and married Crystal—who I swear comes off as more sane in the books. Therefore, I was heavily disappointed when the HotShot storyline began to head down a road with little-to-no redemption.

I can see why the storyline was dropped; however, since the writers changed Jason's entire storyline, it seems as if they had nowhere else to go and under desperation wrote him in alongside Jessica in order to have a love interest.

9. Sam's Girlfriend

Maybe the whole situation just seems too rushed for me, but, as is the case with many other characters this season, I just don't feel like the show has really had the time to develop her character enough for me to care. Her back story felt rushed and unfinished. I thought she was going to be related to the ghost residing in Marnie for the season's entirety. Instead, we received some loose story line about a daughter that connected her to the Shreveport wolf pack.

10. Making Tara a Lesbian... Sort Of

I have no problem with making Tara a lesbian. However, I don't understand the reasoning behind giving her a girlfriend if she's only going to run off a few episodes into the season. The topic of Tara having a life down south is never brought up again, nor is her boxing career. I guess no one else is looking for her, and Tara never left any other personal items at her ex's since she never received a monster box in the mail.

I won't even go into the reasons I dislike Tommy.

With two more episodes to go this season, I'll sit out and wait. However, if Season 5 doesn't pick up, I may have to set my sights on a new series.

Vampire Diaries anyone?

Thirsty for more? Follow my live tweets (on @feather_mag and @KirstenAcuna) of this season's last episode of True Blood, Sunday at 9 pm.

Nail It With Red

This weekend, I was in Florida for the wedding of a friend of mine from high school. With no time (and no cash) to get a manicure post-departure, I dragged my boyfriend to the local Target so I could nab a nail file, some polish remover, and a bottle of Lilacism, a favorite Essie hue of mine. When we got to the beach, I set up a great system on my towel, spread out my wares, and got to work.

Sadly, I immediately discovered that the bottle was defective. Instead of pretty, even strokes, a mess of chunky gunk was masking my otherwise lovely nails, turning a morning's peaceful project into a nighmarish beauty moment. Always a fan of fun, funky pastels and creamy pinks or taupes, my idea of a walk on the sexy side in nail care is reviving an old teal. So, when I peered into my old cosmetics bag that I rarely update and have dragged on every trip with me for years to discover no pastels or pearls but only... red, I was vaguely concerned.

The trouble with red nail polish is its potential to look ever-so-slightly too coquettish. Then, there is the added drama that can ensue when one attempts a self-mani in scarlet. But, I was a girl in a bind, and I had little time to find a solution. Here is what I discovered. The shiny lipstick red dubbed Lollipop is a stand-alone red with just enough attitude and without too pungent a hue. Startlingly pretty against my somewhat tan skin, its texture is that perfect, inky gloss that dries hard as nails and shiny as a dream. Two coats beachside followed by a quickie Dior top coat and bam--even my tired-of-beauty-products boyfriend commented that my nails looked "sexy."

Now I ask you, can your lilac do that?

(Essie Lollipop via Essie)

Beetles and a Barefoot Breakup

I recently discovered an article on FitSugar that lists five surprisingly non-vegan drinks. And I’m not referring to that dollop of whipped cream on your mocha latte. Milk in your coffee seems justified, right? Well, how about fish oil in your orange juice? Happy hour just got a little less jovial, too: Would you prefer a splash of pig's hoof in your wine or a hint of swim bladder in your beer?

(Dried Cochineal Beetles via Cochineal Dye)

You may have no desire to forgo red meat, but how about red beetles? Ignorance may be bliss, but it’s not a blessing: Cochineal beetles provide "natural" coloring for countless red-hued foods, including Minute Maid Ruby Red Grapefruit Juice, Good & Plenty, Tropicana Orange Strawberry Juice and Dannon Fruit on the Bottom Boysenberry Yogurt, among others. The repugnant pigment is also known as Natural Red 4 (not FD&C Red Dye No. 40), crimson lake, carmine, carminic acid, or cochineal.

(via The Pour Blonde)

Gross.

I think the majority of my disappointment lies with the animal by-products in Barefoot Wine. Available almost anywhere at a fabulous price, Barefoot Moscato was the one vino my wallet and taste buds could agree on. Having found that Barefoot nauseatingly uses gelatin (a by-product of cow and pig hooves) and animal proteins in its wine making process, I was horrified. What an ignorant lush I'd become!

The good news: I'm on the cusp of a rebound relationship. So far, my list of contenders includes Red Truck and Yellow Tail, both accessible, moderately-priced, and most importantly, sans animal parts. The bad news: I can't seem to find a vegan, organic Moscato. But I've decided that instead of searching for Mr. Wine, I'm going to concentrate on finding Mr. Wine Now.


Check out FitSugar's article for more dirty deets on Guinness, soda, and orange juice!

Welcome to Ruffled Feathers!

Welcome to the official editors' blog of Feather Magazine. Before our launch Oct. 12 we had so much going on and were anxious to start sharing things with you, so we decided to launch Ruffled Feathers ahead of schedule.

Your first thought may be: “Why should I follow this blog?"

Here are four reasons we should be at the top your reading list:

We’re covering New York Fashion Week
I thought I’d start with the big guns. Our Beauty Director and Fashion Director will be sharing some photos from events and writing about their experiences. We’re also live tweeting some of the shows! One of the main reasons we’re launching this blog before the magazine is because we wanted to share our NYFW experience with our readers.

We’re full of surprises
If you haven’t noticed yet, we’re a little secretive at Feather Magazine and that’s because we love to surprise you. We kept this a secret from most of the staff until last week! We’ve got a few secret gems planned for you as this blog evolves and you won’t know about them if you don’t read Ruffled Feathers.

Feather editors are awesome
When I decided to start this magazine, I wanted editors who were qualified but also nice and friendly. What I got was a group of genuinely kind-hearted women who were overqualified for their positions, but still willing to dedicate their time and energy to the magazine. You’ll get to know just how amazing they are because these posts are from their point of view.

We really want to know more about you
Feather is all about collaboration with our readers, so we want to use this as a way to interact with Feather Girls before our website launches. We want to know what you think of these posts, so please leave comments. Do you love them, like them or do they ruffle your feathers? We're also going to ask you poll questions that will help us figure out what we should be writing for you. If you tell us what you think, it will help us ensure the magazine and this blog are full of content you will love.

We've got a lot planned for this blog, be sure to follow us on Google Friend Connect and on Twitter (@rufflings), so you never miss out on anything!