Press Release: PEOPLE StyleWatch: September 2012 Issue

NEW YORK, Aug. 29, 2012 -- It's the September issue of PEOPLE StyleWatch and it's our biggest issue ever! Gracing the cover is the fresh and stylish, Emma Stone. Dressed up or down, the star of The Amazing Spider-Man is always in fashion.

Her stylist Petra Flannery dishes on some of Stone's top outfits. "Emma likes to try unexpected pieces," says Flannery of the star's red carpet style. "Confidence is the key to pulling them off." As for Stone's street style, Flannery tells StyleWatch, "Emma says she's most comfortable in jeans and a T-shirt." For much more on Stone's different looks and where you kind find similar looks, for less, check out the September issue!

10 Fall Must-Haves! Get ready to wow in the hottest trends of the season – sparkle in brocade, glossy patent leather and so much more.

1. Hunter Green: This rich color makes a statement on clothing, shoes and bags.

2. Ankle-Strap Heels: Updated with pointy toes, this leg-lengthening style is having a major moment. 

3. Military Details: Embossed buttons, epaulets and sharp tailoring are everywhere.

4. Trumpet Hems: The flouncy shape is a fun twist on spring's peplum trend.

5. Dome Bags: Rounded top-handle carryalls are sophisticated and functional.

6. Brocade: This ornate fabric is perfect for dressing up, but on more casual pieces or paired with jeans and flats, it's chic and unexpected.

7. Jeweled Necklaces: These dramatic styles punch up any outfit, day or night.

8. Shift Dresses: In graphic patterns, bright colors and more, this loose silhouette is both stylish and easy to wear.

9. Voluminous Coats: Wear these trendy styles anytime – opt for fitted clothes to create a cool contrast.

10. Patent Leather: Try just a hint on pumps or a shirt collar, or go all out in a head-turning piece of clothing.  
                                                                                    
5 Fall Beauty Trends: These of-the-moment looks are both fresh and dramatic! StyleWatch shows you how to make them work.

1. Rosy Cheeks: Flirty colors are incredibly feminine and wake up every skin tone.

2. Wine-Red Lips: A dark tone is an edgy yet sophisticated way to wear red.

3. Earthy Eye Shadows: Tan, brown and bronze are super versatile – subtle enough for day, dramatic for a night out.

4. Bold Eyeliner: Black liner instantly glams up eyes – plus, it's practically goof-proof.

5. Dark Blue Nails: Chic shades of sapphire and navy modernize your manicure.

PLUS 4 More We Love! Blue Eye Makeup; Burgundy Nails; Bright-Red Lipstick; Radiant Skin.  

Shop YOUR Style: Whether your look is cool, classic or glam, we have the perfect new trend for you to try.

1. Leather & Lace (Cool): Tough but romantic, this mix is totally modern. Combine sleek dresses, delicate tops, bold accessories and more for an edgy-pretty contrast.

2. Equestrian (Classic): This relaxed yet polished look is everywhere for fall. Go for timeless dresses, silky shirts, riding boots and more in a neutral palette with rich details.

3. Embellishment (Glam): Sparkly, oversize adornments feel bold and fashion-forward. Choose a single standout piece, from an eye-catching top to a glitzy skirt, and wear it day or night. 

People StyleWatch is dedicated to making fashion and beauty trends accessible, affordable and fun. First launched as a special newsstand extension of PEOPLE in 2002.

People StyleWatch is published 11 times a year, with a guaranteed circulation of 800,000 and reaches 5.6 million readers each month. PeopleStyleWatch.com is the #1 style magazine website reaching 3 million unique visitors and averaging 150 million pageviews each month with content that is refreshed throughout the day. Every day on PeopleStyleWatch.com you'll see the latest looks from the red carpet and get the latest scoop on trends, as well as tips on fashion, beauty and shopping.

Latest Obsession: Sweater Dresses

Frenchi Ribbed Trim Sweater Dress $48.00 Nordstrom

I just absolutely love Sweater Dresses. What's not to love? They're so comfortable and cozy but still look great. It's just a no worry fashion choice.


Turtleneck Sweater Dress $79.50 Victoria's Secret

Gap Takes a Piece of Its Downtown Los Angeles Denim Studio on the Road

Straight from West Pico Boulevard, 'Pico de Gap' Serves Up Unique Tacos From Local Chefs and a Dose of Premium Denim

SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 10, 2011 -- Inspired by a late night team dinner at a food truck in Los Angeles, Gap is taking the vibe of its denim design studio on the road with a custom vintage taco truck. Launching today in four markets, Pico de Gap will serve custom menus exclusively "designed" by local chefs, including best-selling author Katie Lee in New York, Top Chef's Marcel Vigneron in Los Angeles, Top Chef's Ryan Scott in San Francisco, and Rick Gresh of David Burke's Primehouse in Chicago.

While food trucks have become a coast-to-coast craze, boasting everything from sushi and dumplings to street sweets and schnitzel, Gap is sticking with the "original" food truck that started the now nationwide trend. "The idea of Pico de Gap—and the taco truck used in our fall campaign 1969: L.A. and Beyond—came about one night when I was having dinner with our 1969 design team in downtown L.A.," said Seth Farbman, Gap's Chief Marketing Officer. "It's these types of everyday moments that shape who we are as people and inspire the product we design for our customers. We thought it would be an unexpected, engaging way to share a little more about ourselves and the experience we had that night."

To create an authentic aesthetic, each Pico de Gap truck was hand-painted and includes a replica of a vintage Gap ad and neon sign from the '70s. Customers can check out the latest 1969 fall denim styles on display while enjoying tacos for a $1.69. With proof of a same-day Gap denim purchase, the meal is free. Additionally, every customer will receive a coupon for $20 off their next Gap 1969 denim purchase and some lucky patrons will even receive a special coupon redeemable for a free pair of Gap 1969 jeans up to $90.00.

Gap's 1969 fall collection continues to demonstrate its commitment to bringing the same premium fabrics and fits as other premium denim brands at a much more accessible price point. Signature fits for women include the Legging Jean, High Rise Pintuck Trouser and Skinny Boot, while signature fits for men include the Drop Crotch Skinny, Slim Trouser and Slouchy Slim Rocker.

Pico de Gap Chefs

Fashion and food guru Katie Lee will satisfy New Yorkers with her broad range of culinary experiences, from serving as the food and lifestyle correspondent for the CBS Early Show to writing culinary features for an array of magazines. "Mexican culture and cuisine gets my creative juices flowing, so I can't wait to bring my spin on popular south-of-the-border flavors to the Pico de Gap truck! From food to fashion, my personal philosophy is all about the three C's: casual, comfortable, with a touch of couture—and Gap 1969 denim totally fits my style. I'm thrilled to collaborate with Gap to bring a fun and delicious taco menu to the streets of New York City," said Lee.

On the West Coast, Top Chef runner-up Marcel Vigneron of The Bazaar is the innovator behind the Los Angeles truck's imaginative cuisine. "Gap's 1969 line is all about classic American style – fresh, colorful and cool. That's what a taco truck is too—it's a mobile fiesta, a celebration of social eating, amazing food, and our melting pot of culture," said Vigneron. "I'm excited to showcase a more casual flare of cooking to the public, especially when it's at the helm of a cool taco truck!"

Additional Top Chef alum and restaurateur, Ryan Scott, will satiate the fashion foodies of San Francisco bringing expertise from his very own food truck 3-Sum Eats. One of Scott's delicious creations will consist of mole-braised brisket, pumpkin seeds, red onion marmalade, queso fresco and Mexican chocolate vinaigrette.

Culinary mastermind Rick Gresh, executive chef of David Burke's Primehouse, will bring his creativity and profound knowledge of fine cuisine from the dining room to the streets of Chicago. Patrons can indulge in a savory feast from a menu that includes farmer's market queso fundido and dry aged steak, chicken chorizo and pork belly tacos.

Each Pico de Gap truck will stop by music events, nightlife hotspots, festivals, farmers' markets and select Gap stores. To find out where the truck will head next, patrons can track the specific locations daily by following Pico de Gap on Twitter: Los Angeles (@picodegapLA), San Francisco (@picodegapSF), New York (@picodegapNY) and Chicago (@picodegapChi) and by visiting Gap's Facebook page: Facebook.com/gap.

About Gap Inc.

Gap Inc. is a leading global specialty retailer offering clothing, accessories, and personal care products for men, women, children, and babies under the Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Piperlime, and Athleta brands. Fiscal year 2010 net sales were $14.7 billion. Gap Inc. products are available for purchase in over 90 countries worldwide through about 3,100 company-operated stores, about 175 franchise stores, and e-commerce sites. For more information, please visit www.gapinc.com.

Latest Obsession: Camo Jacket

Camo Jacket $79.00 Banana Republic

I've been looking for something a little different and a camo jacket is just perfect for the weekend. But make sure it's fitted so it doesn't make you look too boxy. I would pair it with a cute tank and shorts or a summer dress in white or pink. It would even look great with a Little Black Dress.

The summer is a great time to take chances with fashion.

JCPENNEY DEMONSTRATES THE POWER OF A PENNY TO SUPPORT LOCAL YOUTH

Company Launches “pennies from heaven” to Inspire Donations for Afterschool

Cause Marketing Campaign Debuts with Innovative Digital Experience and Backing from Design Partners Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen




PLANO, Texas (July 20, 2011) — J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE: JCP) today announced that it is launching an inspiring new philanthropic initiative that invites customers in over 1,100 stores to turn small change into “pennies from heaven” by rounding up their purchases and donating the difference to life-enriching afterschool programs. For more than a decade, JCPenney has been the leading corporate advocate for the afterschool issue by distributing more than $100 million across every jcpenney community. To bolster support for the afterschool movement, jcpenney will unveil its most extensive cause marketing campaign to date. Serving as the Company’s signature cause-related event, pennies from heaven will be held four times a year starting July 31 through Aug. 27 during the Back-to-School season.

“Compelling national research reveals that one in four students in America is unsupervised between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. each day. This represents more than 15 million kids who could benefit from the academic and social development opportunities that afterschool programs provide,” said Mike Theilmann, group executive vice president for J. C. Penney Company, Inc. and chairman of J.C. Penney afterschool. “With communities facing severe cuts in education and school resources, there’s never been a more important time to raise awareness of the afterschool issue and get our customers involved in helping to narrow the education gap.”

Marketing that Inspires Change
As the largest cause marketing initiative JCPenney has ever launched, pennies from heaven will have a prominent role in the Company’s overall back-to-school promotions. Created in collaboration with Momentum Worldwide, Saatchi & Saatchi New York and 360i, pennies from heaven leverages multiple touch points to engage the hearts and minds of American consumers. National and Hispanic advertising, which utilizes broadcast, print and online media, showcases youth in afterschool programs through themed ads representing “pennies for art,” “pennies for science” and “pennies for music” -- demonstrating the power of a penny to create new opportunities for learning. Promotions for pennies from heaven will run as an integral component to jcpenney’s Back-to-School “Daydreamer” campaign, which features dream-inspired doodles to reveal kids’ inner aspirations -- reinforcing the notion that through a collective call to action, jcpenney and its supporters can help shape the future for millions of America’s youth.

Purse for a Cause
Olsenboye designers Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen are lending their support to the initiative by releasing a limited edition change purse available exclusively at jcpenney. Each purse will sell for $9.99 and 100 percent of the sale proceeds will be donated to the pennies from heaven campaign. “Every child should have the opportunity to be part of a positive and nurturing environment after school,” said Ashley Olsen. “Through the purchase of an Olsenboye change purse, customers can help support afterschool programs and impact a child’s life,” added Mary-Kate Olsen.

Generating Virtual Pennies for Real Donations
Prior to the official launch in stores, customers will be able to collect virtual pennies as part of a fun, interactive experience on jcp.com/pennies. This new microsite serves as a personalized social hub for supporters to learn more about the issue and get involved through various online activities that trigger a donation to afterschool programs. Once users collectively generate 100 million virtual pennies, jcpenney will donate $1 million to the afterschool cause. Elements of the pennies from heaven online challenge include:

■ sending a “lucky penny” to friends on Facebook using a customized application;
■ watching the pennies from heaven commercial video;
■ downloading the pennies from heaven ringtone;
■ liking JCPenney on Facebook or following JCPenney on Twitter and;
■ checking into a JCPenney store on Foursquare.

About jcpenney’s commitment to afterschool:

As the leading corporate advocate for the afterschool issue, JCPenney partners with leading afterschool organizations to make life-enriching afterschool programs accessible for working families. Through its legacy of supporting youth and charitable organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, the Y, National 4-H, United Way and FIRSTâ Robotics, JCPenney formalized its commitment to the afterschool cause by establishing the jcpenney afterschool fund, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Since its inception, more than $100 million has been distributed to afterschool programs across every JCPenney community thereby making it possible for more kids to spread their wings. For more information, visit www.jcp.com/pennies.

About J. C. Penney Company, Inc.:

J. C. Penney Company, Inc., one of America's leading retailers, operates over 1,100 jcpenney department stores throughout the United States and Puerto Rico, as well as one of the largest apparel and home furnishing sites on the Internet, jcp.com. Serving more than half of America’s families each year, the jcpenney brand offers a wide array of private, exclusive and national brands which reflect the Company’s vision to be America’s shopping destination for discovering great styles at compelling prices. Traded as “JCP” on the New York Stock Exchange, the $17.8 billion retailer is transforming its organization to support its Long Range Plan strategies to build a sustainable, profitable enterprise that serves its customers, engages its associates and rewards its shareholders. For more information visit, www.jcpenney.net.

Latest Obsession: Summer Dresses

One of the easiest pieces to wear this summer is a dress, especially when it's sweltering outside. I love accessorizing them with jewelry, belts or fun scarves and if the temperature starts to go down, with sweaters, blazers or wraps. What's not to love about the summer dress? Nothing.


ECI Scarf Print Charmeuse Babydoll Dress $98.00 Nordstrom



Flowering Sundress $22.80 Forever21




Floral & Scroll Print Dress $17.80 Forever21





LUSH Ruffled Racerback Dress $46.00 Nordstrom

Affordable Fashion Find: Tucker for Target Camisole

Tucker for Target Camisole $22.99

I just love this top. It's an easy to wear cami at a great price. The orange is even prettier in person. It's simply gorgeous. It's so versatile, you could wear it casual with jeans or sophisticated with a pants suit for work.

What Were They Thinking: DC Comics Changing Wonder Woman's Costume

Seriously, what was DC Comics thinking when they decided to change Wonder Woman's iconic suit (above) to the new less than heroic version (below)? As a comic book fan and a fashion-forward kind of girl, I really don't see how putting WW in the new suit is going to generate new sales as well as new fans. The new suit will be featured in Wonder Woman's milestone #600 issue.

(Click image for a better view)

From a business and marketing stand point, the new suit makes Wonder Woman seem boring and less than unique. Where's the selling point? The new design looks like something that could of been a temporary costume during the 80's instead of a new look for the character. Hopefully the executives over at DC will change their minds and go back to the iconic suit.

Not content with just changing her costume, DC also decided to retcon or change her origin story. According to the Wall Street Journal, she will now be an amnesiac refugee from a devastating attack on the Amazonian haven of Paradise Island. Geekosystem.com compares her new origin with that of Superman's.

Here is her new background story (found on geekosystem.com): The Gods, for reasons of their own but which may have something to with their survival and perhaps the survival of Earth itself, have changed the timeline. In the new timeline, years ago the Gods removed their protection from Paradise Island, and left it vulnerable to attack. And attacked it was. Led by a dark figure, a veritable army descended upon the Island, equipped with weapons that could kill even the Amazons. Outgunned, doomed, Hippolyta gave over her three-year-old daughter to a handful of guardians who spirited her away as Hippolyta led one last desperate battle against the forces that had come to destroy all she had created. In that final battle, she and most of the Amazons were killed, though some managed to escape.


What do you think of the new outfit? Love it or Loathe it?

Latest Obsession: Sporty Chic

Sporty Chic, what's not to love: soft hoodies, fitted rugby shirts, strapless racer stripe dresses, sleek yoga pants, rugby stripe tote bags and cute tennis inspired mini skirts. These sporty fashions are casual yet stylish leaving you without feeling all slumpy in baggy tees.


AE Drape Neck Pullover $29.50 American Eagle



Detroit Tigers Women's Tube Top by Touch by Alyssa Milano $26.99 shop.mlb.com



Sonata Yoga Pullover Sweater $98.00 Athleta.gap.com



Athletic V-neck Dolman Tee $26.90 Alloy.com



New York Mets Women's Tribute Hoody by Touch by Alyssa Millano $34.97 shop.mlb.com



Vintage Summer Tote $48.00 Abercrombie & Fitch

What's the Problem with Barbie Now?

Commentry by Style and Focus PR

Doesn't it seem like people wake up finding something to complain about. What's the big deal about this Barbie doll? She's part of the Barbie Basics collection which celebrates the Little Black Dress and these dolls are endorsed by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA).

Out of all the things these desperate housewives could really find to complain about they decide to focus on Barbie. They think her v-neck dress is too revealing. I find nothing controversial about this doll, in fact I have this doll as well as a couple of other dolls from the Barbie Basics collection in my home office. I think they are unique, stylish and show off the timeless LBD. These stunning dolls are sold as collectors dolls and are just merely showcasing legendary fashion.

If they don't think this doll is right for their little girl then don't purchase it. It's just that simple. These are probably the same women who had a problem with the also collectors Barbie DC Comics Black Canary and Supergirl dolls. They complained and called Black Canary the S&M Barbie when in fact, she's a superhero not a dominatrix. They complained that Supergirl's uniform was too revealing. I'm surprised they didn't say anything about Wonder Woman or Batgirl. Seriously, you just can't please anyone.

Last-Minute Mother's Day Gift Suggestions

You knew Mother's Day was coming but somehow you ended up waiting until the last minute to get mom a gift. To give you some ideas, I've provided a few suggestions to help you celebrate:

-- If your mom is the Sporty type: buy her a couple of tickets to her favorite baseball team. Let her know you will take her out for a pre or post game meal to go along with the gift.

-- If your mom loves Flowers: instead of buying mom the traditional roses (unless they're her favorite), opt for different blooms such as Lilac, Sweet Pea, Lilies, Tulips or Orchids. If your the DIY type you can make your own flower arrangements and give it to your mom in a beautiful vase.

-- Mom keeps eyeing your new Coffee Maker: buy her one. Make it special by including her favorite coffee and also a new coffee mug.

-- For a mom who loves a bit of Culture: surprise her with brunch and a day at the museum or you can buy her tickets to an upcoming play she's excited to see.

-- For a mom who really enjoys Relaxing: A book or DVD she's interested in, lounge or sleepwear, a scented candle and a box a dark chocolate.

-- For the Sentimental Type: give her a digital picture frame with uploaded pictures of you (and of your siblings, if you have any) or a traditional framed photo of the two of you. Maybe include a bouquet of flowers with a future invite for lunch or dinner.

-- Mom who's into Fashion: buy her something really chic (that's in your budget) like an amazing bag or really great top. You could also plan a shopping day with mom complete with lunch or dinner.

-- For the mom who Doesn't want you to buy them any gifts: invite her over for a home cooked meal and also give her a bouquet of flowers and a nice bottle of wine.

-- For the mom who loves to Garden: buy her a new garden tool set, gloves, a kneeling cushion (in a bright color) and a beautiful potted plant.


I hope these suggestions work. Got a last-minute gift idea to share? Leave me a comment or an e-mail at styleandfocuspr@yahoo.com

Latest Obsession: Spaghetti Strap Dresses

There's just something about the classic Spaghetti Strap Dress. It's understated yet sexy and it shows off your shoulders (which is great after all the hard work I put in exercising).

To me it's like the perfect summer dress. You can wear it casual and loose for the weekends, fitted for an evening date, or polished with a cardigan or jacket for work.



Country Flirt Dress $13.99 Forever21



T by Alexander Wang Tank Dress $92.00 Blue & Cream (blueandcream.com)



Fronds Print Woven Dress $22.90 Forever21



Ralph Lauren Cotton Tiered Ruffle Dress $98.00 rugby.com



Cross-Front Knit Dress $19.50 Old Navy



Crochet Strap Dress by Vintage Havana $54.00 National Jean Company (nationaljeancompany.com)



Babydoll Dress $26.00 Charlotte Russe



Garden Spaghetti Strap Dress $22.80 Forever21



Free People Tiered Jeweled dress $118.00 Shopbop.com



Ruffled Spaghetti Strap Dress $32.00 Charlotte Russe



McGinn Floral Print Dress $195.00 Nordstrom



ECI Scarf Print Charmeuse Babydoll Dress $98.00 Nordstrom

What to Wear: For a Sorority Alumnae Formal (Reader Request)

Someone asked for advice (in the comment section) for what to wear to their Sorority Alumnae Formal. Since you didn't say whether you were on a budget or whether you preferred long or short dresses, I included a variety to get you started.

Whatever dress you end up buying, make sure it's comfortable because you will be wearing it all night and most likely dancing as well.

As a sorority alum, I can relate to finding beautiful yet comfortable formal dresses because you will be in it all night and don't want to worry about something not fitting or feeling uncomfortable while trying to dance or catch up with old friends.



Avery Halter Short Prom Dress $69.90 Windsorstore.com




BCBG Strapless Silk Gown $360.00 Nordstrom



Yoli Halter Prom Dress $139.90 Windsorstore.com



Dee Dee Strapless Prom Dress $149.90 Windsorstore.com



JS Boutique Strapless Ruched Satin Gown $98.00 Nordstrom



Jewel-Embellished Taffeta Gown $498.00 BCBG (bcbg.com)




Joan Strapless Prom Dress $99.90 Windsorstore.com



Way-In Sweetheart Party Dress $68.00 Nordstrom



Strapless Taffeta Gown $598.00 BCBG



Strapless Printed Gown $468.00 BCBG




Adriana Papell One Shoulder Jersey Gown $148.00 Nordstrom



Tiered Silk Gown $448.00 BCBG



Back-Detailed Jersey Gown $298.00 BCBG