My summer theme song by Sam Sparro, titled “Black and Gold,” inspired me to create some style guides that are sure to have you looking like the chic-est beauty at the beach this year. ‘Black and gold’ is very old-school gaudy glam and of course my motto for wearing it is, “go big or go home.” I love the look of black and gold swimwear paired with huge chunky jewelry to match. It’s over the top, but it works. (Hey, atleast I’m not suggesting that you finish off the look with some gold lame’ stilettos for your next game of beach volleyball!) The suits are sexy and the jewelry’s affordable, so be sure to check out both lists of products for a new sexy look for this season. My fave: gold cuff bracelets on each wrist. Hottt!

Suit: Black by Despi 2009
Cuff: Dereon Mini Fleur de Lis Leather Cuff

With airline prices as inexpensive as they’ve been these days, many are opting to take mini vacations to get a little sightseeing and relaxation in. If you’re planning a trip, studying abroad, or if you’re someone who travels regularly, I’ve done some online window shopping for products that will help make your next trip organized, stress-free, and stylish. Some of my favorite travel items are shown below. To see a full list of stylish, functional, and affordable travel products, click on one of the categories here:

Cool Passport Holders
Neck Support Pillows
Portable Massagers
Sleek Laptop Bags
Toiletry Bags for the Serious Traveler
Travel Shoe Bags

Shown (l-r): Samsonite Double Comfort Travel Pillow with Pouch, Shoe Bags by PB Travel, Travelon Nylon Hanging Toiletry Kit, Checkpoint Friendly Quick Pass Adjustable Laptop Protector, Homedics PM-R2 Handheld Massager.

It’s not too early to start thinking about two major June events that usually require some sort of thoughtfulness on your part: Father’s Day and Graduation. This is especially true if you’re shopping for a Dad or Grad gift online (need to factor in shipping time). I have created shopping guides to help you find the perfect gift to surprise your loved ones with this year. For Father’s Day ideas, take a look at my Father’s Day Gift Guide. For guy graduation presents, click on my Guy Grad Gift guide. And for graduation gifts for ladies, check out Girl Grad Gifts.

P.S. Father’s Day is on June 21st this year!

Shown (L-R): Dad/Father Frame, Fog-Free Mirror with AM/FM Radio, Graduation Caricature Print, USB Tulip Hub, Wake Up iPod Speaker and Alarm Clock, and Grad Guy Bobblehead.