Blogger Highlight: The Oatmeal

In the past year and a half, Matthew Inman's cartoon take on absurd life moments, also known as The Oatmeal, has catapulted from relative unknown to Internet comic staple. The Oatmeal is a collection of comics and quizzes that poke fun at the silly, life truths that we all know and ignore. His wry, often spastic comics are a fun way to procrastinate online. Here are a few of my favorites...

Remember when we were all forced to learn cursive in elementary school? Whatever became of all that penmanship practice...

Are you guilty of doling out one of these?

What you actually sound like... and it's not pretty!

In case you were wondering, why oatmeal?, Inman joked in a recent interview with Mashable, "My comic has no recurring characters though, so rather than trying to name it something like BisonMeatPorkDesignButterflyPoopiesBigJokesLOL.com, I just called it 'The Oatmeal.'"


If you love his comics, check out his new book, 5 Very Good Reasons to Punch a Dolphin in the Mouth (and Other Useful Guides). For more Oatmeal fun, find more comics and quizzes here.

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

My earliest memories of Valentine's Day are from elementary school, where everyone in class was required to give out those cheesy Disney cards to each person. (I always chose one of the Disney princesses!). We'd spend an hour of class walking to and from desks, industriously leaving Valentine's Day cards at each. Some even got candy taped to their cards, a universal "You're cool" or "I like you". But now that we are a bit older, Valentine's Day doesn't seem as simple as those days. Choosing the right gift can feel impossible. Do I go with the romantic, cuddly approach or something a little more useful? To get you started, here are some of my favorite Valentine's Day ideas:

Instead of the usual photo frame, try a photo cube instead and display more then 1 favorite memory

Dog tags, the anti-jewelry!

With the tagline, "Gifts that Make You Smile," BoldLoft is the place for the most adorable gifts. Check out this pillowcase set from their "You're Irresistible" collection

To achieve the sappier "AWWW!" reaction, consider creating a personalized book of all the reasons why you love your special someone

For something a little less Valentine's Day-ish, play up your sweetie's love of football and get customized NFL M&Ms, with the team's logo and colors

For those who love fun, random gifts (or who are just really into Monopoly!), try Loveopoly! Personalize it with your own photos and memories

Monogramming something practical, such as a money clip, is a less lovely-dovey approach that is useful but still intimate. Definitely a top pick for more the more pragmatic! 

Share your top Valentine's Day gift ideas below!

Spring 2011 Fashion Trends

Spring is here! Well, sort of. It may be snow, rain, and slush for most people, but Fashion Week is underway around the world. Here is your first, exclusive look at some of the leading Spring 2011 trends gracing the runway:

Long Skirts
Elegant, dramatic

White Out
Modern, minimalist

Denim
1970s-inspired, wide leg

Sportswear
Tracksuits to wet suits

Bright Colors
Mismatch, color blocks

Sheer
Flowing, ephemeral

New York Fashion Week is slated for February 9-17. Who's ready to shed these static-cling wools for spring fashions!

Who is Your Best Friendship Match?

There's been a lot of buzz lately about the zodiac signs changing. Simply put (aside from the scientific jargon), Ophiuchus is supposedly the new, 13th zodiac sign, covering November 30-December 17. Whether you believe in this new group of 13 signs or the good ol' trusty 12, it's always fun to check out what your sign could mean for you! This article from Yahoo! Shine recaps who your most compatible zodiac friends are and the traits that stand out. Here are the highlights:


Aries
Symbol: Ram | Ruling Planet: Mars
Arians have a fiery temperament and are natural leaders, drawing solidarity and strength from its ruling planet, Mars. While they seek variety in friendship, they also can get offended easily. One has to remain interesting constantly, or risk getting dumped by an Arian for boring attitudes! Nevertheless, Aries friends are supportive and help their friend achieve their goals, especially in career matters. They make friends easily and are fiercely loyal.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Gemini, Aquarius, Leo, and Sagittarius


Taurus
Symbol: Bull | Ruling Planet: Venus
As one of the earth signs, Taureans are excellent advice-givers and are great at helping those in distress. Friendships are steady and can usually stand the test of time; when they call you their best friend, they generally mean it! However, one should be careful not to arouse jealousy in Taureans - they can be possessive when it comes to relationships.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Pisces, Cancer, Virgo, and Capricorn


Gemini
Symbol: Twins | Ruling Planet: Mercury
Known for their sociable nature, Geminis make lots of friends. They are sympathetic listeners and help defuse tensions with humor. Able to bond well with different kinds of people, Geminis value diversity in their friendships. To maintain a close relationship with a Gemini, get to know her on an intellectual level. Appeal to their love for new ideas and your friendship will grow.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Aries, Leo, Libra and Aquarius


Cancer
Symbol: Crab | Ruling Planet: Moon
Cancerians are supportive by nature, but do not make friends easily because they are very selective with their friendships. But if you make the cut, they make very loyal friends unless their trust is betrayed,that is. Cancerians are also shy, tending to wait for friendship to occur rather than take initiative.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Taurus, Virgo, Scorpio and Pisces


Leo
Symbol: Lion | Ruling Planet: Sun
Leos are known for their aggressive, dynamic, and idealist natures. Like Arians, they have a fiery temperament. While they love to be the center of attention, making friends with Leos is very difficult. They have a sensitive ego and try to have one-to-one close friendships over friendships with many. They do not like to see their friends outshine them.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Gemini, Libra, Aries, and Sagittarius


Virgo
Symbol: Virgin | Ruling Planet: Mercury
Virgos by nature are shy and lack self-confidence. Therefore, establishing friendship becomes difficult for them. They are not in the habit of frequently changing friends. Virgos are good, trustworthy friends, great at giving advice. They are there to help you out in crisis situations.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Cancer, Scorpio, Taurus, and Capricorn


Libra:
Symbol: Scales | Ruling Planet: Venus
Librans have an aggressive and dynamic personality. They have a flair for leadership and attract many friends due to their social nature. Reflective of their symbol, Librans make good counselors because they are able to weigh the pros and cons of things. They are also great debators and can be found at parties and other social gatherings. Finally, Librans are the most fashionable of the bunch.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Leo, Sagittarius, Gemini and Aquarius


Scorpio
Symbol: Scorpion | Ruling Planet: Mars
Secretive and reflective, Scorpios keep a few close friends. They are known for their wisdom and are in demand for their guidance. Like its symbol, the scorpion, Scorpios have a bitter sting and can be one's worst enemy if offended. Scorpios are not interested in keeping to many friends but they remain true and loyal to those who are able to establish a long-term friendship with them.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Virgo, Capricorn, Cancer, and Pisces


Sagittarius
Symbol: Archer | Ruling Planet: Jupiter
Sagittarians are excellent communicators and have a dynamic and idealist nature. They are open-minded types who are perfect for travelling with and other adventurous activities. Sagittarians are also in the habit of making quick friendships and love to make friends from all over. They are highly considerate and charming in their mannerisms. To attract a Sagittarian, appeal to their adventurous side.


They have good astrological compatibility with: Libra, Aquarius, Aries, and Leo


Capricorn
Symbol: Goat | Ruling Planet: Saturn
Capricorns have profound leadership quality. They are loyal and caring friends, preferring stable and long-term friendships. At times, Capricorns can behave more like one's parent, rather than friend. Always devoted to friendship, they will be there to help a friend out. 


They have good astrological compatibility with: Scorpio, Pisces, Taurus, and Virgo


Aquarius
Symbol: Water Bearer | Ruling Planet: Saturn
Aggressive and skilled organizers, Aquarians believe in mass friendships. But this makes it very difficult for them to make close friendships with anyone. They love their freedom and often times believe that friendships will take away from their freedom. But if you appeal to their intellectual side, you will develop a good friendship with Aquarians. 


They have good astrological compatibility with: Sagittarius, Aries, Gemini, and Libra


Pisces
Symbol: Two Fishes | Ruling Planet: Jupiter
Pisces are secretive and strategic types. They are attracted to less fortunate people, not because of pity, but because of their sensitive and sympathetic nature. They make excellent listeners and careful analyzers. Pisceans make the most caring friends who can be trusted under any situation. 


They have good astrological compatibility with: Capricorn, Taurus, Cancer, and Scorpio


So what if you (or your friend) are the new sign, Ophiuchus? We'll just have to wait and see! What's your sign?
;)

Golden Globes Fashion Fails and Successes

The 68th annual Golden Globes was earlier this week, and like any other award show, it's really more about who was wearing what than the actual awards! This year featured a variety of gorgeous, rich colors, from emerald to a palette of pinks. There were some who dazzled while others were just a turn off. Let's look at some of BFF's top picks for fashion hits... and fails.

WIN: Amy Adams
Adams is totally gorgeous in this blue Marchesa gown. The intricate detailing on the bodice is to die for!

FAIL: Diane Kruger
80s flashback, anyone? A usually chic beauty icon, Kruger baffles us in this bright fuchsia ruffle dress by Christian Lacroix. With enormous neckline pleats and a huge bowtie at the waist, this is a bright pink, retro NO

WIN: Catherine Zeta-Jones
Akin to her signature regal glamorous style, Zeta-Jones is absolutely gorgeous in emerald, which complements her brunette tresses perfectly. This strapless Monique Lhuillier gown is a definite hit!

FAIL: Michelle Williams
This evening version of a sundress by Valentino is not working for me! The see-through fabric, strange flowers, and bland color, not to mention how frumpy it drapes on Williams, are disastrous. Very unfortunate for the Blue Valentine star

WIN: Amber Riley
The Glee star literally sparkled in this one-shouldered belted dress. Love the curve-hugging transition to a beautiful train at the end!

FAIL: Helena Bonham Carter
Rainbow splotches and mismatching shoes... what's going on! While Carter was nominated for Best Supporting Actress in The King's Speech, this clashing Vivienne Westwood get-up is winning her a spot on "Worst Dressed" lists!

WIN: Natalie Portman
This mom-to-be is glowing in this delicate pink strapless gown by Viktor & Rolf. Portman, who nabbed the Best Actress award for her chilling role in Black Swan, is a stunning example of elegance and grace

FAIL: Cameron Diaz
Basic satin red dress with awful short sleeves and plain black peep toes = bo-ring! Diaz disappoints in such a plain, average dress, unfit for the Golden Globes. Unfortunately, this is average at best

BFF'ers, what do you think our Golden Globes fashion rundown? Tell us your thoughts!

Blogger Highlight: Fig+Sage

Hola BFF'ers! Per our weekly "Blogger Highlight" series, we here at BFF are super excited to share this week's blog, Fig+Sage. Run by sisters, Stancie and Erin, from California (holla!), Fig+Sage is one of the top eco-friendly lifestyle blogs out there.

I know what many of you are thinking... "Eco-friendly" and "green living" are just code words for "tree-hugging hippies". Or maybe "Buying everything organic is too expensive for me." But with Fig+Sage, these sisters are showing readers that buying products that are natural and low-impact on the environment is absolutely doable and great for health and the planet! Without breaking the bank.

Fig+Sage features awesome, informative reviews of makeup and bath products out there in the market, like BECAUSE Body Care seen above. Eco-chic!

Their fashion finds highlight lesser-known eco-friendly brands, like Naya Shoes pictured above

You can also find a rich array of home products, from bedding to desserts to water bottles (a la Vapur BPA-Free Anti-Bottles pictured above)

Even moms who are interested in organic, eco-friendly clothes and toys for their kids, can find something at Fig+Sage

The great thing about Fig+Sage is that all of the products featured are personally tested and researched by Stancie and Erin. They take green consumerism and living environmentally consciously away from intimidating and shows us that you can stay stylish and on a budget when transitioning to a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Check out their fabulous finds and rave reviews on Fig+Sage here.

Stay fab (and eco-chic) guys 

;)

Winter Craft: DIY Snowglobe

Taken from our favorite site, Celebrations, learn how you can make these awesome DIY snowglobes. They can be used as cute party favors, a cool homemade gift, or just to add some element to your room. Check out the video below:

DIY Snowglobes! from Jordan Reid on Vimeo.