Take 14: My Style Icon

I'd like to start a series of on-going posts inspired by my fashion icons. I do look at celebrities to see what they're wearing and how I can interpret that to my own body and style. But sometimes I look simply at someone's use of accessories.

One such person who takes accessories to the next level is Lauren Conrad from MTV's "The Hills." Anyone who knows me well knows how much I love "The Hills" and, honestly, part of the reason I watch is to see what L.C. is wearing, and how she's fixed her hair and makeup.

Check her out:

Lauren never goes anywhere without oversize sunglasses. I think they look great on faces of all shapes and sizes...and they're so Jackie O!

The way Lauren layers jewelry is cool to me — she'll put on two or three necklaces and bracelets but they're all simple, smaller pieces. Also, check out her dark nails. Dark nails are back again this fall, but they don't have to be black. Try navy blue or deep purple (I'm currently wearing OPI's Louvre Me, Louvre Me Not).

OK, this picture's a little wide-eyed, but that's the point. I love her eye makeup! They upper-swoop on the outer edge gives her a subtle cat-eye look that's so alluring. If your eyes are smaller than hers, don't line under the bottom lashes...your eyes will look too closed.

Lauren is always playing with the textures of her hair, as seen in the last two photos above. The parted down the middle and braided look above looks very chic, not hippie, on her. Also, the braid worn like a headband with curlier hair looks very laid-back, beachy, and fun. Play with your hair! One night before bed, just give a couple braids a shot...you'll be surprised how modern it looks.

Finally, headbands. Another look that you'll be surprised looks very modern, depending on how you wear it. Mimic Lauren's style and sweep your hair to the side, then slide the head band over it. If you push your hair straight back, it'll look too childish. The smooth, side-part is the key!