Monday, January 15, 2007

Lessons From the Ashes

word of mouth:
lessons from the ashes

Happy New Year!
We're back from our hiatus and hope that your holiday vacation was just as pleasurable as ours. January is perhaps one of the most exciting times of the year– the time of year where we all can start from scratch– literally. We have the amazing power to become different people, live different lives, even look different, and this can be done at the snap of the finger and at the whim of the human mind.

We always take time to reflect on the previous years ups and downs, as each trial in life carries with it an invaluable lesson. By thinking of ways to improve yourself through thought and action, you ultimately are improving the world around you. It is through your positive energy that other receptive souls replicate, thus making the entire process cyclical.

We look most forward to the triumphs and challenges of 2007. Our black lotus mantra: The lessons of the years past have made us more than ready for this new journey.

Your partners in positivity-

Nat & Tricia

life + style:
séxi is as séxi does

With every celebratory soiré comes the after-talk; we’re referring to the shameless banter of who wore what, who came with whom and what happened when ‘Who’ couldn’t hold their liquor. If you must indulge, do gossip freely knowing you held it stylishly together. Sure, etiquette promotes conformity, but lack there of promotes (God forbid) the Anti-Séxi and we’d be remised if we didn’t send you out dually equipped...

Party Favors
The cool conversationalist gets the love: Being a good guest means making a positive contribution to the gathering. Do smile freely. --A pleasant visage compliments any social scene. Do ask others about their interests, their hobbies, their passions--any of these questions will get the other person talking about their favorite topic - themselves! You'd be the most attractive person at the affair if that were all you did all night long!

Assist your host in unobtrusive ways: Empty some ashtrays, take abandoned dishes to the kitchen, or pass around a plate of hot hors d’oeuvres (very sexi). If something needs doing, quietly do it. Your host/hostess has his/her hands full! One party throwing sophisticate recalls appreciating the guest who found a candle catching fire in the den of her home, the guest put it out, removed the tablecloth, cleaned up the mess and then came and told her about it!

Exit politely: Even if it’s a large gathering, seek out the host and or hostess and tell them good-bye, and thank them! Be sure to send out a written than-you note afterwards. Quite simply, it’s the nice thing to do.

Clubbin It?

Make an entrance: Your unforgettable debut unto the spot is key to starting off the night right. Avoid waiting in long lines by building prior report with the door persons (a cordial extension of robust tip a few nights prior should suffice). Reserve a table prior to the event; you and your entourage will want to maintain some exclusively (for purposes of austerity) when taking in the sites and the champagne.

Know what you’re ordering: “Champagne”--for example-- is not synonymous with “bubbly white wine.” In the strictest sense, capital-C “Champagne” should only be used to refer to sparkling wines originating in the Champagne region of France, but the U.S. allows some kinds of champagne (notice the lower-case “c”) to be produced in California. In any event, the recipe for Champagne is much more subtle than injecting bubbles into white wine so apply a little research to your preference, knowledge is divinely sexi.

Keep your cool: If someone spills a drink on your dazzling attire, retreat to the restroom and sponge/spot the stain with COLD water for at least 30 minutes…Whine to your dry cleaner later.

--And in another plausible however undesirable situation: If someone barbarickly steps to you in a drunken rage, think first, swing only if necessary. "This is not just a self-defense issue," according to fellow sophisticate, Milwaukee self-defense expert Wes Manko. "This is a criminal justice issue." Who started it doesn't matter. Tempers can explode from something as trivial as an exchange of icy looks or accidentally brushing against someone, especially with copious amounts of liquor present. For safety and legal reasons, Manko advises, to avoid fighting back if possible. Move away and yell the ultra-smooth, "I don't want to fight!" Get a bar manager or other authority involved. Call 911 as soon as possible.
But if all else fails, Manko asserted, don't be afraid to throw down. (Or "defend yourself," as he put it.) His advice: End the fight quickly to avoid escalation. Go after vital points, such as the groin or kneecap. When it's over, call the police.
Save the Date: You are no more than the company you keep. So if you intend on enjoying a one-on-one dynamic for a big night, do so with wisdom: there is no better date than one who is enjoyable to be around. That said choose carefully if you are going to indulge in an important date this new year the tone of 2007’s debut rests upon your chemistry for the evening.

Dress stress less: If the date is with your significant other this should not be too much of a concern. Nonetheless always coordinate the event’s aesthetic proportions: be sure your date’s attire is appropriate for the venue by notifying them of the theme or event style whether it’s your candlelit dinner on the living room floor or a black tie gala, most urban sophisticate’s comforts rely on being informed.

KISS: How much lovelier will the night be when christened with a mutually sanctioned lip message? If the vibe is copasetic, do have your ole' mistletoe handy, fun accents cultivate romantic inclination.

Oh yes, and whether you get your mingle on amongst friends, hit the clubs, or do the intimate; don’t forget to have fun! If for no other reason than because it’s contagious and everyone will appreciate you for it…you sexi sophisticate you.


on the rise:
william hale- how do you like your funny?

The ‘Doctor’ is in and he’s bringing back more than the recommended dosage of funny. William Hale has the West Coast in the palm of his hand and does not appear to be slowing down any time soon. Featured in on top networks from BET to HBO, this comedian, actor, author, radio, television and comedy club host presently harnesses the uncanny ability to teach through laughter weekly on his radio show 89.5 FM (LA & OC) and on
http://www.ktsfm.com/. His biting battle-of-the-sexes curriculum is currently accessible via the highly acclaimed comedy book “The Female Guide to EVERY Man, decidedly 2007’s panacea for women seeking clarity on the complexities of the male psyche.

Hale, a seasoned model could have easily relied on handsome as levity for success, instead the comic applied business smarts (owner of Hale Yes Productions) and a passion for truth sharing; check out ‘Braking da-Man-ci Code’ his Thursday evening talk-show featuring a velvety voice and no shortage of wit. Even Urban Sophisticates most privy to the bends of the dating game will find knowledge in Hale’s candor; his guidelines are for men and women who take their funny straight and chase it with sensical advice.

Who: William Hale
What: Breaking da-Man-ci Code
When: Thursday’s @ 6:30 pm
Where: http://www.ktsfm.com/
Why: everyone needs a tickle now and then


fashion + beauty:
the well-edited man + woman
-building the perfect wardrobe

We only have one shot at making a first impression; so naturally, we take a lot of pride into maintaining our look, especially our wardrobe. With the New Year approaching, we pay homage to the careful methodology to picking the perfect wardrobe, as well as provide you with a sneak peek at Spring 2007.

1. Golden Rule: Know Thyself.
This is extremely, extremely important. If you lie to yourself, how can expect to exude truth, confidence, and sophistication? And these, folks, include the good, bad, and downright ugly. So take personal inventory of your body shape, personality and lifestyle (the cheapest form of psychotherapy). Try to avoid my perpetual mistake of buying tiny tees because they were “cute”. In retrospect, I was trying to compensate for my small top frame and became accustomed to appealing images of the buxom video vixen. I figured the tighter the top, the more it would accentuate WHATEVER you have, right? Yeah, didn’t quite work out. Now I realize that longer, leaner tees, like those by James Pearse or C+C California or Ya-Ya accentuate my fine features on top. And, above all- I look well put together. Which brings up another marvelous point- please, please always assume, better yet, know, that maturity is always the sexier option. Eventually, after years of people watching, life experiences, wardrobe malfunctions and interventions, and, of course, retail therapy, I realized that I was not, and will never be buxom. Tiny tees were not going to adjust the problem for me. Now I have a closet full of the most flattering, perfect fitting tees imaginable and I couldn’t be happier.

2. Study.
Relax, I am not telling you to pick up a book, highlighter and pull an all-nighter, but I am telling you to take notice wherever you go. Watch and study those individuals with different permutations of the perfect wardrobe. What is it that you admire? Is it a fabulous mix of vintage and modern? High-end sophistication? Monochromatic simplicity? Take heed. There’s nothing wrong with imitating and improving.

3. Edit!

Please do not confuse this with throwing things out that you no longer wear, although that is a part of it. If it were just that, we would need a guide. No, editing means to sow, seed, and scatter. Block out a weekend- this may take some time.

Not many of us can afford to build a perfect wardrobe from scratch, but when we take the time to assess our current wardrobe situation by looking at our previous “fad” purchases or “must have” pieces and then realize that our newer purchases are a continuation or the same “fad” or “must have” item- the light bulb should go on. Do this- figure out whether or not you are attracted to the same sort of trend piece (we all need a little trend to pepper our style- just a little). Remember Uggs? And all variations of snow boots? Have them all in your closet? Maybe this is your inner fashion demy-god/goddess screaming for a cute, comfortable, all around shoe. Where to go from here? Well, if you love them and foresee yourself wearing them for a while, keep them. If not, and you’re steadily reaching for the next “it” item in the same category, toss them (and when black lotus says ‘toss them’, we mean ‘donate them’) and start searching for the item that your fashion soul is really seeking. Ahh, extremely cathartic.

4. Ugh….Budget
I know- I hate this word too, but look at it like this and it won’t be so painful:

You’re going to want to decide where most of your money will go. You may love jewelry, but splurging 70% of your budget on every fad piece of jewelry is a high crime in fashion. And those ankle boots that everyone is so crazy about- perfect- unless they gobble up most of your budget for the year. Here’s a great way to figure out your fashion budget: (And this gets tricky, so pay attention).
- Understand your lifestyle. Are you a high powered marketing executive? Then probably 50% of your lifestyle consists of meetings and networking events, conferences and other events. 30% is reserved for home and 20% for play (social and athletic play that is) Therefore, most of your wardrobe should consist of business and business casual staples. But herein lays the problem: most of us have a wardrobe suited for a life we do not live! Based on this lifestyle example, there should not be a closet full of breezy club tops, stiletto sandals and jeans. But we so often do this- buy items that make us happy and appeal to us on a visceral level. Meanwhile, you’re trying to speak at a conference with you suit and silk paisley printed button down shirt you wore last weekend to Butter Lounge! Not good. Rectify this problem by placing timeless (I love that word!) pieces such as a cashmere blend sport coat (for the fellas), a pencil skirt or flat tab pants in various colors , or my personal favorite- a Diane von Furstenberg wrap dress, for those business casual days.

5. Back to Basics
Do what you hate most first. Conquer the boring shopping. Well, if you ask me, no shopping for myself is boring, but I know not everyone shares my material emptor fervor. But if purchasing seamless bras, undershirts, trousers socks and hosiery brings on an immediate bout of narcolepsy, do it first. Let me repeat- do it first. These items are the building blocks of your wardrobe and need as much time and care as the Ostrich pumps you are seeking. According to our previous lifestyle example, pencil skirts you’ll wear all year around, but if you cant rock them with your basic pump as well as you can with your funky heels or flats, or have seamless undies to hide those lines underneath it all, what is the point? Remember, this step is not so much about injecting your individual flair as much as it is about mastering the basics. Trust me on this.

6. Wardrobe Math.
Remember Algebra- well I do. Practice it and apply it to your wardrobe. The perfectly edited
wardrobe does not have equal number if tops, pants, skirts and dresses. Despite popular belief, tops should outweigh the bottoms. The formula reads something like this: 5 solid print tops to every skirt and pants. Vintage/print tops follow the same ratio. If your wardrobe tends to be incredibly monochromatic- toss in an off-color staple such as a bag to ease the transition. People who always look sharp (like black lotus girls!) are often the ones with closets and closets of clothing, rather those who follow these rules.

7. Karma is a B$%&H!
Forgive me for being vulgar, but we apply this rule to everything except when treating our clothes. So this requires further examination. Take care of your clothes and they will take care of you. It sounds elementary, but follow the washing instructions on the label, people. Dry clean and preserve items like that big ticket cashmere coat. Shoes belong on shelves, not in a pile in the back of your closet. Have a handy pack of needle, thread, fabric glue, fabric tape, lint shaver or lint stone. Pack an emergency kit of safety pins, woolite wipes, crazy glue (for heels) and fabric tape. And I always recommend folks to invest in a clothes steamer. Why not? Your clothes last longer and it gets rid of wrinkles famously.
Take care of your clothes and they will take care of you.

8.To-Die-for Pieces.
Black leather opera-length gloves, that bracelet sleeve jacket, the floor length dress, these are the things that inject personality, chic, savoir faire, into our wardrobe. Few luxurious items go a long way, but the ones that I have managed to purchase over the years have recouped their value ten times over. And those who really know and understand fashion now that these items come back into play over and over again. Case in point: a few years ago, I spent hundreds of dollars on a Marc Jacobs Angora black capelet. To my satisfaction, I have translated this piece time and time again with jeans, skirts, shorts, etc and have managed to look chic and confident and gather a few compliments every time I do. Now, when I see things like this become in vogue, I don’t have to join the frenzy in purchasing one these “it” items- I have always been “it”! And it saves me hoards of money each and every time.

9. Go forth and shop!
Dedicated fashionistas/fashionistos know their craft and where to buy what:
- For unique pieces go to boutiques who often feature indie designers who take bigger risks. This also assures your items will be one-of-a-kind at most events since the designers usually produce in smaller quantities.
- Want a range of progressive designers- check out department stores such as Barney’s Co-op.
- For everything Tracy Reese or designer of your choice, choose their own store. These stores feature the most comprehensive selection of runway and commercial collections.
- For snug items, staples and basics- go to the little boys (and girls) departments. A boy’s size 14 is about a woman’s size 6. For softer pieces, use lingerie camisoles for layering slips over jeans, etc. For basics, rely on chains- Club Monoco, Banana Republic, etc. Fly by night fads and one-hit wonders, its always H + M, Zara, Urban Outfitters, and Forever 21.
- Vintage for finely crafted, one-of-a-kind pieces.
- Go everywhere else for anything else- uniform stores, craft stores, church bazaars, Salvation Armies, ethnic markets, etc.

theory of elevation:
sticks+ stones
“When you innovate, you’ve got to be prepared for everyone telling you you’re nuts.”

-Larry Ellison

Ever observe the eyes of a Dream-Cynic roll far back into their heads as you described your goals, your visions, your passion? We all have at one point or another, and of course ascribed them the less than unique moniker: the Hater (or Haters if you’re really busy with it). Perhaps, however, there’s more to their disparagement than jealousy. Few iconoclasts, history makers, revolutionaries, found themselves in sync with the status quo. In fact more often than not “crazy” “delusional” and the neological “flaky” are uttered when referencing those working it along their Path Less Chosen.

Insert Challenge: Take a few moments to look at the blue print for success in this world. Now, assess your own. Within your schematics are your finding desire for greatness extends beyond a white picket fence and a chromed out mini-van? If so, decide how you are going to combat societal induced fears of creating for yourself beyond what is expected, and be the nouveau version of success. This will require absolute dedication to your desire, leathery resistance to negativity, and harnessing an extra dose of confidence (of which we find you more than capable).

Capturing one’s dreams requires one seek more than they’ve been fed---and this desire often makes others remarkably uncomfortable. Rather than simplifying those enslaved by norms and standards, consider yourself the consummate leader of success, as you redefine your own vision of achievement, you may in turn inspire others to do the same. That said; do innovate. As nutty as it may appear, the future of Greatness is relying on you.

on our radar
Re-Mix
7605 1/2 Beverly Blvd
Los Angeles
(323) 936-6210

Best Selection of Vintage/Reproduction Shoes.

Parcel
559 Bloomfield Ave
Montclair
(973) 744-7700

Great for special stationary and gift touches with old-school charm.

Medina
8856 Monard Dr.
Silver Spring
(301) 495-2700
www.moroccanbaskets.com

Pick up Moroccan imports here for your eclectic global chic décor.

Estate
3 Via Tazzoli
Milan
39-02-29-01-51-30

The outlet of the super high-end megaboutique Corso Como (probably the best known store in Italy!) offers deeps discounts on Costume National, Marc Jacobs
, Fendi and more.



black book
New Year, New Swagger...Here you go…

January
14th
Milan Fashion Week– Modo Uomo, Italy
15th-18th Hong Kong Fashion– Hong Kong
15th New Faces of Spring 2007 Modeling Contest 7-9pm– NYC
17th-18th Kiehl’s Product Launch– TBA– NYC
22nd-25th Paris Fashion Week– Haute Couture– Paris
24th Bendel Beauty Breakfast– 8-10am– NYC
25th Agenda Tradeshow– San Diego
25th-29th Daryl K Sample Sale– NYC
31st Rachel Roy 2007 Fall Collection Preview– NYC

February
2nd-9th
Mercedes Benz Fashion Week-NYC
12th-16th London Fashion Week– London
18th-20th Designers and Agents– NYC
25th March 5th Paris Fashion Week/Fall-Winter 2007/2008 Collections– Paris

March
18th-22nd
Mercedes Benz Fashion Week @ Smashbox Fall 2007– LA
25th-30th Fashion Week Moscow– Moscow

swaggerscopes
Because we had to do it...it’s a guilty pleasure!
Find out how stars will influence your 2007:

Capricorn (dec 22– jan 19)
‘07 Buzz Words: money, networking, study + travel
Life-
You'll feel a protective force surrounding you in 2007, Capricorn, as Jupiter, the planet of luck and good fortune, protects you from behind the scenes. That's a good thing, because things could get pretty perplexing along the way.
Money and possessions will be on your mind this year -- but then, when are they not? Neptune, the planet of deception, continues on its confusing journey through your house of money, making you feel as if there's just never enough of it. You could also accrue some unexpected debt. The year ends with a big bang as Jupiter, the planet of luck and good fortune, enters your own sign, giving you a boost of optimism and the confidence needed to try something just a little risky with a potentially big payoff. What a great way to end the year!
Love - Venus, the planet of love and attraction, moves through your house of romance from mid-March through mid-April, giving the normally shy Sea-Goat an extra dose of sweetness and natural charm. You have what it takes now to impress your admirers, so take this chance to shine.

Aquarius (jan 20-feb 18)
‘07 Buzz Words: friends, appearance, finance
Life-
Aquarians may experience the end of old friendships and the beginning of new ones in 2007, and connections both old and new could change your life. Just don't hang on to anyone who isn't serving a positive purpose in your life. Your brand-new aura of mystery could either intrigue or frustrate your friends. You might make changes to your appearance, or they could start to see you in a different light. But your self-image will be unrealistic and somewhat misleading to others, who could start thinking you're something you're not. As Mercury changes direction in February and March, misunderstandings about money or possessions will weigh heavily on your mind. The lunar eclipse could intensify this effect. On a lighter note, you could enjoy an unexpected financial windfall as Uranus, the planet of surprises, travels through your house of money. Just don't count on it too much. The flipside of this energy? Expecting money to come your way will prevent it from happening. Try to be thrifty: Hope for the best, budget for the worst.
Love - Saturn, the planet of responsibility and restriction, moves through your house of relationships in 2007. Aquarius craves freedom, and this need is highlighted now. Attached Water-Bearers may feel tied down by their relationships, as if a commitment is a real drag. Single Water-Bearers will certainly be happiest playing the field, and your social life could be a whirlwind this year. You'll attract lots of admirers your way.

Pisces (feb 19– mar 20)
‘07 Buzz Words: romance, intuition, health
Life -
Pisceans, especially those born mid-March, should expect job-related changes in 2007 as Jupiter, the planet of luck and good fortune, passes through your house of career. Though you're normally gifted at communication, watch what you say during Mercury's retrograde in your own sign during February and March, as others may misunderstand your intentions. Gentle Pisces is also known for its emotional and even psychic sensitivity, and this year you should pay attention to your dreams and intuitions like never before. Those little, instinctive hunches you often ignore? Yep -- those could turn into something much bigger than you could ever have guessed. This is also a year to go for a dramatic new look. You're in the mood for sudden, unexpected changes in your appearance, so shake things up and shock your friends and family with a new, daring style.
Love - You'll have to try hard to see a potential sweetie for who they really are, and not for the person you'd like them to be. Others will be drawn to you for your unique qualities, so make the most of it. And if friends want to hook you up with someone new and cute, why not give it a try? February promises an extra boost with Venus, the planet of love, in your own sign.

Aries (mar 21-apr 19)
‘07 Buzz Words: exploration, discovery, commitment
Life -
Open your eyes and your mind, Aries, because 2007 is all about learning, traveling and stretching your boundaries. Friendships could get a little tricky, though. Even your best friend may not be telling you the whole story. Don't worry -- if it's important, you'll find out soon enough. In the meantime, you may have to be even more independent than usual. Good thing independence is your strong point! If you don't get the chance to travel, make sure to challenge your palate as well as your mind by trying ethnic foods and foreign films, or reading a book on a subject that's unfamiliar to you. Romance could be a real drag for the first half of the year, if you're not prepared to make a long-term commitment.
Love - Single Rams should be sure to socialize at the start of the year. Say 'yes' to all blind dates and let your friends set you up with their cute, single pals. Networking is your secret dating weapon for 2007.

Taurus (apr 20– may20)
‘07 Buzz Words: concrete goals, passion, family commitments
Life -
Work or studies will be a focus for the Bull in 2007, and could become a challenge. Your impulse might be to aim high and throw your back into it, but remember that working steadily toward realistic goals is your best bet this year. Chasing the dream is better left for another time and a different astrological energy. Uranus, the planet of rebellion and unexpected events, will influence your relationships this year. You might part ways with a long-term friend, but if so, don't be too upset. This energy will also bring new, weird and wonderful people into your life. Times of change can be upsetting, especially for slow and steady Taurus, but the best way to deal with this energy is to let go and just go with the flow. Home and family issues will continue to be a responsibility for the first half of the year. Things could get annoying at home.
Love - For the amorous Bull, 2007 is a year for excessive passion. In fact, the heated-up state of your love life could prove it's possible to have too much of a good thing -- as difficult as that may be for you, O Indulgent One, to believe! As the year begins, you're too hot to handle. You radiate elemental passion, and your admirers will line up for seconds (and thirds).

Gemini (may 21– jun 20)
‘07 Buzz Words: be prepared, new relationships, career changes
Life -
It's a good thing you have such a sharp mind, Gemini, and the keen eye to go with it, because in 2007, things might not be what they seem. Take care with travel or studies, and attend to the details. If you're involved in legal issues, be sure to get a good lawyer or other representative who will stay on top of things. Be prepared for an unexpected turn of events work-wise this year, due to Uranus, the planet of the unexpected, traversing your career sector. Issues surrounding your home and family will also take center stage this year. The not-so-good news? Neighbors or siblings could become a burden. The good news? It'll be a short-term problem, so your best bet is to grin and bear it. Finances will be on your mind toward the year's end. A great way to end the year is to lay out a workable budget for the future, taking into account any big changes you'd like to make or projects you'd like to undertake.
Love - Romance is another arena in which you'll have to rely on that flexibility you're famous for. you can count on that special someone entering your life -- perhaps several someones, in fact. With Jupiter, the planet of good luck and excess, on your side this year, you might actually find a swarm of suitors lined up at your door!

Cancer (jun 21– jul 22)
‘07 Buzz Words: diet, unexpected travel, patience
Life -
Unexpected travel could be on your agenda in 2007 -- which, for home-loving Cancer, could mean a big, unwelcome push way out of your comfort zone. Money will definitely be on your mind this year. You might feel as if there's never enough to go around, but try not to let it get you down too much; You should plan for the worst and hope for the best.
Love - 2007 starts with the Crab really wanting to connect with someone special at an intimate level. Great news -- you have the courage to pursue your passionate nature, so the first two months of the year are yours for the taking. Whatever you've been dreaming of, make it happen. You're sure to wow your sweetie in a big way.
Leo (jul 23– aug 22)
‘07 Buzz Words: change, relationships, uncertainty
Life -
Some Lions may find themselves closing a chapter of their life in 2007. You may feel like this is out of your control, which isn't exactly a Leo specialty -- you like to feel as if you're the undisputed leader, in charge of all areas of your life. But this time, it's better just to go with the flow than to cling too tightly to something on its way out the door. It's likely that this something, whether it's a job, a project, a love affair or a friendship, isn't working out that well anyway.
Love - Ending a relationship in 2007 will have a profound effect on you, Leo, but don't worry -- it won't be all bad, not by a long shot. In fact, this time of change will open the door to a brand-new excitement about romance. Even sweeter, you could have lots of hotties knocking at your door! This time around, Leo is looking for someone unique and different -- someone who can teach you a whole new way of being.

Virgo (aug 23-sep 22)
‘07 Buzz Words: changes, home + family, health + fitness
Life -
Some Virgos may find themselves undertaking a major move or home renovation in 2007. Family structures may also be reorganized this year, possibly creating upheaval at home. You know what that means: That's right, stress. You can rely on your usual down-to-earth approach to deal with anxiety, but still, keep tension at bay by sticking to your diet and exercise routine. The year could end on a slightly sour note as pals push the boundaries of your friendship, but do your best to not let it turn into an all-out emotional war. This time, it isn't worth holding a grudge. Instead, give them the holiday gift of letting them off the hook.
Love - Sudden changes in your love life will bring excitement to both single and attached Virgos this year. Uranus, the planet of unexpected events, brings its surprising energy in the form of twists and turns that you just can't plan for. Since planning is an integral part of who you are, letting loose and enjoying the ride could be a tall order -- but do it anyway! Think of romance as a roller coaster and have fun with those ups and downs.

Libra (sep 23– oct 22)
‘07 Buzz Words: learning, idealism, philosophy
Life -
Pluto's intense influence on your life will continue throughout 2007, with an ongoing focus on cerebral pursuits. Scholarly Libras may find your studies to be life-changing this year. Do stick with your diet and fitness regimen, or start a new one, as staying healthy could be a bit more challenging than usual. Take unexpected health issues seriously, and protect your feet, ankles and shins in particular. May will bring a focus on work and career, any overtime you put in at the office will affect your home life, or vice versa.
Love - When single Libras hook up with someone new, reality will take a while to set in...and once it does, it could bring disappointment with it. Try not to set your expectations too high; otherwise, that special person you've been admiring could come crashing down off their pedestal.

Scorpio (oct 23-nov 21)
‘07 Buzz Words: unexpected, romance, finances, sexy strangers
Life -
With Jupiter, the planet of luck and good fortune, in Scorpio's money sector, the financial horizons are looking good. For those of you born in October, the changes you've been experiencing financially over the past few years may come to completion this year. For Scorpions born in mid-November, money and possession may still be on your mind, but you should find your situation easing up by the end of the year. Skeletons could come clattering out of the family closet, but let's be honest -- you love it when long-hidden secrets come to light!
Love - Scorpio should expect plenty of romantic surprises in 2007. You're already intense when it comes to love, and single Scorpions will send signals of attraction to all kinds of people this year. Stay open to romantic introductions through a family member at the start of the year. In general, accept all social invitations and go on those blind dates, too. Your spontaneity and courage will most certainly be rewarded.

Sagittarius (nov 22– dec 21)
‘07 Buzz Words: travel, home + family, cautiously optimistic
Life -
2007 will be quite the exciting year for Sagittarius! Your relationships with the near-and-dear males in your life could even be life-changing. Just know that fighting these changes won't work; in fact, it'll only make them harder to handle. Communication may be a challenge this year. Be honest, and pay attention to detail. Make sure you don’t take on too much. Take care with legal issues and responsibilities, too. Sudden changes could also pop up in your home and family life this year. Don't cling too tightly to the status quo. Jupiter, the planet of luck and good fortune, will travel through your own sign this year, creating a strong sense of optimism.
Love - With passionate Mars in your own sign at the start of the year, you single Sagittarians should have a great time chatting up cuties and exploring all your romantic possibilities! Attached Sags will enjoy getting out with your sweetie and tackling a new adventure.