ROYAL WATCH: Kate Middleton—Style “Fit For A Queen”

(The striking brunette dubbed by British tabloids as “Princess Waitey” and her prince prepare for the big announcement Tuesday)

I’ll admit it… like many girls in my generation, I had a little crush on Prince William, as a teenager. Charming, attractive, and classy, I think my admiration for Britain’s heir to the throne paralleled my mom and her friends’ admiration for JFK Jr. From the time I was thirteen up until I started college, I was probably one among millions of young women who actually believed, I had a shot at becoming a princess… and when a pretty, doe eyed coed from St. Andrews University stole his heart, mine was crushed… a little… okay, a lot! Like many girls, I thought, “who is this Kate Middleton?"

Being a college romance, I’m sure there are many girls who were right there with me, holding their breath to see if his royal highness would leave one commoner for another… but after a while, as my crush crashed, burned, and the teenage dream faded away, I grew quite fond of Miss Middleton. As her romance with Prince William blossomed, so did her style…

(Kate looks radiant in a sapphire blue Issa London wrap dress to match her new 18-carat sapphire and diamond engagement ring that once belonged to the late-Princess Diana)

Through the eight-year courtship, Middleton has become a style icon, but looking good never came easy. In her early years dating Wills, royal watchers were critical of her appearance. Although naturally pretty, Middleton was often labeled by critics as “too common” for a prince.

(Sporting a summery version of her signature wrap dress at a polo match)

Needless to say, she enlisted some help for a makeover. Under the guidance of British style-maven Leesa Whisker, Middleton, the belle of St. Andrews University, developed a clean, conservative style fit for royalty, and captured worldwide attention. She has made several international best-dressed lists, including “Vanity Fair” in 2008, and “People Magazine’s Top 10 Best Dressed” in 2010.

(Kate is often known to wear creations from British designers, like Issa, featured on the left, but dazzled the crowd in a simple plunging turquoise gown by American label, BCBG Max Azria)

Standing at 5’10” with sparkling hazel eyes, chestnut hair, and reported measurements of 30-23-33 according to one style source, Middleton’s eight-year courtship with the future king isn’t the only cause for envy among women. The English Rose is just about any stylist's dream come true.

Over the years “Team Kate,” has developed several signature looks that put a new millennium twist on royal tradition. So as the royal couple prepares for what may perhaps be the wedding of the 21st Century, let’s take a look back at some of my favorite looks in Middleton’s “style file”…

1) Evening Elegance

From clean coed to royal bombshell in a gunmetal silk Issa London gown. A black clutch and pumps complete the outfit.

2) A Royal Affair

One of her first public appearances with the royal family at the 2006 Sovereign’s Parade. I’m a firm believer that every woman should have one bright coat in her closet. Kate caps off British tradition in a custom made hat and smart leather gloves. She keeps the conservative look young and modern with her signature black suede boots, opaque tights, and clutch.

3) All That Glitters

Kate sparkles in a daring, black sequined mini-dress with her signature black suede boots showing off her long legs and svelte frame.

4) Smart and Chic

A contemporary twist to the jackets and dresses you would see at many wedding ceremonies for English Aristocrats. Kate pairs an electric blue silk cocktail dress with a fitted single button blazer and custom designed hat.

5) Iconic “White-Hot” Coat

Perhaps the most sought after item from Kate’s closet. A simple white, double-breasted wool coat, perfectly fitted with a swing cut, A-line bottom that allows the garment to hang like a dress.

With a look that’s prim, proper, but still young and contemporary, Middleton paints the portrait of a modern princess. The world may be watching as she prepares for her wedding, but there’s no doubt that the 28-year old icon is ready to assume her responsibilities in public life, and do it all—in style.

Middleton, like most girls, was not born of royal or aristocratic blood, but I think her story resonates with every girl who wants to believe in fairy tales. Some girls would be lucky to meet someone that treats her like a princess, but Middleton found a real prince, and shows all the single girls who lost hope in love that there can be a "happily ever after."

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Priscilla Luong thinks once Kate marries into Britain’s royal family and has unlimited access to all the royal couturiers, she will need to clean out her single girl’s closet. If her highness decides on a public auction for the single, common girls who could use some of her shoes, wardrobe, and pure fabulosity… Priscilla will be first in line. If you plan to outbid Priscilla, or happen to find that gorgeous Issa wrap dress, drop a courtesy note at pluong@ktab.tv, she’s looking for one to wear on-air…

Texas Style: "These Boots Are Made For Walkin'"

Many of "y'all" know, I'm not from Texas but got here as soon as I could... and over the last two years, the Lonestar State has become home. With many gals in the KTAB newsroom coming from out of state, one of the first things we wanted when we arrived in the Big Country... was a pair of REAL cowboy boots.

I still remember the first time I stepped into a boot shop. A Texan friend knowing my lifelong affinity toward boots told me I had to stop by the cowboy boot mecca, Allen's Boots on South Congress.

I was amazed at the number of styles, colors, textures, and detailing that came with each pair of cowboy boots... it was like I bumped into Carrie Bradshaw's Texan cousin! Needless to say, I was overwhelmed and didn't know where to begin, so I did what my mother taught me... start with the pair you like best, and then check the price tag...

"WOW!!!! $1600!!!!!! REALLY?!"

Looking at the quality, and handcrafted leather, I knew the boots were certainly an investment, but the price tag was comparable to Christian Louboutins and Manolo Blahniks that I only plan to buy after I win the Megamillions Jackpot.

"Boy... I guess Carrie Bradshaw DOES have a cousin on this side of the Mason-Dixon line..."

After a few hours searching for a happy medium between "fabulous" and "frugal," I finally settled on a pair I loved and could afford, but you don't need a tank of gas and a pilgrimage to Austin if you're on the prowl for the perfect pair of cowboy boots...




Farm and Ranch Western Wear will have it's 2nd Annual "Deal or No Deal" Boot Extravaganza this weekend. All you have to do is choose any boot in the store's inventory, make an offer, and it will be either a "Deal" or "No Deal." And it's not just for the ladies... Men's and Children's boots are up for sale too. The sale begins Saturday, October 2nd, and ends Sunday, October 3rd.

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Priscilla Luong knew she would love Abilene as soon as she stepped off the plane, hopped in her car, turned on the radio and heard Nancy Sinatra's "These Boots Are Made for "Walkin'." She thinks every woman in America could take a lesson from a Southern Belle... share what's in your Southern Belle Primer! You can e-mail Priscilla at pluong@ktab.tv

Vintage Priscilla: The "Coolest Cat" in School

As I browsed through Target last Friday afternoon, I saw many Big Country families shopping for school supplies, hoping to beat the rush before the Tax-Holiday. Watching these families made me think of my own when my brother and I was still in school, but as I walked through the endless aisles of school supplies… one thing was certain…

Despite the absence of “Yikes” pencils and “Lisa Frank” Stationery… kids today have a MUCH cuter (and cooler) selection to choose from than Bryan and I did when we were in school! Being a nerdy kid growing up… I think I liked shopping for notebooks and highlighters more than I liked shopping for clothes. Okay… sometimes I still do… As I marveled at the vast selection of “designer” pencil cases and lunch boxes, something triggered immediate flashbacks to my first day of kindergarten…

I couldn’t help but smile when I saw the vast selection of HELLO KITTY. It made me think back to the days when Mom and I would make our special trip to the Sanrio store in San Francisco to get ready for the first day of school. Sanrio never came cheap back then, so we would always have to save up for it… but even 20 years after rocking the pink Hello Kitty backpack, I still remember how happy I was as I clutched my matching notebook and lunchbox on the first day of school.

When I checked the price tag on the Hello Kitty items at Target, it was considerably less than what it was at Sanrio, and still has the same adorable cat that’s brought smiles to little girls’ faces for generations. I’ve always been a big fan of Target and all the folks recruited to design special lines for them, like Anna Sui and Todd Oldham… and I think it’s awesome to have an icon, like Hello Kitty, on the style team for the little ones.

Well… make that for the young, and young at heart… My mother visiting from Vietnam still hasn’t forgotten about her daughter’s love for Hello Kitty! Thanks Mom :).

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Priscilla Luong was serious about her last tweet on Twitter… hugs and pink thumbprint cookies from McKays to all the little girls in Abilene rocking the Hello Kitty backpack this year. Show off your Hello Kitty gear! Send her pictures at pluong@ktab.tv.

Sending Off Angela in Style: Her Secret to Looking and Feeling Fabulous

(Angela gets ready for her last newscast at KTAB)

As the Big Country says goodbye to Angela Taylor, the girls in the KTAB newsroom are saying goodbye to our big sister. I think I speak for all the girls in the newsroom when I say we all look at Angela in admiration and awe. With all four of us being either the only child or oldest child in our families, when we joined the KTAB family, we got the older sister we never had (and trust me... she's been there to witness all of our growing pains!).

(Neither of us can live without our lip gloss!)

Moving from home, and making that transition from college to career isn't always easy, but Angela (and Bob!) has always been there to give us guidance and support. There's plenty of things we'll miss about her... but let's take a trip down memory lane, and a quick look at her style file:

STYLE SECRETS: Angela in her own words!

• WHERE SHE GETS HER FABULOUS "NEWS-DO" DONE: Courtney Fortune, The Oak Creek Salon on S. 27th and Barrow.
• FAVORITE HAIR PRODUCTS: Tresemme! Ooh-la-la! My hair is so curly I have to manage the frizz!
• FAVORITE PLACE TO SHOP: Express and Target! But I've found some great deals on jackets at Goodwill, but I'd really like to raid Priscilla's closet! How many shoes do you have?! (Answer: Hehe, enough to have a shoe problem!)
• PREFERRED PLACE TO GET THE ESSENTIAL MANICURE/PEDICURE: City Nails! Cute lady who loves her KTAB News.
• THE ITEMS IN ANGELA'S MAKE-UP BAG CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT: Lip gloss and powder, that's all I need!
• SHE NEVER LEAVES THE HOUSE WITHOUT: Cell phone, wallet, and Turner, let's shop!
• BEST FASHION ADVICE: Fit your body! I'm short with soccer legs! Skinny jeans are a no-no, but I love sundresses!
• BIGGEST FASHION "FAUX PAS": No comment! Haha, I don't want to offend anyone ;).
• ON DRESSING UP TURNER: Dresses and BIG Texas Bows! I love how babies look cute in everything!
• ON BALANCING MOTHERHOOD AND A CAREER: Luckily, Turner has always been a huge part of KTAB. She came in all the time, so I never feel like I am missing out on her.
• ON LOOKING AND FEELING FABULOUS: I am almost thirty, and have never felt better! Being a mom changes not just your life, but how you feel.
• BEST THING ABOUT ABILENE: The people. Everybody is so friendly! Plus great BBQ and Mexican food! And of course, KTAB News :).

When I began working at KTAB in October 2008 there's no question that the first thing I noticed about Angela was her talent and ability to lead a newsroom... but I'll tell you the next thing I noticed about Angela... her hair! I wanted to know where she got it done! She'd always walk into the newsroom with perfect news hair each day. To say the least, many of us girls at KTAB and KRBC followed her lead to the Oak Creek Salon, but be prepared to wait for a good thing, because it's not easy booking an appointment with her stylist!

(Angela's signature 'do! With Bob at the 2010 Ben Richey Boys' Ranch Telethon... I swear the side sweep is always perfect!)

Another thing I loved about Angela is how she sticks to her guns, as a journalist, as a person, and of course... a fashionista. She goes with what works for her. There's a long standing joke with many girls in news, we've all chopped our locks for the job, myself included... but Angela found a happy medium, and still kept some of the length. It always looks fabulous.

Aside from her fab 'do, another thing you'll notice about Angela over time is how she always has an awesome pedicure. Every time I've seen her in sandals, she's got a perfect "10." I guess you can say she's polished from head-to-toe!

But it's not just Angela anymore... when I came to Abilene in Fall 2008, Angela also announced she was expecting her first child!

(Remember this? Yes, she was pregnant! AND field anchoring)

I think I can speak for the 300,000+ people in our viewing area when I say, my jaw dropped when I saw Angela doing live shots in the freezing rain when she was pregnant with Turner. You won't believe the number of phone calls we got in the newsroom that day! She's a trooper, and to say the least, she did it in style in her red wool coat.

(Turner Renee with Mommy and Daddy! And of course, her trademark "Texas Bow")

Once all the ice melted, and the flowers started to bloom, her beautiful girl, Turner Renee was born. We knew long before "Baby-T" was born that she would be a pretty girl and a sharp dresser just like Mom, but I think most of us girls really fell in love with Angela's baby when we saw all of her bows! Turner Renee is without a doubt, one of the best dressed babies I've ever seen. And in case you're wondering where all the cute outfits are from, here's a little secret: when Angela heard there might be a Children's Place coming to Abilene last year... I made some calls to the corporate office, and we verified it :).

(Mother and daughter, looking sharp in all kinds of weather!)

Needless to say, Angela is a woman who wears motherhood well. Balancing a career and family isn't easy for any woman, but she's got it down! That... and there's a good reason why she's on the board for the Sports and Fitness Expo... I've never seen a mother bounce back so quickly after having a baby! She trained like a champion, and got back to her old self quickly. Watching her encouraged many of us girls to hit the gym ourselves!

For the past month, Angela has done a series on people who've inspired her through her time here in the Big Country, but I think she's inspired quite a few herself, as a journalist, mother, sister, teacher, mentor, friend, and member of the Abilene community. Good luck in Fayetteville, Angela, and thank you for inspiring me.

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Priscilla Luong thinks Abilene's loss is certainly Fayetteville's gain... but more importantly she thinks Angela's beautiful little girl needs an agent, "Baby-T" has some serious star quality. If you'd like to second that motion, e-mail Priscilla at pluong@ktab.tv.

Vintage Priscilla: Mommy and Me

(Me, Circa 1985: This was my life before hairspray, but if you've ever seen me when I wake up in the morning... some things never change!)

News hair is no easy feat... but she who can help me conquer **THIS** bad hair day, can conquer the world!

Mom is many things to many people, but she will always be queen of my heart :). She's my best friend, and if you notice our dynamic, at times, my mother is also the big sister I never had. I would need all the fingers and toes in the newsroom, plus the sales department... and then some, to count all the fashion disasters Mom has rescued me from!

My mother lives in Asia right now, so she might be 8,000+ miles away, but I'll admit... I still call her... ALL the time, for everything... which goes to show, you're never too old to need your mother, and loving her... never goes go out of style.

Happy Mother's Day, to all the Moms out there!

(April 2010: On the red carpet at the "De Mai Tinh/A Fool For Love" movie premiere in Saigon, Vietnam in cocktail dresses from our favorite Vietnamese designer Nguyen Cong Tri (KIN Boutique: 194 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, District 3, HCMC)... I'd be in serious "girl code" violation if I told you how old she is... but I hope I can age as gracefully! 25-years later, she's still everything I want to be...)

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Priscilla Luong has fond memories of being a little girl who'd sit inside Mom's monstrous closet thinking "someday I want to be as pretty and glamorous as Mommy, and wear all her beautiful clothes!" And... she grew up to be, about the same dress size, let's not talk about our jeans... it makes Priscilla feel like the ugly stepsister! Send her your adorable (and embarrassing!) baby pictures at pluong@ktab.tv.

Oscars 2010: Putting the Glamour Back in Hollywood

Metallic gowns put the sparkle back in Tinseltown for the 2010 Academy Awards. Needless to say, Oscar gold isn’t just about trophies, this year… it’s a fashion statement. After a sea of disappointing black dresses at last year’s show, it’s great to see stars bring their “A-game” back to the red carpet. The fashion world took a plunge through the recession, and went for “smart” over “style,” but it looks like happy days are here again in Hollywood.

So who stood out in the sea of fabulous gowns? It’s hard to shine against all that silver and gold, but I think it’s no question that Sandra Bullock stood out as belle of the ball, and tops off my top five:

Priscilla’s Picks #1: Sandra Bullock

“Miss Congeniality” was one in a million as she glided down the red carpet in a beaded silver Marchesa gown. I’ve always loved gowns with the illusion bodice, and I’m also a firm believer that red carpet gowns should always come with trains, all that plus BLING… so to me this dress takes the cake. Eyes are always glued to the “Best Actress” winner at the Academy Awards, and in this case… Sandra Bullock gives us a great reason to keep looking.

Priscilla’s Pick #2: Cameron Diaz

I am not a fan of mixing metallics, but Cameron Diaz looked breathtaking in her silver and gold Oscar de la Renta gown. The beading is gorgeous, and the hint of gold complements her golden blonde hair. The pageboy waves and red lips along with the sparkle added some Old Hollywood glamour to the Oscars. Bravo.

Priscilla’s Pick #3: Anna Kendrick

I am a HUGE fan of Elie Saab, who designed Anna Kendrick’s gown for the Oscars. The Lebanese designer, who’s also designed for glamazon Halle Berry, is often known for his exceptional work in beading, but Saab is also a mastermind when it comes to working with silk chiffon. The ruching on Kendrick’s European pink gown would be an example. I love the way the skirt flows and how he brought a little texture in the slit with the lace. Pair it with a diamond bracelet, and rhinestone Judith Leiber clutch, and she’s a starlet.

Priscilla’s Pick #4: Sarah Jessica Parker

Sarah Jessica Parker brought a different type of Hollywood glamour to the red carpet in her classic, 1950’s inspired Chanel Haute Couture gown. I love the detail work and the clean silhouette of the dress. It’s easy to make this look seem “stiff,” but the jewelry offsets the hard edge of the beading on the dress. Carrie Bradshaw and her girls would be proud!

Priscilla’s Pick #5: Amanda Seyfried

When I saw Amanda Seyfried walk the red carpet in her mint green, Swarovski crystal encrusted Armani Prive ball gown, I thought of Grace Kelly. This look is beautiful and timeless. I loved how the crystal detailing has some softness to it, and also loved the texture and pleating on the skirt. Jewelry… I would have gone with a different bracelet, instead of the cuff, but either way she looks gorgeous.

There’s dozens of other celebrities who dazzled the red carpet, but I think these five were my favorites. Other gowns I loved include Penelope Cruz’s red taffeta Donna Karan gown, Demi Moore’s blush silk chiffon Versace, and Rachel McAdam’s strapless watercolor Elie Saab, but I think these five are the ones all have unique and timeless qualities that make them stand-out above the rest.

I think the true test of style is one that stands the test of time. If you can look back ten years from now and still say “wow, that’s beautiful,” then I’d say… you must have been doing something right!

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Priscilla Luong wants Sandra Bullock’s gown… but much like any mortal soul, she doesn’t have enough change to spare on Marchesa couture. BUT… she knows where Vanna White and “The Price is Right” girls got their dresses… and where you can find the showroom in Los Angeles (confession: she used to shop there). If you want in on the secret… e-mail her at pluong@ktab.tv

Team USA: Dressed Like Champions

(Team USA sports Ralph Lauren at Opening Ceremonies for 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver)

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week kicked off Thursday night in New York City, but as American designers showcase their latest collections and sip champagne at posh “post-fashion show” shindigs, our neighbors up north host an even bigger party: The 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver.

As models walk the catwalk, athletes who trained their whole lives enter the stadium during the opening ceremonies representing their country as one of the best in the world. For many athletes, it’s a once in a lifetime experience. Unless the athlete is a top contender for a gold medal… that pan shot in the “parade of nations” may be the only moment they get on television. There’s no question that during that brief shining moment… they’ll want to look their best.

(Team USA takes their walk at 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing)

In years past… it’s been a hit and miss for Team USA, but ever since the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing… the athletes look pretty sharp, and with good reason. After receiving mixed reviews entering the world stage, the US Olympic Committee enlisted the help of American fashion legend, Ralph Lauren.

There are plenty of great designers with outstanding collections featured at Fashion Week, Vera Wang's breathtaking designs not only graced the catwalk and red carpet, but the ice skating rink. In fact, her designs earned her a spot in the US Figure Skating Hall of Fame.

(Olympic Silver-Medalist Nancy Kerrigan in Vera Wang figure skating dress encrusted in Swarovski crystals)

As much as I love Vera Wang’s costumes for US Figure Skaters like Nancy Kerrigan and Michelle Kwan, I don’t think anything says “All-American” more than the Polo Ralph Lauren label. The style, cut, and construction of his garments are perfect for athletes.

(Team USA Closing Ceremonies Ensemble by Ralph Lauren)

Many people would assume dressing athletes is easy. They’re toned, fit, clean-cut, and for the most part… good-looking, but designing an outfit that’s flattering to hundreds of people who range from petite to hefty is no easy feat. And I’m sure many fashion-enthusiasts will agree, if you’re looking for someone who makes red, white, and blue look good… Ralph Lauren is your “go-to” guy.

The opening and closing ceremony outfits are available for purchase on the Ralph Lauren website, but be advised: dressing like a champion comes at a pretty penny. Although Polo keeps a tight lip on the deal, the Wall Street Journal says the US Olympic Committee has negotiated a deal with Ralph Lauren to dress Team USA for the 2012 Summer Games in London. So as athletes strut through the fashion-forward city… land of Burberry, Stella McCartney, and Dior’s John Galliano… they can keep doing the catwalk.

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Priscilla Luong once had Olympic dreams and visions of donning a Vera Wang figure skating costume of her own. Like many Asian-American girls, she idolized Kristi Yamaguchi and Michelle Kwan. In fact… Priscilla was so inspired, she took figure skating lessons, and soon found out, that she was the sorriest sight you’d ever see on ice skates. If you’d like to give her ice skating lessons or share her love for Team USA ice dancing pair, Tanith Belbin and Benjamin Agosto, e-mail her at pluong@ktab.tv.