DOWNLOAD NOW: Grizzly Bear

Four New York natives collaborated back in 2004 to create what is now known as Brooklyn's finest indie rock band - Grizzly Bear. What once was the idea of a solo project by singer-songwriter Edward Droste has now evolved into a critically acclaimed musical quartet. Their style is experimental and is said to have a psychedelic vibe due to their harmonizing vocals and eclectic instrumental arrangements. In 2008, Grizzly Bear gained notoriety when they went on tour as an opening act for Radiohead. The following year, the band released their third album, Veckatimest, which automatically debuted #8 on the Billboard charts. The album received widespread attention and was noted as one of the best albums of 2009 in credible sources such as The Wall Street Journal, Pitchfork and Time Magazine. Radiohead's guitarist, Johnny Greenwood, and hip-hop legend, Jay-Z, have publicly expressed their devotion for Grizzly Bear's talent; that should tell you something (; Xo andrea

Art War at Fox's Lounge

Last night I attended a small art show at Fox's Lounge on US1 and Sunset Drive in Miami. My friend Nicky (follow her blog it's great!) heard about it and asked me to go with her. The show consisted of mainly local art and a few large drawing boards where anyone can grab a marker and get creative. It was awesome to see everyone's own style merge together to create one big mural of art. As the large crowd admired the talent of the artists, the DJ spinned dubstep and hip-hop to keep the vibe upbeat. This event goes down the last tuesday of every month, so check it out if you appreciate art as much as I do.

TREND: Printed Trousers

We have seen printed shorts galore throughout this summer, especially in this hot Miami heat. The trend has added a pop of color to your bottom half, contrary to the usual block color or denim. However, the printed pant trend is picking up with huge strides. The look was seen on Spring runways and will be a staple for your Fall closet. The cuts of the pant range from cigarette leg to cropped trousers and from hip-slung to high-waisted. We are usually accustomed to detailed tops and jackets but this trend brings all attention to your legs. Here are some styling tips:

• Try an abstract or tribal print since they make more of a statement
• Pair your high-waisted printed pants with a solid colored bandeau or cropped shirt
• A tucked in loose tee, tank or a leotard can work too
• This look is both casual and dressy. During the day wear with flats or sandals and a night with a cool bootie or wedge
• Wanna spice it up some more? Wear a chunky necklace or bangles - XO andrea
  

MB Fashion Week Swimwear 2011

On July 15th, South Beach kicked off the annual Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week hosted by my hometown of Miami. Each year they showcase the hottest swimsuit collections for the following year, as well as cover ups and accesories. This year the event was held at the Raleigh Hotel, Nikki Beach and the Bass Museum. Designer brands such as Trina Turk, Luli Fama, True Religion and Lisa Maree all put on beautiful fashion shows filled with flowy tops, dresses, monokinis and bandeaus. XO andrea

DOWNLOAD NOW: Wiz Khalifa

Pittsburgh native, Cameron Tomaz aka Wiz Khalifa, is a 22-year-old rap rookie who is one of the hottest up and coming MCs. The internet opened up the doors to fame, when he broke the underground shell with his mixtape Kush and Orange Juice. It immediately became a trending topic on Twitter and he became a YouTube sensation overnight. He's become a favorite amongst teenage and college kids across the country due to his laidback style and stoner lyrics. The best part about this young rapper is he doesn't even have a record deal. Wiz Khalifa is blowing up by the minute so if you like other rappers like Wale, Kid Cudi or J. Cole download now! TAYLOR GANG OR DIE - XO andrea

TREND: Army Green

Who said army green was strictly for men in uniforms? Runways for spring were filled with military inspired looks and color palettes. The neutrals and greens we saw have stayed strong throughout summer and are sure to be basics for fall. If you haven't invested in an army green piece, do it now and take advantage. The color is extremely easy to coordinate despite what you think. I bought my skinnys about two months ago and now I'm on the search for the perfect cargo jacket for fall. Here are some styling tips:

• Any piece whether it be pants, a jacket, a skirt, a shirt or a tee will come to great use.
• Pair your green skinnys with a loose tank or tee for a day look and at night with an embellished top.
• Throw your shrunken cargo jacket over a knit top and cut-off shorts

Francoise Nielly

French artist, Francoise Nielly, specializes in creating massive colorful portraits using knife-like utensils and daring strokes.

Stylish Men

Personally, I love a man with style. Sadly, in Miami those are hard to find. It's as if the weather is their excuse to just wear a pair of shorts and a t-shirt. Come on guys, don't be shy and bring out your inner fashionista! A man who is stylish doesn't necessarily have to be gay. Above Kid Cudi, Robert Pattinson, Ed Westwick, Mark Ronson, Jay-Z and James Franco all show that straight men can also have style. Here are some styling tips:

• Baggy pants/shorts are not cute
• Cool sunglasses always spice up an outfit
• Bright graphic tees and band shirts should be basics. Not Ed Hardy.
• Sneakers. Sneakers. Sneakers. Pick the right ones and a girl can fall in love.
• Fall is around the corner. Invest in some layering pieces such as cardigans and a blazer.
• Try finding a style muse and re-think your wardrobe! (:

DOWNLOAD NOW: The Black Keys

These Ohio natives teamed up back in 2001 to create the best two-man band of the last decade, in my opinion. They easily take the lead over The White Stripes any day when it comes to their guitar riffs and vocals. They've been around for a while but still remain one of the best kept secrets of the underground rock scene. With blues inspired melodies and a classic rock vibe, it's no wonder that Led Zeppelin's frontman, Robert Plant, is a devoted fan. The Black Keys' music has been showcased in the hottest shows on TV from Gossip Girl to Entourage and in a handful of big-name movies, such as Twilight: Eclipse. Personally, I'm addicted to their music. They truly are a talented pair of guys. Hurry and download their music; you won't be disappointed. XO andrea

Acne 2011 Collection

Swedish fashion house, Acne, created a 70's inspired line with a modern twist for their 2011 collection. The color scheme and sleek silhouettes make each piece wearable and timeless. Love it all, if only I can afford it! -_- XO andrea

Art Meets Fashion

Scottish born graphic designer, Nikki Farquharson, integrates fashion and art into her colorful collection called Mixed Media Girls. The London based artist, uses patterns, prints and magazine cut-outs in order to create her eclectic designs.

TREND: Denim on denim

Denim on denim; some say fashion faux pas, others say fashion forward. The trend was seen all over Spring 2010 runways and will stay strong throughout Fall. It may sound tacky, but if you have the confidence and the ability to pull together an outfit you'll look like a true fashionista. So how can you wear this and not look completely stupid? Here's how:

• Pair dark wash skinnys with a loose button up in a lighter wash.
• Wear some cut-off denim shorts with a tucked in denim shirt in a different wash. Add a cool belt through the loops and roll up your sleeves.
• To pull together the outfit, wear oxfords or leather sandals for a casual look, or wear some sky high wedges, clogs or booties for a night look. Accesorize accordingly (:

DOWNLOAD NOW: Neon Indian

Alan Palomo, a 21-year-old Texan, grew up with a pop star dad (Mexican singer Jorge Palomo) but never thought he'd make it in the music industry. Sure enough, he was very wrong. His infatuation with synthesizers in college brought about the critically-acclaimed indie band, Neon Indian. Palomo, along with three other bandmembers, got together in 2008 and delivered their debut album - Psychic Chasms. In two years, they reached headlining spots in music festivals such as SXSW and Bonaroo. Their style is electro/synthpop, so if you like MGMT or Passion Pit give them a listen!

Welcome to the Plastic Jungle

I'm assuming the first post is what makes or breaks your blog. I thought over and over about what I should write but I just decided on doing a quick introduction of myself and why I started this. I'm Andrea, an average 20-year-old hispanic student, with average brains and an average bodytype. I was born and raised in the beautiful city of Miami, FL (which believe it or not does get boring sometimes). I'm a Public Relations major and at school my writing teacher suggested that we should start a blog. She said it's a great way to gather ideas and practice writing, so I gave it some thought. I follow tons of blogs and have many things to share, so here I am! Here's a few things about my blog:

• Why the name? Took it from the Miike Snow song and Miami is a party jungle filled with mostly plastic people -- perfect right? :b


• What will I share? My three loves: fashion, music and art. As well as some "How To's", important going-on's in the world and personal narratives.


• Why should you follow? I'm a normal girl from a normal family with a serious passion for style and creativity.

The picture above features Atlanta de Cadenet Taylor, an up and coming fashion icon. Here are more outtakes from her Exit Magazine shoot thanks to becauseimaddicted . Hope this first post wasn't too bad. Ciao XO andrea