Taylor Swift Channels Kate Middleton; NBA Players Admit Beauty Obsessions

Taylor Swift Channels Kate Middleton: At the 2013 Winter Whites Gala held at Kensington Palace on Tuesday evening, Taylor Swift made up for The Duchess of Cambridge's absence, impressing in a flowing, white Reem Acra gown with a sheer bodice and chiffon skirt that resembled some of Middleton’s past evening ensembles. The singer also followed Middleton’s lead by sporting a clutch from Jenny Packham, one of the Duchess's favorite designers. Swift accessorized her very-Middleton look with Swarovski crystal heels, a soft up-do, and red lipstick. The standout part of Swift's evening? The singer joined Prince William and Bon Jovi on stage for a mini concert at the palace, where the trio belted out "Livin' on a Prayer." [Grazia Daily]

NBA Players Admit Beauty Obsessions: After frequent front row appearances at fashion week, it seems that style and grooming are becoming increasingly popular among NBA stars. The Wall Street Journal got NBA players to admit to some of their favorite beauty secrets for before and after games—for example, 25-year-old DeAndre Jordan uses Secret deodorant for women because of its light and invisible effect. While “at home, Mr. Jordan uses a shampoo and conditioner from Herbal Essences that happens to be pink,” WSJ reports. “‘It's a manly pink,’ he says—and washes his face with a foaming scrub from Neutrogena.” Many have specific skincare routines and use a variety of body lotions, oils, creams, and cleansers, particularly from high-end brands like La Mer and Clinique. Others admit to indulging in weekly manicures, pedicures, and facials for a fresh and feel-good look. Also, to prevent acne—which is frequent due to constant contact with dirty basketballs—some players, like Rasual Butler, even utilize the Clarisonic facial-cleansing brush. [The Wall Street Journal]

Louis Vuitton Exhibit Causes Controversy in Moscow: Moscow’s famous Red Square is now the host of a giant, suitcase-shaped museum built by Louis Vuitton in honor of the 120th anniversary of its flagship location. Many Russian officials, however, don’t agree with the installation, partly due to the strong past associated with the Red Square. As a symbol for the Russian Revolution and the location of Lenin’s tomb, the Square represents a national emblem that seems vandalized by the arrival of this voluminous commercial item. “This is a sacred place for the Russian state,” said Sergei Obukhov, a member of the Communist Party Central Committee. “There are some symbols that cannot be trivialized or denigrated.” The museum, called L’Ame du Voyage, or The Soul of Travel, is 30-feet by 100-feet, and features a collection of 25 iconic Louis Vuitton products on view for six weeks starting December 2. [Time]

Elie Saab Introduces New Design Degree: The Lebanese American University, with campuses in Beirut and Byblos, is now offering a Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Design in collaboration with fashioner designer Elie Saab. The designer, who splits his time between Lebanon, Milan, and Paris has decided to introduce the new degree in partnership with the London College of Fashion to attract more Lebanese students to the fashion industry. The program will begin in September 2014 and will propose a curriculum that will connect the Arab community with international cultures. Courses will be taught with respect to the LCF standards by providing “curriculum consultancy and quality assurance services” to the LAU. “I am pleased with the agreement, which is a major step toward creating a regional hub for talented designers,” Saab said. [Vogue UK]