Next up in our style star series is a woman responsible for giving celebrities and tastemakers an extra shine. Sparkle Hill is a make-up stylist on her way to the top.

I met her at a photo shoot, and she did an amazing job on the models. I knew then that she was a style star. When I was featured in BUST Magazine, I got an unexpected dazzle from the stylist. I usually do my own make-up but the editors arranged for make-up services. I was hoping that Sparkle would show up. Oddly enough, she came through the door, and we both shared a smize!

Recently, Sparkle Hill launched her own make-up brand LUXX inspired by clients who wanted to shine on-the-go.

Philly 360 caught up with Sparkle Hill at Apricot Lane right in the heart of Suburban Square in Ardmore. Watch the video to find out what makes Sparkle a style star of Philadelphia.

Before you read this, put down that Federal Donut and get your mind right for one of the hottest trends for spring-summer 2012. Close your eyes and take a few leaps back in time and think about the clothing conventions of the teeny bopper 50s, the free-wheeling 60s, glitzy 70s and the Madonna-esque 80s. What do they all have in common? If you said ‘crop top,’ you and a few other celebs who rocked out Coachella are true style stars. Sidebar: Rihanna and Chanel Iman came ready for school with their fab midriffs.

Believe me, if you want to rock that midriff-exposing garment when the flowers are in full bloom and all the pretty things come out to play, you’ll want to get those abs in shape ASAP. And by shape, I mean tight and lean like the girls who walk out of Pure Barre.

Thankfully, today’s crops are boxier, less clingy, and more silhouette-driven than their semi-distant cousins, but they still require a well-proportioned tummy to keep the look sharp and sassy. I’m living proof - after three children and a few lines that stretch, I can still rock a fly crop top with the best of the young and fabulous. Knowing what to wear and how to wear it puts me ahead of the midriff game.

This spring, I’ll pair my fave crop top with trousers or high waisted long flowing skirts, perfect for a high-fashion romp through Rittenhouse Square or Midtown Village. Or, I’ll highlight the smallest portion of my waist by breaking out a pair of high-waisted pants and a sexy crop for a child-free night on the town.

Though the crop top can be a cruel mistress for hibernating abs, there’s a way to make it work for the curvalicious, too. 

Style Tips

Stay on trend and follow these tips: Pick a length that’s most appropriate for your environment/event—belly cleavage may not mix well with the morning coffee crew, so think it through; choose your bottom wisely, ensuring it is form-fitted but not so tight that you can see through to that freshman year rose tattoo your mom told you not to get; finally, own your look and knock ‘em dead because there’s nothing sexier than confidence!

Places to Shop for Crops

ArcadIa Boutique

819 N. 2nd Street

Smak Parlour

219 Market Street

PNK Elephant

504 South Street

Vagabond Boutique

37 N. 3rd Street

Next up in my Style Stars of Philadelphia series is Leah Kauffman, executive producer for entertainment for Philadelphia Media Network. Leah is the epitome of fun and fantastic, and she's a Philadelphia fashion fan.

Social media keeps me tapped into fashionistas from across the world, so it wasn’t long before I noticed Leah’s Kauffman’s personal style and creative voice on her other web home phrequency.com. “Personal style goes beyond just clothes; it’s indicative to how you live your life, “ said by the true spirit of style, as she sat at her piano in her Midtown Village apartment.

We accompanied Leah on a shopping trip to some of her (as well as our) favorite boutiques around the city. Check out the video with Leah to get to know her better.

Some Of Leah’s Favorite Local Boutiques:

Philadelphia Vintage and Consignment Shoppe

111 S. 12th Street

Verde Boutique

108 S. 13th Street

Retrospect Vintage

508 South Street

Sugarcube

124 N. 3rd Street         

Hey there, fashion fanatics!

I was in Northern Liberties getting a manicure at Salon Spa East when I spotted a new boutique in the neighborhood. Aesthetiks Boutique, located in Liberties Walk (1030 N. 2nd Street), has something for every one including section for menswear. Influenced by the study of the mind and beauty and what defines aesthetics, the store carries a variety of brands (Tory Burch, Kardashian Kollection, Chanel) and independent designers. 

Khadia Conteh, the owner is also a stylist and designer. If you're looking for something signature, the store exclusively carries scarves and headwraps that Conteh designed inspired by her family's Sierra Leone heritage.

First up in my Style Stars of Philadelphia series is Curran Swint of Kings Rule Together.

I met Curran at a party a couple of years ago, and it was fashion at first sight. Often seen donning the best in men’s vintage wears, this young king is a true inspiration and a Philadelphia fashion plate. His blog, kingsruletogether.com is a chock full of inspiration and his own fashion musings.

This scene-ster knows the meaning of seeing and being seen. You can catch him at the coolest events and on the pages of GQ, Ebony, NY Times, Complex and  Essence magazines, just to name a few.

Check out the video with Curran to get to know him better.

As a fashion enthusiast, I am constantly on the lookout for the most innovative threads and style finds. I am a boutique shopper,  but in some instances, my wear wants happen to be occupied by someone else’s body.

In addition to my posts on what to wear; when to wear it; and how to buy it - this year, I will take you on a journey to meet some of my favorite style muses in the City of Brotherly Love. Every month, I will feature one of my favorite "Style Stars of Philadelphia" and take you on a behind the scenes lens look into their lives of all things fashion.

This year when buying a gift for someone (or just a gift for you), shop for cause. Boutiques and stores around the Philadelphia region are giving you the opportunity to not only shop today’s latest fashion, but to also support local charities.

Scarlett Alley

241 Race Street

Boutiquer? Scarlett Alley carries everything from home ware to custom jewelry, guest books, favors and headpieces. It is the perfect boutique for gifts and even wedding registries! The boutique supports the community through “The Way to Gift, Give More,” which donates to local charities. In addition to supporting these charities, they also sell in store collections from Plates With Purpose by Riverside and John Wind AIDS Jewelry Project, which donates 50% of all proceeds to the Mazzoni Center and Action Aids.

Tory Burch

King of Prussia Mall

160 N. Gulph Road

King of Prussia, PA

Mall rat? Shop Tory Burch in KOP. The Tory Burch Foundation provides the opportunity to women and families in the United States with economic support by having 100% of the “Shop for a Cause” proceeds go towards the foundation.

Macy’s Center City

1300 Market Street

City Slicker? Rachel Roy is more than just a beautiful, long haired, long legged woman that we love to hate (because of all of her beauty) supports Haiti by recently teaming up with Macy’s Heart for Haiti program. Roy traveled to Haiti with CEO of Macy’s Terry Lundgren and Martha Stewart to work with Haitian President Michel Martelly to protect women in the earthquake torn country. She created a jewelry collection handcrafted by Haitian artisans which all proceeds from the line directly benefit the artisans which is available on her website and in Macy’s stores as well. The collection ranges from $32-$45 dollars.

Philadelphia Aids Thrift

710 S. 5th Street

Thrifter? Philadelphia Aids Thrift is a non-profit boutique that is federally recognized as 501c3 tax-exempt charitable organization! Looking for useful, interesting clothing, accessories and other odds and ends? Philadelphia Aids Thrift is the place to go! With all proceeds going to local organizations involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Not only do they sell items, but donations are also accepted there if you are looking for a place to bring used clothes and also making a charity by knowing your item donation benefits aids.

The Wardrobe Boutique

1822 Spring Garden

Donater? Want to help empower women around the area to attain a valuable career? The Career Wardrobe, the nation’s largest independent non-profit provides professional work attire, educational programs, and networking tools and opportunities to empower women to achieve a productive career and independence. Many donations are accepted from clothing to scrubs, coats, shoes, and accessories. The place is like stepping into your Auntie’s forbidden chock full of clothing close.

Green is the new black! So, I pulled together a gift guide of my favorite trendy and eco-friendly gift ideas. Happy shopping!

Engage Green Penguin Umbrella

Big Green Earth Store

934 South Street

The Big Green Earth Store is every eco-chic fashion fan’s dream! The boutique is chock full of sustainable goodies that will make you gaga for green. This gift is for your special someone who always gets caught in the rain. It’s also available in orange and blue.

Picnic Pal Blankets

Nest

1301 Locust Street

These pal blankets are made with 100% organic cottons and have a hypo-allergenic filling. Choose from five different animals to give away this holiday season.

Eviama Simple Facial

Eviama Life Spa

262 S. 16th Street

Everyone deserves a spa day. At the Eviama Life Spa, spend the afternoon in a tranquil, stress free environment and sweet organic rich botanicals.

Amazulu Artisans Global Contemporary Boutique

Amazulu Artisans Global Contemporary Boutique

2816 W. Girard Ave

This holiday pop-up shop nestled away in University City, features a brand new jewelry line that has really caught my eye! Soul Crafted is designed by Hasan Malik, local artist and photographer extraordinaire who uses his keen eye on detail to create unique jewelry pieces using the most exotic stones. Grab your original piece of jewelry before this pop-up shop closes at the end of 2011!

The Cedar Chest

The Cedar Chest

21 S. Jackson Street

Whenever I walk into The Cedar Chest, I always know that I will be walking out with at least two bags of clothing! The Cedar Chest features an array of apparel featuring blouses, dresses, and skirts.  Winter accessories, watches, and jewelry are also on display for you to try on. An extra 10% off will be given to customers who mention this Philly 360° post.

Astro Vintage

Astro Vintage

702 S. 5th Street

Passyunk Ave is home to many little hidden treasures. One of the newest vintage boutiques in the South Street Headhouse District is Astro Vintage. Step into the store and you’ll feel like you’ve stepping into the 1950’s. Check out the “Winking” shot classes, perfect for a friend who loves to be the host of your next holiday party. Take your holiday goodies to the next potluck in style with these one-size-fits-all gifts.

EA Effect

EA Effect

1050 North Hancock St, Suite 58

The varieties of shops at The Piazza and at Liberties Walk are always a great way to spend an afternoon. EA Effect is a local boutique tucked away in the Piazza and you can find stocking stuffers for your loved ones. EA Effect has candles made from 100 soy wax from local vendor Melostudios and homemade soaps by Phillysoaps. Boutique owner, Ella Kolanowska line, Pearl Crown is a sure green pleaser with all materials being upcycled.