It’s the one night of the year to act out your wildest fantasies—well, one of the nights depending on who you are. But deciding on what to wear on All Hallows Eve can be more stressful than choosing a surrogate.

We spoke to the managers of two of the city’s most popular costume shops, Jimmy Gough at Costumes, Etc. and Darlene Majewski at Norcostco, to find out what all the city’s boys and girls are stepping out in for Halloween 2010.

As expected, the True Blood and Twilight effect will be in full swing. “Twilight has totally changed the way people think about vampires,” says Gough. So whether it’s Bon Temps’ hottest vamp Eric or Twilight twinkwolf Jacob, expect to see some seriously sexy creatures on the prowl.

Of course everyone’s always holding out for a hero, and this year will be no different. Iron Man, Thor, and Superman are huge this year if you judge by what the visitors to Costumes, Etc. are walking out with.

But who doesn’t like a half-naked undead guy? With the success of the annual Little 5 Points Zombie Walk and the buzz surrounding AMC’s upcoming locally filmed series The Walking Dead, it’s official: there’s a zombie movement going on in Atlanta.

And zombie life is low maintenance. “They’re great because they’re easy to do,” says Gough. “It’s just makeup and old clothes.”

Switching to high maintenance (but a higher payoff), you can always dare to drag. Norcostco’s Majewski loves to watch the transformation. “It’s so sweet to see these boys walk in who are so shy and then they walk out 8-feet tall and wearing lashes,” she says.

Another big pick this year is to go as the woman who treats every day like Halloween: Lady Gaga. The fashion daredevil gives you plenty to work with, whether you want to rock the bubble dress or the lobster hat. But for the big risk taker in the group, try the Halloween look with the shortest shelf life: “We haven’t had any requests for the meat dress yet,” says Majewski.

You can be political (Obama, Tea Party rally goer), you can honor celebrities who died this year (Rue McClanahan, Dixie Carter), you can go GTL in the ATL (Jersey Shore).

Whatever you decide, go all out. Halloween in Atlanta is a time to embrace the bloodsucking, bullet-stopping, brain-eating, veal cutlet-covered queen inside all of us.

The goals of the Human Rights Campaign and of world-renowned fashion designers Alex & Chloe are remarkably similar. One inspires and engages people about LGBT rights and the other inspires and engages people through their fashion line.

The two have collaborated for the second year in a row to introduce a new limited edition t-shirt and necklace collection called “Proud.” The collection was launched to coincide with National Coming Out Day on October 11^th.

“Proud” features a vintage black, custom dyed t-shirt with eight screen-printed activist buttons with sayings like “Kiss Me, I’m Equal” and “Closets Are For Clothes.” The necklace has a laser cut black acrylic equal sign pendant with “Human Rights Campaign” debossed along the bottom edge and comes with an antique brass extender chain.

Teaming with notable fashion designers in the fight for equality is familiar territory for HRC—Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs, and Kenneth Cole have all contributed designs in recent years. Alex & Chloe are well on their way to reaching such vaunted status.

So come out, come out wherever you are. Pride is in fashion.

*Alex & Chloe’s “Proud” collection available at www.shop.hrc.org. 100% of net proceeds go to the Human Rights Campaign.

For many people, fashion is a religion. Look to the number of fashion publications and shows, or the hallowed ground we put “Sex and the City” and “Devil Wears Prada” on.

But what about the religions that are in fashion for the gay community?

Unitarians have led the gay-friendly faith march for years, but not far behind is the United Church of Christ. “They were quick to say ‘Gay marriage? Why not.’ while other denominations were fighting it out,” says Rev. Peter Laarman, the openly gay Executive Director of Progressive Christians Uniting. Virginia-Highland Church and Central Congregational UCC are two local houses of worship preaching the UCC gospel of inclusion.

The Metropolitan Community Church is another denomination that’s not only gay-friendly, but makes outreach to the LGBT faithful a major platform. You can witness their teachings at First MCC of Atlanta, headed by the openly gay Rev. Paul Graetz.

Episcopalians have grabbed the gay headlines in recent years for their ordination of the first openly gay bishop in 2003 [see The Fenuxe Interview: Bishop Gene Robinson page ---] and continuing the trend by ordaining a second gay bishop this year.

Some branches of Judaism are proving Christians don’t have the market cornered on gay-friendly faith. “You can forget about the Orthodox, and the Conservatives are in the middle, but the Reformed are very pro-gay,” says Laarman. The openly gay Rabbi Joshua Lesser leads services at Congregation Bet Haverim under another branch of progressive Judaism—Reconstructionist.

Hindus have been hit-or-miss on gay issues in years past but are beginning to open up more doors. For those with an eye for architecture and faith, visit the gorgeous “Mandir” (Hindu place of worship) in Lilburn run by BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. It’s the second largest Hindu Mandir in the world.

Gary Laderman, Chair of the Department of Religion at Emory University, says this is all part of a greater movement. “More of the marginalized people have been able to find ways to satisfy their interest in spiritually based connections,” he says. “It’s part of a shifting landscape in American religion.”

A wise man once said, “To beautify one’s car is to beautify one’s soul.” It’s a profound statement, despite the fact we completely made it up.

But you do feel more confident, cocky even, when you’re darting from spot to spot and your car is so fresh and so clean. You just gotta know the looks and the products to get you there.

COLOR: If you’re looking to buy or you’re serious about a color switch to spruce up your current ride, here are the hot colors coming down the turnpike for 2011. Color specialists at the major automakers are influenced by what’s happening in architecture, product design, and furniture. The trend they’re discovering is bold bold bold.

Purples and oranges are starting to dot lots coast to coast and we hear there’s a color trend in China making its way stateside: pink! Hey, if you can’t trust a country under communist rule for your car fashion choices, who can you trust?

MAINTENANCE: Keeping a car’s fresh-off-the-lot look is crucial and nothing’s better to keep it hot than a set of detailing products—think of it like moisturizer and toner for your car. Uberwurx has an exceptional line of high-end, precision engineered products for the discriminating car owner.

Use the spray wax to give the body an all-season sheen, the tire shine to give the extra glow, and the leather conditioner to keep the wrinkles away while you drive around at play.

TREND: Carbon fiber used to be exclusive to the aerospace and sporting goods industries, but dynamic car engineers are finding more ways to incorporate the material into our autos. MAcarbon caters to a clientele with high-end rides and a desire for custom carbon fiber.

Steering wheels, shift knobs—you name it and they’ll encase it in the ultra-chic material to give your interior a unique, fashion-forward look.

Just remember, when it comes to your car, it’s what’s on the inside and outside that counts.

Vintage or modern? Neutrals or a color overdose? A few key pieces or accessories galore? You’re left with a whirlwind of questions when the desire to redecorate your home grabs hold. But what are the latest trends in home decor fashion?

Help is here in the form of Ryan Hughes, owner of R Hughes Showroom, a 4,000 square foot haven exclusively for the top architects and interior designers in Atlanta.

Let’s start in the kitchen. Striving for more than the simple, overused IKEA renovation? Keep one thing in mind: it’s all about the details. Add touches like unique knobs, pulls, and finishes in your cabinet hardware. You’ll be surprised how much difference it makes.

As we pass through the kitchen, we notice the most intimidating overhaul is typically the largest—the living room. If you’ve got the space, Hughes suggests multiple seating and conversation areas to spice things up. Don’t bother yourself with loads of accessories though. Just focus on a few key pieces that are striking—overscaled light fixtures are a hot item. And a sustained classic rule for the living room? “Good art is always a must,” Hughes says.

If you’re feeling let down in the bedroom—design-wise that is—you could take some cues from The W. “People are really into hotel chic,” says Hughes. Upholstered beds and headboards are a way to reflect the calm, serene environment without sacrificing style.

Don’t forget the bathroom, where we go back to basics. Currently, the hot look is vintage, vintage, vintage with a spa-like feel. “White marble is always a classic and never dated,” says Hughes.

If you’re thinking big picture when it comes to color, neutrals are out and vibrancy is back in. Just use the colors that make you feel most at home. Paint is an economic solution for your walls, but not the only trendy option out there. “Wall coverings are making a huge comeback and being used in fresh and exciting ways,” says Hughes.

Taking the latest home decor fashion tips of Hughes to heart will go a long way in making your house the home of your dreams.

R Hughes Showroom

White Provision

1170 Howell Mill Rd. NW, #315

Atlanta, GA 30318

404-607-8877

www.r-hughes.com

Just because you’re no longer living in the closet doesn’t mean you can’t use a bigger one. A nice remodeling job works wonders for your space and your state of mind, but getting started is the hard part. Fenuxe gives you 7 reasons why you need to remodel NOW!

You’re Not Selling Anytime Soon

It’s a buyer’s market right now so, like a chicken-hawk at Outwrite, you’re probably not going anywhere for a while. So make the most of it. Remodel now to get ready for the sale down the road. Increase your home’s value and marketability.

Lenders are Lending…No, Really

Sure, lending standards have risen but you’re golden if you’ve got three things: proof of income, a good credit score, and at least 20 percent equity in your home. If so, go forth, find a great loan officer in the AGLCC member directory, and remodel!

Materials are Cheap

With the falloff in demand, you can get construction materials for cheaper than a lap dance from a girl at Richard’s. And since less people are buying, there’s more to go around, so there’s no waiting around for just the right stuff.

Contractors are Discounting

See “Materials are Cheap” above. More contractors equals better, cheaper options for you. It’s like that time French Connection accidentally over-ordered all those pea coats and you were all like “OMG!” and French Connection was all like “We know!”

Green is Good

In addition to the warm and fuzzy feeling of doing a solid for Mother Earth, you can save money on your taxes (thanks to the energy efficiency tax credits) and your utility bills. Or you can skip the home and go full-on gay and buy a fuchsia smart car.

Remodeling is Fun

Looking at color swatches, deciding which appliance has more options, roaming the aisles of Home Depot—you’re piecing together your dream home one choice at a time. Embrace the process and keep picturing that beautiful final product!

Make Your Neighbors Jealous

Sure it’s petty, but we all need a little confidence boost every now and then. Splurge for those granite countertops and extend that deck, then have a remodeled-housewarming party. Who says you can’t keep up with the John and Jeff Joneses?

Fashion doesn’t limit its victims to just people. Whether feline or canine, the competition to stay on top of the latest trends is a wild one. FENUXE found an expert in animal magnetism to make sure your four-legged friend doesn’t end up on next year’s worst-dressed list.

Nichole Ferguson is the owner of Glamour Paws, Virginia-Highlands’ primo pet boutique and spa. They specialize in pet fashion and “creative” grooming.

Oftentimes, fashion trends get passed down from owners to pets and this season is no exception when it comes to the hair of the dog: mohawks have the momentum. The color depends on the coat but the top five shades of the summer are red, blue, teal, pink and purple.

Cats are a bit “touchy” when it comes to styling their hair…or doing anything else that invades their personal space. So coloring is a no-go, but make them stand out with a cut. The lion is the look to keep your kitty cool: a shaved body paired with a fluffy head, tail and paws. Rarrr!

The leash laws for the cat and pup are simple this season: get a crystal Fabuleash. There’s a wide array of colors and price levels, starting with a simple $15 piece all the way up to a stunning Swarovski crystal leash for $300. You can get your collar in crystal as well, but it’s not for everyday use—call it their evening collar.

And for the fancy pet on the go, this just in: carriers from Juicy Couture in pink velour with brown leather trim.

The final touch after wowing the sense of sight is a French fragrance. A spritz of “Oh My Cat?” or “Oh My Dog!” and your little beauty queen or king will be the toast of the Midtown fashionistas!

The Jansport days are long gone. You’ve committed yourself to higher learning, jumping to another level, so accessorize with style! You need a high-end home for your your iPad, your phone and your copy of FENUXE, so we found four fabulous pieces to help give you the look you long for in and out of the classroom.

Dolce & Gabbana Black Leather Messenger Bag ($500)

Get back to the ABCs with D&G! This beauty is 100% leather and 1000% luxury. Ultrasoft black leather makes this a proper pick for the fashionable student out there. What’s inside counts too! A large canvas-lined compartment contains your laptop while an internal zip pocket protects your precious mobile devices. Whether setting up for a presentation or sitting down for a cup of coffee, this D&G designer bag means security and sophistication while pursuing your studies.

Diesel Black Gold Messenger Bag ($660)

Go back in black—Diesel Black Gold that is. It’s Diesel’s attention to detail that makes the heart flutter. The finest dark brown flap and trim cover the distressed black leather of this Italian gem. The silver tone hardware and stud trim offset the luscious leather to give you the contemporary look you crave. The leather d-ring and carrying handle create classic symmetry. You’ve got the bag and the brains to take you as far as you want to go.

Louis Vuitton Brooklyn GM ($1,330)

Is it over the top bringing a Louis Vuitton bag to class? Maybe. Do we care? Not at all. The GM stands out from the rest with its signature checker pattern and damier canvas strap. Only the essential touches are added, like zipped pockets on the back and inside keeping it classically simple. With the brass nameplate stamped on front, the message is clear: you’re not the average pupil.

Salvatore Ferragamo Briefcase in Embossed Calfskin ($1,300)

Ferragamo helps you continue your education in calfskin. The taut lines of the top flap meld seamlessly with the softer black leather below. The single gusset snap expansion feature gives it a slightly militaristic expression. Cotton canvas envelops your valuables while the outside shines with sleek, sexy black leather. The crisp and clear branding on the strap will let everyone know you roll with Ferragamo.

Does your sleep position determine how many wrinkles you have?  Will botox paralyze your face?   Will common condiments make your hair shine?  Fenuxe finds out beauty’s biggest bold-faced lies!

Myth #1: You can get rid of cellulite
Moisturizers and firming creams will temporarily reduce it, self-tanners will camouflage it, but nothing will permanently get rid of cellulite—not even liposuction.  Don’t take it out on us though—blame Mom and Dad.  Cellulite is all about the genes.

Myth #2:  Preparation H reduces puffiness
The ingredient that’s credited with reducing puffiness was taken out after the ointment was reformulated in 1994.  There’s one other ingredient that’s been said to temporarily constrict blood vessels, but no clinical studies have been done to confirm it.  Use as directed!

Myth #3:  Sleeping on your back will keep you wrinkle-free
True, putting pressure on your face’s elastin and collagen fibers for prolonged periods could cause a subtle increase in wrinkles.  But you’d have to have your face jammed into a pillow for massive amounts of time to do serious damage, and we’re not touching that joke.

Myth #4:  Putting mayonnaise in your hair makes it glossier
If you really want Hellmann’s hair, there’s a 127-step process that involves vanilla extract and a prayer which could make your hair shiny.  But what’s the point when there are glossing treatments available that do the same thing, only better and with less chances of spoiling?

Myth #5:  Plucking a gray hair will make 10 more grow in its place
Step back from the ledge and stop analyzing your hair, it’s not true!  Plucking the hair out by the root might keep the regrown hair (singular) from lying flat, but it won’t multiply like Express 1MX shirts at a gay fundraiser.

Myth #6: Your skin will age like your parents’ did
Genetics play a small role in the texture, color and pore size of your skin, but when you want to see who’s really responsible for your skin, look in the mirror.  Smoking, drinking, tanning and stress are the factors that make your skin sag and jag.

Myth #7:  Botox will paralyze your face
Botox relaxes the muscle contractions that cause wrinkles.  Is there momentary paralysis?  Yes.  But you’d have to be injected with a UPS truckload of botox to cause total paralysis.  And what’s a little temporary face paralysis in the name of beauty?

Popular hairstyles go through more changes than Cher at Ceasar’s Palace, so what’s the hottest style right now? Fenuxe is on the case. We fanned out across the city to find the most eye-catching cuts.

As with most fashion, hairstyle trends typically originate out of Europe. Men’s hairstyles are no exception to the rule, so if you want a hint about the summer hit, we hope you tuned into the World Cup. Those sizzling soccer boys were showing off the latest trend.

“What you’re seeing is a return to a bi-level haircut, otherwise known as a mullet,” says Jason Tichenor, American Board Certified Hair Colorist at Paragon Salon. “But it’s been modernized and Europeanized, it’s narrow in shape on the back.”

So bi is in! But the overall theme for the men this season is texture, texture, texture. Close-cropped, military-style cuts and the sleek, straight look are out and loads of length, shapes and disconnection are in.

Julio Cesar of Julio Cesar’s Salon & Spa concurs regarding the desire for disconnect, listing a contemporary pompadour among the hot new styles. “The cut will allow any guy to have a modern style or conservative look for the office,” Cesar says. “Adding shine will complete the look and draw every eye in the room.”

For women, three little letters are making one big comeback. “The bob is definitely back in a big way,” says Tichenor. The bob is versatile so you can go jaw-length like Katie Holmes or go with the long bob like Gwyneth Paltrow or get the sideswept bangs popularized by the ravishing Rihanna.

The summer sensation at Cesar’s salon is a long, layered cut he calls The Hollywood Diva that mirrors the look of Jennifer Aniston and Kim Kardashian. Bonus? It works for straight and curly hair.

When it comes to color, blonds and reds are running the show. Deep golden blonds, metallic blonds, auburns, pumpkins—the list of locks goes on and on!

Visit Paragon or Julio Cesar’s now for your bi-level, bob, pompadour or diva before the next season’s sensations take hold of the city!

Paragon Salon
855 Peachtree St., Ste. 1-B
Atlanta, GA 30308

Julio Cesar’s Salon & Spa
3161 Maple Dr.
Atlanta, GA 30305