Elle Dusts Off Jessica Simpson!

Forget about all the sniping we have been hearing about at Elle Magazine. Creative Director, Joe Zee, and soon to be ex Editor at Large, Nina Garcia both win gold medals for their fashion savvy. To steal a catch “word” from Bravo’s Rachel Zoe, the majority of the fashion world would “DIE” to be in one their couture pinching shoes. Zee and Garcia set the tone for the fall fashion issue, and it is still tres fabulous.

Here is how the September issue, Elle’s largest book to date, weighs in:

The Cover
Jessica Simpson is America’s sweetheart. She is someone you can knock back a brewsky with on Rodeo Drive. But we don’t get the plaid shirt, albeit cashmere on the cover of America’s leading fashion zine. The accessories also left us wanting. Sorry Elle, there should be another star on the cover along with Jessica and her name is FASHION.

The Hot
The fashion trend pages are bulletin board worthy especially Wicked Ways (pg 272) and if you are mad for plaid you will LOVE Queen’s Country (pg 284). The Super Heroine story titled Supersize Me (pg 482) is good for a giggle and includes a tip on where to find eligible men. It was fun to find out that ex-Madonna hottie, Cameron, from the Express Yourself Video has become, a lifestyle-inspiring yogi. And Joe Zee’s Ugly Betty makeover using the season’s hottest trends was totally spot on.

The Not
A spread and story with the stars of High School Musical. Call me Grand Ma Style Bee, but I just don’t get it. And despite the fact we love all the merch and the fashion spreads are divine, it would be nice to see more affordable alternatives under $100.

The verdict
Elle is still one of our all time favorite magazines. PS: Stay tuned for Stylista, airing this Fall staring Elle’s new fashion director, Anne Slowey and Creative Director Joe Zee. Stylista has the fixings to become a major addiction. The show is a self-professed, Devil Wears Prada meets Survivors Dramedy. Sounds totally yummy. Catch a preview here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9032WsoadUA&NR=1.