KELLY RIPA

We're in the midst of winter's coldest month and there's no better time than now to take a well-deserved vacation or at the very least think "tropical." Joonbug recently had the opportunity to chat with Sharon Lavi, one of the designers/founders of the trendy Nieves Lavi brand. Celeb fashion fans include Kourtney Kardashian, Kelly Ripa, Jessica Alba, Eva Mendes, Katharine McPhee and more. Nieves Lavi is making its return back to Resort with their 2013 collection, marking the brand’s exciting return to the colorful season. Inspired by the sundrenched beaches of Saint Barthélemy, the dresses and tunics evoke the sensual, relaxed aesthetic of a lush paradise that’s Parisian chic meets casual Caribbean. Designed in New York’s fashion district by Sam Nieves and Sharon Lavi, this duo understands what flatters a woman's shape and curves in an effortless way. What inspired you to create the popular Nieves Lavi line? We wanted the freedom to express our own distinct vision. We wanted to create an attainable designer line. Tell me about your background in the fashion industry. I've spent seven years in design, textile Design, and Marketing and Accessory Design . Before I founded Nieves Lavi, I was a Senior Designer for Harve Benard and a designer for Ralph Lauren and Vera Wang, where I also worked on accessories. I started my career in fashion at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. What are some of the seasonal "must-haves" from the collection? Describe the resort/spring 2013 look. The Resort collection is geared towards a chic and effortless vacation--it features simple yet sophisticated styles that can fit any fashionista. Key pieces include easy fitting tunics and short or long drawstring caftans that flatter everyone. What is the one piece that you would suggest for a vacation get-away? The must-have piece in my opinion is the CDC China silk caftan in one of our prints. I love the Aqua color snake print worn from the beach to a restaurant with only a change of a bag -- pair it with a straw clutch and gold wedge sandals and you' re good for sunset drinks in St Barts or any place else! What's your advice to someone looking to get into the fashion industry? Dress appropriately for the interview, always show up on time, be pleasant and happy to help. These are the qualities everyone appreciates and seeks out. What do you pack in your own beach bag? Nieves Lavi cover up, lip gloss, sunglasses, Clarins 20SPF, an interesting book or a magazine, and a bottle of water -- I keep it simple.

By now, most of us have heard of barre pilates and booty ballet. But, what if we want our entire physiques to resemble that of a prima ballerinas? Get one step closer to long gams, toned shoulders and a serious six-pack (plus that firm booty we all long for) by introducing the Refine Method to your regular exercise routine.

Created by New York-based, Black Swan back-up dancer, Brynn Jinnett, the Refine Method goes beyond quasi-plies and basic barre moves to give you a real dose of the athleticism behind ballet.

Sports fans remember Michael Strahan for the vicious hits he put on superstar quarterbacks like Brett Favre, Peyton Manning, and Donovan McNabb. Now the former NFL great is ready to tackle a new challenge: taking over Regis Philbin's old job and entertaining housewives and elderly people that tune into Live With Kelly for early morning entertainment.

Talk show fans were shocked and saddened last year, when Regis Philbin decided call it quits and retire as the co-host of “Live with Regis and Kelly,” a position he had held for nearly three decades. Philbin, who was 79 at the time of the announcement, joked with viewers when he said, "There is a time that everything must come to an end for certain people on camera -- especially certain old people!" To viewers' surprise, the Executive Producer of the show, Michael Gelman was determined to find the perfect co-host for the early morning talk show, an individual that was funny, who could relate to viewers and had chemistry with Kelly Ripa, so he didn’t rush into making a choice. He decided it would be in the program’s best interest to go with a co-host by committee approach until he found the perfect man/woman for the job. From mid-November of last year up until September 4th, when the show’s permanent co-host will be revealed, over 50 people will have sat in the seat vacated by Regis. Kim Kardashian, Mario Lopez, Jerry Seinfeld , Howie Mandel, and even musicians, such as Nick Lachey and Josh Groban, have been rumored to be potential new hosts.

Reports surfaced a few days ago that Nicki Minaj will be a member of the judges' panel on American Idol. Now rumor has it "Louis Vuitton Don" Kanye West might be joining her and Mariah Carey. [Huffington Post]

A burglar broke into LL Cool J's home in California, looking to steal cash, jewelry and other valuable goods. Instead he was knocked out, courtesy of the legendary MC. [HipHopDX]

Justin Bieber is officially a spokesperson for the new film "BULLY," a documentary on the prevalence and effects of bullying in U.S. schools. Justin joins a host of celebrities supporting the film and its campaign to take action on bullying including: Ellen Degeneres, Meryl Streep, Victoria Justice, Andersoon Cooper and Kelly Ripa.

“My fans are always up for supporting a great cause. It’s one of the things I’m most proud of as an entertainer,” said Bieber. “I hope they see BULLY with their friends and help start the conversation so we can end bullying.” Watch the Biebs' promo for "BULLY."

This year, 13 million students will be bullied and 3 million will be absent because they don't feel safe at school. Learn more about The Bully Project here.

More of a mission if you ask us. June Ambrose primary known for her signature turbans has been styling A- list celebrities for over 20 years. The next step? VH1 reality star! As we hold on to our TV remotes VH1 has officially released that Ms. Ambrose will launch her own docu- reality show early 2012 making this VH1's first ever fashion documentary TV show. June Ambrose has been linked to styling folks like Kim Kardashian, Sean Combs, Alicia Keys, Kelly Ripa, Jay Z and Mary J Blige.

The June Ambrose Project will chronicle June and her team of assistants working with established and up and coming artists, celebrities and models who are looking to re-brand their image. Each episode will showcase the person's new image.

Is that your final answer Regis?

"It's been a long time, It's been 28 years. It's been an enormous thrill, " said Philbin on Tuesday's show of "Live! With Regis and Kelly." After 28 years of morning gabfest, he decided to retire even if it hasn't been an easy decision: "Everything must come to an end..especially with certain old people."

His exact final date is not set yet but it might be at the end of the summer. A new cohost will be named to join Kelly Ripa, his acolyte for more than a quarter-century.

You'll be missed Mr. Philbin

Jennifer Aniston and John Mayer were spotted out in chilly New York City last night. The camera-shy couple had a double-date with Kelly Ripa and husband Mark Consuelos at La Esquina. Jen and John tolerated the paparazzi and Mayer made sure to plug Aniston’s upcoming movie, Marley & Me. The soulful singer jokingly informed the paps, “I’m happy to report the movie is completely in focus. I want everyone to know that.” The happy couple snuggled up together and Mayer teased the paps they were walking to Harlem calling out, “90 more blocks, guys!”