At this point, the cameos seem a lot more interesting than the plotline of upcoming prime-time drama “The Beautiful Life.” The show, which is centered around the lives of New York City models, has attracted a star-studded list of fashion industry types who play themselves, including designer Zac Posen and “Project Runway” judge Nina Garcia. Now add Max Azria, the man behind buzzy brands like BCBG Max Azria and Herve Leger. The designer is scheduled to appear as himself on an upcoming episode of the show, which debuts September 16 on the CW.

“I know some [trends] are available at very inexpensive prices, but you fill your closet with all this stuff that, in three months, you won’t want anymore. You’ll end up spending more money than you save. If you invest in something a little more expensive with longevity, you’ll use it more. How many girls do you see walking down the street in those faux-leather leggings? That trend is just like, ugh!”

— Nina Garcia, Fashion Director at “Marie Claire,” author of the new book The Style Strategy: A Less-Is-More Approach to Staying Chic and Shopping Smart, and judge on everyone’s favorite fashion reality show, “Project Runway,” which finally begins its sixth season tonight (!) on its new home, Lifetime. [via Time Out NY]

Project Runway‘s Nina Garcia has this new book out called The One Hundred. In it, she shares all of the items she thinks fashionable women should own. Well, we got to thinking about some of the items in our lives that are indispensable even though they’re a little more random than LBDs, pearl necklaces, or jean jackets. Here are five things that have made a difference in our style lives—share yours in the comments.

Textured Tights These are not an “investment piece,” per se. They cost less than $10 and will only last a couple wears, but your legs will look awfully fancy in them. [Photo: WeLoveColors.com]

Last night, Project Runway judge, current Elle editor-at-large, and soon-to-be Marie Claire fashion director Nina Garcia had a “discussion and book signing” at the Tribeca Barnes & Noble in New York. The audience was a mixed bag: at least 15 men, a few tween PR fans, a couple fashion risk-takers (the girl to my right had on a very Carrie Bradshaw pink tulle flower headband), and a number of middle-aged ladies who wore their un-highlighted hair pulled back in ponytails. Nina was wearing a black dress designed by none other than friend and fellow PR judge Michael Kors.

Now, Nina seems to have been a writing machine over last couple years, because her first book, The Little Black Book of Style came out just over a year ago, in September. Her new one, The One Hundred, includes illustrations by Ruben Toledo, though, so there’s not that much text, at least from what I could tell when I sneaked peeks at my fellow audience members’ copies.