After four years together, it looks like Gretchen Rossi and Slade Smiley are ready for even more blissful years, only this time as husband and wife.

And in true Rossi style, she did things her way — by being the one to propose.

The Real Housewives of Orange County star asked for Smiley’s hand in marriage on April 14 – and of course this fashion designer can’t just have any ring on her finger.

Only 9 carats will do. Naturally.

According to designer Dany Arik of Newport Jewelers in Newport Beach, Calif. it was a collaborative process.

“We both put our heads to it and designed it together,” he told Celebuzz.

Rossi’s new bling has a 4-carat fancy yellow diamond center stone and 5 carats of surrounding diamonds.

For a whopping total of 9 carats of big bling!

And Rossi, who confirmed the happy news with In Touch, was actually inspired by her first engagement ring, which she holds close to her heart. As seen on the popular reality show, Rossi was previously engaged to Jeff Beitzel, who passed away after losing his battle cancer in 2008. Smiley was also previously engaged to former RHOC star Jo de la Rosa.

“She wanted to go off of the design of her previous engagement ring,” Arik said. “She walked into the store and I had a ring and she just knew what she wanted when she saw it. So we put together elements from six or seven rings and made one ring.”

And there were even more surprises in store, like the fact that Smiley, 44, had no idea what she had up her sleeve.

According to Arik, his ring was completely designed by the 34 year old reality star, and made of rhodium with gold in the center and black diamonds on all corners.

“Slade’s not a flashy guy so she wanted it to be subtle. He’s into black diamonds so we worked with that,” he said.

When designing the rings, fashion designer Rossi wanted to add her own special touches. So she was sure to engrave a “G” and an “S” into her ring to symbolize Gretchen and her hubby-to-be.

And on his newest accessory she engraved four G’s, some of which stand for his 12-year-old son Grayson, Gretchen and god, Anik said.

“She told me she was going to propose,” he added. “I was surprised, but she doesn’t do anything by the books — that’s my favorite part about her.”

Anik, who’s known Rossi for years since designing rings for her family, knew this time would come where they’d be ready for “I do.”

“I knew he was going to propose a year ago, but it wasn’t the right timing,” he said. “She obviously loves Slade and now was the perfect time.”

What do you think about Gretchen being the one to propose to Slade? Tell us below.

Vicki and Tamra talked it out on Monday night’s Real Housewives of Orange County – but their back-and-forth almost gave Alex McCord a serious case of whiplash.

The former NYC housewife, who’s breaking down each and every moment of the RHOOC’s second episode of Season 8, says the overall exchange seemed like one step forward and three steps back. Between Vicki and Tamra’s private confessionals and the two locking themselves in a wine cellar to talk, they certainly seemed to have finally cleared the air. They even agreed that they didn’t want a man ever coming between them. But as Alex points out, by the end of the episode, Tamra had already let Eddie come between them. And he’s, like, a man, right?

And what about when Gretchen goes after Vicki on the ride home, and Tamra fails to defend her? Alex thinks the olive branch that Tam and Vicki both extended doesn’t seem to be all that strong – and we kind of agree.

Meanwhile, find out what Alex makes of that super-fancy clambake — and who she thinks made a serious reality-TV mistake. Okay, okay: it was totally Tamra.

See Alex tackle those topics and more in this week’s vlog, above. Then tell us: do you agree or disagree with the former NYC housewife?

Since it first hit the small screen back in 2006, The Real Housewives franchise has spawned six successful series (read: D.C. didn’t cut it) all across the nation. But Bravo’s spotlight on all that lavish living, girl fights and gossip started with one original: The Real Housewives of Orange County.

Now as the show dives into the drama of its eighth season, there is a single survivor who has been there since the beginning: Vicki Gunvalson.

“It feels great,” she told Celebuzz at the Bravo upfront event in New York City on Thursday. “If we weren’t successful season one and two, we wouldn’t be here.”

After many have come and gone from the O.C. mania, Gunvalson now stars alongside five other diamond-dripped Housewives: Tamra Barney, Gretchen Rossi, Alexis Bellino, Heather Dubrow and Lydia McLaughlin, the newest woman to hop aboard the Bravo bandwagon.
“I don’t know if I’m even looking forward to it after all these interviews,” McLaughlin admitted. “They’re all saying, ‘Be careful. You’re not going to be excited. It’s a lot of drama.’ So I guess I’m a little more nervous now.” The O.G.’s advice? “Just to have fun and to trust us,” Gunvalson said with a wink.

Though the new season has only just premiered, the women are already waging war, so to speak. Not only are Gunvalson and Barney still at odds, but Dubrow stuck it her nemesis Bellino by making her the sole persona non grata at her posh clambake, a snub Bellino isn’t taking lying down. “Well, I sold her to another country,” Bellino joked, as Dubrow was absent at the Upfront because she’s vacationing in Mexico with her children. “So she’s gone.”

But the season promises more than just bad blood between the women — wedding planning is underway for Barney, who is engaged to fiancé Eddie Judge. Though she stayed lips-sealed on what role, if any, her costars will play in her big day, there are four people who Barney promises will have a hand in the ceremony: her four children, eldest son Ryan Vieth, 24, from her first marriage, and her three younger kids, Sidney, Spencer and Sophia, from her second husband, Simon Barney.

And might wedding bells soon ring for another one of the O.C. women? Rumors have been swirling that Rossi is ready to say “I do” to beau Slade Smiley after she was spotted sporting blinding bling on her ring finger. But turns out, the sparkler is not a gift from Smiley.

“You know what? This is my ring from Jeff,” Rossi explained, referring to her late fiancé Jeff Beitzel. “I will always wear this. It’s a very sentimental piece to me. I’m never going to stop wearing it.” But Rossi didn’t deny that an engagement could be on her horizon. “There might be,” she teased. “So you have to watch to see what happens.”

For more from the biggest Bravo-lebrities — from The Vanderpump Rules cast to the confirmed returning stars of RHONY — watch the videos below.

Monday night’s Real Housewives of Orange County is all the talk – and former NYC housewife Alex McCord is joining in on the discussion and giving Celebuzz her inside take on the show’s Season 8 premiere.

First off, Alex is handing out two “Smart Moves of the Week” awards – one to Gretchen Rossi and one to Vicki Gunvalson. She’s also explaining her theory on why Alexis Bellino’s future on the show could be in jeopardy.

That brings us to one of our favorite moments from Monday’s show: Alexis pulling the “bully” card. But should she have? Isn’t all fair in love and war – and catfights between Real Housewives? Alex will let you know what she thinks.

She’s also sounding off on Gretchen and Tamra Barney doing their State of the Union Shopping. And what about the delivery room footage of Vicki’s daughter Brianna having her new bundle of joy – specially filmed for reality TV? Is that, like, allowed? Alex has the inside scoop.

Special bonus: Alex is sharing why the OC franchise has a very special significance for her. All together now: Awwwww!

Watch Alex tackle those topics and more in this week’s vlog, above. Then tell us: do you agree or disagree with the former NYC housewife?

Before this blonde beauty starred on one of the most talked-about reality shows of all time, she was already prepping for fame and fortune as the most stylish tot in Tinseltown.

This lucky leading lady may own her very own Rolls Royce today, but she had some serious hot wheels back in the day — and Celebuzz has the pint-size photos to prove it.

Yes, we’re talking about none other than Real Housewives of Orange County star Gretchen Rossi.

It’s clear that this sexy small screen siren always had her very own flair for fashion (check out that bedazzled blue dress!) years before she launched her swimwear line and luxury handbag collection. But we just can’t get over those chubby cheeks, pigtails, cheer uniform, and bouncing blonde curls.

She definitely lives up to her prom queen status… and you have to check out the red bikini for yourself. Click through our galleryabove to see Rossi like you’ve never seen her before.

The Real Housewives of Orange County returns for what’s sure to be an epic season 8 at 8 p.m. April 1.

What’s your favorite Gretchen Rossi pastime pic? Let us know in the comments below.

The O.C. is ready for the sand and surf.

The Real Housewives of Orange County star Gretchen Rossi is fired up about the warm weather as she strips down to a rhinestone-studded nude two-piece during a recent beachside photo shoot for her upcoming bikini line, Gretchen Christine for LUXE.

Already a successful entrepreneur of a cosmetics collection and handbag line, the 35-year-old is expanding her empire by launching her first swimwear collection.

Finding a free moment in her her busy schedule on Tuesday, Rossi tweeted:

On way to Tampa for work and an appearance on C-Shop TV to discuss the Gretchen Christine Collections, Then to Miami, and New York!!

— Gretchen Rossi (@GretchenRossi) March 26, 2013

Launch the gallery above to get a sneak peek at Rossi’s upcoming swimsuit collection.

Gretchen Rossi‘s signature style is going on the road — courtesy of Rolls-Royce.

The Real Housewives of Orange County star is teaming up with the luxury car brand in Newport Beach, Calif. for a specially commissioned collaboration of the 2013 Rolls-Royce Ghost Gretchen Christine Edition, Celebuzz can exclusively reveal.

“They asked me to custom design a Rolls-Royce,” she said of her newest business endeavor based on her high-end handbag collection. ”I never imagined I’d drive a car like this, let alone design it. I’ve always been a fan and enthralled by the beauty of the car.”

And like a true artist, the 33-year-old is making sure she’s entirely hands-on in the creative process.

“I’m headed to England to the factory to do the finishing touches,” she said.

So what are her must-have custom car accessories?

“I want to make the car for the 2013 working woman who also loves to have fun and lives in luxury,” she said.

Features include a place to hold champagne bottles and glasses, so a little bubbly is “chilled and ready to go,” Rossi said. But it isn’t all play for the busy television star.

“I can be working from my car — whether it’s on my iPad or computer — and I’d love to have a place for them in the back of the seats,” she said. “That’s my life. As people know who watch the show, I am a very hard worker and I love to play and have fun.”

And it wouldn’t be a Rossi Rolls without the proper color palette… pink!

“Everyone knows I love my pink. So it has to be involved somewhere,” Rossi said, adding that the custom car will be available for lease or purchase by this summer. “I want it to be sophisticated with touches of pink piping on the seats. Believe it or not, they can even take one of my nail colors or lipsticks and match them exactly to the colors on the car!”

As for Rossi’s fellow Housewives, she won’t leave them in the dust. Said Rossi: “They can all get in the car and I’ll take ‘em for a ride.”

Do you think Gretchen’s Rolls will be a hit with car aficionados? Tell us below.

Andy Warhol may have predicted that everyone would become famous for 15 minutes, but he never guaranteed that everyone would earn the same paycheck for their moment in the spotlight.

Among the stars minted by reality TV, how much you earn — like so much else in America — depends largely on where you started out. Those who are already rich or somewhat famous have an advantage over the previously anonymous, and people from pricier zip codes tend to outearn those from the sticks.

The class divide among reality stars reared its head in recent days with the claim by The Hollywood Reporter that the Thompson clan, the self-styled rednecks from McIntyre, Ga. who star in TLC’s new smash Here Comes Honey Boo Boo, earn as little as $2,000 to $4,000 per episode, or no more than $40,000 for the ten-episode season for the entire family. Family matriarch June Shannon has said the figure is a lot higher than that, but even so, it would have to be much, much higher to match the fees earned by, say, the Kardashian family, the various Real Housewives, or even the souvenir T-shirt sales crew on Jersey Shore.

Read on for a breakdown of who earns what in reality TV.

Honey Boo Boo viewers love to be appalled by Shannon and partner Mike “Sugar Bear” Thompson — either they’re bad parents who ply their kids with energy drinks and overstuff them with food while raising them in an atmosphere of privation and backwardness, or they’re bad parents who are exploiting their kids by pushing them in front of a camera even while taking a shamefully low fee for a show that has to be earning TLC millions in ad dollars.

Shannon disputes the $4,000-per-episode figure, telling the Reporter that they’re earning enough from the show to start trust funds for the four kids; in fact, they’re saving all the show money and continuing to live off Thompson’s wages from the local chalk mine.

One guide to how much the Thompsons may earn comes from TLC’s other series built around unorthodox families. At the height of their fame (and before the parental split), the Gosselins of Jon & Kate + 8 were earning $22,500 per episode. (So said Jon Gosselin in a 2009 interview.)

The Duggar family, of 19 Kids and Counting, earn between $25,000 and $40,000 per episode. (Note that the Gosselin family was half as big and lived in suburban Pennsylvania, while the ever-expanding Duggar brood lives in rural Arkansas.)

Over on MTV, the stars of Teen Mom have been doing their part to perpetuate back-country stereotypes (or, if you prefer serve as cautionary tales), but for at least $60,000 per season. But that fee grew as the show aged. Last year, in court documents, Amber Portwood divulged that she was earning $140,000 per season, or $280,000 per year.

Meanwhile, in the higher property tax environs of New Jersey, the stars of Jersey Shore have been earning at least $30,000  per episode each. That adds up to $390,000 per season, or $780,000 per year, for each of the eight roommates. Ever wonder why none of them is motivated to put in a full day’s work at their landlord’s boardwalk T-shirt shop? That’s why.

The reality stars who live largest, the various women of Bravo’s Real Housewives franchise, also earn some of the highest salaries in reality TV. Those who’ve been on the longest have earned bigger salary bumps. For example, according to Radar, among the Real Housewives of Orange County, veteran Vicki Gunvalson earns $450,000 per season, compared to just $30,000 for newbie Heather Dubrow. In the middle are Alexis Bellino ($2000,000), Gretchen Rossi ($300,000) and Tamra Barney ($350,0000).

For Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, the spread is narrower, with Lisa Vanderpump leading the pack with $250,000 per season and Kim Richards and Yolanda Hadid bringing up the rear at $100,000 each. But the franchise’s queen bee is, not surprisingly, the woman who leads the cast of the highest rated show. That would Be Nene Leakes of The Real Housewives of Atlanta, who commands $750,000 per season.

The highest paid performers in reality TV are, of course, the Kardashians. This summer, the family signed a deal for $30 million to star in three more seasons of E!’s Keeping Up With The Kardashians. Of course, there are a lot of Kardashians and Jenners who get to split that $10 million per season; presumably, Kris Jenner and eldest daughters Kim, Khloe, and Kourtney get the lion’s share.

In fact, Kim Kardashian is, according to Forbes, not only the highest-paid woman in reality TV, but also the second highest-earning woman in primetime, period. She earns $18 million a year; only Sofia Vergara of scripted show Modern Family earns more. But much of Kim’s money comes from endorsement deals; same with Vergara, who also gets money from commercials and movie appearances. For both women, only a small fraction of their wealth comes from their TV salaries; the rest is from ancillaries.

And that’s where the real money is in reality TV, not in the per-episode paycheck. The Kardashians rule here, too, with their multiple endorsements, fashion lines, appearance fees, and more. Not to mention spinoff series. It’s no surprise that Khloe, who has pursued those opportunities especially avidly, isn’t far behind Kim on Forbes‘ top-earning women on TV list, with an annual gross of $11 million.

The Jersey Shore stars may play gorilla juiceheads on TV, but off-camera, they’ve been awfully clever about finding ways to milk their fame. Take Snooki, who’s parlayed her fame into a series of best-selling books, products sold on home shopping channels, speaking fees of $30,000 a pop, a spinoff series with pal J-Woww, and and a fee reported at $250,000 to license first exclusive photo rights to People magazine for pictures of her newborn baby, Lorenzo. The Situation has landed endorsement deals and frequent stints on other reality shows to earn himself at least 45 million a year. But Jersey Shore’s top earner may actually be Pauly D, whose spinoff series, endorsements, and high-profile DJ gigs have earned him $11 million a year.

That ancillary money can continue long after the reality gig that spawned it is over. Just ask some of the Real Housewives of New York alumnae. Jill Zarin claimed she earned $1 million in sales from her shapewear line after she left the show. And Bethenny Frankel famously sold her Skinnygirl cocktail business for $120 million. Not bad for a woman who claimed that, before Real Housewives, she couldn’t even pay her rent

Whether the Thompsons of Honey Boo Boo will be able to drum up similar opportunities for themselves is far from certain. Seven-year-old Alana Thompson, Honey Boo Boo herself, may have the cuteness and ebullience to be a commercial spokesperson, at least until she hits puberty in a few years. And given the popularity of Paula Deen, there must be enough fans of calorie-counting-be-damned Southern cuisine to make a Thompson family cookbook a bestseller. At any rate, two things are certain. First, they shouldn’t count on the largesse of TLC. And second, they’d better strike while the iron is hot. Those 15 minutes go by awfully fast.

Real Housewives of Orange County star Gretchen Rossi is paying homage to the late Jackie O in a new ad campaign for the Gretchen Christine Collection handbag line  — and Celebuzz has the exclusive photos.

“If I could, I would wear the clothes from the photo shoot every day,” says the 34-year-old, who revealed that she was was inspired by the “timeless nostalgia” of the ’60s. “I wish I lived in that era — the women just looked so classy and beautiful.”

Rossi even designed her collection with that era in mind. But how?

“Nowadays we’re all so busy and rushed, but we should still look fabulous when we’re traveling,” says Rossi, who sports oversized black sunglasses, a head-scarf, and a curve-hugging black sheath dress in the ad campaign. “Back then it was just really fun to be a lady.”

As such, the bombshell named her latest line The Pink Collection because of the massive fan response she received when she donned a pink satchel on Housewives; it inspired her to make an entire pink-themed line, she says.

The collection will be sold exclusively on her website, GretchenChristine.com, starting Monday, Sept. 17 — just in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. Part of the proceeds from sales will be donated to the Breast Cancer Charities of America.

Rossi’s Pink Collection not only offers her fans handbags, but it also delves into the world of luggage and accessories. The collection includes a three-piece overnight set, complete with a tote, duffle and satchel ranging from $25 to $299.

She also designed an iPad case, wallet, passport case, iPhone case and  wristlet.

What do you think of Rossi’s latest collection? Sound off in the comments section below.

Real Housewives of Orange County star, Gretchen Rossi, 34, isn’t spilling the details on her upcoming wedding with fiance Slade Smiley, 36, just yet, but she is ready for one thing: a baby.

“We definitely will have a wedding one day, but right now we’re focused on having a baby” Rossi exclusively revealed to Celebuzz.

The couple is dedicating all of their time towards having their first child as soon as possible and Rossi can’t wait to be a first-time mom. The couple has even gone so far as to pick out names for their future baby. Rossi explained that they’ve both picked out names that they’ve liked for a boy and a girl just to be safe.

Would the girly Rossi prefer a boy or a girl?

She told Celebuzz that “it would be really fun to have a girl” as fiance Smiley already has two sons from a previous relationship.

“But we’ll see,” she quipped.

Rossi and Smiley seemed happier than ever at the In Touch Idols & Icons MTV VMA after party on Sept. 6 in Los Angeles and Smiley watched lovingly as Rossi walked the red carpet. So what’s the secret to making their relationship work?

“It’s funny because the impression most people get is that I wear the pants but in reality he is the man and wears the pants and he loves me being the woman and being strong and independent, but I’d say he definitely wears the pants,” Rossi explained.

Tell us what you want Rossi and Smiley to name their future baby in the comments section below.

It’s three weeks before Real Housewives of Orange County starts filming season 8 — and not everyone is in place yet, Celebuzz has learned exclusively.

While offers are out to numerous prospective first time “Housewives” — the jury is still out on who will return.

“Yeah, that’s true — the network always likes to have a couple backups,” said RHOOC star Slade Smiley on Wednesday.

What’s happening with the OC Housewives?

“Someone could come on, not like what we’ve seen last year, and not deliver any authenticity, and be lovey-dovey. They always hire other people that bring conflict to the show, so we never know who may end up being a full-time Housewife.

“They may bring someone and exit them that I don’t know about. Maybe Alexis doesn’t want to come back. She may film long enough to not come back,” Smiley told Celebuzz at the KIIS-FM Video Music Awards lounge, in L.A.

Alexis Bellino has been one vocal cast member who has voiced doubts about returning to the drama-filled hit Bravo show for its eighth season, unless she has a friend alongside her to back her up.

The current OC Housewives cast appear to be expecting new personnel changes.

“When somebody new comes in, it always brings some spice, some fun to the show — so I’m always open to new girls,” Slade’s paramour and  RHOOC costar Gretchen Rossi told Celebuzz, also at the KIIS-FM lounge.

“Whatever happens with the girls, it doesn’t give me anxiety or anything,” Rossi said. “It’s in the background of what I’m focused on doing.”

Rossi noted that she’s in the dark, regarding names of new cast.

“I don’t know who the new ones are yet — they haven’t told us,” Rossi said.

While Smiley knows offers have been made to new ladies — he said he is also clueless about specifics.

“I don’t think that I’m aware of the people they’ve talked to,” Smiley said.

There have been shakeups throughout the Real Housewives franchises — from New York and Orange County to Miami and D.C., the latter of which weren’t brought back for future seasons.

What may not change are the relationships the casts of shows have with other casts.

Rossi and Smiley, for example, are close with recently split, longtime husband and wife Paul Nassif and Adrienne Maloof, stars of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.

The two couples have double-dined in the OC, Smiley said, on the Maloof/Nassif family trips to Disneyland.

The divorce news came as a shock to Rossi and Smiley.

“I was very sad — I texted Adrienne immediately,” Rossi said. “She’s obviously going through a really tough time. I wish them all the luck in the world. It’s very tough to lay out your relationship in the public eye.”

Smiley added, “Their banter to us always seemed like they communicated. It was very difficult to tell there was actually an issue. So it’s sad to hear that happened.”

Do you think we’re going to see some exits and entrances on next season of Real Housewives of Orange County?

With such a fast-paced schedule, how does Real Housewives of Orange County star Gretchen Rossi ever find time to work out?

“Because I travel so much, I end up doing a lot of my workouts on the road,” Rossi told Celebuzz in an exclusive interview. “I know it sounds silly, but I’ll literally get into a hotel room, pick up the bedside lamp and start doing bicep curls. Sometimes you just have to improvise when you don’t have the time.”

Revealing her “get fit” tips, Rossi — who ranked No. 25 on the Celebuzz 101 Hot Bodies countdown — gave Celebuzz the scoop on her guilty pleasures, her new secret health habit and which housewives she thinks are the hottest. (Hint: She doesn’t share an area code with any of them.)

Read on for the full Q&A.

Celebuzz: What was the ‘a-ha moment’ in your life that made you want to take health and fitness to the next level?
Gretchen Rossi: I grew up playing soccer and softball, and was a cheerleader. So, I’ve always been extremely athletic. As far as taking my health to the next level, though, it was actually in high school, because I suffered from an eating disorder. When I finally decided I wanted to get healthy and educated about how to stay in shape, I went and got my personal training certificate. I started training other people in college, which really helped me get past my own issues, because I was able to help people in that way. Now, I’m totally capable of knowing how to take care of myself on my own.

Celebuzz: What exercises do you do to stay in shape?
GR: I work so much that I don’t get the consistent time to be in the gym any longer. I do have a trainer that I work with, Ken Rawlins, and he’s amazing. I have him meet me at the house because my schedule is that crazy! He brings a bunch of equipment with him and we do everything from free weights and exercises on the bench to work with rubber bands and these things called gliders that I found. We’ve been using those a lot lately, which has been really fun. Basically, we do a lot of lunges and squats and pushups on a ball.

Celebuzz: What’s on your workout playlist?
GR: I definitely work out to music; it’s more motivating. But there are times that you don’t need it. I go on walks on the mornings that I’m up early. The dawn is so beautiful that you really don’t need music. Normally, though, I listen to a playlist of “ampy,” get-you-going songs. Lately, it’s been my own song “Unbreakable”; it’s really a great workout song! I didn’t even realize what a great workout song it was until I put it on my iPod; it really gets me going. Also, I absolutely love anything by Britney Spears, Lady Gaga and Katy Perry.

Celebuzz: What’s your secret for staying fit even when you’re pressed for time?
GR: What I’ve learned with my schedule is that it’s about trying to kill two birds with one stone. I try to improvise and think of new exercises and ways to stay in shape because if I don’t, I would never have the time to stay in shape. I love finding the time to go and do yoga and core Pilates; I love changing it up. I’ve always been really dedicated to making the time to take care of myself.

I love exercising, I’m active everyday whether I’m going for a walk, run, hike or bicycle ride. I’m always at the park running and playing with the dogs. I always try to stay active and moving. I’m not the kind of girl you’re going to find sitting and watching TV. Even if I am watching TV, I’m probably doing my sit-ups at the same time. I’m not very good at staying still unless I have to sleep.

Celebuzz: Do you diet?
GR: I think that working out is so important for your heart health and endurance and it feels good to sweat out toxins too. But I truly think that 70 percent of keeping shape is all about what you put in your body to begin with.

Anytime I’ve ever tried to diet in my life, it’s been a disaster, so it’s really about maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Now, I do everything in moderation. If I feel like I really want a pasta dinner, I’ll have my pasta dinner, but I won’t eat the entire thing. Or, if I want an ice cream sandwich one night, I’ll make to be more strict with my diet the next couple days. I’ve realized that when I deprive myself of something that I’m craving, I’ll just want it more and more. Then, I’ll end up binging on something that I didn’t need to if I would’ve allowed myself to have little bits and pieces in the first place.

Celebuzz: What’s your guilty pleasure?
GR: Alcohol will always be on my list. I’m really more of a social drinker and have a cocktail when I’m out on the town on a Friday or Saturday night with friends. And, if I feel like having a bite of dessert when I’m out, I will. I won’t do much more than that, because that’s when you end up eating the entire dessert. I don’t do well with that.

Celebuzz: Do you have any secrets for total body confidence when putting on a bikini?
GR: First and foremost, get a spray tan; that’s the number-one top secret. It really helps to disguise cellulite. Also, little things like a really good moisturizer that makes you look shiny and pretty really helps, too.

Celebuzz: Do you have a secret habit that is part of your healthy lifestyle?
GR: In the last three months, I’ve really been been upping my vitamin intake — MSM, Grapeseed Extract, things like that. I’m also trying this new product called Play Again, for healthy joints, because when I workout a lot they sometimes ache and hurt. I hate to swallow pills, let alone having to take them; but you really start to see your body change, so it’s worth it.

Celebuzz: Besides yourself, which Bravo housewife do you think is the hottest?
GR: I would say that Brandi Glanville is pretty hot. She’s got a really fit body and really tall, skinny legs. But so does Taylor Armstrong. They both kind of have the same type of structure. Even Melissa Gorga! Shoot, I don’t know. Then there’s Joanna Krupa who has a pretty hot, smoking bod. She’s coming out on the new season in Miami. She’s a supermodel, so she would probably win.

Celebuzz: What is your greatest health achievement or milestone thus far?
GR: I would definitely say getting over my eating disorder is one of them. I was bulimic, and it took me a really long time to get over that. To be honest, I don’t think you ever really get over something like that. I think it’s always kind of back there haunting you, but I finally learned to be healthy and confident and secure in my own skin. It wasn’t until five years ago that I finally got to that place and stopped comparing myself to tall, skinny models. I’m 5’5″, and I’m never going to have long, skinny legs. I’m more of an athletic build, and I really learned to appreciate my own body and to be thankful that God blessed me with my proportions. My biggest accomplishment was just becoming secure in my own skin.

Celebuzz: What inspirational advice do you have for readers in order to jump-start a healthy routine?
GR: I think it’s just about maintaining that healthy lifestyle and eating right. I’m lucky to have a great trainer who pushes me. So, I’d say if someone needed extra motivation to get yourself a trainer. Spend the extra money – you’re worth it.

Independence Day may celebrate America’s birthday, but it also has a more frivolous significance: the Fourth of July means bikini season is finally in full swing.

To commemorate both special occasions, Celebuzz has gathered some of Hollywood’s finest celebs in the most patriotic swimsuit they could find.

From bikini babe Gisele Bundchen to America’s sweetheart Jessica Simpson, click through the gallery to see the sexiest star-spangled styles.

Flag bikinis aren’t the only American-themed apparel making their way around the fashion world. Patriotic summer dresses, short shorts, and even evening gowns have been making their way to red carpets.

See below for more stars in stripes.

Ryan Seacrest debuted “Unbreakable,” the latest single from Real Housewives of Orange County star Gretchen Rossi, on Friday.

The up-tempo track, which will be released on iTunes Tuesday, was inspired by the 12-year-old son of Rossi’s boyfriend, Slade Smiley; the youth has been battling brain cancer for years.

“It just really inspired me to write a song about this kid being so young, and dealing with so much, and being unbreakable despite the fact,” Rossi said Friday.

“Unbreakable” marks a different musical direction for the reality star/singer, whose past singles include the 2009 ballad “Nothing Without You” and the 2011 dance anthem “Revelation.”

Which song do you prefer? Have a listen to ‘Unbreakable’ below, then sound off in the comments!

The Real Housewives of Orange County airs part two of its seventh-season finale Tuesday night on Bravo.

Real Housewives of Orange County star Gretchen Rossi writes exclusively for Celebuzz about the new season of her cross country rival, the Real Housewives of New York.

THE Real Housewives of New York debuted last week with three new cast members and I must admit, it was hard to get used to new faces on my screen. It’s like when your favorite soap opera brings in a new person to play your favorite character. It just never seems to feel right at first.

But put simply, the jury is still out on the women. Why?

I think it’s because it will take a minute or two before I, for one, can get used to the new gals. Then, once I adapt, I am sure I won’t be able to live without them.

The past few weeks we’ve been getting to know these new women and how they operate their families, love lives and careers. I find it very intriguing how vastly different each of their lives are.

It’s very funny to see the difference in how Aviva and Heather handle their children and teach them, as they showed at the two different dinner scenarios. I do agree with Aviva when she says it’s not good to spoil a child, even if their circumstances are hard — because then they become accustomed to it. It can cause issues when they are older.

I appreciate Aviva’s sophistication and Heather’s work ethic, however out of all the newbies I would say I am the most intrigued by Carole. She seems to have so many different sides to her — from her work experience and her past, to her current relationship status. Very interesting to hear how Carole feels about having a long distance relationship.

Do you think that kind of relationship is healthy? Would you allow your man be with you, and then knowingly agree to allow him to have hook-ups while on the road untill he sees you next? I used to think that could be fun, but I have changed my tune on that.

On another note, I’m in love with the song he was playing in the car that he wrote for her, how extremely romantic! Carole has left me curious and wanting to find out more.

The Luann / Ramona fight seems like it is only going to get worse, and anytime a “truce” is made we all know in Housewife land that means disaster is waiting to occur! I am still confused as to who threatened who because I was distracted by Ramona’s crazy head shake, eye rolling, and flipping of the hands the whole time while talking on the park bench.

I have meet Luann and Ramona both and they both seem like very lovely women, so to see them in such turmoil is never fun. I’m curious whose side you guys are on, and who you think will break the “truce” first?

Sonya literally makes me laugh out loud. She is a whole bunch of crazy, but in a good way. I just sit there waiting what is going to come out of her mouth next. She is all turned on by a man who is talking about her water drip! So much so that she wants to cook for him with her toaster oven. It makes me wonder, does Sonya know she sounds like a wack-a-doodle sometimes? Honestly though, I have met her and sincerely think she is a hoot and adore her free spirit.

There was no better way to end this second episode then dancing with Drag Queens! I’m curious to hear who you are most excited to get to know better out of the newbies?

Don’t forget to enjoy life and laugh till it hurts! Till next week!

xoxo Gretchen Christine

Gretchen Rossi is taking her famous Californian beach bum to Las Vegas!

The Real Housewives of Orange County vixen showed off her amazing bikini bod at Tao for a beach-themed party this Saturday. Joined by her beau Slade Smiley, the twosome packed on major PDA as they posed for photographers at the summer bash.

According to 34-year-old reality TV star, a skimpy two piece is a fashion must-have for the new season!

She wrote on her blog:

Neons are still all the rage, and summer is the perfect time to wear brights! I am in absolute love with my Neon Dream bikini from Beach Bunny. Check out a pic of the bikini here. The design is so simple – just a neon zebra print sliding triangle top with neon lace trim that ties at the neck and back – but it accentuates in all the right places, if you know what I mean!

For more of Gretchen’s bikini looks, check out the galleries above and below!

Gretchen Rossi blogs for Celebuzz about her must-have items for summer. ‘Tis the season!

I’m also so excited that Summer is almost here! It is definitely one of my favorite seasons — it’s all about the sun, fun, and carefree attitudes! In fact, you don’t even really need that much as long as you keep some important essentials around.

Here is a list of my summer style must-haves:

A Great Hair Masque

The sun, chlorine and salt water can have a drying, damaging effect on hair in the summer so I like to keep my hair hydrated with the perfect hair masque. I love HBL’s hair masque because it intensely smoothes, conditions and protects without weighing it down or leaving a greasy feeling. It’s got a pH level of 3.5-4.5, and it can be used with or without heat, depending on the level of conditioning desired. Keratin Amino Acids naturally repair and strengthen hair and add elasticity while cetyl esters work to smooth, repair and seal damaged cuticle. $39.95
A Hot Bikini

Neons are still all the rage, and summer is the perfect time to wear brights! I am in absolute love with my Neon Dream bikini from Beach Bunny. Check out a pic of the bikini here. The design is so simple – just a neon zebra print sliding triangle top with neon lace trim that ties at the neck and back – but it accentuates in all the right places, if you know what I mean! $229.00 full set

A Versatile Sun Hat

It’s important to wear a sun hat to block out all the harmful UVA/UVB rays and this darling Kate Spade Dunes Land Straw & Linen Sun Hat is super cute and functional, too. The oversize brim provides protection from the sun’s rays and an interior sweatband offers cool comfort.  I love the mint colorblock brim (which happens to be one of summer’s hottest colors). Best of all, you can fold it so you can travel with it. $78  I also snapped a pic of one of my favorite new hats from BEBE, it’s a great summer coral color and I like that it has a little gold chain around the rim to dress it up a little!

A Great Nail Polish Color

I love OPI’s “I eat Mainly Lobster” shade – Check out the pic I snapped of it here. It is bold and bright and makes my toenails (and nails) look great with a tan. In fact, regardless of the shade, polish is definitely an essential! I think it’s important to keep a regular pedicure especially since you’ll be exposing your toes barefoot or in sandals most of the summer. $8

Sunscreen

Last but not least, SPF is a must. I keep my skin safe and healthy year round by applying SPF daily, but it’s even more important to apply sunscreen during summer. I like to use Clinique’s Sun SPF 50 Body Cream and for extra care, my makeup also contains SPF. The GC Perfect Finish Liquid Foundation w/ SPF 15 gives just the right amount of coverage and makes your skin look absolutely flawless!

Xoxoxo Gretchen Christine

In her debut blog for Celebuzz, Real Housewives of Orange County star Gretchen Rossi delivers her take on the biggest celebrity stories of the week, including the drama surrounding John Travolta‘s sexual battery litigation, her Housewives’ cohort Kim Zolciak flaunting her pregnant body and a topless Rihanna sharing more risqué photos. Gretchen writes:

I’m so excited to be blogging for Celebuzz! I’m so flattered to have been asked to contribute to the site since I always turn here when I want to know the latest in celebrity news. Celebuzz is my go-to source for what’s up in Hollywood!

In fact, I was just looking at the site and here’s are my thoughts on some of the latest celebrity buzz:

Pregnant Kim Zolciak’s Tight-Fitting Maternity Dress: Yay or Nay?

Are you kidding?! I say YAY for sure. Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kim Zolciak looks great! She’s happy and should flaunt it! I am all for body hugging clothes while pregnant, as long as it’s still tasteful.

Rihanna Reveals Topless Behind the Scenes Pics from “Where Have You Been” Shoot

I say it’s hot! However, Rihanna has to remember she is a role model to young, young girls. She is a consenting adult who is not in her teens (so I think it is OK to be showing some skin and being sexy)… but, there is a certain age that it is OK to be doing these things both on the young scale and the older scale! Luckily, Rihanna is in the perfect age range to get away with it and look hot!

John Travolta Lawsuit: Get in on the Conversation!

This sucks! I believe this is a celebrity shake-down! I could be wrong but it seems like that to me. It makes me sick to see how many people try to do a celebrity shake-down. Most of the time celebrities are pegged because the public believes they won’t want the bad publicity and the celebs will just pay them to go away, but I hope John fights this to the death!

Do you all agree with me? What do you guys think?

Be sure to check out Gretchen in all her bikini glory in the Celebuzz photo gallery!

Gretchen Rossi’s name has been all over the press in the last few days amid rumors that she tried to get Bravo to pay for an engagement ring from boyfriend Slade Smiley, as well as a trip.

And as if that wasn’t enough, there were also reports yesterday claiming that Gretchen thinks her Real Housewives of Orange County co-star Tamra Barney’s engagement to Eddie Judge is actually a sham manufactured by show producers.

But is it all true?

In an exclusive chat with Celebuzz, Gretchen spoke candidly about the rumors, both of which she adamantly denies.

Regarding the story about Gretchen claiming Tamra’s engagement is a sham, Gretchen told Celebuzz:

“The fact that the matter of it is, that story says, ‘a source close to Gretchen.’ It does not say ‘Gretchen.’ And by the way, they’re not even disclosing who their source is. So, I’m kind of over the press; I’m kind of over people making up stories about stuff. I do not think Tamra’s engagement is a sham. I went out and celebrated with her when we found out about the engagement. For goodness’ sakes, I offered to throw her the bachelorette party! [Laughs] If I really though it was a sham, and I was really upset about it, why would I do all of that? So, it’s been really disappointing, and I just kind of wish that whoever is spreading these rumors and these lies that they would just stop.”

And what about the engagement ring rumors? Here’s what she said:

“I absolutely never went to Bravo and asked for a ring or an engagement … I challenge anyone to go ask Bravo that and see what they think about that, because I know for a fact that that never transpired. For goodness’ sakes, I didn’t even know that Slade was considering asking me to marry him. I found out when the rest of the world found out, when he asked his mom!”

“That was a little bit of a hard knock for me to see that come out in the press,” she added. “It was very disappointing, because obviously people are trying to spread rumors, and lies and try to start things, I believe, between Tamra and I, because it makes [for] good TV. I mean, if there’s people fighting, or brawling or people vying over an engagement story – I get it. I get that it makes [for] good TV. But it’s not our reality. I really wish that people would stop making stuff up like that.”

The Real Housewives of Orange County airs Tuesday nights on Bravo. Check back Tuesday for our full interview with Gretchen, in which she talks about working with the Pussycat Dolls, her relationship with Slade and whether or not she plans to release more music!

Fashionistas can’t seem to get enough of this season’s hottest swimsuit trend!

Celebrities are a vision in white as they beat the heat and flaunt their figures in itty-bitty white bikinis. Whether they’re frolicking around on the beach or laying pool-side with friends, white suits are trending this summer. 

Just weeks before splitting with her ex-fiancé Jay Cutler, Kristin Cavallari kept the trend alive as she and the NFL quarterback spent the day in Miami soaking up the sun while flaunting her tiny figure in a skimpy bikini.

Other fashion icons, such as Whitney Port and Elisabetta Canalis, have been added to the list of celebs that have made white suits look amazing this summer. Click the pics to see the other fashionistas who are having some fun in the sun while wearing this summer’s hottest trend.

Make sure to follow Celebuzz on Facebook and Twitter to catch more fashion tips, quips and pics!