Simply Style

This look is not only cutesy, ultra stylish and casual, it’s also attention-grabbing, believe it or not. Yes, it stems from mainly a neutral palette; however, that great tailored top has a cute print to it and it goes well with the dark wash jeans, gray infinity scarf, and adorable black and white tote. The chic bun that she twisted her hair into and the rather unexpected camel plaid print ankle shoes give the look some unique character. It’s very effortless, comfortable, and although it’s so simple, it shows that the person wearing the outfit knew exactly what they were doing when they got dressed that morning. Makes me eager to take my pup for a stroll this upcoming Sunday afternoon! I absolutely love this photograph and I hope you do, too.

Get Nostalgic For Spring

Get your Italian fashion fix with Prada’s Spring 2012 campaign. Retro-inspired, this line plays around with prints that look like they’re from an era in time long ago. The shapes and silhouettes of the dresses, skirts, and little one-piece suit are from a memory in time in which many of us probably never experienced first-hand, but the power of trend recycling and bringing back styles that once dominated a decade are enough for many of us to be able to feel the power of fashion and how it transforms as society and culture does. Citrus and blush tones rule the major garments and accessories that Prada has put out for spring. I love the fact that scarves are still present even when transitioning into spring, expect with this season, they’re lighter and being utilized in different ways, such as being used as a head scarf or being tied around the neck instead of draped over the shoulders or hanging loosely. That lemon tote is also great for spring (and even summer) and one that will be sure to catch the attention of those passing by. The idea of having these very fashion forward ladies adorned in their vintage frocks sitting on classic cars at a gas station is totally chic.

Need A Chanel Fix? Try A Vending Machine

Yes, this may sound strange to you, considering we usually associate vending machines with stuffed critters, junky plastic toys, and sub-par candy, but believe it or not, there is an authentic, tangible, real-life vending machine located in Vegas where you can try to finagle the crane in just the right way and win yourself some fabulous Chanel goodies. I know, it sounds way too good to be true, but the truth is in the photograph. Thank you Rachel Zoe for posting this on your Facebook page! So cool. A trend like this with both major designers and other fashion brands could be a monumental hit. Now all we need are Marc Jacobs vending machines and we’re ready to go…

Rachel Zoe Taking Her Chances On Chanel Vending Machine In Las Vegas

We All Covet The Quilt

Classic Black Chanel 2.55 Purse

Who doesn’t love the iconic 2.55 Chanel bag? Face it, we all do. And I will be the first person to admit that I am not a fan of everyday small purses. A clutch or small bag for a special occasion or night out is completely necessary and understandable, but for day-to-day, I just don’t find them to be realistic. However, the 2.55 Chanel bag is the exception to all rules. I don’t care how scarce in size it may be; it is such a classic bag that it resonates as a “Chanel” bag even when you see one that looks similar but really isn’t a genuine Chanel design. Unfortunately though, we can’t all afford a Chanel purse without breaking the bank. Knock-off designs are always going to be your best bet. Sure, they’re not half as fun as the original, but they still suffice to a certain degree. A quilted design with a shoulder chain and a little metal emblem in the front is such a hassle-free and bulk-free way to transfer the few necessities when going out for a few hours or strolling the streets of the city to engage in some window shopping and product sampling. The elegance of the look of one of these purses is INSANE. So where can you buy this style, void (sadly) of the Chanel label? Asos.com has a good selection as well as Etsy.com and even Modcloth.

Try to find one in a classic black, taupe, plum, or ruby.

Authentic Classic Chanel 2.55

Knock-Off Chanel Design Quilted Purse from Asos.com

 

Golden Globes: Best & Worst

Normally, after a major award show, I would go through an array of looks and dresses and critique them all, but for this round, since I didn’t personally catch the entire show, I’m going to tell you whose look I drooled over and whose I could have absolutely done without. From what I did see, though, I observed that nude, blush, and maybe even some plum were the dominant colors of the night. The nude and blush tones are beautiful, but they’re the ones that you have to be very careful with because if you wear a nude color that is similar to your own skin tone, then it’s nothing but a wash out because there’s no contrast and the color falls flat. However, when done right, it’s elegant, beautiful, and looks so feminine and fresh on whoever is wearing it. With that being said, I absolutely adored Charlize Theron in her Dior Couture number. She is so dedicated to the designer and for good reason. The high slit up the front, the plunging neckline, the embellishments on the dress, the airiness of it, the beautiful train, and the overall uniqueness of the design was jaw-dropping and one that I fell in love with. Her hair was simply swept to the side and she looked so striking.

Best Dressed - Charlize Theron in Dior

On the other hand, I hate to say it, but something about the dress that Madonna sported made me cringe. I felt as though

Worst Dressed - Madonna in Reem Acra

the color is beautiful but one that was all wrong for this occasion. Also, the layers of squared satin material leading up to the bodice, which was glittery, and the sheen capped sleeves were just all wrong. She had too much jewelry on with such a sparkling gown and the exposure at the neckline for someone her age just didn’t look right. I didn’t like her hair and the whole look honestly appeared uncomfortable on her. Overall, this didn’t hit the mark. I think an Old Hollywood glam hairstyle with a black gown that was more sophisticated would have been appropriate for her. Thoughts?

A Chic Winter Look

This look was one among several posted by Bloomingdale’s and one that I thought was very captivating and perfect for this frigid weather that some of us are experiencing! The hooded mink fur vest is beautiful and different than the traditional look of a fur vest that we’re used to seeing because for one, it’s been dyed a navy hue. Secondly, it has a tiered effect to it, which makes it interesting. Wearing a pop of bright color livens up the look as well, like with this jade three-quarter sleeve blouse that the model sports with her mink number. A cozy, warm winter look with the foreshadowing of spring colors. I love it! Kudos for this feature, Bloomingdale’s 🙂

 

Lookin’ Like Leather

If it’s warm in your neck of the woods, then here’s a good Friday or Saturday night get-up for you to mimic. I love this cute little leather outfit. You can buy the fanciest of fancy leather shorts from Saks or very affordable faux leather shorts from Forever 21. The choice is yours, but either one is going to be the essential item in achieving this look. It looks like her shorts are a natural to high length on her waist and tucked in to those is a flirty black top with little squares scattered all over (a good alternative to a polka dot). The shoe choice is great but even leather flats, black rounded-toe pumps, or a lower strappy heel would be just as suitable. However, the gold ankle straps on those are killer. The bag works perfectly and the mix of pearls, gold bangles, a gold watch, and a gold chain link bracelet is very glamorous and sets off the black and leather. The sunglasses as a finishing touch and that red lipstick make her appear like a little fashion vixen. Rock this look at some point this weekend; all eyes will divert toward you.

Can You Handle The Night Walk?

Before your mind succumbs to the gutter, know this: “Night Walk” shoes are the innovative, wild, and brilliantly shaped heels that you’ve certainly seen before. If this isn’t ringing any bells, then think in terms of the “heels without a heel”. It sounds impossible, but Jeffrey Campbell has proven that it’s not. The genius design and construction of this shoe is one that is functional but still not necessarily the kind of shoes that are a walk in the park, so to speak. These edgy heels with a sweet Maryjane strap and some serious platform and curve catch your attention and maintain it. Over six inches high, these shoes are for serious fashionistas only. If you’re not graceful in your average three inch heels, then this may be a fashion statement you may not want to attempt. All others, wear them to your heart’s content.

Find these Jeffrey Campbell styles at http://www.solestruck.com

Gradient, Chevron, Houndstooth, Paisley and Other Fun Patterns Make Their Mark..

Let’s face it: shoes make an outfit complete. As stylist Brad Goreski mentioned in one of his episodes of his new show, It’s A Brad, Brad World, shoes make the outfit. You can have a simple shirt on with jeans and the most outrageous and fabulous shoes, and the outfit instantly has new life to it. Heels of crazy structures, colors, textures, etc. take the mundane and take them to the next level. However, your shoes don’t necessarily have to look like an Alexander McQueen design or be wild and innovative like Jeffrey Campbell in order to be different. If you want a change, try a new pattern for size. Houndstooth on a shoe or Chevron speak for themselves and the shoe doesn’t have to have boatloads of decadence, tons of glitter, or a fin on the back (a little extreme, but hey) in order to make a statement and completely transform an outfit. Pattern trends that may become a big hit come the new season include the following:

Gradient

Prada Gradient Flat

Houndstooth

Houndstooth T-Strap Flats

Chevron

Chevron Print Peep-Toe Heel

Cut-out (Gradient)

Gradient Cut-Out Heel

Paisley

Paisley Print Aldo Ankle-Strap Heel

Designer Spotlight: Tory Burch

While poking around Bloomingdale’s earlier today and making a mental wish list of all the fabulous RTW pieces that I want to be hanging in my very own closet, I couldn’t help but linger around the Tory Burch section due in part to its bright, attractive colors and fresh ensembles that were prominently on display. Moreover, I fell in love about three different times with her cardigans and tweed jackets. In particular, I love this little French jacket. It has the appeal of a jacket but the lightness and fit of a cardigan. I especially appreciate the detail of the outline of the jacket, the buttons, and the flap pockets. It’s dressy and chic and screams Tory Burch. J’adore.

Tory Burch Eduarda Jacket; $375