Plaid is the pattern for spring. You’ve been seeing it a lot throughout fall and winter but this trend has legs and shows no sign of shopping. If you’re not into colored plaid and want to indulge in the trend but keep it classic, may I suggest these two pieces?
Vera Wang’s unexpected twist on plaid is a perfect way to transition from winter to spring. The neutral palette makes this dress versatile since you can pair it with boots and tights now and keep the colors muted and then you can wear metallic flats and add a bright bag to usher the look into spring. Oh, and did I mention this is from her Simply Vera collection at Kohl’s and it’s currently on sale?
I also like this black and white shirt dress from delia*s. It’s a classic plaid print, with a classic color combo that can be styled any way you want it. Throw on a bright belt or long bright necklace to punch it up a notch. I also like the way they styled their model wearing the dress with a tan leather belt and cowboy boots. Seeing plaid in these classic, neutral tones somehow makes the plaid trend seem fresh to me and also extremely stylish. I think the hallmark of a good dresser is being able to take a trend and make it look like a classic wardrobe staple.
I’ve been on the hunt for a little brown leather jacket for the past few months. The problem is I have in mind exactly what I want which is a blessing and a curse. Blessing because once I find it, I will promptly snatch it up. Curse because it is apparently impossible to find. I haven’t given up yet but I am getting a little distracted. After seeing this picture of Beyonce in a shrunken black leather jacket and seeing Jessica Simpson looking positively chic arriving in Manhattan yesterday, I’m thinking I need to add a little black leather jacket to my wardrobe arsenal. It would add just the right amount of edge to my usually sweet disposition - not unlike the effect it has on Beyonce and Jess.
I plan on going for the real thing with my brown leather jacket since it is sure to be a staple for years to come. But since my black one will be more of a now and then to add some spice, I’ll save my splurge. I’m digging this one from Urban Outfitters - especially since it’s on sale!
Gwyneth Paltrow shows us the power of a bag. Especially a bright one. I love the laid back, dark grey hues of her outfit but I really love the bright fuschia color of her purse. Seriously the perfect way to perk up any outfit without making your look saccharine. I need a bright bag, stat.
Going matte is a popular choice this spring: Gone are the days of the dewy complexion and the glossy lip (well, okay, maybe they’re not gone, but you definitely have choices!). One area, however, has remained staunchly shiny: Nails. Until now. Fledgling company KO Knock Out Cosmetics is bringing something new to the table with their trio of matte nail colors. Available in white (Powder), pink (Calamine) and a ‘flatte’ black, KO’s polishes instantly give a tough punk edge to fingertips, as demonstrated here by rocker Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. This just goes to prove that the black nails trend has legs: Every time you think it’s on its way out, there’s some new variation that keeps it exciting (first it was glittery black polish a la Dior’s Black Sequins, now this). Personally, I’m looking forward to matte red and purple polishes as well. I have a feeling matte nails are going to catch on in a big way for spring. What do you think of this dramatic look?
Lourdes Leon (Madonna’s daughter) is developing into quite the fashionista. I love the menswear inspired look she is sporting here and how she looks youthful yet sophisticated all at once. I am digging the way she has layered several different elements - scarf, vest, tie, tee, jacket - to create her style. And check out her silver sneaks. Those would make any weekend outfit more fun. Her straw hat reminds me that spring is near and also that mixing seasonal pieces can instantly make an outfit more interesting and your wardrobe more expansive.
As we have all heard, jumpsuits are the rage this season. I found this one from Wink in the spring collection, and I have to say it is my favorite jumpsuit so far. With a price tag of $396.00, it may not be the cheapest suit, but it definitely has the best design I have seen. I love the spaghetti straps on the back and the loose flowing legs. This jumpsuit could easily go from day to night with just a few accessory changes. Wink just released their full Spring line last week, and there are a number of must haves on the list.
I love watching the Grammy’s just to see what everyone is wearing and this year was certainly not a disappointment. As the stars arrived, it seemed most of them looked positively beautiful as usual.
So far, Lisa Rinna’s gown has to be one of my all time favorites! It’s is absolutely stunning on Lisa’s perfect body and designer Zuhair Murad certainly has a hit. During an interview January, she had stated she was wearing one of Murad’s gowns, but wasn’t sure what she was wearing to the Academy Awards. I have no doubt she will choose well.
Kathy Griffen didn’t disappoint either, this beautiful navy blue gown (navy is very hot this year) looks incredible. She was very playful, as expected on the red carpet, and looked fabulous.
Many of the gowns this year were off the shoulder or one-shouldered. This was really no surprise, as this is one of the hottest trends of the year. Heather Schmid almost reminds me of mermaid in this gown. Love the color, but I didn’t care for the length.
Lauren Knudsen with Dweezil Zappa looked like a breath of spring in this beautiful bright yellow gown. Not everyone can pull of this color, but I think she managed it fabuously.
I will keep you updated as to designer, fabric and other information about these and other beautiful gowns from the 51st annual Grammy Awards. Just couldn’t wait to share these photos, but let me say, there are a few dresses that must hit the “Oh I wish she didn’t” list as well! Stay tuned for more!
Puffy dresses were a hit at tonight’s Grammy Awards. We have seen these on all the runways lately, and apparently so have the stars. I love this look that was worn by Phoebe Price. As you can see from the pictures, this puffy dress style was a hit. I love this pink dress worn by Phoebe and it is a great way to hid those not so friendly hips, (not that she has anything to worry about). This dress really makes a statement, whether it is on the red carpet or at the local club. However, my only question is “What the heck was she thinking with the head piece?” She looks like she might fly away any minute.
Hilary Duff caught my eye, not only because of her beautiful floral maxi dress and hip black leather bag, but mostly because of her hammered gold over-sized earrings. This is a big trend for spring and even Lucky has it on their “March Inspiration Board” in this month’s issue. They describe them as “ethnic-inspired oversize earrings” and they want to pair them with “a super minimal outfit.” They have a model pictured with an all black outfit, so that the earrings are front and center. I think Hilary shows us how these attention-grabbing earrings can be equally well paired with an attention-grabbing dress. If you want to try out the trend on the cheap before investing in a more expensive pair, head over to Forever 21.
They have this pair that will give you the look without being a big investment. The price? $3.80.
Behold Rihanna, the fashion chameleon. I love how she doesn’t feel pigeon-holed into her fashion choices and can go from rock-n-roll tough to preppy chic, from day to day. Yesterday she was at the Grove looking adorable in a simple button-down oxford shirt paired with a linen mini-skirt. She tossed on some pearls choker-style, several chunky bangles and some high-heeled nude sandals (not pictured) to elongate her legs. Giving us a preview of how to work it this spring (and yes, it was spring-like here in LA yesterday), I can’t wait to try out a look like this, putting my own spin on it.
In years past, light pastels of pink and yellow have been more appropriate for Spring and Summer fingernail choices. Not this year though. This year’s trends are bright, bold, and beautiful. Bright finger nail polishes are a must have this season. You don’t necessarily have to match your nails to your outfit either. Many fashion experts are suggesting that with a little embellishment, your nails can be a stand alone accessory. Check out the great collection offered by OPI. They have every shade you could need this year. You can go to their website and select your skin tone, then try on each color. It is a neat little tool to try it before you buy it.
As I mentioned once, before fringe is definitely in for the Spring and Summer fashion trends. For those of you who are not all that keen on clothing draped in fringe, check out these cool purses. You can be fashionable by simply carrying a fringed purse. In the past few weeks, many stores have started stocking these fashionable accessories. All the purses shown here are offered by Shop Bop. Whats even better than fashionable purses? All these purses can be shipped for free with the special sale going on now. The Jill Stuart, Giselle Clutch is a great deal at only $199.00, the current sale price marked down from $398.00. The Tusk Nairobi Handbag is even eco-friendly so you may have to pick a few of these great styles for your wardrobe.
While white has always dominated the wedding dress market, it may be the minority color this year. Many designers are going with a more colorful style for the Spring 2009 wedding dress collection. Don’t worry: if you have your heart set on white, there are still a number of beautiful gowns to choose from, but colorful dresses will be the talk of all fashion magazines. If you are not quite ready to take the plunge in a full color wedding gown, there are also a number of mixed color dresses to choose from. Consider the dress below by Monique Lhuillier. Many brides are opting for a white dress with a embelleshed flare.
Have you always secretly dreamed of being a princess? Well now is your chance to at least look like one. With dresses that would be the envy of Cinderella or Snow White, many designers are going for a fairy tale look this Spring. Now don’t get me wrong, these are not the dresses you wear out to eat at the local cafe or to the movies for a first date. However, if you have that special affair like a Valentine’s Day ball to attend, these dresses are completely appropriate. With designers like Valentino and Donna Karan designing these looks, you can’t go wrong.
How I could have missed this blog over the last year completely escapes me. Not only do I love all things fashion, I also love photography. I saw a headline on Yahoo today: Blog Turns Stay at Home Dad into Web Celebrity. As I clicked on it, I was redirected to an article on Forbes.com about Scott Schuman. After 15 years in the fashion industry (and work with very well known designers, such as Valentino), Schuman decided to become a stay at home dad. He told Forbes that he has always loved fashion, but felt there was so much more to it than what was sold in the high end stores. His blog has been up for a little over a year and features some amazing photographs of people on the streets of major cities all over the world.
These photographs are fabulous, as are some of the looks that everyday people put together. If you have some time, check out The Sartorialist. It is a wonderful collection that can inspire you to create your own look–your own fashion sense–out of more than a catalog or high end store.
Click on Mr. Schuman’s picture to read the article on Forbes.com.
While manicures are a must for most of us, our toes are usually neglected. Ladies, spring is right around the corner, and you know what that means. Flip flops, open toed sandals, and bare feet will be the style. It’s time to get your toes in shape and ready for the runway. While a beautiful coat of paint can make a world of difference, there are a number of other ways to spice up your feet.
Toe Rings can provide an excellent accent to any toe. They come in a variety of styles and shapes. Jewels are definitely in style this season and you might even consider a toe ring connected to an ankle bracelet.
Another Great option is getting a tattoo. They are very popular this season and you don’t even have to go permanent.Consider getting a henna tattoo. You can choose from a variety of styles and they wear of in just a few weeks. Beauty without the commitment: what could be better?
As you can see there are a number of ways to make your toes stand out this season. Have fun and show off those little piggies!
I know, I know, we’ve been grumbling about the 80s trends that are creeping back onto the scene, from scrunchies to fanny packs, but when I walked into Forever 21 the other day and saw a sea of neon, my ten-year-old self started doing cartwheels. I have a rich history with neon - I used to swath myself in a multitude of neon earrings, bracelets, shirts, skirts and socks. I have a picture from a trip to Disney where I am wearing a white t-shirt that has a neon green screen print of a kid wearing sunglasses, paired with a neon pink (or was it orange?) skirt over a pair of black biker shorts and I believe there was even a pair of neon sunglasses on my face. I have to find that picture. It was my quintessential look. I also had a collection of big plastic earrings in every shade of neon. I couldn’t get enough. I was so into neon that I even entered a contest for creating a new American Girl doll (I was probably a little too old to be doing so. Don’t judge) and her name was “Megan” (see? It wasn’t me because her name was spelled differently) and she was a tomboy and she had a wardrobe of neon clothes. I was very specific about what she wore. I drew a picture and everything. I can’t imagine why my design didn’t win.
So with that little bit of my fashion history, you can understand why I’m excited to see neon rear it’s bright head again. I might not combine all my neon in one outfit, as I did in my past, but I would definitely rock these neon pieces:
Of f the shoulder dresses seem to be a common theme for 2009 spring bridesmaid dresses. These dresses are being featured by a number of different designers. There are a variety of different styles. You can choose from the straight line top or go for a more scalloped look. While color is also very important this spring, it appears the cut of the dress is much more important. This style is very beautiful. If you are lucky enough to have bridesmaids who fit this style you should count your blessings. Unfortunately, not all women can pull this look off. However, there is a wonderful A frame style dress that can hide many flaws.
It is always a challenge to stay fashionable through the months when you are required to bundle up. Luckily, you can not only keep up with the fashion trends, but you can also go green with a few products. A few companies like Warmbat and many other talented designers are offering stylish, green options for the cold winter ahead. You can buy a coat that was previously a plastic soda bottle or boots developed with natural sheared sheep linings and a completely green manufacturing process. You will find it is very simple to look great and care for the environment when you purchase these great products.
This Parisian style coat is made of organic cotton with all the style and comfort you need for the new season.
This stylish bad boy boot, often worn by the Jonas Brothers, is made of environmentally friendly products such as grade "A" sheep skin lining!
When it comes to the upcoming 2009 swim suit season, more than just bathing suits are required. It is now imperative that you accessorize your swim outfit the same way you do any day to day style. Designers are now offering rings, necklaces, and even purses designed specifically for the pool side. I don’t know about the rest of you, but I doubt I will be putting this much effort into my pool attire this year. While the style seems very glamorous in all the magazines and pictures, I doubt my kids would be seen in public with me in this full glamour look. I also have to wonder how you can enjoy swimming when you are decked out in full garb. However, I think that if I had paparazzi following me around at the pool, I might change my mind.