Double Take: DVF Dress

Diane Von Furstenberg’s spring and summer collection was one of my favorites at NYFW.  The vibrant colors, eclectic prints, and feminine draping in this collection are alluring and flatter just about every woman.  I love the light and subtle abstract print of this dress in particular, which lends itself to be just as easily dressed up as dressed down. 

Clockwise from top:  J. Crew tote, Cheap Monday sunglasses, Juicy Couture hat, Modesta flats, DVF dress, Chloe clutch, Elie Saab heels, Zad necklace

Wrapped With A Bow

Nothing is more feminine and romantic than a beautiful delicate bow.  The plus: it's a trend that never goes out of style.

1.  Mod Cloth dress, $49.99

2.  Marc Jacob sunglasses, $259

3.  Zara belt, $26

4.  Jane Norman shorts, $52

5.  Coach Poppy perfume, $60

6.  Asos hair band, $18.47

7.  Topshop bra, $32

8.  DV by Dolce Vita pumps, $89



Fringe Fest



Photo Compliments of Asos.com

I’d be lying if I told you I’m a huge fringe fan.  The style too often teeters between 20s flapper and 70s boho.  Both looks I appreciate, but they’ve had their time.  So I was completely blown away when I stumbled upon a fringe shift dress from Asos that I absolutely worship.  Behold!  Simple shape, romantic lace, and flirty fringe all in one, yet still somehow understated.  Paired with this structured color block bag and these pumps, you’ll be all set for a summer party!

Fascinators

Photo Compliments of dailymail.co.uk

Aside from the gorgeous princess bride, the biggest showstopper at the Royal Wedding was, without a doubt, fascinators.  These ostentatious hats could not be more properly named as I think all 2 billion viewers were absolutely enthralled and fascinated by the variety of exquisite toppers donned by guests.  Whether feathers or flowers, lace or beads, we saw it all, the good and the bad (see above).  Will it soon become a trend in American weddings?  Only time will tell but I’m betting on it.  And I can’t lie, I’m kind of excited.

Photo Compliments of dailymail.co.uk

Photo Compliments of dailymail.co.uk

Photo Compliments of dailymail.co.uk

A Royal Dream In McQueen

Absolutely breathtaking.  Kate Middleton looked stunning in her dress fit for a fairytale wedding.  The dress, designed by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen, with its lace, deep v, and long sleeves, will inevitably shape the future of wedding fashion.  Look for more royal wedding trend recaps to come!     

*All Photos Compliments of dailymail.co.uk 

Waterproof

Photo Compliments of pinterest.com

Spring brings to mind beautiful tulips, barbecues with friends, and positive energy that were all missing over the winter.  However, spring weather is never a sure thing and unfortunately we don’t always get the best of it.  The past week has been touched by so many rainstorms that my excitement for spring began to wane.  Luckily last weekend’s forecast of more storms was entirely inaccurate and I got to enjoy many study breaks outside in the sunny warm weather.  In an effort to prepare myself for the rainy days that are still ahead, I styled a completely waterproof outfit with fun pops of color for a nice spring feel.  Stay dry!

1.       Bubble Umbrella, $23.10

2.      Michael Michael Kors Hooded Trench, $110

3.      Hunter Rain Boots, $125

4.      Furla Candy Bag, $195

Outfit Inspiration: Peacock Chic

Photo Compliments of seekingthemuse.com

One of the most beautiful animals on Earth has to be the peacock.  Their vibrant blues, electric teals, and earthy greens and browns combine to form the most gorgeous color scheme that nature could create.  With nude hues taking over this season, accessorizing with a pop of these peacock-inspired colors will add instant glam to any outfit.  My peacock feather earrings (similar to these) are my go-to accessory when I need to add color to a simple black or taupe dress.  The above eye-popping photos inspired me to style an outfit that showcases the variety of stunning rich colors in peacock feathers without being too literal.  Hope you like!

1.       Asos, $69.93

2.      Max & Chloe, $163

3.      Forever 21, $5.80

4.      Lodis, $158

5.      House of Harlow, $36

6.      Forever 21, $22.80



Suit Up

Photo Compliments of Anthropologie's Summer Ad

D.C. weather is nothing to brag about, but with highs in the 80s, a cool breeze, and sunny skies, today was perfection.  The weather served as a friendly reminder that summer is just around the corner.  And with a new season comes some closet alterations.  At the top of this week’s agenda is switching out my heavy sweaters for light, flirty, and colorful warm-weather clothes.  I can’t wait to pull out my swimsuits in preparation for days by the pool and a few vacations to the beach.  Even though I prefer two piece suits for optimal tanning, this season’s fresh new takes on one piece suits has me absolutely smitten.  In fact, this J.Crew one piece practically had to be pried out of my hands in the interest of saving money.  Here are just some of the suits I’m dying to add to my swimsuit collection this summer.  

1.       Diane Von Furstenberg, $220

2.      Anthropologie, $178

3.      J. Crew, $115

4.      Anthropologie, $146

5.      Victoria’s Secret, $66

6.      Anthropologie, $236

On Board With Spring

Photo Compliments of Elle Magazine and whowhatwear.com/blog

Sailors, sailboats, anchors…call me cliché but I’ve always been into the nautical theme.  When I dressed up as a sailor for Halloween last year I went around spouting phrases like “ahoy matey” and saluted people, thinking that I was ever so clever.  It must be a combination of my love for the ocean and relaxed prep that draw me to this classic Summer style.  So how can you wear this look without looking like Gilligan?

To get your seafaring swag started, find a relaxed-fit striped shirt.  For this style you don’t want anything too clingy.  H&M, as well as just about every retailer right now, has a great selection of striped tops.  For classic stripes try this number; for a unique look try these contrasting stripes. 

For bottoms try cropped jeans, cropped trousers, or a flouncy skirt.  I like this version of boyfriend jeans because they’re slightly fitted and not too baggy like some.  Cropped trousers are another great option especially for their color versatility.  From rusty shades to pastels, all the colors of the rainbow are covered.  Or tuck your striped shirt into one of these adorable flouncy skirts.

Have fun with the shoes whether you wear flats or wedges.  I love this colorful pair of skimmers and this metallic pair, both from Piperlime.  Sperrys are quintessential for the preppy look we’re going for.   And these wedges will not only be perfect for the nautical look, they’ll become a staple for you this season.

Lastly, top it all off with fun accessories.  I wish I looked better in hats because they’re the perfect addition to this look.  Anthropologie has unique fedoras and Forever 21 has tons of great wide brim hats.  Other accessories that play up this look include this necklace, bracelet, and clutch.

There are so many ways to personalize this look; just remember it’s all about looking casual yet pristine.  To get more inspiration check out this Elle photo shoot.

Funktional

Photo Compliments of Revolveclothing.com

I recently discovered Funktional, a relatively new L.A.-based brand that combines practical, easy-to-wear clothes with a city girl edge.  I’ve been coveting the outfit above, styled by Revolve Clothing, for its clean silhouette mixed with its slightly funky aesthetic.  Although the dress is sold out (sad face), there’s much more to look forward to from this brand.  I was completely enthralled with the sneak peak of Funktional’s Spring 2011 collection (as seen below) which shows off the brand’s expertise in mixing flowy with fitted and feminine with masculine.  Keep an eye out because this is definitely a brand to watch.

Photo Compliments of blog.blackmarketla.com

Award Winning Fashion

Now that award show season is officially over, it’s time to take a look back at the trends that wowed on the red carpet and bring those trends home to your closet.  Even though I was entirely underwhelmed by the dresses at the Oscars (just another reason, in addition to these, that the Golden Globes are better), overall this has been my favorite awards season in terms of fashion by far.  The number of best dressed stars way outnumbered the number of worst dressed, and all the major trends from the red carpet are easily incorporated into your wardrobe.  From gem hues to simple silhouettes, you’ll be looking award show ready whether you’re going to a black tie event or brunch with the girls.

Mila Kunis in Vera Wang at the Golden Globes

Trends: Gem hues, Skin tight fits, Shoulder accents

Affordable Lookalike: Asos $71.72

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Amber Riley in Anne Barge at the SAGs

Trends: Mermaid gowns, Feather accents

Affordable Lookalike: Unique Vintage $196

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Emma Stone in Calvin Klein Collection at the Golden Globes

Trends: Citrus shades, Minimalist structures

Affordable Lookalike: Asos $44.83

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Gwyneth Paltrow in Calvin Klein Collection at the Oscars

Trends: Shimmery metallics

Affordable Lookalike: Asos $53.79

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Mila Kunis in Alexander McQueen at the SAGs

Trends: Floral prints, Rosey red shades, Sweetheart neckline

Affordable Lookalike: eDressMe $258

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Spring Fever

With today’s highs in the low 70s, I’m itching for spring more than ever.  Though this heat wave will leave us in a couple of days, I’m in spring mode and it’s here to stay.  And with each new season comes a new wardrobe.  This is the perfect time to begin scoping out the new delightful spring trends that are showcased everywhere, from shops to the streets.  I’ve already got a head start and picked up items similar to 3, 4, and 8, but here is my entire top 10 wish list for this year’s lovely spring trends. 

What trends are you most looking forward to this spring?

1. Bandeau Top, Anthropologie $38

2. Scalloped Edges, Topshop $70

3. Brightly Colored Trench, LC Lauren Conrad $57.99

4. Fushia Lips, Dior $30

5. Striped Nautical Shirt, Joie $338

6. Pleats, Topshop $56

7. Cat Eyes, Forever 21 $5.80

8. Cropped Trousers, Sanctuary $98

9. Nude Wedges, Franco Sarto $79

10. Tribal Jewelry, Ann Taylor $58

Raise A Brow

Adriana Lima - Spanish Vogue

The times are changing in the fashion world for eyebrows once again.  From thinly plucked in the early 2000s to bushy and untamed in the later half of the decade, the Spring 2011 runways showcased entirely new trends in eyebrow grooming.  On one extreme we have colored eyebrows and on the other bleached, even shaved(!), eyebrows.  Call it eyebrow envy, but I always notice a great pair of eyebrows when I see it.  Never a fan of my blonde brows, practically unnoticeable without horrid eyebrow pencil, I much prefer full, dark and defined eyebrows a la Adriana Lima.  Sadly, colored, bleached, and shaved seems to be the emerging trend.  Hopefully this is one trend that stays on the runways and doesn’t seep its way into mainstream.  What's your take on the old versus new trends?

Lily Donaldson - Harper's Bazaar

Crystal Renn - Harper's Bazaar



These Boots Were Made For Walking

Frye Dorado Riding boots

If you know me at all, you probably know that I pretty much loathe everything about winter besides the holidays and the occasional day off from school and work due to that whole 2 inches of snow.  But there is one more thing about winter that spring and summer just can't beat, and that would be boots - especially Frye boots.  If you haven’t heard of Frye boots, well then let me tell you that they are the most beautifully crafted and impossibly comfortable boots.  The styles range from slightly equestrian to slightly cowboy, without looking like you just came from the ranch.  And not to bore you with the company’s history, but I should mention that this brand started as a family business way back in 1863 and Fryes were even worn by our soldiers in WWII.  Pretty amazing if you ask me.  But don’t let Frye’s military history make you question their sleekness.  Frye counts the most fashionable young celebrities, from Anne Hathaway to Miranda Kerr, as some of their most devoted customers.  The boots that I covet the most, the Frye Dorado Riding boots seen above, are currently out of my price range at $498, so unfortunately I’m left admiring from afar…for now at least. 

Frye Billy Short boots

Frye Melissa Button boots



Shades of Citrus

Photos Compliments of dailymail.co.uk and fabsugar.com

Orange!  It's this season's biggest color.  A more powerful shade of citrus than the coral of springs past, this is one of the hardest colors to wear and can leave you looking like a pumpkin if you're not careful.  But as Drew and Zoe know, pulling off this look is possible for everyone.  It just requires finding the right shade for your skintone and balancing the orange with more natural and muted tones.  Spice up an outfit with a bright orange clutch or if you're feeling brave, try this look from top to bottom.  Whatever you do, just make sure you buy something in orange this season.  Here are some ideas to get you started.

1.  Forever 21 ring, $5.80

2.  Diane Von Furstenberg dress, $162.50

3.  Victoria’s Secret shorts, $19.50

4.  Vince Camuto shoes, $79.00

5.  Marc by Marc Jacobs bag, $395.00

6.  Essie nail polish - Vermillionaire, $8.00

7.  Banana Republic blouse, $69.50

8.  Maybelline lipstick - Coral Crush, $5.49

Winter On Sale

Now that the new year is here, retailers are phasing out their winter gear and transitioning in their spring collections.  However, most of us are guaranteed at least another two and a half months of frigid temps.  The good news?  Well besides getting a preview of the trends for the warmer weather to come, stores are having amazing sales to get rid of all their winter clothing and accessories.  Whether you’ve been holding out for a new winter coat or want to add another pair of boots to your shoe collection, you’re bound to find an amazing deal if you just look in the right places.  Like each of the items below, which are all on sale for $50 or less!

1.      Aeropostle Coat – Reg $99.50, Sale $19.99

2.      Ralph Lauren Gloves – Reg $39.50, Sale $24.99 + additional 25% off

3.      Madewell Scarf – Reg $49.50, Sale $24.99

4.      Chelsea Crew Boots – Reg $69, Sale $39.99

5.      Unlisted by Kenneth Cole Wedge Booties – Reg $59, Sale $39.99

6.      Arden B Sweater Dress – Reg $59, Sale $29.50

7.      Vila Knit Cardigan – Reg $68.96, Sale $41.38

Show Off A Little Back

 

Photo Compliments of stylehop.com

I was hoping to attend an upcoming event - Barrister’s Ball (aka law school prom) - in the perfect open-back cocktail dress.  During my search for the perfect dress, it seemed that all the backless dresses in my price range were either tacky or trashy, or both.  But backless dresses, when done right, can be sexy and classy at the same time.  It simply takes the right amount of coverage in other places and a fabric print that’s not overly ornate – take for example Kate Hudson’s Emilio Pucci gown.  Since Pucci sadly is not within most of our budgets, here are some beautiful and refined back-revealing dresses that wont break the bank.

1.       Mod Cloth, $64.99

2.      Factory by Erik Hart, $120

3.      Herve Leger, $500

4.      Victoria’s Secret, $78

5.      3.1 Phillip Lim, $550

6.      Asos, $163.78