Issac Mizrahi Taffeta Couture Bodice Dress
Only Issac Mizrahi could create such a beautiful couture-inspired dress for under $50. Got to love him!
P.S. Isn’t the purple color delicious?
$49.99 at Target.
3 comments April 10th, 2008
Archive for April, 2008
Men’s Trend Alert: Summer Plaids
Plaid became trendy again this past fall/winter, and it looks like it’s here to stay for one more season. Here are five of the best summer plaids for men:
Engineered Garments Plaid Woven Shirt | $144 at Bloomingdales (in store only)
Engineered Garments got their name from a pattern maker who claimed that the clothes were not designed but rather engineered due to the amount of detail put into each article of clothing. Translation: these clothes are fantastically constructed. This piece was adapted from last season’s long-sleeve version of the same shirt.
How to wear it? Plaids can be “intense,†so follow a simple layering tip and wear something monochromatic over it. By physically hiding part of the shirt under, say, a black or charcoal peacoat, the shirt serves as a colorful, bold accent, and it isn’t overwhelming.
A.P.C. offers a shirt and belt with the same plaid pattern on it. While I like them individually, I don’t like them worn together, even though the model does it. It looks too calculated when you have an outfit that has parts that match exactly. To complete the outfit, I would recommend wearing brown pants like these Mason’s chinos because it picks up the peach in the plaid shirt. The plaid shirt and the chinos combine for a great casual summer look. Note that A.P.C. runs a tad small, but this is a summer shirt, so the fit is more classic (read: looser). As a point of reference, I wear a 40†jacket and I buy a large in A.P.C.
Part of the allure of plaid is its boldness, right? Mike and Chris prove that you can do plaid in a subtle – but not too subtle – way. This piece features a large gingham pattern in faded grey and white. Style tip? This white/washed grey is a growing trend, especially featured as a horizontally striped pattern, for both men and women.
Gant has been pushing strong in its comeback and is really rising in the ranks. What I love about this tie is that the pattern and width makes it versatile enough to travel from the office to a night out in New York.
That’s right: the plaid trend has even hit shoes. These shoes, by You Must Create, or YMC, aren’t for everyone. But then again, plaid isn’t either.
Want more plaid inspiration? We’re loving these men’s and women’s plaid outfits from the Sartorialist.
5 comments April 9th, 2008
Cream Rose Bobby Pins
The perfect accessory for that perfect vintage (or vintage inspired) dress: lucite cream roses on silver plated bobby pins.
$8.50 at Pipinstuff’s Etsy Store.
April 9th, 2008
Q&A: How to Dress for a Special Occasion Pool Party
Q: I am attending an engagement pool party. Since I live in a sub-tropic climate, it already feels like summer. How do I combine an outfit for an engagement party with one for a pool party?
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: Dressing for an engagement party and dressing for a pool party sound like wildly different things, but you can combine pieces from each one in order to create an outfit that works for both. When creating your outfit, your first order of business is to dress for a special occasion. Even though it’s a pool party, you want to dress in a way that respects the special celebration. Then, taking into account the climate (sub-tropic) and venue (a pool), you’ll tailor your outfit for fun–and swimming.
The base of your outfit will be your swimsuit. Choose a suit worthy of a special occasion–one with special detailing, such as arched cutouts or metal fastenings. On top of your swimsuit, add a sarong that’s pretty enough to serve as a cocktail dress–and large enough to cover your swimsuit in a sophisticated fashion. When you’re not swimming, wear a pair of strappy sandals (but carry an extra pair of flip flops in your tote bag).
Should the party be a more formal affair, we recommend a brightly colored, breezy dress over your swimsuit, paired with a sparkly necklace for an extra dash of formality.
Last tip? Don’t forget a pair of oversized sunglasses (oh so dramatic) and a bottle of sunscreen!
Have a great tip about how to dress up for a special occasion pool party? Share it with us in the comments!
2 comments April 8th, 2008
Bedford Avenue Scarf
We’ve said it before, but there’s nothing quite like a scarf to punch up an outfit.
$15 at Fred Flare.
April 8th, 2008
You Said: Yes to Brightly Colored Trenchcoats!
We asked: Would you wear a Brightly Colored Trenchcoat?
You said: Yes to Brightly Colored Trenchcoats, with 89% of the vote.
Style tip? Whether it’s in a bright yellow, a spring green, or a vibrant pink, make your brightly colored trench the centerpiece of your outfit. For an easy weekend outfit, pair your brightly colored trench with a complementary colored top, dark wash jeans, and a pair of cute ballet flats.
Next question: The weather’s starting to warm up, and eveningwear has taken note. We’ve been noticing a growing trend: Shorts as Eveningwear. But what do you think? Is this trend daring…or just dumb? Tell us, would you wear Shorts as Eveningwear? Cast your vote on the sidebar!
Pictured: Cotton Short Trenchcoat | $148 at Banana Republic.
5 comments April 7th, 2008
Scoopneck Print Tank
We’re loving this breezy chic printed tank–the perfect top to take you from lounging around at home to weekend brunch with the girls.
$19.99 (sale) at Gap.
April 7th, 2008
Trend Alert: Cobalt Blue Dresses
At once refreshing and energizing, cobalt blue is one of our favorite colors. And we’re absolutely loving it on dresses this spring, especially when paired with a chic orange clutch. So go on, put a spring in your step with one of our favorite Cobalt Blue Dresses:
BR Monogram Scroll Print Dress | $150 at Banana Republic
A regal-looking print makes this minidress simply elegant.
Velvet Torch Double V-Neck Dress | $68 at Nordstrom
An empire waistline is flattering for women with a long torso.
Pleated Tie Waist Dress | $39.99 (sale) at Gap
Especially flattering for women with a small bust, thanks to the pleated top.
Vero Knit Dress | $19.80 at Forever 21
We’re digging the tie-neck front of this breezily blousy dress.
4 comments April 4th, 2008
Six Pack Coasters
When you need a coaster, all you need to do is pop it out of the six pack holder. Then stick it back in to the holder for storage when you’re done. Clever, huh?
$18 at Branch Home.
April 4th, 2008
Q&A: What to Wear on a European Honeymoon
Q: What should I wear and where can I find clothes for a summer, European Honeymoon?
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
Rule One: Pack lightly. You’ll be traveling from city to city, and the last thing you’re going to want is to be weighed down by a group of giant suitcases. As with any trip, you’re going to want a good set of foundation clothes—basics—to mix and match. But since it’s Europe, and since it’s your honeymoon, you’re going to want some extra special pieces to make your outfit as radiant as you are. Here’s seven items to get you started with your honeymoon packing:
The Cotton Blouse
Antique Print Emily Blouse | $74 at J Crew
Style tip? Europe is not as well air conditioned as America—so you will want to wear light clothing.
The Sophisticated Sweater
BR Monogram Cotton Sweater Jacket | $85 at Banana Republic
Cover up with a sweater with elegant details.
Antique Print Emily Blouse | $74 at J Crew
Style tip? Europe is not as well air conditioned as America—so you will want to wear light clothing.
The Sophisticated Sweater
BR Monogram Cotton Sweater Jacket | $85 at Banana Republic
Cover up with a sweater with elegant details.
The Casual Tee
Striped Boatneck Tee | $19.50 at Gap
This breezy tee pairs equally well with walking shorts—or a pretty skirt.
The Walking Shorts
Martin Striped Bermuda Short | $49 at Banana Republic
Knee length shorts are not only practical, but they also tend to be the most figure flattering.
The Classic Skirt
Dark Chambray Swing Skirt | $85 at J Crew
You can pair this basic skirt with a variety of different tops (extra points for bright colors).
The Day to Evening Dress
Island Eyelet Short Dress | $185 at J Crew
This eyelet dress goes from day to evening—while exuding fun and flirtiness at the same time.
The Scarf
Embroidered Wrap | $69 at Banana Republic
A brightly colored scarf can totally transform an outfit.
A few other things to have in your bag? A pair of comfortable sandals, a good sized handbag, an electrical current transformer for your hairdryer and other gadgets, and a beautiful perfume that makes you feel gorgeous. And don’t forget your lingerie and a sexy nightie. Bon voyage!
8 comments April 3rd, 2008