Posts filed under 'Women'

Trend Alert: Chambray Shirts

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When the world around us feels more uncertain, fashion tends to turn back towards the classics.  Wardrobe staples and fashion foundations suddenly feel fresh again.  And in this shaky economic climate, one of the most proletarian garments, the chambray shirt, is re-emerging as a fashion statement.  But how do you wear a chambray shirt?  Fitted chambray shirts look fresh paired with trousers and khakis.  We also love the look of oversized chambray shirts paired with leggings and boots.  Best thing about this look?  Come spring, belt your oversized chambray shirt, and you’ll have the world’s simplest shirtdress.  Here’s six chambray shirts worth a look:  

1. Levis Chambray Western Shirt | $118.98 at ASOS

2. Cecelia Chambray Shirt | $17.80 at Forever 21

3. Chambray Popover Shirt | $78 at J Crew

4. AE Chambray Western Shirt | $44.50 at American Eagle

5. Vintage Chambray Western Shirt | $79.50 at Martin + Osa

6. Bleached Denim Shirt | $60 at Topshop

How would you wear a chambray shirt?
  Share your style with us in the comments!

9 comments February 2nd, 2010

You Said: No to Leopard Prints

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blue-leopard-scarf_013110We asked: Would you wear Leopard Print?

You said:  A slight No to Leopard Print, with a super close 52% to 48% vote.

Style tip? There’s no question that Leopard Print attracts attention.  But it seems that you’re pretty split about whether that attention is a good or bad thing.  Certainly, Leopard Print isn’t for the faint of heart.  But worn right, it can be quite fetching.  If you’re feeling bold, try a leopard print jacket.  Paired with a slim bottom (pencil skirt, leggings, skinny pants), it makes for a figure flattering silhouette.  But if you’re looking to give the trend a try without going full force, try a leopard print scarf.  It pairs beautifully with basic black (very Parisian chic), and the yellowy orange provides a lovely counterpart to the everpresent denim colors this season.  But for something new while keeping it safe, try a colored leopard scarf.  We love the deep blue on Topshop’s version of the leopard scarf, which juxtaposes a hint of leopard spots against the detail of a gorgeous chain print.

Next question: Military inspired boots are back in full force.  But what do you think about the lace up details and tough girl look of these boots?  Tell us, would you wear Military Boots?  Cast your vote on the sidebar!

Pictured: Blue Leopard Scarf | $36 at Topshop

3 comments February 1st, 2010

What to Wear January 2010

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It’s a new year, and accordingly, it’s time for a fresh look at fashion.  In the spirit of all that is fresh and new, we’re welcoming 2010 by rebuilding our closets from the foundations on up.  But foundations can get dull without the sparkle and spice of seasonal fashion trends.  What do you need to add to your wardrobe this month?  Bright colors, ruffles, sequins and shine, florals, cutouts, and military influences.  Here’s what to wear for January 2010:

1. Silence & Noise Sequin Cardigan | $68 at Urban Outfitters

2. AE Cropped Denim Jacket | $49.50 at American Eagle

3. Soleil Paisley Silk Tunic | $88 at J Crew

4. Confidante Silk Romper | $34.80 at Forever 21

5. Fingerless Leather Gloves | $32 at Topshop

6. We Who See Fringe Boot | $78 at Urban Outfitters

7. Paint Print Cardigan | $24.80 at Forever 21

8. Dolce Vita Jordan Pant | $158 at Urban Outfitters

9. Floral Printed Full Skirt | $58 at Urban Outfitters

10. Max C London Slouchy Bow Bag | $47.59 at ASOS

11. Shirred Sleeve Boyfriend Blazer | $34.80 at Forever 21

12. Sweeping Ruffles Shirt | $98 at J Crew

13. Ecote Cutout Mineralized Tee | $32 at Urban Outfitters

11 comments January 26th, 2010

Parisian Style: A Study in Opposities – Blending Soft and Hard, Masculine and Feminine

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Strolling down the streets of Paris, I spotted a woman whose style perfectly embodied the playful relationship the French have with fashion and gender roles (recall Yves Saint Laurent’s le smoking - a tuxedo suit designed for women).  Mixing a tough moto jacket and buckled boots with a prim blouse and full skirt, she had outfitted herself in a blend of soft and hard, masculine and feminine that’s quintessentially French.  What made this outfit work?  The blend of textures and styles, her impeccable accessories, and her attitude.  

Zippered Snap Moto Jacket | $32.80 at Forever 21

Parisienne Sailor Blouse | $55 at Topshop

Rosette Dotted Skirt | $29 at Twelve by Twelve

Cobweb Snood | $32 at Topshop

Washed Leather Conical Stud Shoulder Bag | $135.98 at ASOS

ASIA Leather Lace Up Ankle Boot | $110.48 at ASOS

7 comments January 20th, 2010

Trend Alert: Brogues (aka Oxford Shoes)

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After all of the exotic heels of the last few seasons, we’re pleased to see the return of a classic shoe, the brogue.  Also known as oxfords, brogues are a quintessential piece in mens’ shoe closets.  But brogues aren’t just for men.  Women are embracing this menswear classic, pairing them with anything from cuffed jeans to tights and dresses.  Regardless of what you wear your brogues with, the key to getting the look right is to counterbalance the masculine influence of brogues with a feminine silhouette or details.  Here’s our seven favorite pairs of brilliant brogues:

1. Etienne Aigner Ravine | $78.95 at Zappos

2. Steve by Steve Madden Melin Oxford | $98.95 at Nordstrom

3. Steve Madden Harah Oxford | $79.95 at Nordstrom

4. Steve Madden Tuxxedo Brogues | $69.90 at Zappos

5. Deena & Ozzy Wingtip Oxford | $58 at Urban Outfitters

6. Brodie Leather Ankle Boots | $325 at J Crew

7. Elsbeth Leather Oxfords | $225 at J Crew

How would you wear brogues?  Share your style with us in the comments!

18 comments January 13th, 2010

Winter 2009/2010 Lookbook: Triple Texture Play

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Pictured: Cropped Tie Waist Shirt | $44 at Topshop, Plait Leather Pencil Skirt | $160 at Topshop, Circle Ring Sequin Vest | $19.80 at Forever 21, Lace Snap Clutch | $15.80 at Forever 21, We Who See Fringe Boot | $78 at Urban Outfitters.

As befits the season, we’re wearing a lot of black these days.  But to keep black from being basic, we’re dressing it up with texture.  Mixing textures - shine with matte, rough with smooth - allows us to add visual interest to an outfit, while still maintaining a nearly monochromatic look.  FWIW, monochromatic dressing helps add visual height - great news for all of us who would like to add a few inches without towering heels.  Here’s how to combine three distinctive textures for a look that’s simply chic:

1. Start with a plain white button down and a textured pencil skirt.  Note the mix of smooth (shirt) and rough (braided leather on the skirt) with this foundation combination.
2.  Add a bit of shine to the look with a sequinned vest - a wonderful foil to the matte foundations of the outfit.
3. Finish off the look with black accessories, as befits the near monochromatic outfit.  The lace on the clutch handbag adds a new dimension of texture, while the fringe detail on the lace-up military-style boots adds the final cherry on top.

Unless you’re staying inside, you’ll want to finish off this outfit with a good warm coat.  You can try the big over small look with a hip-length puffer - or go classic with a wool (or wool-cashmere blend) topcoat.  Either way, keep the silhouette simple.

How would you mix and match textures?
  Share your style with us in the comments!

This look is part of Omiru’s Winter 2009 Lookbook series, which builds upon our 10-Piece Winter 2009 Wardrobe Expansion Pack.

2 comments January 8th, 2010

Trend Alert: Parisian Cool Girl Chic

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There’s just something about French women - they’re put together, sexy, and completely cool.  Their brand of effortless style - that je ne sais quoi - is a mix of sharp silhouettes, subtle detailing, and killer accessories.  But how do you get Parisian cool girl chic right?  The key is to pair quality pieces with interesting details.  Nothing that screams "look at me," but pieces that grow more fascinating on closer inspection.  Case in point? These leather booties, which feature an eye-catching set of hardware.  Or this double breasted mohair coat, highlighted with a deeply gorgeous ombre coloring.

1. Lock Leather and Suede Purse | $42.49 at ASOS

2. Kelsey Ruffle Top | $69.50 (sale) at J Crew

3. Chain Trim Boucle Blazer | $34.80 at Forever 21

4. Military Button Front Skirt | $19.80 at Forever 21

5. Ombre Horizon Coat | $595 at J Crew

6. Jeffrey Campbell Class Bootie | $168 at Urban Outfitters

7. Leather Tassle Frame Bag | $110.48 at ASOS

8.  Tie Side Harem Trouser | $65 at Topshop

9. Knitted Stripe Lace Jumper | $70 at Topshop

How would you wear Parisian cool girl chic?
  Share your style with us in the comments!

-Trisha Okubo

9 comments January 7th, 2010

You Said: Yes to Polka Dots

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spot-double-breasted-playsuit_010210We asked: Would you wear Polka Dots?

You said:  Yes to Polka Dots, with a 81% to 19% vote.

Style tip? Polka dots are feeling feminine and fresh this season, from the classic blue and white mini dot pattern to bolder, bigger, and brighter patterns.  An easy way to bring these dots into your wardrobe is to add an accessory - an umbrella, handbag, or scarf.  (Or keep your love of polka dots private with dotted undergarments.)  But if you’re up for a style challenge, why not try two different types of polka dots in the same outfit?  If you combine big dots on one piece with small dots on the other, the pair will harmonize without feeling too matchy-matchy.

Next question: Leopard print jackets, scarves, and tops have stalked their way from the runway to the stores.  But what do you think?  Tell us, would you wear leopard print?  Cast your vote on the sidebar!

Pictured: Spot Double Breasted Playsuit | $90 at Topshop

5 comments January 5th, 2010

Winter 2009 Lookbook: How to Look Slick in the Rain

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Pictured: Classic Stripe Tissue Tee | $32.50 at J Crew, Straight Jean | $29.50 at American Eagle, Knitted Cowl Neck Top | $70 at Topshop, Mallory Twill Bomber | $63.50 at Delias, Clear Bubble Stick Umbrella | $16.99 at Target, Jeffrey Campbell Over the Knee Rainboots | $98 at Urban Outfitters.

Just because it’s raining out doesn’t mean that your need to water down your sense of style.  Simply adjust to the weather by layering and finishing off the look with a sleek umbrella and pair of rainboots.  Layers of clothing will keep you cozy, and the rain gear will keep you dry.  Here’s how to look slick, even when it’s raining out:

1. Start off your look with a simple foundation: a horizontal striped tee and a pair of straight leg jeans.
2.  Layer a cozy cowl neck sweater on top of the horizontal striped tee, letting the sleeved tee peek out from under the sweater.
3. In warmer climates, all you need is a light jacket to finish off this outfit.  In cooler climates, try a warmer coat in a fabric like wool or cashmere.  Or alternatively, with either climate, try a trench-style raincoat. 
4. Complete the look with your rain gear: a pair of over the knee rainboots (a silhouette that’s very in right now) and a clear bubble umbrella.

What would you wear to look slick in the rain?
  Share your style with us in the comments!

This look is part of Omiru’s Winter 2009 Lookbook series, which builds upon our 10-Piece Winter 2009 Wardrobe Expansion Pack.

7 comments December 22nd, 2009

You Said: No to Harem Pants

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foldover-harem-pant_122009We asked: Would you wear Harem Pants?

You said:  An overwhelming No to Harem Pants, with a 90% to 10% vote.

Style tip? Harem Pants - you either love them, or you hate them.  Hardly do we see a fashion trend that’s so polarizing, perhaps because it’s almost anti-fashion.  You don’t wear harem pants for figure flattery, or because they’re pretty.  You wear them to make a fashion statement.  If you dare to make that style statement, we recommend pairing your voluminous harem pants with something more streamlined (or at least drapey, to reduce the volume) up top.

Next question: Polka Dots provide visual texture in the form of a pretty pattern.  But they can be too cute, especially when done too large or too small.  But what do you think?  Tell us, would you wear polka dots?  Cast your vote on the sidebar!

Pictured: Foldover Harem Pant | $17.80 at Forever 21

3 comments December 20th, 2009

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