Q: I am going to Germany at the end of May and would like to know what I should wear. I’m sure I’ll do a lot of walking. I want to keep my personal style, but want to be comfortable without looking like a tourist.
Pictured: Berlin Street Fashion, courtesy of Still in Berlin.
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: The weather may still be cool (and perhaps rainy) in Germany at the end of May, so be prepared for daytime temperatures from the 50s up into the 70s. Layering will be your friend; you’ll be able to take off layers as each day warms up to regulate your temperature throughout the day.
Outerwear: Bring a tailored trench and a nice lightweight jacket to keep you warm (and dry).
Tops: An assortment of long and short sleeve knit tops will travel well. Choose styles that have a "twist" to them - German style appreciates the small details that make an outfit special. Also pack a couple of layering sweaters in different styles and weights.
Bottoms: Pack trouser pants, jeans and walking shorts that are at least knee-length. Note that jeans in Germany can be very expensive - I’ve seen Levi’s priced at over $100. To be safe, bring your own from home. You may also want to bring a skirt to round out your bottoms wardrobe.
Dresses: Pack a dress or two; you’ll need to dress up for any evenings of fine dining.
Accessories: Since it may rain, don’t forget an umbrella or rain slicker - and bring extra pairs of comfy walking shoes (preferably rainproof ones). A pair of sunglasses and a chic scarf will round out your accessories wardrobe.
Last thoughts? So as to fit in, you may want to pack more neutrals. In my experience, German style features more earth tones and black than does American style. But then again, you do see bright colors as well - so it’s not a hard and fast rule.
Have a great tip about what to wear in Germany? Share it with us in the comments!
Posted by Trisha on April 21st, 2009 in Q&A, Women, Women's |
We asked: Would you wear Patterned Shorts?
You said: Maybe to Patterned Shorts, with an even 50% to 50% vote.
Style tip? Shorts come in all kinds of wonderful patterns - from simple stripes and dots to beautiful florals. One of our all-time favorites are the patchwork styles of Madras shorts. These brightly colored shorts are the perfect warm-weather item. Pair them with solid colored tops; for a pulled together look, try wearing a top in a color pulled from the shorts. Works just as well for guys as it does for women.
Next question: Oversized handbags hold all of your stuff - but they can be a bit unwieldly to handle. But what do you think? Would you tote an Oversized Handbag? Cast your vote on the sidebar!
Pictured: Sunset Patchwork Madras Bermuda Short | $68 at J Crew.
Posted by Trisha on April 20th, 2009 in Trend, Trend Predictives, What's In and What's Out, Women |
One simple way to pull a work outfit together is to build upon a monochromatic foundation, and then play with color with your accessories. Here’s how to build an outfit around a single dominant color:
1. Start with a blouse and a unstructured skirt in different shades of the same color. Notice how the light blue shirt plays off the deeper royal blue skirt.
2. Layer on a sweatervest in a third shade of the same color. The navy blue sweatervest contrasts with both the light blue shirt and the royal blue skirt, but the trio works as a visual group.
3. Toss on a trenchcoat to protect yourself from cool mornings and evenings - and the rain.
4. Accessorize with complementary colors: a sage green pair of flirty heels and a bright orange handbag. We’re loving the contrasting colors against the monochromatic blue foundation.
How would you build an outfit around color? Share your style with us in the comments!
Posted by Trisha on April 17th, 2009 in Ready Made Outfits, Women |
For those lazy days when you’re brunching with friends (or your S.O.), window shopping in the neighborhood boutiques, or even going on your own city walk, we love an outfit that’s all about easy elegance. To embody this breezily insouciant look, play with color and silhouette, but keep the look grounded with classic shapes. Here’s how to get the look of easy elegance with layering:
1. Start building your outfit with the basics: a simple white button-down shirt and a pair of straight leg dark rinse jeans. Turn up the cuffs on your white shirt to make the base of the outfit a bit more casual.
2. Layer on a tunic top over the white button-down shirt. The bright yellow color really pops against the white - and the dark blue of the jeans. So as to not look overly "blousy," make sure that the button-down shirt is fitted somewhat close to your body. Also take note of how the sleeves fit; a high armhole will instantly make the look more svelte.
3. Accessorize with a navy blue handbag (to make the tunic top stand out even more) and a breezy pair of driving mocs. Keep your jewelry simple with a single standout cocktail ring that instantly elevates the outfit.
What are your favorite layering tips? Share your style with us in the comments!
Posted by Trisha on April 16th, 2009 in Ready Made Outfits, Women |
The key to mixing and matching patterns is keeping a running theme throughout the patterns in the outfit. This theme can be size (e.g. mixing a small stripe with a small plaid), pattern (e.g. mixing a small check with a big check), or even color (e.g. mixing a green plaid with a green stripe). Here’s an example of how to mix and match different patterns using color as a unifying theme:
1. Start with a pair of neutral colored trousers and a patterned shirt. The fresh blue gingham is a wonderful counterpoint to the more traditional grey trouser pants.
2. Layer on a sweater in a bold striped pattern. Note how even though both the pattern (stripes vs. gingham plaid) and the size of the repeat (large on the striped sweater, small on the gingham shirt) are very different, they still work together. Because the sweater and the shirt feature the color blue, they still work visually as a pair.
3. Finish off the look with a pair of casual shoes, echoing the laid back (but still pulled together) feel of the cardigan and gingham shirt combo.
How do you mix and match patterns? Share your style with us in the comments!
Posted by Trisha on April 15th, 2009 in Men, Ready Made Outfits |
Q: I’m going to New York in April. Could you tell me what I can wear if I’m going to go on a tour in the city? I’d like something comfortable but, at the same time, fashionable!
by Colleen Geary, fashion stylist and image consultant
A: New York in April is breezy and rainy - so make sure to pack accordingly. Think temperatures ranging from lows in the 40s to highs in the 60s. Here’s what you need to bring for your tour of New York city:
Outerwear: Pack a waterproof trenchcoat with character to add a dash of style–and protect you from the rain. Bonus style points for a brightly colored trench. Also bring a good basic medium weight jacket for the days that the weather is clear.
Tops: A few layerable tops and a couple of lightweight sweaters will form the core of your sightseeing wardrobe. Also pack a few brightly colored tees for your base layer.
Bottoms: A couple of pairs of long pants and a pair of well-fitted jeans should do the trick.
Dresses: Bring a classic dress for fancy lunches or dinners, or for when you catch a play or Broadway show (or head out to a nice club).
Shoes: Closed toe flat shoes that are suitable for walking are going to be key. Styles like comfy ballet flats, sport sneakers, or flat boots will be your friend. You may also want to bring a pair of heels for any dressy occasions.
Accessories: A roomy handbag to hold extra layers of clothes (and any small purchases you make), a beautiful layering scarf, and an umbrella are going to be your three key accessories.
Last words? New York is a heaven for foodies - if you’re looking for some great eats, try: the hot chocolate (and mac and cheese) at City Bakery, the smoked salmon pressed rice sandwiches at Takashimaya, the bar steak at Pastis, the gelato at Grom, the chocolate at Maison du Chocolat and Kee’s, and a beautiful three course lunch at Jean Georges.
Have a great tip about what to wear in New York? Share it with us in the comments!
Posted by Trisha on April 14th, 2009 in Q&A, Women, Women's |
We asked: Would you wear White Denim?
You said: No to White Denim, with a 58% to 42% vote.
Style tip? We’ll be the first to admit it - white denim is tough to wear. From a figure flattery standpoint, white makes you look bigger - hardly what you want if your derriere (or legs) are in less than perfect condition. And from a practical standpoint, white denim is terribly difficult to keep clean. One sit on a less-than-pristine park bench, and you’re toast. That said, if you’re willing to try out white denim, it can be very rewarding. White denim is a fresh, springy alternative to classic dark blue jeans - and it instantly elevates whatever you wear with it. You can instantly add elegance to bold colors, create a dreamy look with pastels, or dress up with metallics, especially silver (our fave).
Next question: We’re seeing tons of cute patterned shorts out there on store racks. But what do you think? Would you wear Patterned Shorts - or would you leave them on the rack? Cast your vote on the sidebar!
Pictured: White Denim Bootcut Jean | $98 at J Crew.
Posted by Trisha on April 13th, 2009 in Trend, Trend Predictives, What's In and What's Out, Women |
Q: I will be going to Orlando, FL for a week off with my family in April and need some ideas for theme park chic - comfortable, casual, but NOT sloppy. Any ideas?
A: Orlando in April is pretty warm - think temperatures that range from the 60s at night to the low 80s during the day. Light clothing is essential, and as you said, you’ll want pieces that are comfortable and casual to wear to the theme park. Still, you’ll want to look put together, so mix things up with sophisticated patterns (such as the flowers on the sweater and the stripes on the tank) and coordinated colors (notice how the blue and white base makes the yellow in the sweater visually pop). Here’s what you need to pack for your trip to Orlando:
Tops: Think sleeveless and short sleeved tops in breathable fabrics.
Sweaters: Pack one or two layering sweaters that you can put on in any air conditioned areas.
Bottoms: Shorts are going to be your best bet, but you can also try cropped pants or long, lightweight pants in cotton or linen.
Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, so flat shoes are going to be your friend. Sneakers will get you through the day, but you may want a pair of casual flats for evenings.
Accessories: Bring a zippered bag to carry your essentials and a good hat to shield yourself from the sun.
Last words? As the days are typically sunny, you’ll want to remember to pack sunscreen.
Have a great tip about what to wear to a theme park? Share your style with us in the comments!
Posted by Trisha on April 10th, 2009 in Q&A, Women, Women's |
Q: I’m trying to start dressing more fashionably and put together, but I am still a poor, broke, college student. I’m finishing my teaching degree and I would like to look professional all of the time. In addition to being broke, I am also plus sized.
Pictured (clockwise from left): Black Tie-Front Short Sleeved Jacket | $54 at Torrid, Stretch Poplin Button Down Blouse | $68 at Kiyonna, Classic Rise Wide Leg Trousers | $29.50 at Old Navy.
A: In order to build a professional wardrobe on a budget, we recommend investing in versatile, structured pieces that can seamlessly mix and match. Structured pieces will help you look professional, while also flattering your figure. Plus, your existing college-appropriate wardrobe will be instantly elevated when paired with these professional pieces.
Because fit is so key with these pieces - your tailored pants, blazers, and button-down shirts - it’s okay to stretch your budget in order to get the Right pieces. After all, you’ll get so much wear out of them that the cost per wear will be manageable. With a tight budget, take your time to find and purchase the right pieces. You don’t need to buy all of them at once, and being picky will help you understand what brands and styles fit and flatter you best. Plus, waiting to buy also helps you take advantage of sales and coupons that will reduce the price further. Here’s three specific pieces to look for:
The Perfect Button Down Shirt in a stretch cotton poplin style. A straight, body skimming cut with vertical seams will flatter your figure best. You’ll be able to wear this shirt by itself - or unbutton it to midchest and layer a camisole or tank underneath.
The Classic with a Twist Blazer, which will pair with tailored pants, jeans, and skirts. Pick a youthful take on this classic - try details like half sleeves,
Flat Front Pants with a medium to medium-high waistline. The higher the waistline, the longer your legs will look (and the taller you will appear). Pants with a slight flare at the leg will help visually balance your figure.
Have a great tip about how to build a professional plus-size wardrobe on a budget? Share it with us in the comments!
Posted by Trisha on April 9th, 2009 in Q&A, Women, Women's |
One of the secrets of looking pulled together is to sport an outfit with a dominant theme. This theme can be anything from a color or pattern to an era in time. Here, we’ve constructed a breezily sophisticated menswear outfit, sewn together with blue as a dominant color and brown as the secondary accent color.
1. Start with a pair of dark rinse blue jeans and a blue button-down shirt. The gingham print on the blue shirt adds a bit of visual texture without being overly distracting.
2. Toss on a light blue pullover sweater. Note how the light blue color contrasts nicely with the dark blue jeans - and is visually distinct from the gingham blue shirt. The three blues work in harmony with one another.
3. Finish off the look by adding shades of brown - in the form of a khaki trench and a rich brown oxford shoe. Brown provides a rich counterpoint to the cool blues and rounds out the outfit visually.
Guys, what’s your favorite color to build a look around? Share your style with us in the comments!
Posted by Trisha on April 8th, 2009 in Men, Ready Made Outfits |
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