Black and White

 This spring, classic hues are anything but basic!  From jailbird stripes, to checkerboard squares, and tuxedo-like ensembles the classic black and white color combo was all over the runways for spring 2013.  Try out the look by simply adding white accessories, that add an unexpected element, to an all-black outfit.  From last years sunny brights to mainstay black and white, this seasons stark color theme is anything but boring. Keep your eyes open as the color combo has already begun slipping into stores!

On the Fringe

Fringe has never been so funky. It has circled in and out of fashion over the years and is materializing itself once more.  Keep a look out for thrashing tassels that will be swinging into your wardrobe this spring!

Emerald Green with Envy

Pantone finally announces that the rich and vibrant shade, emerald green, is the Color of the Year for 2013!

Well Armed

Stacking bracelets has always been is a must for me. Usually they are just thrown together before I run out the door.  A collection of gifts and purchases from over the years, most days my arms are loaded with bracelets from various places I have traveled as well as treasured gifts from loved ones.  I could honesty tell you the story behind each and every piece I wear on any given day.  I love mixing metals and wearing my vintage pieces with some of my newer additions. Whether creating the stacked look on your own or buying them as a set, keep mixing various sizes and shapes to create your own look.

What to Wear: Thanksgiving Dinner

Wondering what to wear on this food filled holiday?  Thanksgiving fashion is important, regardless of how dressed up or dressed down your family and friends get.  Many of us spend the day stuffing our face with incredible amounts of food, so make sure to pick an outfit that you will be comfortable expanding in. You'll be thankful for body-con outfits that are relaxed as well as fashionable!  Check out some of my fav looks below...

A chunky knit sweater

Color blocked shfit dress

Anything oxblood

Autumn colors and prints

Stretchy velvet pants

A bit of glitter and glam

...and this is what I will be wearing.   

 In my family we tend to be a little more on the dressy side

...Thank you Grandma Mary!  

Bon Appetite!

The Classic Collared Shirt

The collared shirt is effortless and timeless and looks great whether dressed up or dressed down.  It's an easy, sexy pieces that goes with anything and looks great on any body type.  I like them buttoned down to bra level, with the sleeves rolled up and worn with a great pair of jeans or slacks.  In the summer time they are great when layered over a baiting suit or tank, but also like them when worn with a blazer in the cooler months. The look is a little bit prep, a little bit menswear inspired, and a lot of fashion!

Suit Up!

Keep your look professional yet stylish with menswear inspired suit separates that pack the ultimate power play.  

This fall the emphasis is all about a strong silhouette and impeccable tailoring. Suit up with masculine pieces that have a sharp and professional look, yet take a ladylike approach.

Dress for success with colors such as rose, charcoal and oxblood, or add a pop of color to make a suit look more modern.  For those of you who are a bit more daring...try a print!  Go head to toe with tons of texture or match your separates to define the powersuit of the moment. 

Trousers are huge this season and range in styles from wide leg cuts to cropped and trim capris.  Pair with an embellished or lace blouse, or for a more casual look, try a silk t-shirt instead of the expected silk blouse.  Wear with a statement necklace, and cutting edge accessories that are bold and simple.  Strut your stuff in a pointed toe pump, and be sure to grab a structured bag with a simple shoulder strap that will be perfect when running from meeting to meeting. 

 

Cape Cover

Capes and caplets have crept back in to the fashion spotlight this season. A bit mysterious, a bit superhero. They are the ultimate throw and go and literally, just as easy to throw on as a scarf!

Originally from medieval Europe, women wore capes to protect the finer fabrics of their evening wear from the elements...and also to make a fashion statement.  Capes were still in vogue through much of the 20th century until the 1980's.  They were often seen in old hollywood evening ensembles both on film and in real life.  

Most recently the cape made a red capert apperance when Hollywood starlet Gwyneth Paltrow wore a white Tom Ford dress and matching cape to the 2012 Oscars. 

The cape makes a great alternative to a coat.  This season they have taken a sportier approach to the long formal ones we have seen in the past. Some are still quite tailored and sleek, while others are shorter, called caplets, and have slits so you can use your arms. Capes are timeless and classic and great for women of all shapes and sizes.  They cost about as much as you would pay for regular coat but make a bigger statement.

When choosing a color- keep it neutral, a cape is a grand enough gensture in itself, but keep your eyes open for details like a leather or fur trim, lace, fringe or buttons.  Also keep in mind texture. For work, consider a wool or tweed cape that is jacket length rather than long and flowing. Capes look great when paired with a tote or oversized clutch. 

They are perfect to wear either dressy or casual and are great layering pieces for weather changes. Capes are all about proportion, so when wearing a cape, pair it with something more narrow on the bottom, such as a slim trouser  column gown, or even a mini skirt.   Also, a great belt can ground the cape. Of course, wearing one on top of your skinny jeans creates a naturally chic, comfortable look.

This season, capes are THE thing to throw over your shoulders when the weather gets chilly.