Coffee Cup Inspiration

I sometimes find inspiration in the strangest places. In fashion, a designer must often go outside their own mind to find something that strikes them. Something that plucks the right heart strings. Because if you just create strictly from your own head, you run the risk of becoming totally self-involved; no longer in touch with the real world. Even as a stylist- someone who designs "looks"- I must do the same. We both know that fashion is cyclical and if you're not careful, you can become complacent.

I recently came across an ad for Sharpie in my Teen Vogue (still not sure why that was in my mailbox) that I found to be extremely inspirational, and according to this New York Times article, that was the intended message.

peek-a-Boey

Artist Cheeming Boey took unassuming, blank coffee cups and turned them into little objects of art. Some have very elborate images while others are cute and quaint. His skill level clearly runs the gamut but what struck me most was the tagline Sharpie uses now to market themselves. Followed by the question "What are you gonna start?", the ad encourages you to "uncap what's inside". I like that idea, tapping into yourself because you never really know what you're capable of.

click the picture to see how much one of these little vessels will cost ya.

Coming at this from a sartorial perspective, I decided to urge you all to give prints a chance. I really like the black and white contrast in Boey's work and luckily, printed bottoms seem to be the easiest and most flattering way to incorporate my inspiration into your own wardrobe.

Take on two trends- wide leg and print. Winter Kate, Nordstrom, $285

The affordable option, and still in a flattering silhouette. Forever 21, $22.80

And if I haven't convinced you to "uncap what's inside", then at the very least try some color! DvF, Bloomingdales, $298

Have some fun with your clothes and break out of your fashion doldrums. You never know when something will tickle your fancy so why not surprise yourself and enjoy it.

Image(s) courtesy of google image search, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Forever 21

Swimwear 101: Cover-Ups

Once you've found the perfect swimsuit that has you throwing caution to the wind and actually wanting to go out half naked in public, it's time to shop for the swimsuit cover-up.  They are, just like their name suggests, a way to cover up your newly sun-kissed skin.  I personally love a cute cover-up because they not only protect me from getting burned, they are what make a poolside outfit.  And let's be honest, the only time I actually want to see my thighs is while slathering them in sunscreen on my lounge chair.  We've come a long way from the muumuu as far as style.

Personal Shopper Picks: (from one of my favorite places to shop for swimwear, Victoria's Secret)

Trend #1: 70's Chic

VS Cotton Crochet Tunic Sweater $59.50

VS Striped Linen Cover-Up Sweater $49.50

VS Split-sleeve Romper $48

VS Tunic Cover-up $58

Trend #2: Brights

VS Solid Plunge Cover-up Tunic $33

VS Tie-waist Cover-up Dress $33

VS Neon Lace Cover-up $38

Trend #3: Neutrals & Whites

VS One-shoulder Crochet Cover-up $74

VS Beach Linen Knit-waist Short $29.50

VS T-back Romper $82

VS Beach Linen Zip-front Romper $39.50

Image(s) courtesy of Victoria's Secret

Spring 2011: That 70's Trend

Though some of you may be remiss to admit it, the 70s are back! And in a big way. Of course we all know fashion is cyclical and nothing is new anymore but you should always expect to see the return of a trend, style, or look about every 20 to 30 years. That said, the return of flared jeans, platforms, jumpsuits, soft hair, floppy hats, maxi dresses, and round sunglasses are right on track.

athoughtistheblossom.blogspot.com

I was a little hesitant to get on board with this trend for fear of it leaving as quickly as it has arrived but then I watched The Towering Inferno...and fell in love with the 70s. What a wonderland of inspiration! Taking place in San Francisco and centering on the world's tallest building going up in a blaze (hence, the title), the movie cemented my new-found love for long, low-cut evening gowns, head-to-toe color, draped shirting, and soft curls. It also put a new fashion icon at the forefront of my mind, Faye Dunaway. I've never wanted to wear a matching, monochromatic suit more!

Faye Dunaway

Though the film revolved around more "society types" living in the San Francisco, there was definitely a moment for those on the street who were rocking long, printed jackets, wide-leg pants, and high shoes. In fact, that's more in line with what we're seeing on the runway and the streets today. People seem eager to move away from their skinnies to get a little breathing room.

stylecaster.com

The easiest way to embrace this new trend and avoid looking dated is by wearing the bits and pieces that you like. Making them your own allows your personal style to shine and topping it all off with a large brim hat is never a bad idea.

carolinesmode.com/stockholmstreetstyle

carolinesmode.com/stockholmstreetstyle

 Of course, if you can do it right, there is something to be said for trying everything all in one outfit. Floppy hats off to you, my dear.

carolinesmode.com/stockholmstreetstyle

Image(s) courtesy of stylecaster.com, carolinesmode.com, and google image search.

So Much Style in Stockholm!

If you ever find yourself with an afternoon to kill check out www.carolinesmode.com and click on the Stockholm Street Style tab. OMG you will not be disappointed. Scrolling through one sartorial treat after another has never been this satisfying!

right on trend: easy, white, and menswear-inspired

If you've ever wondered who/what makes the style go 'round, it's these people. Broken down to their baser elements, these looks can easily be recreated with pieces in your own closet. Why these few folks were chosen to be depicted online is because they followed a few simple rules:

• choose pieces with interesting details:

Notice the detail on the edge of the shirt collar. (click to enlarge)

• think about the longevity/flexibility of each piece:

a classic blazer and sheer blouse are instantly chic by adding one trendy item: the pants

another great example: easy blouse and edgy jacket with one trendy piece: the full skirt

• and only buy those items that you really love and instantly connect with. Not only will you start accruing items that can be worn different ways again and again, you can wear them with each other to start finding your own fashionable footprint.

an easy look, compiled of pieces to stretch your wardrobe: colorful blazer, black tights, and a simple jersey dress

After all, a closet should be a collection of pieces that speak to you. Start stalking the streets of Stockholm for instant inspiration!

Image(s) courtesy of carolinesmode.com

Sarah Jessica Parker is a Burberry Delight

I think Sarah Jessica Parker cemented her claim to fame as a style icon thanks in large part to her collaboration with Patricia Fields on Sex and the City. Every time I watch it, there’s some small, new detail there that I never noticed before. So many odd, amazing, and fabulous clothing combinations that it’s no wonder we all still turn to the show for inspiration. Even today on the red carpet, SJP takes a cue from Carrie and adds an over-sized accessory here, or an unexpected color and texture there. Like most icons, when she attends an event, you can bet people will be watching. She didn’t disappoint at the Burberry show this past September.

SJP's look was a decadent tone on tone ensemble; a rich gradient of caramel, chocolate, and cream. Who better to get you're mouth watering for fabulous Fall fashion? The entire look is the coupling of contrasting textures and themes. The ladylike lace of the dress (yes, that's a dress under there) with its cascading ruffles is juxtaposed against the smooth leather, military jacket with the high, strapping heels of her shoes leaving me fit to be tied. If you're hungry to satisfy your chocolate craving, check out the images below. They're the best options available on the market right now.

"Victoriana" jacket at asos.com

The jacket Sarah Jessica is wearing is absolutely labelled as a splurge. After all it is a Burberry jacket! If you want the real thing now but from a more greenback-friendly source, try this one. The color is lovely and the military style is marvelous.

A dress purchased in Madrid by London-based social fixture Jane Asher

This sweet shift embodies a woman's girly-girl but is controlled by the simple design. It's a perfect piece to contrast with the leather jacket. Try locating your own at your favorite department store or boutique.

"Colleen" Satchel at Shop Suey

This bag's shape is very similar to the one SJP is holding, plus the style lines are pretty good mimics of the original. It's a great steal when you can't afford the splurge.

Never underestimate the authority of sassy heels. Nordstrom

To help complete this SJP-inspired look and to carry you into colder days, add a few more accessories like gloves and a scarf. To keep your legs warm, pull on a pair of sheer black tights. You could also choose opaque tights but that's where you have to ask yourself one question: WWCD? (What Would Carrie Do?)

Image(s) courtesy of Google image search

Trend Alert: Union Jack Handbags

In honor of my upcoming trip to London, here are some of my favorite tributes to the Union Jack:

LuLu Guinness Union Jack snakeskin lips clutch

Chanel Union Jack handbag

Alexander McQueen Union Jack clutch

Frugalista Find: Union Jack clutch from Monsoon UK $30 Euros

The Ten Worst Fall Fashions - from DivineCaroline

Here is an interesting article I found in one of the many blogs that I follow. It addresses some of this season's top trends (acid washed jeans cutouts, shoulder pads, stirrup pants), and why they might be big NO NO's.

The Ten Worst Fall Fashions - Page 4 - DivineCaroline

While I don't agree with their assessment of all of these trends, it makes some good points. Especially the fact that most of these trends are not appropriate for the work place... Enjoy!

Image courtesy of Divine Caroline

Bluefly Video: How to Sport Bracelets This Fall

Bracelets big and small are adorning the wrists of women this fall.  Bluefly.com's blog Fly Paper posted a cool video showing you how to make sense of the trend.

Image(s) courtesy of

Sheath Dress: Two Ways

Sheath dresses are really trendy for this fall. But frankly, they never really go out of style, just re-invent themselves over the years. When deciding what to invest in as a staple piece for your closet, start here. Why do both of these looks work?

Look 1 (left):

• belting this dress gives added shape
• layering the cardigan adds texture and interest
• the tone-on-tone leggings and pumps give this a lean appearance
  

Look 2 (right):

• don't let anyone tell you you can't pair black and brown
• layering the dress over a turtleneck is on-point for this fall
• the black turtleneck balances out the black tights and boots
• again, belting the dress is a MUST for this look
  

When I am flipping through fashion mags and fashion blogs, one of the features I enjoy the most are the "one dress: two ways" articles. Lucky Magazine is great about showing us one blouse styled multiple ways (dressed up and down) to maximize our wardrobes.

This is exactly what I do when I am working with clients in their own closets- maximizing what they already have. I help them to identify which pieces are "keepers" and then make multiple outfits using those pieces. Stay tuned for pictures I have taken during some of these consultations.

Images courtesy of Banana Republic
link:http://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/division.do?cid=5002

Spring Trend Alert: Feathered Footwear

Splendora, one of my favorite fashion/shopping blogs, posted these fabulous Givenchy Urania Sandals (image credit: splendora.com) on their "what to shoe" blog today.

If you want to jump on the trend early, and not pay the $1150 price tag for these designer duds, here are some shopping suggestions at much more reasonable prices... Thank you Zappos.com.

L.A.M.B. $284 ON SALE











Marciano $142 ON SALE











Delman $554











Shannon Britt $257 ON SALE

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Shoe images from zappos.com