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Summer 2011
Stay in Style By Jennifer Kortman and Lezli Bradley
Mix and Match
When
we last left you, we were just gearing up for the brighter colors and skimpier
silhouettes that make spring our favorite season. Now we are settling into the
steamy weather of summer and trying to figure out what to wear for the next
three months of beaches, bikinis and barbecues. This season we are mapping out
a plan of attack. We have found
the 10 must have items of the season and we will help you figure out how to
wear each one, and how you can maximize your wardrobe by mixing them together
for different looks. As always, we
will also incorporate this season’s hottest trends in denim, accessories and
shoes so sit back, read on and let us help you stay in style.
First things first, the foundation for any
great wardrobe comes by way of its basics. In this case, that means denim. Our first top 10 item for
the summer is something denim.
This season anything goes in the denim department and we love that! Whether it’s a wide leg jean (which we
should all have in our wardrobes) or your skinny white ankle length jean from
spring, this look is for day and night. We absolutely love a wide leg or a beat
up jean paired with one of your other top 10 must haves, the dressy, sparkly
top. We know that paillettes and
sparkles are usually reserved for holiday but we are seeing this trend mixed up
for summer. Pair a wide leg or
bellbottom jean with a dressy top and a wedge for the perfect cross between
dressy and casual that captures the feeling of summer with ease. Also pair this top with a dressier pant
and a strappy sandal for a more sophisticated evening look that is still on
point. Denim shorts and capris are
also on trend for summer. We are
seeing shorts of all lengths, from bermudas to short rolled varieties and they
are being worn with everything from flip flops to sky high wedges depending on
the individual. Definitely add a few pairs of these for a classic way to stay
in style.
Another of our top 10 items for summer, is the wide leg pant. Denim aside, this silhouette is the
wave of the future in all fabrications.
For this season we are seeing it in fabrics from cotton twill to funky
striped linen. It is an easy look to wear whether you are short or tall, old or
young and that makes it even better.
We love wide leg pants topped with a pretty flowy floral top and a
strappy wedge for a 70’s throwback look with a modern twist. Wear this pant for
day with a simple brightly colored tank and some chunky jewelry for a super
easy way to stay on trend. That brings us to another one of our top ten items
for summer 2011, this being the flowy floral top. We are seeing this ethereal feeling trend paired with
everything from the aforementioned wide leg pant, as well as bermuda shorts and
the skinny jeans that most of us have in our closets already. The feminine quality of this look will
breathe a fresh new life into some of your basics that’s perfect for the
carefree feeling that summer brings. We are seeing it with a dolman sleeve and
a cinched waist a la a 70’s bohemian look, and we love it in this season’s
bright colors such as turquoise, orange and pink.
Also on deck, our next must have item for summer is the maxi dress. We are in love with this silhouette and
not just because it doesn’t matter if we have tan legs when we wear it. We love its free spirited look and the
ease of wear that comes with it. It is truly the perfect garment. You throw it on with a pair of flat
sandals or wedges and go. No
matching required, and even better, this season we are seeing a lot of “twofers”. We love, love, love this. A “twofer” is
a maxi dress that can double as a skirt. It is actually like having two
garments in one and it does not get any easier than that. Why not try this
trend on in a fun print such as ikat or stripes for an easy way to excite your
wardrobe.
To touch on another of our top ten must haves, this summer marks the
advent of the over the knee length skirt.
There are variations on this look from the super sexy, picture 1950’s
“Madmen” to the more demure think Natalie Portman in Black Swan. But no matter
how you choose to wear it, it is everywhere and again the attitude really is,
anything goes. For instance, pair
a mid-calf length a-line skirt with a flat sandal and a tank for an adorable
day look or pair a fitted style with a super high heel for a sexy screen siren
kind of feel. Hems are all over
the place so it will be super easy to find one that works for you.
As far as accessories, this season’s must haves are truly summer
favorites that have been tweaked to make them fresh and new. We are seeing the wedge sandal and any
variation of it be a huge trend. We love espadrilles for their ability to make
us four inches taller while still letting us be super casual as much as we love
a great pair of sexy peep toes.
Wedges are definitely it this summer in neutrals and metallics as well
as bright pops of color. Pair
these with everything else on the must have list whether it be shorts, a maxi
dress or a wide leg pant the wedge is the most versatile sandal. Our must have bag of the season is
anything big and colorful. This might not be the most original idea for summer,
but we love what is out there right now in the way of bags. We have seen a lot of oversized styles
that double as beach carryalls, as well as printed bags that just switch up the
norm a bit. Try adding one to your
wardrobe in a fun printed canvas to evoke the simplicity that summer is coveted
for. Hats are another must have
item for summer. With everyone telling us to stay out of the sun, it is
imperative to have one, and for us fashion slaves it is imperative to have a
stylish one at that. We really
like how designers have embraced the need for stylish sun friendly hats this
summer. We absolutely love the
straw fedora, it has a cool sensibility, while the re-worked floppy hat is still
a definite favorite. Wear these whenever you are out in the sun to save your
precious skin from the effects of the sun while staying completely in
style.
The last must have item on our summer top 10 list for 2011 is brightly
colored jewelry. We are seeing
everything from super bright turquoise and coral stones, to the prettiest most
delicate water colored gems. The
intensity of the color aside, these hued jewels are being paired with silver
and gold to make them more neutral.
Try mixing and matching colors for a fresh looking way to wear
them. For instance we love purple
and turquoise as an unexpected combination for a new summer look. These pieces can help to take a neutral
wardrobe to a different level.
We truly love
the weather and the fun outdoor activities of the summer months, but what we
look forward to all year are the fabulous fashions that summer brings with
it. We gave you the dish on the 10
most mix and match-able must haves for the summer 2011 while keeping you up to
date on the latest and greatest in the way of shoes, accessories and denim. We
hope we helped you weed out the things that you will need to navigate through
the fun summer months. Next time we meet we will be talking about the fun layers
of fall and the darker palette that will come with it. Until then happy barbecuing and
remember…stay in style.
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Spring 2011-Stay in Style
The Journey
When we last left you, we were in the thick
of a snowy, icy, cold season that felt like it went on forever. Wishing you were somewhere else
definitely became commonplace after the 5th serious storm. Luckily
we had spring fashions on the horizon and while they might not be equivalent to
a fabulous vacation to a warm destination, they did take our minds off the
weather. While fashion designers always take us to another place, at least
those of us who worship fashion, this season they truly take us on a
journey. A journey back to the
70’s to reminisce with silhouettes of bell bottom and blouses and a journey to the
middle east and India for a vibrant and eye popping color palette. This season promises the newness that
spring always offers with a not-so-serious playful touch that we haven’t seen
for some time. We will explore
this new fashion and all it has to offer from its must have items, to its
trends in denim, accessories and shoes. So sit back read on and let us help you
stay in style.
Must Haves
Before
we dive in and give you the dish on the must have items this season, we must
talk about the colors that are making us all excited to shop for Spring. As Nanette Lepore stated when asked
what the inspiration for her latest collection was, “it was inspired by
fireworks in Istambul”. With that
perfect picture in mind, we couldn’t agree more. We are seeing colors that look
like they would be found in the markets of India mixed with neutrals like pale
grey. This season the colors are vibrant hues of coral and deep pinks mixed
with brilliant blues and the brightest turquoise. These colors not only set the
tone for the season as exciting and romantic, they also provide a back drop for
the styles of the season. Ken
Downing, Fashion Director at Neiman Marcus stated on Pantone.com that “the
exotic locales of Marrakech and Morocco that inspired the bohemian influences of Yves Saint
Laurent in the '70s, Hot Corals and Deep Pinks punctuated with Brilliant Blues
ignite the carefree spirit of the coming season”. Like they inspired St. Laurent in the 70’s they inspire
today’s designers in much the same way and this season we see the 70’s
influence once again.
Our first must have item, the maxi skirt, comes
right out of the 70’s and is modernized with some fun flowy fabrics and updated
silhouettes. While this trend has
been around for awhile waiting for its time to shine, this season it really
takes off. We are seeing long
styles in dresses and skirts as mainstays for Spring. Pair a maxi skirt with a
fitted top to make it less overwhelming on the body and add a heel for even
more of a feminine touch. Why not
try a fitted maxi dress for a nighttime look. They can be sexy even when not showing as much skin.
The next hot item is the pant. Breathe a collective sigh of relief, because
the skinny pant is making some room for a new style this season. Spring 2011 is
all about the wide leg. From flared styles to bell bottoms, this style is going
to be seen on runways and real girls alike. This silhouette is easy for
everyone to wear as it balances out the body better than skinny styles. Try
pairing these loftier styles with more fitted tops and higher shoes so as not
to add bulk. The waistline is also changing this season with the comeback of
the high waisted pant. This look,
like the maxi, has been teetering for a couple seasons waiting to be embraced
by the mainstream…its time has come.
We are seeing sexy high waisted styles paired with tucked in flowy blouses reminiscent of 70’s
glamour but mixed with a modern edge.
Don’t start packing away your skinny pants just yet, they can also be
paired with this season’s 70’s inspired tops for a look that is just as
fresh. Pair this look with a wedge
sandal for a new way to wear them for evening.
Another of our favorites this spring is anything
crocheted or macraméd. It is a
departure from the Halston and YSL inspired 70’s glamour that it hot this year,
but 70’s inspired just the same.
The bohemian vibe that is evoked by all things crocheted is what everyone
is going to want this season and you can get it in many different ways. Of course there are the standard fully
crocheted tops and skirts that will undoubtedly be available but if this is too
much nostalgia for you then why not try doing it in a smaller way. We love all
of the soft flowy sweaters with open weaves that have the same feel as the
crochet but without the in your face 70’s vibe. Another way to wear this trend in a small way is to add a
macramé hand bag or a top with some crocheted touches to get the look in a
modern way.
Last but certainly not least, this season stripes
are everywhere. Now we know this
is not a new idea for Spring or any other season for that matter but we are
seeing so much of this nautical inspired pattern, that we had to deem it a
spring 2011 trend. Stick with
getting this trend on tops and dresses and opt for a fun color combo in brights
mixed with fresh white or navy for a classic yet fun take on this perennial
look.
Denim
New and hot for denim this season, is the wider
leg! We are so excited by this new
trend because the skinny jean has ruled for so long. Pairing this look with a slimmer top definitely makes for a
flattering silhouette for almost every body type so why not try easing into
this trend with a pair of faded jean bell bottoms for a casual yet style
conscious look. Pair it with a
wedge sandal and you are ready for day or night.
Definitely do not get rid of your skinny jeans,
they will still be important through the spring for day and night with the
blousy tops and flowy florals that are coming up. Make them look new again by changing out the shoes and top
you pair them with for a more warm weather friendly option and breathe new life
into a look you have been wearing for a few seasons. Maybe put on a pair of this season’s cork bottom shoes with
a dolman sleeve striped top for a complete skinny jean makeover.
Accessories and Shoes
The first new trend in accessories this season is
anything beaded. In keeping with
the bohemian feel mixed with 70’s glamour, beading on bags and jewelry is a
natural progression. We are seeing
beautifully beaded bags and wallets that have just the right amount of sparkle,
along with oversized beaded necklaces in the hot colors of the season. Along with the beads for bags, we are
seeing beaded necklaces being important as well. While we are still seeing a lot of long chains being
sticking around, this season definitely marks the return of the beaded necklace
in a big way. We love bright beads like coral and turquoise to make a
statement. Try layering these with
some of your own gold or silver pieces for an instant update. We are also seeing a trend toward brightly
colored bags. What we love about
these super bright accessories is that even adding one to an outfit currently
in your wardrobe completely adds the look of the season. New accessories are the perfect trick
to make your old wardrobe look completely current.
Shoes
On deck for shoes
this season is a ton of super fun new styles. First we cannot get enough platforms
and wedges. We love them in all shapes and colors from sky high to the more
conservative. This trend is very comfortable while giving you the height and
the sexy leg lengthening effect of heels. Try on a pair of cork wedges for a
sexy seventies look that will catch the vibe of the season in an instant. The next big trend that we are seeing
in shoes is simple canvas sneakers. Whether they are slip-ons a la Toms shoes or
tie-ons like classic Keds, this look is everywhere. We are obsessed with a pair
of these worn with a fun pair of bell bottoms for a casual weekend look. It
looks so retro but somehow still so fresh.
The last trend that
we are seeing for spring 2011 is the metallic flat. We are seeing ballet flats
being important this season because of the longer skirt lengths and metallic is
a big part of this trend. Try a simple pair with a maxi dress and a fitted top
for a cute and put together work look.
This season is filled with all the newness and
excitement that makes us love fashion.
We let you in on all the must have’s that we are craving this season, and
how to incorporate them into your existing wardrobe as well. We also talked
about what is hot in shoes, denim and accessories. We hope you love all that this season has to offer as much as
we do, and that we have helped to narrow down your want list. When we meet
again in the summer of 2011 we will undoubtedly be gearing up for the shorts
and flip flops that make summer dressing so easy to do. Until then enjoy the
weather and as always stay in style.
Fall & Winter 2010 Stay in Style
Tailored Femininity
By Jennifer Kortman and Lezli Bradley
With summer almost a warm distant memory, we look ahead to fall 2010 and the inspired new fashions that come with it. With fiscal responsibility on everyone’s mind, this issue we will explore the must haves with our “What’s Hot for Fall” feature making it easy to get your wardrobe right on trend without having to start from scratch. In the same vein, this season we have also added a new section called “Keep it” where we let you in on some tricks for transitioning from summer to fall by keeping key items for layering. We will also talk about what is on trend for shoes and accessories to add some value to your basics. As always we will definitely fill you in on denim trends as well. We are so excited for what’s to come so let’s dive right in and let the fabulousness of fall fashion begin.
What’s Hot for Fall
The feeling of fall 2010 is sophisticated femininity. With colors like olive green and golden yellow mixing with pale grey, dusty rose and plum, it is easy to see the trends coming to life. We are seeing tailored military and safari influences as well as touches of leather and lace. The season’s must haves pull from all of these larger themes, and can be mixed and matched to make the look your own. The first and newest trend for fall is the short. We are seeing short shorts and longer styles worn for day and night paired with flowy floral tops and worn with tights and boots or booties. We have seen them in wool and twill as well as ponte and leather. Don’t be afraid to try this look, it will instantly update a wardrobe and it is easier to wear than a skirt.
The next big trend this fall is cargo pockets. This look is everywhere this season. From pants to shorts and skirts to jackets, this will be one of the biggest trends of the year. It is easy to get this look even if you don’t like cargo pants, try adding a fitted jacket with cargo pockets for a more feminine take on a masculine inspired look. To add even more femininity to this look, pair it with one of this seasons billowy floral tops or a lace tank or try a pair of silk cargo pants for a sexy nighttime look that is right on trend.
Keeping with the masculine inspired trends, our next hot item for fall is anything safari influenced. We are seeing deep camel and olive green being important colors so safari fits right in. There are a ton of great pieces in this theme, including amazing belted jackets and blazers. Also keeping with the safari look, we are seeing touches of camouflage that can work into a wardrobe like a great basic. Mix these earth tones with bright pops of color to keep them fresh, and you won’t feel too masculine.
Another hot trend for fall 2010 is color blocking. We saw it on the runways of Zac Posen and DKNY last season, and now it has hit the streets in a big way. This year’s color blocking is much different than in the past. It is more subtle, more asymmetrical and more modern. It is actually being called “color splicing” because of its pattern like look. We are seeing this trend show up everywhere, but we like it best on sweaters and dresses. It’s an easy way to add a pop of color to this season’s subdued palette.
The last hot item for fall is leather. We have definitely been seeing touches of this look for a few seasons now, but this season it really takes off. Skinny leather pants are a must have for day or night and leather shorts are making a comeback as well. While this trend can be pricey, designers are making a lower price option by adding ponte or cotton to the back of pants for a look that’s just as cool for a more price conscious consumer. Also sticking around are leather jackets. Again, last year we saw touches of this in the market but this season the lightweight leather jacket is a must have. Short and fitted, in neutrals like cream or black are great to add as a staple for cooler weather.
Keep it
While we are all excited to go fall shopping and to wear all the newness that the season has to offer, it’s nice to not have to start at square one every year. Let this section help to make the transition from season to season a bit easier, and maybe make it a little easier on your wallet as well.
The first suggestion that we all use is to keep your tees and tanks around all year. They are great layering pieces for sweaters, cardigans and the belted blazers and jackets that you will definitely want this season. If you have too many tops to take into fall with you, pick colors that mimic the fall 2010 palette like olive green, dusty pink or plum to layer with all of this season's great neutrals.
Another recyclable wardrobe item is dresses. With the way designers mix fabrics year round, it is easy to add a cardigan and leggings or even skinny jeans to a dress for a completely fresh and adorable way to wear your existing wardrobe. If pairing pants with a dress is not for you try adding tights and boots for a more sophisticated look.
Lastly flowy sleeveless tops look great year round layered with a cardigan. You can throw on a cotton tank underneath for insulation if need be and put a cardigan over it for a great way to add to your fall wardrobe without really adding anything. Try investing in a few basic cardigans in neutrals or fun colors for fall and all of these looks are easy to pull off.
Denim
The newness in denim comes by way of cargo pockets. This season the must have is the skinny cargo jean. This is exactly like the cargo pants that we spoke about earlier but in denim. This is an easy look to pull off but definitely try on a few pairs to find the style that looks best on you, as some cargo styles add unwanted bulk in all the wrong places.
Also still hot for fall are the skinny ankle styles that we have been wearing for a few seasons now. Wear them in early fall with flats and later tucked into boots.
We are also seeing touches of wide almost bell bottom jeans making their way into the mix this season as well. They are being worn with wedge heels and fitted tops and are flattering on just about everyone. Try getting a super dark pair for nighttime with a high wedge heel for a sexy and modern look.
Shoes
Shoes are still fun this season, with grommets and studs still being cool embellishments. We are seeing a lot of clogs and wedges in leather and suede as well. Also sticking around this season are tall boots. We are seeing all heel heights with a rounded toe still reigning. Try a suede boot this season if you feel like adding some newness to your boot collection. For nighttime, high boots are still the standard, but adding to the mix are wedge heels that bring with them a ton of comfort. As always, classic pumps in all heel heights are sticking around for day or night and look great with any of the styles that are hot for fall.
Accessories
While accessories are definitely a way to add newness to your look without buying a new wardrobe, this season they can stand on their own. Jewelry looks amazing this fall with muted tones of dusty pink and grey mixing with layers of delicate chains and stackable bracelets in all different materials. Our favorite bracelets of the season are made of waxed leather cord and textured beads that when layered, look at once cool and sophisticated. Add them to even a conservative look to add a chic-ness that is definitely noticeable.
Also fun for fall, are bags and belts. Bags are all over the map with bright colors laser cut-outs and appliqués being important. Less expensive styles are also important because it is a great way to be on trend without spending a fortune. These less expensive styles have never looked better and they are a guilt free addition to any wardrobe. Belts are making a comeback this season with a bang. We have seen a lot of colored belts like red or purple to add punches of bright color to otherwise subdued looks. Again these are easy additions that add a ton of style to any wardrobe. Don’t worry about matching your bag to your belt to your shoes….gone are the days of such rigid fashion rules. Accessories this season are all about fun and should be added to your wardrobe accordingly!
This season is looking like it is going to be a fantastic one for fashion lovers everywhere. Definitely look at what you have to carry over and figure out what styles work for you this season. As always there is a lot of newness, but with a little help from us you should be able to find your fall style before the first leaf falls. When we meet again we will be getting ready for the hustle and bustle that only the holiday season can bring. We will talk about party clothes, outerwear as well as all that sparkles. Until then though, have a great fall and remember as always, to stay in style.
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