Sunday, May 31, 2009

It's All In The Details: Crochet Tanks


It is quite ironic how everything "cool" these days can be found in grandma's closet. Who would have thought that what basically equates to a "doilie" attached to a jersey tank would take it from drab to fab?

This Summer's crochet tank trend is very Boho-chic and easy to wear. Since these tanks are usually cut very loose or blousy, I suggest that you pair it with a skinny jean or short that fits close to the body. Although the crochet accent can be added anywhere, my favorite variation of this is the racer or T-back. Showing a little extra skin is what summer wardrobes are about and I happen to think that if done tastefully, a woman's neck, shoulders and back can be pretty darn alluring. The only drawback is the peculiar tan line that you can end up with.



Style Lesson #1: If you are not a big fan of crochet, lace accents can give you virtually the same look, if not take it up a notch.

Style Lesson #2: The placement of the crochet/lace can expose your bra. If your intent is to hide the bra (and it should be), you could wear a tank of the same or contrasting color. The easiest fix is to invest in a good convertible bra that allows you to have the option of wearing it as a strapless that sits low on the back.

Saturday, May 23, 2009

What a Dream


Watch CBS Videos Online
Imagine if your closet looked like this.

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

My Boyfriend's Back


Not only are boyfriend jeans back, but they seem to be sticking around for a while. In the Summer of 2008 people snickered at Katie Holmes when she wore her BF jeans french cuffed with silver flats, but the comeback has continued. During the Fall 2008 they were paired with booties for the cool weather. Now, just about every jean company has a BF jean offering and they are hotter than ever this summer.

Although the relaxed thigh and the straight leg fit is the opposite of a skinny jean, they can both be worn in the same way. The BF jean is not just for the casual look with flats or sandals. Instead, it can be dressed up in a very chic way for day or evening with the cutest heels. As with any jean fit, the next decision is the wash. Since this fit is so versatile, there is no right answer, so go crazy, feel free to be creative!


Wardrobe Tip #1: Why spend extra money if you don't have to? You may have some old loose fitting jeans in your closet that don't get worn anymore....why not cut them and make them into the shorts version of the BF jean?

Wardrobe Tip #2: If you are one of those girls who are lucky enough to fit into your honey's jeans, maybe you can "borrow" those and roll up the cuffs as you throw on your cutest shoes on your way out the door :-)

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

A New Love Affair


Today Forever21 adds yet another brand under its umbrella. This new offering is called Love21 and is geared more toward the sophisticated woman. As the core Forever21 shopper matures they will be able to continue to shop at their favorite store.

Love21 offers premium denim and pieces that have upgraded fabrication and detailing. All this has managed to be done while keeping the price point in the same range as the Forever21 primary line. Much like the Faith21 plus size line that was launched earlier this month, this new collection will not yet be available in all stores, but will be online.

Sunday, May 17, 2009

Jumpsuits Anyone?


If you have an eye for fashion, it is hard to ignore the jumpsuits that have entered the scene as a result of the Spring/Summer 2009 collections. Surprisingly this style is not as hard to wear as people think. Silhouette should be the primary concern when deciding what works best for you. This year, the designers have given us enough style and cut options to inspire the choices that you make in your local stores.

Balancing or skillfully distorting proportion is the key to wearing a jumpsuit successfully. Petite women and those with shorter legs should be looking to elongate the leg to give the illusion of height. This can be achieved with pant legs that are straight or skinny. Tall women have the luxury of adding the options of full length and wide leg versions. Curvy women with dominant hips should look to fit the widest part of them to ensure that the material falls as it should. Hips and narrow shoulders can be balanced with details that add volume, such as ruffles. Conversely V-neck and boat necks can open up narrow shoulders so that your upper-body does not get lost in the look. Lastly, those with killer legs, should be sure to wear the shorts version of the jumpsuit/romper...even plus size gals!

The best thing about a jumpsuit is that it is a one-piece garment that you can put on when you are on the go. It is a no brainer for those of you who do not enjoy the challenge of putting together too many pieces. Much like a dress, all you need are accessories and you are out the door. Accessories give you the chance to have your personality shine through, as well as take your jumpsuit to different places. A simple swapping of shoes, belt and/or jewelry can take your jumpsuit from day to night.



Stay on trend this summer and find the jumpsuit that is best for YOU.

Style Lesson: Pant jumpsuits can also be worked into your Fall wardrobe in a few months by adding a blazer and booties, so don't be afraid to invest.

Friday, May 8, 2009

Play Dress-up With Mom

Time is quickly winding down. If you have not yet bought your mother a gift, then you are officially down to the wire! Be sure to put some thought into what you will be getting that special lady in your life. If you are the mom that those around you are shopping for, be sure that you are dropping some hints.

Adding to your mom's wardrobe is a gift that many would appreciate. A dress may be a great idea (as long as she wears them)for her this year. With one purchase, you get a whole outfit. If you choose to gift her the accessories, you might earn your gold star as a super-child. Here are a few ideas for those who need a little inspiration...


I love this BCBG dress! The skillful draping hides a multitude of sins. The basic color allows this dress to meld well with accessories to dress it up or down.


This is an alternate to the BCBG dress that can be found at Express. The general idea is the same and the price point is much lower.

Happy Shopping!

Monday, May 4, 2009

Beautiful Relationships

These days, many of us with champagne taste and an eye for designer style have had to be more dollar conscious. I have always always been on the quest to have more for less, as long as quality was compromised as little as possible. When designers develop new lines at lower price points that still reflect their design aesthetic, and forge relationships with departments stores everyone wins!

JC Penney teamed up with Charlotte Ronson a few months ago for the I Heart Ronson line. This is a very youthful line that is bound to help the high school and late teen get those staple boho-edgy pieces at a great price. Department store powerhouse, Macys has also linked up with Rachel Roy for the Rachel Rachel Roy line. Her pieces are not set to hit the stores until August 2009. This line is aimed at the twenty something woman who is looking for clothes that can be both work appropriate and take them into nightlife. I am pleased with what I see so far, the jewelry is my favorite part.

I happen to really love Rachel Roy's designs. Take a look at some of her pieces for the Spring 2009 collection as well as the preview for the "little sister" (Rachel Rachel Roy) Fall 2009 preview and tell me what you think.


Rachel Roy Spring 2009 Collection




Rachel Rachel Roy Fall 2009 Preview

Saturday, May 2, 2009

Beyonce: What Can We Learn From Her?

Walking out into the world in an ensemble that is different from the norm takes real guts. Rather than bash these brave souls, we will pull out the lesson to be learned. After all, someone has to be daring enough to start the trend don't they?





Style Lesson#1: This look is all about the accessories jazzing up a basic outfit. Group up some of your favorite accessories and add an interesting shoe and viola!

Style Lesson #2: Beyonce's jeans are also used as quite a versatile piece. Instead of wearing them full length, she has chosen to style them as pseudo-capris by rolling them up. Your favorite jeans that were accidentally bleached or rip can serve as the DIY project to help you pull off this look.

Friday, May 1, 2009

A Great Day For Trendy Plus Size Gals


It has been over a year....I have missed you so.

Not only does today mark my return to being your blogger bud, but it is also the day that Forever 21 introduces their new plus size line called Faith 21. There has been plenty of buzz about this launching since the announcement earlier this year. Unfortunately this line is only going to be available in select stores and online. Don't let that discourage you. The more online support that the line receives, the sooner merchandise will be available in your local store.

The selection of clothes is not yet as extensive as the other sizes, but I am sure that will change. Most of what is currently available can be categorized as trendy-casual, with a couple of pieces that can be dressed up for good measure. One of my favorites is a black tiered skirt for under $20!! This skirt can go with anything and take you practically anywhere.

Styling Tip: This skirt would be best suited for plus size ladies with an hourglass, or reverse triangle shape. Ladies that have issues with the tummy area may want to select a top that is gently skims over the area and/or lightly layer.

Be sure to keep checking the website and if you are lucky enough to have Faith 21 in your area, be sure to check it out in person soon.