Magical Draping - Ralph & Russo

When it comes to dramatically draping fabric, I have been amazed by Ralph & Russo. This satin corset gown is from Autumn/Winter 2015/2016 collection.  It is absolute perfection.

  
Autumn Winter 2015 / 2016 Lookbook

If you haven't heard of Ralph & Russo yet, you will.  This British design house founded in 2007 and they are taking the fashion world by storm.  

Ralph & Russo site

What's was Old is New Again - Cape Coat

Dita Von Teese is on of my one of my favorite fashion muses.  She blends vintage and modern effortlessly while always looking like a lady.  

Here she is spotted strolling through a modern vintage cape coat by Buzz Feed.

Here is my inspiration from vintage cape coats. 

I think I may need to add a cape coat to my wardrobe for the upcoming 2 days of winter 

in Florida!

For more cape coat inspiration, 

I included some other sources:

20 Style Tips On How To Wear A Cape This Fall

Who to Wear

The Basics Rules of Style - from Nina Garcia - Rule 1

Nina Garcia is the Fashion Director of Elle Magazine and appears on Project Runway.  She also published The Little Black Book of Style.  This book is all about having the confidence to be your own stylist.  I highly recommend this reading this book from cover to cover.

Nina Garcia outlines the 6 basic rules that every style icon already knows.  

1.  How to edit

Editing is all about cleaning out your closet, if you don't wear it, if it does not fit, or if it does not look good on you, or if it was a  past trend that is clearly over, donate it to charity, give it away, sell it on eBay, or just throw it out. 

Editing is difficult an maybe somewhat painful, but it needs to be done.  You may have that prom dress that has sentimental value.  It is only taking up valuable space in your closet.  Consider cleaning out your closet like weeding a garden to make the beautiful flowers more visible.  

I am going to go overall 6 basic style rules, but like a  decadent dessert on cheat day, these tips are made to be savored not gulped down in 1 bite.  More tips to follow.

As Yves Saint Laurent said "Fashions fade style is eternal"

Photo credits:
Nina Garcia - purist.com
80's Prom Dress - promfashionguide.com

Fashions Fade but Syle is Eternal - Yves Saint Laurent

During an interview in 1975 with artist Andy Warhol, fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent  is credited as saying "fashions fade style is eternal".   Thank you Yves Saint Laurent, that statement is not only timeless, but a guideline for styling.

The problem is some people do not understand the difference between style and fashion.  Style is knowing yourself, what works for you, what looks good on you, what makes you feel good, what is appropriate?  Fashion, well, it changes on a whim.  What was fashionable this year, may not be next year.  (Think high-wasted pants.)

In 2010 I had posted 10 Commandments for Fashionistas.  

1. Just because they make in your size, does not mean you should wear it.
2. There is a difference between tailored and tight. Recognize it.
3. Buy a full-length mirror and use it, daily.
4. Athletic shoes belong in the gym.
5. If you have not changed your hair style in the past 10 or 15 years, you hair is probably out of style.
6. If you hairstyle involves a Scrunchie, your hairstyle is probably out of style.
7. Bling shirt are out.
8. Nobody wants to see your bra straps.
9. The same goes for your thong.
10. A beautiful smile is your best accessory.

That blog post was intended to point out some basic styling rules, so you know what not to do.  But what do you do?  With that in mind I have decided to start a series of styling blogs, because it is one thing to point out what is wrong, but how do we replace it with what is right?  

Your comments are always welcome. 

Photo Credits:
Andy Warhol of Yves Saint Laurent
complex.com The 50 Best Artist Collaborations in Fashion

Warby Parker #SeeSummerBetter

I have been hearing about this eyeglass company,  Warby Parker.  First my son ordered glasses from them, and then a co-worker highly recommended them.  I thought I would visit their website, one of these days.

I had cured my severe near-sighted-ness several years ago with lasic surgery.  Although I hate to admit it, I should wear glasses for reading, and my distance is slightly less than 20-20.  I do have a pair of expensive designer glasses that have "progressive" lenses.  Since the lens size is so small they spend more time in my purse or on top of my head.

Needless to say, I was casually shopping for a new pair of frames.  As fate would have it,  I received an email from a representative from Warby Parker, asking me if I would like to participate in their summer campaign by posting about them in this blog.  (By the way, as an MBA in Marketing - great social media concept guys!)

This blog is a my creative outlet to write about things that inspire me.  My favorite topics are travel and fashion.  Sometimes I even share information about a product that I love.  I keep this blog authentic, and only post about products that truly impress me.

Before I committed to anything, I visited the Warby Parker website.  This is a great concept.  You select 5 pairs of glasses, they ship you the samples, and you have time to decide which pair you like.  Coming from somebody who spent countless hours at the eye doctor's office trying to pick a pair of frames while fighting for a little mirror space, this concept appealed to me.

The thing that sets Warby Parker that stood out to me was their program "Buy a Pair, Give a Pair".  Warby Parker donates a portion of their sales to a non-profit which reaches out to men and women in developing countries how to give basic eye exams and sell glasses in their own community.

That's my story, and this is why I decided to participate in their #SeeSummerBetter campaign.

Which pair would I choose for me?

 Ames in Graphite Fog caught my eye right away.

 So fun!  

and Marcel in Plumb-Marbelwood.  

They match my dress after all.  

But then there is  Piper in Jet Black.

So Classic.

Maybe all 3?  #SeeSummerBetter

Would you create you own uniform for daily wear?

So many decisions to make in the morning choosing at outfit is sometimes the most daunting. What if you selected one outfit to wear everyday.   Would you be able to do that?  Coming from a Catholic school background,  I was quite used to doing that.  But once I was done with high school I was excited to be able to make my to make my own fashion choices.  

Some mornings it takes a lot of work to decide what to wear, and so many things to think about once I get to work maybe it would be a lot simpler just have a uniform to wear to work.  Men do it with the khaki pants and a polo shirt.  How simple is that.

I have heard that many successful business people wear very simple clothes to work to free their mind up to make decisions during the day.  Maybe we should think about saving our most creative outfits for the weekends. 

I was inspired by this article in Business Insider.
http://www.businessinsider.com/woman-wears-same-work-outfit-matilda-kahl-2015-4

My Obsession with Lace

Nobody really knows when lace was first introduced, but it is believed to date back to the early 16th century, possibly originating in Venice.  

Lace has survived into the modern era, as in this vintage Dior lace dress.

Lace is modern and chic.  Sexy yet classy.  

From left to right, Versace lace gown, Versace lace jeans, and Elie Saab Spring 2011 Couture prove that lace has a timeless quality. 

I have to admit, I am obsessed with lace.  

Green is the New Black?

This fall one of the hottest colors on the runway was Emerald Green!  Toss away the sweet summer pastels and get ready for the bold colors of fall.  This fall one of the hottest colors on the runway was Emerald Green. 

Source:  http://www.instyle.com/instyle/package/falltrends/photos/0,,20832910_20828947_30176413,00.html

From Left:  Christian Dior, Bottega Veneta, and J. Mendel  

I like this bold fashion color from the Fall 2014 collections.  Not only is it a great alternative to the fall staple of black, and let's face it, hardly anybody looks good in grey.  

Zac Posen Black Gown

I love this gown from the Zac Posen Fall Winter 2014 2014 Ready to Wear collection. 

Fitted at the bodice, with flairs at the hips, with a mermaid style cut. 

The cut is shapely, and the material is a shimmery, almost liquid black satin. 

I don't know if I would call it a LBD, but it is most certainly a gorgeous black gown.

Zac Posen's first runway way show was in 2002.  Born in 1980, this designer created a buzz around the fashion world. 

The designs price points vary from collections sold at Saks Fifth Avenue to Target.

BBC article on LBD

I suppose I am not the only person who loves the timeless fashion staple which is the little black dress.  Below is a link to an article from the BBC with a historical perspective on the LBD.  The slideshow includes a nod to my favorite fashion pioneer Coco Chanel.  I hope you enjoy reading this as much as I did.

http://www.bbc.com/culture/story/20131209-the-dress-thats-always-in-style

The First Lady of Fashion

Few First Ladies have had more influence on style as Jacqueline Kennedy.  Her timeless style is still an inspiration for modern women who want to look elegantly sophisticated, and feminine.

As a young woman, Jacqueline lived in Paris and studied at the Sorbonne.  While in Paris, she acquired her love of art history.  Her studies at the Sorbonne combined with her time in Paris inspired her impeccable taste in fashion and style.  And like every women who has ever spent any time in Paris, she also acquired an appreciation of French fashion designers.  Even after leaving Paris she continued to dress in couture from French designers Givenchy, Balenciaga, and Chanel.  

After her return to the United States she met the charismatic congressman from Massachusetts, John F. Kennedy.  The couple was married in the fall of 1953.  During this time, Mrs. Kennedy approached fashion with the same intensity that her husband approached politics.  As the wife of a senator who was looking to the presidency, her taste in Parisian fashion sparked public debate.  It was speculated that Mrs. Kennedy may be too extravagant to be relatable to the Middle American homemaker. 

In 1960 John F. Kennedy began his run for the president of the United States.  Mrs. Kennedy was issued a discrete ultimatum from her husband’s campaign to abandon her French fashion, and collaborate with American fashion designers instead.  Oleg Cassini, a social acquaintance of the Kennedy’s, had recently opened a fashion house in New York City.    Cassini successfully persuaded Jacqueline Kennedy to allow him to be her American fashion designer. 

In 1961, when Jacqueline and John Kennedy moved into the White House, the new First Lady appointed Cassini as her exclusive couturier, and he became known as the creator of the “Jackie look”.     Cassini was nicknamed the “Secretary of Style”.  He created a wardrobe for Jacqueline that featured original and copies of Parisian designs.    The First Lady often supplied Cassini with fabric swatches, sketches and pages torn from magazines.  During the time Jacqueline Kennedy was First Lady he designed over 300 outfits for her which included evening gowns, coats, dresses, and suits. 

Women across America fell in love with the “Jackie look” and flocked to copy her styles.  Dresses that were inspired by her clothes flew out of the stores, and Cassini was firmly established as a great American designer.  Although the roles of women in society have changed drastically in the last 50 years, Jacqueline Kennedy’s look still influences fashion today.  From the pillbox hat, to the simple suit, and to the elegant gowns, women can find fashion inspiration by emulating the fashion of Jacqueline Kennedy. 

Sources:

http://www.vogue.com/voguepedia/Jacqueline_Kennedy_Onassis

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/03/18/AR2006031801379.html

http://www.legacy.com/ns/news-story.aspx?t=oleg-cassini-and-the-jackie-look&id=787

http://www.amazon.com/Thousand-Days-Magic-Dressing-Jacqueline/dp/0847819000

Christian Louboutin

I saw this on Pinterist and I had to share.  The essential style guide to Christian Louboutin shoes.  Decisions, decisions. 

One more LBD that I Iove!

I ran across this LBD (little black dress) on Pinterest, and I thought was a great illustration of the timelessness of a classic LBD.

This is a silk chiffon dress from the 1950's.  It was organically sold at Saks Fifth Avenue.

I simply adore the lovely feminine detailing.  

This dress was available through Hemlock Vintage Clothing, and sadly, has been sold.
http://www.hemlockvintage.com/feed/50s021109.html

Parisian Staples of Style

Parisian women are effortlessly gorgeous.  

That is because Parisian women know how to employ basic fashion staples that are simple yet elegant.  Below are some of the basic Parisian style staples that every woman should own. 

http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m4dvfaP6bH1qlwrezo1_1280.jpg

Little Black Dress

Coco Chanel coined the term in 1926, and it has been a fashion staple ever since.  Audrey Hepburn was unforgettable in a Chanel LBD Breakfast at Tiffany's.

Parisian women understand the principle of the Little Black Dress. The LBD is a fashion staple is because it is so versatile. It can go from day to night with nothing more than a well placed sweater or jacket, and a change of accessories.  The LBD is flattering on everyone.  The key is to know you body type and find a LBD (or two) that is flattering on you.  

http://tastyprettythings.com/jennifer-aniston-style/

Lingerie

It has been rumored that Parisian spend 20% or more on their undergarments.  Beautiful lingerie makes you feel beautiful from the first layer that touches you skin.   

For inspiration from French lingerie designers visit: http://us.chantelle.com/en/ 

or http://www.agentprovocateur.com

http://us.chantelle.com/en/vendome-coque.html

Trench Coat
Basic black or simple neutral, a trench coat is a Parisian woman's style staple.  A trench coat adds sophistication to any outfit.  That is me in the black trench coat on the streets of Paris.  

Parisian women know that when  selecting pieces, to go for quality not quantity.  These pieces are meant to be style staples, and should be classic, and not necessarily trendy. 

Saturday

Having fun with  polyvore.com, I created a relaxed, casual outfit.  

Saturday by jacquelynzalar featuring a blue topaz cocktail ring

Mango slimming dress
£40 - mango.com

Carvela brown boots
£99 - johnlewis.com

Body bag
£7 - peacocks.co.uk

ABS by Allen Schwartz gold tone jewelry
$150 - bloomingdales.com

Blue topaz cocktail ring
$179 - intermixonline.com

Jules Smith fringe earrings
£85 - flannelsfashion.com

Packing for Paris

I am having the type of dilemma I thought I could only dream about.  I am leaving for a two-week trip to France next month.  I am spending one week in Paris and one week on the French Rivera.  I am going to meet my boyfriend who has been working out of the country for the past few months, and I am so excited to see him!  I am so thrilled to be spending time with mon amour in one of the most romantic places in the world.  Tres bien!

But here is my dilemma, what to pack?  I have checked the weather, and it is going to be in the high 50's, which is bone chilling for a Florida girl like me.  So I am thinking sweaters that I can layer, my treasured cashmere coat, and my short black trench coat.  He tells me we will be staying in a hotel that is near the Notre Dame, and we can walk to just about all the sights.  I am thinking flat boots and flats paired with leggings and skinny jeans.  Maybe a few pairs of heels, just because I cannot imagine life without them.  

For a bit of color, I am going bring a few scarves.  Planning on packing a few dresses, some sweater dresses and some for going out.  Florida girls don't wear stockings under their dresses, but I am assuming in France that is a big no-no.  Speaking of no-no's, I am also going to leave anything blingey at home.  I don't want to look like a tacky American tourist!  

Calling all fashionistas I need your help!  Please leave your comments and suggestions!

Frugalista

A new trend for frugal fashionistas can proudly label themselves frugalistas.  In fact, investopedia.com even saw fit to define a frugalista as “people who keep up with fashion trends without spending a lot of money.”

 

Here are some ideas for every frugalista:

Audrey Hepburn
Classic never go out of style.

1.  Find a good shoe repair shop.  Shoes are expensive, so why replace when you can repair? 

2.  Shop at second-hand stores and consignment shops.  You never know what sort of treasure you will find. 

3.  Rent a knock-out outfit for your next big event.  Pay a fraction of the cost for gowns and dresses you may only wear once. 

4. Clothes and purse swap with your friends!  Just make sure you return them clean and in good condition, if you want to keep your friends!

5.  Find a good inexpensive seamstress.  You may find something that is a bargain, but not the right size.  A good seamstress can alter it to make it the perfect fit. 

6.  Accessorize!  Creative use of accessories can change the look of an outfit.  Bright scarves can add a pop of color to an all-black ensemble.  Belts, jewelry, shoes can also change the look of an outfit.

7.  Go for quality over quantity.  Good quality classic pieces will last many many seasons.  Don’t try to follow every trend that will be out of style next year. 

Saving money does not mean sacrificing style, with a little creativity you can save money and still be a fashionista.  Therefore I say viva la frugalista!

Photo source:  http://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/trends/articles/fashion-designer-quiz

My Perfect Winter Outfit

Source: Victoria's Secret Catalog

Even in sunny Florida it turns cold.  I know my northern friends may be snickering right now, but it is cold to us down here in the sunshine state!  

With that in mind, I put together a great outfit to brave this winter weather, and it will even work up north!  And if my boyfriend is reading this blog… (hint hint).

I love this sweater dress from the  Victoria’s Secret catalog.  It comes in white, black, grey, and plum, but the blue is my choice.  At 5 foot 2 (without heels), white may make me look like a little snowman, and I don't think that would be a good look for me.  Picture it with some black boots, and it is warm and cozy all day, not to mention beautiful and stylish also.

Source:  SteveMadden.com

Speaking of boots, I have never met a pair of Steve Madden’s that I didn’t like.  (Well maybe when he tried to venture into Ugg-ville, but I am the forgiving type, so I will let that go.)  As my closet will attest, Steve Madden is my go-to guy for shoes and boots, and his designs are at a price point that won’t make me cringe when I think about how much I paid.  These boots even have a name, Calgarry.   Love the high heel, platform, and the black suede. They also go over the knee, which is perfect to wear with a dress.  But a word of caution, when  wearing over-the-knee boots with pants tucked in, go with a tunic or dress, anything else may make you look like you moonlight at a job that involves a pole (if you get my drift).

Source:  Nordstrom.com

To complete this outfit, I need the perfect bag.  I have always been a fan a Kenneth Cole accessories.  Well, usually because I can find them at Marshall’s and Burlington Coat Factory for a fraction of their original price, but I digress.  I love the little hobo bag by Kenneth Cole, and it can be found at Nordstroms. And yes, it's Nordstroms, and (gulp) it is at full price.  

Merry Christmas and happy shopping everybody!  Remember, it is the season of giving, but don’t forget to reward yourself this season with a fabulous new outfit!  

To find these pieces online, here are the links:

Victoria's Secret Sweater Dress

http://www.victoriassecret.com/clothing/sweaterdresses?pageAt=2

Steve Madden Boots

http://www.stevemadden.com/Item.aspx?id=52051&np=596

Kennith Cole Purse

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/3131355?origin=category&resultback=4163