Stripe Show

March 2, 2011

From vertical to horizontal and every angle in between, stripes have a strong role in this season’s line up. I know some of us get a little anxious at the idea of stripes, but they are really quite friendly and have the power to lift and lengthen a figure. Diagonal stripes are perhaps the easiest to wear, vertical stripes can make you look taller and horizontal stripes can balance your figure. Once you earn your stripes this season, pair them with something solid to keep from being overwhelmed by patterns.

Rugby

A nautical striped tee is easy-peasy Parisian style. Add slouchy chinos for a Left Bank feel. Crisp capris and espadrilles seem very French Rivieria.

Milly

A striped silk dress with a lightweight blazer it’s perfect for graduations. Without a jacket it’s your go to summer wedding guest dress.

Gap

A broken stripe in black, white and grey is substantial enough to wear now with tights and rain boots. Try it this summer with chunky sandals and an armful of bangles.

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Pattern Play

February 16, 2011

It’s almost spring- close enough so that I think we start talking about it. After the somberness of fall fashion designers needed a bit of cheering up. The happy prints they used this spring are bound to make you smile. Work them into you wardrobe with one of the ideas below or swap out your solid colored scarf for one with a bold design.

Boden USA

A floral print raincoat will keep you “singing in the rain” during spring showers. Look for something microfiber or a coated cotton rather than a rain slicker so that you can wear it when the forecast is sunny skies.

LL Bean Signature

The woven t shirt has been on the runways for a few seasons and fruit patterns are all the rage this season. Keep the fabric lightweight to be able to tuck it in for office days. Wear it untucked for carefree moments.

Steve Madden

It’s so much easier to trip, dance or walk the light fantastic in a chipper pair of shoes. Something comfortable and cheerful make for happy feet, which always makes for a happy day.

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Second Chances

February 2, 2011

Happy Groundhog Day! Since I know a number of you could do without the prospect of another 6 weeks of winter, let’s focus on the movie instead. If you feel like you’ve seen some of springs fashion before, it’s probably because you have. Luckily a little fashion deja vu can mean you’re ahead of the game, style-wise. Here are three trends of 2010 that are continuing into 2011.

Patrizia Pepe

Those rainbow bright accessories you bought last year are perfect for adding a boost of color to a dreary winter day. And if you’re in love with the bright color trend, a jacket or light weight coat is a great addition to your warm weather wardrobe.

The Limited

Lace blouses continue to be on trend, but if they aren’t your style, try a lace skirt. Keep it office-able by seeking out a dark color and a straight to pencil silhouette.

Vince

Fall saw a lot whiskey, congac and bourbon colored clothing. Call it camel and you’re up to date. It’s being heavily paired with red and coral this season, which (see “Brights” above) are easily added to your repertoire.

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In the Pink

January 19, 2011

Winter. Yawn. I’m starting to get tired of it. Which is precisely why I’m seeking out some spring notes to invigorate my winter clothes. As has been noted, pink is the color of 2011. Whether you’re blushing or shocking or somewhere in between, there’s a perfect pink for you.

Ecco

Soft pink shoes pair prettily with black, grey, navy and brown. Wear them with pants for now and skirts when the weather warms up.

Charlotte Russe

Sweater jackets are still going strong this spring. A double breasted version with coral stripes adds a hint of the French Riviera to a winter wardrobe.

Dooney & Bourke

A vibrant bag can quickly become a constant companion as it’s so much more fun than basic black or brown. Make sure it has enough pockets to keep you organized- otherwise it will fade to the back of your closet.

In the Trenches

January 5, 2011

“Resort” is a curious fashion creation. It’s a lonely little collection between seasons that’s generally forgotten these days. Once upon a time it was designed exclusively for women who would inevitably tire of where ever they were wintering, like St. Moritz, and pack their bags for some place warmer, like St. Barths. Those elitist origins overshadow the moral of this fashion story: these clothes are designed for travel. This is the collection of well cut trousers, go to tops and the perfect trench coat.

Burberry Trench

Burberry

Burberry made some the very first trench coats in WWI and remains the gold standard today. Yes, they’re super spendy, but no one cuts a better one and it will last you a lifetime.

Land's End Trench

Land's End

Trench coats are generally worn as a wind breaker or rain coat, but not as protection from icy cold weather. If you’re buying one, make sure it’s waterproof. If your easily chilled, look for one with a removable liner for warmth.

Diane von Furstenberg

The traditional trench coat is double breasted with 10 buttons. Feel free to look for variations, but pick only one twist on the original theme to keep your coat timelessly wearable.

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