4 Fall Accessory Trends to Fall for in 2015
It’s not just the promise of pumpkin spice lattes that makes us weak in the knees come September. For us fashion girls, fall means we get to break out our favorite cozy sweaters, scarves, and leather boots that have been hiding in storage all summer.
Fall also means back-to-school shopping. So while we’ll be headed to the boardroom instead of the classroom, some things haven’t changed- we’re still excited to upgrade our wardrobes. Here are the 4 fall accessory trends we’re swooning over.
Brooches:
No, we didn’t raid our grandma’s jewelry box- these brooches are a modern day nod to the classic style. But brooches aren’t just for lapels anymore- we’re seeing them on dresses, on shoes, and in hair. We love the one-of-a-kind look of a bold brooch on a fall jacket, or a gem encrusted pin tucked into a loose bun for nighttime sparkle.
A statement earring:
Yes, you heard us- that’s “earring”. Not for the faint of heart, this is one of fall’s hottest trends for the daring fashionista. If you want to embrace the trend without looking like you got dressed in the dark, we recommend wearing both earrings from one of the pairs below. They’re a departure from the norm, but you won’t feel the need to hide behind your hair all day.
Fringe handbags:
Undeniably, fringe just feels like fall. And whether you prefer boho or ladylike, you’ll find a fringe handbag to fit your style. Hunter green and tan look chic, while black and bright red have the rocker edge you’re looking for.
Remember, a great handbag that’ll take you through the season doesn’t need to be expensive. When choosing a handbag, look for quality hardware and keep in mind that neutral colors tend to look more expensive.
Fall hats:
If you want to look like an instant celebrity, a chic topper is the way to go. This season, felt hats in camel, navy, red, and black are on our wish list. Structured or floppy, these cool-girl accessories are universally flattering, fall appropriate, and make even the worst of bad hair days look polished.
We’ve heard some readers say they love the look, but don’t know how to wear a hat. We suggest choosing a hat in a neutral, goes-with-everything shade and keeping the size of the hat in proportion with your face and body. Wear it with a low braid or loose waves, and throw on some shades for an added air of mystery.
Now you: Which accessory are you going to rock this Fall?
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New York Fashion Week 2015
As fashionistas, our favorite time of the year in New York City is sadly coming to an end, but not to worry London and Milan Fashion Week are still underway! The shows at this year’s New York Fashion Week spring 2016 had the most fabulous designers showcasing many different looks. I’d like to discuss what went down on the runway, starting with one of my all time favorite designers – Rebecca Minkoff.
Known for her playful and subtly edgy designs, Rebecca Minkoff definitely made a statement at NYFW with her Spring 2016 collection. She decided to go with a ‘60s mod “it girl” feel, inspired by English singer-songwriter Marianne Faithfull, and her youthful, yet rebellious, style. Her collection carried an effortless mod vibe with updated twists. From the makeup to the footwear, her line embodied a throwback to a cool, downtown feel of London in the ‘60s. Minkoff’s show started out with a parade of light colors consisting of ivory, bone and creams eventually giving away to black.
Embracing the decade, she incorporated lots of fringe in to different articles of clothing and handbags, as well as adding laces to compliment one another. The geo-floral prints, flowing dresses, mod-enamel jewelry and pastels of her collection, as well as more edgy leather and suede pieces, carry a very heavy bohemian influence.
The accessories of the spring collection carried over mirroring the boho, fringe trend. Models wore gladiator heels, cutout knee-high boots and slouchy, cross-body bags to pull together the looks.
Cross-body bags are perfect for on the go and going out because they’re a quick “throw over the shoulder” and you’re ready, you don’t need to worry about lugging around a giant tote or holding on to your clutch. The great thing about gladiators being “in” next spring is their versatility — you can pair them with practically anything from cotton dresses to rompers or even shorts. The spring boho chic will definitely be seen all over NYC streets come April sporting fringe and floral in all its glory! I know I can’t wait!
Photos : Vogue Runway
WHITE: How Do You Wear It After Labor Day?
Wearing white after Labor Day is no longer considered gauche. Breaking tradition is infinitely trendier than sticking to the fashion rulebook as long as you do it with style and fashion is all about breaking the rules right? The New York City heat is to thank for this infamous fashion faux pa but the rules are changing and white is in all year long. It’s the classic, timeless and utmost elegant color one can wear regardless of the time of year. The key to wearing it you’re wondering? Match it to the season you’re in and you’ll be the chicest one in the room.
As autumn is approaching us here in New York I’ll be incorporating some different hues of white in a few different ways. One big way will be through creams; once the leaves start to fall and the sweet, crisp Fall air hits the city streets you’ll be ready to embrace these cozy fabrics. There’s not a better time to wear a white wool or tweed pantsuit or a soft cream cashmere sweater. You’ll be sure to look chic while embracing the changing of the season.
Many people are terrified of wearing white in the winter than the snow, but you shouldn’t be one of them. Embrace that “winter white” and keep warm during this snowy season with a mohair jacket or sweater. Minx, fox, and Mongolian lamb fur were pasted all over everything from jackets to dresses during New York Fashion Week last Spring so why not rock them in white to keep cozy and look like a fashionista?
Although Spring and Summer seem like a million years away, they’ll be here before you know it and it’s never too early to think about what you’ll want to wear as the flowers bloom. As it starts to warm up it’s time to pull out those classic white t’s everyone should have because they’re a perfect go-to. If you’re looking for something a little more sophisticated a three-quartered sleeved white blazer or cotton button down is perfect for the warmer weather.
Pleated skirts in different lengths as well as fabrics such as leather, tropical wool, and linen are always a clean-cut way to wear white in the Springtime as well.
Flash Forwarding to Summer, everyone’s favorite time of year and keep cool in white. Whether it’s through a crop top or a cotton dress you’ll be sure to be dressed to impress. Cotton is a perfect way to keep cool and look clean cut, it could be a romper, shirt, or even a dress. A go to in the summer of mine would definitely be white jeans, they’re perfect for a afternoon lunch to even dressing it up to head out for a late night.
As for accessorizing with white in any season I like to add metallics whether it’s through my jewelry, clutch, belt or shoes just to soften the overall look. Whether you choose to stand out in all white or wearing it more subtly don’t be afraid to wear white after Labor Day.
Now you tell us: What white piece are you rocking after Labor Day?
8 Ways to Shop Your Closet
We can think of few statements more cliché than “I have nothing to wear”. But like losing your car keys when you’re running late for work and never having an umbrella when it rains, it’s a cliché for a reason. Why? Stuffed-to-the-brim closets, blouses with tags on, and impulse purchases (for starters).Take a cue from the people who do it best- fashion retailers- and turn your closet into a ready-to-wear boutique.
1. Empty Out Off-Season Items
There’s a reason you won’t see wool coats in Bloomie’s in July. Put simply, you can’t shop in a store that’s cluttered and chaotic. Empty out your closet- take it all out- and put it on your bed or the floor. Grab off-season items and pack them away in storage bags or under-bed boxes. Best part? Since you won’t see these pieces for 6 months, they’ll feel brand new next season
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2. Organize Your Closet
Time to put everything back in your closet. Make your wardrobe “shoppable” by sorting items first by garment type, then by color and pattern. Hang items the way you dress, with shirts on top, pants on bottom, and shoes underneath, so you can easily see outfit combinations.
Then steal this trick from retailers: hang items near other items you’d like to try them with. According to the Daily Mail, Mickey Drexler- the ‘king of retail’ who revolutionized brands like Ann Taylor, Gap, and most recently J. Crew- revealed that, “a pair of shoes or selection of belts might be placed near a contrasting dress or shirt, helping the customer imagine how they might put a look together.” Try it in your own closet for a fresh spin on your go-to garments.
Hang your bright top with a skirt & accessories for a ready-to-wear outfit
3. Keep A List Of New Items You Need
After your closet is organized, it will be easy to see what’s missing. Do a closet “inventory”: got 17 black tees, but no boyfriend blazers? Make a list of items you need- basic white tees, a classic trench coat, a tailored jacket- then fill in the gaps with pieces that fit your personal brand.
4. Follow The Rule Of 3
Cut back on haphazard shopping and maximize your wardrobe possibilities by following the rule of 3: every new item should make 3 new outfits with the clothing you already own.
5. Use Pinterest To Build New Outfits With Your Existing Pieces
Stores know the secret to turning browsers into buyers is helping them visualize the product in their everyday lives. “The most tried and true example of this would be the mannequin…this tactic gives prospective customers an immediate point of reference and as soon as they can envision your product on themselves or in their homes, you can consider it as good as sold,” says Humayun Khan at Shopify.
Find your own fashion “mannequins” on Pinterest. Pick an item you already own- like a denim jacket- and type it into the search. You’ll quickly find dozens of options for ways to wear it that you had never thought of, without constantly buying new pieces.
Another favorite source of outfit inspiration
6. Wear Pieces In An Unexpected Way
Aside from mannequins, retailers have another trick up their sleeves: impeccably stylish employees. They always have a fresh take on the store’s basic pieces. They unbutton a chambray shirt and wear it like a jacket, make a wide cuff on a pair of skinny jeans, or tie a top over a maxi dress and wear it like a skirt. Look at your pieces through new eyes and see how you can wear them in an unexpected way.
7. Get Items Tailored
Recently, stores like Club Monaco and Ralph Lauren have started offering free or inexpensive alterations. Why? A perfect fit off-the-rack is a rarity. The same is true for your closet. For just a few dollars, a tailor can shorten a hem or remove sleeves and transform your pieces into something totally new.
8. Add Accessories
Retailers know that accessories can turn an otherwise boring top or dress into a must-have piece. Try this pro tip from our creative owner, Christine: instead of building your outfit around a top or pants (which can leave you feeling totally uninspired), start with a fresh piece like a statement piece or eye-catching shoe.
Now you: Which tip will you use to shop your closet?
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How to Wear Summer Accessories When It’s Scorching Out
This month’s reader question: It feels like a furnace outside! Which summer accessories will keep me cool and still look hot?
Says Sinners & Saints founder, Christine: “Since we’re in August, we have a few more weeks left in the heat. If you’re like me, you want to be comfortable- no fuss. Focus on one statement accessory and don’t overclutter your outfit. Here are my top 5 summer accessories to stay cool in the heat.”
1. A Shady Fedora
When the sun is scorching, “It’s a timeless topper that can transition from poolside to rooftop cocktails.” You can’t go wrong with a classic straw fedora- but black and white are undeniably chic. Wear it with any outfit for a comfortable (and yes, unpretentious) dose of style.
2. Bold Bangles
“The bigger the bangle, the better,” says Christine. Leave your other jewelry at home and choose one statement bracelet for a striking addition to any outfit. Wearing white? Pair it with a bright bangle. Or choose gleaming metallics and white enamel for a modern, minimalist vibe that’s in keeping with the season.
3. A Light-as-Air Bag
“When it’s hot out, you don’t want to lug around a heavy bag. Keep it light.” For day, a crossbody bag keeps your hands free (to carry an iced green tea, maybe?). Christine loves a lightweight satchel in a fun summer color like tangerine or aquamarine.
At night, a clutch in seasonal hues adds a summery pop to your basic LBD. Downsize your everyday bag to fit the evening essentials: a lipstick in a vivid shade, sweat-proof mascara, and a space-saving blush/bronzer compact.
4. A Breezy Head Scarf
Take a cue from fashion’s models and muses- Kate Moss, Ali McGraw, and Brigitte Bardot, to name a few- and trade your lazy ponytail for a head scarf. “It’s the perfect accessory when it’s hot out and you don’t feel like styling your hair,” says Christine. “And you can wear it no matter your hair length.” Why not try a bold mix-and-match pattern for a playful look?
Dana at Wonder Forest offers an easy tutorial on how to tie a head scarf– Christine will be rocking the slim turban with her new shoulder-grazing summer cut.
5. Eye-Catching Sunnies
“Try frames in a fun color to make your outfit pop.” The frames may be bright, but they’ll shade your eyes in style. Plus, they’re a go-anywhere accessory that’s easy throw on no matter your outfit or hairstyle.
Fortunately, you don’t need to break the bank to stay on-trend. You can find a rainbow of frames at your favorite department store, or even a kiosk at the mall.
Now you: What’s your favorite summer accessory? Tell us in the comments below.
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Photo creds: Erik Jimenez- BeautyStory Studio
3 Sensational Summer Color Trends to Wear Right Now
We regret those mustard jeans we “just had to have” last season as much as you do. And yet, we’ve been seeing this summer’s color trends- like scuba blue, custard yellow, and glass green- and thinking we just have to have them in our closet.
It’s no surprise we’re so smitten with this season’s shades. According to Pantone’s Fashion Color Report, “This season, cooler and softer color choices with subtle warm tones follow a minimalistic en plein air theme, taking a cue from nature.”
Fortunately, there’s a wallet-friendly way to wear these gorgeous colors without the commitment (or the year-old mustard jeans regret): accessories. From nail polish to watches, we’ve scoped out our accessory picks in summer’s best hues.
Keep reading for tips on when to wear and how to pair with what’s already in your closet.
If bubblegum pink reminds you of Barbie, try: strawberry ice
Although the name reminds us of a cool summer treat, this warmish pink is universally flattering (we swear). The subtleness of this shade feels oh-so-sophisticated, not saccharine. We’d wear it in a sheer lipgloss or crystalline studs for a romantic touch. Navy and tangerine (another summer favorite!) are the perfect complement.
If turquoise is your blue de rigeur, try: aquamarine
Relaxing and pacific, this desaturated take on classic blue is like AC for your wardrobe. Paint on an aquamarine nail or slip on a pair of shades, and you’re instantly more refreshed.
We chatted with Glenroy March, the NY-based designer behind sleek House of D’Marsh, who says this hue looks fresh with faded denim and a white t-shirt. “Aquamarine picks up the blue in the jeans,” he told us. Choose an amazing piece like this bracelet or statement necklace to make your casual outfits pop.
If neon is too zingy, try: tangerine
Less aggressive and more wearable, this succulent orange evokes thoughts of cocktails on a sun-drenched patio. This summer, tangerine is the life of the party. An unexpected shoe or airy scarf is the perfect way to pull a pop of citrus into your basic wardrobe.
We’re also in love with this bold collar necklace- it’s an outfit-maker that works equally well for work or weekend. Glenroy suggests pairing an orange necklace with a basic suit and a great blouse and letting the sunny color peek out between the lapels. “Jewelry can be amazing,” he says. “It brings a smile to your face.”
Now you: which hue are you wearing this season? Is there a shade you’d love to see for fall?
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3 WAYS TO MIX & MATCH LIKE A PRO
Mix and match fashion- that perfectly imperfect blend- walks a fine line between looking like an off-duty model and looking like a six year old dressed you. Here, we give you a crash course in achieving the former.
When we were little, we loved playing dress up. Stacks of bangles, polka dot dresses, sequined scarves- the more, the better. Mix and match fashion- as seen on every blogger worth her Manolos- is fun because it’s so almost outrageous. Enough and you seem wordly, too much and you stray into clown territory.
As Jenna Lyons, the queen of laissez-faire layering, says, “The overthinking doesn’t go well, the quicker out the door the better.” Perhaps that’s why we’re so in love with this look- it’s utterly chic without even trying.
But for those of us who, unlike Ms. Lyons, weren’t born with the style gene, here’s how to work your way up to mix master:
Beginner: Start With Solids
If mixing plaids and pineapples feels kitschy to you, ease into the mix & match trend by trading your basic neutrals for a colorful look. Pick solid pieces in complementary hues, like tangerine and teal, for a summery pop. Just remember that, like black and white, “opposites attract”.
Intermediate: Choose One Focal Point
Start with a standalone piece, like a shirt in a bright botanical or brazen stripe. Then add solid pieces in hues borrowed from your pattern. The trick to achieving a mix that’s more “Karlie Kloss” than kindergarten is picking one of the less expected shades from your pattern.
Pro: Match Colors, Not Prints
The secret to an eclectic mix? Keep it in the (color) family. Find prints that share a hue to make the look cohesive yet fashion forward. Play with the scale of your patterns- try a wide stripe with a dainty floral, or mix stripes of varying sizes- but make sure they have one color in common.
Add A Dash Of Print With Accessories: Accessories are a low-commitment way to pull in a funky pattern. Don’t be afraid to add a geo-print clutch or leopard shoe (leopard is basically a neutral, anyway). Just don’t overdo it on prints in your outfit- as a rule of thumb, two is plenty.
What Jewelry Goes With Mix & Match Outfits?: Simplicity is key when pairing jewelry with prints or bold colors. Go for a simple gold or silver bracelet or a special ring to keep your look clean and uncluttered.
Now you: are you a beginner, intermediate, or mix master? What’s your favorite pattern to play with? Tell us in the comments below.
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HOW TO SPICE UP YOUR BASICS
No longer just weekend wear, basics are having a big moment. From the Row’s utilitarian poplin shirts to Calvin Klein’s perpetually sleek maxis, we’re seeing simple pieces everywhere these days. But doing it right can be tricky: you don’t want to end up looking frumpy when you’re going for French it-girl. Over Saturday morning conversation that strayed from our favorite pancake toppings to crop tops and back again, Sinners & Saints founder Christine D’Amore dished on her favorite recipes to make your basics anything but boring.
On Getting Dressed (And Pancakes): “When you’re making pancakes, you start with a recipe. Then you can throw in whatever you want and make them special, but the basic recipe doesn’t change.” Like pancakes, Christine insists the secret to a great outfit is knowing your basic recipe.
She recommends refining a few basic silhouettes that work for your body and suit your aesthetic. For her, that might mean a crop top + wideleg pant + sandals one day, or a white tank + skinny jeans + heels the next- both totally different, but still her.
Define Your Basic Recipe: The biggest mistake people make when getting dressed, we learned, is trying to reinvent the wheel every day. “This doesn’t need to be difficult. Do you like to wear tank tops? Grab a tank top. Hate wearing skirts? Don’t keep them in your closet.” (In other words, if crop tops aren’t your thing, don’t buy them.)
Stock Up On These Basics: “I’m all about inexpensive basics. H&M, Zara, Forever 21…” says Christine.
When you’re shopping for budget basics, look for simple shapes and minimal details. Just make sure everything fits, and stick with fabrics that feel good on your skin.
Add 1 Statement Piece That Embodies Your Style: Make even the most predictable basics your own with (no surprise here) a statement accessory. A white tee is instantly edgy with the addition of a leather jacket, preppy with pearl studs and canvas sneakers, or fashion-forward with a pair of boyfriend jeans and bright heels.
Swap Out Your Basic Ingredients: Once you’ve mastered your basic silhouette and extras, you can easily change up the ingredients. If you’re a red lipstick girl, swap it for coral; if you always wear your hair down, throw it up in a messy pony.
We’re envisioning a wardrobe we’ll love for years to come, and less time spent getting dressed…maybe we’ll finally have time to master that pancake recipe.
Now you: Would you ever try creating a “recipe” for your outfits?
Photo Creds: Erik Jimenez- BeautyStory Studio
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ASK A STYLIST: 4TH OF JULY OUTFITS
This month:
“How do I wear red, white, and blue for the 4th of July without looking cheesy?”
We followed our head stylist, Christine, through Central Park to learn how to put together the perfect 4th of July outfit. She shared her best tips for looking patriotic without going overboard or spending a fortune on a one-time wear.
“For the 4th of July, it’s all about building your outfit around one conversation starter. Not only will you look cute, but you’ll have something to chat about! Don’t overdo the rest of your outfit- no one wants to be hot or fussy when they should be having fun.”
Don’t Break the Bank: “You don’t need a brand new outfit for the 4th of July. Shop your closet for red, white, and blue pieces like colored jeans, a basic white or striped tee, or navy flats. If you want to add a patriotic pop, make it an inexpensive accessory like a headscarf.”
Try Colored Frames: “These cute red sunnies are so on-trend right now. And they don’t need to be expensive- this pair was $10.”
Lighten Up: “You can’t go wrong with white jeans for summer. Dress them up or down with a printed tank and heels or flat sandals.”
Check the Weather: “The first thing I do before I pick out an outfit is check the weather on my phone. It was beautiful the day we shot these photos in Central Park, but it’s been unusually chilly in NYC lately. No matter how badly you want to wear a certain outfit, it’s not worth freezing or sweltering.”
Wear the Right Shoes: “I couldn’t resist these blue heels, but this outfit would work equally well with strappy sandals. If I’m wearing heels, I always throw a pair of flats in my bag- and I love summery wedges for a picnic or BBQ!”
Beauty Tip: “A bold red lip is an unexpected and sophisticated way to add a festive pop of color. My favorite red is MAC’s Ruby Woo.”
Now you: What are your plans this 4th of July? What will you be wearing? Tell us in the comments.
Photo creds: Erik Jimenez- BeautyStory Studio
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1 PAIR OF JEANS, 2 WAYS
Denim is a girl’s best friend. So if we can get away with wearing our favorite jeans to the farmers market AND a swanky restaurant, you better believe we will.
We’re firm believers that you don’t need to spend a fortune or have a closet stuffed with clothes to look stylish. So we’ve put together two different looks to remind you how versatile (and chic!) the perfect pair of jeans can be.
Here’s a fresh take on your favorite closet staple:
1. Choose a Unique Pair: Instead of your usual faded denim, we like to switch it up with a dark wash. Distressing gives this pair just the right amount of edge.
2. Add Easy Basics: With a simple white tee and converse, you’ve got a comfy casual mix that’s always appropriate. A leather cuff or two (these are from the Sinners & Saints collection) echoes the downtown cool feel of the jeans.
3. Bright Accessories Make it Pop: Summer is approaching, so we love colorful accessories. A bright bag adds a splash of fun to an otherwise neutral outfit, and a gold cuff glams it up for nighttime.
Now you: What’s your favorite denim look? Tell us in the comments.
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Photo creds: Erik Jimenez-BeautyStory Studio
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