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.
All photos created on:Â http://www.polyvore.com/
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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:Â 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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HOW TO MASTER THE DAY-TO-DATE-NIGHT TRANSITION: MAKE A STATEMENT
Did spring skip over anyone else? It’s gone from freezing to HOT here in NYC (and back again!). And if you’re like me, you don’t feel like spending an hour in front of your closet when it’s this gorgeous outside.
I love neutral basics for day and night- nothing beats the convenience of throwing on a simple dress or a silky tank. But how do you keep your everyday favorites feeling fresh?
Besides being totally on-trend, a statement necklace is the perfect way to add a pop of color & texture to your outfits without sweltering. Here’s how to do it:
1. Make Sure it’s Comfortable: Heavy, scratchy pieces are out. Look for lightweight details like beading and choose a necklace with backing for ultimate comfort. This piece from the Sinners & Saints collection has a leather backing that makes it ridiculously comfortable, even for sensitive skin (like mine!).
2. Choose Simplicity for Day: Nothing is more light and airy than a white sundress. This one has been in my closet since last year and it’s still a favorite. You could also swap out the dress for a white tee or tank. Top it off with a bold necklace and you’re ready to go.
3. Think Sexy for Night: Whatever your style, all black basics + killer shoes are a no-fail combo for date night. I chose a seductive LBD and strappy heels, but a pair of leather shorts and a flowy top would look just as chic. I love how the bright necklace pops against the black dress.
Now you:Â Do you have a favorite day or date night outfit for summer? Post it in the comments below.
BEHIND THE SCENES: SINNERS & SAINTS NYC
If you’ve ever wondered how to knock “weekend casual” out of the park or felt a pang of disappointment when you spot someone at a party wearing the same necklace, then you’re going to get along perfectly with Christine D’Amore. She’s the petite-but-powerful creative force behind Sinners & Saints (she’s only 5′ 4″!) who’s bringing you runway-worthy accessories without the runway price tag.
From special pieces to mix with your favorite skirt or jeans, to outfit-makers that will shake up your 9-to-5 look, she’ll make sure you never suffer from “boredrobe syndrome” again.
Best part? The NYC-based stylist has created a collection of uber-cool pieces that no one else has— read on for a sneak peek.
When it came to choosing accessories for Sinners & Saints, Christine was- in her own words- obsessed. Although she was inspired by high-end finds, she knew she wanted to create a collection of accessories that was both gorgeous and affordable.
So she asked friends in the fashion industry. She chatted with jewelry makers. And she searched the internet. “I sat there on my laptop for hours looking for the perfect pieces. I wanted to find items that were unique and something that I would love to wear.”
We think it was worth the effort: she’s created a collection that she describes as “totally wearable, high-quality, and one-of-a-kind. I want my customers to have pieces that will last, and create memories in them.”
TIME TO CHOOSE SINNERS & SAINTS’ FIRST PIECE: 6 months
CUPS OF COFFEE: Lost track
NUMBER OF NECKLACES TRIED ON: At least 25
FAVORITE ITEM:
 
SOUNDTRACK: “Aerosmith, AC/DC, Rolling Stones, and Queen. There’s something about the music that gets me to focus and gets my creativity going… P.S., it’s on full blast in my headphones.”
HOW SHE UNWINDS: “I like to run outside to clear my head…and after a long week, I like to indulge in a really tall glass of wine or a dirty martini.”
CHRISTINE’S STYLE IN 3 WORDS: “Innovative, trendy- and of course, comfortable.”
NEVER LEAVES THE HOUSE WITHOUT: “My  sunglasses and MAC lipstick.”
When it comes her own style, Christine’s all about versatility. “I’m not running around at work in leather pants. On the weekend, I’m wearing jeans and Converse. So I wanted to find pieces that you can actually wear to the office or out for drinks with the girls.”
Her fashion advice? “Be unique. Be you. Be creative! Those are my three B’s of fashion. Can you wear leather in the spring with your floral skirt? YES! Can you rock green pants and a yellow top? YES! I keep up with current trends, but I always like to add my own twist on things. It’s all about being creative!”
Expect to see more original finds, plus tips on how to remix each piece and refresh your style for any occasion.
Now you: We’d love to know what you want to see on the blog. What tips, tricks, and topics would you love to see more of?