Neutral-ize!

If you're like me, you are BUSY preparing for the holidays.  In my case this involves lots of packing, and planning for outfits for all sorts of gatherings...for my husband, children, and myself.  Sometimes the process can be quite stressful. 

Well, here is a fool-proof plan for an elegant, on trend, holiday outfit: Neutral-ize.


Pair different pieces in the same color scheme together.  Mix cream, tan, nude, winter white, khaki, and brown to create an elegant palette.  Layer tones, textures, and proportions. Add some jewelry to make the look your own. Voila! 

 

Stylist Tip: If you are fair, avoid your complexion appearing "washed out" (as my grandmother would say), by using ample blush and lipstick or lip stain for color. Make sure your face has plenty of color!

Looks to Keep

Looks to Keep
for fall & winter

I have to admit, I have been waiting for the big reveal. I kept thinking some big new fashion trend would pop up from designers.  However, in my research and doing a fair amount of shopping (just looking), not much is new this season.  On the bright side...we can wear what we have!!!

How budget friendly is that?!?!

So...here is my list of pieces you probably already have and should continue to ROCK!!

Skinny, dark jeans (see previous post)

Plaid Flannel (make sure it's fitted, we are not talking Kurt Cobain)

Fur (vegan or real, it all looks great)

Tall Leather Boots

Athletic Chic (admit it, you wear your workout clothes to the grocery store)

Blazers

Statement Necklaces

Military Jackets

Draped Sweaters

Colorful Coats

Jeggings/Thick Leggings

Scarves

Heels with Detail (think pattern/texture/color)

Silky Blouses

Animal Prints

Clutches

Braids (if you are into it, they are everywhere!)

50's Style Fitted Sweater

Thought of the Day

We all need to remind ourselves of this axiom, even though it can be scary.  I have been attempting a lot of this in my life of late. As it relates to fashion, branching out can be a little easier!! 

She's Got Good Jeans

Recently I discussed dark jeans with a client. They are a must-have!! This task is easier with a large clothing budget.  But we can still look fabulous within our limits. Here is my jeans guide:

Everyone needs a pair of dark jeans.  They are the ultimate wardrobe essential.  Buy whatever style you prefer: straight leg, skinny, or trouser. They can be dressed up or down to suit the occasion.  Pair them with heels or tuck them into boots if you are not as fond of your ankles.  Even in the more conservative parts of our country, denim can be seen in Country Club grills (gasp!) for drinks and dinner.  Stacy London agrees, "dark denim is the blank slate from which you can create any style." They instantly convey a contemporary, youthful vibe.

Tall, 5'9 or over:

Old Navy Rock Star Jeans in Tall

J Crew Matchstick Jeans in Tall

Levi's

Curvy:

Gap jeans

Just Fab Signature Skinny

Lucky Brand

Boyish Hips:

J Crew Matchstick Jeans

Old Navy Rock Star

American Eagle Jegging

Plus, size 14 and above:

Chico's So Slimming

Lee

Levi's

Petite, 5'4 and under:

Gap Jeans in 'short' leg

Old Navy Rock Star

Guess Brittney Cut Petite

Nylon Magazine once printed "If you can't tell if your jeans look good in 30 seconds, you need a better pair." This wardrobe essential is worth the effort!

Phillip Lim for Target

Get Ready...

Target launches it's next designer collaboration on Sunday. Doors open at 8 am..

The talented N.Y.C. designer has created a line with classic shapes and fantastic detail.

The handbags will obviously be vinyl (at around $50), but the hardware is very attractive. I am reserving judgement until I can hold them in my hands.

I really like the pleating on this top as well as the embellishment.  Who knows what your local Target will get in stock.  I think it's worth a look!!

Stylist Tip: How To Mix Prints

How to Mix Prints:

If you are feeling bold, a mix of prints can be the perfect way to express your individuality. To create a mixed print look consider the pieces you have.  Vary the scale of the print whether it is floral or gingham.  This is going to sound crazy, but use animal prints, polka dots, and striped pieces as neutrals.  Then build from there.  Generally (unless you are super brave- in which case you are my idol), limit the number of printed items to two per ensemble.  Here are some FUN examples below:

Tom Ford RTW '13-'14

Hello Moto

The Moto Jacket

Motorcycle Jacket

The classic motorcycle jacket 'Moto Jacket' is a tried and true outerwear piece.  Traditionally made in black leather it is everywhere this season in a wide variety of hues and fabrics.  If you want a statement piece that you can wear forever and will last a lifetime- go all out.  However, you can get the look for less in vegan leather and even soft cotton.

The moto jacket adds a Rock & Roll vibe to any look. It's an opposites attract concept: the hard of the jacket paired with the soft and flowing nature of the skirt or dress.

Tibi Runway

The Gap

$69.95

Victoria'a Secret Sweater Moto

$69.50

Burberry Moto Jacket