Color Inspired: Purple
July 1, 2011
TOKYOFASHION Strapless Tulle-Panel Floral Dress from yesstyle.com
Or maybe I should say Violette? Let me explain- the summer weather has been making me crave a “refreshing” factor in my drinks as well as in my fashion. I want a soft beautiful color with simple flowing fabrics. I want a drink that has crisp, delicate flavors, and cools away the heat of the day. I want a dress, much like my drink! (Okay, maybe except for the fabric part!) One of my summer cocktails has been a Violette Fizz, which I believe is a perfect match for this dress. I’m a fan of edible flowers as well as crème de violette (rose water and orange blossom water, too- but that’s another post entirely). Finding a match of these inspirations in both my dress as well as my cocktail is a beautiful dream come true.
Inspirations that match the drink and dress: a soft purple color and a floral design.
VIOLETTE FIZZ
1 ½ oz gin
½ oz crème de violette
1 oz lemon juice
½ tsp sugar
shake over ice and strain into a Collins or Fizz glass
top with soda and garnish with a flower
I think my new obsession has become colored tulle, especially when it comes to softer tones of purple, yellow, seafoam, and even magenta. The texture of the fabric looks beautiful in these colors. It also makes you stand out.
I think this dress is stunning on its own, so I avoided any accessories that would distract from the dress. To take the look from dainty to having a little more attitude, I wore a bright red lipstick to make the look “pop”. Floral patterns make me want to curl my hair for that extra bounce as I walk. I think curls or waves look beautiful against a floral design.
Flowers in my dress and in my drink? Absolutely! I’m feeling inspired and ready to relax in style.
Rosettes + Chiffon: Beauty!
May 27, 2011
THE LOOK:
OOPSLADY Sleeveless Rosette Accent Chiffon Dress from yesstyle.com
I’m obsessed with lace, chiffon, tulle, ruffles, anything sheer, and now- rosettes! Not just any rosettes… no one wants to look like they got covered in party invitation decor, but rosettes that make up an elegant accent to a design. I like rosettes that are created in a subtle fashion that compliments an outfit and takes it to another level. Subtly can be bold. That’s what I am after here. Soft delicate textures that make a strong, feminine statement.
In this dress, I have a mix of many of my favorite things! It is ruffled at the ends, a chiffon material, sheer on top, and has brilliantly placed ruffles. It is delicate and fierce all in one. The length is short, but it also has volume. Honestly, I’m thinking of wearing another skirt underneath this dress to really embellish the volume.
It is sleeveless and sheer on top, and because of the short length the volume can be out there. Your showing your limbs and thus your figure. I like the contrast. It is all about playing with silhouettes and keeping the look as a whole in balance.
Just look how the fabric falls naturally. It is elegant and takes the little black dress to a higher level. Definitely wear your hair up in a dress like this, otherwise you lose the detail of the back. If you have long dark hair like me, then you may feel like the volume on top gets a little heavy with the volume of the dress itself (dark on dark all melts together, and we want to look elegant, not… well, not the alternative!). I think a natural wavy styled hair could work if you want to wear it down, so long as the hair moves and the texture is different. But why not show the dress off? Play with an up do, twist your hair into rosettes even! Keep it fun and interesting.
Something else that appeals to me about this dress is that it slightly resembles lingerie. There’s something great about that feeling, like you are breaking the rules and wearing a nightgown out in public – and looking fabulous doing it.
Normally, I would wear a simple black heel, but I couldn’t resist showing these shoes off and sharing them with you! They are from KVOLL and are actually a simple black heel with an accessory.This means you can wear it simple, or dress it up with some attitude. The studs are like a bracelet for your ankles and since they are not attached to the shoe, you can wear it with any of the existing shoes in your collection. Those are some serious options. Yeah, that really rocks!
I’ve been very fond of KVOLL‘s shoes, they are so different and the inexpensive price tag allows for more to play with at home. I like to have shoes in every color (I’m trying!) and they make that possible for me. Some colors aren’t practicable for daily wear, but when they are inexpensive and incredibly cute it doesn’t matter. And I love saying “yes” to more shoes!
In fact.. I just found a pair that will match this dress perfectly! I’m so excited. I ordered them in black to match my dress.. but the pink ones are pretty tempting, too! I’ll share the photos once they arrive, but in the meantime you can get a sneak peak of them for yourself here: KVOLL Chiffon Pedal Platform Sandals.
Roses, Darling!
May 2, 2011
Every girl needs a dress that can be tossed on without a care in the world, and then be able to walk out looking and feeling beautiful. A dress that is chic without trying, darling without being “cutsie”, and has that soft and feminine feel without looking too sexy.
For me, this is that dress. It is a short sleeve applique dress from EYESCREAM on yesstyle.com. I love how carefree and darling it is. The design makes me think of rose petals without being obvious. The rest of the dress is a simple black fabric which falls just right, it hugs you in the right ways as you walks and even has a couple of pockets to say “causal chic”. This is effortlessly elegant.
Casual can still be pretty! Dresses like this are the perfect balance of casual and chic. The petal design gives you a fashion edge that those around you will wish they had, too.
Caped Crusader
April 22, 2011
I have always said that if ever I could be a “super hero” for a day- I would be the villain. Absolutely I would! And I have discovered just the dress to make me feel like a fashionable villain for a day- (note: I must admit I fall in love with a well done cape as much as I do tulle or lace!)
Take a classic black dress- fitted comfortably to show off your figure, then add wings or a cape to be used as sleeves. Pull your hair up into a high chignon (or leave it down to mix with the cape as the wind carries it), add some red lipstick and a pair of killer heels- you are ready to go!
THE LOOK:
Cape Overlaid V-Neck Dress from SARAH on yesstyle.com
This dress looks *fabulous* when you walk. The “cape” portion of the dress is technically two pieces- one layer of cloth covering each arm, but with enough fabric to meet with some in the front and back. This means with a little wind, each step these “capes” fly in the air and make you look like you are ready to take over the world. Very fierce!
This is one of those dresses that makes me feel like I just walked off the runway. Because you have the cape divided into two separate pieces, you get the “wow” factor of the movement in the wind, but you also get to play around with how it looks when you are still. Keep one arm exposed- both, or none. Change it up throughout the day and just have fun with it!
A Fashion Adventure With Color
March 29, 2011
One of my favorite things to incorporate this spring is color. I like wearing mostly muted tones with one brilliant item of color, it makes the item pop and keeps the color playful without being garish.
It can be difficult to wear some bright colors, but when you are wearing all black or all nude/cream tones then you have a safe canvas to play with. The color looks fresh and elegant.
THE LOOK:
Top: Club Monaco
Shorts: Ando Store, from yesstyle.com
Necklace: Nicaragua
The top is one I have had for a long time now, but always makes me think of a “safari” kind of feel. The necklace is a new addition I found during my travels in Esteli, Nicaragua. The shorts are from Ando Store on yesstyle.com and have been an item I have been anxious to wear! I love the color and style. The high waisted shorts with the button detail, and of course brilliant color, were a must have the moment I saw them.
I’ve been liking the high-waisted shorts lately, especially when done in this kind of style. They have a modern feel about them and are very feminine in the lines. They are fitted (so it doesn’t feel like something boyish or old). I have another pair from Marim, also from yesstyle.com, that are navy blue with a tie in the front. I like wearing these styles of shorts with either a blouse or a body suit.
When worn with a blouse, you get this volume on top that is subtle and playful, and when you wear them with a body suit, you get a completely lean and feminine line. Both are very different attitudes that allow you to get more out of your wardrobe from a single pair of shorts.
High waist skirts are a classic, but always make me think of the secretary look (not a bad thing, just a thing, lol). I like the high waist shorts look, especially in a style like this, because it is modern and youthful.
I also like adding some color into my wardrobe as spring is here. Right now the focus for me is a balance between volume and clean lines, and using color to accent otherwise nude/black basic colors. For spring I am trying to go more with the nude/white and a splash of color for my wardrobe combinations. How about you? Have you been on the fashion adventure with color?
Tall, Studded, and Fringed
March 18, 2011
Heels have certainly been climbing higher and higher, but style is important when it comes to keeping those heights in check. My latest two finds have been tall (14cm), studded, and fringed out! One is in a classic black with a lot of texture and movement while the other has a bold splash of red color.
The thing I like most about the fringe on the shoe pictured above from KVOLL is that the thin and elegant heel peeks through the different lengths of fringe. The shape is beautiful and has almost a feather quality look. The studs add a little rock and attitude into the mix of an otherwise simple and feminine shape. I feel like I have some rocking wings on my heels when I wear these shoes, and I know each step I make is a statement a the fringe dances!
KVOLL on yesstyle.com VIEW MORE FROM KVOLL
The shape and distribution is perfect. With higher heels we must beware of crossing that line into the stripper style of shoes- keep it soft and feminine in the lines. We aren’t looking to make that kind of statement.
If the taller heels are a concern to you, keep with the style of heel (or lack there of) that you are most comfortable with but look to explore the stud or fringe style. Studs and fringe are everywhere, either on their own or combined as seen in this shoe. For me it is less about the “fringe” and more about the texture and introduction of movement. I like how it breaks up the shape while maintaining clean and feminine lines.
TASSELED BACK PLATFORM STILETTOS from KVOLL on yesstyle.com
Enter color! Here we see a different use of the fringe as it is placed in a tassel on the heel. Studs keep the design in place as well as add that extra bit of attitude. Doesn’t that color just pop against he slim black line of the heel? I love it. It also comes in black or in all white which gives you another look.
I love it when I find a style of shoe that is comfortable and looks so different in another color- I’ll usually end up getting all of them so I can make the most of my wardrobe. Shoes go a long way when it comes to bringing an outfit together. Having some classic heels in a variety of colors let’s you really take your wardrobe to the next level.
I feel my most comfortable in a pair of high heels, but it was a nice little addition of KVOLL to place a soft pad as a part of the shoe. It is just a small touch for that added comfort as we adjust to thew skyscraper heels. I know I appreciate it! The red ones have it, too.
My first outfit of choice with these new killer heels? A black and gold cow-neck mini dress from Nabi! The dress has a “rocker” kind of feel to it which I see in the heels as well, so I thought why not go for it and rock it out with the fringed heel.
I know I will be having a lot of fun with this style. Have you explored the fringed or studded styles yet?
Neutral Colors Meet Texture
February 22, 2011
The neutral color palate- our classic basics when it comes to fashion. It’s a girls best friend right next to diamonds. Our beiges, whites, creams, and blacks give us a sense of soft femininity and elegance.
But what if we want to give the neutral factor a little more oomph? Some attitude, some of our own unique personality? Neutral color, meet texture!
Finding elements of texture in an outfit is an instant way to reinvent your look and get that oomph and wow. I love staying with a color and making the texture stand out. Having a solid color base makes the lace, tulle, or soft pattern really stand out. When you have a pattern or fabric that has a lot of volume like this, too many colors end up looking busy. No one wants to look like a confused mess, so make it simple and stay with a one color theme.
THE LOOK:
Layered Tulle Dress (Coffee) from MELISSA on yesstyle.com
In this tulle dress from Melissa I found on yesstyle.com, you have all sorts of texture on a single color theme- brown. See how the layers of the tulle skirt give volume and depth, then the fitted top stays within the brown/cream color theme and uses lace as the pattern and texture. Neutral has personality now, and it is fabulous!
And because I’m staying with a single color theme, this gives me the opportunity to use a bright colored lip to really stand out. You never want to have your make up match your outfit, and when you are wearing a lot of color then you want to keep the make up simple so as to not compete. But when you have a neutral color base as your look, then you can be more adventurous with the make up!
The tulle of the dress makes me feel like a doll, so I wanted to keep it chic with a classic bright red lip. You can see how the lip really stands out with the dress, and isn’t over the top. Because brown is such a soft and neutral shade, I could go even further and play with a purple or deep burgundy lip. This is a great thing to consider for those of you who love to play with make up.
Remember, neutral doesn’t have to mean boring. It is a whole new opportunity for you and your look!
New Boots for a New Year
January 31, 2011
This month not only starts the beginning of a new year but also a new decade. What better way to start than with a pair of new boots! This year I am thinking about embracing my favorite classic styles while bringing in a new edgy twist to keep looks new and interesting.
One of the things I’ve loved seeing this past year was classic hair updos and shapes made modern with volume- keep the design in mind but blow it up for a fierce, modern, and elegant look. I like to think along the same lines when it comes to fashion.
I love boots, but wanted something with more attitude this year. Yes, the sleek smooth fitted designs are nice.. but can be boring or expected. Enter in shape plus buckles and you’ve got a pair of roaring boots. These are definitely killer and liven up any simple dress.
Speaking of a simple dress- check out this black laced dress with a white layered design. I love the contrast on this classic shape. The black and white lace gives texture and the length of the dress is perfect for letting tall boots shine.
DRESS: SPICY HOLIC on yesstyle.com (Click Here to view more from SPICY HOLIC on yesstyle.com)
And now for a look into the shoes!
SHOES: KVOLL on yesstyle.com (Click Here to view more shoes and boots on yesstyle.com)
Shoes give a whole new life to your existing wardrobe- from adding a splash of color to adding an in your face fierce attitude. Remember the power of your accessories!
Things I like to see in my boots include lots of lace or lots of buckles, as well as an interesting but controlled shape. Boots this tall are tricky- you want them slightly scrunched but still with an overall shape. Because they are over the knee, without a good shape you lose the elegant lines of your calf. We don’t want to lose our ankles either!
I like how these boots hug the shape of the foot and ankle, then slowly start to swell along the shape of your calf, then finish with almost a bucket style coated in buckles with two flaps going over the knee- one in the front and one in the back. the space between the flaps shows skin and reveals your length and shape. I like that contrast and find the shape quite complimenting.
A convenient zipper on the side makes these easy to wear, too. I love lace ups but when I’m in a hurry, I appreciate the zipper.
Have you found the perfect boot to fit your style for the start of this year? The weather is perfect for a killer pair of boots- show off your fierce style.
Keeping Wild Prints Under Control
January 18, 2011
Love them or hate them, prints have a role in fashion. Floral prints are being seen more and more, particularly as spring approaches around the corner. But what about our animal side? Wild prints are tricky to keep under control, but when worn properly they have a stylish attitude that can make you proud.
Prints are bold, and animal prints stand out. There is no way around it. But how you wear these prints is key. Rule #1 is to stay away from the overwhelmed matchy look. You know you’ve seen it and it hurts to think about it. One bold item goes a long way, let’s compliment and not overwhelm the look. One piece is fabulous, a million is horrifying. Walk on the wild side the proper way and a bold fierce style is yours!
Take for instance this wonderful piece from Tokyo Fashion. What I love about this Zebra print is how the white is a soft white against the black- it almost looks like a dark brown and has this sophisticated but fun personality about it. It’s casual chic with a playful attitude. When you have a “too white” color against black, it can make you dizzy. This is just the right shade and with this loose fit it has a charming characteristic. The belt brings it all together saying “I am in control”.
Remember, keep the look chic- eliminate the shock.
Animal prints when worn correctly are beautiful, don’t lose the potential of this look. There are so many wonderful possibilities! I think prints like this zebra or a giraffe type print work well with delicate gold accessories. Wooden accessories look stunning with them as well. I think a chic safari style is a fun look to sport. The trick is to always keep it in line- don’t overdue it, keep it simple and beautiful!
Keep it simple and soft with the makeup, too. Think natural, maybe with a sun-kissed look. It makes the print more grown up and elegant. Soft natural colors keep the print under control and tamed.
A soft pretty pink lip is about as bold as I would go, at least for day look. If you are wearing dark lip do keep the eyes natural and the rest of the make up to a minimal (your basic make up rules, if dark eyes then a super natural toned down lip).
With the right attitude, you will be looking fierce! The goal is to have the complete finished look say “wow, amazing!” and not just the print itself. The print is only a part of your look. The same may be said of all fabrics- the fabric should compliment your whole look and not take the focus away from you. Compliment yourself and feel fabulous as you go about your day.
Discover your wild side!
Dress: TOKYO FASHION available on yesstyle.com
