Polka Dot: Classic With A Twist
August 31, 2011
Get The Look:
OrangeBear Dotted Shirt Dress from yesstyle.com
Classic: the pattern, The Twist: it’s sheer.
Here we have a beautiful shirt dress with a feminine design and a classic dotted pattern. Make it sheer and now you have something very interesting to style. I wanted to keep it simple and let the sheer material show hints here and there, but still remain classy.
I decided to go with a black strapless bra and some fitted high waist shorts as the undergarments- they are just darker than the color of the dress so it blends in very nicely while an appropriate amount of skin just ever so slightly peaks through. Continuing with the idea of keeping this look simple and classy with a twist- I kept my make up nude with red lipstick as well as a pair of red shoes for some more color. And because I was feeling inspired, I braided my hair into two very loose french braids. From a distance, things may look familiar but up close everything has a modern and creative twist (however slight it may be).
I like an outfit that brings up a challenge, and anything sheer will do that. Sheer with a pattern takes it to another level. You can always be safe with a classic black slip, but sometimes it is fun to experiment and see where your creativity may lead you. This time I went classic, next time I may not. It makes this one single dress have tons of different looks- looking like a completely new outfit each time depending how far you go with the styling. How many looks will you create and are you up to the challenge?
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.
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
Lace and Frills: The Little Black Dress
December 21, 2010
This season we have been seeing a lot more texture, in particular sheer, lace, and mesh fabrics. They give hints of skin while still keeping strong with an elegant factor. The fabric flows and fits beautifully, and is open to many different types of styles.
Let’s explore the classic standard- the little black dress. When it comes to the holidays, we like to take it a little further. We want to remain looking elegant for our parties, but also to stand out. This dress from BIJOU-GIRL found on yessstyle.com is just the trick-
When you’re going from family events to parties with your friends, it can be difficult to find an outfit that meets all your needs. Some dresses you wouldn’t feel appropriate in with family, while others can be great for family but just not the right “it” factor with friends. We don’t all have time to change outfits when making our stops- so something that is classic and elegant but has that cute little twist will last us the night!
A dress like this stands out. Yes, it is all black- but the texture and silhouette really take it to another level. And the fitted lace portion of the dress adds a sexy factor that isn’t offensive- it’s all very pretty.
The ruffles are big but soft and dainty- nothing is over the top. When playing with lace and ruffles you want to make sure there is a fitted element to keep the look pretty and “simple”. Ruffles should accent your natural features- make sure there is a balance. Too much would make you look like a giant confused ball of fluff! Maintain your structure- if a dress has a lot of volume in the middle, then make sure your legs and arms are seen to show length. In this case, the ruffles are at the bottom of the dress, and the top is fitted with thin straps. I like this kind of contrast, heavy fabric on bottom, slim fit minimal fabric on top. This shows your skin in an elegant manner. This is a style of dress that compliments you.
BIJOU-GIRL Lace-Waist Hanky Hem Party Dress
I like to wear the dress on its own, the design is so simple and feminine I think it is strong that way. There are many opportunities for accessories, naturally. I would keep things on the feminine side (nothing too chunky, think thin delicate necklaces and earings). Dress it up with a nice coat or shall to keep yourself warm and you are ready for any event.
This dress also doesn’t scream “holiday” so it can be worn through different parts of the year. It is an absolute classic- with a darling twist!
Match Maker: Shoe And Dress Edition
November 18, 2010
Once upon a time I had a phase where if I could find the matching color shoe to an outfit- it was mine. No question about it. Many years have passed since that time and I must admit I have been following a trend of classic black shoes- gorgeous and interesting shoes, but primarily your classic tones.
So as time passed and I moved, my various colored shoes were placed into boxes and forgotten until now. Sad but true. I discovered this adorable frilly dress from TokyoFashion on yesstyle.com and had to have it. I wasn’t sure how I would wear it, but you always find a way to make it work. It was then I remembered that I had a pair of shoes this *exact* color. I’m not going to lie, I got excited. So like a crazy person I went through my boxes and found the shoes! I actually found them on the first try, I’m proud of myself for that. I cannot even remember where I got them… but they needed to be worn again! This dress is the perfect match.
Flutter-Sleeve Ruffle Chiffon Dress
I know it is winter and that pastels are the color of spring, but I must admit I like the contrast. I like to be a little different in my own way. Also, I cannot resist an outfit that makes me feel like a “doll”. Colors still work in the winter, they just have to be done in the right way. I think mixing up spring colors with the contrast of winter make up and accessories can be a fun challenge. It’s not an every day look of winter but it can be done. Colors I think really work in the winter, especially right now, would be something of a magenta or fushia color. I’m on the hunt for more dresses and shoes that pop with the right kind of color. There’s something that is just so beautiful about it, and makes everyday items look higher end.
I like reinventing looks within my closet. And I love how some of my favorite items can survive the trends of all the seasons. Right now color is on my mind. It will work for the current season and be ready for our spring and summer collections. Thus, you don’t have to feel guilty about a shoe or dress that can only be worn once, and now.
I challenge you to revisit some old favorites in your closet. Find something new to give the old item a new life. We all have treasures even we are unaware of. Go find yours!
Fashion In Stripes
June 30, 2010
My latest fun and fabulous find comes from Nabi on yesstyle.com- this stripped and strapless little number is comfortable and sure to get you noticed! A simple fitted design with a layer of movement gives these bold stripes an interesting look and feel.
This is all one piece. The top portion is simple and black, while the bottom plays with thick black and white stripes in different directions. With stripes like these it is easy to make a simple outfit become too busy, so be cautious in your accessories and let this piece stand out on its own. For my shoes, it is tempting to play the stripes theme a bit further, but again we don’t want to go overboard. Since the dress plays with alternating stripe directions, I thought I would incorporate that with my shoes.
They are just black with crossing straps- but against your skin you get the feel of the stripes all over again. This particular pair is from LA FRESHA on yesstyle.com. The stripes are subtle and so it plays to compliment rather than conflict. Truth be told you could even take this dress to another level with some hot colored shoes. Black and white gives you room to add a splash of color- in your shoes or on your lips. You could maybe even add a bold red belt with this one and make it your own!
Stripes are interesting, with only two tones they make such a bold pattern which attracts the eyes. Stripes that are vertical are great for lengthening your frame, as in the case with this dress. The main direction of the stripes are up and down, with the second layer just slightly going at a diagonal depending on your movement. This is clever as horizontal stripes can make you look wider than you are and shorten your frame.
But this fun little number does it just right! There are so many opportunities with this dress- how would you make this one match your own style? Would you add color, a belt, or play up the accessories? Leave a comment- I would love to see your ideas!
PS: for kicks and giggles.. this piece is very mod to me, but I cannot help wanting to also say Beatlejuice, lol. Love it ;D
Zac Posen For Target + Zahir Kill Heel From YesStyle
May 17, 2010
The amazing Zac Posen has been the latest fabulous designer to create a collection for TARGET; and a fabulous dress requires some fabulous heels. Fortunately, I found both the dress and the killer heels just in time. First, let’s take a look at the dress and then we will get into the shoes!
Ruffles, ruffles, and ruffles- oh my! I love the subtle contrast the navy color gives against the black, and the sheer shiny brilliance is purely a bonus. Fitted underneath and voluminous waist down, this is a stunning piece. When looking online, it seems this beautiful design also comes in an all red version. I wasn’t fortunate enough to find it in a store, but I still am all about the two tones seen here (Besides, I already have my red dress!).
Now, what I didn’t realize at first was that this is actually two pieces. Not a top and a bottom, but a full on dress with the decor being the second piece. The black fitted portion can be worn as a dress on its own, or it can be elaborated with the second piece, the ruffles, as seen in the photos above. I’m curious to play around with the ruffles to see how I can mix it with the rest of my wardrobe. They are too fabulous to be left alone!
Now, on to the shoes!
With a name like kill heel, you know I had to have them. Mwah. And they look the part. Elegant with a beautiful arch and subtle round toe- these shoes are a classic with a beautiful texture and feel. They dress up any outfit, or as in the case with this elaborate dress, make a perfect compliment. We all need a perfect pair of heels for “that special dress” and for me it’s the kill heel from Zahir. I’ve been looking at more shoes from Zahir after having fallen in love with these, they have a very runway look and feel to them without going overboard.
The bottom has a clever and very nice design of Zahir’s branding, but what’s interesting about it is that because the text is raised it gives you a great grip as you walk. This makes each step very powerful and comfortable. Design with function- love it.
*Sigh* Dress and shoe heaven, nominess. Even my fashion kitty, Aveline, approves, ha!
The Little Red Dress
May 4, 2010
This spring and summer is all about mixing nudes with a splash of color. The little black dress may be a classic but what about the little red one?
When the design is simple and classic, dare to add some bold color! The trick with color is to find a balance, you don’t want to over do it. Keep the contras in balance with soft natural tones and controlled splashes of color (as in this case, very light clean make up paired with a bold red dress and red lipstick to match).
The same could be done with a pink or yellow, only in the case of yellow keep your lipstick a peachy tone or play with a hot pink. Find your color and go for it with a classic design. This dress pictured here is a pleated tube dress from KENZI on yesstyle.com. You can view more styles from Kenzi on YES STYLE by clicking below.
A design so simple that stands out from color gives you a lot of options. On its own it is fabulous, but when you mix in accessories it becomes an entirely new look. This dress can be worn simple for the earlier afternoon, and then can be glamed out in the evening with some black tights, accessories, and an elegant updo. Of course, in all of these styling ideas you must maintain a balance.
For this look, I kept my make up simple with soft skin tones for a glowy and natural look. KATE has some great colors that leave a clean and flawless finish, but also goes on smoothly.
I just started using them recently and have been happy with the results. Sometimes eye shadows are flaky and don’t cover, or worse they cover too much and leave a mess. So far these have been treating me nicely, and it feels light on the skin which I like.
I am going to have to try their lipstick and lip glosses next. I wanted to start with the eye shadows to get a feel for quality and I am thrilled. Their mascara is really nice, too. I’ve been using it for a few weeks. It feels very silky, and though sweat-proof it is designed to come off gently with warm water. That’s something I am pretty cautious of, I don’t like anything too harsh. Even normal waterproof mascara is something I use only when I need to since it is rough on your eyelashes. We’ve got to keep them, soft, luscious, and long after all!
