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?
Brown: A Neutral Earthy Color For Fashion
December 26, 2010
Whenever I wear the color brown, nature like items come to mind. I think of the fall in the cooler temperatures, and I think about the flowers when spring comes around. Brown can be elegant and sophisticated, and it can also be whimsical, young, and playful. I tend to think of more serious looks when it comes to fall and winter, saving my more playful items for spring; but I recently found a dress that is a good mix of both worlds.
First of all, I love the texture. This controlled crinkled fabric is beautiful and adds a great character and charm to the dress. The soft beige bow keeps the look elegant and balances out the texture of the fabric. It is feminine and delicate- showing both youthful factors but in a very elegant manner.
BIJOU-GIRL Bow Accent Party Dress
available on yesstyle.com
In the fall and winter months, you can wear a dress like this with a beautiful coat or cape (or in my case, I decided to wear it with a vintage fur wrap since the neutral earthy tones went so well together), gloves, and maybe some more heavy decadent jewelry (I’m thinking gems here). Or you can wear it in the spring with a cream or white cardigan and sandals. The dress will look very different and have two very different attitudes. I love how neutral tones are really open to inserting your own personality.
This particular dress has subtle golden sparkles within the fabric, adding another feminine touch. I like to wear warm golden colors with brown. I think it looks more elegant, more rich.
When it comes to neutral shades, I like to wear my beige and cream tones in a more dainty delicate manner- really playing into the neutral shade. I like to wear soft make up, beige or delicate shoes (nothing chunky, unless it is a nude color that plays into the dress) and keep my jewelry very delicate as well. With brown I feel more experimental- more decadent. I’ll put my hair in an updo, I’ll have heavier make up, I’ll add heavier accessories and make the look more adult (as opposed to a doll child-like look, more grown up). How do you like to wear your neutral shades?
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!
Party Dress Obsession: Bijou-Girl
October 29, 2010
I took a risk. Really. This is something I normally wouldn’t do but I couldn’t resist. After all, if I waited I would have missed my chance and really been mad. I took a risk and came out more victorious than I had hoped. Such a win.
What was the risk you ask? The risk was purchasing multiple form fitting dresses from a designer I had never tried before. When it comes to fitted designs- its a huge hit or miss. The designs were beautiful, and if they would fit then I would want them all. I bought three and all I can say is wow am I ever happy!
Enter two beautiful dresses that just scream take me to a party. I am in love with BIJOU-GIRL! These dresses fit like an absolute dream. They are comfortable, and look amazing on. Definitely head turners. What’s nice is that they all have built in bra cups that are very comfortable and flattering. They also have a style in the back that acts like an elastic- thus you will have a form fitted style every time. It contours to your body perfectly. Gorgeous!
These two designs couldn’t be further apart in appearance or personality, but they are both to die for. The first is an adorable polka dot dress that is great for day time outside events or even a fun cocktail hour with the girls. Everything you do in this dress feels adorable!
I found BIJOU-GIRL on yesstyle.com where I do all of my shopping. You can be certain I’ll be going back for more from this designer. I’m really excited! You know how it is when you find something that fits fabulously, is comfortable, and looks one of a kind amazing. That’s where I am right now.
View This POLKA DOT Dress from BIJOU-GIRL on yesstyle.com
You can see in this next photo with the side view how the back stretches to fit you just right. With a beautiful bow in the front- how can you not help but smile? It’s cute!
Alright! From cute… we head on over to sexy! Both are head turners, just different personalities and styles. This next dress also from BIJOU-GIRL is one I fell in love with more in person than I did online. I thought it had potential when I saw it online, but the second I tried it on it became an instant favorite. It has that wow-factor written all over it.
It’s the little black dress with a sultry attitude- especially given the sheer mid-section design.
View This Sheer-Accent Strapless Cocktail Dress From BIJOU-GIRL on yesstyle.com
Yeah. It’s killer.
This one doesn’t have the back design, but the material stretches comfortably to your form. There’s no being shy with this one! It does have built in bra cups which I am thinking is a standard for Bijou-Girl. Normally I would stay away from such things but I like how they have implemented them. The placement is perfect and it makes it a no-worries dress. This means you don’t have to worry about the top sliding down or slightly revealing your bra *the worst*!
You can get ready in seconds and look briliant.
Cute and adorable? Sexy and vamp? Oh, yes. And more look in between. They have some elegant standards as well as some quirky cute pieces that are sure to get you noticed!
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!
All About The Tulle Look
February 23, 2010
Tulle anybody? I am all about this look. This is a style purely focusing on the fabric; it moves, has natural layers which shift from smooth to ruffled, and is sheer with texture.
Very feminine in appearance alone, when this fabric is worn on its own in a manner like this tulle dress/skirt from FOXCiTY you can really see it take over. A belt will add a cinched waist to this look and give it a new feel, but honestly I like the fabric left alone to move on its own free will. It is gorgeous.
As usual, when something has an option to be worn as a dress or a skirt I tend to lean to the dress side of things first. I plan on wearing the item as a skirt hear in the near future (I even have a top picked out for it and everything) but for right now a dress it is!
Just look at how those layers from the slip underneath emphasize the tulle on top. It is sheer feminine beauty of a fabric!
On the top you can see some hints of ruffles which gives the tulle some extra layered movement. This design adds volume and texture while remaining very elegant and simple.
And because it is so feminine and dainty, I thought I would mix things up a bit and add some grunge factor with these boots from LA FRESHA.
A pair of dainty heels would make this dress ready for a nice party in an instant. But the rocker style boots give it more of an elegant, casual, and edgy factor that works well for regular things throughout the day. With the cool weather, add a coat and you have an elegant look with some attitude.
If you want to see more shoe styles from LA FRESHA you can click here to view them. I’m a fan of their style as well as comfort. They have some great heels to dress up any look.
I’m really liking the mix right now. With something so simple it truly is a classic. The black dress is all about form and how you chose to wear it. Whether it is fitted or voluminous it is a style of its own in how you decide to wear it.
Something like this could be worn differently and look like a completely different outfit each time. From a loose dress, to a long dainty skirt, to a dress with a fitted waist when accompanied by a belt. Enter in layers and accessories and your playing power increases even more. Not to mention the shoe factor.
Tulle is a lovely fabric with lots of opportunities. Are you all about the tulle look?
Black Quilted Elegance
February 15, 2010
There is nothing like the beauty of a classic black quilted bag. I’ll admit I go weak in the knees for an elegantly styled quilted bag, most anything quilted like leather furniture for that matter, and when it is done right the results are gorgeous. My latest bag is a classic design in a perfect size.
Not overpowering big, not obnoxiously small: it is just perfect and carries all my needed items without changing the design. If you have ever tried loading up a bag and found it sunk or frustrating to carry with the weight unbalanced, then you know what I mean. It is a nice solid shape that is elegant and simple.
The details are subtle marks of gold, from a clean and simple designed clasp to the chain woven in leather that keeps the bag together. Usually when I see the sides open as they are here, it is a concern of mine. But fortunately that is only in design; functionality comes in with an unseen zipper keeping all your contents closed. Love it.
This particular design is from STYLEKELLY of yesstyle.com. Ever since it arrived it quickly became my daily bag as it matches with anything and makes all outfits look fabulous. I will still switch on occasion when I want a colorful bag or something a bit more out of the ordinary to change things up, but when time is an issue I don’t have to worry about it. This one works lovely every time. Now that I know I like this designer’s style I am going to start looking into more bags. You know how it is, you can never have too many… well, fill in the blank, lol.
At the very least you can never go wrong with too many of the classics; they are timeless, glamorous, elegant, and beautiful!
Want the bag?
This specific one is gone from STYLEKELLY, but another identical bag is available through YES STYLE right now. If it is not, visit and search for “quilted” under bags and find some more inspiration! I know I am.
Dreaming Of Silver Links
January 31, 2010
There is something dreamy about a bunch of silver strands and links elegantly combined, especially when it comes to necklaces. My normal accomplishment of such a look is by cleverly combining necklaces of various lentgths together, making sure the end result is elegant and bold but never a mess. Every now and then you find a piece that on it’s own accomplishes the look beautifully. This piece from Truffles Co. is just on case!
The combination of links and strands with a decorated piece bringing the links together, gently hanging down at an angle depending on how it is worn, works beautifully.
The miss match of link sizes with collected strands and a decorative piece with beads makes for a unique and fashionable look. Worn alone is fantastic, but it also gives you the opportunity to mix another piece into this already elaborate setup. The entire piece is designed quite long, in fact it is long enough to be worn as a belt (it is not unusual for me to find link styled belts and wear them as a necklace, lol).
The way I like to wear this style is by having half of the necklace show in the front, and have the other half decorate the back. This works great with dresses or tops that scoop in the front and the back. It can really dress up the look.
I like to wear it where half of each design is showing for a different kind of look. You could certainly wear it where each uniformed style shows from one view- one in the front and one in the back, keeping the decoration resting on the shoulder. But I like the dynamic of the mix.
Another possibility I am playing with is mixing it up as a choker or or very elaborate bracelet. With the length and change of styles there are many opportunities to explore.
I love playing around with shapes and textures, especially when they are in the same color scheme. Elaborate earrings are another fun area you see the trend in, most commonly with chandelier type earrings. I like earrings that are unique and miss matched; having the same theme so you can tell they belong together. When earrings resemble each other but have different lengths, I think that, too, is a fun style with a lot of opportunities. Take for instance this set that also plays into the links feel. This find is another item from Truffles Co. available on yesstyle.com.
Anyone can miss match a pair of earrings, but getting them to feel like a part of the same set is where it gets interesting. They either have to have been designed that way or play as a part of a theme. They have to look like they belong.
This piece from yesstyle.com does that well. You have all the same elements presented only slightly different, giving it a very unique and bold look. I love it. And it has the links and strands that I have been craving in my fashion.
What fashion cravings have you been having?
I ♥ Lace: A Fashion Obsession, Part II
December 27, 2009
The beauty of lace is that there are so many ways to wear it: from accessories like hair decorations, gloves, purses and scarves to dresses and tights making an outfit truly stand out.
In my last lace obsessed post I was playing with the idea of lace tights to add more texture and style to your fashion. With the winter trend of thigh high boots, patten tights fit just right in creating a bold and sexy style.
Black is classic and elegant and works lovely with winter’s charm. Later on in the spring nude and white lace may add a soft but playful factor for us to look forward to. But back to the season at hand and how we can have fun with our style.
I have been experimenting with lace quite a lot lately- and not just how it can redesign shoes. Take for instance using lace as a layer and foundation for your existing wardrobe. A long sleeve laced top goes a long way when worn under the right dress or tank top. It is the perfect selection for updating your entire wardrobe, giving old pieces a new feel in an instant. If you want to take lace even further then consider a piece such as this lucky find: A Lace Trim Jumpsuit from TIAN MU.
What I like about this selection is that not only is it one-of-a-kind, it is also all once piece. Well, one piece save for the black tube top underneath. If you have a unique tank top you can play with the lines of the design even more. But this once piece with the casual shorts and lace collar, front, and sleeves creates a simple look that is not to be ignored.
Because it is a single piece it leaves plenty of room for accessories- from vests to belts to playful jewelry pieces. I like the outfit on its own honestly, but I also look forward to reinventing the look over and over again. I’ve been thinking of playing with belts, skinny to “wow” factor big, and different undergarments first. Maybe even a colorful long sleeve top underneath to add a new flair. There’s plenty of ideas available and this very unique outfit will have a different feel each time I wear it because of all these options.
TIAN MU has lots of other great styles which have caught my eye, many of them playing with lace in different ways, too. From baby doll dresses to leggings, there’s lots of great ideas and inspirations to be found.
Click Here to view more from Tian Mu and find some fashion inspirations (or obsessions!) of your own.
