Archive for the ‘Looks + Trends’ Category
Thursday, November 17th, 2011

Nothing makes the transition into Fall more of a reality than the need for tights. Whether you like the traditional black opaque or the new trend of sheer nude, tights are a must for living in the Northeast. No one want to wear pants everyday for an entire winter, am I right? I think it is absolutely necessary to wear shorts, skirts and dresses as much as possible, anytime of year. My secret for tights in frigid temps is Fleece Lined Tights from Plush - they are a must for anyone who deals with winter temps that dip below 40 degrees.
One of the most fashionable ways to update a look is with pattern tights. I am wearing my DKNY baroque tights above and have shared the look of my leopard tights here. Recently I added Polka Dots, striped and more floral patterns to my tights collection. DKNY even did a collaboration with GossipGirl wardrobe stylist, Eric Daman, to introduce more beautiful patterns this season.
I encourage you to give this look a try and if you are already a believer, add a few new styles into the mix. Nothing makes a beautiful holiday dress stand out more than the surprise twist of a patterned tight. And, I love the everyday casual look of a skirt and sweater combo paired with patterned tights and flat boots. Throw on a parka and a crossbody bag and you are ready for a day of walking the city.
Here are a few patterned tight styles you just have to buy: Striped, Polka Dots, Leopard, Lace, Baroque, Floral, Ribbed.






Tags: Asos Parka, baroque tights, dkny, dkny tights, Eric Daman and DKNY tights, lace tights, leopard tights, patterned tights trend, Plush Fleece Lined tights, Polka dot tights, Rebecca Minkoff, ribbed tights, sheer tights, The Limited tights, wolford tights
Posted in Looks + Trends | No Comments »
Monday, November 14th, 2011

- Kate Spade Scout in Spring Red $395.00

- The Cambridge Satchel Company Upwardly Mobile Satchel $134.99.
Today’s Feature is the must have trend: The Bold Colored, Structured bag
My blog is all about showing you the latest clothing, accessories and shoes and how you can wear them. The goal is always to give you ideas and let you style them in your own, personal way.
At your requests, I will be adding more affordable options to my featured items. They will be similar in style, but at a a lower price point. It is up to you which one to choose.
Also, feel free to email me to let me know what you think of this latest feature and if there is an item/trend you would like me to find for you that meets your budget.
What do you think I should get?
Leave your vote in the comments and whatever color wins, I will order.
xo
c.
Tags: bright colored bag, Kate Spade, Kate Spade scout bag, neon trend, resort 2012 neon trend, structured bag trend, The cambridge Satchel Company, upwardly mobile satchel
Posted in Looks + Trends, Obsessions | 2 Comments »
Sunday, November 13th, 2011


After a long search, I was pleasantly surprised when my November Shoe Closet email arrived from Sole Society and a gorgeous pair of snake loafers was waiting for me in my personal selection.
As I’ve mentioned in previous posts here, I am not a ballet flats kind girl so, this new loafer style is the answer to my dreams.
I’m loving the grey (faux) snakeskin with the caramel piping: a great color combo to wear with just about everything. Be on the lookout, I think I’ll be wearing these a lot. As a matter of fact, I wore them this weekend with some Current/Elliott boyfriends, a striped sweater, my DIY neon necklace (post to come) and a handmade, slouchy hat made by a very talented friend. The shoes were super comfy and made the outfit perfect for a day of walking.
Want a personal invite to Sole Society. Click here and start getting your personal closet delivered every month too.
xo
c.
P.S. I got so many compliments on my DIY Neon Necklace that I’m thinking of doing a contest giveaway on Facebook for 1 of the necklaces. Anyone interested? Comment and let me know.
Tags: Current/elliott boyfriend jeans, Loafer trend, slipper shoe trend, slouch hats, snakeskin loafer, sole society shoes, Striped Sweaters
Posted in Looks + Trends, Obsessions | No Comments »
Thursday, November 10th, 2011

Outfit Dress: Tucker (from this summer) Similar here, Bag & Sweater: H&M, Necklace: Calypso St Barth x Target, Belt: Streets Ahead, Boots: Joie Similar here.
I have a hard time changing my closet from Summer to Winter and this year has been particularily difficult because the weather has been so sunny and warm well into November. I also think living in the Northeast we tend to want to extend our summer wardrobes as long as we can.
I think we may have seen the last of our bare leg days, but I’m hoping to wear some of my summer dresses a bit longer. One way to do this is the obvious choice of layering. I love cotton sweaters and so when I saw this camel/blush tone v-neck, I knew it would be perfect for layering over my silk summer dresses and under my short sleeve blazers. I paired it with my summer baubles, a mustard colored bag purchased this fall and some suede boots-it is November, after all.
Here are a few more ideas to take your favorite summer pieces into the Winter and some links to some winter pieces you can add to your closet now:
- Layer this TopShop Parka over your maxi dress and Mia flat boots.
- Pair a cozy, Tory Burch fair isle sweater with a pleated, chiffon skirt and lined booties.
- Layer a lightweight turtleneck under you favorite short sleeve tees and tops.
-Wear your summer shirt dress with an Old Navy Puffer Vest and top with a shawl cardi.
- Wear your shorts with knit tights, Jeffery Campbell boots and a Michael Kors chunky fisherman’s sweater.
Enjoy!
xo
c.
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Tags: Asos Chiffon skirt, Dressing for Winter, H&M Cotton V-neck, H&M v-neck sweater, Jeffrey Campbell boots, joie suede boots, Mia lined boots, michaeal kors fisherman's knit, mustard color trend, Shawl collar sweater vest, tall brown boots, Topshop Parka, Tory Burch Fair Isle Sweater, Tucker
Posted in Looks + Trends | No Comments »
Wednesday, November 9th, 2011


The Ropes by Shana Aldrich Bracelet $60.00
With a following that includes celebrities, bloggers and editors, Shana Aldrich has managed to produce long-standing designs that meet the trends of today’s jewelry lovers and has captured my neon loving heart with her company The Ropes, available at local boutique Ann Veronica.
As a fan of both local shops and accessories, I have quickly developed a real admiration for both the local designer and the shop that carries her designs and many more.
I purchased this Aldrich bracelet and ordered a custom necklace through Ann Veronica, a locally owned, Cape Elizabeth, Maine merchant located just blocks from my home. Ann Veronica is known for her support of local artisans ranging from leather goods to handwoven, wool sweaters and scarves to jewelry from Aldrich and many others. She currently carries upwards of 30 local Maine designers. Who knew we had so many local designers? Ann Veronica, that’s who. She has been stocking her Cape Elizabeth and York stores for over 6 years with her own bag and tote designs and continues to find more and more local talented designers than anyone else around.
I’ll be sharing more local love about The Ropes, but in meantime, go and see her and more amazing pieces from other Maine designers at Ann Veronica in Cape Elizabeth (207.767.8181). Ann Veronica sells her own bags and totes on here website (great holiday gift ideas!), but you can call and order other pieces including The Ropes by Shana Aldrich, Trollbeads and many others by phone. Ann Veronica also offers Free Shipping all orders. If you are local, stop by and see the full selection of Maine artists at her boutique in Cape Elizabeth at 546 Shore Road.
You can also visit Ann Veronica on Facebook.
Tags: Ann Veronica, Cape Elizabeth Maine stores, chantal young, Jewelry designers in Maine, local love for Ann Veronica, Shana Aldrich designs, shopchantalstylefile, The Ropes, The Ropes by Shana Aldrich
Posted in Local Love, Looks + Trends | 2 Comments »
Monday, November 7th, 2011
Outfit Faux Fur headband: Target Similar here, Necklace: H&M Similar here, Wool Swing Coat: Rebecca Taylor Similar here, Aviators: Marc by Marc Jacobs, Grey Denim Skinnies Similar here, Cat by Wolverine Boots Similar here, Lipstick: Revlon Wine with Everything
There is a clear difference between being someone who loves being outdoors and someone who loves the outdoors. I am clearing the former. I am not an outdoorsy kinda girl so, when my family said they wanted to go for a “hike”, I saw it more as an opportunity to wear my new faux fur headband, rugged boots, favorite wool coat, leather & feather necklace and grey skinnies. Needless to say, the day was gorgeous, my family had a great time and I cold-weather tested my faux fur headband.
The result: you need one of these! It was warm and cozy and I actually wore after the hike when I went shopping. I like a piece with a dual personality- don’t you?
xo
c.

Tags: Banana Rebublic grey skinny denim, cold weather style, Faux Fur headband, Feather Necklace by H&M, Grey Sknny denim, Marc by Marc Jacobs Aviators, mia boots, rebecca taylor, rugged boots, Sunglasses by Marc Jacobs, Target, Topshop, Unknown Factory denim, Wool Military coat
Posted in Looks + Trends | 4 Comments »
Sunday, November 6th, 2011

I was thrilled when JewelMint asked me to join them in promoting the newest jewelry collection from co-designers Kate Bosworth and Cher Coulter. If you know me or read my blog, you know how absolutely obsessed I am with jewelry so. this is extremely fun for me. And, the fact that I get to offer my fans and readers 50% off their first order is amazing! I love a good discount just like every other fashion girl.
If you are not familiar with JewelMint, here is a little background for you. You can also read the JewelMint Blog – which I love and read religiously.
To get started all you do is click here to join and then complete a brief personal style survey. The survery is the key to JewelMint. Every month they will create a personalized selection of jewelry chosen just for you based on your style survery choices. It’s genius. I’m always amazed how spot on they are with my jewelry selection each month.
Once you sign up, each month you will receive a link to your personal showroom jewelry selection. Each jewelry piece is $29.99, but with the exclusive ShopChantal StyleFile Code, you will get 50% off your first order plus you get FREE SHIPPING.
Use code Fall105 at checkout, courtesy of ShopChantal StyleFile and the Mint Brand Ambassador Team and start adding amazing jewelery pieces to your closet. Below are a few of my favorites from the JewelMint Collection. Kate is wearing the Bullet Necklace in the photo above.




Tags: chantal young, Exclusive Code, JewelMint, Jewelry by Kate Bosworth and Cher Coulter, Kate Bosworth Cher Coulter Jewelry Line, Mint Brand Ambassador Team, Shopchantal Style File
Posted in Looks + Trends, Obsessions | No Comments »
Friday, November 4th, 2011



Outfit Star Print Bow Blouse: H&M, Pleated Mini Similar here, Turband: Gold Saturn, Necklace: Gemma Redux Beth, Pearls: Vintage, Bracelets, Botkier, Streets Ahead, Watch: Freelook, Sunglasses Georgio Armani Similar here, Faux Fur Vest: Rebecca Taylor: Similar here, Leopard Tights: Commando Similar here, Boots: Pour La Victoire, Clutch: Laura Merkin Similar here.
I’m still having lots of fun with wearing prints. I know this star print is pretty subtle, but the bow got me and I had to have it. Paired with a full, pleated mini skirt made it the perfect afternoon lunch outfit. I think once the real cold weather hits, I’ll pair this with a fitted blazer and add some polka dot tights. I’m loving this blush polka dot pair.
There are lots of ways to wear the star print. I found a dress version, a jacket and even tights in the fun, new updated take on a classic, all american print.
Hope you give this print a try. Let me know how you wear your stars!
xo
c.
Tags: 2011 print trends, bow blouses, chantal young, F21, fall trends, faux fur vest, full pleated mini, Gold Saturn studded turband, H&M, hot pink clutch, leopard tights, patterned tights, portland maine fashion blog, printed bow blosue, Rebecca Taylor faux fur, shopchantalstylefile blog, star prints, turbands
Posted in Looks + Trends | 3 Comments »
Thursday, November 3rd, 2011

The weather today was perfect for a blazer and chiffon cardi layer over a simple tank, but I just had to add my new H&M Faux Fur Collar to the mix. After all, it is Fall and I’ll use any excuse to wear faux fur.
Here are some similar options to my H&M Faux Fur Scarf/Collar
Club Monaco Faux Fur Scarf $99.00
The Limited Faux Fur Scarf $44.90
RACHEL Rachel Roy Collar, Faux Fur with Tie $39.00
xo
c.
p.s. I’m still growing out the bangs and it is taking FOREVER! Any helpful tips would be welcome.
Tags: Elizabeth and James blazer, Faux Fur Collars, Feather Print, Genetic Denim, H&M Faux Fur Collar
Posted in Looks + Trends | No Comments »
Wednesday, November 2nd, 2011
We all have closets and closets of denim, but the new look of printed denim is a must -try new trend. Not only is the look fun and fresh, but it is a great way to wear the season’s best prints. From leopard prints to
Snake Prints on Paprika colored denim to my favorite,
a red printed plaid. The variety of prints give you the option of going bold to wearing a
subtle look.
Here is how I would style the Current/Elliott Blood Print Plaid:






Below are some additional printed denim styles that I love. Would you choose the the bold, traditional leopard prints or the tonal, more subtle prints?

BOLD STYLES: Joe’s Jeans Chelsea Leopard print is a traditional take on the print. I’d love these with a chunky fisherman’s knit sweater and boots. Another style is the J Brand Snow Leopard Super Skinny Jean. Both are bold and an exciting way to wear this favorite animal print. Tone it down with a solid sweater and boots for a great day look.

SUBTLE STYLES: Love the leopard look, but want a more subtle look? Try the Current/Elliot Stiletto Skinny in Camel Leopard or Grey Leopard. You’ll get the same effect in a softer print.
I can’t wait to hear how you are wearing the printed denim look! I’m looking forward to Spring so I can add a bright pop of color to these Current/Elliott Leopard prints!
xo
c.
Tags: chantal young, colored denim trend, current elliot leopard denim, current ellliott blood print plaid, dkny, dkny colorblock bag, Eddie Borgo, j. brand leopard jeans, jean michel cazabat, joe's jeans chelsea, leopard denim, leopard print denim, Michael Kors, Pamela love necklace, Printed denim trend, red plaid skinny jeans, shopchantalstylefile, snake print denim
Posted in Looks + Trends, Obsessions | No Comments »
Monday, October 31st, 2011



Outfit Albertus Swanepoel x Target Zsa Faux Fur hat: Target, Mini Horse Print Sweater: F21 similar here, Jacket: J. Lindeberg, similar here, Earrings: Alex Woo Bamboo Earrings, Necklace: Gemma Redux, Sunglasses: Michael Kors simliar here.
One reason not to complain about the snow and cold weather: The need for a Faux Fur Hat.
If you got an Albertus Swanepoel hat from Target and want to be a part of my reader style post, please comment and I’ll forward you the email address and info to post your photo. Please share!
xo
c.
Tags: Albertus Swanepoel hat collection at Target, Albertus Swanepoel x Target, Alex Woo, Asos, designer hat collection at target, F21, gemma redux, Michael Kors, Michael kors sunglasses, target hats by albertus swanepoel, zappos.com
Posted in Looks + Trends | 5 Comments »
Sunday, October 30th, 2011

- Albertus Swanepoel Swirl Fedora
Set your alarm clocks for this weekend, my lovelies. No, not for Halloween, but for another Target collaboration. The Albertus Swanepoel for Target collection will debut today, Sunday, October 30, with a collection from the milliner that will include 14 colorful, printed and embellished styles.
I love wearing hats, specifically fedoras, and am ready to add some new pieces to my collection for Fall/Winter so, this collaboration is really exciting. I definitely want to pick up his well know ”
cupcake” style faux fur and I’m sure a few others as well. You can see the Target version
here.
Maybe not as well known to the masses, Swanepoel, a native South African, is an exquisite, well-known New York milliner with an incredible talent for designing and creating hats that we can actually wear. My favorite is his
Swirl Fedora available at Barneys. I love the sophistication of it and the details are amazing.
Swanepoel’s stunning pieces traditionally start in the $300 range. The Target collection, shown below, will be priced at $19.99 each and will include fedoras, cloches, wide brim styles and faux fur. The collection be available through December 22, at all Target stores and online at
Target.com. Not all the styles shown below are repesented
online, but I did link the photos below of those that are available as of today.
Let me know if you pick up a style. I’d love to do a reader post with the Albertus Swanepoel x Target hat collection. Comment here and let me know if you’d like to send in a photo!
xo
c.


Tags: albertus swanepoel, albertus swanepoel for J.crew, albertus swanepoel for Target, cloche hats, designer hats at target, faux fur hats, fedoras, J crew designer hats, j. crew hats, Milliner Albertus Swanepoel, Target designer collaborations, target hat collaboration, target hat partnership, target.com hats, wide brimmed hats
Posted in Looks + Trends, Obsessions | No Comments »
Saturday, October 29th, 2011
The Asos Coat Sale Countdown has begun. You have to like them on Facebook to get in on the deal, but if you are in the market for a new coat, and many of us are with impending snowfall, this sale can’t be missed. My two favorites are pictured below, but there are 5 coats that shoppers picked to be part of the 50% off coat sale starting Sunday evening.

Asos Premium Belted Coat – $215.64 will be available in 3 colors.

ASOS Aztec Pattern Coat - $179.70
Let me know if you pick up a new coat from the sale. I’d love to hear all about it.
xo.
c.
Tags: asos 50% off sale, asos aztec pattern coat, asos coat sale, asos coats, asosn premium belted coat, coats on sale at aso, facebook sale for asos
Posted in Looks + Trends | No Comments »
Friday, October 28th, 2011

- Ava Leopard Wedge Booties
Look what just arrived in my shoe closet! My new House Of Harlow leopard booties. I can’t wait to share outfit posts with these hot little numbers!
xo
c.
Tags: ava boots from House of Harlow, Ava Leopard boots, House of Harlow Ava Booties, Leopard booties, Nicole Richie boots, Revolve Clothing
Posted in Looks + Trends, Obsessions | No Comments »
Wednesday, October 26th, 2011




Outfit Sweater: Similar here at Loft, Striped Tee LOFT, Button Up: H&M, Belt: Streets Ahead Similar here, Necklace #1: Vintage, Necklace #2: Alex & Ani similar here, Stacked Double Bracelets: Alex & Ani, Watch: FreeLook, Bag: Botkier similar here, Sunglasses: Michael Kors similar here.
My shopping mission to find colorful, cropped, cable knit sweaters (that is a long list!) this weekend was actually extremely successful. Not only did I find exactly what I wanted – and in 2 colors- but the amazing 30% off sale on all sweaters at Loft was an added bonus.
I was not only surprised at the quality and fit of these sweaters, but actually of the entire Loft Collection. It was on-trend in both the styles and in the color selection. Of course, I had to add in the boatneck stripe tee as a layering piece. We all know how much I love stripes and this mustard color is the perfect addition to my collection.
Needless to say, I am really happy with what I saw and what I purchased. I am wearing the coral red sweater above, but stay tuned for the hot pink version later this week.
I am looking forward to sharing more places to shop locally and online to get some amazing pieces for Fall. Is there anything special you are looking for this Fall. Comment here and I’ll find it for you.
xo
c.
Tags: Alex and Ani, botkier bags, cable sweaters, colorful sweaters, cropped sweater trend, Genetic denim flares, H&M button up, loft, Michael kors sunglasses, Oersized watch trend, sripted tees, streets ahead belts, sweaters at loft
Posted in Looks + Trends | 2 Comments »
Friday, October 21st, 2011
I hope everyone enjoyed
Part One of the Key Pieces for Fall. I had so many must-haves that I had to do a couple of posts. After I posted Part One, I had some requests for additions to Part Two which included
Colored Denim, which I believe is a really fun way to wear denim this fall and suggest the burgundy and rust shades if you decide to try this trend for Fall. Pair them with a pale blush or pink chiffon shirt or knit for a fresh take on the color trends. The other suggestion was Animal Prints; which can be worn in almost of the items I shared and more. It’s easiest to wear as an accessory like shoes and bags and belts, but if you want to rock the a leopard trench or ala
Pippa Middleton in a chiffon leopard print blouse, I say “go for it”.

Jackie Kennedy Onassis in a classic trench
Trench Coat
A classic in every modern day woman’s closet, the trench is back and a must for Fall. The classic khaki is being shown from one end of the price spectrum to the other. The reason everyone is designing one and everyone is wearing one? Because all you need to do is add a beautiful scarf, tie it up, throw on some boots and you are ready to go. I would add an amazing bag and probably a hat, but it’s up to your own personal style and how you want to wear it. Anything goes. It’s instant sophistication.
How to wear: Tie the belt around your waist or add your own belt. I like a patent belt here for some added texture and a little shine. Oh, and add some big sunnies like these House of Harlow 1960 Nicole Sunglasses.
A watch is a must have, and as much as I love my RoseGold/Stainless version, it is time for a yellow gold or possibly a black or maybe even a white/gold combo. If you haven’t already, check out the Michael Kors selection of watches, his gold version is a best seller and fashion- girl fav.
How to wear: Layer with some bangles, a chain link bracelet and/or a leather cuff. I love these Pyamid bangles from nOir Jewelry.

- Joe’s Jeans Gala 2 Wedges
Suede Wedges
If you don’t already have a pair of suede wedges, get a pair now. You will love that you can pair with dresses and long skirts now and with skinny denim in the Winter. I also love the versions with built in socks for those blustery Winter days that are sure to be here soon. And don’t be afraid to get one in a color as well. I’m loving the navy suede versions.
How to wear: Pair with tights and/or chunky socks pushed down at the ankle with dresses, skirts and skinny jeans.
Hope you found some inspiration here for updating your Fall looks. I have lots more ideas to come; chunky, crop knit sweaters, colorful bags and more shoes, of course.
xo
c.
P.S. You might find a versions of these items in your closet already so, take a look around first and see if you can make them work for the season with some updating.
Tags: burberry trench, DKNY.com, house of harlow nicole sunglasses, house of harlow sunglasses, j crew trench coat, J. Crew, j. crew hats, joes jeans booties, joes jeans gala 2 wedges, Marc Jacobs scarf, Michael Kors, neiman marcus, nOir jewlery, pyramid bangles from noir jewelry, refinery29.com, shopbop, suede wedges trend, tights from dkny, trench coats, zappos
Posted in Fashion Trends, Inspirations, Looks + Trends | No Comments »
Wednesday, October 19th, 2011
I’ve been getting a lot of emails and facebook messages lately asking me what the key pieces are for Fall. It was a lot of fun to put the list together, but because it is a half dozen or so items long I did it in two parts. Here is my Part One list below to get you started. Stay Tuned for Part Two – coming later this week.
I have also included some suggestions and links to help you with your shopping and styling.

Rachel Bilson
Cape, Cape, and Another Cape
This is a must for Fall and if you take a look at the options, you may even find one you can wear into Winter (I even found a puffer cape). If not, you can plan to bring a ligherweight Fall cape back out in the Spring so either way, it’s a good investment.
How to wear: Throw over everything, especially a bright knit turtleneck like this Reed Krakoff style and add leather gloves or a slouchy hat ala Rachel Bilson.
Best Buy: Cut25 – Three-In-One Coat

Runway Colorblock Coat
Tweed Blazer
The Tweed blazer is another must. The version should be a feminine cut and if you can find one with some leather patches or a collar, go for it. Or spluge and get this Rebecca Taylor tweed/faux fur version I am dying over.
How to wear it: A ladylike bow blouse in a pattern is a sophisticated look with a pencil skirt or flared jeans. Or throw over the season’s sweater dresses.
Stripe Shirts
For years I have bought stripe tees because I love them and my collection is substantial, but I need to refresh my selectionwith the looks of this season. You can never have too many Breton stripe tops, in my opinion. Don’t be afraid to play with bright, colorful stripes and get both tees and turtlenecks as well as short sleeves. I’m searching for a yellow l/s stripe version myself.
How to wear it: Layer the short sleeves over your button ups for Fall and the long sleeves under colorful sweaters this winter so we get a sneak peek of the sleeves.

Tracy Reese Emmy Loafer
High Heeled Loafer
These heels are a very feminine take on the classic loafer and the heel is usually a wedge or stacked making them very wearable. Or if you want flats, then these!
How to wear: Great with a long, pleated skirt for a 60′s vibe or with a midi length floral skirt and chunky knit sweater.
Part two of Key Fall Pieces will be posted Friday. In the meantime, if you have some suggestions or want me to add a particular trend, let me know. I”m happy to include more on the list.
xo
c.
Tags: asos.com, DKNY cape, DKNY.com, J crew striped tissue turtleneck, J. Crew, j.crew sequin stripe tee, Mily Siennea Belted Cape, neiman marcus, Piperlime, Pleated skirt trend, Plenty by tracy reese emmy loafer, Rag & Bone Leighton Cape, rebecca taylor, reed krakoff knit turtleneck, runway colorblock coat, saks.com, shopbop, Shopbop.com, tweed and faux fur coat, Tweed blazer
Posted in Fashion Trends, Inspirations, Looks + Trends, Obsessions | No Comments »
Monday, October 17th, 2011
I’m calling it the return of the cool girl flat. A penny loafer turned bad ass is the only way to describe it and it is breathing new life into the ever -desperate “Flats” section of my shoe closet.
I have repeatedly tried to wear ballet flats ranging from one side of the money spectrum to the next, but alas, it is not meant to be. Ballet flats and me seem to have a serious personality conflict. I want to look cool, and they make me look the exact opposite.
But, the return of this loafer (or the popularity of it since it never really left) has brought me new hope to wearing flats again. It’s studded and satin and if there was ever a flat my wardrobe could agree with, it would be this one.

- Sam Edelman Adena Gunmetal Loafer
The Adena studded loafer from Sam Edelman is beyond the coolest flat I have ever seen and has answered my prayers for ever owning/wearing a balletesque type flat again. I am obsessed with the Gunmetal, but the Black or the Rosegold would be just as amazing.
I’m already planning my sock choices! How about some argyles or maybe some patterned tights from Happy Socks? And I think these DVF Naples Trousers in Lipstick will be a chic way to show my new found love of flats; flats that I can finally wear. . . my way.
xo
c.
Tags: adena studded loafer, diane von furstenerg, dvf naples pant, naples pant in lipstick by dvf, Piperlime, sam edelman, sam edelman adena, sam edelman studded slipper shoe, silk loafer by sam edelman, studded
Posted in Fashion Trends, Inspirations, Looks + Trends, Obsessions | 2 Comments »
Sunday, October 16th, 2011

J. Crew Spring 2012
Sometimes it’s not necessary to wear a trend as shown on the runway or in glossies, but more importantly to wear a trend your way.
Colorblocking is one of those amazing trends that is not only exciting, but really wardrobe and confidence altering. All of a sudden, we can mix our really bright reds with our hot pinks and our
oranges with our purples and it is spot on – in style.
The obvious way to colorblock is to choose bright colors and pair them together. You can
do it yourself with separates or pick a statement making dress that does all the work for you.
J.Crew for Spring 2012 (more evidence the trend is here for another season) paired hot pink with reds and oranges and will offer the entire collection for you to style yourself next Spring, but that is no reason why you can’t start wearing or planning your outfits now.
Of course, not everyone loves the mix of bright with bright so here are some alternative thoughts on wearing the colorblocking trend.

A more subtle way to colorblock is to pick one bold/bright color and add a basic such as black, brown, camel or even a blush tone. Add a statement in metal such as a necklace or bracelets or even a metallic clutch would do the trick. Marisa Tomei looks stunning in this orange skirt and black top with metallic detailing; a sophisticated way to wear the trend.

- Jill Stuart Ronneby Lovanni V Neck Dress
A dress is certainly the way to go when first trying the trend. There are many designers showing their collections for those who are fashion forward with color choices, as well as those that prefer a more suble look. This Jill Stuart dress has all the elements of how to wear the colorblocking trend; a bright color element paired with the basic black, a soft blush and a metallic element, which in a way is a piece of jewelry with it’s shiny finish. In fact, Jill Stuart did a gorgeous collection with several colorblocking dresses. Available at Shopbop.com
The various ways you can wear a trend is why I love the fashion and beauty industry so much. It is all about taking a trend and making it your own. You can always start with a handbag like this Eden bag by Botkier or a pair of Alicia ColorBlock boots from Tory Burch. Check out this page on StyleFind.com for more ideas.
Don’t be shy, try colorblocking, I think you will love how it will look and make you feel. Like I said, it can be attitude and wardrobe altering. Let me know if you try it.
xo
c.
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Posted in Fashion Trends, Inspirations, Looks + Trends | 1 Comment »
Thursday, October 13th, 2011
One on-trend look this Fall that you can easily accomplish via DIY (Do-It-Yourself) is the Ladylike look of a bow blouse.
Bow blouses have always been a favorite of mine because I am seriously addicted to scarves. It’s easy to accomplish a bow blouse with the use of a scarf; updating what you already have to make it feel new.
We are seeing lots of color this season and the use of a colorful scarf is the perfect opportunity to make a statement this Fall.
I’m taking a cue from the master of all things fashionable: Karl Lagerfeld. Mr Lagerfeld once stated:
“You come first, the clothes later. Reinvent new combinations of what you already own. Be creative.”
I took his advice this morning with a sleeveless, black, bow blouse from Trina Turk (circa early 90′s). I added a new Missoni x Target square scarf (this Erdem Jungle Print at Barneys.com is perfect) for a bit of color and to really accentuate the bow blouse trend. I love it and think it really freshens up a basic top that I have adored for years, but haven’t worn.
I’m not super girly (my friends call me a “fashion contradition”) so, I added this Streets Ahead studded belt and layers of necklaces to stay true to my own personal style.
What do you think? Will you give this DIY a try? Let me know. I’d love to hear how you wore it.
xo
c.
Style Tip: Use a square scarf folded in a triangle and roll it into a long scarf, then tie into a bow. This will give it lots of volume and really show off all the colors.
Tags: Barneys.com, beso.com, Bow Blouse Trend, bright scarf trend, DIY ideas, Erdeim, fabsugar.com, fashion DIY, Karl Lagerfeld quote, Ladylike trend, layered necklace trend, missoni x target, scarf trends, square scarf, studded belt from streets ahead, trina turk
Posted in DIY Ideas, Looks + Trends | 2 Comments »