MCLV Style File: Flower Power
Welcome to another Style File post – Our last outfit breakdown was a killer patterned black & white dress that Poppy Delevingne wore to Berlin Fashion Week and this time we’re going to check out a bright, fun outfit that’s a great way to transition to colder weather now that Fall 2012 is upon us.
Throwing a floral blazer over a skirt & top combo is a great idea, it takes this from a basic Summer look to an eye-catching, colder-weather appropriate outfit that can easily be adapted to suit your style and the pieces that you have available in your closet.
The extras for this look are especially great – The long, layered necklaces, chunky bracelets, and oversized gold mens watch are lovely but that handbag is what really stole my heart.
{Indulgence to Savvy Shopper – Left to Right: Lc Lauren Conrad Floral Blazer – $50 (sale) @ Kohl’s, ASOS Premium Floral Print Blazer – $55 @ Asos.com & Tall Co-ord Floral Blazer – $130 @ TopShop}
The key to this look is the floral blazer, finding one that suits your coloring and shape may take some time, but it’ll be worth it since this is such a great piece for Fall.
{Indulgence to Savvy Shopper – Left to Right: Rachel Roy Quilted Wrap Skirt – $175 @ Zappos.com, Vince Camuto V-Neck Wrap Dress – $100 @ Shop The Shoe Box & BCBGMAXAZRIA Silk Ruffle Flounce Draped Skirt – $60 @ 6pm}
You could try a sweet blue wrap skirt for this look or you could opt for a cobalt dress and achieve a similar silhouette. It’s the bright colors and eye-catching accessories that make this look work so you don’t need to stress about copying it piece-for-piece.
{Indulgence to Savvy Shopper – Marmen Cross Necklace – $250 @ Urban Outfitters, House of Harlow Diamond Cross Necklace – $60 @ Designs By Stephene & Multi Row Cross Necklace – $20 @ Asos.com}
Whether you’re a fan of delicate necklaces or chunky, gold jewelry or silver, wearing a single chain or layering multiple pieces – There’s something fun in this style to suit your personal taste!
{Indulgence to Savvy Shopper – Vince Camuto Gold Boyfriend Watch – $175 @ Dillard’s, Gold and White Links Boyfriend Watch – $55 @ Asos.com & Merona Silver Tone Extra Large Boyfriend Watch – $20 @ Target}
A boyfriend watch is a funky alternative to a cuff or bangle, it adds a masculine touch without taking your look straight to made-for-the-boys territory. Gold or silver, embellished or plain, there are tons of options out there.
Curious how I would interpret this look using pieces that I have in my wardrobe? Tuesday’s MCLV Style: Factory Girl post was actually inspired by this look from Lovely Pepa!
{You can shop similar pieces by clicking these hyperlinks: Floral Blazer – Pim + Larkin from Piperlime, Pleated Black Mini – Zara (one of my favorite pieces in my wardrobe, true story), Ankle Booties – Rebecca Minkoff from Shopbop.com, Floral Top – Anthropologie, and Jewelry – All from Sasha Maks Vintage}
As you can see, you can mix this look up, change colors, and adjust the jewelry to create something fresh and unique, a look that is all yours!
You can also check out past MCLV Style File looks below:
New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part II
Welcome to post numéro deux from the tents at New York Fashion Week, you can see the first post here and catch up on what you missed – The big names like Oscar de la Renta, Diane Von Furstenberg, and BCBG Max Azria.
Today we’ll be focusing on the secondary lines created by tried and true designers as well as the shows for brands which most of us real people outside of the fabulous fashion industry actually buy and wear and lust after. {Please note that the word “affordable” is being used in a relative context here, we are talking about NYFW not the mall, so take that into consideration.}
Rachel Zoe:
Let’s get this started with one of my favorite collections – the highly styled collection of fabulous 70’s inspired pieces shown by Miss Rachel Zoe. Some accused it of being overstyled, but I enjoyed it for that very reason, it showed you various ways you could wear her pieces – From the handbags, jewelry, hats, belts, shoes, and sunglasses.
Pants and pantsuits were highly featured – From slouchy leather to wide leg trousers to knit jumpsuits. Lots of great outerwear was also featured – leather bombers, blazers, double-breasted satin coats – as well as 70’s staples like tunics, shift dresses, ankle boots, maxi dresses, tuxedo pants, and bohemian shirt dresses and sequins sequins sequins.
J.Crew:
When you’re discussing the wearability of the lines at NYFW, J.Crew is one of the first brands that comes to mind. They always put together a fun, chic, wearable collection. Season after season the clothes are contemporary and on-target, with price tags that us real gals can actually consider.
This season was no different and the separates, suits, and dresses were colorful and covered in great prints. I can already see where multiple pieces will fit into my outfits for Spring – The separates seriously stole my heart. I want all the blazers and all of the cropped, fitted pants in fabulous prints.
10 Crosby Derek Lam:
Derek Lam was so determined to prove that this line was full of real clothes for real girls that he cast a beauty blogger as his model for the Lookbook. These separates and suits are killer and the new line of handbags were showcased to perfection against the ‘too cool for school’ pieces.
Cobalt blue, mixing & matching prints, skins, and leather are clearly the tips to take away from this collection. Oh, and separates separates separates. These shots make me want to run to my closet and practice pairing fun pieces together in interesting new ways.
Rachel Roy:
Easy, wearable separates in breezy silhouettes, bright colors, and fun, whimsical prints. Fitted pantsuits, midi length silk shirt dresses, printed shorts, wide leg 70’s inspired jumpsuits, tailored shorts, and all over prints were all present and accounted for – And all with a hint of pink.
What I adore about Rachel Roy is how each collection has its own distinct feel, but stays in line with her aesthetic and style. Her pieces are always chic and on-trend, but still classic enough to keep in your wardrobe season after season.
Rebecca Minkoff:
Lots of white, florals, and soft colors – A very sweet, Springy collection perfect for the cool California girl. Great denim, floaty, flattering silhouettes, and a mixture of hip shirts, day dresses and separates.
My favorite part of this collection were the variety of chic trousers – They came in slim white, vertical stripes, all-over prints, classic denim, and even white washed overalls.
Milly:
The Milly show almost seemed to be a clash of the Spice Girls – Sports Spice meets Posh Spice. The pieces were made from second skin fabrics and had a fluid, athletic quality to them while the silhouettes were sleek and body conscious.
All-over prints, leather sleeves, lame touches, black mesh, reflective materials, double halter necklines, and clear plastic all gave this collection a bit of an edge that wasn’t there last season. Definitely not for the timid! This show also featured pieces the relatively new handbag line – Specifically the zipper-adorned envelope and oversized day clutches.
Betsey Johnson:
“Girls Just Want To Have Fun!”
Nothing like a ton of 80’s glitz, glamour, and attitude to take the stage while Cindy Lauper belts out one of her most famous hits – All to celebrate the great Betsey Johnson’s 70th birthday. And believe me, that girl still knows how to have fun!
The clothes were just as loud & bright as the musical stylings and were all one-of-a-kind with a fun vintage twist and loads of layering and accessories – Basically the sartorial equivalent of Katy Perry. Just what we’ve come to expect from this unique designer.
Alice+Olivia:
Alice+Olivia is always bright, fun, and a little wild. They’re the clothes the cool girl with a great sense of humor wears because she can always find something that suits her mood and attitude. Eyelet & lace, drop waists, animal prints, sheathes, rompers, shorts suits, mix n’ match separates, and gowns – All with a little retro flare.
Not only did Miss Bendet produce yet another collection where I’d like to get my hands on each and every piece, she’s also created her first handbag line. Like the too cute shoes, they came in every color and style, one to match any outfit you could put together – From totes to oversized shoppers to mini duffles.
3.1 Phillip Lim:
This collection was all about mixing & matching and prints prints prints! Plaid, demure animal prints, stripes, and vibrant florals were mixed effortlessly with colorblocking, patchwork, denim, black leather, and sheer paneling.
The looks were all slouchy and laid-back but still fun and ecclectic through and through – Just what Phillip Lim does best.
Kate Spade:
Bright colors, retro-inspired silhouettes, and fun but ladylike separates and dresses are what the Kate Spade client expects – And this collection for Spring delivered just that.
Mod colorblocking in pastels, bold black & white checkered pieces, bowling bags, retro shades, sweet prints, oversized bows, stripes & florals, ankle strap heels, suits, and great outerwear rounded things out. While all of the pieces paired together in each look may have been fun for the show, you’d probably deconstruct these outfits to find the pieces that you wanted to add to your personal wardrobe.
Tory Burch:
This collection was all about being a world traveler – Someone who picks things up around the world, travels to exotic places, and wants her sense of style to reflect her world experiences. This was picked up not only in the handbags, jewelry, and accessories, but also in the prints, colors, and fabrics.
Sweet prints from nature, eyelet & thick lace, heavy fringe, embroidery, Native American & African beaded accents, leather working, and a plethora of florals, stripes, tie dye, and plaids. It was a unique collection but the fun embellishments and accents made it unique rather than kitchy. I can’t wait to get my hands on the mix n’ match shorts & cropped jacket combinations.
Victoria by Victoria Beckham:
This dress collection was composed primarily of structured shift dresses, knee-length sheaths, and shirt dresses in a variety of prints, colors, and materials – She experimented with delicate lace & eyelet, metallic leather, and whimsical floral and oversized dot prints.
She paired with wide strap sandals and peep-toe tennis shoes, both in a high platform that made them both sporty and Posh. These dresses – minis and knee-length – are breezy, wearable pieces, they could easily be styled with heels or flats and I’d pile on the jewelry to make the look your own.
Z Spoke by Zac Posen:
Zac Posen is all about drama – Whether its showstopping gowns ready for the Oscars red carpet from his main line or chic separates from his secondary line Z Spoke – There’s always a sense of occasion and a melodramatic undertone. And this collection is no different with the aptly themes – Coco Goes To Hollywood.
These clothes are chic, fun, and wearable. They have a cinematic quality that suits both Coco Rocha and the theme – They look like they’re made to be looked at or photographed. And luckily for us his gorgeous Z Spoke handbag line pairs perfectly with these looks. I was a big fan of the textured prints in bold colors, the styling was great too, I would wear some of these looks head-to-toe!
DKNY:
Sleek and sport may not be the first words that come to mind when you think about DKNY, but this collection was pure DKNY – Sexy, confident NYC ladies with places to go and butts to kick, stylishly of course. The collection was all black, grey, and white with the occasional canary yellow or denim piece.
One of the things that I always love about DKNY is how I can picture the pieces in my own life – The sheer blouses could be paired with a blazer and pencil skirt for a flirty work look or worn with shorts on the weekends, while the fitted, cropped pants that come in prints, solids, and stripes – which I would wear constantly – would easily go from day to night and from work to weekends. A great DKNY piece fits into your wardrobe, it goes with your existing wardrobe and helps take your looks up a notch.
Lacoste:
The Lacoste show was part traditional and part fun and new. There were basic whites and styles that the brand has shown consistently over the years, but there were also bold colors, fun graphic patterns, and the use of interesting new fabrics like mesh, clear plastic, and sheer pieces.
I especially liked the blue abstract print sweater dress, pajama dressing for men, and the sexy alligator stamped navy leather mini dress – They were all very Lacoste, but with a modern twist.
See by Chloe:
Digital Fashion Shows are becoming quite the thing and See by Chloe showed their second – a light, breezy, easy collection perfect for Spring.
Slouchy, primary colored separates, pantsuits with chic wrapped jackets, multicolored knits, drawstring pants & dresses, all paired with pointy toed low-heeled pumps and See by Chloe oversized clutches and duffle bags.
Tibi:
I can always tell a Tibi dress or blouse when I’m scrolling through the Bloomingdale’s website – Wearable clothing that’s sleek but always has some fun, feminine details that make it unique and perfect for pairing with other pieces already in your wardrobe.
The Spring 2013 collection showcased great leather pieces, some digital-inspired florals, denim, and lots of black and white. I loved the flirty separates, A-line mini skirts, wide belts, and killer ankle strap heels.
Nicole Miller:
Feminine but with an edge – That’s usually the best way to describe Nicole Miller’s always wearable collections. The pieces are always fun and flirty, but she always paires the sweet with fabrics, textures, and cuts with an edge.
This season the dark, moody florals were paired with body-con silhouettes, caged platform sandals, and touches of S&M-inspired leather and harnesses. I absolutely adored the shrunken jackets, both the zipper-adorned motorcycle jackets and the great floral blazers.
Sources: Style.com, Fashionologie, The Stylist, & Tom & Lorenzo
Previous NYFW Collections: New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part I, New York Fashion Week Fall 2012, Pre-Fall 2012 Part I, Part II, Part III, and NYFW Spring 2012 Round-Up.
Additional reviews, photographs, shows, and videos: Modelinia’s Runway Report: Richard Chai Love, Jenni Kayne, And Kimberly Ovitz, Harper Bazaar’s Top Spring 2013 Trends, This Time Tomorrow’s J.Crew Spring/Summer 2013 Details, and FabSugar’s Best Bags From Fashion Week Spring 2013.
Are these “more affordable” collections the ones that you look forward to during New York Fashion Week? Can you see yourself buying these pieces from brands like J.Crew, Kate Spade, or Tibi?
MCLV Style File: Poppy Delevingne
Welcome back to a new Style File Look!
It’s been a while since I put together one of these posts, but this recent look from British model & fashionista Poppy Delevingne really caught my attention so I’m here today to share it with you.
{Poppy Delevingne shot by Altamira: Models Off Duty}
What I love about this look is that it’s chic and well put together, but it’s also exceptionally versatile. It could easily go from a daytime look to nighttime, just as well as it could go from a Ladies Who Lunch outing to – well – Fashion Week in Berlin.
{Inspiration Board on ASOS Fashion Finder – Lace patterned dress, Marnie Leather Belt from Boticca, Black Marano Glitter Clutch by Anya Hindmarch & Pink and Slate Combo Stingray Sandals }
You could put together a similar look to this one by either belting a fun printed dress or combining separates – From the same brand or you could get creative and mix n’ match different patterns.
{Indulgence to Savvy Shopper – Left to Right: MaxMara Studio Uruguay Dress – $475 @ Matches Fashion, Tahari by Arthur S. Levine Belted Ruffle Dress – $130 @ Nordstrom & Dorothy Perkins Black & White Print Dress – $50 @ Dorothy Perkins}
This is also the type of look that could translate easily from black & white to color quite well, you just need to make sure that you’re sticking with a subtle pattern, a bold print and bold color together will make the look overly busy.
{Indulgence to Savvy Shopper – Left to Right: Alexander Wang Drape Front Print Silk Dress – $295 @ Nordstrom, DKNY Royal Blue Belted Swing Dress – $190 @ StyleBOP.com & Young Threads NYC Inc. Flame of Reference Dress – $75 @ ModCloth.com}
{You can shop similar pieces by clicking on the hyperlinks above and visiting the various store websites}
What’s your favorite part about Poppy’s fun look for Berlin Fashion Week? The subtle all-over pattern or the way she paired an understated Hugo Boss frock with fun, modern grey heels and a hippie-chic silver necklace?
{Click on images above to visit the original source}
You can also check out past MCLV Style File looks below:
2013 Resort Collections
Did the breathtaking Chanel Resort 2013 and Oscar de la Renta Resort 2013 collections whet your sartorial appetite for more gorgeous warm-weather clothes?
Me too!
I’ve narrowed down some of my favorite looks from all of the gorgeous 2013 Resort collections for you. I wish I had the time for a full review of each lovely show, but alas, I do not. Enjoy these highlights!
As usual, the Stella McCartney show was cheerful and fun, offering beautiful clothing in a fun atmosphere. Games, a lemonade stand, celebrities & fashion insiders, and gorgeous models sporting gorgeous, summery pieces. Perfection!
Roomy silhouettes, matching separates, strong lines, and beautiful, flattering prints. Yup, it’s Stella!
Florals, animal prints, shirt dresses, oversized blazers, matching short & top combos, lace, and pretty pinks & yellows. Ready for Summer?
Cute. Fun. Flirty. The Carven show was filled with great, wearable separates. A few dresses were sprinkled throughout the show, but the separates were the highlight. This collection had Alexa Chung’s name written allll over it!
The mixing of bold hues and use of colorblocking are really eye-catching in this look. The details are really great, I love the two-toned heels, contrasting collar on the jacket, and cute little Peter Pan collar on midriff-baring top.
This muted paisley cap-sleeved shift is a fabulous day look. You could easily wear sandals or flats with it to run errands around Paris!
I was thrilled when I heard the news that Miss L’Wren Scott was planning to show her first Resort collection this season. I’ve been a longtime fan of her Fall and Spring lines, I adore her ladylike silhouettes and the phenomenal attention to detail that her garments always have. And this fabulously retro collection, tailor-made for Mad Men or Pan Am, was worth the anticipation.
Aren’t these striking silhouettes, fabrics, and colors perfect for warm weather. Very eye-catching!
Sweater sets, mix n’ match separates, sleek sheath dresses, and matching hats & lace up heels were just what the doctor ordered. A ladylike spin on traditional Summer fare.
Marc Jacobs was all about brights, prints, and separates. As always, the show was busy, a fabulous chaotic mess of fabrics and patterns and color. Oversized, baggy shorts paired with sequined T-shirts, maxi dresses with cut-out backs, midi-length dresses and skirts in a-line silhouettes, and bold colors embellished with sequins, lace, and shimmering brocades. A feast for the eyes!
Voluminous shorts can be hard to pull off, but in these adorable prints and colors, I bet many will try next Summer!
Billowing mid-calf length skirts, contrasting prints, bright florals, collared T-shirts, thick strap Mary Jane’s, and belted waists. Could there be more elements in these looks?
I’ve been a fan of Phoebe Philo’s work at Celine since day one. The lines, the silhouettes, the pants, the chic minimalism, the accessories. Oh lord, the accessories.
All-white is great for Summer and this unbelievably chic look is perfect for next year. Just add some chunky jewelry and you’ll the be best dressed girl at the resort!
Black & white never looked so good! This is the sort of style that is universally flattering and can work for most women. And that bag… Swoon!
The colors and fabrics of this look really make it stand out. The clean lines mixed with the eye-catching colors is a great combination.
I’m a sucker for a pretty pattern and easy, wearable separates, which makes most of the Tory Burch collections right up my alley. This year’s resort show included mixing & matching patterns, thick banded sandals, striped & checkered pieces, over the shoulder bucket bags, headbands, short shorts, and even seashell accents.
These striped pants are fabulous, they’re flattering, fun, and versatile. You could just as easily throw them over a bathing suit with a simple white T-shirt & sandals as you could pair them with killer heels & a strapless top for nighttime.
These checkered shorts caught my attention immediately, I thought there were too cute paired with the chic, structured navy jacket.
Preen had great florals, maxi dresses, and striking separates, but these two looks really stole the show in my opinion. I loved the dramatic quality of the color choices and the striking cuts.
This mix of fun, floral prints is really eye-catching and the cut of this dress is incredibly flattering. You could easily go from a daytime shopping trip to clubbing with a change of shoes, handbag, and accessories.
I love a maxi dress with a unique twists, like this one which has a more structured t-shirt silhouette, more daytime than beach time.
Michael Kors showed lots of solid colors and dazzling gold pieces. His silhouettes were simple and classic, the colors and occasional pattern definitely took front stage.
Great summer nights dress. Pretty, flattering and versatile, the perfect piece to take on vacation since you can wear it multiple times!
Without a doubt my favorite piece from this Resort collection. Fabulous cut and perfect styling, those gold sandals are killer!
You can always count on a Moschino Cheap and Chic show to be playful and entertaining, and the clothing to be cute and fun. This collection was all about gorgeous outerwear, whimsical prints, and relaxed, chic separates in cool greens and pale blues.
I love the light, Springy green of this coat, the relaxed silhouette, and the muted print. I’m also smitten with these retro spat-inspired black & white booties. Tres chic!
All the pieces of this look are great, but what makes it so striking is the combination. The oversized sweater paired with fitted black short, the to die for colorblock handbag, and the ridiculously cute striped peep-toe wedges. Great combination!
I always look forward to all of Jason Wu’s shows, his designs are inevitably chic and polished. Each and every look could go straight from the runway to the street outside the show without missing a beat. Classic, well-tailored, and timeless, these clothes are a great investment!
I NEED THIS! That’s the first thing I thought when I looked at this collection. These looks are eye-catching and too adorable for words. Pieces from this collection are definitely going to make their way into my closet!
And I’ve saved my favorite for last… Rachel Zoe! Fun, sexy, and completely drool-worthy. Daywear, club gear, bathing suit cover ups, all with a little drama and a 70’s spin. Just the way we like it!
Mod perfection. LOVE.
So sexy & chic! I love the black & white combinations here, the slim pants and the flirty a-line skirt are both fabulous. Love!
Great colors! The skinny suit is too chic for words and I love the darker florals, it’s a unique color scheme for summer.
Source, Source, Source & Source
If you dying for more check out the following reviews and summaries for the fabulous 2013 Resort Collections – FashionVibe’s Resort Report, FabSugar’s Over 250 of the Best Looks From Resort 2013, and Refinery 29’s 17 Resort ’13 Collections That Blew Us Away.
What do you think of this collection of Summery runway shows? What were your favorite collections and pieces from the Resort 2013 lines?
The Little Black Dress
“You can never be over – or underdressed in a Little Black Dress.” – Karl Lagerfeld
As far as I’m concerned, truer words have never been spoken. When Coco Chanel invented the Little Black Dress (aka LBD) in the 1920’s she had no idea what she was opening the fashion world up to. And with that brilliant idea the color of mourning was transformed into the chicest color of them all and the cocktail dress became the epitome of style and elegance.
In the years since its origination the LBD has come in many guises – formal, informal, short, midi, strapless, long sleeves, cotton, velvet, silk, lace, satin…
Evening-Appropriate:
The original LBD was intended for an evening out on the town and that tradition definitely lives on in this day in age.
Short, sassy, chic.
Perfection! It's fun and sexy and one-of-a-kind. What more could you ask for in a cocktail dress?
Kristin's look is everything you want from a LBD - Fun and eye-catching. The fabric makes it unusual and catches your attention when she walks by and her accessories perfectly add that needed zing to the look. Also, the tights make it warm enough to wear year-around.
This is the perfect example of showing some skin in a LBD but keeping the look chic rather than tacky. She looks sexy as hell, but classy and tasteful.
And of course, we’ve got to discuss the 2012 red carpet It Girl who wore LBDs almost exclusively for her Girl With The Dragon Tattoo appearances and premieres…
If you want to up the drama for evening try cut outs, lace, or panels of sheer fabric. They give the illusion of showing more skin than you really are and give a dress a unique and one-of-a-kind feel. I love that despite the modernity of this Prabal Gurung dress, she still looks like Audrey Hepburn!
The quickest & easiest way to make a dress evening-ready is to add jewelry and killer heels! Just keep them in your day bag and pull then out when cocktail hour arrives.
Work-Appropriate:
Wearing a LBD for work is all about length and appropriateness. You’ll want to stick with a drama-free dress, something sleek and approaching knee-length would be ideal.
A slinky sheath dress is the ultimate LBD for the office. The clean lines and chic silhouette are perfect for work and depending on the neckline and sleeves all you may need is a blazer to be meeting-ready.
Obviously Cara's boots aren't the perfect office shoes, but this is a really cute dress that could easily fit into a business-casual office with the addition of tights and a pair of basic pumps in either black or a fun color.
A wrap or criss-cross front dress is a great option for the office. Depending on the formality of your dress code you may need to add a blazer, cardigan, or closed-toe shoes to this beautiful Bottega Veneta dress.
A LBD with sleeves is an easy choice if you're heading into work, virtually any hemline below mini skirt level will balance out with sleeves. And a dramatic shoulder like this gorgeous velvet Nina Ricci dress will make it stand out all the more!
And the best part of wearing a LBD to work? Take off your blazer or tights and switch up your shoes and you’re ready for a night out on the town!
Day-Appropriate:
Wearing a LBD during the day is a breeze, it’s all about picking one that suits your plans since they come in all shapes, sizes, and styles these days. Brunch, sight-seeing in a new city, traveling – You can easily add a little class to these activities with the perfect frock, dressed up or down.
You'll stand out in a crowd in a dress like this one! This type of dress could easily go from day to-night and she did a great job of keeping things casual by adding low-key accessories. Great platform t-straps and I like her decision to add the faux fur and leather jacket to stay warm. And that purse! 🙂
You can easily add a boho feel to your LBD with a cardigan or duster and layers and layers of funky jewelry. These boots are a great, unexpected way to finish this look off.
Adding brightly colored or patterned tights to a LBD is a great way to spice it up and make your look wholly original. I love love love the little white Peter Pan Collar on this Asos dress, it's definitely something I would wear with ballet flats!
Such a cute dress! The oversized pockets show you how little details can set a LBD apart from other dresses. And those shoes! Too cute - A fun, interesting alternative to ballet flats.
In my Real Girls Need Real Closets post I discussed the basics that a well-rounded wardrobe should contain – including the LBD. Similarly you can check out My Ten Essential Closet Pieces from Wendy’s Lookbook.
So what do you think? Are you ready to try adding a Little Black Dress to another part of your life?
Have a great weekend, I’ll be back from sunny Sea Ranch on Sunday with some great vacation clothes shots! If you’re interested in real-time updates, photos, and reading links that I’m loving, follow me on Twitter or Facebook.
MCLV’s Style File – Miranda Kerr
Welcome back to MCLV’s Style File for a breakdown on this great low-key outfit spotted on Victoria’s Secret model and busy mom Miranda Kerr in Australia a few weeks ago.
What I like most about this look is the high-low combination. The striped dress is stylish but casual and comfortable, the blazer is well-tailored and adds a bit of structure, and the red bag is an eye-catching splash of color that completes the look.
See below for some affordable picks for these pieces:
{Left to Right: G-Star – $78 @ Asos, French Connection – $78 @ Bloomingdale‘s & Swell Paula Dress – $55 @ Swell}
Depending on your mood you could rock a casual black and white striped mini like Mrs. Orlando Bloom, go for nautical-inspired navy & white stripes, or even pair a striped maxi dress with the rest of these pieces.
{Left to Right: Classic Blazer – $98 @ GAP, Boyfriend Blazer w/ Striped Cuff – $98 @ Asos & Cuffed Blazer – $80 @ Victoria’s Secret} A cropped or fitted blazer, boyfriend blazer, or even a casual rolled sleeve blazer would all work well in this outfit. You can follow Miranda’s lead and go for a classic black or navy blazer, but I think that a neutral tan or grey would look lovely as well.
{Left to Right: ADELAIDE Leather Chelsea Ankle Boots – $80 @ Asos, Sofft Cadence – $110 @ Shoebuy.com & Nina Bold – $50 @ Shoebuy.com}
You can give your look a sassy twist with a pair of flat ankle boots or lace-up heeled Oxfords, or you could even try a simple pair of black ballet flats depending on your personal style and – of course – how far you’re planning on walking.
{Left to Right: Longchamp ‘Le Pliage’ Medium Shoulder Tote – $100 @ Nordstrom, Contrast Colored Quilted Handbag – $65 @ Oasap & Kate Spade New York Tote – $175 @ Piperlime}
I know that these bags are a little pricier than the other pieces that I picked out above, but they’re all quality pieces that you’ll really be able to hang on to. I’m a huge fan of Longchamp’s Le Pliage line as well as simple Kate Spade totes, there’s really something for everyone in this eye-catching hue!
You can also check out past MCLV Style File looks below:
Laissez les bon temps rouler
Let the good times roll…
Whether the occasion is a romantic night on the town, cocktails after work, a bachelorette party in Vegas or Girls Night Out, we all have evenings that call for the perfect cocktail dress. Yes, the LBD is classic and will always be in style, but why not step out of your comfort zone and throw on a stylish new frock this Spring? Sequins, feathers, draping, vibrant jewel tones, nudes, understated elegance, glitzy glamour… Whatever you most desire, there is the perfect dress out there for you.
Here are a few party dresses that have caught my eye for the Spring/Summer of 2011. They range in price and in mood, and regardless of your age, height, budget and event, we should be able to find you something!
The three dresses below can easily go from the office to drinks with the removal of a blazer and/or tights and the addition of just the right pair of heels. They’re sophisticated, fun and chic, but demand that you still be taken seriously despite an out-of-the-office setting.
Kay Unger - $210 @ Bloomingdale's
Rachel by Rachel Roy 24/7 Dress - $100
BCBG Natalie Color-Blocked Sheath - $200
Vegas baby, Vegas!
Nothing says “Let’s Party” quite like sequins and shimmer, so throw on a sparkly mini and head out for a night on the town, whatever the cause of your celebration.
Winter Kate Nicole Dress - $400 @ Shopbop.com
Aqua Silver Sequin Tank Dress - $100 @ Bloomingdale's
BCBGeneration Metallic Jacquard One-Shoulder Dress - $130
Hot summer nights call for low-key and understated glamour. Try pairing a flirty, floral frock with nude heels or booties, or a maxi dress with strappy sandals.
BCBGeneration Printed Asymmetrical-Hem Dress - $130
Patterson J. Kincaid Cerise Jersey Long Dress - $110 @ Shopbop.com
Trina Turk "Playa Vista" V-Neck Dress - $300 @ Bloomingdale's
For date night you need something flirty and fun, something that hugs your curves in just the right places and reminds him why you’re the only girl for him. Whether you want to show some skin or keep it covered up, the key is to find a form flattering dress that makes YOU feel amazing.
Tadashi Shoji Bandage Cap-Sleeved Bandage Dress - $330 @ Bloomingdale's
BCBGeneration One-Shoulder Open-Back Dress - $120
Cut 25 Drop Needle Jersey Shift Dress - $270 @ Bloomingdale's
Diane von Furstenberg Bateau Silk/Cotton Dress - $285 @ Saks
Eileen Fisher Organic Linen Sequin Dress - $250 @ Saks
Donna Morgan Belted Linen Sheath Dress - $140 @ Nordstrom
Take a new style or a shorter hemline for a spin this Spring and remind yourself just how much fun fashion can be!
Moi Contre La Vie 