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Posts tagged “The Real Olivia P

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.

{Lovely Pepa}

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.comTall 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.comFloral 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:


London Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion

The street style in London always has a bit of drama to it – While New York Fashion Week is full of fun, bright Summer separates, London usually has more focus on deeper colors, outerwear, and great boots.

You can always out on Miss Dita to give great face. She always gives a look her all and looks perfectly put together.

Mixing prints like this is not a challenge to be taken on by a novice! Bright colorblocking, paisley pants, red, black & white heels, and an oversized black clutch with red piping. Masterly!

Mulberry had itself quite the front row! Designer Emma Hill was joined by the a couple of fabulous British It girls – Alexa Chung, Kate Moss, and Lana Del Rey.

Texture! Texture! Texture! Between the stacked beaded bracelets to the contrasting lace in blues and creams to the chunky statement necklace – This look is all about mixing and matching textures and fabrics.

Such a stylish, colorful outfit – I love the marigold cropped pants paired with the emerald-green double-breasted blazer, it’s an interesting and striking combination.

This is such a great British outfit! The sweet silhouette of the drop-waist shift dress, the contrasting collar, and the chic retro hat are lovely, and I like how she paired them with a statement necklace and brightly colored clutch.

Poppy has been a longtime fan and supporter of Matthew Williamson and put together a great boho look for his show – Torn jeans, metallic strappy sandals, an embroidered top, and braids.

This is a fantastic jacket and I love how she gave it a fun, relaxed feel by paring it with a graphic tee and the cherry red handbag.

Rocker chic meets Catholic school girl – Daisy Lowe put together an edgy but stylish black & white ensemble by pairing a pleated mini with a high-neck blouse, cropped motorcycle jacket, and ankle boots.

I absolutely adore this – The puppy sweater is too cute for words, the tweed coat is killer, and I NEED those moccasin heels!

The stylish outerwear wasn’t just on the runway at Burberry, Miss Julia RestoinRoitfeld and Robert Konjic looked great in double-breasted coats just outside the show.

Drama Queen! Never interested in being a wallflower ADR stuns in statement pieces after statement piece! Maybe she got caught in a fashion shower on her way to the show? 🙂

I adore this shot of models Poppy & Arizona. They have such distinct styles, but they both look great. Poppy’s studded ankle boots and black & white printed blouse suit her perfectly, while Arizona’s button-front dress and cropped leather jacket work really well to create a fun, unique look.

Stunning! I love the sweet Peter Pan collar and can’t imagine a more flattering color or cut for her. And those booties? Swoon! Leave it to a blogger to knock it right out of the park! 🙂

{Click on the links above to view the original source}

Previous LFW & Spring 2013 Collections: New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part I, New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part II, New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part III, New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion, London Fashion Week Fall 2012, London Fashion Week – Street Style & Front Row Fashion, London Fashion Week Spring 2012 Round-Up, and Streetstyle & Front Row Fashion – London Fashion Week.

Additional reviews, photographs, shows, and videos: London Fashion Week Spring 2013: Parties & Front Row, Street Style Spring 2013: London Fashion Week & London Backstage Beauty Files: Spring 2013 from Harper’s Bazaar.

Do you prefer the wild & vibrant styles that feature heavily on the sidewalks of New York City or the moody, Fall-inspired fashions on the London streets during Fashion Week?


New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion

This is the final – finally – post on the Spring 2013 New York Fashion Week collections. During the first three posts we reviewed the NYFW institutions, the affordable “real women” lines, and the newbies to Fashion Week. Today’s post is all about the editors, actresses, bloggers, models, and fashion industry insiders during New York Fashion Week – What they wore to view the collections, running between the shows, and to the parties, store openings & celebration dinners.

{I absolutely adore this look. It’s chic and utterly put together, but still fun and youthful rather than being stiff and boring. Well done Miss Belle!}

{Low-key and casual, perfect for a muggy NYC day and comfortable enough to make it through the day without foot pain, fashion emergencies, or faux pas.}

{Quite the well put together outfit – I love the blouse, it suits her really well, and I’m a sucker for a great day clutch so this studded beauty really caught my eye.}

{So. Cute. I can’t imagine a more adorable or flatteringly age-appropriate little outfit for this young lady.}

{I kind of love Kelly’s look here. I’m not a huge fan of her recent hair color choices, but the bright colorblocking of this frock is lovely and that black & white checkered clutch was a brilliant choice.}

{I love the fresh, colorful prints she picked here, as well as the unique midi length hem. There’s something to be said for mixing & matching, no one else will ever show up in the same outfit!}

{LOVE! It’s fun and one-of-a-kind, totally Brad!}

{Great colors. Fabulous length. Utterly flattering silhouettes. Well done ladies, well done.}

Bloggers:

Bloggers do it better! 🙂 The ladies who represented the blogger contingent in New York City did a fabulous job in brights, florals, prints, and eye-catching accessories.

{Such a gorgeous dress! Dark florals are one of my favorite ways to bridge the Summer-to-Fall gap and this is a great example of how to transition them. And Zara booties never hurt an outfit!}

{One way to make sure that you stand out in a crowd of bloggers, celebrities, and editors is to: (1) Look stunning (2) Wear stand-out hues that suit you to perfection & (3) Pile on the gorgeous statement jewelry}

{Great print & colors – And those double ankle strap heels are killer}

{Liz from Late Afternoon (left) and Laura from OnTheRacks (right) make quite the pretty picture in a fun, colorful array of separates paired with perfectly chosen, eye-catching accessories.}

JVP_3000
{Do blondes have more fun? Ask Shea {Cheyenne Meets Chanel}, Chiara {The Blonde Salad}, and Kristina {Kayture}. These lovely ladies all added some Summer white to their chic ensembles – from blazers & cropped leather jackets to pants & handbags.}
Models:
Can’t forget to include the great looks that are put together but the stunning ladies who strut their stuff on catwalks all over the world during Fashion Month!

{Sylish and chic! I love this look but I have NO IDEA how she was wearing a black blazer during NYFW, maybe she took it off after the pictures were taken?}

{This is a great laid back look. I adore the printed pants paired with the leopard print pieces, and the plain white tee paired with the dramatic statement necklace is another great choice.}

{LOVE THIS. It’s wild & crazy & fun – Just what fashion week is supposed to be all about!}

{I always look forward to shots of Karlie – I adore her street style, her runway walk, and how her personality always manages to shine through in a picture. Here’s yet another great example of her personal style from Mr. Newton!}

{How fabulous is this shot? I love her bike, her handbag, her helmet, and her low-key but chic style – Skinnies & a tank – perfect for a humid Summer day in New York.}

Constance Jablonski, Ginta Lapina and Karlina Caune Off Duty 

{This is a great shot showing models doing something that they do best – Mixing & matching! These ladies are doing a great job of combining interesting and fun pieces to put together unique, fashionable looks.}

And last but hardly least, my favorite look from New York Fashion Week…

{I mean seriously? Can you imagine a more chic and stylish looking woman? She probably made half the women at this show cry and give up on fashion. Head-to-toe this is an amazing look – The red is striking and the gloves & pearls are such chic touches. J’adore!}

{Click on the images above to be taken to the original source}

Previous NYFW Collections: New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part I, New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part II, New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part IIINew York Fashion Week Fall 2012, Pre-Fall 2012 Part I, Part II, Part III, and NYFW Spring 2012 Round-Up.

Addition reviews, photographs, shows, and videos: WhoWhatWear’s What They Wore – NY Fashion Week, Style.com’s Get the Look: Tilda Lindstam, New York Fashion Week Spring 2013: Parties & Front Row from Harper’s BAZAAR & Modelinia’s Top Twitpics from Spring 2013 New York Fashion Week.

Photo by andie_arthur

Now we’re off to London – See you there! ❤


Links You’ll Love

Fashion:

There’s a new “It” beauty blog in town brought to us by the fashionable French “It” girls the Courtin-Clarins. So if you’re in the mood for some tips, ideas, and/or product reviews head over to Beauty Flash Blog for more!

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Project time! Want to create your own chic sunglasses rack? Frassy Life has you covered with this fun and oh-so-easy version that you can do with simple things you’ve probably already got on hand.

Rachel Zoe’s jewelry line is full of fun, funky, retro-inspired pieces that can work with just about any look or destination. Don’t believe me? The stylist put together some killer looks for her pieces just to prove it – Day, Night & Workwear.

Sometimes a fashionista’s gotta do what a fashionista’s gotta do! Essential Indulgences for Fashion Bloggers – What are your indulgences and must haves?

dean quinn

I love discovering designers or an exciting new esthetic that suits my personal style to perfection. And with Fashion Week Month just starting, now’s the time to keep your eyes peeled! Check out The Ones To Watch from Harper’s Bazaar or Olivia Palermo’s Lines We Love: Chinti and Parker or Lines We Love: Anndra Neen.

If you’re starting to think about your Fall 2012 wardrobe why not get some recommendations from the fashionable editors over at Harper’s Bazaar? Smart Shopoing – Cheap Designer Clothes & Accessories.

Health & Fitness:

You know me, I’m a smoothie girl through and through. So was I ever excited when I heard that it was recently International Green Smoothie Day! PARADE! TICKER TAPE! Top 10 Green Smoothie Recipes: International Green Smoothie Day.

Sweet Strawberry Ice Cream and Chocolate Sauce

Desserts can be healthy. Or, just not as bad. So why not try something new and exciting like Persian Ice Cream, Sweet Strawberry Ice Cream with Chocolate Sauce, or  – Go Cuckoo For Coconut Milk Ice Cream.

Snacking is a crucial part of my daily life. Making sure that my blood sugar doesn’t drop so I don’t end up cranky OR binging and falling into a food coma is important. Need some fun new ideas to shake things up? The Hungry Hungry Hippie has you covered – Vegetarian Snack Ideas.

I love going to the farmer’s market but we all know the tragedy of fruits & veggies going bad before we get the chance to use them. Well, it turns out there are some tricks of the trade to help keep your Farmer’s Market fare from turning too quickly! 13 Tricks and Tips For Keeping Produce Fresh Longer.

Getting in shape isn’t just about hitting the gym and getting enough walking in, it’s about how you’re fueling your body. Afterall, you can’t out exercise a bad diet. Don’t believe me? Take it from Bob Harper of The Biggest Loser – Why Nutrition Is Number One For Weight Loss.


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 FinderLace 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:


Jewelry Essentials – Pieces Every Woman Should Own

In my Real Girls Need Real Closets and Real Girls Need Real Closets – Accessories Edition I discussed the pieces that are worth putting money into in order to build a complete wardrobe. Today I’d like to focus on what jewelry should make it into your collection in this guest post for Sasha Maks Vintage.

Over the years you’ll invest in new accessories, update your collection, and pick up great pieces on your travels, of both the new and vintage variety. Truth be told, putting together the perfect jewelry collection isn’t something that happens overnight, it’s a long process and while your personal style may evolve over time, the basics of what you should acquire will remain relatively static. With that in mind, here are some tips and suggestions to keep in mind while you’re shopping!

Statement Necklace:

Having a dramatic and eye-catching piece at your neck is a Must. Something that’s versatile and can work as the central focus for your look at a number of events – From casual to dressy to office appropriate.

{Monet Enamel Fan Necklace 1970s – $225}

{Inspiration Board on ASOS Fashion FinderNonoo – Letticia Floral Shorts, Jaeger Sleeveless Silk Blouse, Suuna Black Arabella Ladies Sunglasses & COGGLES EXCLUSIVE Lorelei Black & Blue Shoes}

Summer CasualInspiration for this look: Olivia Palermo’s fabulous floral shorts look from Verona, Italy photographed in July of 2012. A statement necklace can be the focal point of a basic or monochromatic look, or just another fabulous piece in a fun, vibrant outfit like this one.

Cuff Bracelet:

A cuff or wide bracelet allows you to throw on a single piece of jewelry and call it a day. This acts as an understated but dramatic piece that can complete a look without a lot of effort.

{Silver-tone Wide Ridged Cuff 1970s – $135}

 

{Inspiration Board on ASOS Fashion FinderFluoro Stripe Double Breasted Knit Coat by M Missoni, Black Peep Toe Booties, Diva clutch plain black leather from Boticca, Suuna Black Arabella Ladies Sunglasses, Mixed Chain Collar Necklace & ‘Betty’ thin leather dress}

Punk Princess – Inspiration for this look: Punk and edgy are two ways to go with a thick silver bracelet, so take inspiration from Brooklyn Blonde and try something new & exciting by pairing unexpected pieces. Unique styling, like these peep-toe booties and the sleeveless trench, make a look fresh and unique and 100% you.

Evening Earrings:

Whether you’re wearing a simple suit and attending a work function or a fun Little Black Dress for a cocktail party, you need a pair of killer earrings to punctuate your look.

{Trifari Beaded Ball Drop Earrings 1960s – $165}

 

{Inspiration Board on ASOS Fashion FinderLeiby Wide Leg Jumpsuit With Belt, Fatale Natural Shoes, ASOS HARLOT Stiletto Leather Sandals, Lipsy Playsuit With Scallop Edge Hem & Blue, Jade, Noir & Sand Jersey & Silk Jumpsuit}

Retro Luxe – Inspiration for this look: The beautiful & fashionable Liz Cherkasova from Late Afternoon’s fun Summertime look. Depending on the size, style, and color, dangling earrings can easily go from day to-night, the key is to pick the right outfit to complement them.

Cocktail Ring:

A one-of-a-kind cocktail ring is an absolute must have. You need a piece that is fun and flashy, that makes you feel glamorous and acts as a great conversation starter.

{Rhinestone Cocktail-Party Ring 1960s – $95}

{Inspiration Board on ASOS Fashion FinderEmerald Sarong Knot Cocktail Dress by Halston Heritage & ASOS HYLA Strappy Heeled Sandals}

Cocktail FabulousInspiration for this look: Katie Holmes’s September 2012 cover for C Magazine, photographed by Matt Jones. A fun ring is very versatile, it’ll work equally well for girls night out, after work drinks, or a cocktail party.

Personality Piece(s):

Whatever your style, whatever your taste, you should have a stand out piece of jewelry in your collection that is 100% YOU. It doesn’t matter what it is, it could be s a fabulous pair of drop earrings, or a handful of stunning bracelets for stacking, or a simple pearl necklace that you inherited from your mother.

{Left: Christian Dior Faux Coral Demi-Parure 1970s – $1250, Top Right: Snake Bangle 1970s – $135 & Bottom Right: Faux Jade Cocktail Ring 1960s – $135}

Me? I’m obsessed with classic gold vintage pieces and animal jewelry like the pieces above. They suit my classic style and act as great finishing touches for my outfits.

{Inspiration Board on ASOS Fashion Finder – Left Outfit: Cream Asymmetrical Tie Blouse by DKNY, Black Leather Exposed Zip Skirt by McQ Alexander McQueen & Reiss Lotta BUCKLE SHOE BOOTS, and Right Outfit: White Poppy Blouse by Vivienne Westwood Anglomania, Black Full Flippy Skirt by Halston Heritage & Red Bow Front Patent Pointed Court by Moschino Cheap & Chic}

Black & White StunnerInspiration for the look: Donna Karan Fall 2012 Ready-to-Wear & Temperley London Pre-Fall 2012. Perfect for a work party or a formal evening, the cut, silhouette, and lengths can be adjusted to suit the appropriateness of a given outing.

All jewelry from Sasha Maks Vintage – Original post on the Sasha Maks Vintage Blog


Links You’ll Love

Fashion:

Here’s a serious, fashion-forward French manicure that’s perfect for your next big event – DIY Nail Art: A Modern French Manicure Inspired By Marchesa.

If you love the current reigning queen of fashion, Diane Kruger, as much as I do, you’ll adore this interview from the Wall Street Journal – Diane Kruger: 20 Odd Questions.

I’m a huge devotee of ballet flats, they suit my classic and simple, but feminine style to a T, but I love to mix things up. This summer has been all about topsiders, smoking flats, and Oxfords. Don’t believe me? WhoWhatWear – How They Wear Summer Oxfords featuring celebrities like Audrey Tautou, Jessica Alba, and Rihanna, and fashion insiders like Olivia Palermo and Annabelle Dexter-Jones.

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Shoe porn anyone? How about closet organizing and gorgeous shoe storage? Thought so… Be Frassy – Shoescribe & Frassy.

Health & Fitness:

If you’re like me and enjoy trying new and interesting ways of eating in order to find the best way of eating for yourself, then here’s another to try. Paleolithic, primal, caveman – These have all been used to describe the high protein, gluten-free diet known as Paleo. Check out this health nut’s experience –30-Day Paleo Challenge: I Tried It!

If a gym membership is too pricy for you right now or even if you’re just not in the mood to head to the gym, it doesn’t mean that you have to skip your workout. Try Women’s Health’s Work Out At Home for great body weight moves you should incorporate into your workouts.

Some new duds always motivate me to get my booty to the gym, but that doesn’t mean you need to break the bank! Get Your Om on For Less: Yoga Tops Under $30.

Not sure about you, but I whole heartedly believe that there are healthy desserts out there that you can indulge in without guilt. And while I wouldn’t say it’s my life’s goal to try them all, that statement wouldn’t be too far off. Case in point? The Fitnessista’s Sweet potato chocolate chunk cookies – I made these with a few little adjustments, MCLV Mange post to come soon!

Whether you’re a native San Franciscan like I am or new to the City By The Bay, if you’re looking for some great places to workout look no further than the FitSugar headquarters – Work Out Like a Local: San Francisco Edition.


Links You’ll Love

Fashion:

Want some advice on stretching your existing wardrobe and how to make the pieces that you have work in multiple ways? Thought so! Everyday Reading – One Piece Many Ways.
 
Remember the adorable Robert Downey Jr., Marisa Tomei romance Only You? The Design Sponge brings you clothes, accessories, and houseware products reminiscent of the sweet rom com – Living In: Only You.
 
Anna_DR_Joana_Avillez_CORRECTED
 
Fashion can be fun! Check out Refinery 29’s An Illustrated Guide To Fashion’s Biggest Icons featuring illustrations of fashion’s most legendary and colorful characters including Marc Jacobs, Anna Dello Russo, Daphne Guinness, Diane Pernet, Anna Piaggi, Iris Apfel, and many more!
 
I’ve adored Peter Pilotto’s last few collections and if you’re not familiar you should check out Olivia Palermo’s review of – Lines We Love: Peter Pilotto.
 
 
If you love resortwear with a fabulous vintage feel than the Caftan is probably right up your alley for your next vacation. Whether you’re throwing it over a swim suit in your resort, wearing it with leggings for dinner when the wind picks up, or just with sandals and chunky jewelry as you explore the city, it’s the perfect piece to invest in to give your vacation a fun, hippie twist. Don’t believe me? Read The Glamourai’s { In The Market } For Caftans and tell me you’re not DYING to try one!
 
 
Health/Fitness:
 
 
Interested in adding the oh-so-healthy chia seed to your diet for some much-needed nutrients and omegas? Read FitSugar’s Bring On the Omegas! Products That Contain Chia Seeds and try making OhSheGlow’s Easy Overnight Buckwheat Parfait with chia seeds.
 
Think you can get away with skipping weight training during your gym time? Nope! The Zen of the Barbell. Not convinced? Sports Medicine – Why Women Should Lift Weights.
 
Sometimes trying something new in the kitchen can be a little nerve-racking. Are you preparing it right? Will the recipe turn out? Should you have tried something else? Check out this Sexy Swiss Chard brought to you by Candice Kumai – author of Pretty Delicious: Lean and Lovely Recipes for a Healthy, Happy New You and the talent behind The Stiletto Chef blog –  and get a great tutorial on cooking the powerhouse veggie Swiss Chard.
 
 
Need some new low-calorie treat ideas for hot summer days? Are you a big fan of Greek yogurt? Check out YumSugar’s Taste Test: 15 Greek Frozen Yogurts.
 
Even fashionistas know the benefits of coconut oil! Check out The Stylist’s Coconut Oil For Skin, Hair, Body: 6 Things To Know About The Super Ingredient. Curious about how other fashion insiders approach health and nutrition? Check out this new video from blogger Shea Maria of Cheyenne Meets Chanel fame – Health 101: Eat This Not That Part 1.

MCLV Style: Kisses!

How was your mid-week 4th of July holiday? Have you been dating everything Monday instead of Thursday all day today like I have?

{Top – Zara, Jeans – J Brand, Shoes – MaddenGirl, Bowling Bag – Zara, and Zebra Print AviatorsPiperlime}

{You can HYPE this look on Lookbook.nu, shop similar pieces on ASOS Style Finder, or click the hyperlinks above to shop comparable pieces and visit store websites}

Check out more outtakes from this shoot here (just log into Facebook to view).

Hope you like this cute new Zara top, I saw the little kisses and knew that it had to be mine! Are you a fan of lipstick kisses too?

I was lucky enough to have one of my best friends since college visit a few weeks ago and after delicious food, wine, and some much-needed catching up, we headed outside for a photo shoot. Her enthusiasm and energy were great and I had a phenomenal time taking these photos. It’s amazing how much visibly better a photograph turns out when the subject is genuinely enjoying themselves, that’s one of the reasons you pay the big bucks for a shoot with a good photographer.

Have a great Thursday.


MCLV Style: Workin’ That Tee

Last year I published a post called What NOT To Wear To Work where I discussed, among other things, whether or not a T-shirt could be considered appropriate office attire. Ultimately my conclusion was that while casual graphic and burn-out tees were out of the question unless you work in fashion-forward industries like fashion, music, or film, there were appropriate possibilities out there if you looked hard enough and styled them properly.

 

To make this type of look work you just need to keep the pieces clean and simple, and go for a thick, well-made shirt in an appropriate cut, color, and silhouette for the occasion.

In this case I went with a royal purple Zara Basics t-shirt with cap-sleeves paired with a basic black pencil skirt, round-toed pumps, and a vintage-inspired gold belt.

Tee – Zara Basics, Pencil Skirt – Zara, Pumps – Franco Sarto, Bracelets – JewelMint, Vintage, & Forever 21, Rings – Vintage, Multi-Strand Gold Necklace – Express, and Retro Gold Belt – BCBG

You can HYPE this look on Lookbook.nu, shop similar pieces on ASOS Style Finder, or click the hyperlinks above for some comparable pieces that you can buy.

And believe me, I’m not the only one who enjoys a good tee. Mixing high and low, like adding a basic shirt into a work or night out look, is an art form practiced by many.

A loosely fitted highlighter colored t-shirt can keep a slouchy black suit from being boring or too business-like.

Old-school denim overalls are perfect for a hot summer day and a little white tee is the perfect finishing touch.

If you’re going to work a layering look nothing beats a basic t-shirt. It’s the perfect building block!

You can even roll up the sleeves of your basic t-shirt to give it a more unique and one-of-a-kind feeling.

What better than a basic white tee to pair with denim cut-offs and a vintage style leopard print coat for a walk on the streets of New York City.

Even high-end designers like Oscar de la Renta can’t help but enjoy a good striped tee.

Source

Are you creative when it comes to building new and fun looks using your favorite tees? What do you think about wearing a T-shirt to work – ya or nay?


Links You’ll Love

Health/Fitness:

Intervals are key! Check out the 400-Calorie Tush-Toning Interval Workout or Tabata Workouts To Burn Fat Fast from FitSugar.

kale-juice-smoothie

A great way to cram veggies into your diet is by adding them to smoothies in the morning. You can easily add fresh, healthy, and easily digestible source of vitamins. Refinery 29 agrees – 5 Reasons Why Kale Is The Ultimate Look-Gorgeous, Feel-Amazing Food. Not a fan of breakfast? Try JL Goes Vegan’s Creamy Kale Miso Soup for a great source of nutrients.

Interested in getting back to basics or implementing an organic training program? Check out Charles Poliquin’s Train Like Your Ancestors: Tips to Achieve Optimal Health and Body Composition.

Even if you only have a few minutes you can still squeeze in some energy-boosting moves:

Fashion:


 

If you’re looking for a way to spice up one of your accessories for Summer I have some fabulous ideas for you – DIY: Neon chain handbag from Crimenes de la Moda and/or DIY: Floral Bangles. The end results of both of these Do It Yourself projects are fun and chic – Can you have a better combination?

Are you a fan of maxi dresses? I love the light feel and fun silhouette of maxi skirts and dresses during the warm weather months. See Olivia Palermo’s picks for this summer – Let It Flow.

Not in a place to replace your wardrobe each season? Me either. Check out Chictopia’s East Coast to West Coast: 5 Pieces That Will Complete Your Summer Wardrobe featuring the amazing Late Afternoon and Song of Style bloggers.

Sometimes a sleek ponytail is just the finishing touch that an outfit needs. A Cup Of Jo shares her tips for the perfect Sleek Parted Ponytail.

Need a project? Try out FabSugar’s DIY: Give Your Collared Top a Gypset Style Twist!


Looks of the Week

 

I’ve got some great shots for you guys this week – From fashion bloggers like yours truly to red carpet premieres to model street style. So without further ado, let’s see what the fabulous ladies are wearing out and about these days!

I very literally stopped everything I was doing when I stumbled on these photos. This is one of the best shots I've seen in ages. Chic, well put together, a little bit retro, and styled to perfection. I wouldn't change a single thing and I'd take it all! 🙂

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This is such a clean, chic look. Black and white always comes across as crisp, and I love the addition of the gorgeous Mulberry bag. Those patent-tipped pumps are pretty killer too!

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I'm not a short-wearer, I like them, but I don't wear them. When I see pictures like this I have to rethink. This is such an adorable outfit. These shorts are incredibly cute and flattering, love the chain detail in front, and the star blouse is a great choice to pair with them. I especially love the dramatic gold cuff.

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It's not quite a red carpet but newbie Taylor Schilling stunned in Calvin Klein. This is a great example of how to not wear a boring black dress! The detailing is gorgeous and her accessories are right on. J'ADORE that cuff!

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Gorgeous! Just, gorgeous! I love the dress, I'm a huge fan of pleats right now. The color is striking and that belt is the greatest. And who would have thought to add smoking flats? Tres chic!

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If all of the unusual Stella McCartney dresses appearing on the red carpet lately haven't been to your taste, this might just change your mind. Its fun and funky, but really cute and chic. KILLER Alexander Wang Resort 2012 bag!

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Mix Master! This is such a great combination of colors, from the pale floral pants to the brilliant canary yellow pea coat to the mostly neutral heels.

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This color combination is phenomenal, the cropped pants are the perfect shade to set off her top and that hat is too cute. Keeping the accessories more neutral - black & metallic - was a good choice as well, they finish the look without upstaging the central three pieces.

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I love the distinctly different styles of these girls side-by-side. They're both wearing outstanding coats, but they're totally different. Alana is a bit preppy with her exposed collar, clean lines, and bright blue jeans. While Kate is funky and adorable in her fur-trimmed parka. J'adore!

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I love a good monochromatic look and this one is especially nice because the pale yellow/grey combination is so unusual. I love those pants too, they're really cute, though you probably have to be 6 feet tall to wear them...

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Both Jess Weixler (L) & Riley Keough (R) look great here - These looks are chic, youthful, and well put together. Well done ladies!

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I love Peter Pan collars and day clutches so I was immediately drawn to this look. But upon closer inspection I realized that I also loved her velveteen platforms and adorable white lace skirt. So cute!

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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.

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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: