O-M-G SHOES

Style, dresses, handbags etc may not be every girls “thing” (I mean if you’re two dishes short of a full set), but every woman loves shoes. No woman is ever embarrassed of her shoe size, and every girl in fully in for a shoe sale. That being said there are many different occasions for summer shoes, here are a few of my favorites.

Starting with the most causal these Lacoste navy sneakers are very cute and versatile. These sneakers would look great with causal weekend denim, red or coral shorts or of course with your gym entire. I found these particular Lacoste sneakers on Zappos.com for $75, a total steal! They are likely to be sold in stores that carry the Lacoste brand too, like Nordstorms, Macys, etc. These sneakers are really ideal because of their neutral color and full foot coverage means you can wear these all year round!

Next these dressy flat sandals are a breath of fresh air in a gladiator dominated market.  These sandals are from Jackwills.com for $89.50 and all leather! In addition to red these sandals also come in white and navy. Personally, I like the red color, it’s a fun little pop of color to any outfit. Although, I would technically qualify these shoes as “sandals” because they have a sling back and nothing to go in between your toes I would refer to this as a dressy-er, classy-er option than most gladiator sandals and flip flops. These could even be worn to the office if your work environment has a casual dress code.  These shoes could go really with any clothing item pants, jeans, shorts, skirts, dresses etc.  Finally, because these are dressy sandals I would NOT wear these to the beach or any other “outdoorsy” kind of situations.

These unique wedges are by Matiko Paris but I found them on the lulus website. At $208 a pop these shoes aren’t cheap but they are also really different.  They are on trend with turquoise and brown color blocking and the lace up ankle adds a cool twist. Also, the cut out in the wedge gives an optic illusion for your foot! This cut out is also likely to make your wedge not as heavy as your other wedges, which can be either good or bad! These shoes maybe a little too creative for your office but they are definitely cute enough for brunch, shopping or summer nights out.

Finally, the most serious heels are completely gorgeous and chic. These tan snakeskin heels are by Elizabeth and James (aka Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen) but I found them on endless for $160. Yes, that price tag maybe steep for some but they are full coverage heels, so you can wear them all year round (if you want to). Also, I can’t proclaim my love for endless.com enough! All of their shipping is FREE, yes FREE, no cost minimum just FREE. And it doesn’t matter if you’re buying shoes, bags, whatever endless ships either next day or 2 day for FREEEEEEE! So if the shipping doesn’t get ya, they have a ton of different shoe types and brands, at pretty fair prices. Back to the shoes at hand, who would of ever thunk it Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen grew up, made a clothing brand named after their siblings and its actually kinda awesome! It’s odd to believe we may be buying extremely fashionable snakeskin heels from twins who run around town in what looks like old women’s nightys and leather pants but one of them did attend NYU (and maybe she got a degree?). These heels are a great neutral (although they do come in other bolder colors), the snakeskin animal print is on trend and the sweet little bow adds something extra without being too girly girl. Truly an instant classic!

photo credit zappos.com, jackwills.com, lulus.com, and endless.com

LONELY PLANET NO LONGER

First and foremost I apologize for no blog last Thursday, sometimes I just get tired of myself. But, back the globetrotting, Luda said it best “we be pimpin’ all over the world”, in laymen’s terms, you should always travel in style. Summer is a big travel time, from weekend trips to full out excursions you’re bound to commit some time traveling to get there. Can’t afford a private jet? Me neither, but regardless if you’re traveling by planes, trains or automobiles you can still dress to impress.  

First we have Sophia Bush, best known for her work as Brooke on One Tree Hill, Sophia has been known to turn heads. This outfit is really perfect for travel for a number of reasons, first and foremost it looks comfortable, but NOT SLOPPY! From head to toe, Sophia has pulled back her hair is a low pony which looks cute and is likely to travel well. Next, some delicate earrings, so girlfriend has some jewelry on but it doesn’t look like she maybe going club hopping after she arrives. Sophia rocks quite arguably the cutest light knit sweater seen in airport history. This sweater/knit is great because it’s a looser fit, making airplane naps easy and no wrinkling. Also, because it’s a light knit with sweet cut outs, it’s likely to be breezy and breathe in warm terminals and cozy/comfortable is somebody is blasting to plane A/C. Finally, Miss Bush pairs her darling sweater with boyfriend style jeans. These jeans will allow relaxed movement and again not get crumpled in the process.  Finished off with 

silver flat sandals Sophia is likely to travel with ease and style.

Lauren Conrad is known as a style maven, so naturally she looks hassle-free chic while traveling. Like Sophia, Lauren also wears a ponytail, making it the unofficial hairstyle of choice for traveling fashionistas.  Lauren also wears tiny hoops, and a big beautiful blue scarf. I personally love scarves, and I think they are a great idea for travel for many reasons. First, solid color scarves can transition easily for many different outfits. Second, they are a great comfy accessory, not likely to get in your way and can really amp up the interest of an outfit. Finally, a little secret I picked up from Giuliana Ranic scarves are great for airport travel because you can wrap them up close around your mouth during flight and avoid germs floating about the cabin.  Moving right along, Lauren wears a simple white blouse with the sleeves rolled up. Now this shirt choice may raise some eyebrows because of the wrinkle-y nature of blouses but it can be done. If you decide to wear a blouse like Lauren some ideas to keep in mind are that you want your blouse a little loose to give a causal feel, not an office vibe. Also, many companies make “wrinkle-free” tops and blouses. In addition, a solid color blouse especially white like Miss Conrad’s are going to be more difficult to spot imperfections on versus say a stripe or printed blouse, unless you’re REALLY looking hard.  LC pairs her comfy blouse and scarf combo with straight leg jeans, a solid choice and I would bet they are a stretchy-er pair with maybe 5-10% spandex. Finally, Miss Conrad polishes this classic travel outfit with some metallic flats. Stylish and sweet, much like Lauren herself!

Key points from Sophia and Lauren would be comfortable can look cute, clothing items should be loose or relaxed fit, not baggy and flats (sandals or ballet flats) are a must! So grab your passport, your sunblock and a partner in crime and head out on a vacation adventure in style ;)  

photo credit justjared.com, bagbliss.com

Workaholics

While most of us wish we our day to day consisted of pool parties, shopping and maybe some yoga but that’s generally not realistic. Now I can appreciate everyone works different jobs, in different environments with different dress codes, the general look is the same. Most men and women wear some sort of black pant, a button up and some nondescript shoes. STOP IT! Here’s one seriously cute outfit that most anyone can copy or at least inspire you to break the mold. 

From head to toe I absolutely love this look. Yes, it’s a little costume-y with the matching yellow jacket and skirt but this is a great way to do work wear. The girl wearing this outfit is Jayma Mays if you aren't familiar, shes one of the cutest cast mates currently on SNL. From the top I love Jayma hair color! I think it’s a little redder than usual but it’s a really flattering strawberry blonde. Now I wouldn’t go dying my hair for an outfit, I just had to point it out six points Jayma. Next Miss Mays wears some dainty studs (they look like pearls to me, but I could be wrong). There is so much going on in Jaymas outfit bigger earrings would be overdone, plus they mimic the large circular buttons on Jayma’s jacket. Working our way down next you have that lovely large bow, which I do believe belongs to a beautiful white blouse under Jayma’s jacket. This outfit would be equally cute with the white shirt and no jacket, but adding the jacket adds an extra bit of interest and polish. The jacket itself is a pretty basic cut and a great staple piece in a wardrobe. What makes it special is its white piping, unique yellow color and gold buttons.  This jacket would look great with a pair of jeans or white skinnies. Miss Mays skirt is an amazing piece too. The oversized print is really fun and whimsy. The a-line of this skirt is going to be flattering on almost all body types too. Also a small note to add, the stripe only works on the bottom of this skirt as a fun detail. If the skirt was full and a-line like this one but was entirely covered in big horizontal stripes it would likely make you look wider/larger than you actually are. Horizontal stripes are great on a wall, on a coffee mug or a tote bag but not on your thighs! Finally, Jayma’s shoes are PERFECTION for work. Work shoes are a tricky subject. While ballet flats are the best choice for most offices and usually very comfy, a high heel just looks more professional. That being said a high heel or pump NOT  a platform. Jayma’s shoes are sooooo perfect for work because they have a good sized heel, the heel seems pretty thick/sturdy and they have a lovely strap to keep your feet locked in! Finally, girlfriend has a big ole frapp in her hand, worktime perfection! 

photo credit people.com

RING MY BELL

Last week we discussed the MTV movie awards and its hit or miss red carpet, this week instead of a sliding scale I just decided to praise the best! The CMT awards were this week and once again this is a vague dress code. It’s a big deal and huge honor in country music to be nominated or win a CMT award but country music has a more “lax” dress code in general. I’m not hating on cowboy boots (in fact I own a pair) but I am not the kind of girl that supports boots and a wedding dress, formal gown, etc. Sorry, it’s just not my thing/idea of fashion.  So for all of you who tuned in shouldn’t be surprised who won the top fashion award in my book.

Kristen Bell! There is no denying Kristen Bell is seriously cute, it maybe because she appears to be pocket sized( just judging by photos, we don’t hang out on weekends or anything) or her sweet and bubbly attitude. From head to toe Kristen looks awesome. Normally I would say girls who rock a middle part seriously give me a headache but Kristen pulls it off with her perfectly un-kept mane. Love the lip color, I can’t quite judge if its red or a fashionable coral but regardless hats off to you Miss Bell for taking a risk. Then finally, the dress! What a sparkly, disco ball frock! I feel like sequins and shiny glamour is very CMT awards but Kristen makes it look fresh. The sheer patterned sequined number was just the perfect balance of sexy with the sheer overlay and sweet with the crew neck collar and short sleeve. Kristen finishes the look with a matching glam clutch and cocktail ring the size of a gobstopper, and I love it. Truly trendy and tasteful, 5 stars K-Bell.

photo credit people.com

True Style Inspired by Liars

If you’re not familiar with the acronym PLL you’re really missing out. PLL stands for Pretty Little Liars, a huge TV series on ABC family based off from books written by Sara Shepard.  Yes, this show's story line is a little farfetched, yes these girls are “supposedly” in high school and yes I am still addicted. I am a loyal fan to this show for a number of reasons, one being an endless supply of attractive boys, another being I enjoy a good murder mystery and the biggest reason is each of these girls have their own unique sense of style. Aria who is dating her teacher (I warned you, farfetched) is somewhere between boho, alternative and punk rocker style. Spencer who kisses most all of her sisters boyfriends and plagiarizes essays rocks a classic, nautical, and somewhat retro style.  Hanna who sometimes steals and dates really hot Caleb generally dresses to impress in high end couture and ultra girly styles.  Finally, Emily who plays for the other team does like an athletic, sporty look but generally looks cute and comfy. Let me break down some of my favorite of each ladies signature style from last season. 

Now, like I previously stated Aria’s character is about two gemstone skulls away from punk rock princess but she also adds some girly elements that create a style that I can appreciate. This outfit is somewhere between that dark angel Aria thinks she is and retro flapper girl, and I dig it. Mrs. Montgomery is wearing a pleated skirt, which is an on trend look at the moment with a sheer top. The matching top and skirt color give the illusion of a dress but the two separate pieces provide a custom fit and mix&match future options. I really like the sheer top because of its puff sleeves and feminine features, and the black and white striped cami underneath is an unexpected twist. The printed underpinning only work if its a simple pattern or simple colors like black and white. If you get into crazy graphic and tribal prints with wild colors under a sheer but colored top your probably going to end up looking like the circus's missing link. Finally, the finishing touches of the long multicolored cultured pearl necklace and bowtie headband is unpredictable and fun. These accessories are very retro but to avoid looking like Aria stole Rosie the Riveters head wrap the maroon color is moody, not perky, And the pearls aren't white and pristine like June Cleaver, they are long and varied graphite colors are elegant and edgy. This look would be great for work, drinks on the town, or dating your Professor in true Aria style.

Emily Fields favorite look of mine is consistent with her sporty, comfy look. The whole look and color palette is pretty dark so if you wanted to recreate this look feel free to add a lighter color or two. Starting from head to toe the stand out piece of this whole outfit is this AMAZING leather jacket. It’s so cool because of the way its cut, it looks less like your typical biker leather jacket and more flowy like fabric. It’s also beautiful because of its weathered grey color, is unusual and custom looking. This jacket alone could transition to dresses, skirts, you name it! The top underneath is a rich burgundy color and has an airy, gauzy texture. These mixtures of fabrics and textures create for visual interest in a solid colored outfit and a rich look. Finally, Emily finishes this look with dark denim skinnies (every girl’s best friend) and some funky lace up boots. Originally, I wasn’t into the whole combat boot look but paired with the right pieces can create a really interesting juxtaposition I would wear. This look is comfy and causal best suited for coffee with the girls, or Saturday flea market shopping.

Hanna Marin is definitely a favorite of mine, being a fellow Blondie and all. Although I like a lot of what Hannah wears this outfit is really amaze ballz. Just like Emily, Hanna’s jacket basically IS the outfit. This jacket is cut with great detail which alone would make it a favorite, but the fact that the material is some sort of plaid or flannel makes it unexpected and ultra cool. It’s hard to tell about the rest of the outfit because the picture cuts off (please forgive me, movie/TV stills aren't the best for head to toe looks) but it looks like a cute black mini or pencil skirt. A skirt is ladylike but pants would work just as well. Knee high boots would make this outfit complete and causal but Hanna probably is rocking some super stylish heels making this outfit night time worthy. Super toot, rock it out Blondie J

Finally Spencer Hastings is probably my grand supreme favorite with her unique preppy style. Like Hanna many of Spencer’s outfits are my fave but this one I have not seen recreated and I love it! From head to toe Spencer starts with whole look with a kick a$$ hat. In case I haven’t mentioned this before I love a topper but not everyone can pull them off. This hat is definitely a cooler season hat (not suited for the beach) and is a really unique bowler hat with great color and feminine touches. Spencer matches her blouse with her hat (hard to do folks) and a fitted menswear vest. Spencer's vest is a great piece because while it looks like menswear its clearly fitted for a woman's body and is an interesting layering piece. From the waist up this outfit could be pretty boring if worn with matching trousers (very catalog work style) but Spencer pairs the top half with an incredible lace skirt over the knee knit socks and ballet flats. The masculine touches are balanced out but the girly factor of the lace skirt. And I love a knee high but most people really wear them wrong with gym shorts or plaid skirts in a very "prep school" kind of way. Knee highs are best worn with no connection to school uniforms, you could rock some tall socks like Spencer or peaking out the top of some tall boots. The whole look Spencer is wearing channels a menswear style with girly touches and is an A++ in my book, perfect for an overachiever like Spencer. 

The Secret Circle

WELCOME BEST KEPT SECRETS IN THE INDUSTRY. Okay, I write a mediocre at best blog, I am hardly a “industry insider” but I am a fashion lover and bargain hunter. I know I usually refer to online stores for a number of different reasons. I do love online shopping, you can literally buy anything if you look hard enough. Buying online is a really different buyer interaction and I feel like buying from a company online they are more likely to send you exclusive deals and promotions because of a lack of human interaction. Finally, I usually reference online stores because I need specific examples and if you wanted to purchase something I suggested visiting a website is so much easier than a store.  Keeping all of that in mind nothing replaces going into a store, touching the material, trying on clothes and an ultimate shoppers high.  Clearly, some stores are superior to others, and then you have your super secret sneaky stores where you can find real gems. Welcome to the diamond mine.

Missoni for Target > everything

In case you missed it shopping at Target maybe one of the best kept secrets. Ladies who know, go! Not only in the past few years as has Target been featuring huge designer names like Missoni (that shut down the target website) and Jason Wu but also feature the target brand names like Xliheration and Merona. First, and foremost the designer brands at Target have historically been AWESOME. Like I mentioned the Missoni collection for Target shut down the Target website and sold out in stores across America in hours! These collaborations are really good because you can get the essence of that designer’s style with a much smaller price tag. Targets “generic” brands like Merona and Mossimo, etc are really great for basics too. They always have tank tops, boy beaters, v-necks, and scoop necks in all sizes and typically a variety of colors. Even though these store brands are cheaper is price the quality is there. I wouldn’t say buying a clothing item from Target will last you a life time, but it will definitely last longer than one season really making these items a value. Furthermore, depending on your particular Target they carry some really stylish stuff. I got a pair of cotton ankle pants for work at Target just a few weeks ago for 20 bucks! WHAT A DEAL! I think Target is also a really great place to buy swimsuits. If your actually wearing your swimsuit to the pool, in the hot tub, or at the beach a variety of elements either wear on your swimsuit or fade the color. This makes swimsuits a one or two season item, so why buy a ton of really expensive swimsuits? I know what you’re thinking, how counterproductive to the previous post where swimsuits where $150 and up! Realistically, I would suggest buying one or two swimsuits that you really love and make you feel like a million dollars, and then purchase something more simple or something more trendy for a cheaper price. It’s all about mixing and matching people! Finally, one of the best things about shopping at Target is they don’t just carry clothes. You can get a new top, matching shoes, fresh shampoo and dog food all at the same place. Katie Holmes even admitted she loves shopping at Target with Suri. If Katie likes Target there’s a good chance that Tom Cruise likes Target, and if Tom Cruise likes Target, you should too, right? 

coolest Kiosk known to man kind

Another overlooked place to shop is kiosks.  I am talking kiosks everywhere the mall, the airport, on the street, where ever! Here’s the biggest catch with kiosks, you will likely never see that item again. Most kiosks are home made goods, local artists, etc so typically the item you’re buying is one of a kind. Also, depending on where your kiosks are located these people are more likely than your clueless store clerk to make a deal with you on the price. I always browse (because shopping is what I do!) and I am always surprised at the items I find at kiosks. Once at a mall in Raleigh I found a kiosk where a woman handmade jewelry with really nice stones and started dabbling in the fascinator hats worn by European Royalty. Like how random? But, when else can you say you have seen a fascinator in person? Also, when I was fast walking through the terminal at Logan airport I found the coolest kiosk that had huge chunky jewelry with a large selection of turquoise rings (the first love of my life), if I wasn't hustling to make my connection I probably would of bought a second carry on bags worth! Finally, at the most notorious kiosks in all the land New York City I negotiated three scarves for the price of one print scarf and to this day couldn’t be prouder. Oh, and the scarves are gorgeous pastels and the softest material.  Generally speaking I think kiosks get a band rep, like oh there’s that art freak selling his shit on the corner but if you can get past that stigma there is some really cool stuff at these little vendors. 

Southwest AMAZE-BALLZ turquoise jewelry 

Finally, this may seem like a no brainer but shopping during traveling is an amazing way to collect one of a kind pieces. Now, you may be thinking I have to travel to a far away land to get something different and unique, SO NOT TRUE! Sure, most trips that require a passport will result in an eye opening fashion experience and I am jealous of those who get to do this often! Also, you really have to be careful of monetary conversions.  It’s generally kind of hard to judge what’s a fair price when your introduced to a new monetary system, so rule of thumb is get some sort of monetary converter app on your phone or laptop. Now, for great fashion travel in the ole U-S of A is pretty simple with some research. You can research big trends in the area online or simply ask the locals once your there, where is the best local places to shop! Generally speaking just getting outside of your “region” will open you to new fashion styles. Like if you’re an east coaster heading to the west coast will likely be the opposite of your style, or if your from the Midwest head to the southwest! You’ll be surprised how each region has its own unique style flairs. In addition traveling can help you find one of a kind boutique’s, or open your eyes to chain stores or different brand names not yet established in your area. With summer being a big travel time for most people, keep your eyes peeled.

photo credit target.com and navajopawn.com

 

MTV FASHION AWARDS

Generally speaking celebrities dress better than us (the average Joe). Clearly, it’s an unfair fight because they have unlimited cash, stylists at their disposal and generally a lot of free time. That being said award shows are like "best in show" for celebrities, who has the best stylist, the best legs, the more toned arms and the hottest date. This is like sink or swim people, SINK OR SWIM. The most recent glam-amazon show was the trendy and just the left side of causal MTV Movie Awards. Considering the vague nature of the dress code for this youthful award show some ladies really took a chance with style and turned it out, while others took a swan dive and well you know . . . . . . .

 If I were to make my own awards out of this award show Emma Stone would win 10 out of 10. Going from head to toe her lovely locks are pulled back in an effortless manor, and getting the hair off her shoulders really lets her art piece of a dress shine. Also, Emma’s makeup highlights her natural beauty in an easy graceful way (naturally the face of Revlon). Miss Stone continues to play up the dress with subtle post earrings, while she could of gone for something a bit larger and dangly I respect her decision with the classic posts. So, then finally lets discuss the DRESS. This dress is awesome in my opinion, its black and white with contrast all over. The peplum style is big right now and the dress just skims her body like the perfect fit. And to rap this whole outfit up Emma pairs this dress with some nude and black heels with an ankle strap, my absolute fave! Congrats Miss Stone your prize is a handsome British boyfriend named Andrew Garfield, you win.

Runner up would go to Nikki Reed. Nikki rocks a gold sequin dress, and honestly I love mini dresses and most everything that sparkles. This 

I WANT

gold dress goes well with her natural skin tone and really well with her gorgeous brunette hair. In addition Nikki (or her stylist) was really smart to match her shoes to her dress. Right now statement shoes and brightly colored shoes are big and on trend but, a different color shoe would have been too much with this loud dress. It would have been like the dress was yelling, the shoes were yelling, everyone in the room was yelling. Also, I think amateurs would wear black shoes which to me is fall/winter look and really makes the think of the holidays. Finally, what I love soooooo much about this outfit is Nikki’s purse. How amazing is her clutch? The clutch has an animalistic print, with gold trim and an overall graphic print. While the shoes were a safe bet this clutch was a bit of a risk but in my book definitely paid off. And another smart move zero jewelry, her dress and clutch are all the flash and sparkle she needs. Why isn't she number one you ask? Her hubby looks like he is dressed for a totally different event. I know he’s a singer/songwriter, and he’s an artistic soul, blah, blah, blah. Come on Nikki, help your man out!

Honorable mention goes to Charlize Theron. She is one beautiful girl and she doesn’t need a whole lot of fuss to look good. But, the look she wore to the MTV Movie Awards was kind of a snooze fest. Minimal jewelry seemed contagious at this show, Charlize chose simple post earrings and one bangle.  This red dress fits Miss Theron nicely and the peplum is right on trend. Like I said Charlize doesn’t need a lot of fuss but come on! With any designer would chew off their right arm to put their frock on Charlize, and with a hot bod like hers she could literally pull off any cut or style.  I would have chosen a big chunky necklace or earrings, not both to go with this simple red dress. Lord knows these celebs have jewelers falling all over them, just have a little fun with it! Lastly, Charlize added some silver pumps that were a bit more exciting than her dress. 

Now a real fashion fail is Julianne Hough. For those of you who don’t know Julianne has been a dancer for decades, needless to say she has a super hot bod and this dress destroys it. From head to toe, just a NO. Julianne is that middle part or is it slightly off to the side? And she had to of known for at least a week that she was attending this show, get your roots done girl! Her makeup is flawless, no argument there. Now for this dress, what was she thinking? Generally black lace with a nude under slip totally hot but it’s the form of this dress that’s all wrong. The placement of this cut out makes Julianne’s abs, stomach, whatever that is look awful. It looks like the opening of the hungry, hungry hippos mouth, like wtf? I know cut outs are a trend currently but this was not the right placement. Finally, I think that is kinda, sorta a peplum but the sides don’t match making it look like a fit problem or poor construction? Regardless Miss Hough is such a pretty girl, and we have all seen her toned body on dancing with the stars but you would never know it from this dress. In conclusion you know the dress is awful when it makes a skinny girl look mildly deformed. 

And to everyone else not mentioned, work harder next awards show!