Bold Blazers

One of the easiest ways to dress up any look is with a great jacket.  Adding a jacket really brings an outfit together and allows you to add a personalized touch to even the simplest of dresses.  However, as much as I love my basic black blazer, there are several new styles that have been appearing all over runways for the past few seasons to liven up the classic jacket.  All of these blazers can be completely work appropriate if paired with the right outfit, so don’t be afraid to shed your basic black and embrace this year’s push towards uninhibited, unabashed style.

1. The Printed Blazer

Blazers with everything from floral prints to animal prints have been popping up everywhere.  This blazer redefines “animal print” with an abstract bird pattern that is perfectly on trend for the season.  Pair the blazer with a crisp, white frock, woven sandals in a bright color, and a piece of statement jewelry for a youthful look.

Blazer, Dress, Bag, Necklace, Flats

2. The Bright Blazer

So long as the tailoring of the blazer is impeccable, a bright blazer is the perfect way to dress up an outfit for work.  A yellow color like this is not too obnoxious and is surprisingly versatile, and looks very sunny over a breezy sundress.  Finish off the look with sweet, pink flats, a sandy colored bag, and metallic, dangly earrings for a feminine look.

Blazer, Dress, Bag, Earrings, Flats

3. The Lace Blazer

The beauty of lace is that is has the power to be simultaneously girly and edgy.  Pair it over a strapless dress in a bright color, such as this magenta, for a beautiful summer look (warning: this dress is most likely not work appropriate).  Finish off the look with an architectural piece of statement jewelry, pumps in an unexpected color (like this orange), and a snakeskin clutch.

Blazer, Dress, Clutch, Pumps, Necklace

Geographic Style Savvy, Part 2

Style can change drastically from region to region.  I love looking at the locals whenever I travel to really get a sense of the ever-changing trends in each city.  As promised, here are some more of my favorite cities to inspire your style! 

Washington D.C.

I love how women in the south dress because they tend to gravitate towards ultra feminine outfits.  The women adorn themselves with pearls and perfect sundresses, and they have the ability to look polished with the most simplistic pieces.  In the summer, D.C. gets unbearably humid, so it is important to choose an outfit that is fashionable yet functional for the weather.  Choose a dress with elegant flutter sleeves and feminine details, and pair it with sophisticated jewelry (the ring shown here is a subtle nod to traditional pearls).  Finish the look with yellow, woven flats and a coral carry all bag for a southern, refined look.

Dress, Bag, Ring, Necklace, Flats

Boston

Boston, one of my favorite cities in the world, goes through many weather extremes.  The city experiences both below freezing winters and hot, humid summers.  To really get the most value out of your clothes, choose pieces that can easily transition from one season to another, such as a pleated maxi skirt in a saturated color (such as this teal).  This on trend piece can be worn with a bright blouse and lace up wedges for a great summer look, and can then be paired with boots, tights, and a sweater during the winter months.  Top off the look with a woven headband, no matter the season, for a bright and youthful look.

Headband, Blouse, Skirt, Shoes

Chicago

Chicago is yet another city with extreme weather.  For a majority of the year, sunshine is almost nonexistent.  Take advantage of the warmer summer months and wear a neon dress to celebrate the presence of the sun.  To brighten up the look even more, add bright white flats, earrings, and bracelets.  Finish off the look with a beautiful, coral purse to really compliment the color of the dress.

Dress, Bag, Cuff, Flats, Earrings

Steal Their Look: Celebrity Style Icons

One of my favorite hobbies is looking at photographs of celebrities, both on the street and the red carpet, for fashion inspiration.  Here I have compiled a short list of some of my personal favorite icons who truly have nailed pretty, polished, and professional dressing. I have tried to recreate their looks in a more budget friendly fashion.  Enjoy!

Zooey Deschanel

Zooey’s style is both retro-inspired and girly, and she always looks impeccable.  Her television show, New Girl, is full of fantastic outfits that provided me with some inspiration.  What I love about Zooey’s style is that she is not afraid of mixing bold colors and she is an expert at putting together easy separates that can be mixed and matched in a very practical way.

Dress, Flats, Cardigan, Belt

I love how Zooey’s outfit mixes two shades of blue!  The cobalt sweater compliments the A line dress perfectly, and the black belt and flats are simple and don’t clash with an otherwise bright outfit.  This look is perfect for work or even weekend errands.

Sweater, Skirt, Flats

This spotted high waisted skirt and green sweater combination is a bright and whimsical look.  It is playful without being over the top and is appropriate for work.  Add yellow flats to make the outfit really pop.

Blouse, Skirt, Flats, Gloves, Headband, Belt

This final look is bright and perfect for a beautiful summer day.  Zooey’s right, white, and blue outfit is yet another example of fantastic, versatile separates.  The patterns are beautifully mixed yet the color palette keeps everything from clashing.

Emma Watson

Emma Watson is flawless both on and off the red carpet. She is able to expertly mix feminine and masculine pieces, as well as rework classic and timeless trends into something young and modern.  Her looks are age appropriate and sophisticated, and above all else, she rocks whatever she wears with confidence.

Shorts, Shirt, Blazer, Shoes, Tie, Belt

The feminine lace shorts balance out nicely with the menswear inspired blazer, tie, and button down shirt.  The tan color of the blazer provides just enough contrast between the white of the shirt and the eggshell color of the shorts.  Pair the outfit with a pair of girly black heels to keep the outfit from looking too harsh.

Dress, Jacket, Shoes

This plaid dress and fitted motorcycle jacket combination is a bold look than can easily translate from the red carpet into everyday life.  The pointed toe heels add a touch of femininity to the otherwise edgy outfit.  Swap out the leather jacket for a dark blazer for a day at work and then put on the leather jacket for a night out with your girlfriends. 

Belt, Dress, Shoes

This third look is a beautiful take on classic stripes.  Emma keeps it simple with black pumps and a black belt.  This look is timeless and appropriate for any number of occasions.

Olivia Palermo

Olivia Palermo is both a style icon and chameleon.  Her fashion choices are always bold and fearless, and her clothes are always tailored to perfection.  She is a great example of a how a young, professional woman with a blossoming career should dress.

Blouse, Blazer, Bag, Pants, Pumps

This is a great modern interpretation of the classic suit.  The slim fitting blazer and pants are tailored impeccably.  The pants and blazer are also incredibly versatile because they can be worn as separates for other occasions.  The black pumps and purse are timeless pieces that go seamlessly with the rest of Olivia’s ensemble.

Skirt, Sweater, Bag, Shoes, Sunglasses

I love Olivia’s sweater and pencil skirt combination.  The oversized sunglasses, yellow bag, and statement shoes liven up an otherwise minimalist outfit.

Skirt, Blouse, Vest, Bag, Pumps

In this look, Olivia shows how classy and work appropriate leather and fur can look.  So long as the length is appropriate and nothing is awkwardly too tight, this can be a great office look for the young and modern woman. Keep accessories simple and toned down so as not to look garish.  The white blouse, black shoulder bag, and black pumps are stunning with the rest of the outfit.

Emma Stone

Emma Stone simply exudes confidence in all of her looks.  Her color choices are fearless, and her style is young and modern.  Her outfits are always simple, yet it is her ability to execute her looks flawlessly that makes her truly stand out.  She is truly a classic American beauty and her wardrobe choices always reflect that fact.

Shoes, Dress, Clutch

This look is as elegant as it is simple.  The bold, blue shift dress and black strappy sandals work perfectly together to create a look that is both age appropriate and modest.  This look is perfect for going out.  Just swap in a pair of closed toed kitten heels and you’ll be ready for a day at the office as well!

Blazer, Pants, Heels

Emma’s emerald blazer and black, fitted pants are a perfect example of how to reinterpret menswear.  The saturated jewel tone really plays up her hair color and skin tone.  She is smart and keeps accessories simple so as not to distract from her bold look.

Skirt, Shirt, Clutch, Pumps

In this look, Emma masterfully demonstrates how color blocking should be done.  The red and pink combination, along with the peplum detailing, is right on trend for the season.  The small black clutch and nude shoes are simple and ladylike and compliment the rest of the outfit.

Chloe Moretz

I love when Hollywood turns out a beautiful, graceful, and impeccably dressed child actress.  Even though Chloe is only 15, her outfits are gorgeous is she is certainly a style icon to watch.  Her outfits are always colorful and they are never too serious. 

Top, Skirt, Heels

This sunny look is office appropriate and can easily translate from the summer months into fall.  The length of the skirt balances out the youthful color, and the black, strappy sandals are an elegant touch and keep the outfit from looking too young.

Dress, Heels

This outfit is perfection.  A tailored red dress and nude pumps is a beautiful look for a date or a day at the office.  Keep hair romantic and accessories simple to truly emulate this look.

Shirt, Heels, Skirt

This youthful look expertly combines colors and textures.  The pink, strappy sandals compliment the green shirt, and the tweed skirt pulls the whole look together.

Geographic Style Savvy

These past few days I began wondering about what kinds of jobs I would hold in the future.  I started thinking about how different geographical locations have unique standards for work attire, and what might be appropriate in one city could be considered overdressed, underdressed, or just plain unacceptable in another.  Of course, it is always better to overdress (to an extent) on your first day of work, and then look at the office environment to figure out how to stand out while still fitting in.  Below I have compiled a small set of looks to help you figure out what kind of look is acceptable for your particular location (more cities soon to come!).

New York City

If you have never visited Manhattan, you should know just one thing: the women there look flawless.  I did not think it was possible for so many women to look that impeccable in one city.  It truly is the fashion capital of this country, and so it is important to do your best and dressed to impress because you will be fighting to stand out against the crème of the crop.  In order to do so, choose the perfect architectural dress in a “notice me” yet still appropriate color with on trend details (such as the peplum on the skirt).  Heels are a must in New York.  (Tip: If need be, slip a pair of sneakers or sandals in your purse that you can wear while you walk or commute to work.)  Pair your dress with heels in an unexpected color, such as this lavender.  Then add a pair of dangly earrings, a statement cuff, and a ladylike shoulder bag to complete the look.

Cuff, Shoes, Dress, Earrings, Bag

Los Angeles

Los Angeles, another incredible city (and my hometown), is also known for women with amazing style.  However, the general fashion atmosphere is a little more laid back, and so it is okay to be more whimsical with your clothing choices. However, bathing suits, shredded clothes, and tube tops are never appropriate for work, even though you are in California.  Be daring (but never risqué) and don’t take yourself too seriously.  Show off your affinity for style with a pair of slim, printed pants, such as these floral trousers.  Make the outfit even more unique with a jewel toned asymmetric top and a fitted dark blazer.  Since the outfit is already edgy enough, keep things simple with a pair of black suede wedges.  Add a pale pink shoulder bag and a simple gold necklace to complete the look.

Pants, Shirt, Blazer, Shoes, Bag, Necklace

The Bay Area/Northern California

The Silicon Valley is home to some of the greatest corporations in the world, and it is the true capital of technology in this country.  However, it is also know for an abundance of faded jeans and t-shirts.  While it probably would not be appropriate to wear an over the top outfit to work in such a casual environment, there are ways to make you stand out while hardly dressing up.  If everyone in your office is wearing jeans, wear jeans in a beautiful cranberry red color to really make yourself noticed.  Pair the jeans with a retro inspired polka dot blouse for a look that is polished yet not prissy.  Add a pair of flats in a contrasting color (such as this bright yellow), a neutral bag, and a whimsical pair of earrings to complete your look.

Jeans, Top, Shoes, Earrings, Bag

One Dress Three Ways

It can be very difficult when you are first starting out your career to balance fashion and finances.  You do not need to spend a lot or buy a bunch of pieces to update your look each season.  Instead, choose one or two trends that you really love and invest in one great piece.  From there, use your creativity to properly accessorize that piece to change it up and really make it practical for your own lifestyle.  I have selected this yellow peplum dress as my starter piece for the season.  Both the bright color and the peplum detailing are right on trend for the season (and yes, I promise that peplum done right is slimming because it defines a waist and creates an hourglass effect on your body).  It can be worn in the office or even on a date.  Below are three different ways that I hope will inspire you for the season.

The Dress:

Peplum Dress

Look 1: Polished Professional

A primary color palette is one of my favorite looks.  It is playful, yet sharp and professional.  Layer a loose, cobalt sweater over the dress (it will keep you warm in an air-conditioned office during the day but it won’t be too hot during the summer months).  Add a bright red day bag, and finish off the look with snakeskin flats.  The snakeskin acts as a neutral and won’t clash with the rest of the bright colors in your outfit.  Keep jewelry simple so as not to distract from the outfit.

Sweater, Purse, Flats, Earrings

Look 2: Night on the Town

This look is not for the faint of heart.  Turn a seemingly sweet dress into something edgy with a fierce pair of architectural shoes, a snakeskin envelope clutch, a black blazer, and dangly earrings to create a killer going out look.

Shoes, Blazer, Earrings, Clutch

Look 3: Tea Time Attire

A beautiful dress in a bright color like this yellow works perfectly for a garden party, brunch, or even a summer wedding.  Just add some ladylike accessories, such as floral printed t-strap heels, a beautiful cuff, and a sweet clutch in a contrasting color to complete the look.

Shoes, Clutch, Bracelet

8 Hygiene Essentials for Your Boyfriend

In keeping with the spirit of my recent post, “10 Wardrobe Essentials for Your Boyfriend,” I wanted to provide you all with a few more tips to pass along to your men.  Good hygiene often goes unnoticed in a man; however, when it is neglected, it can be disastrous.  Here are a few simple steps to keep your man and your relationship mess free.

1. Clean Nails

No, I am not saying that your man needs to be wearing clear nail polish or that he needs to get a manicure (although there is nothing wrong with the occasional male manicure to clean up one’s hands).  I am saying, however, that I will not date a guy with dirty hands.  If he can’t keep his nails clean, my first thought is always, “What else doesn’t he wash?” 

In general, a man’s nails should be clipped short and should never be longer than the width of a dime.  This goes for toes as well.  Hangnails should just be clipped off.  Your man probably doesn’t need to worry about cuticles.  The main point is that his nails should be kept short to avoid harboring bacteria.

2. Deodorant

Fact: your boyfriend should be wearing deodorant. Yes, everyday.  Wearing deodorant will keep his clothes smelling fresh all day.  And no, spraying Old Spice on clothes that are already dirty does not count as wearing deodorant.  Ok, maybe this tip is more important for you than your man.

3. The Perfect Cologne

Speaking of smells, finding a great cologne for your man is something that will give him a boost of confidence.  It might take a while to find the right one, but try lots of different scents and use the tester cards if they are available to help pick the perfect scent. 

Try on a cologne and then let it settle on his skin for a while before decided it is the right scent.  Most colognes are constructed from three notes: top notes, middle notes, and base notes.  The top notes are what you initially smell, while the middle notes usually last around thirty minutes.  The base notes are the lingering notes and are usually the weakest; even so, it is important to make sure your man likes how the smell fades over time.

Ralph Lauren

Giorgio Armani

4. Groomed Hair (Everywhere)

Hair, whether it is on top of your man’s head, in his ears, nose, or even between his eyebrows, is perfectly normal.  Please assure him of this.  There is no shame is grooming hair of any kind.  Ear and nose hair trimmers are available for reasonable prices (well under $20) at Walmart, Target, etc.  As for the hair that grows on top of head, it should be maintained regularly (a trip to the barber once every three weeks should work for most men).  Girls go through a lot for their men.  It only seems fair for men to return the favor.

5. Socks, Socks, Socks!

If your man does not wear socks with his tennis shoes or loafers, now is the time for him to start (really, socks should be worn with all of his shoes except sandals).  If he has inexplicably smelly or sweaty feet, I guarantee this is the fastest and cheapest way to solve that problem.  This tip doesn’t even need a picture.  It is that self-explanatory.

6.  Clean Ears

After your man gets out of the shower, make sure he gently dries his ears and wipes out dirt with a Q-tip.  He does not need to try and touch his brain with the Q-tip, but just a gentle cleaning will do.  Again, this tip is pretty self-explanatory, but it will be much easier for you to whisper in or nibble your man’s ear if you’re not in a staring match with a gob of earwax. 

7. Toothbrush + Floss

I am seriously a sucker for a wonderful smile.  Some guys have smiles that just light up their faces and make my heart melt and my limbs go numb.  Help your man preserve his smile (and get rid of bad breath) by making sure that he brushes and flosses twice a day.  It sounds simple enough, but we all get lazy from time to time. Well, this is one habit that should not be broken. 

Ian Harding, living proof that a great smile never goes out of style

8. Shameless Skincare

Men perpetuate the stigma that skincare products should be reserved solely for women.  However, this seems silly to me.  While it would be nice if we were all blessed with perfect skin, some people (and yes, this includes men) are more prone to dry skin while others have oily skin.  Dry skin can be uncomfortable and oily skin can make a person self-conscious.  I am not saying that you should go out and purchase floral scented body lotions and night creams for your man.  However, I think he would really appreciate help finding one really great moisturizer or facial scrub depending on his skin type.  I promise, it will be a worthwhile search and he will be grateful for your female expertise.