Casual Khaki: The Boyfriend Chino

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A great alternative to jeans is the slouchy boyfriend chino. This versatile style pant lives in a casual environment but with a few fancy basics can also be spruced up.

I love these pants ‘banged-up’ a bit. With some distress, worn spots and/or small holes – they look ‘lived-in’ and not as stiff/starchy.

Casual pairings are a cinch, as you can wear with anything – similar to denim. Dress-up your boyfriend chinos with fancy basics: beaded top, black blazer, sky-high pump.

Available in all colors and prints (camo!), here are a few favorites:

AG Adriano Goldschmied ~ Cropped Boyfriend Khaki Pants: $205.00

Vince ~ Boyfriend Trousers: $195.00

Current/Elliott ~ ‘The Buddy’ Print Twill Trousers: $238.00

Rag and Bone ~ Portobello Pants: $176.00

Old Navy ~ Boyfriend Skinny Khakis: $29.94

Five Favorites: Valentine’s Day

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This Valentine’s Day wear an outfit that creates confidence and makes you feel good. Whether you are going for a casual look, sweet or sexy, the best accessory to any outfit is confidence.

Build this confidence with color, shape or style. Wear a bright/bold color or flaunt your favorite body part – let your personal style shine through.

Here are a few favorite “confidence builders”:

Tibi ~ Silk Faille Full Skirt: $525.00

Splendid ~ Stretch Cotton & Modal-Blend Jersey Maxi Dress: $118.00

Faith Connextion ~ Mixed Sequin Dress: $870.00

Mango ~ Suede Dress: $119.99

Diane von Furstenberg ~ Mateo Silk-Blend Wrap-Effect Dress: $365.00

Festive Finds: Jumpsuits

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An ultra-modern alternative to the classic cocktail dress are jumpsuits. Easy and versatile, the jumpsuit is a fashion-forward option for a holiday event or New Years Eve. From casual to chic, there are a  plethora of cool iterations to this playful piece.

Choose solid colors and sophisticated fabrics for an evening-appropriate aesthetic. Available in straight leg or wide leg, the jumpsuit is comfortable and figure-flattering. Show off your best feature by choosing between halter top, tube top or one-shoulder options. With so many variations of this classic ensemble, it might be hard to choose just one:

Here are a few of my favorites:

BCBG MAX AZRIA: Beaute Lace Jumpsuit: $248.00

Catherine Malandrino:  Favorite Jersey Jumpsuit: $395.00

Rachel Pally: Heathcliff Jumpsuit: $242.00

BCBG MAX AZRIA: Leeo Draped One-Shoulder Jumpsuit: $248.00

Rachel Zoe: Edith Shawl Collar Jumpsuit: $197.97 (sale)

The Sweater Coat: Vince

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Update your outerwear with a chunky knit sweater coat. The Vince Honeycomb Knit Cardigan is a perfect piece for Fall/Winter. This versatile knit can be worn under heavy coats in cold weather or on it’s own in mild weather. A reliable piece that can make any outfit more wearable.

The draping on this sweater coat falls beautifully. For an effortless and flawless look, pair with a slim pant and bootie. Like the picture, add different textures like leather that pair nicely with the honeycomb pattern. If you need a little glitz and glamour – add a jeweled broach.

Keep cozy this winter in a stylish sweater coat.

Spot On: Polka Dots

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Perk up a drab wardrobe with some polka-dots. The playful pattern is flirty, retro, whimsical and befitting at any age.

The classic style has evolved from Minnie Mouse to runways and red-carpets. It’s a style for all seasons, simply because it exudes an undeniably youthful flair, and yet remains an incredibly timeless option for women of all ages. Since the pattern is not restricted to one size, these pieces can be bold and vibrant or soft and subtle. The design adds texture to any ensemble and can be worn in a dramatic or casual fashion. Mix and match with other quirky patterns and prints for a bit of drama or use as the focal piece for casual style. Embrace the spotty trend this season and seasons to come with polka dots.

Spotted… a few of my favorite pieces:

JCrew ~ Polka Dot Dress: $198.00

Madewell ~ Dotted Chambray Boyshirt: $72.00

Madewell ~ Calf Hair Polka Dot Belt: $48.00

Mango ~ TOUCH Polka-Dot Wool Foulard: $69.99

JCrew ~ Polka-Dot Cashmere Sweater: $268.00

Comme des Garçons ~ Polka-Dot Leather Coin Purse: $155.00

Miu Miu ~ Sandali Polka Dot Cotton Sandals: $495.00

Open Ceremony ~ Shirley Polka Dot Haircalf Booties: $506.00

Paige Denim ~ Verdugo Ultra Skinny (selection of colors): $189.00

ModCloth ~  Dash of Dots Tights: $14.99

Western Style: H by Hudson Riley Mid Boot

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Saddle-up in style with a Western-inspired boot. H by Hudson’s Riley Mid Boot is that perfect mix of rugged utility and sophistication.

The perfect kickstart to your Fall wardrobe, this boot provides comfort and relaxed style with gently-worn leather and chunky Cuban heel.

The H by Hudson Riley Mid Boot has the ability to dress things up or work as a chic but casual option. Pair with your favorite designer jeans or feminine floral dress. No matter what you choose you will add a bit of style to your stride.

About Hudson:

Born in 1990, Hudson has been putting their best foot forward for more than two decades with its high quality, affordable shoes. Acknowledging trends and giving them our own idiosyncratic twist is the cornerstone of the Hudson philosophy. Whether it’s music, art, style icons or film, there is always inspiration to be found. Often imitated, never rivalled, Hudson will always strive to innovate, surprise and push boundaries in footwear design.

Fall Flat: Loeffler Randall Natalie Studded Toe Flats

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The cap toe trend is evolving this Fall with a little texture. From shiny gold caps to spikes, studs and rhinestones, the simple flat is getting interesting.

A great pair of flats that can be worn with both workplace-appropriate attire and casual weekend pieces is a worthy investment. Loeffler Randall’s Natalie Studded Toe Flats fit the bill – a sleek cap toe keeps the look on-trend but still polished, while the gold studs add texture and whimsy.

The Natalie Studded Toe Flats are the perfect hybrid of comfort and style. Traverse around the city or trek to work in shoes that won’t ‘fall’ flat.

5 under $50: Summer Dress

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Take the guess-work out of summer outfits. With the simple summer dress, one can quickly and casually throw it on all summer long.

Look for universal prints and colors. If you choose a more trendy version, i.e neons and/or bold prints, it will be more recognizable and you will not get as much wear out of it. Let the summer dress be the base of any ensemble and change it up with different pairings: jackets, scarves, layers (crop-tops/slouchy tees) and accessories. These dresses will be in your closet for numerous summers to come. Here are five favorites all under $50.00.

Volcom ~ Festivus: $45.00

Element ~ Robin Striped Dress: $44.50

BB Dakota ~ Dora Stripe Dress: $49.00 (sale)

Hive & Honey ~ Floral Blousant Dress: $39.99 (sale)

Forever 21 ~ Casual Chambray Dress: $15.50

Sailor Style: Boat Shoes

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Set sail this summer with a new pair of boat shoes. A modern-day take on an American classic have been given a fresh dose of color and style. Whether you like pastel, neon, or neutral shades, there’s bound to be a boat shoe out there for you.

Discover your inner prepster by pairing these shoes with colored denim and crisp button-down or polo. Or play it casual with a simple pair of cut-offs and tee. These comfortable slip-ons must be worn sans socks, making them perfect for summer style.

The boat shoe is a timeless classic made for fun-in-the-sun. Here are a few fresh styles:

Sperry Top-Siders ~ Women’s Cloud Logo Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoe: $75.00

Steve Madden ~ Yachtt: $49.95

Croft & Barrow ~ Boat Shoes: $35.99

Splendid ~ Mandarin: $79.00

Bed Stu ~ Auntie Bettie Tan Greenland Shoes: $75.00

Roxy ~ Ahoy Shoes: $39.00

Shop Your Closet: One Style/Four Outfits

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Style simple pieces of clothing with a belt and increase the versatility in your closet. From rompers to maxi dresses, a belt can effortlessly add interest to any outfit. Not only is cinching the waist with a belt figure-friendly, it can provide a more casual style to dressy pieces. Thus, enabling you to get more wear out of items in your closet.

Look for simple, subdued belts. A lot of bells and whistles will pull all the focus to `it. I love buttery-soft brown leather belts, distressed and treated to look as though you have had it for years. (Favorite Brands: J.Crew/Lucky Brand/Free People/H&M) 

Next time you are in a pinch… cinch!

Revolve Clothing ~ Blue Life: All Day/All Nighter Jumper: $132.00

Net-A-Porter ~ Michael Kors: Belted Crepe-Jersey Jumpsuit: $140.00

Shopbop ~ Only Hearts: Long Gown: $64.00

Shopbop ~ Only Hearts: Keyhole Romper: $106.00

What to Wear: Valentine’s Day

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Look irresistible this Valentine’s Day no matter how you plan on celebrating. From a fancy dinner to night out with the ladies, choose a style that makes you feel good. Sexy, sweet, flirty or romantic, here are a few options to celebrate the day of love.

Mango ~ Red Dress: $44.90

BCBGMAXAZRIA ~ BCBGGENERATION Strapless Pleated Dress: $128.00

Piperlime ~ Daniel Rainn Floral Maxi Dress: $89.00

Zara ~ Dress with Flared Skirt: $59.90

Mango ~ Striped Dress: $39.99

Favorite Flat: Minnetonka Kilty Moccasin

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Minnetonka Kilty Moccasin

My winter flip-flop is currently the Minnetonka Kilty Moccasin. Purchased after the holidays, I have yet to take them off.

These exceptionally comfortable flats are made of soft, rich suede with fringe and braided detail. The finely crafted rubber sole provides traction and stability.

Casual and carefree, these moccasins can be coupled with everything from skinny jeans to sweats, cut-off shorts to mini skirts.

These rustic moccasin can be worn year-round. Paired with a sundress or shorts, the Minnetonka Moccasins will create a free-spirited style.

4th of July Essentials

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This 4th of July Weekend, casual is key. Beach, BBQ’s and bikes are on the agenda, so a comfortable style is needed. Have some fun with the red, white and blue color palette. Just about every brand has a nautical theme represented in their design, so these colors are easy to come by. From bright straw fedoras to a coveted Missoni bikini, here are a couple essential items for a fun, long weekend.

Splendid – Striped Cotton and Silk-Blend Tank, Vince Camuto – Edda, Missoni – Antibes Reversible Crochet-Knit Triangle Bikini, JADEtribe – Nicole Tote Bag, JBrand – Cut-Off VixenWhite Shorts, Ray-Ban  – RB3362, Eugenia Kim – Max 7 Raffia Fedora, Nordstrom – Rolling Bangle Bracelets

5 under $50: Summer Sandals

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Available in an assortment of styles and colors, a fun pair of sandals can perk-up any ensemble. Like an accessory, this item can enrich a look, simply and affordably. Sandals can take the place of a flip-flop to refine a casual outfit or beautify a more polished look. On trend for this summer, choose bright colors, from neon to pastels. Or adopt a pair of sandals with quirky and flirty embellishments like beading, studs, tassels or rope. With so many options, a lovely pair of flat sandals can define your style personality. Here are a couple choices all $50 and under:

Topshop Hatty2 Tellow Bow Sandals – $50.00

Rip Curl Gladiatress 3 Sandal – $38.00

Forever 21 Mosaic Leatherette Sandals – $19.80

Mia Plaka Braided Sandal – $44.50

Alloy Bella Sandal – $29.90

5 under $50: Rompers

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On trend for this summer is the Romper. This item is a current favorite due to it’s versatility, easily reborn from day to night, as well as from casual to upscale. A Romper can be worn as a cover-up to the beach or simply out running errands. Pair with a fitted blazer or sequin jacket for nighttime as well as ankle boots or a great set of heels. The most practical way to accessorize a Romper is with a belt. Choose from thick waisted belts, men’s leather belts, tassel belts or chain belt, each one with create a whole new look. These one-piece wonders come in various fabrics, patterns, styles and fits. Here are a few great buys all under $50.oo.

Tillys Full Tilt Ruffle Romper – $19.99

Forever 21 One Shoulder Romper – $22.90

Volcom Ready to Romp Romper – $29.99

Delias Khaki Floral Tube Romper – $27.50

MATIX Generosity Womens Romper – $28.97

Weekend Ensemble: Mara Hoffman

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Mara Hoffman Embroidered Dashiki Cover Up

This Memorial Day Weekend is all about fun-in-the-sun. A flashy cover-up is all that is needed for long beach days and outdoor BBQs.

This cover-up by Mara Hoffman adds a little flavor to simple swimwear. The pink neon hue will certainly be noticed from miles away. The draped openings at the arms and pleated racerback detail add comfort and style. The mint/black/white embroidered panel at the bust-line provides an alluring contrast. The tribal pattern and pop of color adds an enticing garnish.

This see-through veil will be primarily worn over swimwear. Casual and cool, pair with Havaiana flip-flops or decorate with wedges or espadrilles for a bolder statement. A ton of colorful bracelets and cuffs will polish off this weekend ensemble.

Have a wonderful long weekend!

Ashling

5 under $50: Maxi Dress

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The Maxi Dress is the perfect way to achieve an ‘effortlessly chic’ look. This dress comes in a myriad of colors, patterns, textures and styles. This item can be casual-wear, paired with flats, flip-flops, denim jacket or a cardigan. Or it can be modified into formal-wear, dressed-up with heels, blazer or a ton of jewels. Available everywhere this season, here are a few pieces that all range under $50.00.

Forever 21 Smocked Maxi Dress: $10.00

Asos Selected Femme Sleeveless Jersey Maxi Dress: $44.32

Heritage 1981 Ruffled Floral Maxi Dress: $29.90

Urban Outfitters Ecote Tiedye Maxi Dress: $49.00

Alloy Erika Maxi Dress: $34.90