Jagged Edge: Asymmetric Sweaters

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Tired of boring, old cable-knit sweaters? Try something new with an asymmetric hemline. It is not a huge change, but a subtle update that gives cold-weather wear a little edge.

These sweaters work best with layers that emphasize the design. Coordinate opposing color schemes to show-off the sleek lines. Then pair with leggings, skinny jeans or leathers for a look that says snuggly not sloppy.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Helmut Lang ~ Asymmetric Sweater: $276.50 (sale)

T by Alexander Wang ~ Asymmetric Ribbed Open-Knit Tunic: $98.00 (sale)

Mango ~ Alpaca Wool Asymmetric Sweater: $59.99

2ND DAY ~ Medium Grey Heather Stinne Pullover: $285.00

Bejeweled: Rebecca Minkoff Jewelry

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Rebecca Minkoff debuted her first jewelry collection last week. The 52 – piece collection features horns of pave crystals, bracelets and spiky bangles, rings, and chain-link earrings. Accented with Swarovski Crystals and Art Deco-inspired glass stones, there is something for everyone.

The designer was inspired by the downtown girl who dresses for her “desk-to-dinner lifestyle.” Portrayed in the collection with great layering pieces and sparkling statement pieces.

The collection ranges from $48-$498 and is currently only available for pre-order – ready to ship on October 19th. It will then be available at select Bloomingdales stores and online at www.rebeccaminkoff.com.

Chain Drop Earrings – $78.00

All Pave Thinnest Bangle – $128.00

All Metal Thinnest Bangle – $98.00

Deco Multi Chain Necklace – $198.00

Pave Horn Necklace – $498.00

Jet Square CZ Earring – $68.00

Heart Bracelet – $98.00

Wardrobe Staple: Denim Jacket

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The denim jacket is an easy piece to grab on your way out the door. Versatile and basic, the denim jacket will transition from season to season with effortless style.

The denim jacket is no longer limited to different washes of blue denim. The trend has evolved into prints, colors, proportions and textures. Available in cropped, leather, tweed and jersey detailing, fur, moto style, western style, stud and spike embellishments, floral and leopard print the design elements are endless.

Pair your denim topper with everything from maxi dresses to leather pants. Or wear as a layering piece under a blazer or over a hooded sweatshirt. Whatever style you choose from the basic blue to fancy floral, the denim jacket will always be a wardrobe staple.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Current/Elliott ~ ‘The Snap’ Stretch Denim Jacket: $274.00

Haute Hippie ~ Washed Floral Denim Jacket: $285.00

Rag and Bone ~ Leather Sleeve Jean Jacket: $495.00

Urban Outfitters ~ Silence & Noise Cropped Denim Moto Jacket: $79.00

By Zoe ~ Mickey Jacket: $172.00 (sale)

The Classics: Chanel 2.55

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The Chanel brand has always been associated with classic, timeless elegance. To this day, a Chanel handbag remains one of the most recognized and respected accessories in the world.

Mademoiselle Chanel designed her accessories to be both practical and sensible, and to her accessories signified the true emblem of luxury and elegance. In the 1920’s, Coco Chanel became tired of having to carry her handbags in her arms and decided to update her handbag, for the modern woman. The resulting design was called 2.55 after the date of creation, February 1955.

From the very beginning, Coco Chanel strove for functionality. For this reason, the bag features a double flap with a zip-fastened pocket intended as a secret place for storing a love letter. On the inside of the bag there are three bellow pockets, meant to store a lady’s necessities like lipstick and perfume.

The bag has a quilted diamond or herringbone pattern on the exterior. Using a running stitch, this gives the bag shape and volume. The pattern is believed to have been inspired by several sources: by jockeys’ riding coats, the stained-glass windows of the abbey at Aubazine, as well as by the cushions in Chanel’s Paris apartment. The original 2.55 is lined in a burgundy color which represents the color of the uniform she wore growing up in an orphanage. The famous double C emblem, (“Coco Chanel”) is stitched on the inside flap like a coat of arms. The bag originally came with a front lock called “the Mademoiselle Lock” (in reference to Coco Chanel never marrying). Since the 1980s, versions can also be supplied with a lock in the shape of the double C logo. Both the iconic rectangular clasp that is gilted with gold and the famous leather and chain shoulder strap had never been seen on a handbag before Coco Chanel added them.

Since it’s introduction, there have been several variations of the original design including different colors, leather/fabric combinations, metal and interwoven leather straps and the lock, mademoiselle vs. interlocking CC. Chanel released an exact copy of the original 2.55 in February 2005 in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the creation of the original. Though the name “Reissue 2.55” should apply only to those commemorative handbags it is now commonly used now as a name for all the handbags resembling the original 2.55.

 

Utilitarian Style: The Transport Rucksack by Madewell

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Functional and fashionable, the backpack is making a comeback. Unlike the “mini backpack” trend of the early 90’s, today’s modern knapsack has more weight and structure.

The Transport Rucksack by Madewell has a traditional, utilitarian style with simple gold details. Durable and lightweight, this backpack is perfect for travel, school or simple daytime activities. Carry all of your essentials effortlessly, hands and hassel-free.

The English Saddle color makes this a practical choice for everyday. The softly worn leather will only get better with time. These items look best with a little wear and tear.

Backpacks are most known and worn for their function rather than aethestic. However, with modern options and designs that serve both purposes –  the backpack is now more wearable than ever.

Foldable Frames: Ray-Ban Folding Aviator Sunglasses

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The most iconic Ray-Ban style has been reinvented in a small compact style. These classic sunglasses are now available in a foldable version.

The design technology of eight hinges placed on the temple and middle bridge allow for the foldability of the aviator frame. Available in a series of colors, each pair of Folding Aviator Sunglasses come in a custom pouch that fits perfectly into even the smallest clutch.

As the owner of the Folding Wayfarer I was a bit hesitant for the Aviator version. The Wayfarer is supported with thick plastic as the Aviator is thin wire. After testing, I was surprised just how durable and supportive they really are.

I can really appreciate the foldable versions of these sunglasses. I constantly break and loose sunglasses. The compact size and case ensure their safe-keeping and makes it incredibly easy to take with you everywhere.

Festival Beauty Essentials

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Be prepared for hot and sticky situations with Glow-T’s Festival Beauty Essentials:

Tory Burch Double Zip Train Case: A great travel case with cool ikat design.

Supergoop! Sunscreen Swipes SPF 30 (21 count): These sunscreen wipes are individually packed, perfect for throwing in your bag. The pre-moistened towelettes are formulated to calm and soothe the skin while providing complete UV protection. Great for sensitive skin, these wipes can be used all over the body.

Coola SPF 30 Unscented Matte Finish Tint: This lightly tinted moisturizer delivers broad spectrum SPF 30 protection. Infused with antioxidants, shea butter, plankton, borage seed oil and evening primrose extract, this lotion will rejuvinate, hydrate and protect. The water-resistant formula and matte finish is great for long days in the sun.

Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25: My favorite lip balm to date, this product is incrediably soothing and moisturizing – provides SPF 25 and lasts. Enriched with superior skin conditioners and antioxidants, this emollient balm relieves dry, chapped and irritated lips.

Donna Karen Cashmere Mist Deodorant: Keep dry and odor-free with Donna Karen’s Cashmere Mist Deodorant. Delicately scented with perfume, this advanced formula controls wetness and perspiration.

CleanWell All Natural Hand Sanitizing Spray: Thousands of people and porta-potties… hand sanitizer is a must. This all-natural formula is made with thyme oil that kills all germs and the portable spray makes it easy to carry everywhere.

Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo (Travel Size): Extend time between washes with a dry shampoo. This gentle formula smells nice and absorbs oil and dirt – an instant refresher. Infused with oat milk, it also nourishes the hair while creating volume and texture.

Josie Maran Bear Naked Wipes: Remove makeup, dirt and oil quickly with these all-natural wipes. Formulated with aloe vera, cucumber, chamomile and vitamin E, the easy-access wipes cleanse and refresh the face and body. Bonus: When purchased, these biodegradable wipes support to protect the endangered Polar Bear.

RMS Cream Eyeshadow – Solar: Perfect for the desert princess, this cream eyeshadow reflects a sheer wash of gold. A great all-in-one eye product, it doubles as an eye cream to nourish and moisturize the eye area.

NARS Cream Blush – Cactus Flower: The name alone implies desert beauty. This bright coral/spicy pink cream blush can be used on both the cheeks and lips. A very subtle gold shimmer leaves the skin flushed, dewy and healthy.

Givenchy Phenomen’Eyes Waterproof Mascara: Waterproof mascara is a must-have. I assure you Givenchy’s will not budge or smudge. The spiked-ball wand takes a little to get used to but defines, separates and lengthens exquisitely. Tip: With your finger, smudge on the lashline for an instant liner effect that will last.

Laura Geller Balance-n-Bronze: A genius design, adding bronzer and foundation, all-in-one. The color-correcting foundation is sheer but never looks powdery. The baked bronzer is infused with layers of color to achieve the perfect sun-kissed shade. Swipe separately or swirl together to get a glowing, sun-goddess look.

French Fairytale: Cartier Love Bracelet

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Cartier Love Bracelet

The Love Bracelet was designed in 1969 by Aldo Cipullo for the French jeweler Cartier. The design was inspired by the medieval practice of warriors “locking up” their wives using chasity belts prior to battle, to preserve the fidelity of their marriage. From this, Cipullo created a two-piece bracelet that had to be bolted together to encircle the wrist.

The Love Bracelet is designed to be opened using only the supplied screwdriver. This allows the bracelet to be “locked” onto one person while the “key” is kept by another as a symbol for their commitment together.

When this product was first launched Cartier regulation stated, no one was permitted to purchase the Love Bracelet for their own wrist. Entering it’s 42nd year, with a growth in popularity, regulation has changed.

Cartier’s Love Bracelet has decorated the wrists of many famous celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, Nancy and Frank Sinatra and Cary Grant and Dyan Cannon. Today, the Cartier Love Bracelet remains the world’s most celebrated and coveted wrist ornament.

Sandal Obsession: TKEES

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TKEES

Looking for a sandal in a specific tone or color? Answer: TKEES

Available in over 40 different shades these sandals are simple in design, comfortable and durable.

The website www.tkees.com describe these sandals as cosmetics for your feet. When deciphering between all of the amazing colors offered, they categorize them in terms of cosmetics. For example, most of the neutral shades are categorized as foundations while the brighter tones are polishes and lipglosses.

The only problem I have with these adorable sandals is figuring out what color I want.

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 Sunglasses

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Must-have summer accessory… sunglasses. Available in a superabundance of styles, colors and designs, determining the right shape for your face structure can be exhausting. I have chosen five universally flattering designs that will look fantastic on anyone. From classic aviators to fun heart-shaped lenses, here are some options to change up your look without breaking the bank.

Topshop – Knot Detail Large Sunglasses – $32.00

Asos – Gold Mirrored Sunglasses – $20.69

Forever 21 – F6689 Sunglasses – $5.86

Blue Moon – Heart Shaped Sunglasses – $22.00

Urban Outfitters – Candy Beach Two-Toned Cat Eye Sunglasses – $12.99

Silver Sparkle: Zara Sequined Blazer

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Zara Sequined Blazer

I am currently fawning over this silver sequined blazer by Zara. Though, I already own one in black, how many sequined jackets does one girl need? Answer… Two!!

This glamorous blazer is chic and edgy. The three-quarter length sleeves bring a casual element to the design. The relaxed tailoring provides comfort and movement.

Pair this saucy blazer with a white tee/tank or to appear even more casual layer in a grey-hoodie.

This silver sequined blazer from Zara is just too sparkly to pass up!