The Classics: J Brand Black Skinny

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Like fine wine, the J Brand Black Skinny only gets better with age. Known for both comfort and style, J Brand (btw: ‘J’ stands for Jeff – Jeff Rudes owner) creates great basics that last. The J Brand Black Skinny is the only black skinny I may ever buy. No fading and no stretching – this classic should be a staple in every woman’s closet.

Bored of black denim? Reinvent your day-to-day classics. If you have exhausted all combinations in your closet – mix-it-up with a great shoe or accessory. Try a colorful or embellished flat or rugged ankle boot. However, if you are not six feet tall, ankle boots can be tricky. Paired with skinny jeans they can make you look stumpy.  The key to wearing ankle boots with skinny jeans is to create a continuous line. This means wearing dark rinse blue jeans with black ankle boots, or black jeans with a dark gray pair of ankle boots. The colors do not have to match exactly, but should be close enough that there’s no significant break when one ends and the other begins.

Keep it classic and style your J Brand Skinnies with sophisticated black and white pieces. Always on trend and deceptively simple, the black and white combination looks polished and fresh.

When it comes to the classics, investing in great pieces makes a world of difference. These J Brand Skinnies will outlast the next three pairs of less expensive versions bought. Save yourself the time and headache and buy the best.

Five Favorites: Peasant Top

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Peasant tops are are great transitioning piece from cold to warm weather. Available in basic neutrals or super bright colors – these tops are both relaxed and casual.

Slip into a breezy peasant top and pair with your favorite denim, white and/or colored. Equally cute with shorts and skirts, marry the look with some ankle boots and a floppy hat. Peasant tops also make a great beach coverup.

Designers continue to offer peasants tops in many styles but the one constant is their flowy and breezy nature. Appealing to all body types, this top will work hard in your closet all-year-long.

Here are five favorites:

Joie ~ Meliana Embroidered Gauze Blouse: $198.00

Urban Outfitters ~ Ecote Split Back Embroidered Tank Top: $49.00

Anthropologie ~ Embroidered Aureolin Tunic: $98.00

Urban Outfitters ~ Embroidered Bazaar Cami: $54.00

Free People ~ Rolling Stone Woven Top: $118.00

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

Spring in your Step: Floral Pump

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Add a little Spring to your step with the floral pump. An easy way to add color and style, this Spring trend will pair well with anything from edgy leather pieces to everyday essentials.

Mixing prints can be tricky. With this pump, mastering the mix is easy. Pair with any pattern in similar color families. Mix your florals with stripes, polka dots, graphics and/or animal prints and you are well on your way to one stellar mash-up.

Manolo Blahnik ~ BB Pump: $645.00

Alice + Olivia ~ Danny Pump: $295.00

Ivanka Trump ~ Kayden 2 Pump: $130.00

Guess ~ Neodan 5 Pump: $99.00

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

Spring Essentials: Mint Green

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Just like flowers, pastels return each Spring in unique and modern ways. I am currently loving the mint green color palette. Rich with spearmint tones, icy blues and seafoam-soaked color. This cool-tone brings a refreshing twist to Spring’s pastel trend.

Paired with the right colors, this bluish-green color palette can be quite versatile. Try a cool contrast with basic neutrals or bolder color combinations with bright orange, red and royal blue.

Make everyone green with envy with these Spring Essentials:

Hive & Honey ~ Double Layer Knit Maxi: $59.00

BCBGMAXAZRIA ~ Elena Silk V-Neck Top: $158.00

Alice + Olicia ~ Victoria Peplum Dress: $264.00

Current/Elliott ~ Skinny Ankle Jeans: $178.00

Rebecca Minkoff ~ The Becky Jacket: $368.00

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)

Festive Finds: Holiday Alternatives

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‘Tis the season for holiday parties and events, galore. While finding the perfect dress is almost as traditional as mistletoe, change it up this season with holiday alternatives. Try a trendy top or bedazzled bottom and pair with a basic. With at least one of these items already hanging in your closet, prepping for numerous holiday events is a cinch.

Try pairing a great ostrich feather skirt or sequin shorts with a simple tee or button-down. Or opt for some party pants – available everywhere in different colors, patterns and textures they will instantly create a luxe look.

Pair your favorite jeans or slender black pants with a trendy peplum top or festive blazer. Look for simple, yet ornate seperates to make any outfit sparkle.

Simple Top:

KAIN Label ~ Pocket Tank: $80.00

Milly ~ Ostrich Feather-Trim Mini Skirt: $350.00

Tibi ~ Cotton Brocade Pants: $475.00

Growze ~ Sequins Shorts: $150.00

Basic Bottom:

7 for all Mankind ~ The Slim Cigarette Stretch Jeans: $198.00

Alberta Ferretti~ Sequin-Embellished Tulle Top: $795.00

Rag and Bone ~ Silver Tuxedo: $895.00

Tibi ~ Sleeveless Peplum Top: $385.00

Festive Frocks: LRD

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Get in the holiday spirit this season with a classic LRD. The blushing alternative to black, the little red dress combines a spirited color palette and holiday flare that will sizzle at any event this season.

When wearing red… think sophisticated not cheap. Look for sharp lines, great design and a fairly conservative cut. Pair with neutrals like black or nude and try not to over accessorize. Keep it simple, keep it chic.

Here are a few of my favorite festive frocks:

Splendid ~ Washed-Crepe Shirt Dress: $110.00

Alice + Olivia ~ Peplum Knit Dress: $264.00

Three Floor ~ Bad Girl Dress: $308.00

Black Halo ~ Jackie Belted Gabardine Sheath Dress: $345.00

Miu Miu ~ Flared Stretch-Jersey Dress: $595.00

Seasonal Staple: Sweater Dress

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Nothing marries warmth and style better than a sweater dress. This Fall classic is a no-fail, wardrobe staple that works as office-wear, casual-wear and party-wear.

Perfect for layering, the sweater dress can double as an oversized top. Pair with skinny jeans or leather leggings for additional warmth and style. The sweater dress is easy to accessorize and begs for a great piece of jewelry, rugged leather jacket, faux fur or luxe leather boot.

A great option for this holiday season, the sweater dress will work for any occasion.

Here are a few of my favorites:

C&C California ~ 3/4 Sleeve Sweater Dress: $117.60 (sale)

BCBGMAXAZRIA ~ Knit Lambswool Dress with Tubular Detailing: $218.00

JCrew ~ Cashmere Tee Dress: $278.00

Philosophy Di Alberta Ferretti ~ Long Sleeve Sweater Dress: $695.00

BCBGMAXAZRIA ~ Pailey Sweater Dress: $194.60 (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.

Distressed Denim: Rag & Bone The Skinny Jean

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The Skinny Jean by Rag & Bone combines an effortlessly casual style with a hint of sophistication. The distressed detail on these jeans is very subtle and wearable. Placed perfectly at the knees, they are incredibly comfortable and have just the right amount of “give.”

These jeans marry well with just about anything – from oversized knits and boots to beaded blazers and pumps. While distressed denim is an easy DIY project, (How To – HERE) brands like Rag and Bone have taken the time to perfect placement, size and amout of distress in their pieces. The jeans will never look sloppy or overdone. Wear and tear your denim this season with Rag & Bone – The Skinny Jean.

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

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)

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.

Style Your Stems: Floral Pants

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Style your stems in floral prints and patterns. A fun and fresh way to wear pants, these bold and colorful botanicals are truly statement-making.

With a little structure, these pieces look ultra fresh and modern. Don’t complicate things with a game of layers. Keep it simple. Try a cropped sweater or delicate tee for an effortless daytime look and silk cami and blazer for night. Add a great pair of sandals or heels and you have created the 1/2 & 1/2 (part elegance/part edge).

Here are a few beguiling blooms for inspiration:

Zara ~ Cropped Printed Trousers w/ Zip: $19.00 (sale) 

Tibi ~ Floral-Print Silk Crepe De Chine Pants: $330.00

Ella Moss ~ Rosa Flora Pants: $148.00

DKNY ~ Printed Stretch Silk Crepe De Chine Pants: $245.00

Cynthia Rowley ~ Zigzag Floral Bonded Leggings: $225.00

Season-less Staple: Rachel Roy 24 Hour Dress

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Transition from day to night / summer to fall with effortless style in Rachel Roy’s 24 Hour Dress. 

A conceptual design for 24 hour functionality, this comfortable dress works in the daytime, nighttime, work-time and party-time. The ruching at the waist and deep pockets provide a relaxed, unencumbered, figure-flattering style. Chic and impeccably tailored, the 24 Hour Dress is extremely affordable at around $89.00.

Strap on some sandals or flat boots, add a panama and gold bracelets for an easy daytime look. Take this dress into night with pumps or booties, pattern tights and jewels or a simple belt – any width, color, design.

Each season this dress is slighted altered in color and material, but never the style. In past collections, this dress has been made of velvet, splattered with paint and shined in metallics. Also sold at Macys, the 24 Hour Dress is available in black all-year-round.

Straw Topper: Club Monaco Nancy Straw Fedora

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Warm weather and outdoor fun requires a little shelter from the sun. Club Monaco’s Nancy Straw Fedora is the perfect retreat.

Made from intertwined straw, it is extremely lightweight and comfortable. It will protect your face, hair and scalp from the sun. The neutral color will complement just about anything you pair with it and has a relaxed style perfect for lazy summer days.

Simple and effortless, the Nancy Straw Fedora is the perfect topper to add some character to your look.

Club Monaco ~ Nancy Straw Fedora: $39.00 (sale) original price: $69.50

Bewitching Baubles: Bib Necklace

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Make a statement this season with a bright bib. A bib necklace combines layers of intricate beads and jewels strung across the collar bone, high on the neck. Bibs can incorporate many materials and textures to create a bold, multi-layered, eye-catching piece.

These colorful, chunky necklaces easily enhance any outfit while still remaining elegant. Pair with simple tees or tanks to effortlessly renew a tired outfit. Or wear with your favorite, “worn a million times” dress for a new and fresh look.

Available in all shapes, colors and sizes, a bib necklace is a great piece to have on-hand when an outfit feels a bit dull. Here are a few of my favorite bewitching baubles:

BaubleBar ~ Summer Princesse: $38.00

Adia Kibur ~ Short Neon Stone Necklace: $54.00

Zara ~ Strand Necklace in Shiny Golden Colors: $25.90

J.Crew ~ Cabochon Fan Necklace: $150.00

Ann Taylor ~ Sunburst Necklace: $59.99

Kate Spade ~ Painted Jewels Necklace: $198.00

4th of July Fashion

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Fun, 4th of July Fashion.

Eugenia Kim: Max 7 Raffia Fedora, A.P.C: Washed Denim Playsuit, Converse: All-Star Premium Flag, Free People: Tattered Flag Scarf, Madewell: Perfect Racerback Tank, Haute Hippie: American Flag-Print Stretch-Denim Shorts, Steve Madden: Pita Boot, Urban Outfitters: Flag Wayfarer Sunglasses, Enza Costa: Stripe Tank, Citizens of Humanity: Avedon Low-Rise Skinny Jeans, TKEES: Lipstick Red Leather Sandals