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A favorite for Fall is the Chelsea Boot. Also known as the “Beatle Boot” as the original was adapted for The Beatles in the early 1960’s. The style was inspired by the Cuban’s Flamanco Boot – only the Chelsea had a higher heel. This ankle boot has been redesigned and modernized over the years into a comfortable and very versatile/practical shoe. Here are a few of my favorites:
Opening Ceremony: Coachella Flat Suede Chelsea Boots: $402.00
Topshop: August Classic Chelsea Boots: $120.00
J.Crew: Chelsea Boots: $268.00
Saint Laurant: Suede Rock Chelsea Boot: $995.00
Frye: Pippa Short Chelsea Boots: $278.00
Rag and Bone: Bannon Closed Toe Booties: $550.00
The wedge espadrille is the perfect compliment to summer. Comfortable and versatile, these sandals provide the hight needed paired with comfort. The rope detailing couples well with casual and dressy styles and remains durable year after year. Available in different styles and colors, the platform wedges will flatter all summer long. Here are a five favorites for summer:
Topshop: Whispered Sandal – $84.00
Michael Kors: Giovanna Wedge Sandal – $134.95
Jimmy Choo: Pallis Wedge Sandal – $450.00
Delman: Trish Sandal– $250.00
Dolce Vita (DV): Tarry Sandal – $59.60
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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)
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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)
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There are a few wardrobe staples that every girl should splurge on and a trench coat is one of them. Synonymous with Fall, a trench coat is a classic coat that can be worn again and again, season after season, year after year.
Each season, the classic silhouette is updated to suit upcoming trends; cropped, long, textured, printed, metallic. I am a big believer of – if it ain’t broke… The classic design has been around since World War I and is still going strong.
Two qualities of my perfect trench coat are classic in design and beautifully tailored. My current favorite is the Harper Trench by Club Monaco. It features the classic double-breasted style with button closure and belted sleeve hem. The fit is strong but feminine and very flattering.
A trench coat is a versatile fashion piece that can be worn with both light and heavy layers. Rain or shine the trench coat is a classic and chic must-have.
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Make Up For Ever Full Cover Extreme Camouflage Cream is my go-to, holy grail concealer. The opaque cream covers everything from acne to tattoos while still feeling lightweight and looking natural.
I initially bought this concealer years ago for the main issue of a bruise on my leg. I asked a Sephora representative what would be the best product and she immediately grabbed for Make Up For Ever. It worked amazingly, camouflaging the bruise and stayed-put all day. Assuming the product was too “hardcore” for the face it wasn’t until later I attempted to use on the face, primarily for redness around the nose and pigmentation issues. It concealed like a dream and did not feel heavy or look cakey on the skin. I now use Full Cover for everything from under-eye concealer to spot treatments. The versatile product can also be mixed with your favorite face moisturizer or sheer foundation when you do not want to wear a lot of makeup but need a bit more coverage.
What sets this product a part from the millions on the market is it’s waterproof properties. It is not going to budge once it sets and can be worn to the gym/beach/pool without it sliding off your face. Keep in mind that because of the waterproof capability, you will have to work the product fast – before it sets.
The 0.05 oz tube packs a highly pigmented punch. A little goes a long way as far as coverage and pigmentation. Full Cover is silicone-based, and formulated without any oils, so it is great for all skin types. Since silicone molecules are larger than pores, they will not settle or cake. That’s means the product is non-comedogenic, and perfect for acne-prone skin. The silicone also creates a sort of webbing, like a primer, that will not accentuate flakey patches or dry skin.
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The versatile white maxi dress is a summer essential. Worn day or night, these dresses are light, breezy and comfy.
For daytime, play with some detailed sandals and fun accessories. Gold looks great with white – try-on a ton of gold bangles or bracelets. For nighttime, switch it up with some wedges and a statement accessory. A bold necklace or vibrant earrings will shine against the all-white canvas.
To avoid looking matrimonial, accessorize wisely. Add some color or texture with a belt or scarf. Try to steer clear from head-to-toe white.
Ella Moss ~ Havana Voile Convertible Maxi Skirt/Dress: $168.00
Splendid ~ Maxi Dress: $128.00
Haute Hippie ~ T-Shirt Dress: $195.00
Young Fabulous & Broke ~ Sydney Strapless Dress: $145.00
Mara Hoffman ~ Embroidered Maxi Dress: $192.00 (sale)
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This summer leave your statement necklace at home and add a splash of color with a lightweight scarf. This finishing touch is versatile, vibrant and adds an extra layer of style to any look.
From bold, graphic prints to floral bouquets, adding something extra to your ensemble has never been easier. The breezy, effortless nature of a lightweight scarf is perfect for summer. It pulls together a chic look and also acts as an extra layer of sunscreen. Functional and versatile, here are a few fresh new ways to wear your scarves this summer:
Turban: Take a long scarf and tie it into one knot on your forehead, then cross the ends around each other and tuck them in place behind your head. (This look is great for bad hair days)
Mini Caplet: Fold the scarf in half, diagonally, and tie the ends together around your neck – scarf should be draped on shoulders.
Belt: Tie scarf around your waist or weave through belt loops to cinch the waist.
Experiment to find new ways to wear your favorite scarf: twist, braid, tie two scarves together… Here are a ton of different scarf options to choose from, separated into four categories: Stripes/Florals/Brights/Graphics.
STRIPES:
Mango ~ Cotton Sailor Style Foulard: $19.99
Juicy Couture ~ Chevron Striped Scarf: $68.00
J.Crew ~ Lemlem Gama Gauze Scarf: $125.00
Marc by Marc Jacobs ~ Jacobson Striped Modal Scarf: $180.00
FLORALS:
American Eagle ~ AEO Floral Scarf: $24.50
Forever 21 ~ Floral Scarf: $8.80
Rebecca Minkoff ~ Floral Explosion Silk Scarf: $210.00
J.Crew ~ Printed Summer Scarf in Bold Orange: $59.50
BRIGHTS:
J.Crew ~ Italian Summer Scarf in Belvedere Red: $45.00
Love Quotes ~ Knotted Tassel Scarf in Sunshine: $88.00
Mango ~ Basic Cotton Scarf in Mint: $19.99
J.Crew ~ Italian Summer Scarf in Brillant Purple: $45.00
GRAPHICS:
ALDO ~ Draughon: $22.00
Lucky Brand ~ John Robshaw Vines Print Scarf: $34.99
Tory Burch ~ Ikat Scarf in Turquoise Lucio: $155.00
Tillys ~ Aztec Pattern Scarf in Navy: $9.99
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The string bikini is a staple of summer. Comfortable and versatile this style of swimwear will never stray from trend or fashion.
I purchase at least one J.Crew String Bikini per season. They are simple, honest and perennial. A straight-forward style that fit the same each year and continue to be available in trendy colors and patterns.
A string bikini combined with a mix-and-match approach to swimwear is a great combination to find your perfect suit. First, decide what you want to hide or flaunt and go from there. For instance, if you are trying to minimize a large bottom, purchase a dark color. If you want to draw attention to a flat chest, tie the string bikini in front rather than the back. If you want to elongate the legs or torso, adjust the ties on the sides accordingly.
There are so many ways to make this bikini work for you, just bite the bullet and try-it-on. Ugh… “The Dreaded First Swimsuit Try-On of the Year”. The best advice I have been given: Before you step foot into a dressing room with bikini-in-hand, make sure you are tan. Fake-it with a quick spray tan or at-home application. Trust me! It will make the experience less terrifying.
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Summer Makeup Collections are my absolute favorite. The bright colors and fun, free-spirited nature embody what the summer should resemble. The color-palette in these collections are always inspired by some exotic destination and being swept away to a beach with blue skies, hot sun, pristine white sands and tropical surroundings. The following six collections embrace summer with delightfully sunny shades, bronzed/sun-kissed skin and vibrant bursts of color.
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Summertime De Chanel 2012 is currently available online and at your local counters. Peter Philips, Creative Director of Chanel Makeup, replicates the natural glow of radiant, sunbathed skin. The collection includes two bronzers, an eyeshadow duo, eye crayons, lipsticks, lipglosses, and nail polishes (all limited edition). It is saturated with luminous bronze, gold and copper shades with a pop of coral perfection.
Must Have: Soleil Tan de Chanel & Rouge Coco Shine in En Vogue (bright coral)
Dive into summer with Yves Saint Laurent Summer Collection 2012. Available online and at department store counters May 2012, the collection features both limited edition and permanent collection items. The collection consists of universally flattering hues that aim to boost the radiance of the complexion and emphasize natural beauty. The collection combines discrete nudes infused with subtle shimmer and pops of aqua blues.
Must Have: Mascara Volume Effets Faux Cils Waterproof in Majorelle Blue
Dior Summer 2012 Croisette Collection is a magnificent compilation of limited edition and permanent items available May 2012. La Croisette is French for Little Cross Drive, the name of a prominent street in Cannes that stretches along the shore of the Mediterranean Sea. This collection is inspired by a walk down the famous La Croisette, the colors of the seaside mixed with the glamour of the French Riviera. The Croisette Collection interlace tranquil aquatic shades with soft pastels and shimmering silvers.
Must Have: 1-Couleur Eye Gloss in Sunset & Tan
Guerlain + Emilio Pucci Terra Azzura Summer 2012 Collection is now available and is exclusive to Sephora and Nordstroms. Guerlain teams up with Italian fashion house, Emilio Pucci for a new color range that is inspired by “summertime on the Italian Riviera”. The collection features a bronzer/blush palette, an eyeshadow quad, a mascara, three lip glosses, two nail polishes, a blush brush and Guerlain’s famous powder pearls (Meteorites Perles d’Azur) packaged in and designed by Pucci.
Must Have: Meteorites Perles D’Azur
NARS 2012 Summer Collection is available now online and wherever NARS is sold. The collection features intensely pigmented earth inspired hues that are spiked with a bit of shimmer to illuminate the complexion and create a healthy glow. From icy peach to terracotta this collection is extremely chic and versatile.
Must Have: Liberté Blush
Thakoon for NARS Founder and creative director Francois Nars has partnered with fashion designer Thakoon Pachnigul to develop a limited edition nail polish collection inspired by Thakoon’s Spring 2012 collection shown at New York Fashion Week. The new polishes include 6 bright colors that were inspired by the spices found on Indian markets – bold, spicy and vibrant.
Must Have: Koliary Nail Polish (cyan blue)
Set sail for summer with MAC Hey Sailor! Summer 2012 Collection. Available May 24 (North America), May 2012 (International) this entire collection is limited edition. Hey Sailor! is a nautical-inspired collection combining vintage pin-up looks with nautical/aquatic shades. Decked out with stylish sailor-striped packaging the collection features a fleet of eye shadows, lipsticks, lipglass, powder blushes, pigments, Powerpoint eye pencils, Pro Long Wear lip pencils, nail lacquers and a new mascara – Zoom Water Fast Lash. Also featured in the collection are a boat-load of bronzing powders, Pro Long Wear bronzing powders, High-Light powders, MAC to the Beach body oil, Suntints and a new face blender brush 167SH.
Must Have: Zoom Water Fast Lash Mascara
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The coveted Isabel Marant Dicker Boot is in great demand this season, and not to mention, sold out in most stores. The suede ankle boots have quickly become a must-have item for Fall Fashion. Adorned by celebrities and fashionistas everywhere, the Dicker Boot appears to agree with anything paired with it. It’s proven versatility and range represents effortless style that can be worn all-year-round.
With a price tag of around $600, I have scoured the web in search of similar – more affordable – options. Each replica is a great rendition of a classic ankle boot and are available in black, tan, brown/cognac. Create a standout casual style with these worthy advisories.
Steve Madden ~ Pembrook: $99.98
Dolce Vita ~ Jamison Ankle Boot: $119.00
Report ~ Marks Bootie: $98.95
Old Navy ~ Faux-Leather Ankle Boots: $22.99
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Versatile to wear with just about anything, leggings are a comfortable and stylish solution to outfit woes. Available in a multitude of colors, textures and patterns leggings continue to evolve each season.
Leggings Tips & Tricks:
❄ To avoid looking tacky, think of leggings as tights rather than pants. Choose longer tunics/blouses/tops to camouflage the obvious.
❄ Transition summer dresses and skirts into winter by adding simple leggings and a great leather jacket.
❄ Texture is key for a night look. Try metallic or liquid leggings paired with simple sweaters/blouses/tops.
❄ Incorporate fancy flats, boots or a matching pump; monochromatic footwear will make legs appear longer and leaner.
Leggings are an easy way to stretch your wardrobe, here are 5 lovely leggings under $50.00.
Target ~ Merona Women’s Lounge Leggings: $12.99
ASOS ~ Leggings in Metallic Knit: $26.96
Victoria’s Secret ~ Liquid Leggings: $39.50
Topshop ~ Burgundy Velvet Legging: $45.00
Forever 21 ~ Winter Wonderland Legging: $15.80
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Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream is a versatile skin conditioning balm used for dry patches, sore skin and much much more.
The formula is almost unchanged since it first appeared in the 1930s. Rumor has it, Eight Hour Cream was originally used as an emollient for Miss Arden’s racehorses’ hooves.
This deep moisturizing balm can be used on the body, face and lips. Hailed backstage, top makeup artists slick it on models lips for instant hydration, apply to the lids for a dewy sheen and use as a face mask for ultimate illumination.
The thick apricot-colored salve is similar to petroleum jelly in texture but slightly more thick and sticky. The only downfall to this product is the smell. A strong medicinal aroma that lasts even after application. The smell is not appealing but Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream is worth purchasing for it’s effectiveness.
Known for it’s incredible moisturizing properties, Eight Hour Cream has been labeled as a skin-saver, after-sun soother, shine factor, eye opener, treat for feet and the holy grail product for maintaining glowing, nourished skin.
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J Crew Billie Buckle Boot
Boot Week starts with a great flat boot.
The Billie Buckle Boot from J Crew is a classic equestrian-inspired style with rugged detailing. The boots are made of an incredibly supple Italian leather that is soft and flexible. The flat-heeled design and leather sole ensures luxurious comfort and the decorative straps, finished in antique gold, can be used to loosen or tighten the calf of the boot.
The Billie Buckle Boot pictured here are the extended calf version. Available in a shorter version and an array of colors and finishes, these boots are extremely versatile.
Style these basic boots with slim skinny pants, a romantic dress or the new, elegant “midi” skirts. The Billie Buckle Boot is a perfect addition to any wardrobe with a classic style that will last for years.
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Silky, flowing blouses are popping-up in Fall collections everywhere. Available in beautiful colors and patterns, these tops are extremely versatile. For a casual look, pair with denim; flowing over skinny jeans or tucked into high-waisted flares. For work, tuck a silky blouse into a sleek pencil skirt or couple with blazer and tailored pant. For a night out, grab some leather capris and sky-high pumps and you are ready to go. Here are five Fall blouses, all under $50.00:
Olivia Moon ~ Print Chiffon Blouse: $37.90
Fred Flare ~ Polka Dot Chiffon Top: $48.00
Bellatrix ~ Pleated Silk Blouse: $49.90
Hive & Honey ~ Poet Blouse: $49.00
Tinley Road ~ Bow Tie Blouse: $49.00
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The Little White Dress is a summertime essential. Perfect for outdoor BBQs, cover-ups or just lounging around, these dresses are fun and feminine. Incrediably versatile, the LWD can be paired with just about anything. For a pop of color add a summer scarf or bright espidrelles. Or keep it simple and opt for neutral tones like nude wedges or a white or blush-toned linen blazer. No matter how you wear it, the LWD will never go out of style. Here are five options all under $50.
Hive & Honey – Tie Front Strapless Dress: $28.99
Alloy – Casey Dress: $34.90
C&C California – Hemp Slub Short Sleeve Tee Dress: $49.90
Roxy – Surf Roots Dress: $38.15
Asos – Vero Moda Slinky One Shoulder Dress: $29.31
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Diane von Furstenberg Jhumpa
Keeping with the romper theme, this weekend throw on this Jhumpa by Diane von Furstenberg. This silk jumpsuit is a fun and playful option for weekend festivities.
The golden amber color is novel and exotic. The silk fabric is delicate and feels like butter on the skin. The shape is flowing and comfortable, perfect for a warm day.
Wear the Jhumpa on it’s own with flats or wedges or pair with a silk cardigan and chunky heels. This beautiful burnish color creates a great canvas for accessories. Style with a ton of gold necklaces and/or bracelets or plant a pop of color and with turquoise stones or red-beaded earrings.
Rompers are a versatile one-piece outfit that is great for weekend wear.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Ashling
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The Alexander Wang Marti Bag is a great option for this season’s backpack trend. If you prefer to wear a bag on your shoulder, the detachable straps can be removed or adjusted. Made in a plush/washed lambskin, this chunky bag features Wang’s signature all-over zippers, a dozen compartments and zippered straps that allow for two small back-straps or one large shoulder strap. The versatility and design of this bag is incomparable which launches it to the top of my Must List.
Now if I could only choose a color…
Alexander Wang Marti Backpack
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The Winter Kate Spring 2011 Collection by Nicole Richie reflects a love of vintage, ethereal flowing clothes. From paisley and floral prints on beautiful silks and velvets to suede and leather fringe elements, Winter Kate is a very flexible collection.
These kimono style jackets are incredibly versatile… Wear with jeans, over a dress or this summer pair with a swimsuit. Belt it, tie it, wrap it or pin it; a kimono jacket is on my Must List.
Winter Kate Jackets
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