Fashion Blog

I’ve been able to observe a few up and coming fall trends, some of them being the usual–leggings, sweaters, scarves–but with my eye being drawn to the more offbeat of them, I foresee a few different things in the trend spectrum. Seasonal trends revolve around the new color scheme, the new ways things are being styled, the fabrics, the layering. There are several factors–but I also like to think that a huge part of trending revolves around the accessories involved.

Accessories are fabulous! They can really complete an entire look or outfit season after season. Being in Hollywood on a daily basis, it is a constant feast of the eyes for what people are wearing, if they are going with the trends, and of course I like to draw my own conclusions for the outfit choices they’re making. One thing I’ve definitely taken notice of is that the accessories are a little more edgy these days–everything from little lace socks, to faux reading glasses, to long black gloves. These are fun little novelty items, a bit risky, and something to start a little conversation with when you decide to step out for a night on the town…or just want some midweek excitement.

Below are my three of my favorite accessory looks for fall…

I am into these long black gloves! I was in San Francisco a few weeks ago at one of the newer stores in Union Square called Shotwell. Browsing around on the second level, I eyed a pair of long black gloves that were made by Cheap Monday–super cute…and they were about $24. Not too bad I suppose. These are a more inexpensive version, and just as good.

BDG Jersey Ruched Long Gloves $18, UrbanOutfitters.com

How to wear? Very easy. Dig through that closet of yours and find a cute little cropped jacket, by cropped I mean one with shorter sleeves. With shorter sleeves, you can show off those cool looking gloves! It’s a throwback to the dressy evening looks from the 1950’s.

Another trend over all that I’ve noticed is faux reading glasses. This has been going on for quite some time, and I get it…but not really sometimes. I don’t mind it though, but if you’re going to sport an accessory that everyone else is wearing, at least make sure the frames are unique. These Wendy Readers are slightly different than the very common looking Ray Ban frames with clear lenses.

Wendy Readers $18, Urbanoutfitters.com

I’ve been on a sock kick lately, and these little crochet socks are oh so pretty…

Crochet Ankle Socks $4.99, Urbanoutfitters.com

These would look fantastic with some cropped ankle boots and a little black dress. They are a nice variation from typical opaque tights or legwarmers. These would also look great with some black pumps, or some of those trendy lace up oxfords, and they’re such a great price.

Shop for more fashion accessories at Smarter.com.

Vanity Fair has released their international Best Dressed List for 2009 and I’m sure no one was shocked to see that the country’s premier couple made the cut. Michelle has become a muse for many designers with her laid back sophistication and a rocking fit body that is totally believable and well in the realm of possibility for everyday women. Well, not entirely, to be honest if you also count those shapely arms chiseled to perfection, but you get the idea. She’s by no account a Hollywood siren sporting an unattainably Barbie like body armed with strategic enhancements. In total contrast to that “popular” look, Mrs. Obama represents an imperfect attractiveness. The statuesque first lady works out sensibly, has an instinctive nonchalant sense of style and does her clothes beautiful justice but all in a completely down to earth, accessible way. The rarity of that makes her a style icon in my book. I love too that she has introduced the world to lesser known designer names like Maria Pinto and Jason Wu.

While I like the elegance of her simple sheaths and the polished appeal of her pencil skirts (I sometimes don’t care for her cardigans I must admit, but you can’t please everyone all the time!), it is her jewelry that completely rocks my boat. The girl can certainly write a book on how to wear pearls without giving off that dreaded old lady vibe. I don’t know anyone other than Carrie in “Sex in the City” who gives pearls this much of love! I was so delighted to know BTW that many of her pearls are fakes—I dig grounded beauties!

Sometimes the pearls she wears are more conventional, white, short and oversized, which she craftily pairs with structured, more modern attire. The ones that I would probably go for myself are her quirky, whimsical, longer, multi colored ones that add glamour and razzle dazzle to an otherwise monotonous, simplistic clothing palette like a little black dress or a tailored blouse. A delightful pin that doesn’t take itself too seriously or some fanciful beads thrown in for attitude, but never all at the same time, lend a European edge to her modest outfits, a style she has made her own.

I went on a bid to check out some Michellesque treasures and look at what I came up with (below). I think I even found one of her original pieces! (the vintage inspired flower necklace with the pink dress). In fact I got so carried away that I even ordered myself a string of beads I just didn’t need! Tsk ,Tsk…

St Erasmus Long Pearl Necklace

Allie Braided Bead Necklace

St Erasmus Pink Flower Short Statement Necklace

Twisted Beaded Necklace

Pink Flower Pin

Maddy Emerson Freshwater Pearl and Agate Necklace

Nori’s Layered Lace & Faux Pearl Necklace

Is it just me or do fashion accessories grow with each decade? I mean literally, bracelets, earrings, handbags, and even hair (pomp/tease) seem better when they’re bigger. I think there’s an obvious method behind the madness: bigger accessories makes you appear smaller.

In fact, Beyonce made a little confession on the Tyra Banks show a while back when she said that she thinks she has big ears. She said to compensate, she always wears huge earrings. You know what, it totally works.  You wouldn’t be able to notice her ears if you tried.

Sunglasses are another in-style accessory that you can use to your benefit in creating an illusion. Lauren Conrad, among countless other fashionistas, is always seen rocking the oversized, bug-eyed sunglasses.

This illusion definitely works. With huge sunglasses as big as those, how can your face not seem smaller?

The last sure-fire trick to make your overall appearance more petite is the popular hair tease/pomp. Big hair was in style in the 80’s but we’ve come far from that, thank god. Slightly pomped hair gives a classy, modern look and best of all, it makes the rest of you look smaller–especially in an updo.
Emmanuelle Chriqui, better known as Sloan from Entourage, always gives her hair a little tease and she looks so petite, all the time.

Disclaimer: I do not support wearing all of the above at once–one word: overkill. If you walked outside with a huge bag, flashy earrings, big pomp, and oversized sunglasses–you might appear to be a midget. So, just pick one.

Image Source: celebrity-sunglasses-finder.com, askmen.com, fashionfeen.wordpress.com

Ever put an outfit together, take a look at yourself in the mirror, and wonder what’s missing? Sometimes “bring your outfit full circle” simply means accessorizing or properly using cosmetics.

So, let’s start with the handbag. Sometimes I dress myself up for a weekend out and grab the handbag all of my “stuff” is in and realize I just lost 10 points on the “hot scale.” You can’t spend hours in front of the mirror trying to obtain a sexy look and then pick up your ratty, everyday bag.

Go for something smaller and cuter, like the Swarovski Buckle Leather Barrel Bag. It’s sleek, sexy, and is adorned with it’s own Swarovski crystal. The bag comes in red or black, though I really think black is a bit more universal.

For a lighter spring look, check out the Coach Striped Handbag in beige. It’s a great evening bag for the spring and summer and can easily be used everyday if you’re a woman who doesn’t need to carry a lot of extra stuff with her.

Of course, the accessories you wear can make a huge difference as well.  I was once told that the difference between a woman who could walk into a room with “presence” and one who did not was in the accessories she was wearing. Both women could have on the exact same outfit, but the necklaces, rings, bracelets, or lack thereof would make a huge difference when it came to being noticed and remembered.

I’m really into bracelets these days, especially since my arms will show more in my spring attire. One of my spring favorites is the Juicy Couture replica Bracelet. It’s sleek, sophisticated, and can complement any look.

Those who like gold better than silver might like the Juicy Couture Heart Padlock Leather Bangle Bracelet instead. It’s a stunning blend of leather and gold that will certainly add an air of mystery to your wardrobe.

Last, but not least, is your makeup. I know this blog is all about fashion, but it’s important that you are able to combine your wardrobe choices with the proper cosmetic colors. Otherwise, you’ll end up looking like a clown.

My absolute favorite cosmetics come from Smashbox. They have an incredible variety of natural color options and usually run some really great sales.

Every woman should have the Smashbox Eye Liner Cream Palate. It’s easier to carry than a handful of different color tubs and gives you options and variety, no matter where you go.

The double ended lip glosses and lip pencils are a hit as well. You can change your color as needed with a dark and light option. These items are convenient enough to carry with you, even in your smaller evening bag!

Remember, being fashionable is about more than your dress, pants, and blouse. Combine your outfit with your accessories and makeup and you’ll make a much more memorable appearance!

Check out some other great barrel purses, bracelets, and Smashbox cosmetics here.

I love yellow.  You stand out.  It goes nicely with your new tan skin.  You attract bees….wait..what?  I would say the bees part is a small price to pay.  Check out these great yellow accessories, shoes & handbags found around the web: 

                                                    Cole Haan Carma Air Sling: $275  

                                           B. Makowsky Eden Convertible Crossbody Satchel: $318

                                                       Tasha Patent Leather Bangle: $58

                                                     Gustto Crocho Ciosa Clutch: $368

                                                                    L.A.M.B. New Guy Sandal: $195

                                                  Francesco Biasia Nika Laptop Satchel: $538

                                              Tasha Enamel Hoop Earrings: $28

                                        Maxx New York Bleeker Top Handle Satchel: $125

If yellow just isn’t your color, check these items out anyway as they come in many other great spring/summer colors. 

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