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June 2008
How to Wear It: Plunging Necklines
Lately, I've been noticing the red carpet has been flooded with an assortment of plunging necklines. Glancing above, you see a bevy of beauties absolutely aglow and looking ravishing in their particular versions. I honestly LOVE every single look and think each lady wears the plunge with class and elegance, which is hard to do. A plunging neckline can, dare I say, look a bit trashy if not done correctly. So how to wear it? To help you better understand, I've added some key looks from the Fall 2008 Runway Collections, below.
Then glancing at Zac Posen's and Christian Lacroix's looks you'll see one is a classic suit and the other a full skirt. Both are donning black tights, to keep the look more streamlined and show only minimal skin. THIS is how to wear a plunging neckline. Let the plunge be the skin-baring part of your ensemble and keep the rest conservative and classic...that's an easy DO! I've added some speedy-savvy-stylin' below to get your plunge-addiction going. It's a great alternative for a SUMMERTIME DRESS but will also carry over nicely into your Fall wardrobe too! Enjoy!
Gold Star Celeb Style: White Dress & Skinny Black Belt - Seen on Fergie and Lauren Conrad
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Seriously, the first time I saw Lauren Conrad in this look I was officially drooling. Something about it's simplicity; the white dress...the skinny black belt...the peep toe heels. It just screams sophistication/class. Recently, Fergie stepped out in a similar ensemble that garnered my attention, once again. So I thought to myself...this is something worth sharing because it's a classic/timeless look that can be multi-occasional!
I've provided some speedy-savvy-stylin' for you above and only tried to choose skinny black belts that really caught my eye. It creates a more polished silhouette, I think. As for the white dresses...well, I'm sure you already have one in your wardrobe so either; A - put the two together, asap or B - go get yourself a black skinny and work this look, soon! It can't be just "any" LWD (Little White Dress) because it must look exceptional with the belt around it, cinching your waist at the appropriate place (Fergie) or falling nicely on an unnatural waistline (Lauren). Those of you who might think an empire waistline will work are definitely not choosing a good option. Chose a sheath (like Blake Lively's below) or Leighton Meester's shirt-dress (below again) for a dead-on approach and just what you're looking for. Also a T-Shirt dress is another great option, too...enjoy!
Wanting/Wishing/Wearing: Summertime Dresses
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Wardrobe Essential: A Hot Copper Piece for Summertime!
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How could one not just L-O-V-E copper? It conducts heat and electricity, has a slight pink shimmer and is actually a trace nutrient found in many plants, animals and all humans. I personally am drawn to it for its gorgeous sheen and the way it plays so nicely off of many different skin tones. No, really...take a look above! Three different skin tones all looking radiant in their copper dresses. But, just like Hilary Duff above, I've chosen some speedy-savvy-stylin' so you can see that copper accessories are also an easy way to add this conductive color into your Summer wardrobe, in addition to dresses!
Check out my copper stylin' below. Three different categories for your shopping pleasure. It's Thursday, your week is winding down...figured I'd get you going on your weekend shopping, a bit early! I've included some copper clothing, copper kicks and a copper-crazed accessory assortment. I actually own the Bandolino Women's Breanna Flat and let me just tell you, they get some serious mileage. They go with EVERYTHING...and look closely, they're OMBRE! Enjoy my copper finds and add those already existing copper pieces back into rotations, pronto...or use this as an excuse to splurge on a new addition for Summertime FUN!
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Outfit Inspiration: Day to Night Ensembles à la Jackson Pollock's Lavender Mist
I just love art. That's why this category comes with such ease for me. I find inspiration from many different things, when it comes to 'what I wear,' on a daily basis. But finding inspiration from great works of art is just purely...F-U-N! Today's artist, Jackson Pollock, was a major force in the abstract expressionist movement. His works are truly amazing and his style is one of the most saught after/copied in the world.
Today I chose his Lavender Mist painting to inspire two ensembles...one day and one nighttime look! So, without further ado...let's examine what I've laid out as casual cool and nighttime chic. For daytime, I've paired a painted ROLLING STONES Tunic with light/stone-washed long jean shorts. Add a POP OF COLOR in a bright pink bag and uber comfy lace-up canvas flats and you are ready to run errands all day long. Can't forget those big shades, black onyx bracelets and watch-charm necklace...so you won't be late for your fun soiree later.
And now you're off to a great night out. Following the same color palette as Pollock, I chose a muted black/white printed top and skinny black jeans...then added statement accessories to kick the look up a notch. READING GLASSES and RAINBOW/OMBRE earrings make me smile. The Tolani Honeycomb Scarf has been spotted around the neck of many a starlet and works magic with this ensemble. An oversized men's watch is that new 'timeless' accessory that's oh so HOT right now. A subdued yellow bag and killer STRAP-HAPPY blue kick round out the look. Notice that both the daytime and nighttime looks can be effortlessly complimented by the addition of the LONG BLACK VEST, too! Enjoy!
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Personal Peek: Weekend Getaway - My "Staycation" Packing List
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So a little bit of a Saturday Personal Peek for you. We're heading to a party tonight, in another city...so RunwayDaily Hub and I decided to make a weekend of it. We're going to hit up all the quaint little coastal towns on the way, attend a great party tonight...then sleep in and enjoy all that this nearby city has to offer, on Sunday. A legitimate Staycation is what we'll be having, as it's only about an hour away from home. But the hotel stay makes it feel like we're going to be much farther away. Plus, we're being green and supporting local economy, all along the way!
One dilema before all the FUN begins...what's a girl to pack? Many of my friends create lists for daily outfits throughout their vaca's...me, not so much! I honestly am known to make myself physically ill before a BIG trip because I hate packing, that much. I guess I just want to bring everything along with me (aka: a Mary Poppins Bag) and I never know what I'll be in the mood to wear. We're only going for a night, so I'm trying my best to envision exactly what I'll be sporting over the next 48...and pack only that!
And that exact layout, my dears, is precisely what I've Polyvored for you, above. I'm wearing some leggings, a tank and long vest in the car. Can't forget those comfy Converse...I'll also add my bathingsuit and Havaianas, just in case the beach looks too inviting along the way. The party dress is picked out and it's an adorable, LADY-LIKE, PAISLEY print along with brown GLADIATORS and some minimal accessories! I'll let the dress and kicks do all the talking! Easy and summer-worthy JEAN SHORTS, a button up (with tank underneath), copper flats and a assortment of REUSABLE SHOPPING bags that fold up nicely into my purse. All this will lend itself nicely to a day of shopping/sightseeing. Enjoy...I'm outta here, let the staycation begin!
Male Bytes: Female Fashion from a Man's Perspective - Ryan Roser Byting Kate Hudson, Karolina Kurkova, Rachel Bilson and Katie Lee Joel
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It's Friday and you know what that means? RunwayDaily loves to save the best for last and post something stellar to kick the weekend off on a magnificent start. What better way to do that than a Male Bytes post! Today's Male Byter is a man with a style all his own. Ryan Roser has been known to wear bright and crazy color combos, killer multi-colored kicks and some serious plaid shorts. He pulls them off, every-time! I'm all about have your own personal style, so I knew Ryan would have some great words of advice/praise for our Bevy of Beauties, above.
Although Ryan isn't smiling in his picture, he and his wife are the most charming and smiling people ever. They exude warmth (and style) and I always dig her accessories and his choice of attire. I'm telling you, this man's wardrobe is something that is worn only with megawatt confidence! And how about that job title? Eeeek, it sounds intense! Ok, ok...enough about Ryan. Let's get to the byting of these gorgeous beauties; Kate Hudson, Karolina Kurkova, Rachel Bilson and Katie Lee Joel!
So, without further ado...let's hear what Ryan had to say about these four captivating starlets:
Kate Hudson - "Kate Hudson's scarf is pretty cool, but the spring on her arm is a little strange. I like the belt, especially since she has pockets. It's about time ladies get some functional pockets. She'll need that belt if she's going to be filling those babies up with a bunch of keys, her PDA, and a hand or two."
Karolina Kurkova - "What's not to like about a silk robe and oversize t-shirt? Did Karolina retire for the evening to a hot toddy and Jay Leno only to realize she was due out in public? I'm glad she had time to wipe of the cold cream."
Rachel Bilson - "Rachel Bilson looks like the Bride of Frankenstein after getting out of the shower. That has to be the best looking towel I've ever seen. Her big hair is rad too. Is 2008 the year of the towel? I hope so. Shower power!"
Katie Lee Joel - "Creative Mrs. Joel wore a Goodwill lampshade instead of a skirt. As a lampshade, I think it's an excellent find; I'd pay upwards of $5.50 for such bric-a-brac. I hope she can return it once she realizes the mistake, but with a uselessly small purse, I bet she's lost the receipt. You know Billy is holding her lip gloss and cell phone tonight."
Saving the best for last again, I love how Ryan calls out Billy Joel and says he's on "cell phone/lip gloss" duty. This is obviously a man who has his priorities straight...marriage comes first! Ha! Love it! And...note taken: men maybe aren't as wowed by the Hervé Légér Bandage Dress as I might be, hence Ryan referring to Rachel Bilson's dress as the, "best looking towel I've ever seen." I'm literally laughing out loud. Ryan, you're such a great asset to our Male Bytes category...thanks for taking the time to lend us your fashion opinions. Oh, ps - so glad someone else readily uses rad in their daily jargon, too!
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A-list Accessory: Ankle Cuff Sandals
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Ankle Cuffs are some of the hottest and most wearable shoes out there, right now. I've had a pair for a few years (got them in Italy) and have recently been able to bust them out during our wave of sun-shiney days here in San Francisco, YAY! Mine are most like the Goldenbleu Women's Caitlyn Ankle Strap, in my speedy-savvy-stylin' above, but sans the wedge...because I love me some flats! These sandals of mine have gotten some serious rotation so I felt the need to share, now!
Ankle cuffed goodies look good on teenie ankles, accentuating the calf but also are very do-able on bigger ankles as they can mask the whole kit and caboodle! Look at the bevy of blonde stunners above, and you'll see ankle cuffed goodness accentuates everything from laid-back casual looks to high-class glammed out ensembles. Yep, lil' Miss Heidi Montag made our post for day two in a row...yesterday her Hervé Légér Bandage Dress turned heads and today we're focusing on her drool-worthy Jimmy Choos.
Please browse through my assortment of high and low steals above, via my speedy-savvy-stylin. How about the $89 Nine West Olavera knock-off of the hot Gucci's that Ali Larter is sporting above...pretty HOT, right? The real-deal Gucci's are only $556 via our stylin' too...if you're a Gucci gal! Come on, why not splurge? This is actually a type of sandal, if bought in a more classic style, that will last you for years and years. Happy Shopping!
Pictures from Here and Here and Here
Runway Radar: The Hervé Légér Bandage Dress
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I absolutely LOVE me some Hervé Légér Bandage Dress. It's a dress that looks killer on skinny-minnies but it also becomes a ravishing, curve-hugging and sexy look when women with more curves are spotted in this dress-perfection. Take a look at the celeb ensemble I've laid out for you, above. We have an array and assortment of body-types but all six women absolutely look smokin' in their Bandage Dress.
The Fall 2008 Hervé Légér Runway came alive with new spins on this old favorite. Max Azria (of BCBG fame) acquired the label in 1998 and took over the design reins last year. With a near celeb-cult following, Azria had big shoes to fill but is obviously doing so with ease. I chose my top 8 Bandage dresses that sauntered down the Fall Runway, above. The subdued color palette and OMBRE formulas were downright drool-worthy . I honestly cannot pick a fave because I could see myself wearing all 8 looks.
As I usually do, I've provided some speedy-savvy-stylin' below, but buyer...beware. These sexy bandage dresses come with a high ticket price. I was unable to find any under $700 so this might just have to go on your Christmas List. Or...shop the hot sales and make it your WOW dress to wear over the Holiday Season. Enjoy!
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Fall 2008 Ready to Wear: Black Lace
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So, I know we're in the heat of Summer and it's hard to imagine Fall weather anytime soon...but now is the best time for me to let you in on what I think will be BIG for Fall! I'm going to start doing precisely that, giving you weekly tips on items you should start stocking into your wardrobe so it's Fall-ready in no time!
The Fall 2008 Ready to Wear Runway Collections were literally overflowing with black lace. It's one of those fabrics that is actually hard to pull off because you don't want to look like a character from the Addams Family. But it also looks amazing layered over colors and it's easy to wear all alone...with some GILDED accessory additions, of course. I'm loving the use of soft touches of lace like Nicole Miller exemplified in the form of tights. Also, the gorgeous blouses at Derercuny and Givenchy really caught my eye!
A few days ago, we provided some pointers for what to buy for Fall at Shopbop's 70% Sale. We mentioned items like dreary plaids, lace-up boots and subdued florals (find it HERE). So we're working hard to always keep you in the know!
Today, I've provided some speedy-savvy-stylin' below that is all under $50. That's not a big hit on the checkbook, by any means so it should be easy to invest now! My fave pieces from all these Black Laced goodies? I must admit I have a shirt very similar to the Floral Lace Top by Forever 21 and it looks truly ravishing in pictures...love it! I think the Steve Madden Flats are adorable and the Mixed Media Slip Dress from Urban Outfitters is something that will transition easily from Summer to Fall! Enjoy!
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Fashion Flash: M.I.A. at MoMA's 40th Annual Party in the Garden
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And then...a lil' bit of MIA Boyz below, just to get your Friday kicked off on a rockin' note! Enjoy!
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What to Buy Now: Shopbop's 70% Off Sale = Hot Pieces for Fall
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So, I know this time of year, we're all thinking about buying new SWIMSUITS, Short SHORTS, GLADIATOR SANDALS and MAXI DRESSES! But, low and behold, this is also the time of year to find some stellar deals on Fall/Winter pieces too! So, as I awoke to an email from Shopbop saying some great pieces were now 70% off, I knew this was info worth sharing!
So above I've laid out some images from five Fall 200\8 Collections that I adore...and have readily picked out pieces that we've already mentioned on RunwayDaily but are going to transition easily right into your Fall/Winter wardrobe.
I've also provided some speedy-savvy-stylin' of pieces from the Shopbop 70% off sale and you'll find those below. Many of the addressed trends, above, are present in my styling for uber low prices...what more could a fashionista want, ever? Go ahead...can you spot all of them? Ok, one more favor...I'll lend you a hand:
- Statement Necklace (Fenton Large Disc Necklace $282.90)
- Metallic Mini (YAYA AFLALO Shield Tunic $105)
- Lace-Up Booties (Proenza Schouler $267)
- Geometric Prints (ADAM Pleated Balloon Sleeve Dress $118.50)
- Ruffle Front Blouse (Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent Blouse $70.20)
- Dreary Plaids (Thread Social Cowl Neck Dress $200.10)
- Subdued Florals (Tucker Side Pocket Dress $99)
My fave piece from the Collection Sale below? I definitely have to pick two, there's just too many! The Torn by Ronny Kobo Elephant Racer Back Tank for $18.60 is just adorable and Karen Zambos' Vintage Couture Silk Shirt for $95.70 is awesome, because look a bit closer and you'll see it's pure rocker-chic, unexpectedly! Enjoy...and get to shoppin!
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First Look: Stella McCartney's 2009 Resort Collection - Pants, Prints and Shorts
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Just wanted to send some HOT new pics of Stella McCartney's Resort Collection your way. Some seriously fun trends I want you to keep your eye on, and snatch up too! It's official...if Stella has them, they might be the next big thing! Numerous pairs of Hammer/Genie pants cascaded on the bright green lawn during her Collection showing in NYC. We've told you about them HERE and HERE...so maybe it's time to make that leap of faith and just go for it, as far as these are concerned!
Next up: nautical/sailboat prints made quite a statement and are a fun/whimsical alternative to all the FLORALS this Summer. And lastly, hot lil' shorts are always 'in' for Summer and jet-setting. What am I wearing my shorts with this Summer? Well, San Francisco's temps aren't incredibly HOT so I pair mine with longer blazers (as seen in the above collage, bottom right) and belted cardigans too! Enjoy!
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Wanting/Wishing/Wearing: Ocean Blue Hues for Summer
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So...yesterday was World Ocean Day but please, don't worry if you didn't have a chance to do that Beach Cleanup because I have other options for you to celebrate! I love the ocean on so many levels; the smell, the sound of the warm waves crashing on shore, my feet in the sand and the great tan I always come home with. Recently, I've been seeing some gorgeous women step out in frocks and accessories that look so similar to blue hues found in the Ocean; cobalt, electric, topaz and cerulean...choose one, you can't go wrong!
Above, we see Liv Tyler, Michelle Trachtenberg, Frederique van der Wal, Heidi Montag and Alek Wek in different shades of blue. You can make it easy, just like Liv and Michelle did and just choose a dress from my speedy-savvy-stylin' below for your one-stop blue shopping! Or you can emulate Frederique's layering skills, as well! How about Heidi and Alek with their blue hued accessories...is that more your style? I've provided some styling below that can solve your accessory dilemma too!
Take note that the first set of Ocean Hued garments, below, will only set you back $50, or less! The second set is $50-$250, so maybe more of a splurge. But just staring at Kay Unger's New York Sequin Dress with it's OMBRE effect completely reminds me of my former days snorkeling in the Blue Caribbean Sea. I must point out that if Heidi's bright scarf is catching your eye, check out the Vera Blue Desert Windows Scarf below for only $50...it's a near match! Oh, and pair this gorgeous ocean blue with your bright TURQUOISE pieces and you will honestly have to fend off the compliments, I guarantee it!
How to Wear It: Pretty Pearl Necklaces à la Ashlee Simpson, Katherine Heigl and Sarah Jessica Parker
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Pearls are a go-to item for all your Spring/Summer LADY-LIKE ensembles. Back in January, we made pearls one of our Top 5 Timeless Accessories, HERE. Many ladies receive pearl necklaces for different achievements in their life, or wait...is that just a Southern 'thang?' I got a gorgeous necklace and bracelet combo for my college graduation. So, should you have a strand or two hanging around in your jewelry box, possibly un-used...it's time to re-invent your pearls and wear them with everything! Keep your other accessories minimal, as the three lady-loves did above, and let those pearls glow gorgeously, so pretty and polished!
Above, we see Ashlee Simpson in a flirty LBD and NUDE HEELS that are perfectly accessories with a double strand of pearls...I think Simpson's are Chanel but less expensive versions are available below! I like how one strand is almost below her waist and the other is the perfect complimentary link! Take notes, this is a golden example!
Next up, we see Katherine Heigl looking just smashing, again in nude heels and limited accessories so as to not compete with her pretty pearls. She donned a triple strand, same-length necklace that fell in between Ashlee's two lengths. Which do you prefer? I think both Simpson and Heigl's necklaces could be worn at the same time, for a more LAYERED look, too!
Lastly, we have Sarah Jessica Parker sporting smaller accessories and a killer FLORAL frock. As you can see, her strands drape nicely with the longer being the same length as Heigl's and the shorter being the same as Ashlee's smaller loop. Parker's pearls are a bit bigger than the other ladies but they still look refined and chic.
I've added some speedy-savvy-stylin' for you below, just in case your jewelry box is void of pearls or your ready to invest in another classic piece of timeless jewelry. Also, don't be afraid to play with different color pearls. The pink, black and grey pearls have always really caught my attention so I might just have to add one more pearl necklace to my personal collection.
Are you daring? Then pair the unexpected with your pearls. A rocker-T or a casual everyday ensemble will provide the perfectly juxtaposed pearl-wearin' canvas. Bottom line: pearls dress any look up, just a notch, and if you've seen SATC The Movie...I'm sure you remember Carrie sleeps in her pearls! I don't know if I'd ever go that far...but go for it, if that's the sort of be-dazzlin' nightwear for you! Enjoy!
PS - Want to learn a bit more about pearls? CLICK HERE for Style.com's Candy Pratts Price Anatomy of a Pearl. You'll be charming all your friends as you can easily tell the difference between Tahitian and South Sea Pearls!
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Outfit Inspiration: Black and White Weekend Attire à la Ansel Adams
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Ansel Adams has to be one of my all time favorite photographers. I studied photography in High School and College (not as my major, but nearly a minor). I have some serious appreciation for the massive camera this man drug along with him on every shoot. And to think...sheesh, sometimes my itty-bitty Canon Elph is ridiculously annoying when it doesn't fit in some of my fave nighttime clutches! Ansel is an artist whose pictures are known around the world...he captured some of the most captivating scenery using only black and white!
So...I dare you, have a go! I've used Ansel's amazing White Tree print above as a starting point. I've put together two ensembles around the same 'color scheme' or, lack thereof! One is more appropriate for daytime FUN (on the left: take away heels...add flats = daytime) and BOTH are 100% gorgeous for a night out on the town!
There are some incredible pieces I want to highlight in the collage, via Polyvore, above. The TIE-FRONT BLOUSE is going to last you right through Fall/Winter so make sure to add that as a staple to your wardrobe soon. GLADIATOR SANDALS and a classic SKINNY BELT really step those casual white shorts up a 'dressy' notch, don't they? LADY-LIKE accessories and a cali-cool/light-weight SCARF make the second look less about the dress and more about killer complimenting pieces working together as one! But I do have to say, "I...adore...that...dress!" And lastly...my addition of the Yves Saint Laurent clutch is obviously commemorating the passing of the brilliant designer, himself, earlier this week!
So, on a brighter but color-less note...I have a mission for you! This weekend, strive to put together a black and white ensemble that will turn heads and release your inner artist, even if it's not inspired by an Ansel Adams picture, like mine was! Enjoy!
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