What's New Now - Updated - Nordstrom
Yellow is out! It's happy, it's sunny, and it is certianly Spring.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Mixing patterns
What Was She Thinking?
On my Sunday observations today I noticed a trend of badly coordinated patterns.
This was particularly apparent with one woman, who though dressed with style had chosen to put three different patterns together that did work, all variations of animal prints: She had on a grey and black animal print cardigan over and green and black camo print tank, blue jeans and very cute animal print flats. The result was a chaos of spots that did not work well together!
I’ve seen this done before successfully but it is hard. If you are going to mix patterns, which can create a very interesting, playful look, your must do it thoughtfully.
It is best if the patterns do not compete, so mix scale and motif. For Example, a large scale paisley over a tight check can work well together as opposed to the Spotty animal print over the spotty camo in the same scale.
There also should be some common theme between the two patters like a common color or shape or even contrasting colors work well. An orange check with a blue stripe is poppy and eye catching. The two animal prints, though common in theme, had nothing for the eye to connect them together.
The outfit she wore was a cute idea, each individual garment was great, but really, what was she thinking???It just shows how important it is to think how you put things together. Have fun mixing patterns, but do it with care! (A hint for spring, florals are big and mix with argyle really well)
What are some great pattern combinations that you’ve seen or worn that you have loved?
On my Sunday observations today I noticed a trend of badly coordinated patterns.
This was particularly apparent with one woman, who though dressed with style had chosen to put three different patterns together that did work, all variations of animal prints: She had on a grey and black animal print cardigan over and green and black camo print tank, blue jeans and very cute animal print flats. The result was a chaos of spots that did not work well together!
I’ve seen this done before successfully but it is hard. If you are going to mix patterns, which can create a very interesting, playful look, your must do it thoughtfully.
It is best if the patterns do not compete, so mix scale and motif. For Example, a large scale paisley over a tight check can work well together as opposed to the Spotty animal print over the spotty camo in the same scale.
There also should be some common theme between the two patters like a common color or shape or even contrasting colors work well. An orange check with a blue stripe is poppy and eye catching. The two animal prints, though common in theme, had nothing for the eye to connect them together.
The outfit she wore was a cute idea, each individual garment was great, but really, what was she thinking???It just shows how important it is to think how you put things together. Have fun mixing patterns, but do it with care! (A hint for spring, florals are big and mix with argyle really well)
What are some great pattern combinations that you’ve seen or worn that you have loved?
Thursday, March 18, 2010
The Blazer: a Wardrobe Staple
Blazer from Ann Taylor Loft, casually classic!
What types of blazers have you seen that you loved?
What types of blazers have you seen that you loved?
How do you like to wear your blazers?
The modern Blazer is the not so distant decedent of the utilitarian garment worn as part of a uniform for those attending a prestigious school. Subtly it has been a symbol of someone that is well educated and thus of a certain class, implying wealth. The blazer is a lightweight, single or double breasted jacket with a notched lapel; traditionally it is a solid navy. Like the Sport Coat, the blazer is considered a separate and is worn with non-coordinated attire. Both would be considered sportswear in the day that they evolved from, and today still are considered more casual then their cousin the suit Jacket. The only difference between a blazer and a sports coat today is that the blazer is a solid color, and the sport coat is made of a woven fabric like tweed.
A great Blazer is one of those pieces in your wardrobe that you can put over just about anything and instantly it adds polish to a look. Currently there are three basic styles that the blazer is found in: the standard blazer, the shrunken blazer, and the boyfriend blazer.
The standard blazer of today is very true to its original Ancestor. It can come in any number of colors, but it is always a true solid. This blazer maintains a conservative collar and a notched lapel, and, while structured, usually has an easier fit. The standard blazer does not stray much in design or silhouette. It appeals to a traditional and sometimes sporty style. This blazer is usually the base of an outfit, but alone makes very little statement. The look it is worn with will depend on the other pieces paired with it to create a statement and personality. The standard blazer is a very grounding addition to a wardrobe.
The Shrunken style has been popular for a while. This blazer is the most stylized of the three and the most diverse in design. The character of the shrunken blazer can be anything from a classically elegant look to something more creative or feminine. The shrunken blazer can define the mood of an outfit and make a statement on its own.
The Boyfriend Blazer has made a huge Showing in Fashion recently, particularly in the last two seasons. It is a very current look right now. Almost every label has some version of the Boyfriend Blazer. Unlike the shrunken blazer, this blazer stays true to a specific silhouette. As the Boyfriend Blazer’s name implies, it is directly inspired by the classic Men’s wear Blazer. It tends to appeal to a more dramatic or sporty personality. This blazer says “I’m cool, casual, carefree, and not afraid of men’s wear.” The boyfriend blazer has one particular thing to say, it will make that statement no matter how it is worn.
While classically, the blazer is considered a conservative fashion, it has recently evolved into something that can be quite chic. Having this staple in your wardrobe will transform a basic look into something more classic and sophisticated.
The secret is, to find that perfect blazer just for you.
A great Blazer is one of those pieces in your wardrobe that you can put over just about anything and instantly it adds polish to a look. Currently there are three basic styles that the blazer is found in: the standard blazer, the shrunken blazer, and the boyfriend blazer.
The standard blazer of today is very true to its original Ancestor. It can come in any number of colors, but it is always a true solid. This blazer maintains a conservative collar and a notched lapel, and, while structured, usually has an easier fit. The standard blazer does not stray much in design or silhouette. It appeals to a traditional and sometimes sporty style. This blazer is usually the base of an outfit, but alone makes very little statement. The look it is worn with will depend on the other pieces paired with it to create a statement and personality. The standard blazer is a very grounding addition to a wardrobe.
The Shrunken style has been popular for a while. This blazer is the most stylized of the three and the most diverse in design. The character of the shrunken blazer can be anything from a classically elegant look to something more creative or feminine. The shrunken blazer can define the mood of an outfit and make a statement on its own.
The Boyfriend Blazer has made a huge Showing in Fashion recently, particularly in the last two seasons. It is a very current look right now. Almost every label has some version of the Boyfriend Blazer. Unlike the shrunken blazer, this blazer stays true to a specific silhouette. As the Boyfriend Blazer’s name implies, it is directly inspired by the classic Men’s wear Blazer. It tends to appeal to a more dramatic or sporty personality. This blazer says “I’m cool, casual, carefree, and not afraid of men’s wear.” The boyfriend blazer has one particular thing to say, it will make that statement no matter how it is worn.
While classically, the blazer is considered a conservative fashion, it has recently evolved into something that can be quite chic. Having this staple in your wardrobe will transform a basic look into something more classic and sophisticated.
The secret is, to find that perfect blazer just for you.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Traveling?
A Sustainable boutique called CONVERT
1809B Fourth St., Berkeley, CA 94710,
Cool, current, styles in comfortable fabrics.
These peices are great for those of you who like easy maintainence functional clothes but still want style.
On the same note, these peices are also great for travel!
I want to show case one design in particular:
A three quarter length jacket made of a super light micro-tech fabric.
It had a ruffle collar and a wrap style closure, making a particuarly flattering silouette for a variety of body types.
The bset part of this Jacket is that the sleeves snap off turning into a very chic and flattering sheath dress!....
What a cool peice for traveling!
I just loved stumbling into this great store...check it out.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
The Motorcycle Jacket
Hot, Edgy, and Stylish.
The Motorcycle inspired jacket is the most distinct style of the popular jackets right now.
The Leather Motorcycle Jacket has made a powerful comeback in fashion and we see the influence in this style of Jacket. This style is edgy, fashion forward and very current. It is going to appeal to a more creative or dramatic style, but can vary considerable from design to design.
No matter what, this Jacket is going to have a point of view.
There are a few design elements that give it inspiration; asymmetrical and diagonal lines, industrial like hardware, and this Jacket is also almost always short and fitted.
No Matter what Jacket you choose, a great Jacket can make all the difference to a diverse and versatile wardrobe. If you find the idea of finding a great Jacket daunting, you may want to get a professional to help you find the one that will work for you best.
What types of motorcyle Jackets have you seen that you loved? What was your favorite design element?
The Motorcycle inspired jacket is the most distinct style of the popular jackets right now.
The Leather Motorcycle Jacket has made a powerful comeback in fashion and we see the influence in this style of Jacket. This style is edgy, fashion forward and very current. It is going to appeal to a more creative or dramatic style, but can vary considerable from design to design.No matter what, this Jacket is going to have a point of view.
There are a few design elements that give it inspiration; asymmetrical and diagonal lines, industrial like hardware, and this Jacket is also almost always short and fitted.
No Matter what Jacket you choose, a great Jacket can make all the difference to a diverse and versatile wardrobe. If you find the idea of finding a great Jacket daunting, you may want to get a professional to help you find the one that will work for you best.
What types of motorcyle Jackets have you seen that you loved? What was your favorite design element?
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Oscar Dresses
The Red Carpet at the Oscars
I have to start by saying I was rather underwhelmed by the style I saw on the red carpet this evening.
While no one was memorably bad, not many were memorable at all.
It wasn’t’ until later as the presenters began to come on stage that I started to see some full styles I loved. Remember, it’s not just about the dress, it’s also the hair, the use of accessories, and how this all fits the person wearing it.
My vote for best dressed were:
Kate Winslet, she always look old hollywood even in this modern dress
Helen Mirren, so classy and so sexy
Sandra Bullock, she was dressed to win
Kristen Stewart, I want this midnight blue Mermaid dress
Elizabeth Banks, Cool slate grey was classic and unique
Jenna Hurt, classic
(and lets not forget Robert Downey Jr. in his turquoise bow tie!)
I think that there is no doubt that Sandra Bullock was the shining star tonight. From the Golden gown to the golden award she won for best actress in a leading role. She looked as elegant and poised as her acceptance speech.
Congratulations Sandra!
I have to start by saying I was rather underwhelmed by the style I saw on the red carpet this evening.
While no one was memorably bad, not many were memorable at all.
It wasn’t’ until later as the presenters began to come on stage that I started to see some full styles I loved. Remember, it’s not just about the dress, it’s also the hair, the use of accessories, and how this all fits the person wearing it.
My vote for best dressed were:
Kate Winslet, she always look old hollywood even in this modern dress
Helen Mirren, so classy and so sexy
Sandra Bullock, she was dressed to win
Kristen Stewart, I want this midnight blue Mermaid dress
Elizabeth Banks, Cool slate grey was classic and unique
Jenna Hurt, classic
(and lets not forget Robert Downey Jr. in his turquoise bow tie!)
I think that there is no doubt that Sandra Bullock was the shining star tonight. From the Golden gown to the golden award she won for best actress in a leading role. She looked as elegant and poised as her acceptance speech.
Congratulations Sandra!
Cool with a pop of Color.
I was having brunch on the Mission, and was struck by this fabulously dressed woman walking down the street.
She looked Classic, funky and fun all at the same time.
It was great.
She wore Trouser Jeans in a dark wash, a black long sleeve top with this great faux leopard swing Jacket.
Chic. That is all I have to say.
Then to top it off, and what made the whole thing really special was this awesome Kelly green, snakeskin clutch.
Yummy.
You couldn’t help but notice her as she came down the street, yet her outfit was really so simple.
She was truly Chic with a pop!
I was having brunch on the Mission, and was struck by this fabulously dressed woman walking down the street.
She looked Classic, funky and fun all at the same time.
It was great.
She wore Trouser Jeans in a dark wash, a black long sleeve top with this great faux leopard swing Jacket.
Chic. That is all I have to say.
Then to top it off, and what made the whole thing really special was this awesome Kelly green, snakeskin clutch.
Yummy.
You couldn’t help but notice her as she came down the street, yet her outfit was really so simple.
She was truly Chic with a pop!
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