Showing posts with label Fashion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fashion. Show all posts

Monday, May 12, 2014

Fashion in the News: Forever 21 Launches Deeper Discount Store F21 Red

forever21storeIf you follow fashion news (or the buzz on budget blogs) you’ve been anticipating for a few weeks now Forever21’s new even lower priced store, F21 Red. The concept behind F21 Red is said to be providing basics at deeper discounted prices (as if Forever21 wasn’t cheap enough). The first F21 Red store officially launched this past Saturday in the Azalea Shopping Center just outside of Los Angeles, California. Prices have been reported ranging from $1.80 (camisoles) up to $7.80 for denim. Forever 21 hasn't yet announced any plans to roll out more F21 Red stores and appears to be using this first store to test the market.

Interestingly enough, this new store comes just as other retail chains also are working on possible lower priced stores such as J Crew’s “Mercantile” and Abercrombie and Fitch’s plan to change Hollister to a cheaper fast fashion brand.

Comment below and share your thought on this new store? Are you excited to see an even more budget friendly version of Forever 21? 
xoxo,


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Friday, April 18, 2014

Out and About: The Other Woman Movie Screening

Other_Woman_Movie_screening

Earlier this week I got the opportunity to attend a Girl's Night Out event and private screening of the new movie The Other Woman. The event was held at the Crosby Hotel here in Manhattan and included a Q&A session after the movie with legendary costume designer Patricia Field. In the movie three very different women all came together through a shared experience and ultimately forge an unlikely friendship.

Overall the movie was hilarious, definitely the ultimate girls night out comedy that you will want to watch again and again with your girls. I loved how each character brought something different to the friendship and had their own unique style. As the former costume designer for Sex and the City, Patricia Fields knows a thing or two (or everything) about dressing woman characters to convey their personalities and personal sense of style. During the Q&A session, Patricia Fields explained some of the inspiration behind her wardrobe choices for this movie.

For example, Kate, played by Leslie Mann, was styled in pieces with a retro 50's vibe reminiscent of a modern "step ford wife". The character Kate also wore tons of great bright colors that mirrored her bubbly bright personality.

Alternatively, Carly, played by Cameron Diaz, was styled in chic and stylish neutral pieces that reflected her cool and savvy personality. Carly was styled in great sophisticated pieces that complimented her toned body and tan skin.

Lastly, Amber, played by model Kate Upton was dressed in carefree easy going pieces such as denim jackets, flowy shirts, and of course killer bikinis that all emulated the character's go with the flow personality.

While all the characters had great style, I would have to say that Carly's (Cameron Diaz) was the one that I most would love to raid her closet. As a transplant New Yorker, I live in neutral solid colors and loved the elegance of all her looks. Check out the trailer for the movie below to see more of the characters' style in the movie and be sure to check it out when it hits theaters April 25th!

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

8 Incrediable Affordable Shoes for Spring


Step into spring


The perfect pair of flats are to Spring as boots are to Fall... totally essential. Heels are great and all but for everyday comfort and wear, flats are totally necessary in your Spring wardrobe. This season  floral prints, strappy leather, and sling-backs are major hits for sandals and flats. Here are eight options that are perfect to kick-start your spring footwear at an affordable price!




Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Kimono Trend


Kimono cardigans have been a thing for some time now, but just started hitting most mainstream stores in the past year. These low key pieces scream "cool girl chill" and festival season. I personally like them because they make for an awesome yet optional "third piece" to any outfit this spring or summer.

 

Friday, March 21, 2014

Weekend Wardrobe Inspiration: Colored Pants

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This week marked the official start of Spring! And while the temperature might still be a little chilly, there's no reason why you can't start incorporating a little color into your wardrobe. Trade in the winter black or blah blue jeans this weekend for a little pop or color.

Don't have any colored pants yet? Shop a few of my picks at the end of this post!

 

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Monday, March 10, 2014

Fancy and Frugal: T by Alexander Wang Triangle Crop Top

T by Alexander Wang Black Triangle Crop Top

We all know crop tops and other middrift baring tops are going to be huge for Spring and summer once again. Amongst celebs and other fashion taste makers, the T by Alexander Wang Triangle Crop Top has been huge. And while some people can afford the real thing, for those on a smaller budget this similar Triangle Crop Top from Lulu's can help you achieve the same look.

Save- Lulu's Disco Diva Black Crop Top

Splurge - T by Alexander Wang Triangle Crop Top

 

Comment below and let me know which one you prefer?!

xoxo,


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Friday, March 7, 2014

Weekend Wardrobe Inspiration: Quilted Leather

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We're well into March, and although March sounds like a "warm month" (at least in my southern minded head) it's actually still pretty chilly. So to spice up your weekend wardrobe with out freezing your butt, try a quilted leather skirt as you brunch and party it up this weekend. A quilted leather skirt is a fun twist on the leather skirt trend that's been ohhh soo popular for so long now.
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Pleated Leather and vegan leather skirt options for all budgets:

Monday, February 24, 2014

Must Have Monday: Cute Work out Wear


Must have Monday: Workout Wear


 

The count down to Spring (aka mid-drift baring season) has begun and those of us who've put on a little "winter weight" are slowly but surely starting to wake up from our hibernation. With only a few precious weeks left to prepare for the "Spring body debut", I've been hitting the gym again and trying out a new diet (more on that later). As someone who is the furthest thing from a "gym bunny" I need all the help I can get to motivate myself to go to the gym. With that in mind, I've been eying new cute active wear, to make going to the gym slightly more enjoyable. Although typically I don't wear a lot of pink for some reason when it comes to work out gear, I love everything bright pink or black (just like my running shoes).

Keep reading below to see my active wear picks (pictured clockwise from left) and why they're on my "lust list".

- A cheetah print bra tank and sports bra it's definitely just the right pick me up for early morning workouts, which is why I'm loving these ones from Juicy Couture

- While the weather is still chilly, a light weight jacket is essential, such as this stylish pink windbreaker  from Yoox.com

- There's nothing like the perfect pair of running shorts, a staple for everyone's workout wardrobe. I love these classic dry fit ones from Nike.

- These bright pink yoga pants from Under Armor also caught my eye and almost made it into my shopping cart until I realized Birkram Yoga class not included

 

Comment below and let me know what's on your must have list this week!
xoxo,


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Thursday, February 20, 2014

3 Trends in Bridal for 2014

Wedding bouquet

With Christmas and Valentine’s Day now behind us, chances are your Facebook timeline has already started getting flooded with engagement announcements as the unofficial start to wedding season begins. This year I'm going to be part of a wedding party and have been looking to social media sites like Pinterest, TV shows like Four Weddings, and blogs to stay up on the latest trends in weddings. Below are three trends in weddings for 2014 that are sure to be coming down the aisle!

1. Heavenly Hues: For 2014 weddings, expect to see lot of romantic palettes that mix soft hues with pops of rich, vibrant colors. Pinks continue to reign supreme in tints that range from blush and pale pink to rich rose gold jewelry. For a whimsical undertone, many brides are turning to lilac and Pantone’s color of the year, wild orchid. When contrasted with other popular pigments like navy blue, gray, green, gold and tangerine, the created combinations bring both the sweetness and drama.

2. Saying Yes to A Dress: The wedding gowns of 2014 exude romance with soft lace, rich fabrics and

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

What I'm Loving Now: Snowy Weather Essentials

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Usually by mid February I'm starting to lust after warm weather clothes and accessories. Sadly, in light of the seemingly daily blizzard conditions here in NYC and across the country, instead I've been drooling over fur hats, cute snow boots, warm quilted leather, and stylish bags to dress up drab winter gear. I'm loving these ten items this week because they have just enough "fancy" and function to help make it through the last stretch of winter.

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

William Okpo FW14 Recap

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February 11th, 2014 thirteen women marched single-file to mount carefully placed wooden crates, signaling the start of the William Okpo FW14 presentation. The pieces seemed to simply exuded brightness and warmth on a most cold and dreary day in New York City.The presentation included elements of a homage to their African heritage in the music selections and in the photography displayed in large color format from their partnership with charitable organization 14+.

The looks, which ranged from a blue-and-white crossed- culottes, A-line dress, jumper with skinny pants, draped skirt and top - were clean and crisp. The collection, seemed to shout a return to a time where paint and playtime reigned - yet incorporated an element of sophistication that kept it far from childish. This "unofficial theme" was visible in everything from the denim pieces, part appliquéd with flowers and finished with daisy buttons at the collar, ala 90s Mary-Kate and Ashley; down to the glitter accented sandals and oxfords. When describing the inspiration behind F/W 14 (and arguably all predecessor collections), Darlene Okpo, one-half of the formidable duo behind William Okpo, articulated this desire to channel the spirit of their father. In her thoughts, he was this eclectic man of the 70s, one who took care in how he dressed and took his time, finding himself as a human being. It is this journey of self-discovery that comes out in this collection. With this in mind, the duo was able to make each look fun, incorporating color, and staying true to how Darlene and her co-collaborator Lizzy Okpo felt in the months and days preceding Tuesday night’s presentation. This organic process, Darlene notes, gave them the freedom to create and allowed William Okpo to escape the fate of fellow young labels that are so concentrated on getting into retail stores, they lose their style setting.

 
xoxo,


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*Reporting done for Fancy-Francy.com by Lami of LifewithLami

 

Noon by Noor FW14 Recap

Noon by noor

Noon by Noor definitely did not disappoint as they showed their Fall 2014 collection on February 10th. The theme of the collection, nature, was referenced throughout the show through the beautiful colors and unique prints. Cloud formations, crystalline structures and geometric patterns seen in minerals were all sources of inspiration the designers found in the natural environment and translated into the brand’s signature prints.

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The collection featured a nod to the oversized silhouette with voluminous coats, culotte pants and sweatshirts juxtapose straight dresses. Hints of masculine tailoring balanced sporty, effortless daywear; while the expanded evening wear repertoire focused on intricate embellishments unexpectedly scattered on tops or cascading down tiered gowns. The looks were modernized through experimentation with texture such as neoprene, waffle wool, mohair and a houndstooth jacquard wool. The color palette was almost as striking as the texture choices and boasted hues of  blue, cool mint, mauve, navy, burgundy and vanilla with pops of yellow, chartreuse and royal purple.

Overall the collection seemed to personify Fall fashion and had many looks that would work perfectly for crisp Fall work days or chilly gala nights.
xoxo,


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Saturday, February 15, 2014

Emerson FW14 Recap

emerson fw14

Doc Martin combat boots stomped on to the brightly lit stage in tune to the loud upbeat music as the Emerson FW14 show began on February 7th in Lincoln Center. The theme of the show was "Break the Mold" and even featured a model wearing the slogan on a shirt. Designer Jackie Fraser-Swan’s Emerson collection portrays the perfect combination of rock meets romance that is her brand’s signature, this season adding in a hint of contrasting darkness mixed with soft blush pastels. As Jackie explains, “For Fall/Winter 2014, I was inspired by strong women who are breaking the mold; shattering the idea that women are supposed to dress or act a certain way.

emerson fw14

I loved the feel of the overall show and how she combined femininity with "rocker edge", a look I've always been a fan of. The collection featured lots of leather, geometric prints, and sparkly sequence; in a color palette of navy, black, white, purple, and pale pink. Jackie choose to pair her designs with Oxford style flats and classic Doc Martin boots done in fun updated styles like quilted leather.

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emerson fw14

emerson fw14

emerson fw14

Monday, January 27, 2014

2014 Grammys Fashion Report

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This year's Grammys caused quite a buzz on social media last night and the office water cooler this morning. Per usual there were some hits, misses, and stand out moments (all things Beyonce related). And while I didn't actually watch the show, I went to an impromptu pre Grammys viewing party at a friends house to catch all the pre Grammy fashion action. Below are a few of my favs, see if you can guess the trend they all have in common ;)

Thursday, January 9, 2014

How to wear the Pantene color of the year Radiant Orchid


Pantene Color of the Year Radiant Orchid Wardrobe Inspiration


Recently Pantene announced the color of 2014 as "Radiant Orchid". Now that 2014 is already over a week in, why not try to get into this year's color early? Below are four ways to incorporate this year's color into your wardrobe.
1. Nails: to ease into wearing this color opt for a radiant orchid hued varnish that will warm up your spirits in winter and look great by the pool in Spring.

2. Accessories: accessories are another easy way to incorporate this color into your wardrobe. Try wearing an orchid hued scarf in the winter, pointed toed flats in the spring, or a statement bag year long.

3. Makeup: Feeling a bit more adventurous? Try a sultry radiant orchid smokey eye for a fun alternative to the classic smokey eye.

4. Tops or Bottoms: Finally, the most daring way to wear this color is by going all in. Style a radiant orchid top with jeans and booties for a casual weekend look, give your favorite lbd (little black dress) a break by opting for an orchid variation or finally try out that printed pants trend by picking up a pair that incorporates this hue.

 
xoxo,


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Thursday, January 2, 2014

4 Trends Staying in Style for 2014

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It's officially 2014! And for my first post of the new year, I thought it was only right to start with a trend report. Every year trends come and go, and while some of them we are happy to see be put to rest, others we wouldn't mind sticking around. So before you get your New Year's closet cleanse on, let's talk about the trends that will keep their rein in 2014.

Thursday, December 26, 2013

What to wear for New Year's Eve 2013

Now that Christmas is over, everyone's next question is what am I doing for New Year's Eve? And more importantly what am I wearing?! Recently a reader wrote in asking if I had any updated advice on what to wear for new year's eve, although sparkle and sequin are still (and will always be) the star of NYE, there are ways to incorporate some of the trends from 2013 to spice up your look. Below are three outfits that are perfect for NYE night!

what to wear for new years eve

 

 

This first look is all about the sparkle and shimmer. The skater dress and skater skirt have been huge this year! Personally I can't get enough of it, and plan on riding this trend out till the end. Try find a skater style dress with sequins and pairing it with complimentary accessories for a NYE look that is cute and sassy.

 

Black, Gold, and Velvet All Over NYE Look


 

 

This next look is a little bit "grown and sex"

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

What to wear for Christmas Day

What to wear for Christmas

I got into the holiday spirit a little early and couldn't wait to wear my new pleated skirt and turtleneck so I "test-drove" the look a few weeks early.

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christmas outfit detail shot

This is a great take on the traditional Christmas look because it incorporates the colors of the season, without any of that old ugly christmas sweater business. Create this look for the day by pairing a fitted green turtleneck or sweater with a polished red bottom. It's no secret that I've been all over the skater skirt trend for a while now, and I think this pleated version is the perfect polished look for the holidays or work.

Friday, December 20, 2013

Style Steal: Carrie Diaries' Larissa aka Freema Agyeman

Freema Agyeman style from Carrie Diaries Collage

Of all the shows that slide across my TV during prime time hours, The Carrie Diaries is one that I've loved from the start despite having only mediocre reviews and following it's first year. Although I was late to jump on the SITC bandwagon, the minute I started writing and ended up moving to New York City, I had no choice but to become a fan. Carrie's life (though far more glamorous than mine) seems to knowingly touch on situations that me (and most of my friends) have all dealt with at sometime or another. And the Carrie Diaries definitely seem to be following in the same four inch Manolos well. And of the "Manolo walkers" on the show, "Larissa" played by Freema Agyeman is one of the most stylish of them all. Freema's character screams 80's from head to heel. I love her use of color, prints, and bold lips. To make her look real life wareable, check out the pieces we picked below!

Style Steal: Larissa of the Carrie Diaries



Comment below and let me know if you watch The Carrie Diaries, who's your favorite character?

 
xoxo,


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Thursday, December 19, 2013

How to highlight and contour your face (Tutorial)

http://youtu.be/iX2nD75rojY?a

Checkout the video above of me demonstrating how to highlight and contour then read my detailed instructions below!

Products Used:

-Maybelline fit me BB Cream in Dark
-Make up Forever Full Coverage
Concealer Shade 18
-Lisi powder blush in "Maldives"
-Sleek Contour kit in Dark
-Revlon Liquid Eyeliner
-Mac "Suspicion" eyeshadow (applied to crease only)
-Mac lipstick "RiRi Woo"

Directions:

Start off with a clean face, apply bb cream or foundation all over the face. I like to use a flat kabuki or dome shaped powder brush.

Next take a small amount of liquid concealer and apply under the eye and all over the eyelid with a fluffy tapered blending brush.

From here, apply the eyeliner of your choosing to the top and lower lashline.

Then get a powder brush and apply blush to the hollows of the cheek (feel free to make a fishy face if it helps).

Using a large fluffy face/powder blush to lightly apply your highlighter color directly above your blush. It's better to start off light and go back to add more if necessary. Once finished, take the excess left on the brush and highlight down the bridge of the nose, center of the forehead, and chin.

Next take your contour color and a tapered face brush or blush brush and lightly apply your contour directly under your blush, carefully following the hollow of your check bones. Once done with both sides, take the excess on the brush and carefully contour the sides of your nose starting from right below the eyebrow to the tip.

From here take an eyeshadow blending brush and apply the dark contour eyeshadow only to the crease of your eyelid. This helps to make the eyes appear larger in a natural and subtle way. Apply mascara to the top and lower lashline once done.

*For a more defined nose contour, take a small fluffy blending brush and apply your contour color to the sides of your nose. Follow up by applying your highlight color to the bridge of your nose again with another small tapered brush.

Apply the bold lipstick of your choosing to add some color (and sass) to the very subtle and natural looking overall face.

And there you have it, a natural looking contour perfect for everyday! Comment below and let me know if you contour certain areas of your face?
xoxo,


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