Recently in Trends Category

ysolt-snapshot-parkslope.jpgI paid a visit to Old Navy last week for a much-needed shopping spree. As I walked up and down aisles, I realized I saw pieces for both summer and fall. This could prove to be a challenge, but if you mix and match just right, you can snag some amazing transition pieces that you can take from season to season. You just have to know what to pair with what. There's no sense in buying things solely for summer now with fall just a couple of weeks away.

I was with Jacki Garfinkel, a self-proclaimed clueless dresser. She tried to figure out why I picked up a purple boho-floral top with three-quarter-length sleeves and a gray corduroy vest (among other things, of course). Surely, she thought I was mad--who'd wear those two items together while it's still hot out?! But, I promised her it would look good.

What'd I end up wearing with 'em? A pair of denim cut-offs, gold sandals and my wavy long hair during a casual Saturday in Brooklyn, coffee'ing (as a verb) and vintage shopping with friends.

Ensemble success! And the best part is, I can wear the top underneath a suit as officewear, with a pair of leggings for lounging or with jeans and high heels for a date night. The purple hue is also perfect for autumn. As for the vest, I can sport that with any white button-down already in my wardrobe. The denim cut-offs and sandals will have to be put in storage until hot weather hits again. (Ladies, don't you dare wear cut-offs--unless, of course, you live in an area where it's 70 degrees or hotter all year long. In fashion, there are always exceptions to the rule.)

Here's the rundown of what I'm wearing and where I got 'em from:
* Ruffled Batiste Top ($15 at Old Navy)
* Corduroy Vest ($24.50 at Old Navy)
* Nine West "Right There" Sandals ($42.70 at Overstock.com)
* Citizens of Humanity Distressed Denim Cut-Offs ($155 at Net-A-Porter.com)
* Vera Bradley Tic Tat Tote ($40 at VeraBradley.com)

--Ysolt
EspritTunic.jpgIt's official: the summer breeze attracts us to all things nautical themed, as it's definitely a summer trend that's at the top of our hot list.

Not only are navy and white colors that pair magnificently together, but they conjure up images of lazy days by the sea. A touch of roping detail sends us sailing to paradise, while a tinge of gold hardware completes the look.

Whether it's a pair of nautical-inspired sandals or an intricately-detailed, super comfy tunic (like this Esprit one), we're drooling over scenes of saltwater and sunshine.

Right: Long cotton tunic, $49.50 at Esprit.com

--Venus
Neon is in this fall. From bold dresses to sky-high heels, the daring hues have been spotted all over the runway. However, if you're like us and aren't exactly sure about wearing lime green and bright orange in such intimidating doses, accessories are the answer. Punch up an outfit with a banging belt and some colorful jewelry! Here are a few of our picks that fit the bill, and are versatile enough for you to wear over and over again.

ijahotpinkblossom.JPG

IJA Designs Hot Pink Blossom Earrings ($98 at IJADesigns.com)
Kim Gilby Diamond Cut Braided Chain Necklace ($150 at KimGilby.com)
Kim Gilby Gold Filled Feather Earrings ($75 at KimGilby.com)

--Venus

I relinquish most things punky, edgy, and rocker-chic (with the exception of studs, to which I am hopelessly attracted) to Karen O types, and with that the new beauty trend that is matte nail polish.

By no means am I "prissy" or necessarily polished, but I just cannot fathom the appeal of looking like I've dipped my fingers neatly into a bucket of flat paint, especially in colors that resemble clay or concrete.

karenomatte.jpgMurky colors, which are iffy to begin with, are usually salvaged by the coating of shiny lacquer, but in matte they are hopeless--a trend that should have stayed on the runway in the same way that Spring 2010's menswear denim corsets now should.

In full disclosure, I should admit that I've never actually tried matte polish, if only because looking at photographs of the polish in action evokes a reaction quite like that of rakes against the chalkboard... But if I'm going to a Yeah Yeah Yeahs concert perhaps I'll consider dressing up my nails like Ms. O does here. 

And for those curious about the color she's wearing or daring enough to try it, it is Flatte Black by KO Knock Out, $19 at KOKnockOut.com.
romper.jpgLove 'em or hate 'em, they are (as you already know) all the rage this summer. While some have eagerly dived into the romper craze and emerged head first with a handful of cute pieces and a whole lot of confidence, others shy away, daunted by the idea of an adult onesie. Still others remain flabbergasted and utterly confused by the concept of wearing the playsuit beyond the age of seven.

One woman set out to investigate, and compiled her findings into an article aptly titled, "Why Grown Women Dress Like Toddlers." Because the onesie began as a convenient, fuss-free article of clothing for a baby, it was startling to suddenly notice that grown-up onesies were taking over the world. With versions suitable for bohemians, American Apparel devotees, and the truly fashion-forward, rompers are the next big thing (some say, anyways).

So, in the spirit of investigation, she tried on a series of different rompers, which she then rated based on these categories: Versatility, price, non-absurdity and attractiveness. The results? Most scored poorly, but in the end she found an Alice + Olivia winner that she might actually wear.

If a once romper cynic has found some inspiration in a slinky black onesie, that's enough encouragement for us. And to help convince you, we've compiled a romper "it" list. It's our duty to help you to find the right romper for your body (or lifestyle). Yes, there's an adult onesie for everyone.

--Venus

What's the best accessory for that warm summer glow we've all been working on?

maggylondon.JPG
A jewel-toned dress to show off bronzed skin, like this embellished one by Maggy London.

Bright, structured dresses are in this summer, as they are versatile enough to go from day to night, and they also show off our best features.

"Dresses that accent a natural waist are classic and alluring and do not overwhelm the frame the way a trapeze silhouette does," Maggy London Design Director Adam Yankauskas says. "This summer, show off curves rather than bury them under extraneous fabric!"

For more stylish summer looks to show off, see our complete In & Out slideshow!

--Venus

RSS

Archives