While I was sad to see summer go, I am totally overcome with my excitement for fall styles. Without a doubt my favorite is head to toe black. No it is not goth, yes it is sexy and edgy and oh so fabulous. You know the saying "Fashions fade, style is eternal"? (Thank you YSL for the wisdom, or is it now just SL? So confusing.) Well the words "style" and "black" are practically interchangeable. Black is always a big DO and I'm ready to go overkill with it. So bring on the fall weather and layer on the black. And if you're skeptical just check out the ladies in black killin' it below.
For those of you who have been hiding under a rock for the past couple of weeks, you probably are not aware that today is Fashion's Night Out. What's that you say? Only the greatest shopping event in the country, maybe even the world. Retailers all over the globe participate in this huge event to bring confidence back to the buyers and get people excited for fall fashion, which we've been anticipating since those amazing runway shows back in March. It also brings a close to the first day of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. And even better is that FNO raises money for the NYC Aids Fund. So think of your shopping adventure as a charity function of sorts. If you are thinking you will be left out because you don't live in NYC, don't fret! There are events all over, including online retailers as well as a live feed with pictures of all the festivities. So there you have it, no excuses. Happy shopping!
Click the picture to go to the official website
Check out the PSA video!
AW loves FNO!
So, you're going to the beach...lucky you! Beach vacations are fun and relaxing, and lets not forget fashionable. So don't throw on that raggedy suit you've been wearing for the past 3 years. Swimsuit styles come and go just like any other fashion trend. When's the last time you saw anyone wear Rudi Gernreich's monokini? (If you don't know what this is, look it up) So it's time to invest in some new swimwear, and I've found some great contenders. It doesn't stop there though. Accessorizing your beach ensemble is a huge fashion DO! I'm not talking about decking yourself out in jewelry (we don't want any sharks thinking you're the Rainbow Fish or something.) Adding a floppy brim hat and a fabulous pair of sunglasses will pump up your look an extra notch. Once you throw on a fabulous cover up, you'll look fashion photo shoot ready! After all, the beach is long and narrow like a runway. Next on your packing list should be a pair of shoes that can stand up to sand and water (because we like sand between our toes, but not in our shoes!) Leave the crocs at home, I've found some chic beach shoes to show off your new pedicure. And speaking of pedicures, nothing goes with beautifully bronzed skin like a pop of color on your nails. While we love bronzed skin though, every classy girl knows we hate wrinkles and skin cancer, so be smart and protect yourself! And last but not least, don't forget your beach bag to carry it all in! Because we're girls, we need a different bag for every occasion and the beach is no exception. So pick a water proof tote that will turn heads just as much as you will!
This Mara Hoffman top will flatter every shape, from busty to flat!
This suit is reversible! It's like getting two swimsuits for the price of one, ideal for any girl on a budget.
This orange is one of the hottest colors this year and will flatter bronzed skin beautifully.
Cover up and stand out in this vibrant and inexpensive tunic dress.
Go for a more bohemian look in this woven navy cover up.
For the girl who wants to go straight from the beach to out on the town, this cover up works for both on and off the beach.
This floppy brim hat has a great retro vibe.
A neutral straw hat pairs great with a colorful suit.
This vibrant hat works with a neutral suit to add vibrancy.
These trendy frames are all the rage right now, and for $20 they're worth a try!
Can't get enough color? Try these matte frames in violet!
Oversized shades are glamourous and will add a little drama to your beach look.
The turquoise detail takes these plain rubber flip flops from a Don't to an I DO!
You can't go wrong with Tory Burch rubber flip flops.
Black and Gold rubber flip flops, classic and easily paired with many looks.
A great shade of purple to make your tan pop!
Once again, this orange is the color of the year for a reason. Because it's to die for!
A more muted color, this blue will still compliment your bronzed skin and stand out in a good way.
This travel sized Ole Henriksen sun kit will both clean, moisturize, and protect your face from the sun to the max...oh and it smell AMAZING!
Don't forget to protect the rest of your skin with Supegoop! This moisturizing, paraben-free lotion provides 80 minutes of lightweight, water-resistant sun protection. And with a bottle this size, you won't have to worry about running out for a while.
Moisturize and protect your lips with this excellent balm in a beautiful coral shade with SPF 15
Kate Spade's got your back with this retro striped patent leather tote.
This jelly tote is both chic, functional, and affordable. Three things any girl loves to hear!
You'll be sure to turn heads with this fun Tory Burch canvas tote.
The great thing about warm weather is that our wardrobe gets a little brighter. There are so many fun summer trends going on right now, with all the neon and floral prints, it’s hard not to over do it after you’ve been wearing black all winter. A perfectly put together outfit, however, is one that is balanced and doesn’t make your eyes spasm trying to take in all the colors and prints. The obvious way to add balance is to bring in neutrals, which sometimes can seem boring. Chances are your favorite pair of shoes is not your nude leather pumps. So let me introduce you to the new neutral, cork! Cork is a wonderful way to balance an outfit because it adds texture and interest without dominating the outfit. Neon shoes paired with a neon dress fail because each piece is fighting for the attention. Cork works with your bright wardrobe and adds tasteful edge to neutral accessories.
Manolo Blahnik
Sam Edelman
Alice + Olivia
Jack Rogers
Kate Spade
Diane von Furstenberg
Kate Spade
SPROUT
Kate Spade
Kate Spade
Kate Spade
If your weather has been anything like in Alabama lately, then you're probably sick of rain. Nothing ruins an outfit like a rainy day. If you wear your best outfit despite the bad weather, you risk ruining it, yet the alternative of rain boots and a water resistant jacket don't exactly seem appealing either (especially if the rain persists for days). So what's a girl to do? All the rain lately got me thinking (which in turn got me shopping), and I discovered the cure to bad weather outfit of pauxs. You can put the rain galoshes down!  If you've taken the time to wake up and style your hair, chances are the last thing you want to do is throw a hood over your head. Reach, instead, for your umbrella. And since we're talking about rainy day "chic," why not make it a fabulous Kate Spade umbrella? I love this Japanese Floral print umbrella. The pop of coral is sure to brighten up your walk through the dreary rain and keep your hair perfectly styled.
 Rain jackets can clash with an outfit, often looking a little more casual than is appropriate for work or a date. This is where trench coats save the day. Functional both as a light weight jacket on cool days or a rain jacket on those stormy days, trench coats are so very chic and functional, making them worth the money. This Marc by Marc Jacobs jacket is perfect for spring/summer with the pop of neon, making it a little more fun than a plain khaki coat.
 Just because the weather is bad doesn't mean time stands still. You've got places to be and things to do, all on a tight schedule. Don't ruin your leather band watch, try this beautiful rubber watch by Anthropologie. Colorful, water resistant, and not to mention classically chic, you won't mind switching things up when you've go this gorgeous timepiece.
 If there's one thing a girl needs every time she steps out of the house, it's her purse. We do tend to carry our whole lives in there practically! The nemesis to your beautiful leather bag, however, is rain. I've been guilty of creating rain jackets for my leather bags out of plastic grocery bags. Thanks to the brilliant minds at Kate Spade, now you can avoid all the hassle of protecting your purse. The 'Island Flora Melinda' satchel is beautiful and conveniently made of vinyl to repel water. Who knew your rainy day bag could possibly be your new favorite?
 Wellies are fun on occasion, but when it looks like the rain is here to stay, those big rubber boots just won't suffice for everyday wear. So what's the alternative? Jellies! We all remember wearing rubber sandals in the springtime of our youth, and as a product of the 90s I still smile when I see cute shoes made of rubber. Luckily I found an updated and matured version of the 90s fad, with this Gucci rubber wedge (also available in black). Stay cute and don't ruin another pair of shoes in the rain!
Summer is quickly approaching and with it comes music festivals. Music festivals such as Coachella, The Hangout, and Bonaroo have produced a cult fashion movement of boho chic styles representing the free and vibrant attitudes of the youth in attendance. If you’re planning on attending a music festival this summer I suggest you get to shopping, and to make it easier for you I have listed my top 5 "must have" pieces sure to make you stand out in the best of ways. Don’t be reserved in your outfit at these events, it’s a time to be creative and out there! So, here's your shopping list:
1) Funky Shades
2) Floppy Brim Hats
3) Denim with Hardware
4) Crop Tops
5) Ankle Booties
**All the pictures are linked to the sites on which they can be purchased
These shades are ultra cool (and at $8, they're a steal in comparison to the originals by Prada)
Mix it up with fun colors. I love these Peach shades, they'll brighten up your entire outfit.
These retro glasses will give your outfit the perfect amount of vintage style without going overboard (and without breaking the bank!)
Nope, big hats aren't just for horse races anymore, and what a perfect way to protect yourself in the sun while looking stylish!
The combo of black and tan stripes in this hat give off the retro vibe that has become so popular this season.
These cut offs are short without showing off too much in the rear. Be careful when picking shorts that your behind is covered, no one wants to see that!
The subtle touch of studs around the pockets give these the perfect amount of edge without overdoing it. You don't want to look like you belong in a biker gang.
I am a huge fan of dark denim, and the pairing of gold studs works amazing with them. These shorts are great when being paired with a crop top, but err on the side of caution with high waisted shorts. They are not suitable for all body types.
I love this bustier top because it is colorful and once again has a very retro feel. Make sure to pair it with a higher waisted bottom. You'll show plenty of skin in your legs and up top!
This bustier crop top provides full coverage in the chest, showing more skin in the middle. Once again, a higher waisted bottom is recommended, as shown on the model.
This crop tee is so colorful and perfect for summer, with shades of neon to play off your tan. High waisted jeans will work, but are not necessary due to the complete coverage up top.
The trend in lace and crochet is hot right now, and the proof is in this top. A tinge of romance mixed with bohemian vibes makes this top a must have! Be sure to wear a bandeau bra underneath.
So, you may be skeptical about wearing boots in summer, but trust me on this one. These are hot on the market right now and pair with all the items above.
I especially love the detail of the fringe in this pair of booties. They add just that extra little boho touch to your look.
“Shabby chic” has become a term well recognized in our generation as the influence of vintage fashion trends more and more. Vintage finds are exciting and sure to make an outfit unique. Shabby chic has even become the inspiration for home décor and weddings. But when does shabby chic become just plain old shabby? As with any sort of accessorizing, be it with your outfit or your bedroom, simplicity is key. Find a statement piece and don’t go overboard. Shabby chic is cute, but without any streamline in your aesthetic, things get cluttered and kitschy fast. Perhaps people seem to overlook the word “chic?” Remember, you don’t want to be on “Hoarders” or look like a hobo or your grandma (or heaven forbid your house look like grandma’s house). And as for the “vintage” inspired weddings, call me a stickler for tradition, a hodge podge of random pieces of china and vases is better fit for your 3 year-old’s tea party. Save yourself from humiliation in a few years when you want to burn those expensive wedding photos. Now, I’m not picking on all vintage inspired styles. I love Anthropologie just as much as the next college girl, just don’t get carried away. Remember it’s called shabby CHIC, not shabby.
Retro glasses paired with eclectic jewelry adds just enough flair to this ensemble without overpowering it.
A little more on the vintage side, this outfit is still stylish and not overdone.
A retro chunky knit sweater can be hard to pull off, but paired with an eyelet skirt, this look has a feminine elegance.
Love Kate Bosworth, but I don't love this outfit. She looks disheveled and I'm confused by the combination of a western style belt, a grandma sweater, and cut offs.
No one should ever wear this, unless your parents let you dress yourself for the first time.
I have no words. All of these pieces by themselves are great, but never should they be worn at once.
A cute shabby chic bedroom. The simple color scheme, subtle vintage touches in the bed frame, clock and books make a statement without looking over done.
Where to begin. This looks so cluttered! This kitchen has some great pieces but they can't be noticed with all the other junk piled around.
A beautiful shabby chic wedding reception that still maintains a formal setting.
There's so much going on here, with the class decanters, brass, china, and silver on a wooden table.
This just does't feel like a wedding reception to me. I love the furniture but it belongs indoors, and shouldn't be paired with a tribal rug.
Whatever you do, don't let a crocheted doily get near your wedding cake. Please.
If you have not yet heard about Pantone, I must inform you that you are missing out! Pantone is the ultimate tool for color forecasting in fashion, reporting the top color trends for the upcoming season as well as designers who have incorporated those colors. So what's in store for Fall 2012? Executive Director of Pantone Color Institute, Leatrice Eiseman states “By playing to consumers' practical side with versatile neutrals, and boosting their confidence with bold, spirited hues, this skillfully balanced palette has something for everyone.” The upcoming colors also include the "color of the year," Tangerine Tango. Sephora and Pantone teamed up to create a cosmetic line dedicated to the color sensation including lipstick, false eyelashes, cosmetic accessories, etc. Now you have no excuses for not being up on the color trends!  Pantone for Sephora  Betsey Johnson  Rachel Roy  Tommy Hilfiger  Tracy Reese  Ella Moss  Rebecca Minkoff  Peter Som
In case you have yet to notice, the 60's are popping up all over. From Piperlime's 60's mod sandal promotion to the new Kate Spade collection, this retro fashion movement is a hard one to ignore and perhaps even harder not to love! With 60s inspired celeb icons such as Zooey Deschanel and Adele promoting the cool and sultry style, I have a feeling this band wagon will be in full gear come fall. And in case you're not quite ready to exchange your stilettos for a block heel, take a look at the A.P.C. collection which debuted at Paris Fashion Week on March 5th. Head designer Louis Wong stated "It's a typical A.P.C. collection, lots of old French movie references." Characterized by penny loafers, mini skirts, trench coats and wool suits, this collection has a sweet yet sexy aesthetic. So what do you say? Out with the new and in with the old? I am definitely in favor.  Visit the Kate Spade website for fun 60s spring and summer accessories!  Piperlime 60s SuperMODels promotion  Zooey Deschanel  Adele  A.P.C. Fall 2012 RTW  A.P.C. Fall 2012 RTW  A.P.C. Fall 2012 RTW  A.P.C. Fall 2012 RTW  A.P.C. Fall 2012 RTW  A.P.C. Fall 2012 RTW
Today is Sunday, a day which is supposed to be spent resting and having fun. I admit I am often guilty of ignoring this Sunday ritual, getting caught up in the chaos of the week to come and trying to get ahead. This Sunday, however, I am dubbing “Sunday Fun-day,” a day to goof off and laugh a little before business starts again on Monday. So I found a few celebs having some fun of their own to prove to you that even famous people have a laugh or two. So get up, you classy gal, and have some fun today! And for more pics of celebs having a fun time, go to Terry Richardson’s Diary.  Photo by Helmut Newton  Ryan Gosling, Photo by Terry Richardson  Sean White, Photo by Terry Richardson  Matthew Gray Gubler, Photo by Terry Richardson  Terry Richardson and Adam Levine, Photo by Terry Richardson  Aliana Lohan, Photo by Terry Richardson  Kristen Wiig and Terry Richardson, Photo by Terry Richardson
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