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Stand Out from the Costume Clones with Fall Fashion
10/15/2010
Halloween costumes are more of a trick than a treat these days. The price tags attached to shiny polyester costumes are downright scary. This year put those synthetic outfits to rest. Shop for stylish pieces that will create a bewitching look for All Hallow’s Eve while updating your wardrobe at the same time. Let fall fashion help you choose your costume.
Dressing up as a cat is a Halloween classic; it’s an oldie but a goodie that many of us love to revisit. Ever since Michelle Pfeiffer and Hale Berry played the cat woman, black vinyl body suits have dominated Party City shelves. Nothing is more unflattering than head-to-toe vinyl. A great alternative is black leather apparel; try a short-sleeved fitted leather top or a sleek leather dress for your cat costume.
The schoolgirl is another costume synonymous with this haunted holiday. It helped ignite the “sexy” costume craze. Even if you are over the whole schoolgirl thing you may want to reconsider, it’s a costume with benefits. A classic white-button down is a no-brainer buy while a plaid, pleated skirt is always cute and happen to be right on trend. Not to mention, dressing as a schoolgirl will give you the perfect excuse to buy a pair thigh-high socks that were seen all over fall runways.
What would Halloween be without someone sporting an Indian headband with a red and white feather? A relief! The typical Indian costume can be somewhat of a snooze that actually can be modernized quite easily. Feather accessories are everywhere, not just headbands and hanging feather earrings. We’re talking feather embellished hoops and bangles that are undeniably chic. After you’re done playing cowboys and Indians you can throw on your feather jewelry to add some spice to any outfit.
The Indian costume is the perfect segue to dressing up as a hippie. How? Camel-colored suede clothing with fringe is a hippie staple. Choose items that will transition well from an old-school hippie costume to a modern boho look. Try pieces in camel, this season’s hottest color, along with some super-sized sunglasses, and a fringe handbag. It doesn’t have to be as cheesy as it sounds, be Janis Joplin or Cher circa 1965.
If you get fashionable this Halloween you will separate yourself from the costume clones with new additions to your closet will last you long after fright night.
Leather top, details upon request, Tootsies (404) 842-9990
Robert Rodriguez Leather Dress, $693, Tootsies
Theory Larissa White Button Down, $190, Tootsies
Over-the-knee Socks, $16.50, Madwell
Feather Hoops, details upon request, Emly Benham (678) 213-2595
Feather Bangles, details upon request, Emly Benham (678) 213-2595
DVF Sunglasses, $145, Tootsies
Suede Cardigan, $49, Arden B
Linea Pelle ‘Alex’ Suede Speedy, $455, couturecandy.com
By Laurie Viglione
Faux-Fur Frenzy – The Trend Continues
10/08/2010
Faux-fur came out of hibernation last Fall becoming one of the season’s most coveted trends. The fashion world took notice becoming even more fixated on fur this year. Who could argue that fur isn’t on fire when Karl Lagerfeld used it in Chanel’s entire A/W 2010 collection? Whether it is faux-fur footwear, a handbag, or a printed jacket, there is no denying that the trend has gone through a gigantic growth spurt. The best part is breaking out last Fall’s faux-fur without overhearing any snobby whispers about it being “out.”
The continuation of the fur-focused pieces was inevitable. The textile evolved tremendously over the years replacing its synthetic, scratchy successor. The feel is now plush with a sumptuous softness making it difficult at times to know which is real and which is fake. Embellishments and trimmings on unexpected items was a natural progression for fur fashion, trickling the trend all the way down to our toes. Pumps have fur riding up their heels and in-between their straps, bags have much more than a five o’clock shadow, and it is even popping up in jewelry. Fur ring anyone? The excess use of faux-fur overwhelms some, while others are basking in the luxe, animal accent. When worn with restraint it can add a stylish pop to a sophisticated outfit, create an edgy ensemble, or bring luxury to a laid-back boho look. Faux-fur’s versatility has started to reach new markets as well; those that do not follow fashion all the way to the runway mavens always seated front row. Downtown chic is taking over uptown opulence; sparking interest in the elite. Women donning full-length minks are now an endangered species; even those who can afford real are opting for faux. Red paint is a thing of the past for numerous reasons, from cutting costs on fun over-the-top styles to (even more importantly) protecting animal rights! For different ways to wear the trend, visit Revamp Styling! Shop the look in Atlanta …
1. Kate Spade ‘Lynda’ Faux-Fur Jacket, $595, Tootsies Atlanta 2. Halston Heritage Faux-Fur Vest, $375, Tootsies Atlanta 3. Peekaboo Crossbody Faux-Fur Bag, $59, Nine West 4. Jemma Lace-Up Faux-Fur Bootie, $198, Bebe 5. All Over Faux Fur Trapper Hat, $44, Topshop 6. Fur Ring, price upon request, Gayle Friedman (info@lireille.com) 7. Trina Turk Folkloric Faux-Fur Jacket in Ombre, $500, Tootsies Atlanta
By Laurie Viglione
Command Style – Get Fall’s Military Trend on your own Terrain
09/30/2010
Ten-hut! Fall runways were packed with chic, military-inspired pieces that left everyone wanting a piece of this major trend. From army jackets to epaulets, the new urban uniform is easy to integrate into your wardrobe. Here is some basic training on how to navigate this trend from styling to stores.
Avoid Army Overload
The easiest way to make a trend tragic is wearing it from head to toe. Keep it simple and stick to one key piece to build your outfit around.
Start with a military jacket that has a flattering fit and dapper detail. Try Sanctuary’s uniform belted jacket from Meringue; the ruffled collar keeps it fresh while the belt highlights your waistline. Pull on a pair of skinny jeans, a tissue t-shirt, and some cute lace-up booties for a sharp off-duty look.
Have a Well Balanced Outfit
Kick start your utilitarian look by sticking to a strict style regimen. When donning baggier, boyfriend-style cargo pants be sure to pair them with a fitted shirt. Top off those sexy, cargo-style skinnies with a slouchy blouse. A tight top with skinny jeans is a slippery slope to slutty while a loose shirt worn with baggy, boyfriend pants may get you dumped.
Military pieces are famous for embellishments like braided gold rope, epaulets, and brass buttons. These adornments look best when they are offset with solid colors, clean lines, and simple silhouettes. Get the semi-ornate, polished look by sporting Fab’rik’s ‘Military Inspired’ top with some black denim.
Style Softener
The military trend’s olive hues, strong silhouettes, and hard embellishments are in definate need of a woman’s touch. Take the edge off by incorporating feminine prints, finishings, and fabrics to cargo pocket clad pieces; think floral print dresses, chiffon, and ruffles. An uber-girly piece teamed up with a masculine military jacket creates the ultimate utilitarian outfit. Trust your womanly instinct while embracing your inner-drill sergeant by mixing DVF’s laser cut flower skirt from Sandpiper with Sage’s ‘Flying Tomato’ army jacket. Wear a black turtleneck under the jacket and a pair of black sky-high stilettos to complete the ensemble.
By Laurie Viglione
Fabrik, Laurie Viglione, Military Trend, Sage
Fashion’s Night Out Wrap-Up & Fall Looks from Meringue
Atlanta’s first Fashion Night Out was full of fun events that got boutique owners talking shop. The stores expressed their continuous efforts to offer merchandise that is unique to the Atlanta market. Boutiques want it to be known that they can feed the ravenous appetites’ of hungry fashionistas craving a standout selection that does not break the bank.
Atlanta shoppers and tourists alike are constantly on the hunt for distinct styles instead of commercialized, mass market items.
It’s no secret that there is a prominent mall presence in Atlanta. “Stylantans” are frustrated simply because they can find the same merchandise in most malls and chain stores. Sighs of discontent echo down mall escalators leaving shoppers asking, “Do you know a place I can find some cool pieces?” These chic consumers are calling on boutiques asking for fab finds at reasonable price points. Fashion Night Out gave ATL shops a larger outlet to voice that they are answering these requests with full enthusiasm.
Sabrina Davis has upped the shopping anti by creating a dazzling, dual shop-in-shop. Davis added the store Range to her existing store, Brina Beads. Range offers laid back, California style merchandise from a slew of LA-based designers that perfectly complement her array of beads. Together Range and Brina Beads bring the ultimate boho, effortless look to Atlanta.
Range must-have: Pieces Etc.’s kimono-style blouse with modern yet modest shoulder cut outs. Pair it with jeans, flats, or heels and your set to go without the fuss.
Fab’rik’s event lured women in with more than just their cute, price conscious clothing. Chilli was their celeb guest; the event’s theme was inspired by her VH1 hit show ‘What Chilli Wants’ (the second season airs in 2011). Chilli assisted guests in picking out the perfect date outfit, which perfectly conveyed Fab’rik’s store identity. The message was loud and clear; it’s the perfect place to find an outfit under $100 suited for a ladies’ night out, a date, or brunch.
Fab’rik must-have: The rouched chiffon floral mini. Dress it up with heels and chandelier earrings, dress it casual with a cardi and flats or wedges, or opt for an edgier look and throw on a leather jacket.
Elsewhere on FNO, Jeffrey Atlanta pulled out all the stops; they had a great event with all the bells and whistles leaving boutiques with less guests. Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, and others also threw large events that drew in the crowds. Boutiques did not have the same turnout due the constraints of owning a smaller store. Jordan Chadwell, co-owner of the addictive Meringue boutique, feels the root of the problem is that boutiques are scattered. They are far from one another making it difficult to wrangle in a larger crowd. “Boutiques should come together next year, book a great venue, and throw an amazing event”, said Chadwell. She may be on to something; it should peek shoppers’ interest based on the success of the boutique warehouse sales. Style seekers will be able to get to all their favorite boutiques in one-stop. Hopefully an event will materialize from this idea. Keep your fashion fingers crossed!
Meringue must-have- EVERYTHING!
by Laurie Viglione
Revamp Styling
www.thestyleskinnygirls.com
Fashion Tips For All Relationships
By Laurie Viglione
02.01.2010
Fashion
plays a prevalent role during the famous days of February whether it’s the
ground hog dictating when we will begin sporting spring styles or the quest to
find the perfect outfit to revel in the romanticism of Saint Valentine. This
mini month has models prancing down runways while it keeps us busy preparing to
cascade across cupid’s catwalk in hopes to find, forget, or celebrate love.
Avoid the stress of trying to figure out what to wear on the love/hate holiday
by using your relationship status to steer your style in the right direction.
The
Singletons
Take
advantage of a girls’ night out with an eye-popping outfit. Avoid baring too
much skin or extra tight threads, as you will ooze desperation not sex appeal.
Try wearing red to achieve a smoldering look that will get the right type of
attention. Don’t fret over the fact that the fiery hue is the cliché color of
Valentine’s Day. Provoke emotional intensity in potential suitors with FCK’s
‘Sweets’ dress currently on sale at French
Connection, Lenox Square. To avoid drowning in a sea of red outfits
use gold accents and leopard print to put the spotlight on you. Pair your
red-hot frock with Christian
Louboutin’s Leopard Print Python Pumps available at Neiman Marcus.
Complete the look by throwing on some gold jewelry and grabbing the Michael Kors Gold Webster Clutch that you
can pick up at The Michael Kors Store, Lenox Square.
The
First Date
Do you
have dating butterflies in your stomach? Instead of looking for
relationship signals from him, send out a few of your own through your
Valentine’s Day attire. Draw attention to your best asset when you dress. For
instance, wear a skirt with a heightened hemline if you have gorgeous gams.
Just remember to balance out the outfit with a toned down, less revealing top.
Highlight one body part at a time please! Get the leggy look with Diane von Furstenberg’s Navarette Chiffon Mini
Skirt from Saks Fifth
Avenue, Phipps Plaza and J Crew’s
Perfect Fit Long Sleeved Crewneck. If your décolletage is the area you would
prefer to display try Black Halo’s
Sidney Color blocked Jumpsuit available at Neiman Marcus, Lenox Square. Both of
these looks are classy infused with a bit of oomph to show your date your sexy,
high self-esteem.
Happily
Hitched
You’ve
walked down the aisle, thrown the bouquet, and now live happily married after.
Well those with rings secured around their fingers know that even the strongest
of marriages need a little fuel every now and then to keep the fire burning.
Instead of having your husband feeling humdrum while going through the
chocolate and flower motions plan a date donning desirable duds. Wear one of
Spring 2010’s strongest trends, lingerie inspired pieces, to get your hubby’s
heart pounding. While you are out your look will cause him to lust after you
without him being able to pinpoint the reason. Bring on marital bliss by
wearing Herve Leger Bustier
Cocktail Dress sold in Neiman Marcus, Lenox Square.
For
more fashion tips, check out The Style Skinny
Lips Get Loud for Spring 2010
Hyper-pigmented pouts are the ultimate beauty statement this spring. You will be the talk of the town by sporting a vivid shade like bright magenta, blood orange, or a gray toned lilac. The look may sound intimidating but you will find, when worn correctly, these hot splashy shades are irresistible.
To rock this look you will need to pucker up to a plain face. Keep the rest of your makeup clean and soft, keeping the lips as the focal point. First, even out your complexion with a tinted moisturizer or foundation topped off with a finishing powder. Next, keep eyes understated with a flesh-toned eye shadow accompanied with one coat of mascara.
Normally most, if not all, of your makeup decisions are based around your skin, hair, and eye color. The same holds true with the bold lipstick trend. A foolproof way to determine the correct shade for you is to breakup color tones into two categories, cool and warm. Find out which category you fall under by looking at the veins on the back of your wrist. If your veins are blue than you are cool and can happily slick on hot pinks, bright magentas, and gray toned violets. If your veins are more green than you are warm and should stick to blood orange, hot pinks, and fire engine reds.
Now for the lips, start by outlining lips with a nude lip pencil for definition. Then apply a bright, matte lipstick using a lip brush to keep control of the intensity of the color. If matte is too extreme for you, apply a coat of lip-gloss on top.
Use your new lips to accessorize your wardrobe. A bright magenta lip can break up an all black or neutral outfit by giving it a splash of color. You can also compliment the color of your ensemble by choosing a lip in a shade in the same color family; think purple dress with a powerful pink lip or a red top with a blood orange mouth.
Get the lips!
Pink
YSL Rouge Volupte Lipstick in Provocative Pink
Revlon ColorBurst in Fuchsia
Nars Lipstick in Schiap
Orange
Makeup Forever Lipstick in Fluorescent Orange 201
Lorac Breakthrough Performance Lipstick in It Girl
Revlon ColorBurst in Coral
Gray Toned Violets
Covergirl Queen Collection in Plum Platinum
Sephora Rouge Cream Lipstick in Bewitch Me 24
Dior Addict Lipcolor in Pinstripe Plum
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The number one nagging mother mantra, "Don't forget your coat", is by far the most memorable childhood annoyance of all time. Luckily, your mother unknowingly instilled a style sensibility into your subconscious. Make a wardrobe withdrawal from your memory bank for that deep rooted style guide that was embedded years ago. Look up classic trenchcoat, then slip one on and shake what your mother gave ya.
The trenchcoat was designed for officers of the British Army in the 1900s. During that period only officers could don the revered trench. The trench evolved to an iconic coat with limitless availability to us all! Nowadays there are heavenly heaps of trenches at every price point that are diverse in color, style and silhouette. Before you become gluttonous step away from the trench smorgasbord and focus on a classic neutral colored trenchcoat; this is a must-have staple item in your wardrobe. Throw out the notion that trenches are only rainwear because they are much, much more!
Think Meryl Streep in Kramer vs. Kramer lurking near her son's school with her hands pressed against a glass window. Most of us have no idea what she was wearing underneath; our eyes are stuck on that timeless trench! A trenchcoat can transform your look from blah to breathtaking in ten seconds flat. Jeans, a plain tee, and a pair of flats can become a sophisticated stunner by adding a traditional khaki trench. An infallible investment piece is Burberry's Double Breasted Cotton Trench in stone. A more fiscally responsible option and the slicker I am currently sporting is Banana Republic's Classic Trenchcoat in khaki. You can also opt for a more sporty approach by selecting a trench with a higher hemline hitting your waist, hip, or mid-thigh. Go splurge sliding with Burberry Lifestyle Trench or avoid the debt deep end with VS double-breasted trenchcoat.
Tempting trenches have been spotted everywhere including H&M, Zara, Target, and Ann Taylor. To optimize the power of a classic trench pull your hair back in a super chic chignon and thrown on a pair of oversized shades. Ready, Set, Trench!
With award season in full swing, the past few weeks have been fashion packed. Most of you have already decided which looks you loved and those you hated. Additionally, you're probably sick of being bombarded with the experts' hit and miss lists that are spewing out of each and every media outlet.
Forget about the frocks that popped or flopped and turn your attention to how you can take the stars' fashion choices to your own closet. Award your wardrobe with these fresh fashion ideas that were sparked by red carpet walkers.
The Globes had gobs of glamour dripping on the carpet along with the unexpected raindrops. We were attacked by black, as it was countless celebs' choice color. An onyx ensemble can sometimes be a snooze but Penelope's phenomenal look can teach you how to take the boring out of black. Make 'SST' your black outfit ritual just as The Jersey Shore's Situation and Pauly D do 'GTL' daily.
Silhouette, Shine, & Texture are the winning combination to get the most bang out of your black. Make your outfit's silhouette sing by choosing one with an interesting neckline like Cruz's off the shoulder style. Incorporate shine into your attire by picking items with sequins or satin accents; this breaks up the monotony of the somber hue. Black also needs texture to stand out; look for a piece made with multiple fabrics to add drama and create dazzling dimension to your getup.
On the opposite end of the color spectrum, some stars opted for white gowns this award season namely Kate Hudson. Her Emilio Pucci dress, perfectly placed Cartier necklace, and a whole lot of back brought Hudson center stage at the SAG awards. Kate celebrated her own shape instead of trying to create a faux figure as many of us do.
With no push-up bra in sight, Hudson took advantage of her small-chested frame by sporting a high neckline that gave the area a larger appearance. The bejeweled side insert drew attention to her teeny-tiny waist while the exposed back showed her sexy side.
There are a few lessons to be learned from Kate's SAG style. Always wear clothes that show off your best body part whether that means a lower cut top or a higher hemline. Never try to be something you're not by wearing clothes that accentuate your physique rather than trying to fake one you wish you had. Try wearing jewelry in an unexpected way to create a signature style like Hudson's backwards necklace. Most importantly, love the body you're in and that self-confidence will make you sizzle.
After the SAGs, this year's most revered songstress, Taylor Swift, created a stir at The Grammys. Swift was honored for her signature song writing, angelic voice, and Cinderella style. She spoke about herself without words by presenting herself as a winner in her own fairytale. Taylor put out the image of the Belle of the Ball as she radiated down the red carpet. The beauty dressed in blue looked age appropriate while letting it be known we were witnessing her happy ending.
The Grammy grabber showed us why image is important. Your outer appearance can reflect your inner self, which is a powerful tool. Before you get dressed decide what message it is you want to send. Do you want it to be known for being a polished professional, a classic beauty, or a full on fashionista? Whatever it may be, use your mode of dress to let the world know who you are.
Looking for a quick, countdown-ready coif to kick off 2010? You're in luck! I recently received VIP ideas from celebrity hair stylist, Stacey Lyn Weinstein. As the owner of Once Upon a Bride, Stacey and her staff bring bridal beauty fantasies to life while Stacey's salon, Loft 26 provides the ultimate in cut, color, and top-notch treatments for your tresses. Here are a few of her favorite, glam go-to dos with DYI steps that will liven up your locks for New Years Eve.
Choose which of these styles will work best for you by considering where you are going, what you are wearing, and the vibe you want to exude. Loft 26 is a Phytologie Concept Salon; Stacey advises to use all Phyto styling products to achieve the sought after style.
 Stacey Suggestion #1
A low, textured romantic updo similar to Blake Lively's
Here's how:
Work on clean, dry hair. Start by using Phyto Pro Intense Volume Mousse at the roots for volume. Curl hair with 2 curling irons with different barrel sizes; one small and one large. This will give you waves that vary in shape and size. Spray hair with Phyto Phtyocurl Defining Spray, then open up the waves using your fingers. Leave the front of your hair out and tie the rest into a loose ponytail. Take the ponytail and wrap it around like a doughnut using bobby pins to secure it. The waves will give a loose, pretty tousled look . Next, pull the sides of hair back in sections to the top of the ponytail. You can choose to pin all the hair back or let a few pieces stay out naturally.
Stacey Suggestion #2
Let your hair down sexy & big like Beyonce for a fun night out
Here's how:
Stacey Suggestion #3
Take it from Kate, use braids for a casual pulled back look
Here's how:
Work on dry hair and use Phyto Pro Intense Volume Mousse at the roots. Redry hair with a large, round metal brush. Take a extra large barreled curling iron and wave your hair, spray with Phyto Phytocurl Defining Spray and let it sit for 20 minutes. Take a section on one side and create a very loose braid and booby pin it at the nape of your neck. Repeat on the opposite side. Once the 2 braids meet you can secure them with a small rubber band. Then take the middle section of your hair and sneak the rubber band section underneath. With the loose braids on the sides and hair in the back center draped over, your hair will look styled but natural. Another option is to simply do one low traditional braid in ode to the hottest hair trend of 2010's runway.
Schedule an appointment at Loft 26 for an elite experience, 212-414-2626. If your wedding bells are close to ringing schedule your Once Upon a Bride hair and makeup trial asap 212-353-2350, they book up fast! Thank you Stacey for the hottest in hair help.
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