While wedding season is in full bloom this summer, styling a guest ensemble with luxe textures can not only elevate your look, but offer new styling possibilities. Also, when you’re headed out for a girls’ night or cocktail event, a bow & ankle straps go a long way! Not to mention, when you can do it without breaking the bank, that’s a major plus! Case in point:
Succession actress Sarah Snook stars on the newest cover of Variety, looking radiant & vibrant, especially on the heels of her third & well-deserved Emmy nomination for her riveting portrayal of Shiv Roy on the HBO family drama.
In the article, written by Kate Arthur, with images photographed by Max Doyle, the South Australian native discusses the build-up & resolution to Succession’s shocking finale, as well as her upcoming West End one-woman performance of The Picture of Dorian Gray. Styled by Naomi Smith, Sarah wears lordanes Spyridon Gogos & Akira Isogawa, Cartier, Versace, & Zimmerman.
Also, Sarah talks about her sudden rise to fame while auditioning for David Fincher’s The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo& working at a cafe in Sydney, screen testing with Daniel Craig, but also in contention for the lead role with Ronney Mara (who was eventually cast), & others. In addition, watch the video below testing Sarah’s Succession knowledge:
After a smash (& splash success) as Ariel in this summer’s live-action remake of The Little Mermaid, singer-actress Halle Bailey, of Chlöe x Halle, makes her music video debut as a solo artist with her dreamy new R&B track, “Angel.”
The talented 23-year-old croons in puddles, among cloud, & climbing up stairs, showcasing not only her vocal prowess, but her command of the camera with captivating visuals, beauty, & style.
As much as we’re in the thick of summer & the heat waves are unpredictable, it’s always a good idea to look ahead. With fall being just around the corner, it’s time to–unfortunately–start thinking about how to transition our sunny day wardrobe into our fall favorites. That includes cardigans to wear over lacy tanks & printed crop tops with jeans & linen shorts.
SHOP:stitchy v-neck cardigan in 4 colors @LOFT ($64.95 ~keep an eye out for sales & coupon codes!~ available in sizes XXS-XXL).
If anyone knows how to do summer in style, it’s Jennifer Lopez. She never fails to bring the drama, flair, & street when hitting the red carpet; however, it’s often her more feminine & delicate looks that are truly breathtaking & inspiring.
On Tuesday, the multihyphenate celebrated National Spritz Day while promoting Delola, her new business venture of “world class crafted cocktails,” according to the brand’s website. As posted on her Instagram, a video, featuring Taylor Swift‘s “Cruel Summer,” shows Jennifer exiting her summer home (maybe in The Hamptons?), wearing a gorgeous green–her favorite color–coreseted floral midi dress with a slit (see below), It’s a perfectly breezy choice for the summer & occasion. Additionally, the dress is affordable for $47.99! Keep scrolling!
Shop the exact dress here:
SHOP:Houseofcb vintage floral print side slit corset midi dress in gardenia @Sthcute ($47.99, available in sizes S-L). However, while the dress is a great price, the inclusivity is missing, which is why I also selected these equally breezy & floral mint options to recreate the essence of JLo’s look:
Jennifer’s effortless & timeless look is finished off with thick round gold hoop earrings (shop similar here) & rose gold flip flops (shop similar here), which can be found more affordably here:
I may be a little late to the Queen Charlotte hub-bub, but I’m so glad that I finally had time this summer to catch up on Shonda Rimes’ Bridgerton spin-off series, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story. It’s by far my favorite of the Bridgerton stories, especially as the star India Amarteifio, is a revelation as the character originated by Golda Rosheuvel. However, it’s also the statement jewels that steal the spotlight in the period drama, as seen below, on the titular character, as well as on Adjoa Andoh, Arsema Thomas, Michelle Fairley, Ruth Gemmell, & more!
If you couldn’t keep your eyes off the jewels & are inspired to add some statement pieces to your arsenal, check out the affordable & gorgeous picks below:
Yes, it’s true. Fall is just around the corner, which means that richer, darker colors are on the horizon, along with more 90s throwbacks, like plaid & tiny florals. One such find includes this flutter blouse, which is a must-have for any weekend at a winery or fashionable day in the office.
When clicking on the new offerings by Tim & Tru, I was pleased to discover this blouse, which looks flowy & flattering, perfect to pair with dark denim jeans & a cardigan, a pencil skirt & pumps, or lace shorts & slides. This lightweight top is the perfect transitional piece as we move from summer to fall that’s both stylish & professional.
While everyone in the world is talking about the Barbie movie, it’s not only Margot Robbie & Ryan Gosling‘s performances that are being praised, but America Ferrera‘s empowering role as Gloria as well. During the film’s promotional tour earlier this month, while the cast journeyed from continent to continent, the Golden Globe & Emmy-winning actress took to Instagram in London in a chic & polished striped J.Crew button-down (that was customized with cropping), a leather midi pencil skirt by Matches, white stiletto pumps (shop similar here), & gold hammered earrings (shop similar here). However, for any Style Darling of any size, I was inspired to build this look from affordable, inclusive pieces!
The total ensemble isn’t hard to put together with classic wardrobe staples: a button-down shirt, pencil skirt, gold earrings, & heels; however, the stripe details, a faux leather texture, white contrast, & gold shine elevate the entire look. Try these recommended pieces below to recreate the look:
Even though it feels like there’s plenty of summer still ahead, fall is hitting stores with some unbelievable new styles, including footwear. Ankle boots aren’t going away this coming season & if you’re in need of a refresh in your shoe arsenal, then any of these will do, especially as 90s trends are hot.
I love the block heel, which offers extra support, but what’s also very special about these boots is the color variety. A neutral black or cognac makes for any great fall ensemble, but I am a fan of the olive style, which will enhance any plaid look. Which boots do you like the best? How often will you be wearing ankle boots? Where are you shopping for the latest fall trends? For more stylish posts, check out: hammered jewelry from J. Crew Factory, the best pull-on pants for fall, & ribbed tank tops for under $5! Happy Styling!
Statement jewelry with a vintage nod is all the rage currently, especially as we transition from summer into fall. While the changing seasons are ahead of us, the time is now to catch the best deals of jewelry on sale, especially at J. Crew Factory!
The hammered texture is the perfect contrast & detail to pair against an abstract print, tiny florals, houndstooth, or polka dots. I love the variety of earrings, as well as the hammered necklace, which is perfect for layering with a pendant or long chain for any date night or happy hour gathering with friends. Which hammered accessory do you like best? Where are you shopping for the best end-of-the-season deals? How often do you add to your jewelry collection? For more stylish posts, check out: the best pull-on pants for fall, gauze pajamas that double as loungewear, & hooded terry cover-up! Happy Styling!
Last summer, my entire fall & work wardrobe changed with Target’s A New Day tapered pull-on pants that felt like sweatpants, but appeared like perfect work pants! Currently, the pants, which cold out FAST, are back with more color variety & neutral prints.
I’m most excited about the burgundy pair. Also, I love the ankle length since I am 5’3″ & they fit perfectly. These are also versatile for casual & in-office days without feeling too stuffy. I can’t recommend these enough with a ruffled blouse & ballet flats, a button-down shirt & loafers, a pullover sweater & stilettos, & wrap top slides.
I feel like it’s been for-ev-er since the last season ofAppleTV+’s The Morning Show, starring Jennifer Aniston & Reese Witherspoon, which is why I’m excited about the forthcoming third season trailer that recently hit the web!
Last season was not without major drama, & this season looks to turn up the volume for the characters, including Jon Hamm who joins the cast of Mark Duplass, Billy Crudup, Karen Pittman, Greta Lee, Julianna Margulies, & more!
With the new Barbie movie out now, the doll, character, & fashion icon are taking over the world! Not only can you dress up as the titular legend, like Margot Robbie when off-camera, but your beauty look can also pay homage & celebrate the biggest movie of the summer! Specifically, OPI has just the sparkly hues & sets inspired by Barbie! Take a look at the slideshow & gallery below for all of the exciting & playful colors!
OPI Yay Space!
OPI Welcome to Barbie Land
OPI Hi Ken!
OPI My Job is Beach
OPI Hi Barbie!
OPI Feel the Magic!
OPI Best Day Ever
OPI Every Night is GIrls Night
OPI Bon Voyage to Reality
OPI Xpression Nail Art in Barbie Dreamhouse
OPI Xpression Nail Art in Dolls Rule
OPI Yay Space!OPI Welcome to Barbie LandOPI Hi Ken!OPI My Job is BeachOPI Hi Barbie!OPI Feel the Magic!OPI Best Day EverOPI Every Night is GIrls NightOPI Bon Voyage to RealityOPI Xpression Nail Art in Barbie DreamhouseOPI Xpression Nail Art in Dolls Rule
This season, there has been a lot of blending of pajamas with everyday loungewear, beachwear, & sportswear for women. And why not? We’re all running around so much & we want to be comfortable. If there’s anything that COVID-19 taught us, it’s to slow down. We can always dress up for extra special occasions, but when it comes to general casual dressing, it can still be both stylish & comfortable! Now that pajamas are being made more & more fashionably, why not get the most out of a garment & wear it during the day? It’s your secret (…kind of!)!
Any of these midi length dresses can be styled with a denim jacket or relaxed blazer, along with sneakers, braided slides, or jeweled flip-flops. Not to mention, they can also be accessorized with raffia earrings, bangles, or layered necklaces. How would you style these effortless dresses? Which color & pattern do you like best? Do you wear sleepwear during the day? For more stylish posts, check out: ribbed tanks for under $5, buckle mules by A New Day, & white skirt looks inspired by Taylor Swift & Priyanka Chopra-Jonas! Happy Styling!
In the summer, a tank top is a versatile must-have. It’s always a good idea to maintain an array of colors to mix & match with bottoms, like shorts in a variety of materials, skirts of all lengths, & pants in any color or pattern, & jeans. This option, under $5, also has a rib texture & snug fit for when you want to show off your curves or contrast flowy bottoms.
I have quite a few of these to wear to bed, but also with wide leg tropical pants, linen shorts, or midi skirts. these have a 5-star rating & the color variety is so fun. How would you style these tanks? Which color is your favorite? Where are you shopping for summer essentials? For more stylish posts, check out: gauze pajama sets you can wear for day,all the stylish looks from the Barbie press tour, & straw beach totes! Happy Styling!
The summer of sets continues, especially with linen & cotton separates that are light & flowy, along with being interchangeable with other wardrobe staples. Back in April, I posted about Joyspun’s new sets, which have since expanded!
Wear these for a good night’s sleep or style them up with wedges or slides, a crossbody bag, & raffia hoop earrings. The possibilities are endless! How would you style these pieces? Do you wear sleepwear for day? Which color & print do you prefer? For more stylish posts, check out: chic buckle mules for fall, a cozy terry cover-up, & Olivia Rodrigo’s Vogue cover shoot! Happy Styling!
While this shoe isn’t necessarily my style, I do love a fashionable flat in a neutral hue that offers styling versatility. Not to mention that the pointy toe elongates the leg line too!
At first, I wasn’t even sure about writing my take on Greta Gerwig’s highly-anticipated pink-gasmic Barbie, starring two-time Academy Award nominee Margot Robbie as the titular doll, but the more I think about it, the more I find personal reactions, revelations, and ruminations—so I might as well just write the darn review!
I. Love. It.
I was entertained, wowed, and moved. I’ve decided that, at this point in my life, I want to invest my time in entertainment that will uplift me, so before I go into further detail, I highly recommend Barbie to anyone whose interest is peaked by the trailers, interviews, and headlines surrounding the doll who can be anything and is everything.
Let’s break this down!
A warning: Audiences must go into this film prepared for political commentary, not only regarding society’s view of Mattel’s legendary doll setting unrealistic beauty standards, but of the ever-present distortion of power among the genders—this is not meant to be a spoiler, but if you are unfamiliar with the relevant themes of Gerwig’s previously acclaimed works (Little Women, Lady Bird), then you’re in for what could be a rude awakening. Rather than shoving one gender-norm-trope after another in each scene, Gerwig aims to volley the magic of Barbie with some intelligent reminders that within one’s boundless imagination, we can find the courage to address what ails us in the “real world” and pushes us into such escapism. This applies to more than young girls questioning their power, but also to anyone who has been silenced by a greater force.
Anyway… In this film, Robbie’s Barbie, who begins as charming and perfectly as we expect from a stereotypical Barbie, is headed for a crash course in patriarchy with a splash of existentialism. Overall, Robbie’s performance is impeccable with a welcome dose of innocence that inspires audiences to view the opening Barbieland act through the lens of the doll’s youthful demographic. It’s all eye candy and the good feels. Obviously, play is meant to be fun and doesn’t always make sense—it shouldn’t; however, it allows us to reflect on our own desires and identities, which incites Barbie’s adventure ahead.
Dually, Ryan Gosling’s much-hyped portrayal of Ken delivers an uncanny and unexpected combination of physical comedy and hilarious passion with precision, stealing nearly every scene he’s in. Lest we forget Gosling’s comic prowess in films like Crazy, Stupid, Love and the oft forgotten The Nice Guys, among his filmography of brooding leading men or action heroes. Additionally, Gosling takes center stage in his rendition of “Just Ken,” a power ballad that encompasses the ignored complexities of being a purposeless trophy.
However, my favorite performance of the whole film is from America Ferrera as Gloria, the real-life corporate assistant and struggling mother, who is severely underused and deserves a much heavier presence in the film. While Ferrera offers humor in well-timed moments, especially when encountering a fish-out-of-water Barbie in Los Angeles, it’s the Emmy-winner’s evocative monologues that inspire and empower. As the most significant human character, I wanted to know more about her and champion her journey, along with Barbie’s own plight, when confronted by her disillusioned daughter Sasha, played by Ariana Greenblatt. Not to mention, it’s been too long since Ferrera has set the silver screen aglow, and it just feels right!
Furthermore, the supporting cast is a collection of refreshing faces that support the diversity that Barbie represents today and adds to the mischief and fun that ensues in both Barbieland and the real world, including Insecure star Issa Rae as a sassy President Barbie; Death on the Nile actress Emma Mackey as a Physicist Barbie; Saturday Night Live alum Kate McKinnon, perfectly cast as the “weird Barbie” we all had; X-Men: Dark Phoenix’s Alexandra Shipp as Writer Barbie; transgender actress from TransparentHari Nef as Doctor Barbie; Scottish actress Sharon Rooney; Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings star and iCelebrity Jeopardy champion Simu Liu; One Night in Miami…’s Kingsley Ben-Adir; Sex Education actor Ncuti Gatwa; Life and Beth actor Michael Cera as the discontinued Allan; Oscar-winning writer of Promising Young Woman, Emerald Fennell, as the controversial pregnant Midge doll; Grammy-winner Dua Lipa and wrestler-turned-actor John Cena as mermaid Barbie and Ken; and Bridgerton’s Nicola Coughlan, playing another fabulous Barbie addition! Also, Will Ferrell’s role as an unnamed Mattel CEO fits in with Gerwig’s ridiculous, though entertaining and magical tone.
Speaking of magic, the film’s music, produced by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, amplifies Gerwig’s vision. With a summer-ready soundtrack featuring Billie Eilish’s Oscar-worthy track “What Was I Made For?”, Lipa’s pop hit “Dance the Night,”Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice’s “Barbie World (with Aqua),” Charli XCX’s “Speed Drive,” and more, we’ll be listening to the “bespoke pop” hits of Barbie’s world well into awards season—if there is one…
Lastly, the strategic and glorious set designs, by six-time Academy Award nominated production designer Susan Greenwood, bring life to the Dream House and other locations, along with the divine costumes by the one and only, two-time Oscar-winner Jacqueline Durran. Most notably, both Greenwood and Durran have collaborated on visually stunning past projects, including Anna Karenina, Sherlock Holmes, Beauty and the Beast, so with Gerwig in tow, it’s no surprise that Barbie is a feast for the eyes, in addition to the imagination.
While the misconceptions about Barbie will not completely be corrected by this movie, the film is, in fact, directed towards anyone who has loved and hated the doll, teaching audiences to be more inclusive and empowering. On a personal note, I felt particularly emotional by the mother-daughter scenes and connection, especially as the mother of a young daughter. This mother—me—is who she is because of the time, energy, and imagination spent with Barbie during childhood, blending storytelling with style and feminism.
Let’s just celebrate Barbie and ourselves because Barbie is a part of all of us, whether we like it or not. It’s just so much easier and heck of a lot more fulfilling to like Barbie than not. Have an open mind. Have some laughs. Let’s uplift each other into the future that Barbie wants us to have!
One of my favorite summer purchases has to be an unexpected swim find, which has the ease of loungewear & versatility of athleisure for the pool or beach.
During a recent road trip to an out-of-state water park, I wore this with my swimsuit & shorts underneath during the drive & then between rides. I wish it was available in other colors as the white & metallic combination would be very chic. How would you style this piece? How many cover-up options do you have? Where are you headed this summer? For more stylish posts, check out: stylish summer slides,the smocked tank you’ll wear everywhere, & colorful straw totes! Happy Styling!
Barbie is everywhere these days & why shouldn’t she be? With the new Greta Gerwig-directed film about to hit theaters nationwide, it is a Barbie world! While we can’t all done look-alike dresses from the beloved doll, like Margot Robbie flawlessly does at major red carpet events, we can celebrate the style icon by Mattel with some affordable & inclusive gear that can be dressed up or down for any occasion, including when going to see the highly anticipated film that also stars Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera, Issa Rae, Kate McKinnon, & more!
It’s not secret that white skirts, whether mini, midi, or maxi, are on trend for the summer time; however, inspiration from celebrity street style offers a variety of ways to wear this seasonal staple year-after-year.
Selena Gomez, Katie Holmes, Taylor Swift, Olivia Wilde, & Priyanka Chopra Jonas in white midi & maxi skirts
I love how it’s a lighter contrast to a heavier knit on a cool morning or evening, as well as a dressy way to coordinate a graphic tee or polish off a crop top for a special occasion. Not to mention, white-on-white monochrome is classic for the hotter days when you want to feel & look effortless. Here are some affordable & inclusive suggestions to get inspired by Selena, Katie, Taylor, Olivia, & Priyanka’s white skirt style.
We’re still only in–what feels likes–the beginning of July, but summer is here in full throttle, which means that there are plenty of fun summer songs & new fashion. Case in point: Olivia Rodrigo, whose new single “Vampire” is dominating & there’s so much buzz behind her upcoming album, Guts. Additionally, the singer-actress debuts on the August 2023 cover of Vogue, with an exciting article by Jia Tolentino & photographs by Theo de Gueltzl. As Olivia discusses her rise to fame from social media, experiences during COVID-19, perspective on women in pop music, musical influences, iconic Glastonbury performance, & more!
Also, Vogue included Olivia in its “73 Questions” series on YouTube, which you can view below, along with her recently released piano version of “Vampire.”
If you’re a fan of stylish entertainment, such as Sex & the City, …And Just Like That, Emily in Paris, & The Devil Wears Prada, then Netflix’s new film, The Perfect Find, starring Gabrielle Union, is just for you!
The romantics comedy centers on Union’s Jenna, who must rebuild her career in fashion at 40, but starts to fall for her frenemy boss’ son. Also in the film are Gina Torres, Keith Powers, & La La Anthony, all of whom bring their characters to life with the styling of costume designer Amit Gajwani & under the direction of Numa Perrier.
Take a look through the slideshow & gallery below for more of the gorgeous style inspiration from the film!
With all of the top shows wrapping up & rearing up this summer, all eyes are on AppleTV+ for when the critically-acclaimed drama The Morning Show returns on September 13th, starring & produced by Reese Witherspoon, as well as Jennifer Aniston. It’s Reese who’s taking the spotlight in the new August 2023 issue of Harper’s Bazaar, in an article written by Leah Chernikoff with images photographed by Cass Bird.
Every day seems to have more & more new Barbie news, which is making for a fabulous & exciting summer for not only the movie industry, but also for music & fashion. In addition to Dua Lipa‘s pop-heavy dance track “Dance the Night,” the Barbie soundtrack includes “Barbie World” by Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice, as well as new songs by Ava Max, Sam Smith, HAIM, Gayle, & more. Most notably, Billie Eilish adds to the film’s music with her new song “What Was I Made For?” a vulnerable & introspective take on Greta Gerwig‘s vision for Barbie, played by Margot Robbie, who enters the “real world.” While the video may be less action-packed than others, the intimate observation of Billie in costume, through her directorial vision, adds to the drama of the song. Additionally, the song resonates with listeners anywhere who have ever questioned their purpose, confidence, & futures.
Plus, the Oscar-winning singer sits down with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, discussing their reactions to first screening the Barbie movie, the origins of the song, Billie’s personal connection to the song’s themes & Barbie as a child, as well as the process of writing & recording it.