Splurge or Save… on Platform Sneakers?


I mean… with a price different of over $750, what’s the question really? Sneakers are becoming more & more stylish these days, so it’s no wonder that major mainstream retailers, like Target, are “taking inspiration” from luxury designers to elevate how consumers express their street style.

Chloé’s Nama sneaker (above @Chloé) comes in 6 chic & playful different color combinations, but for nearly $800, a budget shopper just can’t fathom that kind of an investment in footwear. However, Target comes to the style rescue with these newly back-in-stock sneakers that I’ve been eyeing for quite some time!

SHOP: Universal Thread Persephone sneaker in 3 styles @Target ($42.99, available in sizes 5-12). Of course, the textures & neutral colors are hip for any look, whether it’s a casual Friday in the office or you’re headed out in a polo dress for brunch. If you keep an eye out for upcoming back-to-school sales, Target is likely to have a coupon deal on women’s shoes, so you may be able to get these for even less–or get 2 pairs!

Which sneaker style do you like the best? Which designer brands do you splurge on? Would you splurge on these or save instead? For more stylish posts, check out: satin bowed dress shoes by A New Day, summer-to-fall cardigans from LOFT, & Jennifer Lopez’s National Spritz Day look for less! Happy Styling!

Cover Craze: Taraji P. Henson is Boss for InStyle’s January Issue!


Actress Taraji P. Henson is making waves not just in front of the camera as Cookie Lyon in Empire, but also on the big screen (of course, she did this in Hidden Figures too) with her new film out next year, What Men Want–a remake of 2000’s What Women Want starring Mel Gibson  & Helen Hunt). She’s not just the star of the comedy, but also serves as executive producer for the film. For In Style magazine’s January issue, Taraji also discusses in the article (read here) about being a single mom & her 20-plus year career & her connection to her fans, both nationally & internationally.

For the playful/Network-inspired photo shoot, Taraji plays with retro menswear pieces, including Michael Kors Collection (shop sweater here), Zara, Chloe, Dolce & Gabbana, Miu Miu, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Fendi (shop suit here), Bottega Veneta, Pomellato (shop bracelet here), Hermes, Tibi (shop boots here), Missoni, Rochas, Valentino (shop shoes here), & more!

For more magazine-inspired posts, click here, here, here, & here! Happy Styling!

07/18/2016 Darling of the Day: Gwyneth Paltrow in Head-To-Toe Blush!


While summer (for me) is all about a good dress & sandals, I’ve been thinking a whole lot about summer outfits that go beyond the comfy Americana look of a tank & cut-off shorts (an ensemble that never really suited my shape to begin with). However, in an effort to fill my brain with as much fashion as possible (an excellent escape plan for when life is throwing a lot of heartache your way), I’m a little obsessed with Gwyneth Paltrow‘s head-to-toe blush outfit in a blouse & pants by Michael Kors with Chloe Gosselin sandals (shop similar here). The actress & goop entrepreneur made a recent appearance to promote her organic Juice Beauty collection while in Toronto, looking effortless & chic in the pastel hue with minimal jewelry.

Gwyneth Paltrow in a blush silk bow blouse & skinny pants by Michael Kors Collection with pink croc Chloe Gosselin sandals at a Juice Beauty by goop event in Toronto.Usually when I dress in a monochromatic outfit, it’s all-black, easy enough for any shape to pull off since pastels aren’t always figure friendly for the curvier shopper. However, I’m impressed to see so many blush options out there, while keeping a budget in mind, for misses, plus, or petites separates to inspire Gwyneth’s look for when you’re at the office, headed to brunch with family, or a day time party event. Wearing blush as a base color also works for a multitude of accessories options, such as metallics like rose gold, gold, & silver. Also, blush is a luxe foundation for other colors & prints to pop against.

Blush misses, plus, & petites looks.SHOP: MISSES blouse @Forever 21, pants @Boohoo, sandals @Lulu’s, & bangle @Charming Charlie. PLUS blouse @Eloquii, pants @Eloquii, shoes @Clarks, & LC Lauren Conrad bangle @Kohl’s. PETITES blouse @JCPenney, pants @Dorothy Perkins, Steven by Steve Madden Valor sandals @Bloomingdale’s, & bangle @The Limited.

What do you think of Gwyneth Paltrow’s all blush outfit? Do you like to wear monochromatic outfits? What color has been on your mind this summer? For more celebrity inspiration, check out previous posts including pencil skirt options as seen on Kerry Washington & Christina Hendricks, Angelina Jolie’s nude strappy flats, & Blake Lively’s princess street style. Happy Styling!

Cover Craze: Olivia Palermo Channels Victorian Style as Holt Renfrew’s Debut Muse!


Olivia Palermo for Holt Renfrew 01The world’s style crush / obsession on Olivia Palermo is stronger than ever, & what better way to celebrate the modern-day style icon than continue to feature her impeccable fashion sense in the debut feature for Holt Renfrew, not a print magazine like I usually feature in Cover Craze, but an online magazine premiering with Olivia. The photoshoot was inspired by fall’s best Victorian-inspired pieces, from designers & labels like Altuzarra, Manolo Blahnik, Lanvin, Oscar de la Renta, Dolce & Gabbana, Chloe, Self-Portrait, Valentino, & Michael Kors, as well as beauty brands that furnished Olivia’s look including Bobbi Brown, Tom Ford, Nars, & more.

Olivia Palermo for Holt Renfrew 02The article features Olivia’s own words about her where her flawless style comes from, her goals for the ever-changing world of fashion & technology, as well as her personal work ethics in building her brand.

Olivia Palermo for Holt Renfrew 03 Olivia Palermo for Holt Renfrew 04 Olivia Palermo for Holt Renfrew 05 Olivia Palermo for Holt Renfrew 06 Olivia Palermo for Holt Renfrew 07 Olivia Palermo for Holt Renfrew 08 Olivia Palermo for Holt Renfrew 09What do you think of Olivia’s elegant photo shoot? Do you follow her fashion lifestyle on social media? For more posts featuring Olivia Palermo, check out her recent jewelry collaboration with BaubleBar, as well as red carpet looks in chic leather overalls, a Tibi tuxedo dress, & a stunning Valentino gown. Also, get inspired by a 300+ image gallery of Olivia’s street style & special occasion outfits. Happy Styling!

Basics for a Bargain: Delicate Ankle Strap Sandals Inspired by Rihanna, Jennifer Lawrence, Rachel McAdams, & More!


One of the hottest shoe trends of this summer is the ankle strap sandal, showing off plenty of toe & foot cleavage. A single-strap across the top of the foot helps elongate the legline & make any outfit instantly sleeker.

Take note from celebrities in an all-purpose black pair like Rihanna in a gold Giorgio Armani skirt set with black ankle strap sandals at the 2015 BET Awards. Also, Rachel McAdams attended the Southpaw screening in a white embroidered Zuhair Murad floral dress & black ankle sandals. Michelle Monaghan mixed separates in a black & pink polo with a ruffed leather skirt by Erdem & black ankle strap sandals at the New York premiere of Pixels. Mad Men actress Kiernan Shipka was youthful & sophisticated in a jacquard Giamba little white floral dress (shop similar here @Saks Fifth Avenue) with a yellow Miu Miu clutch (shop similar here @Miu Miu) & black Stuart Weitzman sandals (shop here @Stuart Weitzman) at the Los Angeles Confidential Women of Influence party.

Rihanna, Rachel McAdams, Michelle Monaghan, & Keirnan Shipka.

For a little variety, I’m also inspired by neutral & metallic options for ankle strap sandals, great for pairing with pastels & softer looks. For example, Jennifer Lawrence was radiant in a lace macramé Antonio Berardi little white dress with a black & white Roger Vivier chain purse & nude sandals. Model Miranda Kerr showed her support  at the Swarovski collection launch event in Austria in a cream Halston Heritage high low column dress (shop similar here @Neiman Marcus) with rose gold Jimmy Choo heels (shop similar here @Nordstrom). Teen actress Bella Thorne went monochromatic in an olive camisole & wide-leg culottes by Camilla & Marc with stacked bracelets & metallic sandals at her visit to The Lowdown with Diana Madison. It-girl Hannah Davis was feminine in a lace little white dress by Chloe with a nude belt, Edie Parker clutch, & nude Stuart Weitzman ankle sandals (shop here @Stuart Weitzman) at the 2015 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Sports Awards.

Jennifer Lawrence, Miranda Kerr, Bella Thorne, & Hannah Davis.

I’ve assembled a variety of ankle strap sandals, which are available in multiple colors & range from high-end prices like those worn by the above A-list Style Darlings, as well as budget-friendly options for the shopper looking to save some money on her wardrobe.

sleek, summer-ready ankle strap sandals

SHOP: 1. Manolo Blahnik Chaos sandals ($725.00) in white @Neiman Marcus, 2. Stuart Weitzman sandals ($199.00, was $398.00) in orange @Stuart Weitzman, 3. Steve Madden Stecy sandals ($79.95) in gold @Steve Madden, 4. Mix No.6 Rayelle sandals ($39.95) in mint @DSW, 5. Betty Believe It sandals ($32.00) in polka dots @Lulu’s, 6. faux leather sandals ($29.90) in black @Forever 21, 7. single strap sandals ($26.00) in pink @GOjane, & 8. Dakota sandals ($26.00, was $36.00) in nude @Dress Barn.

Are you on board the ankle strap sandal trend? Which color do you like the best? Where are you shopping for this season’s biggest shoe trends? Which celebrity’s style do you follow? For more posts, check out my latest earring buys from Express, major clearance must-have wedges from Payless, Chrissy Teigen’s blazer & shorts look, & a nine-piece outfit for under $100. Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: The Top 10 Style Darlings To Watch For 2015!


2014 was full of fantastic fashion moment from regular A-listers who made headlines by risking skin, donning matching separates, & keeping it classic with timeless elegance. However, it’s time to talk about the Style Darlings to watch out for in 2015, those who are sure to keep the fashion headlines buzzings, setting trends, & making a stylish name for themselves.

Nicola Peltz, Felicity Jones, Bella Thorne, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Emily Ratajkowski, Kiernan Shipka, Brie Larson, Suki Waterhouse, Ariel Winter, & Kendall Jenner.This includes, Transformers: Age of Extinction actress Nicola Peltz (in Prada), Golden Globe nominee for The Theory of Everything Felicity Jones (in Dior), teen star Bella Thorne (in LOFT), Beyond the Lights actress Gugu Mbatha-Raw (in Lanvin), “Blurred Lines” model-turned-Gone-Girl-actress Emily Ratajkowski (in Diane von Furstenberg), Mad Men ingénue Kiernan Shipka (at the Zac Posen Spring-Summer 2015 show), familiar face & Mark Wahlberg’s co-star in The Gambler Brie Larson (in Alexander McQueen), model & girlfriend of Bradley Cooper: Suki Waterhouse (in Burberry Prorsum), Modern Family actress Ariel Winter (in Mikael D.), & reality star-turned-catwalk pro Kendall Jenner (in Balmain).  

So let’s start….

Nicola Peltz in Balenciaga, Dolces & Gabbana & Stella McCartney, Dior, & Miu Miu.Nicola Peltz made waves on the red carpet while promoting the fourth installment of the Transformers series, but she’s an actress on the rise with roles in TV’s Bates Motel & the film, The Last Airbender, under her belt. When it comes to style, she experiments with classic, Old Hollywood looks, as well as youthful frocks that recall a vintage appreciation. The beautiful blonde can really wear anything, which is why designers like Balenciaga, Dolce & Gabbana, Stella McCartney, Dior, & Miu Miu will be banging on her door since she wears clothes so well.

Felicity Jones in Burberry Prorsum, Moschino, Chloe, & Dolce & Gabbana.Felicity Jones is no stranger to the red carpet, but she’s made a name for herself in this year’s The Theory of Everything, opposite fellow trophy contender Eddie Redmayne. The British actress recalls a mix of girl-next-door meets bombshell, keeping her classic style nothing short of sophisticated & effortless. She’s kind of like the English version of USA’s Zooey Deschanel, with dramatic, dark hair & porcelain skin that radiates against everything she wears, like the above looks by Burberry Prorsum, Moschino, Chloé, & Dolce & Gabbana.

Bella Thorne in Alberta Ferretti, Zac Posen, Gucci, & Zara.Disney star Bella Thorne has emerged as a teen-to-watch & young-woman-on-the-verge when it comes to style. The former Shake It Up! actress experiments with feminine gowns, layers of chiffon, as well as chic jumpsuits & mini skirts galore! Her big screen résumé includes the Drew Barrymore-Adam Sandler family comedy Blended & Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day with Steve Carrell & Jennifer Garner. Bella is true to her name, gorgeous in anything she wears, including top designers & brands like Alberta Ferretti, Zac Posen, Gucci, & separates from Zara.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw in Delpozo, Calvin Klein Collection, Jenny Packham, & Michael Kors.Gugu Mbatha-Raw earned her place in the spotlight with 2014’s Beyond the Lights as a reckless singer & daughter to Minnie Driver. The British import is a classic beauty who wears top designers like a pro. She can mix up lace details, bold prints, minimalist cuts, & bright colors. She’s a must-see for the upcoming awards season, especially having succeeded in Delpozo, Calvin Klein Collection, Jenny Packham, & Michael Kors. Up next for the actress is Jupiter Ascending with Mila Kunis & Channing Tatum, & the drama The Whole Truth with Keanu Reeves & Renee Zellweger.

Emily Ratajkowski in Amanda Wakely, David Koma, Safiyaa, & ZAC Zac Posen.Emily Ratajkowski is a familiar face for showing her best assets in Robin Thicke’s hit “Blurred Lines” music video, but 2014 was her year for her role in Gone Girl. the model-turned-actress has a curvaceous figure that looks fantastic in virtually anything. Some of her most memorable red carpet appearances include looks featuring Amanda Wakely, David Koma, Safiyaa, & ZAC Zac Posen. 2015 means not only hitting the awards season circuit, but also promoting her new films, such as We Are Your Friends with Zac Efron, & the highly anticipated big screen premiere of the Entourage movie. Kiernan Shipka in Valentino, Marni, Tanya Taylor, & Tory Burch.Mad Men‘s Kiernan Shipka is possibly my favorite new addition to the red carpet circuit for keeping her style age appropriate, but also enviable for being elegant & playful at the same time. Not only is there tons of hype surrounding the finale of the AMC drama, but Kiernan also drew well-deserved attention for her controversial role in Lifetime’s Flowers in the Attic alongside Heather Graham & Ellen Burstyn. The young actress is perfect red carpet fixture in Valentino, Marni, Tanya Taylor, & Tory Burch. I can’t want to see what else she will wear as she grows into one of the most stylish young women in Hollywood.

Brie Larson in Rodarte, DVF, Prada, & Prada.Brie Larson can currently be seen in The Gambler as Mark Wahlberg’s love interest, but the real drama occurs when the actress hits the red carpet. She can pull off anything from gothic-inspired, chic Old Hollywood, girl next door, & take fashion risks with bold prints & patterns. She’s perfection in Rodarte, Diane von Furstenberg, & Prada. Brie will be making more red carpet rounds when promoting her upcoming films Digging for Fire with Anna Kendrick & Trainwreck also starring Daniel Radcliffe.

Suki Waterhouse in Christian Dior, Burberry Prorsum, Emilia Wickstead, & Peter Pilotto.Suki Waterhouse might not be a household name, but the British model & actress will likely be seen on the arm of awards show darling & her boyfriend, Bradley Cooper. As a model, it’s no surprise that she can wear dresses so well, but it’s the variety that’s caught my attention. She’s ethereal in pastels, plays with volume, takes risks with sheer fabrics, & mixes up patterns & classic silhouettes, as seen in designs by Christian Dior, Burberry Prorsum, Emilia Wickstead, & Peter Pilotto. She’s got a big year coming up with a major role in the next installment in the Divergent series, Insurgent, as well as Pride & Prejudice & Zombies.

Ariel Winter in Badgley Mischka, Black Halo Eve, Kate Spade New York, & NBD.Modern Family‘s Ariel Winter has been the subject of a lot of talk because of her super mature & sexy style- she’s only 16 (turning 17 this month). However, she’s been quoted as saying that she curvy figure & womanly shape calls for more grown up fashions as she’s growing up in the spotlight. Whatever she’s doing, it’s working, especially in looks by Badgley Mischka, Black Halo Eve, Kate Spade New York, & NBD. Since the hit ABC show is up for a ton of awards this season, Ariel will no doubt blow fashion critics away with her continued poise & mature fashion choices.

Kendall Jenner in Topshop, Fausto Puglisi, Chanel, & Sass & Bide.Lastly, it’s hard to talk about 2014’s best trendsetter & fashionistas without mentioning at least one member of the Kardashian crew. That’s new supermodel Kendall Jenner, who appeared on the runways during fashion week for brands like Diane von Furstenberg, Givenchy, Sonia Rykiel, Fendi, & Bottega Veneta. When it came time to hit the red carpet, she looks flawless & pushed the envelope in designs by Topshop, Fausto Puglisi, Chanel, & Sass & Bide.

Whose style caught your eye in 2014? Which of these picks is your favorite on the red carpet? Who are you looking forward to seeing more of during the year? For more stylish posts, check out posts from Runway Rundown featuring Pre-Fall 2015 Collections from Oscar de la Renta, The Rachel Zoe Collection, Marchesa, & Naeem Khan! Happy Styling!

Cover Craze: Heidi Klum For Marie Claire’s February 2013 Issue!


Heidi Klum for Marie Claire February 2013

Along with the latest for that I’ve posted for Allure, InStyle, Self, Vogue, & Elle, Marie Claire is sharing the latest & greatest in fashion with former supermodel Heidi Klum on its February 2013 cover. The 37-year-old has proven time & time again that she’s an unstoppable force who always puts her kids first & discusses with the magazine how she never backs down from a challenge, craves Big Macs with fries, & even spills some of the latest secrets from the upcoming season of Project Runway.

Heidi Klum for Marie Claire February 2013 Heidi Klum for Marie Claire February 2013

The shoot includes some sleek all-black looks including pieces by Tom Ford, Lanvin, Dior, Louis Vuitton, H. Stern, Gucci, Stella McCartney, Chanel, Giuseppe Zanotti Designs, Maison Martin Margiela, & Chloé. Check out the video below of Heidi behind-the-scenes of the shoot & the interview. Also, get ready for the season 11 of Project Runway which premieres on Lifetime tonight! Happy Styling!

Color Me Style: Hello Yellow For Winter & Spring, Inspired By Emmy Rossum, Miranda Kerr, Anna Kendrick, & More!


Yellow is one of those colors that’s always a little risky to wear out on the red carpet, but when it’s done right, it can look really spectacular.  Not to mention that the color is coming back for this season (following right behind emerald trends), which we’ve seen on some of today’s most stylish celebrities.  This includes former Grey’s Anatomy star, Nora Zehetner wore a minimalist Calvin Klein Collection sheath mini at a Metropolitan Museum of Art event last month. Lauren Conrad showed off her feminine side, as usual, in a bright Yoana Baraschi dress with suede neutral pumps. Actress Kate Mara looked stunning in a Dior shift dress at the London premiere of House of Cards with a suede box clutch by Nancy Gonzalez & satin peep toe pumps.

Nora Zehetner, Lauren Conrad, Kate Mara, Emmy Rossum, Anna Kendrick, & Jada Pinkett Smith.

Shameless star Emmy Rossum also donned Dior with a metallic minaudiere & strappy black sandals. For an interview on The Late Show with David Letterman, Anna Kendrick asymmetrical sheath dress by Halston Heritage is offset by nude peep toe pumps & jewelry by Dana Rebecca Designs. Lastly, during a recent appearance on Katie, Jada Pinkett Smith slipped into a curve-hugging Victoria Beckham dress with towering, patterned platform pumps.

It wasn’t heard to search the web for some cute & affordable yellow dresses to wear with your favorite evening shoes, collar necklaces, stacked bangles, or statement rings. Yellow dresses are also popular in pastels like the cutout ribbon back dress ($27.80) from Forever 21, which is described as “citron.” @Macy’s, the Bar III cap-sleeve seamed scoop neck dress ($29.99) is marked down from its original $69.00 price tag.  For a figure-flattering, sexy dress, the ASOS wrap front pencil dress ($56.29) is the perfection attention-grabbing option, especially is paired with strappy sandals, or belted & worn under a boyfriend blazer.

The Ark & Co ‘Swept Away’ strapless dress ($46.00) from Lulu’s is a pretty option, especially if you want to show off your décolletage with a spiked necklace & messy updo. Lastly, the Mossimo casual one-shoulder dress ($24.99) from Target is a flowy & flirty number to wear casually with gladiator flats when on vacation, or with a velvet bolero & textured tights.

Also, yellow separates really make an outfit pop, so if you’re wearing neutrals, this bright color can really work the value of basics like dark denim jeans, a black sweater, or a mini skirt. Take a cue from Olivia Palermo‘s wool-blend coat from Old Navy with leather leggings & oversized turtleneck. Also, supermodel Miranda Kerr tops off her casual look with a yellow blazer, perfect for a chic day out shopping. Kirsten Dunst played with yellow in her printed Stella McCartney separates at the premiere of The Bachelorette with ankle strap suede heels. 

Olivia Palermo, Miranda Kerr, Kirsten Dunst, Kim Kardashian, & Taylor Swift.

Kim Kardashian‘s colorblocked look made headlines, especially with her sophisticated Chloé blouse & mary jane Christian Louboutin platforms. Taylor Swift plays up her girl-next-door style in a pleated yellow skirt, also by Chloé, with a tucked in cable knit sweater & bowed ballet flats.

Get inspired to add some yellow thoughtfully to your look with these affordable pieces.  First, the Tinley Road Bleecker blazer ($39.99) from Piperlime is fun to wear over an LBD for the office, or to dress up a graphic tee & jeans with pointy toe pumps. You can head to Express to find the mesh inset blouson tee ($24.90) for floral pants, satin shorts & tights, or tucked into a brocade pencil skirt. Another top worth considering is the blouse ($29.95) from H&M to coordinate under an embellished cardigan, over a silk cami, or with a contrasting hue like red or cobalt jeans. Also, Piperlime‘s Greylin Viv ponte pencil skirt ($42.99) is a timeless basic to match with a printed top or classic & crisp button-down shirt.

Accessories in yellow aren’t hard to come by either… & there’s always a place in your look for this color. The embossed skinny belt ($14.99) from Coldwater Creek is currently half off & will add a special touch of texture to tweed or suede pieces. I also love the fringed drop earrings ($6.80) from Forever 21, which will work for an evening look with a cocktail dress & even bring out the personality of a tropical maxidress in the summer.

You can never go wrong with yellow shoes. I am the proud owner of at least three pair & I don’t mean that they’re gold- they range in the banana to mustard hues & I’ve found so many uses for them. I love the Steve Madden Rockkk flats ($29.99) from 6pm, which originally cost as high as $60.00 when they hit the market. Finally, for the shoe-lover out there, the Michael Antonio Tracey sandal ($29.94) from DSW offers a sexy way to show off your gams, while still embracing the color yellow.

Do you like to wear yellow? Which celebrity do you think pulls off yellow the best? Do you have a favorite yellow piece that you like to incorporate into your look? For more affordable fashion ideas, check out posts including stylish cardigans $20 & under, polka dot pants for any season, Victoria’s Secret’s latest nail polish launch, & fabulous flats by Fergalicious on clearance! Happy Styling!

Cover Craze: Claire Dane’s For ELLE’s February 2013 Issue!


Claire Danes for Elle February 2013

Claire Danes is not only dominating television with her hit show Homeland, but the new mom & recent Golden Globe winner is the cover girl for ELLE‘s February 2013 issue.  At the time of the shoot, The actress was almost at full term during her pregnancy, but you’d never know it by the looks of strategic & fashionable shots taken by Carter Smith & styled by Joe Zee.

Claire Danes for Elle February 2013

The shoot includes looks from designers Tom Ford, Cartier, Chloé, Narciso Rodriguez, Gianvito Rossi, Bvlgari, & many more! Not to mention that Claire talks about her evolution as an actress, having started out on the hit show, My So-Called Life, & graduated to the Showtime smash which just wrapped its second season. Also, her sense of humor comes through when talking about her love of Mr. Rogers, Punky Brewster, & other such shows as a young aspiring actress.

Take a look at the video below for a special behind-the-scenes glimpse of the shoot & the magazine’s interview, while playing a Carrie or Angela version of Whose Line? For more video posts, check out Rooney Mara’s cover shoot for Vogue, the full-length trailer for Beyoncé’s documentary, Life Is But A Dream, & what shoes the stars were wearing on the red carpet at the Golden Globes! Happy Styling!

Color Me Style: What’s Black & White & Chic All Over?


My last post in Color Me Style was published just days before my trip to Italy earlier this year, so I thought that since I don’t have a third go-around to look forward to for 2013, I’d revisit the category in a way only appropriate for this Style Darling. My favorite color combination is black & white, which is what I’m featuring- although quite impressed with the fall collections that celebrities are sporting since this season doesn’t typically see all-white looks.  Of course, the beach-filled party days of summer are long gone, but white is still thriving, black has never looked better, & when you put them together, there’s a serious style moment happening.

It wasn’t very hard to find some celebrity inspiration for these colors & this is what I’m sharing. Gwyneth Paltrow looks demure & ladylike in a white knit, wool Misha Nonoo skirt with bright Sergio Rossi pumps. It-girl Olivia Wilde is bold-shouldered in a figure-flattering LWD, House of Lavande jewelry, & metallic platform pumps. 666 Park Avenue star Rachael Taylor wears a head-to-toe Calvin Klein Collection look, including silver lace-up heels & a box clutch. British actress Felicity Jones looks flirty & cool in an all-black sweater & skirt outfit with bowed pumps at the Miu Miu show. Olivia Palermo continues to catch my eye in an all-black leather Dior look with Giuseppe Zanotti pumps. Modern Family bombshell Sofia Vergara shows off her curves in her Sofia by Sofia Vergara for KMart black sparkling dress with tights & suede platforms.

As for black & white looks, I love the variety here when it comes to feminine dresses, vintage-inspiration, as well as nods to menswear with separates all in my favorite color combination! Jessica Alba goes androgynous sexy in a Narciso Rodriguez blouse with loose-fitting trousers & cap-toe Jimmy Choo pumps. French import Laetitia Costa shows the softness of a slim-fitting black suit & sandals, all by Dolce & Gabbana. The sultry Penelope Cruz is elegant & statuesque in an embroidered black & white cardigan by L’Wren Scott with cuffed trousers & Salvatore Ferragamo pumps. Rock of Ages actress / former Dancing with the Stars dancer Julianne Hough is mod in a black & white mini dress with silver pumps at a Henri Bendel party. Scandal star Kerry Washington is as pretty as ever in a white feminine sheath dress with black accents, rose gold Anita Ko studs, & metallic cap-toe pumps.

Black & white has also made the Spring 2013 runways, with especially fabulous designs from Dolce & Gabbana, Giorgio Armani, Chloe, Yves Saint Laurent, Carolina Herrera, & Catherine Malandrino Black Label.

Naturally, I’m excited to share with readers how you can achieve the perfect black & white looks while on a budget. From LOFT, you can find the polka dot wedge top ($39.99), or if you’re looking for a more streamlined look, try New York & Company‘s contrast trim banded collar blouse ($39.95) which will pop against any pencil skirt, colored jean, or slim leg pant.  For a more feminine touch, I love the dolled-up darling ruffled bow blouse ($28.99) from Ruche, which I’d wear to work with a lacy tweed skirt & textured tights, or for a fun night with the girls wearing my favorite dark wash jeans & metallic sandals.

However, if you’re looking to add an unexpected edge to any fall/winter ensemble, try the Danielle seamless skirt ($12.48) in white from G by Guess, which is also available in black.  Also, I’m always a big fan of zebra, which is why I picked the knee-length zebra print skirt ($19.80) from Forever 21. Black & white dresses are perfect for any occasion, especially with a modern graphic print or something in a classic polka dot.  I love the Ronnie & Nicole short-sleeve mitered stripe dress ($35.00) from JC Penney & White House Black Market‘s strapless dot dress ($29.99). Also, Superfly flats ($49.00) from Nine West are a fun touch for the office or a day date, especially when worn with brighter pieces like skinny cords or dark denim jeans.

How do you like to wear black & white? Do you prefer one color over the other? Which staples in these colors do you wear for day & night? For more posts on affordable & fashionable finds, check out posts from Quickie Darling Deal & Steal, Fabulous in 4 Ways, The $100 Challenge, & Splurge or Save! Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Rachel Zoe Celebrates Paris Fashion Week In Style!


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It wouldn’t be Paris Fashion Week without super celeb stylist-turned-fashion designer Rachel Zoe turning some heads while attending some of the most coveted runways, including Chloe, Christian Dior, Elie Saab, Giambattista Valli, Givenchy, Lanvin, Louis Vuitton, Valentino, & Viktor & Rolf.

Thanks to In Style, I was able to find these looks worn by fashion’s power player & I’m super excited to share with readers.  Of course, she’s donning her best 70s-inspired looks & reinforces all the reasons why I love black & white outfits.

Click through the gallery to see all of the fabulous fashions & be sure to check more posts from Red Carpet Review, including the latest looks worn by Scarlett Johansson & Salma Hayek, Christina Hendricks & Kate Beckinsale’s pencil skirt ensembles, & Olivia Wilde’s LBD reimagined for under $100! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Chloe’s Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection!


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Everyday I’m checking out my newsfeed on Facebook & Elle keeps adding links to their latest runway galleries & it’s driving me crazy b/c I’m super excited about sharing those images with readers.  The latest that I’m adding to the slew of catwalk stills in Runway Rundown is the Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection from Chloé as seen during Fashion Week in Paris.  The collection includes ladylike pieces with ruffles, skirts, layers, & lush, feminine fabrics.  I’m eager to see the likes of newlyweds Anne Hathaway & Natalie Portman, as well as Rachel McAdams & Zoe Saldana in looks from this collection.  Which looks are your favorites from the collection? Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: The 2011 Teen Choice Awards Go Glam!


At this weekend’s Teen Choice Awards, young Hollywood came out in full force style! Some of these ladies in line are going to be the next Gwyneth Paltrows, Julianne Moores, & Kate Hudsons of the red carpet.  This is evident in their choice of styling, but let’s get down to who’s wearing who!  First up is Twlight star Ashley Greene who sticks to the pencil dress trend in a color-blocked design by GivenchyZoe Saldana goes metallic in a belted Lanvin frock with shoes by the late great Alexander McQueenThe Vampire Diaires leading lady, Nina Dobrev, was probably my favorite in this figure flattering D&G dress with a Salvatore Ferragamo clutch.  Canadian singer Avril Lavigne does some shameless advertising for her brand, Abbey Dawn in a chic LBD & patterned peep toes.  However, it is a nice chang eof pace for the usual punky blonde.  The svelte star of CW’s NikitaMaggie Q, went all white in a two-piece Max Mara look with black & white pumps- very Mad Men looking, eh?

Next, Lucy Hale took a risk in this sparkling Cengiz Abazoğlu mini dress with Giuseppe Zanotti ankle strap platforms.  It-girl of the moment, Emma Stone, juggled her press tour for The Help, by showing up to the ceremony in a Christian Dior shift dress with jewelry by Irene Neuwirth.  Current In Style Makeover cover girl, Rachel Bilson, looked ultra-femme in a ruffled Chloe dress with Brian Atwood studded ankle booties.  Country crooner, Taylor Swift, channelled Marilyn Monroe in a Rafael Cennamo LWD halter & of course, donned Neil Lane diamonds & bowed silver peep toe pumps.  Last, but not least is Selena Gomez, looking all grown up in an asymmetrical Erin Fetherston minidress & strappy Brian Atwood sandals.

Which is your favorite look?  Who’s your favorite young Style Darling?  Are you loving the little white dress trend?  What’s your favorite black & white look?  For more scoop on red carpet glam, check out Red Carpet Review!  Happy Styling!

Basics for a Bargain: Denim Dresses Inspired by Reese Witherspoon, Pippa Middleton, & Jessica Alba!


This summer is all about dresses & as we can see by our favorite celebrities, denim dresses are hitting the streets.  Here we have some inspiration from Pippa Middleton in a belted denim button-down dress, paired with camel heels & purse.  Jessica Alba is rocking an Isabel Marant design, which is both flirty and bohemian, paired with shades & army boots for an extra touch of playfulness.  Also, Reese Witherspoon shows of a classic shirtdress style dress by Billy Ried, opting for a pop of color in red sandals & a cognac Chloe shoulder bag.
These four very stylish & affordable denim dresses can be a basic worn for an outdoor family party or on a date.  The shift denim dress from Target is flattering for nearly any body type & calls for a belt & cardigan!  In the fall, add some rich mustard tights & ankle booties to get more from your investment!  The blue denim shirt dress can be found @Forever 21. Mix & match it with strappy platforms for a night out with the girls or ballet flats for day!  This dark denim shirt dress is available in sizes 12-26 @Torrid.  Take a little advice from the image & get out some beads to dress it up! As for the sweetheart spaghetti strap dress by Material Girl from Macy’s, top it off with a blazer & closed toe pumps for the office or cocktail event! Check out previous Basics for a Bargain posts!  What’s your favorite basic item that you can’t live without?  Where do you find the best bargains?  Happy Styling!