01/11/2019 Darling of the Day: Meghan Markle’s Maternity LBD!


The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, made her first patronage to work with the charity organization, Smart Works, that works with women who are seeking to improve their job pursuits (via interview skills & wardrobe choices). The mother-to-be arrived in a black materntiy t-shirt dress by Hatch & Oscar de la Renta coat with a Victoria Beckham purse & cow print heels. The looks was in keeping with her minimalist elegance, especially as she radiated with positivity & style.

Of course, Meghan’s wardrobe budget can’t compare to most of ours, but her designer pieces are available to shop online. See below.

SHOP: Hatch maternity t-shirt dress @Shop Bop, coat @Oscar de la Renta, & Victoria Beckham purse @Net-A-Porter.

However, to achieve a look similar to Meghan’s (pregnant or not), I scoured the web for similar & affordable items that are also chic wardrobe essentials. The LBD could be styled for day or night depending on your accessories. Also, a neutral coat is a must-have for the colder months.

SHOP: Isabel maternity t-shirt dress by Ingrid & Isabel @Target, t-shirt dress @Old Navy, pea coat @Milanoo, Emmala pointy toe pumps @Nine West, & Kelly & Katie purse @DSW.

What do you think of Meghan’s demure look? How would you style a little black dress? For more celebrity-inspired posts, check out Michelle Obama’s holographic boots, pearl-inspired looks from Brie Larson & Rihanna, Jessica Alba’s gold top, & Jennifer Lopez’s Second Act premiere gown. Happy Styling!

06/24/2015 Darling of the Day: Lily James’ Ralph Lauren Collection White Shirtdress!


I’m a sucker for classic style, especially when it comes to staples like an LBD, pointy pumps, pearl studs, & the list goes on. One summer must-have is a shirtdress, especially in white, a look that Cinderella & Downton Abbey star Lily James has mastered in a Ralph Lauren Collection design (shop similar here @Farfretch). She’s paired the crisp dress with gilded gold platforms sandals (shop similar here @Net-A-Porter), adding some sparkle to the chic Hamptons-ready ensemble.

Lily James in a white shirtdress by Ralph Lauren Collection with gold gilded sandals. 1. belted shirtdress ($22.90) @Forever 21, 2. sleeveless shirtdress ($32.99) @ModCloth, 3. flared shirtdress ($29.99) @MANGO, 4. short sleeved shirtdress ($49.99) @LOFT, 5. t-strap sandals ($21.59) @6PM, 6. platform heels ($27.00) @Lulu's, 7. ankle strap sandals ($29.90) @Forever 21, & 8. strappy peep toe heels ($18.99) @Charlotte Russe.

SHOP: 1. belted shirtdress ($22.90) @Forever 21, 2. sleeveless shirtdress ($32.99) @ModCloth, 3. flared shirtdress ($29.99) @MANGO, 4. short-sleeved shirtdress ($49.99) @LOFT, 5. t-strap sandals ($21.59) @6PM, 6. platform heels ($27.00) @Lulu’s, 7. ankle strap sandals ($29.90) @Forever 21, & 8. strappy peep toe heels ($18.99) @Charlotte Russe.

What’s your go-to summer dress & shoe combination? Do you have a favorite kind of dress? Do you wear platforms? For more stylish posts, check out Eddie Borgo’s new collection for Target, the latest red carpet looks from Gigi Hadid & Taylor Schilling, Cara Delevingne’s menswear look, & gold wedge espadrilles for summer. Happy Styling!

06/21/2015 Darling of the Day: Cara Delevingne’s Starry Menswear Look for Less!


Supermodel Cara Delevingne is a star on the rise, aside from her catwalk fame & awesome-by-association with besties like Taylor Swift & Rihanna. She’s been getting major buzz since the world of fashion media caught wind of her killer street style & enviable red carpet looks. She’s a sure-fire Style Darling who takes risks in modern menswear, minimalistic chic ensembles, & utilitarian pieces, making her a style icon. Recently, she mixed up her off-duty style for an appearance in London in an Equipment star-print ruffled blouse (shop here @Farfetch) with a Saint Laurent blazer (shop here @Net-A-Porter), black skinny pants, initial pendants (shop similar here @Max & Chloe), & black ankle strap sandals (shop similar here @Calvin Klein) at a photo call for her new film, Paper Towns.

Cara’s look here is easy to duplicate, especially for a shopper on a budget. Using the always amazing & helpful site ShopStyle, I was able to recreate the outfit with some Cara-inspired look-alikes for under $100!

Darling of the Day - Cara Delevingne in an Equipment star-print ruffled blouse with a Saint Laurent blazer blazer, black skinny pants, initial pendants, & black ankle strap sandals at the London photo call for Paper Towns.

SHOP: 1. star blouse ($21.99, was $44.99) @Mango Outlet, 2. double-breasted blazer ($15.99, was $32.80) in black @Forever 21 (FREE SHIPPING with code 10ZCSYG, expires 6/25), 3. ELLE skinny leggings ($17.60, was $44.00) in black @Kohl’s (15% off with code JUNE15 online only, expires 6/21), 4. Michael Antonio Jayvix-Sue ankle strap sandals ($32.99, was $49.00) in black @6PM, 5. BCBGeneration initial pendant ($9.99, was $25.00) in silver-gold @Saks Off Fifth, & 6. retro ring set ($2.75) @ChicNova.

What do you think of Cara’s menswear look? Does her style inspire your wardrobe this season? Are you looking forward to seeing Paper Towns in theaters? For more stylish posts, check out luxury look-alikes of gold wedge espadrilles from Michael Kors & Payless, my summer must-haves including affordable maxi dresses & cute tote bags, & stylish celeb sightings from Victoria Beckham & Kate Hudson! Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes for Less: Bucket Bags for Spring, Michael Kors vs. Target, & More!


One of the biggest bag trends for spring is the bucket bag, perhaps for the variety of fabrics, patterns, material, & detailed straps that can go into the spacious accessory. Although bucket bags have been around for quite a while, celebrities have been toting the bag around since last year. They’re perfect for traveling, when you’re on the go, or headed for out for lunch with the girls. 

Reese Witherspoon, Miranda Kerr, Jamie Chung, & Julianne Hough with bucket bags.

This perfect all-purpose day bag has been spotted on A-listers & style icons like Wild star Reese Witherspoon with a yellow Elizabeth & James bucket bag, model Miranda Kerr with a hot pink bag, actress & fashion blogger Jamie Chung with a printed Elizabeth & James bag, & actress-dancer Julianne Hough with a tan bucket bag.

Just for fun, I wanted to share some gorgeous luxury bucket bags, which come in many forms, with many strap varieties, buckets, studs, & ties. Of course, these gorgeous & high quality bags are investment pieces, but when you’re shopping on a budget, they’re pretty steep when it comes to price tags.

Luxury bucket bags.

SHOP: Saint Laurent ($2,150.00) in red @Net-A-Porter, Michael Kors ($822.94) in blue @Farfetch, Alice + Olivia ($695.00) in black @Neiman Marcus, Elizabeth & James ($595.00) in cream @Bergdorf Goodman, Tory Burch ($475.00) in gold @Saks Fifth Avenue, & Halston ($325.00) in pink @Shop Bop.

And for those Style Darlings who are looking to upgrade their accessories collection for less with an affordable bucket bag, I’ve found these six picks, for $25.00 & under!

Affordable bucket bags.

SHOP: red ($15.99) @MANGO, white ($16.00) @Boohoo, navy ($19.99) @Target, black ($20.00) @Charlotte Russetaupe ($24.90) @Forever 21, & brown ($25.00) @Aeropostale.

Would you wear a bucket bag? How much do you typically spend on handbags & purses? Which accessory do you usually splurge on? For more stylish posts, check out how to wear floral leggings in four ways, Alexandre Vauthier’s Spring 2015 Couture collection, the latest red carpet looks from Anne Hathaway & Felicity Jones, the fringe trend inspired by Scarlett Johansson & Shailene Woodley, & Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s London street style look for less! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Jenny Packham’s Pre-Fall 2015 Collection Lookbook!


Jenny Packham Pre-Fall 2015 Collection.

Jenny Packham is one of Britain’s top designers, famously worn by the likes of Kate Middleton, Emmy Rossum, Nina Dobrev, Kate Winslet, Taylor Swift, & Emma Roberts. Since it’s awards season, there’s no doubt that some, if not most of these looks will appear on the red carpet, especially at this weekend’s Golden Globes. The Pre-Fall 2015 Collection is full of gorgeous column gowns with plenty of sequin & beadwork detail, elegant belts, soft draping, metallic embellishments, & sophisticated pleats.

Which gown is your favorite? Which celebrities are you looking out for at the Golden Globe Awards? Do you have a favorite designer? To shop Jenny Packham’s designs, check out retailers like Harrods, Neiman Marcus, Net-A-Porter, Debenhams, Shop Bop, Boutique 1, & YOOX. For more stylish posts from Runway Rundown, check out more galleries from Christian Siriano, Naeem Kahn, Tory Burch, Alice + Olivia, Badgley Mischka, Marchesa, The Rachel Zoe Collection, & Oscar de la Renta. Happy Styling!

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Runway Rundown: Oscar de la Renta’s Pre-Fall 2015 Collection Lookbook!


Oscar de la Renta Pre-Fall 2015 Collection

2014 is nearly over & I can’t help but look back on the incredible names in fashion that the industry has lost, including the one & only Oscar de la Renta. This month, the lookbook for his Pre-Fall 2015 Collection debuted, & it’s nothing short of fabulous, continuing to celebrate the designer’s timeless legacy. De la Renta has been worn by some of the tops names in Hollywood, including Sarah Jessica Parker, Amal Clooney, Taylor Swift, Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Chastain, & Zooey Deschanel. It won’t be a surprise to see these latest designs featured on A-listers for the upcoming Golden Globe, Screen Actor’s Guild, & Academy Awards ceremonies. The collection includes a chic blend of minimalist separates, sleek silhouttes, exotic & bright florals, as well as the sort of classic ball gown volume we’re used to seeing from the designer.

To see more looks from the designer, check out collections for sale at Net-A-Porter, Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, & Nordstrom, Also, for more posts from Runway Rundown, check out more lookbook collections from Badgley Mischka, Naeem Khan, Marchesa, & The Rachel Zoe Collection. Happy Styling!

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Runway Rundown: Marchesa’s Pre-Fall 2015 Collection Lookbook!


 

Marchesa Pre-Fall 2015 Collection

One of my favorite designers of all time is Marchesa, the epitome of glamour & elegance when it comes to ornate & timeless red carpet gowns, as famously seen on the red carpet on celebrities like Sandra Bullock, Halle Berry, Blake Lively, & Kerry Washington. The brand’s newest Pre-Fall 2015 Collection is everything & more to expect, including lots of brocade, lace, metallic textures, & just-right ruffles. Of course these designs are perfect for the upcoming awards season, likely to be seen on red carpet favorites like Big Eyes star Amy Adams, American’s sweetheart Jennifer Garner, model-turned-style-icon Kendall Jenner, & Girls actress Allison Williams.

Which evening look is your favorite? Which celebrities are you anticipating on the red carpet this season? To view more collections from Marchesa, check out Resort 2015, Fall 2014, & Spring 2014. To shop more from Marchesa, check out stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Net-A-PorterThe Outnet, Bergdorf Goodman, & Marissa Collections. For more posts from Runway Rundown, check out Badgley Mischka, Michael Kors, Diane von Furstenberg, & Carolina Herrera. Happy Styling!

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Runway Rundown: Carolina Herrera’s Spring Summer Ready-To-Wear 2015 Fashion Week Collection!


Carolina Herrera Spring Summer Ready-To-Wear 2015 Fashion Week Collection

One of the most innovative, yet consistently classic designers I’ve ever seen is Carolina Herrera. Her designs are always flirty & feminine, yet there’s a modern element that shows her relevance among the top players in fashion. Her latest presentation of the Spring Summer Ready-To-Wear 2015 collection for this season’s New York Fashion Week (#NYFW) was just that & more. In her own words, the line explores “full bloom,” using the technology of digital prints with bold flower inspiration over seemingly watercolored floral details on each look. Also, the soft blend of pastels against luxe & dramatic separates make this a truly beautiful runway experience, one that I would’ve loved to see in person in motion.

As you an see fro the video, as well as the gallery & slideshow below, there’s an effortless blend of futuristic mosaic cuts with paneling & refined grace that exists in the collection. Sometimes florals can be matronly, but this show appeals to Style Darlings of any age who seek elegance with high style. It’s no wonder why Herrera has a loyal celebrity following that includes Renee Zellweger, Emmy Rossum, Jordana Brewster, Camilla Belle, Olivia Palermo, & many more!

To shop through Herrera’s previous work & for your pinning pleasure, check out retailers like Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Gilt, Boutique 1, Harrod’s, Macy’s, Bergdorf Goodman, & Net-A-Porter. Also, for more from Fashion Week, check out previously posted galleries including Monique Lhuillier, Diane von Furstenberg, & Michael Kors. Happy Styling!

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Runway Rundown: The Michael Kors Spring Summer Ready-To-Wear 2015 Fashion Week Collection!


MIchael Kors Spring Summer Ready-To-Wear 2015 Fashion Week Collection

What better way to celebrate New York Fashion Week (#NYFW) than with some true American style brought to you by Long Island-native & Americana designer, Michael Kors & his gorgeous show for Spring Summer Ready-To-Wear 2015. I was taken away on a sunshine-filled & romantic adventure into his world, with the whimsy & crispness of the collection’s effortless throwback to the 1950s with cinched waists & fuller skirts. The Peter Pan-collar is certainly a big trend for spring, as well as easy neutrals with a pop of opulence, which can translate to daywear & party looks. Not to mention that these pieces are sure to hit the red carpet & editorials, attracting the A-lister likes of Blake Lively, Taylor Swift, Emma Stone, & Keira Knightley.

The following videos include a behind-the-scenes look at how the style comes to life through hair & makeup, an interview with the designer himself, as well as a dazzling runway presentation, sure to make any prepster or vintage queen giddy in their seats.

To shop for Michael Kors designs, be sure to check out retailers like Macy’s, Nordstrom, Dillard’s, Net-A-Porter, Neiman Marcus, & Harrod’s. However, don’t let the prices scare you off since the classic, clean looks from this runway are easy to inspire a budget shopper, especially with pieces like a staple button down shirt, a neutral leather belt, & dark denim separates.  

Which looks are inspiring your wardrobe? What fashion shows were your favorites this season? What’s the best trend you’re looking forward to for spring? For more fabulous posts, check out complete runways from Monique Lhuillier & Diane von Furstenberg, as well as bargain shopping inspired by Alice + Olivia, & 36 of the most stylish international September issue covers! Happy Styling!

 

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Splurge Or Save… On A Lace Sweatshirt?


Even though I’m stuck in the thick of winter, along with the rest of the east coast, I’m still looking ahead to spring for some style inspiration. One of the favorite trends that started coming up during the winter & is making its way into stylish spring wardrobes in the lace sweatshirt. The feminine combination of elegance & casual makes for a fabulous way to reinterpret what it means to be chic. This is an essential separate for a casual Friday at the office, which can also be turned into a night our piece with leather leggings & ankle boots or skinny jeans & stilettos.

Keeping a budget in mind for any Style Darling shopping the sale rack, I wanted to direct your attention to a pair of lace sweatshirts, in different price ranges.

lace sweatshirtsThe lace sweatshirt ($110.00) to the left is from White House Black Market, & while it will make an investment in quality craftsmanship, it’s not exactly budget-friendly. However, on the right, the floral lace front tee ($44.50) @LOFT, which is a lightweight option, but still shares the same idea. To maintain the classy look of this shirt, mix these up with various accessories, like a string of pearls, stud earrings, & a headband, especially with modern bottoms like distressed jeans & ballet flats, menswear-inspired trousers & studded boots, or cigarette pants & ankle strap platforms.

What trends are you looking forward to this spring? What looks caught your eye during New York Fashion Week? Which pieces are your favorites to mix & match? For more fancy sweatshirts, check out designer duds like these from Tory Burch @Nordstrom & Valentino @Net-A-Porter! Other more affordable shopping options include sweatshirts from Delia’s, Macy’s, Bluefly, & Kohl’s. Happy Styling!

Watch This Style / Runway Rundown: Valentino’s Haute Couture Fall 2012 / Winter 2013 Show!


I’ve been staying on top of all the latest runway shows, trying to add a little more high fashion splash to Style Darling & came across this enchanting video of the latest from Valentino.  The legendary brand’s Haute Couture Fall 2012 / Winter 2013 show is full of dramatic construction, gothic hues, flirty florals, lavish long sleeves, & glamorous gold sparkle, perfect as a platform for next season’s envious styles. I can already see the likes of red carpet veterans like Angelina Jolie, Cate Blanchett, & Meryl Streep donning these unforgettable designs.  You can shop for Valentino @Net-A-Porter, Far Fetch, Neiman Marcus, & Nordstrom!

For more on the latest resort & fall / winter collections, check out previous posts, including Jason Wu & Michael Kors! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Jason Wu’s Resort 2013 Collection!


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Jason Wu is one of the most in-demand designers right now. It was a no-brainer to search for his latest Resort 2013 Collection, especially when some of my favorite red carpet regulars like Michelle Williams, Diane Kruger, & Emma Stone have been spotted wearing feminine frocks from the line.  If you’re all about lace, florals, classic silhouettes, & fierce colors, then this one collection you can’t miss.  Be sure to click through the gallery & share which looks are your favorites! If you’re looking for more from Jason Wu, keep an eye out @Neiman Marcus, Net-A-Porter, & Nordstrom. Happy Styling!

Luxury Look-Alikes for Less: Blazers by D&G Vs. Steve Madden!


In for Spring is white… & white blazers do the trick for nearly any outfit!  You’re in luck b/c I’ve found a gorgeous white blazer- make that two.  Clearly, you can see the label in the image to the left, by Dolce & Gabbana‘s D&G brand.  The one to the right is by Steve Madden.  You can then guess which costs nearly $800 & which is affordably under $50.  Of course when it comes to a finishing piece like a jacket, you want to make an investment, but while we’re Style Darlings on a budget, perhaps the Steve Madden one (which can be found at Zappos) is the best choice for your mini skirt, tank, & peep toes.  Check out Net-A-Porter for more fabulous Dolce & Gabbana designs, as well as our previous Style ABC’s (x3) post which features the glam Italian duo!  Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Matthew Williamson’s Collection for Macy’s!


 

 

 

Celebrities like Blake Lively, Selena Gomez, & Cat Deeley all love to wear designer Matthew Williamson’s creations, as we can see! If you don’t know who the English-born fashion innovator is, well you’re about to find out! You may even remember that Williamson created a line just for H&M back in 2009, which was a big hit among stylish stars like Sienna Miller & Thandie Newton.

 

In April, an exclusive line just for Macy’s will debut, featuring bright, bold color, fun separates, & plenty of cocktail looks. Items start at $24 & other pieces cost up to $300. If you’re a smart & savvy Macy’s shopper, you know where to find all the best discount offers.

In Style offers a sneak peek at the designer’s entire collection for Macy’s & I’ve picked out just a few of my favorites. Williamson shared with the magazine that his aim for the pieces is to “capture the essence of the mainline brand, with a focus on effortless glamour, dynamic prints, loosely structured silhouettes and pops of strong color.”

If spring has taught us anything, it’s that trench coats are timeless & this gorgeous cobalt-printed belted trench will instantly perk up any rainy day. This chartreuse one-shoulder dress with an embellished belt can be worn for any number of events like a cocktail party or a summer wedding with nude pumps. Romantic & wild graphic / animal-inspiration makes for a great dress for work, paired with a boyfriend blazer & chic shoulder bag. The boldness of this purple & neon blouse can be balanced with navy shorts & platform sandals for day or a black pencil skirt & cut-out pumps for night. This heart-printed romper can go from day-to-night as well with some ballet flats & a canvas tote, & then some metallic pumps & a bold cuff for a date. For any cool day of running errands, you’ll need an easy, casual look of a tee & walking shorts, paired with this graphic scarf & your favorite boat shoes.

After doing a little research, here are just a few of Williamson’s most fabulous pieces from his Spring 2011 Runway Collection, which can be purchased for a hefty price at Net-A-Porter. Happy Styling!