Smart Fabrics: 6 Must-Wear Textiles for Fall/Winter ‘09
This is the second post in our mini-series on must-wear colors and fabrics for fall and winter. As stated in the first post on must-wear colors, we reviewed what smart (in a fashion context) means for this season: “stylish or elegant in dress or appearance…appealing to sophisticated tastes.”
Let’s review the 6 must-wear fabrics for Fall/Winter 2009! As with the first post, I hope you can find at least one fabric that you’d like to wear during the season!
1. Velvet
For this fall/winter season, velvet has received a makeover! The velvet of this decade is everything you liked about the 80’s/90’s versions, but simpler and more feminine. My recommendations for wearing velvet are to stick to one velvet piece per outfit and stick with darker, richer colors or black. Want more information/inspiration? Check out this great article by WhoWhatWear!
Picture/Product Information (clockwise from left): Balenciaga Fall 2009 RTW- style.com, Kimchi Blue Velvet Bow Dress- Urban Outfitters, Stretch Velvet Long Sleeve Dress- American Apparel, Velvet Black Blazer- Forever 21, Velvet Ribbon Shrug- TopShop, Velvet Flats with Satin Ribbon- Newport News, Velvet Roses Skirt- Forever 21, Bodycon Velvet Skirt- TopShop
2. Knits (Chunky Knits)
Knitted garments are really in for fall and winter, specifically super chunky knits. The best way to try out this trend would be to try a chunky scarf! However, accessories aren’t the only way to go. Keep your eyes peeled for knitted dresses and sweaters! Cozy!
Picture/Product Information (clockwise from left): Julien Macdonald Fall 2009 RTW- style.com, Chunky Knit Gator- Ann Taylor, Chunky Knitted Cardigan- TopShop, Topshop Unique Fall 2009 RTW- style.com, Deena and Ozzy Chunky Blanket Scarf- Urban Outfitters, Design History Cable Knit Sweater in Wine- Bluefly.com
3. Lace
This season, lace will be an accent to artsy pieces. Lace for this season will manifest itself in one of three categories: chantlilly lace, richelieu embroidery, or sequined embroidery. Which look do you like best?
Picture/Product Information (clockwise from left): Christian Lacroix Fall 2009 RTW- style.com, Cameo Lace Cardigan- Forever 21, Exposed Zipper Lace Skirt- Arden B, Lna Lace Back Top- ShopBop, Dolce & Gabbana Fall 2009 RTW- style.com, Petite Lace Poplin Dress- TopShop
4. Leather
Leather and faux leather are back for another season! Throwing on a leather or faux leather jacket is definitely the easiest way to add a little edge to your effortlessly chic fall/winter look! However, if you already have a leather jacket, or if this type of jacket isn’t your thing, try a leather dress like Kate Moss!
Picture/Product Information (clockwise from left): Kate Moss during Paris Fashion Week- fashionising.com, Crinkled Faux Leather Jacket- Forever 21, PU Hooded Bomber Jacket- TopShop, Hermès Fall 2009 RTW- style.com, Faux Leather Dress- Wet Seal, Leather Gloves with Faux Fur- Ralph Lauren, Women’s Ruffle Peep Toe Pumps- Old Navy, Faux Leather Tote- Windsor
5. Silk
This season, silk will be accompanied by draping and either subtle metallics or rich gemstone colors. Look out for both high sheen and eggshell gloss looks this season! These elements will add to the feminine undertone that silk naturally bears. I think silk is a great option for any fancier dresses you may need for holiday parties!
Picture/Product Information (clockwise from left): Haider Ackermann Fall 2009 RTW- style.com, Tiered Silk Dress- Gap, Short Sleeve Tie Front Ruffle Top- 7 for All Mankind at ShopBop, Adrianna Papell Red Silk-Blend Pencil Skirt- Lord & Taylor, Plum Thai Silk Flat- Rocket Dog at Zappos, Michael Antonio Women’s Lea Pump- Endless.com, Poufy Party Skirt- Calypso St. Barth
6. Tweed
Tweed has a down-to-earth vibe this season. Much of today’s tweed is being generated by recycled yarn, so if you’re into eco-chic, this might be a good fabric for you to look into (depending on the manufacturer, of course). Tweed will provide a great back-to-basics look to your winter wardrobe.
Picture/Product Information (clockwise from left): Katy Perry in NYC- fabsugar.com, Tweed Cap- Armani Exchange, Tweed Classic Trench- Forever 21, Silence and Noise Tweed Funnel Coat- Urban Outfitters, Tweed Check Purse- TopShop, Tweed Evalyn Dress- Fred Flare, Rosalyn Tweed Jacket- Forever 21
What do YOU think?
Now that you’ve become an expert on smart fabrics, what do you think? Will you wear any of these textiles this fall or winter? Which is your favorite? How do you wear “smart fabrics” in your everyday wardrobe? Tell me with a comment!
Filed Under: Trends / Tags: knit, Lace, leather, silk, tweed, velvet, Winter 2009
How to Carry Your School Stuff in Style
Face it: As amazing as life as a college girl is, we’re busy and we have a lot of stuff. Going from classes, to the library, to that study session across campus requires some serious equipment. Obviously, we need some heavy-duty bags to carry our things from place to place! But boring backpacks all the time?! No thanks!
There are plenty of adorable options out there that will help you carry your books, computer, and even your keys in style. Fashion and function! What could be better?
Ways to Carry Your Books:
Backpacks:
Backpacks are the obvious go-to for toting heavy loads from place to place, and there are tons of cute options out there, if that’s your style.
Pick a solid color for utility, a fun pattern to brighten up your mornings, or a pack with fun features to make your trek to class more enjoyable. Backpacks provide more support and space than any of the other options on this list, so if you’ve got a lot of books and gear, or like to take your laptop with you from class to class, the classic backpack is going to be your best pick.
Product Information: Hurley Paige Merlot Viceroy Backpack, pacsun.com. Java Blue Backpack, Vera Bradley. The North Face Vault Backpack, TheNorthFace.com. Hayden-Harnett Bleecker Nylon Backpack, haydenharnett.com.
Tote Bags:
Tote bags are an adorable way to carry all of your things inside AND outside of class. One of the many pros of a cute tote is just that–you can use it for books on weekdays and as a purse on weekends!
Tote bags are definitely more chic than backpacks, and they can make your outfit look pulled-together and polished. If you’ve ever hit the mall or a coffee shop after class with your backpack, you know how awkward it can feel carrying it off-campus, but with a tote, you won’t have that problem!
Unfortunately, unless you have an extremely roomy tote, it’s probably not going to be able to hold as much as a backpack. Also, since totes are not as durable as backpacks, you’re going to need to watch the weight of whatever you put inside. It’s definitely a trade off, but if looking good is a top priority, totes are always a great bet.
Product Information: Croc-Print Patent Tote, yesstyle.com. Thomas Paul Coral Tote, velocityartanddesign.com. Adrianne Satchel, shopsueyboutique.com. Marc by Marc Jacobs Into the Wild Pretty Nylon Animal Print Tote, Bloomingdales.
Messenger Bags:
Messenger bags are a great option if you want to carry your laptop or gym clothes. Style wise, if you have a laid-back, bohemian look, it will probably be easy for you to rock a messenger bag.
Depending on how much you have to carry, you can choose from giant, luggage-style bags to small, cross-body swing packs. It’s up to you! If you want to stand out on campus, choose a messenger bag–not many ladies have them and they can be really cute!
Product Information: Lucky Brand Peace Keeper Messenger, Zappos.com. Wildkin Girl Rodeo Messenger Bag, ebags.com. Lucky Brand Abbey Road, Piperlime. Hurley Autumn Mess Messenger Bag, pacsun.com.
Ways to Carry Your Computer:
Laptop Sleeves:
Laptop sleeves are great if you plan on tucking your computer into your bag during commutes. They’ll keep your laptop covered and protected from all your other stuff.
Most laptop sleeves are minimally padded and light weight, but there are some models made of fabric-coated hard foam that will help your computer survive being dropped, kicked, or sat on. (It could happen!) Sleeves come at all price points, and in many patterns, colors, and styles. If you’re into artsy options that no one else will have, Etsy is a great place to look for sleeves.
Product Information: California Leash Manhattan Beach Laptop Sleeve, coolcomputerbags.com. Case Logic PC Reversible Laptop Sleeve, amazon.com. Abbi New York Leopard Laptop Sleeve, kolobags.com.
Laptop Bags:
In comparison to sleeves, laptop bags are a much more substantial way to carry and protect your laptop.
Like sleeves, they come in many different colors and patterns, but unlike sleeves, they also make transporting your computer from place to place easier. Some laptop bags even have enough room for a notebook and binder, so they’re perfect for those afternoons studying in the campus coffee shop!
Whether you want a simple style with a handle or a full-on bag with heavy-duty straps, you’ll be covered– with tons of options!
Product Information: eBags Vertical Laptop Sleeve, ebags.com. Juicy Couture Velour Laptop Case with Removable Strap, Nordstrom. Daisy Daisy Tall Zip Tote, Vera Bradley.
Laptop Cases and Skins:
Although technically laptop cases won’t help you in transporting your things from place to place, they’re a great option for those of you who want a little extra protection for your computer.
Most laptop cases simply snap on to your computer to protect it from dirt, stains, finger prints and scratches, while also making it look adorable! If you’re a Mac girl and have been jealous of the neon Dell or Vaio laptops, snap-on cases are the perfect way for you to get your color fix.
If snap-on cases and covers aren’t your thing but you still want to spice up your computer, try decals or skins! You’ll get the same sassy style without the bulk.
Product Information: Montauk Blue Suede Skin, schtickers.com. Lavish Leopard Laptop Skin, skinit.com. Satin Touch Hard Laptop Shell, speckproducts.com.
Keys, ID, & Everything In Between!
Key Chains & Key Covers:
If you’ve lived away from home for long, you’ve probably come to realize just how many keys and cards you’ve acquired. There’s a key to get into your building, your room, even your mailbox, and they all look suspiciously similar. What’s a girl to do?!
First of all, invest in an adorable key chain to hold all of your keys, and second, try a key cover to differentiate!
Lots of schools have rules about making marks on their keys, so it’s easy to get confused about which key does what. Luckily, there are key covers–stretchy, durable shields that go over the head of your keys. Choose from animal faces, favorite characters, colors, or shapes for a fun way to easily tell your keys apart.
Product Information: Coach Pink OP Art Heart Locket Key Fob, amazon.com. Kitty Key Covers, Urban Outfitters. Peace Sign Key Fob, Juicy Couture. Freakey Key Covers, patinastores.com.
ID Holders:
ID holders are definitely a college girl essential. Different from a regular wallet, an ID holder will do just what it sounds like–hold your ID!
These are great for those times when you only need your essentials, and don’t want to tote around all of your credit cards or money throughout the day. If you need to show your ID to people to use it, it’s best to choose an option with a clear-window, or just have a simple plastic piece that can attach to a key chain or lanyard. Mini-Skinnies, luggage tags, and coin purses are also adorable ways to keep your ID close.
Product Information: Hope garden Clip Zip ID, Vera Bradley. Bow Luggage Tag, haydenharnett.com. Coach Mini Skinny, Macy’s. Metallic Zippered Coin Wallet, Forever 21.
Lanyards:
Before I came to college, I had never used a lanyard and never thought I would need to use one! Though guys always seem to have them for keys, they just didn’t become necessary for me until college when I was faced with the need to carry and quickly find my multiple keys, ID holder, and swipe card.
Lanyards are extremely helpful–you can wear them around your neck, stuff them in your pockets, or pull them out of your backpack for easy access to your most prized possessions. Do some digging–there are adorable, girly lanyards available online if not in your campus bookstore!
Product Information: Pink Jumbo Dots Lanyard, stylishbabyboutique.com. Volcom Dollface Lanyard, tillys.com. Personalized Monogram Button Lanyards, babies2babes.com. Vera Bradley Lanyard, verabradley.com.
Your thoughts?
How do you carry your stuff from place to place? Do you prefer function to fashion, or do you need a cute bag to brighten up your school days? Let us know with your comments!
Filed Under: College Life / Tags: backpacks, Books, Handbags, ID holders, lanyards, laptop, laptop sleeves, messenger bags, tote bags
Would You Wear… a Bib Necklace?
For this edition of Would You Wear?, let’s talk about an accessories trend that’s been going on for a little while now but has recently started to have its spark renewed – the bib necklace.
Over the past season or so, designers and celebrities alike have been bringing drama to their outfits with seriously eye-catching neckwear. The bib necklace, named for the fact that it resembles a bib, has been snapped up by celebrities like Olivia Palermo and Mischa Barton, who love the injection of glamour that such necklaces bring to any outfit.
But recently, a different variation on the bib necklace has begun to emerge from those with more romantic, soft tastes: the flowered bib necklace. Flower bib necklaces have exploded in popularity because of their feminine touch, and are an excellent alternative for girls who feel the heavy jewels of original bib necklaces are too much.
Flower bib necklaces are great because they’re often less expensive than their jeweled counterparts and are a great DIY project: all you need is a glue gun and a trip to your local craft store. Both the Glamourai and Krystal from This Time Tomorrow chronicle their DIY attempts at bib necklaces, here and here.
Necklaces from Modcloth
Personally, I love both styles of bib necklaces. They can bring either a little bit of attitude or a soft touch of femininity depending on your taste, and I love that you can either buy one in stores or make your own with fairly little effort.
What do you think?
Would you wear a bib necklace? If so, which style of bib necklace do you like better? Would you consider making your own? Leave a comment with your thoughts!!
Filed Under: Would You Wear? / Tags: Celebs, Mischa Barton, Necklace, Olivia Palermo, Would You Wear?
Inspired by… Marie Antoinette
Marie Antoinette is a movie that portrays the rich life of one of France’s most famous queens. If you haven’t seen this movie, rent it immediately! You’ll be captivated by the lavishness of Marie Antoinette’s royal lifestyle, including everything from eloquent banquets to breathtaking gowns with tiers and tiers of pastel fabrics.
Elements of Fashion in Marie Antoinette:
There are many fashion motifs in Marie Antoinette, all of which will trigger inspiration and awe. I will review some of the most prominent elements of fashion within the movie, along with my modern interpretations.
If you haven’t seen the film, I hope to give you a taste of the costumes in this film, and maybe inspire you to go rent it! If you have seen the movie, my wish is that you recall the intricacy of the ensembles and maybe find a way to create your own modern translation!
The Marie Antoinette Color Palette
The color palette of this movie is definitely in the pastel range. For neutrals, ivory is the most prominent, whereas other popular colors include baby blue, light pink, and mint green.
My Interpretation:
Pastels are usually spring colors; however, for my interpretation I tried to incorporate a pastel piece with fall/winter hues for a look you could wear right now. (Just add your favorite coat!)
Product Information: Vanessa Bruno Silk Dress- The Outnet, Cuffed Suedette Boots- Forever 21, Silence & Noise Double Breasted Blazer in Ivory- Urban Outfitters, Vintage Black Beret- TopShop
Volume and Proportion
The garments in this movie have a lot of volume. From men’s puffy sleeves to hoop-style skirts, bigger was definitely better during that era. Even their hair styles were full!
My Interpretation:
I think the best way to pull off this look is to have one piece that has a lot of volume. I chose to do a full skirt in my look with a ruffled bottom! Other options could include puffy sleeves on a cocoon jacket or a fuller hairstyle for a change!
Product Information: Ruffled Hem Shimmer Skirt- Forever 21, Ivory Seamless Cami- Charlotte Russe, Stencil Flower Cardigan- TopShop, Funnel Shoulder Bag- Forever 21, Black Tights- Figleaves, Black Ankle Boots by INC- Macy’s
Embellishments and Details
Every outfit in the movie has such fine detail – the artistry and craftsmanship are very inspiring. One of the most noticeable elements in the movie is the use of embellishments, including lace and beading. It’s all very over-the-top and fabulous!
My Interpretation:
Again, keep the embellishment focused to one garment and accompany that piece with neutral accents. Remember: less is more!
Product Information: Lace “Jennifer” Dress- Fred Flare, Miss Me Women’s Muse Flat- Endless.com, Distressed Wide Headband- Forever 21, Priorities Silk Blend Cardigan- Bluefly
Floral Motifs
Florals are used everywhere in the movie and are reminiscent of the famous French royal gardens.
My Interpretation:
For my interpretation of the Marie Antoinette floral look, I wanted to juxtapose a floral with something more edgy to make it modern. I chose to pair a floral dress with over-the-knee boots. To keep the look fresh and modern, go with floral prints that have larger, more exaggerated flowers. Smaller floral prints can sometimes look too much like something from a baby nursery.
Product Information: Pretty Petunias Garden Dress- Shop Ruche, Dolan Over-the-Knee Boots- Top Shop, Long Sleeve Cardigan Sweater in Ivory- Eddie Bauer, Gold Leaf Necklace- Old Navy
Your Thoughts?
Are you inspired by Marie Antoinette? Which of the Marie Antoinette elements do you like best? How would you interpret a traditional style like this one into a contemporary version for your everyday life? Tell me with a comment!
Filed Under: Fashion Tips / Tags: Fashion Inspiration, Inspired by, Kirsten Dunst, Marie Antoinette, Movie Inspiration
Splurge vs Save: The Classic Trench
With the weather continuing to get colder, you’ve probably already pulled out your favorite pea coats, denim jackets, or fleece zip-ups. While these options are all adorable college girl staples, a classic trench coat is a must-own addition to your collection!
A great trench will not only keep you warm and dry, but will add some sophisticated flare to any outfit. But should you splurge or save? Read my tips and make your choice!
Why Buy?
Trench coats look good on everyone, they add adult sophistication to any outfit, keep you dry, and look great with both wellington boots and shorts and party dresses and stilettos. What other jackets can do that?!
You’ll look great walking into your interview in editor pants and trench over a nice blouse; there’s nothing worse than completing a dressy outfit with a sloppy jacket, but a trench is a great option–comfortable and cute…Not to mention that the trench is also totally iconic.
Tips for Wearing and Buying a Trench Coat
Go classic. For a classic, sophisticated style, pick a longer trench in a neutral hue. Taupes, black, and khakis are all good bets for creating your look. In these colors and with its timeless silhouette, a classic trench will be a piece you can wear for years to come.
Classic Outfit Ideas:
Product Information: Candie’s Mockneck Trench Coat, khols.com. Skinny C Hat, coach.com. Nine West Rocha Pumps, zappos. Super Skinny Jeans, ae.com. Blouse, eruca.jp.
Product Information: Diane von Furstenberg Amaury Trench, theoutnet.com. Black Cowl Shift Dress, Dorothy Perkins. Jeffery Campbell Pearl Flat, Nordstrom. My Fair Locket Necklace, modcloth.com. Laurel’s Antique Crystal Flower Brooch, fantasyjewelrybox.com.
Go casual. Though a trench may seem conservative, you can wear one with anything! Try bright colors, unexpected footwear, and free-flowing silhouettes for great contrast against your classic coat. Of course, there are now amazing trenches that come in patterns, bright colors, or shorter length if you’re looking to create a more casual, fun style. As always spend less if you’re going for a trendy look.
Casual Outfit Ideas:
Product Information: Women’s Belted Trench Coat, oldnavy.gap.com. Tory Burch Reva Ballet Flats, Neiman Marcus. Women’s Button-Front Drop-Waist Orange Stripe Top, oldnavy.gap.com. 7 For All Mankind Roxanne Skinny Jean, piperlime.com.
Product Information: Rebecca Short Trench Coat, maruione.jp. Baggy Floral Top, desireclothing.co.uk. Ciao Bella Pause Flats, Piperlime. My Pant’s Dublin Cargo Pants, shopbop.com.
Keep it classy. Though there are times when a completely buttoned trench and a pair of sassy stilettos would totally work, for every day, it’s usually best to pair your trench with a longer dress, pants, or tights to avoid being mistaken for a flasher!
Try fitted styles. Since trench coats have so much fabric, they can easily make you look bulky if you pick the wrong size. Go for fitted, narrow silhouettes, and use the attached belt to define your waist.
Layer for warmth. Though most trenches will protect you from even the rainiest of days, these coats are best for warmer temperatures. If you want to dress up a fall or winter outfit with a trench, be sure to layer so you don’t freeze! Some trench coats come with a winter-weight liner for wear in colder climates.
Get Your Own!
Splurge
Product Information: London Fog Belted Trench Coat, Nordstrom. MICHAEEL Michael Kors SB Trench with Hood, Zappos. Gyrphon The Timeless Mini Trench, 25park.com. Black Belted Trench, debenhams.com
Save
Product Information: Satin Trench Jacket, Forever 21. London Fog Women’s Faux Silk Double Collar Trench Coat, overstock.com. Black and White Trench, windsorstore.com. The Goldie Trench, modcloth.com.
What do you think?
Do you own a trench coat? How do you wear it? And most importantly, would you splurge or save on this item? Let us all know your thoughts in the comments section!
Filed Under: Shopping / Tags: Classic, investment, Splurge vs Save, Trench, Trench Coat
