Dear Girlfriends -

On the runway this fall you may have seen a mixture of bold prints; and bold print blouses were a sure fashion hit!  This riotous clash of patterns channeled an avant-garde glamour – eclectic in a way that’ still inherently chic. 

Anne Klein NY Floral Print Blouse

Jones NY Blouse

A checkered print in red and black make a bold statement in our silk blouse. Keyhole detail at neckline.  This beautiful silk watercolor print with 3/4 sleeve blouse with soft pleats at neck offers elegance with ease.

Banana Republic Silk Blouse

Anne Klein Watercolor Print Blouse

An abstract print blouse from St. John; in a currant and caviar abstract print.

St. John Abstract Print Blouse

An artful spin on fall’s strong shoulder, this print silk-charmeuse blouse features ruching at the wide crew neck and a single-button keyhole at the back. Rounded, asymmetrical hem. Pleating at shoulders and ruching at cuffs. Cutouts at long sleeves.  A top with joie de vivre, this print silk blouse features a tie at the crew neck and a keyhole at the bust. Pintucks at front and back. Ruching at shoulders and cuffs. 3-button closure at cuffs. Long blouson sleeves

Karen Blouse

Joie Lacey Top Blouse

Girlfriends, flaunt your free spirit in a colorfully printed blouse and enhance your figure with feminine softness.

Not sure how to begin?  Pick intricately printed tops in lush, drapey fabrics, then match them with skirts that are just a bit more simple and structured, like streamlined A-line or pencil silhouttes.

Until the next style advenute,

Monica

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Dear Girlfriends ~

It’s time to have fun with Foldover Boots this year!  Perfect with skinny jeans or a fun little mini, which ever way you choose to wear them, the foldover boot is a popular trend this fall. 

Fashionistas, designers are making them with chunky heels, cone heels and even  stilettos and can be found  in  crinkled leather, vintage leather or suede of all colors.  A wide variety of styles are out there just to suit you!

Versatile and classic, these Twelfth Street Dylan Knee High Boots are a must have. Leather boots have a stacked wooden heel. With a foldover flap, you’ll have two boots in one! Count on Twelfth Street for amazing footwear.

Twelfth Street Dylan Knee High Boot

The Victoria boot is Luxury Rebel’s take on this season’s super-chic foldover trend, combining toughness and elegance in an infinitely versatile style. Available in smooth leather or marshmallow-soft suede, we think you’ll fall in love with its asymmetrical cuff line and daringly high stacked heel. Pair this one with colored or textured tights and a bold minidress for a look that’s totally of the moment.

Luxury Rebel

Distressed leather with slouchy foldover, finishes off with a smooth point-toe design.

Givenchy Wide Ankle Boots

By Vivienne Long, these leather boots feature raised seams at the full-length cuff. 3.5″ stacked heel. 14.5″ shaft and 16″ circumference. Leather sole. Or from Elizabeth & James, these pull-on, distressed leather boots feature a full-length cuff and a zip side gusset. 1.5″ hidden wedge heel. 14.5″ shaft and 15″ circumference.  These pull-on suede boots feature a cuff and seam details. 3.5″ covered heel. 14.5″ shaft and 14.5″ circumference. Faux leather sole.

Vivienne Long

Giuseppe Zanotti Boots

Rachel Roy Foldover Boots

A stylized take on the everyday knee boot, these have a wide-leg trouser cut that’s full of attitude!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Dear Girlfriends -

Its perfectly ok for you to wear bold cardigans to work this Fall and Winter season. 

If you are one of the fashionistas who likes to switch it up every now and then, the new business chic swaps restrained suit jackets for spirited sweaters. Crewneck or V-neck, worn open or closed, solid or patterned—these lively knits look both approachable and office-appropriate. Plus, they’re comfortable!

Layer this Argyle Cropped Cardigan featuring an argyle print fabric, solid ribbed knit trim, scoop neck, snap button closures, and half sleeves. Size medium has a shoulder-to-bottom hem length of 17″. 

Cropped Argyle Cardigan

Complete your look with our sleeveless sweater cardigan featuring an argyle pattern with miniature cut-out trimming. Other features include a 6-button placket, a full ribbed back, and a finished ribbed bottom hem.

Argyle Sleeveless Cardigan

Tommy Hilfiger Laurent Cardigan

Desiree Argyle Cardigan

Designer Tracey Reese gives us a softly hued argyle patterns a lightweight knit cardigan designed with a deliberately oversized silhouette and longer length.

Tracey Reese Boyfriend Cardigan

As seasons change, so does your wardrobe. But it doesn’t have to be as drastic as you think. Autumn Cashmere offers great cotton and cashmere blends that will keep you stylish all year through.

Autumn Cashmere Cardigan

An argyle print in black, white and red is sophisticated and office appropriate.

Classic Argyle Cardigan

These diamonds will be your best friend.  This argyle sweater comes in several color combinations - try one this Fall!

Gauge Argyle Cardigan

Fashionistas, argyles are an easy way to update your look. And the best part of all is that it is comfortable — nothing is as comfortable and/or easier to wear than a sweater on cold days. It’s important to note that comfort is what makes certain trends a staple and so much more enjoyable to wear various occasions!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Dear Girlfriends ~

Take a walk on the wild side this fall with hot spots!  This season a leopard-inspired bag is a must-have for carrying.  Pair your leopard bag with tunic/leggings combinations or jeans and sweater combo. 

Valentino Leopard Print Hobo

La Regale Sequin Leopard Clutch

Girlfriends, there is a lot to choose from.  Betsy Johnson gives us a leopard hair calf handheld with lipstick turnlock.

Betsy Johnson Handheld Leopard

Go bold with this shockingly stylish bag from Rampage. It combines hues and textures–including a little shot of leopard-print haircalf–in a pretty, slouchy-but-structured design.

Rampage Leopard Tote

Don the haute look of this leopard-print haircalf tote with patent leather trim from AK Anne Klein, featuring dual shoulder straps, a metal top-zip closure, a square lion logo plate, an exterior front slip pocket with magnetic closure and interior cell phone, open and zipper pockets. 

Anne Klein Perfect Leopard Tote

Fashionistas, I  adore the fresh, contemporary look of Charles David’s Zelda clutch. It features haircalf with trimmings of polished and lizard-print leathers in a pretty, high-style combination of colors.

Charles David Zelda Clutch

Head Downtown with a look that fits the scene and a bag to match. This Jessica Simpson tote is featured in faux leather with cool texture, attitude-filled slouch, and stud detailing. Add the long strap when your hands are busy with other tasks.

Jessica Simpson Downtown Tote

Girlfriends, now that you have the style scoop on one of the best bags for fall – the leopard bag, stay tuned for the next bag you need to carry this Fall!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Dear Girlfriends -

“hi hose, hi hose, it’s off to work, or dinner, or drinks we go” … whistle … whistle.

This season whether you opt for the ’80′s trend, the layering trend or the mod trend this season, chances are tights are required to complete your ensemble. But legs have been bare for many seasons now, and many of us need a refresher course on how to pull this look off with confidence. 

Fashionistas,  I will answer the most-asked questions triggered by this legwear affair.

Which shoes look best with tights?
Really, any type of chunky-heeled shoe looks smart with opaque tights. Winterize your peep-toes by pairing them with ribbed hosiery, or update your silver metallics by pairing them with shades of gray. Boots (short or long) are an ideal match with woolly hose this season, as are grown-up Mary Janes or platforms platforms teamed with darks or brights.

Adds a delightful menswear touch to any ensemble (we’re wearing ours with shorts and heels). Adorn your pins with luxurious nylons. Decadent brocade will instantly update any LBD as seen on many catwalks this season from Miu Miu and Louis Vuitton to Emanuel Ungaro. Don’t be left out!

Herringbone Tights

Metallic Brocade Print

Do I have to match my legwear with my shoes?

While matching your hose with your shoes is leg-lengthening and an easier option when you’re getting dressed, don’t be afraid to have some fun with color and texture. And remember, the old-school rule that you shouldn’t pair brown and black no longer applies, so achieve an ultrachic look by donning rich browns with your black footwear.

DKNY captures the fast-paced, cosmopolitan spirit of New York City. It’s not just hosiery. It’s a lifestyle.

DKNY Modern Color Block Tights

A style that makes our favorite dresses winter-worthy, these fine-knit tights feature a contrast stripe at the back. Or chic heathered tights.

Juliette Tights

Fashionistas can now stop freezing in their dressy frocks, as black tights are no longer taboo for evening. Many designers showed shimmery evening tunics and dresses paired with black opaques and dressy sandals, and celebrities like Sienna Miller and Mischa Barton have already debuted this look down the red carpet. Keep an eye out for unique patterns and textures as options to basic solids.

Heathered Plaid Tights

How do I wear colored tights?  Bright tights made a splash down the fashion runways this season in eye-popping colors and wild prints. But looking over-the-top may not mesh with your lifestyle, so assemble with caution. Avoid ultrabusy patterns and horizontal stripes and stick to delicate designs or easier-on-the-eye prints on dark backgrounds. For solids, team your tights with a hue that’s featured in your ensemble, or play it safe and wear them with a black dress and black boots. Keep in mind, your legs will be the focus of attention, so make sure your gams are an asset to your figure.

Chevron Tights by Smarwool

Hue GEO Color Block Tights

What about semiopaque legwear for the season? 

Not only do sheer hose look dated and too ladylike in this season of, tweeds, plaids and layering, but they also aren’t nearly as slimming as opaque tights. The thicker opaques counteract any lumps and bumps that occur under knit dressing, and they hide a multitude of sins when you’re wearing an of-the-moment micromini. But keep in mind that pairing them with lightweight clothing such as frothy skirts and gauzy dresses won’t do.

HUE Later Gater Tights

Hot hosiery

and how to wear tights – all fashionistas need to know!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Dear Girlfriends -

Purple reigns in booties and pumps this season!  Deep purple in rich suede or leather is a subtle way to add some color to your fall wardrobe.  There are several tones and hues of purple that work for any fashionista who’s trying to “spruce up” their wardrobe without doing too much shopping!  Adding color-inspired ankle booties, plumps or platforms can achieve the chic and fabulous look!

Fashionistas, blast out of your fierce style on the Brant booties from Steven.  Sigerson Morrison has stepped glam up with this leather open toe ankle bootie with asymmetric folded topline and side zip.

Steven Bant Shoes

Sigerson Morrison

Choose purple this season!  A square toe tassel inspired shoe offering fringe detail at ankle with inside zip and 4″ covered stiletto heel.

Manolo Blahnik Fringe

A Tahari Francine Gerry Bootie offering a round-toe ankle bootie and ruched cuff detail.  Feel like a silver screen starlet in the luscious Caser suede bootie. Their ankle-height and hidden platform make a great match with filmy dresses and even jeans!

Tahari Gerry

Caser Suede Bootie

A girlfriend shared with me this shoe … “These are absolutely gorgeous. They look just like an extremely expensive pair I saw in a magazine. Due to the cut however, they are not the most comfortable boots in the world. But as a true shoe diva, I am willing to suffer for beauty!!“

Miss Me Agnes 9 Pleated Suede Bootie

The city chic style of the Carson ankle boot from Paris Hilton is an easy style to wear in any situation. Its super high heel has a glossy patent finish and a square silhouette that matches the fun square-shaped toe with glossy finish. Its side zip allows for easier entry while this fun style works with casual jeans or a fun baby doll dress.

Paris Hilton Carson Ankle Bootie

By Andrea Pfister this ankle boot features suede, leather sole and bow detailing.

Andrea Pfister Ankle Boot

Girlfriends, try something new by adding a hint of purple to your shoe collection for the season so you can take your fashion to the next level … luxe-fashion taste!

Until the next adventure,

Monica

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Dear Girlfriends -

Cropped bombers and floaty dresses for the season are amazing!  Especially when worn the right way. 

This look is all about contrast, so pick a snug-fitting jacket in a substantial material to play off the flowiness of the dress.  A cut that hits at the waist will be the most flattering.

First let’s look at some layering cropped bomber jackets that should work.  This edgy jacket is sure to turn some heads! Featuring a zip front , perforated faux leather, side zip pockets, 3/4 sleeves with rib trim and gold button accents throughout. A leather bomber jacket is the must-have piece of the season.  Leather jacket with zipper closure at front and rounded pockets at hip. Seam detail at front and back. Ribbed banding at collar and hem. Gathered elastic banding and single-snap closure at cuffs.

Faux Leather Bomber

Leather Bomber Jacket

A ribbed knit trim at neck, sleeves and waist could also work to capture this look. Detonate on demand! Explode on the scene and take no prisoners blasting off in bold beauty with the stunning shrapnel of this Leather Bomber Jacket by DSquared2™!

Ribbed Neck Bomber

DSquared2 Leather Bomber

All that’s missing is a pilot’s license.  Wrinkled leather jacket with 2-snap closure at funnel collar and single-snap closure at hem. Off-center zipper at front and on-seam pockets at hip. Seam detail throughout. Gathered elastic banding at hem and cuffs.

Wrinkled Leather Jacket

Girlfriends, the dress should be soft, silky, bright and full enough in the skirt that it flares out right at the jacket’s hem.  Go for a just-above-the-knee length and offset the glamour-girl aspect with chunky booties.

There are several chic dresses to pair under your bomber jacket. The ultimate power struggle between dark, gothic glamour and sweet, girly style, our floaty, crinkled chiffon dress channels the wild child and the goody-two-shoes in every girl. We included the best of both worlds with delicate ruffles at the deep faux-wrap V-neckline, a self-tie sash at the dropped waist and pretty shaping pleats at the back neck.

Bailey Silk Chiffon Dress

A tunneled ribbon drawstring cinches the floaty silhouette of a sheer chiffon dress with a tonal paisley print. Short flutter sleeves and a wide scooped neckline further the breezy feel of the ultrafemme look. Bright, hypnotic print covers a soft jersey dress designed with an inset waist nestled between the floaty tiers that shape the bodice. An exposed back zip closure adds a subtly edgy finish.

Robert Rodriguez Floaty Dress

Marc Jacobs Jersey Dress

“Foliage Priscilla” Silk Dress – Empire-waist silhouette with wide shoulder straps, deep V-neckline and flared skirt. Finished with miniature covered button details down the front.

Foliage Priscilla Silk Dress

Now that’s everything you need to know to pull this look off!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Dear Girlfriends -

There are several ways that I have learned over the years to “impress for less” and remain chic.  On this Frugalista Friday, I want to show you how you can affordably add a colorful sleek bag to your outfit.

Fashionistas and frugalistas alike, punch up your look with a sleek, colorful bag.  While neutrals always look great, carrying a bag in a great color is a fun and inexpensive way to update your look. Just make sure it’s on the small and structured side.

Let’s start with this affordable faux patent leather crocodile print, shoulder chain strap, double compartment with zippered middle compartment and multiple inside pockets with two credit card slots.  Or consider a pleated satin bag (under $35.00) cinched with a vertical center strap. Inside pocket, magnet snap close, hidden rope strap.

Fancy Croc Clutch

Cinched Clutch

With a vintage look and modern details, this cutting-edge clutch goes everywhere you do.  Id? Check. Lip gloss? Check. Keys? Check. All the necessities for a solid night out – store them right in this multi-colored pieced vinyl clutch. With a half moon key-hole at top and ROXY script embroidery, this bag is it.  A sharp and stylish, this sleek clutch works perfectly with your look. Wrinkled vinyl exterior and polished pale gold-tone hardware.

Anisa Clutch

Fold Over Clutch

Roxy Clutch

Slim Clutch

Fashionistas while being frugal, don’t but a ring on it!  Put a bow on it! This adorable clutch is the perfect finishing touch to any fall look. Feautring a double snap closure at top frame, wrist strap, flat base and inside flap pocket.

City Style Bow Clutch

So search high and low, look in your closet – have a swap exchange with your girlfriends, and add a punch of color to your neautrals this fall season.

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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