If you haven’t already thought about it; I feel its time for you to embrace the season in cool silhouttes and hot colors.  

For me a Saturday isn’t the same when you pair jeans with a chic top compared to wearing a cool dress!  These days you can go from a maxi dress to a racerback tank dress – its your decision.  Before you decide though I would like to offer you these style options!

Let’s begin this journey.  Start off with a sensuously soft cotton jersey tank dress, designed with a full, flared hem and finished with interior fasteners to ensure all straps stay neatly tucked in for a clean, polished look with sporty sophistication.  Or embrace your inner boho goddess and step out in this long, easy maxi. Add beaded jewelry for a totally earthy vibe. Featuring a removable adjustable spaghetti straps, smocked bodice and smocked tier at lower skirt, straight silhouette, lined at skirt and floor length.  This is what summer’s all about–a gorgeous floral print and the must-have maxi length.

Racerback Cotton Dress

City Style Floral Maxi Dress

Smocked Maxi Dress

Are you starting to feel the vibe of the season?  Dresses are easy – if not for me, do it for yourself try one today!  There are so many options out there and lots of dresses to be had!  Accessorize this modern-print dress with metallics for a must-have spring look.  This dress offers a V-neck and sleeveless, graphic sails print with contrast print empire waist. 

Printed Maxi Dress

You could even wear this boho-chic dress with gladiator flats and jewel-toned accessories for an of-the-moment look.  Going out for errands – Easterm Market perhaps?  Make a statement at your next summer soiree in this printed maxi dress.

BCBG Printed Chiffon Dress

Boho Chic Dress

This online exclusive is the epitome of laid-back summer style.  I think we all could wear this maxi dress – I love the royal purple-inspired hue – a “must have“.

Strapless Maxi Dress

And rounding off my style tips, this fabulous maxi dress is a flattering choice for any event, day or night.

Colorblock Strapless Dress

I’m a dress person and I am trying to convert every girlfriend and fashionista into being a dress person (smile).  Is it working? 

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

For many of us, white can be tricky to pull off even in summer.

I’ve learned that  even now designers are suggesting that fall should be a blanc slate like ivory suits or creamy toppers. In fact, the little white dress seems poised to give the L.B.D. (“the little black dress”) a run for its money.

Girlfriends we all need to learn how to make white work for us!  Once you see the dresses I have selected your next question maybe – what to wear under white!   To pull off the look without a big-name designer or personal tailor on speed dial, I suggest a nude trimfit slip, a nude boy short or a pair of Spanx.

I want at least two white dresses for the Summer.  There is soo much to choose from these days!

With a jersey halter dress with ruching we dream of a splendid summer.  A romantic style deserving of its own sonnet .. look at this poet mini dress.  I even like how designer Raissa Gerona takes eco-chic to a whole new level with this dress. 

Modal Halter Dress

Poet Mini Dress

Bib Dress in Red & White

On an outing with the girls, you could pair this chic sheath dress in cotton poplin and pair with some color-hue accessories.  And then I’m all about the nomadic gypsy look that’s so hot right now.

Pleated Chic Sheath Dress

Long Ribbon Dress

So I ask you girlfriend – is white really the new essential for you?

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

One of my girlfriends in a dilemma.  She was invited to a summer wedding the invitation says “semi-formal”.  Help!  She doesn’t know what to do!

Summer brings an endless parade of blissful nuptials, but while you’re over the moon for your engaged pals, you can’t help but be thrown into a fashion tizzzy at the thought of all of the events that surround each affair. Fear not. I can tell you just how to look picture-perfect throughout the “I do” season.

Since my girlfriend is freaking out on the “semi-formal” dress code.  I thought I should help you as well!  

For these not-quite-formal affairs, opt for a dress that would work well at a cocktail party — maybe one that has embroidery, lace or beading, or is made with a snazzy fabric that shimmers as you move. (We love anything in silk for the summer.) Knee length is perfect for this occasion — anything much shorter and you might look like you’re left over from the groom’s bachelor party, and anything too long (although tea length will still cut it) will have guests thinking you took a wrong turn on your way to the prom.  Here are a few pulled together looks for ALL those summer weddings!

Ruffle Dress

Black and Pink

Secret Kiss Dress

Milly

Tulip Dress

Don’t forget the accessories!  Accessorize with a delicate necklace (diamonds will work, but so too will pastel or colored beads and stones), and a groomsman will be begging you to dance in no time.

I know some of you are starting to wonder why you RSVP’ed to all those summer weddings. I know dressing for someone else’s Big Day can strike fear in the heart of even the bravest fashionista.  You should feel more confident now as I’ve shown you how to bring your personal style to the party without feeling like you messed up!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

I told her that wearing white at the start of Spring is perfectly fine.  White really is just everywhere, and everyone is going to wear it.  There’s a way to wear it for every person, regardless of how much money you want to spend, your body type and your style. There are so many ways to incorporate it into your wardrobe.

Even consider the 5-pocket Cheap Monday jeans in soft denim with spandex for movement. Or a classic Seven style just right for warmer temps. Ultra-skinny stretch jeans in a clean white rinse are styled with tonally embroidered back pockets for a clean finish.

Roxanne Skinny Jeans

Cheap Monday Fit Jeans

Ultra Skinny Jeans

So whether it’s a white eyelet sundress with white patent leather platform shoes, an all-white suit with a white belt or a pair of white pants and a white button-down, pale garments are all the rage.

Vida Long Dress

Sweetees Maxi Dress

I know fashionistas a lot of people really shy away from white.  I know some of us have our fashion myths and rules – its time to debunk the rules. Don’t be scared … it’s not scary anymore.  Wearing white is chic and fresh.  And it’s not just pure, bright white that’s making a splash. White’s cousins, including cream, off-white and ivory, are having a heyday, too.

Sound a little too blinding or just plain boring to you? No worries – I want you to  spruce up the white with a little something-something from the opposite end of the spectrum — as in black or color!  Wait … but fashion isn’t all black-and-white now that the weather is getting warmer. There are some actual colors that are in for Spring, like sunset orange, mint green, royal blue and pink, to name a few.

I’m just getting off the phone with her and I told her to make tomorrow one of those sultry days - go for it wear white jeans, colored top and wedge sandals!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

Print Sheath Dress

Dear Fashionistas;

Today was a tough getting dressed for work day for me, not just because of the cold weather in April – its just sometimes I just don’t know what to wear to work!  I am sure we all have those days, right?

We I’ve learned that yes we can … stand out at the office by taking a few smart risks from Michelle Obama.

Don’t be afraid to bust out of your neutrals rut.  Find rich colors, like purple and ruby red.  Go for super-sleek sheaths.  They’re as authorative as a suit.  And the fit does matter as you need to be able to walk in it!  Considering sheaths, the back of a dress makes the last impression. And if done right, it makes a lasting one.

Pleated Sheath Dress

Fashionistas be sure to wear grown-up prints.  Feminine patterns even florals are fine for 9 to 5.  Like a delicate watercolor floral print enhances a slim sheath dress styled with low V-necklines at front and back.

Floral Print Dress

And of course, being the Accessories Guru I want you to know … pick “look-at-me” accessories.  Bold pieces … gum ball-size pearls, wide belts, a big brooch – will spike your style and confidence!

Show up for work with a multi-strand beaded necklace with satiny ribbon trim; ties in back.  A fringe of lustrous white pearls stationed on gleaming silvertone chain. Or a distinctive chain necklace featuring an ornate cluster of jeweled oblong filigree medallions.

Multi-strand Beaded Necklace

Faux Pearl Necklace

Glass Pearl Multi-Drop Necklace

And finally fashionistas simplify your beauty routine.  Don’t reinvent yourself daily … of course you can change your hair and your makeup from simple to glam but don’t overdo it!  You want to be the same person just a bit more consistently chic!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

Dear Fashionistas,

As I prepare for an evening of relaxation and comfort at home, I was thinking about how nice it would be to be out in the wild, enjoying the sun, and thinking global. Where do I want to travel this year? Going somewhere and dressing the part are two different things.

As I think about it, this season’s global reach highlights Africa and colonial India as sources of inspiration. Start with contrasting earth tones, intricate wooden beads, and animal and block prints on delicate fabrics, the mood is a journey-into-the-wild offering luxurious and chic safari-styled clothing.

DRESSES

Velvet by Graham & Spencer “Vivica” Kenya printed maxi dress. Sleeveless deep v-neck long maxi dress. Large beaded detail at front at neckline. $275.00

Down-to-there flair, with a plunging neckline and knot front. Ties at waist and fit-and-flare shape. Imported polyester/spandex matte jersey. $98.00

A squareneck crochet caftan-styled dress offers a crisp and clean look. A natural weave of beauty. Ruffle hem and imported cotton. $58.00

Step out in a pretty pattern. Adjustable, elasticized straps. Banded waist, side pockets and imported cotton/spandex. $59.00 sale

Stylish wrap-front shirtdress is updated with charming puff sleeves and four-pocket detailing. Matching sash cinches the waist for a perfect fit. $97.90 sale

Safari-style blouson dress in stretch jersey knit. Stand collar, button front, patch pockets and shirred 3/4 balloon sleeves and a 38″ from waist. $24.99 sale

Walk on the wild side in this Safari inspired dress. This gorgeous jumper dress has all of the right details in the right places to flatter your figure. $54.00

Pair these strong elements with basic and open shoes to make the look modern!

Until the next style adventure,
Monica the Urbanista

Dear Fashionistas:

You can NEVER go wrong with a black dress, we all know that. But what happens with the “Little Black Dress” goes out on the town? Are you ready for the style adventure ahead?

Let’s get down to business. So the little black dress; everyone has one, and if you don’t, go out and get one now!

There are a number of styles to choose from when it comes to the little black dress: wrap, tank, A-line, sheath. I suggest finding the most basic one then you can add your own “fashion spin” on the dress.

If you are a last-minute fashionista, you want to be able to just through on your pumps, grab your colored clutch and get out the door. Simple, chic, and ridiculously easy, this is the little black dress working its’ hardest.If you love to accessorize then this look is for you. Again, find the simplest little black dress you can and then go wild with the accessories.

A chic embroided dress offers a silk dress with wide neck. Gathered elastic banding and self-belt tie at waist. Slant pockets at hip. Circle embroidery and cutouts at hem. Short dolman sleeves.

What do you think makes an uptown-chic look rock? It isn’t just the black dress, but the whole package! A shiny satin black dress is easy enough to make it go whichever way you want. A funky clutch plus an up-to-the-minute trendy nude colored shoes paired with a sassy updo can make your dress look less dressy and totally CHIC! If you plan to go dressy, add pearls and a classic clutch with black pumps.

Jersey halter dress with crossover V neck and drawstring at top hem. Gathered elastic banding at empire waist. Spaghetti straps tie behind neck. Lined at bodice.

Knit dress with knot and gathering detail at wide neck. Vertical banding and inverted pleats at front. Rounded pockets at fitted hem. 7″ jersey cuffs at 3/4 dolman sleeves. Jersey lining.

Jersey dress with ruching, U-ring, and pleating at bust. Unfinished edge at bottom hem. Strapless. Lined at bodice.

Slinky jersey dress with draping at crossover V back. Ruching and crossover detail at shoulders. Long sleeves.

Strapless dress in a textured cotton weave. Bow detail at bust and pleating at front. Light boning at sides. On-seam hip pockets and hidden back zip. Lined.

Silk dress with cascading chiffon ruffles at V neck and front. Hidden zipper at side and 8″ slit at back.

Whatever your style selection, make sure its a look that will rock and reveal a fabulous fashionista shining through a simple little black dress!

Until the next style adventure,
Monica the Urbanista

I’ve been wearing dresses this whole summer and I wanted to share my love for dresses with you! Dresses are perfect for dancing in the summer heat, will give you a fun and flirty edge! Dresses are elegant, sophisticated, and flattering; don’t you agree?!

If you are heading to the grocery store on a Saturday morning after yoga, wear a fun loose-fitting smock dress, then to an outing with your gal pals you can wear a lightweight dress that is perfect for summertime! Later on in the evening, a flattering evening with “your guy” wear a textured metallic dress. Any of these dresses for a relaxing and chic Saturday evening is guaranteed to make you shine!

Until the next adventure,
Monica the Urbanista