Dear Girlfriends -

Fashionistas we all feel the change in weather during the morning commute; come on and admit it! 

But I have GREAT news!  Cardigans can be a fun and versatile fashion accessory for the transition of the season.  If comfort is the ultimate luxury, what could be more better than a slip-it over/under-everything, prep-school-inspired knit.

A partially-buttoned sweater combined with equally soft pieces can look effortlessly casual. But don’t overdo the layers. Not only does casual suddenly look forced but you’re likely to start peeling off pieces in most overheated interiors.

As the first signs of fall, search for a lighter fashion piece instead of bringing a heavy coat out of storage, why not throw on a stylish cardigan? The cardigans of today are not like grandma’s sweaters but have a style and flair all their own. Plus, they’re so versatile! Wearing a cardigan can take you from a casual day to an evening out at a restaurant with great panache.

A lightweight wrap cardigan in cotton/cashmere/silk. Long ribbed sleeves. ribbed hem. Wrap front. Ruching at back neck. Layer with camisole or tank top.

Wrap Cardigan

Sand chunky knit oversized cardigan with sailor collar and 3/4 length sleeves. Cardigan comes with an elasticated bow belt.

Chunky Knit Cardigan

A ruffled cardigan – nook and cranny, featuring notched crew neckline; front zip, ruffled detail down front and three-quarter sleeves.

Ruffled Cardigan

You can really expand the depth and versatility of your wardrobe without spending money by layering items you already have. A cardigan provides the perfect finishing touch for that layered look. Just one cardigan can multiply your fashion options many times. Try belting a long cardigan over a skirt and silk top. Wear a long, loose one over your favorite black dress.

Long Wool Cardigan

Cashmere Cardigan

Wrap Around Cardigan

Open your closet and start experimenting by adding a cardigan to your usual outfits and see what works for you.

Slick Zip Cardigan

Maxine Sweater

Peace Scarf Cardigan

A cardigan can add a whole new dimension to your standard office attire.

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Dear Girlfriends -

Whether they’re bright and bulky or full and fierce, the chunky choker is poised to be one of the biggest trends to date even for the Christmas and New Year’s holiday parties and soirees you will be attending – hooray!  I adore this easy piece for several simple reasons: it adds some posh pizazz to the wardrobe essentials you already own, looks great with everything from a casual blazer to a killer cocktail dress, and there are cool versions available at every price point. In short, this all-purpose accessory is at the top of our list!

This chain necklace features rhinestone-studded cutout flower details. Textured flower details at assorted cutout pendants.  Just as sensational with a LBD (little black dress) as it is with a tank and jeans, this chain bib necklace features bead details.

Lace Drama Necklace

Jen Bib Necklace

Sure to garner a second (or third) glance, this multi-strand mixed-chain necklace features rhinestone strand and asymmetrical chain fringe. 

Fashionistas, this wool-cashmere bib necklace features studs, brass chains, distressed leather appliqué, and vintage glass accents. Chiffon trim and contrast grosgrain tie closure.  Or consider this statement choker.  These capsule shaped beads with a pearl-esque finish are linked together in a bib like formation which drapes beautifully from a dainty chain.

Multi Chain Choker

Rambler Necklace

Pearly Beaded Bin

This gold-plated choker features hammered squares. This herringbone wool-cashmere necklace features brass chain detail. Clustered leather-covered stones, glass beads, brass studs, and distressed beads. Bone beads, African brass beads, and garnet stones at ends. A beautiful combination of Mother of Pearl, quartz, Swarovski crystals and glass beads wired within several arcs of sterling silver necklace finsished off with dangling Mother of Pearl stars.

Hammered Square Choker

Herringbone Cashmere Choker

Mother of Pearl Choker

Sequin Spinning Bib

Girlfriends, these necklaces are so necessary this season that we suggest that you throw on at least one chunky choker-or several-every day. (When you’re wearing a mélange of chains, the more the merrier!) If you feel overwhelmed by the look or don’t know where to start wearing it, just take inspiration from the fall runways on how to combine the right statement strands with the correct clothing.

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Dear Girlfriends ~

Are you crazy about colossal cuffs as much as I am?  I’ve learned to pair a bold piece of arm candy into everyday outfits and especially now during the holidays and all the festivities!  Its simply a matter of adding a piece without overdoing it.  To get an idea of how to show off your bold arm candy properly consider these style options.

An exquisite grey shagreen cuff creates a perfect perch for a jeweled sterling silver bug encrusted with rubies, sapphires, green agates and crystals. Because each piece is handcrafted by an artisan, expect yours to have subtle nuances all its own.

Shagreen Cuff

Inspired by tropical islands and exotic locales, this statement piece sets the style for your total look. Gold-tone intricate design with brilliant coral-colored stones for an unforgettable bracelet.  Girlfriends, consider this handmade brass cuff as a style option. A high polished metal cuff bracelet featuring a faux leather top with sewn-down faceted studs.

This option offers a wide cuff featuring agate stone front and hammered texture detail.

Adia Kibur Gold Jewel Cuff

Stud Metal Cuff

Handmade Brass Cuff

Still not sure how to begin? 

Agate Stone Cuff Bracelet

Amp up your rock-chic kudos with Halston’s studded blue suede cuff. Wear this sensational style with a floor-skimming gown to bring Studio 54 glamour to every look.

Stud Embellished Cuff

Gold Plated Cuff

Girlfriends, a collectible cuff that our jewelry designer took ages to perfect–a layered look in gold-plated metal designed to dress up your wrist.

Beaded Cuff Bracelet

Maria Cuff

A bold piece of arm candy can one day be your favorite accessory! A piece that pops on in a flash and transforms whatever you are wearing into a work of art!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Dear Girlfriends ~

Whether your invite says office party or New Year’s Eve party, we have the perfect dress for you! You may want to take a cue from Charm Chat and add sass to basic black with colorful accessories, like turquoise earrings and shoes. Or strike a balance with an empire-waist dress that shows off the decollete, while the flowing skirt hides a larger bottom half.

Asymmetrical Long Dress

Asymmetrical Ruffle Dress

A sparkling beaded tunic dress is the easiest way to add instant glitz to an evening ensemble. Pick one of the metallics to match your accessories to.

If you wear a short polka dot dress like this one, counterbalance the length with a high neckline to achieve a cute and fun party look. If you wear ankle-strap shoes with a short hemline, make sure the strap sits low on the foot. This prevents the illusion of a cropped, shorter leg.

Bridgette Dress

Wear a short jacket over a dress like this Marcella Vintage silk tiered ruffle dress during the day and then remove it later for an easy day-to-night look. Large tiers add curves and dimension to a petite figure. Fuller figures should opt for smaller tiers.

Folded One Shoulder Dress

If you want to show your festive side, don’t resort to Santa accessories; opt for a silk red taffeta dress instead. Soft, flat tiers work well on feminine curves by moving with, but not enhancing, them. Metallic accessories work wonderfully with red.

Lavenda Leather Dress

Then fashionistas sometimes a little shoulder is all the skin you need to show to achieve massive amounts of sex appeal. A draping dress like this party wear one is perfect for a holiday dinner party, when you want a little extra room in the belly area.

A punchy color and bold necklace are not for a wallflower that isn’t ready to bloom. Show an equally vibrant personality for a New Year’s Eve party or other fun event. The popular pocket trend adds a casual touch to this electric party dress.

Ummm . . . so you have a better idea of all that’s out there right? Even if you have something in your closet that might be close to the “perfect” holiday dress, don’t forget colors, shine and shimmer this holiday season!

Until the next adventure,
Monica

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Dear Girlfriends -

With a smaller budget for a lot of Americans currently in this bad economy, you should consider buying items that do not change depending on your weight such accessories.

Adia Kibur Gold Jewel Cuff

Faux Pearl Necklace

We are all experiencing budget control and frugal shopping, for the everday fashionista (including you and I) we should consider adding accessories as a staple item to our basic wardrobe this year.

Ciel Stars Scarf

Shredded Tube Scarf

With a lot of fashionistas on a tighter budget, try to purchase items to accessorize the clothing that you already have, instead of buying new clothes.

Girlfriends, accessories may be scarves which are very popular currently and not very expensive, belts, and jewelry. Unique costume jewelry may be bought for a little investment and can totally bring life back to an old outfit that has been in your closet for a while . And just like shoes, jewelry and accessories always fit no matter what your size is!

Vintage Glam

Shilo Necklace

Patent Skinny Belt

Girlfriends, this season do not worry about your tighter budget or your increasing weight and spend your money on handbags, shoes and accessories. You bank account and self esteem will be more thankful when you do, rather than having to buy more clothing this year and you will look fabulous too.

I’ll turn you into a frugalista soon enough!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Dear Girlfriends -

With Thanksgiving around the corner, we are officially in what I call “sparkle territory.” It starts to seem like we have some party, event or function every other day…family gatherings, holiday parties, fundraisers, New Year’s Eve celebrations, and more.

And for each of those, we always want to feel a little extra festive, a little more “dressed,” and be a little over-the-top with our sparkly jewelry.  It’s easy to get caught up in doing one of two things (or even both!) without intending to.

Girlfriends, oversize earrings add instant glamour to any party dress. Get noticed this season by trading your daintier chandeliers for strong sparkly hoops for a bold and modern look.  Statement chandelier earring feature pearl, disc, and bead drop detail. Earring falls 5 inches from hook closure.

WA Studios Silver Treasure

Pearl Drop Chandelier Earrings

Statement cuff features multi rhinestone front and metal cast hinged back.  Short mesh bib necklace features sequin, bead, and stone detail. Necklace falls 17 inches from adjustable clasp closure.

Embellished Hinged Cuff

Embellished Mesh Bib Necklace

Multicolor resin stones are bold and dramatic adorning the front of this goldtone statement necklace. 17″ long, with toggle closure.

NY Damiana Statement Necklace

We’ve been known to go overboard in decorating. Take, for instance, the holiday bow. More than just a topper to the perfect present, it’s a delightful decoration we’re wearing everywhere. Case in point, this statement necklace, featuring three tiers of brilliant bows, anchored together with shiny gold-plated hardware.

Bow Triple Strand Necklace

Girlfriends, we heart this statement ring. Large acrylic and metal flower ring with rhinestones at center.  The perfect statement cocktail ring for the winter. The light weight acrylic glass is coated with an ebony effect. Glittering multi-coloured crystals set using the Pointiage® technique create an eye-catching contrast.

Ginseng Ebony Ring

Swell Heart Ring

I have of course compiled some ideas as “do’s” for your holiday jewelry purchases. These also make spectacular gifts that’s a lot of sparkle for very little money. So check out these bracelets, earrings, necklaces and rings…and a few styling tips to go with them!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Dear Girlfriends:

This season don’t forget to strut your stuff in spiky heels!  Its not all about boots this season … when going out for a night with the girls or dinner with your man, you can take the trend to classic rock ‘n roll. 

The prickly pumps are all about classic in the front and rock ‘n’ roll in the back. Keep the spikes a showstopping surprise by wearing the shoes with a feminine mini.

Shop the steal ‘n’ splurge below! I’ve found several affordable options for that extra punch in your wardrobe and it’ll be the one pair of pumps you can have fun with while enjoying the price.

A fierce anklet and an aggressive platform meet to create the Dollhouse Abril studded suede pump. Wear it with jeans or dresses, to parties or picnics … if you dare ($39.95).

Dollhouse Abril Studded Platform

Rock out in this amazing heels! Featuring a solid upper with a peep toe, stud detail on the straps and a 3/4″ platform with a 4″ heel ($29.50).

Studded Strap Peep Toe

Stud-trimmed pump. 4″ heel; 1/2″ platform. Leather-look. Imported. As seen in Life & Style magazine ($39.00).

Stud Trimmed Pump

Add a bit of an edge to your great look with this pump. Featuring a solid upper with stud detail, covered 1″ platform and 4.5″ heel ($12.99).

Style with an attitude. These juniors’ Candie’s dress heels will enliven any ensemble. Faux-suede upper with studded accents offers edgy appeal an elasticized Mary Jane strap secures the perfect fit ($29.00).  Or Show off your wild side with this Urban Vibe bootie. Featuring a faux suede upper with a peep toe, stud detail and a bow sling back. Heel measures 4.5″ tall with a 1″ platform ($29.50).

Candie's Alona Dress Heels

Stud Front Bootie

Go for a rock chic look with this Studded Booties featuring a matte faux leather, round stud details, peep toe, 4″ covered cone heel with an interior platform, elastic side panel, and a lightly padded insole. Faux leather upper and rubber sole ($29.99).

Studded Booties

And finally consider going for a high shoe with studded cross over straps. Heel approx 3″.

SOKO Studded High Shoe

Girlfriends, go for it when its “going out” time. Don’t be afraid to step up and step out and add some rock flair to your outfit.

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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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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