Sunday, December 23, 2012

A Few of My Favorite Things

Since there's already plenty of buzz about Holiday Party style, what to wear on New Year's Eve and keeping cozy this Winter, I'd like to share a few of my all-time favorite trends of 2012 instead of letting you know what to wear for your parties this coming week.... (Sequins and leather, duh!).

So in no particular order, here are a Few of My Favorite Things:

-Denim on Denim!!! I love this trend and it works all year round! It's easy, it's sharp and it's fresh. My rule is always lighter denim (chambray) on top, paired with darker denim on the bottom.  You can do so much with this smart duo; throw a chunky cardigan sweater over and a pair of suede wedge booties.  Or, use a leopard print skinny belt and a pair of colored pumps for a splash of bold with an otherwise neutral palette.  Oh and don't forget the key to this look- A bright red lip!!!!!
Goldsign® Jenny selvedge jean in debut washMidrise toothpick jean in carbonVintage straight jean in old faithful wash
Images from Jcrew.com




-The Leather (Faux Leather) Legging: I'm absolutely loving substituting a leather legging (faux or otherwise) for your typical skinny jeans or black cotton leggings.  You can utilize this extremely versatile piece to dress up or dress down, but always look chick.   My rule of thumb when you wear a leather top or bottom: No leather immediately next to your 'showcase' piece.  So for example, if you wear a leather legging, wear a suede bootie or patent pump, but don't go with a leather boot or leather jacket.  I love a loosely fitting, billowy dolman-sleeve blouse over a black leather legging and suede booties.  To dress up these sassy pants, pair a beaded top and fitted blazer over a pair and a colored or patent pump.  Here's a couple of my favorite ways:

Image from: designmedailyblog.com



-Mixing Prints and Patterns! I know this seems like the most daunting of recent trends to achieve from within your own closet, but I can share a few tricks of the trade to make it somewhat easier: First, the clear combination of black, red and leopard is like Mixing 101! A key insight into pulling off this trend is to pair very opposing patterns- so instead of a plaid shirt and plaid pants, try polka dots and stripes or floral and stripes. Finally, adding a finishing touch like a necklace, scarf, belt or jacket in a color that ties the two differing pieces together perfects this trend and will have you looking like a true fashionista!

Image from: stuffetconline.wordpress.com

Hope you enjoyed A Few of My Favorite Things, happy holidays and happy dressing!!!! xoxo, WEWS

West End Wardrobe and Styling

Friday, December 7, 2012

Sequins of Events

It's that time of year again when your sequined skirts, tanks and dresses have made their way to the forefront of your closets and are being considered each time you get ready for or think about your next festive party.  Well, I'm here to challenge the concept that sequins are only for your big New Year's Eve party or that holiday event where you can dress a little funkier.  Sequins are all the rage and I'm loving the idea of incorporating a piece here and there to add a little sparkle and interest to your daytime outfits! Here's a few of my faves:

First, a JCrew sweater with sequins- this can be worn so many ways- with a pencil skirt, tights and boots or for a more casual look I'm obsessed with layering it over a chambray and skinnie jeans or cords, as shown below:
Scattered sequin sweater

Next, a sequined skirt, but not your run-of-the-mill black sequined mini; this one can totally be worn for day time with a silk cami and blazer, tights and boots and an oversized sweater! Pick this one up at Express for $60!!!














Lastly, a small pop of sparkle and cheer that you can wear every day this winter! We all love giving to those in need and what's better than philanthropy AND fashion?! The Tom's Sequins Slip-on achieves just that! Wear these with dark denim skinnies and a black crewneck sweater:
















Images from JCrew, Express, Nordstrom.com

So, now's the time to have more fun during the holidays this year and add a little dazzle and shine to your everyday outfits! xoxoxoxox, WEWS

West End Wardrobe & Styling