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!!!!!

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