Back to Black

Just how chic is black?

In my personal opinion, very. Always been, always will. And it is backed by research! See the results here.

So rock the black and forget all those doubts. Black is always hot. Whether you are going to an interview, first date or just going about your everyday activities it adds confidence and chic to your look.

Here is an all-black-look I put together: 

Perfect for that important meeting or as an everyday look for a lady boss.

A handbag can dramatically change your look, you can instantly go from a in-office manager to an international sales executive. So tread carefully and choose exactly the look that suits you and your position. 

Adding some color won’t ruin the all-black look, on the contrary it will give it extra contrast and emphasise your style. Be brave!

Don’t forget about hair and makeup. Opt for natural colors to freshen up your face and make you look rested and full or energy. For hair, a simple up-do is perfect for work. It is easy, convenient and requires just a few minutes. Hair down will always look great, but requires a blow-out, so if you want to save time, an up-do is your thing.

Have a great Wednesday!

Style Icon: Gigi Hadid

Gigi Hadid is definitely having a major moment in the limelight. Have you seen her in the new Calvin Harris video? She looks stunning in it! Gigi Hadid is a full-time model as well as a full-time member of Taylor Swift‘s enviable girl squad (Hadid was Slay-Z in the infamous Bad Blood video), and she’s also Kendall Jenner‘s BFF.

Hadid may always be in the company of pop culture phenoms and pop stars (her former boyfriend was Cody Simpson and her current one is Joe Jonas), but she has her own unique look and style that has landed her on the pages and covers of various fashion publications. She has appeared in Sports Illustrated, Paper Magazine, CLEO, Vogue as well as Carine Roitfeld‘s CR Fashion Book. Her career is taking off, and along with it, people are sitting up and taking notice of her style.

Here are the looks that I love from Gigi Hadid:

Gigi’s coat game is always on point. Deviate from navy and black, you certainly will shake things up this fall when you don a bold colored coat just like this one.

Dressing up your flip-flops and denim shorts this summer? Take notes from Gigi Hadid’s ensemble. A structured topper like this one and a leather tote will work wonders in making your casual tee and shorts look just a tad bit more polished.

What did I tell you about Gigi Hadid’s outerwear game? Isn’t this embellished cape gorgeous? I love how she played up the white detailing on her cape by wearing white sneakers and white frame sunnies.

An oversized military blazers feels vintage and oh-so-unique. On-trend shell toe Adidas sneakers take this look into 2015.

Next time you’re considering an glittery dress, why not consider a coat-as-dress look like Gigi? It separates you from the cocktail dress crowd and makes you stand stylishly above the rest.

Pin this to your style boards on Pinterest ASAP! This gold jumpsuit will have you shimmering from head to foot, and it is so perfect for the resurgence of the 70s trend.

 Gig took a fashion risk with pairing horizontal with vertical stripes. But having the two pieces with the same colors kept the look harmonious.

Gigi nails the quintessential model off duty look in a pair of distressed jeans, white tee, and bucket bag. This ensemble also reinforces the fact that all cool girls must own the perfect ankle boots.

I am in love with this dress! It’s the perfect balance of edgy and feminine, sweet and sexy.

On the cover of Vogue Espana, Gigi Hadid looks stunning! She’s giving serious brow envy, that’s for sure. Her feathered brows are divine. All the fur makes it so glam too!

The western vibes of this look combined with some seriously 70s accessories is a styling trick to take note of.

Let this editorial inspire you on how to style your striped shirt. Pair with layered necklaces and a fedora hat, add in a bandana for extra edge.

A disco glam yellow maxi dress paired with geometric accessories and western boots is a fashion mashup I could get behind.

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What do you think of Gigi Hadid’s style? She is burgeoning fashion icon in my book. I can’t wait to see more of her style!

 

The Fall Collections

Fall is here. For fashionistas it means thick and heavy September issues, browsing your Instagram for the latest Fashion Week snaps, and of course, integrating some Fall 2015 trends into your current wardrobe rotation.

I know that it can get overwhelming, there’s just so much runway and designer inspiration out there. Not to worry, I’ve chosen 3 of my favorite trends that I think will be key to looking like you’re a style lover in the know. These 3 trends are sumptuous sweater dressing, modern florals, and luxe fabrications. Check out these stunning runway images and my styling tips below.

Sumptuous Sweater Dressing

Sweaters are a fall/winter staple. This season it’s all about chunky cable knits that’s a little bit on the oversized side.  Just look at these ones above from Banana Republic, Altuzarra, and Brock Collection. Also noteworthy is the turtleneck that all 3 sweaters have, since it’s another hot trend of the season.

What makes this season’s sweaters extra sumptuous? Creamy hues and milky white sweaters extend the shelf life of whites well into the colder seasons. Prominent knit patterns make these sweaters look extra luxe and fashion forward.

This avant garde sweater from the Delpozo runway shows off how far you can take this trend. You can even look for add-ons to your standard knit.

Modern Florals

Straight from the runways of Burberry Prorsum, Antonio Berardi, and Duro Olowu, come modern floral prints combined with stark black geometric lines and dark color backgrounds. This make the florals come alive even more and look more current.

Suno Autumn/Winter 2015-2016 collection shows off floral prints that toe the line between the seasons perfectly. The flowers looked playful and plucked straight from spring, but the dark colors and longer silhouettes place these pieces firmly into fall.

Influenced by the 70s, the Trina Turk Autumn/Winter 2015-2016 feature painterly florals and large, imposing blooms prominently. I love how it looks when worn with psychedelic retro prints.

This is the more feminine and glamorous side of this season’s modern florals. With an overpowering air of dark romance, these florals are high on drama and high on style too. Replicate this runway look by picking floral pieces with lace or ruffle details.

Luxe Fabrications

This season’s luxe fabrications range from old-world to edgy. Brocade and over-the-top appliqué embellishments add a luxurious and rich texture that comes from historical influences and translate into unforgettable jaw-dropping pieces of fashion.

Feathers and colored Mongolian fur are a novel, not to mention, glamorous way to stay snug and cozy during the fall/winter season. Feathered pieces or pieces with feathered cuffs or hems are great options for evenings out during chilly seasons, while colored Mongolian fur will surely stand out from neutral colored fur.

Leather, Lace, and Velvet are the big three of luxurious fabrications. Edgy and romantic at the same time, these 3 materials are so lush and make your ensemble look rich in texture and rich in style. If you’re feeling daring you can wear these at the same time, a leather skirt with a lace top, a velvet dress with lace tights and leather boots. The possibilities are endless.

Fall is the time to reinvent yourself and your style too. Embrace the change, and fall in love with these fall trends just like I have.

Colors of Fall

The traditional colors of fall fashion reflect the colors of the season. Yellow and orange is the most popular combination reflecting the hues of the falling leaves of autumn. This season, runways, street style, and celebrity style have shown up other color combinations that reflect the season in a new and refreshing way.

Pantone, the color trend forecasting agency, is always a reliable source for must-wear colors. This is their color trend forecast for Fall/Winter 2015-2016:

Now, that you have that forecast in mind. It’s time to pick that coloring that suits your skin color the most, and of course, the colors that make you feel the most amazing. Colors are one of the most fun aspects of getting dressed, so experiment and make sure that you’re in love with your hue of the day.

Want to know what I’m loving this season? Here’s my fearless forecast for the top 5 colors you should be rocking:

Marsala

Pantone’s color of the year, Marsala, is especially suited for fall. This deep wine red hue is just made to complement all the rich and warm hues of yellow and orange that is typically associated with fall fashion. 
Don’t you just love this head-to-toe Marsala look? I love how this street style maven included hints of black to her outfit, to keep from the color overpowering the look.

Louise Roe shows off a more casual yet completely chic way to style this color. The matching Marsala sweater and booties is subtle, but it adds to the polish of this look.

Brown

Brown isn’t included in Pantone’s official list. However, rich shades of brown is at the top my must-have list. Brown is a color that comes with the current resurgence and domination of the 70s trend. Bonus points if it is brown knit or brown suede. From runways to street style, brown is proving to be this season’s strongest contender for fall color du jour.

The different shades of brown in Miroslava Duma‘s look is to die for. I am in awe of how she styled it. The different textures keep the brown hues from falling flat. The brown ribbed knit, leather skirt, suede Hermes mini Kelly bag, and patent heels all come together for an amazing look.

Two shades of brown in contrasting intensity make for an effective sophisticated look a la Olivia Palermo.

Dried Herb

Olive green tones is another must-have for fall. No longer just about military-inspired style, this season’s Dried Herb hue is done in feminine and flowing silhouettes. However, that doesn’t mean you should deviate from its original rebel chic style connotations.

Aimee Song‘s approach to this Dried Herb hue is transitional fashion at its finest. Distressed white denim and nude flats feel very spring-like, but the military green shirt and sage colored coat take it into fall expertly.

A Dried Herb bomber jacket is a style essential that you can throw over any ensemble for instant chic. Finish off with leather accessories for maximum style.

Reflecting Pond

Midnight and navy blue are timeless and elegant. This season swap out your love of black for a love of this Reflecting Pond hue. Especially beautiful when done in draped silhouettes and pleated pieces, this color lends your fall style some gravitas.

So in love with this street style look! Though both pieces are in the same hue, the contrast in textures, neoprene vs. ribbed knit, makes a big difference.

Jourdan Dunn‘s pinstripe jumpsuit gets elevated by the Reflecting Pond colored coat draped casually over her shoulder.

Cashmere Rose

I know what you’re thinking, pink is a spring color. This season, designers decided to bring this bright and peppy pink into fall with oversized pieces and prim tweed and knit cardigans. The perfect cross between ladylike and edgy, Cashmere Rose is just what you need to liven up your fall style.

Leandra Medine is positively sophisticated and casually chic in this Cashmere Rose oversized blazer. I love how the pink contrasts with the distressed denim.

Jessica Alba‘s floral skirt says spring boldly and loudly, but it’s her fuzzy Cashmere Rose sweater and matching pink sunnies that won me over. Love this look!

Which colors will you be sporting? Can’t wait to style all these colors into my wardrobe.

Ma-Ga giveaway

Is it your lucky day?

You could be the winner of the stunning ‘BILLY BONES’ WATCH: BROWN STRAP & GOLD worth over $180!

StyleWithKate is hosting a giveaway for Ma-Ga London. This awesome British brand is known for their quality and attention to detail. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to get your hands on one of their most coveted item – the Billy Bones Watch.

What you have to do?

1. Follow @Ma_Ga_London on Instagram2. Post a photo on Instagram and tag 5 of your friends

3. Hashtag your post #MaGaLondon and #swkMaGa

It is that easy!

Everyone is eligible to enter. As long as you live on Earth you can be the winner!

Try your luck in the next 4 weeks and by the end of October you could be taking those photos with the watch already on your wrist!

The winner will be announced on @stylewithkate on the 15th of October.

Good luck!

Style Icon: Chrissy Teigen

Chrissy Teigen is the reigning queen of Instagram and Twitter. She consistently makes headlines with her funny quips and sometimes, controversial posts on social media. Don’t even get me started on her drool-worthy food posts on Instagram! She is a food blogger, after all. Watch out for her upcoming cookbook, from the looks of it (on her Instagram posts) things are looking scrumptious. Her and her hubby, John Legend, also have the cutest couple pics in all of Insta-land.

Teigen’s recent gig as one of the hosts, along with LL Cool J, for Lip Sync Battle just proves that she has gained an absolutely loyal following beyond social media. This half Norwegian and half-Thai beauty got her start in modeling, and eventually moved onto different trades from there. If you haven’t followed her on social media, get on it ASAP. Her stellar style is also one to watch and one to imitate, for sure. She definitely has that model on and off duty style down pat.

Here’s a rundown of my favorite looks from Chrissy Teigen:

Following the footsteps of Kendall Jenner and Angelina Jolie, Chrissy Teigen shows a lot of leg during this year’s White House Correspondents Dinner. It wasn’t just her toned gams on display, her style savvy was too. The dark red lip with her midnight blue gown is a great pairing.

Chrissy Teigen’s chic dog walking ensembles have earned a cult following among fashion fans. This look is no exception. Embellished sandals, striped crop top with cuffed and overalls, all these unexpected elements come together for an elevated casual daytime look.

Teigen naturally has a youthful energy and carefree vibe, and I love how she carries that over to her red carpet looks. This sheer number gets more exciting with that contrast white panel to her black skirt. So modern.

Coral and nude such a contemporary color combinations that feels so classic. Love how Teigen’s honey highlights complements this outfit so well.

Another lesson in red carpet dressing from Chrissy Teigen, a fully embellished gown is all the bling you need.

This is such a daring red carpet look as far as I’m concerned. Fully sequined for the Grammys, the mermaid silhouette, slit, and low-cut cleavage all serve to emphasize Chrissy’s rockin’ bod amazingly.

File this under ladylike style for work wear inspiration. The polka dot pencil skirt with the boxy leather bag is perfection.

Teigen takes the 70s with her as she hits the streets in a snakeskin saddle bag with oversized sunnies.

Can you really wear a tank top for a night out? The answer is YES. As long as you dress it up with some embellished leather and a statement making belt just like Chrissy does.

This look is just more wardrobe inspiration for me to get an ultra chic jumpsuit. The graphic stripes and the sparkle makes this piece stand out even more.

Another jumpsuit look? Oh yes. An all black jumpsuit with a deep-V gets elevated with simple styling and some beach babe waves.

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So many amazing looks to choose from! I love the effortlessness and fun in Chrissy Teigen’s looks!

Hottest Denim Trends

If there is one thing we can be sure of is that denim will be a mainstay in our closet. From your everyday jeans to your staple denim jacket, the timelessness and rugged casual vibe of denim can’t be beat.

You probably have lots of jeans and a couple of non-pants denim pieces like a denim shirt or skirt, and you probably have trendy styles like wide leg jeans and boyfriend jeans. But I’m here to tell you all about the hottest denim trends that you absolutely must-have. This is your guide to fashion forward denim this coming season.

Patchwork Denim

Blame it on the 70s trend that is taking over. Patchwork denim is having a major moment. From rebel denim patches a la Leigh Lezark or going full patchwork with a shirt and jeans like Miroslava Duma, patchwork denim is an exceptional way to get on your denim A game. I also love how Annabelle Fleur of Viva Luxury wore her patchwork denim, with a classic camel trench. That’s the key to making this trend work, tone down the boho feel of patchwork with pieces like leather jacket and ankle booties.

Denim Overalls

Take it back to the old school and get nostalgic with a pair of denim overalls. This isn’t for the kindergarten playground anymore. Star blogger Chiara Ferragni of The Blonde Salad wore an embellished denim jumper that looks so stylish, especially when paired with a bright hued cross body. You can also opt to let the overalls hang loose around your waist like Gwen Stefani, it gives such a rocker feel! As Alexa Chung does airport chic with a denim jumper and a trench coat and Selena Gomez rocks a crop top for a cute festival look, you can definitely see how versatile this piece can be.

White Denim

No white jeans after Labor Day? Nah. Feel free to throw fashion rules out the window this season, and prepare for the white denim trend takeover. You can wear this typical summer staple well into fall/winter, it all depends on the styling. Consider white denim as your new go-to season transition piece.

Take a cue from Lauren Conrad, wear it with a fuzzy knit and a top knot for an easy laid-back look. I also love how Alessandra Ambrosio kept the camel color palette of her ensemble consistent resulting in a polished chic look.

Love street style? Give your white denim some global style attitude. Try some colorful fur or menswear inspired styling.

Denim Skirts

Denim skirts are making a major comeback. It’s not about mini skirts in the 00s. It’s all about slim pencil-like silhouettes with either a sexy slit or a button-down front. Sleek and modern, reach for figure-hugging denim skirt styles that end at the knee. Get inspired by Olivia Palermo and Poppy Delevingne, and keep the rest of your outfit simple. Reach for statement shoes to finish off the look though, check out Olivia’s lace up heels and Poppy’s glittery sandals.

Other alternative denim skirt styles to try: high-waist distressed denim minis and denim midi skirts.

Frayed Denim

Cutting edge fashion bloggers like Man Repeller and Fashion Eaters rarely get trends wrong. Frayed denim is the latest blues that it girls are wearing. Instead of cuffed and distressed, frayed hems just give your look an undone cool look. Balance this effortlessly casual trend with more structured items like block-heeled ankle boots, cap-toe ballet flats, and a leather top handle satchel.

Bleached/Tie-Dye Denim

Whether you choose to DIY this denim trend or not, bleached and tie-dye denim is the new must-have wash. Balance this trendy piece with classic items to avoid looking a fashion victim. Check out how these street style stars style this piece, you might get an idea or two.

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Which denim style are you loving? So hard to choose just one, I want ’em all!

Substantial Salads

10 ideas on how to make your salad taste good

We all know salad are good for you, we all know we gotta eat it, yet why does nobody ever bother to make it taste good?

Why do people just throw some greens on your plate and call it salad?! 

Lets stop that! Now!

Who said salads have to be boring? Healthy doesn’t have to be boring, and neither does your salad! So use your imagination and improvise. Add some ingredients that will spice things up a bit. Or a lot!

1. Avocado

Feel like having more than the standard 5-a-day? Start adding some avocado to your salad. This nutritious vegetable is tasty, goes well with anything and always makes your salad taste good. Add a generous amount!

2. Lentils

I am a huge fan of lentils, but certainly not the only one. Lentils will add some bite to your salad and help keep you fuller for longer. They also contain iron that can be hard to find, but is so essential for your body. Lentils are still carbs, so don’t go crazy! Alternatively use quinoa, buckwheat or barley.

3. Cucumber

Why not add a bit of juicy crunch to your salad? Cucumber offers a just that and tastes very refreshing – all at no extra cost. That is – zero calories. (Some even call cucumbers a negative calorie food)

4. Sun dried tomatoes 

Tomatoes are delicious in all forms and I am sure most people with think of adding fresh tomatoes to their salad, but what about sun dried tomatoes? They are just so lovely in salads as well as other dishes and bring so much flavour with them. Try it!

5. Gherkins

This one might be an acquired taste, but if you are into salty vinagary things you will definitely enjoy it in your salad.

6. Cheese

Goat cheese, mozzarella, roqefort, Philadelphia cheese or any indeed any cheese that you like is guaranteed to make your salad tasty. Just mix it in with your dressing and you have yourself a perfect salad.

This is completely fool-proof.

7. Apple

If you feel like adding some sweetness to your salad why not go with juice red apple chunks? You can also try blueberry or rhubarb or indeed anything else you like. 

Good idea right?

8. Nuts or seeds

Nuts are a great way to transform a salad into a full meal. By adding just a few nuts you probably double the total calories. With that you add some omega-6 fatty acids and other nutrients as well as a hell of a lot of extra flavour. Great way to spice things up.

9. Dressing

Dressings can be tricky, but don’t get discouraged. The simplest way would be to mix some olive oil with a dash of balsamic vinegar and some lemon juice. If you don’t mind the smell, add tiny pieces of freshly cut onion or chives. If you don’t like olive oil try macadamia, almond or sunflower oil instead. At the end of the day it is just mixing 🙂

10. Grilled veggies 

Have a few pieces of roasted sweet peppers left over from last night? Maybe some grilled aubergine or courgette? Throw it right it!

There’s a few solid salad ideas you can use. Share your own ideas with everyone in the comments below!     

   

Giveaway

Hi guys,

This week I am hosting a giveaway for Serene Sky Boutique!

The lucky winner is going to get a $25 voucher from Serene Sky Boutique.

Want to know what you can get? Check out shopserenesky.com. My favourite piece is this little necklace. It is just so elegant and lovely! It is super easy to match and it always catches everyone’s attention.

How to win:

Step 1: Enter your email in Rafflecopter Giveaway
Step 2: Check your email to see if you are the lucky winner.
Step 3: Good Luck!

The winner is going to be announced next week and will receive the voucher immediately.

Why not try your luck?

Style Icon: Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez has gone from Disney star to a bona fide platinum pop star. She’s had some pretty stellar movie appearances too (see: Spring Breakers and Monte Carlo), with more films on the way. Crossing over from TV to recording and movies is no easy feat, and it’s an indication of how talented and determined this Young Hollywood star is.

You know what else makes her stand out? Her style. Whether it’s on the red carpet or on the streets, Selena‘s style is always youthful, playful, and sophisticated all at the same time. Here’s my roundup of Selena Gomez‘s best fashion moments:

I am in love with this look! Consider this your new inspo for your next workout chic look. I love those sheer panels on those leggings, that’s fashion meets function at its best. Those pink sneaks are pretty cute too.

Print on print perfection personified. Don’t mind the alliteration and focus you attention on Selena’s effortless print mixing. Check out her braided hair brand look too.

Take a style cue from Selena Gomez. Rich textured fabrics like brocade is sure to upgrade your white tank, denim cutoffs, and ankle boots combo.

A quick way to make a solid style statement? Choose footwear that commands attention and gets you guaranteed wow points. Just like how these knee-high gladiator heels elevate Selena’s tie-dye casual T-shirt dress.

Dress up your comfy maxi dress with combat boots and a leather motorcycle jacket. This look is the perfect cross section between the girly meets trendy vibe, which let’s be honest, is what Selena’s style is all about.

Simple and sophisticated in this year’s trendy Marsala color, Selena Gomez shows us the power of a great color. No embellishments or extra accessories needed.

Needing a style refresh on that striped tee? Selena can guide you. An oversized white blazer/trench hybrid and leather pants should do the trick nicely.

The boldness of the black against the delicate polka dots is what makes this frock stand out from your typical evening looks. I love how Selena styled it and made it more youthful with a sleek updo and large hoops.

Simple and chic, Selena ups the glam and edginess of this black evening column gown with gold geometric accessories and an armful of trendy wrist candy.

Coachella-inspired airport style? Oh yes. The high rise distressed denim and the turquoise choker up the cool girl vibe of the rust orange halter top. Major style cred goes to Selena for this style savvy airport look.

Keep things on the right side of chic when wearing a dress that has a short hemline and a cleavage baring neckline. Selena has the right idea by toning down the sexiness with an elegant updo and minimal accessories.

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There you have it. I hope that Selena’s style has given you a tip or two about what to try in your personal style.