Runway Review: Versace Spring 2016 Ready-to-Wear

Whenever I think about Versace, I think about a sexy and powerful woman. Donatella Versace has mastered the art of dressing the modern woman in outfits designed to inspire confidence and provoke a visceral reaction. This season she has succeeded, yet again, in capturing the spirit of the woman we all want and aspire to be. Each look she sent down the runway was more alluring than the last, culminating in quintessentially Versace dresses. Who is the ultimate Versace woman you ask? Hmm, just ask Gigi Hadid. She definitely rocked some classically sexy Versace at the end of the show.

I personally fell head over heels in love with this Versace Spring 2016 collection. Read on for my favorite looks, I’m sure you’ll fall as hard as I did.

Donatella’s bevy of miltary-inspired olive green clad beauties definitely started the show with a bang. How can you not love the leggy blazer worn as dresses? Tailored shorts with boxy blazers and mini dresses were accentuated with two accessories, which I predict will be must-haves next year–soft leather satchels in khaki tones and utilitarian waist-cinchers with that eponymous Versace lion. Another noteworthy styling moment? Check out the sheer ankle socks with the sky high olive green strappy platforms. School girl chic with an edge. 

Now we can’t expect Donatella to show us typical camouflage do we? In true Versace fashion, she took the fashion army theme of her runway collection and expanded it into prints that fit perfectly into the glamorous and sexy Versace brand. Using leopard and zebra print in green and bold purple hues, Donatella created her own type of camouflage. Whether it’s the acid green leopard print dress that Behati Prinsloo rocked, or the edgy pastiche of animal prints, or even the sheer spiderweb frock with leopard green spots, I am 100% sure that this print is one that we’ll be seeing a lot of this upcoming season. Oh, and don’t forget that these trippy animal prints have matching structured backpacks too. Dibs on that!

Donatella is known for slinky dresses and dangerously sexy garments, so it was a surprise when she showed pieces that appealed to the more tomboy chic crowd. Tailored shirt dresses with voluminous sleeves, a coordinating olive green suit with relaxed fit sleeves and drapey bottoms, and even some crew-neck sweaters and bomber jackets were done up in Versace style, that is with their signature glamazon aesthetic. Though the silhouettes were decidedly more laid-back, the prints and the styling were in sync with the rest of the collection.

I love this part of the Versace show. The earthy tones with the pop of neon orange is a nod to the current dominance of the 70s. I especially love how Versace owns it super sexy aesthetic with incredibly high slits.

Now, we know that Versace won’t end it’s show without some red carpet stunners. These 3 are my top picks for frocks that I’m sure tons of stylish celebrities will love to rock this upcoming season. The combination of different textures and prints keeps the mini dress silhouette current and edgy. I can totally see these dresses on the likes of Rihanna, Blake Lively, and Beyonce. Consider me smitten with Versace Spring 2016 dresses.

Photos from Vogue.com

---

Did you fall as hard as I did? Which looks did you absolutely love? Sound off in the comments section, and let me know!

No Styling Required: Chic One-Piece Looks

There are some days that require pieces that speak for itself. When you’re having a busy week, sometimes you need clothing that you can just put on and dash out the door, while still looking fabulous, of course.

I’ve rounded up 3 stylish closet essentials you should invest in.

These three one-piece wonders make getting dressed up way easier. You can opt for different materials, prints, or colors of these silhouettes, but the effect is all the same; these 3 one-piece closet treasures will give you major style, without lots of time spent on styling and primping. Put it on and go. Who knew that one piece could have so much style? Take a look at these one-pieces that pack a sartorial punch.

Jumpsuits

Especially now that the 70s is such a big trend, jumpsuits are back and hotter than ever. Need more convincing? Check out how these stylish stars wowed with their jumpsuits.

Elevate casual staples like sneakers and a gray hoodie when you work it with a navy jumpsuit a la Dree Hemingway.

Rose Byrne‘s silver jumpsuit is proof that one stunning piece is all you need.

Kendall Jenner makes a black jumpsuit even chicer with Chanel flats and classic black sunnies.

If you want a more feminine twist to your jumpsuit, opt for dainty vintage inspired prints like Mandy Moore.

Olivia Palermo is a modern style icon, and if she rocks a jumpsuit on its own, better believe you should too. I love this white stunner! So perfect for end of summer festivities.

Heidi Klum nods to the 70s in this denim jumpsuit. The mechanic style silhouette is another hot trend too.

Emily Ratajowski shows us an alternative way to style a jumpsuit. An ankle-cropped jumpsuit alludes to the culottes trend and finishing it off with ankle booties is the ultimate cool girl move. Bravo, Emily.

Leigh Lezark‘s amazing retro print jumpsuit has a flattering low V-cut neckline that makes this look so ideal for your next girls’ night out.

Maxi Dresses

Forget those boring tank maxis paired with flip-flops. The following looks flip the script on your typical summer maxi dress. These floor-length pieces can do more than be your beach cover-up. Maxi dresses can go above and beyond its casual origins and move toward fashion forward fashion editor worthy style. Its volume and drama require no styling, all it requires is the right eye to spot the right maxi to rock.

Miroslava Duma‘s printed maxi gets modern and architectural with a statement collar.

 Blogger Maja Wyh knows very well that silhouette can make a major difference. The off-shoulder neckline, stripes, and bell sleeves make this piece stand out.

Poppy Delevingne looks boho chic in this embroidered and embellished maxi. The design is so intricate that you don’t need anything else.

Jennifer Grace of the Native Fox blog knows very well that no accessories are needed when you have a textured maxi dress as eye-catching as this one.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley lets her pleated white maxi do all the talking. I love how she styled it simply with white Adidas sneakers and beach babe waves.

Vanessa Hudgens is frequently spotted in a maxi dress, since it has become a staple of her signature boho style. If you’re looking to make a big splash with your maxi, look for details like midriff cut-outs or double slits.

Miranda Kerr displays her style savvy with a bright turquoise maxi. You can never go wrong with a vibrant color.

Alexa Chung‘s floral print maxi has a definite vintage vibe, made even more unique buckled Mary-Janes.

Chiara Ferragni‘s red, white, and blue maxi frock looks so modern, especially when finished off with matching red pumps and a white cross body bag.

Romper/Playsuit

I love a good romper/playsuit. These breezy one-piece is an ensemble that communicates youthful style and sexy allure all in one breath. This is a great pick for the last slew of summer parties and picnics.

Aimee Song of the blog, Song of Style, hits a major trend in this romper. I adore that tropical print! Perfect on the beach and perfect for the city too!

Kate Bosworth‘s Coachella look is a culotte and romper hybrid. How can you not love that midriff cut-out detail and halter neckline? It’s so 90s!

Alessandra Ambrosio looks chic even while walking her dog. How does she do it? With a printed romper and simple casual accessories, of course. Just slip it on and go.

Selena Gomez‘s ensemble is evidence that all you need is the right print and fabric to make even a casual silhouette, like the romper, look sexy enough and dressy enough for evening.

Kiernan Shipka‘s look is sophisticated. Further proof that the romper is a one-piece wonder you should consider for your closet.

Beyonce ‘s denim playsuit screams 70s glam especially when paired with poker straight locks and hints of earthy brown tones.

---

Which one-piece will you be investing in? Whether it’s a jumpsuit, maxi dress, or a romper, trust me, it’ll be a worthy addition to your closet. Plus, it’ll make getting ready in the morning or getting ready for a party ten times easier and faster.

 

Shopping Guide: Top Fashion Jewelry Brands

Fine Jewelry is undoubtedly at the top of every woman’s dream list. It is an investment that will be an heirloom and will outlast trends and time. However, fashion or costume jewelry holds a special place in every fashionista’s heart and her closet and jewelry box, of course. High street brands like Zara, Mango, River Island etc., all have their respective takes on fun and fashion forward bling. But here I’ve rounded up the brands and some top picks for fabulous and glamorous fashion jewelry that are both playful, elegant, tasteful, and are of high quality. Ditch those statement costume jewelry that are tarnished or have missing stones, and invest in sparklers that pile on the wow factor.

DANNIJO

Sister Jodie and Danielle, the founders and designers of DANNIJO, put a premium on sustainability and women empowerment. What started out as a way to raise funds for their grassroots women’s initiative in Africa turned out to a be highly successful and coveted line of costume jewelry. With aztec and geometric influences and rock n’ roll lifestyle feel, DANNIJO is at the top of every it girl’s list. This brand has been spotted on the likes of Rihanna, Blake Lively, and Natalie Portman.

Rashida Jones wearing a Dannijo necklace

 

Images from DANNIJO.com

 

LULU FROST

Founded and based in NYC, Lulu Frost has a distinct aesthetic combining art deco architecture inspiration with contemporary kitschy and girly influences. The brand has had collaborations with eponymous retailer, J. Crew, and has been spotted on First Lady Michelle Obama, Beyonce, and Taylor Swift proving the brand’s diverse yet sophisticated look. Marrying antique and modern, Lulu Frost captures the crux of what it means to be chic and stylish.

Olivia Palermo wearing a Lulu Frost necklace

 

 

Images from LuluFrost.com

BAUBLE BAR

Another NYC made and based jewelry brand, Bauble Bar is at the forefront of fashion jewelry online retail. They have an entire range of customizable jewelry and special services to cater to brides-to-be. They pretty much have every service you can imagine. Bauble Bar even has guest bartenders, who curate their own collection. Emma Roberts and Coco Rocha are some of the stylist celebs that they have collaborated with. There are also available stylists online, whether by chat, mail, phone or video, for any of your burning questions on accessorizing.

Guest bartender Emma Roberts wearing Bauble Bar

 

Images from BaubleBar.com

EDDIE BORGO

Making edgy jewelry since 2008, Eddie Borgo is a NYC brand that takes inspiration from the wonderful city it is based in. Aside from harnessing and capturing the vibrant and upbeat energy of New York City in its designs, Eddie Borgo is also inspired by vintage costume jewelry, American tradition and heritage, and heavily rooted in the rock n’ roll culture. This luxe jewelry brand injects street style trends and urban vibes effortlessly into each piece. The designer, Eddie Borgo, has won many awards including the CFDA Swarovski Award for Innovation in Accessory Design.

Sienna Miller wearing an Eddie Borgo tiara

Images from Net-a-Porter

JENNIFER MEYER

Marrying the special quality of personalized jewelry, modern high street style, and the timeless elegance of fine jewelry, Jennifer Meyer has become a quick A-list favorite. From the Olsen twins to Jessica Alba, her understated yet statement making jewelry have been making fashion headlines and winning her scores of fashion fans from all over. Luxury meets wearability, her designs are handmade with love and Los Angeles and definitely have that distinctive echo of bohemian style and an easy air of sophistication.

Elle Fanning and Drew Barrymore wearing Jennifer Meyer Jewelry

Images from Net-a-Porter

LIZZIE FORTUNATO

Twins Kathryn and Lizzie Fortunato have been consistently creating eclectic jewelry since 2008. Using influences from various world cultures and handicrafts, these pieces are adorned with hand beading, loom embroidery, and vintage textiles. If you’re looking for something perfect to go with your bohemian pieces or to update your summer style, Fortunato Jewels are it. Their pieces are where high-end and world-class craftmanship go together to create cool pieces that every girl would love to have on their necks.

Image from Lizzie Fortunato Instagram

Images from Lizzie Fortunato

Happy Xmas shopping ladies!

 

Trend Report: Activewear Chic

Partly due to the resurgence and the resounding boom of the athletic/sporty style trend, activewear is increasingly taking the spotlight in the fashion industry. Gym clothes are now more stylish than ever, and it can actually pull double duty for you now, taking you from your workout to post-workout fetes or for laid-back weekend soirees. High-fashion designers are also getting into the activewear market with their own respective line of gym wear. There is now no excuse for you to take a break from looking chic, even when you’re breaking a sweat.

A significant addition to the plethora of stylish activewear options and brands is the upcoming collaboration that has fashion fans and Beyonce fans in a tizzy. Pop culture icon, style maven, and reigning queen of music Queen B, Beyonce announced recently that she will be coming out with an activewear line with high-street UK brand Topshop. Topshop has had a storied history of excellent collaborations with designers and style icons like Kate Moss and Christopher Kane. Her exciting collab with the brand will include clothing, shoes and accessories made for dance, sports, and fitness. She promises that her activewear line will integrate functionality and her signature streetwear vibe.

 

Image and News Source: Vogue UK

 Another noteworthy designer/celebrity collaboration that attests to the trending of fashionable activewear is Kate Hudson’s newest activewear line, Fabletics. A partnership with shopping site, Just Fab, Kate Hudson’s line actually has friendlier price points than other dominant brands in the activewear fashion industry. Combining fitness with fashion is Hudson’s end goal for her premiere collection. She also designed the pieces with a variety of body types in mind. Most pieces retail for under $100, and are fashion forward enough to wear outside the gym. Here are some looks from her collection:

Image from: Well and Good

The prestigious French fashion house Balmain has joined in on the activewear trend as well and of course, did a more luxurious and haute couture take on it. Leather sweatpants with tough biker details, sweatshirts in rich prints, and even tailored cotton sweatpants are all pieces that have been spotted on fashion industry insiders.

Balmain White Pinstriped Cotton Sweatshirt from Lyst.com

Balmain Leather Jogging Pants from Stylebop

Pierre Balmain Heather Grey XX Lounge Pants from SSense

Want more chic activewear pieces to incorporate into your daily looks? Here are some of my picks for sporty threads and athletic duds that’ll up your fashion cred and get you into this hot trend.

Nike Liberty Windrunner Jacket from LuisaViaRoma

Nike’s collaboration with design print company Liberty of London produced this upgraded take on the hoodie. The paisley print on this piece looks vintage inspired and when married with the athletic vibe of the hoodie makes for a fashion forward addition to your closet. Wear this beautiful hoodie over a white dress and with striped slip-ons for an easy look for a summer afternoon. You can even use this hoodie to layer underneath a blazer for a surprising element to your fall uniform of boyfriend blazer, dark denims and ankle boots. You can also try layering a blue printed scarf in a similar shade with this hoodie to add some downtown cool to a typically sporty item.

Fendi Creatures Hooded Shell Ski Jacket from Net-a-Porter

A part of Fendi’s Creatures collection this ski jacket debunks the thinking that winter style is bulky, unflattering, and the total polar opposite of chic. This fun and playful color blocked ski jacket will give your winter looks a punch of color. Perk up your all black looks with this piece, or you can even accent a pair of sleek black trousers with this athletic item.

Mover Stretch Jersey and Mesh Sports Bra from Net-a-Porter

The addition of mesh to this sports bra makes it trendier and adds a subtle hint of sexy. The mesh detail of this number takes this beyond the gym and makes it ideal for those night outs and parties. Quick styling tip, wear this sports bra with more feminine silhouettes to contrast with its modernity. Try this with a midi skirt with lots of volume, or even with tailored cigarette pants for a different take on cocktail dressing.

Adidas by Stella McCartney Mesh and Stretch Jersey Dress from The Outnet

This cute and flirty dress has the right amount of swing and flow to it. Adidas and Stella McCartney has had a long partnership way before the athletic trend exploded all over the scene, and you can always count on this design collab for athletic pieces that have feminine details that update the standard sporty silhouettes. Pair this dress with a statement necklace, loose hair waves, and some white wedges for a winsome look, ideal for weekend brunches and afternoon jaunts.

Y-3 Oversized Cotton T-Shirt from MyTheresa

This cotton T-shirts have athletic varsity stripes that take it from basic to trendy. You can wear this design with everything, if you want to lend it a more casual, sporty vibe. Wear it with printed skater skirts or denim cutoffs, it’ll look chic every single time.

Nike Roshe Run Print Sneakers from MyTheresa

Sneakers are not just for running anymore, just take a look at any street style blog and you’ll see just how white hot this sneaker trend is. Worn with everything from sequined dress to LBDs, from tailored suits to floral rompers, sneakers are newest must-have footwear that are equal parts stylish, comfy, and versatile. These pair of Roshe Run sneakers have a black and white print that have a modern pop of neon. The streamlined design makes it easy to wear and incorporate into different looks.

Do you love this trend as much as I do? Sound off below for your stylish athletic picks!

Style Icon: Beyoncé

Beyoncé a.k.a Mrs Carter, a.k.a Queen Bey is currently the reigning queen of music and pop culture. One half of the hottest and most powerful couple on earth, she and her hubby Jay-Z pretty much have the whole music industry on lock. Between that, and her wildly successful album which she launched without any fanfare at all, Beyoncé’s pop culture icon status cannot be disputed.

Beyoncé is on top of her fashion game too. All glam and all curves, Beyoncé never steps out in anything less than stellar, and anything unworthy of a paparazzi shot. Let’s forget those unfortunate Destiny’s Child costumes of the early ’00s, and let me call your attention to her current spate of jaw-dropping red carpet worthy looks and sophisticated urban street style. She is definitely a style icon in her own right, just get a load of these 10 looks for royal style inspiration from Queen Bey herself.

Image Source

A striped two-piece matching skirt and crop top set (spot those amazing abs!) is elevated with a bowler hat and coral pumps. Beyoncé isn’t a stranger to graphic lines with color pops.

Image Source

A radiant and gorgeous Beyoncé wows in this orange one-shouldered gown from Lanvin. Here she’s sporting two of the best accessories, a baby bump and beautiful glow. This is look is a reminder to everyone, color is your friend. An intense color can give your look a quick fashion forward upgrade.

Image Source

What does Beyoncé wear on a casual day out? Leather shorts and a crisp white blazer, of course. She also shows us her strong love of color with  a pair of mint green heels. Take a cue from Beyoncé ladies, a hit of color is always a welcome addition to a monochromatic outfit.

Image Source

Beyoncé can do tailored and prim on the red carpet better than anyone. This black and white jumpsuit from Osman shows off this signature curves to perfection, and her classic and clean beauty look completes this look nicely.

Image Source

Elegant and ornate, this intricate Michael Costello gown stole the show during the Grammy’s. Beyoncé’s dark lips and smoldering makeup add to the romantic feeling of this memorable red carpet look.

Image Source

Only Beyoncé can pull of this over-the-top yet chic Versace look for the Met Gala. Bold, daring, and dazzling all at the same time, the coordinating thigh-high boots and dress combo slayed on the red carpet. Bravo.

Image Source

This is definitely a classic Beyoncé look, legs for days in a sparkly and colorful mini. Unapologetic glamour and effortless sexiness at its best.

Image Source

This earthy and tribal Thakoon outfit was such a perfect choice for a tropical vacay with her hubby, Jay-Z. The mustard yellow and the zebra print is unexpectedly chic with a hint of vintage feeling, reminiscent of a modern safari look.

Image Source

Rocking this trendy Tom Ford boots and dress killer combo. Thigh-high boots are most certainly a staple in Beyoncé’s closet, it just adds seductive vibe to any look.

Image Source

Feminine and polished in these polka dot separates from Marc Jacobs, Beyoncé shows that she can mix it up and pull of a vintage ladylike ensemble.

Which one is your favorite Queen Bey look? If you can’t get enough of her style, she does #OOTD posts on her Instagram too.

Have a great week, ladies!

Beauty Report: Fall 2014 Hair Trends

When updating your closet for the fall/winter 2014-2015 season, you may want to start thinking about updating your beauty look as well. As the weather starts getting colder you change your everyday style rotation, adjust your skincare routine, and even choose your makeup to match the season. Don’t forget your hairstyle when you’re doing your yearly style edit. Your crowning glory can make or break your look as much as your shoes do.

Updating your ‘do doesn’t necessarily entail a drastic color change or a chopping all of it off, there are other ways and various other trends to keep your hairstyle updated too. Here’s a rundown of the best and most wearable hairstyle trends of the season:

• Blunt Short Bobs

Image Source

This season has already been dubbed the season of the short. Celebrities such as Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting, Amber Valletta, and Miley Cyrus  have been leading the charge with this trend. Blunt, short, bobs like these instantly make you look edgy and cool. It also shows off your gorgeous cheekbones and face shape to its best.

• Textured Long Bobs

Image Source

Beyonce herself started this whole texture long bob movement. Lovingly called “the lob” now, there are various online DIY tutorials on how to achieve this look sans haircut. Apparently, all you need is hair tie and bobby pins to achieve this tousled, sexy “lob.” If you want to take the plunge, go right ahead this long bob is flattering for most shapes and it’ll be painless to grow out.

• Slicked Back Hair

Image Source

The slicked back hairstyle has been spotted in many a red carpet as of late. This is a great way to integrate some trends into your hair looks. To get this hot look, simply apply mouse and use your fingers to slick back the sides to achieve this sleek style. Don’t overdo the product application, too much will make your ‘do look overdone and dated.

• 60s One-Length Hair

Image Source

Think of the 60s supermodel Veruschka, or even Cher’s poker straight hair. Say goodbye to girl-next-door layered locks from the 90s and late ’00s, and embrace this one-length look to get tresses that look straight out of a haute couture runway.

• Center Part

Image Source

A simple change of your hair part can make a marked improvement on your overall look and stylishness. Center hair parts this season are less bohemian earth chick, and more London girl mod. Try a smoothing serum plus a quick morning blow dry to get this coveted look.

• Braided Updo

Image Source

Braids were one of the hottest hair trends this summer. This fall, braids take a more dressy and feminine turn with braided updos. Romantic and polished, these braids will look refreshing when paired with a masculine-inspired ensemble.

• Messy Top Knots

Image Source

Consistently ruling hairstyle trends for the past year or so is the messy top knot. This is the hairstyle staple for every fashionista out there, it’s not just for bad hair days anymore. Messy top knots are the ultimate hair trend in undone and effortless street style glamour.

Which hairstyle will you be trying this season? I am so excited for fall! Have a great weekend, ladies!