Best of Fashion Week Street Style: New York

It’s astounding how different one city can be from another. The four fashion capitals, New York, Paris, Milan, and London, all have distinctive styles. I’m going to explore that with my series of blogs about Fashion Week street style.

Street style blogs have a cult following for a reason. It captures individual style and it captures the feeling, mood and personality of that particular moment. Where you live affects your sartorial choices, and I want to explore that through these blogs. I’ve curated images, which stand out for its sense of style as well as that unique New York feeling. New York is urban and straight forward, just like these stylistas. Here are my picks:

Magazine editor Joanna Hillman isn’t afraid to wear two bohemian trends together. Billowy floral sleeves and fringe never looked this good together.

I love this chic yet subtle take on color blocking. It’s a different way to dress up in warm colors when it’s autumn.

Hanneli Mustaparta bucks the fashion rules dons a pair of floral overalls with gusto.

Look closely and you’ll see 3 different kinds of graphic stripe in this look. So edgy.

Model Lindsey Wixson nails Brooklyn cool in this ensemble. Love the brown belt and wide brim hat.

The architectural feel of the check print and especially the shoes reflects the New York skyline. But just like the city, there’s an unpredictable element. How amazing is that pink furry clutch?!

Make  a bold statement in Moschino.

No shame in the matchy-matchy game. Start a new trend when you match your bright top with equally bright-hued sunglasses.

There’s no reason why culottes can’t be done up in leather. That plus sheer sleeves equals edgy glamour.

Editor Christine Centenera makes a strong case for pinstripes in this fashion forward look. Mostly black and navy, but never boring.

Sweater dressing gets elevated with stark white masculine oxfords.

This outfit is Upper East Side Gossip Girl style with a dash of modern. The white sneakers and ribbed turtleneck definitely put a trendy spin on the matching tailored blazer and shorts look.

Nothing says downtown cool girl like an unexpected outfit pairing. A standard striped Breton shirt gets upgraded by a tiered ruffle skirt.

Chiara Ferragni of the Blonde Salad blog looks adorable in this earthy 70s inspired look.

Leandra Medine of the Man Repeller shows us her unique style yet again. Sequined Rugby shirts have never looked this chic.

Stylist Liz Uy is an example of fashion excess done right. Printed platforms, oversized cuffed jeans, fringed clutch, and kimono tunic doesn’t sound like it should work, but it does.

Irene Kim, Chriselle Lim, and Aimee Song = #squadgoals

Go big or go home. Fringe plus voluminous culottes is the definition of full throttle fashion.

Military green parkas are basically a staple in any city gal’s wardrobe. Here is a new and refreshing way to wear ’em.

White T-shirt is a casual must-have. Knot it to the side and tuck it in, style it further with a printed blazer and you’ve got a winner.

Contrast the trendiness of your It bag with a quirky vintage print and a ladylike classic bun.

New Yorkers are always in black. Black + dark denim looks extra polished with the addition of a classic leather belt.

Photos from Harper’s Bazaar

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.

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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.

 

Street Style Trend: Summer Whites

I love that I live in a country that’s pretty much has summer weather year-round. For those fashionistas in the Western Hemisphere, summer will officially be in full swing in a couple of weeks. I’d like to take a cue from these street style stars and follow their lead on this trend–summer whites.

White is such a classic and clean color. I love its purity. I love its timelessness and elegance. All white was considered poor sartorial form for just a couple of years ago but now, white is an all year long style staple. Yes, even whites in the fall/winter fashion season! But nothing beats the effortless effervescence of all white in the summer. Peep my picks and styling tips below, and rock your best white #OOTD this season.

Wrap dress + jumpsuit = TOTAL CHICNESS. I love how this one-piece integrates a classic flattering wrap dress silhouette on top. Add a sleek hairdo and you’re set.

A breezy white tee and mini combo looks summer festival ready with buckled strappy sandals and a playful ikat textile satchel. Increase the coolness factor of this look with layered jewelry.

A linen wrap dress with a slit feels like the perfect intersection of classic and current. The leather mules and black oversized sunnies make this look feel so Olsen twins inspired. I really love the Olsen Twins‘ style!

Modern boho chic is in. A voluminous white maxi skirt, tassel necklace, and printed cropped top is the recipe for bohemian hippie style.

Can I really make a street style trend roundup without Olivia Palermo? No. Here she is in all her stylish glory, wearing an elegant all white summer look. Love the Audrey Hepburn inspired neckline worn with edgy snakeskin lace up heels. 

The 70s are so in right now! Give your all-white look a little bit of 70s flair with a pair of earthy brown platforms. Want more 70s fashion inspo? Check out this link.

I love ripped denim, it just gives an edgy and rock n’ roll vibe to any ensemble. Contrast your ripped white denim with a crisp white shirt and finish it off with a menswear inspired flourishes like a Panama hat and patent brogues.

Chiara Ferragni is the top blogger for a reason, her style is simply amazing! I am in awe of how dynamic she makes all white look, especially for the transitional season. Lace up shorts plus snakeskin sneaks? Oh yes!

Mechanic jumpsuits are another top trend for the season. It certainly is a departure from the more billowy, hippie chic kind. Pair with a messy top knot and your fave sandals for a great off-duty look.

Eyelet details looks so amazing in white, it just resonates with how feminine and fresh white feels when worn in the summer. Take note of the shoulder cut-out details and the super trendy flat mule.

Images from Pinterest and WhoWhatWear

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So which look did you love? Which one will you be copping for your summer outfit? I, for one, am excited to style my white denim! See it on my Instagram @stylewithkate.

CFDA Awards 2015 Report

Kim Kardashian’s fire emergency aside, this year’s Council of Fashion Designers of America Awards was full of fashion inspiration and sartorial surprises. Celebrating the very best of fashion design, the CFDA Awards this year did not fail to amaze and to provoke a deeper love for the industry and it’s creative minds.

But before we get to the awards part of the evening,let me bring you some choice red carpet snaps of my personal picks for best dressed.

Image from People StyleWatch

Kim’s grommeted Proenza Schouler gown was undoubtedly one of the most memorable looks of the night. Those feathered shoulders brushed a candle at some point during the night, but luckily Pharrell was there to lend a hand. Wanna know more? Check Kim K.’s Instagram.

Image from Style.com

Gotta love Natasha Poly‘s sexy take on red carpet glamour.

Image from Style.com

Monique Lhuillier and Michelle Monaghan are picture perfect. Classic black and elegant gold, I love it!

Image from Style.com

Julianna Margulies’ metallic gown is alluring and is just the right amount of sheer. Gotta love Michael Kors‘ black suit too, a menswear classic staple.

Image from Style.com

Zachary Quinto‘s sophisticated tuxedo looks even more amazing beside Gigi Hadid‘s blingy and youthful take on the 70s with her gilded jumpsuit.

Image from Style.com

I am simply dying over Emmy Rossum‘s LBD! It’s simply stunning and has the right details into it.

Image from Style.com

Style maven Miroslava Duma is excellent at dressing for her frame. This mini dress with intricate embroidery is a refreshing ensemble and is so fashion forward.

Image from Style.com

Leandra Medine from famed blog, Man Repeller, took her quirky sense of style to the CFDA Awards, and it was terrific! Love the bandana on her wrist!

Image from Style.com

Katharine McPhee took a definite sartorial risk in her long vest and trouser look, and it definitely paid off.

Image from Style.com

DJ and It Girl Harley Viera Newton and designer Cynthia Rowley look printastic in these babydoll shift dresses. The prints are retro yet modern.

Which looks did you love? There were just so many good ones! Red carpet glamour and jaw-dropping fashion aside, the other great part of events is all those memorable quirky moments before the show, during the show, and after it. What better way to take a peek into the full CFDA experience than through Instagram? Here are my favorite Insta snaps from the night.

Chrissy Teigen‘s wardrobe malfunction had her date Stuart Weitzman coming to her rescue. Phew, that was a close call. She looks adorable in this Insta snap though!

I love this funky nail art! Guess whose these David Bowie tips belong to? Blogger Chiara Ferragni, of course! 

Makeup check! Everyone has to check their beauty look before stepping out, right? Aren’t you just in love with her fresh faced look?

Victoria Beckham is oozing elegance as she is escorted by fashion industry insider Hamish Bowles. Still working it even in the rain.

And now, onto the winners! All the winners were movers and shakers that definitely deserved the awards they received. Each one of these designer’s unique vision has shaped the industry and the fashion world.

Images Below from NYTimes.com

Shayne Oliver,the designer behind hip and happening brand Hood By Air, won the Swarovski Award for Menswear.

If you haven’t heard of Mansur Gavriel, you’re not a true fashionista. The covetable minimalist bucket bags from the brands are must-haves for It girls everywhere. Floriana Gavriel and Rachel Mansur, the creatives behind the brand, won the Swarovski Award for Accessory Design.

Kanye West presented Pharrell Williams with the Fashion Icon Award. He completely deserves it. His recent collaboration with Adidas is proof of his design acumen and style savvy.

The night wouldn’t be complete without a Betsey Johnson split. The fun and forever young designer won the night’s Lifetime Achievement Award, and stayed true to her playfulness by repeatedly breaking out her splits throughout the night.

I hope you had as much fun as I had looking through all the fashion and Insta-worthy moments from the CFDA Awards. Until next year!

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Top 10 Fashion Bloggers

Blogging might have started out as a hobby for some of these girls, but now they have permanent seats in fashion week front rows.

When blogging started becoming big, the fashion industry questioned the credibility of this platform. But now there is no mistaking that fashion bloggers have major clout and major influence within the fashion industry and beyond. Far from following trends, these movers and shakers use their respective social media accounts and their personal blog, of course, to start trends. Each blogger has their own unique style and voice, which is why they attract a large and dedicated online following. Bloggers are such an important part of the fashion industry now, and it is amazing to see how one’s individuality can take off as a legitimate and thriving career in fashion.

I personally always look to these bloggers for inspiration. Here’s the list of my top 10 fashion bloggers:

Rumi Neely of Fashion Toast 

Rumi Neely’s style is a very interesting cross-section of maximalism and minimalism. Sounds like a paradox, but when you think about it, it really isn’t. Rumi doesn’t use too many accessories in her looks. However, each piece that she chooses packs a major pow and creates so much drama. Known for her love of short hemlines and chunky heeled footwear, Rumi also has enviable hair that seems perfectly beach tousled every single time.

Karla Deras of Karla’s Closet 

Karla Deras has an undeniable penchant for vintage luxury wear. She is often photographed in her blog in something from her favorite vintage store in her hometown L.A., Shareen Vintage. Her style is always tailored to fit, or closely cut to her amazing body. Karla takes her natural elegance and mixes it with fashion risks that are just a little bit on the risque side. Her love for edgy jewelry has led to her own line of bling for online retailer, E-luxe.

Aimee Song of Song of Style

Collaborations with industry big names like Piperlime and 7 for All Mankind, interior designer turned blogger extraodinaire Aimee Song has cemented her place in fashion. She takes such a democratic approach to dressing up, but still adds her own brand of eclecticism to her outfits that she simply fascinates the imagination of fashion fans worldwide. Her style is so effortless, yet each one of her looks read sartorial royalty.

Ashley Madekwe of Ring My Bell

Ashley Madekwe is more commonly known as Ashley Davenport on Revenge or as Tituba on Salem. Both her TV shows are certified hits, and her fashion blog is a certified hit too. Ashley certainly takes fashion seriously. Her blog, Ring My Bell, is filled with ensembles that seamlessly combine her interpretation of current trends and her British roots since every single look has traces of the irreverence of British street style.

Jamie Chung of What The Chung

Another actress/blogger on the list. It is simply hard to make a top blogger list without including Jamie Chung. She makes me fall in love with her feminine looks. It is hard not to want all the matching skirt and crop top sets she wears as well as her killer sunglasses too. Her bubbly personality can be glimpsed with her vibrant choice of colors and her preference for cheeky tropical prints.

Elin Kling of The Wall

One of the originals, Elin Kling’s minimalist and predominantly monochromatic style is just so reflective of Swedish fashion. She has done collaborations with H&M and Guess, and is now a bona fide fashion powerhouse. Her original blog, Style by Kling, has now transformed into The Wall an online curated magazine /journal where she shares what she loves in fashion. She also has her own line of clothing as well.

Chiara Ferragni of The Blonde Salad

The first blogger ever to be on the cover of Vogue (she was on the April 2015 of Vogue Espana), Chiara Ferragni is a permanent presence in street style blogs and fashion websites. Her style is unapologetically trendy, she’s always seen in the latest designer threads sporting the hottest “it” accessory of the moment. Her wildly successful footwear line is just as exuberant as her style. She basically can’t go wrong, every one of her #OOTD is golden.

Nicole Warne of Gary Pepper Girl

Nicole Warne simply loves vintage, and it shows. Whether she’s sporting a treasured find or a hot-off-the-runway frock, the effect is still the same. Her looks always have a dreamy and ladylike quality to them that has become her style signature. This creative soul started her blog as an extension of her online vintage store. She has certainly come a long way from that. Managed by the prestigious IMG agency, and counting Louise Vuitton and Vogue as her past collaborators, Nicole Warne is proof of the relevance and power of bloggers today.

Leandra Medine of Man Repeller

One of the funniest and most playful bloggers out there, Leandra Medine, has made man repelling her brand. Man repelling in this case means wearing trends and styles that women simply love, but men hate. Don’t mistake her humorous take on fashion as a sign that she takes fashion lightly, Medine is a major player. Unique is not enough to describe the way she puts together her looks. It is man-repelling, and boy do we love it.

Kelly Framel of The Glamourai

Creative director and editor of her online webzine called The Glamourai, Kelly Framel is an accomplished stylist that puts together her stylish inspirations, travel snapshots into this online part-blog part-magazine hybrid. Her style is sophisticated. With a definite love of details that pop, Kelly’s appeal lies in her uncanny ability to mix high and low, vintage and modern.

There you have it fashion folks. Now, who’s on your list of blogger faves? Let the bookmarking begin!

Sporty Looks for Summer

Alexander Wang was definitely one of the pioneers and trailblazers for the resurgence of the athletic trend that is sweeping the fashion industry at the moment. Gray sweats, sneakers, and mesh tops are moving out of the confines of the gym, and are now firmly planted in the style spotlight. Sports luxe have been spotted on the backs of the most stylish set, like Miroslava Duma, Olivia Palermo, and Chiara Ferragni to name a few, this fashion trend show no sign of slowing down.

You can count on more sportswear detailing and materials propping up even in the most classic of silhouettes. From Gucci to Marni, DKNY to Marc Jacobs, locker room wear is a trend that’s here for the long haul. Incorporate this sought-after look into your wardrobe, and get inspired with my top 10 picks for the best sporty summer looks:

Wearing your sneakers with a relaxed tee and tote in a matching color is an advanced style move that makes your casual attire look a little bit more polished and pulled together.

Trousers with a single vertical white stripe is an understated nod to jogging pants. Take it to another level by using it to diminish the dressiness of the sequin top and studded heels.

Mesh details are hot, hot, hot this season. Turn up the volume on this sporty material when you wear it with distressed jeans and menswear inspired loafers.

The drawstring and pocket detail of these shorts allude to its gym attire origins, but the ankle strap sandal and oversized camel coat make it look updated and super chic.

Change up your crop top, and go for a sports bra instead. Wear with a high-waist pleated skirt, and give a fresh and twist on the athletic trend.

You won’t look a like a dad when you wear sneakers with jeans and a blazer. Just bear in mind that your separates should be tailored and not baggy.

A striped sleeved T-shirt gives a subtle nod to sportswear. Topping it off with a crystal statement necklace and lucite heels makes it unique and personal.

Never downplay the value and impact headwear can add to your ensemble. Just by simply wearing a baseball cap, you can dip your toe into the athletic wear trend. Opt for baseball caps done in a more luxe material, like this leather cap, and avoid sports insignia at all costs.

You need not be limited to blazers and boxy jackets when choosing a piece to complement your favorite graphic print pencil skirt. A varsity jacket is the way to go, when you want to add a bit of sporty glam to your street style.

 

Gray sweatpants must always be paired with something more formal or a more rigid or tailored shape to it. By using a leather vest to layer the look, you don’t look like you’re lounging at home or sweating it out on the treadmill.

Why not try this trend out for size? You might be surprised at how many chic points you’ll score!

Images from: WhoWhatWear, Fashion Magazine, Valley Magazine, Lauren Messiah, GlamAsia, Pinterest, Refinery29