Buy Now: Winter Sweaters

Sweaters are a must-have item that’ll successfully and fashionably transition your wardrobe from summer/spring to fall/winter. Regardless of where you live, there is room in your closet for sweaters. More than just being cozy, sweaters are classics that keep you looking chic when it starts to get a little bit chilly. For those who live in cold climates, sweaters are lifesavers and the right sweater can spell the difference in your look of the day. For us in the tropics, sweaters are still a worthy investment so that we won’t be caught off-guard during those blustery days.

I’ve scoured my favorite stores online, and curated this selection of must-have sweaters for the Fall/Winter 2015 season. Here are my top 10 picks:

Gucci Embroidered Sweater from LuisaViaRoma

You certainly won’t be a wallflower in this statement making sweater. If you’re looking for a sweater that’ll translate for fancier occasions, this Gucci stunner is your best bet.

Yeezy Cotton Sweater from MyTheresa

Looking to up your cool girl cred? Sport some Yeezy clothing. The utilitarian elevated basics that Kanye West designed will score you major points. Not to mention, it’s so easy to style and layer.

Marco di Vincenzo Striped Lurex Sweater from LuisaViaRoma

Since disco is back with a vengeance, glittery and clingy Lurex sweaters like this one from Marco di Vincenzo are back in vogue. This is definitely my pick for my next night-out. It’s sexy without showing too much skin.

Stella McCartney Wool Sweater from MyTheresa

Classic with a twist, this elegant sweater from Stella McCartney comes in such a lovely neutral tan color. It has just enough detail to make an impact (note the geometric hem and detailing), while being minimalist enough to be worn with a number of outfits.

Sonia Rykiel Striped Knit Sweater from TheOutnet

I just love the Parisian playful vibe that Rykiel brings to all her designs. This striped sweater is no exception. This sweater will certainly transition you seamlessly back to the warmer months too.

Autumn Cashmere Tennis Knitted Sweater from TheOutnet

The varsity/collegiate vibe of this sweater adds to its appeal and wearability. Pair it with leather pants for a more subversive take on the preppy trend, or opt to go with country club chic and pair with a pleated midi skirt.

Saint Laurent Leopard Mohair Blend Sweater from LuisaViaRoma

Leopard print is basically a neutral, or so they say. The black and white leopard print on this sweater qualifies it as a modern classic in my book. I can see myself rocking this all season long, from casual looks to evening ensembles.

McQ Alexander McQueen Sweater Dress from MyTheresa

A good sweater dress can answer your outfit woes. The color blocking on this McQueen piece is so edgy. Whether bare-legged or worn with tights, this sweater dress looks amazing.

Valentino Bow-Detailed Stretch-Wool Sweater from TheOutnet

You can count on Valentino to come out with a feminine and ladylike sweater to liven up your closet. The bow detail is a great way to punch up this classic piece.

Chloe Oversized Cashmere Sweater from TheOutnet

Play with proportions when you style this oversized cashmere sweater from Chloe. This is such a brilliant layering piece to give your fall/winter style a refresh.

Style Icon: Elena Perminova

Siberian-born model Elena Perminova has been a permanent front row fixture as well as a fervent supporter and wearer of haute couture. Perminova is a member of the ubiquitous ‘Russian Pack’ along with Ulyana Sergeenko and Vika Gazinskaya, both couture designers; and Miroslava Duma, a fashion journalist and style blogger. More than putting Russian fashion on the map, Perminova adds a distinct charm and playfulness to her looks that makes her style so exciting to observe. Wife to media mogul, Alexander Lebedev, and mother of three, Elena Perminova’s jet set lifestyle and taste for the finer things in fashion betrays her down-to-earth charm and youthful sartorial individuality.

Here are some of my favorite street style and Fashion Week looks from Elena Perminova:

A straw hat with a metallic platinum dress is simply put, a stroke of style genius. Perminova has always proven herself to be the master of unexpected fashion combinations, and this look is a testament to her fashion savvy. Notice how her casual flats balance then ultra short hemline and evening appeal of her high shine frock? Definitely a styling tip to take note of.

With the “it bag” of the upcoming spring season, the Chloe Drew bag, slung around her toned shoulders, she sashays effortlessly into another fashion show front row, no doubt. The bright blue hue of the bag stands out against her minimalist chic off-white sweater dress and thigh-high boots duo.

Showing off her penchant for color, Perminova puts her own spin on the classic trench dress as she dons it in a beautiful deep turquoise. With a trendy 70s silhouette, she teaches us a thing or two about statement dressing. Pick a maximum impact piece, and let it shine.

Displaying the one-of-a-kind blend of edgy elegance that she is known for, Perminova puts together a patent crocodile print with a prim navy blazer and tough gal chic Balenciaga cut-out boots for a look that is bursting with street style cred.

Want to dress up your denim? Take your style cues from Elena Perminova. A feminine ruffled blouse tucked into dark denim with a light stone wash is given the high fashion treatment with such choice add-ons such as a pair of sleek white pumps, an oversized tan leather clutch with zipper embellishments, and a pair of round sunnies.

If your LBD game needs a refresh, do like Elena and go matchy-matchy with your accessories. Her matching tweed Chanel 2.55 bag sneakers give a dose of urban cool to her plain black knee-length black dress.

A true style maven for high-low dressing, she exhibits her enviable fashion prowess and her treasure trove of designer and unique pieces in this memorable street style outfit.  A pale pink embellished lace dress is typically for the red carpet, but Perminova makes it street style friendly with the addition of lace-up boots, a black military style blazer, and a wide brim hat. Instant downtown chic.

Leave it to Elena Perminova to find a completely new way to wear your standard cognac leather tote. While most people would reserve this carryall for their denim-and-tee looks, she confidently rocks it with a floor-length gown with floral appliques on the hem. Bow down to the master of high-low, street meets couture dressing.

All Images from WhoWhatWear

Must-Have Sweaters for Fall 2014

I love sweater weather. Cozy knit scarves, snug beanies, and soft cardigans are both indispensable pieces that will undoubtedly complete your fall wardrobe. With a variety of designs available to suit every girl’s style, taste, and personality, there are simply so many ways to play around with sweater dressing when you’re styling yourself. Although fall is the common time to break out those statement making knitwear, knits are also making waves with spring/summer runways and street style. All season, all occasion, and definitely all casual elegance, sweaters will give your style a texture uplift and an increase in chicness.

These celebs certainly know how to get decked out in the best and most stylish knit wear. Whether it’s more dressed up and polished or more daytime casual, we can certainly see that the sweater’s trendiness translates anytime and anywhere.

Karolina Kurkova shows off her penchant for white as she steps out clad in a menswear-inspired ensemble. Her cream knit  jumper serves as the visual texture that adds interest to her look. 

You can count on Olivia Palermo to pull of a monochromatic sweater and skirt set look. Casually half-tucked at the waist, the burgundy hue of her sweater and pencil skirt is the perfect canvas for her awe-inspiring statement necklace. 

California girl, former reality TV star, and fashion media and business mogul Lauren Conrad understands the power of knit wear and layering to instantly increase the sophistication of a tank dress and nude sandals. She does her own take on springtime layering in this chunky oversized knit cardigan.

Images from WhoWhatWear

Ready to take on the knit wear/ sweater trend? Shop my picks below:

M Missoni Wave Knit Cotton Blend Sweater from LuisaViaRoma

Missoni’s signature prints will liven up your fall/winter wardrobe. Pick one of the colors within the sweater design and coordinate it with your other cold weather accessories, like scarves, gloves etc. This will look just as good in the summer, with shorts and ballet flats.

The Elder Statesman Cashmere Sweater from Net-a-Porter

Every fashionista needs and more importantly, deserves a quality cashmere sweater. Nothing can beat the luxurious feeling that wearing cashmere gives. This one from The Elder Statesman is in a vibrant pink color that will pop with your blacks and navy blues.

Alice + Olivia Face Appliqued Knitted Cardigan from Net-a-Porter

If you’re searching for something playful, grab this Alice + Olivia knit cardigan. The super fun face applique will look extra amazing when paired with a pencil skirt, opaque tights, and over-the-knee suede boots. Elizabeth and James Oversized Leopard Print Cotton Blend Cardigan from Net-a-Porter

To any fashionable woman, leopard print is practically a neutral. This print is perfect to pair with practically anything in your closet, and this oversized cardigan from Elizabeth and James is the perfect knit cover-up for your dresses and tailored separates.

Jil Sander Leather-Trimmed Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater from Net-a-Porter

Turtleneck is a major trend this year. This Jil Sander piece modernizes and makes this trend even more covetable, with a few smart design decisions; from the leather panel detail on the inner sleeve, subtle asymmetrical hemline, and the understated gray color, of course.

 

Etro Knit Sweater from MyTheresa

The vintage print on this Etro Knit Sweater is simply stunning. Layer a crisp, white button down underneath this knit for a quick and chic office look, or opt to wear on its own and pair with distressed denim and sneakers for some effortless street style flair.

Chloe Knit Sweater Dress from MyTheresa

A sweater dress is a great way to get dressed, whether you find yourself in the midst of springtime or fall. You can wear this Chloe frock with tights or without, with heels or flats. The marled gray knit fabric and colorful geometric pattern make this piece truly versatile.

Polo Ralph Lauren Cotton Knit Sweater from MyTheresa

For the full-on preppy look, slip into this classic Polo Ralph Lauren sweater design. Channel country club springtime chic and wear it with a pleated white mini skirt and espadrilles. Come fall, accent this knit with red scarves and matching cropped navy trousers.

Sweaters are a godsend. It is both comfy and fashionable! What is your sweater pick this season?

The Best of Paris Fashion Week Spring 2015 Street Style

Fashion month was a whirlwind of runways, celebrities, models, and jaw dropping designer collections. My favorite part of fashion month? The incredible street style, of course. As fashion folks flock to the fashion capitals (New York, Milan, London and Paris) to catch all the shows, their stellar style goes on full display on the streets. Fashion Week basically serves up heaps and heaps of wardrobe inspiration for all of us to take in. Here are my picks for the best of Paris Fashion Week Spring 2015 Street Style:

Leave it to fashion editor Joanna Hillman to show us the best way to style up a white tee and elevate it to truly epic and memorable street style.  Pants with a slight wide leg and a fringe jacket give this look a subtle yet very present 70s vibe. Trendy necklaces still show off her fashion savvy.

One can’t do a fashion week street style roundup without including  a look with the ubiquitous Chloe rounded crossbody bag. Her boxy and oversized bomber jacket goes together perfectly with 90s pieces like her denim pencil skirt and black leather mules.

Long silhouettes and a large, roomy top handle tote show you that pieces that are high in drama can and do look good when worn all at once. The key is to keep it simple, a long bright red sweater dress with a charcoal gray long cardi are streamlined items that when combined produce an impactful outfit.

A black jumpsuit can look basic and too simple. Give it some accessory flourish with a pair of bright bubblegum pink heels. Toting a striped black and white blazer gives it an even more contemporary and graphic pop.

Fringe, tribal print, and a substantial turtleneck are three microtrends that are encapsulated in this singular item. The colorblock mini bag gives this statement dress some much needed contrast from all the boho details.

The sneaker fashion revolution show no sign of stopping and slowing down this season. Polka dot denim and these chic maroon sneaks certainly improve an otherwise plain gray jumper.

Blanket coats/ponchos are another hot ticket item this fall. Wearing it with casual skinny denim and plimsolls make it look more youthful and appropriate for everyday dressing.

The coquettish lace and ribbons in this feminine frock and its accompanying vintage inspired tote is balanced by tough girl studded footwear.

A knit jumper that is oversized makes a powerful style declaration. Offset the voluminous sweater with sleek details like slinky leather leggings and equally slick leather boots.

No need to retire your love of pink as the season turns into fall. Try your hand at the “tied at the waist” trend and combine it with your penchant for some rosy color.

Classic Stan Smith sneaks go so well with a matching two-piece set. You can’t go wrong with the stylish duo of a cropped sweater and pencil skirt.

Over-the-knee boots are another footwear trend to watch and try. The best way to wear it? Let the boots be the center of attention and wear it with a sophisticated yet simple frock.

The 70s are back in a big way, and this look makes a pretty strong case for it. Denim bell-bottoms with a tucked in polka dot blouse, this is 70s style done right.

Perk up your neutrals by adding tropical prints into the mix. Layer your cropped tops from the summer over your fall closet staples like a crisp and tailored oxford shirt.

All white after Labor Day is not a fashion faux pas anymore. Bending or breaking the rules is the new sartorial standard, the only requirement now is standout style and chicness, and this look definitely achieves that. The coordinating menswear pant and boxy vest in an understated print anchor the white elements of this look effortlessly.

What’s your favorite look from this roundup? Let me know in the comments!

Images from Teen Vogue, PopSugar, and Harper’s Bazaar

Trend Roundup: Mini Bags

The era of the “it” bag is over; these bags came of age and into popularity right around the 00’s. The LV Speedy, Chanel Jumbo Flap 2.55, Fendi Spy, YSL Muse–all these roomy luxury totes were all the rage. Now there is a new bag taking over the scene, the mini bag.

Designers this season have been making teensy versions of the luxury bags we’ve come to know and love, and fashionistas from Rihanna to Giovanna Battaglia have been snapping it up and toting these mini bags around town.

Spotted all over the streets of Paris during Haute Couture Fall 2014/2015 Fashion Week, this little bag is making major fashion headlines. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in chicness. These little purses are certainly in line with the minimalist trend that is big in fashion. The size and sleekness of these tiny fashion wonders serve as accessories that blend in or streamline minimalist ensembles. It never takes over or draws attention, mini bags are all about subtlety, it’s all about having a touch of designer luxury. Just a touch.

Images from Fashiontag.Wordpress.com

Refresh your purse game and snap up these mini bag babies. Here’s our roundup of the chicest mini bags around:

ValentinoVa Va Voom glossed-alligator shoulder bag from The Outnet 

Alligator skin + studs = major luxury. This bag definitely makes a statement, and the right one at that. Sling this over your shoulder and watch everyone swoon over your purse pal.

Givenchy Mini Antigona Grained Leather Bag from Luisaviaroma

The big sister version of the Antigona is pretty popular as it is. Carrying this mini Antigona will separate you from the fashion pack, and selecting a bubbly and punchy color like this shocking saturated pink is your ticket to being a street style standout.

Proenza Schouler PS11 Mini Classic Smooth Leather Bag from Luisaviaroma

The PS11 classic satchel silhouette combined with the heavy metal hardware makes it impossible to resist. It adds modern polish to any outfit. Wear this across your body with a plain maxi tank dress and flip-flops to glamorize even the most casual days.

Maiyet Peyton Mini Elaphe and Leather Shoulder Bag from Net-a-porter

The red, black, and white stripe print on this Maiyet Mini Shoulder Bag may just be what your denim-and-tee uniform needs. Match your threads with the colors in this bag, or choose a complementary color and wear a cobalt blue boxy crop top; either way all eyes will be on you.

Chloe Leather Baylee Mini Tote from MyTheresa

This Chloe Baylee Mini takes your everyday carryall to another level. The zipper detailing and contrast leather handles and straps are opulent extras that are great glitzy accents to any getup.

3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli Mini Metallic Shoulder Bag from MyTheresa

The 3.1 Phillip Lim Pashli has reached iconic status by now. This crackle metallic blue leather gives an edgy vibe to the fashionista favorite Pashli shape. Wear with leather pants for maximum tough gal appeal.

Balenciaga Classic Mini City Leather Bag from MyTheresa

A modern classic this Balenciaga Mini City Leather bag takes that typically roomy holdall design and downsizes it, thereby giving it a fresh look. This black leather purse is an investment that will pay dividends since it can match practically anything in your closet, and can quickly switch from day to night.

Chanel Blue Velvet Mini Boy Bag from The Luxury Closet

The mini bag that started it all, the Chanel Mini Boy Bag has reached cult status and this reverence will surely last beyond this season. The quilted leather flap bag that Chanel is famous for is given a few tweaks, like chunkier chain straps and a geometric logo setting, resulting in a more current look that fashionistas easily fell in love with.

Which bags will you be rocking? Let me know in the comments! Have a great week ahead everyone!

Buy Now: Statement Making Fashion

With so many sales, both in-store and online, shopping can be overwhelming sometimes. No need to worry, cause I’m here to round up the best fashion buys of the moment. Take your thoughts away from the sad sale racks full to the brim with outdated fashion, and take a look at these statement-making closet must-haves with pared down prices. These are not just basic fashion staples, these are the pieces that will get you noticed in a crowd and establish you as the most stylish one in the room. This is sale fashion like you’ve never seen before–chic, confident, sassy, and fearless.

Caution: Major Fashion Statements Ahead. Here is the SWK sale style guide of the 10 best statement-making fashion buys:

Chloe Neoprene and Leather Flats from LuisaViaRoma

Heels will always have a special place in a fashionista’s heart, but this season flats are taking centerstage. It’s all about statement flats right now, and you can’t do better than this pair from Chloe. The mix of the metallic, nude, and pop of coral on the sole is modern, unexpected, and so very chic.

Giuseppe Zanotti Leather Gold Leaf Sandals from LuisaViaRoma

The beautifully intricate gold leaf design on these Zanotti stilettos is reason enough to snap up these babies. A design that like this one is something you fall in love with and cherish forever. These heels will immediately make you look dressed to the nines as soon as you slip them on.

 

Marc by Marc Jacobs Super Skinny Polka Dot Jeans from LuisaViaRoma

Printed jeans are a nice alternative to your plain blue denim. These polka dot jeans from Marc by Marc Jacobs will refresh your casual clothes closet. Wear with a dressier shoe like ankle strap nude heels for a stylish contrast.

Mary Katrantzou Graphic Shoe Printed Silk Dress from LuisaViaRoma

Can you really go wrong with a Mary Katrantzou printed dress? Hmm.. Not really. The queen of graphic prints consistently hits the nail right on the head when it comes to prints and dress silhouettes you want to wear.

T by Alexander Wang Pleated Neoprene Mini Dress from The Outnet

Neoprene is one of the big trends this summer. This material, typically used in scuba gear gives any piece a futuristic yet elegantly contemporary feel. This pleated neoprene dress by Alexander Wang has a flattering drape and flow that will work with various body types.

Roland Mouret Ludlow Stretch Woven Trench Coat from The Outnet

Deviate a little bit from the classic trench with this Roland Mouret stunner. The white contrast lapel and the more body conscious design updates your trench, and injects it with a bit of allure and sensuality.

Equipment Cotton and Cashmere Blend Sweater from The Outnet

Cashmere sweaters are fall/winter staple, that you should never hesitate to stock up on. These luxurious yet casual pieces are amazing when paired with a pencil skirt, and can just as easily pull together a casual denim look. The color blocking on this Equipment sweater, just makes this lush piece more covetable.

Proenza Schouler PS1 Leather Clutch from MyTheresa

Mini bags are having their day in the sun. PS1 clutches or cross body bags are a good option, and it comes in so many prints, colors and textures to choose from. This geometric pattern on this PS1 clutch can go easily from day to night.

Emilio Pucci Crystal Bead Embellished Drop Earrings from MyTheresa

Jewelry will always be statement makers in your wardrobe. Colorful and shiny bling is always bound to get you noticed, in the right way of course. This Emilio Pucci drop earrings have a little bit of Art Deco design inspiration, and a little bit of Renaissance color inspiration too, making for a truly exquisite piece of artistry.

Stella McCartney Metallic Jacquard Bomber Jacket from MyTheresa

Without fail, snakeskin always ups the sexiness and chicness of a look. A snakeskin print on metallic jacquard is a striking design element. But when it is combined with the boyish shape of a bomber jacket, you can truly see the innovation and creativity in its design. Perfect for your LBD or even with your denim cutoffs.

Which piece will you be snapping up? At these prices, I won’t be surprised if you (and I) grab more than one. Happy shopping!