Front Row Style @ Fashion Week 2015

Fashion Week isn’t just about the style being paraded down the runway. The fashion on the front row is especially noteworthy too. The front row is where the fashion elite, editors and celebrities alike, congregate to take their prestigious seats right at the top of the fashion pecking order. You can learn just as much about trends and styling on the front row.

If you’re suffering from fashion week withdrawals, front row fashion is the cure for you. Here are my top picks for the best in front row style for Fashion Week 2015:

Olivia Wilde and Naomi Watts at Michael Kors

Photo from Refinery 29

Liu Wen, Maggie Q, and Jessica Alba at Tory Burch

Photo from Refinery 29

Ciara at Cavalli

Photo from Vogue.com

Kiernan Shipka and Hailey Baldwin at Rag and Bone

Photo from Refinery29

MIranda Kerr at Louis Vuitton

Photo from Vogue.com

Maria Sharapova at Chanel

Photo from Vogue.com

Elizabeth Olsen at Dior

Photo from Vogue.com

Suki Waterhouse at Topshop Unique

Photo from Vogue.com

Alexa Chung at Topshop Unique

Photo from Vogue.com

Jourdan Dunn at Versace

Photo from Vogue.com

Amanda Seyfried at Givenchy

Photo from Vogue.com

Julia Roberts at Givenchy

Photo from Vogue.com

Bella Thorne and Kylie Jenner

Photo from Refinery29

Julianne Hough, Jennifer Hudson, and Christina Hendricks at Marchesa

Photo from US Magazine

Gillian Jacobs, Jamie Chung, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, and Ashley Madekwe at Monique Lhuillier

Photo from US Magazine

Buy Now: Statement-Making Watches

You can’t count yourself a fashionable woman if you don’t have a watch to complete your look. You may not be a watch collector like some out there, but it is still very important for your personal style, especially for your work wear style, to have a great and stylish watch at your disposal. An elegant watch can pull together a casual look and can even add gravitas to your office wardrobe. There are so many fashionable, modern, and sophisticate timepieces that you are sure to find a watch that you will fall in love with.

Watches are a great investment and over time it increases in value. This purchase will also pay you back in dividends in how chic it’ll make you look. Watches are timeless accessories that will instantly increase your fashion points and bring your closer to style icon status. Here I give you a rundown of my picks of some of the best watches available:

Larsson  & Jennings Vasa Gold-Plated Watch from Net-a-Porter

This new watch brand is a fashion blogger favorite due to its streamlined design and modern look. This particular style with its blue and white strap is a casual option and has a preppy vibe. This Larsson & Jennings watch will look stunning especially in the summer, paired with a little white dress and espadrille wedges or with a pair of dark denim skinnies and a breezy gingham top. This is the perfect timepiece to complete your country club chic look.

Chanel Premiere Chain Watch in Gold from Chanel

When buying a watch, you can’t go wrong with classic brands just like Chanel. Chanel’s reputation as one of the oldest and most prestigious fashion brands is unparalleled, and you can be sure that the piece you’re buying is of the best quality and the most thoughtful and intricate design. This Premiere Chain Chanel Watch with its black lacquer dial and 18K yellow gold chain bracelet and clasp. This watch will go with everything in your closet and give it a touch of high glamour.

Michael Kors Channing Silver-Tone and Croc-Effect Leather Watch from Net-a-Porter

Michael Kors watches’ signature is its line of gold pieces, but recently this brand has come out with more fashion forward watches with a bit of edge. This croc skin leather watch strap is so on point with the exotic skin trend of the moment. The beautiful deep royal blue color of this piece is perfect for the season, and is a great accent to dress up your cardigans and sweaters this fall. This color is an excellent complement to mustard yellow, oxblood, and hunter green.

Givenchy Seventeen Stainless Steel Watch from MyTheresa

Givenchy’s foray into the watch game is a very successful one and is so reflective of the brand’s signature high fashion and high end edge. This Seventeen watch is made in Switzerland, and features a scratch resistant sapphire glass lens. The straps are removable and can be switched out to coordinate with any look. This watch’s understated design will definitely add some urban cool into any ensemble.

Kate Spade Pave Interchangeable Strap Metro from Kate Spade New York

Consistent with Kate Spade’s signature flirty, feminine, and playful feel, this Pave Interchangeable Strap Metro has a glittered leather band that is guaranteed to perk up all your outfits and give it a fun and girly flourish. The 23k gold plated metal face inlaid with crystals and its interchangeable straps make this watch a no-brainer purchase as it effortlessly combines versatility and youthful chicness in one piece.

Sara Designs Leather & Chain Wrap Watch from ShopBop

If you’re looking for a luxe watch with a bit of a twist, reach for the multiple textures and bohemian fashion inspiration that you can find in this Sara Designs Leather & Chain Wrap Watch. Braided leather and rose plated gold chains adorn this watch, and will make sure that your timepiece is eye-catching every single time you slip it on your wrist. Play up the boho vibe of this piece by pairing it with printed maxi dresses and wedges.

Movado Women’s Bold Watch 42mm from Bloomingdale’s

Movado’s minimalist watch design stands out above the rest, and you can certainly prove this by the double takes and inquiries you get once you wear this beautiful sleek black watch. Its minimal and stark face is Movado’s signature and gives it a definite distinctive and contemporary look. You can use this piece as a modern accent to punctuate your more colorful and printed looks.

Nixon Small Time Teller Watch from LuisaViaRoma

A classic gold watch with a simple, straightforward, and sophisticated design, this Nixon Time Teller watch is a piece that will be the work horse of your accessories since it pretty much goes with everything and conveys a modern style. The blue face of this watch is a great way to give your outfit a color pop. Try pairing this watch with a blue blazer and jeans for a downtown street style look.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Henry Skeleton Watch from Shopbop

The transparent detail in this Marc by Marc Jacobs stunning creation is what makes it different and its red color is also a brilliant addition to your accessory rotation. The red and gold in this watch design can also serve as a great complement to a host of colors, it is especially striking when worn with monochromatic outfits. Or you can even try it with a super trendy head to toe red look.

Anne Klein Women’s Crystal Accent Tri-Tone Crisscross Bangle Bracelet Watch from Macy’s

The bracelet-like design of this Anne Klein watch will certainly lend itself well to dressier occasions. It can even serve as a great accessory to your work wear pant or skirt suits, as it will give it a delicate and subtle dash of feminine style. The tri-tone mixed metal look of this bangle watch also gives this design a more modern twist. This will also be just the right watch to pair with your LBD for a picture perfect date night look.

What are some of your watch picks? Have fun shopping ladies!

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!

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!

Trend Report: Luxury Sweatshirts

Cozy and comfy are words not typically associated with what’s trendy and fashionable. Fortunately for fashion lovers everywhere, those two words are now firmly in the fashion vocabulary due to the rise of luxury sweatshirts.

S/S 2014 (L-R): Marc Jacobs, Alexander Wang, and Christopher Kane

Image from: T Magazine

Gone are the days of wearing those boring, heather grey sweatshirts from your gym class. Say hello to sweatshirts done in luxe fabrics, accented with leather and fringe, and embellished with colorful crystals. This trend dominated the runways in New York, Milan, London, and Paris for Spring/Summer 2014, and by the looks of it, this trend is here to stay.

Here is my roundup of the 10 best sweatshirts for this season:

Kenzo Wool Twill & Techno Jersey Sweatshirt from LUISAVIAROMA

Logo sweatshirts are back this season. An arm-emblazoned Kenzo logo will show that you think outside the fashion box.

TNTees Sopo crystal-embellished cotton-jersey sweatshirt from The Outnet

The crystal embellished neckline of this sweatshirt from TNTees eliminates the need for accessorizing. Perfect for looking chic during those off-duty days.

Helmut Lang Snake-effect Leather Front Sweatshirt from MyTheresa

Can it get any more luxe and rich than snakeskin leather? Probably not. This piece is proof that sweatshirts can be sexy. Pair with your favorite  strappy stilettos for maximum sultry appeal.

Nil & Mon Lipstick Applique Sweatshirt from LUISAVIAROMA

Proclaim your love for lippies in this Nil & Mon sweatshirt. The playful applique design shows off your whimsical side.

Lanvin Wool Jersey Sweatshirt from LUISAVIAROMA

Fringe and sweatshirts are two the major trends for S/S 2014, and this Lanvin item combines the two perfectly. Modern elements like a structured bag or sleek ankle boots will be a great way to mix up the tribal feel of this sweater.

Tibi Houndstooth Cotton-blend and Ponte sweatshirt from The Outnet

Houndstooth will always be classic. Tibi gives it a twist with a vivid pop of electric blue and graphic black accents.

Givenchy Bambi Silk-Satin Sweatshirt from Net-a-Porter

Take a bit of your childhood cartoon memories with you in this Givenchy stunner. The silk-satin material gives that ladylike appeal.

By Malene Birger Synna Printed Satin-Jersey Sweatshirt from Net-a-Porter

Sweatshirts can be ultra feminine too, as seen in this floral By Malene Birger Sweatshirt. Best worn with a tea length skirt and midi heels.

Acne Studios Beta Geometric Sweatshirt from MyTheresa

Acne Studios are known for the modern aesthetic, and this geometric design certainly reflects that. For a refreshing look, wear with white jeans and plain white sneakers.

Isabel Marant Etoile Hammer Printed Jersey Sweatshirt from MyTheresa

Upgrade from casual T-shirts to styled and cool printed sweatshirts like this one from Isabel Marant. Wear with denim cutoffs and sandals, and you’re all set.

Which piece will you be snatching up? Let us know in the comments!

Casual with a Twist

Hi everyone,

Hope you have had a wonderful holiday yesterday and feel refreshed and rested.

It is the hot season here in Singapore and so I have decided to show you another outfit that will keep you cool in the sun.

This is a really easy outfit that will look great on anyone.

The statement here is definitely the jacket. It has a beautiful abstract print that is so loved by designers this season. It is great value for money (I got it in Mango for just $59) and it is very light. It is made out of cotton and will allow your body to breathe even in Singapore’s tropical heat.

Another great thing about this jacket is that it really isn’t asking for any accessories. All it needs is some basic clothes you already have in your wardrobe to go with it.

For our shoot, we have paired it up with a simple navy top by Giordano and a pair of denim shorts by Pull&Bear. As for shoes, I went for my old friend – Givenchy wedges.

Possible variations:

– I can totally see this jacket with a pair of cool sneakers and a white skirt. It will still keep you cool and add a little chic.

– Wedges or heels are recommended. If you want to go with flats, get a high waist skirt or shorts.

– and if you have to have an accessory for every outfit, why not try a necklace? This one by Salut De Miel (priced at $129 in Robinsons).

If you want to share your beautiful outfits with us or have any questions email me at kate@stylewithkate.com!

Happy Friday!

How to look great on a really hot day

Good morning everyone!

How have you guys been? Hope you had a fabulous couple of days and got a lot of great things done!

Close up

It has been crazy hot here in Singapore. So I decided to get busy and create a look for super hot weather.

Well what can I say, the choice is huge. There is a wealth of cute little clothes for hot weather out there– millions of crop tops, billions of silky skirts and gazillions of strappy sandals.

So where do I start? OK, I am a total freak when it comes to getting protected from those nasty UV rays. Obsessed, crazy and don’t I know it. That is why I started with the hat 🙂

I had this awesome hat that I bought a few season ago in one of my favourite stores called Furla. It is a very classic hat you would expect to see in the stores all year round. A hat is always a great accessory in hot weather because not only does it help protect your visage from the sun, but also protect your hair from loosing its lovely colour. Yes, sun ruins your hair colour, that is a fact. Unless of course you want to have sun highlights (which your hairdresser will not thank you for) or you are blonde and don’t mind being even blonder.

Next step – clothes. Decisions decisions… As a girl who is not a fan of showing too much leg, I went with a dress that covers up my knees, but leaves my shoulders and neckline open. That is just the way I like it. I have purchased a navy colour dress from a brand called Three Dots. It is a US brand that is great for casual simple clothes. As this dress is quite revealing around the neckline, I have gone with not one but two big and bold statement necklaces to cover up some flesh. Those necklaces are easy to find in any accessories stores. I got these ones somewhere in Far East Plaza on Orchard road. I liked them in particular because they match my natural colors (eyes, lips and skin) and make the hat and dress look nice together. Plus, they are slightly ethnic which goes well with the shoes.

When it comes to shoes, I definitely use the “quality above quantity” rule. I don’t have a lot of shoes, but those that I do choose to buy are high quality classics that last forever.

The fat heel sandals here (I guess you could almost call them wedges) were purchased in Selflidges in London a long time ago. They are probably the only Givenchy shoes I have seen that can be attributed to the ethnic style. But here we are.

And voilá my Hot Day outfit is complete!

 

Hot Day Outfit – Front view

Hot Day Outfit – Navy dress

Oh yes, don’t forget to smother yourself with sunblock before you step outside!

Have a great day!