2014 J. Crew Summer To Fall Transition

Accessorize: Fall 2013 Picks

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It's easy to update your Fall wardrobe, just get hip to accessorizing.   Check out these pieces that are right on trend for Fall/Winter 2013.  All these pieces can be worn with your existing basic black and/or white clothing (which is also hot for Fall) to take your style to the next level. 

On Screen Style: Janelle Monae

 

 

Janelle Monae looked absolutely stunning in the video for her new single, "PrimeTime".  While still sticking with the black and white color palate she's known for, it seems the songstress is exploring more feminine designs.  Case in point, the body hugging skirt set with a cropped top and midi-length skirt, paired with sky-high, two-toned ankle strap pumps.  See the video and find pieces similar to Janelle's after the jump.

Clothes Call: Lovely Lingerie

 

sexy/sassy/sensible/savage/sweet/sophisticated/stylish/sensational

I know.  Sometimes you're lucky to accomplish everything you have to do in a day, besides worrying about matching your underwear; but hear me out...it's important!  Taking care of yourself includes eating healthy, working out and dressing well.  Dressing well includes lingerie that no one may see but you and your significant other. Every woman needs to invest in some great lingerie.  How it makes you feel when wearing it can improve your self-esteem and confidence, which directly relates to how others view and treat you.  A properly fitting bra also changes your shape; because putting "the girls" back where they should be, gives you a smaller waist.   For you married ladies, please, please, please don't resort to the flesh tone granny panties with holes in them, and worn out bras, once you tie the knot!  They may be comfortable, but I doubt any man would find them appealing. Even if it's just once in a while, let him see you in something a bit more special.  Single gals, I think most of us know the value of having a few great sets of lingerie for special dates or nights out on the town, but even we may be lulled into the comfort zone, thinking "no one's gonna see them anyway".  Give it a try, and take note of how a fabulous foundation can change the way you feel.  I've shared some of my favorites for women with various shapes, budgets, and personalities.  Let's go!



 



Shoe Spot: Hot Hightops

 

Gym-ology: Nike LOCO4EVA Collection

Is love at first sight too strong to describe my feelings for this print? NOPE!  Nike is definitely the frontrunner in the performance meets fashion sportswear department.  No other fitness brand veers away from the plain old black, gray, and navy solid tights like Nike.  This latest limited edition, eye-catcher is the LOCO4EVA print that is was featured on tights, a bodysuit and a sports bra, the latter two are still available, but to my great dismay, the tights are currently out of stock.

Trendspotting: Black & White Dresses

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Trendspotting: Tribal-Inspired Swimwear

 

Main photo:  Delia's.  Clockwise from top left:  Old Navy, Forever 21, Anthropologie, Piperlime.

How to Wear It: Leopard Harem Pants

 I've always wanted to rock leopard harem pants...but, they're...leopard harem pants!  By themselves, these wild trousers can seem daunting, when trying to put an outfit together.  When I saw these photos the other day, I was inspired by this pint-sized fashionista's classy, sassy look.

 

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Style Inspiration: Tracee Ellis Ross

From the time Tracee Ellis Ross stepped out of her famous mother's shadow with the popular television series, Girlfriends, she quickly garnered fans for her comedic prowess, those gorgeous ringlets and her stunning style.  Recently, Ms. Ross has given us a peek into her private life with her self-titled blog.  I was happy to discover that she is not only a great actress, but a down-to-earth, wacky, and wise woman with reverence for all things fashion.  Tracee's style is daring; she mixes high with low, sporty with dressy, and vintage with modern, without fear of breaking fashion rules (she doesn't use a stylist).  Her approach to fashion makes her interesting and unique, which is why we watch her style moves so closely.  Tracee comes across as confident, goofy, and real. When you add those qualities of inner beauty to her divine sense of style, you end up with a class act.

 

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Blog Roll: This Time Tomorrow

This Time Tomorrow uber-blogger, Krystal, has killer style.  Her blog is one I turn to when I need outfit inspiration.  Check it out here.

Frock Star: Green Leopard Print Dress

 

 

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Shopping Bags: Cole Haan Shoes

Call me late to the party, but I just realized that Cole Haan is taking some risks with their shoe collection.  Always known for quality and classic style, the latest offerings are edgier, updated versions of timeless silhouettes.  The delicious color combinations and design details manage to be both sophisicated and quirky. 

 

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Frock Star: Strapless Fit and Flare Dress

 

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Trendspotting: Galaxy Print

 

Beautiful variations of this print have been showing up everywhere lately.  The appeal, at least for me, is that the striated colors remind me of tie-dye, but with way more sophistication.

 

Our roving style reporter, Kristabel, spotted this chic chick shopping in a pair of cosmically cute leggings. She makes the look work by keeping the silhouettes of the top and sandals very simple.

The trend is even making its way to your fingertips!  Check out the DIY here.

Trendspotting: How to Shop for Trendy Items, Part Deux

Ok, so here are a few ways that I will be wearing the floral skinny jeans I scored for under $12 at Target.  First up, I paired the jeans with a white blazer, black tee, and sparkly statement necklace.  This look would work well for a dinner date, or any other dressy casual event.

Next up, a funkier look. The shoe contrasts beautifully against the black and white pants.  I think the silky tunic plays well with the long necklace and gives the look an easy glamour.

 

Finally, a bit of playful pattern mixing.  The gray and white striped shirt compliments the floral pattern and the yellow shoe adds to the fun, casual feel of the outfit.

Shoe Spot: Funky Nikes

 

 

Embellishments: Bold Gold Necklaces

 

Statement necklaces aren't really a trend, at least not for me; I've always loved chunky, funky pieces of jewelry and will continue to wear them even if they are no longer considered "in". Currently, gold is taking center stage as the heavy metal of choice with a ton of gorgeous examples seen on the runway.  This wearable art needs very little other adornment.  Keep your outfit simple and let this wearable art do what it was designed to do.

 

You can rely on prominent fashionistas to take a look to the streets.  Here we have bold gold examples that span from the sidewalk, to the White House. Take your style cues from these lovely ladies and layer multiples of the same or similar chains for a more classic look.

 

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Sights & Sounds: Jazz in the Gardens Music Festival (Miami Gardens, Florida)

 

The Jazz in the Gardens Music Festival was a two day event that featured live performances by artists such as Earth, Wind, and Fire, Charlie Wilson, Monica, Neyo, Fantasia, and many others. 

 

 

In addition to the fabulous live music, there were many vendors selling unique fashions and accessories. 

 

Embellishments: Statement Earrings

 

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