The First of the Fall Trends

I completely loved being a guest stylist at Neiman Marcus this past weekend.  Not only was it very exciting and a lot fun, but it also forced me to really narrow down my top picks for fall.  At the beginning of every season, I love everything.  I like to imagine how and where I would wear the various trends, until I come back to reality and realize that most of the gorgeous clothing available would not fit into my lifestyle.  This usually happens midway through the season... after I have either bought and returned half of my wardrobe, or ended up with pieces that just don't get worn.  I never thought that this event would be so helpful for me, personally!

The Wednesday before the event, I scoured Neiman's contemporary department with my rolling rack for about two hours.  After lots of contemplating, I came to the conclusion that there are about ten trends that are worth considering this fall.  Some can be combined, other's you may have covered or not be interested in this year.  I will discuss them all and let you decide.  For the sake of time, I will touch on all in the next couple of weeks.  Today, I would like you to consider one of my favorite looks... the maxi dress.

Many of you will remember that I have been taken with the maxi dress since earlier the spring.  When I saw this trend carried on through the fall (and even next spring), I jumped for joy.  I feel that the maxi (dress or skirt) is so easy to wear.  I liken it to putting on my yoga pants everyday... I slip one on in the morning, grab my flip flops or ankle booties and I am ready to go.  Granted, if you are heading to the playground or a conservative office, this may not be the ideal piece of clothing, but believe me it will take you far.  Oh, and I forgot to mention that the long line of the maxi will help lengthen you while disguising any problem areas (just play up your assets).

The beauty of some of my favorite maxi's this season (so far) is the drama and versatility that they possess. For example, I could put the dress on in the morning with my worn out leather belt, a pair of Frye booties... maybe add my fur vest if it is chilly.  At night, I would wear the same dress with a pair of gorgeous earrings, a fab ring and maybe a pair of platform booties or heels... maybe python, maybe something in color, or just basic black (depends on my mood).  Either way, it is a killer look!

I would literally die to own all of the dresses below... cut beautifully and understated enough to allow you to "play"!

Theyskens' Theory Long Silk Gown... I think the picture says it all... fabulous!

Sachin + Babi Vanessa Silk Gown... this is the one that I used at Neiman's!  I die!

Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent Bound Corset Maxi Dress... I love the simplicity of this dress.  It comes in 4 different colors, and I would like them all!

Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent Decollete Bias Maxi Dress... I have this dress in a green floral.  It fits beautifully.  I am dying to wear it with some sort of cozy black sweater... I just haven't found the right one yet.  I will keep you posted!

Your mission this week is to find your perfect maxi dress.  Happy shopping!

                                           - Allison

*Photos courtesy of neimanmarcus.com and cynthiavincent.net.

Pulled my "Top Picks", its Showtime!

Yay!  The Current Event at Neiman Marcus starts today, and so do my top picks at the Paramus NM!  I can't wait to post pics, but until then you will have to stop by the 2nd floor to check them out.  I tried to touch on most of the trends, but wanted my picks to be pieces that you are really going to wear and be able to mix and match.  There is fur, some '70's glamour, a bit of sparkle, bold color... let's just say that I wish all of my picks could have a home in my closet!

As I cruised around the contemporary department with my rolling rack, the I could not stop "ooohing" and "ahhhing" over everything.  The hardest part was editing down my picks to a complete look for one mannequin and then 5 must have pieces.  Well, I couldn't quite edit my must haves down to the 5 pieces, but I came close... In the end, it all comes down to your lifestyle, as it always does.  Whether you stay at home or are in the office everyday, there are definitely pieces to fit your needs.

This is a pic of the fab Pedro Garcia peep-toe shooties I picked to complete my look.  I am completely obsessed!  They are a perfect transitional shoe, plus you can add tights when the weather gets cooler.

Stay tuned for a full report...

And, coming very soon, my write up on my day with Rachel Zoe and Ken Downing!  I am making some finishing touches and will be posted on Bergen Health & Life's website very soon!  Plus, I have lots of pics to post as well!

                                      - Allison

Come see me this weekend... literally!

And, I am not joking!  For those of you in the NY/NJ/CT area, I am going to be at the Paramus Neiman Marcus from 10-1pm on Friday and Saturday to answer all of your questions on updating your look for fall.  This is in conjunction with Neiman's Current Event that will be taking place this Thursday (the 22nd) through Saturday (the 24th)!

During NM's current event, you will receive an exclusive Rachel Zoe clutch with your $350 regular-priced Contemporary Sportswear or Dress Collections purchase.  Spend $500 in these departments and you will receive the Rachel Zoe clutch PLUS $50 off your purchase!  In other words, it's time for some fall shopping 

What do I have to do with this?  I am going to be one of four "Guest Stylists" featured during the event!  I will have my own circular rug in the Contemporary Department (the 2nd floor of NM) where I will be presenting my top picks for Fall!

I am so excited to be part of this event!  Neiman's is stuffed to the gills with fabulous fall clothing.  On a quick walk-through the other day, I spied some great pieces and can't wait to pull my picks!

A few pieces that grabbed my eye the other day...

Fab Faux Fur

Sparkle!

Bold Color/Bow Blouses

Ladylike Day Dresses

Make sure to set aside some time in the next few days to head over to the Neiman Marcus at the Garden State Mall.  I will see you there!

                                           - Allison

A Spot-On Ensemble for September and Beyond...

Since the fall season officially begins this week, I thought I would give my two cents on any easy update for this transitional time.  Let's just call it simple chic.  The West meets the Uptown Lady.  In other words, a very Ralph Lauren look.  Have I peaked your interest yet?!

Let's start with the chambray shirt that was on everyone's must have list this past spring.  If you don't have one yet, it is time to make the purchase.  This is definitely an item that you can wear all year.  Just add it to your basics list and make sure that you buy one that fits fairly snug.  You don't want to look like you just stole your boyfriend's shirt right out of his closet.

I really love J. Crew's Keeper Chambray Shirt...

or Madewell's Ex-Boyfriend Chambray Shirt

Once you have the right shirt, pair it with one of this fall's must-have midi skirts or the always classic pencil skirt.  The result will be a fresh take on the ladylike trend as well as a work-ready ensemble.

I am totally in love with MARC by Marc Jacobs Jackie Skirt

Loving the back of the skirt as much as the front!

Or, maybe you would prefer this season's hot hue in a classic shape... and, red is a very versatile color.  You will wear it much more than you think, I promise.

Anthropologie's Firelight Skirt is perfect!

If you like the red, but the pencil skirt isn't your style, you must try J.Crew's Floating Rose Flair Skirt.  The A-line silhouette is flattering for all, the floral print is fresh, and the knee length is modern but more flattering than the midi length.

And for the more adventurous, there is always leather...  Zero + Maria Cornejo Spiral Skirt.

When it comes to the shoes, have fun.  Don't play it too safe or you may look a bit like a school marm.  Try booties, platforms even wedge ankle boots... animal and python prints would be fab as well.  For example there is...

Tory Burch's Dorese High Heel Bootie... it has a very classic and versatile shape.

Tory Burch does it again with the Jude Snake Print Pump... ladylike, modern and chic.

The shoe designer of the moment, Brian Atwood, has created some fab leopard print booties for his new line, B Brian Atwood.  A must-have are these Back Zip Booties!

I can't resist these Ellie Saab Charlize Wedge Booties... they are perfect for skirts, dresses or jeans.  Does anyone have a spare $400?!

The good news on the shoe front is that there are many less expensive options available.  The shoes that I posted here are more to inspire you.  Who doesn't love to drool over a great pair of shoes!

                 

                                               - Allison

*Photos courtesy of jcrew.com, madewell.com, neimanmarcus.com, anthropologie.com, shopbop.com and toryburch.com.

Fashion Week begins...

You may or may not be aware that New York's Spring 2012 Fashion Week kicked off today!  I would love to say that I was there, or that I am going to be... alas, I am packing to go on vacation (Bermuda... shhh!). I am extremely disappointed not to be able to attend any shows.  Consequently, I will try to do my best to pass on some of my favorite shows and looks.

So far today, I can't say that I have seen too much that really excites me... with the exception of Rachel Comey and 10 Crosby Derek Lam.  These shows were probably much more impressive in person, so just take this as my initial reaction.  I may be changing my tune later on.

Here are a few looks that I like... my first impression was midi's and maxi's are here to stay (at least through the spring).  Floral prints are a mainstay.  Colors are all over the place depending on the designer's inspiration... neutrals, subdued, soft and bold.  Most importantly, everything seems to be very wearable (good news!).

Richard Chai - Love Collection

Mimi Plange

Porter Grey

Rachel Comey (I love how this could be dressed down or glammed up!)

10 Crosby Derek Lam (I love the bold color and graphic looks... it feels fresh and fun!)

                                           - Allison
*Photos courtesy of wwd.com.

Add this one to your FNO list tonight!

I know that your Fashion's Night Out line-up is full, but you must make room for one more stop tonight!  I just found out that one of my favorite jewelry designers, Nicole Romano, will be making a personal appearance at her store (The Nicole Romano Shop) at The Plaza.  Not only is her jewelry completely amazing, but it will all be 50% off tonight from 6-11pm!  You will not be sorry, I promise.

P.S.  I am looking forward to acquainting you with her gorgeous fall line very soon!

                                       - Allison

A Fashion's Night Out event not to be missed!

Are you as excited for Fashion's Night Out as I am?!  The only real problem with this event, is deciding which stores to visit! Guest appearances, meeting designers, celebrity stylists... how does one choose???  Honestly, I am not sure... it is a scheduling nightmare.  At least you can catch the "Volkswagen Style Express" - a free shuttle service between Midtown to Soho.  This way I can bounce around to several stores because there is no way that I can miss Corrente Handbags big FNO event!

I was super stoked to find out that one of my loves is going to be having a fantastic event tomorrow night.  This will be taking place at Corrente's store downtown at 179 Orchard (between Houston and Stanton).  From 6-9 pm, you can stop by for some wine and yummy eats while browsing through their beautiful handbags.  Plus, jewelry designers Rebecka Froberg and Teresa Kahres will be on hand with their elegant wares.  You must stop by and check it out!  

If you missed my post about Corrente, click here!  You are going to fall in love...

                                                 - Allison

The excitement builds...

After an exhausting day of travel to LA, I awoke to blue skies, no humidity and beautiful Beverly Hills.  I enjoyed my surroundings for about 5 minutes, and then I began to freak out just a bit.  Today is the day!  I am supposed to report to Neiman Marcus at 3:30 sharp!  I was a bundle of nerves.  Honestly, you would think that I was getting married today.  After pacing around my hotel room (did I mention that I was staying in a boutique hotel, hence not much room for feeling anxious!), Greg (my Rodger) and I decided that we should head out for a stroll.  When staying in Beverly Hills, where else is there to go than Rodeo Drive...

Let's just say that I was not disappointed!  We arrived before the stores opened and there was such a surreal feeling. Immaculate streets and storefronts, beautiful flowers, eye-catching windows... it was as if I was in the ultimate amusement park for women!  Not to mention, watching every person who walked past us taking photos (including us!)... I admit it, we dorked out for a minute or two.

Eventually, we ended up at a great outdoor spot... it just so happened to be in front of Tiffany & Co.  I must say that on a morning like this, the only place that I would want to eat breakfast is at Tiffany's!

After my delightful California style yogurt parfait (very hard to find at all of the diners in NJ), we had to check out Neiman's... I can barely contain my excitement at this point.  Too bad it is only 11am. 

Another reason I love LA, all of the Spanish/Mexican influenced architecture.  I love this fountain (I think it was in front of Saks).  I felt like I should be on a hacienda somewhere... I don't think I could make this look work in Bergen County.

Then it was back to the hotel pool... very quiet and relaxing... love!

Okay, so I had to finish up some last minute work.  At least I was able to have a mimosa... yummy!  Can you believe that I almost didn't get to the room in time to get ready.  Who would have thought on a day like this?!

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By the way, I am so happy to have brought my Tucker tunic.  I thought I was going to be wearing it while exploring LA, but it was just as perfect sitting by the pool!

Finally, I get back to my room, only to be surprised by beautiful flowers.  I love the Beverly Hills Neiman's PR team, they are amazing!

And now, it is time to get ready... 

                                     - Allison