Oh Là Là... the Color!

The Jil Sander Spring 2011 collection has quite possibly been the most photographed assortment of clothing that I have seen in a long time.  Why?  Because it is so refreshing!  Raf Simons, the designer behind the label, played with color, proportion, unexpected combinations and touched on just about all of the trends for the season... a-mah-zing!!!  When I think of this line, I keep hearing Bethenny Frankel... "go big or go home" and that is just what Simon did, literally!  There was no holding back and it is a good thing.  If he had second-guessed himself at all, we would not be able to drool over such a fabulous clothing!

I find this line very inspiring this season.  Especially now, as the weather really starts to change.  The temps are climbing, the flowers and trees (including my beautiful magnolia tree) are blooming, the vibrant blue skies are gorgeous... Spring is in all of it's glory.  This always reinvigorates me!  All, I want to do is get dressed up in beautiful clothing, especially long flowing dresses and skirts!  After several seasons of loading on jewelry, embellished tee's, and metallic everything... this is a much needed breath of fresh air.  Instead of loading on the jewelry or other embellishments, the color and the major pieces of clothing are the only statements needed (plus a pop on the lips)!  The original Jil Sander started her line based on minimalism and understated elegance, and Simons has stayed true to her aesthetic while also keeping the look very modern and "of the moment".

Most of us can't afford to buy this look exactly as it was shown on the runway, but we can at least try to replicate the feeling of line... maybe use some of the ideas to easily update our look this spring/summer.  Most notable to the collection is the use of color - wearing and mixing & matching bright colors -  and major skirts & dresses that make a statement.  Add a bold coat, dress, skirt to the neutrals that you already have in your closet.  If that is too much color, try a bright bag, belt or colorful shoes.  And, if you are more daring, play with your hemlines.  Indulge in a maxi dress or skirt... remember that it is all about your own personal taste and lifestyle.  A maxi does not have to hit the floor.  It can be ankle-length and worn with flip flops or motorcycle boots.  Or, you can it up with wedges or a cool platform heel.

Most importantly, have some fun with your clothing... it shouldn't be a chore!

                                        - Allison

*Photos courtesy of style.com.

Oh, Leather, I can't get you out of my head!

There is a specific topic that I have been wanting to write about for some time, and have not had a chance.  I was going to pass on it all together since it is already mid-April, but I keep dreaming about a certain Vince dress...  So, let's talk about leather.  For a few seasons and going forward, the leather jacket is as important as a blazer in a woman's wardrobe.  It has taken the place of the cardigan and gives your outfit that unexpected twist and a little edge, plus who doesn't love the feel of a fabulous buttery (real or faux) leather jacket!

Leather has been slowly moving into other wardrobe categories... first it was leggings and skinny pants and now dresses and skirts.  I can't help but covet a sleek pair of black leather skinny pants in the Fall, however, there is something even more appealing about the warm caramel tones used in leather for the Spring.

And now, the Vince dress... a beautiful leather shift that is a-mah-zing!  I can't help to dream about all of the different ways that I would wear it... layered with tights, looking sleek with pumps, add some caged sandals for a bit of edge or maybe make it more demure with a pair of pointy toe flats and a cardi...

And for those who may want a more conservative approach to the leather dress, there is an equally fabulous Tory Burch dress...

Not really a dress person, well, then try the leather skirt... just as versatile as the dress.  You just need find the appropriate style for you!  This Alice & Olivia skirt is for the fun-loving girl...

... and this Tory Burch pencil skirt is for those who would prefer a more sophisticated look.

I can't forget these very fabulous red leather skinny pants from Zara... just because I adore them!

This season leather comes in many styles and at many price points.  Leather is definitely an investment, but this style isn't going anywhere any time soon.  Therefore, it just might be worth the hefty price tag!  Other stores to try for less expensive leather looks are Urban Outfitters, Topshop, and Neiman Marcus

for more conservative pieces

    

                                                  - Allison

*Photos courtesy of toryburch.com, shopbop.com, bloomingdales.com & zara.com

For the Love of Dance

Once again I am writing from Mimi's Closet... today it is all about my obsession with all things ballet.  Well, my obsession is really more about the clothes (it always is) and the way the dancers dress during rehearsals.  I absolutely love the the way the dancers layer effortlessly and just look so cool.  Whether it is leg warmers, tutu's, chiffon skirts, ballet sweaters, etc... they always make me want to go to the nearest dance store to stock up on layers.  

Eventually, I start to think about how I can translate this obsession into something that I could wear out in public and not look like I just left the dance studio.  And, after watching one of my all time fave dance movies last night (the award winning Center Stage), I must dress like a dancer today!  So, being on my "vacay" in Ohio, I only have so much to work with...

- lightweight/airy dress... check

- sheer layers... check

- tights... check

- knee socks (closest thing to leg warmers)... check

- boots... check

- faux fur (left my vest at home, so it is a scarf today)... check

Here we go... (by the way, I am not posting any more pics of myself until I can take better pictures... I need a tripod and a good model pout!)

The best part of ballet inspired looks is that they never go out of style.  Every season, especially in the Spring, you can always find designers who have once again used this art as an inspiration.  This season, several of the designers who have created beautiful looks out of layered lightweight and sheer fabrics are Alberta Ferretti, J. Mendel,  Chloe and Christian Cota...  

I absolutely love these looks!  So feminine and romantic... sigh...

                       - Allison

* Photos are stills from Center Stage and Black Swan.  The other ballet photos are courtesy of Kyle Froman photography, dreamstime.com, enonava.de and style.com.

Chartreuse... hmmm?

A color that seems to pop up here and there, some seasons it takes a backseat and blends in with a print while in others it plays a much bigger role in spring clothes.  Well, this is one of those years that chartreuse has decided to step it up... whether it is in accessories - handbags, shoes, etc - or in clothing.  I am so excited about this because I love chartreuse!  It is one of those colors that I always gravitate to, I can't help myself.  However, in past years I have tried various shades and it never really seems to do much for me.  So, I continue in this cycle of loving the color, buying clothing the color, looking sick in the clothing and never wearing the clothing... and so the cycle continues, until now!

I have come to a realization that just like any other color, chartreuse - a mixture of yellow and green - comes in various yellow/green combinations.  And just like red, there is a specific combination that works for everyone.  Those with more pink in their skin will look good in brighter, cooler, more green based chartreuse.  While those with more of a yellow tinge are better with more subdued, warmer, and yellow based chartreuse.  And, since our skin varies, the best way to test the color is to hold it to your face and see if it does anything for you... do your eyes brighten or do they look a bit dull?  You will find the color that is just right for you!

Now that you armed with the knowledge to pick the correct color for your skin, it is time to shop!  Shall it be a dress, a print or maybe a handbag or a shoe (if you need to warm up to the color a bit more)???  Well, this is a great season to wear this color alone, wear it to pop a neutral look or what about a classic look with navy and white?  There are so many options, it is time to just have fun and experiment!

               - Allison

*photos courtesy of bergdorfgoodman.com, zappos.com & shopbop.com

I am totally Carrie & I am going to Saks!

This may have to do with the fact that I watched Sex & the City 2 yesterday, either way I am going with it... I felt like I was channeling Carrie Bradshaw last night!  Some might say that I was a bit more Charlotte, but I beg to differ.  Since this discussion could be a post by itself, I better get to my point...

Last night, my Fashion & Finance cohort, spoke at the New York Junior League meeting.  They had their own F & F night in conjunction with Saks Fifth Avenue (I guess we were on to something!).    *Alright, here we are at my Carrie moment... all dressed up, a great event, drinks with the ladies, plus a little time for myself to walk the streets for some inspiration... this couldn't be better!*    And now, back to my story... the F & F event started with my friend, who is a fantastic speaker as well as a very knowledgeable financial advisor.  Then the ladies from Saks spoke... yay!  I love anything to do with fashion!!!

First, I was very interested to learn that Saks has taken on a new initiative to really let people know that they aren't just a high end department store... they are also a "go to" for affordable products and gifts.  I think that this is a great idea as well as very smart move in times like these... people like to buy luxury goods, but they also like to spend wisely and want quality products at affordable prices.  Saks is offering everything from hostess gifts in the $20-$30 range (chocolate shoes, greats soaps, candles... even ornaments) to great ideas for kids that are under $50, as well as fantastic suggestions for the special man in your life (all price ranges!).  I have now learned that I can buy all of my presents at Saks, and I just discovered that they are offering free shipping through Thursday.  Even if you aren't ready to make your purchases in the next two days, I am confident that there will be other free shipping incentives before Christmas. 

Mirror & Pouch... love it!

Fur Trapper Hat... fun, warm & luxurious!

If this wasn't enough, then the women's fashion director of Saks, who has recently been to all of the shows... NY, Paris, London, Milan... I die!, gave us some insight into the trends for Spring 2011.  Now I want to go into this further in another post, but let's just say that Tory Burch was right on the money!  In general, the '70's were a big influence... easy dressing, fit & flare pants, new "midi" lengths, the peasant blouse & dress (belted, of course)... overall some refreshing changes to look forward to this Spring!  

One more exciting piece of news... Saks is unveiling it's holiday windows on Monday!  I have heard they are going to be completely fabulous!!!  Definitely a "must see" this holiday season, so remember to check them out when you head in to see the tree!

                            - Allison

*Note to self... some "to do's"...
       - stick to your holiday budget
       - consolidate your shopping... try Saks
       - start your Spring "must have" list
       - go into the city more... it is only 20 miles away!




*Photos of mirror & hat, courtesy of saksfifthavenue.com