THE PEPLUM: FASHION’S JINGLE BELL ROCK!

It’s that time of the year and holiday influenza is slowing taking over our TVs, retailers, local Starbucks, and of course our clothes like a plague! Unavoidable to say the least, so you mine as well embrace with open arms the holiday spirit.   Holiday parties and events are a “bright time, it's the right time to rock the night away!” But with fashions jingle bell time it’s the perfect occasion to rock a peplum! Are you ready? Ready to give fashion’s modern day Marilyn Monroe aka Kim Kardashian a run for her money!  Whether you want to whittle your waist and show off your beautiful curves or make a grand debut in a unique ensemble, the iconic peplum is the perfect trend to va-va-voom! Not only is it the quintessential combination of sex appeal and sophistication, there is a style to satisfy even the most selective fashionistas!  Whether your craving a peplum top or dress, here are 3 bombshell ways to jingle bell rock all holiday season!

SPARKLE AND SHINE

If your like myself it only takes one sparkly piece to get my holiday spirits flowing! Whether you prefer sparkle over shine, or vice versa this is one way you will be stirring up mayhem at all your holiday parties and for good reasons! The easiest way to add a bombshell effect to the peplum is look for designs that cotain glitter, sequins, sparkles, or metallic. When going for your sparkle or shine remember to stick to simple designs.

STYLE TIP: PLAY UP THE ACCESSORIES

To create a modern day Marilyn Monroe in the most elegant way stick to a simple  designs. Focus on playing up the accessories like the jewelry, handbag, or shoes to create the perfect combination of sex appeal and sophistication.  I did exactly that by going for a brown/black lightly sparkled plunging peplum dress. I opted for a gold tribal inspired necklace and a indigo blue clutch with gold detailing. Finally, I wore black tights to create a symmetrical flow between the dress and the booties.

LAVISH IN LACE

Get ready for the trumpets to be out playing, “Jingle Bell Rock” upon your debut when you march into the grand entrance of your destined holiday soirée with Ms. Lavish Lace! One of the easiest ways to transform into instant bombshell is through rocking lace. Just like the delicate nature of the fabric lace, the art of wearing it can be complex, so tread carefully! With so many peplum styles on lace, it’s best to pick a design that is going to accentuate your features. Whether it’s a certain color that makes your skin glow, or a unique cut that shows off your curves, just focus on what you want to flaunt and then choose styles that will do that.

STYLE TIP: ADD A BIT OF EDGE

To put a fresh twist on this ultra feminine look add an element of masculinity. The best way to do this is through punk inspired trends. Look for items that incorporate these elements like studs, chains, leather, and boots.  For example, adding a bootie instead of heel with a peplum dress, or if you're sporting a peplum top pair with leather leggings.

BLACK BEAUTY

Dress to Impress and blow bombshell expectations off the charts dancing the night away in a Black Beauty! This isn’t any ordinary Black Beauty, but this is the lbd version of the peplum! Whether you go for lace, mesh insets, satin, glitter, or a brown/black color like I did you can really have so much fun designing your own ensemble.

STYLE TIP: IT’S ALL ABOUT THE DETAILS

When wearing a lbd peplum it’s important to pay attention to all those details from beginning to end.  When  shopping for a lbd peplum choose something beyond the black fabric. What I mean by this is to look for unique silhouettes, designs, and fabrics. Second, pick one or two colors that you want to highlight and create a theme. I did just that by focusing on the blue in my purse, and the gold color in the necklace, cuff, and detailing on the purse, so gold and the blue were my accent colors.

HERE ARE RECOMMENDED LINKS

My dress is from Necessary Clothing the store on Clearance for $9.99- not online but at the store in NYC

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/276541.uts

Faux Leather and Lace Peplum Dress at Charlotte Russe $29.99

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/274568.uts

Metallic Foil Peplum Tank Top at Charlotte Russe

$19.99

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/274568.uts

Luxe Lace Peplum Top at Charlotte Russe $24.80

http://www.cicihot.com/clothing-dresses-cris-d1127.html?color=mint

Crochet Contrast Peplum Dress at Charlotte Russe $16.95

http://www.loveculture.com/7990100010.html?gclid=Cj0KEQiA-aujBRDqj772vpGfgooBEiQAzWAZUsjCYm4CBwFMA2hdeliat73iR2jAFdRzcCe-7E6zxJcaAt9R8P8HAQ

Gold Sequin Peplum at Loveculture at $39.00

GUY STYLE GUIDE: TIS THE SEASON OF SWEATERS!

With temperatures starting to dip, and snow not too far behind one thing is certain “Tis the season of Sweaters!”  With that in mind it’s a no brainer that your best fashion staple to protect you from the freezing temperatures is the ho-hum sensible but functional sweater. Yes, most of you men probably have that go-to sweater that has been around the block too many times you know what I’m talking about- the one from the gym to fun filled sporting events with the buddies to even a hot date night! Lucky for you, I have come up with four of my favorite picks for this season to make it the warmest one yet! Read on how to make a heated style statement wherever you go!

PICK 1: THE CLASSIC CREW

Classic elements always seem to persevere in the game of fashion. This definitely is the case with the classic crew, although simple in form it can be quite versatile. It’s the perfect go-to sweater to use in layering and can be the perfect canvas in creating stellar style depending on the color you choose and what you decide to throw over it.

STYLE TIP: Wear it under a leather jacket or over a collared shirt for an extra bit of dimension.

PICK 2:  THE VERSATILE V-NECK

Consider this the king of versatility when it comes to sweaters. The possibilities are endless with the v-neck whether you wear it on a date with a blazer and denim, or to the office by wearing it in a suit, or at a sporting event with buddies by throwing it on under a leather jacket.

STYLE TIP: It’s important that you pay attention to the fit when shopping for your versatile v-neck.  Don’t go too snug, because this is a sweater that commonly shrinks after washing, so go for one that has a bit of room to shrink.  Stick to collared shirts or v-neck undershirts when wearing layers underneath.

PICK 3 : THE SOPHISICATED SHAWL

The shawl neck cardigan is one of those pieces that can elevate your style to a whole new level. This is the perfect combination of winter masculinity combining both elements of warmth and ruggedness into one sweater. It’s great to add under a light jacket to create more of heavier feel jacket. 

STYLE TIP: Stick with neutral colors like grey, crème, navy, or black when rocking this piece and it’s important that you get the proper fit. Make sure it’s snug on the your shoulders, and the sleeves end at your wrist while it remains slim fitting down your arms.

PICK 4: THE GAME CHANGER CARDIGAN

No longer is the cardigan reserved for the librarian type and surely is becoming a fashion staple in the modern day man’s wardrobe.  This piece is a game changer in fashion and is the most versatile sweater out there. Whether you want to wear it buttoned up or buttoned down, it looks great with dark jeans and a tie for a laid back work environment, or pair with chinos and a t-shirt for a casual weekend look.

STYLE TIP: Look for a fine material sweater cardigan that has a fine thread count like merino wool or cashmere so it can be easier when layering. Always leave the last button unbuttoned when sporting a cardigan that is buttoned.

HERE ARE SOME RECOMMENDED LINKS:  *=top choices

http://www.hm.com/us/product/15217?article=15217-H#article=15217-L

Fine Knit Sweater at H&M $9.95

http://www.hm.com/us/product/47942?article=47942-E

Cashmere Blend Sweater at H&M $49.95

http://www.hm.com/us/product/92699?article=92699-X

Merino Wool Sweater at H&M $19.95

http://www.hm.com/us/product/16170?article=16170-C

Knit Cardigan at H&M $34.95 *

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=21men&Category=mens-sweaters&ProductID=2000085087&VariantID=

Shawl Collar Cardigan at Forever 21 $24.90

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=21men&Category=mens-sweaters&ProductID=2000060922&VariantID=

V-Neck Sweater at Forever 21 $14.80 *

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=21men&Category=mens-sweaters&ProductID=2073973576&VariantID=

Shoulder Patch Cardigan at Forever 21 $15.80

For more information go to www.frugalfashionite.com 

EMBELLISHED COLLARS: HOLIDAYS BLINGED OUT TREND!

If there one major theme in holiday fashion it’s the bling! And with full on fashion showdowns at holiday parties and soirees it’s all about the glitz and glamour. While you may see the flashy jewels of extraordinary caliber during the holiday season, nothing says extraordinary than the embellished neckline and collar trend! Whether you want to sparkle or shine this holiday season, there is a style for everyone this season to get their hands on. Find out how to make this fashion season the most decked out holiday!

REGAL IN GOLD

If your one of those “good as gold” gals, like myself and love to make a statement without being too flashy, then this collar is for you. Embellished gold collars and necklines are rich, opulent, and provide a sophiscated touch to any ensemble. The metal’s color works perfectly against all haircolors and skin tones. It’s a great combination especially when you rock it with darker colors like black, navy, or even deep red. I found a black peplum halter top with a gold embellishment tribal necklace attachment to the collar.  

STYLE TIP : CREATE VERSATILITY THROUGH THE SHOES

With embellished collars they often set the tone of how to style your ensemble. They also create versatility with the shoes. Since part of the focus is on the top changing the shoe selection can create two different styles to your look. In one picture, I wore black heels that had a tiny gold embellishment which created a contemporary look, whereas in the other picture, I had a bootie with buckles which provided an edgier look.

DAZZLE IN DIAMONDS

Are you ready to cause drama this holiday season? So not the drama of the New York Housewives between Ramona and the Countess Luann, but I’m talking the silence drama that has showstopping qualities! If drama is your middle name, this look is definitely for you! The great news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to make a blinged out statement just focus on collars, and necklines that are extra blinged out in rhinestones, sequins, or sparkles.

EDGY CHIC IN STUDS

For a cool approach on holiday fashion, studded collars are a fresh spin to take classic holiday apparel to another level.  When wearing studs on holiday pieces, look for more feminine colors and cuts, because studs represent an element of masculinity in that they reflect rocker and punk inspired trends.

PERFECT IN PEARLS

If you strive for perfection in everything you do, then this style is for you. However, I don’t mean to burst your bubble but in life nothing is perfect and the real beauty lies in imperfection.  Ironically, with this style you don’t have to try too hard to rock this to a 10! Whether you go for classic pearl collars or color ones, the embellishment is always light and airy often creating the perfect ready to go statement piece. With this style avoid clothing in white, and go for brighter and darker colors to create more of an eye-catching statement.

            HERE ARE RECOMMENDED LINKS *= top choices

My top was from Strawberry Store on Clearance at $9.99- stores are in NYC Area

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=F21&category=DRESS&productid=2000137747

Embellished Lace Collar Dress $24.90 at Forever 21

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=LOVE21&category=Love21_Tops&productid=2000056903

Beaded Chiffon Cutout Blouse at Forever 21 $27.90 *

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=LOVE21&category=Love21_Tops&productid=2000081630

Rhinestone-Collar Crepe Top at Forever 21 $22.90 *

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=F21&category=top&productid=2000083860

Faux Pearl Chiffon Top at Forever 21 at $10.90

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/269393.uts

Embellished Sheer Chiffon Top at Charlotte Russe at $13.99

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/265657.uts

Bead Necklace Bodcon Halter Dress at Charlotte Russe $34.99 *

For more information go to www.frugalfashionite.com

CHECKMATE! WINNING WAYS TO WEAR HOUNDSTOOTH

Checkmate! In the game of fashion, one print that is a seasonal favorite among celebs and fashion enthusiasts including my self is the classic houndstooth. Just like florals are to spring and summer, houndstooth is the staple print for the fall and winter. Unlike the pleasant pronunciation of houndstooth, and it’s rooted meaning which can also be referred to as dogstooth, is a duotone textile pattern that consists of broken check marks and abstract shapes. So why on earth would one want to wear this print when it sounds awful off the tongue and it design mimics a dogstooth? Lucky for you I have come up with winning ways to dispel this notion and shed light on how these black and white checks make it easy to recreate runway and celeb-inspired looks.

PAIR IT WITH BLACK

Black goes with everything and it adds edge, mystery, sophistication and sex appeal to your look. The easiest way to wear houndstooth is matching it with a black piece. Go for a unique black piece that will stick out against the pattern.    Since I went with houndstooth pants, I decided to wear an asymmetrical one-shoulder long sleeve part mesh top to highlight the pants. 

ADD COLOR

Another way to really stand out when wearing houndstooth is wearing color. This is the perfect print to sport color that is trending or one that reflects your personality. Being that red is trending for fall and one of my favorties, I opted for red heels and a purse. The contrast of the bold color red created a nice pop against the pants.

MIX IT UP

To really get brownie points with your style on this print try mixing it with other prints.  I recommend using this technique first with accessories that contain houndstooth print such as a scarf, shoe, or handbag in addition to another print that you may be wearing. If your really confident with your styling skills and want to  combine a houndstooth garment with another print make sure the prints are the same size of scale, and the color palette is similar in order to achieve a more balanced look.

BUNDLE UP

Now that the weather is cold outside it’s important that we bundle up in style.  By sporting this 50’s inspired trend in a coat is a great way to take your fashion one step further.  When wearing out as a coat look for tailored styles such as a pea coat or wrap style jacket. 

CHECKMATE

Whether you want to sport in a scarf, shoe, clutch, headband, or belt probably the most strategic way to come out Checkmate is through accessories! Accessories in the houndstooth print can be used as a pop piece to your over all look.  Pop pieces are those pieces that often stand out and connect your whole look from head to toe.  I recommend using houndstooth accessories with neutral color ensembles.

 HERE ARE LINKS TO CHECKMATE WHEN ROCKING HOUNDSTOOTH:

*= top picks

 http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=F21&category=ACC&productid=1000120003

Houndstooth print scarf at Forever 21 $10.80

http://www.charlotterusse.com/catalog/search.cmd?form_state=searchForm&keyword=houndstooth

Houndstooth leggings at Charlotte Russe $12.99

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/273069.uts

Faux Lather Belted Houndstooth Coat at Charlotte Russe $39.99*

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/272514.uts

Houndstooth High Waisted Skater Skirt at Charlotte Russe  $10 *

http://www.agacistore.com/check-yourself-skinny-pant/32020-17055.html?dwvar_32020-17055_color=8#q=houndstooth&start=1

Check Yourself Skinny Pant at Agaci Store $19.50

http://www.agacistore.com/check-me-out-bomber/31110-13663.html?dwvar_31110-13663_color=9#q=houndstooth&start=1

Check me out Bomber at Agaci for $15.30 *

http://www.sammydress.com/product1382653.html?currency=USD&gclid=Cj0KEQiAypGjBRCPme6jmqu3gZsBEiQA8NAiIOEPjMZctDtbKXeOl2CpmE-orYTUq2LbBRIQxLBTTpAaAuEP8P8HAQ

Stylish Women’s Slimming Houndstooth Skinny Pants at Sammys $12.67 *

Similar to my pants which were at Strawberry Store on Clearance for $9.99 *

4 MODERN WAYS TO LACE UP FASHION’S OLDEST GAP!

Get ready to lace up the gap in fashion’s oldest but sexiest fabric, lavish lace!   Originally known for doilies, princess dresses, wedding dresses, curtains, vintage appeal, ruffled party socks, and of course lingerie, lace has recently embarked on a fashion transformation in recent seasons. The question becomes how does one lace up the old gap into a tightly modern day lady in lace!  Being that I have a little obsession with lace, I discovered 4 stylish ways to tightly lace up fashion’s antiquated gap into modern day lady of lace!  Read on how to make one lacey statement this season…

GO MATCHY MATCHY

If there is one trend that is taking Hollywood by storm, hands down it’s the matchy matchy set.  This trend focuses primarily on matching separates, those which are crops primarily with matching bottoms.  This trend puts a fresh spin on lace.

STYLE TIP: GO FOR DETAILING

Look for the lace in a pattern or detailing within a garment rather than going full on lace.  I did just that by finding a pattern of lace detailing in both a matching crop top and skirt.  Since the primary colors in the pattern were a beige/black I went for nude color accessories to highlight and create more pop around the color beige. I went with a strappy nude heel and a clutch along with pearl themed jewelry.

FRESHEN UP WITH COLOR

A big trend this season is color lace.  To really make a lacey statement opt for color lace and stay away from white or all over black lace.  Head for bright reds, pinks, corals, turquoises, purple, and cobalt blue.

STYLE TIP: CENTER PIECE

Build your look around the colored lace piece to create a balanced look. Depending on the color and the style piece of clothing you choose will determine your accents and pop piece.  Remember to refer to the color wheel and to use neutral color accessories to highlight the color lace in order to achieve a balanced look.

ENHANCE YOUR BEST ASSETS

Lace is no longer reserved for your grandmother’s curtains, tablecloths, or home décor, but it’s one of the best fabrics to show off your body. When wearing lace you want it to accentuate your hottest assets. This fabric will not only boost your confidence but make you feel fabulous!

STYLE TIP: GO FOR STYLES THAT WILL ENHANCE YOUR FAVORITE ASSETS

To enhance you favorite assets go for cuts or styles that will show off proudly what you have. I did that by opting for a high neckline crop top to show off my arms and waist area. 

PLAY WITH DIFFERENT TEXTURES

Designers and retailers have come out with so many different spins on lace apparel that it can leave one in a tizzy! However, the easiest way to wear lace in simple and modern way is to pick one piece and mix it with different textures. This style technique helps move away from the vintage feel of lace head to toe and makes it easier to rock during daytime.

STYLE TIP: AIM FOR THREE DIFFERENT TEXTURES

Adding different textures to any outfit creates an avant garde look.  As a rule of thumb try to aim for three different textures when wearing a piece of lace.  This technique not only will create excitement but it will ensure a modern spin.  For example, you can wear a lace top with a pair of denim and a cropped leather jacket to execute this technique.

HERE ARE LINKS TO CLOSE TO LINK UP FASHION’S OLDEST GAP *= top picks

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=top&ProductID=2000137087&VariantID=

Lace Panel Halter Top at Forever 21 $19.80 *= similar to my top

My top was from the  Strawberry store in NYC for $12.99

My Skirt was from the Strawberry Store for $ 14.99

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=LOVE21&Category=Love21_Tops&ProductID=2000069698&VariantID=

Lace Knit Top at Forever 21 $17.80

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=DRESS&ProductID=2055878200&VariantID=

Embroidered Floral Lace Dress at Forever 21 $24.90

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=DRESS&ProductID=2055878524&VariantID=

Eyelash lace bodycon Dress at Forever 21 $24.90 *= The top portion of this dress is similar to my top

http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?Br=F21&Category=DRESS&ProductID=2055880219&VariantID=

Floral Lace Sheath Dress at Forever 21 $34.80 =*

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/272714.uts

High-Waisted Embroidered Lace Pencil Skirt at Forever 21 $26.99*

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/275512.uts

Lace Cold Shoulder Bodycon Dress for $26.99 at Charlotte Russe *

http://www.charlotterusse.com/product/entity/276160.uts

Mesh & Lace Bodycon Dress at Charlotte Russe $34.99 *

For more information go to www.frugalfashionite.com