MIXED METALS...SHINE FROM EVERY ANGLE

Mixed metals are gold, bronze, silver, and pewter combined together.  The beauty behind wearing mixed metals is that you get different sheens that enhance your outfit.  Mixed metal jewelry, purses, and on shoes is all the rage.

Below is a Cara Accessories Mixed Media Bangles Set.  Available from Nordstrom's for $58.  A statement necklace in this multi-chain necklace with dangling pieces and crystals is another option.  This is Belle Noel by Kim Kardashian available at Boutique to You for $145.  These drape earrings are available from Pink Mascara for $28.

   

Kenneth Cole is a designer currently carrying lots of mixed metal pieces.  Lettie Gooch is a great DC boutique featuring lots of mixed metal jewelry.  If you don't want to buy something new, wear your silver and gold chain necklaces together or stack your bangles or bracelets of different metals to mirror this look.

Add mixed metals in your high heels, boots, or bags as another option.  Studs are big on shoes right now.  Below is a clutch made by Top Choice from Nordstrom's for $28.  This bag incorporates two trends, color blocking and mixed metals.  

Looking Slimmer Ladies and Gentlemen...

How many times have you found that perfect dress, top, or skirt but it shows some lumps or ripples you wish weren't there?  Today I'm going to show you options of what you can wear underneath to look smoother and skinnier.  There are many new options out there.

Everyone has heard of Spanx.  Here is a strapless slip dress that you can wear underneath any fitted dress or where you need to look smooth all over.  The true benefit of this undergarment is that it looks nice so don't be afraid to undress in front of your significant other.  This is available in black or rose gold (nude)-which is a skin tone version.  Called Spanx Slimmer and Shine strapless slip.  S-XL.  Available almost everywhere you shop.  Featured from Nordstrom's for $98.  A similar version called the convertible strapless dress (where you can attach straps) is $76 and also in black and nude.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/spanx-slimmer-shine-strapless-shaping-slip/3195473?origin=PredictiveSearch&resultback=704

To emphasize your behind, Spanx also offers a booty boy short.  This is ideal for ladies who are wearing a skinny dress and don't have much in the behind.  It will make you look much fuller, though not quite Kim Kardashian!  This is called the Spanx Simplicity Butt Boosting Boy Shorts, for $68 also available at Nordstrom's.  Available in black or nude, S-XL.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/spanx-slimplicity-butt-boosting-girl-shorts/3194972?origin=PredictiveSearch&resultback=1224

The next garment can be worn with fitted tops or sweaters.  It is great to take away the "bra bulge" that women get all the time or back fat that I hear all ladies (and men too!) complain about.  There are different versions of this camisole with wider straps as well so look at the concept and then select the style that works best for you.  Shown is a Spanx adjustable strap camisole, available in black or nude (see a theme) for $52 at Nordstrom's and quite a few other stores.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/spanx-adjustable-strap-camisole/3209441?origin=PredictiveSearch&resultback=1249

If you are looking for a little support but don't want to wear a separate undergarment, Spanx tights or pantyhose might be right for you.  They come in prints and plain.  Available in regular A-D or plus sizes.  $28 in a variety of shades from Nordstrom's.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/spanx-in-power-line-high-waisted-shaping-sheers/3079975?origin=PredictiveSearch&resultback=2808

Target has shapewear also at a much cheaper price, so if you aren't sure if you are sold on wearing it I would suggest starting here.  These are there butt boosting boy shorts for $20.

http://www.target.com/p/Women-s-Booty-Pop-Enhancing-Panties-Assorted-Colors/-/A-13788177

Gentlemen, its time for you to look slimmer and well put together.  Slim fit sweaters and shirts are hot for guys but not every guy has the build to pull that off.  These compression shirts for men slim away any rolls, back fat, or boobage.  Spanx offers compression t-shirts and tank tops, similar to wearing an undershirt or under thin t-shirt.  Crewneck and v neck versions are available.  Here is one version offered by Spanx, available in white or black, for $78, in S-XXL.  Cotton versions are available for $58.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/spanx-v-neck-compression-t-shirt/3121491?origin=PredictiveSearch&resultback=4630

Most major department stores carry Spanx or there own version of slimming undergarments.  So shop around or when you are purchasing an outfit and need something underneath to accompany it, ask your sales associate.  Make sure your undergarment fits.  So many women have told me that they do not wear it because it is so uncomfortable.  While it should be fitted and suck things in, you definitely need to be able to move around and breathe.

Looks for Men

Here are trends for men to be wearing this season.

Jeans-Men's fit offers straight leg, relaxed straight leg for men wanting more room, or skinny straight.  Make sure to check when ordering online or pulling jeans to try on in the dressing room.  These brands can be worn in all age groups:  Citizens of Humanity, 7 for All Mankind, Joe's Jeans, J Brand, Hudson, Diesel, and DSquared2.  Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom's, Neiman Marcus, and Saks Fifth Avenue all carry designer jeans. Some brands also have their own online stores and boutiques.

This pair is a relaxed straight leg by 7 for All Mankind, called Austyn.  Available at Nordstrom's for $169.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/7-for-all-mankind-austyn-relaxed-straight-leg-jeans-los-angeles-dark-wash/3005903?origin=category&resultback=1468

Pockets on the chest gives men's button down shirts a hipper look.  Try one from INC International Concepts at Macy's.  Only $39.98.  This shirt below is a 7 Diamonds shirt available at Nordstrom's for $109.  I would suggest rolling up the sleeves or wearing a black or dark grey short coat.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/7-diamonds-work-station-pinstripe-work-shirt/3245813?origin=category&resultback=3385

Hugo Boss offers many different styles and colors of slim fit sweaters.  This one is available at Bloomingdale's.  for $145.  I think it looks boring with a white t-shirt so I would pair it with a deep gray or navy blue.

http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/boss-black-baku-slim-fit-v-neck-sweater?ID=570723&CategoryID=10258&LinkType=#fn=SHOWONLY%3DOur Best Gifts%26spp%3D54%26ppp%3D96%26sp%3D1%26rid%3D52

Depending on the look and event you are attending, I would recommend layering a button down shirt with a slim fit sweater and a velvet blazer.  A second look could be a thin, nice t-shirt in color with a button down over-top.  

Designers to go to include Marc by Marc Jacobs, Theory, Armani, D &G, Kenneth Cole, or James Perse.

Color Blocking

This trend can be worn in bold, vibrant ways via your clothing or in subtler ways with accessories, shoes, and purses.  Strategically placed, contrasting, yet complimentary, bold and bright colors paired together creating a unique look.  This trend launched at the spring 2011 runways and is still going strong.

Vince Camuto is known for his beautiful shoes and offers many styles with color blocking.  This is one of my favorites for the vibrant colors used.  Available at Lori's Shoes for $124.95, the Jorgie by Vince Camuto.

http://www.lorisshoes.com/brands/vince-camuto/vnc-jorgie.html?from=453

BCBG also offers a few styles with color-blocking.  Here is a BCBGeneration called Perries, available at Nordstrom's for $109.95.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/bcbgeneration-perries-pump/3248917?origin=category&resultback=1170

Here is a BCBG A Woman's Debra Colorblock Wrap Dress, for $248 from Amazon.com.

http://www.amazon.com/BCBGMAXAZRIA-Womens-Colorblock-Begonia-Medium/dp/B005QJYMJ0/ref=sr_1_2?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1323875943&sr=1-2

This is a purple and teal color block clutch by Moyna, available from Neiman Marcus $112.

http://www.neimanmarcus.com/p/Moyna-Beaded-Colorblock-Clutch-Dark-Purple-Teal-Shoulder-Bags/prod144090529/?ecid=NMCIGoogleBaseFeed&003=5840816&010=V11UH&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=prod144090529skuDARKPURPL

Color blocking can be done with neutrals as well, such as black, grey, navy, brown, and skin color or nude.

Making Your Legs Look Fabulous with Fun Tights

I"m often asked how can this dress or skirt be updated or this outfit more fun?  My response is always throw on a pair of fun tights.  There are many styles and brands to choose from.  The important thing to know is that tights do not usually snag like panty hose do, therefore you can purchase a more expensive and stylish pair that will last you.  The more intricate the design and detail, the more expensive the tights will be.  A year ago while in Italy I noticed that all the ladies were wearing beautiful tights to accentuate their outfits and my love affair began.

Wolford is by far my favorite brand.  They become world-wide famous with their bondage tights last year that many famous singers and celebrities wore.  Here is a beautiful pair of Wolford Wilderness Tights for $43.55 on sale on wolford.com and available in three tones.

http://www.wolfordshop.com/Wilderness-Tights/cp56547/si5661982/cl2/vt01/

Fishnets are a beautiful option to enhance an outfit.  Details to note with fishnets is the size of the netting, which can range from very small to large.  Smaller netting looks classier and more refined while larger netting vamps it up.  Here is a DKNY version with larger netting for $14.50 from barenecessities.com

http://www.barenecessities.com/dkny-fishnet-tights-0a074_product.htm?pf_id=DKNY0A074


Oroblu, available at Nordstrom's has smaller netting for their fishnets.  I have their skin colored pair and love them.  They match my skin tone perfectly.  The smaller netting looks classier for business meetings.  $18.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/oroblu-tricot-fishnet-tights/3149190?origin=keywordsearch&resultback=6567

Colored tights add unique surprise to your outfit.  Great when you are wearing black or gray.  Gray, maroon and burgundy are very popular tights colors.  These tights are by Falke for $64.00 available at barenecessities.com.

http://www.barenecessities.com/falke-bree-tights-48622_product.htm?pf_id=Falke48622&search=

Diamond tights are another interesting element.  Particularly this pair from Anthropology.  Spotted diamond tights for $18.00 available at anthropology.com

http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=23129083&catId=SHOES-LEGWEAR

Nothing is sexier than a pattern or stripe up the back of your leg.  The trick to this is the size of the line going up your leg and ensuring that it is straights when you put it on.  This pair is by Kate Spade, called New York Scallop Detail Tight, $28 at Nordstroms.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/kate-spade-new-york-scallop-detail-tights/3231921?origin=keywordsearch&resultback=3158

All department stores carry tights, as does Target.  Specialty tights stores have become popular and there you can slight from a wide range of designers and price points.  Hue, DKNY, Spanx, Calvin Klein, Falke, Kate Spade, Oroblu.  Search online by tights and then narrow your search to meet your needs (i.e. control top-Spanx is great for this).

To change from your day to night look, for daytime throw on with your skirt, dress, or suit and high heels.  At night change your shoes to shoe booties or high boots and change your sweater, suit jacket or coat by taking that off and leaving on your tank top and add a statement necklace or earrings.

Party Dresses

Holiday season is the time of soirees.  The dress can accentuate your style via the color, fit, and design.  The designs shown emphasize fun versus formal.

This is the Jonesy One Shoulder dress, available at BCBG.  $348.  The color works well for most skin tones and the layered front design makes this an eye catcher!

http://www.bcbg.com/product/index.jsp?productId=12139673&cp=4213681.2769162.2768993&view=all&parentPage=family

Looking for something a little dressier, try this BCBG emerald green and black lace dress.  Natalya Strapless Lace Dress, BCBG, $378.

http://www.bcbg.com/product/index.jsp?productId=12252817&cp=4213681.2769162.2768993&view=all&parentPage=family

This dress is a platinum dress with sparkles.  This is a way to do sparkles in a new style, versus all over the dress.  Very chic.  Platinum Paiette Cocktail dress by Scala.  $256 at eDressme.com.

http://www.edressme.com/14107p.html

This dress mimics the Herve Leger designs.  Very slimming design by BCBG.  Ria Halter Dress, $328.

http://www.bcbg.com/product/index.jsp?productId=12252821&cp=4213681.2769162.2768993&view=all&parentPage=family

The most important thing is the fit for your body type and the color.  Gold, silver, and nude tones only work on those with Olive colored or dark colored skin.  Otherwise the dress washes you out.  This is not something one quick spray tan will solve.  

For those who like the designer look but are on a budget, sign up for renttherunway.com.  You can rent designer gowns and clothing and return them  once you are done.  Easy way to wear a look that you will not repeat again.  Shopstyle.com also has options for under $100.

Happy Shopping!

Denim Done Right...how to wear the styles based on your body type.

The question comes up as to what are all the various styles of jeans available now, how do you know what fit works best for your body, what do I pair with the different styles, and what are brands to shop for.  Today I will answer these questions.  

Straight Leg
Perfect for a day to night jean.  Pair with a fitted jacket or sweater and ankle boots for daytime and add a statement necklace and heels for at night.  Most body types work well with this fit.  Where the pocket sits determines what body type it is meant for.  Smaller pocket or blingy pockets are best for girls with smaller bottoms.  Minimal design on the pocket (Citizens, 7 for All Mankind) are good for average build girls.  Plain pockets are better for more ample bottoms.  Hudson's work well for this build.
Brands:  Citizen's Ava jean great for girls who have a booty.  The pocket sits nicely.  Mavi jean, $117 on amazon.com has smaller pointed pockets.  This style is great for girls who don't have a full bottom and want to emphasize this.  Shown below is a 7 for All Mankind Jean, $178 from revolveclothing.com.  Cookie Johnson makes nice straight leg jeans for older women.

http://www.revolveclothing.com/DisplayProduct.jsp?product=SEVE-WJ899&c=&s=C&d=5&sc=Straight

Dark Denim
A classic pair of dark denim is a great counterpoint to bright colored tops such as yellow, kelly green, or fuschia.  All body types look skinnier in darker denim.  Just find the brand that works well for your body.
Brands:  Rich and Skinny is one of my favorites.  Shown below is the MIDI Straight Leg Jean for $165.  Joe's Jeans and 7 for All Mankind are also recommended.

http://www.richandskinnyjeans.com/store/productdetails.aspx?productid=1264&mr:trackingCode=ACB90519-5AE4-E011-87D9-001B21A69EB8&mr:referralID=NA

Boyfriend Jeans
While some celebrities are getting away with this look, aka Jennifer Aniston, I'm not sure the majority of you can or should wear this.  The point is a looser fit, usually with distressed, and rolled-up cuffs.  I would recommend this for someone who is taller (over 5"5") and has a thinner build.
Brands:  AG Adriano Goldschmied from revolveclothing.com at $235.  True Religion, Current/Elliott, and Citizens of Humanity all have different types.

http://www.revolveclothing.com/DisplayProduct.jsp?product=AG-WJ368&c=&s=C&d=5&sc=Boyfriend&referrerURL=%2FBrands.jsp%3Fc%3D%26s%3Dc%26d%3D5%26sc%3DBoyfriend%26HPsource%3DWomen&

Wide-leg Denim
Opt for a pair that is fitted through the hips and thighs.  Pair with a slim top and heels to elongate the look.  This style of jean works better for taller girls (or those wearing stiletto's) with a thinner build.
Brands:  Current/Elliott, Citizens of Humanity, James Jeans, Hutton.
Below is a Citizens of Humanity Hutton Jean, $132.30, from shopbop.com

http://www.shopbop.com/hutton-high-rise-wide-leg/vp/v=1/845524441915049.htm?folderID=2534374302023720&extid=affprg-4224106-CITIZ4009911806

Skinny Leg
Great to wear with boots or a high heel.  Skinny comes in different types (super skinny-legging jean, regular skinny, and skinny/straight) so know which type you are buying if shopping online.  There are also different lengths, such as ankle length and full lenth.
Brands:  Joe's Jeans, 7 for All Mankind, Rag and Bone, Citizens, J Brand, Current/Elliott.
Shown below are Joe's Jeans Silver Skinny Jeans, $170 at shopbop.com.

http://www.shopbop.com/silver-skinny-jeans-joes/vp/v=1/845524441925551.htm?folderID=2534374302064885&fm=other-shopbysize-viewall&colorId=12208



Boot-cut and Flare Jeans
Great to wear out at night or during the day with boots.  Boot cut is also a good day to night jean.  Most body types can wear boot cut jeans.  Flare is a larger ankled boot cut jean.  Best on slimmer girls as you want your top half to balance with your bottom half.  If you have a larger bottom or waist, boot cut and flare jeans often emphasize this.
Brands:  William Rast, Hudson's, Joe's Jeans, True Religion, Citizens, Cookie Johnson.
Below is a William Rast Stella Bootcut, for $155 at amazon.com.

http://www.amazon.com/William-Rast-Womens-Bootcut-Stardust/dp/B004E9SVYU/ref=sr_1_7?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1323376848&sr=1-7

Jeggings

Dress them up with a stylish blazer or drapey sweater or top, heels, and jewelry.  Any body shape can wear this.  Larger legged women or those with ample bottoms or waits just need to accentuate your smaller portion (waist or hips) with a belt.

For those on a budget, I would recommend Banana Republic's jeans which tend to replicate the styles and fits of designer jeans.  Armani Exchange and Nordstrom's both offer brands/styles that are more affordable.  Shopbop.com and Revolveclothing.com also offer styles under $90.

When shopping online you can select the fit you are looking for in-order-to ease your shopping experience.

Statement Necklaces

Statement necklaces are one way to spice up an outfit, to make a top or a dress pop.  Statement necklaces can also help enliven an outfit that you don't wear often.  I recommend having a few necklaces that you can intermix with various outfits to keep things fresh.


This is a beautiful stone and gold necklace, available by BCBG, $98.

http://www.bcbg.com/product/index.jsp?productId=12252751&cp=2769196.4374553.2770114&view=all&parentPage=family


Splash color at the neckline with this fabulous necklace by Marcia Moran, Kate Spade, $298.

http://www.katespade.com/designer-jewelry/necklaces-for-women/kate-spade-big-time-statement-short-necklace/WBRU4020,default,pd.html?dwvar_WBRU4020_color=408&start=1&cgid=new-arrivals-jewelry



If stones are your look, this stunning necklace by Kenneth Jay Lane, $143, is called the Black Flower Necklace.  Available at ShopBop.com.

http://www.shopbop.com/black-diamond-flower-necklace-kenneth/vp/v=1/845524441917987.htm?folderID=2534374302060432&fm=other-shopbysize-viewall&colorId=16860


This necklace by Kendra Scott makes a statement with a bold top or dress or something simpler to make the necklace your show stopper.  Available at Nordstrom's for $198.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/kendra-scott-ignacia-feather-stone-statement-necklace/3213262?origin=category&resultback=7204

Designers to check out that make great statement necklaces include Marcia Moran, Kate Spade, Kendra Scott, Nicole Ritchie's House of Harlow.  Go be bold and make a STATEMENT!