Style And The City: New York Fashion Week and Fashion's Night Out



Its been a big week for fashion in New York City, fashion capital of the world. September 8th kicked off New York City's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week and Fashion's Night Out. Fashions Night Out is after-hours shopping extravaganza that happens in more than 250 cities nationwide and involves more than 1,000 retailers in NYC alone. This is the third year for the legendary even which attracts all kinds of fashion forward shoppers including celebrities, magazine editors, fashion bloggers and designers galore. Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week is one of the world's larget fashion events. It brings in designers from all over the world including: BCBGMAXAZRIA, Richard Chai, Rebbeca Taylor, Vivienne Tam, and Diane Von Furstenberg just to name a few. This event also features shows by students from The Academy of Art University and the three finalist designers from the hit show Project Runway. The shows have just started but so far we can expect a lot of bright, bold colors for spring/summer 2012 as well as lots and lots of different prints. I'm definitely looking forward to next spring and summers fashion trends already.

For more information on Fashion's Night Out:

Follow them on twitter: twitter.com/FNOnyc

or visit: http://www.fashionsnightout.com/

For more information on Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week:

Follow them on twitter: twitter.com/MbFashionWeek

or visit: http://www.mbfashionweek.com/

Until next time, Stay Stylish,

Lena B

Fall Fashion Trends

Now that we've talked about the staples that every Stylish woman needs in her wardrobe its time to talk trends. This years fall fashion trends are inspired by nature. My favorite fashion trend website http://www.fashiontrendsetter.com/ lists Animal instincts as the leading trend for fall/winter 2011. "Organic, earthy simplicity reflects our desire for cocooning, sustainability and our instinct for survival, while soaring flashes of colorful brilliance and sleek, sexy glamour tap into a nascent spirit of bouyant optimism." So what does this all mean for building your fall wardrobe. Look for colors and patterns inspired by nature. No, this doesn't mean you have to walk around with a leaf pattern all over your shirt and wear feathers anywhere. Instead pick natural colors like ivorys and creams, browns, greys, greens, and deep blues. If your looking to go all out with this trend look for furs and feathers to add spice to an outfit. Just don't go overboard and wear too many nature inspired pieces at once. You don't want to look like a forest ranger.

To read more about this season fashion trends visit: http://www.fashiontrendsetter.com/content/fashion_trends/2010/Swarovski-Elements-AW-2011-12-Trends.html#ixzz1XgmtriRE

Until next time, Stay Stylish,

Lena B

SHOES!!!!

My absolute favorite part about fashion is SHOES!!! They say that "clothing makes a man", well I say "Shoes make the woman". Here's a short list of my Top 5 Favorite Shoe Styles for Fall:

5.) Knee High Boots: These Fall/Winter essential come in all heights and colors and can be styled many different ways. Pair them with a pair of skinny jeans and a sexy top and jacket for a night out with the girls or pair them when a pencil skirt, long sleeved shirt and blazer for a more professional look.



4.) Ankle Booties: Ankle booties are the cute cousin of the knee high boot. They're perfect for fun nights out with friends. Wearing with skirts or pants and a fun top. The more fashion forward your booties the better so be a little dramatic and go a little crazy with these fun shoes.



3.) Flat Boots: Whether they be knee high ankle booties or somewhere in between you can never go wrong with a flat boot in the fall and winter. They'll look great with a peacoat or a trench. Pair them with fun accessories to like an oversized handbag or a bold belt.



2.) Ballet Flats: This shoe is perfect in every season. For fall and into winter they are a great way to add a pop of color to any outfit. They look great with skinny jeans (what doesn't look great with skinny jeans?) and a classic buttondown shirt and blazer for a pretty prep school look. Or rock when with a leather jacket if your going for something more edgey. Again don't be afraid to play with colors, pattern, and skins here with all the nuetrals worn in fall this is a perfect way to spice up any outfit.



1.) Stilettos: Though they may not be practical once the snow starts to fall investing in a chic pair of stilettos and you can never go wrong. They can be sexy and sophisticated. They're a great way to show off your legs (before it gets too cold) and you can dress them up or dress them down. Have fun with this shoes style just make sure they're comfortable for you so you don't trip and fall.



The Best Places to Buy Fall Shoes:

DWS: http://www.dsw.com/

Forever21: http://www.forever21.com/

Bakers: http://www.bakersshoes.com/

Zappos: http://www.zappos.com/

Until next time, Stay Stylish,

Lena B

Saying "I Do" in style: Wedding Style 101

Yesterday, September 10, 2011, was the biggest day for weddings this year. In honor of that I'm going to do a special blog today about how to dress your best on the day you say "I do".

Your wedding will be one of the most important days of your life so you want to make sure you look absolutely stunning. But what if you don't know the difference between a sheath and a ball gown or what dress style is the best for your body? What if terms like "cathedral length" or "sweetheart neckline" sound like a forgien language to you? Well I'm hear to help with that. In this blog I'll give you a simple outline of the different styles of dressed and veils and which ones will be best for which body type. So sti back, relax, and get ready to say "I Do" to your dream dress.

The most important part of your outfit will be your dress. There are a few simple things to remember when shopping for your dress so be ready to ask yourself these questions: Does it fit?, Can I move easily in it?, Is it right for my wedding venue?, Does it fit my personal sense of style?, Do I LOVE it? If you can answer "yes" to all of these questions then you're one step closer to making your fairytale wedding a reality.

Dress Styles:



The Ball Gown:

The Ball Gown is the most easily recognized wedding dress style. It is the type of gown most little girls fantasize about when they picture their big day. This style is classically elegant and makes every bride feel like a princess.

Is this style right for you? The Ball Gown is the perfect style for any bride who pictures herself as a princess on her wedding day. If your wedding is a black-tie affair this gown will also be appropriate for you. It is flattering on most body types, but it can be slightly overwhelming for a shorter bride's petite frame. In order to pull off this decidant look be sure to stick with a simple hair style as well as accessories. The dress is a huge statement in itself and you don't want to distract from it with too much jewelry or an over-the-top hairstyle. A fingertip veil, a veil that ends that the fingertips is the ideal veil for a ball gown.

The A-Line:

This silohuette is beautiful and stylish and is perfect for every bride. It comes in many different styles, from intracately beaded, to simply plain. You can dress this style up or down depending the style of your wedding and your wedding venue. This is the perfect alternative for shorter brides who don't want to be swallowed up by large ball gowns. When it comes to styling the A-line you can go simple and chic, or lavish and elegant. Just be sure that your style matches the occasion. This style of gown can also be worn with any veil. I recommend a cathedral length veil, a veil that trails to the floor and has a train, if your looking for an elegant look or a fingertip veil for a more modern look.

The Sheath:

The Sheath is ideal for a bride who wants to look pretty but doesn't want to gown to be the focal point on her big day. It is perfect for outdoor weddings and casual backyard affairs. This style of dress is best for a tall, slim bride. It looks amazing with floor length and cathedral veil. For casual weddings I'd also recommend a simple headpiece like a comb or the now popular facsinator. Sheaths can also be very sexy, so this dress looks amazing on a bride who's looking to add a little sex appeal on her big day. Because the sheath is such a simple silohuette I recommend pairing the dress with simple accessories and wearing your hair down. 

The Mermaid:

The Mermaid style gown has become increasingly popular over the last few years. This dress is perfect for the bride who is proud of her curves and wants to show them off. The mermaid dress is known for it signature curve-hugging shape with a dramatic flare at the bottom, it is also known as the Trumpet style. This dress is sassy and sexy and absolutely beautiful. Its perfect for a black tie affair or a semiformal reception. The Mermaid gown is a perfect dress style to wear a modern facsinator with. You can go glitzy and glamorous with this style or keep it simple and understated with a touch of sass.

The Empire:

The Empire waist dress is very similar to the sheath but with a slightly more romantic feeling. The Empire is a gown that it fitted just under the bust and then gradually flows away from the body. It is most recommended for plus-sized brides (even though I prefer a mermaid) and works well for casual and romantically themed wedding. This style is also great for desitnation weddings. If your looking to hide a curvy tummy then this dress is a good choice for you. Its also a great choice for pregnant bride as it doesn't shroud you baby bump but doesn't openly draw attention to it either. For a Empire style gown I recommend a floor length veil and very simple up-do.

Any and all styles of gowns can be made to fit and flatter any body type and can make any woman feel gorgeous on her wedding day. As long as you're comfortable and you LOVE LOVE LOVE your dress then everyone else will love it too.

Wedding  Day Extras: Accessorizing Your Gown

 There are many different ways to accessorize your gown and make it truly yours. From belts, headpieces, veils, and shoes there is a wide aray for you to choose from. Here are some helpful tips to guide you down the accessory aisle.

Veils:

Veils come in three major styles: The Cathedral, The Floor Length, and The Fingertip. Each of these styles can be worn with any type of dress but best compliments certain styles (see dresses above).

The Cathedral:
The Cathedral length veil was the originator of all veils. It was meant to be worn in lavish weddings held in, you guessed it, a cathedral. This veil is long and drapes to the floor and has a short train the fans out at the bottom. This is a very elegant and classic wedding accessory. It is best worn in formal ceremonies and should be avoided if your wedding is outdoors.

The Floor Length:

The floor length veil is just as its title would suggest. It is a veil that hangs to the floor. It is perfect for the pride who wants to add elegance to her outdoor wedding.



The Finger Tip:

The Finger Tip veil is as simple as its title though it is infinitely chich. This modern veil style hangs between elbow and finger tip length. It is perfect for a modern bride. It can be worn with every dress style and looks best paired with a modern and stylish gown.

Headpieces:

A new trend in wedding day fashion is the use of headpieces instead of veils. Anything from elaborate hair combs to fabulous facsinators are being seen down the aisles today.

Combs:

Combs have been a fashion staple since the late 30s and early 40s. These timeless pieces come in many styles and look beautiful on any bride. They're the perfect finishing touch to any updo or half updo.The can add a vintage touch to any wedding. They're also perfect way to keep your hair in plac when the veil comes off and the party begins.

Headbands:

Headbands are perfect for any type of bride. They come in many different colors and styles and can be found just about anywhere. Whether your looking for a causual colorful style or somehting that screams bride there is a headband out there waiting for you.

Clips:

Hair clips are just for little girls any more, brides are now rocking them too. These fun little accessories are perfect for a casual wedding. They're also the perfect hair accessories for any bridesmaid.

Tiaras:

Tiaras have been the dream bridal accessory for little girls the world over. They are perfect for that fairytale wedding and your gorgeous ball gown. Style these crowns with an elegant updo and you'll feel like a queen for a day.

Fascinators:

Thanks to this years Royal Wedding fascinators have become all the rage for weddings this year. They can be worn in any style and color and add a modern touch to any bride. These fashionable little numbers are perfect with fashion forward dresses and are a great replacement for a veil. Just make sure your fascinator is too over the top. You don't want it to outshine your dress.

Shoes:

There are so many style options when it comes to shoes in can be difficult to choose. So here are some very simple rules to picking the perfect shoe to walk down the aisle in:

1. Make sure you can walk in them: No one wants to trip on their way up or down the aisle.
2. Make sure they fit your venue: Wearing high heels probably isn't a good idea if your getting married outside. Stick to a cute ballet flat or a wedge if you want add some height.
3. Make sure you they're comfortable: You're going to be in these shoes for a long time. You don't want to be in pain after only an hour.
4. Make sure you can dance in them: I picture of you slipping and falling on the dance floor is not the way you want to be remembered on your wedding day.

Jewelry:

When it comes to choosing your jewelry you again have lots of options to choose from. There are no simple rules for choosing your jewelry. Just remember that on your wedding day less-is-more.

Handbags:

A handbag is probably going to the most simple accessory you choose. It should fit the style and look of your wedding dress and hold of the essentials: lipstick or lip gloss, Drivers Lisence or other form of ID, cash, credit card, and your hotel room key (if applicable). 

Lingerie:

For many lingerie may not be considered an accessory but it is just as important. Wearing that wrong undergarments on your wedding day can leave you feel uncomfortable and self-concious. Make sure to stick with nude or skin tones and make sure that its breathable. You're going to be in this lingerie for about 12 hours and you want to make sure that every bit if you is comfortable from start to finish.

You're now ready for your big day. All thats left is to say "I Do" and dance the rest of the night away. Congratualtions!!!

Until next time, Stay Stylish,

Lena B

For more information on Wedding Style:
http://www.theknot.com/
http://www.brides.com/
http://www.weddingwire.com/

Wedding Shoes:
http://www.ninashoes.com/
http://www.myglassslipper.com/

Wedding Gowns and Accessories:
http://www.davidsbridal.com/

Style 101: Nina Garcia's 100



In 2004 the world was introduced to a cutting edge new show called Project Runway. This show gave a one-of-a-kind behind the scenes view of what it took to produce a runway worthy fashion design. Each episode a group of aspiring designers is given a challenge and have to create a look based on this challenge. Some of my personal favorites include times when they have had to work with non-fabric materials such as plastics, plant life or paper.

This show also introduced the world to Nina Garcia. This Colombian born fashionista has been a judge on Project Runway since the show air on BravoTv in 2004. She has also held posts as a Fashion Director at both Elle and Marie Claire Magazines. The title "published author" can now be added to her list of achievements. She is the author of my favorite Go-To style books: The Little Black Book of Style (2007), The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own (2008), The Style Strategy: A Less-Is-More Approach to Staying Chic and Shopping Smart (2009), and her newest best-seller The Look Book (2010). Each of her books is a collection of Garcia's best advice on how to remain chic and stylish while remaining on a budget. She is actually a huge part of the inspiration for my blog.

In this post I will be discussing what I think are the Top 10 pieces "every stylish woman must own" that are featured in Nina Garcia's The One Hundred.

Top 10 Pieces "Every Stylish Woman MUST Own"

10.) Ballet Flat: This should be a go-to shoe in every woman's closet. Though it may not give off the va-va-voom feeling of a stiletto heel, it is a staple of everyone. According to Nina, "it is simple and elegant, and remains on of the few flat shoes that the fashion world has adopted and adored". Everybody's favorite celebrities and style icons have worn stylish ballet flats, from Audrey Hepburn to Michelle Obama, Kate Hudson to Beyonce. Ballet flats will never go out of style and best of all THEY'RE COMFORTABLE!!! You can also pair your cute flats with just about everything, a pants suit for the office, a pencil skirt of happy hour, skinny jeans and cute top for a casual date night, the choice is yours. And don't be afraid of color. Ballet flats can be done in all colors, prints, and animal skins.

9.) Animal Print: This is one of my absolute FAVORITE fashion trends!!! I adore animal print and I think it should be a staple for every stylish woman because when worn it gives everyone that extra bit of sass. "The truly fashionable are always daring and never dull" says Garcia and as a stylish woman you should always keep animal print in your closet. I tend to wear animal print on days when I have presentations due for classes, on date nights, and to job interviews (though very minimally). For a small yet stylish statement wear an animal print accessory like a belt or a shoe. For a much bigger and bolder statement throw on an animal print skirt, or if you're really daring try an animal print trench coat or dress. Just make sure your dress is chic and stylish. When it comes to animal print there is a fine line between chic and cheap.

8.) Pencil Skirt: "A Pencil Skirt immediately conjures up images of femmes fatales-the best film noir has to offer. There is a power about the pencil skirt, a certain sophistication" say Nina Garcia, and I couldn't agree more. Whether to the office or a dinner party the pencil skirt can be worn just about anywhere. The draw of the pencil skirt often speaks for itself, every woman knows why she wants one even if she can't put it into words. For me, my pencil skirts are a great way for me to show off my legs while leaving plenty left to the imagination. Pair it with heels for a sexier look or dress it down with a sweet pair of ballet flats.



7.) Suit: The Suit is the ultimate expression of professional sophistication. There was once a time when it was inappropriate for women to don a suit now you can't visit an office building without one. Suits come in two main options: Pants suits and Skirt Suits. Either is appropriate for work as long as your skirt is the right length, anything above the knee is too short. Dressing up or down a suit is easy, for a casual look a plain white tee with bold accessories is Garcia's suggestion. For a more formal or professional approach a lace camisole is a great option. Make sure to keep your suit chic by wearing bold accessories and of course the perfect stilettos.

6.) Stilettos: According to Nina Garcia "You can never have too many stilettos". A stiletto can be sassy, alluring, and appealing to every woman. This shoe offers height, confidence and is a great way to accentuate your legs. Just make sure when wearing your sassy stilettos you're able to walk in them. Like I've said before it is NEVER fashionable to stumble and fall.

 

"A woman wear the right stiletto is a true force to be reckoned with"~Nina Garcia



5.) An A-line Dress: A-line dresses seem like they have been around since the dawn of fashion history. This is what should make them an obvious staple for your stylish closet. The A-line dress is a dress that is narrow in the top then flares out GENTLY towards the bottom. If the flare is too dramatic that is considered a bell-shape NOT  an A-line. The A-line is the best style of dress for every body type, it hides any flaws or imperfections and can be worn at any length. Nina Garcia says "No matter the day, the season, or the year, the A-line dress will always make you look and feel fashionable [and] fabulous".



4.) A Trench Coat: The khaki trench coat has been a fashion staple for both men and women for years. When wearing trench what is underneath becomes somehow less important. Garcia suggests wearing this classic piece if you "feel like being a bit obscure, a bit inscrutable, a bit enigmatic, a trench coat is a must". Trenches come in many colors and designs so pick one that fits your sense of style. Pair your trench with a chic pair of sunglasses for added effect, just avoid wear a fedora. You want to look stylish not like you're a detective in an old black and white film.

3.) The Plain White Tee and Jeans: For me the top three became a tie. As the two items go so well together it also seems fitting. Giorgio Armani once said "I've always thought of the T-shirt as the alpha and omega of the fashion alphabet" and Ms. Garcia certainly agrees. Plain White Tees are cheap and easy to find and can be worn with anything. Nina recommends Hanes (my personal favorite), James Perse, and Adam+Eve. You can wear your t-shirt any way and anywhere as long as its styled right. Rock your tee with a pair of skinny jeans and a cute pair of flat or boots for fall. Or wear it to the office on casual Friday with a suit and bold statement necklace. Jeans are just as versatile. Jeans are made for every stylish woman no matter, her age, taste, or body type. When shopping for jeans the rules are simple: Pick a jean that perfectly fits you. Nina cautions not to get caught up in style trends like distressing or embellishments or even the brand name. As long as the jeans fit right and look good on your your sense of style will be the focus not the designer.

2.) Underwear: "The game begins in the lingerie drawer" Says Nina. What goes under your clothes is just as important as the clothes themselves. We've all seen evidence of this, bra straps showing under tank tops, brightly colored panites under white pants, or the most dreaded fashion error a Visible Panty Line (VPL). So how do you avoid making any of these mistakes. Buy underwear that fit and make sure you wear the right undies with the right clothes. Your Plain White Tee should never be worn with your sexy red bra, and your suit should never fit too tightly so that your panty line shows. If you haven't got a clue as to your bra size I suggest you run down to the nearest Victoria's Secret and ask them for one of their complimentary fittings. Way too many woman walking around wearing the wrong sized bra. After you've found your perfect size pick out three basic bras if nothing else, one in white, black and nude. I always like to go with some fashion colors too and VS is known of course for the use of lacy and sexy animal print. Many stores lingerie, and some others, offer lines of seamless panties. At any price point I feel that these will be a very strong investment. It is a guarantee that you will never have to worry about VPL.

1.) The Little Black Dress:

If you stock your closet with none of my other suggestions please please please make sure you stock your closet with this iconic fashion staple. I feel that it should be required for every woman to own a little black dress (LBD). No matter the size or price point every woman will be able to find her perfect LBD. Nina Garcia's rules for The Little Black Dress are simple:

1.  Choose the best material you can find (not all are created equal) and nothing too tight or too shiny.
2. Consider your LBD a blank canvas instead of a fallback. It demands to be accessorized and adorned.
3. To avoid being accused of playing it safe, make sure you have a dash of daring (a dangerous stiletto, bold jewelry, etc.) and make sure it shows off your best assests.
4. Remember, the reason the simple garment is so enduring is because it understands the essence of style: to step back and let the woman shine. So shine.
5. It is said that you need only one, but a minimum of two is a better guideline
6. Make sure you can dance in it.

Armed with your LBD you can be the life of the office or the life of a party. Make sure that you keep Nina's rules in mind when looking for your LBD and you are sure to find the perfect one for you.

Well that's it ladies: my top 10 pieces "Every Stylish Woman MUST Own". Now that you have your list go out and getting shopping. While your out be sure to pick up Nina Garcia's books, they are a must-have for every stylish woman.

Until next time stay stylish,

Lena B

For More Information on Nina Garcia:

Follow her on twitter: twitter.com/ninagarcia

Check out her website: www.ninagarcia.com

And be sure to tune into Project Runway, Thursday nights at 9pm ET on Lifetime