In times like these, everyone is being just a little more careful about spending money. That brings to mind a wise old saying, “Buy Cheap, Buy Twice.” This is a specific reference to quality and wearability, not a call to be a fashion victim who forgoes the mortgage payment for a Ballenciaga “It” Bag!
There are certain pieces that you should splurge on. Good cashmere is one of them. Good cashmere won’t thin or lose its shape; it is versatile; it is seasonless; it is well made; and it is timeless. This Janice Cashmere cardigan from Elie Tahari has a great weave that will hold its shape for many seasons; has a flattering silhouette that can easily be worn with jeans or dresses up for the office; can be worn just about all year; and with its classic cardigan styling, will look just as great years from now as it does today.
Click here to learn more about the ‘Janice’ Cashmere Sweater from Elie Tahari at Nordstrom.com.
Long sleeve dresses are universally flattering. They accentuate what is good about a woman’s body and downplay the areas where we want to call less attention. They do this by creating a column that draws the eyes up and down, thus elongating the body. Dresses are comfortable and can be worn with confidence through the day and into the evening.
The downside is that long sleeved dresses don’t stand on their own so well. Long sleeve dresses can be quite boring. That is why it is important to notch up the look with a dramatic shoe such as a strappy sandal in a bright color or print; architectural or chunky jewelry; or a chic handbag.
The Pouch Sandal from Van Eli is the perfect balance of dramatic chic. It is a stylish study in contrasts: its bold printed hair calf vamp and quarter strap lead the look with attitude, while its coordinating rich suede heel and cup offer a sultry finish. Together, they create one completely luxurious shoe.
Click here to learn more about the Van Eli Pouch Sandal.
I have loved the one shoulder dress since it first hit the style scene a year ago. It has such potential for women who have curves to look and feel beautiful. This One Shoulder Jersey from Eliza J has Shirring to shape the bodice; a high, fitted waist and an integrated draped panel that adds a bit of ease to the skirt. The side zip keeps the look clean and smooth while the length that falls just above the knee is very flattering.
The big question is how to accessorize. Many times, the dress has enough architecture to stand on its own. But there are times when an accessory will accentuate. In the case that you want to notch up a one shoulder dress, look to a strong necklace with a thick chain or heavy ribbon with bold metallic. A dainty necklace will be lost in the asymmetry. If you don’t want to add a necklace, another option is an eye catching earring. Again, it needs to have some substance to it. As for shoes, look to a round toe pump to notch up the distinctive shape of this dress.
Click here to shop the Eliza J One Shoulder Dress at Nordstrom.com
All of the jackets this season have a universal chicness to them. The leather jackets notch it up just a bit and fall into the category of tough luxe. The leather jackets this season are very fitted and have embellishments such as zippers, buckles and grommets. The seasonal trend is to balance this tough look with a glammed up piece such as metallic, sequins, or chunky jewelry.
I just love The Berlin Jacket In Patent Leather And Tulle for several reasons. First of all its style is trendy meets classic. The patent leather strips with tulle trim is very unexpected and glamourous. The jacket has a shape that is as elegant as it is flattering. And the cut of the jacket, with full length sleeves, a zipper closure at the front and bust darts is very flattering to women with curves. The jacket is fully lined, which will allow it to hold its shape for many seasons to come.
Click here to shop the Berlin Jacket from Doncaster.com. For ease of ordering, use consultant code 1867121.
To make the Berlin Jacket part of a very trendy, yet wearable outfit, consider a shoe such as the Beverly Feldman Air Bootie from Endless.com. Air features mixed textures and flashy color gradations in its pliable leather upper. A pointed toe and spike heel add extra sass to the look.
Click here to shop the Beverly Felman Air Bootie at Endless.com
My informal survey of the weather, based solely on the status updates of my Facebook friends around the country, indicates that the weather is mostly warm days and cool evenings. As the evenings get crisp, its always good to have a little something to put over one’s shoulders. This season, the knitted cable sweater vests are a smart and stylish trend for now and into the cooler days. Wear it now with a short sleeved blouse or tee shirt and with a turtleneck as the weather turns cold.
Its important to avoid too much bulk around the midsection so look for a tie or belt to cinch in at the waist. I love the v necks of the season but the cowl collar, which frames the face is the most flattering. It brings attention to the face and camoflages the neck and upper arm. It also brings the eye up and away from the midsection.
This great Belted Cable Sweater Vest from New York and Company fits the bill. With its cable detail at front, shawl collar and tie belt at waist, and flattering cut at the low hip, this sweater vest meets ever requirement for fit and style. And with its Cotton/acrylic blend, it is easily hand washed and worn again and again.
Click here to learn more about the City Style cable sweater vest at New York and Company.
