Geek Chic: Glam Up Your Gadgets

There comes a point in every woman’s life when she is handed the ultimate gadget or newest piece of technology and she smiles from ear to ear.  Then, in the next moment, she stops and wonders to herself what in the world she can possibly do to make it look chic.  Let’s face it, the gadget in itself may be cool, but the ways of toting it around are limited, at least if you’d like to have some sort of style.  And, while black never goes out of style, that plain black laptop bag just isn’t cutting it for you anymore.  Take a look at some of my chic geek girl gadget finds that will have all of your friends drooling!

Spring 2010 Trends that will Last through Fall

In some places people are still trying to utilize their spring wardrobe but winter is making it a challenge.  The clothes seen at New York Fashion Week for Fall 2010 this past week seemed more appropriate for the weather most of the country seems to be experiencing than the spring trends that are waiting to be worn. Not to fret, spring will soon be upon us.

The great thing is that you will get extra milage out of some of the upcoming spring trends, as we saw them repeating themselves on the Fall 2010 runways. Not only good for your favorite trends but fabulous for your wallet!

Bold Prints

This spring, bold prints will be a big trend and we will continue to see them for Fall 2010.  Choose a print that you love since you know you can transfer it into your fall wardrobe as well. Not feeling like you can pull off a bold print? Then choose one item of clothing, such as a skirt and pair with all black to tone-down the print.

Belts

Belts will continue to be a popular accessory one can play with for the upcoming fall season. On the spring runways we saw belts over brightly colored cardigans and at the waists of dresses. We will continue to see these usages for fall, as well belts layered over outerwear. I personally love this look,  as it’s a chic way to show your figure while keeping warm this fall.

Shorts

This spring, shorts are the new pants. For spring it seems the shorter, the better.  If you are past your prime of short, shorts invest in a longer tailored pair. These will be perfect for fall, as we saw them paired with tights on 3.1 Phillip Lim’s runway.

Ruffles

Romance is what first comes to mind when one thinks of ruffles. They will be a big trend for spring, as we saw them in many different forms. We continue to see them for fall in darker hues than the nudes and pastel colors we saw for spring. If you invest in a springtime nude version of this trend, pair with dark tights or blazers to transition them into fall.

Grade the Look: Audrina Patridge in Rock and Republic

Spotted: Audrina Patridge and boyfriend Ryan Cabrera.

Where:  The grand opening of The Delphine Eatery and Bar in Hollywood, California on February 11, 2010.

Wearing: Patridge wore a Rock and Republic “Leland” fitted denim dress in Transmission Blue for the event.  She paired the dress with a rocker-chic leather jacket, but softened the look with a pair of Yves Saint Laurent Tribtoo Platform Slingbacks.

Grade:  A.

How would you grade Audrina’s look?  Share your thoughts in the comments!

Pamella Roland Fall 2010 Collection – Chic. European. Classy.

I’m not ashamed to admit it.  I fell in love last season when I was at the tents.  There was a designer who had barely made it onto my radar, but for some reason I attended her show.  And I fell in love.

Pamella Roland.

If you’re my friend on facebook or you follow me on twitter, this is a song that you know the lyrics to already.  But I don’t care.  Since it’s my favorite song, I’m singing it anyway.  Roland quite literally took the industry by storm when she released her first collection at age 42 – instantly winning over critics and gaining a huge celebrity following.  Her red carpet looks are to. die. for.  Yes my friends, when I die please make sure I’m wearing Pamella Roland.

Her fall 2010 collection was inspired by Venetian Glamour, and I was inspired as well.  Inspired to go out and buy it all.  True story.  Ah, the fashion writer’s dilemma.  The collection was extensive, from chunky, colorful knits, regal purple gowns that were dripping with sophistication, and fresh takes on the wool shift dress.  The evening gowns, always a favorite of mine (I blame the Princess complex), were nothing short of stunning.  Roland sent a final piece down the runway – a bridal gown – which was simply a perfect, airy confection that seemed to float down the runway.

I threw a few photos that I took from my seat during the show into the graphic above, but if you really want a good feel for the show, check out the video below courtesy of IMG.  Some of the best 3:40 of your day, I promise.

Swoon with me in the comments, please.

4 Dresses That I Need. Now.

I have this website that I love, and because I love it, I try my darnedest to stay away from it.  My wallet appreciates it.  However, I was just browsing and I thought “hmmm, maybe I should throw up a quick post about these dresses that I love” because I have a dress-obsession.  I love my denim, but give me a skirt or a dress, and I am like a kid in a candy store.  I live in dresses!

So sometimes I surf the internet for hours, or scour the stores, and can’t find something that catches my fancy.  Since I’ve discovered ModCloth, things have changed.  By the way, I have absolutely no relationship with ModCloth (though I wish I did) apart from the fact that they have made lots of money off of me.  I just like it.

Anyway.  I have my own dress code and wear what I want when I want to.  Usually I’m what most people would consider “overdressed”.  I don’t really care.  Here are 4 dresses that I would wear for no special occasion.  All from ModCloth.

The first one makes me wish I was teaching again, the second one makes me dream of spring with footless leggings, gladiator sandals, and a long necklace, the third one reminds me of my Sorority days, and the last one makes me want to to be in a boat with the love of my life on a Venice Canal.  This is why I buy clothing.  Every single piece I buy tells me a story – one that I know or want to know.  Inspiration to dress – I truly think everyone should have it.

What inspires you?

The Clean Start Challenge and My New BFF Crystal

If you read my site or the Beauty and Style Section of Lifetime Moms on a regular basis, you might know a few things about me – like my unfailing love for the Tory Burch Reva and David Yurman jewelry.  You know these things because it’s what I usually write about here on this site, and because it’s my job.  So, it’s pretty cool that I’m able to be involved with something a little different, starting today, as a mentor and cheerleader for my new friend Crystal who is participating in the SC Johnson Clean Start Challenge.

Crystal is one of four finalists aiming to make a “clean start” in her life.  She is a striking young woman and a new mom who wants to learn how to cook and finally be able to get out of those mommy jeans!  It seems that Crystal was fortunate enough to marry a man who cooks for her – and all I can say is that if I ever meet her in person I will be giving her all sorts of high-fives!  She is also a former teacher and a Louisiana transplant – we have all sorts of things in common!  She will be posting weekly progress videos on MyLifetime.com so that you can follow along, but she’s also trying to win your votes! The winner of the SC Johnson Clean Start Challenge will receive $10,000!

We’ve talked about things that you know about me, but what you likely don’t know is that this challenge, and Crystal’s ideas about a clean start especially, are near and dear to my heart.  After I had my daughter, Audrey Grace, I really struggled to lose the baby weight.  The first bit came off fast, but I lost the last 25 pounds through a whole heck of a lot of determination and hard work.  This New Orleans native LOVES to eat!  So, Crystal’s desire to feel confident in her hot mom-ness (because she is already beautiful, but it’s all about confidence, right?) is one that I can truly relate to.  I’ll be chatting with Crystal throughout the next three months, sharing motivation, tips for cooking healthy meals, and tricks on how she can achieve her goal.  I hope that she can lean on me for ideas and support – and of course if you have any ideas or suggestions for her, you can always leave them here in the comments!

So you, my friends?  I’ve just signed you up for Team Crystal!  Welcome on board!  Don’t worry, to sweeten the pot, there will be 3 opportunities for you to vote for Crystal (or your favorite finalist, but c’mon, we already know who we’re voting for, right?) and be entered to win $1,000 and a SCJ gift basket that is filled with some very cool products.

So, as they say at the races: on your marks, get set…Go Crystal!

Recreating Jade Frampton’s Chic Look {2010 Fall Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week}

I have been devouring the pictures and videos coming straight from the New York Fashion Week tents this past week.  As I’m sure with the rest of you, I can’t wait to hear all about Erika’s Fashion Week adventures.

Some of you may not know, but I love to people watch. Sit me down on a bench and I could be content for hours just watching people walk by!  I get inspired seeing how people translate looks to make them their own. People watching during Fashion Week with all the uber-stylish people is even that much more inspirational.

I loved the look ELLE’s Market Editor, Jade Frampton, pulled together. Not only did she address the outside elements of winter cold and snow, but managed to look effortlessly chic in multiple layers. Her look is easy to recreate.

Begin the look with ASOS’ pleat detail tulip skirt {$45} and a GAP long sleeved white t-shirt {$16.50}.  Layer a T by Alexander Wang striped tank dress on top {$110}.  Add Banana Republic’s black classic belt {$49.50} at the waist for definition. Step into a pair of black flat boots like these Tori boots from Ciao Bella {$99}. For the final layer add a classic trench coat.  Try ASOS’ Gap Linda Trench {$139}. Add a scarf at the neck to complete the look and stay warm! Have some fun and play with printed scarves to add your own flair to this classic look.

Have a styling question you need answered?  Comment or tweet me your question and I will feature it on my next “Questions for a Stylist” column. Have a fabulous week!

Fashion For Haiti

Hello fashion darlings.  I’m sorry I’ve been MIA but I’m so thankful that you’ve had our resident stylist Jennifer to keep you company.  Isn’t she doing an amazing job??? (Check out her article all about Spring Fashion!)  I have been on a whirlwind traveling tour lately, I’m not sure I’ve slept in my own bed but 1 night in the past 2.5 weeks.  Currently I’m in NYC covering Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week for Lifetime – a fashionista’s haven!

More on my coverage of this week in a bit, as well as my amazing trip to Disney with the Hanes Comfort Crew – but for now I wanted to quickly share something that caught my eye yesterday – all about what designers and the fashion industry are doing to provide help to Haiti.  This video explains it all:

I love that the designers are all wearing their t-shirt in their own unique way in the video.  The cool part is that you can buy one of these very fashionable t-shirts AND do something great at the same time.  The t-shirt will be on sale at Zappos beginning February 16th for only $25, with $16 of every purchase donated to the Haiti Relief Fund!

Designers and celebs are also doing their part – Kenneth Cole has donated a Westside Holiday billboard promoting the shirt and Beyonce is the official face of the Fashion for Haiti initiative.  What will you do?

Nothing but Love for Spring Fashion

It’s Jennifer from Red Sole Diary, and I am happy to be back here again. Since Valentine’s Day is approaching I thought it only appropriate to write about my current loves and obsessions…for spring. There are so many fun trends for spring that it was hard choosing but I somehow managed!

Brightly Colored Dresses
I am so excited that colors are here for spring. While I do love black and tend to wear a lot of it, I love color. When I saw this Carolina Herrera dress {$1990} it was love at first sight. This dress will get you noticed as soon as you step foot into your party but for all the right reasons. Check out T-bags asymmetrical dress {$275} in the same color. You’ll be sure to create the same buzz for a less bang to your wallet.

Military Inspired
When some of my favorite designers are screaming that military-inspired jackets are the next big thing, I do what any fashion lover does and say “Sir, yes sir…or Ma’am!” Which brings me to my next love…Balmain. I’m obsessed. I would be marching left, right, left to the nearest Balmain boutique to get my hands on their studded military jacket {$6225}. When I say I’m in love I mean, L-O-V-E! If only my wallet would agree. Thankfully the Gap has a military anorak jacket {$79.50} that will easily fit into your current wardrobe. With authentic military details, you will be effortlessly chic this spring.

Bold Prints
Multi-colored, bold prints were all over the S/S 10 runways. These are a must-buy for the spring. Besides being trendsetting, they are great transitional pieces to get one ready for the new spring season. This Miu Miu dress {$265} is two trends in one…bold print and florals. This is a trendsetter piece for sure and perfect for a weekend getaway. Channel Alexander McQueen’s S/S 10 runway look, in Armani Exchange’s graphic snake print {$120} for a lot less. Pair with some flat strappy sandals and you’re all set for brunch with the girls.

Embellished Bags
We’ve been seeing more embellished bags and once again my fashion true love delivered. This Balmain punk suede studded bag {$3925} is so fun and will give you that instant luxe edge to keep everyone on their toes. If you prefer to have more money inside of your handbag, check out Antik Batik’s Lola beaded bag {$190}.

Ruffles
Nothing screams romance more than ruffles, and they were seen everywhere on the S/S 10 runways. From tops, skirts, dresses even shoes, ruffles are big this season. One can easily create an instant feminine look with a bold ruffled top. Oscar de la Renta once again shows us his skills at making women look like ladies with his clothes, especially with this gorgeous ruffled top {$690}. It is the perfect day-to-night item when paired with simple, chic pants. Check out Ellavie Jabot’s ruffle blouse {$41} for the same elegance at a more affordable price.

Shorts
Shorts are the new pants for this spring. When I saw these gold harem lamé shorts from 3.1 Phillip Lim {$350} I was smitten. These are perfect for daytime with a white boyfriend top and strappy flat sandals. Pair with open-toe booties and a fitted black tank, your favorite clutch and you are cocktail party ready. Not ready to embrace harem-style shorts, check out Ann Taylor’s cotton twill walking shorts {$48} for a more classic look.

Camisole
Lingerie was on the minds of many designers when designing their collections for spring. A camisole is a perfect way to embrace this trend. Pair with a fitted blazer and a pair of jeans for a sexy, yet elegant date-night ensemble. I loved how elegant this Carine Gilson silk-satin and lace camisole {$770} looks and it’s the perfect color, as turquoise is a must-have color this season. Check out Vanity Fair’s elegance camisole {$27} for a price-conscious choice without losing the style.

Peep-Toe Booties
Not only are booties still going strong, but we saw a lot of open-toed versions on the runways. Nude is another big trend for spring and when I saw these booties from Maison Martin Margiela {$1045} I knew I needed to figure out how to get them in my closet for spring…still working on it! For an alternative version, check out Biviel’s booties {$139}.

Something Red…
Just because it’s Valentine’s Day I felt I should have something red…so I splurged with my pick, but I love anything Agent Provocateur.

Have a happy heart day!

Spring 2010 Trends: Must Haves Under $100

Hello my fashion darlings!! I am so excited to be the new girl here and to talk with you weekly about my favorite topics, fashion and style.  Check back each Wednesday for a new fashion related article.  I would love any input about what you would like to see each week.  I plan to do a monthly fashion Q & A, where your fashion and styling questions are answered along with other styling articles.  Please email me your comments and questions. Feel free to stop by and visit me during the week at my site, Red Sole Diary…I love visitors.

Q:  What is the must have article of clothing (not shoes) for spring under $100?

A:  There were a lot of trends that came down the Spring 2010 runways. Below are just a few to incorporate into your closet this spring.

Various versions of the jumpsuit were seen walking down the spring runways, from the relaxed glamour at Lanvin to loose and flowy at Roberto Cavalli.  Be sure to check out ASOS’ ruffled, one-shoulder jumpsuit ($34) to create a new spin on evening-wear. You’ll be stylishly chic at your next cocktail party.  For a more casual look, try Victoria’s Secret floral printed silk jumpsuit ($88) as floral prints are a must this season. Add a great pair of gold flat sandals and you are pool-party ready.

While we saw a lot of wide-legged pants on the spring runways, skinny-legged pants are still hot. Denim leggings are the cool girl’s jean of choice this season. Pair Ann Taylor’s denim leggings in dark wash ($88) with a white “boyfriend” t-shirt and your fitted blazer from last season to be the most stylish mom running errands.  To mimic Balmain’s military-inspired spring runway looks, pair Blank black denim stretch jeans ($78) with an Aqua military jacket ($88). It will truly be the look for less.

Shorts are the new pants this season. From quilted leather shorts seen in Alexander Wang’s show to the gold lamé harem shorts on Phillip Lim’s runway there is something for everyone. Add a pair of Victoria’s Secret belted linen shorts ($34.50) to your wardrobe this season. Pair with a lingerie inspired camisole, which is another hot trend for spring, and finally complete the look with last season’s boyfriend blazer.

Q:  What is a must have accessory under $50?

A:  Bold statement necklaces continue to be popular for the upcoming spring season. We saw everything from a full bib necklace at Vera Wang to bold pendants at Bottega Veneta. Color was everywhere on the spring runways so have fun with your accessories. Add Anthropologie’s double torsade necklace ($28) for a fresh look this season.  If you are looking for a bit more edge, check out Express’ bib necklace in a bold citrine color ($39.50).

See you next week!