Cardigans: Not Just For Mr. Rogers

Ask any of my friends what is one article of clothing that Bevann can’t live without and they will say- cardigan sweaters.    It is shameful as to how many sweaters I own…and I keep buying them!  I love the versatility of a great cardigan sweater.  They are lightweight and a great layering tool.  You can wear a cardigan with just about anything ….dresses, skirts, trousers, jeans- ANYTHING.  They can liven up or tone down any outfit.  Solid, printed or embellished cardigans, it’s your prerogative.

Some of my favorite cardigans for the spring season are….

…the smocked detail cardigan from Ann Taylor Loft in my favorite shade of green.  Something about that candy apple green shade really puts a spring in my step!  I also really love the rib tie sweater from Tommy Hilfiger in star fruit yellow.  Yellow is such a hot color for summer and spring.   And when is black and white paired together not fashionable?  I adore the DKNY white cardigan with black trim that is embellished with a black and white flower on the shoulder.  I don’t know about you, but when I wear black and white together I instantly feel more chic and fashionable!

Also on my list of favorites for spring; the three quarter length cream and black polka dot sweater and the short sleeved leopard print cardigan from Forever 21.  Both are fabulous, very bold and under $20!  What a steal!

The Anthropologie dissolving spectrum cardigan is a beautiful mix of pastel colors.  When I saw this sweater, I was immediately reminded of Rachel McAdam’s Eli Saab gown that she wore for the 2010 Academy Awards- which I absolutely loved!  Although the colors of Rachel’s gown were more muted than the Anthropologie cardigan, it still conveys the same feeling and look of complete sophistication.

Last on my list of must have cardigans for spring is the floral cropped v neck cardigan in violet from Express.   Shades of purple are very trendy this season and this sweater is no exception.   I like this sweater because it’s different.  It is floral, but it looks more graphic or color splashed than floral.

Double Duty: Underwear as Outerwear!

Remember the movie 13 going on 30?  As a fashionista I most loved the moment when Jenna (played by Jennifer Garner) slips a coat over the lingerie that she woke up in and poof!  She heads to work.  Just like that, a sexy, satin thing became work-wear. You know the moment I’m talking about – it’s this one:

Of course, in real life, most of us would at least stop to put on a bra (please, oh PLEASE stop to put on a bra) but a recent email from my friends at Brulee got me thinking – can UNDERwear really work as OUTERwear?

Yes!

Why not layer that silk cami that your boyfriend can’t keep his hands off of underneath your boyfriend blazer and top off the look with skinny jeans and sexy stilettos?  For a hot wear-to-work look, do the same with a pair of fitted black trousers.  Grabbing cocktails with some friends after work?  No problem!  Ditch the blazer, add a little extra mascara and voila!  From work to play in under a minute flat!

Two other options?  Try this jersey tank or this sweet chiffon babydoll with your favorite pair of jeans for a look that will heat up any room, no matter what the temperatures are.

Check out some of the other options from Brulee below.  The line, by designer Kristian Giambi, targets powerful, sophisticated women with a feminine yet sexy edge – sign me up!  I certainly want to consider myself in that niche, don’t you?!  I’m head over heels with the entire line, though I’m loving the romper, slip, and coveting a pair of those leggings something fierce.

All I know is that Brulee could be dangerous for my wallet.  But of course, you already know how much I love lingerie – I believe that every woman should own lingerie that makes her feel amazing – for no one other than herself.  Being sexy is not about dressing like Sookie, or Snookie, or whatever that Jersey Shore girl’s name is – it’s all about self-awareness and confidence.  Go for it.

Recreating the Look: Sarah Jessica Parker

Sarah Jessica Parker showed up to the Bravo Upfront event looking fabulous and ready for spring. The blush-colored lace dress looks amazing next to her skin.  Lace is such a big trend for the upcoming season. We saw a lot of lace and lingerie inspired clothing on the 2010 S/S runways. This is an easy look to recreate and perfect for the upcoming spring season.  All the items we used for our look are under $100.

This As U Wish tube dress {$64} is a perfect way to add some of this trend to your wardrobe. I love the blush color of this dress. It’s a perfect and romantic color for spring.

The boyfriend blazer still remains a staple item to have in your wardrobe. Check out Arden B’s linen rolled sleeve blazer {$59}. I love the rolled sleeves of the jacket as it breaks up the sweetness of the dress and add a bit of sass!

The jewelry SJP decided to go with adds a bit of edginess to this outfit. Recreate Sarah’s multi necklace look with Forever 21’s party on beadsForever 21’s party on beads {$13}. Don’t be afraid to add more layers if you desire. Instead of two bracelets check out Oasis’ two-toned faceted lucite cuff {$21} to recreate the chunkiness.

SJP opted for a simple black clutch to tie in the jewelry and offset the sweetness of the lace dress. Check out Max C’s London slouchy bow bag {$48} for a similar look.

Have fun recreating this look. Stop by and visit me at Red Sole Diary for more fashion news and styling tips.

Alice in Wonderland {Spring Inspiration}

There’s something about the story of Alice in Wonderland that we all seem to relate to and love. The new Tim Burton movie looks amazing.  I am very much looking forward to seeing his edgy interpretation on the children’s classic, but more excited to see the costumes. I mean come on…I’m all about the clothes! The promotion photos are so whimsical and the colors are amazing.  It’s hard not to create a look inspired by this movie.  Below are a few of my “Wonderland” choices. Shall we head down the rabbit hole?

Since becoming a mom I tend to wear a lot more flats than I ever did before.  There are so many cute, edgy & fun flats it’s hard not to fall in love.  These Lanvin ballerina flats {$580} have just the right amount of pom-pom embellishment to offer a feminine accent.  Besides the fact that these are the most comfortable flats you will ever own, I know since I own a few pairs, they are something you could see Alice in, running around Wonderland!

Check out Diesel’s Tye Dye Printed Over-Body handbag {$77} for spring. It’s not too big and not too small…wait that sounds like another children’s classic! The colors are amazing and will be a perfect accent to your spring wardrobe.

ASOS’ Voile Bubble Hem Dress {$59} is perfect for you next wedding or high tea.  You will be sure to impress at your next event. This dress is the perfect mix of whimsical and classy at the same time.

Looking for a fun, colorful print dress, then try Diane von Furstenberg’s Beach Tabalah kaftan {$220}.  It’s such a versatile dress as you can wear it to the beach as a cover up or pair with strappy heels for dinner with the girls.  This dress reminds me of the backdrop of Wonderland…seems like all of the colors are here in the dress.

This nail polish from OPI called Mad as a Hatter {$15} reminds me of sparkly, glitter confetti.  Wear to your next tea party and it will be sure to be a “party” to remember. This nail polish is apart of an Alice inspired four-color collection.

Steve Madden’s Toppazz Platform Pumps {$67} are a perfect mix of elegant and sexy. I love the ribbon detail, which manages to be feminine and not too “cute.”

Ruffles come to mind when I think of Alice in Wonderland. J. Crew’s Silk Frances cami {$70} looks as if it should be part of the Wonderland wardrobe. This piece can be worn by itself with boyfriend jeans for a causal every look. Add a pair of black cigarette pants and peep toe shoes for evening and you are cocktail party ready.

Nudes are a big trend for the upcoming spring season.  Check out ASOS’ Structured One Shoulder Top {$55} as a must add to your wardrobe this season. The structured shoulder reminds me of the necklines of the Queen’s dresses.

How can we talk about Alice in Wonderland without hearts? I love Moschino Cheap And Chic, Lurex-knit heart dress {$525}.  Something about it just makes you want to scream “Off with their heads.”

Even if one isn’t a huge fan of the edgy, ok maybe acid-trip tale this next skirt will put a smile on your face.  I love the large dots on this ASOS tailored tulip skirt {$43}, which manages to be fun and not school-girl cute!

This Zimmerman silk-satin skirt {$290} is Alice all grown up! The ruffles, color and the way it moves screams sophistication.

The 2010 Fashion Oscars

Did you watch the Oscars last night?  You know that I did.  It has even come to a point where I jot down notes in a notebook about which looks I love/don’t love so that I can find photos and information on it after.  I also write down my initial thoughts and impressions, as they make excellent fodder for a post like this one.  So, now that I’ve told you all of my secrets – here is a quick rundown of what I loved in my very own version of the Oscars – Fashion-style.

THE NOMINEES FOR THE 2010 CHIC SHOPPER CHICK FASHION OSCARS ARE:

I loved both of these looks – Queen Latifah has never looked better in an elegant lavender Marchesa gown with a sparkly twist, and Sandra Bullock was simply glowing in this golden confection of a dress (also by Marchesa).  I especially loved Sandra’s pink pouty lips and old Hollywood glamour style hair.

Two more nominees that made it solidly onto the “Best Dressed” list?  Markiska Hargitay in a sweeping Vera Wang dress, and Demi Moore in a blush-colored tiered Atelier Versace.  Both of them were simply stunning.

Rounding up the nominee list we have Rachel McAdams, for her sweeping, delicate Elie Saab Couture dress that just screamed spring.  I am especially fond of the sweetheart neckline, and that she chose to leave her collarbone bare.  And then, of course, we have Kate Winslet, who played it safe, but still looked stunning in this sleek YSL number that she accessorized with a 2.5 million dollar yellow diamond from Tiffany and Co.

Without further ado, the runner up for the 2010 Chic Shopper Chick Fashion Oscar is…

…A red-lipped Cameron Diaz in a billowing Oscar de la Renta gown that can only be described as show-stopping.  Diaz dropped her usual easy-going beach style in favor of something much more couture, and I, for one, was thrilled to see it.

Well, here we go.

It’s time.

Ladies and … well, ladies.  The moment we’ve all been waiting for.  The  2010 Fashion Oscar goes to…

Anna Kendrick who was nominated for her role in “Up In The Air”.  She stole the show in this delicate chiffon gown by Elie Saab – I especially loved that the gown was off-the-shoulders and not just strapless.  A perfect choice for her petite frame and age – this dress wins my 2010 Fashion Oscar.  Nice pick Anna!  Call me so that I can get you your award!

What were your favorites?

Swimsuit & Cover-Ups for 2010 Spring/Summer

Nothing says summer more than swimwear.  I know I’m not the only one ready for winter to be over.  I thought it only appropriate that we talk about swimwear this week to help us know that warm, sunny days are ahead!

When it comes to swimwear I have two ways of thinking…I love solid colored suits that you can accent with accessories or a brightly colored suit that needs nothing else.  It all depends on the mood.

Victoria’s Secret Racerback Bikini, $84

The rich plum color and silver hard wear on the bottoms makes it an instant chic swimsuit.  This would be a great suit for enjoying poolside with your friends. The great thing about this suit is that it is sold as separates so you can make sure to get a great fit for your body.

Spanx Triangle Top One Piece, $198

We fell in love with Spanx for helping us all achieve a smooth look underneath our clothes. Panty lines are now a thing of the past. So it was just a matter of time before Spanx would design their take on the one-thing women are most anxious about, swimsuits. Debuting this season I’m sure swimsuit shopping will be less stressful for some with the new arrival of Spanx swimsuits.

Trina Turk, Vintage Print Bikini, $158

This vintage print bikini looks like the one wearing it should be lounging on a white sand beach in the Caribbean.  I love the bright colors in the suit, which will look amazing next to tan skin.  String bottoms are great because they can be adjusted to fit properly so you don’t get the indents in the side of your hips that we all hate!

J. Crew French Sailor Tie Front Bikini, $90

The navy and white strips of this suit is such a classic look. There is something very Coco Chanel at the beach about this suit. This suit is sold as separates so you can be sure to get the best fit for your body. Accent this look with some red accessories to make this simple but classic suit pop.

Carmen Marc Valvo Suit, $132

For those not looking to bare all in a bikini, invest in a tankini. This one is chic and elegant and can be paired with white linen pants to take you straight from the pool to dinner. I love the simple detail of the gold hardware and asymmetrical strap.

Diane Von Furstenberg Ganza Silk-Chiffon Maxi Dress, $360

This dress will add instant sunshine to your wardrobe. This print is based off of Andy Warhol’s daisy print for an extra coolness factor. Pair with flat gladiator sandals for an effortless chic look.

Jets by Jessika Allen, Tiered Jersey Jumpsuit, $215

This might be my favorite cover-up this season. I am in love with the color and overall look of this jumpsuit.  It can easily be changed from casual to elegant evening-wear by adding some strappy metallic sandals, a great clutch and some fun gold jewelry. This will have to be one that finds it’s way into my summer wardrobe this year.

Warm sunny days are just around the corner! Happy swimsuit shopping.