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Archive for the ‘Trends’ Category

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The Vest is Back!

In Fashion, Trends on June 18, 2010 at 12:59 pm

Back during the time of victorious men, such as, Napoleon Bonaparte and King George III, it was mandatory for men to follow strict guidelines when it came to dress. Over the years, the rules have been broken, stepped on and revamped into a not so complex standard. Yes, if you work in the corporate world then chances are you will be required to wear a business suit. However, compared to a suit worn during the Empire time versus now, there has been quite a bit of change.

In the 1800s, men got up for work everyday and put on their pantaloons, cravats, an overcoat and a waistcoat, known as a vest. Through time, pants have become more tailored. Cravats have turned into neck ties. Overcoats are not as heavy and the vest has been omitted.

Until now…the vest is back! The hottest new trend for any male dandy is a single-breasted vest. It shows swag and confidence that is needed in any business office. Not only is the vest being worn to complete a 3pc suit, but it is also being worn casually, too. Men are wearing a vest over a casual t-shirt with a pair of jeans. I have seen men wearing vest in all kinds of places like nightclubs and restaurants. See the rules have been completely broken now.

So gentlemen, turn your two piece into a three and give yourself that empire flair. You can wear a vest either day or night, business meeting or out on the town. I wouldn’t be surprised if we start seeing pocket watches come back…not a bad idea, huh?

The Perfect Father’s Day Gift for Dad!

In Designers, Fashion, Trends, Updates on June 15, 2010 at 4:46 pm

Although men are considered ‘simple-shoppers’, it can become challenging when trying to find the perfect gift for them. So buying for dad this Father’s Day may be a bit difficult. Have no fear! I have the answer to the riddle: What to buy dad?

If your dad is anything like mine, when he wants something he goes out and gets it himself leaving very few options of gift choices for him when the holidays come around. Very frustrating! I’ve tried giving dad gift cards to typical “macho” stores  like Home Depot and Auto Zone. He ends up giving them away to one of my brothers or sisters or buys something for one of us with it. So I am giving up on gift cards for dad and moving towards something I know best…clothes!

After years of working in the retail world I have noticed that men will purchase tools and electronics before they would buy a t-shirt. So, lets help dad out this Father’s Day and get him in some new gear! Clothing can become tricky at times when buying for someone else so keep in mind a few things when shopping for your daddy.

First, jeans are difficult to buy for someone without having them actually try them on. The sizing fluctuates from different brands and different cuts. I wouldn’t put jeans at the top of your list. You can’t go wrong with a casual t-shirt from Ralph Lauren or Old Navy. If you want to get pops a more dressier look, the Burberry Golf Collection has fabulous collared shirts. Keep in mind they run small in size. Also, hard-working dads may want to relax on the weekends and watch some sports. So getting dad his favorite sports jersey will make him feel a part of the team.

When shopping for dad this holiday, consider getting him some new clothes. A nice t-shirt or a team jersey would be a perfect gift. Let’s face it, dad doesn’t want another coffee mug with your mug on it. Happy Shopping!

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Prada, excuse me, but I can see your…

In Fashion, Trends on June 10, 2010 at 4:25 am

Whole life! My bag holds my life! What an understatement though… This precious part of my life is usually a hot mess inside until I’m switching bags to better match my outfit… then I’ll clean out items like empty lipstick tubes and old crumpled receipts of past purchases. Similar to our lives, inside our bag contains multiple factors whether their mysterious, fabulous or simply functional. So the question is: Would you show off what’s inside your bag or keep it a mystery?

This Prada clear vinyl bag from their 2010 Spring Collection caught my attention. First off – come on Prada, I love you but who would honestly want a clear bag for everyday life? The whole world will see right through your bag. Receipts, tampons and other feminine products! Oh my! Therefore, having a clear bag will cause more stress on appearance. You’ll have to keep the inside of your bag tidy at all times which isn’t easy with a busy schedule. You’ll probably worry about only having fabulous items in your bag that are worth showing off. However, daily life won’t allow you to avoid having not so worthy items like tampons and messy crumpled receipts so what do you do? You’ll have to find a way to hide those items like having a small clutch inside your clear bag. Talk about unnecessary stress! Isn’t our bag supposed to make life easier by holding our things? Bottom line – a clear bag doesn’t work for my everyday life.

Gorgeous Kate Spade classic box shape bags – love! Show stopping bags that make a unique and bold statement like Diane Von Furstenberg or Betsy Johnson’s bags – yes, please! Clear vinyl bags that reveal all – I’ll pass! Just like the classy and glamorous ladies of the old black and white films, mysterious women are sexy. “Mystery creates wonder and wonder is the basis of man’s desire to understand.” – Neil Armstrong.

Unlike my personable items in my bag, I’ve shared my thoughts on the Prada clear vinyl bag. It’s apparent that this bag caught my attention…clearly. It made me wonder why someone may use a clear bag for everyday use, and who would use the bag…would you? If so, why and which fabulous items would you proudly show off to the world?


Eat. Pray. Love

In Trends, Updates on June 8, 2010 at 3:17 am

Sometimes we reach a point in our lives when we find ourselves saying, is this it? Especially if we have everything a modern American woman could want: a husband, home, successful career, but instead of feeling happy, we may feel consumed by panic or confusion. Kind of like reaching for the last pair of size 7 stilettos at a Nordie’s sale, complete panic! When feeling like this, one may even want to run away to a different culture to find pleasure, devotion and a balance between worldly enjoyment and divine transcendence. Well, before you decide to jet-set yourself to find what you may be looking for…eat, pray and love!

The #1 New York Times bestseller by Elizabeth Gilbert, Eat. Pray. Love., is about one woman’s search for everything across Italy, India, and Indonesia. In her early thirties (what may be seen as mid-life crisis range for some), Elizabeth Gilbert has everything a woman could want. However, instead of feeling happy, she finds herself being unfulfilled and confused. Following a divorce and depression, Gilbert sets out to three different cultures: Italy, India, and Bali. She takes us through her journey of her own wrong choices that are very relatable and insightfully shares the damaging side effects of contemporary mores. As I flip through the pages of the lessons she learns, I find them entirely importable. I caught myself saying “I know how you feel”, as she describes her longing for the handsome Italian man to kiss her. What girl wouldn’t want that! Even if you are not a big reader, the book is very readable; or should I say ‘compulsively readable’. I can’t seem to put the book down…ugh…is it illegal to read a book and drive at the same time? Tsk tsk…

I am not in my thirties nor am I married, but I find as I read deeper and deeper into the engaging and highly entertaining pages that I can relate to what she is and was going through. Everyday choices must be made, what career path to take, should I buy the black pumps or the red pumps. Sometimes we make the right ones, sometimes we don’t. Confidence is what helps us make the choice. This book has shown me the true meaning of inspiration. I encourage every modern American woman on her journey through life to read this fun and inspiring book. However, do NOT read while driving, it is highly illegal and dangerous.

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Smart Fabric

In Designers, Trends on June 1, 2010 at 2:47 pm

5, 4, 3, 2, 1……Blast Off! No, we are not going to space but we can certainly dress like we are taking a trip beyond. Jockey International is launching a new line this spring 2011 called Smart Fabric. It is probably the smartest fabric one could ever wear, even a rocket-scientist would agree! The Smart Fabric technology was originally made for NASA astronauts to help them stay comfortable as temperatures fluctuate in space. The application creates sweat reduction and stores your body heat. So your undershirt can help keep you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

The line includes a reversible T-shirt, tanks, a bikini and a hipster brief for the women. All available in colors like black, ivory, coral, pale blue and much more. The men’s line offers the jockey traditional crewneck T-shirt, along with a v-neck shirt with a boxer brief and midway. All available in gray, marine blue, black and white.

Anytime there’s technology involved in something it could get a little up there in price, however, the price point of this line is very reasonable compared to the quality. Men’s underwear come 3 in a package for $27 and women’s tops come 2 for $21. Now that’s a bargain! I have to say, I see a calling for the Jockey Smart Fabric incorporated into a U.S. Military uniform. Whoever said that G.I. Joe couldn’t wear designer labels?

When it comes to fashion, it really is everywhere. A wise woman once said that, “fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.” Coco Chanel

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Get Carrie’d Away!

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on May 26, 2010 at 2:55 pm

It’s so easy to get carried away… when you’re falling madly in love with your “must have item” while turning the page of your favorite fashion magazine, imagining yourself switching spots with the model. Soon to realize you are mistaken and day dreaming with Vogue right below your chin. Fashion advertisements for designers like Marc Jacobs and Dolce & Gabbana always have that effect on me!

You would have to live under a rock to be unaware of how Sex and the City is the perfect show for fashionistas! Sex and the City 2 will be as fabulous as the first movie and the TV series! Can’t wait!!! One of my many favorite things about Sex and the City is getting carried away in Carrie Bradshaw’s fashion.

This fearless fashionista lives and breathes fashion in the city! The girl would easily choose Vogue magazine over dinner… now that’s passion for fashion! She’s known for her great style and skill of mixing high and low. Meaning high-end designer fashions mixed with flea market finds! She mixes the two in a much unexpected way that helps to create her unique and memorable look. Fashion icon would be an understatement for Ms. Carrie Bradshaw!

Sex and the City has made a huge impact on fashion! Stilettos, great coats, must-have designer bags, the bob, flower pins and much, much more! Let’s get carried away in what makes Carrie’s fashion so iconic! Below are some of my all time favorite Carrie outfits. Which one is your favorite Carrie look?

City Chic Carrie

Vintage Inspired Carrie

French Carrie

The Very Carrie Suit

Carrie in the Westwood wedding dress

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Hollywood Hair

In Trends on May 18, 2010 at 12:58 pm

Ever wonder what you would look like with your favorite celebs hair cut/style? Well, thanks to InStyle’s fabulous web-site you can now have your “Hollywood Hair Virtual Makeover” and get a glimpse of what a new hair cut or color would look like!

I just discovered this web -site earlier today and I’m obsessed!! It’s  so fun and at the same time I’m able to see what hair styles I should definitely stay away from and which ones actually complement the shape of my face and skin tone. You just upload your picture, outline your facial features and voila!

You can choose from hundreds of celebrity styles and hair colors AND you can even adjust the hair style to contour to your face (less/more volume). Seriously… it’s fascinating.

I have a hair appointment next Tuesday and I’ve been browsing every fashion mag for some ideas- wish I knew about this earlier…

Which do you think suits me best??

*p.s. they also have celebrity up-do’s and styles for special occasions!


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Calling in an S.O.S

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on May 13, 2010 at 3:57 pm
Calling all fashionistas…This is a fashion emergency…the ladies from Sex and the City are heading to Morocco and need a ‘virtual’ stylist.
Fashion Week Tampa Bay is deporting some of our very own designers to rescue the girls. But…who wears what? Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker), Samantha (Kim Catrall), Charlotte (Kristin Davis), and Miranda (Cynthia Nixon) have a strong chemistry between each other on and off the set. However, their style is very different. This week the girls need a swimsuit and I know just the right match ‘virtually’ for them!
Carrie Bradshaw, not only lives for fashion but has even gone as far as buying Vogue instead of dinner. Although she cannot afford her “shopping addiction”, she is known for mixing vintage finds with high-end labels. Maybe to her, this justifies the high-end purchases by pairing it with a bargain deal…ugh..hmm…

By Adjanys Marrero

I have come across a swimsuit from designer Adjanys Marrero that would be a perfect match for the shoe-loving socialite. This vibrant black hand-crocheted swimsuit will allow Carrie to show off her fabulous abs in this two-piece suit.

Miranda Hobbes, the career-minded lawyer, has not only changed her cynical views on relationships and men-after getting married and having a baby in later episodes-but her masculine image has softened up as well and she will not be wearing a business suit to the beach this year.

By Trineice Cagua

I found a swimsuit that is the lucky winner for the power-dresser herself. A brown and white two-piece with a halter-top and criss-cross front and back straps that have a full-coverage bottom by designer Trineice Cagua of J Cagua. Miranda is definitely all about covering up!

The Park-Avenue Princess Charlotte is the most conservative and traditional one in the group. She will not be flaunting her ‘goodies’ that bring the boys to the yard. Instead she will be sporting a one piece swimsuit with minimal cut-outs on the side. Designed by the beautiful and talented Essence Flowers.

Remarquable designs by Essence

The most promiscuous one out of the group, Samantha will not have any problem ‘flaunting’ her goods. I found a swimsuit that screams sex-appeal. Designed by Adjanys Marrero, this coral one-piece will bring the Caribbean heat anywhere. However, the amount of cut-outs on this swimsuit clearly doesn’t classify it to be an actual one piece does it? Well, you will have to decide that for yourself!

By Adjanys Marrero

So this week’s fashion emergency is taken care of. However, we will be on call for the next fashion emergency!

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Oh My Gauze!

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on May 12, 2010 at 2:22 am

When we think of gauze we typically refer to using this textile for medical purposes, right?  Well, not anymore! The newest trend gliding its way into the mainstream is Gauze Clothing! This sheer, loosely woven textile is so breathable you will feel as if you’re wearing air. In this blazing-hot state (Florida) this is a wish come true!

Gauze, originally made from silk, is now traditionally made from 100% cotton. This allows the fabric to be completely washable, will not shrink and best of all – no ironing is necessary! Due to the delicate nature of this fabric though, it should be handled with care. So, make sure you read the care labels!

Gauze clothing has been a great addition to the ‘go-green’ epidemic. Not only is the fabric all natural, it’s free-flowing movement is casual yet sexy,  allowing your silhouette to shape the garment.

I have come across a wider selection than I thought would be available for this niche market. Retail stores such as Old Navy and designers like Marc Jacobs offer bright and trendy pieces made from 100% cotton gauze. Gauze clothing can be worn both day and night to the beach or out to dinner. Right now, gauze fabric is used to produce summer garments due to its sheer qualities. In the world of fashion, I wouldn’t be surprised if we see this trend trickle into the winter.

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Espadrille 101

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on May 7, 2010 at 7:13 pm

When you throw on that adorable new sundress you purchased for the summer season, think twice before you go to put on the flip-flops. Add some style and height with a pair of Espadrilles! They are sexy, trendy and will make any women feel instantly girly. Who wouldn’t want to feel like that? However, there seems to be some confusion as to what classifies as an espadrille, so I am here to provide you with a little Espadrille 101!

These casual flat or high-heel sandals have been around for centuries. Originated in the Pyrenees, espadrilles were once worn as peasant footwear.

Love these Prada Espadrilles

Now, top designers like Prada and Gucci produce espadrilles. Unfortunately, not at a peasant-budget price though. Even so, this trend is everywhere and you shouldn’t find a problem locating a cute pair  within your budget at retail stores such as DSW or even Payless.

These shoes usually have a canvas or cotton fabric body and a flexible sole made of rope or rubber material molded to look like rope. The Jute rope is the key ingredient to what makes an espadrille an…espadrille! This natural fiber is very eco-friendly and gives a casual look to any style.

Espadrilles have become a staple piece, such as an LBD (Little Black Dress) or a pair of Levi’s. I personally own about six pairs of these shoes in black, white, brown and some crazy vibrant colors that are very daring to wear, I like to live fashionably on the edge! I wear them with sundresses, capris or even my bathing suit at times. They can be worn both day and night to most events. I wouldn’t consider them an option for wedding attendance though, unless it was on the beach.

So ladies, whether you’re under the sun or chowing down at a BBQ this summer, don’t forget your espadrilles but… do forget those flip-flops!