New Styles in Fashion
Everyone loves being in ‘the know’ on all things fashion, right? Read Style Bust’s fashion posts to find out what we see happening in the fashion industry from multiple viewpoints. We have ten guest bloggers dedicated to bringing our readers that latest fashion news from different parts of the globe!
Cutout Cravings
12 years ago
If you opt for more coverage, but still want a splash of sexiness and skin, I can assure you the cutout trend will satisfy your sartorial appetite. For Spring 2012, some of my favorites–T by Alexander Wang, Alexander Wang, and Rag & Bone–have opted for subtle yet sexy cutout designs. Sweaters, shirts, skirts, and dresses have been spiced up, with geometric openings and slits showcasing skin in a mildly edgy way. Take a peak at Alexander Wang’s Black Short with Cutout Detail, Black Dress with Cutout Detail and Black Fitted Slip Dress with Cutout Detail; Rag & Bone’s Sibella Dress; and T by Alexander Wang Cutout Gown and Silk Flutter-Sleeve Ruffle Top. I have come to truly appreciate this trend, as it allows the more conservative fashionista to bare it, with taste and class, of course. If you’re in search of understated sultriness, cutouts are the trend to follow.
A Wang Cutout Shorts
A Wang Cutout Leather Dress
A Wang Sweater with Cutout Details
T by Alexander Wang Cutout Gown
T by Alexander Wang Cutout Gown
T by Alexander Wang Blouse with Cutout Details
Rag & Bone Sibella Dress
Spring 2012 trends for every shape
12 years ago
Although most of us are just starting to see true signs of winter, fashion magazines have us thinking about what we’ll be wearing this Spring.
A few trends that are already making a statement for Spring 2012 are: romantic silhouettes, color blocking, tribal prints, leather and floral.
As we all know – women are not created equal. Some are blessed with sexy curves and some are equally blessed to have no curves. Whichever shape or size you are – I can guarantee that there is something in store for you this Spring.
Identifiers: Bust line and hip line measurements are equal, with a well defined waist
What to wear: V-neck tops or dresses, pencil skirts, wide leg trousers, waist length tops, peep toe heels. Wear a structured pencil skirt to really show off those curves – for Spring try mixing leather with your work-wear.
Identifiers: Bust line and hip line measurements are equal, with little or no definition to the waist
What to wear: Gathered waist tops or dresses, pleating, slim leg pants, strappy shoes. Wear dresses or tops in a chiffon material to add the illusion of curves. Try a fun tribal print wrap dress this Spring.
Identifiers: The width of your chest is proportionately narrower than your hips
What to wear: Flat front trousers, wrap dresses, belting at the waist, knee high boots. Wear jersey-like wrap dresses in large prints – especially in a floral print for Spring.
Identifiers: Unidentified waistline
What to wear: Flat front tailored skirts or pants, defined waistlines, slim fitting jackets, peep toe heels or wedges. Wear structured pieces in solid colors. For Spring try your hand at color blocking!
You Better Believe I’m Talking About Wearing White Pants in the Middle of Winter
12 years ago
Times are tough, and you’ve got to stretch that hard-earned dollar as far as it can go. One of the secrets that I’ve discovered about fashion is that with a little creative thinking, any article of clothing can be worn all throughout the year. The best example I can offer would be white clothing, in particular white jeans. The whole “no white after Labor Day” rule was probably concocted by some bland, pushy female who only lived in one climate zone and had a penchant for bossing around her unfortunate friends and family into doing what she wanted. But I digress. White jeans are one of my favorite wintertime wardrobe staples. Black and white tops seem to coordinate the best with a white bottom, but recently I’ve added a navy blue plaid shirt and a dark denim button-down to the mix. Black boots are usually the best option for footwear with white pants, but silver shoes look great as well. Any suggestions on what else you can wear with white jeans this winter? Let me know!
(From top to bottom: Levi’s 524 Skinny Jeans, Abercrombie and Fitch Navy Blue Pink Plaid Shirt, J. Crew The Jean Shop Dark Denim Shirt, Roxy Arctic Circle Sweater, Akira Sheer Mesh Turtleneck, Irregular Choice “Sazzle Boot,” Jeffrey Campbell “Bonnie” heels)
Upgrade Your Denim For 2012
12 years ago
I spent the last week of 2011 cleaning out my closet for the new year. I sold a couple of pieces to Crossroads, then donated the rest. I’m a sucker for denim, so I usually hold on to many pairs of jeans, even if I only wear them 4 times a year. But this year, I decided to grow up, and move on from these older jeans to make room for newer styles, and better quality basics.
For 2012, I’ve decided to keep only the basic denim silhouettes and styles already in my closet. This includes a couple solid pairs of skinnies and many flare legged pants (I love this look). I’m also going to stop buying cheap, trendy jeans that I’m not totally in love with and start saving up for more practical, well-fitting designer jeans. With all the January sales going on now, it’s actually a sensible time to buy new replacement jeans; ones I will look forward to wearing non-stop.
Below is a short “Upgrade Your Denim For 2012 Guide.”
From left to right:
- Upgrade your everyday skinny denim to the perfect shade of dark denim for 2012.
- Switch from colored jeans, and khaki color jeans to the hot 2012 color “smokey quartz.”
- Find the prefect high-waisted flare leg pants. These will dress up any otherwise casual looking outfit and make it perfect for evening.
- Swap out your black jeans for blacked waxed denim for a bit of pizzazz.
- Many sources, including MTV Fora indicate that printed pants are here to stay. Upgrade your printed denim to a print that is timeless, like animal print.
A Glimpse Into My Work World
12 years ago
I have been asked what my home office work set up is like many times. What computers and devices I use, how geeky/cool I really I am, etc. So to close the year, I thought I’d fill you in! I run this blog, work a 9-5 (not from this office), have a consulting gig, run an Alumni chapter, and have side projects I work on at the same time. Having a good working environment for my home projects is really important. Here are the items I use every day to make it through my projects effectively.
Computing:
I use a Dell studio XPS laptop with a 17 inch screen, i7 with a backlit keyboard & Blu-Ray. It’s a great little device (though noisy at times) and the speakers aren’t bad! The battery lasts about 6 hours, works for me! Secondary devices include w Dell widescreen monitor, an iPhone 4 and an iPad 2 (just got this for Christmas from my in-laws). The computer set up is fantastic with the second monitor. Having an iPhone and iPad keep me connecting when I’m not at my desk. That said, I still need long breaks from the computer everyday to keep sane. Eating, Books, TV, the gym and meditation are among the top things I do while away from my computer.
The Office:
I share this office with my husband, Tyler, who has way cooler gadgets…but this post is about me, not him! I’ve been told that if you are in a happy environment you will work better. This space is great for me, I’m not sure it makes me particularly happy, but it doesn’t upset me either, so I think I’m good!
The Chair:
I recently upgraded from a Pottery Barn Teen chair (bought years ago from a sample sale while working for Pottery Barn) to an adult Steelcase office chair. I’ve had more back, neck and shoulder pain this year. So more than ever, I realize the benefits of sitting in a comfortable and supportive chair.
Office Inspiration:
I keep cards and other inspirational art, magazine clippings, etc. on a wire frame right above my desk. It’s nice to glance up from time to time and remember who and what inspires me.
I also have a fantastic view of Soma (there’s lots of fog in this photo). I can see into other offices and apartments. It’s nice to see other people roaming about to remind me that I’m not alone!
What to wear: Home for the Holidays
12 years ago
Long lines at the airports, congested freeways and tight schedules can make traveling during the Holiday season chaotic. Since I can’t clear traffic on the I5 or speed up the security lines, I figured I could inspire you to lighten your load and pack some easy Holiday-worthy pieces that will take you from dinner at grandma’s to catching up with old friends.
Cozy sweater and denim paired with a stylish tote – comfortable and cool – perfect outfit for traveling
Silk blouse paired with skinny denim – casual yet polished – great look for hanging out with the family
Printed longsleeve mini dress paired with platform boots – festive and modern – a bold look for the Holidays
Jewel tone blouse paired with jewel tone platforms – trendy yet classic – perfect for meeting up with those long lost friends
If you’re traveling this Holiday Season, plan out your wardrobe for each day – you’ll avoid over packing (or even under packing). Start by choosing a few key pieces and plan your outfits around them. And make sure to incorporate a couple dressier options (for those unplanned evenings out on the town)!
I’ll stop my rumbling about how to pack (I know we all have our own methods).
I hope you all have a fun and festive Holiday!
Spring trends this Holiday season
12 years ago
As the Holiday season approaches us at lightning speed, so do all of our long awaited Holiday festivities. Whether you’re plans entail going to an office party or dinner with the family – how about this year, ditch your favorite LBD and incorporate some of Spring 2012’s favorite looks into your Holiday party-wear.
The minimal, monochromatic look was seen at Calvin Klein Spring 2012 – wear white this winter for a sexy and bold look. 
Ladylike sophistication and playful colors were seen at Rochas – wear a 1950’s style dress this Holiday season for a little bit of old-world glam.
Sharp and classic looks were seen at Jason Wu – pair the boyish trend with elegant and ladylike accessories.
Dropped waist, 1920’s style dresses were seen at Etro – try a flapper style dress this season for a little glitz and glam.
All I want for Christmas
12 years ago
Who says you have to be in elementary school to make a Christmas List? In my experience, I’ve found that shopping for adults is much harder than shopping for kids, and a list would’ve saved me time and energy.
With Christmas less than a month away, I figured I would make a list and share with you a few items that I have been lusting over this Holiday season – and have made it to the top of my Wish List.
1. Essie Matte About You – this is the perfect top coat for mattifying any glossy nail colors
2. LouLou Bijoux bracelet – dainty and adorable – the apple is engraved in French (it says ‘Bite Me!’)
3. Rag & Bone beanie – perfect winter beanie – the pom pom adds a little character and a touch of femininity
4. Madewell Transport tote – this is a great everyday bag – it’s not as casual as a canvas tote but serves the same purpose
5. Hilary Williams artwork – such a great gift – a piece of cool, local art
6. Tocca scented candles – love all of the scents by Tocca – perfect for every room in the house
7. Pendleton Portland Collection blanket – not only is this blanket cozy – it’ll look great draped over a sofa
8. UGG moccasins – perfect for lounging around the house (or maybe even running to the store)
What’s on your Wish List this Holiday season?