Search A Chic Critique
Custom SearchConnect With Me
Archives
Springy Nails
J’adore la ligne de printemps 2011 d’Essie de couleurs de vernis à ongles.
What, you may say? Let me introduce you to Essie’s Spring 2011 line of nail polish, entitled “French Affair” and inspired by 1960’s glamour and the French Riviera. 
Each polish has been dubbed with a flirtatious and exotic name, and the cheerful, feminine and sweet pastel palette flatters a variety of skin tones. What I love so much about these colors is that they’re thick and opaque, as opposed to sheer. Just a couple of coats and your nails are color-concentrated and ready for Easter!
“I think every woman has a little Brigitte Bardot in her, and this palette coaxes her out,” says Essie Weingarten, founder of the eponymously-named brand.
Essie “French Affair” Collection nail polishes Nice Is Nice, Coat Azure and French Affair. Courtesy of Essie
Essie “French Affair” Collection nail polishes Topless & Barefoot, Sand Tropez and Kisses And Bises. Courtesy of Essie
‘Topless & Barefoot’ and ‘Sand Tropez’ work as simple neutrals, while ‘Nice is Nice’ and ‘French Affair’ will compliment a sun-kissed complexion with their bubble-gum tones. I bought French Affair last week, wore it when I went out Saturday night, and literally received a multitude of compliments on this pepto-bismol shade of pink.
One pair of espadrilles, a pair of over-sized sunglasses, a vintage Chanel scarf, and a plane ticket to Nice, please. Dreaming of the French Riviera…
Stay chic,
Annie
70’s Inspiration
Growing up, one of the eras I was most fascinated with were the 1960’s and 70’s. As a little girl, I always told myself I’d love to go back to Woodstock or the time of Dazed and Confused. From a fashion-standpoint, I was obsessed with the chunky wooden platforms, high-waisted jeans, peasant tops, and earthy beads.
Two fashion icons that inspired salient style trends in the 70’s that continue to exert their influence and legacy on designers to this day: Joan Baez & Jane Birkin.
High-waisted pants & jeans, suede bags and jackets, denim, peasant tops, platform heels and floppy, wide-brimmed hats. (google images)
This spring, I get my way.
A) Silk dress, Diane von Furstenberg, $445, DVF.com
B) Notify High-Rise Flare Jeans, $240
C) Seychelles Chant, $110
D) Hive & Honey Turquoise Bead Necklace, $48
E) Juicy Couture Silk Tiered Maxi Dress, $350
F) Halston Heritage Off-the-shoulder Dress, $395
G) Alternative The Petey, $138
H) Cotton crepe blouse, Marc Jacobs, $625, at Marc Jacobs, NYC
I) Current/Elliott Dorothy Stretch-Denim Pencil Skirt, $168
J) Tory Burch High-rise Flair Jeans, $195
K) Suede and lacquered platform, Laurence Dacade, $670, similar styles at laurence-dacade.com
L) Lucky Brand Seed Bead Bracelet, $45
M) La Garconne Saddle Bag, $310
Don’t forget a wide-brim hat – perfect in time for summer – to complete the 70’s vibe you’re going for. Love.
Stay chic,
Annie
Haute Hats & Horses
The Kentucky Derby and Steeplechase are just around the corner! If you live in the Southeast, this means that it’s time to begin considering what you’ll wear – more importantly, what hat?
Keep in mind, if you’re in the clubhouse/paddock section (the seated area), the dress code is a bit more elegant and refined: think classic silhouettes and fabrics, elegant sheaths, and timeless frocks. Of course, a sophisticated wide-brim hat is a must for the races, not only as a fashion statement, but as a shield from the hot sun. If you’re in the infield, I would suggest wearing wedge, platform or espadrille sandals so your heel doesn’t become stuck in the ground (tripping and falling is not a good look for anyone).
Audrey Hepburn’s character in My Fair Lady, Eliza Doolittle, epitomized both grace, elegance and style in her now famous costume at the Ascot Races in the film. This movie is exquisite from both a design and creative perspective: the costuming is tailored and executed to perfection! Eliza serves as my inspiration for Derby style.
A black and white palette is timeless and chic. You can always accent your hat and dress with pops of color (red and pink are especially eye-catching). Image via here.
A modern interpretation: I love this look – hair is soft and natural, and the bold red lip perfectly accentuates her black and white ensemble. Sheer elegance. (image via here)
Remember that your dress should compliment your hat, and vice-versa; they don’t have to be too matchy-matchy, but in general, the color scheme should be harmonious. Also, keep the laws of proportion in mind. If your dress is elaborate, keep the hat a bit more simple and understated. Conversely, if you’re wearing an ostentatious, elaborate hat (plumes, feathers, bows, color), keep the dress simple so it doesn’t compete.
This spring is all about feminine details – polka dots, floral prints, and bows.
Some outfit inspirations:
From left to right:
Oufit 1: D&G Silk Gauze Dress, $4,511; Jacques Vert Shell Pink Flower Hat; Vivienne Westwood Beige Snake Clutch, $231; Lanvin Bow Pumps, $795
Outfit 2: Plaza Suite Ines Hat, $178; L.A.M.B. Nude Cahoot Pump, $295; Tiffany City Clutch, $795; Suzannah Tulip Cocktail Dress
Outfit 3: D&G Mimosa Print Pleated Dress; Christian Louboutin Nude Plume, $595; Scala Brynn Singer Hat, $88; White Chanel Flap Bag, $3,850
Outfit 4: Paul & Joe Sister Polka Dot Dress, $310; Yves Saint Laurent Venice Wedge Sandals, $1,195; Plaza Suite Penelope Hat, $178; Kotur Lamotte Natural Clutch, $540
Other places to find fabulous “horsing around” frocks: Tibi; Milly; Tracy Reese; Lilly Pulitzer. I would encourage you to check out these websites to find some perfect dresses for this day of mojitos and racing . Tibi, Milly and Tracy Reese are a few of my favorite designers!
These two much-anticipated spring events are ideal opportunities to showcase your sense of style. Have fun and stay chic!
Annie
Looking for hats in the Nashville area? Try Monkee’s in the Hill Center – or any TJ Maxx for great deals!
Prints Charming
I love that beautiful print tops, dresses and skirts are in abundance this spring. I tend to be more of a “solids” girl when it comes to dresses, but print tops are my wild cards. This Tibi printed silk-kaftan top (C) has “Annie” written all over it! Swoon.
A) Trinity Printed Ruffle-Neck Top, $75 B) Tucker Yoke Blouse, $266 C) Tibi Printed Silk Kaftan-Style Top, $250 D) Marc Jacobs Printed Silk crepe de Chine Top, $495
E) Collective Concepts Strapless Ruffle Maxi, $68 F) Alberta Ferretti Printed Silk crepe de Chine Dress, $1,305 G) Tibi Bianca Dress, $345 H) Moschino Cheap and Chic Coral-Print Cotton Strapless Dress, $595 I) Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent Waisted Tank Dress, $295 J) M Missoni Printed Jersey T-Shirt Dress, $425
The Moschino coral dress (H) would be perfect for a summer wedding or even adorable for work – pair with a cardigan and slingbacks or nude pumps. Missoni always designs interesting prints, so of course, I have my eye on their printed Jersey T-shirt dress (J).
Print-wearing tips to keep in mind:
- Keep it simple. Don’t complicate the look and overdo it; let the busy print be the focus of your outfit. Wear jewelry and shoes with clean lines that keep the outfit “unfussy.”
- Bigger prints can easily overwhelm your figure , so if you’re going for a larger, louder print, opt for solid-colored side panels to create a slimming effect.
Will you be donning prints this spring?
Stay chic,
Annie
Wrap It Up
When asking for feedback from my blog readers, a couple of different women responded that they would like different suggestions and options for cute, dressy-casual outfits for work. Tired of the all-too-predictable and recurrent “suit,” and perhaps aching for a wardrobe update, these women expressed the need for both style and functionality. Over the next couple of weeks, I’ll continue to share my ideas for office attire, starting with today: the wrap dress.
Now considered “iconic” due to the famous designs of Diane Von Furstenberg, the wrap dress is universally flattering and always office-chic. While many WD’s are made of stretch jersey, some dressier silk versions have been updated as cocktail attire. Because the silhouette of the wrap follows the natural contours of a woman’s body – highlighting and emphasizing the waist (in particular, right under the ribcage) – the overall effect is a slenderizing one, regardless of weight, body shape or size. Keep in mind: the length of the dress should be no higher than a couple of inches above the knee in order to be appropriate for a law firm or classroom. If you’re large-chested, wearing a cami underneath is a must; don’t skimp on the necessary undergarments!
Pair a springy wrap frock with nude pumps or slingbacks for a formal office setting – in a more casual setting, pair with espadrilles or strappy sandals.
Images 1, 3, & 4 DVF / Image 2 BR
A wrap dress is not only office-appropriate, but is also perfectly suited for a bridal luncheon, meeting the parents, a date-night, or a country-club lunch. Effortless, yet sophisticated, a wrap dress is both versatile and slimming. I would encourage every woman to stock up on as many wrap dresses as possible; this style will withstand the test of time. A wardrobe staple like this is always worth the investment. Trust me.
Tibi Printed Silk Wrap Dress, (was $385, now $173!) A dressier option I adore.
Just Cavalli Printed Jersey Wrap Dress, $450
Diane Von Furstenberg Naudia Wrap Dress, $365 – This is an ideal option for spring office attire.
Lauren by Ralph Lauren “Cathleen” Stretch Cotton Wrap Dress, $134. Yet another office-friendly frock.
DVF “Rilia” Silk Dress, $345 – Cute, casual & cool.
Tibi Draped Twill Wrap Dress, $380
Stay chic,
Annie
Snake Charmer
If you are at all prone to ophidiophobia, this post might trigger a reaction; otherwise, the spotlight is on sexy serpent jewelry.
To say I am obsessed with snake jewelry would be an understatement – this girl can’t get enough. Snake cuffs are a bit edgy, but they reek of sophistication. There is something so simple and elegant about one: an ideal combination. For the luxurious palette, I’d suggest one with encrusted pave diamonds, or perhaps diamond accents.
Recently, I wore this funky Lucky Brand cuff (see letter “a” below) to a charity event with an unadorned, silk, navy dress from Bloomie’s. As a statement piece, it needs little else to compete with. Pair one with your favorite LBD, a bold clutch, and killer gold heels for an instant stylish update to an otherwise predictable black frock.
a) Lucky Brand Gypset Snake-Coil Cuff (not available online) How fun are the pink and turquoise accents?
b) Quartz, Black & White Diamond Sterling Silver Snake Bracelet, $395
c) Gara Danielle Diamondback Snake Cuff, $263 (my favorite of all)
d) Jewel Snake Cuff, $25
e) Aurelie Bidermann Mamba 18-karat gold plated snake cuff, $805
f) Elizabeth Charles Thalia Pave Diamond Snake Bangle with Cognac Diamonds, $6,800
g) Melinda Maria Nikki Serpent Cuff White, $315
h) ASOS Wrap-around Snake Cuff, $14
Easy and effortless, this organic trend would also pair well with a pair of jeans and a black or white t-shirt for a cool, casual look.
Stay chic, charmers.
Annie
Concealer 101
“Hi Annie! Can you recommend some of your favorite concealers? I’ve yet to find one that isn’t runny or cake-like, and the problem at my age is that concealer starts to set in lines underneath my eyes. Help!” ~ Beth, Nashville, 54
If you know me, you know I can be a bit anal retentive about concealing: especially my under-eye area. I’m vigilant about covering up the purple-ish tones I have, and am constantly scouring the market for a product that does the trick. It’s rare I find concealers that don’t cake, or don’t give me that “white” look underneath my eye (mismatched skin tones).
ENTER: Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat, $40 (pronounced “two-shh ee-claw”)
What it is:
A luminizing pen that brings light and radiance to the skin, immediately erases any signs of fatigue, and brightens the complexion.
What it does:
Loved by models, makeup artists, celebrities, and women everywhere, the award-winning Yves Saint Laurent TOUCHE ÉCLAT Radiant Touch is like eight hours of sleep and an instant pick-me-up in a magic wand. With a few strategically placed strokes of TOUCHE ÉCLAT, the complexion immediately looks rested, rejuvenated, and radiant.
What else you need to know:
TOUCHE ÉCLAT banishes shadows and tired-looking eyes by adding light and creating an instant lift to the eye area. TOUCHE ÉCLAT widens eyes when used between the eyebrows and along the sides of the nose, and creates fuller looking lips when used in the hollow of the chin and around the contour of the lips. It’s formulated for all skin types and for anyone who wants instant radiance, luminosity, and lift. ~ From the Sephora Website
Ladies, I couldn’t have said it better myself. This product is goddess-divine. Yes, it’s a bit pricey, but I have found myself recommending it relentlessly – and for good reason. It’s lightweight, yet manages to provide the perfect amount of coverage underneath the eyes without the dreaded “caking” effect. Who wants to use an under-eye concealer only to find it further emphasizes fine lines and wrinkles? No, thank you. The T.E. also acts as a highlighter, brightening your eyes and giving you that coveted “wide-awake” look, while simultaneously camouflaging blue-ish/purplish under-eye tones. This is, hands down, an ACC favorite, #1, highly-recommended product.
Other Honorable Mentions:
Laura Mercier Secret Concealer, $22
From the LM website: Laura Mercier Secret Concealer is a moisture-rich concealer designed specifically for under and around the eye area to conceal discolourations and dark circles.
A great, all-around, all-over concealer – for those problem areas, redness, blotchy skin, or a break-out. A bit thicker for moderate to maximum coverage. Creamy and gentle underneath the eyes – apply with a concealer brush or gently blot with your finger.
Bobbi Brown’s Essential Foundation Stick, $40
From the BB website: Bobbi’s innovative Foundation Stick is designed for portability and adjustable coverage. Easy to apply and blend all over the face or just where you need it. For all skin types, except very oily.
I’ve been using the BB Foundation Stick since high school, and it still remains a favorite; this was my “original” under-eye concealer. I never saw an ounce of blue or purple peek through when using this stick! Again, it’s an excellent all-over concealer, and a bit more matte than the Laura Mercier.
These are my suggestions and favorite products. What are your go-to concealers? Have you tried any of the products above?
Stay chic,
Annie
Spring Florals Pt. 2: Tops
I can’t get enough of floral prints for spring, and guess what? Neither can designers. From Tibi and D&G, to Rebecca Taylor and DVF, flowery prints (think orchids & peonies) are adorning dresses and blouses alike. In keeping with the 1970’s wave of nostalgia, flowing, bohemian peasant style-tops are very current for spring.
Remember: keep your proportions and body-type in mind as you shop and style yourself for warmer weather. While voluminous tops are of-the-moment, they can easily camouflage curves and add unwanted bulk. If you’re on the curvier side, a cinch belt should be your best friend. Avoid looking frumpy – highlight that slender waist and hourglass figure with a belt. A stylist’s best kept secret is the cinch belt (hint, hint).
Some lovelies to peruse:
Rebecca Taylor Meadow Silk Floral Printed Blouse, (was $275, now $220)
Tibi Genevieve Floral Print Silk Blouse, $112.50 (was $250)
Blue Moon Under the Tuscan Sun Top, $136
Tracy Reese Waves & Orchids Pintucked Blouse, $298
What Goes Around Comes Around Anais Peasant Top, $220
Dolce & Gabbana Off-the-Shoulder Peony Top, $400. I have a “thing” for tops and dresses that are off-the-shoulder – an unexpected way to look sexy by baring your shoulders without overdoing the cleavage. Yes, please!
Sunner Montage Floral Top, on sale for $99.97
With white jeans and wedge sandals, or dark skinny jeans and flat boots, a sweet and silky, floral peasant top smells of spring.
Stay chic,