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Here Comes the Bride
Finally, the big reveal. Princess Kate arrived at Westminster Abbey in the queen’s 1950’s Rolls Royce, wearing a lace and ivory satin gazar design by Sarah Burton, creative director for the late Alexander McQueen. The bodice and skirt featured hand-cut English lace and French Chantilly lace; the skirt was designed to look like an “opening flower.” The back of the dress was finished with 58 gazar and organza covered buttons fastened by Rouleau loops. The lengthy train (akin to Princess Diana’s) measured almost nine feet long. The veil was made of soft ivory tulle and held in place by a Cartier “halo” tiara, lent to Catherine by Queen Elizabeth II. Inspired by the Middleton’s new coat of arms, Kate’s earrings included diamond oak leaves and pear-shaped diamond acorns.
image via Getty images
Catherine Middleton arrives for the Royal Wedding of Prince William to Catherine Middleton at Westminster Abbey on April 29, 2011, in London.
(Credit: Getty)
Getty images
image via Getty images
My favorite part about the gown is the subtle plunging sweetheart neckline; modern and sexy, but still elegant, tasteful, and graceful.
Designer Mark Badgley, who watched the wedding from his Long Island home with partner James Mischka called the dress a “classic Grace Kelly gown that appeals to modern brides.”
“We thought it was perfection,” Badgley told ABCNews.com. “It’s that kind of gown that’s going to stand the test of time.”
He added that Middleton seemed to have “struck the balance” between looking young and modern and wearing something suitable for the formal Westminster Abbey. - Taken from ABC News, By LUCHINA FISHER
Mark, I couldn’t agree more.
image via Getty images
Catherine Middleton, 2011 – Princess Grace, 1956
“Miss Middleton chose British brand Alexander McQueen for the beauty of its craftsmanship and its respect for traditional workmanship and the technical construction of clothing,” the palace said in a statement. ” Miss Middleton wished for her dress to combine tradition and modernity with the artistic vision that characterizes Alexander McQueen’s work. Miss Middleton worked closely with Sarah Burton in formulating the design of her dress.” (Taken from CBS news, Posted by Jessica Derschowitz)
image via Getty images
McQueen, an iconic modern British designer whose designs have graced the likes of Michelle Obama, Cate Blanchett, and Sarah Jessica Parker, sadly, passed away this past year.
Interestingly enough, Kate was adamant about “looking herself,” and insisted upon doing her own makeup this morning. She wanted to look recognizable to William, and also decided to wear her hair down (in cascading curls, no less), as it has become quite a ’signature’ look for her. I love how relatable and effortless this makes her come across. She’s already naturally beautiful, and the gown suited her style aesthetic.
image via Getty
The ceremony:
William looked over at Kate when she walked up and said, “You look beautiful.” Image via Reuters
image via Reuters
image via Reuters
Watching the coverage right now, I can say her dress is truly exquisite. The lace detailed sleeves are delicate, ethereal, and beautiful, and the bodice is slim-fitting, regal, and feminine: a stunning, impressive gown. I am not disappointed!
The royal kiss is yet to come.
Stay chic, all you wedding-watchers,
Annie
Bridal Bliss
In honor of soon-to-be Princess Kate’s wedding tomorrow morning (counting down the hours), I’m going to share with you some of my favorite bridal gowns from various spring and summer 2012 collections.
The lovely couple. (image via US) Cue the royal trumpets!
You may remember this Reem Acra beauty from Spring 2008, seen worn by Olivia Wilde and Jessica Szohr here. It’s also worn by the bride in this wedding (swoon). Isn’t it divine? Sheer elegance. Much to my delight, Reem replicated the delicate, beaded cap sleeve once again (below) in her spring 2012 Bridal collection.
Reem Acra Spring/Summer 2012
Strapless silhouettes are ubiquitous; onto something new! It’s refreshing to see cap sleeves and off-the-shoulder designs once again – they’re unexpected and current. The beaded detail work in these caps is exquisite. I love this.
Off-the-shoulder sleeves are sexy, yet effortless, and this modified mermaid silhouette is stunning. (All Reem images via here)
Monique Lhuillier Spring 2012
I love the simplicity of this design; it’s ethereal and modern. Sophisticated, yet unfussy. I’d style it with some beautiful, antique, chandelier-drop earrings. (image via here)
I don’t tend to gravitate towards lace; however, this gown is an exception. The lace is delicate and not overpowering, perfectly accentuating the trumpet silhouette. I find the bodice and subtle neckline eye-catching and charming. Do you see the built-in cups? Straps could easily be added to this, as could a beaded belt for a reception. (image via here)
Remember this post? I can’t wait to see what Kate wears – I’m sure she’ll be simply smashing. She’s already on the road to becoming a style icon. Will you be watching the royal nuptials with a mimosa in hand at 5 a.m. tomorrow?
Stay chic,
Annie
tom TOMS.
Have you gotten on the TOMS train yet?
TOMS Heather Khaki Men’s Stitchout, $58
They may not look like much, but the premise is compelling and simple:
One for One Movement (from TOMS website):
In 2006, American traveler Blake Mycoskie befriended children in Argentina and found they had no shoes to protect their feet. Wanting to help, he created TOMS Shoes, a company that would match every pair of shoes purchased with a pair of new shoes given to a child in need. One for One. Blake returned to Argentina with a group of family, friends and staff later that year with 10,000 pairs of shoes made possible by TOMS customers.
Purple Youth Sparkles, $38
When TOMS first hit the market a couple of years ago, I thought to myself, “What an incredible opportunity to merge fashion with a legitimate need.” With consumerism rampant, it’s easy to forget about the less fortunate; not so with these shoes. Men, women, and children alike can get on board with this humanitarian shoe that’s trending right now. Buying a pair of TOMS really is one way you can give back – you can’t say that about most of your purchases, now can you?
While I don’t personally tend to rock flats, TOMS has designed a new trendy wedge (3 1/4 inches) that is perfect for spring. At only $69, this comfortable heel comes in a variety of colors and designs.
Red Canvas, $69
Ash Canvas, $69
Though my TOMS pick is the wedge, I can’t help but swoon with girlish delight over his Women’s “Glitters” ($54). Pink sparkle? Yes, please. (This one also comes in black, gold and silver sparkle). Oh, TOMS can do “bling.”
Casual and cool, TOMS are all the rage right now. Do yourself a favor: ditch the buyer’s remorse, and get a pair (for you, your son, daughter, husband, boyfriend, Dad, etc.).
Give back – and stay chic,
Annie
Cool Canvas Totes
Whether you use a tote for your magazines and I-pod on the plane, to store your child’s cheerios, your blackberry, or perhaps your gym gear, a tote’s versatility can’t be argued. A neutral canvas palette creates a clean and sophisticated look, appropriate for both casual errands and a more formal boardroom setting.
Durable and practical, canvas is fairly low-maintenance and easy to clean. However, these aren’t your rudimentary, everyday totes. With added hardware and modern leather accents, these bags define the meaning of effortlessly chic.
A) Lucky Brand Ojai Canvas East/West Convertible Tote, $149
B) Hunter Kailey Canvas Tote, $275
C) Hunter Bailey Canvas Weekender, $395
D) La Garconne Hope Canvas Tote Bag, $254
E) DKNY Leather and Cotton-Canvas Tote, $325
F) Stella McCartney Falabella Eco-Friendly Canvas Tote, $1,295
You won’t have to worry about these going out of style: a canvas tote is a timeless and foundational accessory to add to your closet. Just in time for warm weather or a weekend getaway!
Stay chic,
Annie
Flirty Fragrances
What does your perfume say about you? What would you like it to communicate? Sexiness? Strength? Confidence? Femininity? Are you attracted to musky scents? Earthy? Vanilla? Floral?
Regardless, I think the perfumes we love and wear are indicative of our personalities and preferences. Have you ever noticed how certain men always reek of cologne? You can smell them from a mile away – and that’s how they like it. Pungent. It might be overwhelming, bold and intense, but perhaps these men are, too!
Personally, I find myself inextricably drawn to feminine, floral scents. I like to smell “flirty,” but not overtly sexy: nothing too overbearing or fragrant. It comes as no surprise that I buy perfumes that possess these qualities. There’s a fine line between saturation and being devoid of a scent; I like to live in that delicate middle-ground.
Some perfumes that I wear:
Issey Miyake 2.5 oz, $95
Michael Kors Eau de Parfum, 1.7 oz, $70
Hands down, my two favorite perfumes in the world are Michael Kors and Issey Miyake. I get more compliments when wearing Michael Kors (from both men and women) than any other perfume I’ve ever worn. Issey is a wonderful daytime fragrance – light, floral, simple. MK is just an intoxicating, glorious fragrance; you’ll swoon when you smell it.
I had a brief affair with Lola by Marc Jacobs last summer, and she’s still my go-to for dates or weddings, or even those nights out when I want a little more spice in my step. (3.4 oz, $88). Marc even describes this perfume as “sexy.”
My current obsession is Coach “Poppy.” Just charming and delicious – smells fresh and sweet. (1.7 oz, $60)
I just can’t seem to stop wearing this, and with a name like “Poppy”, who wouldn’t want to wear it?
What are your favorite perfumes? How do you like to smell?
Stay chic,
Annie
Jean Week: White Hot
Forget your grandmother’s fashion rules (no white after Labor Day or before Memorial Day) – they’re obsolete. The new rule for wearing white: there IS no rule! White jeans are absolutely essential to any woman’s closet; they’re versatile, chic, and appropriate for all seasons. It’s all about how you wear them, and what you wear them with. How to wear white in winter is another discussion entirely – today’s focus is on styling white jeans for spring and summer.
First and foremost, ladies, now’s not the time to wear your sporty panties or cotton whites. With white jeans, it’s all about the nude thong – no exceptions allowed. You wouldn’t wear hot pink or black cotton bikini panties underneath a white sundress, would you? I think not. The thong is necessary because your white jeans should be fitted and body-skimming, and you don’t want to be dealing with a bad case of the ‘bunchies.’
My picks:
Paige Denim Lou-Lou Tulip Jeans, $179 – with a hint of spandex, there is a little bit more give and stretch. If you have curves, Paige understands.
Citizens of Humanity Ava Straight-leg Jeans, $154. A straight leg jean will always flatter and elongate your legs.
7 For All Mankind Bootcut Jeans, $169
Sold Spring Street Skinny Jeans, $98
A few more affordable options here and here; and if you adore skinnies, then here.
What to wear them with?
For spring, I would suggest going bold and wearing primary colors and jewel tones, which really pop against white. Pair your whites with hot pink, royal blue, coral, fuschia, teal, turquoise – any of which really contrast with the neutral. For an understated, sophisticated palette, pair your your white jeans with a soft camel, blush or gray cardigan.
If you don’t already own a pair (or five), invest in one for spring!
Stay chic,
Annie
Jean Week: Bell Bottoms & Flares
As I’ve alluded to in previous posts, one of the salient trends for spring and summer 2011 is 1970’s, ‘boho’ style. The best part of this cyclical style repeat offender? Why, the flare and bell-bottom jeans, of course!
How do you wear this trend?
via here: 1; 2; 3; 4
- Pair bell-bottom or flare jeans with platform or wedge heels – period. Flats will only make you look dumpy and short with this style of jean. Yet another reason to keep wearing your clogs from fall.
- There’s not much you can’t wear with flare jeans – a slim-fitting button up, a flowy, bohemian top, a dolman-sleeved silk top, even a t-shirt.
- If you’re in your 20’s or 30’s, feel free to experiment with lighter washes.
- If you’re in your 50’s or 60’s, this probably reminds you of your teenage or college years; however, this is one style you can feel free to reminisce about and repeat. Make it work for you by looking for a darker wash in a mid-rise (this eliminates muffin-top and the dreaded “mom-jean” cut, plus, you don’t have to worry about looking like you’re trying too hard). Stick with a flare as opposed to a large, overwhelming bell-bottom to keep it age-appropriate.
My picks:
From Left – 1) Seven for All Mankind Bell Bottom Jeans, $178 2) Citizens of Humanity Angie Super Flare Jean, $229 3) J Brand Elephant Bellbottom, $209
Your legs will go on for miles with the elongated silhouette these jeans create. Will you be rockin’ them for spring?
Stay chic,
Annie
April Showers
…bring rain coats!
Although I loathe dreary weather (namely, getting wet), it certainly helps to wear a sophisticated rain coat. Rain never stopped Carrie Bradshaw from looking chic, right? Don a waist-cinching trench or a curve-skimming rain coat, and you’ll kill two birds with one stone. Functional? Check. Stylish? Check.
clockwise, starting top left: images via Joris Bruring; Alan Davidson; Google; Rona Keller
My picks:
Fashion Rain Coats:
Burberry Check Packaway Hood Field Jacket, $750 (obsessed, obsessed). Burberry is known for designing timeless, classic outerwear; this piece indicates no less. The longer length and cinched waist follow the contours of your body without adding unwanted bulk.
Marc by Marc Jacobs Celeste Rain Jacket, $328. Simple yet elegant – ideal for those rainy days on the way to work. The neutral color compliments virtually any outfit. Worth the investment!
Anthropologie Weather Report Cape, $595 (How darling is the bright yellow?)
Forzieri (Italia) Blue Metallic Wind Coat, $492. I love the structured femininity of this coat, and the navy blue adds a rich pop of color.
Sporty / Casual Raincoat I love:
NF Women’s Venture Jacket, $99 (Inexpensive and durable, this lightweight jacket comes in a plethora of cheerful spring colors (coral, mint green, turquoise, bright orange), so what’s not to love? Great for those cool, misty spring days.)
A dressier, weather-resistant trench is foundational to any woman’s closet – wear it with a skirt and heels to the office, or over a cocktail dress on a night out. A more casual, sporty rain coat is also a necessity if you want something versatile and low-maintenance.
Stay chic,
Annie
Spring Staples: The Lightweight Jacket
I have a thing for lightweight, springy jackets. Utilitarian, yet current, they’re the quintessential companion for temperatures in the 60’s and 70’s. For the office, I love an olive military jacket over a knit LBD, or paired with a slim-fitting tank and skirt. The 2010-2011 menswear-inspired trend still hasn’t run it’s course, and although it’s been tested, the blazer remains a classic wardrobe staple. For added polish and warmth, throw a light-colored blazer (think neutrals, creams, etc.) over a dress for a spring cocktail party, or add one to your nighttime ensemble of jeans, a silky top, and heels – the perfect amount of coverage for transitional weather.
Some ACC favies:
Elizabeth and James Codi Jacket, $395. Love, love, love this black & white striped number. Hot over a black dress or with skinnies & heels.
Anthropologie Airborne Jacket, $198
Free People Military Puff-Sleeve Jacket, $128. Easy & effortless with jeans.
Amanda Uprichard Relaxed Blazer, $99. This also comes in gray, but how a-mazing is this peachy nude? Great on warm, sunny blondes, or anyone with a tan (not me).
Elizabeth and James Rolled Sleeve Elizabeth Blazer (off-white), $395
You can find great, fitted blazers and jackets at a variety of stores within different price points. You don’t have to shop ‘high’ to get the look. Love the Stella McCartney at Barney’s, and that DVF at Net-A-Porter, but can’t afford the pricetag? Places like Piperlime, Nordstrom, J.Crew and Loft will give you the trendy look without the hefty pricetag. Just be a savvy shopper (now’s a great time to find jackets on sale), and look for quality and fit – or make an appointment with me to help you make smart, stylish choices. That’s what I’m here for!
Stay chic this spring – and rock a lightweight jacket.
Annie
Going to great Lengths
There is something so easy and effortless about long dresses – there’s a sort of “casual” elegance about them that I find myself attracted to. Throw a jean jacket over one of these and pair with a cute pair of flats or wedges, and you’re ready for some spring shopping with girlfriends or an afternoon date at the park. Uber-slenderizing and elongating (the silhouette creates one continuous line), maxi dresses are flattering on a multitude of body shapes. My tip? Unless you’re tall and willowy, I’d suggest wearing wedges or platform sandals to lengthen your figure even more.
The versatility of a maxi dress demonstrated by some of Hollywood’s ladies. Image via google
Some of my picks:
A) Halston Heritage Coral-Print Silk-Chiffon Maxi Dress, $595
B) Tibi Paisley Long Chiffon Dress, $583
C) Thomas Wylde Peso-Printed Silk Maxi Dress, $1,850
D) Guess Floral Print Pink Maxi Dress, $138
E) Milly Rope-Print Stretch Maxi Dress, $420
F) Rebecca Taylor Tiered Matte-Silk Maxi Dress, $345
If you’re going for a daytime look, the hemline should brush the tops of your shoes/sandals. I’d style one with bangles and cocktail rings for a chic, free-spirited look; however, you also can’t go wrong with classic hoops.
Conversely, maxi dresses are also totally appropriate for night-time: just make sure the hem of the dress runs flush with the floor, especially if the event invites cocktail-attire. Pair with strappy gold heels, statement chandelier earrings and a clutch to create a sophisticated ensemble.
I can’t wait to wear them to weddings this summer; in the meantime, however, I’m planning on working the platforms, jean jacket, and maxi trio.
Stay chic,