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DYE-ing for Ikat
I’m having an Ikat print moment this summer- and apparently, so are many designers and retailers. This eclectic, geometric print can be found on anything from handbags and scarves to rugs and decorative throw pillows.
Fahion fact: “Ikat” is an ancient weaving process that uses “resist-dyeing” to dye the threads before the fabric is woven (similar to tie-dyeing). Ikat has long since migrated from being a popular interior design motif to textiles and apparel.
(Left to right: Dries Van Noten, Gucci, Matthew Williamson)
Some happiness-inducing Ikat pieces I love:
Madewell Electric Ikat Top, $95
Banana Republic Silk Ikat Twist-Strap Dress, $130
Nanette Lepore Ikat Cover Up, $163
Joie Kaori Ikat Print Silk Blouse, $208
Georgie Rafina Skirt, $145
What to wear it with? Ikat really pops against white, and neutral accessories always balance a whimsical, bright color palette.
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
Tribal Fever
It was love at first sight when I saw the Spring 2011 RTW collection from Tracy Reese this year. Playing on the ethnic trend other designers also nodded to this spring, she combined feminine, luxurious silks and chiffons with bold, eclectic tribal prints.
Boho-styling + Tracy Reese + tribal inspiration = yes, please.
Tracy Reese Spring 2011 RTW
This spring, nothing communicates “effortlessly chic” more than a breezy turquoise tunic, an aztec-inspired necklace, or a bright, ethnic-print bag. A simple statement cuff adds edge to any white t-shirt and jeans!
1) Tory Burch Tricia Wedge, $495
2) Mara Hoffman Chieftan Story Tribal Bikini, $170
3) Twelfth Street Cami Dress in Zulu, $425
4) John Hardy Sterling Silver Cuff, $895
5) BR Tribal Tubular Necklace, $39.50
6) Juicy Couture Vintage Orange Dress, $129
7) Tibi Beaded Chiffon Dress, $297
8 ) Cynthia Vincent Berkeley Bag, $295
9) House of Harlow 1960 Tribal Cuff Bracelet in Turquoise, $220
Stay chic,
Annie
Sweater love: Fair Isle
When I think of Scotland, I always think of Hamish & William Wallace dueling in Braveheart, dark taverns, and riding horses, but…aye, I digress. I also think of Fair Isle sweaters (the name hails from a small island in north Scotland), which are made by employing a traditional knitting technique using less than five colors. When you see these sweaters, you might reminisce about the Sundance Film Festival or a Vail getaway, or if you’re like me – what celebrities wore to the former, and what one might wear to the latter.
This winter, Fair Isle sweaters aren’t just for luxurious ski trips and lounging around obscure snow-capped mountains. Some highlights from various 2010 Fall/Winter RTW shows:
2010 D&G ; Rag & Bone ; Max Mara
Stay warm, chic, and comfortable while bundled up in one of these lovely numbers. Pair with jeans or ponte knit pants (and a cup of spiced cider, if you’re feeling particularly festive).
Paul and Joe Sister Fair Isle Hooded Cardigan, $355 Add this to my Christmas list.
Matthew Williamson Wool-wrap Cardigan, $595
Haute Hippie Fair Isle Sweater, $495
BR Fair Isle Sweater Jacket, $140
Stay chic,
Annie
Mad for Plaid
Guys, you didn’t think I had forgotten you, did you? I’ve had a few menswear posts brewing for a while, but am just now getting to one. This is actually an androgynous article: get ready.
One of my favorite inspirations for fall fashion this year comes from Tommy Hilfiger’s Fall/Winter 2010 ad campaign – it’s the embodiment of classic American sportswear. These editorial shots showcase some of this season’s salient trends: cozy knitwear, tailored menswear for women, rich tones, camels & neutrals, and plaid.
Easy, effortless luxury.
All images via TH ad campaign for Fall/Winter 2010.
LOVE THIS photo. Intro to Fall/Winter 2010 menswear.
One of my last menswear posts was on camel coats. The perfect compliment to one such coat? A plaid shirt. Rugged, yet timeless, plaid is preppy & handsome. If you’re not the preppy type, guys – never fear – it’s all in the styling (for those that have an urban, more hipster leaning). Whether you prefer to pair yours with jeans & a sports coat, khakis & a navy cashmere sweater, or skinny jeans & Chucks, you can’t go wrong with plaid.
My plaid shirt picks for all you men:
Gap Blue + white 2-pocket shirt, $49.50
Diesel Plaid Workshirt, $120
With camel patches on the elbows? YES, please. Ralph Lauren Rugged Plaid Workshirt, $139.99
This look goes both ways, and that’s why I love it so much. Ladies, a plaid shirt + jeans + riding boots = classic. My picks for the belles:
ON Women’s Classic Flannel Shirt, $24.50 (tried it on, a great look for less!)
Banana Tall Flannel Ruffle Shirt, $69.50
Etoile Isabel Marant Cotton/Wood Blend Plaid Shirt, $280
Put me in a plaid shirt, jeans & boots, a cozy camel scarf and plop a puppy in my lap. Add a vintage Jeep Wagonneer? I’m at home.
Stay chic,
Annie
Chunky & Cozy Knits
I’m giddy with excitement this fall. With the advent of cooler temperatures, it’s time to bring out those warm cardigans, sweaters, boots and scarves from hibernation. I love nothing more than a comfortable, chunky sweater over a pair of black, chocolate brown or slate gray leggings. So easy and simple, yet still totally chic. Fall’s color palette is all about rich camels, taupes, grays and plums – think earthy and natural.
Don’t these knits just make you want to cozy up beside a fire and drink a hot cup of chai tea or a glass of pinot noir? I just want to wrap myself up in one and read Harry Potter the November issue of Elle.
Fall 2010 (from left to right): Dior; Banana Republic; Ralph Lauren; Michael Kors (photos via First View from New York Mag)
My picks:
Patterson J. Kincaid Chunky Cocoon Sweater, $198
“Luck is in the Cardigan,” sweater, $82.99, Modcloth. Unfortunately, we are all plumb out of luck on this one: out of stock! I still just had to post it because it’s so yummy.
Steffen Schraut Belted Poncho, $805 – - The cinched waist-tie brings the eye in, giving your silhouette definition.
Knitted Stitch Slouch Cardigan, Topshop, $90
One note about chunky knits to keep in mind – the more substantial and weighty the knit is, the more bulky it will appear on your body. Look at the weave and hand (feel of the material). If it’s cable-knit, it tends to be a much heavier sweater. If you’re voluptuous or fuller-figured, stay away from super-chunky cable knits, as they will only add more volume to your frame. Stick with finer knits.
Stay chic,
Annie
Menswear: Camel Coats
A classic camel coat should be the crux of a man’s wardrobe. Handsome, regal and refined, a camel jacket is timeless and versatile, especially during the cooler months.
Gucci, $2,790, available at select Gucci stores, 800.456.7663 and www.gucci.com . From Fall 2010 Gucci show (above).
Fortunately, you no longer have to buy a coat that’s made 100% out of camel hair (which hikes up the price). Now you can find more affordable camel-colored coats at places like Club Monaco or J.Crew. I love this cool, casual corduroy blazer from Banana Republic for $198.
Garrison Wool Sport Coat, $1450, from Ralph Lauren
Two-Button Camel Sports Coat from Brooks Brothers, $548. 100% camel hair.
For a business meeting or boardroom, pair your camel coat with a button-up, coordinating tie, and a neutral slack or trouser pant (browns, deep grays, etc.). For a more casual, weekend look (or for a youthful look that’s less corporate), pair with jeans and a button-up, or over a sweater.
Jim Moore, menswear consultant for GQ magazine says (about the right shade of camel):
“Get the right shade: butterscotch, rather than overly reddish or caramel-colored—and you’ll have a piece that’s perfect for both the office and the weekend this fall.”
Look sharp this fall, guys.
Annie
Pencil Me In
As many of us begin to shop for fall, let me encourage you to invest in one classic wardrobe staple: the pencil skirt. Timeless, slimming, and versatile, a pencil skirt will be in your closet for years to come. If you don’t already own one, now’s the time!
Tips to use when shopping for a pencil skirt:
- Look for light-weight & mid-weight wool blends (wool/lyrca, wool garbadine, wool/elastane, etc.). The fabric has more longevity and structure – much more forgiving, in my opinion. Worth the investment!
- The fabric should be body-skimming (not skin-tight or pulling across your hips or backside).
- A pencil skirt should hit at or right above the knee, give or take an inch or two.
For a more mature, conservative look, wear a pencil skirt that hits right below the knee. Younger women can do two inches above the knee (don’t go any shorter when in a professional work environment).
My picks:
Theory “Golden” Pencil Skirt, $190, from Bloomies
Wool Skirt from Banana, $79.50
Other things to consider:
- a wide waistband will help camouflage a tummy
- a tapered fit will help create curves on a straight/small-hipped figure
- pick a dark, wool blend if you are larger on bottom (avoid bulky fabrics, tweed, etc.)
- try a high-waisted skirt if you have a long torso to help create proportion
- if you’re hourglass, look for a skirt with darting to ensure accurate fit
Where to shop? Try J.Crew, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor and major department stores (Macy’s, Nordstrom, etc.). These places cater to sophisticated business wear and classic wardrobe pieces.
Stay chic,