Search A Chic Critique
Custom SearchConnect With Me
Archives
…and a happy NEW YEAR!
New Year’s Eve is just around the corner, and I’m sure many of you are shopping for a bold, statement top or dress to ring in the new year. If your discretionary budget is a bit lower after shopping for holiday gifts and presents – never fear. I’ve scoured my favorite online shops and stores to find some gorgeous, glittery pieces, all well under $200 (and most are closer to $50!).
Pair any of these with a pair of black skinny pants (or dark straight leg jeans), sky-high heels, a killer clutch, and your best “wow-me” jewelry for a night on the town or soiree. For chilly temperatures, don a simple, black tailored blazer, or a faux fur coat for that extra bit of polish and panache. I’m a jeans and dressy top girl myself, so no cocktail dress this year for me!
A) Sabine Sequin Zigzag Top, $60
B) Ark and Co. Sequin Sheer Top, $59
C) Topshop Sequin Front Tank, $64
D) French Connection Silver Simmons Top, $158
E) Madison Marcus Spectacle Sequin Tunic, $107
F) Rachel Zoe Sequin Dolman Top, $99
Whatever the dress code might be for you January 31st, why not watch the ball drop in style? Cheers to the new year, to good friends and family, to happiness, and of course, to staying chic!
Annie
Happy holidays to all from A Chic Critique! Signing off until I see you in 2012. Stay tuned!
The Zoe Report
To the delight of her loyal and devoted followers worldwide, stylist Rachel Zoe recently debuted her first RTW (ready-to-wear) collection in luxury department stores. Known for her boho-chic and glamorous style, Rachel has not only charmed the fashion world, but the mass-consumer market as well. Her fall 2011 collection is flying off the racks – and not surprisingly. With sumptuous fabrics, exceptional tailoring and a rich color palette, her pieces reflect her style aptitude and eye for luxury.
images courtesy of style.com
Here are some of my favorite RZ Collection pieces for fall:
Leopard LOVE. Must-have. Natalie Tie-Collar Blouse, $295. This is going on my birthday wish-list.
Belted Military Jacket, $525. Outerwear-lust.
I spy my go-to cocktail dress for fall. This would flatter anyone. Elizabeth dress, $395. Hello, velvet trim!
Do you DIE?
Love her.
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
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,
Annie
5 Pairs of Shoes Every Man Should Own
Dear men,
I must insist that you take a look at your closet and honestly evaluate your lot: do you see these five pairs of shoes? If not, it’s time you consider expanding and making these essentials part of your wardrobe. If you’re a living, breathing, warm-blooded man, it’s imperative you have these foundational & versatile basics in your closet. No excuses.
1. Brown Wing Tips
Crockett & Jones Clifford Wing-tip, $695
Don Draper, eat your heart out. Wingtips are the crux of a businessman’s wardrobe! Sophisticated, handsome, and uber-professional, these shoes mean business. Look for a well-constructed, quality leather pair; and avoid the temptation to skimp on these. You’ll be able to wear these with black & navy trousers, making them well-worth the investment. Your brown pair should be supplemented with at least an additional pair, as well as a black pair.
2. Black Oxfords
Johnston & Murphy Georgetown II Cap-toe, Black Leather, $375
If you take care of your oxfords – keeping them polished & pristine – these shoes will carry you through every formal function, whether it be a black-tie wedding or a funeral. The cousin of the wingtip oxford, black leather oxfords are the perfect compliment to a well-tailored dress suit.
3. Loafers
Cole Haan Air Lorenzo Penny, $328
What screams business casual more than a loafer? Pair with khakis and a button-up for a less-structured, laid-back environment: date night, ‘casual Fridays’, dinner with the parents. You should already own a pair – and if you don’t – make that a priority, as soon as possible. All-American style right here, guys.
4. Casual Boots
Cole Haan Paul Chukka, $198
Every man needs a great-looking, casual pair of boots. Comfortable, durable, and stylish, these so called “dessert-boots” should make their way into your conscious. Invest in a black leather pair for work (remember to keep them polished), and have them easily transition from day to night. Another option? Brown suede boots are synonymous with “dressy casual.”
5. Sneakers / Running Shoes
New Balance 993, $89,99
Running errands, road trip, or grilling out with the guys on a Saturday – regardless, compliment your everyday sportswear (or Saturday best) with a pair of classic, sturdy sneakers.
Honorable Mentions / Seasonal Shoes
Sperry Top-Sider (the prepster’s casual shoe of choice for summer & ACC favorite) :
Classic Suede Bucks (pair with dark jeans or khakis, perfect for a “dressy casual” look) :
Cowboy Boots (ruggged & practical, “Marlboro” man style) :
Converse (a classic sneaker with a hipster leaning) :
Look sharp,
Annie
Need some help picking out the right colors and styles? Not sure where to find these aforementioned shoes? Completely overwhelmed with all the “do” and “don’ts”? Don’t waste anymore time, guys – let A Chic Critique assist in customizing your wardrobe for your lifestyle. I’ll show you what you need, what to throw out, and where to shop. The result? A refined, updated wardrobe that’s tailored for your body & your budget. The making of a modern man!
Watchmen
I’ll be honest: I’m not much of a “watch” girl. Never have been. These days, all the “utilitarian” reasons for buying a watch seem obsolete with the advent of I-phones & blackberrys (who needs a watch to find the time?). However, I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you how much I am swooning over this year’s menswear watches. Chunky, substantial, and handsome, these watches are the antithesis of dainty and “girly.” I’m particularly drawn to the oversized faces and chain links, and I find the crystal & diamond detailing (on some) a subtle, feminine touch to an otherwise masculine look.
Marc Jacobs Glitzy Henry Chronograph Watch, Gold, $250. This MJ watch is simply exquisite, and you can’t go wrong with classic gold. I’ll add this to my holiday “favorites” list.
Michael Kors Silver Round Chronograph Watch, $225
Michael Kors Rose gold-plated Stainless Steel Watch, $250 (My favorite MK rose-gold watch is encircled with Swarovski crystals! See it here at Bloomies.) I love how versatile and unexpected the rose-gold color is ; flattering on a variety of skin types!
Michael Kors Jet Set Sports Watch, Gold, $250
These menswear-inspired watches might have just converted me into a watch-girl. Add one to your holiday wish list this season!
Stay chic,
Annie
Mad Hatter
One of my favorite accessories for fall is a wool or felt fedora hat. Easy, current, cool and totally practical. It’s casual chic and ready-to-wear for your day out shopping, running errands, or lunch with friends. This fall, details like studs and feathers are adorning some of last season’s more simple designs.
Some hats I’m mad over:
Eugenia Kim Wool Maxine Feather Fedora, $320
Birthday wish list? Yes, please. I a-dore this olive green number by Aqua, $48
Hollywood Trading Company, Vintage Hat, $264
Bop Basics Floppy Fedora, $78
Another reason I am loving the fabulous fedora? Hello, bad hair day. Throw one of these babies on and – voila! – instantaneous damage control.
What’s not to love?
Stay chic,
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,
Annie
Swimsuits for Every Shape
ACC Style Tips: The best suits for YOUR body
Yes, it’s that time again, but have no fear – problem areas solved!
1. Small-chested: look for details on bikini tops such as ruffles or patterns, which will help create the illusion of curves. A push-up top and extra padding, as well as an underwire, can help lift and create extra cleavage. Halter tops will give you the flexibility of adjusting to create even more lift (triangle-tops are great for smaller chests).
2. Short legs/torso: remember, the higher-cut bottom is your best friend! A swimsuit that is cut higher on the leg will elongate your legs and accentuate your waist. Stay away from boy-shorts & skirted bottoms as they will only truncate your legs – no, thank you. Another great lengthening tip – wear a solid-colored bottom with a patterned top – this will draw the eye up!
3. Voluptuous and/or fuller-figured: a deep V-neckline automatically lengthens your torso and creates a sexy silhouette. Look for suits in darker colors (a monochromatic palette is always slenderizing) as opposed to light pastels. Avoid too much fabric, as “more” sometimes adds unwanted bulk (fit & cut are more important).
4. Large-chested (D/DD & up): Everything But Water and even J.Crew offer swim separates, and this is absolutely the way to go if you’re a D-cup or larger. It’s imperative to look for tops that provide adequate support – an underwire, soft foam cups, halter-top style – at the very least, a shelf bra. Wider straps often provide more support. Stay away from triangle tops as they simply provide minimal support & coverage (don’t want those babies falling out at the pool, do you?)
5. Tummy control/camoflage: if you are insecure about your tummy, try one of the new “Miraclesuits” from Bloomies, or even one of the Spanx swimsuits. With slimming panels and tummy control, these suits help flatten and streamline a curvier middle. Not crazy about a one-piece? Look for a tankini: more tummy coverage, but with a little more exposure, and still totally stylish.
6. Larger on bottom (pear-shaped): look for a smooth, slimming skirt that will cover up any problem areas or imperfections. Ruching also helps to minimize hips (like this skirt from Everything But Water). Again, avoid boy shorts or too many ruffles/details on the skirt, as it will only add unwanted volume. Look for a stream-lined style.
7. Long torso: your body will look more proportionate if you break up your torso line with a two-piece suit. A tankini is a great suit that will balance your top and lower half, while lengthening your legs. Another flattering option to choose this summer: a one-piece with a cut-out in the stomach area.
There’s no reason why you can’t look stylish, sexy and FANTASTIC, regardless of your body type- it’s all about fit, proportion, and the most flattering style for your body. Say no to stodge!
Stay chic,
Annie
Photo credits: 1 via J.Crew; 2 via J.Crew; 3 via Anthropologie; 4 via J.Crew; 5 via Bloomingdales; 6 via Everything But Water; 7 via Victoria’s Secret