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Ocean of Color
Rich, blue-green jewelry is in abundance for spring – signaling the promise of warm weather, vacations and resort-wear ahead. These ocean-inspired jewelry pieces are organic, natural and earth-inspired.
J. Crew Marina Necklace – wear with white jeans! $125
A Peace Treaty, Tubar Ring, $132
The Serenity Stone Necklace, $198, from Stella & Dot (as seen in People Style Watch). 12 carat gold plated, mix of smooth, faceted glass stones and turquoise & dyed jade. A gorgeous, versatile statement piece for summer!
Diya Chandeliers, Anthropologie, $298
Lust-worthy Irene Neuwirth earrings, $3,370
I love how refreshing these shades are: simple, yet classic and sophisticated. Colors like jade, aquamarine, and ocean-blue will complement your neutral basics and really pop against your black and whites for spring!
Stay chic,
Annie
Baby Blues
One point I’m always stressing with clients is the importance of having at least two pairs of tailored, well-made, fitted jeans: one pair hemmed to wear with flats, and one straight or bootleg dark-wash pair hemmed to wear with heels. Of course, once you have those basics, any supplemental pairs are a welcome addition (skinny, trouser, boyfriend, etc.). Many of you collect jeans like shoes!
I like seeing the seasonal twists designers put on this timeless wardrobe staple. One salient trend the last couple of years has been colored or dyed denim/twill jeans – and fortunately, it’s a trend I can endorse, especially when the color is an electric, cobalt blue. A “blue” jean really acts as a neutral, and although these shades are bolder and brighter than your typical denim wash, they can be just as versatile.
Here are some of my picks for winter, transitioning into spring (any of these would be an excellent choice for early pre-spring in February & March).
Gap 1969 Legging Jeans in Blue, $69.95
Paige Denim “Verdugo” Stretch Denim Leggings, $179
J. Crew Toothpick jean in garment-dyed twill, $108
Blue Essence (Nordstrom) Colored Skinny Jean in Cobalt, $98
Here’s how I would style them:
And:
Two of my clients got a pair this week – a great transitional piece for your winter wardrobe.
Stay chic in those baby blues,
Annie
A Flat Note
I love a festive flat for fall, particularly paired with a fitted pair of skinny jeans, a wrap knit cardigan or sweater, and a statement scarf. A classic shoe that will remain in your closet throughout the years and seasons, ballerina flats manage to be effortless and comfortable without sacrificing style. Getting ready to meet a girlfriend for weekend brunch? Run errands? Take your kids to soccer practice? Throw on a pair of jeans, a fitted tee, and a blazer – add a pair of girly or edgy flats – and voila! You’re polished, yet practical.
Olivia Palermo in an all-black ensemble with red, french-sole flats. image via here
While you can’t go wrong with a basic, black, ballerina flat this fall, designers like Lanvin and Valentino are dressing up this staple by adding interesting details like grommets, bows, studs, and beading. Look for elements that will give your outfit that bit of sophistication and eye-catching pizazz.
Here are some of my favies for fall:
Vera Wang Lavendar Landyn (on sale for $189.99). A client of mine recently purchased these feminine Vera’s. Dress up your basics easily!
Lanvin bow-front metallic leather ballerina flats, $595 – With the holidays coming up? Yes.
Ivanka Trump Annul in snake, $79.99. *This is what I like to call an “Annie” pair of flats: pointed toe for an elongated leg, and an ever-so-slight heel.* The metallic goes with everything.
Bottega Veneta patent leather ballerina flats, $490 – Orange patent leather is preppy, yet sassy. A great choice for fall.
J. Crew “Cece” studded leather ballet flats, $138 – A black ballerina updated with gold studs.
Stuart Weitzman “Lastikon” flat, $275. Oh, I just couldn’t resist. You know A Chic Critique loves her leopard.
Don’t hit a flat note this fall with your ballerinas – invest in a pair of statement flats that will enliven any ensemble and showcase your sense of style.
Stay chic,
Annie
*Admittedly, I’m personally not a fan of flat anything, be it a pair of boots or ballerinas; however, it should be noted this isn’t because I don’t APPROVE of or love flats – I absolutely do. I think they’re darling and extremely chic, especially on petite, tall, or leggy clients. You’ve heard me say not every trend or style is for every body-type, and my body (which happens to be voluptuous, hourglass, and average height) is most flattered by a heel, however so slight. I’m a sucker for heels.
Coat of Arms
One must-have in your fall and winter wardrobe is a classic, wool overcoat. Fortunately, there are a host of sophisticated options in a variety of price points from which to choose from this season. From tailored trenches to single-breasted, belted numbers to timeless double-breasted peacoats, a well-made, warm, and versatile winter coat is both a functional necessity and a stylish statement.
Tips to keep in mind when shopping for a coat:
- A slightly flared A-line or tiered skirt will add curves to a boyish or athletic figure (narrow-hipped).
- A double-breasted (two rows of buttons) coat will enhance a smaller bustline.
- Ruffles or a gathered collar will add shape to a straight figure.
- If you’re voluptuous or curvy, a “bathroom-robe” style coat will highlight your small waist and define your hourglass shape.
- If you’re pear-shaped, detailing at the neckline will help draw the eye away from your torso and bottom, as will an empire-waist seam.
- If you’re petite, stay away from floor or ankle lengths, as they will easily overwhelm your frame.
- A single-breasted, A-line coat with streamlined, narrow lapels and contoured seaming is universally flattering.
Need List
J. Crew doublecloth metro coat, $298 – This coat is a favorite for clients of mine. Affordable and well-made, it also comes in a variety of bright colors. I love the oasis green and royal purple for fall; a coat is a great place to inject some COLOR into your winter wardrobe palette.
Michael Michael Kors wool-blend peacoat, $250. Can’t go wrong with a classic navy peacoat.
J. Crew Wool blend townhouse trench coat, $350
Want-List
Sonia by Sonia Rykiel Wool & Cashmere blend coat, $800. This color is unusual and fun.
Vanessa Bruno Athe collarless wool-blend coat, $680. This coat would work with trouser pants and a blouse for work, and just as easily with jeans and flats. The seam at the waistline nips in your waist, and who doesn’t want that?
Sonia by Sonia Rykiel Wool & Cashmere Blend coat, $765
Lust-List
Ralph Lauren Collection “Alexandria” camel hair coat, $4,900. A camel hair coat to last a lifetime.
Valentino Belted Wool & Silk blend coat, $3,980. Winter white is a DO.
Gucci Wool & cashmere-blend military coat, $3,590
Charcoal, camel, heather gray, navy, black and winter white are timeless choices; they’ll each complement any color palette as well as every ensemble. However, nothing is more striking than a bold, beautiful pop of color near your face, so my suggestion this season is to experiment with a colored piece of outerwear – think sumptuous jewel tones!
Stay chic,
Annie
Capetown
Fall 2011 runway shows were peppered with variations on the cape, from edgy Rag & Bone ponchos to sophisticated leather pieces and fringed numbers from L’Agence. When it comes to outerwear, you have a plethora of options to choose from this season.
Fall 2011: J.Crew; DKNY; Rag & Bone
Tommy Hilfiger (1, 2), YSL, Zero + Maria Cornejo
A Chic Critique likes:
Diane von Furstenberg “Holmes” Cape, $695
Calvin Klein Belted Cape, $148
L’ Agence Fringed Cape, $595
Vince Camuto Button-neck Cape, $195
Here’s how I’d style the L’ Agence one:
The material and cut of the cape will inform how you wear it. If it’s more of a structured, heavy wool coat (like the Calvin Klein number), you can wear it over a dress with tights, or even jeans or trousers. The black DVF cape would look beautiful over a sheath dress and tights for work, for example. If it’s more of a “poncho” sweater cut (drapey), you can wear it over leggings.
While this style isn’t for everyone, I think it’s an interesting take on traditional outerwear (trenches, peacoats, etc.).
Stay chic,
Annie
Get the Look: Midnight in Paris
Have you seen “Midnight in Paris” yet? I tend to empathize so much with the romantic ideals of the lead protagonist – who doesn’t love the idea of dancing with Zelda and Scott Fitzgerald? Dining with Dali? Critiquing literature with Gertrude Stein? Discussing prose with Ernest Hemingway? Arguing with Picasso? Brushing shoulders with the likes of Degas and Gauguin?
The latest film from iconic director Woody Allen doesn’t disappoint: neither does the cinematography, costume design and visual styling. The film’s costume designer, Sonia Grande, said (when referring to Rachel McAdam’s character, Ines):
“Ines is one of those women who comes from a rich and privileged world, one of those bourgeois women that exist in any one of our ‘globalized’ first world countries. She has the good taste that comes from an easy access to information and economic capacity or refinement, but perfectly recognizes fashion trends.”
Designers who Grande used to dress the contemporary Ines were Dior, Isabael Marant, Chopard, Chanel, and Hermes. Almost instantaneously, I started obsessing with the Chanel “Grand Shopping” tote bag that Ines carried in almost every scene – swoon! McAdam’s character lived in simple shirt-dresses, platform heels & espadrilles, wool jackets, jeans and hip-slung belts the entire time she was visiting Paris. Her collection of Chanel goodies were enough to squeal over.
Want to get Ines’ look?
Classic and simple, yet polished and sophisticated. Do you like her chic Parisian-tourist look?
Annie
Stylish Shoulder Satchels
Stylish shoulder satchels. Can you say that three times fast?
Versatile, low-maintenance, and polished, a shoulder strap bag is more compact and less bulky than it’s cousin, the hobo. It’s classic and sophisticated, so will perfectly accentuate a dressy, pulled-together look (i.e. pencil skirt, heels, etc.) for the office; however, it just as easily pairs well with jeans and a t-shirt.
I’ve rounded up some of my favorite shoulder-strap bags for fall. Whether you’re into luxe or just the luxe-look, these bags are sure to whet your fashion appetite.
Sabina Leather Flap Shoulder Bag, $129.50
Originally $200 at Nordstrom, this beauty is on sale – and for a killer price. You’ve heard me state one of my fashion rules incessantly: always buy real leather and say NO to pleather. This bag is proof that you don’t have to break the bank for a quality, well-made handbag. Check out the variety of colors it comes in.
Love the tassel and boxy shape on this next one:
Gucci Marrakech Medium Leather shoulder bag, $1,990
Mulberry Lily Leather Shoulder Bag, $750
I was in J. Crew shopping with a client the other day, and I almost keeled over when I saw Miss Edie (see below) hanging out on a mannequin. Hello, lovely:
I’ve already convinced one client to get the Brompton hobo bag (a versatile classic in my opinion); however, the Edie is a bit smaller and more “lady-like,” according to J.Crew. This polished, boxy carryall has a shoulder strap that makes it the perfect on-the-go bag. The best part? It will easily transition into fall. I’m loving the burnt red (“flame”) and camel (“pecan”) colors. For $238, you’re getting a timeless wardrobe staple.
Miu Miu Small Leather Satchel, $1350
Are you a bag lady like me?
Stay chic,
Annie
Loving NOW: Eddie Borgo
Have you seen Eddie Borgo’s jewelry line for J. Crew? It’s kind of delicious. Rock-and-roll meets elegant sophistication in the latest collaboration between Borgo and J.Crew.
“To celebrate the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund award runner-up Eddie Borgo, we’re excited to present a six-piece, limited edition collection made exclusively for J.Crew. Each punky yet polished accent captures Eddie’s signature take on street style and was created to earn his cult following some new recruits.” – J. Crew website
I. must. have. that. fringe. necklace.
I adore the juxtaposition of materials: raw, yet polished, feminine, yet edgy. Leather cuffs and bows adorned with grommets? A tassel fringe pendant paired with a pearl strand? Talk about interesting, one-of-a-kind jewelry that makes a statement (well-done, J.Crew, well-done). J. Crew has dubbed Eddie’s design aesthetic “rock-chic.”
In case you haven’t had enough, third time’s the charm. Eddie Borgo at J.Crew Fringed Mesh Pocket Necklace, $175
Like what you see? If so, you can peruse the entire collection, purchase, and gawk to your heart’s delight here. Now’s the time to strike – the collection is only available for a limited time, and according to my friends at J. Crew, they’re selling out quick!
Stay chic,
Annie
The LWD (Little White Dress)
Summer is an ideal time to show off your bronzed legs and arms – why not in a lovely white frock? The little white dress (LWD) is quickly becoming another wardrobe must and style staple. Chic, elegant and polished, white dresses are unfussy and sophisticated. Whether you opt for a cocktail dress or a day dress, make no mistake: you can’t go wrong with white.
Bright “white, white” is a hard color to pull off, but it can be done. Winter whites and off-whites look beautiful against a peaches and cream complexion (pink undertones), whereas those with olive and golden undertones in their skin can typically pull off a “bleached” white. Self-tanner, anyone?
image credit: 1; 2; 3; 4
Splendid stretch cotton & modal-blend T-shirt dress, $110
Versatile t-shirt dresses and simple knits like this (above) should be at the core of your wardrobe. White goes well with a tan, as well as bold, bright accessories (i.e. a clutch or sandals).
Tibi sequin-embellished asymmetric silk dress, $375
Get your party on in this rockin’ white number by Tibi (the sequin detailing is to die for).
Elizabeth and James Anita Kimono Maxi Dress, $485
Put this E&J on my lust-list. A dreamy, easy, vacation piece.
Antik Batik Embroidered Cotton Dress, $245
+ platform chunky sandals & bangles.
Mui Mui Ruffled cady shift dress, $903
The ruffle adds an unexpected touch and sophisticated polish to a basic shift dress. I love this for a going-away dress after a wedding, or for an engagement party.
J. Crew Heirloom Cotton Dress, $495
Annie
Bow Tie Love
What comes to mind when you think of bow ties? Charming. Quirky. Smart. Preppy. Whatever adjective you might use to describe these timeless neckties, it can’t be argued that they remain a classic style staple for men. 
Photos via: the Sartorialist; trendycrew; flickr; sebastian; suitupplease; 500daysofbowties; dollydotgirl; fashion indie
What I find most appealing about bow ties is how versatile and adaptable they are to a man’s lifestyle and sense of style. Regardless of your fashion aptitude, the bow tie you wear is indicative of your personality and preferences. Are you the bookish, intellectual type? Artsy and eccentric? Conventional and old-school? Perhaps you scorn trends and gravitate towards the basics.
The consensus here at A Chic Critique is that bow ties are a major do – at a wedding, for work, for play, for a date, for a show, for studying, dates, and derby days. I love one paired with a formal, fitted suit, or worn casually with a blazer and jeans; I also think they look cool and effortless paired with suspenders. However you style them – uptown businessman, or downtown hipster – don’t try too hard. Let the bow tie simply enhance your attire, not overtake it.
J. Crew Thin Stripe Bow Tie, $49.50
Polo Ralph Lauren Handblock Bow Tie, $70
Carrot & Gibbs Silk Bow Tie, $59.50
Brooks Brothers Link Print Bow Tie, $55
Blending modern sensibility with old-school style: that’s a bow tie for you.
Look sharp,