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Color Block
As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, color is all the rage for summer 2011 – and the brighter and bolder, the better.
Color blocking is basically a design in which colors are juxtaposed next to one another, typically in a symmetrical “blocking” pattern. The result is a visually stimulating and eye-catching color palette: just in time for warm, summer days.
Here are some favorite pieces (click on the image to link to retailer):
Not sure this look is for you? Start small and keep it simple. Stackable rings are current and fresh, and the Kate Spade scarf is a great example of a minimalist approach to color-blocking. Personally, I like the fuschia and coral-peach DVF frock – fun and flirty! Perfect for a rehearsal dinner or summer wedding.
Keep in mind that darker colors minimize and camouflage; lighter colors highlight and emphasize. For example, if you’re bottom-heavy (and want to experiment with color-blocking), opt for a dress/top that’s navy or black on the bottom portion (Milly dress). A bright, light color on top will draw the attention upwards and away from your trouble spots.
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
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
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
Large & In-Charge: Oversized Clutches
Tired of the teeny, tiny clutches of old? Instead of reaching for your hobo bag or leather tote this winter, opt to spring for an unexpected look. Oversized clutches are uber-chic and undoubtedly make a statement: the bigger, the better.
Dries Von Noten
Obsessed with Michelle Trachtenberg’s statement clutch below. Glamorous, modern, and pleasantly unpredictable.
Loving it, too? It’s Reece Hudson’s Oversized Envelope Clutch, $1,020.
Graham & Spencer Suede Foldover Clutch, $137
I love this mediterranean blue – a nice pop of color for your wardrobe in the midst of a drab winter. Inge Christopher Aegean Oversized Flap Clutch, $228
Marni Oversized Embellished Clutch, $1,345
Always a favorite: Marc Jacobs Sandy Quilted Metallic Oversized Leather Clutch, $595
With a little black dress, jeans & a t-shirt, or a fun top & heels, go big and bold.
Stay chic,
Annie
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
Lovely Lace
Lace was ubiquitous in both Fall 2010 and Spring 2011 RTW runway collections this year. I can assure you, your lace dresses and tops will be in your closet for years to come – this is one trend that stands the test of time. Classic and sophisticated, lace is appropriate for all ages. The key to keep in mind is that less is more when wearing lace: remember to keep your accessories and other pieces of clothing simple and complimentary. Don’t compete with the lace (and avoid being too “matchy-matchy” with other lace pieces, shoes, etc).
(Above) The always-beautiful, stylish, and effortless Olivia Palermo. Sweet & demure in a lace frock. image via here
Valentino Spring 2011 RTW; via here
January Jones styled this look perfectly. She keeps her accessories minimal, and her skinny jeans and black pointy-toed pumps simply add polish to the overall look. The lace top speaks for itself. Image via here
Tibi Short-Sleeved Lace Top, $230
Um, there is a reason why I heart Marc Jacobs. YES, PLEASE. Marc by Marc Jacobs Bronte Lace Top, $574. (January is wearing this top in black).
Topshop Long-sleeved Lace top, $80
L’Agence Chantilly Lace Halter, $380
Beyond Vintage Lace Dolman Top, $180
Do:
- Keep the look simple. Lace is intrinsically feminine and fancy, but feel free to balance a lace top with simple jeans and flats. Or pair a lace top with a leather jacket (the juxtaposition of hard and soft is unexpected & current). Another look is to wear a blazer over a lace top for work so as to avoid being “too” sexy in the workplace.
- Choose a classic color (black, navy, cream, off-white). Not only are these colors more timeless – they avoid looking cheap.
Don’t:
- Overdo it. No need to wear a lace top with lace-detailed shoes and lace-covered pants – choose one item and go with it.
- Skimp on the undergarments: always, always wear a cami under a lace top. Baring too much skin is a no-no, Madonna. (No one wants a peep show – keep it in the bedroom, ladies).
I love, love, love lace for fall and winter – so romantic and classic.
Stay chic,
Annie
“You can be my leather, take from me…my lace.” – Stevie Nicks
Mad for Military
I’m not one for focusing on “trends” on my website: I’d rather point my readers and clients to classic, timeless wardrobe essentials that will be in your closet for years to come. Having said that, I’m allowed to deviate from time-to-time for trends that I think are actually recyclable, right? One such piece this fall? The military jacket.
image via here
Marc Jacobs (image via here)
So how do you wear it?
A twill military jacket is perfect for fall because it’s a lightweight outerwear option. Versatile & cool, this jacket can be worn casually with jeans or black pants over a white, basic tee. Dress it up by wearing it over one of your flowy, summer dresses and belting it (yet another way to get a few more weeks of use out of your summer frocks). The olive color works as a neutral so you can use it in a multitude of looks.
My picks:
Burberry Prorsum Military Brass-Button Jacket, $1,795
Juicy Couture Twill Military Jacket, $298
Elizabeth and James Shrunken Military Jacket, $395
Phillip Lim Skylar Twill Military Jacket, $298 – such a chic option.
Sanctuary Military Jacket, $130 – The nipped-in waist and hip-length perfect accentuate and follow the contours of your body. I love the detailing! This is my favie.
All in all – a great piece for your fall wardrobe.
Stay chic,
Annie
Obsessed: Cross-Body Messenger Bags
You know it might be time to try another handbag style when your friends nickname you the “Bag Lady.” Yes, that’s right – The Bag Lady. It’s true: I am an unrelenting lover of all cavernous and delightful hobo bags. While they are certainly practical, they can be a bit cumbersome at times. A refreshing alternative? The oh-so-tiny cross-body messenger bag.
Image via here
Small, unfussy, and perfect for the on-the-go woman, this 80’s throwback is making a comeback. Where a clutch is to night, a messenger bag is to day. Casual and cool, it’s a fun trend* to try for late summer and fall.
Marc by Marc Jacobs Perfect Tavi Cross Body Bag, $348
Linea Pelle Mini Cross Body Bag, $295
Steve by Steve Madden Sofie Cross Body Bag, $88.95
Nine West Tina Small Cross Body, $49
Stay chic,
Annie
*Caveat – I always encourage clients to invest in long-term pieces that are timeless and versatile. Trends are not the place to splurge, in my opinion. I’d opt for the “look for less,” in this case, and splurge on a classic handbag.
5 Summer Must-Haves
This summer, A Chic Critique won’t be going anywhere without:
1. a wide-brimmed hat or fedora
2. 60 SPF oil-free sunscreen for face (I am militant about this, if you know me)
3. a cold libation
4. a super chic cover-up
5. and a F.A.B. pair of over-sized sunglasses (no wrinkles, please!)
You can find me in a hammock on some beach, somewhere. Oh, you know, staying here, of course. Or maybe I’ll be here. You never know these days.
Enter reality.
Whether you’re jet-setting around the country on vacation (does Destin count?), attending summer soirees, or spending time in your humble abode, these pieces will have you looking put-together, polished, and stylish wherever you go!
While this certainly isn’t a comprehensive list by any means, invest in these few staples, and you will have plenty of options to mix-and-match in your closet.
1. White Jeans
Joe’s Jeans White Muse Highrise Bootcut, $172
The building block of a summer wardrobe, virtually anything goes well with white jeans. Sophisticated & chic, whether you pair them with a navy and white striped cotton tee, black silk blouse, or knit jewel-toned top.
My personal favie is the Joe’s Jeans “Honey,” which is the perfect jean for an hourglass shape. If you’ve got a shapely derriere but have a smaller waist, you probably have issues with the waistband gaping. Problem solved! The “Honey” was designed with curvier girls in mind. Thanks, Joe!
2. Knit Dress
Ella Moss Ruffle T-Back Dress, $148
Easy. Comfortable. Versatile. A knit dress is a great day-to-night piece. Dress it up with heels and a lightweight cardigan for work, or dress it down with flat sandals on the weekend for a more casual look. I live in these during the summer.
3. Tribal-Inspired Top
Luxor Tank, $128
Tribal-inspired details and prints are abundant this season. Add some pops of color to your wardrobe with an ethnic-print blouse or a beaded top.
4. Cargo Pants
Joie Mailyn Cropped Cargo Pant, $188
They’re back – and a perfect alternative to jeans. Go casual with flats and a cotton tank or tee, or dressed up with platform heels or a wedges and a silky tank. Jennifer Anniston has the idea. Want something a little more sleek? Try the J.Brand skinny cargo pant.
5. Hobo Bag
MARC by MARC JACOBS Leola Zipped-Detailed Hobo, $498
A rockin’ everyday bag is a must. Enough said.
Stay chic, jetsetters.