Search A Chic Critique
Custom SearchConnect With Me
Archives
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
Python Panache
Chloe, 2011-2012 Fall & Winter runway – images via here
I’ve been inspired by this young woman from Stockholm Streetstyle. Notice how she pairs a tailored, streamlined python pencil skirt with basics: navy blue pumps, a simple leather handbag, and most importantly, an understated, neutral knit top. The neckline and the top don’t compete for attention with the print, and her statement necklace is the perfect accessory. The result? The python print isn’t overdone and manages to look very sleek and polished. I’d like to “copy and paste” this outfit onto a couple of clients.
Here are some python pieces for your perusal (try saying that three times fast):
Valentino Python bag, $3,845
Of Two Minds Sago Suede Trim skirt, $262
Chloe two-tone elaphe pumps, $695
Parker Batwing Dress, $253
This Parker dress is gorg! I’d pair it with a leather jacket, pumps, and black opaque tights for a date night. Substitute a blazer for the leather jacket and you’re office-chic in no time.
All Saints bleach Python scarf, $150
MICHAEL Michael Kors python printed skirt, $79.50
Mix it up a little with some python this fall and winter – I dare you.
Stay chic,
Annie
Go Shortie, It’s your Birthday
I won’t lie – I’m constantly compiling a “want-list” (or should I say, “need-list”). We all do it, don’t we? However, this time I’m giving myself an excuse to publish this indulgent pastime: my birthday is just around the corner, and I’m in the market for some fall goodies.
Bernardo Zip Front Leather Jacket from Nordstrom
Hello, lover. This sandstone gray is a refreshing neutral choice for fall. Marc by Marc Jacobs Totally Turnlock Helene Leather Tote
Lordane Leaf Earrings from Mimi (private label). Obsessed. Have you shopped Taigan yet?
I have been on a major oversized watch kick the last year. Add this Michael Kors Oversized Chronograph Goldtone watch (44 mm) to my collection, please.
Mixing gold & silver is so current – plus, I have had my eye on these beauties for a while. Losselliani Feather & Rhinestone Stacked Rings
A girl can never have enough leopard print-anything.
A Tolani Leopard Scarf? Safe to say I would wear the spots out of this thing. A must-have accessory for your fall & winter wardrobe!
I’ve also been oogling this “Willis” Coach classic bag, seen displayed by blogger & fashionista Blair Eadie here:
Uber-versatile, no? The perfect everyday bag for fall.
What’s on your fall wish list?
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
Style Face-off: Leather vs. Pleather
From a very early age I acquired a taste for quality and the “finer” things, much to the chagrin of my parents. Deviating from the protestant values of modesty and simplicity they attempted to ingrain in me, I developed a refined palette for luxury. As a young girl, I wasn’t content with anything “faux;” an artificial replacement might as well be considered blasphemous in my eyes. Case in point: a “fake” Kate Spade for one teenage Christmas resulted in a complete and total prepubescent unraveling (cue screenshot – “THIS is a fake. I want the real thing!”)
Humor aside, as an adult woman and wardrobe consultant these days- I must confess my sentiments remain unaltered. By no means am I a designer, brand, or pricetag snob; I am, however, a slave to quality, construction, and well-made clothing. I stand firmly by the belief that fine, timeless clothing and accessories are well-worth the investment. While I understand the temptation to get “the look for less,” some items are simply irreplaceable.
One such example? Leather.
When it comes to fashion do’s and don’ts, pleather is an absolute DON’T. Yes, it’s cheap and affordable – but with the skimpy price tag, you’re paying for what you get. If it’s shockingly inexpensive, it most likely looks and feels that way. Real leather is sumptuous, durable, and long-lasting. My advice? Stick to leather, and avoid pleather like the plague. Way harsh, you say? I think not.
While it’s rare to find authentic leather jackets under $200, post-holidays provide a plethora of steals and sales on leather. Now’s the time to strike! You don’t have to spend a fortune on authentic, quality pieces – you just have to be a patient, smart shopper.
Deals:
DKNY Quilted Leather Scuba Jacket, $149.97 (was $350)
Michael Kors Quilted Leather Jacket, $159.90 (was $278)
BB Dakota Avery Leather Jacket, $209
Lust-Worthy:
White House/Black Market Perforated Leather Jacket, $348. This shell pink / flesh-tone is oh-so-beautiful.
Sword Biella Leather Jacket, $682
Hello, camel. I think I’m in LOVE. Vince Motocross Leather Jacket, $845.
Say no to pleather, ladies; be a smart investor when it comes to shopping!
Stay chic,
Annie
Gorgeous Gifts for Her
A Chic Critique has put together some favorite gifts as a guide for all the ladies in your life – whether it be a girlfriend, mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, wife, or sister.
The Perfect Hostess Gift
I have been a devoted fan of Seda France candles for almost ten years now. At only $29 for a large candle, these delicious-smelling votives come in darling, toile “pagoda” boxes – almost too pretty to unwrap! Favorites? The Holiday scent (pictured here) & nutmeg vanilla.
The Perfect Stocking Stuffers
NARS “Follow the Boys” Lipgloss Set, $40 (Can’t say enough about NARS. You must convert. Now.)
Tocca Bar Soaps, $12 each (grandmother / mom / mother-in-law will swoon).
The Perfect Sweet-Smelling Gift
Michael Kors 3.4 oz Eau de Parfum Spray, $92 – I’m in love with this perfume, and it often competes with this one for my attention. Smell it & see why – feminine & breezy, with a intriguing, sexy twist. Perfect for your mother, wife or girlfriend.
The Perfect Gifts for your Gadget-Loving Girl
Tory Burch “Alice” Quilted Leather Labtop Case, $250 – Say goodbye to the old “blah” black laptop case & she will be the envy of every co-worker with this sophisticated piece.
Burberry I-pad Case, $475 – Every fashionable girl needs a sleek case for carrying an I-pad, and the bright yellow is so mod.
The Perfect Universally-Pleasing Gift
Polaroid 300 Instant Camera, $90, instant film ($10) – I adore this vintage throwback camera! No need for an I-phone app – get the real thing.
The Perfect Luxe Gifts
Crumpet Hooded Cashmere Sweater, $375 – Nothing says luxury more than a timeless & classic cashmere sweater. A beautiful investment for any woman’s wardrobe & a staple in her closet for years to come.
Chloe Paraty Leather Bag, $1895 – Spoil the high-maintenance loved one in your life. Or let Santa spoil YOU.
The Perfect Gifts for Pampering
You certainly can’t go wrong with a feminine, soft print robe. Josie Season of Love Print Robe, $88
My pick for mother? A shearling-lined TB slipper: chic AND comfortable. Tory Burch Coley Suede Slipper, $128
The Perfect Gift for your Best Gal friend (or your girlfriend)
What’s she into? Wine? Interior Design? Fashion? Photography? Buy a great coffee table book for her apartment: always fodder for conversation & fun to peruse. Or buy her a year’s subscription to her favorite magazine. She’ll love you for it.
Grace: Thirty Years of Fashion at Vogue (price ranges)
Happy shopping!
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
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
How about a nice Birkin bag?
image via here
Image via here
Ah, the elusive and iconic Birkin bag, ala Hermes. Retailing at more than $10k for exotic materials such as crocodile skin, this exclusive hand-made bag with gold-plated hardware can only be found in limited quantities in certain Hermes boutiques. A favorite standard of celebrities such as Olivia Palermo (1st picture), Victoria Beckham (2nd), Nicole Richie, and Julia Roberts (to name a few), the exquisite Birkin bag is one many of us can only covet and dream about. If the price-tag seems a bit daunting, never fear: I have found a few look-alikes for those of us that prefer a more economical choice!
$198, via Brown Shoes This is probably the most similar in shape & style to the Birkin.
Michael Kors “Hamilton,” $398, black leather
Mulberry Bayswater, $950
An essential for every woman’s closet is a versatile, go-with-everything everyday bag. A tote (like one of these) is ideal because it can accomodate your keys, palm/blackberry/i-phone, day-planner, makeup bag, notebook, etc. while still being stylish & utilitarian. Perfect for work or play!
Stay chic,