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
Guy Style: Suit Up
When it comes to menswear and swim trunks, we’ve reached a consensus over here at A Chic Critique: classic always wins. Although board shorts and hawaiian prints are constantly trending, streamlined, simple cuts in primary colors are what I like to see. Think reds, blues/navy, golden yellows and hunter greens.
Some of my favorites picks for all those hot days by the water:
Mr. Prepster. Boating or yachting around the coast, anyone? Chucs Printed Swim Shorts, $250
Mr. Take It Easy. Polo Ralph Lauren Traveler Volley Swim Shorts, $75
The Guy Next Door. A casual, loose fit perfect for lounging poolside or grilling out at the lake. Vilebrequin Morea Mid-length swim shorts, $170
The Vacationer. Classic cut + a print full of personality. Orlebar Brown, Graphic Print Swim Shorts, $215
The California Boy. Bold, bright and athletic. Polo Ralph Lauren Swim Shorts, $77.78
What’s your swim trunk personality? More of a surfer dude, or a country club cronie?
Looks sharp, guys.
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,
Annie
Secret Garden
Right now I am loving breezy, lightweight knits paired with vintage-inspired key pendants. I find myself drawn to jewelry that marries simplicity and sophistication; these necklaces define that understated elegance.
A) I picked this lovely, versatile stunner out for one of my client’s last week, and we were absolutely crazy over it. Jigsaw-London Brass Key Long Necklace, $115
B) Max & Chloe Clover in Oval Key Necklace, White Gold & Diamond, $397
C) Aurelie Bidermann, Sterling Silver Key Pendant Necklace, $700
D) Three Leaf Clover Key Necklace, Gold, $429
E) Monserat De Lucca, Bird Key Necklace, $64
F) Not2much2Ask Heart Key Necklace, $95
Imagine a minimalist palette – creams, whites, and neutrals – in luxurious and supple fabrics such as cashmere and silk. This Net-A-Porter image does the trick:
Featuring a Calvin Klein cashmere and silk-blend cardigan; Ralph Lauren Black Label Pants; Donna Karan shoes; Bottega Veneta bag
Now imagine that outfit styled to perfection with the addition of a key-pendant necklace – that’s all the statement it needs.
I personally love the “unfinished,” antique-look of the brassier and gold keys. However, for more sparkling eye-candy and ’secret-garden-esque’ inspiration, Tiffany has an exquisite collection of keys always worth perusing.
beautiful.
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
Leaving on a Jet Plane: Chic Luggage
When packing for the holidays, did you:
-
A) stuff all of your belongings carelessly into your worn-out Vera Bradley bag from college (hoping no one noticed the mismatched prints)
-
B) haul out your haggard, old black Samsonite (you got as a wedding gift from your mother in 1980) from the attic, a welcome addition to your “eclectic” luggage collection
-
C) meticulously organize, divide and sort all of your clothing, accessories, and shoes into “outfit of the day” bags, then place into your custom Louis Vuitton
-
D) None of the above
I’d be proud of all of you if you chose “C,” seeing as packing this way not only makes it easier to dress every day (no more hassle tearing up your suitcase to find that other black pump!), it also preserves your clothing. There’s no shame in any of the other answers, of course. I’ll let it be a mystery as to what answer I chose (hint: it’s a combination of a few answers).
How to pack is another post for another day. Today, however? Sophisticated, chic luggage. Why not travel in style? With the copious options available today (in a variety of price points, mind you) there’s no excuse not to own a functional, modern luggage set. The key is to look for a set that comes from a reputable brand, is well-made, and versatile (good luggage will last you for years).
Bric’s X-Bag, Red ($150-175). While it’s tempting to go with prints, they can easily look childish and dated. Stick with a classic neutral, or a bold, rich red, hunter green or navy if you’re aching for color (think primary colors) or have a preppy-bone to itch.
Hartmann “Next Generation” Tweed Collection (pieces ranging from $375-$895) You can’t go wrong with tweed or houndstooth.
Ralph Lauren Cooper Weekender Bag, $3495 Camel-colored leather? Sigh.
Longchamp “Pliage” Luggage (pieces $195-$370) Hands down, one of my favorite luggage and tote designers in the world. Their “Le Pliage” bags are all made of nylon, making them low-maintenance and easy to clean.
J.Crew Globe-Trotter Centenary Suitcase, $1,675. Want something with a vintage vibe?
Prada Trolley, ($2650 each). They are available at three Prada boutiques: New York 57th Street, Phone: (212) 308-2332; New York Broadway, Phone: (212) 334-8888; and Beverly Hills Rodeo Drive, Phone: (310) 278-8661.
Now you know what to ask Santa to bring you next year.
See you in the new year & 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
Ready to Ride
One of my favorite looks from fall 2010 runway shows was the consistent equestrian theme found in the Dior, Hermes & AF Vandervorst collections. The low-heeled “riding boot” is now a ubiquitous trend for fall, and it just so happens that the riding boot is quite a classic style. As fashion is cyclical by nature, this boot has continued to make an appearance. A timeless, leather pair (1/2 inch to 1 inch-heeled) of riding boots will be in your closet for years to come.
AF Vandervorst Fall 2010 – images via here
Christian Dior Fall 2010 – images via here
My picks:
This Ralph pair of riding boots is my favorite choice, hands down. The slight stacked heel gives you just a little bit of height without compromising comfort, and the buckle detailing and cognac color make the boot extremely versatile (camel/cognac leather can easily be paired with black or brown). My birthday is October 9th if anyone would like to oblige. – Ralph Lauren Sahara Riding Boots, $975
Colin Stuart Leather Riding Boot, $148
Frye makes some of the most quality, stylish boots around. A favorite designer of mine! Frye Paige Tall Riding Boot, $348
Tory Burch Patterson Cognac Leather Riding Boot, $495
There are a multitude of ways to style these boots – wear them over leggings with a tunic or a chunky-knit sweater, or over skinny/straight-legged jeans with a blazer and a scarf. The whole point is to show these babies off – not hide them under your jeans.
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.