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party frockin’
It’s the most wonderful time of the year…when the parties start flowing, and everyone’s shopping for dresses we cheer! Holiday fetes, soirees, and celebrations are just around the corner. What’s in your closet?
Here are some of my favorite party frocks to ring in the holidays, be it a work function, engagement party, family Christmas dinner, or just an upscale Thanksgiving get-together with friends. Whatever cocktail dress you end up sporting, here’s something to keep in mind. Remember to pair your dress with a pair of black opaque tights (a must for holiday attire). Legs need to be covered this time of year, plus, opaque tights are universally slenderizing, leg-lengthening, and flattering – who doesn’t love that? You’ll look classic and sophisticated, the epitome of holiday polish and style.
A) Trina Turk Lowell Silk Dress, $385
B) Shoshanna Draped Bodice Strapless Dress, $395
C) Parker Bugle Bead Dress, $319
D) Rachel Zoe Audrey Organza Dress, $395
E) Tibi Damask Jacquard Dress, $440
F) MM Couture Lace Mini Dress, $98
A new dress not in the budget? Saving money for Christmas gifts? Never fear! A little innovation is all you need. A “little black dress” re-vamped for 2011 is an easy and affordable way to get the most out of your cocktail attire. To update your favorite LBD, simply invest in a killer pair of glamorous chandelier or drop statement earrings, or even a jeweled collar necklace (in ruby red, emerald green, or black). Diamonds are a girl’s best friend this time of year, and a little bling around your wrist or neck will simply enhance your black frock. No one will even know it’s been recycled from last year if you add a metallic pair of gold heels, or perhaps a sexy pair of red peep-toe pumps. Invest in sophisticated holiday accessories, and wear your (gently) used black cocktail dress from last year – and just like that, what’s old has been made new.
To mistletoe, eggnog, thanksgiving dinners, and family!
Stay chic,
Annie
Go 4th with Style
Happy 4th of July weekend, fashionable readers. What are your go-to essentials for a hot holiday vacay?
4th of July weekend Getaway packing list:
A) BCGeneration Aztec, $98 (perfect for toting around your sunnies & magazines or book club read)
B) Aubin & Wills striped cotton tank, $70 (a classic)
C) Steve Alan Carla straw fedora, on sale for $75.60 (stylish and a skin-protector)
D) Missoni Hugo Beach Towel, $205 (Missoni is a print-master)
E) J Brand low-rise rigid denim shorts, $150 (easy & cool)
F) La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 60, $29.50 (voted best sunscreen in Allure for 2011. Say no to wrinkles & sun damage!)
G) Sunnies – my favorites right now are any of Karen Walker’s. “Perfect Day Crazy Tortoise,” $210, by KW
H) Tibi silk crepe de chine playsuit, $300 (sophisticated and effortless, yet casual). Pair with some gladiators or flats like these:
I) Dolce Vita Bree, $130
J) Melissa Odabash Equador Bandeau Bikini, $170 (bright & uber-chic)
K) Dolce Vita Idalia, $99
image via google
Happy 4th of July! Have fun and be safe – and don’t forget to 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
Pinterest: Take Cover
My new obsession? Pinterest. As a stylist and fashion-enthusiast, I’m constantly poring over magazines and high-fashion blogs. All of my magazines are doggy-eared, folded, and torn up. I have stacks of articles and pictures I’ve tacked to my huge corkboard for my business, and my computer desktop is overwhelmed with inspiration folders entitled, “Summer Trends,” “Resort Wear,” “Wedding Inspiration,” and “Client “X”, etc.
Pinterest takes my love of magazines, photo-journalism, fashion, and collective-itis and merges them into one: I can now create virtual “pin-boards” and keep them all in one place. For someone so visually-oriented, this takes the phrase “creative outlet” to a whole new level. Sheer genius, and uber-addicting.
One of my first boards is for summer cover-ups. I love these breezy kaftans and tunics for poolside lounging and stylish sun-bathing. Resort-wear, here we come!
Anthro “Fade Into Green Cover Up,” $118
Missoni Zigzag Crochet Playsuit, $760
Vix Ikat Vintage Cover Up, $242
Nanette Lepore Crochet Dress, $173
Lotta Stensson Tie Dye Maxi Kaftan, $515
DVF Printed Short Dress, $195
Tibi Beaded Drape Silk Dress, $297
To see more comments and thoughts on these summer cover-ups, click here – and feel free to follow A Chic Critique on Pinterest as I collect photos and style inspiration. In fact, start pinning yourself. Watch out – once you start, you can’t stop.
Stay chic, pinners.
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
Haute Hats & Horses
The Kentucky Derby and Steeplechase are just around the corner! If you live in the Southeast, this means that it’s time to begin considering what you’ll wear – more importantly, what hat?
Keep in mind, if you’re in the clubhouse/paddock section (the seated area), the dress code is a bit more elegant and refined: think classic silhouettes and fabrics, elegant sheaths, and timeless frocks. Of course, a sophisticated wide-brim hat is a must for the races, not only as a fashion statement, but as a shield from the hot sun. If you’re in the infield, I would suggest wearing wedge, platform or espadrille sandals so your heel doesn’t become stuck in the ground (tripping and falling is not a good look for anyone).
Audrey Hepburn’s character in My Fair Lady, Eliza Doolittle, epitomized both grace, elegance and style in her now famous costume at the Ascot Races in the film. This movie is exquisite from both a design and creative perspective: the costuming is tailored and executed to perfection! Eliza serves as my inspiration for Derby style.
A black and white palette is timeless and chic. You can always accent your hat and dress with pops of color (red and pink are especially eye-catching). Image via here.
A modern interpretation: I love this look – hair is soft and natural, and the bold red lip perfectly accentuates her black and white ensemble. Sheer elegance. (image via here)
Remember that your dress should compliment your hat, and vice-versa; they don’t have to be too matchy-matchy, but in general, the color scheme should be harmonious. Also, keep the laws of proportion in mind. If your dress is elaborate, keep the hat a bit more simple and understated. Conversely, if you’re wearing an ostentatious, elaborate hat (plumes, feathers, bows, color), keep the dress simple so it doesn’t compete.
This spring is all about feminine details – polka dots, floral prints, and bows.
Some outfit inspirations:
From left to right:
Oufit 1: D&G Silk Gauze Dress, $4,511; Jacques Vert Shell Pink Flower Hat; Vivienne Westwood Beige Snake Clutch, $231; Lanvin Bow Pumps, $795
Outfit 2: Plaza Suite Ines Hat, $178; L.A.M.B. Nude Cahoot Pump, $295; Tiffany City Clutch, $795; Suzannah Tulip Cocktail Dress
Outfit 3: D&G Mimosa Print Pleated Dress; Christian Louboutin Nude Plume, $595; Scala Brynn Singer Hat, $88; White Chanel Flap Bag, $3,850
Outfit 4: Paul & Joe Sister Polka Dot Dress, $310; Yves Saint Laurent Venice Wedge Sandals, $1,195; Plaza Suite Penelope Hat, $178; Kotur Lamotte Natural Clutch, $540
Other places to find fabulous “horsing around” frocks: Tibi; Milly; Tracy Reese; Lilly Pulitzer. I would encourage you to check out these websites to find some perfect dresses for this day of mojitos and racing . Tibi, Milly and Tracy Reese are a few of my favorite designers!
These two much-anticipated spring events are ideal opportunities to showcase your sense of style. Have fun and stay chic!
Annie
Looking for hats in the Nashville area? Try Monkee’s in the Hill Center – or any TJ Maxx for great deals!
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
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
Spring Florals Pt. 2: Tops
I can’t get enough of floral prints for spring, and guess what? Neither can designers. From Tibi and D&G, to Rebecca Taylor and DVF, flowery prints (think orchids & peonies) are adorning dresses and blouses alike. In keeping with the 1970’s wave of nostalgia, flowing, bohemian peasant style-tops are very current for spring.
Remember: keep your proportions and body-type in mind as you shop and style yourself for warmer weather. While voluminous tops are of-the-moment, they can easily camouflage curves and add unwanted bulk. If you’re on the curvier side, a cinch belt should be your best friend. Avoid looking frumpy – highlight that slender waist and hourglass figure with a belt. A stylist’s best kept secret is the cinch belt (hint, hint).
Some lovelies to peruse:
Rebecca Taylor Meadow Silk Floral Printed Blouse, (was $275, now $220)
Tibi Genevieve Floral Print Silk Blouse, $112.50 (was $250)
Blue Moon Under the Tuscan Sun Top, $136
Tracy Reese Waves & Orchids Pintucked Blouse, $298
What Goes Around Comes Around Anais Peasant Top, $220
Dolce & Gabbana Off-the-Shoulder Peony Top, $400. I have a “thing” for tops and dresses that are off-the-shoulder – an unexpected way to look sexy by baring your shoulders without overdoing the cleavage. Yes, please!
Sunner Montage Floral Top, on sale for $99.97
With white jeans and wedge sandals, or dark skinny jeans and flat boots, a sweet and silky, floral peasant top smells of spring.
Stay chic,
Annie
Brights of Spring
If you haven’t already gotten the March issue of Elle, I’d encourage you to: as the cover suggests, COLOR is back for spring! Although 70’s neutrals and sheer whites are also on the horizon for warmer weather this year, spring collections are replete with pops of bright, bold colors – fuschias, neon pinks, lemon and citron yellows, turquoise and teal blues.
Miss Katy Perry looking fierce and glamorous on the March cover of Elle (note the combination of two dominant trends for spring: 70’s and color). Talk about being a “firework.”
Jewel tones and brights are uber-flattering on a multitude of skin tones. Neon pinks and citron yellows look fantastic and stunning against dark complexions. Medium to olive skin tones will notice that deep, rich jewel tones (emerald green, plum, teal) instantly brighten your appearance. If you have fair skin, purples and coral/bubblegum pinks, as well as true turquoises, will highlight your coloring and give you that “wow” factor. Color says: look at me!
Some ACC color inspiration:
a) Temperley London Mini-Marcia Embellished Silk-Chiffon Dress, $1,395
b) Naven Party Dress, $374
c) Tibi Bead-Embellished Silk Dress, $385
d) French Connection Bex Beads Tunic Dress, $228
e) Tibi One-Shouldered Silk Chiffon Dress, on sale for $189!
f) Herve Leger Jacquard Bandage Dress, $1,950
g) Rebecca Taylor Simply Shirt Dress, $350
h) Jil Sander Market Leather Bag, $895
i) Tory Burch Reva Satin Clutch, $295
Don’t be afraid to mix-and-match and combine colors together; the more, the merrier.
Stay chic,