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Leopard Love
To say I have an affinity for leopard prints would be a gross understatement: this woman is obsessed. Nothing reeks of sophistication more. Leopard prints have a classic edge to them, a timeless appeal that transcends fleeting trends and fashions. I would argue that any leopard piece you invest in – be it a clutch, cashmere twinset, or pumps – will be in your closet for a lifetime, blending seamlessly with almost every ensemble. Fashion’s greatest style mavens and icons have delighted in and donned this chic print for years, not the least of which include Jackie O., Kate Moss, and Audrey Hepburn.
Image via here
This fall, in keeping with all the leopard love, the go-to accessory is a statement bag or clutch. If you're apprehensive about trying this print, keep in mind leopard doesn't have to read as kitchsy (you're not wearing it head-to-toe). Start small. I like to throw a pop of it against all black or neutrals - think camels, whites, grays. Here are my favorite bags:
A) Jimmy Choo Crocodile effect leather & calf hair clutch, $1,350
B) Valentino Double Handle Shoulder Bag, $2,575
C) Vince Camuto "Kate" Flap Bag, $158
D) Emilio Pucci Leopard print Flap Bag, $1,990
E) Miu Miu Leopard print calf-hair shoulder bag, $2,250
For the "luxe" look for less, check out this, this, and this (all under $150!) one.
I like to think of my Grandma Laura wearing leopard - I vaguely remember her leopard shoulder bags and coat. Fashion fades, but style is eternal, according to Yves Saint Laurent. Words to live by!
Stay chic,
Annie
Black + White
A black and white palette is clean, modern and refreshingly appropriate for summer. I love the chic simplicity of these two basic colors paired together – minimalism at it’s best.
Here are some of my favorite B&W pieces:
From the top, from left: 1st row: Diane Von Furstenberg, Jersey & Silk Chiffon Dress, $345; Viktor & Rolf Tuxedo Suiting Blazer, $1,395; French Connection Summer Thistle Dress, $128
2nd row, from left: Pippa Basket-Wrap Skirt, $148; Oscar de la Renta Ruffled Silk and Modal-blend Dress, $3,490; Phillip Lim Calder T-Strap Pump, $850
3rd row from left: Moschino Cheap & Chic Boucle Wool Blend Jacket, $1,395; Rachel Pally for Piperlime, Zuma Top, $87; Yves Saint Laurent Lucky Chyc Canvas Medium Tote, $895
From the splash of white on the lapel of the Viktor & Rolf tuxedo jacket, to the jagged black and white striped, flirty DVF frock, these aren’t your predictable, tried B&W designs. Fortunately, black and white has a way of flattering a multitude of skin colors. With pops of red (or even turquoise) accessories, you’ll look polished and sophisticated. What’s more timeless than a black and white ensemble with fire-engine pumps or a cherry-hued clutch?
Stay chic,
Annie
Mother’s Day Gift Guide
It’s time for marked adoration, sweet treats and doting on the women who matter most in our lives. Whether your mother (or wife) is an on-the-go businesswoman, a homebody, a fashionista, or a bookworm, here are some goodies bound to lavish her. Need a little last-minute shopping inspiration? It’s never too late.
DVF Labtop Case, $150
Tilo Leopard Print Scarf, $140
Barefoot Dreams Cozy Chic Robe, $98
Smashbox Softbox Eyeshadow Palette, $48
L’Occitane Shea Butter Ultra Rich Body Cream, $39
Gwynnie’s new cookbook! My Father’s Daughter, $15.42
Yves Saint Laurent Arty Gold-Plated Glass Ring, $250
Or, of course, you can always give her a custom wardrobe edit, style consultation or personal shopping trip with A Chic Critique. What mother wouldn’t like a style makeover? Email annie@achiccritique.com for more information and for a special gift certificate. 10% off, just for Mother’s Day.
Stay chic, and love on those mommas of yours.
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!
Concealer 101
“Hi Annie! Can you recommend some of your favorite concealers? I’ve yet to find one that isn’t runny or cake-like, and the problem at my age is that concealer starts to set in lines underneath my eyes. Help!” ~ Beth, Nashville, 54
If you know me, you know I can be a bit anal retentive about concealing: especially my under-eye area. I’m vigilant about covering up the purple-ish tones I have, and am constantly scouring the market for a product that does the trick. It’s rare I find concealers that don’t cake, or don’t give me that “white” look underneath my eye (mismatched skin tones).
ENTER: Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat, $40 (pronounced “two-shh ee-claw”)
What it is:
A luminizing pen that brings light and radiance to the skin, immediately erases any signs of fatigue, and brightens the complexion.
What it does:
Loved by models, makeup artists, celebrities, and women everywhere, the award-winning Yves Saint Laurent TOUCHE ÉCLAT Radiant Touch is like eight hours of sleep and an instant pick-me-up in a magic wand. With a few strategically placed strokes of TOUCHE ÉCLAT, the complexion immediately looks rested, rejuvenated, and radiant.
What else you need to know:
TOUCHE ÉCLAT banishes shadows and tired-looking eyes by adding light and creating an instant lift to the eye area. TOUCHE ÉCLAT widens eyes when used between the eyebrows and along the sides of the nose, and creates fuller looking lips when used in the hollow of the chin and around the contour of the lips. It’s formulated for all skin types and for anyone who wants instant radiance, luminosity, and lift. ~ From the Sephora Website
Ladies, I couldn’t have said it better myself. This product is goddess-divine. Yes, it’s a bit pricey, but I have found myself recommending it relentlessly – and for good reason. It’s lightweight, yet manages to provide the perfect amount of coverage underneath the eyes without the dreaded “caking” effect. Who wants to use an under-eye concealer only to find it further emphasizes fine lines and wrinkles? No, thank you. The T.E. also acts as a highlighter, brightening your eyes and giving you that coveted “wide-awake” look, while simultaneously camouflaging blue-ish/purplish under-eye tones. This is, hands down, an ACC favorite, #1, highly-recommended product.
Other Honorable Mentions:
Laura Mercier Secret Concealer, $22
From the LM website: Laura Mercier Secret Concealer is a moisture-rich concealer designed specifically for under and around the eye area to conceal discolourations and dark circles.
A great, all-around, all-over concealer – for those problem areas, redness, blotchy skin, or a break-out. A bit thicker for moderate to maximum coverage. Creamy and gentle underneath the eyes – apply with a concealer brush or gently blot with your finger.
Bobbi Brown’s Essential Foundation Stick, $40
From the BB website: Bobbi’s innovative Foundation Stick is designed for portability and adjustable coverage. Easy to apply and blend all over the face or just where you need it. For all skin types, except very oily.
I’ve been using the BB Foundation Stick since high school, and it still remains a favorite; this was my “original” under-eye concealer. I never saw an ounce of blue or purple peek through when using this stick! Again, it’s an excellent all-over concealer, and a bit more matte than the Laura Mercier.
These are my suggestions and favorite products. What are your go-to concealers? Have you tried any of the products above?
Stay chic,
Annie
Style Q&A: Wearing White in Winter
You’ve all heard the old adage, “No white after Labor Day!” Let it be known, however, that white can indeed be worn after Labor Day – in fact, it can be worn throughout the year in every season.
I’ve had quite a few inquiries lately about wearing white jeans and white dresses in cooler seasons: is it a DO, or a DON’T?
In short, wearing white is absolutely a do; I would even go so far as to insist it be a “must” in your winter wardrobe. There’s nothing more sophisticated than a clean, off-white or cream knit sweater paired with winter-white pants.
How To Get It Right:
The key? Put away your lightweight fabrics in favor of heavier, more durable fabrics for winter. Say goodbye to your linen dresses, flowy cotton dresses & shifts, cotton voile, and seersucker. Substitute your summer fabrics with more substantial options such as wool & heavy cotton knits. Flimsy, lightweight “whites” are not appropriate for cold weather.
Think rich, warm, structured fabrics and pieces such as heavy wool coats, well-made trousers, leather, merino wool, knits, even denim (yes, gasp, even white jeans).
Fortunately, other neutrals pair well with white – notice in this Erin Wasson Fall 2010 picture (left), the model is wearing a white knit turtleneck with a cream silk shell, paired with winter white trousers, and accented by camel/khaki-colored socks & brown shoes. The styling is effortless, clean and modern.
This winter, try pairing a white wool dress with black opaque tights for a holiday party, or camel wool-blend trouser pants with a winter white peacoat and a classic white merino turtleneck. Nothing says “sophistication” more than pairing neutrals together. White & black, camel & winter white, white & gray. You get the idea.
My “winter white” picks:
Ann Taylor Ivory Signature Flannel Wide-Leg Pant, $128
Yves Saint Laurent Wool-Crepe Shift Dress, $2200
BCBG Oversized Scoop-Neck Sweater, $228
Just Cavalli Bootcut Stretch Jeans, $195 - Pair with the BCBG off-white sweater & brown suede wedges? Chic.
Cool Street Style
This is a great, everyday example of how winter whites can be a “do”. White lace tunic dress + gray tights + tan leather jacket + neutral fur fest = yes, yes, yes. Winter fabrics (lace, leather, fur) in neutrals? Always a “do”, always chic, always appropriate for winter – that’s the “new” rule.
Say yes to winter whites & stay chic,