NYE Party Frock Inspiration

Happy Holidays Strutters! Now that Christmas is behind us it's time to start thinking about how you're ringing in the New year, in style of course. My plans are not entirely solidified. There's a possible night on the town and a possible stay in option, which means I have to be ready for both. I have plenty of style options for a low key evening but really need to hit up the stores for something that says sexy times.  And I really don't want to spend a lot of money on the dress either considering how much I just blew on Xmas presents for the family. Anyway, here are five looks  that I think are party ready  for inspiration before you hit up the stores.

 Sparkles, Sparkles. There's no time like now to rock your the shiniest dress you can get your hands on. Go ahead and shine like the jewel that you are. Love this little number. Yes, it's pricey but this is about inspiration, right?

Ceiling Lighting by Jayson Home & Garden
Pumps by Giuseppe Zanotti

Solid Gold Baby. I dare say that almost everybody looks fab in gold. But the color really comes alive on dark to olive skin gals. A dress in this color doesn't need a lot of accessories to set it off. Finish the look with a smashing shoe and you're good to go.

Cocktail Dresses by Halston
Cocktail Dresses by DKNY

Lace it up! I have a thing for lace this year and I think it works perfectly for a party dress. Note, I'm not advocating the lace tights pictured below but I love the dresses. And if you're too bashful or not feeling an entire lace get up, then try a pair of lace pumps with a simple black dress. I love. demure and sexy all at once.

Mini Skirts by Delia's
Athletic Shoes by Asos

Black is Right. The little black dress is always party ready. The options are endless and it's so forgiving. Lord knows you and I did some damage with the calories this holiday season and nothing like a black dress for some needed camouflage. I love an all black look from head to toe but we're talking about NYE so spice things up with a red pump.

Black Dresses at Bluefly
Pumps by BP

Crushing on Velvet. Winter is all about donning luxurious fabric and nothing works better than soft to the touch velvet. If you want all hands on you  for the night give velvet a try. Like lace, a touch of it is all you need but nothing says luxe like a velvet dress.

Casual Jackets by Marc by Marc Jacobs
Pumps by Prada

Lace, sequins, velvet, and gold should be on your list as you head to the stores for that last minute hunt for the perfect NYE dress. If you haven't notice, it's all about going for the glam if you're lucky enough to be hitting up a NYE bash. Also don't forget to buy the right dress for your body shape. Check out this post I wrote last year for a few tips.

Do Stylish Mid heels Exist? I'm About to Find Out

If you've been reading this blog for awhile, you probably understand my love for the perfect heels, which can not only enhance an outfit but help to put that extra pep in your step. And let's not forget the wonderful ability heels have to elongate the body for shorties like me. So you can imagine how my heart dropped when I visited my podiatrist this week and he told me I needed to ease off wearing heels above 2 inches for a couple of months. Excuse me? I'm the girl that considers a 3 inch heel a good walking shoe. I was like, come again? Do you know who I am?? But in all fairness I knew this day was coming. Lately, when barefoot or wearing flats I experience some strong pain on the top of my right foot. So I started alternating from my regular high heels to flats in hopes of easing the pain. But my podiatrist said flats are not the answer because they don't provide sufficient padding for the balls of my feet and heels add too much pressure, which I experience when I take off my heels. I read that a 1-inch heel will increase the pressure by 22 percent; a 2-inch heel by 57 percent; and a 3-inch heel by 76 percent. Yes, easing off the high heels for now seems to be the answer. The alternative is causing a stress fracture, which could mean a cast or some ugly boot thing to take the pressure off. I asked my doctor if the foot gods are punishing me for all the years of sporting towering heels. He said no, it's a combination of my foot  shape, which makes me prone to stress fractures and wearing heels just makes the situation worse.  Yesterday I took stock of my shoes to see how many pairs of 2 inch shoes I have and realized I had both a fashion and medical emergency on my hands. This called for some serious online research to find the perfect, stylish 2 inch heel. And let me tell you, it's a hard feat ( Haha, get it??) but not impossible. I found several brands and looks that might make this experience a little bit more dignified.

Corso Como-Casey- These are a  good replacement for my typical 3-4 inch night on the town shoes. Not hugely sexy but wearable.

 

 

Steve Madden Carlen boots--not a huge fan of Steve Madden but they are cute and 2 inches...






Love these blue suede shoes. so these are 2 3/4 inches but better than three inches.




Ecco-fun slingback

Well, the options aren't looking too bad,  right? The good news is that I can still rock my 3 inch and above heels for special nights when I won't spend a lot of time on my feet. I guess it could be worst.  I could be restricted to ugly orthopedic shoes.So for now the quest for the perfect stylish 2 inch shoe continues. But it sure is hard to resist the irresistible pull of a sexy heel. I just have to find my inner strut instead of relying on heels like I usually do.

5 Festive Sweaters Under a $100

It's been awhile since I purchased a new sweater. By awhile, I mean a couple of months. I love, love sweaters and I can't get enough. And there's a plethora of sweaters sales right now perfect for staying cozy this holiday season as you hang out with the fam or catch up with an old friend. But let's get something straight: you should not be wearing any type of sweater with a lighted Christmas tree, rudolph, or any other image that declares you an "Ugly Sweater" contest" winner. No, you shall not. Here's Five to Love, featuring  updated classics that will get you noticed.

 North Highlands Cardigan-$68.99

Red. Grandpa sweater. How you can you go wrong?

James Long for ASOS Multi Yarn Sweater-NOW $82.75

Love this colorful decidedly 8os sweater.  

 

Sequin Trimmed Shaggy Cardigan-$94.82

A  classic cardi with added drama. Shagalicious!

 

Sequin Front Sweater ^$69⁵⁰

Subtle shine takes this sweater up a notch. 

Metallic striped dolman sweater-$54.50

Casual, cool and festive, thanks to the metallic stripes.

7 Tips to Creating Stylish Warm Winter Looks

Dahlings, the weather outside is truly frightful. And depending on where you live, it’s scary as hell. So how does one maintain a level of style when all you want to do is stay snuggled in your warm bed to stave off the cold weather outside? Well I can tell you that it’s an absolute must to maintain some level of style. And as I always rave about this time of year, the layering technique is great to achieve some visually interesting looks while still staying warm.I saw a multitude of layered looks today at my office party which inspired this post. One of the gals rocked a black sheath dress with pockets with a white blouse underneath. She added mustard colored tights to add a bit of color to what would have been a very simple and neutral color palette. Another gal wore a red printed v-neck empire dress, a tank top underneath, topped with a velvet blazer. Gray patterned tights and suede ankle boots continued the fun feel of the look. And everyone looked just smashing and kept the right proportions and silhouettes. How do you get the look yourself? check out my tips below.


1. Don’t over do it on the layers. Two- Three layers is probably ample.

2. Use a foundation piece with a silhouette. If your outfit foundation is a dress, choose a dress with a nice silhouette, well fitted but not tight around the breasts and hips, drawn in at the waist. For instance a sheath dress over a blouse works beautifully. Add some tights, boots and your good to go. But you shouldn’t shy away from a loose fitting dress which can be a great layering piece. But then you have to add layers to shape it like a fitted vest, sweater or a  fun sash or belt.

3. Chill on the chunky. Go easy on the fluffy and the puffy, the thick and the woolly. Rule of thumb: Don't add bulk around your bulk. For curvy women, the layered look is about adding color and warmth not bulk. One of the tricks that I use a lot is to wear a loose garment over a tight garment. Balanced achieved!

4. Select clothes made of different fabrics and textures: cotton, denim, corduroy, velvet, etc. to keep things interesting. I love layering wool with silk or rayon or chiffon with cotton. Fabrics that are opposite just add some great visual interest.

5. Balance layered tops with slim bottoms. If you choose to wear several layers on top, keep the bottom half of your outfit long and lean. Try skinny-cut, tapered, or bootcut pants or leggings or tights. Elongate your body by matching your shoes or boots to your pants, leggings, or tights.

6. Use the same shade of one color. I love layering with one variation of color. I’m really loving camel and creams lately. So for instance I have a gray brown stripped dress with a sheer neckline that I layer with a camel cardigan. It also works well with a gray blazer, which picks up the brownish gray in the dress. Mixing neutral colors, it’s just such an easy way to look instantly pulled together.

7. Wear simple jewelry and accessories. When wearing the layered look, stick with simple accessories like stud earrings, plain necklaces, and thin, light scarves. It's really enough to have a few layers going on.

So what are some key layering pieces? To create easy layered looks, these are some great items to have in your closet: Thin  turtle neck, cardigan ( long and hip length), vests ( sweater vests, rayon), long sleeved thin tees, black tights ( wool tights too), scarves ( thin, big, interesting fun scarves), and of course a classic blazer.

Layering  allows you to wear items you already own - even many of your summer pieces - which you can enliven when you wear them with pieces like scarves, cardigans, blazers and tights. You can also use layers to hide figure flaws and create the appearance of a proportioned body using some simple techniques. By adding a few inexpensive key pieces to your wardrobe, you can effortlessly create fashionable layered ensembles. And that is something to smile about Dahlings.

Crazy About Jewelry: Stella & Dot

I'm mad about jewelry!! I think I've starved myself for so long by not purchasing anything blingy and shiny for so long and now I'm truly obsessed. In my last post I featured jewelmint.com the membership jewelry site. Now thanks to a friend, I've now discovered Stella &Dot, a boutique style jewelry line sold exclusively through trained independent jewelry Stylists at in-home Trunk Shows and online. Last week I attended a trunk show at a private home with a Stella & Dot stylists and had a wonderful experience. About half the line is under $50, making it easy  to walk away with a fun piece. Of course there are those pricier drama-filled pieces to buy as well. There's also something for everyone: from delicate pieces to bold looks that will get you noticed. I think what is also really unique about Stella &Dot is that the company offers other women an opportunity to own a piece of the business by becoming stylists themselves and selling the line directly to other women. I look forward to hosting an event soon. But in the meantime, check out the pieces I nabbed: Stella Vintage Link Bracelet in Gold and the Jolie Cocktail Ring.  These are very bold pieces that I look forward to wearing with simple everyday looks or with a fun outfit for a night on the town. Now I just have to make sure my friend doesn't snatch the bracelet off my wrist when I wear it since we were both eyeing it! I did offer to share it with her but what kind of a deal is that?? Anyway give the site a look over. Some good gift possibilities as well.

JewelMint, A Monthly Jewelry Club

Strutters, I'm finally recovering from Thanksgiving!! I did some damage, so I've been busy working it off with some serious kickboxing, which has cut into my blogging time. But alas, I am back. So lately I've been itching for new jewelry to add some sparkle to my life.  I've been rotating the same three pieces for some time now and I need some new looks to spruce things up. Of course this called for some serious online research. I came across this nifty little site called JewelMint, a monthly jewelry club with exclusive access to one-of-a-kind jewelry designed by actress Kate Bosworth, and best friend and stylist to the stars, Cher Coulter.
 Membership comes with Cher's personal styling service, weekly trend reports and designer jewelry selected with you in mind. Once you join JewelMint, you’ll get a monthly choice of handpicked, one-of-a-kind pieces based on your own style preferences, all at 70% off retail prices. And unlike other memberships, you are only charged when you select a piece you love, so you never receive any unwanted shipments. And it's all for the price of $29.99! Check out the video below for more from Cher herself on how Jewelmint works. Definitely will be making a purchase in the future. Do we love? I do.

Black Friday Madness

Hey Strutters, if you're like me I know you love a good deal. And  this is the weekend to get your shop on!  Although you will not find me in line  at 3:00 AM to be the first customer to nab that perfect deal nor will I be fighting with anyone for the last of anything. I don't need the extra drama. So I will be curled up on my couch ready to take advantage of all the sweat deals online in the comfort of my own living room. Here a couple of  deals on my radar. I thought I would share the love.

 Love shoes? Well,  Solestruck might be the online spot for you. The online shoe retailer is holding their biggest sale EVER beginning on Friday. And the deals just keep getting better all the way though Cyber Monday.
ENDLESS.COM is also offering sweat deals for the shoe addict. On Thanksgiving weekend, save 30 percent on regularly priced boots, slippers, sneakers, and accessories. On Cyber Monday, on select brands shoppers get $30 off orders of $100; $60 off orders of $200; and $100 off orders of $300.
French Connection is offering 40% off plus free shipping on orders over $125
Code:FCBFFS
Curvacious ladies, heads up! Torrid, the store for fashionable plus-sized girls has a major sale this Friday: 60-88% Off.
80s Purple is offering 25% off code: BLACKFRIDAY
Banana Republic is offering 25% off sitewide thru Sunday.
 code:BRTHANKS
Yoox, is offering 30% off.
J.Crew is giving 25% off order of $150 or more Code:TURKEY PlanetBlue,  trend-setting boutique site  is offering a 20 percent-off code and to shop over 100 of its newly added sale items, marked down 30 percent to 75 percent on Cyber Monday.


Whether you hit up the stores offline or online, I hope that you find some time to enjoy the love, comfort and blessings that good friends and family can bring this time of year. Clothes are fun and all but they can't hug you back. Well, maybe the Snuggie. Laters.

5 Looks to Ease Into Fall


Strutters, I'm beyond excited that Fall has arrived. I love the endless layering possibilities that Fall brings. Give me a cold, nippy Fall day any old time and I will be a happy gal. And  precisely because Fall has descended upon us, it's time to start putting together those transitional looks that say, Fall is here but it ain't that cold yet, so I can rock this! At least that's the case if you live out here in the West.  I've scoured the web and found five looks for inspiration . Read on.





 
photo by Craig Arend

As always for Fall, the layered looks is really the best route to unstoppable style. What I love here is the use of the  print dress that you may already have in your closet that you rocked during the warmer months, that is now transformed for a perfect Fall look. It's worn over a  long sleeve shirt, accentuated with skinny belt and topped off with the universal leather bomber jacket. I love the black tights, of course ( a must) and the sandals, who some may reserve for the summer. But as you can see, very wearable for Fall.  I would wear this to brunch, work or out to dinner with the hubby. Love. 





Photo: Courtney D'Alesio

Here's that layering again that I love. A shearling vest over over simple blouse. Leggings and booties keeps the look streamlined. The bucket bag keeps it edgy.





I just love Miss Thang! I don't know if that's her name but she is working it! Yes, you can wear sequins in the day time! I love the silhouette of this shirt, very classy mixed with a bit of flashy. She tones the look down by adding a structured pencil skirt. Booties keeps the look young and the fabulously structured bag keeps the lady like vibe. Oh we love. To make this really Fall ready, I would add some tights. And how much do we love the pink earrings, which add a  little touch of fun!



Photo: Daniel Zuchnik

Well this is an easy, practical look to pull off. Really,  what's not to love? A very easy transitional Fall look for those days when it's chilly but not quite heavy coat necessary. I love the blazer with all my heart and really think every woman should have at least two or three. Yes, really. So this look is really simple but the flat riding boots while practical adds that extra visual interest to keep it from being too practical. There is such a thing. But a perfect little outfit especially on those "i don't have anything to wear days."



photo by Mr. Newton

Okay, there's a blazer and automatically I love this outfit! Very English countryside. I have a love of long skirts this Fall, this one, looks yummy. I love the simplicity of the v-neck sweater and the skinny belt for shape. Although I feel that the fedora is being over used these days, I can't help but love it with this look. I love how perfectly the red sandals finish off the look, giving it that unexpected touch. Adding a pair of ribbed tights and a pair of red booties would make this look that much more Fall  ready.  I don't like the bag though. I would have gone for a mini-cross body bag or anything else. But that. tired. looking. thing. But I digress, a beautiful cold weather  transitional look nonetheless.

  I enjoyed stumbling unto these five fun looks. To keep your style evolving, it's always best to seek inspiration. Who knows,you might surprise yourself by picking up a few ideas and turning an old outfit into something to smile about again. Strut on!

Strutter of the Week: Artistic Flare

I love nothing more than the proper infusion of  texture and patterns in an outfit. And this week's Strutter, does that expertly well. Her style can seem under the radar but take a closer look and you'll notice the cut of the skirt, the texture of the sweater, and the unexpected pop of color that makes her outfits zing. Meet Cindy, she's a colleague  who also moonlights as an actress so that means all her clothes have that artistic touch. Read on for some style inspiration!

 How would you describe your style?

- My outfits tend to have a simple base but also incorporate color and a slightly quirky design. I love wearing clothes that experiment with the cut and fit of fabric. In addition to working at ITVS, I am a theatre actor, so I like my clothes to reflect my artistic side.


What is your style inspiration?

- I don't know. I've never considered myself a fashion person- I just kinda go with what I think looks and feels good on me. I do have a great appreciation for costume designers and how they can tell stories with clothing. I guess I'd have to say my respect for their work influences what I respond to in clothing design and ways pieces are tailored, how they convey things about the person wearing them.

What style rules do you live by?

-Comfort, first and foremost. I just can't be bothered with wearing something that will remind me that I'm wearing it every second it's on. I also like to combine simple pieces with things that have a bit more color or flair, just to keep it interesting. It's also important for me to wear clothes that make me feel like ME. I enjoy simplicity, but also adding a little something that makes me feel distinctive.


What are three pieces you are lusting after for your fall wardrobe?

- simple casual black knee-high boots

- cute hats, scarves and gloves

- wool coat either in dark blue or purple

I could go on for days, but the boots and coats are necessary staples, and the hats, scarves and gloves are an affordable way to spice up my existing wardrobe without breaking the bank.


What is the best style and fashion advice you’ve been given?

- Be clear about what styles and cuts look best on your figure and which don't. I saw a really cute jacket on sale once that I almost bought because I loved the design and it was super cheap, but it didn't look quite right on me. My friend convinced me to put it back on the rack and walk away. Looking back, I'm glad I did- pretty on the hanger doesn't mean it's going to be pretty on you.

- If an outfit is going to make you uncomfortable or self-conscious, just skip it and go with something else. Your discomfort will show, and even if it looks nice, you will seem...off. Besides, if you don't feel great in it, what's the point? ;)


What are your favorite shopping haunts?
Anthropologie puts their stuff on sale every Tuesday, and I watch that site like a hawk. A HAWK.

Ambiance

Jeremy's Department Store

Thanks for tip on Anthro. I've snagged a few pieces from their sale rack and it's good to know that Tuesday is the day to look out for!

Hot For Fall: Mini-Crossbody Bags

Hello Strutters, I was looking through my pics from my recent trip to Europe and noticed that in most of my pictures I was wearing a miniature cross-body bag. I had limit myself to one big purse for the trip but by the time I got to London, I knew I needed to give that bag a rest. So I purchased a quilted black cross body bag with a silver chain and that was the best buy I made over my three city tour of Europe. I took that bag everywhere! And I remember the feeling of ease that I experienced being able to move around freely because I had less crap to carry. But now I'm back in the states, which means I'm back to my old habit of lugging around a ridiculously huge bag in which I can never find anything! Don't get me wrong; the big bags we love have a place in our lives but I think it's worth making room for something smaller for those days we want to simplify our lives. The mini-bag is a perfect accessory for  going out at night to replace your go to clutch or to hold your essentials for a day full of shopping, or for a weekend excursion. After all, who wants to carry a big bag on those occasions? Here's six to love all under $50!

Cross body Bags by voler featuring a cross-body shoulder bag

Woven Detail Cross Body bag
$50 - topshop.com
Woven handbag »

Deux Lux Mid Grommet Cross-Body Pouch Purse
$48 - urbanoutfitters.com
Crossbody bag »

Leopard Bucket Bag
$48 - shopnastygal.com
Leopard print handbags »

Studded Suede Cross Body Bag
$30 - charlotterusse.com
Cross-body shoulder bag »

Ecote Mini Cross-Body Bag
$28 - urbanoutfitters.com
Cross body bag »

Chain strap cross body bag
$17 - rue21.com
Cross-body shoulder bag »

Mad About ModCloth

Hello Strutters! Hope you're enjoying my Style Maven profiles. I'm expanding the profiles from office mates to other women in my life with impeccable personal style. I will feature weekly a "Strutter of the Week" for continued style inspiration. Yes, I'm ditching Style Maven.

On to other news. The ladies in the office are all aflutter about ModCloth.com, an online clothing, accessories, and decor retailer. About three months ago the company moved to the third floor of our building and is now expanding on the 4th floor where our offices are. A few of us have gotten to know the Mod Cloth crew really well. We enlisted to help them do some user testing and each time we got a considerable discount off their merchandise. Love that. Anyway the prices are right, and their mission seems pretty on point. If you love vintage and retro clothes, give Mod Cloth a look over.  Here are my five picks to love.

 

Midnight Foil Skirt $107.99

Love this jazzy skirt, complete with a shiny aluminum-colored panel for a sexy night.



Style Brigade Coat-$129.99

With its black bib, colorblocked sleeves, decorative silver ribbon button holes, and brassy buttons, this white wonder has enough military-inspired flair to make your entire neighborhood stand at attention when you walk by.



Bell Curve Cardigan-$82.99


Charcoal, knit cardigan warm and cozy for the chilly temperatures.

 

Well-Mannered Minx Dress-$189.99


A mix of fun and finesse is evident in this dress' black lace shell, attached to a light tan slip with a sweetheart neckline. A fitted waist and full skirt form a stunning silhouette. Perfect for a delish night out with that special someone.



Grand Narrative Wedge-$127.99

Love these Jefferey Campbell buttery leather wedges!

 

Style Maven of the Week: Posh Spice

It doesn't take a long to identify someone who possesses a strong sense of style. I've only hung out with Sherley two times as result of a  mutual friend and both times left me convinced that she walks to her own fashion drum beat.  I was hosting a Caribbean/African women's potluck at my house when she walked through the door ( fashionably late) dressed impeccably. There was something very polished about her style but it lacked the pretentiousness that often accompanies the word. The last time I saw Sherley ( at yet another potluck), she wore a  plaid tunic with a giant bow in the front and I absolutely fell in love with the look. And when I questioned her about her favorite shopping haunts it was clear that she knows a thing or  two about scoring major deals! Trends don't motivate her but instead she dresses to suit her mood and most importantly her body shape. Meet Sherley.

How would you describe your style?

Classy, Sassy - Elegance with a little spice.

What is your style inspiration?

My inspirations come from the sun, plants and flowers. I love waking up in the morning and letting my mood dictate my style. Because of my design/artistic background fashion is another blank canvas that allows me to express my creativity. I admire Michelle Obama she is the epitome of classy/sassy.

What style rules do you live by?

I love being a woman. I embrace my femininity and celebrate being a girly-girl by wearing dresses the majority of the time – even on cold, rainy days. That is what tights are for!

I rarely spend over $25 on my clothing. I never buy brand names or Haute Couture items unless they are from discount retailers or second hand stores. I like having the best of both worlds – quality and quantity. When I lived in Los Angeles, I found a pair of authentic strappy Gucci heals for $34. The exact pair was selling for $442 at Bloomingdale's. I am not into trendy fashion fads. I prefer classic pieces and funky unique ‘one of a kind’ items. I love dreaming about what interesting lives my clothes and vintage purses had before I adopted them. I wear colors and clothes that are flattering on me. Therefore I do not and (never will) own a pair of skinny jeans. I try every thing on and never buy clothes online.

What are three pieces you are lusting after for your fall wardrobe?

-I love my cowboy boots. They are classic, versatile, and comfortable with a decent heel.

-I am still searching for a simple black cardigan to wear with jeans or more importantly, with a “go get ‘em” little black dress.

-I am seeking the perfect warm winter coat that can be worn with sweats or “make my husband drool” dress.

-I am dreaming of durable leggings long in length, which also cover my rear. I have yet to find the magic pair.

What is the best style and fashion advice you’ve been given?

Comfort, comfort, comfort!

Clothing size does not matter buy what fits!
Invest in good pair of shoes, no compromises!

Accessories are your friends.

What stores do you hit up on the regular to get your fashion fix?

I am currently obsessed with Crossroads. BCBG outlet in Vacaville and Jeremy’s in Oakland or San Francisco and All Things Vintage.

Here's to Sherley. She makes a mean tres leches cake by the way!