Because nothing beats minimalism, that’s why. And hotness. For the past months or so, you might have noticed that every woman and girl with a penchant for quick tasteful hotness is slightly giving in to BDSM. On their feet. Cuffing your ankles may sound a little too risky but let’s not jump to sexual conclusions, cause it’s got nothing to do with it. Other than the sexy vibe it sends to the viewers - The Ankle Strap Sandals – are just that. Hot heeled shoes with ankle straps and a single strap around your toes. It’s basic, minimalist yet irresistibly sexy and chic. Personally I think they’re the hit shoe of 2013 summer, and the sandals that will never die with time. I remember they were pretty huge in the late ’90′s with those leather pencil skirts and cropped tight tops. You can roll your eyes all you want with this 90s invasion, but you gotta admit its fashion revival and reinvention is tremendous. Top this shoe trend with designers’ bondage, leather et all tiny obsession and you get some pretty cool looks and styles for 2013. And though they might be evening shoes, it’s in these times that breaking boundaries is embraced and permitted. So, when it comes to ankle strap heeled sandals, to hell with dusted fashion rules and faux-pas.

How To Wear Heeled Ankle Strap Sandals? 

Channeling your inner bad-ass girl whose subtle hotness is show stopping – might be one way to go about this. Actually, however you put on these hot shoes – ‘hot & cool route‘ is the only way you’ll be going. A major look right now is balancing styles, clashing and playing with clothes that do not go together, and obtaining a look that’s so eclectic, effortless and trendy, it’s fantastic. Now I remember an old fashion saying: never wear heels with sports wear. Pfff. Fuck that. Unless you’ve tried it, and resist labeling it as confusing, too cheesy or desperate – hold you’re thoughts for a while, and give these babies a try in your most comfy BF jeans or sweatpants. Having said that, ankle strap sandals are made for cutoffs, boyfriend jeans, slouchy extravagant urban clothes like a sweatshirt & skirt, or a denim jumpsuit, or a day-dress and a baseball cap. Not to mention tank-tops, t-shirts and sporty chic outfits. These hot simple, no-fuss-heels add all the drama and sexiness to an otherwise casual look. I don’t know if it’s the way we walk in heels, our instant attitude swing as we climb on hot shoes or it’s just the simplicity yet glamour of this trend – but it don’t get better than this. Being a posh shoe and all… of course this single strap / ankle strap sandal seems to be at its most when paired with its own attire: smart or sexy dresses & skirts. Or evening dresses. D’ohhh. Haven’t seen a celebrity who has not once donned this kinda shoe. And though I’m just a mere mortal – I myself have chosen a bling-bling pair of these sandals for my wedding day. Contrary to belief they are super comfy and perfect if you want to look hot, yet are not planning to peek a boo into the ceiling. They’re not that high. Well unless you opt for the platform with heels ankle sandals, but the classic design I most love is the simple one: 2 straps please. Thank you. When to wear them? 

If we were all Twilight vampires who seductively glide any surface we’d probably never take them off. Our fleeting existence is but a ridiculous obstacle in the way of us looking polished in strappy sandals from morning to evening. Sure, it may be just a little to inconvenient (time wise, if not for anything else. we can walk in sky scrapers at 8 a.m. just fine, thank you) to don these heels on the tube or the bus at peak hours with your bag, newspaper, coffee, iPhone, and headphones to look after, but it’s not impossible. We all know by now women are superheroes and would rather suffer than not nail it style wise. Truth be told, it might be a bit too much in plain day, but if you’ve got just a block to walk, or a few minutes and you’ve reached your destination, why not wear them. Ah… they do look so fabulous with those office trousers and silky tops. Or do you know what? Take them in your bag and ditch your tennis shoes at work for a totally put together look. So yeah… work, going out, cocktail parties, dinners, weddings – that just about covers ‘the when’ of these shoes. I honestly think, shoes wise, the single strap sandals or the ankle strap sandals (however you want to put it) is a massive trend, and its versatility has probably got a lot to do with it. However, the look that’s got a hold of my heart is the urban chic style: minimal heels, boyfriend jeans, cropped top and a bit of bling. We might be a long way from Cinderella days, but who says we haven’t all got a bit of princessy persona underneath all this confident attitude? Cindy-badass-rella anyone?

It sometimes feels as if our fashion existence is measured in FWs. D’ohhh. So now we are somewhere between catching our breaths from the Couture Shows, and working out butts off to get invites for the next FW that’s practically just around the corner. I mean London FW’s schedule was already announced so the crazy days are upon us. And they come with tons of work, travel aaaand girls’ biggest issue ever (in case you nail an invite) “What to wear?“. I’ll tell you something though, every time I look over these street style photos from any FW shows it seems to me as if I am the only one stressing over this what to wear matter, (and still not pulling it off majorly, if I were to come clean) – cause every single person in there seems to either not give a shit what they put on (and look Ah-mazing) or… seriously now… draped in CHANEL or DIOR - how could you not score a Phil Oh photo in Vogue. But let’s not even discuss this posh category and linger a bit on the first one. Wrinkled shirts, messy hair, frumpy clothes, vintage (read old) granny clothes, unflattering outfits  - take front row in Tommy Ton’s or Phil Oh’s snapshots. Sure they’re always paired with a Celine bag or a Chanel little something, that’s always donned with the littlest care in the world as if it just cost 1 quid. Old rusted rings take the front light alongside some uber posh and expensive bracelets, while the cutoffs reveal stained pockets and the tops haven’t been ironed in ages. Who gives a fuck! Clothes are treated like just clothes and style seems to be such a long way from big labels and price tags. (sometimes)Big editors must probably be biting their fingers off (they’re way past the nails) at this media circus turned big-party-for-everyone-with-a-knack-for-fashion. It was only years ago that this circle was closed, and now… well… it’s still not exactly a piece of cake getting in, but hanging outside the shows is somewhat part of our pop-culture. Not yet famous? You can still go there in your best style, see and be seen. Bloggers, photographers, and all sorts of artists with a passion for sartorial things shows up in what appear to be effortless bored-to-death looks . One rule exists: in order to be a hipster kid wear at least one major weird funky fun item. It usually is sunglasses, a wicked hairdo or some DIY project on display. Of course everyone is still starstruck when spotting Anna Dello Russo or Miroslava Duma – but again these ladies are, like us, having loads of fun with clothes. Yeah bigger labels but still – creativity pushes the boundaries as well, and it’s all about the attitude and mood all wrapped up in brilliant visuals. What happens at FW, street style wise is definitely a movement of our times and a cool phenomenon. So what if it’s labeled as a circus? Circus is fun. All these cool kids who mingle so beautifully with sophisticated rich people are proving to the world it’s OK to show up in clothes that imply a middle finger up at the luxe side of fashion. We’re not against high end. No sir. Give me a CHANEL anything and I’ll take it. Yeah I’ll wear it with my H&M knuckle rings & my cheap eBay watch… So what?

Has today’s fashion scene changed? And could street style alone be crowned as nowadays biggest fashion influence?

photos via Vogue, Elle, Google Images

Yeah you might need a pair of shades at all times, around this summer’s coolest dresses, but sometimes it’s all worth it. For fashion sake you know. It’s like the ’80′s all over again – kitsch, brightness, chaotic wild mix of colors and prints,  and the infamous NEON. Impossible to miss, it’s right there next to you on some dress in the bus, walking past you on those gorgeous shoes, of fiddling next to you on that must-have-it-bag. 2013 Summer may be all black & white meets the ’60′s but it still leaves enough room for fun funky styles. Ah… the NEON trend is just one of those styles that’s so daring and challenging if you only had the guts to try it. Gotta say… though I simply adore it on others, I have yet to try it myself. 2013 Neon Trend takes you right out of anonymity, so forget getting lost in the crowd with this one, as it makes you stand out in the most fashionable funky way possible. And I think the key to pulling off a neon look is confidence & loads of fun. Never take yourself too seriously, and don whatever neon shade you love, with a fab smile. Shades of fuchsia, green, yellows, limes, pinks, blues, or a mix of all the above are invading us on dresses, blazers, trousers, tops aaaand accessories (shoes, bracelets, bags), which actually makes it a lot easier for those of us who are a little late on trying on this trend. If jumping on the neon dress wagon is way too much for now, go for a pair of bright yellow, lime or pink classic pumps, or a gorgeous bag. Still shy? Bracelets!!! I adore those ones with a bit of neon pop of color in them. And d’you know what? A splash of brightness might hurt the eyes a bit, but it sure makes an outfit so much more trendy and fun. Anyway you know how I’m always up for a new fashion challenge, and go on about fucking all fashion rules, pushing boundaries and doing your own thing? Well… no exception here. Today we talk NEON Dresses for 2013 summer and why you need to step out of your comfort zone to rock these babies! Or if neon is already your thing, go on and tell us all about it! 

Samara fuchsia Forever Unique dress

Viper blue Forever Unique dress

NEON Dresses are a must have this summer: flirty, architectural, form fitting, maxi, day time, evening, beach dresses. The styles and designs are a dime a dozen, and the colors are absolutely stunning. There’s just something so tropical & luxurious in a very seaside Mediterranean sort of way about donning a Neon dress that I find it irresistible. Those with bold fashion personalities can even mix and play with more neon shades on the same dress, or just accessorize it with a neon belt, shoes or bag. All is permitted this summer and the only rule is having fun splurging on brightness. Best part about neon dresses is that they’re effortless, so mustn’t fuss a lot about the rest of your outfit when rocking one, just because it’s enough of a statement. Neon Dresses Styles

One of my favorite styles are the maxi dresses and the form fitting ones, in wild prints and knee length. As shades I love everything from yellows to greens (lime shades) and I adore the contrast neon makes with a brown skin tone. It’s absolutely fantastic. Forever Unique has got some great styles in case you want to browse or shop for the neon dresses look. Cocktail, party, edgy meets simplicity sort of way styles will have you sigh. And the neon printed mini dress… that one is to die for.

Forever Unique dress

Ginny lime Forever Unique dress

Neon implies strong colors but there’s also an array of shades a bit toned down for those of us who find neaon too much out of our comfort zone. So let’s have a look at all NEON shades dresses and styles and let ourselves get inspired.

Neon Dresses  - Yellow/Lime Neon Dresses – Pinks/Fuchsia Neon Dresses – Prints/Mix Ah… enough already! My eyes are hurting, but aside from this,  NEON dresses are most definitely a statement of 2013 summer and so easy to pull of in the hot season when everything is about holiday, tropical getaways and fun in the sun. So what do you think, are you taking on this NEON dresses challenge?

Get the look here: Forever Unique 

After what seems to have been too long since I’ve posted, I’m genuinely so happy to be back and share with you the happiest moment of my life so far. It took place over the weekend, and took over my schedule entirely last week, hence my absence – I got married. To the best man ever. My best friend. It was all as I had pictured it. Perfect. Ah… (I can do a post on the whole event, dress, bridesmaids etc, if you’d like). Anyway, today it’s business as usual so let’s dig in the fashion dirt dolls. In 2013 summer nothing will ever beat the T-shirt looks. Laid back & extremely versatile these staples can dress you up or down, making it all super chic & sophisticated. The key to a T-shirt look is balance and remembering that it’s all bout clashing styles. A T shirt is a sports attire, too laid back, simple & quite androgynous, so wearing it with the opposite attires usually translates in uber trendy styles that scream sophistication. So with this T shirt invasion that’s upon us, what do we pick? Errr… apparently the latest fad in town is looking like those billionaire laid back ballers. Or their girlfriends who just woke up in their basketball t-shirts. The Varsity Shirt or the Basketball T-shirt look is one trend that’s getting more and more followers. So is there a way around this men inspired style? Can we look feminine and posh in an oversized boyfriend’s sports T-shirt? That we’re obsessed with stealing our men’s clothes and tying them into our own styles (they do look so much better) is of no news. I mean don’t get me started on the BF jeans, blazers, shirts or loafers. Ah well… who can blame us if we make it rock. So now we’ve got the Varsity T-shirts to obsess about. It’s sort of a stretch of the fall/winter trend of the Varsity Jacket. Following the same rules this trend is a niche look of the Sports Luxe obsession, so in order to nail it you have to keep in mind a few tips:

• balance the look with lots of fun bling jewelry (golden rings, bangles and earrings look amazing clashed against the basketball shirt)
• wear sexy shoes, hot heels to elongate legs and turn you into a urban chic sophisticated gal
• don a baseball cap for some hipster vibe, but keep the rest as girly as you can
• paint your nails or wear bold lips for an extra feminine touch, and don a Varsity mini dress with hot heels for a night out. It’s loose, laid back yet uber trendy. Think Rihanna or Miley Cyrus.

OK, so donning the baller look is fine for going out, laid back styles, but what about work? Can we do the baller look at the office? Really? Yes. The key this time is keeping it simple jewelry wise. So a statement necklace or statement earrings are enough. Th t-shirt has to be rather understated itself, tucked in a pencil skirt or tapered trousers and paired with a business style blazer. Classic pumps, bag, and a hint of lipstick for a touch of femininity and off you go. It’s very sophisticated without the slightest effort. Think front row editors at Fashion Week. Then of course it’s the all sporty look: varsity shirt & cutoffs, tennis shoes. But even so you can keep your girly persona intact by adding a bit of bling or lipstick.  Aaaand one of my favorite looks is the Varsity t-shirt/dress Style. I love it. It’s so style-confusing and edgy in a very funky way that I find it irresistible. It probably won’t make it past this summer, but who gives a crap, it’s hot while it lasts. You can wear it with those single strap sandals I was telling you about last week, or even sneakers for a more relaxed style. My tip on this one is to pile on jewelry, wear bold lips, cool shades and a posh bag. I swear, 2013 summer belongs to the T-shirts and I really do feel as if we’ve just barely scratched the surface on the t-shirts looks for this season. With the risk of being redundant I might just keep on covering the T-shirts trend this week… but until next post, let’s debate on this one: YES or NO to the basketball shirt trend?

Well, maybe not. But with the structured trend making baby steps into our quiet little fashion lives (I suspect it’ll be huge by fall, so buckle up), 2 things pop into my mind, the 1st being its inherent architectural trait (a bit stretched out to assume we’ve all taken upon this craft), and the 2nd kinda resonating with the mess in my generation’s life, when it’s work hard, party hardER, refuse to grow up, thus having to put up with those dayum-girl-you-need-some-structure-in-your-life-looks. No need to keep on bitching then – we’ve got more than structure in our lives, we’re wearing it, so talk to the hand girlfriend! Designers have been fascinated by straight lines and rigid forms, strong shapes and architectural designs in clothes – so no wonder the structured trend caught on. Especially in haute-couture. Remember all those carpet events when celebrities donned super structured dresses? Yeah… there was a reason for that. The trend that’s upon us. But is it safe to say it’s quite limited to the red carpet and when discussing it we’re basically just discussing Structured Elegance in Evening Dresses? Or did it stretch out to the streets as well? Aaaand most importantly, is it making justice to the body or is it just a fad? All these questions and doubts are not meant to confuse me/us even more, but I honestly do not know where to stand on this one. While on some evening dresses some structure looks fabulous, on others it’s too much, so it probably must be a case of balance as well. Yet… I’ll give you this: structure looks brilliantly dramatic. It looks high couture, super glamorous in a very inaccessible way. And the best part is, it adds shape and creates volume where nature hasn’t blessed us. Abrupt straight lined peplum is a fantastic trick for hiding big hips, or creating some where there’s less. It accentuates the waist and adds tons of royal femininity. Such an evening dress requires you to play up on all the drama, so don’t be scarce on beads or lace. For extra umpf go for black structured evening dresses, such as the ones from Forever Unique. Highly glamorous yet not too hard to pull off, should the occasion require, the long black peplum dress is one made for the red carpet, so work it girl.

Structured Evening Dress – Forever Unique

Red carpet aside, structured clothes may be less visible on the streets but that could just be a case of the past. The structured little thang that’s about to change the world of architectural clothes and bring them to the daylight – is the mini cocktail/princess daytime dress, such as the one below from Forever Unique.

Structured Dress Forever Unique

Structured Dress Forever Unique

This shape is very flattering on most body types and depending on the fabric it can definitely work for both day and evening. You don’t believe me? Just have a look at these front row faces from Fashion Week or the non-VIP fashionistats gracing the street style pics on blogs. Ah-mazing! Structured clothes may be hard to digest, but once you find your lines and shapes I guess you’re hooked. Truth is there is something very posh and crispy about a structured dress, and depending on your shoes (heels or flats) it can make quite the fashion statement. I love how they look with dramatic jewelry like a statement necklace or earrings. One of the most accessible structure in clothes has got to be the bold sharp shoulders on tops/jackets/blazers. They look super poised, dramatic and give the illusion of a tiny waist. They don’t call this trend Structured Elegance for nothing. It is quite reminiscent of the 40′s and 50′s if we’re looking at the harsh shaped dresses or skirts. But at the same time it’s got a futuristic side to it, new shapes, weird lines that push your imagination and are somewhat of a fashion risque. A combo of the 2 is ideal though! Though I’m not sold completely on structured clothes for daytime… I will however say that these street style pics are giving me second thoughts and Forever Unique’s short structured dress, with those luxurious embroideries is one piece that has me hooked on that shape. All in all it’s a trend, so we’ll probably rock it for fashion’s sake at least once, so let’s get inspired and comment away on the YES or NO behind it. 

Get the look here:

Forever Unique shop | Facebook | Twitter 

As I’m literally melting down right now, this topic seems a little too early… but honestly in a few weeks time we’ll all have to cross over to autumn. So instead of having to wrap our heads around what transition pieces to focus on, in the midst of a rainy-sunny-hot-cold-windy-weather, I thought we could have a little Monday fun and debate on best summer-fall transition staples, how to style them, how to stick to the good-ol’-classic-look, or dare to go edgy. Even Fashion Week predicts fashion 6 months in advance, right? And some online publications and blogs are already making fall-must-have lists, and though I hate being just another voice/face in a crowd of followers… to hell with it on this one. Who are we kidding? We love abundant lists of styles, we adore any fashion related gossip or trend, so let’s get down with dirt dolls and chat about our favorite summer-to-autumn-transitional pieces. From favorite staples to favorite fabrics we’ve all got our little guilty pleasures, go-to-items or favorite brands we just can’t get enough of. What I’m curious though is - do you keep it classic with a twist or do you go for quirky pieces and funky looks? Now you know me, how I always go on about ”do your own thang, be different, have fun, be edgy and all that”, but I was wondering, isn’t too much of something just enough to kill the buzz? And shouldn’t we stick to balance in style, at least for work? Hell no. Only for work actually. Be that as it may, I’m still all for doing your own thing and having fun with clothes, experimenting and enjoying it all, while staying true to yourself. What the fuck, you might wonder? All this philosophy and rambling on a Monday? Seriously? Well… this weekend I came across a brand that might just be my fashion crush for autumn - Pure Collection it’s called – and it’s not all crazy cuts and wacky clothes, au contraire. It’s classy. Super elegant, hence timeless. So my sudden coup de foudre got me thinking: can we look like a million dollar professional woman from 9-5, Mon-Fry, and then,  wearing the same clothes, can we channel say Olivia Palermo or even edgy Rihanna on weekends? Hmm. And if so… how can we pull off 2 completely different looks, while still being ourselves, keeping warm during crispy mornings and cool at noon? Can we transition from summer to autumn in several styles? 

Pure Collection cashmere look

Of course we can, the key is to go for quality, that’s what’s gonna keep you warm/cool, and that’s what’s gonna give your clothes a loooong life ahead. With Pure Collection I rediscovered cashmere! And I’ll be honest with you, I’ve always seen it as that 80′s luxury, high maintenance fabric in dated sweaters and too boring cuts, but man how far off could I have been. For some time now, the posh faces at Fashion Week are going for super luxe fabrics and textures, so cashmere is making quite a comeback. Sure they’re all mixing it up with quirky cuts or designs, but that makes it even more coveted. An expert in cashmere, Pure Collection is packed with classic high quality super affordable pieces that can translate into tons of looks. A classic cashmere sweater may be the right thing for your mom, but it can be so trendy on a 20 year old gal with a soft spot for fashion. Long gone are the days when silky tops or blazers are just for 40 year old professional women. Today, the same women can go for a white plain tee and red lips, or do a corporate look. And it’ll be from that corporate look that a 20 year old girl gets inspired and twists her blazer or too serious-silky top into a fab style on her blog. The same versatile story applies for Pure Collection trousers, they are actually my favorite pieces of the brand: capri style cuts, tuxedo black trousers (that I would absolutely style with a white t shirt) tapered trousers, or wide leg styles that can be both office appropriate or boho-chic on a weekend stroll. Transition Pieces for Summer-To-Autumn

• blazers
• knitwear
• trousers
• silky tops

In indecisive weather it’s all about layers so a blazer still does it. It actually is the piece to have in late summer, early autumn. For a classic style wear your blazer with suit trousers, classic pumps & a blouse underneath, but please keep in mind there are millions of ways to don a blazer and it goes with anything: cutoffs, boots, heels, jeans, capri trousers, shorts, skirts, dresses, classy sassy looks or grunge and rocknroll. And it’s not even about the style of the blazer it’s how you mix it up with your clothes. Relaxed blazers are perfect for a laid back style, colored ones are so funky, classic ones balance quirky looks and the leather & CHANEL boucle jackets are super versatile, so don them with courage regardless of your style. Get the look with Pure Collection here: Ah… my first love ever since I can remember was wearing knitwear/sweaters with heels and mixing the autumn look into a summer outfit. I always thought it was so weird it was irresistible. There’s something so cozy and sweet about a tiny little cashmere top, cardigan or chunky turtle neck knitwear and hot heels, that, it don’t get no better. I love how a slouchy cashmere top looks with ripped jeans and classic pumps. Or a tiny cardigan or sweater with cutoffs and statement earrings… Get the look here: What’s that one piece you can wear anywhere? Ta-daaaa! Trousers: skinny, capri, shorts, boot-cut, wide leg… you can wear them for office, diners out, parties, holidays… just have fun with tops and shoes, and you’ll be transitioning from one look and one season to another in no time. Pure Collection look below: The easiest and most common way to spice up a look when buying clothes is switching TOPS. You can never have too many. You know my silky tops obsession, so I am actually looking forward to late summer/early fall on this one. Ah… can’t wait to wrap myself in silky trendy classy sassy tops, that I can either tuck in classic trousers or pencil skirts or rock them with my BF jeans and hot heels. Messy hair pulled back and a pair of statement earrings are my fave accessories. Pure Collection silky tops: Are you already thinking about your Fall looks, or is it too early? Are you a fan of cashmere? What are your in between-seasons staples? Ah… I’m dying to know, so let’s chat and share dolls.  :)

Get the look here:

Pure Collection Shop | Facebook | Twitter 

One day Miss Fashion had a thought: ‘‘Let’s play a game – How to look like hobos, it’s called.” And so the Wide Leg Trousers Look was born. Now I know most of you will be like what the hell is wrong with her, but in all honesty the hobo look was always the 1st thing to pop in my mind when seeing wide leg trousers. With the passing of time and my fashion maturity reaching a posh level (bitch please) I am now (sort of) reconsidering my impulses and can somewhat spot, beyond the shapeless look, a sophisticated style, super haute couture resembling and very chic I might add. When done right. But how to do it right? Now that is the question. Before proceeding to styling tips and figuring out which look fits who best, let’s get one thing straight: wide leg trousers are a thing of the 70′s, so that may be the reason why it’s not everyone’s cup of tea (gulp). ABBA outfits anyone? Still, as always, there are 2 sides of the story, so while wide leg pants are borderline silly (sorry couldn’t help it) and homeless chic, they can also do some fashion tricks that might just leave you ashamed for flipping the bird on them, in the first place. They elongate legs, make a tiny waist, correct body types and proportions… But the plot thickens and if you think this look is pfff so easy, think again sister! Wide leg trousers may be just that: trousers with wideER legs, but how wide? What fabric? Type of waist? My favorite ones are the chiffon flowy styles in one color. I love the all-white or all-black looks. Cropped top and a clutch to go please. Ah… I think we need a debate on all this WIDE LEG TROUSERS Look… How to nail the WIDE LEG look?

Everyone’s free to go their own way, d’ohh, but I’ve noticed there are 2 looks that make true justice to the wide leg trousers.

• cropped tops & high waisted wide leg trousers
• tucked in tops in high waisted wide leg trousers

In both cases you can wear heels, wedges or even flat shoes if height is not an issue for you. The fitted/structured look of the top is in perfect balance with the wide elongated bottom, so it’s all about your figure architecture, and visuals. For crispy mornings, or for autumn (since it is around the corner) don a blazer or cropped jacket on top. It will look super chic. For a more polished look, wide leg silky trousers look amazing with a silky blouse or shirt. It’s a very posh-office-style. Think rich editor-in-chief going to lunch. If you keep it monochromatic it will add so much drama and sophistication it’s irresistible. Classic pumps and a statement necklace look best with this style. Another plus on the Wide Leg trousers look (my my… I’m getting the face slap with these pluses, and again stand corrected. Ha! that’s what having fashion preconceptions can cause you, so there you go) – is its versatility. From autumn to summer, from morning to evening. Which brings me to a Wide Leg trouser look I can never resist: all-black outfit, silky wide leg trousers, and a black bare back top. For a cocktail party. Golden jewelry and red lips. It don’t get no better. Another look I can work with… is the summer look of the wide leg trousers: printed chiffon fabrics, low or high waist, flat sandals, retro sunglasses. Think chic beach style in Capri, Italy. I know… let’s sigh… Back to reality! BANG! This trousers style is after all 70′s inspired so the Charlie’s Angles look (think office) is kinda cool. Structured, long, suit style wide leg high waisted trousers in solid yet muted colors (browns, greens, purples) that are super fitted on the waist and bum, and then fall straight along the leg, as if they’re made of a super heavy fabric. To channel your inner 70′s DIVA, always go for platforms, and accessories. For a casual style don simple t-shirts tucked in, and for work, or more polished looks go for pussy-bow inspired tops. And then there’s the hobo look. Super wide leg trousers, a bit too short, bulky shoes, and slouchy tops. Add a massive coat or blazer and you’ll definitely be channeling a homeless. Well not really, cause probably all those street style pics of models off duty in these looks, are courtesy of high end brands. And when your work is about looking polished and put together at all times, I guess they just don’t give a fuck how they look in between shows or off duty, so kudos for the attitude. All in all it is a look that keeps coming and going from the spotlight, but if you love it, rock it! xoxo

… fashion. What else did you think? Well… can’t blame you for that one, and truth be told any excuse is a good excuse to chat about men. Looks. Styles. Who’s HOT/NOT et all. Besides, a little eye candy never hurt anyone, right? The true story behind this post (apart from the implied cheekiness) is the hints I got from my guy friends to write something related to their fashion, and how to dress to a look or style. Yeah go figure. Plus, the shopping trips I was dragged on, playing stylist/personal shopper in a field that’s not really right down my street – ha! a desperate fashion attention from the men in my life. Who would’ve thought. Them, interested in style? And I, as their turn-to-fashion-guide? Seriously now. Give me women’s fashion and I’ll take it. Men? WTF. Well turns out at the end of the day every lad was happy with their new look…Random chatting-that-nobody-gives-a-crap-about aside, I was actually glad to learn that the boyfriends and husbands in our lives do sometimes feel style-wise left behind and BANG! they wake up from their lazy-looks to try and keep up with what’s out there. Whether they’re doing a great job or not, is of less importance, it’s the principle that counts, cause let’s face it: ”my dear male straight friends, as hard as you tried you’ll never be able to nail a look like my gay friends. The latter ones could so often teach us ladies a few thangs about this and that in fashion”. Just saying… Though I’ll give you this: a few chaps out there do know style. It’s got less to do with the clothes they wear but how they wear it. Still, they are scarce in my hometown where I’m currently staying, and they do make me miss London street style so much more. Sure every country and culture has its own rules, and I honestly think each big city comes with its own street style. Too bad some have none… (gulp). Can we educate the men in our lives to dress and look a certain way? Can we push them on the right style track? Do you think men spend hours thinking about fashion? Going through latest collections, shops, markets? Yeah they do. NOT. Could it be that for men a style inspiration (subconscious of course) comes from the streets (what they’re friends and cool strangers are wearing), the music they listen to, the films they watch, the jobs they have, the wives/girlfriends influence? That’s perfectly fine. But what if the streets are packed with looser-fashionshit-wannabes? Then we’re fucked. So lads… this post is just for you, to get a little fashion inspo from what the hipster kids are wearing (I know you’re one of them, but nothing wrong with having a second look, right?).  What are 2013 street style trends for MEN? 

• Loafers are making a big comeback and every lad out there is ditching their socks for these.
• No socks in shoes.
• Tennis shoes
• Rocknroll meets punk styles
• Dapper meets casual looks
• Rolled up shirt sleeves/trousers
• Rugged looks (a few-days-grown-beards look fantastic). Think aaaa Gerard Butler vs Johnny Depp.
• Tattoos (don’t get them to be hip, get them for the right reason)
• Bags. From backpacks to briefcases, to vintage styles – you have to have one.
• Cool shades
• Amazing hair (I’ve noticed the haircut on the year, for those blessed with beautiful locks, is the shaved on sides and long in the front haircut, slicked back, super groomed for a dapper look, or left disheveled)

And now let’s have a look at some of the hipster kids out there, and sigh!

The Rocknroll/Punk & Sporty Chic Styles: leather jackets are still in and they go with everything, from a simple T shirt and jeans to crispy shirts and trousers (suit trousers, chinos, even shorts). Wear them with loafers, no socks, or with boots. Shades and a rugged look and you’re good to go.  The Dapper/Casual Chic Style: bare feet in perfect shoes, shirts, trousers and blazers. Keep it monochromatic or go wild on prints, colors and textures. No rules, remember, it’s all about feeling and looking great. Buttoned cardigans over shirts or T-shirts with chinos look super cool, laid back yet perfectly put together. Or you might want to don a suit… go for it. A while ago I was so into David Ghandi’s look, but now… not so much. I mean the guy is channeling Al Capone just a little too much. Just saying. And for summer… the shorts look. Kinda tricky so don’t go there unless you can nail it. Sure most of these guys are models off duty, so no surprise there, style wise, but a few tips to probably steal from them would be to do your own thing, and get creative with clothes and looks. There is no getting it wrong basically, as long as you own it. If you’re a rock guy stick to black, edgy details and the classic leather jacket. Fuck rules and be yourself. If you’re into slick styles, quality is the key. A nice cut blazer and fitted shirt will have you looking like a million dollar babe. More looks for inspiration below… 

More street style looks…And now let’s comment away: Boys, what’s your fave style? And girls how do you like your men, (dressed)?  ;)

Transitioning from summer to fall may give us a few fashion headaches but apparently 2 extremes a slight fall transition make. With the street styles swirling around shorts and anything with a long sleeve, with the weather changing its moods like a confused little brat, and our stubbornness to remaining hipster cool whatever should happen – I wonder, is it safe to assume cutoffs (actually any shorts) and long sleeve tops are the latest late summer look? And why not? I always said as long as I have a jacket on, I can rock bare legs in blizzard cold, and I refuse to believe I’m alone in my madness. Truth is, before I moved to London, where let’s be honest, weather wise, you can’t top the indecision, I never got those all-4-seasons-into-one-outfit-looks, and, pardon my ignorance and skepticism I always thought the girls rocking boots and super short shorts with a jacket on were fashion victims suffering of cold or sweating their asses off for the sake of looking hipster. Now, years later… I get it. Unless you live in an all year round same weather country it’s the best style gimmick ever. So I’ll risk being hasty on this one and pass it off as a TREND. Though I do realize it’s been a look girls resort to for temperature-comfort measures & impeccable style, for ages. I’ve been doing this look for the past month like a crazy brat myself and still can’t get enough of. Thank God, once the chill settles in, we’ve got the tights to resort to, so our cutoffs looks can remain intact. But is there a hidden ‘why’ behind it all? I’m sure the Sweaters & Sweatshirt Craze has nothing to do with it. Riiiiight. Or the obsession for cutoffs that’s courtesy of again those 90′s comeback in fashion. The streets basically refused to give these 2 items up for the past year. Top that with designers collections for SS 2013 and what you get is a massive fashion craze for 2-seasons-in-one look. I mean we’ve taken on much more fucked up trends for the sake of fashion (read plastic clothes, bags, mismatched prints, creepers et all) so why not these 2 perfectly OK items that together make any woman look like an off duty model in between shows, and mirror an effortless style that usually takes ages to nail. Do I still need to bring up the versatility trait? I thought so, but for the sake of chatting style tips let’s do this: buckle up and let you’re fashion imagination loose. These 2 extremes can adapt to ANY look and style from posh & polished to grunge and boho chic in an instant. The ‘where’ in all all this is checked as well: for office don knee-length shorts and a blouse or blazer, and for the rest of your time, play up the shorts length. But let’s be honest here… it’s always the shoes that make or break an outfit and take it to work, picnic, beach, or out for drinks.

Having said that let’s do this… Grunge Looks in Long x Short

• cutoffs
• sweatshirts
• sweaters (for a more Nirvana/Kurt Cobain look)
• boots (motorcycle or even cowboy styles can do the trick)
• hat (optional)
• leather jacket
• black loose blazer
• backpack
• wayfarer shades
• flanel Boho Chic Look in Long x Short

• shorts (cutoffs or whatev)
• slouchy sweaters
• nude brown shades
• floral prints
• hats
• 70s style sunnies
• boots
• flat gladiator sandals
• chunky sandals
• tons of jewelry Polished Looks in Long x Short 

• heels (usually strappy sandals or pumps)
• cutoffs/lace shorts/floral shorts
• long sleeve silky blouses
• blazer
• leather jackets
• big boxy bags
• clutches
• aviator/wayfarer sunglasses
• usually golden accessories
• red lips Bloggers/Hipsters Look in Long x Short

• boyfriend cutoffs & more fitted sweatshirts
• boyfriend sweatshirts & fitted cutoffs
• sweatshirts with beads, sequins, statement texts, wild prints
• super glam shoes (heels usually from stilettos to chunky styles)
• baseball caps
• red lips
• funky sunglasses
• basically an eclectic uber cool mix of all the styles you can carry. Attitude and confidence help to pull it all off.

Still not convinced? Or maybe we need some more pics for fashion inspo… So what do you say girls: is this the latest trend or is it a look you’ve been doing for ages?

They say the simple things in life are the ones that count most (true!). But they’re also the hardest to achieve. As shallow as it may be, fashion itself acquiesces to this more than you may be tempted to think. Hasty conclusions aside and prejudices out the window, and there you have it – The Black Bag – a staple for us all. I wonder though, does its simplicity translate to how easy we can style this classic piece? Don’t go D’ohh! on me just yet, cause this Black Bag thing can be a trickier business than you may think. Its iconic trait does not a great style make. To be honest with you, I think a black bag is the hardest to style because of its simplicity trap, which eventually can lead to a boring, plain look, or even old’ish, dusted style as if all you’re wearing is pulled out off some old-forgotten shelf. Yeah, we’ve been taught that black goes with anything, more so a black bag, like how hard can it be to just carry it with a colored skirt and top, right? Truth is, while a black bag worn with just about anything does not look bad per se, it may not look great either. For the past 2 years I’ve tried to stay away from black bags for this simple reason I could not find a classic-edgy balance to the look, and risked channeling Plain Jane all the time, thus misleading everyone on my true personality. So I ditched them completely and found the usage of funky, colored, printed or super embellished bags as pure style gold mines. Whatever I’d choose to wear, a printed bag would fit in in a very awkward way. You’d be surprised to find out how easy it is to incorporate a green or red messenger bag into any outfit, instantly making it look cool. Sure there are a few rules to avoid looking like a clown high on fashion and color, but bottom line is, if it looks good and it breaks an outfit’s monotony it works. Now, how can I do this with a black bag, I thought? As of this year I gave in to this staple, for the challenge if not for the necessity. And though I’m a far cry from a sartorial savvy, I guess I might’ve nailed a style balance. So, the black bag goes with anything. But not anything goes great with a black bag. When styling a black bag the key is to always have the big picture of your look and know exactly what you want to say with what you’re wearing. Otherwise you may end up looking boring, dated, un-interested in fashion. Which is perfectly fine, unless you’re aiming for the opposite. Another black bag majorly important thing is choosing it. Due to its dullness and simplicity, to avoid looking the same, you might want to consider going for quality pieces & classic shapes. Big or small, I’ve always felt black bags looks better in more structured shapes. No need breaking the bank to own one, no need becoming a Celine bag copycat, what matters though is that it looks polished & new. It may be as simple as plain day, if it has structure and a quality material it will look fantastic. Slouchy black bags need a bit more attention in styling but it’s worth a shot. How To Style Black Bags? Balance is the golden rule.

• a glamorous black bag (think golden or silver straps, studs, spikes, or patent texture, buckles… Basically a blinged version of this staple) will always guarantee a more sophisticated cool look, even if you’re going all grunge boots and leather jacket. With heels you can pull off a more posh style.
• a simple cut & design black bag, no frills and thrills involved, is perfect for a clean-cut polished office look, for a minimalist style, or simply to clash with a more sophisticated, even dolled up outfit. 

What To Wear With A Black Bag?

• all-black, all-white or monochromatic outfits look best with a black bag, simply because while in the 1st case the bag blends in and pulls the style together, in the other 2 cases (white and mono), it will stand out in a very elegantly understated way. If the bag is structured and slightly expensive looking you can wear it with any outfit. No dusted-wrinkled-look risk involved. A slouchy grunge looking bag will, by opposition, shine best when paired with a more posh style (think light clean colors, statement jewelry, cool shades, rich looking shoes).
• a hint of black in your outfit, pulls it all together, so even a more colorful funky style can be paired with a black bag if it’s all an eclectic mix of old & new, cheap & expensive, colored & basic. The focus may be, in this case on something else, not the bag.
• basic clothes & colors with statement pieces can make a black bag look its best.
• motorcycle boots, jeans (grunge punk styles) look great with big black expensive looking bags or small bling’ish ones (think CHANEL style).
• hot heels, sexy high boots… well they basically can make anything look good so experiment away.
• in case you’re all NO WAY to all the above, yet you’re loving the black bag too much to let it go, when styling it, focus on accessories. Statement fun jewelry will always make an outfit look more chic and sophisticated.

Or… it could just be me (finding this black bag styling a pain in the ass). It does all look so simple.

No shotguns involved. Just pure soldier-combat inspired fashion. This is what’s taking over 2013 autumn street styles, retail chains and magazine spreads, all courtesy of designers like Prabal Gurung, Michael Kors, Christopher Kane or Rebecca Minkoff‘s collections we fell so head over heels with at Fashion Week. As restrictive as a Camo Trend may appear to be, designers have proved us the contrary with an infinite play of colors, patters and cuts, so if green & khaki are not your thing, rest assured because the Military Look can be done in any color as long as the army vibe is in there somewhere. Does this mean the military trend just became more versatile? Or is it just the same old autumn look we’ve been doing for ages? What this post triggered in me (aside from my shopping impulse to buy an army-inspired jacket asap) is the ever present question in my mind, which btw I still cannot shake off: are we, in 2013, at a Trend Loss? Sure, today’s greatest asset rests in us freeing our little fashionista personas, and piling up on all that looks both good and bad, in the most fantastic eclectic way possible. Because all is in, nothing is out, and if you feel like wearing heels with a baseball cap you’ll probably end up being called a hipster rather than a non-savvy fashionista. And that is pretty darn great. But isn’t this the last measure we have to resort to when being bombarded with the same trends for the past 2 decades? In our quest for novelty and armed with the desire to quench the fashion-forward thirst, we do what we can. That Punk is having a huge comeback this cold season is not a secret anymore. We’ve been warned on this with the 90′s Grunge comeback, which by the way is still in, so a dip into the Military Look comes as no surprise. Is there anything different in 2013 Autumn’s Military Trend from its early age sisters, though? And if so, what is it? It seems to be different, yet, with the risk of sounding off right now, I’ll just say it. It’s not. And how could it be, if we’ve been barking at the same door for ages. There’s only so much you can reinvent, right? Or maybe not. What seems new though, and to some unimaginative extent it is, is the mixture of all the Punk-Grunge-again-40s-50s-and-70s fashions. So you can pull off a military look in a 40′s-army-inspired-dress (think green or khaki with buckles and belts), or stick to your 70′s boho style by donning a green combat-print top, or an army jacket over a flirty long dress and boots. If you’re still stuck in the 90′s grunge (gulp) then it’s easy peasy: think Kurt Cobain. Motorcycle boots, vintage looking jeans, oversized sweaters and a military jacket. If you can’t decide between Punk & Grunge mix them: skinny jeans, leggings, heavy looking boots, all-black ensemble and some inspired army attire (coat, jacket, shirt, gloves). Today’s beauty fashion wise rests in the millions of styles we can choose from and mix, with the ever pleasing result of nailing a trendy 2013 look. Which is what you may ask? The extreme or more niche looks from above aside, today’s Military Trend is very much nipped and tucked courtesy of fashion bloggers (style posts). It’s us/you who found the perfect style balance between a girly/feminine and rather polished look & the edginess, underground and beautiful ugliness of a more masculine dirty style. While I love the classic punk and rock looks, I can’t stay away from the challenge of an eclectic punk glam outfit. Feminine dresses made of white lace or ruffles, paired with some sexy classic heeled pumps is probably a style to don for a 1st date or a special dinner. Well not if you add a military jacket, slightly old looking and oversized, because it just looks so much better clashing styles and moods. The ways to wear such a look are infinite by switching shoes: flat ballet pumps, boots, heels, sneakers… so looking like a hipster (if that’s your aim) may be less of a fuss than you might’ve thought. What if you’re slightly passed the age of fashion experimenting, you might ask? First of all, there’s no such thing, and second, if however these styles are not your thing, and you’re a little bit too in love with your classic polished look, good news. You can still do the Military Trend by simply going for posh pieces that are army inspired: tailored trousers in green with a belt, silky tops with gold studs on shoulders or collars, a leather sleeve army printed coat or autumn trench coat (think Burberry). Don’t limit this trend to the grunge look. Instead think of how put together and elegantly immaculate those army generals looked. That’s the preciseness you need to nail and the mood you have to bring to your outfit. And last, but certainly not least, is the importance of accessorizing when doing the Military Trend. I suppose it all comes from the desire to balance the masculine look, so pile away on the wildest blings girls, cause in this case, I think it’s fine to get a little carried away. An army jacket over a black outfit looks so much better with statement earrings, some arm-candy jewelry or a huge statement necklace. What’s your stand on this trend? Are you bored already or do you love it?

Stuck in the Punk-Rock era, are we? Apparently so. And brace yourselves girls cause we’re just getting started. With the Punk Trend being huge this season, we’re actually bound to see tons of reinvented looks and styles reminiscent of that era, which is fantastic cause who doesn’t want an autumn in cool rocknroll boots that look edgy but are comfy? Or maybe we’re just too sick of channeling our glamour puss personas and are hungry for some effortless looks, Tom-boy’ish styles and living it up without the slightest fashion concern. Besides, Fashion Weeks are basically at our fingertips and those off-duty-models’ looks had better rub off on us, right? Remember the post on Summer Boots I did a while ago, in the midst of that summer-in-the-city-sweat we get every year courtesy of seasons’ changing? OK. So maybe we love them a bit too much. Last fall & winter they were pushing through without the slightest shame, and since waiting for the cold season meant us having to ditch them for 3 months, when we were suppose to stick to bare feet – we chose to keep our motorcycle boots on instead. In dead hot summer. And we rocked them. Now, with Fall almost here… let me just say D’Ohhh! of course we’re still keeping the on. What we basically have to keep in mind is that for the next 3 months at least we can fiddle with whatever trends we like as long as we give it that Rocknroll Chic vibe. Just a few days ago I was spilling the beans on the Military Trend, which is not at all a far cry for the Motorcycle Boots Style. Well, actually they tend to go hand in hand if you’re into the all-the-way-head-to-toe-extreme-hard-core-Grunge-Look. If not… but you’re a fan of the edgy but feminine style… read on. It’s possible. The great thing about the heavy looking dusted old grunge boots is that they go with almost anything, and the variety of styles they come in makes it impossible to not find you’re favorite and work them in your everyday looks. The classic Motorcycle Boot is the one without laces, ankle high, black, vintage looking, a bit loose around your ankles with or without the studs or buckles.. These ones you can wear with a long or short skirt or dress, usually chiffon, flirty, nipped with a studded belt at the waist, and topped with a short leather jacket. You can adapt the look for those freezing days, with a parka, a coat, tights, or even a slouchy oversized sweater or sweatshirt. It’s the winter version of the summer boot look. For a complete Rocknroll Chic style don them with leather trousers and shirts, band T-shirts or jumpers and the same array of outwear. To keep the Tom-boy/Feminine balance intact you can resort to accessories of all sorts, to polished bags, red lips or nails… If however you feel the Motorcycle Boot look is a bit too heavy for your 9 to 5 schedule, let me just say, we’ve got the polished boots styles waiting for us. Still a version of the motorcycle shoe, the clean version of these is just that. A more tamed version of the original, can even be patent if you like, just below your ankles, not too heavy looking, perfect for leggings, trousers or a more office-appropriate dress. A blazer will dress up this style. And then there are the lace ups (which we’ll talk about more in another post). They’re the punk version of the motorcycle boot and are tighter around the feet, usually looking better with the whole grunge style (skinny jeans, short flirty dresses and leather jackets). Overall the Motorcycle Boots, however you choose to wear them, make us all look effortlessly chic and sophisticated in a very nonchalant-rock-way, if that’s possible. They remind me of the 90′s videos, of teenage dreams, or young careless girls having fun, of those lazy fashion days when nothing looks good and your old boots are your best friends, always making you look as if you’re a rockstar or  an off-duty model… I know it looks as if we’re all discussing and doing the same things, fashion wise, over and over again, but as long as we look great and feel comfy I see no problem whatsoever. It does all tend to look a bit gloomy this fall with all the black-punk-studs-leather-thing happening, but as I said I think it’s our response to the too polished groomed looks we were doing for too long. We’re the generation that works hard and parties hard, that loves its music festivals, that loves one too many beers every now and then, that needs to let the steam out and act immature, take up no responsibilities, because who really wants to grow up, right? We’ve got our shit together at work, pursing our art-oriented dreams, but when the going gets tough I guess we’d rather have our Motorcycle Boots on than our heels. It’s a phase (trend) so we might as well enjoy it while it lasts.

Hats, caps, beanies. Coolest fashion gimmicks evaaaa! Last winter there was a mass obsession with the beanie. Baseball caps took over for a while and now it’s Fedora‘s time to shine! Ah… hats off to this trend. Figuratively speaking, of course. We wouldn’t want to ruin this head-fashion heaven. Yes ladies, while the more sporty & grunge head-cover pieces (beanies and caps) are still in, The Hats are taking the front seat this fall, with the fedora style as the star, but plenty of room left for the floppy hats, all in any color, texture or print. Now you may be slightly puzzled as to what the hell have hats in common with punk’s ubiquity, cause we may not all be the highest sartorial connoisseurs, but don’t beanies fit fall’s trend better? We know that much. This fun predicament just brings me the incredible joy of again stressing the un-importance of taking trends too literal. I did say however, at some point the 40′s and 50′s inspired designers a lot for 2013-2014 autumn and winter, and these decades do come with the ever classic women’s fashion staples: hats & gloves. So… it’s not that far off after all. It’s a mix. And we love mixes. And style clashing. Sure nothing’s new about the hats, it’s just cool and reassuring to get the ”OK, go for it” pass from fashion’s Gods (not that we needed any). So starting off with this weekend we girls need to make a fashion pledge to keep our hats on this season no matter what. Or, if like me, you’ve never really done this look, or feel kinda silly wearing a hat, say it with me: “This season, I promise to give the Hats Look a try. Not only in front of the mirror. No. I will take my hat out for drinks, for work. And that’s a promise.” Oh, shit. I’m already feeling panic, but we need to step out of our comfort zones! Especially when the Hats Look is so fantastic. I mean it looks great on others, so I should just get over myself and rock it already. Oh, and stop feeling as if I’m donning a huge bird on my head (yeah. I’m crazy, I know, but that’s how I feel).

This weekend is then as good a time as any to do the hats trend. Come rain, come sunshine, I think it’s safe to say a hat will come in handy, especially if we’re having a bad hair-day (read more like weekend). Plus, the hats don’t give a crap about your style, they’re your best friends, they adapt, making you look super sophisticated and chic. So no styling tips here, cause we don’t need them. What we basically need to do is to just throw a hat on this weekend regardless of our outfits. Sunglasses will make the look cooler. A whole lot cooler. Fedora hats have a bohemian artist vibe to them, with plenty of that carefree-don’t-care-how-I-look-but-I-look-great thing going on, and floppy hats are soooo 70′s. Incredibly feminine and sophisticated, retro with that rich spoiled celeb-emulating vibe nailed down to its very core. Enough said, let’s get inspired with some of my favorite street style looks. Enjoy  Have a great weekend my lovelies! xoxo

While all gloves are making their big debut this fall, truth is, long gloves & some more of that 50s reminiscence sounds pretty good. Actually in the midst of the ongoing NYFW SS 2014 collections, as we speak, the proper feminine ultra seductive 50′s are quite the reference point for next summer. So why not start right away? We did say this fall comes with punk reinvented and reshaped in all forms and sizes, 50′s inspo included (hello, Vivienne Westwood). So yes, in all this sometimes-too-hectic trend report business for 2013 Fall, The Gloves Look is big! They do say the Devil is in the details, and it’s always at the dawn of these street styles courtesy of FWs that we get such a crave to perfect the craft of detailing. With this hunger in my pocket (Tommy Ton, I blame you!) I dug and dug in this dirty ol’fashion bitchness, whom you could never rely on for constancy and found such a pretty little style goldmine for us girls, for this cold season - The GLOVES! In all shapes, sizes and lengths, with the-above-the elbow-styles worth doing over and over again, but without ditching the classic gloves just yet. Why not? Well because classic they’re not. They’re fun, edgy, sophisticated, in black or nude, or the crazy hues and colors that make any outfit chic. With studs, spikes, beads, prints, super short, tight, long or loose, 2013 Fall Gloves are to die for. Faux-pas may not be a word on my list, and I do hate any rules, be it fashion or whatever… but, I will reconsider my rebellious position when discussing gloves DO’s and DON’T's. Just cause when wearing gloves there is a tiny style unwritten code, that guarantees getting it right. Throwing on piles of details and allowing yourself to get all moody with god knows what uber trendy pieces, alongside your new gloves, could just be the worst thing you do. The gloves look is about taking it up a notch in femininity and sophistication, but that does not imply fragility or excessive prudence, despite the extra covering-up. Au contraire, gloves define sensuality and sexuality and they can go hand in hand with the BDSM trend, or they can remain in this polished zone, urging us to channel our Marilyn Monroe persona, with a slight edge and rebelliousness to it all. Having said that, when doing the Gloves Look I think there are a few things to keep in mind:

• stick to a style, clashing & effortless can be a bit tricky
• stick to leather gloves
• avoid long boots with long gloves, you might end up looking like a fashion victim version of D’Artagnan
• play with vibrant colors to spice up a dull outfit
• wear long leather gloves with short sleeves or cropped coat sleeves
• remember all leather gloves styles are in

Designers’ Gloves Looks for 2013 Fall Street Style Inspiration What I love about this trend is that you can adapt it to so many looks and moods, while staying warm and adding femininity to an otherwise plain or quite masculine outfit. I rarely gave a crap about gloves & never quite saw their fashion potential. I know I have a whole history to prove me the contrary, and by professing my lack of gloves-interest I only state my ignorance, yet it’s all for a higher purpose: stressing out how we can change and grow to learn & do better. QED. Now I adore gloves (especially long ones) and I’ll make up for those glove-less years big time this fall. My mind is set on Long Gloves that replace long sleeves, over which I’ll throw a statement ring or bracelet. Hmm… I might just trade my Punk obsession for the 50′s retro thing… Or maybe not. We don’t need another Dita Von Teese now, do we?

Seriously? Only an alien going around naked would not get this. FW street style is the ultimate expression of style, of clothes, creativity and lack of fear when donning the craziest thing ever. For the past week, New York streets are swirling with the coolest people, hipsters, bloggers, editors, photographers, writers, stylists, celebrities, models – who all have 2 things in common. 1. They adore fashion and 2. They own it out there style wise. It’s Spring/Summer 2014 Collections Time and fashion’s creme de la creme is in the Big Apple. Crazy colors, prints, mismatched trends or patters, textures, accessory abundance, crazy hair, makeup, vintage old wrinkled clothes alongside high-end brands, ripped jeans, posh heels or dirty old sneakers, caps, hats, bags, clutches… all adorn these hipsters and make us fashion-fantasize about clothes.

Sometimes it’s the opulence of colors, textures, prints or designer brands that captures the eye, but other times (and this is a massive lesson in progress for us all), it’s the most simple outfit, last decade jeans or old T-shirt that has us all stare in complete awe at these cool kids. It’s style. Beyond trends. Beyond catwalks. But made up of some unfulfilled love for a certain decade, for old pieces that bare some meaning to each wearer. Or it’s the lack of interest. Careless, un-studied outfits scream personality and raw attitudes, and that’s what we want. We’ve all had enough of those polished magazine faces and perfect clothes, of ads that well… look like ads that sell. Give us a quirky way of wearing that Marc Jacobs top or a funky approach to a Carolina Herrera skirt, and we’ll take it. Or better yet, who needs them when you’ve got imagination and a strong urge for braking the street visual monotony? Someone once said there’s a new Fashion Week going on outside the shows, each year. And I agree. It’s more relate-able , doable, more genuine. And it’s always a case of ‘‘all is in, nothing is out”. He/She who’s more unafraid to explore and get style creative lands the pic that will inspire millions at home. Oh… and build in us an unquenchable shopping urge, and the promise to get more creative with our looks starting with… Monday. Now I ask you again, how can we not love FW street style? Seriously now. photos by Tommy Ton via style.com

Why another men post, you might ask. Well… apart from a few requests from my male friends, I thought it’s also a great way for us girls to get fashion inspired for the men in our lives. Maybe we have a visceral urge to play stylists, maybe we just can’t help shopping for our men. Or maybe… just maybe, they ask us for help. And then, we’d want to be prepaired & help them change or perfect their looks, spice up their styles, polish them up. How to do this? Easy. Nothing a little street style inspo can’t fix. With an eye on the Men Trends for Fall 2013 and an eye on our beloved boys I think we got this shit handled. For the sake of argument though, let’s see what the big fuss is all about: What Are Autumn 2013 Trends for Men? Since fashion is, well… fashion, regardless of gender, it’s safe to assume that most of autumn’s trends apply for men too. Here we go then…  

• Punk, Rock, Grunge Styles are huge, so everything black, grey, leather jackets, boots, caps, hats are IN.
• Military Trend is perfect for the lads: green combat jackets or shirts, combat boots, trousers.
• Coats: from short to long styles. Tall men can wear them as long as they want, while shorter men should stick to more fitted, shorter styles.
• Sports jackets/bomber jackets are great for the morning chill.
• Trench coats for those boho-chic lads.
• Sweaters, cardigans, shirts, denim jackets, vests – all are IN.
• Business Styles or smart casual looks for work (they do have to make a quid or 2 and are not all famous rich rockstars, as much as they channel them): blazers, cardigans, suits, ties.

Styling Tips & How to Wear All the Above?

• boots: with rolled up jeans or trousers. TIP. Roll up your trousers regardless of your shoes, it’ll look cooler!
• layers: T-shirt + Denim Shirt + sweater/cardigan + leather jacket + coat… OMG! Layer as much as 100 pieces if you want to, or just stick to the classic T-shirt, shirt and coat or leather jacket. Remember the layering tip in ‘Crazy Stupid Love‘? That’s the one. Do it!
• scarves. They’re not feminine, they’re cool. Don them.
• colored socks
• sporty vests over business blazer & tie
• brown shoes with a grey or black suit
• leather gloves
• bags or backpacks 
• sweaters over shirts. Don’t tuck in.

Enough already! Just have fun and you’ll nail it! Here are some street style pics for inspiration… Enjoy

Coats Looks & Styles Layering jacketsLeather Jackets Smart casual & Business Looks Trench Coats Military Styles & Denim Sporty Chic  Ha, I’m starting to get the hang of this! Next week we’ll talk Men haircuts & hairstyles

I guess Mark Ronson, Queen & Syd Barrett saw the Bike Trend coming long before it became a fashion craze among all fashionistas & bloggers. What they didn’t know though is that not only cool looking blokes or Tom-boy ladies can ride the oldest, healthiest and most environmental friendly means of transportation. Hell no. Lately every high class, rich, once-spoiled socialite or polished manager is seen ditching their BMWs or Mercedes for a ride in the saddle. Now I wonder why? Is it really because a bike can get you to your destination so much faster while enjoying a great weather and workout, or is it because those posh ladies are so enamored with fashion trends, they just had to literally embark on the Cycle Chic one as well? The days of those hideous biking outfits are dead, what we now have is an array of Bike Styles and Bike Fashions that, we, as people with a penchant for all sartorial things, just can’t ignore. Let alone sit aside. Whoever said you have to change your style to ride a bike, couldn’t have been more further from the truth. Actually you can not only stick to your style, but spice it up. From bikes styles to your own looks it’s a heaven I swear. Makes me want to get a new bike every month, as if I’m buying the latest shoe trend. Is it then safe to assume the Riding Your Bike In Style Trend is the latest street fashion phenomenon? Would anyone start judging if I said I’d want one just to look cool? Cause here’s how it is: you can ride it to work, in weekends going out for lunch or even for dinners or dates. People ride it to make it to job interviews, to get from A to B regardless of the dressing code and circumstance, and most importantly in the same clothes as if they’re driving or taking the tube. Sure heels may be a bit tricky, but just until you get the hang of it. Practice does make perfection. And I think we all agree it’s easier to ride a bike in heels than to walk in heels 2 km, right? What I think we’re most self conscious about is what people are saying, when they see you struggling to pedal in your brand new Louboutins. It wouldn’t be the 1st time a few faces were appalled and shocked upon the birth of a fashion/social new craze, so eff those. Can we ride the bike in style? 

Damn right we can. Sure the easiest way to paddle the saddle is to stick to skinny jeans, or shorts, tennis shoes, ballet flats or motorcycle boots, but what if we don’t want to give up our High Heels persona? Nor our skirts or dresses. The trick is to avoid for starters longer than knees dresses as hey might get tangled in the bike, and avoid pencil skirts (unless they have a slit or a zipper), cause it makes your legs’ movement more difficult. But not impossible. A-line & pleated skirts and dresses, knee length or above are so pfff… easy to pull off in the saddle. It’s all about tucking. Tuck it under your bum and you’ll be fine. Or wear bicycle shorts. Now with winter just around the corner you can wear opaque tights or leggings to avoid flashing in public. Heels? Well… I think they’re just another pair of shoes. After all it’s your legs who do all the work not your feet. So yes. Bottom line is, in my opinion riding a bike does not mean you have to change anything in your outfits. The bag issue may be the biggest, as it would really be a pain in the ass to try and keep it on your shoulder while switching between lanes and giving laser looks to those drivers who almost ran you over. So get a goddamn basket. Put all your bags, books, groceries in there and you’ll be riding careless and free. While looking uber cool.

Here are some street style bike looks to get us inspired… Did I say how amazing bikes alone look? Or how you can paint and style yours into your best accessory? I’m hooked on this trend. I’ll have this bike please  Have a greet weekend lovelies, riding your bikes in style!  ;) xoxo

When Pucci showed their 2013/2014 Fall Winter collection, packed with hot heeled thigh high boots I was head over heels (and thigh) with this boot trend. But I can’t help and wonder if, ladies can we pull off the thigh high look on a daily basis? And if so, is there a limit (besides the over-the-knee) to this sometimes-too-sexy borderline BDSM look? First thing’s first though, when it comes to 2013 Boots Trend the high boots are getting a whole lot of attention (next to the motorcycle, cut-out boots, kitten heels, chunky heels, wedges, ankle boots, printed boots etc.), yet this sexed up look is not at all a new thing in our little fashion world. It’s been done before, almost every season, and it keeps coming back as if to just feed our sexy shoes obsession and keep us channeling our inner hotness.

What is different though about the 2013 Thigh High Boots? I’d say the edginess and versatility, cause if in the early 2000′s this style had a somewhat porn vibe to it, today, these boots come in chunky high or average heels, flat, slouchy, fitted, colored, printed, tube styles, knee high or super high thigh. And of course the everclassic stiletto heel. So all is in, right? Then how come they look much more wearable, cool & not at all too much? Cause with the black, grunge, punk or leather trends invading us this season, I didn’t think we’d manage to pull it off so brilliantly. But we did. When wearing thigh high boots, the key to getting it right is in the outfit and the overall style, rather than in the boot’s design itself. How to wear Thigh High Boots this fall?

Balance and mix. They look better with dresses, skirts and shorts, with or without tights or over the knee socks (they give you a grunge or boho chic vibe), especially if the length of your bottoms is just a few inches above the boot or even covers it a little bit, giving the impression as if you’re wearing endless suede or leather trousers. For example a longer skirt or dress, with a side or middle slit looks fabulous over a pair of fitted black leather thigh high boots. In other words, it’s about covering up and leaving a lot to the imagination. For a more girly look, cutoffs, leather shorts, flirty dresses, sweater dresses and an oversized coat or jacket do the trick. For a laid back style opt for flat boots, wedges or even chunky heels with a rather slouchier or tube style design. Basically it’s about keeping your outfit as toned down in terms of hotness as possible, keep it masculine, preppy, slouchy, oversized, grunge or even sporty chic, avoiding super fitted, body hugging clothes that are seriously so late 90′s. In terms of trousers… see what best works for you, though I think skinny jeans and a long & large top best go with thigh high boots. It’s a more accessible look, easy to do, pull off, but already too common. Have fun with accessories and cool jumpers A thigh high boot look that will never fail is the all black style: black tights, black dress/skirt/shorts, a black chiffon shirt or sweater/jumper, T-shirt and a black coat/jacket/blazer. But let’s face it girls, whatever happens, one of our great loves will remain the stiletto. So can we do it with a thigh high boot? I say it’s all in the attitude. And clashing styles. An oversized parka may be best to wear with boyfriend shoes, but it looks beyond amazing with stiletto thigh high boots. An oversized sweater dress does the trick too, so do boyfriend shorts. Think masculine meets feminine and you’re safe. Or… go all the way, it’s all in the right attitude after all. And now let’s get inspired… So, are you a fan of thigh high or not?

Glitter, sparkles and anything pink comes with the territory of being a girl, right? You don’t even need to be one of those ladies with a passion for fashion, cause you’re still guilty as charged for the pink crush, from back in your childhood days, when draping yourself in pink & glitter was the best thing ever. So if fashion trends get inspired from all sorts of weird things, why not speculate on women’s inherent girly personas, right?

That’s what I thought. Besides, in this fashion trend amalgam of all grunge punk black rocknroll stuff, a bit of unicorn love was bound to happen. Actually this pink comeback is kinda refreshing. The sight of a pink coat over… whatever basically has got enough retro/ladylike vibe to last us a lifetime. But could we have foreseen the Pink COATS Trend for 2013 – 2014 Autumn/Winter? Grunge wise: no. Punk wise: yeah… a little bit (think neon pink). Retro: now you’re talking. 50′s & 60′s retro looks are making quite the comeback this season, just remember Mulberry’s fall 2013 collections. Those pink dusted soft cozy understated rich, and uber feminine coats from their collections took me back to Marilyn Monroe days. 

Are all pink coats IN, though? I always say, if you love it, wear it. If you can rock whatever weird looking thing, do it.

But, for the sake of trends & looks argument let’s discuss the coat looks for this season. It’s all about shape, in a very androgynous, unflattering way, but still so feminine. While fitted coats, that hug our curves are probably still in (who’s to say they’re not, anyway?) this fall’s coat trend evolves around a more retro man-inspired shape.

V-deep plunging necklines, broad shoulders, slightly oversized, huge pockets, above the knee lengths. OR boyfriend styles. OR uber long coats, like those glam actresses form classic black and white films. Though they may not follow a woman’s line, and actually look a bit unflattering on our silhouettes, there’s something quite refreshing and irresistible about concealing and misleading the eyes. Sort of like saying: “I’m so confident I could rock a garbage bag and look hot! Who needs fitted lines when you’ve got a sexy attitude!” In regards to HOW Pink bright to go, or not… I think it’s safe to say it’s all a matter of personal taste and what looks good on you. Personally I prefer the dusted pink tones coats, just cause I would never feel confident enough to rock a bright pink coat. It does look fab, I’ll give you that. What to wear them with? Pink Coats are extremely versatile, as they can translate to almost any look, injecting a dose of femininity and class to whatever outfit you’re wearing. So you may go Marilyn or Jackie Kennedy in soft fabrics, cashmere tops, pencil skirts, kitten heels and those huge sunglasses. OR you may go all 2013 grungy. What? Just try to don denim, leather, and tons of bling with a pink coat, you’ll see what I’m talking about. Other look options include: modern classy (think office appropriate), any-decade-retro (for example 70s: uber long pink coat over an-over-the-knee A-line dress), androgynous (high-waisted trousers, blazer, loafers) and so on.

So what do you think? Will you go for the Pretty in Pink Coat Trend? 

Whoever said size does not matter, clearly had no idea what they were saying. Fashion wise. Let’s keep this conversation unsoiled.

For the past year everyone seems to have a slight obsession towards going up a few sizes, hence the oversized coats, sweaters, and boyfriend borrowed looks. Have we just had enough of the bombshell looks, that we now couldn’t care less if we come across as stylish hobos or oversexed pop stars? Even the golden rule of style – balance – is every now and then ditched in favor of comfy meets quirkiness (the rule – if your bottoms are tight, your top has to be slouchy and vice versa – is suddenly dated). I would have thought though, a few items would never make it to the oversized shortlist. Ha! Think again, said the Leather Trousers. When you hear about this new trend - Baggy Leather Trousers – you immediately say wtf. Buuut, once you see them… you may just reconsider. Sure not all baggy styles look great on leather, but some are actually pretty fantastic. It’s all a hip hop meets glam combo. Or a late 80′s meets 2013 urban glam or sporty luxe thing. It’s cool, effortless and this way you may just be able to pull off leather trousers style for work.

While the skin tight looks are still in (think it’s safe to assume they will always be hot), this slouchy version of the leather trousers does make it more appropriate for various situations. Sure, eventually it depends how edgy (read baggy) you’re going with this look as well, but, at the end of the day, any piece of clothing that is less fitted and slightly oversized, will look a bit more tamed rather than sexy. On where this Baggy Leather thing came from, safe to say it’s one more extension of the boyfriend look. I mean up to now, it was just men who wore baggy leather trousers. They would have looked a bit too exposed in skin tight. As much as we loved those 80s and 90s with Bon Jovi and Axl Rose rocking the shit out of our generation… some things are better left in the past.

Personally I love how fashion is always switching up between trends and looks, inventing or redesigning weird-at-first-sight-styles. Gives us a chance to experiment and express ourselves. Having said that, let’s see what the fuss is with these baggy leather trousers.

Basically there are 2 versions of this trend:

1. The leather sweatpants (remember my sweatpants & heels post? something like that only with a different fabric. It’s somehow a tamed down version of what pop stars and celebs wear on stage.)
2. The tailored oversized leather trousers. Hence the baggy name. They can be any style, resembling a suit or tapered version of the trousers, high waisted, boot-cut, wide leg, or au contraire tight around the ankles.

What to wear with Baggy Leather Trousers? Anything. They are normal trousers in a more edgy, glam, sophisticated fabric. What’s great about these is that the looser cut makes them a bit more work appropriate. They look very professionally chic when paired with a blouse or T-shirt and a blazer. Shoes wise. Again anything works. personally I love how they look with heels. Overall, when not extremely oversized, the baggy leather trousers trend is quite fantastic. It’s sophisticated yet effortless.

What do you think? Some things are better left skin tight, or not?