The redundancy of some trends may be annoying at some point, but then there are those trends we can never get enough of. No matter how much we keep on doing them. Over and over and over again, and still not enough you know. Such is the case of the Leather Pants Trend. In fact, long gone are the days when this trouser style was a bikers-only and rock-chick staple. Today, not only we’ve made it sporty-rock-office-casual-evening appropriate but also any season, any age, any style, any look appropriate.

It’s all about finding a great pair of leather pants with a cut and style to fit your body and matching them to certain tops and shoes to get that effortless somewhat polished look. Think Miranda Kerr. Ever since last season leather pants have grown a lot trend wise and their cuts and styles surpass the typical skinny jean look. Although to be honest here, it’s this skinny leather pants style I think works best for this type of trousers. It’s sleeker, more polished and makes it easier for us to play with shapes. For example: skinny leather pants & oversized sweaters, slouchy tops, boyfriend tees & shirts…

That’s not to say slouchier leather pants don’t work. Au contraire they’re quite the hit this season and perhaps more office appropriate. Think side pockets, slightly loose, but still cut and fitted to the body shape. They look perfect with a tucked in white shirt and a boyfriend blazer on top. What makes leather pants suddenly so versatile though? Slap a pair on and you’ll see. Instant hotness, empowerment, and sleek sophisticated vibe all over you. They ooze both a certain trendiness and luxe, as well as a staple-worthiness mixed with the coolness of a rockstar. And frankly anything looks good paired with them. Tops wise, from office shirts and blouses to chunky sweaters, sweatshirts, denim shirts – it’s all possible. What I don’t necessarily like with leather pants are crop tops, just because they give that late 90’s Spice Girls vibe. Buuuut…. in fashion, never say never. Shoes wise, except for anything-platform (which I hate) I really think any shoe style works, and stick by my theory, that it’s mostly the shoes that give the tone of the look.

Stiletto pumps will make it all more rich-sexy-sophisticated, especially when paired with a silky top, or sweater and a fur vest or fur coat. Love at first sight. Chunky heels are more dramatic, more trendy, more rock-chick-model, and look great with coats or parkas. Ballet flats give a classy simple tone to the whole leather look. Sneakers make it all more urban-chic-sporty-luxe. And ankle boots of any kind are the model off duty uniform when paired with leather pants, simple tees, and a coat/faux fur/jacket on top. The DON’T Rules when it comes to leather pants is to avoid making them overly sexy. I mean they already are, so balancing this inherent hotness might be a good idea. Hence, no stripper platform heeled shoes, no overdoing it in terms of tight, super fitted styles paired with tight super fitted tops and tiny little jackets. Play with shapes and layers and have fun with the architecture of clothes, instead.

Also textures are super importante, for instance I think leather pants look brilliant when paired with a great boyfriend blazer or a soft, even chunky sweater. Also plain cotton tees balance the whole sleekness of the leather look, which makes it all more chic and effortless and tasteful at the end of the day.

Let’s see more street styles for inspiration. :)  Don’t know about you but I’m definitely sticking to this trend and need to buy one more pair of leather pants for this cold season. I always used to say about my older pair of leather pants that they get me out of any fashion predicament. So so so very true. Ever since I’ve accidentely ripped them a bit, and could not wear them, I’ve missed them so much. If I literally had a quid for every time I said ”ah wish I had a new pair of leathers” (usually in those fashion moments I was telling you about) I swear I would have had enough money to buy myself 100 pair of these.

So… no more excuses. This weekend gotta go shopping.

Enough about me. Talk to me about you, and your love OR no-love for the leather pants trend. :)

Knits. Knits. Knits. The trend was all over the runway for 2014 fall. Groundbreaking right? Well certainly not, but very comforting to know that what us mortals have been wearing for centuries in autumn is in fact this season’s trend. Of course sweaters of all sorts have made the look each year, but head to toe knits? Or layered knitted tops & cardigans?! Err, somebody call grandma, tell her she’s been robbed of her Sunday fashion attire.

Pardon my sarcasm here, but who can honestly say head to toe knits work on a daily basis, on people interacting with other people, out there in the world? Read: office, meetings, important rendezvous. Dates? I’m leaving aside. Hell if you’re wearing head-to-toe knits on your date you can kiss your second date good-bye, and that’ll be the only thing you’ll be kissing. Btw.

Or maybe not. A SWEATER DRESS is a head to toe knit look. Not a new and groundbreaking style in the least, not fashion forward, not unseen or undone before. No. Yet most definitely warm, cozy, trendy (according to the above), with that 70’s vibe that’s massive this season (Trendy Twice). May not be a layered look, or composed of knits look (knitted skirt + sweater + cardigan), but it’s a head-to-toe knit alright. And one we can rock in a heartbeat, and take anywhere, while keeping warm. Can we do the head-to-toe knit trend then, and NOT look like grandma? YES. It’s all about textures & accessories ladies.

So if your upper half is covered in chunky knits, sweaters, cardigans OR sweater dresses – the topic of the day – make sure you’re wearing posh shoes, sexy heels, over the knee boots in patent, leather or suede. Sleek feet style! Add some rich-looking jewelry and a faux fur coat, a leather jacket, a classic trench and you can forget about granny-style. The great thing about sweater dresses is the million of styles, designs, knits, colors, prints and patterns they come in – making it super easy to choose one for any occasion, office and weekends included. They’re easy to style, to wear, to accessorize, to dress up or down. They go with bare legs and tights as well, hell even short shorts underneath if you wish. On those hectic mornings when you’ve got nothing to wear, or lazy Sundays when you’re doing lunch with your friends – a sweater dress is the best thing to wear. You just pull it over, put some boots on, a coat and you’re done! What sweater dress to choose? It depends on your style, your mood, and where you’re going.

There are those oversized chunky sweater dresses, that look like are 10 sizes up, but go amazing with classic stiletto pumps or thigh high boots. Then there are the more fitted styles, over the knee, pencil cut that are great for office with a blazer on top. The short loose versions are great for going out to lunches and dinner and even dates. Go figure. They look great with any shoe style and make a perfect effortless but polished look when paired with a boyfriend blazer. Or get that 70’s vibe and pair them with a faux fur coat. Not to mention the textures they come in. Knits alright, but they range from those chunky uber thick styles to those thin, almost sheer, silky designs. Literally a million ways to do this trend, without even overdoing it, and always looking effortless, slightly boho-chic, but very polished in a cozy kinda way. LOVE. LOVE. LOVE.

Let’s have a look at more street styles: What do you think?

You know that feeling you have when you’re left out on something? As if you’ve been living obliviously happy in your own, apparently not-so-up-to-date- reality, while a whole lot of stuff has been happening around you. Well, thanks for the heads up you know. My dear Fashion friend.

As I’ve tried, and tried, and tried, and then tried some more to find out what’s HOT out there in terms of trends for 2014 fall – other than the ones already being in rotation for the past 2 years – turns out the elephant in the room was staring right at me. I was just too caught up in my own quest to stop and smell the coffee you know. COATS for 2014 ladies. That’s what we talk about today, and how the latest coat-fad in town right now is: forget buttons. Forget them altogether when it comes to this season’s coats. WRAP COATS are the IT coats of the season. That’s not to say we’ll all be strutting the streets in long unbuttoned coats like some Highlanders (although why the fuck not, if it floats our boat?), but we’ll instead literally wrap them around us with belts of all sorts. What do we have then? A very, very, very effortless and chic somewhat 70’s look in oversized coats - camel being HOT! HOT! HOT! still – with massive collars, and obviously no buttons. The beauty of this look lies exactly in its effortlessness and the easy-going vibe it has, especially if we’re wearing long coats. Like knee or over the knee long.

The look is as much chic as it is classy and elegant when paired with office wear. Or it can be hobo-chic when worn with sneakers, beanies & BF jeans. Not to mention it keeps us warm, and allows so many layers underneath it’s perfect.

Without further ado let’s indulge into some street style inspiration… ;) Frankly I have no idea as to why I’m so bloody surprised this is happening. It’s certainly not a new coat style. Not the first time women ditch buttons for belts. Not the first time I’ve ever seen or wore such a coat myself.

I guess making it official and realizing it’s a pretty darn clear trend per se for 2014 fall is what made me act all ‘what the hell? where was I when this thing took off?‘ Er… here. It all comes to show us that we never really know when a look – as ‘whatever’ as it may be – could one day just turn into a season trend!

Right? ;)

If until recently my addiction was limited to rings, leather and black anything, I confess I’ve added one more item to the infamous list: FUR anything. Well… faux fur to be more specific and for 2014 fall FUR VESTS to be even more accurate.

Although, who am I kidding here, give me a fur costume and I’ll probably end up living in it as well. So I’m extending this addiction to fur bags (massive trend alert for this season), fur collars, fur hats and of course fur coats. From tiny short ones that have a more punk glam vibe to them, to long dramatic styles. Hell I’m on the hunt for one that resembles Carrie Bradshaw‘s for a while now: that knee length nude fur coat that she used to wear with flirty dresses and sandals. Oh. My. God. But today we talk fur vests because:

1.  they are one of this season’s biggest trends, and go perfectly with the 70s obsession happening right now;
2.  they’re one of the best layering transitional pieces out there, that may not keep us warm (faux fur that is), but instantly dress up a look when worn over jackets, sweaters, dull or repeated outfits. It’s got a sophisticated-luxurious-trendy-grungy-classy-feeling to it. It’s all a matter of personal style and how you pair it up with different items; and
3. I’ve just been gifted by Lookbookstore with a fabulous black faux fur vest (hips-length) and a dressy black sweater, so I’m out fishing for outfit ideas for my next week’s style post. I know… how selfish of me. :)  See them here on my Instagram.

Since the idea of how glamorous, chic, classy et all is not an issue, nor is the question what fur vests look good worn with (like everything doh), let’s focus on HOW we would actually wear one. Or how we DO wear one?

Do we layer it with casual shirts (plaid, denim, flannels) or chic comfy thick knitted sweaters? Do we still do the leather-jacket layered-underneath-look? Can we wear it with a tee? Can we throw it on over a super sexy dress? Do we rather pair it with flats or heels? Sneakers or biker boots? High heeled boots or classic pumps? How about sandals? Yes I’m aware it’s autumn but I think there’s something so incredibly hot yet classy about a fur vest (even coat) paired with ankle-strap sandals I can’t help myself. It’s a season clashing, a style clashing, a sophisticated fashion chaos that screams luxe and a bit of that celebrity look, or rich woman in between business meetings. cause you know, the VIPs never have to walk, they basically jump from one limo to another and are delivered to the actual venues. So… a fur vest and bare feet is like so glamorous and do’able! Do we go for the classy look or for the casual weekend style? Model-off duty vibe or rich-editor? 70s glamour puss or edgy sophisticated babe in 2014? Being a fashion-moody person I’ll probably take all of these on each day of the week, OR just keep doing one look over and over again until I’m literally sick of it and all the items I’d wear. Today I’m into the sandals and all-black outfit with fur vest on top thing. Tomorrow or on Saturday when I’m taking my photos, who knows? I’ve learned to stop making style plans for more than one day, cause I’m seriously impossible at committing to them.

Enough talk now. Let’s leave it to the street style peeps to show us a million ways we can wear a FUR VEST. Not that we need to, but you know… a bit of inspiration never hurt nobody. ;)  So what do you think? How do you wear fur vests?

Nooooooooooooooo! (read it in a desperate, very desperate scream) although, to be honest no matter what the fashion gurus say, I’m sticking to my guns on this one, as I will probably be alone in my love for the dark color, clinging desperately to all black outfits, while everyone else is doing 50 shades of Grey. Sorry I couldn’t help myself. Well, at least I didn’t use the book reference in the title.

Just the other day I was reading in Vogue, how GREY is a massive trend for 2014-2015 cold season, so I thought why not talk about this. Will grey become more than a sweater, a pair of pants, or a coat in a look? Or will it be an ALL-GREY thing, thus replacing what up to now used to be all-black and all-white outfits? Come to think of it, it kinda makes sense, it’s sort of a happy marriage between these 2 non colors. The result? A very very very elegant shade if you ask me, with a touch of cool, a bit of sadness, poised class, cold refinement.

It’s like a black & white incredible photo. While I will never give up or replace my all-black outfits, I will however try on colored or less colored ones, such as this GREY TREND, which I really like, and have worn before. What I actually love about this cool shade is the fact that being neutral, makes it go with anything. YES, even brown.

It looks fantastic with a pop of color, such as red, or even bright yellow, so I always think a grey sweater with jeans and red lips, is perfect for a casual chic Saturday. All grey outfits look amazing with red nails, red lips or red shoes. There is something incredibly refined about this color, and the minimal effect is has makes it very easy to play the posh card and play with rich small details that give you sort of a luxurious yet minimal air to the whole look. I LOVE that. It’s effortless. Crispy but soft, rich but understated. OR it can be grungy why not, when worn in simple tees, ripped jeans and a black leather jacket. You end up looking like those rebel cool girls on music posters. Add a a red lip to it and people will stop you for autographs. However you choose to wear grey, whether as an all-grey-look or just a grey item in your outfit, go for it. It’s apparently not only trendy, but also very easy to match, to style, and to rock. It’s classy and chic!

Let’s have a look and get inspired for a black & white weekend – in GREY doh! – with a bit of red, why not. What do you think: YES or NO to this color?

Have a great weekend y’all! :) xoxo

Two weeks ago I was chatting over drinks with a friend of mine, basically bitching about how there is no more NEW in terms of trends for this cold season. Little did I know. I, again, had spoken too soon. It was right after that, that I took a stroll around the shops to see what’s hot and not out there. This weekend, on a gift-shopping-trip I noticed how retail is packed with LONG CARDIGANS for 2014 fall. Ta-daaaa! This hot look is nothing more than an extension of the KNIT trend, sweaters, and boho-chic styles that were, are, and will always be IN for autumn. More so, this season with the reinvention of the classic cardigan. For the past decades cardigans were basically waist length, somewhat fitted sweaters. Today they’re that and so much more.

LONG cardigans from knee-lengths to floor-lengths are massive, in chunky knits for that bohemian look, as well as thin fabrics, lace, mesh… that look like floor-length trenches. Draped cardigans, aztec printed, belted, hooded, pocketed, ALL is in, in the most daring, funky and fun way possible. They probably are the best layering gimmick and style statement right now. How to wear long cardigans? I’ll be honest here, the moment I saw them, I loved them. On the hangers. I was thinking of a slight ‘nah’ for an actual outfit, just cause of the overly knitted look (grandma alert), or of the borderline matronly vibe – floor length lace cardigans. They look fabulous, but where & how would I actually wear one? And would I?

Then I did some research of how sartorial riskers are doing this trend and… I’m IN! Basically there are 2 main styles a long cardigan can translate to. 1) Bohemian chic borderline hobo-cool, and 2) Chic & effortless model-off-duty.

Long cardigans look best with fitted bottoms: skinny jeans or leggings and a slouchier top. Or they look amazing when the play with lengths is out of control: mini skirts or dresses, shorts, crop tops layered with denim shirts. For a more relaxed weekend style don slouchier silhouettes even boyfriend-cut jeans or pants, and sneakers. A cap, hat, or beanie will give you that hipster look if you’re into that sort of thing. If you think knits of all sorts are a far cry from sophistication, think again. With a pair of heeled shoes: pumps, stilettos, boots and what not, ANY long cardigan will instantly look uber sleek and chic. Also a major trick this long cardigan thing allows is that we can dress a bit too-fitted, too-short, too-cropped, YET without revealing. The moment you put some short shorts on, a cropped long sleeve top, ankle boots, and slap a long cardigan on top, you’ll look fresh, trendy, young, without revealing more than you wish. Well, unless you want to. Then you can take it off. It’s all about the details and clashing styles. If you feel it’s too much of a granny style, resort to a pair or heeled ankle boots, jewelry and red lips. If you feel you’re au contraire borderline vulgar, don a cap, a beanie, sneakers and  fun cool laid back attitude. At the end of the day it’s about you feeling great, funky and confident in your outfit, whatever anyone else says. I you love it, rock it. Fashion is supposed to be fun, a fooling around with trends, styles, and clothes.

Let’s have a look at street stylers for inspo… ;) What do you think: YES or NO to looooooong cardigans?

Or maybe I should have asked ‘How to look like off-duty models in the cold season?’ Cause it seems to me these girls have their well picked uniforms and fabulous effortless styles for all seasons, and in autumn and winter they’re all seen in their cut-off denims or leather shorts with chunky sweaters, leather jackets or coats, and biker or over-the-knee boots. And sometimes, when it’s freezing they’ll sport black sheer or opaque tights. Amazing, if you ask me. The SHORTS-in-the-cold-season look has definitely translated into a trend for the past couple of years, courtesy of these models and us as well. Whaaaat? Well… I happen to think we’re also baring a tiny bit of blame for the shorts in winter style, just because we can’t yet part ways with these items once summer’s gone.

So… as any brilliant minded sartorial defying blizzard would do, we too came up with this trend. As long as the feet are comfortable (or not) and warm in boots and thick soft socks (over-the-knee styles look amazing), and we’re all bundled up in layers of knits and shirts and tees and wrap coats (this season’s massive trend!) a few inches of leg skin is ‘whatever’ you know.

Not to mention that if you’re too cold, or love the grungy cool style, you can definitely resort to those sheer or opaque black tights. Or even pattern styles. What’s the secret to nailing the-shorts-in-winter look? Nothing much I think, because they’ll instantly look fantastic paired with autumn and winter items: sweaters, shirts, vests, jackets, coats and what not. In terms of shoes, which set the tone for the whole look, anything goes from ballet flats, to biker boots, to sky high heels, to sneakers.Do all summer shorts work in the cold season? I kinda think they do, so YES from my part. I’ve worn light colored and different fabric shorts in freezing temperatures paired with chunky sweaters and black tights and I like to think they looked OK. Truth is I’ve always loved the clashing of season fabrics and thought a pair or lace or silky shorts look fantastic with a cable knit sweater and high boots. It looks sophisticated.

So YES to all shorts in winter if you ask me. Except maybe for white ones. Although even those can work paired with a black sweater, black high boots and bare leg skin. Or maybe except for those beach-shorts. Yeah, I’m guessing those are a no-no. Easiest shorts styles to don in winter? By far the high waisted ones! I love those loose cotton & leather styles, jacquard, sequins, also look so luxurious, plaid could even work if you love it, and last but not least denim. A pair of denim cutoffs will ALWAYS look effortless, cool, grungy, edgy, or chic, depending on your personal style.Where to wear shorts in winter? Well… this might be the tricky part. Short shorts are a no-no for the office, even with tights, buuuuut those loose high wasited styles that resemble skirts – those – I think can look quite chic and professional paired with a blouse & blazer & ankle boots or ballet pumps.

Also perfect for the office are the knee-length shorts especially when paired with a color coordinated blazer. Think short business suit. For autumn days.The rest of your summer shorts can basically go anywhere in winter, except the beach you know. And for some fashion inspiration, let the photos roll… ;) Do you wear shorts in the cold season?

The thing about me is I’m never one to shy away from anything. Disliking a trend par example has never stopped me from giving it a try, just cause I wanna know, on my own skin, in my own terms, what the fucking fuss is all about. It usually happens that after the road testing I’m converted to wearing it more than I’d like t admit.

Or not. Depends.

Still… when it comes to body mod, the trigger to doing it has got to be something more than the trend worthiness of it all. Actually it should not have anything to do with the fad of it. Good. Now that we cleared that one out we can focus on calling it like it is though: piercings & tattoos have never been more mainstream than right now. Online articles are supporting the right to wear them regardless of your job, as a form of self expression. Models today are allowed to have them for the same reasons. So, Amen to that! Tats, nose studs and ear piercings have always been more common, but today we’re witnessing the rise of the SEPTUM CUFF, RING or PIERCING to the trend status. In 2013 it was on the runway, dangling luxuriously and opulently between the noses and upper lips of both male and female models, and then it was turned into a fad by celebs like Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Zoe Kravitz, FKA Twigs et all. If to the less connaisseurs the septum ring is basically a boring simple piece of jewellery, to us, the sartorial lovers, that is just the starting point. The fun you can have with septum cuffs’ styles is limitless. From tiny pieces in basic cuts, to the most opulent septumn rings out there, with stones and gems and chains and what not, they literally became a statement piece, a bling for your upper lip, or for your nose.OK, when this fad broke through I was not feeling it at all, cause it seemed to me that it’s too much to don in everyday life. For me. Now, a nose stud pierce, that’s another story. But… I gave the septum ring a try, while out with my friends, and while they were not feeling the look on me (to say the least) I ended up loving it! It was a fake septum ring. I’m not ready for that kind of commitment just yet.

It does feel a bit weird in your nose, but I felt pretty cool, and having dared to rock one (although I do realize the big deal was only for me, to me), empowered me and gave me a feeling of ultimate coolness you kmow. Rockstar vibe or whatever. Yeah… you know what I mean. Stepping out of your comfort zone can actually be quite empowering & rewarding. Going for the pierced look or not is entirely up to you, but just so you know, a septum piercing is the only piercing you can actually hide if you wish to, cause you just push the ring in your nose, or turn the cuff inside. If not… you always have the fake septum cuffs to give a try for the trend sake, or to test how you’d actually feel with a real piercing.

Anyway, at the end of the day body mod shouldn’t be about fads and trends, but about expressing yourself, regardless of everything out there.Since we’re talking fashion here and what’s hot and not out there, we’ll just focus on the fun side of the septum cuffs and rings, be it piercing or fake, as a way up expressing your personal style. Before you go ‘Hell, no!’ on me right now, just have a look at these beautiful people. Sooooo?! Are they gorgeous or what?

I’m telling you piercings got to me, never thought I’d say this but they did. I’ve always only loved tats, nose studs and ear piercings, but this septum thing might be the beginning of a beautiful friendship. What do you think?

Have a great weekend, y’all! xoxo

Something about autumn and how we dress makes this season, and us with it, look like a scene from our favorite film. Leaves on the ground, trees going to sleep, sun & rain altogether, windy cool weather, crispy mornings, heads tucked in collars, hands fidgeting in pockets, sipping hot drinks in bohemian artsy or posh bars, hot coffees to go on rushed cold mornings, and us starring in all these scenes, almost always wearing SWEATERS! 

Whether trendy or not sweaters were always fall’s #1 staple. I remember growing up how much I used to hate wearing any type of sweater that my mom used to lay out for me. I felt it made me look like a tiny bug about to explode. You could spot me from 1 mile away, in my always so colored and bright patterned Christmas themed sweaters even when Christmas was long way ahead, scratching my neck from the itching fabric, sweating my heart out, cause I was never cold, au contraire. But my mom… bless her, lives by the saying ‘better safe than sorry’, so dress up kid, and sweat your heart out. If I’m cold you’re cold. And she was always cold.

So you get why for quite some time, I disliked sweaters of any kind. Up until I grew up (well, that’s debatable), and found myself embracing their look. And utility. Also I think sweaters have become a major look for the past years, and are having their 5 minutes of fame for a while now. Which is fantastic! Trend wise – today – seems to me that all is in. Sort of. If last autumn bright sweaters and crazy printed styles were massive, today it’s more about pastels, monochromatic sweaters, softer fabrics, muted colors (grey, whites, blues, pinks), with chunky, cable knit and oversized designs still running the show. So basically it’s just the wild prints that are a bit dated, but even those I think are great. Don’t do trends per se, you know. Do what you feel like. :) 

Here are 8 SWEATERS STYLE to rock this fall: 

1. Oversized sweaters. The bigger the better you know. Who ever said size does not matter, clearly never wore or seen a sophisticated boho-chic oversized sweater paired with anything, especially skinny pants, jeans, OR mini skirts.2. Metallic sweaters are quite the shit this season, which is perfect cause they can go from office hours to late night dinners or even cocktails. They look so fabulous, yet have a certain effortlessness to them, sort of like saying ‘I just threw this on and here I am.’ Silver & gold styles are the best.3. Turtleneck sweaters. The 70s baby! Or just a great solution to hide from the cold. From loose to skin tight, to rolled or messy turtlesnecks – they’re all in, whether on oversized or tight sweaters, they do the style trick. To get that French look everyone is buzzing about these days, tuck your hair in. ;) 4. Chunky sweaters are the best fashion invention ever. For freezing temperatures. For fat days. And being IN right now makes them okay not just for weekends or mountain trips, but for everyday no matter the occasion. A little half tuck always gives a bit of chicness to the look and waist definition. 5. Cable knit sweaters. ‘Look, it’s the cable guy!’ Er, no. Just a revamped version of those ugly sweaters from the past. There’s something very winter’ish, Christmasy about cable knit sweaters. Always love how they look with statement necklaces. 6. Pastels or powdered sweaters. Crazy prints and funky patters step aside, it’s time for monochromatic style, for muted colors, for pastels and dainty hues to rule this autumn. Whites, blues, pinks, and tons of greys are invading the streets and the shops, and really it’s a blessing, cause change is a blessing. Besides, they carry a bit more class and sophistication to them, which is good. Edginess and funkiness may lose their meaning if done too much for too long, right? 7. One color sweaters. Okay, so patterns and prints may not be so hot this fall, that does not mean we can’t wear them though. It’s more like monochromatic or subtle patterns are ALSO in. And kinda stealing the show. 8. Fuzzy sweaters. What the… ? Is that a furry ball you’re wearing? Er, no. It’s my cozy, warm, fun, yet quiet fashion-forward sweater. Thank you! I love these. The only problem I have with mine, is that I never wear it when I’m having those fat days, cause it makes me feel like a stuffed turkey on Thanksgiving dinner. Other than that, I LOVE it. More sweater inspiration… Autumn weather always rhymes with sweater weather. Hashtag. Well, not exactly but whatever. :)

No matter how cold or hot it is, DRESSES are always a great idea. Easy to style, to dress up or down, to layer with great jackets in the cold season, to jazz them up with fabulous shoes, or make them casual and chic with comfortable soles. When it comes to dresses all is possible in terms of looks and outfits. I also happen to think a lot of the dresses we used to wear in summer can work in the cold season, especially autumn. Chiffon dresses, maxi dresses with long sleeves, jersey dresses, shirt dresses and so on.

The key to making them look season appropriate is to wear them with autumn shoes: boots (ankle, motorcycle, combat, over-the-knee, tube, high, heeled, flat, wedges) and a great jacket on top: parkas, coats, leather or denim, faux-fur, ponchos. Scarves & beanies are great pieces for extra autumn chicness and warmth. ;) As long as the dress is not too skimpy and skin-showy (to avoid catching a cold you know) chances are it’ll work in the cold season. Even slip dresses might work if you’re going for that 90s look and layer them with a tight simple basic t-shirt underneath and combat boots.

Or, for a night out a lace or satin slip dress (knee length with a slit for example) can look fabulous with thigh-high-boots and a cozy knit oversized sweater on top. Or a faux fur coat for that 70s look I was telling you about here. Or a leather jacket for a rocker chick vibe. I really do think all is possible and when it comes to dresses you can pretty much sport any design and style if you accessorize it accordingly. Besides, this play with fabrics and clashing season pieces screams effortless sophistication. A bit of fur, lace, satin or gold jewelry makes it all look more rich & luxurious. If you clash this rich look against grungy items you get those model-off-duty styles, or celebs hanging out at some exclusive party in New York city. And then, there are the autumn dresses per se. The sweater dresses we talked about here. The office dresses which in autumn are usually long or mid sleeved, fitted or A-lined and tied with a belt, or even baggy with side pockets – all in knee-length – in thicker more dense fabrics like tartan or plaid, thick cotton, denim, leather. For weekends and more casual styles there are those long sleeved midi skater style chiffon dresses, that every girl out there is wearing with ankle boots, black sheer tights, chunky scarves and coats or jackets on top. It’s grungy-preppy-cool a little bit. Color and print wise… I’m all for anything & everything. From bright bold even neon shades in a long 70s maxi dress with long sleeves, to muted shades, monochromatic dresses or subtle prints. But just in case you’re considering wearing that funky wild printed dress, but are unsure whether or not it works in autumn, I have two words for you. DO IT!

Crazy prints on dresses look so sophisticated and fashion forward it’s fantastic. Pair them with heeled ankle boots and a classic jacket or coat. Or… if you’re feeling fashion adventurous make a party out of your outfit. Keep your hair and makeup clean and simple in this case. And now let’s get more dresses inspiration for autumn… What do you say, dresses in autumn: YES or NO?

If you’re gonna ask our male beloved friends, you’ll probably get a ‘Hell yeah!’ answer before you finish your question. I did. Just asked my husband. But since dressing and looking good or bad for them is NOT something we live for, nor strive to achieve… let’s leave the leggings as pants fantasy for them right where it’s at. In their fantasy world. Or it is too late?

Have leggings become the new pants out there?

Er… NO. Leggings are not pants, and if you’re wearing them as such, you’re pretty much asking for it, as somebody put it. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but I just so happen to think that very few leggings styles and even fewer leggings looks can honestly pass for a good #ootd or even chic/cool outfits. When in God’s name anyway did these gym pants cross the work-out attire boundary? Right onto the streets, to even parties or red carpets?

When? And why?

And please don’t play the ‘they’re so comfortable card’ crap, cause it ain’t working. So is being naked when you’re home alone, why not strut in your birthday suits then, with the same excuse on your lips ‘it’s sooo comfortable’.

That for the past couple of years leggings have translated into more than your regular tight gym style, is true, no doubt. Today they come in so many fabrics and prints and patterns it makes it so much harder to resist donning a pair as if they were pants. A while back we used to be more prude and rock them underneath skirts, dresses or long, very long tops. Today it’s like fuck that shit and show your bum and curves girl. Amen to that. Which brings me to my point here. Are leggings worn as pants a trend on the rise, courtesy of all this big buts mania happening today? When the likes of Nicky Minaj, Iggy Azealia, JLo or Kim Kardashian & Co are showing off their buns on every. freaking. occasion as if that’s all they’ve got going for them (oh wait. they might be right), hoping to get some Anaconda attention, you start wondering what the hell is going on. We get it, you’ve got junk in your trunk. And that’s fine. Hell, it’s great according to the media & body trends, which in itself is wrong on levels.

Somewhere on the road we must have hit our heads or something otherwise I can’t explain who in the right mind would come up, agree and encourage the idea of a certain body type as a trend. A while ago it was the skinny look, leading to so many eating disorders, at a certain point in time it was all about big boobs, hence the plastic surgeries, now it’s big buts + thin bodies. And what’s even funnier is that all of these women’s body types are out there, existing and coexisting, since the beginning of times, yet proclaiming one over another trendy, is not only wrong in so many ways, but unfair to us women and girls. Ridiculous. All body types and sizes and shapes should be celebrated, and if there’s one thing we should all actually give a fuck about body wise, it’s being and looking healthy. In any and every form that might come in. Cause seriously, in this media world/body image crap we’re all losers. Never too thin enough one month. Next month not curvy enough. Not tall or short enough. Not flat chested or no double Ds. Legs too short. Buts not fat enough. Waist not thin enough. It’s like a freaking pissing contest out there.

One thing this body craze did right was just cast more light on how it’s OK if you’re not skinny. Sure, for the wrong reasons  – different trend body – but something’s gotta give. The point is whatever your buns, legs, waist, size if you love leggings do them. Just have in mind a few styling tips. And work your shit! ;)  When & how are leggings OK to rock as pants? Are they?

In order to work leggings have to be made of a thicker very opaque tight fabric. Black & crazy printed leggings are the most flattering if you ask me, cause they cover and conceal much better than any other color. Prints are the best visual gimmick.

Leggings look best with lots of layers and longer tops that cover your crotch area.

Then… attention to the camel toe!

Wear them on weekends, casual meetings, holidays, grabbing a bite with your friends, going shopping. Don’t even think about pulling a leggings look for the office.

Here are a few styles everyone is doing out there, and what I love or not so much about them.

1. Leggings and heels. Er… rarely yes. This is a look that all of us have done at some point, myself included (not proud of it though) and few of us nailed it. A major ‘don’t’ here is rocking leggings with those platform sky high heeled shoes. No matter how great of a style and look it may be, with a long or short top, blazer or no, I’m not feeling this style at all. To me it’s borderline vulgar and kinda unfinished.

However, I actually love how high waisted leggings look with stiletto sandals and some baseball inspired top, even cropped. Think ghetto-glam a little bit. It takes a certain kinda personal style and swag to pull this off though. Leggings & heels looks I love: 2. Leather leggings. These are fabulous with just about anything, if you avoid the too-preppy style. I love them with high boots, flats, ankle boots and a plain oversized T-shirt, sweatshirt, or sweater on top. 3. Leggings and sneakers. BAM! This is the look that actually works. High waisted leggings in funky colors, wild prints or animal printed (I love these) work really great with sneakers, oversized tops of all sorts, crop tops even, a baseball hat, red lips perhaps. Again it seems like a laid back look, but it is pretty daring so it takes a bit of balls to rock it. Leggings per se are not wrong in any way. Especially if we’re to look at Alexander Wang’s collection for H&M this season: packed with sporty gym inspired attire, leggings and fitted crop tops, oversized jackets et all. It’s just how we style them – that’s the tricky part. There’s a thin line from cool to vulgar, or just inappropriate. If the leggings look is all about being laid back in that urban cool even casual sort of style, with an occasional ghetto-glam-sporty vibe I’m down with them. Still… my teen years are long gone, so are my early 20s, so I’m leaving some leggings worn as pants looks for more adventurous sartorials. For entertainers, celebrities, and Anaconda fans.

Here’s how the cool beautiful people wear them. :) 

For me… they’re a great gym-stay-at-home and weekend holidays & getaways style. OR everyday casual chic when donned with a long top or oversized sweater. That’s it.

Or maybe I’m just getting too old for this shit.

If you didn’t know that birds of a feather, er… dress together, well now you do.

The saying (sans les feathers) is so true for me and my birdy friends it’s scary. We go shopping together and more often than not end up buying the same clothes, each of us refusing to make a compromise will lie to herself that we’ll be careful as to not wear them at the same time when we’re together. We never do. That is, we never plan in advance to avoid the copycat sartorial predicament, so we do sometimes end up looking like slightly schitzy overly fashioned sisters. And the moment we start talking in syncron, that’s when it all goes down south.

At this point we’ve learned that creating confusion kills boredom so we just say, at the same time: ”It’s been 2 weeks since the doctor separated us.” We get the laughs, true, but I’m pretty sure they come with the weird label as well.

Starting with this fall though things are about to skyrocket to the next level for us, as women with a penchant for fashion (Hello, everyone!) will literally dress to the above saying: BIRDS OF A FEATHER flock DRESS TOGETHER! IN FEATHERS. Yes ladies, feathers are the new IT thing of 2014 – 2015 autumn/winter, and I think that’s just fantastic. A while ago I would have been very skeptical in regards to this trend, but 2 things made me change my mind. OK 3.

1. Seeing my friend and fellow blogger Vanessa from Budding Fashionista rock a fab feather skirt here.
2. Looking at some Vogue pics of this trend.
3. My inner voice screaming ”Have some fun, you stuck up bitch! It’s just fashion. And they’re just feathers.”

Good. So here I am now, converted to the birdy trend and it ain’t that bad. Actually feathers have a bit of retro glamour and sophistication to them. They’re somewhere between fab costume & sexy fashion forward style. And the way they just dance and move at the slightest wind blow it’s irresistible. It’s like wearing a trend with its own personality. Not to mention that each color they come in, is more than just a color. It’s a new style and look altogether: black feathers, pink fathers, white, green, blue… *sigh*. How to wear feathers without looking like a half bird – half person creature? 

Instead of draping yourself in a feathers coat, just stick to one feather item.

Skirts are the easiest and chicest way to go about this trend. A black or colored feathers mini skirt looks great with a more classic top (tee, shirt, sweatshirt) and more feminine shoes (flats, high boots, classic pumps). Feather tops are one way to dress to this trend. It may be borderline costume but don’t let the feathers fool you. It can look pretty sophisticated.Feather coats. Why the hell not. When I see these fashionistas wearing them at Fashion Week… hell yeah! Feather dresses look sooo glamorous and feminine for a special occasion. They scream fashion celebration.If you’re not sold on the big bold feathers look, but still wanna do the trend you can certainly give it a try with feather details on shoes, bags, shoulders, necklaces, appliques here and there, hats. The sky’s the limit. There are literally tons of ways to do this trend, from the type of feathery clothes you wear, to the colors, the feathers per se, and of course how you style them. I think the best way to go about styling is to keep it chic and feminine OR clash them with more versatile pieces like denim or leather.

They are a massive statement piece so leave it to them only to make the bold fashion moment of your outfit. Let’s see some street stylers now for inspiration. ;) And now, if you’ll excuse me I’ll go fly away in some feathers…

‘I’m like a biiiiiiiiird… ‘

Apparently everything these days is about size. The bigger the better. Question mark. When it comes to fashion it seems more yes than no, with women’s looks borrowing pretty much all they can from menswear, with slouchy oversized silhouettes, 80s cuts and big bold frumpy coats, jackets and blazers. Blame it on the cycle of fashion, on women’s full plate with constantly being too polished or dressing too fitted, whatever the reason, the outcome is great.

And while there’s nothing new and groundbreaking about a blazer, be it fitted, oversized, slouchy, or structured, talking about the blazer look and wearing one is still considered a trendy thing. In a very classic chic sort of way. Oversized or boyfriend blazers have been hot for decades. Hello, the 80s, remember, with a quick relapse in the late 90s and 00s, when fitted was the only size everyone was doing, which soon ended to make way to classic blazer cuts and for the last few years to the big blazer also known as the boyfriend blazer. For this year though it seems to me like even boyfriend blazers went up a size and are bigger, longer, wider, broader (sans le big shoulder pads please!), and it makes me wonder about two things. 1) Do we, or CAN we literally wear our boyfriends’ blazers for a style statement? and 2) Is there actually a right way to doing this massive blazer look?

The current obsession we’re having now with ‘how to dress like a French girl?’ makes me quickly jump to 2 answers for the above questions. What would a French girl say: YES to (1), and NO to (2). Duh. Truth is it takes a certain kinda swag and attitude & GREAT personal style to pull off a boyfriend blazer look per se, without any attention to what you’re pairing it with. That said, there are girls who look amazing in oversized blazers and slouchy trousers and frumpy tops. It’s hobo-chic and it works. For some.

It’s got to do with the details of your look: from hair to makeup, shoes, bags, accessories. Adding a bit of jazz to your hobo-chic look with these is what sets you apart from a just-hobo look. For the rest of the world though, the safest way to do the oversized blazer does actually imply a RIGHT way to nail it, by paying attention to ONE style trick: keep at least one item of your look fitted (trousers, jeans, skirts, or top) to create a balance in the silhouette. Think like an architect. Another trick to pulling off an as-big-as-you-want-it-to-be blazer is playing with lengths. More and more bloggers, celebs, and fashion savvys are opting for the blazer dress, which is a fab way to dress for a posh evening out, a cocktail party and so on, but it’s also inspiring to see how great a big-ass blazer can look with a mini skirt, shorts, or short dresses. Sizes in this case can be either slouchy or fitted, cause you’re playing with lengths, which will create a visual balance. For chicness and sophistication purposes you can consider: rolled up sleeves, wearing your blazer slung on your shoulders, using a belt over it, popping your collar (I can’t believe I just said that! Well… for cold days you know), adding a scarf over it, pairing it with sporty tops, statement accessories for example, and so on. Enough talk. Let’s see some photos for inspiration… :) Right way or no right way, one thing’s certain: oversized blazers have never been so hot, and they’re not going anywhere!

”I’m dreaming of a white Christmas… “

Yeah, yeah, that’s great and all, we all wish a white Christmas, BUT what we really should be focusing on until Christmas is a certain sartorial choice, that just goes hand in hand with a white Christmas. A WHITE Coat. We’ve already established that pretty much everything is hot and hip these days, but each season there is one item that stands out. And this season belongs to wrap coats with the star being… (drumrolls please) the WHITE coat. If you’re getting it in a wrap-cut-design then you’ll be smoking hot, nailing 2 massive trends with one choice. If being wrapped like a sandwich is not your thing, white coats look great in all cuts and styles:

- trench, oversized blazer (long collar, V-cut, one button), V-shaped coat, fur coat, suede white coat, short, medium or long, fitted or loose, slouchy or oversized. As long as it’s white it’ll work.  WHY pick a white coat? Because it looks rich. Glamorous. Refined and sophisticated. Something about a white long coat, an all-white look in the cod season or a classic white coat over any colored outfit – screams impeccable style.

It looks as if you’re this rich socialite, celeb, business woman who dresses regardless of the grey season and rain out there, but according to luxurious moods and expensive fabrics. A pair of black sunglasses and long gloves always works so fabulous with a white coat with midi sleeves. Very retro chic.  HOW to wear a white coat without feeling like polar bear in a Batman film? (dark gloomy surroundings courtesy of crappy weather) Well… the thing is the above image is just in my your head, so it’s not actually a problem. If you see one of these ladies in pics out there in town you’ll LOVE their looks and never for one second despise, dismiss, or laugh off their white choices. So no problem, requires no solution.

I have to get this through my thick head. How to style a white coat? Now we’re on to something. While white is a non-color, neutral, basic shade, meaning theoretically it goes with anything, truth is white coats look best over an all-white outfit, an all-black outfit, over jeans and a basic top, or over monochromatic looks. To get an effortless casual style, wear an oversized white trench-style-coat with jeans and a white or black sweater or shirt. Classic pumps will look great for a sophisticaed style, and flats (pumps, sneakers, slip ons, oxfords) for a more masculine chic take on the white coat. Rich refined elegance is guaranteed with a white soft coat over a knee-length dress and heels. Perfect! Fashion editor sophistication is doable in white coat + all-black outfit (slim cut business suit, or black dress) with hot heels on. In other words, in order to make it work keep your look simple, minimal, fresh and elegant. As much as I love it, I have only once in my life lived for a whole autumn in a white coat. Okay it was more nude rather than white. It was more trench style, in leather, knee length and slim cut. But I wore it over anything, and I remembered loving  how it looked with jeans, a beige sweater, and heels. I still have it… so I just might give it a try. Again.

Every year I say the same thing once autumn settles in: ‘never before have sweaters been so IN.’ Difference is, this year it’s actually true (Ha!). How so? Imagine all the sweaters styles in history, imagine all the hip designs that were once cool, imagine those granny chic cuts, those 90s crop ones, last year’s chunky and oversized styles. Now imagine you can wear any and look fab. Well, that’s what today’s sweater fashion is all about.

With an extra adage to the whole lot. The TURTLENECKS. The rise of this look in both fitted as well as loose chunky styles comes as no surprise. Not with the 70s on the rise, hence the extension of this trend to menswear as well. YES women rule the world of fashion, or so they say, but lately whatever we wear, buys can wear too. Whatever’s hot for us is hot for them, whatever’s trendy for us  trendy for them as well. Of course the turtleneck sweater trend for both men and women is no groundbreaking fashion discovery or statement. It’s been done since ever probably. Only difference is, turtlenecks started off as being super fashionable in the 70s (see all those fashion/style/music icons wearing them), but with their peak came their fall as well: they went on in the 90s I guess through more fitted styles and cropped designs, the 2000’s had them pretty much exiled (with only very few styles surviving). 2014 – 2015 Autumn/Winter gives us a major green light to wearing all the possible turtlenecks we can think of from retro chic, to grungy glam, to hobo chic, granny styles, last year’s oversized messy chunky cuts and anything else that comes with a neck, you know. 

GIRLS: HOT Turtlenecks Sweaters & How To Wear Them This Season? 

Oversized big collar turtlenecks are the stars of the season. Wear them as a sweater dress or over skinny jeans or pants, over mini skirts, flirty dresses, and pair them with heels (thigh high boots or pumps) for a more sexy style, or flats for a chic casual approach. Style tip: leave your hair tucked in, wear big chunky sweaters as jackets if you can (no layers on top), leave the collar of the sweater messy. Pair them with more delicate fabrics: chiffon, silk, light textures, lace. If you feel you look too sloppy in a big chunky sweater the trick is to don heels, they will make you look taller, more polished and give a certain coolness and effortlessness to your look. Fitted turtlenecks sweaters. These are more classic, more literally 70s style, reminding me of how my mom and dad used to wear them in stretchy fabrics underneath a cardigan or a blazer. That’s the look today. Wear them as a pop of color underneath an outfit, as a nude base to a look, or as a basic sleek outfit (all nude, all white, all black. Monochromatic!) cause you know at the end of the day they’re also the best way to stay warm in winter. And they’re perfect for office. :) Accessorize them with a great necklace.

BOYS: Chunky Cable Turtleneck Sweaters. How To Wear Them?

Oh. My. God. I happen to think there’s nothing hotter in winter (in that cool effortless sort of way) than a man in a chunky oversized sweater with a messy collar all the way up to his beard or stubble. Sigh. Choose loose cuts, yet not too overzied to avoid looking frumpy. Men can wear casual knitted turtleneck sweaters just about anywhere paired with anything: office, weekends, with boots, sneakers, with jeans, black pants, blazers, jackets, coats, vests. Fitted sleek turtlenecks. Not all men can pull off this look, but a black simple fitted turtleneck paired with a pair of black pants or black jeans and Chelsea boots, a blazer on top can look so hot in a very 70s classy sort of way. Office appropriate and very very sophisticated. Let’s have a look at more turtlenecks street style pics… P.S. This post reminds me of the film ‘Something’s gotta give’ when Jack Nicholson was asking Diane Keaton (who was always wearing turtlenecks even in summer) ”So what’s up with all the turtlenecks?” to which she replied ”Nothing, I just like them very much.” ;)

There you have it.

Or maybe I should’ve asked ‘WHY?’? When it comes to body chains – the #1 body jewelry trend for summer – I think there are three types of ladies. 1) Hate body chains altogether. 2) Love them and wear them. 3) Like them, but are skeptical about wearing one.

Wearing body chains in summer makes a lot of sense, cause you can show them off either in your bathing suit or more revealing outfits: bare back tops, low cut blouses, crop tops, bustiers etc.

Of course once the cold season arrives nobody’s actually stopping us from keeping those body chains on. Why would we do this though? Well… as a girl who in summer rarely parts ways with my body chain, I can tell you there’s a bit of sexiness, enticement and empowerment a body chain gives you. Even if no one can see it. So… keeping one on in winter, underneath your clothes can be quite a seductive and glam-edgy thing for you and your partner.  Or, the sight of a body chain underneath a sheer top, or a very low cut blouse when you go out, is a very subtle way to look sexy. Especially with those body chains that are so thin and delicate. :)  Then there are the fancy parties or cool events we might go to in any season, when a bit of thin body bling that only sparkles at times, can be a very sexy but subtle statement from underneath a very luxurious low cut blazer, a sleek low cut black or white jumpsuit… Still… to answer my question from the title, and with it also give another answer to the  question  - ‘Who in the right mind would want to wear a body chain that no one can see?’  (if playing seduction is not your cup of tea) – Body Chain LOVERS I’ll just tell you this: We can now wear body chains over clothes! Think of this style trick as the perfect way to dress up a basic top. It’s so simple but sophisticated and edgy it should become a uniform. I swear. From simple thin to thick and intricate designs body chains look fantastic over white or black tops. Keep it super simple even classy and understated and just add a body chain for that extra razzmatazz.

This body-chain-over-the-clothes also solves a great problem. No need to have a six pack all year round! Thank God! If being body ready or not is your only refrain from this look, give one a try over your top, OR wear one with a very low cut blouse. Then you can wear them even in autumn on your skin when you’re in crop top. Just a peak of midriff with a bit of body chain sparkle will do. A little goes a long way. For the statement lovers there are also those massive body chains that actually look like skimpy jewelry tops or armour: over your shoulders, on your back, around your breasts. It’s the bling top to wear over any simple top. For special occasions only. ;) More looks… I know body chains are not everyone’s cup of tea, but I’m telling you wearing one once will have you falling for it. Wear it in sight for everyone to kinda see it, or just for yourself… It’s sort of like a more private tattoo or piercing sans le life-commitment.

Have a great weekend lovelies!!! xoxo