Inspired by Sheer Ruffles & Bows

Spring 2011 is having an ethereal moment.  Sheer fabrics, bows, and ruffles danced down the runway.  Jason Wu and Valentino are today's inspiration for this trend.

Valentino

Jason Wu

Real Life Option

So, for most of us, wearing anything that's completely sheer is not an option.  But, don't worry.  You can still get the feel of the trend without revealing all of your body.  Free People makes a semi sheer paneled ruffled dress in organza.  It's a beautiful interpretation of the runway looks.  It's available on bloomingdales.com for $298.00.

http://www1.bloomingdales.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=527759&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results

  

A Rose without Thorns

The rose gold trend has been around for a while now but it has got staying power.  It is an alternative to your yellow gold or silver jewelry.  Try out these pieces to add a rosy glow to your ensemble.

Michael Kors rose colored stainless steel chronograph watch is a sexy mix of feminine and masculine elements.  It's a great piece to wear everyday.  It's $250.00 on michaelkors.com.

 

http://www.michaelkors.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod9040014&parentId=cat20403&masterId=cat27111&index=1&cmCat=cat000000cat145cat27111cat20403

When it comes to anything from Tiffany what girl is going to turn it down?  I think most girls would happily accept this rose gold twisted key pendent from their man.  It's special because it signifies the man giving you the key to his heart.  So cute.  It's on tiffany.com for $575.00.

http://www.tiffany.com/Shopping/item.aspx?sku=26741238

These architectural earrings are so easy to wear and they go with everything.  I love the shape.  You'll be reaching for these all the time.  They are by Kris Nations and available on revolveclothing.com for $44.00.  This is a steal.

http://www.revolveclothing.com/DisplayProduct.jsp?product=KNAT-WA98&c=&d=a&currency=USD&source=shopstyle

Out of Africa

Looking for a vacation spot out of the ordinary?  Consider Cape Town, South Africa.  The breathtaking mountains are the backdrop to the deep blue ocean.  You might think of Africa only as a place to go on safari but it's definitely more than that.  The beaches are so peaceful and serene.
The Twelve Apostles Hotel is not your typical African hotel.  In fact, it looks like it should be on Ocean Drive.  It's thoroughly modern look is what sets this boutique hotel apart from the rest.  It's situated right on the ocean but only 15 minutes from the city.  So, you really do get the best of both worlds.
The rooms are elegantly appointed and many feature glass walls to let you enjoy the views.  The average nightly rate is $550.00

http://www.12apostleshotel.com/

I See Right Through You

Nothing is more simplistic than something that is completely clear and colorless.  I find this most attractive in pieces for the home as they rely solely on their bare structure and shape instead of a bold hue.  I'm drawn to anything crystal, acrylic, and lucite.  Any of these items would work in a modern decorated home.

This clear lucite side table by Hollyhock would look amazing seated right next to your bed.  A beautiful bouquet of flowers on top would only add to the opulence.  It also comes in a grey color.  It's available on hollyhockinc.com for $1350.00.

http://hollyhockinc.com/products/Hollyhock_Home_WHITE/HH_Furniture/Table,%20Acrylic,%20HH-CAD-01.html

A more affordable option are candleholders.  These beauties are from Crate and Barrel.  They are sold separately or together.  I prefer the set of 3 for the variety of heights.  Plus, it's always good to group accessories in odd numbers.  The set of three is $36.95 at crateandbarrel.com.  

http://www.crateandbarrel.com/decorating-and-accessories/candleholders/set-of-3-oslo-candleholders/s579371

Lamps are a great way to add style to your space (as well as the obviously light).  I have this lamp by Lauren Ralph Lauren and I have to say it is one of my favorite purchases I made for my home.  When lit the light radiates through the clear base and gives so much warmth to the room.  This is available at Macys.com and on sale for $300.00.

http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=311647&PseudoCat=se-xx-xx-xx.esn_results

Be the Cupcake

I've been dreaming about cupcakes lately.  They are a perfect little treat.  A small package with big satisfaction.  When I saw some of the newest dresses from the Marchesa Spring 2011 line they just reminded me of this decadent pleasure.  Here are some of their best dresses.  Sweet.

http://www.marchesa.com/

Bright Accents

Big, bold brights are on the horizon.  And nothing is easier than adding them into your accessories.

This is the perfect bag for either daytime or evening.  It's so fun.  You can tuck in the strap and use as a clutch.  The contrast in colors work really well together.   You can buy this at Prada for $750.00.

These jellies are a collaboration between Kartell and Moschino and are made from recycled plastic.  They are in an adorable ballet shape.  The woven pattern means your feet will be able to breathe.  They are available at kartell.com or moschino.com for $119.00.

Lady in Lace

Lace can be a somewhat tricky trend to pull off.  If done well it can be very sexy.  On the other hand, if done poorly you'll end up looking like your 90 year old grandma.  So you need to choose the right pieces.  Here are some good choices to overcome the "senior set".

Erdem sent a bunch of lacy confections down the runway for spring 2011.  One of them in particular caught my eye.  Its really bold red color works so well and the cut of the dress is spot on.  It's something you can wear out for drinks with your girlfriends or at a work function.  You'll get noticed in this.  It's $3589 on luisaviaroma.com.

http://www.luisaviaroma.com//productid/itemcode/53I-M4E003/lang_EN?AID=10809740&PID=3852549&SID=26585

If a full on lace outfit isn't your style you can incorporate lace into your footwear.  Dolce & Gabbana makes a fierce platform peep toe pump in black lace.  It's extremely girly which is what I love about it.  Though, pairing it with a tough pair of leather pairs would be hot.  They are $795.00 on saksfifthavenue.com.

http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=282574492709474&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446401808&R=8051074926071&P_name=Dolce+%26+Gabbana&sid=12DADC19B2F8&Ntt=lace&N=306418049&bmUID=iSC6Hsy

Lace shorts are a good option for evening.  They can be worn now with black opaque tights or in the warmer months with a bare leg.  I think a tailored blazer and strappy sandals will help pull the outfit together.  This pair is from asos.com and is $51.70.  

http://us.asos.com/countryid/2/River-Island-River-Island-Lace-Short/vhyhd/?iid=1441972&MID=35719&affid=2135&siteID=J84DHJLQkR4-CE178mnv.VtGg6rM6Ug8og

Neon Brights

It took at least 20 years for me to like neon again.  The last time I wore anything this electric it was the 80's.  But, as we all know, fashion is cyclical.  I love the neon that it being shown for spring and Lanvin did the best job of showcasing it.  Today I'm just featuring one of my favorite looks from their newest collection.  Both the top and skirt are washed silk.  For prices inquire at lanvin.com.

http://www.lanvin.com/#/en-us/collections/womens-spring-summer-2011/lookbook

Steal this look: Gucci

One of Gucci's new spring looks is so fabulous that I can't get it out of my mind.  But, the price tag makes it nearly unattainable.  So in today's segment I'm going to find a suitable alternative to this look without breaking the bank.

First, the original Gucci dress.  Gucci is selling this for $2300 on Gucci.com.

http://www.gucci.com/us/styles/261835ZJ6288576#

Second, the real world option.  I think it's easier to find a separate top and skirt rather than a full dress.  One bold color is a necessity but can be used on either the top or bottom.  Add some glitz by using a metallic belt and shoes.

I found this top on etsy.com.  For those of you unfamiliar with this site it's all handmade goods.  They have amazing finds on there.  This top is $142.00 and made of silk.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/25310803/rectoverso-silk-wool-back-wrapped-halter

The skirt is by Juicy Couture and is a draped silk.  It's free flowing and comfortable.  It's on neimanmarcus.com for $198.00.

http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod124800029&ecid=NMCIGoogleBaseFeed&003=5840816&010=T335G&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=T335G

Cut a Rug

Area rugs are a great addition to your home.  They not only provide comfort to your feet but can add a tremendous amount of interest to the space.  Don't feel limited to just placing one in the living room with the sofas and coffee table.  It would also look great in your bedroom.  It can be placed over existing wall to wall carpet to draw the eye in.  These next 3 are fun and fresh.

A graphic area rug should be used in a space that doesn't seem too busy.  It's best to leave the line of the furniture sharp & clean.  However, a pop of color elsewhere in the space will really bring this rug to life.  I think if this was in my living room I'd use some bright lime green pillows on the neutral couch.  This comes in a variety of sizes which range in price from $39.99-$649.00 from westelm.com.

http://www.westelm.com/products/kite-kilim-rug-r894/?pkey=crugs-flooring

Nothing is softer under your feet than a flokati rug.  It adds texture to the space which is important in any design scheme.  I think a natural color is best for this type of rug.  This one I found on flokatirug.net comes in a variety of colors and sizes ranging from $29-$939.  

http://www.flokatirug.net/

I like this next rug because the print is so unexpected.  It has the look of wood grain but is 100% wool.  It's available in three sizes and priced from $1132.00-$2110.00 from inmod.com.

http://www.inmod.com/second-studio-wood-square-area-rug.html

Splurge vs. Steal - The Python Handbag

Python handbags are very popular right now.  But, their hefty price tag is a bitter pill to swallow for those on a budget.  I found two bags which would make any snakeskin bag lover happy.  

The Steal
MICHEAL Michael Kors makes nice bags which fall into the more affordable category.  This hobo style bag is a generous size to fit all of your stuff.  It's $428.00 on ebags.com.

http://www.ebags.com/product/michael-michael-kors/ines-python-large-hobo/204423?productid=10109263&sourceID=COMJFEED&PID=2178999&SID=264679269

The Splurge

This Jerome Dreyfuss "Billy" Python shoulder bag is the real deal.  It has two smaller lamb suede handles and a longer shoulder strap.  It's for sale for $1820.00 on farfetch.com.

http://www.farfetch.com/shopping/us-only/women/bags-purses/item10058402.aspx?cur=USD&source=shopstyle

Walls of Fame

No home is complete until you put your stamp on it.  This can be accomplished by adding the perfect wall hanging.  It could be art, a mirror, or purely decorative.  Today I'm featuring some that I find beautiful.

I like the natural and sculptural quality of this piece.  It comes in steel with a polished nickel finish.  Each branch is sold individually.  It's $235.00 on neimanmarcus.com.

http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod101740057&parentId=cat16130894&masterId=cat16130740&index=73&cmCat=cat000000cat000553cat17640731cat16130740cat16130894

This mirror is gorgeous because of the studded look around the border.  It's called the Egypt Mirror and is by Cattelan Italia.  The finish of the border can be done in silver or gold.  It's available on spacify.com for $1286.22. 

http://www.spacify.com/modern_contemporary_egypt_square_wall_mirror_by_cattelan_italia-889-175-Cat.Egypt.html

These are 3 separate paintings on canvas.  I like the three together and would hang them on the wall in a row to create one large focal point.  The great pop of royal blue color can punch up a rather neutral space.  These are by the artist Scott Hile and can be found on rosenbaumfineart.com.  They sell for $1825.00 each.

http://www.rosenbaumfineart.com/product.html?cid=292

http://www.rosenbaumfineart.com/product.html?cid=293

http://www.rosenbaumfineart.com/product.html?cid=294

Sophisticated Lady

I sometimes find it hard to find an appropriate party dress for the winter.  So many of the cute dresses seem made for the warmer seasons.  But, I've got some great ideas for what to wear during this frigid winter we're going through right now.  Just throw over a cute coat (check out my faux fur chubby featured back in December) and some hot booties and you're ready to rock.

I've always loved red.  However, I never owned anything in it.  It's a color that will always get you noticed.  It's flattering on most skin tones.  And it just screams hot.  This affordable dress by Motel Gina from urbanoutfitters.com is sexy and very body-con.  It has beautifully embroidered detailing on the sleeves and shoulders.  Wallflowers need not apply.  It retails for $88.00.

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=19204981&pushId=W_APP_DRESSES&popId=WOMENS&navCount=9&navAction=jump&itemCount=80&itemdescription=true&parentid=W_APP_DRESSES&startValue=1&sortProperties=+subCategoryPosition,+product.marketingPriority

A shirred dress is really flattering because it hides many imperfections.  I think there is an ethereal quality to this dress.  I don't believe that you can't wear white after Labor Day.  Stand out from the crowd in this number.  It's by Halston Heritage and is for sale for $295.00 on pinkmascara.com.

http://www.pinkmascara.com/Whats-New/Halston-Heritage-Shirred-Long-Sleeve-Dress-in-White

Lace is trending right now.  It's very sexy by revealing just a hint of skin.  And it makes the perfect dress for a cocktail party.  This dress from asos.com is $77.58.  It could be your new LBD.

http://us.asos.com/ASOS-ASOS-Slash-Neck-Lace-Body-Con-Dress/vhkwx/?iid=1434438&cid=8799&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=20&sort=-1&clr=Black&mporgp=L0Fzb3MvQXNvcy1TbGFzaC1OZWNrLUxhY2UtQm9keS1Db24tRHJlc3MvUHJvZC8.

  

Ear Candy

Earrings are an easy and affordable accessory to change up your look.  I like many different varieties.

These extra large fringe earrings are all you need when it comes to picking a piece of jewelry to complete your look.  Anything more would complete with them.  They are plated in 18k gold and have a row of beading down the middle.  They would look perfect with the nude looks coming for spring.  They are available on shopbop.com for $195.00.

http://www.shopbop.com/tassel-rosary-earring-citrine-by/vp/v=1/845524441885927.htm?folderID=2534374302181820&fm=other-shopbysize-viewall

I love these starfish shaped earring studs from Swarovski.  They are so simple but you will find yourself reaching for them all the time.  At $65.00 they won't break the bank.  Plus, I think they would make a great gift.

http://www.swarovski.com/Web_US/en/695182/product/Holly_Starfish_Pierced_Earrings.html

Sky High

I'm petite.  I come in at best 5'2''.  So, I naturally tend to gravitate towards high heels.   I love all kinds of heels and can find a reason to get a pair even if it only works with a couple of outfits.  Unfortunately, my closet is filled so anything new I get requires an older pair to hit the old dusty trail.  Happily, that also means I have a closet filled with fairly new shoes.  I hope you find the following just as worthy as I do.

This suede sandal by Tory Burch has a great military green color and gold hardware.  They stand quite high at 4.5 inches.  I love that they are neutral and can be worn with a number of colors ranging from brights (I'm thinking a purply-fuchsia) to nudes.  If these were in my closet I think they'd be great with a pair of white shorts for summer.  net-a-porter.com has them listed for $375.00.

http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/96931

YSL has killer platform pumps.  I've seen a million versions of this pump but there is nothing like the real thing.      I want these in the Beige Croco Embossed Suede.  They would pair great with the wide leg trousers that will be all over the place for spring.  Totally gorge!  They are $895.00 on ysl.com.  

http://ysl.com/us/en/onlineBoutique/Women/Shoes/Pumps/P-Exclusive-YSL-Platform-High-Heel-Pump-in-Multiple-Colors-of-Croco-Embossed-Suede.aspx

This isn't a boring basic black pump.  It's more than that.  It's sexy and will be one of your go to pumps on a daily basis.  Plus, it's by Christian Louboutin so how could you go wrong?  They are in patent leather and have a 5 inch heel.  Start practicing walking in these girls.  They are for sale for $595.00 on us.christianlouboutin.com.

http://us.christianlouboutin.com/shoes/pumps/pigalle-120mm.html#product-detailed-view