Crystal Clear Fashion

Transparent outfits and accessories are something I have a love/hate relationship with. A clear handbag is certainly not my first choice when picking out a fashionable new item. Why expose all your private belongings to the world?! However, purchasing clear rain boots such as these, I would definitely take into consideration. See-through clothing may seem a bit explicit, but in some ways, you can make it work. Take a look at the sheer trend we're seeing a lot of for 2011 fashion. Sheer fabric is all over the runway, whether it be on the smallest detail or the most extravagant gown. These are examples of how wearing sheer is done in the right context. So, you can do the same with translucent accessories and clothing. Pair a clear caplet with a romantic black blouse and cigarette pants for a retro 50's inspired look. Take a peek below at my Yves Saint Laurent runway photo for inspiration. It is very easy to cheapen a transparent ensemble, so keep it simple and chic. For those warmer days, a clear beach tote such as this one by Trina Turk will make a day at the pool, a glamorous event. Or, try a translucent umbrella and turn a rainy day, into a fashionable one. I LOVE this umbrella from Urban Outfitters. Lucite jewelry is also something you can incorporate into your every day style, considering you can match it with almost anything. This look embraces the 60's mod trend. You can also channel this look by wearing clear framed sunglasses, such as the one's seen at Prada RTW collection from 2010. The return of this trend is actually refreshing for 2011 and in all honesty, kind of fun.

Yves Saint Laurent, Alexis Mabille, Chanel

Prada, Fendi

Fendi, Prada


Vogue, Style.com

Hot Pink Lips

One of my favorite makeup trends for 2011 is a bold lip. You can't go wrong with hot pink lips, especially for summer. Karolina Kurkova looks flawless, as usual, in a chic get-up topped with a high bun. Something as simple as wearing your favorite lip color, can really bring an outfit to life. 

 Models Off Duty

Mixing Textures & Prints

Mixing textures is one of my favorite alternatives to transforming an outfit. Most women turn to jeans and a t-shirt for their every day look. Which is perfectly fine, however, you can add instant glam to your wardrobe by adding different textures to your basic attire. For example, pair together denim and leather, fur and silk, velvet and suede, or sequins and lace. You can also try mixing different prints such as, leopard and floral, or stripes and polka-dots. Both are fun and easy ways to bring versatility to your clothing.

The first look shows a denim dress paired with a bright red leather handbag and funky leopard print platform clogs. This outfit can bring effortless sophistication to a casual ensemble. 

For my second look, I chose a loose-fitting silk blouse combined with a faux fur vest and suede platforms for a classic, yet glamorous pairing. 

Lastly, my third look combines sparkly sequins and romantic lace, which is a stylish alternative to your bland little black dress.

On to mixing prints! I chose a floral blouse with a sassy leopard scarf to add some edge. I also combined this outfit with denim cut-offs and combat boots from Forever 21, which are both equally on trend for spring.

Pairing stripes and polka-dots is a quirky combination, but together they are still feminine. I also love these high-waisted shorts by Diane Von Furstenburg, which tie in with the nautical trend we're seeing a lot of for spring/summer. Add a simple tote and wedges to complete your festive new look. 

Golden Globes: My Fashion Favorites

Best Dressed Women

My favorite of the night has to be Dianna Agron. She looks like a star, in a champagne colored dress by J. Mendel. This color can be difficult to pull off when you have a fair complexion, but it looks amazing against her glowing skin and golden blonde hair.
 

January Jones looks red hot in Versace. I love the retro 50's glam hairstyle and her signature bold red lip. If anyone could pull off a dress of this caliber, it is this girl.

Ann Hathaway shimmers in an Armani Privé gown. She pairs it with a simple hairstyle and minimal accessories, which is exactly what to do when you want your dress to be the focal point. When Rachel Zoe is your stylist, you basically can't go wrong.

Lastly, Angelina Jolie exudes hollywood glamour in a sequined emerald green Versace gown. I love the shape of this dress, with the fitted waist and bold shoulders. A long-sleeve gown is super chic. Her look fits in seamlessly with the 70's disco trend.

StyleBistro

The Modern Trouser

Menswear is and always will be one of my favorite trends no matter what the fashion industry comes up with next. I love the look of combining menswear and feminine accents to create a sleek and chic ensemble. The trouser pant should be a staple item for every woman. They are extremely versatile and super simple to mix and match. Lately, I have noticed various designers creating pants that are much longer than normal. New lengths are always being tested in the fashion industry, whether it be shorter hemlines, or in this case, longer pant legs. I absolutely love the look of a longer pant. These trousers pay homage to the prevailing 70's trend, but are still designed to look current and modern. In addition, trouser pants come in a variety of styles. Such as, the wide-leg trouser, ankle trouser or the tuxedo pant trouser. I guarantee you will find a fit that is right for you. No matter what your taste, the modern trouser is a timeless look that will never go out of style. 

Modern Trouser

Reed Krakoff, Jason Wu, Giambattista Valli

Minis No More

This year, old trends have resurfaced throughout the fashion industry creating a whirlwind of fashionable new ideas. Lately, when scouring through countless fashion shows, I keep stumbling across collections containing full skirts. Instantly, I was turned off by the fact of wearing a skirt longer than the tip of my fingers. It reminded me of my Catholic school days, where our skirted uniforms had to be length appropriate. However, I keep figuring out new ways to wear a fuller skirt and it seems like a fun and flirty alternative to your every day pant routine. In addition, a full-length skirt is definitely something you will want to wear during those hot summer days. Sometimes, a longer skirt can have a tendency to look somewhat matronly, but you can still keep it conservative on the bottom, while showing more skin on top. You will keep a good balance this way. Different lengths are an option for your level of comfort, such as above the ankle or right at knee length. Pair a full-length skirt with a feminine sheer blouse, floppy hat and chunky wedges. Or, wear your skirt high-waisted and cinch with a belt. Pair this look with a flowy top, red lips and flats for a comfortable, yet glamorous day out. When trying this trend, think in relation to Mad Men style. Or, you can certainly draw inspiration from these runway photos and I can promise the full-skirt trend will grow on you.

Chloé, Chanel, Luis Vuitton

Romanticism On The Runway

Romanticism is gracing the runway, yet again for spring 2011. Classic black and white, romantic lace, ruffles, ladylike dresses, pearl embellishments, sheer fabric, feminine floral prints, and peek-a-boo pajama wear. Minimalism is reappearing once more and taking over spring fashion. All of these trends are seasonally transitional and easy to add into your wardrobe. You can have a glamorous look in no time. I know this cold weather may have you in a slump, but you can feel the warm sensation of spring by trying some of these romantic trends.
Classic black & white

Jonathan Saunders, Oscar de la Renta

Ladylike dresses & lace 

Oscar de la Renta, Dolce and Gabanna

Peek-a-boo pajama wear & sheer white fabric

John Galliano, Dolce and Gabanna

Feminine florals

Oscar de la Renta, Erdem

Vogue

Trend Alert: Tassels

Adding tassels to your outfit is a fun and easy way to incorporate a trend straight from the runway. You can find tassels at almost any fabric store and create a tassel belt or earrings in the comfort of your own home. It is such a simple and stylish DIY project! As Gucci shows us, tassels can be sexy and can transform any bland outfit. Or, show off your bohemian side with a fringe tassel on your handbag, shown below by Emilio Pucci. This little added detail can really go a long way and add some flare to your every day style. 

Oscar de la Renta, Diane Von Furstenburg, Gucci

Gucci, Oscar de la Renta

Emilio Pucci, Diane Von Furstenburg

Vogue

The Benefits Of Adding Color Into Your Wardrobe

Just because the holiday's are over, does not mean you have to go back to your boring wardrobe routine. Specialists say, adding color into your wardrobe can play a significant role in your mood throughout the day. For example, pink is cheerful, orange keeps you staying positive, turqouise is soothing, and purple can boost your energy level. It is important to find different colors that are flattering on your skin tone. If you have fair skin, stick to emerald green, coral, and blues. If you have a darker complexion, try bright shades like pink, yellow or red. Mix and match different hues together. Don't be afraid of color contrasting, instead embrace it and watch your mood begin to change. 

Jil Sander

Diane Von Furstenburg

Gucci

Vogue

GAP 70's Denim

In addition to the growing 70's trend for spring 2011, GAP has introduced their new line of 70's inspired denim. The new fit for women is considered to be high-waisted flare jeans. I know women everywhere are thinking, "How are high-waisted flare jeans going to look good on me?" First and foremost, the higher waist actually hides your belly bulge and the dreaded "muffin top." The jeans will fit slim in the thigh and flare out, providing the illusion that your legs appear longer. You will want to wear wedges or any shoe with a comfortable heel. Trouser, boot-cut, and flare denim are the best fits for women. No more skinny jeans! You really can't beat the price of GAP's new denim, either. They're priced from $59.50-$79.50, which is a great deal compared to some of the brands pricier competitors. I bought the new wide leg trouser in the dark wash, which is the first in my collage and I absolutely love them. They are comfortable and have some stretch in their fabric, so I can sit down without them being baggy afterwards. No jean has ever fit me so well. I highly recommend trying their denim on, I am certain you will go home with a new pair of jeans.

Gap.com