Set Sail In Style: Nautical Stripes

Nautical stripes are an endless favorite in the fashion industry. It's important to always keep your nautical outfit clean and chic. Don't overdo it with anchors and rope accessories. Stick with a classic look. This will be my only time where I do not say wear wide-leg jeans with your nautical striped blouse. Choose a pair of cropped white ankle pants to keep it simple and cute. If you're feeling brave, wear red skinny jeans to give your look a bright blast of color. In my opinion, stripes are never too much. However, if you feel like you want to break up the print, wear a leather jacket to toughen up your outfit. Or, if you're more classic, a navy blazer works just as nicely. Both, add interest in their own ways. When deciding on shoes to wear with your striped ensemble, opt for ballet flats or heels. As for colors, I love timeless navy and white stripes. However, black and white stripes are just as modern for todays fashion. A good key to remember is always go for thin stripes that are an inch in-between each other. Thin stripes are more flattering on the body as opposed to bold, thick stripes. Those can make you look boxy and virtually give you no shape at all. Stripes are an inexpensive way to bring effortless glamour into your wardrobe and don't be afraid to mix and match them with other items in your closet. You can have fun with them by adding a funky floral cardigan, a leopard print scarf or even a beret for some Parisian flare. Preppy nautical stripes are a foolproof print that will give you a sophisticated look every time.

From the runway....

Oscar De La Renta Resort 2012

into your every day.

MICHAEL Michael Kors Crew Neck Maxi Dress $120, Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Schooner' Jersey Dress $148 

(I actually tried on this Micahel Kors maxi dress and it is super comfortable and really flattering. The price isn't too bad either!)
Nordstrom

Pretty Pleats

The smallest detail on an item of clothing can change the entire feel of your outfit. Pleated skirts may have been a bit matronly in previous years. However today, they are feminine and modernized to be wearable with almost everything in your closet. The best part about these skirts is that there are many lengths to suit your level of comfort. Choose from mini, knee length, mid calf or full maxi. Always opt for a smaller pleat, it's more flattering and looks polished. You can create multiple looks with any length you choose. A pleated skirt is great addition to your wardrobe, considering it can transition from spring to fall and work to casual. For spring, pair your mini pleated skirt with a white form-fitting tank, pop-of-color ballet flats and a sequin straw tote. When fall rolls around, don't be hesitant to pull out your pleated skirt! Wear your knee length pleated skirt with thick knit tights, a tucked-in button down and cropped leather jacket. Add some suede ankle booties and your look is complete. Wear a pleated maxi skirt to work with a silk bow blouse. Preferably, tucked-in to give your body some shape. Layer a nude blazer and wedges for a comfortable, yet stylish office appropriate outfit. A pleated skirt is one of my favorite trends at the moment. They are fashionable and suitable for any occasion. They key is to find the right length and once you do, I guarantee you will have no problem mixing this versatile staple into your wardrobe.

Miu Miu, Karen Walker, J. Mendel

Chloé, J. Mendel, Chloé

Stockholm Streetstyle

Tweed-Tastic

One of the most feminine staples every woman should have in their closet is a tweed blazer. I have always loved tweed, even if most assume it's for old ladies. I happen to think it's actually quite modern and sophisticated for today's fashion. Tweed is a unisex fabric that is more commonly used in outwear, being that it is moisture-resistant and highly durable. However, high-end designers use it frequently for many types of garments. Tweed's origin in the fashion industry did not begin until Coco Chanel used it in her collection during the 1950's. She created suits with matching accessories. Both of which she paired with jeans, making it more acceptable to wear casually. Not too long after, Yves Saint Laurent did the same and the tweed craze began. When looking for a tweed blazer, find one with an appliqué or embroidery. It can be your standout piece when you want to add a unique touch to your outfit. Accent with a vintage brooch on your tweed skirt or blazer for some sparkle. As for the shape, you can either buy fitted, cropped, or boxy. I believe each work well in their own ways. This fabric is ladylike and classic, basically you can't go wrong. So, channel your inner Coco Chanel and get ready to see a lot of tweed making its comeback into fall fashion.

Oscar De La Renta Resort 2012, Oscar De La Renta Fall 2011


Moschino Resort 2011


Chanel Resort 2012

My Favorite Beauty Products

You don't have to spend an arm and a leg on beauty products to get professional results. Here are some of my favorite beauty products, most of which you can find at your local drugstore. I use these items on a daily basis and I swear by each one!

Essie Nail Polish in Geranium

I have always used OPI nail polish for the longest time. Until, I tried Essie and I will never go back! Essie nail polish did not chip, even after a long week at work. I have been wanting a red-orange polish for quite some time and Geranium is the perfect marriage. I am an Essie addict for sure now!

$8 Walgreens

Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque

Putting on this mask is like getting a professional facial in the comfort of your own home. It not only removes blackheads and blemishes, but makes your skin feel silky smooth. The fresh mint smell is very calming. Once you put the mask on, you will see it working right away. Especially on your blackheads. It also reduces the appearance of your pores and acne scars. I always check customer reviews on beauty products and this mask received 5 stars. An added bonus, it is really cheap! I typically try to apply the mask every day, but since I've been so busy, I can only do it so often. I've finally had some downtime, so I actually have it on as I write this. :)

$3.99 Walgreens

CeraVe Moisturizer
CeraVe moisturizer is one of my favorite beauty products on the market. I have somewhat oily skin, but when I use this moisturizer, it absorbs into my pores leaving my skin looking dewy, not overly moisturized. It provides a good balance. It never feels greasy or leaves a shiny residue. I like that it is gentle and doesn't give off a potent smell. I apply this before makeup and before I go to sleep. It's pricey for a moisturizer. However, a little goes a long way. Cetaphil and Boots moisturizers are also some I have used in the past, which work equally as well!

$15.99 Walgreens

Benefit CORALista Blush
I have very fair skin and when I apply Benefit's CORALista Blush, I instantly have a soft pink glow to my cheeks. The best part is, coral is one of those colors that looks universally flattering on any skin tone. It adds a subtle sparkle when you apply it to your cheekbones, giving you that coveted supermodel radiance. This blush smells amazing too, leaving your cheeks kissably sweet!

$28 Sephora

Roc Correxion Deep Eye Cream
Roc Correxion Eye Cream contains retinol and is hypoallergenic, which is great because even though it contains retinol, it is not as harsh on sensitive skin. I apply this cream gently under my eyes, forehead and on my neck. I use this product only before bed, because that way, it gives my skin time to repair itself. I have been using Roc products for three years now and I have noticed a big difference in how my skin looks and feels.

$21.99 Walgreens

Coppertone NutraShield Sunscreen SPF 30
Not only do I use this sunscreen at the beach, but I use it on a daily basis. I wear sunscreen every day whether I am driving to work or running errands. I use it before I apply makeup. Preferably on my face, neck, chest and the top of my hands. My dermatologist told me that the sunscreen in your makeup is not enough SPF, so remember that before you go outside. The Coppertone NutraShield Sunscreen does not clog my pores, it's not oily and it has antioxidants that fight free radicals. You want to wear sunscreen every day, because if you don't, wearing retinol cream at night will do nothing for your skin. It is always important to protect your skin, not just at the beach or pool, but everywhere you go. Even, when it's cloudy!

$10.99 Walgreens


I take really good care of my skin. I rarely ever drink, I do not smoke and I never sleep with my makeup on. Your skin is such an important factor to your overall health. Drink a lot of water, wear sunscreen every day, try to get a full nights sleep, eat fruits, nuts and fish that contain omega-3 and plenty of antioxidants. Hopefully, with some of these beauty products you will start a beauty regimen for yourself! 

Trend Alert: Liquid Metallic

Wearing metallic gives you the opportunity to flaunt your inner glamour girl. It is certainly one of my favorite trends these days, I seem to purchase anything with a metallic glow. A touch of metallic shine goes a long way and can really put together an outfit. Spring, summer and fall 2011 collections were filled with metallic shades, from Marc Jacobs to Balmain. During the spring, add a metallic belt to a denim dress or pair a metallic clutch with a floral maxi skirt and neutral blouse. For fall, layer a gold metallic blouse with a chunky neutral sweater and dark wide-leg denim for a modernized 70's inspired look. In addition, I love the idea of adding a pop of color or leopard to combine texture and interest to your metallic ensemble. Silver, gold and bronze are the main shades you want to incorporate into your wardrobe. This goes for accessories, as well. Look for, metallic totes, flats, belts, headbands and even nail polish. If you want to tone down the extremity of the shine, add a leather jacket or a faux fur vest. This way, it will reduce the intensity, while allowing you to stay on trend. You can still wear metallics without looking over-the-top. Metallic shades go with virtually any color, so it's easy to combine with those classic pieces in your wardrobe. It's sort of like a neutral, but with the volume turned way up. I'm sure once you embrace the liquid metallic trend, you'll find out it's not only easy to wear, but also a fun way to bring a trend straight from the runway into your closet. 

Balmain, Calvin Klein

Marc Jacobs, Balmain

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Reed Krakoff, Calvin Klein
Vogue