Spring Forecast Calls for Mellow Yellow

I love that mustardy yellow color is coming back for Spring. It's such a fresh, rich looking color that I can't seem to get enough of. Even better I love that its displaying itself on shoes.

The best accessory to any outfit is shoes and handbags and also a great way to add a POP of color to an other wise bland outfit.

All Under $100 check out some of my favorite mello yellows for Spring!

Antonio Melani Daphney @ Dillards $79.00



Faux Leather Cross Strap Sandals from Old Navy $30



Steve Madden Yellow Boat Shoes $59.95

The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly

Okay so the King of all Award shows was on last night, The Oscars. What did everyone think about the fashions on the "Red" (thought it looked mauve) Carpet? Here are some of my opinions on who the winners and losers were:

BEST DRESSED



Gwyneth Paltrow in Calvin Klein, looked AMAZING! The metallic/liquid
technique looked like she had literally been dipped in some sort of metal. I absolutely loved it! 



Best DRESSED Michelle Williams looked like pure perfection in
CHANEL HAUTE COUTURE, Harry Winston Jewels, and Jimmy Choo Shoes

Cate Blanchette, in Givency Couture, this dress is more than fashion, THIS is ART!
Only Cate can wear something like this, she looks divine

Honorable Mentions in the Best Dressed Category were: Hallie Berry in Marchesa, Celine Dion in Giorgio Armani Prive, Sandra Bullock in Vera Wang

WORST DRESSED

Worst Dressed Pick, Poor Nicole Kidman, whose wearing Dior,
looks like she's wrapped in a Brawny Paper Towel

Marisa Tomei, in Lily et Cie, is such a pretty girl, I just felt this dress was lacking
something. Way to safe for the Oscars.

Florence Welch wearing Valentino - Felt like
she wore a dress very similar to the Grammys &
I didn't like that one either

Worst Dressed Honorable Mentions: Reese Witherspoon in Giorgio Armani Prive & Scarlett Johanssan

What are your picks? 

DVF + Vintage Inspiration = HEAVEN

I remember a professor in College in NYC told me there were designers in fashion that changed lives. I remember thinking even though I loved fashion that was ridiculous to think that "fashion" could actually change lives. Then I borrowed a dress from my roommate. That dress just happened to be a Diane von Furstenburg black wrap dress. Now we all know black flatters almost everyone, but this dress, this dress made me feel like a princess. That was the day I realized my professor was right. There are designers that change people's lives, and Diane von Furstenburg, is one of those designers.

In 1974, Diane von Furstenburg invented the wrap-dress. Besides the fact that this dress looks amazing on almost any body type, its also universal for any occasion (from day to night) or for any "job" of a woman (from board room to stay at home mom).

I have to admit, the idea for this post is stolen from Elizabeth at So Much To Smile About. Her post about the new DVF Vintage collection completely inspired me and made me fall in love with DVF all over again. February 28th, DVF will be debuting their new Diane Vintage Collection which will include wrap dresses in three different lengths, wrap blouses, and small leather goods all covered in the historic prints that once and continue to make her a staple in every woman's closet.



Three Different Lengths of the Wrap Dress, I love these prints!




More Diane Vintage Collection - Love!



Want to see more of the DVF collection click here

Universal Pieces That Every Woman Should Own

After reading PEOPLE Style Watch (Spring Issue) an article jumped out at me.

"6 Universally Flattering Pieces" p. 142 

These are truly STAPLE pieces that can work on any body shape and every woman should truly own!

The Pencil Skirt - The knee hemline and well placed darts boost all shapes!



Skirt from yesstyle.com



Neutral Pumps - Neutral pumps lengthen the leg and the nude color compliments all skin tones.



Nude Pumps by Jessica Simpson



One Button Blazer - Blazers are a must anyway, but a one button cinches at the waist and makes any figure look flattering. Go to a tailor to make this piece look perfection!



Blazer by Banana Republic



Shirtdress - The tie waist, slightly flared skirt, and easy to wear sleeve creates a great shape on everyone

Ralph Lauren Shirtdress

Leather Belt - 1-inch in width, is a great way to achieve that hour glass look

Calvin Klein Croc Belt

Wide-Leg Trousers - Stretchy wool is body skimming and the front crease elongates

Old Navy Trouser



Thursday's Thrift Treasures

Who says you need to spend lots of money look like a celebrity? After thrifting Monday I got some GREAT finds that I think will be perfect for Spring. I know I've said it before but Thrifting is becoming a passion and obsession in my life.

I went in with a list and came out with treasures, here are some of my finds that I just couldn't pass up!



Vintage Messenger Style Handbag $6.90

This dark brown messenger bag is perfect for Spring and for only $6.90 I could NOT pass up. There was no name brand written inside only the musty smell that you get from a truely vintage piece. Mmmm I love that smell!



Vintage Black Chanel Inspired Handbag $5.90

 I almost died when I saw this bag. I showed my husbands Aunt this bag, she sells high end designer handbags for Saks Fifth Ave, and she couldn't believe how close it was to looking like the real thing. Of course its not. Again no tag inside, but it did have a sticker saying it was genuine leather and was made in Italy.  This bag is perfect day-to-night. It will look great to dress up your jeans!



Rachel Zoe Inspired jacket by Newport News $9.90

 I saw this jacket and it reminded me of Rachel Zoe. Its so feminine and I think the perfect shade of pink. I usually don't wear pink but I couldn't pass up this Chanel look-a-like. I can't wait to wear this! Going to get out my Rachel Zoe inspiration and will post pics soon!

I also bought an adorable dress for my 18-month old daughter and a mid-length floral skirt for myself (which I will write about in a later post - it needs some TLC).

Three Ways to Make Your Legs Look Longer

I'm what some would call midget, petite, shorter than the average girl. I'm barely 5'1. Most of the time I can embrace the fact that I'm petite. My husband's short so I don't mind that my legs aren't as long as Gisele Bundchen but when all of my girl friends are super tall, I literally sink in a crowd. Here are my three tricks to make any girls legs look longer!

HEELS - Clean line heels in particular. A sleek shape and added platform adds extra height making your legs look long and lean. Try these from the Jessica Simpson Collection:

"Acadia" $79; JessicaSimpsoncollection.com

SKIRTS - Try above the knee. On almost every figure this is just the right amount of leg to show. Try this adorable skirt from Rebecca Taylor:



Boucle Skirt in Black $225

 TROUSERS - Try wide leg! Even if your petite like me wide leg trousers make your legs look long and amazing! For a more flattering effect, hem the trousers so they are just off the floor when your wearing heels. Try these from Theory:

Theory "Nomee" Pant $255 @ Saks

Easy Ways to Organize Your Bling

Does the top of your dresser look like a jumbled mess of rings, bangles, mixed matched earrings, and necklaces tied in knots? Here are some of my tips for getting organized as well as the wearable longevity out of each piece.

• Don't want your chains getting tangled or jewelry getting scratched? Store each piece individually, never double up in a compartment
• Organize to your lifestyle. Keep everyday wear separate from special occasion. If you seem to be a more visual person, sort by color.
• Have fine jewelry? HANDLE WITH CARE! After each wear, wipe off using a 100% cotton cloth. When it comes to fine jewelry, store in their original boxes and always make sure they are tarnish and dust free.

These foam trays are perfect for storing jewelry in drawers (they're stackable) or on your dresser top.

$14.99 @ Container Store

Want to showcase your jewelry? Urbanoutfitters.com has adorable ways to hang your dangly earrings and charm bracelets.

This is an oldie but check out their website for their recent jewelry storage ideas

Don't have a budget for jewelry storage? Try using a bulletin board to store necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Try hanging your pieces on colorful pushpins!

(Need advice on cleaning your jewelry? Check out REAL SIMPLE)

Schedule for DC Fashion Week

Its FINALLY arrived! Welcome to DC Fashion Week! Come out and join DC fashionably fabulous. See this weeks schedule below:

Tonight Monday February 21st 6-8pm KICKOFF RECEPTION with a vendor fashion show at 7 pm
1700 K Street NW Washington DC 20006  at Kellari Taverna

Tuesday, February 22, 9:00am - 5pm: COLORS OF THE OASIS Central Asian Ikats  
The Textile Museum 2320 S Street NW, DC 20008 $8.00 donation suggested Textilemuseum.com

Wednesday, February 23, 9:00am - 5pm: SECOND LIVES The Age-Old Art of Recycling Textiles
The Textile Museum 2320 S Street NW, DC 20008 $8.00 donation suggested Textilemuseum.com

Thursday, February 24 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM FASHION INDUSTRY NETWORKING PARTY  Tabaq Bistro 1336 U Street, NW Washington, DC 20009 Open to the public tabaqdc.com Free Admission/No RSVP

CORJOR INTERNATIONAL Fashion show. Fresh from his European tour to Paris, France, Belgrade, Serbia and Lviv, Ukraine, DC based designer Ean Williams premiers his new collection in DC. Friday, February 25 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM Fashion Show @ 9:00 PM Mood Lounge 1318 9th Street NW, WDC 20001 Free Admission with codeword DC Fashion Week Moodloungedc.com

WASHINGTON MENSWEAR COLLECTIONS Nine fashion designers illustrate what’s hot in men’s’ fashions. Saturday, February 26 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM $10.00 to $25.00 Tickets 800.494.8497 boxofficetickets.com Washington Post Conference Center 1150 15th St. NW Washington, Dc 20071 Open to the public Requires Ticket Purchase. After-party at Ozios, hosted by The Usual Suspectz

INTERNATIONAL COUTURE COLLECTIONS 15 designers from around the world debut their original designs at the flagship event of DC Fashion Week. Sunday, February 27 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM VIP Reception @5:00 PM Fashion Show @6:00 PM $60.00 General Admission $120.00 VIP Admission (includes front row, deluxe gift bag, champagne toast, and VIP pre-show reception) Tickets: 800 494 8497 boxofficetickets.com Embassy of France La Maison Francaise 4101 Reservoir Road, DC 20007 Open to the public Requires Ticket Purchase Cocktail Attire Requested Tickets 800.494.8497 boxofficetickets.com

Three Ways to Wear Boyfriend Jeans

Boyfriend jeans are so comfy and all the rage this Spring. With jeans that run a little baggy its easy to slip in to a comfy baggy top as well. What ever your doing this weekend here are three ways to wear your "boyfriend jeans" all weekend long while looking fabulous!

Friday Night Dinner & Drinks with the Girls



Make these jeans a little sexy with a fitted blazer, super high heels and a little leopard



Saturday Shopping in Georgetown



Pair with vintage accessories, over sized brown bag, and a bright colored sweater - Adorable!



Brunch with you Hunny

Chunky sweater, cool accessories, and a floral print makes a feel good Sunday

Hope everyone has a stylishly amazing weekend!

Don't Have Time to Pack?

Does packing for vacation overwhelm you? Is your schedule so busy you don't have time to pack for an upcoming business trip?

In steps ME! After asking a couple questions I come in and and do all your packing for you! Putting together multiple outfits and choices that are paired with shoes, jewelry, handbags, and undergarments makes your life and vacation completely stress free.

70% Off For President's Day at Second Time Around

Second Time Around in Georgetown has THE BEST SALES! In honor of Presidents Day (this coming Monday) they are offering 70% off ALL Winter Merchandise and 30% off NEW SPRING ITEMS!

As I posted last week I was in there and found some great stuff! Actually wearing one of my great finds for dinner out with my girls tonight!

Subtle Winter White

Who said you can't wear white in the winter? Maybe not head to toe, but this adorable white lace dress from TopShop is a great for a night out on the town with your girls or your man. Paired with simple accessories, black heels with an extra platform (makes your legs look amazing and extra long), and a tiny black clutch, this ensemble is painless to wear and put together!

Spring Cleaning Your Closet

Is that the sun I see? Weather in DC is finally starting to warm up, letting us know that Spring is well on its way. So what does that mean? Spring cleaning!

Still haven't gotten started on that New Year's resolution of getting your closet organized? With Spring just around the corner, there is no better time to start than NOW! Don't have time? Don't worry, that's what I'm here for!

Does your closet look like this? It doesn't have too!

Organizing is my specialty. During our first consultation together we will analyze your closet and make some major decisions. (1) First an organizing agenda to decide where everything works best for you, (2) A decision about where to move those winter sweaters that are taking up space for new spring threads, and (3) the budget you are working with for your Spring wardrobe and organizational tools.

What else can you expect after our consultation?
After our first consultation the organizing begins! In a very orderly and timely fashion, I go in and reorganize your ENTIRE closet and even do a thorough inventory of everything you own. I find that the reorganization and inventory allow my clients to visually see (in two ways) what all they have in their closets.

Once the reorganization is done, I work one-one-one with each client to go through their wardrobe to make sure that they (1) Have the basic essentials that every woman needs in their closet in reference to their lifestyle, (2) Go over what does and does not work for their body type and lifestyle, (3) Audit pieces that are outdated, no longer fit, or are not good for my clients body, (4) together we create a list of basic essentials that the clients need for their closet, and (5) lastly my favorite part of shopping in their existing closet to put together ready made outfits!

I have found from my other clients this process is a huge help! If you need help getting your Spring Style on or just need to find anything in your closet please email me at Chicdc202@gmail.com.

I will be running a special from now till May 1st, 2011 on any appointment booked between now and then!

Shop Local? Local Designer to Love

I'm a big advocate for shopping local. Anyone can go to Bloomingdale's and find designer jewelry but a local designer offers the same sophistication without the total mass production.

3.0.1 Jewelry is from local (Maryland) designer Yasmine Afshar. Yasmine is no newbie to the fashion world, working for big time designer Patricia Fields, Yasmine is one of the best dressed on the DC scene. Her jewelry line, which is created by semi-precious stones and metals, is great for anyone looking for that Mediterranean feel with a Spiritual touch.

The 3.0.1 Jewelry line has been seen on shows like ABC's The Bachelor! For more information on 3.0.1 Jewelry line visit  3.0.1 Jewelry.

Thrift Store Finds - Perfect for Spring

Well last week I hit two different thrift/consignment stores in four days!

Last week I got an email advertising 70% off all winter merchandise at Second Time Around in Georgetown. This is by far my favorite DC consignment store. Although they don't offer a lot of high end name brands (there is usually one rack closets to the register), the do offer a lot of medium to medium high end clothing there. The staff is always so nice, this time they even asked me where my little girl was! I'm becoming quite the regular I'm afraid!

Here are my finds, the total was $44.00!

Anna Sui t-shirt with lace and fringe detail

BCBG Shirt perfect color for spring! 

ArdenB White Sequin Shirt

APPS that Make you Organized and Fashionable

With Verizon unveiling the iPhone 4 this month, I find it only appropriate to talk about "APPS" that can simplify your life and make you more fashionable.

Trendstop Fashion TrendTracker - COST: FREE
This is the first app to bring professional fashion trend forecasts to consumers. Brought to the iPhone by Trendstop.com.

HauteLook : COST FREE

This is my favorite app! Just like the website you can set reminders for future sales, browse what is available and even purchase ALL FROM YOUR PHONE! Sales start almost every morning at 11am Eastern Time.

Closet Friend: COST $.99
Worth every bit of $.99, Closet Friend allows you to virtually put together outfits and organize them in categories (casual, work, formal or by article of clothing). Closet Friend helps the user organize whats in their closet and even log what they are wearing that day. Remember Cher's closet in Clueless?

Other apps I love: Target, Zara, UrbanOutfitters, H&M, and Forever21

One Man's Trash is Another Man's Treasure

Thrift and consignment stores are my weakness. Like most women I get that "high" from buying anything. When thrifting that "high" seems more deserving. I mean shouldn't my husband be happy that I got something for a third of its normal price? And the rewarding feeling that over takes me when I search through racks and racks of clothes until Ah HA! I find the perfect article of clothing.

Monday, before a client consultation, my husband sent me out to do errands for his restaurant. I can't lie when I say I was hiding my excitement when he told me I had to go to Ikea for him. Now I hate Ikea, not hate, just the store is so overwhelming. However, I love Ikea when it sits only a five minute drive from one of my favorite thrift store gems in the DC area.

Before entering the doors of any thrift store GO IN WITH A PLAN! If not you will end up with mindless t-shirts that you will never wear again and end up on the floor of your closet. My plan was to find a jacket for spring. Lucky me - after only moments, stuck way in the back I found an adorable black trench coat that fit me perfectly! Price you ask? $12.90, with a small discount, I ended up paying $9.20.

When I got home I decided to google how much this jacket actually cost. I found that originally price it was still a bargain at $39.99 on Overstock.com, but all together I had saved $30.79 (NOT INCLUDING SHIPPING)!

Not only did I save money, but I also bought what is considered an essential piece of clothing for every woman!

Want more information on thrifting or where I think the best thrift stores are? Email me at chicdc202@gmail.com

Back to the Future: That 70's Show

All hail to the disco ball -- the 70's are back this Spring and with-a-vengeance.

In the recent issue of LUCKY Magazine (now on Newsstands) a six page spread shows how to make the grooviest decade look groovy on you.

Crochet Top, High Waisted Pants, Slouchy Bag - Spring must haves

Extra Long Wrap Dress with Gold Accessories

Leather and Bangles are the percet touch!

This whole look as mystery...Love it

(All photos courtsey of Luck Magzine)

Sustainable Fashion

Sustainable Fashion, or also called "Eco-Fashion" is the new growing trend in the fashion industry.

What is Sustainable fashion? Sustainable fashion is fashion made to be environmentally friendly to the person wearing it. Designers like Stella McCartney are taking to the cause and designing Eco-fashion.

World wide stores like H&M also are taking to the lasting trend and creating adorable looks by using sustainable fashion with organic cotton, recycled polyester, and organic linen. I have to tell you by the end of the week I plan on owning both of the dresses below! So adorable and affordable! The yellow ruffle dress with the black bow is only $19.95 and the organic strapless pink with stunning black hearts dress is also only $19.95!

H&M's Recycled Dress - Perfect for Spring!

Dress on the left made out of organic cotton

Amazing websites like GreenGretchen give tons of great site for finding sustainable fashion that is both adorable and affordable (my two favorite "a" words!). With many of the sites, Gretchen also gives coupon codes for shoppers to get a discount! I can't leave out the face that Gretchen  also has a tab for PLUS SIZE! Now there is no excuse! Sustainable Fashion for every size!

Tunic by Grechen&Grace only $42

For more information on sustainable fashion or to find how to work sustainable fashion into your wardrobe email Chicdc202@gmail.com

Superbowl Fashion

Just because football is a "man's" sport doesn't mean us ladies can't look our best! If you are needing some inspiration (no matter what team your cheering for) check out my ideas below!

I loooove this Vintage Inspired Steelers shirt (from Amazon.com) and paired with simple ruched black leggings from Forever 21 (only $24!)! If you have yellow heels, this is a great outfit to wear them with! If not pair this adorable combo with a stacked black or grey heel!

LOVE VINTAGE SPORTS TEAM SHIRTS!

Great leggings for a great PRICE!

This Vintage Packers Shirt goes great with any cheese-head! My suggestion would be pair with a light grey skinny denim jean (again Forever 21 only $24.80) and brown clogs.

Grey Skinny Jeans from FOREVER 21

Is the a cuter way to support your team?

Every one have a safe and FUN Superbowl Sunday!!

xoxo

Selecting Spring Trends

Spring is on its way, well hopefully. As half the country is buried under at least a foot of snow, stores all over the country are already setting up there spring merchandise.

Before you go and buy the latest Spring Trend remember these essential things....

Will the silhouette flatter your shape and size? I can NOT stress this enough! Not every trend is for every body type! The goal of buying new clothes is looking your best, which will make you feel your best.

Does the fabric and fit drape and smooth over your figure? Some fabric are just not for some body shapes and sizes. For example fabrics like high sheen satin can often add unflattering bulks to your body.

Does the trend bring out the part of your body you like? Show off what you've got! Everyone has a great asset! With out being trashy about it, let the world know you like your (input favorite body part).

Does the trend/clothing reflect your personality and your lifestyle? Perhaps a jump-suite in a polka dot print is not suitable for your job on the Hill, but instead a great weekend essential or perfect for a stay at home mom who wants to stay in style while running after her toddler.

Need help with a trend or have questions about other Spring 2011 trends please email me at Chicdc202@gmail.com