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Why Did You Wear That: Little Black What?

By |June 14th, 2011|Personal Style, Why Did You Wear That?|

Every girl owns (or at least she should own) the perfect little black dress.  But wearing the same hot little number cocktail party after cocktail party can leave a girl feeling bored with what once was a no brainer.  Not even swapping accessories can change things.  Like a rubik’s cube, there are only so many combinations.  This is when you must channel your inner Macgyver and start rigging up new and inventive cocktail combinations.

Besides the LBD (little black dress for the slow pokes), another staple piece is a black pencil skirt.  You may be thinking to yourself, “That’s a little too Betty Draper for me.”  Well, let me tell you, the pencil skirt has stuck around for a reason.  Fitted properly, a pencil skirt can make even the most waifish gal look more Beyonce and less Olive Oil.  To offset the conservative pencil skirt, I paired it with a cropped bandeau top (this little guy happened to be a DVF sample and would benefit greatly from some time spent at a seamstress).  Classic black pumps, top notch top knot, and a sequined jacket completed this unconventional, but totally cocktail appropriate attire.

Before creating this look yourself, remember to use some common sense: 1. Will this look good on you? If you could benefit from a few more sit ups, hold off until you’re bare belly brazen. 2. Where are you planning to wear it?  A funeral or wedding is probably not the right time for this.  Save it for a more appropriate occasion.

1. Cosabella Marni Strapless Plunge Bra, $132.50, 2. Diane von Furstenberg Panel Marta Techno Jersey High Waist Pencil Skirt, $210, 3. Tuleste Market Layered Ball & Chain Necklace, $150, 4. Harrison Morgan Black Sequin Bolero, $220, 5. Christian Louboutin Pigalle 120 Patent Pumps, $595

xx,

WhyDid

Why Did You Wear That: Sheer Genius

By |April 12th, 2011|Personal Style, Why Did You Wear That?|

This spring it’s okay to let it all hang out.  What I mean is that the amount of sheer fabrics on the runway was enough to make Madonna blush.  Couple that with the whole “underwear as outerwear” trend and you’re in for a serious game of peek-a-boo –and I’m not talking the version you play with your niece.

While this trend may seem a bit risque and a little overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be.  Adding a little sheer fabric to your outfit is a great way to show skin in an unexpected manner.  It’s sexy without being totally obvious.  Just make sure to apply this trend in small doses.  And NEVER wear a sheer bottom unless, of course, you’re frolicking on the beaches of St. Tropez.  (I know that seems self explanatory, but one can never be too careful).

I’ve recreated one of my favorite outfits almost to a T (the shirt is a different color, multiply my A&A bangles by about 5 and add 1) for an easy and appropriate option – and so you can look just like me:

1. Patterson J. Kincaid Harlow Long Sleeve Blouse, $98, 2. Free People Lace Trim Bandeau, $28, 3. 7 For All Mankind Gwenevere Super Skinny in Double Knit, $169, 4. Alex and Ani Love Charm Bracelet Set, $78.50, 5. Jimmy Choo Madame Metallic Leather Sandals, $725

This outfit is also great for a “day to night” transition.  Layer a scarf and either a waterfall cardigan or boyfriend blazer for day and then remove scarf and outerwear to party all night.  Don’t forget to revisit my sheer “Do’s and Don’ts.”

Peek-a-boo!

xx,

WhyDid