FROM MOROCCO TO PARIS TO L.A.: SPRING’S INSPIRED PRINTS

Thrilled by the exotic? Waiting for your next getaway? Dreaming of Paris? Even if you can’t afford to vacation in luscious Morocco or romantic France this summer, take your own little “mini travel escape ” for a few minutes, and peruse the mysterious yet alluring foreign style inspirations for Spring 2016.

Surrounded by beautiful beaches, colorful tapestries, and exotic locales, the Mediterranean is full of rich heritage and intriguing culture. The influence can be seen in brightly colored pattern and print dresses, blouses, skirts, and pants, as well as sweeping, luscious fabrics.

Hot red and luscious pink prints derive from the colorful sunsets and intricate embellished patterns of Moroccan scarves, tapestries, and fabrics. Sizzle in a silky pink and purple printed maxi dress or try a pretty patterned halter dress paired with your favorite flat sandals.

The lifestyle is much less hectic and fast paced than other parts of the world. Moroccans enjoy a lunch break on the beach or dinner by the sea in their own brightly colored “cabanas” created by their own tapestries and scarves. Food of choice includes flavorful spices, bright fruits, fresh vegetables, and homemade pita bread.

From the mint hue in cropped floral capri pants to kelly green on printed silk blouse to neon color on  silk wide leg Palazzo pants, Moroccan nature’s favorite color is popular throughout Spring’s fashion lines. Earth green patterns influence prints from skirts, to swimwear, to blouses, to pants.

Echoing the natural beauty of the terrain, sellers in the popular Moroccan baazars utilize nature’s green, gold, and beige hues in the pottery, tapestries, and home decor. Earth green colors seep into the patterns and prints of Spring’s favorite fashion lines.

The beautiful yellow and blue patterns on the Mosque Hassan are just one of the many examples of the intricate architecture and rich design found in Morocco and across the Mediterranean. The people are proud of their heritage and culture, and take time to beautify their buildings as works of art.

Inspired by Moroccan tile print and architecture, get your own blue and yellow print flowy maxi dress this Spring.

It’s easy to get swept away in the mystery and natural beauty of the Moroccan culture in sweeping chiffon printed wide leg pants or coral colored pants, reminiscent of the desert sun.

Incorporate the beautifully patterned tapestries and silky scarves sold at Morocco’s favorite outdoor bazaars. Feel like your own “Queen of Sheba” in a printed jersey maxi or blue printed crepe de chine wide leg pants. Throw on a lace design poncho for perfect Moroccan style.

Across the sea, the Moroccan influence can be seen street style in Europe’s most romantic “City of Lights.” Rich in art, culture, music, film, and architecture, the Parisian woman combines the patterns of the Mediterranean with the sophistication of the metropolis.

This Spring, combine the world of Paris’s art, pop culture, and celebrity with influences of Moroccan lifestyles and femininity.

Celebrity and fashion icon Olivia Palermo perfectly portrays the quintessential Parisian woman’s style- classy in an effortless manner. A vintage A-line Moroccan-inspired print skirt easily pairs with a tailored top and black Bolero jacket or rabbit fur vest, mixing exotic patterns with classic silhouettes.

 Parisians know how to rock Spring’s favorite romper in style. Incorporate the exotic ancient prints of Morocco with the trendy new styles of today in a blue printed romper roaming the streets of Paris.

And finally, around the world to America, combine the culture of Morocco and the romance of Paris with the trends of the vibrant city of Los Angeles.

With the trendy yet artistic vibe of the city, L.A. women combine the culture of the Mediterranean with the class of Paris to create a fresh, new style all their own. Trends are often started in the “City of Angels,” spreading across the States one by one.

From Sofia Vergara to Paris Hilton to Salma Hayek, vibrant Moroccan prints attract celebrities of all ages and fashion tastes. With designer style yet affordability, you too can dress like your favorite Hollywood star in a  Boho printed jersey knit maxi dress or go with a classic style in the printed jersey shift dress.

You’ll feel the mystic of Moroccan style as you relax poolside in a custom print sheath dress complemented by lace up Boho chic sandals.

Vacation in style with a colorful Moroccan inspired print maxi or flutter sleeve maxi with the pose of a Parisian lady.

And bring the fun to your own back yard like the Angelenos do. Entertain just like a celebrity with Moroccan tapestries and decor complemented by your own patterned, print dress. From Boho printed maxi dresses to classic shift silhouettes to floral cropped pants, there is a Mediterranean style to fit your personal taste.

From the mystery of Morocco to the romance of Paris to today’s trends from L.A., get swept away in other worldly cultures this Season. Whether Boho maxis to classic shift dresses to cropped or wide leg pants, there’s a perfect style for you.

FLIRTY FLORAL DRESSES PERFECT FOR SPRINGTIME FUN

“April showers bring May flowers.” While the saying may or may not be true, there’s no doubt that floral prints of all kinds are “blooming” this Spring. From Zuhair Murad to Ralph & Russo to Dolce & Gabbana, the runways were full of flora and fauna of all shapes, sizes, and designs. Whether big and beautiful or minute and abstract, the motif is just feminine enough, playful without taking itself too seriously.  The key to styling your favorite floral frock is to avoid over accessorizing and opting instead for a restrained approach. Take a look at our top picks trending for Spring 2016.

FLORALS FOR THE OFFICE

Start off your Monday morning with a breath of fresh florals for the office. The trick is to go with a sleek silhouette paired with shoes and accessories for all day comfort and style. We like Hale Bob’s sleeveless floral sheath dress combined with Sam Edelman’s lace up heels and simple gold bangles from Kendra Scott. When it’s time for a meeting with the Boss, throw on  Hale Bob’s black Bolero jacket over your floral frock for a perfectly polished professional look. As lunchtime approaches, pull out the homemade mini cupcakes decorated with lavender wild rose royal icing flowers from Confectionary House  and you are sure to start your co-workers’ week off right. Bring a little Springtime fun to the workplace this Season.

BOHO FLORAL MAXI

Tap into your inner “hippy” this Season  with a flowy Boho floral maxi. Relax in style with Hale Bob’s floral printed maxi dress, Free People’s floppy hat, gladiators from Steve Madden, suede fringe tote from Patricia Nash, and chic hand chain from Lana Jewelry. De-stress this Season by creating your own personal space outside. Throw down a colorful floral rug from Loloi, add a string of lights, table, cozy chair or hammock and take a minute to enjoy the calmness of the outdoors. Consider even starting your own flower garden for luscious scents throughout the year. Check out the Gardener’s Supply Company for tips on how to grow the most perfect roses, America’s most popular flower. On weekends, add a few chairs and invite your best friends over for a garden party with cocktails and munchies. Whether alone or in good company, take the time to enjoy nature this Spring.

VINTAGE FLORALS

You can’t go wrong in a classic vintage A line floral dress this Spring. Grab Eliza J’s floral print fit and flare dress paired with cute white kitten heels from Bella Vita and a vintage floral clutch from designer tu-anh. Even if you don’t have time to grow your own posies this Spring, you can still enjoy the Season’s fresh flowers by shopping your local Farmer’s Market or flower shop. Here in L.A., we enjoy the family owned and operated Athletic Club Flower Shop delivering flowers to customers since 1916. Search your area for the best place to buy flowers and add a little brightness to your Spring this year.

FLORAL SHIRTDRESS

Whether vacationing in Cabo or simply tending the garden in your own backyard,  the very versatile floral shirtdress is one you’ll want to add into your wardrobe collection this Spring. We like Hale Bob’s “Cabana” cotton dress paired with trendy flat gladiator sandals NEW from Lucky Brand and color blocked straw tote from Straw Studios. Another styling tip is to fashion your shirtdress over a favorite pair of summer shorts or cropped pants such as Hudson’s cropped denim jeans. You can also bring your shirtdress along with you to pool or beach topped over one of Hale Bob’s colorful printed swimsuits. Lastly, don’t forget tie a comfy cotton plaid shirt around your waist when you need to layer as the sun sets. Casual or dressy, home or abroad, let your shirtdress work for you this Season.

ROMANTIC FLUTTER FLORALS

Not sure what to wear to your next wedding event or formal Spring occasion? We suggest a lovely sheer ivory flutter floral dress paired with black sandals from Calvin Klein and matching crossbody bag by Rebecca Minkoff. Protect your peeps with stylish “Palm Beach” sunglasses from Illesteva to complete the ensemble. For a different silhouette, we also like the faux wrap neutral silk chiffon from Hale Bob accessorized with “flower” inspired Betsey Johnson glitter “rose” bangle, Simone Rocha stud earrings, and crystal pendant from Nina. In the spirit of the Season, why not surprise the bride and groom with an arrangement of fresh flowers from your favorite flower shop.

COCKTAIL FLORALS

Take a cue from designer Emanuel Ungaro’s Spring 2016 collection with a flirty floral cocktail dress perfect for drinks with co-workers or date night out on the town. Glam it up this Spring in Hale Bob’s sequined embroidered cocktail dress paired with Betsey Johnson’s dainty flower detailed stilettos and kitsch “flower pot” crossbody. Or sparkle like a Hollywood star in a snug gold sequined floral dress accessorized with Vince Camuto’s embellished ankle strap sandals and 3D flower jeweled gold clutch. Spritz on a little romantic “Tea Rose” perfume and you’ll look and smell fresh as a Spring day.

TROPICAL FLORAL PRINT

Finally, no Spring or Summer season can be complete without a tropical floral print tank dress. Whether or not you vacation in the tropics this year, you can still get in on the fun with your own flora and fauna “Cabana” style. We like Hale Bob’s blue sleeveless tropical print summer dress paired with your favorite flat sandals and floral headpiece from Free People. Segue into the evening hours by switching out your casual flats for Vince Camuto’s white ankle strap heels as pictured above or opt for Sam Edelman’s fun floral print sandals and you are ready to shimmy the night away. Even if your year doesn’t include a trip to a getaway desert island, you’ll feel “tropical” in your very own floral print sleeveless dress while making yourself a homemade coconut cocktail from Cooky Coconut’s fresh delicious recipes.

From the workplace to destination getaway to date night, there’s a flirty floral dress to fit any occasion this Spring. Whether you choose a delicate feminine print or glamorous sequined pattern, florals are a “must do” this Season. Have fun, be you, and bring a little “flower power” style into your daily routine this Season. Don’t miss a single issue and
Sign Up for our weekly blog.

FASHION TRUTHS FROM AN EAST COAST GIRL

Last week, L.A. based fashion blogger Natalie Kramer gave you favorite West Coast Girl styling tips. This week, take some Preppy and Polished tips from the East Coast influenced by tradition as much as practical concerns.

Since weather patterns can be unpredictable, with sun one minute and rain the next, East Coasters are used to fashionably styling a light cardigan or sweater year round. The East Coast is the home of Ivy League schools and academia in the North and manners and charm in the South. This influences the region’s style and fashion with the popularity of pearls, polos, plaids, and sweaters. Take a look at our 6 tips on how to dress East Coast style.

CLASSY GIRLS WEAR PEARLS

East Coasters know that the best way to add a bit of class to any style is to simply add a string of pearls. From work to play, any outfit can be enhanced with this simple embellishment. Whether you choose to don a charming A Line Dress or classic oxford shirt and blazer, pearls are a more than acceptable accessory day or night. So grab those heirloom strands of your grandmothers or splurge with Majorica’s Three-Strand Pearl Necklace as a way of initiation.

RAIN BOOTS ARE A FASHION STATEMENT

Every East Coast girl knows that rain wear is not merely a necessity, it is a fashion statement all its own. From rain jackets to umbrellas to boots, an East Coast girl knows how to rock these items in style. Start your fashionable rain wear collection with a trendy pair of weatherproof boots. For a perfect Spring style, we like Hunters Original Tall Gloss Rain Boots paired with Vineyard Vines Cashmere Linen Tunic Sweater and skinny jeans from Hudson. Add a little novelty to your look with jewelry pieces in the Cape Cod Collection from East Wind Silver Co.

GET NAUTICAL

For East Coasters, nautical pieces are tied in from north to south inspired by sailing whether for pleasure or toil due to the convenience of the Great Lakes and the length of the coastline. Since the weather along the East Coast tends to be chillier and not as mild as the West Coast, our “beach wear” often includes a light sweater, cardigan, floppy hat or scarf. Start with Citizen’s of Humanity’s white cropped shorts paired with a striped tee from Paige Denim, your string of pearls, and classic boat shoes from Sperry. Be inspired by Spring’s runway looks from Giorgio Armani and Ralph Lauren, and start shopping your favorite nautical items. Don’t forget the perfect nautical jewelry, we love the anchor inspired bracelets by Kiel James Patrick.

Polished Plaids

Pretty Polos

GO POLISHED IN POLOS & PLAID

On the East Coast, the popular “preppy” style derives mostly from the universities. The polos, plaids, and sweaters have evolved into a very chic yet proper style perfect for anyone to try this Spring. Let your hair go natural, and pair Washed Dayboat Classic Shorts  with a Short Sleeve Polo Shirt and Lacoste Slip On Sneakers. Accessorize your look by tying a plaid button up around your waist in case the weather turns chilly. On dressier occasions, combine your polo and pearls with a White A line Mini Skirt from Hale Bob or a Candy Pink Striped Midi Skirt from Chic Wash.  Who says that you have to be a college student to enjoy one of the East Coast’s favorite fashion statements?

BE PLAYFUL IN PREPPY PRINTS

In contrast, on the lower regions of the East Coast, Southern charm omits the plaids opting for lovely and light shades boasting floral and sea faring prints yet the proper look is still maintained with clean cuts, A line skirts, and the like. And since it’s Spring, now is the perfect time to “be playful in preppy prints.” Look for light pastels, floral prints, flutter sleeves, and midi-length skirts. Lilly Pulitzer has got it down to a science with their eye pleasing shades, one of a kind prints and oh so Southern Charm. We’re particularly fond of the Shellabrate print this year that easily pairs with your lightweight cardigans and Georgica Jelly Sandals.

You can even carry the playful prints to the workplace with Hale Bob’s Beaded Blue Silk Blouse and Wide Leg Linen Trousers. Slide into a pair of Metallic Gold Wedges from Lilly and your sure to bring a refreshing outlook to the office. From dresses to skirts to shorts, be sure to include the East Coast’s favorite playful prints into your closet this Spring.

MONOGRAMS ARE A MUST

Finally, our favorite “style” that every girl should choose not just for Springtime but throughout the entire year is monograming. East Coasters from North Carolina down are obsessed with monograming everything, making it their own. From jackets to handbags to jewelry to even iPhone cases. Putting your initials on your favorite styling items shows ownership and commitment to the things you love best. The East Coast is characterized by individualism and hard work, but with class, character, and charm. We love the classic East Coast look pictured above with your very own personalized with a Merino Wool V-Neck Sweater paired over a Polka Dot Blouse, and Cropped Denim Jeans. If you choose to try only one East Coast style this Season, pick your favorite item to monogram and take ownership of your fashion. Whether you choose to own your most loved handbag, hat or  hoodie Southern Charm Embroidery is the place to go to put your stamp on it.

From our list above, there is sure to be an East Coast style that suits you this Season. Maybe you’ll decide to add a string of pearls on your next evening out. Or you may tie a cardigan around your outfit for lunch out with the girls. Or why not monogram your favorite fashion accessory or wardrobe essential, exuding style, class, and individuality.

Now that you have read both last week and this week’s blogs on West Coast vs East Coast fashion truths, we’d love to hear YOUR opinion on which style you think fits you best. Will you follow your region’s trends and styles, or will you choose to “go against the grain” and try something new and different? Let us hear from YOU and comment below. And remember, no matter what we here at Posh at Play want you to be you, be fabulous, and always be feminine.

FASHION TRUTHS FROM A WEST COAST GIRL

Welcome to our two part blog series on West Coast fashion truths verses East Coast style. With our bloggers here at Posh at Play living on both sides of the fashion scale, we can give you first hand tips on the styles that rock our cities. This week, we start with our L.A. based fashion blogger Natalie Kramer:

There’s a reason why West Coast style is so often imitated and envied. Since the weather offers year round sun and eternal summer vibes, California girls have a way of putting together casual looks that can go practically anywhere. Whether we’re rocking tousled beachy waves or chic denim cut offs, L.A. girls know how to make fashion appear feminine yet effortless. Take a look at the 6 style truths every West Coast girl follows and you are on your way to a casual yet chic new year.

SANDALS ARE YEAR ROUND

If there’s only one pair of shoes in your closet, West Coasters know it has to be the sandal. Since the region calls for year round sun and endless beach days, sandals are the most important shoe option. With just the right pair, your sandals can take you from work in the morning to lunch with the girls in the afternoon to cocktails with your agent at twilight to dancing the night away at your favorite club. I like Steve Madden’s lace up suede sandals paired with Blank Denim’s skinny overalls or Hudson’s cropped jeans and basic fitted tee from Eileen Fisher for the perfect “Cali Cool” effortless style. Segue into the evening hours by changing into a lovely lace dress from Hale Bob or go with something a bit more flashy in a copper sequined V neck cocktail frock. Morning to evening, casual to dressy, sandals are a “must have” staple to dressing “West Coast Style.”

AND SO ARE BOOTS

The second shoe option everyone must own are boots. Not just reserved for wintertime, on the West Coast boots can be worn any time of day and any Season of the year. The key is to choose the style, material, and color that is suitable for all occasions. I like Aquatalia’s weatherproof beige ankle booties paired with Springtime’s favorite printed romper from Hale Bob. Accessorize one of Hale Bob’s swimsuit options and ivory lace kimono from Liberty Garden with a floppy hat from Free People, oversized tote from Tory Burch, and your ankle booties for a “Boho” chic style. Segue into the colder months by combining your ankle booties with Hudson’s classic skinny jeans, long sleeve tee from Liberty Garden, and Liberty Garden’s black slouchy sweatshirt for perfect layering effect. Rain or shine, boots are another shoe staple to add top your “West Coast” look.

SLOUCHY SWEATERS + CUT OFFS = TOTALLY ACCEPTABLE 

Speaking of slouchy sweaters, this wardrobe item is definitely a “must have” for all West Coasters. With a desert-like climate, the weather tends to be warm during the day yet chilly at night, year round. L.A. girls everywhere are able to master the slouchy casual sweater and denim cut offs look to a tee, without looking messy. The key is to keep make up and hair as natural looking as possible and to accessorize in all the right places. Start by sweeping Senna’s mineral-based powdered bronzer across your face and tousling your hair with Bumble & Bumble’s surf infusion for those beachy waves. Next pair Citizen’s of Humanity’s denim cut offs with a white open-shoulder sweatshirt from Liberty Garden. Accessorize your look with classic Converse sneakers, statement watch from Betsey Johnson, and your oversized tote from Tory Burch. For the more daring, go for a pop of color in red denim shorts from Joe’s Jeans or tangerine hue from J Brand. West Coasters know that denim cut offs are a “can do” for even nighttime occasions by accessorizing with diamond studs, necklace from Dana Rebecca Designs, ankle strap heels from Stuart Weitzman, and a glittering clutch from Kate Spade. Trade out your top for Hale Bob’s elegant floral drape sweater and you are ready to hit the Red Carpet in style.

LAYERING IS KEY FOR THOSE IN BETWEEN DAYS

Since the West Coast lies in a “desert like” climate with warm days and chilly nights, L.A. girls know that layering is key to staying warm yet chic. Get actress Vanessa Hudgen’s chill look above with Liberty Garden’s sleeveless lace maxi dress layered with a cozy plaid button down from Paige Denim, handbag from Zac Posen, and soft suede Birkenstocks. For another look, you could also pair Liberty Garden’s NEW layered crochet sweater or Hale Bob’s lace trimmed swing cardigan over a Derek Lam cami paired with Hudson’s cropped distressed jeans and your favorite wedge sandals. When the weather warms, simply tie your sweater around your waist for “no nonsense,” effortless style.

 

A MOTO JACKET IS THE ONLY KIND YOU’LL NEED

In addition to layering, West Coasters know that the leather moto jacket is the only jacket you need year round to carry you through any and every occasion. Once you find the perfect feel and shape for you, you won’t need to ever shop for another wrap. I like the clean, simple silhouette of Trouve’s black leather moto jacket paired with Hale Bob’s flowy satin blouse, floral cropped pants, and black ankle strap sandals from Alexander Wang. Complete your look with colorful accessories such as a yellow clutch from Kenzo, colorful bangles from Lead, and sunglasses from sunglasses from L.A. based company Wildfox. Your jacket will look just as polished over your outfit to the office, paired with Joe’s Jeans’ floral shorts for beach time fun, or combined with your favorite cocktail dress at night. As you shop for your perfect moto jacket, consider top quality to last you a lifetime of events to come.

HIKING OUTFITS > GYM WEAR

Take a peek around L.A. and you’ll see Angelenos everywhere “getting their exercise on” outside of the gym. With busy schedules, constant traffic, and often no time to run home to change, West Coast girls have perfected the art of “athleisure” style: athletic gear suitable for everyday wear. And since the weather is always nice year round, we have the benefit of outdoor workout options rather than gym fees. The key to your perfect “athleisure” style is to stick to neutral colors and steer away from spandex, bra tops, and other “gym” items. I suggest starting with Hale Bob’s smock waist printed shorts topped with Liberty Garden’s ivory swing back tee or yellow scoop neck tank for a pop of color. If the weather turns chilly, layer with Liberty Garden’s ivory ultra suede long sleeve top or black and white menswear sweatshirt rather than your usual “hoodie.” You can also substitute shorts for ultra suede black leggings on colder days. This Season, be an L.A. girl and look chic WHILE working out.

Even if your city doesn’t have that carefree, beach vibe or it rains more than sees the sun, you can still take some tips from us West Coast girls. Whether you opt to wear boots in the summertime or try layering or switch up your workout attire, make your style this Season effortless, beautiful, and all about YOU.

You can now Sign Up to receive this weekly blog along with exclusive promotions sent directly to your inbox.

www.poshatplay.com