MADE IN THE SUEDE

I don’t know about you but I love suede; it is luxurious without being pretentious and is the perfect transition fabric from fall to winter or winter to spring because it provides a layer of extra warmth that many of the new manufactured textiles are lacking. The other great thing about suede is it doesn’t take the eye of a stylist to pull a look together you can pair it with almost anything for an instant pop of style. There are only two simple rules to follow when wearing suede:

RULE #1-BEWARE OF TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING

DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT layer yourself on suede. It is so rich and distinctive that too much of it leaves your outfit looking heavy and overdone, kind of like the feeling you have after eating too much chocolate cake. These two outfits above are the perfect examples.

RULE #2-MAKE SUEDE YOUR STATEMENT PIECE

Suede will inevitably always be the statement piece of your outfit so let it stand alone or pair it with items that are more subdued and act as a complement to highlight your statement.
Outfit 1:
Tan Suede Minidress
Outfit 2:
Olive Suede Dress
Future Glory Bag

These jackets are the perfect example of making a statement without going over the top.
Outfit 1:
Veda Jayne Suede Biker Jacket
Outfit 2:
Maroon Suede Trench
J Brand Leather Pants

The other great thing about suede is it can be dressed up or down, the two examples above illustrate this perfectly; shabby chic versus being casually refined.
Outfit 1:
Maison Skotch Jacket
Weekday T-Shirt
Zalando Mini Skirt
Outfit 2:
Camel Suede Mini Skirt

Use suede to add depth and texture to leggings or a simple silk shirt.
Outfit 1:
Tenia Silk Blouse
J Crew Suede Pants

The reach out and touch me allure of this fabric adds a pop of posh to Boho Chic.
Outfit 1:
Arin Boho Top
Abbi Suede Shorts
Outfit 2:
Camel Suede Skinny Pants

And last but not least if you want to capture a small slice of luxury you can always incorporate accessories; a suede hat, shoes or handbag into your style.

MAKE YOUR NEW YEAR’S EVE SPARKLE

Faster then the speed of light here we are once again at the cusp of a New Year. It seems that the entire 365 days of 2016 have been leading up to this one event; New Year’s Eve. There is always so much pressure around this night to make it memorable so we have some traditional ideas combined with a fresh perspective to make your New Year’s Eve sparkalicious!  (sure it’s a word LOL)

FASHION FIRST

This is the one night of the year that glitter is appropriate; anytime, anywhere, no holds barred. So live it up! Grab that sequined dress, jacket or skirt out of the closet that has been hanging back there for years waiting for its debut and knock-em dead.

Sequined Jacket
Sequined Dresses
Sequined Skirts
Sequined Tops
*Order any item before December 29th. for NYE delivery and receive FREE shipping in the continental US.

If an entire garment full of sequins feels to bold for your wall-flower personality, make it a little more subtle with some glitter tights, jewelry or make-up. If you can’t find glitter tights in your area and do not have time to order them from online we have instructions on our Facebook page for a DIY version that looks terrific.

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FOUR SPARKTACULAR CITIES FOR NEW YEAR’S EVE

New Year’s only comes around once a year, so why not make the occasion memorable and join the celebration in one of these sparktacular cities.

New York City – Although New York may be too much for some people, there is no denying that it is one of the best parties in the world when it comes to New Year’s Eve. Whether you are down in Time Square watching the ball drop or out on the water enjoying the fireworks, New York will give anybody an experience to remember.

London – The iconic Big Ben is the gathering place of hundreds of thousands of people on New Year’s Eve. The banks of the Thames and all of London’s most famous bridges are crowded with people watching the incredible light show and listening to the clock chime at midnight.

Paris – The “City of Lights” lives up to its name during its New Year’s Eve celebration. From the spectacular fireworks show at the Eiffel Tower, to the massive block party in the shadow of the Arc de Triomphe and finally to the show at the well known Moulin Rouge, Paris provides an experience not soon forgotten.

Sydney – Because of its unique location Sydney is the first major city to ring in the New Year and they do it in style. The city is known for having one of the largest firework shows  in the world, the show starts at 9 PM and ends when the clock strikes midnight. The large waterfront provides a place for millions of people to gather and enjoy the show which features aerial acrobatics, an Aboriginal smoking ceremony that is said to cleanse bad spirits, and the Harbour of Light Parade.

LET THE NEW YEAR SPARK A FRESH PERSPECTIVE

So, if you are like me and are so over the hype and hubris surrounding this holiday there are others ways to make it memorable without all of the hubbub.

Indoor Camping – Set up a small tent and to add some sparkle put up some lights and light some candles. You can even venture outside and ring in the New Year under the twinkle of the stars. If you are really feeling adventurous you can light a fire (in the fireplace of course) and roast some marshmallows.

 

Create An At Home Spa – This is a great way to pamper your spouse and it sets the mood for a romantic New Year. You can plan out the spa treatments you will offer. Don’t forget the candles and champagne.

 

Spark The Inspiration Of Those Around You, Create A Giving Calendar for the New Year – Create a calendar of ways you want to give in 2017. Plan something for each month, find a charity or ministry that you would like to support and create unique ways to give back to them, it could be as simple as the gift of your time.

 

Put Some Sparkle in Your New Year and Plan a Trip to Vegas in 2017 – Spend your New Year’s Eve planning your next vacation. There are a lot of great ways to enjoy Vegas, from Cirque Du Soleil shows to Wynn Night Clubs, there is something for everyone. Vegas is a great place to make your New Year sparkle.

 

FALL STREET FASHION…ON THE LOOSE IN NEW YORK CITY

This week one of our fashion bloggers is set loose on the streets of New York City to discover and report the latest trends in Fall fashion street wear. What is the common girl on the street wearing to business, lunch, and evening? And how do New Yorkers incorporate fashion into their busy, non stop lifestyles? Let’s discover what’s trending and find out ways you can implement into your Seasonal wardrobe and your lifestyle needs this year.

PRACTICAL COATS WITHOUT THE YAWN 

In preparation for the trip, I ended up packing only one bomber leather jacket. However, I should have followed the chic coat option all of New York is wearing this Season. In the city that never sleeps, women know that an all purpose, durable coat is the way to go for Fall. Lighter than fur or wool, the camel trench coat is one of this Season’s favorite jacket options, suitable paired over your work suit and later with a chic midi dress and over the knee suede boots.

Be FURocious 

Being from L.A., I had wondered if “fur” is a taboo touchy clothing piece for Fall so ended up leaving my faux fur vest and real fur jacket at home. That’s not the case here in NYC. Cozy fur vests and coats are all the rage paired over anything from business suits to a day out in Central Park, faux of course for the protection of animals.

And Don’t Forget The Brights

You hear the myth that all New Yorkers only wear black and dark colors, so as to not stand out too much as a tourist, I opted to pack and wear neutral colors only. Boy was I wrong. New York women know how to stand in color, but with a more sophisticated approach. They pair one brightly lit statement piece and accessorize with solid colors and minimal jewelry. Try your black slacks with a bright outer piece to stand out like an “Oh So Chic” New Yorker.

ALL WHITE IS STILL OK 

Throw out the “no white” after Labor Day rule, and make your own rules like the New York women do. I tend to always push my white and ivory clothes to the back of the closet for Fall and Winter, but the New York women know that rules were made to be broken. They steer clear of silk and chiffon pieces, in favor of heavier fabrics like wool. I am actually on the look out for a white leather jacket for Fall here in the Fashion District.

Seen outside Carnegie Hall, I liked how she dressed up for the night in a tailored dress and crisp heels for a busy night out on the town.

Some Of Our Favorite White Pieces 
Ivory Tailored Bolero Jacket
Catrinah Lace Dress
Laszio Sequin Cocktail Dress
Silk Charmeuse Dress
Joe Ultra Suede Leggings
Bruna Embossed Faux Fur Jacket

SILKY SLIP DRESS

I’ve always been a bit leery of wearing a barely there silk slip dress during the Fall. But New Yorkers are pairing the slinky silhouette this Season with hardier fare, from tees underneath, to moto jackets, to long trenches. Combine with your favorite ankle boots for downtown shopping style and switch to strappy heels as you head to a Broadway show. Check out this flowy one I found at Bloomingdale’s in the heart of the city.

Need a little romance in your afternoon? Try a glitter knit slip dress paired with a chunky oversized cardigan for a chic and comfortable New York errand running girl. No time for a trip home? Pull slinky heels from your tote and meet friends at Hudson Clearwater hidden restaurant.

Check out the Brooklyn Museum  in a sophisticated black & white slip dress and leather jacket then dine at Saul for a NY evening to remember.

ANKLE LOVING BOOTS 

And speaking of ankle boots, they are my “go to” shoes roaming the streets of NYC. As I expected, the streets are covered with every single boot style imaginable, from combat, to suede, to rocker style, to patent leather. My ankle boots were perfect to pair with my leggings all day and with my jumpsuit at night for the ballet. If you only get one shoe this Fall, get the versatile ankle boot.

Rocker Style Ankle Boots

Office Slash Evening Ankle Boots

Utilitarian Chic Ankle Boots

LONG VESTS AND SKINNIES MESH

What a great styling option, suitable for women from young to old. Skinnies are easy to pack and slim the leg on everyone. I brought a variety of these adaptable pants to switch out with different shirt options. How does New York style their skinnies? With an oversized chunky sweater and ankle boots or heels for a night on the town. I just had to head to Macy’s on 34th to grab me a pair of NYC’s favorite.

The vest and skinny work easily for the office or a chill fall NY day. Pair your black lace skinnies with a long sleeve knit top and oversized vest for office days or shimmy into your favorite jeans and satin top and stroll Manhattan for a totally you afternoon.

LAYERED LIKE A LOCAL

Since I only took 1 carryon, I had to think about layers while in NYC. How do they keep so warm, especially on brisk windy Fall days? I spotted jeans paired with a plaid long sleeve, infinity scarf, and a chic wool blazer; an A line skirt with long sleeve sweater tucked in; and I myself wore leggings, tight sweater, and warm vest that kept me comfy all night long.

On the go? Shimmy into a pair of leggings, pullover an oversized sweater and slip into to some concrete loving kicks for a busy New York Minute.

No matter how you choose to layer, the ONE item all New Yorkers never go without is a long warm scarf. From Central Park to Broadway to Greenwich, these girls know how to style a scarf. Layer a long draping sweater over a knit top and infinity scarf with your favorite jeans tucked into some serious leather combat boots for a NY City walk about.

So whether you’re in The City to see the sites, taste to food, listen to the music or everything in between. Be sure to dress like a local, but always remember to
Be YOU, Be Fashionable, and ALWAYS Be Feminine.

HOT SUMMER NIGHTS: CREATING THE PERFECT DATE NIGHT

With summer just around the corner, it’s time to start planning your favorite fun activities to do with your significant other. We all know life can get busy and sometimes relationships unintentionally take a back seat to daily duties. The best way to keep the romance alive is to find interests that delight you both and make weekly plans together on the calendar. Connecting with your love doesn’t necessarily have to cost a lot of extra time or money– it is the meaning and thought behind them that counts. Creating small moments and memories are often the things we remember most. We’ve gathered a few fun activities to get you started. Take a look below, get creative, and start planning the perfect romantic summer for two.

START YOUR MORNINGS TOGETHER

Kick start your day by simply sharing your favorite coffee beverage together each morning.  Whether brewing your own “cuppa joe” at home or driving to your local coffee shop, this is a great way to connect with each other before the day begins. On weekends or your next day off, slip into comfy lace and plan your own “B & B” getaway with breakfast in bed. Check out Rachael Ray’s “Breakfast in Bed” recipes and start planning your next morning together with a little “R & R.”

ENJOY NATURE AND EXERCISE

With the nice weather ahead, nourish your spirit in nature AND do a little exercise to benefit the body as well. To avoid any bickering, pick an activity that you BOTH enjoy doing whether it be riding bikes in the park, jogging down the street, golfing on the greens, hiking up the mountain, or swimming at the beach. And why not look stylish for your honey at the same time in a chic pair of printed shorts and sunshine yellow top. Best of all,  nature and exercise are rewarding yet free of charge.

PLAN A PERFECT PICNIC

Why dine inside when summer’s sunsets offer the most romantic of backdrops? Step right into your own romantic “Hollywood” film set with a lovely picnic in the park for two. Pop open a bottle of champagne, enjoy a basket of goodies, spread out a lace crochet throw, and bask together in the glow of twilight.

Look lovely for your love in a simple yet romantic lace dress and a favorite pair of sandals, tousling your natural hair with a little Bumble and Bumble surf spray for carefree “beachy” waves.

COUPLES CAMPOUT

Speaking of the outdoors, another favorite summertime activity to plan together is a weekend “couples campout.” Whether for overnight or an entire week, pack your favorite “boyfriend jeans” and hiking boots, and enjoy getting “lost” in the woods. Spend quality time walking the forest trails, swimming the refreshing lakes, roasting marshmallows over an open fire, and drifting to sleep to the sound of the wind through the trees. You are sure to create moments you will never forget.

RELEASE STRESS

One of the best ways to feel connected while taking the stress off daily living is a “couples massage therapy.” Check a listing of your local spa and massage centers or book a private session from the comfort of your own home. For a true getaway experience, book a luxury resort hotel for a night that offers couples’ massages and spa services. Afterwards, order room service and enjoy a private candlelit dinner for two in his and hers organic spa robes.

BE KIDS AGAIN AT AN AMUSEMENT PARK

Don’t take yourselves too seriously. Create laughs and re-live your carefree childhood days with fun at your local country fair or city’s amusement park. Don your favorite summer dress, pack on the sunscreen, and stroll the Boardwalk of carnival games with your sweetheart. Enjoy ice cream and hand spun cotton candy, ride the roller coaster, laugh in the fun house, and end the day with a romantic kiss atop the ferris wheel. Bring a little innocence back into your relationship the Summer.

ENJOY A MOVIE DATE NIGHT

Throw on your favorite “LBD” (little black dress) and hit the town together in style. Nothing is quite as romantic as a walk hand in hand down the street to your favorite movie theater. Feel the giddy excitement of first love again as your hands graze sharing popcorn for two and you snuggle down into your seats as the lights dim.

Throwback to a time gone by and go to an old fashioned drive-in movie. Pack up your favorite snacks, toss in some cozy blankets, don your favorite comfy jogger pants and tank, and get ready for a romantic evening under the stars. Check your local listings for the closest drive-in near you and create a night to remember.

No need to spend a lot of cash. Create the perfect movie night at home on your own couch, TV, and plenty of “movie theater” snacks. A favorite “movie date idea” with extra cuddling incorporated is a “scary movie date” complete with your comfiest tee, homemade popcorn, a little red wine, “death by chocolate” cupcakes, and a cozy “scary movie snuggle blanket.” No problem with a little romance tonight.

END THE DAY TOGETHER

Finally, wherever your day takes you, don’t forget to end the day together. Whether you take a walk on the beach, meet for a late dinner, or watch the sunset, spend the last few hours of the day side by side. Relate the details of your day, tell a funny story, share your thoughts, listen to each others’ dreams for the future, and most of all, enjoy each other.

Whether dining at the finest restaurant in town, camping out in nature, or enjoying a movie night at home, you can create the perfect “date night” this Summer. Fancy or simple, outside or inside, extravagant or cheap, the goal is to create personal memories to last a lifetime. We here at Posh at Play know you are brave enough to create your own Summer to remember. And remember no matter what, be confident, be fabulous, and always be feminine.