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.

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CELEBRITY STYLE YOU CAN WEAR

The fashion industry has changed significantly over the past several years. The rise of the “supermodel” is on the decline, and today, we are finding trends to fit all shapes and personalities. By marketing fashion and design through our favorite celebrities, designers have made style much more attainable then strenuously reaching for the Runway. Through social media and the internet, our favorite celebs show us daily how we can dress in style. This week we will show you how you can get your favorite “celebrity style” without breaking the bank. Even though most of us will never make a film or walk the Red Carpet, we can still be a “star” in our everyday style.

TAYLOR SWIFT’S MODERN “IT” GIRL STYLE

Taylor Swift continues to shine in the music industry AND on the fashion scene by surrounding herself with successful people across all entertainment genres. She is the “golden girl” for fashion designers as well as music fans. We love Taylor Swift’s trendy yet polished style. She has easily made the transition from teen sensation to the classy all American sweetheart. Get Taylor’s polished style with Hudson’s Collin skinny jeans in light wash, and pair with a bright yellow duffle coat from Nordstrom, also perfect for the Spring months ahead. Accessorize with your favorite tall leather boots and bright red slouch hat from Shopbop, and you too can pull off the same Taylor style.

CARRIE UNDERWOOD’S CHIC GLAM

Starting as a country singer, Carrie Underwood has managed to break the barriers on what we usually think of when we think “country star.” She has appeared on magazine covers, Broadway musicals, and TV specials, broadening her appeal across all audiences. We love Carrie’s recent chic glam style. Get her style with AC Collection silver satin jeans paired with Ann Taylor’s cascade ruffle top and Hale Bob’s black bolero jacket. Accessorize with your favorite ankle boots or try Carrie’s look with Steve Madden’s “Immence” black suede strappy sandals.

JULIANNE HOUGH’S ROCKER’S EDGE

From dancer to A-list celebrity, Julianne Hough has developed a style all her own. Since separating from host Ryan Seacrest, Julianne chopped her hair and has taken charge of her career as a successfully independent artist. We love her short bob and her “rocker’s edge” style. Get Julianne’s rocker look with Hudson’s “Alex” skinny leg jeans paired with a basic white tee. Glam up the look with a DKNY black leather jacket with fur trim, Steve Madden black leather booties and a black felt fedora from Nordstrom. Accessorize with a bright yellow Vera Bradley handbag for a pop of color, also trending for Spring 2015.

ANNE HATHAWAY’S CLASSIC STYLE

Anne Hathaway has played everything from Disney’s princess to drug addicted outcast, and throughout her career, she has always managed to maintain poise and grace much like a modern day “Audrey Hepburn.” Her style has changed throughout her growing career, and we love the new modern yet classic look she has been sporting lately. Though we were sad to see her long locks go, the short bob suits her new style. Get Anne’s classic look with Hale Bob’s metallic capri pants and ivory bolero jacket. Finish the look with classic Versace ivory pumps and an elegant Diane von Furstenberg gold clutch and you are Red Carpet ready.

HEIDI KLUM’S SHABBY CHIC

Supermodel Heidi Klum can pull off any look from elegant to casual. She’s had enormous success throughout her modeling career and she is one of the few “older” supermodels still thriving in the business, due to her healthy lifestyle and positive attitude on life. In her book, age is just a number. Heidi always surprises us with her look and style. We like the effortless, everyday look here on the Red Carpet for an event in New Zealand. Get Heidi’s easy breezy look with Hale Bob’s pink floral capri pants. Mix patterns by pairing with a black and white silk floral button down top from Hale Bob for one of this year’s top fashion trends. Finish the look with Manalo Blahnik chic black pumps, tousle your hair with Bumble and Bumble texturizing creme and you are ready to step out in style just like a supermodel.

SOFIA VERGARA’S HOT GLAM

Nobody knows how to arrive with flare better than spicy, sultry Sofia Vergara. Though she’s known for her hot style, Sofia also has a quirky sense of humor and can laugh at herself in good taste. She always arrives in glamorous style to Awards Ceremonies and Red Carpet events, however she also knows how to turn on the charm in her casual street style. We love her casual yet sexy street style spotted here on the streets of L.A. Get Sofia’s cool casual style with Hale Bob’s Cabana silk shirtdress paired with Chinese Laundry’s nude wedges and you are ready for some stylish shopping. We love Hale Bob’s cool collection of “Cabana Wear,” with everything from shirts, swimsuits, skirts, and dresses perfect for that sexy chic warmer weather style.

KATE BECKINSALE’S GIRLY CHIC

Actress Kate Beckinsale has always pulled off the girly “cute” look, with a modern touch, appropriate for her age. She keeps her luscious locks healthy and loose, and opts for no nonsense fresh makeup with Dior Addict ultra gloss and Maybelline’s Great lash mascara. Her style approach is girly yet sophisticated, like many of her film and television roles. Try Kate’s “romantic” layered look with an Elizabeth and James “Marian” ivory blouse under Top Shop’s black cropped sweater. Finish the look with your favorite black skinny jeans and Moero’s black ankle boots. Kate’s look is perfect for the fluctuating weather during the late Winter and early Spring weeks ahead. For chillier days, drape a white Selected coat from Asos over your shoulders for that perfect “celeb” touch.

MILA KUNIS’ 50’s THROWBACK

After taking some time off to have her baby, Mila Kunis is back in the limelight with a whole new softer gentler style than she had pre-baby. In the past few weeks, Mila has appeared on talk shows and events displaying that “new mom glow” complete with a romantic take on 50’s fashion, updated for 2015. We love the new Mila and are looking forward to what she will surprise us with next. Get Mila’s “50’s throwback” look with a white Calvin Klein mid-length dress and accessorize with dainty Casadei pastel pink heels. For chillier weather, pair the dress with a Vince drape front sweater, black tights, and Chloe black chunky heels.

It’s easy to dress just like your favorite celebrity with our easy tips and advice. Whether you like Anne Hathaway’s classic style or Julianne Hough’s rocker’s edge, celebrities show us effortless ways to stay stylish, chic, and posh. Make 2015 YOUR year to be creative with your wardrobe and push your style to the limits. With just a little extra thought and a little bit of energy, you can transform every day into a fashion forward moment.