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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MUSIC FESTIVAL STYLE ICONS YOU CAN COPY

With Coachella kicking off this past weekend, Spring’s hottest music festivals are now upon us and what better way to be a part of the festivities than to get some fashion inspiration from music’s favorite style icons. Even if you can’t attend the festivals, you can still feel like you are there with our top looks. Peruse our favorite fashion finds spotted at music festivals across the country and start sporting your top choices today.

SELENA GOMEZ’S WHITE LACE ROMPER

One of this Season’s trendiest looks, Selena Gomez rocks a romantic white lace romper at this year’s Coachella Music Festival. We love the feminine feel of the frilly lace paired with the easy breezy shorts set to keep you cool and fresh throughout all of Spring’s activities. Grab Liberty Garden’s NEW long sleeve romper or go with this Season’s popular off shoulder silhouette in the white crochet shorts set from Liberty Garden.  Accessorize your look like Selena with Kenneth Cole’s gold metallic ankle strap sandals and classic Ray Ban aviators and you are “Hollywood” ready. When the party’s over, kick off your heels, whip up your hair into a relaxed topknot, and slip on Tory Birch’s nude slide on sandals or your favorite sneakers from New Balance. Don’t forget to add a delicate tiered  anklet from Free People for a little “festival” fun this Spring. Dressy or casual, your white lace romper is perfect for any occasion.

SHAKIRA’S WHITE MAXI DRESS

Our second favorite “Boho” chic look spotted at this year’s music festivals is Pop star Shakira’s white gauze maxi. Perfect for days at the beach over your favorite swimsuit or nights out on the town, the white maxi is your “go to” dress for Spring. Go “shabby chic” like Shakira and pair Liberty Garden’s white lace maxi with a bright resort tote from John Robshaw and your favorite flat sandals for all day comfort and style. Segue into the evening hours by tousling your hair with Kerastase Spray a Porter for beach wave style and accessorizing with Vince Camuto’s embellished ankle strap flat sandals and matching crystal clutch from Sondra Roberts. Don’t forget to keep those toes in tip top shape with Yves Saint Laurents’ “quartz rose” nail lacquer, Pantone’s color of the year. From daytime to nighttime, you’ll shine just like your favorite Pop star in your own long white maxi dress.

CARRIE UNDERWOOD’S PEASANT BLOUSE

Our third favorite “Boho” chic style for Spring is the peasant blouse. Started in the sixties with the hippy movement and popularized in the seventies by music icons like Cher and Karen Carpenter, the peasant blouse gets an update this year. Whether you decide to rock the oversized look like Carrie Underwood, a crop fit, or high low hemline, the peasant blouse is definitely a “must have” for Spring. We like Liberty Garden’s black and white long sleeve 70’s style blouse paired with your favorite skinny jeans or shorts. Accessorize your outfit with BCBGMAXAZARIA ‘s floppy hat and gladiator sandals from Aldo for quintessential “Boho” style or go with hair in a high bun and wedges from Chloe for a classic look. Go with an embroidered ivory empire waist top to soften a broad shoulder, or a white lace gauze blouse to accentuate a long neckline, all NEW from Liberty Garden. Flattering on any body type and suitable for every style, the peasant blouse is one you’ll want to include into your wardrobe staples this year.

JENNIFER LOPEZ’S SKINNIES AND KNEE HIGH BOOTS

For those who prefer to be a little less “trendy” and a bit more on the “classic” side, we love Jennifer Lopez’s simple yet high fashion style. By combining wardrobe staples in just the right way, she definitely makes a statement without trying too hard. You can do the same by pairing your favorite skinny denim with a snug lightweight turtleneck, knee high boots from winter, and a chic fringe handbag. Slick your hair into a sleek topknot, and you’ll look like you just walked off the runway. Get “Jenny from the block’s” rocking style with Hudson’s super skinny jeans or go with Citizen’s of Humanity’s straight leg denim if you prefer a little room to breathe. Top your outfit with Hale Bob’s navy blue knit turtleneck, or choose the skin tight lace bodysuit to hug your every curve. Complete your look with knee high suede boots from William Rast and fringe hobo bag from Muche et Muchette and you are ready to step out in style no matter what the occasion.  

RIHANNA’S JERSEY DRESS

For the “sport” in all of us, we love Rihanna’s chic “athleisure” Spring style. Play with the boys but retain your femininity with this fun sporty look by letting your hair down and accessorizing with your favorite jewelry. We like the trefoil tank dress from adidas or go with the comfy heather grey sport jersey from Revolve. For daytime fun, tie a bandana around your head, take a tip from Rihanna, and pair your look with texturized embellished sneakers from Puma, classic sunnies from Tom Ford, and a whimsical rainbow watch from Betsey Johnson. Simply segue into the evening hours by switching to Stuart Weitzman’s classic black ankle strap heels and grabbing Diane Von Furstenberg’s large ready-to-go bag so you’re ready for whatever the night may bring.

TAYLOR SWIFT’S PRINTED MAXI

Lastly, the reigning queen of pop and one of music’s most popular fashion icons, we love Taylor Swift’s bright new crop cut for Spring to match her edgy style overhaul. Taking a cue from the Naeem Khan Spring 2016 runway, the star looks smashing in a double slit printed maxi complete with chunky boots for a sweet but sassy fashion statement. Get her similar style with one of Hale Bob’s lovely printed maxi dresses in all colors and silhouettes. We like the classic pink and white floral maxi, or the ivory strapless dress for a more muted tone. Spring’s breezes leaving you chilled? No need to sacrifice beauty. Go with the long sleeve teal printed frock to keep you warm yet stylish all Season long. Though we all can’t be young again like the icon, we can copy her determination to not to let loose, be a bit daring, and take chances.

From Selena Gomez to Taylor Swift to Jennifer Lopez, these style icons show us that beauty has no age and it’s never too late to try something new. Take a tip from our fashion music favorites and try one different fashion look this Season. Whether it’s wearing a unique dress style that you normally wouldn’t, or sporting a new haircut, or wearing heels instead of sneakers, promise yourself to take a chance this Spring. We guarantee you will feel and look more beautiful on the inside and out for having tried something new.

Be You. Be Fabulous. And always be feminine.

 

 

 

TAX RETURN SPLURGES WE LOVE

 

By the time you are reading this, you’ll know how much money Uncle Sam will be rewarding you this Tax Season. Here’s hoping that you get a great return on last year’s hard work. Now, what to do with your extra money? Why not reward yourself with a little fashion splurge. Hey- you earned it! All of us have those key “wish list” items we secretly dream of buying someday, but can’t seem to budget in. Well now you don’t have to wait. Treat yourself to some of our favorite fashion finds we are loving this Spring.

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GUCCI LOAFERS

What’s not to love about a shoe that can go from casual to formal, from the office to date night, and keep you comfortable all day long. We are loving Gucci’s black leather loafer NEW for Spring 2016. With a classic round toe and low heel, these are a perfect “shoe staple” that will be fashionable for quite some time. Pair with your favorite skinny jeans and Tee on casual days out. Top your look with Hale Bob’s black Bolero jacket for the office, and switch out your jeans for one of Hale Bob’s mini, midi, or maxi skirts in every print and style. Morning, noon, and night, you can’t go wrong with this classic foot fashion.

VICTORIA BECKHAM’S RAINBOW SUNGLASSES

The aviators get an update this Season with Victoria Beckham’s throwback 70’s rainbow glasses. Even if “Boho chic” is not really your style, you can get in on this year’s hottest trend with these groovy sunnies. We like them paired with Hale Bob’s tribal print crepe de chine shorts topped with a cool white embroidered cotton tank as pictured above. Accessorize with Free People’s rustic leather fedora and fringe crossbody for this Season’s “Boho chic” look, or fashion with Ralph Lauren’s color blocked espadrilles and raffia tote on relaxing days at the pool or beach. Sun up to sun down, walk the streets feeling like like your favorite “celeb” this Spring.

ALEXANDER WANG’S CROPPED DENIM

Our third favorite fashion splurge we are dying to try this Spring is Alexander Wang’s cropped denim, updated for 2016 with a slight flare. Another throwback to the 70’s, this jean silhouette fits and flatters any figure, with a fitted waistline to accentuate a tiny middle and wide leg cuffs to balance out shoulders and hips. We suggest pairing your pants with a snug top and minimal accessories to prevent a “bulky,” heavy appearance. We like Liberty Garden’s color blocked mixed media tank with suede detailing to fit and flatter the waistline. Dress things up a bit by switching into Hale Bob’s black laser cut cami, Vince Camuto’s lace up heels, and Betsey Johnson’s whimsical glitter gold rose bangle for a night out on the town. On casual days out, simply throw on Alice + Olivia’s short sleeved fitted tee, adidas’ “Superstar” sneakers, and bright oversized tote from Mm6 Maison Margiela for a perfectly “undone” Athleisure style.

COURREGUES’ LEATHER JACKET

Need a cover up to keep warm? You’ll stay in style year round with new label Courregues’ signature patent leather zip front jacket. Perfect to pair with jeans, leggings, shorts, skirts, and dresses, this versatile wrap will never go out of style and will keep you styling’ every Season of the year. For Springtime, accessorize your jacket over Citizen’s of Humanity’s black skinnies during the day, Hale Bob’s black ultra suede leggings on your next workout session, and Hale Bob’s sleeveless floral knit maxi dress for nighttime activities or your next garden party. The black leather jacket is perfect over Liberty Garden’s lace romper at this Summer’s outdoor music and arts festivals, and simply trade out your lightweight clothing for Liberty Garden’s cozy fur trimmed cable knit sweater as we segue into the cooler autumn and winter months. From Spring to Fall, casual to dressy, daytime to nighttime, this is one jacket option we’re definitely including into our wardrobe collection this year.

LIBERTY GARDEN’S OFF THE SHOULDER ROMPER

As mentioned above, the off the shoulder white lace romper is the perfect addition to your Spring and Summer wardrobe collection. From Dolce and Gabbana to Missoni, this shorts set dominated Spring 2016’s runways. An all-in-one outfit, the romper looks great on all body types and keeps you looking stylish without trying too hard. Start with our favorite white lace romper from Liberty Garden and pair with Benoit Missolin’s straw hat and matching tote from Michael Kors for an easy, breezy daytime Spring and Summer look. Segue into the evening hours by accessorizing your romper with Sam Edelman’s nude lace up heels to accentuate a long leg line and a dainty crystal mesh clutch from Glint. Daytime to nighttime, you are sure to turn heads as you strut your lace romper in style.

VETEMENTS’ HOODIE DRESS

Our final “wish list” fashion of choice this Spring is Vetements’ hoodie sweatshirt dress. Providing comfort and style, this versatile dress combines the casual sweatshirt top with a skirt for an updated take on “sweats” day. Get this model’s high fashion look by combining your dress over Hudson’s distressed boyfriend jeans, Topshop’s ankle booties, and oversized “Hollywood” sunnies from Karen Walker. As the weather warms, forgo the jeans and switch out your boots for Marc Fisher’s comfy wedge sandals or treat your feet to vegan ballerina flats from Tom’s . Got a dinner party planned this weekend? Your hoodie dress will be just perfect cinched with an embellished belt from BCBGMAXAZRIA and paired with embellished block heeled lace up sandals from Jeffrey Campbell or chunky leather sandals from Proenza Schouler. Perfect for any event this Spring, you don’t have to be a college student to rock the “hoodie” in style.

From Gucci’s classic loafers to Liberty Garden’s “Boho” lace romper to Vetements’ comfy hoodie dress, there are many ways to spend that extra cash flow this Season. Start the new year off to a fresh start and reward yourself with a little retail therapy. Even if your busy schedule doesn’t allow you to hit the mall, you can shop any of our selected styles online from the convenience of your own home. Live a little this Season and get to shopping your favorite “Tax Refund” splurge today.

HOW TO DRESS LIKE YOUR FAVORITE GOLDEN GLOBES ACTRESS

With the People’s Choice Awards and the Golden Globes ceremonies already complete, it’s officially awards season in Hollywood. We must admit that our favorite part of the award shows are the actresses’ Red Carpet arrivals. We get a hint of the new year’s trending fashions by viewing what the designers are dressing their favorite celebrities in and in turn, what the actresses are loving to wear. While this year’s Golden Globes award ceremony provided surprise wins and losses, designers this year played it safe on the red carpet with trending Spring styles from the 2016 runways.  Take a look below see how you can dress just like your favorite actress from this year’s Golden Globes.

BRIGHT YELLOW

Our favorite stunner of the evening goes to Jennifer Lopez in a sunny yellow asymmetrical creation from designer Giambattista Valli. Not only is the bright color a major trend on the runways this Season, but also the asymmetrical skirt is this year’s silhouette style of choice as we mentioned in last week’s “New Year, New You: Top Fashion Trends for Spring 2016.” While others played it safe in neutral hues, Ms. Lopez took a chance in a colorful tone, complementing her bronze skin and accentuating her assets. This Spring, take the plunge just like the entertainer and look for fashion items in sunny yellow. Get a similar look as featured above with Mac Duggai’s lemon colored open back evening gown, perfect for your next formal Spring event. Carry the color to your everyday wear in Liberty Garden’s yellow scoop neck tank with high low hem paired with your favorite comfy leggings or cropped denim jeans. If yellow from head to toe is not quite your style, go with just a touch in Hale Bob’s printed yellow silk tank top, perfect for a day at the beach or a hot night on the town. However you choose to style, be sure to include bright yellow into your wardrobe this Season.

CHERRY RED

Not only is she one of our favorite actresses, but Jennifer Lawrence also shimmered on the red carpet this year in a bold red cut-out column dress from designer Christian Dior. While 2015’s color of the year was “marsala,” a wine-red hue, this Season’s red goes bolder in bright cherry. Oftentimes designers steer away from any hint of red since the color can clash on the red carpet, but that didn’t stop the actress from boldly choosing one of this Season’s top colors and standing out from amongst the rest. Get Ms. Lawrence’s similar style with Hale Bob’s red silk charmeuse evening gown paired with matching ankle strap heels from Stuart Weitzman. Not just reserved for formal occasions, include the color into your day-to-day activities with Hale Bob’s red stretch floral lace tunic combined with Hudson’s black mid rise skinny jeans or Hale Bob’s black cotton eyelet shorts on warmer Spring days. Don’t be afraid to go bold this year in bright jewel toned hues.

QUARTZ ROSE

Our third favorite look of the evening goes to the elegant Kate Blanchett in a gorgeous caped satin gown by Givenchy. The actress chose to shine in “quartz rose,” Pantone’s top “color of the year” as we mentioned in last week’s blog. Ms. Blanchett complemented her style with soft pink make-up tones and a matching evening box clutch from Roger Vivier. Take a tip from the actress and shop Liberty Garden’s NEW pink embroidered crinkle cami maxi dress paired with crystal embellished ankle strap sandals from Nina and a matching box clutch from Moschino. Or go “Boho” style with the dress by combining with fringe booties, wool floppy hat, and a matching fringe suede crossbody bag all from Free People. If structured is more your style, sweep your hair into a low pony or high topknot and carry the color to the office in Hale Bob’s ultra suede filigree shift dress topped with low heeled ankle strap sandals from Sam Edelman. Formal, Boho, or structured- there are many ways to include “quartz rose” into your wardrobe collection this Spring.

NAVY IS THE NEW BLACK

Our fourth favorite color find at this year’s Golden Globes goes to the beautiful Kate Winslet in a sweeping halter neck gown by Ralph Lauren with shoes by Jimmy Choo. The actress shows that simple and elegant are always in style, yet livens up her look by choosing a deep blue hue rather than rely on evening’s predictable black. On your next “black tie” affair, take a tip from Ms. Winslet and go for a blue silk charmeuse halter neck gown by Hale Bob, paired with Jimmy Choo sandals just like the actress. Or, show off those toned legs and go shorter in Hale Bob’s navy long sleeve lace dress with peplum. Carry your look to the streets by grabbing a pair of navy blue ultra suede leggings from Hale Bob topped with a cool silk V-neck tunic and matching tote from Tory Burch to store all your day’s necessities. Before you reach for that classic but predictable black outfit, remember this Spring’s mantra “navy is the new black.”

OLD HOLLYWOOD

What better time to “shine like gold” than at a Hollywood awards red carpet event. Rose Huntington-Whiteley shimmers in a gold sequined Versace gown reminiscent of the glamour of old 1920’s Hollywood, yet updated for modern 21st century style. Get the actress’s similar stunning style in a gold sequined wrap dress from Hale Bob accented with a gold glitter clutch from Diane von Furstenberg, gold embellished heels from Kay Unger, and dazzling  18K gold drop earrings from Nadri. Carry your “sparkle” throughout the daytime as well in a sleeveless sequined top from Amen paired with comfy taupe jogger pants from Hale Bob and your favorite ankle boots or sneakers. Dressy or casual, this Season is the perfect time to bring out the sparkle in you.

VINTAGE 60’S

And finally, always the trendsetter, Lady Gaga went with one of this Season’s trendiest styles in a divine solid black velvet dress from Versace “a la Marylin Monroe.”. From Jeremy Scott to Alice + Olivia, a throwback to the 1960’s was all the rage on the 2016 runways this year. Tease your hair and grab Gaga’s similar look with Hale Bob’s black halter maxi dress paired with vintage color blocked platform heels from Zimmerman , classic pearl earrings, and a matching freshwater pearl cuff.  Or, go with a shorter version in Hale Bob’s vintage jersey knit V-neck dress with cut out shoulders accessorized with your favorite dancing heels and black leather clutch. Peruse your mom and grandmother’s old photos for some inspiration and get “groovy” in vintage 1960’s style this Season.

If you missed this year’s Golden Globes, have no fear. We’ve provided the top fashion looks you’ll be seeing throughout Spring 2016. Whether you try a bold bright like Jennifer Lopez, a pretty pastel like Kate Blanchett, or vintage 60’s like Lady Gaga, be sure to try something new just for you this Season. Be you, be fabulous and always be feminine.