MADE IN THE SUEDE

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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.

WEAR SPRING NOW!

 

bohemian-marie-claire2If you’re tired of the same old jeans and jacket outfit, don’t worry! You can start wearing your favorite Spring trends NOW. From Michael Kors to Naeem Khan to Gucci, flowy “Boho” is back in a big way this Season with flouncy floral print dresses, cropped wide leg pants, off-the-shoulder peasant tops, gladiator sandals, and floppy hats. Other trends include cropped tops, leggings, military jackets, peplum, and crochet shawls. We’ll show you how you can start to incorporate a little bit of Spring into your wardrobe now. Chilly or warm, workday or playtime, enjoy your favorite trends today.

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FLORAL DRESS AND MILITARY JACKET

No need to wait to bring out your favorite floral Springtime dress this year. Even if the weather proves too cold for your sheerest of dresses, there are many tips to stay warm against the elements without cramping your style. We like Hale Bob’s ruffled silk chiffon sundress contrasted with this Season’s trendy utilitarian military jacket, and accessorized with bright caged heels from Donald J Pliner and a neutral oversized handbag from Vince Camuto. Or start showing off your “beach body” curves with Hale Bob’s snug pink floral sheath dress paired with Jill Sander suede ankle booties when the weather is chilly and metallic triple strap sandals NEW from VANELi for warmer Spring days. Your military style jacket also looks great on your way to the office over the sleeveless jacquard floral dress from Hale Bob. From home to work to party time, go ahead and bring your flowery Springtime dress out to play.

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FLOUNCY FLUTTER DRESS AND CROPPED JACKET

Our second favorite dress and jacket combo is the fluttery flounce dress and cropped jacket look. Even if this year’s Easter proves rainy or cold, don’t let that stop you from wearing your favorite Springtime style. We like Hale Bob’s satin floral print silk sundress paired with the black Bolero jacket and black ultra suede leggings in case the weather is extra chilly. If the day becomes warmer, simply remove the leggings and swap out your heels for slip on wedge sandals from Jimmy Choo. You could also accessorize your look with a classic leather jacket as pictured above for a “rockin'” Spring style. Go neutral with Trouve’s classic black, Halogen’s pale pink cropped, or spice things up in Rag & Bone’s bright red. Whichever jacket style you choose, you’ll definitely be able to wear your flouncy Spring dress sooner rather than later this Season.

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MAXI DRESS AND SWEATER

Don’t leave your favorite maxi dress out of the mix either. With “Boho” trending now more than ever, it’s time to let your hair down and start feeling Summer’s carefree days to come. Start with Liberty Garden’s ivory embroidered strapless maxi and top with a simple ivory gauze button down also from Liberty Garden and flat gladiator sandals from Rebecca Minkoff. On chilly days, stay warmer in Hale Bob’s ivory cropped jacket or Liberty Garden’s terry knit lace. If you’d rather go with some color, shop Posh at Play’s wide selection of Hale Bob print maxi dresses from colorful coral to bright green to rosy red. Perfect the “Boho” style by accessorizing your look with Free People’s straw wide brim hat, hobo bag from Elliot Lucca, and fringe sandals from Diane von Furstenberg. On Spring’s colder days, swap out the sandals for fringe booties from Sam Edelman, and layer with suede leggings from Hale Bob. Warm or cold, either way, you can start wearing Spring’s favorite “Boho”trend now.

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TURTLENECK LAYERING

Another favorite way we love to style the maxi dress for now is by layering a sleek turtleneck underneath. The key to pulling off this look is to be sure that the material of your top is super thin with no embellishments to prevent your silhouette from looking too bunchy or bulky. If needed, you can also add a cropped coat or leather jacket over your outfit for added warmth. Turn heads this Season in Hale Bob’s teal printed silk maxi paired with the black knit long sleeve turtleneck, buckled ankle booties from Free People, and shoulder strap purse from Zac Posen. You can also use the turtleneck to pair under other trending Springtime fashions like Hale Bob’s silk floral blouse, the off the shoulder velvet top, or Liberty Garden’s black sheer lace chiffon. This versatile turtleneck can even be topped with rompers like Liberty Garden’s lace trimmed twill shorts set or any of the tank dress selections from Hale Bob and Liberty Garden. Don’t let cold weather dampen your Spring style. Simply grab a turtleneck to keep you warm underneath your favorite Spring trends.

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CAMI AND SEQUINED CARDIGAN

Give your favorite snug winter sweater a Springtime update by pairing with a loose gauzy cami and lightweight skinny jeans or leggings. As the weather warms, you can tie the sweater around your waist for instant style. Grab Hale Bob’s grey sequin cardigan and top with AC Collection’s silver metallic skinny jeans and a rose quartz colored silk and lace tank, Pantone’s color of the year. We also like Hale Bob’s ivory silk tank with flounce or the mixed media flyaway cami from Liberty Garden accessorized with Hale Bob’s cool silver cargo leggings and glam round sunglasses from Tory Burch as seen across the runways this Season. Look ahead to warmer weather and start wearing your favorite flouncy tanks and camis now.

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SHORTS AND LEGGINGS

And lastly, what says “Summer” more than your favorite pair of shorts? Though the last of winter’s weather may leave your legs too chilly to wear alone, we’ll show you how you can still wear your favorite Seasonal style right now. Start with a pair of basic blue denim shorts and layer snug knit or suede leggings underneath, accessorizing with a cropped coat, oversized sweater, or wool scarf depending on how cold your climate is. We like Citizen’s of Humanity’s “distressed” denim shorts with Hale Bob’s matching ultra suede leggings , silk washed cami from Equipment, and Liberty Garden’s lace Kimono for a clean, streamlined look. Usher in Spring’s florals in flower print denim shorts from Joe’s Jeans paired over Hale Bob’s gray ultra suede leggings, cozy gray knit sweater from Shabby & Chic, and ankle booties from BP. If shorts are not quite your style, you might find Citizen’s of Humanity’s loose fit long denim shorts a more comfortable option, or if you are looking to take a few inches off your waistline, get AC Collection’s vintage high waisted denim. Whichever silhouette suits you best, you can start wearing your favorite Summer staple now.

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There’s no need to wait to wear all your favorite Spring and Summer trends. Go ahead and shop your favorite looks and use our layering tips to keep warm until the weather changes. If your city is still chilly, layer your outfit with your favorite winter jacket or overcoat and warm leggings or skinny jeans. If you happen to live in a warmer climate, forgo the leggings and skinny jeans and layer with lightweight fabrics to segue into cooler evening hours. Enjoy Spring today!

 

 

 

 

 

HOW TO DRESS LIKE YOUR FAVORITE GOLDEN GLOBES ACTRESS

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.”

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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.

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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.

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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.

 

LEATHER WEATHER

black leather jacket and cross body bag for Fall

As we welcomed the first day of Fall on Wednesday, it is time to start planning our Autumn and Winter wardrobe essentials. With cooler temperatures comes heavier fabrics, longer sleeves, and lots of layers. We start our Fall clothing necessities with this week’s topic “Leather Weather.” While the quintessential black leather jacket will never go out of style, we’ve picked some of our other favorite leather options that you might want to try this year. So snuggle down with your pumpkin spice latte and take a look at our top picks for this Season’s “Leather Weather” style.

Leather skirt for the office

LEATHER FOR THE OFFICE

Who says leather doesn’t fit in an office setting? This Season, live on the edge and bring your leather out to work with you. In order to keep your look classic and sophisticated, stick to more tailored leather pieces like mid-length pencil skirts, a tailored leather jacket, or button down leather vest. We like the chic faux wrap black leather pencil skirt from Lafayette 148 New York paired with Hale Bob’s black silk button down blouse and Michael Kors’ classic black kitten heels with extra flex for all day comfort. Accessorize your workday look with Royce Leather’s black briefcase and delicate black leather gloves from Prada for chillier Fall mornings. This year is all about breaking the fashion “rules” and wearing styles that work for you. What better way to kickstart the new Season than to wear your favorite leather piece to the workplace next week.

Olivia Palermo in black leather leggings

EVERYDAY CASUAL

One of the simplest ways to stay styled and fabulous for Fall is the leather legging. Adaptable to any occasion, pair black leather leggings with your favorite chunky sweater and booties for daytime errands or throw on a flowy blouse and heels for lunch with the girls. We love celebrity Olivia Palmero’s simple legging style pictured above accessorized with a cozy knit sweater, handbag, fun ankle heels, and casual topknot. While leather leggings can run between the $1,700-$2,000 range, get her similar look with Ralph Lauren’s paneled faux black leather leggings topped with Hale Bob’s gray ombre knit pullover sweater and funky ankle strap heels from Charles David. Be sure to add leather leggings to your closet this Season for quick, easy styling throughout the Fall and Winter days ahead.

leather leggings for Athleisure style

LEATHER ATHLEISURE

Make your leather leggings go double duty and pair with your favorite sweatshirt and sneakers for a trendy “Athleisure” look. From Alexander Wang’s slouchy off-duty street wear to Michael Kors’ athletic tanks spotted at last week’s New York Fashion Week Spring 2016 Collection, it looks like this trend is here to stay. We like Hale Bob’s black quilted faux leather leggings paired with Liberty Garden’s cozy long sleeve sweatshirt and Nike’s customizable running sneaker. Simply throw on a tailored wool blazer from Laundry or Hale Bob’s long teal boucle coat and you are ready for meetings or lunch out after your workout.

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DATE NIGHT

Don’t forget to add a bit of edge to your next evening out on the town with a chic leather dress. From fringe to sheath to A line, we love the new leather dress silhouettes designers are creating this Fall. For date night, try Nicole Miller’s short sleeve black leather sheath dress accessorized with chunky gold jewelry and rose gold pumps from designer Sophia Webster for a bit of elegance contrasting against the sleek leather. If sleek  isn’t quite your style, go with BCBGMAXAZARIA’s A line sleeveless knee length dress perfect for the nightlife and also suitable for the next morning’s business breakfast or meetings at the office.

black leather fringe dress for Fall

A third leather dress style we love this Season is the fringe look. Carry Summer’s carefree “Boho” spirit with you into the cooler months of Autumn with a sweeping black leather fringe dress. We love the Total Eclipse long black dress from Nasty Gal as pictured above or go with a more classic look with the long sleeve fringe party dress from YOOX. Whichever leather dress style you choose, be sure to update your accessories to reflect the chillier weather with warm ankle booties or “cage” heels, leather clutch, and matching leather jacket.

Leather vest and maxi dress for Fall

LEATHER VEST

When we think of the leather vest, the first image that comes to mind is a Harley Davidson bike rider. However, designers this year are re-imagining the iconic leather vest and have re-fashioned the look to suit any style or taste. From Phillip Lam’s tailored shirt length style to Saint Laurent’s fringe to IRO’s fur trimmed, the black leather vest has come along way from it’s motorcycle stigma. Try the look this Fall paired with your favorite skinny jeans and white Tee or style over your favorite maxi dress from Summer. We like Lucky Brand’s slouchy black leather vest or go with a longer style in Neiman Marcus’ sleeveless leather zip front vest. If cropped suits you more, try Topshop’s “Sylvia” faux leather Moto vest or Eileen Fisher’s beautiful draped black leather vest. Whatever style you choose, the leather vest is a perfect layering accessory to include into your Fall wardrobe this Season.

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LEATHER & PLAID

Combine two favorite Fall patterns with leather and plaid. No need to reserve your cozy flannel for relaxing days at home. Bring your plaid out to shine paired with your favorite black leather pencil skirt and heels. We like Ann Taylor’s faux leather skirt topped with Ralph Lauren’s plaid cotton blouse and black ankle strap heels from Sam Edelman.

black leather leggings and plaid flannel shirt

Another leather and plaid style combo to try for Fall is your favorite leather leggings paired with a cozy flannel. We like Hale Bob’s quilted leggings combined with the perfect plaid flannel shirt from Current/Elliott and comfy suede wedges from designer Pedro Garcia. You can also accessorize your look with your favorite sneakers and beanie for a cool, casual “Athleisure” style. Step out in style this Season with Fall’s favorite leather and plaid.

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JEWEL TONED LEATHER

Leather doesn’t have to come in just black or white. Try the “jewel toned” trend this Season and bring a little color to Fall and Winter’s cold, blustery days. Look for leather skirts, jackets, and handbags in emerald green, canary yellow, crimson scarlet, or deep purple. We like Bagatelle’s classic red bomber jacket, perfect for the office or a night on the town. Or go with Ann Taylor’s emerald green pencil skirt paired with Hale Bob’s ivory silk charmeuse blouse and Jimmy Choo’s nude patent leather pump. Be the talk of the town this year and accessorize your wardrobe  with a bright yellow clutch from Fendi or go casual with a yellow leather backpack from Marc Jacobs. This Fall, don’t be shy. Add a little color to your wardrobe collection.

canary yellow leather jacket and handbag

Whichever way you choose, be sure to include a little edgy leather into your wardrobe this Season. Whether you choose a sleek pencil skirt, an A line dress, comfy leggings or a bright yellow handbag, leather is your “go to” fashion for easy yet chic Fall style. Start shopping the trend today and remember our motto to be you, be fabulous, and always be feminine.