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.

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.

 

 

 

SPRING BREAK LIKE A GROWN UP

With longer days, brighter evenings, and warmer weather, Spring Break is just around the corner. Though the days of beaching all day and partying all night may be long gone, that doesn’t mean that you aren’t allowed a little time off from adult responsibilities. We all need time to chill out, unwind, eat delicious food, absorb great art, stay in a fabulous hotel, and relax on a beach with cocktail in hand. Whether your Spring Break will consist of jetting off to an exotic island or simply taking the day off for some spa therapy, we have just the right outfit to keep you chic, chill, and fabulous. Take a little stress off and peruse our favorite “Spring Break” styles.

LACE ROMPER

Our number one “go to” style this Spring is the cool lace romper. Lightweight and adaptable to any situation, the “Boho” chic outfit will keep you in style not just on your getaway but also all Season long. We love Liberty Garden’s NEW white lace off the shoulder lace romper paired perfectly with a white floppy hat from BCBGMAXAZRIA and your favorite flip flops for a perfect day at the beach. When the sun gets too hot, shake off the sand, and replace your shoes with trendy lace up sandals NEW from Sam Edelman for a cool stroll around town. Sweep your hair into an elegant chignon, and segue into the evening hours by combining your romper with Vince Camuto’s cobalt blue fringe ankle strap sandals. If there’s one new article of clothing you want to add to your Spring collection, be sure that it’s the lovely lace romper.

CABANA DRESS

You can’t leave home without packing the required “Cabana dress” on your vacation. Characterized as a frock worn at the beach, often in tropical or patterned print, the “Cabana” dress is the perfect cover up for your favorite swimsuit yet also suitable to wear for lunch out or sightseeing trips. Grab Hale Bob’s teal cotton sateen tank dress and pair with comfy waterproof sandals from Vince and a wide brimmed sunhat from Free People to stay shaded against the sun’s heat. If you prefer length, then go with Hale Bob’s alternate option in a teal drop waist maxi dress perfect for daytime beach through evening dinner. “Hang loose Hawaii” and stay chic in a tropical “Cabana” dress this Spring.

STRAPLESS MAXI

Our second favorite dress option for destination travels is the pure white maxi dress. As we mentioned in last week’s “White is Right for Spring,” fashion’s top designers favored the all white look on Spring 2016’s runways this year. Why not take the opportunity to get in on one of this Season’s biggest trends and add a solid white maxi to your wardrobe and into your suitcase to your destination. We like the strapless ivory white gauze maxi NEW from Liberty Garden. Featuring a flouncy bloused top and side slit skirt, this dress suits top heavy body types by drawing attention downward and away from “trouble” spots. Or if you’re feeling “groovy,” go with Hale Bob’s white drop waist strapless crochet dress paired with trendy gladiator sandals from Tory Burch and a straw fringe carry-all from Sensi Studio for all day fun. For a more structured, classic style, choose Hale Bob’s ivory white lace column dress with half slip for a little Springtime glam. Whichever maxi silhouette suits you best, remember “all white is right” this Season.

WIDE LEG PALAZZOS + CROP TOP

From Taylor Swift at the Grammys to Kate Hudson at the Golden Globes, crop tops are definitely back with a bang this Spring. It’s time to start working on those dream abs so you can sport this trend in style turning heads your way. In order to stay classy without looking trashy, we suggest offsetting your barely there top with flowing wide leg trousers for perfect, polished style. Start with a “Cabana” print or a ruffly black crop top from Free People combined with Liberty Garden’s sheer white lace Palazzo pants, wedge sandals from Michael Kors, and lace kimono. If you’re not quite ready to bare all, go with Liberty Garden’s ivory white crepe trousers topped with Alice + Olivia’s off the shoulder slightly longer crop top. Now’s a great time to start your exercise regime in preparation for Spring and Summer’s skin baring trends.

BOYFRIEND JEANS + TANK

Another comfy yet stylish pant choice to include into your suitcase for vacation is the boyfriend jean. Updated for 2016, this pant can be paired with a swimsuit and flip flops for fun in the sun, and segue into the evening hours with strappy heels and a sequined blouse. Try  AC Collection’s distressed Mystique jeans topped with Liberty Garden’s black draped tank top and T-strap flats NEW from Frye. Switch up your look by rolling the cuffs to a “cropped” silhouette and combine with glitter T-strap sandals from Betsey Johnson and a silver sequined halter from Halston Heritage for a hot night on the town. If the ripped denim look isn’t really for you, go with tried and true classic 501 jeans from Levi, button down gauze top from Liberty Garden, and either your favorite comfy sneakers for casual or traditional black pumps on dressier evenings. Distressed, cropped, or classic- You decide which boyfriend jean of choice you’ll be wearing this Spring.

RUFFLED SWIMWEAR

Finally, you can’t forget to pack your favorite swimsuit before you jet off to the tropics. Why not get in on one of this Season’s most popular trends and grab a ruffle trimmed swimsuit in a color to suit your style. We like Hale Bob’s purple ruffle front bikini with sequin detailing paired with a matching tropical print silk strapless cover up and your favorite flip flops. When swim time is done, throw on your boyfriend jeans or wide leg palazzos and stroll the Boardwalk in style. As the day turns to evening, pair your look with a chic black or ivory lace poncho from Liberty Garden and trade your flip flops for lace up wedges from Jeffrey Campbell. Be feminine yet fabulous this Spring Break.

With just these six key items we’ve listed above, in addition to a few accessories to style, you are sure to create some waves this Spring. Whether flying off to the tropics or simply taking a day off, you’ll rock this Spring in style. From a breezy romper to wide leg palazzos to a ruffled swimsuit, this is the Season to bring out the romance and enhance your femininity.

 

WHITE IS RIGHT THIS SPRING

From Alexander McQueen to Chloe to Miu Miu, white is right this Season. Usher in Spring 2016 with a pure, clean head to toe white outfit. Flattering on all skin tones, you’re sure to be the talk of the town this year. Take a peek at our favorite fashion outfits and start shopping the trends today.

BOHO LACE DRESS

Get groovy in this Season’s trendiest fashion blast from the past. From Chloe to Zimmermann to Rachel Zoe, designers have brought back the 70’s “Boho Chic” style from last year with new and updated silhouettes and adornments for 2016. Start your collection with Hale Bob’s embroidered mesh long sleeve lace dress paired with sandal clogs from MIA and crossbody bag NEW from Rebecca Minkoff. Accessorize with a silk scarf “head band” from Free People , or pull your hair into a high pony for a sleek look. Carry your look to the office in Hale Bob’s classic long sleeve A line lace dress combined with matching lace pumps from Benjamin Adams London, a white Bolero jacket, and croco-embossed leather mini case from L.A.P.A. On your next evening out, get in on one of this Season’s trendiest silhouettes in Hale Bob’s off the shoulder lace dress complete with a snug fit to show off those curves. Casual to formal, the white Boho lace dress can be incorporated into any event or activity this Spring.

LACE MAXI DRESS

Another favorite “Boho” look to try this Spring is the flowy longer lace maxi dress. Cool and carefree, this style is perfect for days at the beach, errands out, lunch with the girls, or a hot night on the town. NEW from Liberty Garden, we like the sleeveless white lace crochet maxi or the charming vintage empire waist dress paired perfectly with matching flat gladiator sandals from Free People, straw floppy hat by Helen Kaminski, and Lucky Brand’s fringe crossbody for perfect “Boho Chic” style. If you prefer a more classic look, you can still get on the trend with Hale Bob’s sleek sleeveless long lace dress accessorized with gold floral flat sandals from Kate Spade on casual days and ankle strap satin heels from Menbur for dressier occasions. No matter your personal style, there is a white lace maxi dress to suit everyone this Spring.

OFF THE SHOULDER BLOUSE + SKINNIES

As we mentioned in last week’s blog, off the shoulder is one of this Spring’s most popular blouse styles. Flattering on any body type, this silhouette elongates the neckline and hides “trouble” spots like a thick waist or bigger arms. We suggest pairing your billowy top with skinny pants to avoid a bulky or “heavy” appearance. Get the look pictured above with Marques Almeida’s gauzy white blouse combined with Citizen’s of Humanity’s mid rise skinny jeans, leather handbag from Vince Camuto, and classic heels from Christian Louboutin. If your day calls for a “no jeans” rule, simply swap out the denim for Hale Bob’s cotton sateen skinny pants or sleek ultra suede leggings for elegant Springtime style.

WIDE LEG PANTS

In contract to the skinny, the second favorite pant style among designers on the runway this Spring is the wide leg. Suitable for any body type, the wide leg pant is easily adaptable for any occasion casual to dressy. For slimmer body shapes, you have the freedom to pair your pants with anything from a snug cami to a loose fit sweater to a “Boho” crop top. For fuller figures, avoid appearing too bulky by combining your look with a tucked in tee or a tailored crop jacket. On thinner silhouettes, try Hale Bob’s white studded satin wide leg pants accessorized with Liberty Garden’s pleated swing tank , short sleeve lace back swing tee, or crochet silk cotton halter by Hale Bob. On stocky figures, emphasize a smaller waistline by pairing your wide leg pants with Hale Bob’s fitted cotton lace tank top or a crop stretch Bolero jacket. You can also wear this look combined with your favorite swimsuit at the pool or beach. Swap out the dressier satin pants for Hale Bob’s crepe de chine wide leg palazzos with smocked waist for perfect all day comfort.

TOP + SHORTS

As Spring’s weather warms, switch out the white pants outfit for much cooler shorts. Not just reserved for casual outings, this fashion style can also be worn in more formal occasions if paired with the correct accessories. Look for a “dress short” such as Liberty Garden’s loose fitting lace skort or go with a longer version in Marni’s Bermuda style knee length shorts. Keep it classy by accessorizing with Hale Bob’s silk satin burnout blouse or go a little “Boho” in Liberty Garden’s lace trimmed chiffon top combined with a matching tote from Michael Kors and trendy clear suede toed heels from Gianvito Rossi. On more casual days swap out the dress shorts for Hale Bob’s lace crochet  or  Citizen’s of Humanity’s white denim distressed shorts and switch the heels for Jeffrey Campbell’s clear platform oxfords. Remember our tips on how you can look classy not trashy this Season in a head to toe white shorts outfit and you’re sure to turn heads wherever you go.

ROMPER

A second shorts outfit to try this Season is the romper, connecting a blouse and bottoms together in one. Though this fashion was popular last Spring and Summer, designers have updated the look for 2016 by loosening up the silhouette and adding a “cold shoulder” neckline. Try this outfit today with the white lace crochet romper NEW from Liberty Garden paired with Castaner’s wedge sandals and rag + bone’s Panama hat for daytime fun. Segue into the evening hours by switching out the wedges and hat for lace up ankle strap heels from Aldo and matching white crystal trim clutch from Whiting & Davis. If your style is a bit more traditional, go with the long sleeve lace trimmed twill romper from Liberty Garden accessorized with flat sandals or even a pair of your favorite comfy white sneakers for the perfect “athleisure” look.

STRUCTURED DRESS

And finally, for those who prefer a more structured silhouette, the all white style can still work for you this Season. In addition to all the suggestions we’ve listed above on how to turn the “Boho” style into a classic look, you can also include the trendy solid color sheath or shift dress into your daily wardrobe. Popularized by Jackie Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn in the 1950’s, the shift is characterized as a usually sleeveless short dress featuring little to no detailed shaping. We like Hale Bob’s ultra suede filigree short sleeve dress, perfect for work, play, or your next Springtime party. In contrast, the sheath dress fits snuggly, emphasizing the curvy female form. For this style, go with Liberty Garden’s long sleeve mixed media sheath dress paired with your favorite booties or strappy heels for nighttime fun. As mentioned above, don’t forget that you can also accessorize your dress with sneakers or flat sandals for a casual, comfy style.

From dresses to pants, casual to dressy, Boho to classic, head to toe white is a “must do” this Spring. With all of our fashion tips listed above, there is a perfect style to suit any taste and flatter every figure. Start your Spring off right with a clean, bright new Season.