The One That Got Away!

     Depressed and laying on the couch, I was scrolling through last weeks fashion shows, crying that they are over and trying to link together the overall Spring 2013 trends.  I was marveling over the belted dresses, altered collars, boucle 'Chanel like' blazers, and then it happened, I came across Nicholas K's catwalk video.
     My instant reaction sounded something like, "Oh shit, this is freaking fabulous!"  When fashion makes you drool on a regular basis it's hard not to react in random outbursts when you see something that literally takes your breath away.
     In our risqué let it all hang out world generally once the weather gets warm the clothes come off, right?  After all, a popular trend for Spring 2013 was short bottoms, hell what am I saying, it was no bottoms.  Hey, let it all hang out, it's trendy!  Multiple designers felt that way but, not Nicholas K.
     Spring = layering.  I mean, it's like nothing I've seen before.  The oversized, crinkled, loose fitting garments flowed off the models like waves in the sea.  Draping silk fabrics over the heads of the models to create hood like coverings...fabulous.  The oversized glasses that would leave Jackie O. in the dust...even more fabulous.  As I was trying to follow the lines and contour of the fabric I got lost in the mix due to the constant curve or cut in the structure of the garment.  It's a-maze-ing.
     Let's not even begin to discuss the warm earth tones that K used.  The camel, rust, milk chocolate and taupe gave off such an effortless vibe.  Simple, easy, straightforward, smooth, I can keep going if you don't get my point!  It's brilliant.  All of it.  I'm not even being bias because I'm infatuated with modern trendy styles.  OK, so I'm being bias...whatever.  It's sick and I that's all I can say.

K-razy!

Ciao, 

Annie May

A Suede Foot!

    People tend to be a little scared to take adventures when it comes to shoes, usually sticking to black or brown, boots or flats.  But, this Fall the trend that is flashing before everyones eyes are suede shoes in colorful hues; rusty orange, emerald green, milk, smokey purple, and foggy blue.  Step in to the shoe department and drink in the color around you.  This trend started with designers like Prada and Mui Mui and caught on like wildfire to the streets.  Punch up one of your simple outfits by wearing a pair of bright suede shoes, similar to these ones below.

Stay suede!

Ciao, 

Annie May

Dressy Shorts!

     Lets face it, shorts generally get the "too casual" rap from the fashion community.  But can shorts be dressy?  Well, start with the fabric for instance, choose something dressier than denim.  Silk, twill, tweed, lace and heavy cotton are all great fabrics for dressy shorts. They should be loose fitting.  Mid-thigh is a great length for this style because it is appropriate.  Loose, flowing shorts create a great structure that falls from the body creating an effortless and cool style.   Dressy shorts are extremely comfortable and still maintain a professional look.   Check out these too cool for school looks.

Don't come up short!

Ciao, 

Annie May

Neutral on Neutral!

   If you are ever feeling like you need a palette cleanse to switch up your busy patterned wardrobe just take a day off and go neutral.  This new look is bold and chic, and when worn correctly from head to toe, it's a fashion statement that every woman should make.   Many women think that wearing neutral on neutral is just plain boring but, I beg to differ.  If you feel that way try breaking up your outfit with a darker neutral (black or brown) but, if you insist or feel more comfortable use a pattern or bright color.   White, beige, kaki and black are all great neutrals that, when put together properly, can make a definite style standout.  Check out these shots to see how head to toe neutrals are shockingly fabulous.

A color pop!

A pattern pop that still only used neutral colors!

Stay neutral!

Ciao, 

Annie May

Mullet Skirts!

     Summertime is slowly coming to an end so lets make sure that you all get a chance to wear your summer favorites one more time!  My personal favorite is the mullet dress or skirt.  It's stylish, versatile, feminine and keeps you cool on those hot days.  The length of the dress or skirt is a personal preference, some prefer long tails and others short.  This loose simple style looks great with either a plain or patterned top and belts are a great accessory to accent your waist.  Take a look at how these girls have mastered the mullet!

Short or long?

Ciao,

Annie May

Neon Punch!

     If you are still following the neon craze you are right on track with this falls fashion.  These bright vibrate colors have been seen all over the place this summer and they are slowly but surely trickling into falls upcoming fashion trends.  Fall's neons are going to appear a bit more subtle than summer neons.  Focus on having one item follow the neon trend whether it be your accessories, pants, sweaters or nail polish, get creative!  Here are a few ways women have coordinated these vibrant bold hues into their wardrobe without looking like they have traveled back into the 80's!

Have a bright day!

Ciao, 

Annie May

Orange & Tangerines

     According to Pantone Institute one of the most popular colors of spring 2012 is Tangerine Tango.  This was a common trend spotting on the runway from almost every designer from Michael Kors to Max Azria.  If this isn't your lucky color of choice then there is no need to worry because there are plenty more orange hues to go around.  Orange is a loud color and it makes a statement; surely it will set you apart from the rest...so jump out and try it!  Personally, I would wear safety orange out and about as well as to a formal event, I'm fashionably daring...what can I say?  Just be careful how you pair it because Halloween isn't for a while!

Orange you glad I didn't say banana?

Ciao, Annie May

More about Faith in Fashion!

   Wear your faith on your sleeve...literally!  This upcoming winter a popular repeating trend that will carry over from the fall will be the wearing of religious symbols.  Designers are taking all types of religious figures and applying them to clothing, shoes and accessories.  The Catholic cross has been altered in many different ways.  Such as, change in color, material, added feathers, studs,  sequins etc.  The Buddha has been displayed on vintage inspired t-shirts and seen as bedazzaled rings and necklaces.  The Star of David has been screen printed onto shorts pockets, t-shirts and handbags, as well as been hung from earrings and bracelets.  This newfound fashion is a great way to express yourself through style.  Here are a few examples.

Check out the tattoo

Check out the ring

Keep your faith!

Ciao, Annie May

Designer of the Day: Alex and Ani

   "Alex and Ani's mission is to design products that adorn the body, enlighten the mind, and empower the spirit." says the Alex and Ani team.  Carolyn Rafaelian is the founder and designer of Alex and Ani jewelry who comes from a long line of family jewelers, now living in Rhode Island.  Carolyn believes that in wearing this jewelry you are able to express your thoughts and your spirit through materials.  Alex and Ani makes a wide variety of jewelry, from earrings to mens jewelry.  This company is particularly known for their expandable wire bangles that come in a few different finishing options (shiny gold, matte gold etc.) it is your choice!  Each and every Alex and Ani owner have their own story that they wear on their arm or around their neck, what's your story? Go online to www.alexandani.com and create your own bangle collection!

Be yourself!

Ciao, Annie May