Dress Up

{Pick of the Week}

This week's pick is one that is perfect for anyone who has a soft spot for whimsy. Upon first view of this dress, my first thought was that the appliqués reminded me of the little jewel toned foils that were used for projects and crafts when I was younger. I love the way that the colorful shapes stand out against the cream dress, and by adding a detachable collar, the look is able to be taken from charming to trendier and a little more bold with the ease of a button. 

P.S. I'm kind of digging this model's haircut. What do you think?

Summer Styles

I have been thinking a lot about what I think can really go into creating a fun summer look. When it comes to creating multiple outfits from certain individual items, these are some of the components that I feel make great summer staple starters. How's that for alliteration?

Denim Button Down: If you haven't seen them around enough lately, they really seem as if they are the new classic white oxford. With their neutral-like denim and easy to wear vibe, they work with anything from a floral skirt to a pair of silky trousers.

Sequin Tap Shorts: While I haven't managed to actually take a pair of these out for a test run, I have been eyeing them for quite some time, now. They are great to match with everything from a plain white T-shirt and colorful flats to a lightweight blouse and heels for a night out. Even if you wear minimal jewelry, or none at all, they manage to make a statement all their own.

Neutral Wedges: These should be in every girls' closet. A great shoe to wear almost all year round, they are that perfect shoe to wear when you want to wear heels without looking like you are trying too hard. For summer, by finding a pair in a shade that is similar to your skin tone, it can create an illusion of an extended leg. Who doesn't want to look just a little taller? Am I right?

Fun Jewelry: Finally, an abundance of different styles of jewelry is essential to creating that finishing touch to any outfit. Whether it be a small ring, crazy stack of bangles, or a combination of various layered necklaces, jewelry is a way to easily have the ability to change how an outfit looks and feels.

What are some of your current favorite summer styles? I'd love to hear.

Fashion Icons: Michael Kors

{Image: All Michael Kors pieces}

Last night I attended the final installation for this season's Fashion Icons lecture series directed by Fern Mallis with Michael Kors as the guest of the evening. Going into the lecture, I realized that I was not as knowledgeable about the history of Michael Kors as a brand, company, and designer aside from the fact that I knew he was "American Sportswear" and that about every girl owned at least one of his watches. Through their discussion, though, I was extremely interested in the early start of his success and the power of his vision from such a young age. He even helped his mother to restyle her wedding dress at five years old by removing the abundance of bows! The lecture showed a side of him that was laid back, up-beat, and fun to be in the presence of and listen to. These discussions aren't only an enjoyable way to spend an evening, but definitely an informative one for fashion icons in the industry, as well. 

Fleet Week

Ever since I saw the episode on SATC when the girls get excited over the beginning of fleet week, I wondered if this event where an abundance of attractive military men (and women too) explore New York after docking in the harbor and soon marking the beginning of summer. Well, today I was pleasantly surprised when I spotted them. Decked out in their neatly pressed uniforms of mostly patriotic white, red, and navy, I was inspired by their clean lines, gold accented details, and mostly nautical style.

Are you a nautical fan? More of a fan of simple stripes or attracted to anchors?