As we begin switching out our heavy wool coats, furry hats, and cozy mittens for chic spring trenches and short-sleeve cardigans, one outerwear accessory should stay put - at least in my book. The scarf has become a season hopping, all-event appropriate article showing up on the necks of some very fashion forward ladies (myself included, dare I say). Last week, we shared with you which scarves to choose for the warmer months ahead, so this week, we're all about color. A scarf can do wonders to bring out your complexion, make your eyes pop, or create a bold statement for an otherwise boring outfit. It all depends on the hue.
A cream or white colored scarf will automatically brighten your complexion and give an overall freshness to your ensemble. Because the scarf is next to your face, the focal point of people's attention, your face will be instantly highlighted. A light piece like this Love Quotes Italian Linen Scarf in Dove ($85) acts like a little facial halo.
When you need to add a punch of color to your dreary look, a scarf can be the perfect option. It's usually a good idea to stay within the warm tones, as these will also complement your complexion. Sometimes, a green or a bad blue can make you look too pale or almost sickly - which is not flattering on anyone. Also try to stick to solid colors or one with subtle detailing, as patterns tend to compete for the eye's attention, and with an accessory, you want to keep it as simple as possible. This Gap guava scarf ($19.50) is the perfect color and weight for warmer months.
I am a big proponent of the black scarf, even in spring and summer, but it must be worn correctly or else you run the risk of looking either too formal or too goth. First and foremost, the scarf should be very lightweight and almost sheer to contrast its heavy color. Black scarves look their best paired with casual light-colored shirts. Because its color makes the black scarf so dramatic, you have to offset that intensity and that richness with something like a basic white tee, spring tank, or button-down oxford. Paired with jeans, this contrast will make for an edgy, chic, and laid-back cool ensemble. Try this oversized silk version from Intermix ($98).
I've never met a scarf I didn't like. I can't explain it, but to me, scarves are the perfect accessory. They have evolved past cold weather shields to fashion forward power pieces that can be worn all year round. I've taken to the scarf trend like a camel to the desert - I have fancy scarves for going out, cozy scarves for staying in, chunky scarves that cover my face, and skinny scarves that barely serve any purpose at all. But I love all my babies just the same. And to spread the scarf love, here are some suggestions on how to think outside the box and rock the scarf from daytime strolling to evening schmoozing.
When stuck between the puffy jacket and the summer trench, layering is the best option for keeping warm during these transitional months. And the scarf is a perfect layering piece. But instead of a heavy winter wool one, opt for a lighter cotton scarf, and choose one that is larger in size so you can wrap it around your neck multiple times - that way you'll get the necessary warmth without any annoying bulk. We covet this Love Quotes Scarf in Jeep ($85).
A scarf is a perfect way to add color and detail to a casual daytime outfit. If you choose a smaller lightweight one like this ombre linen scarf ($24), you can wear it indoors - just like you would your favorite necklace. Just make sure to drape the scarf loosely around your neck to maintain a laid-back look.
For an evening out, opt for a skinny scarf in a standout color. This red crepe scarf ($250) pops against a midnight black shirt, and when paired with edgy earrings, your outfit will be hard to beat.
I'm always wary of animal prints, but with this season's movement towards tribal and safari fashions, I think I'll have to down a few shots and toss on something that looks like it could be featured in National Geographic. After all, a nice leopard pattern, when worn in an accessory (think Tory Burch flats or Kors handbag), doesn't scream Staten Island Guid-ette as much as it hints at the potential for a wild (but still stylish) side. Hence, fashion-happy celebrities have lately been caught sporting a tasteful Leopard scarf produced by Louis Vuitton. More classic than LV's other red version, it's a little Mrs. Robinson, a little Audrey Hepburn meets Dita Von Tease, and...at $1750… a spotted splurge. Hop on the bandwagon early, because this scarf could knock off Alexander McQueen's skull scarf as next season's must-have length of fabric. The Cejon Satin Scarf ($22) is almost as fierce for a fraction of the price.
If you're going to brave the Lake Effect chill in Chicago this New Year's Eve, you're going to need to stock up on cold weather essentials to help you arrive at your final destination in the same stunning shape in which you left the house. While this may mean toting your adorable slingbacks to save them from the slush and salt, don't worry about having to hit the party scene in sweatpants. Whether you're sashaying to the chichi Chicago clubs or heading to an intimate gathering with friends, you need a set of stylish "get there gear" to keep you toasty en route. Make it look like your trek was warm and pleasant when you shed all those layers and unveil your real New Year's garb.
1. Start out by thinking on—and of—your feet. Nine West's Yogini rubber Wellington boots ($59) are cheeky and have a slightly edgy patent leather look to them. They'll protect your tootsies from freezer burn and will help you keep traction on slippery sidewalks much better than your sexy party shoes.
2. While you're thinking about protecting your digits from temps in the negative digits, consider picking up a pair of long, sleek black leather gloves from Banana Republic ($128). The long length makes them a little dressier than your everyday gloves, and the black leather is timeless and so chic.
3. A festive night calls for festive outerwear, and Armani Exchange's sequined black scarf ($68) provides just enough sparkle for your journey. It's not over-the-top (you don't want to look like the famous Times Square New Year's ball), but it's got that extra gleam to ring in a sparkling new year.
4. Since you don't want to arrive at your New Year's festivities with painful, red ears or mussed hair, sophisticated fox fur earmuffs from Michael Kors ($22) are a must. Go ahead and spend time on your updo, knowing it won't get crushed by an unwieldy hat (though the wild wind is another story.)
5. If you're going to be spending any time out of doors, you'll have to adjust your beauty regimen to make it in the Windy City. Always carry a tube of soothing Burts Bees lip shimmer ($4); it's the same formula as their healing beeswax lip balm, but with a hint of color and a little pearly shimmer--perfect for a party. And don't leave home without Dr. Hauschka's miraculous hand cream ($23). It's a must-apply every time you come in from the nippy air. Finally stash all your New Year's beauty loot in the lovely Cora bag ($110) from Chicago bag designers 1154 Lill Studio. Its Victorian-style flocking and delicate gold chain are gorgeous, and it's the perfect size for all your essentials.
I was a girl who, once upon an embarrassing time, had a closet full of flannel and Nirvana on constant rotation in her CD-player. I wore my dad's old army button-down over his University of Chicago t-shirt (my dad is a little guy so it was perfectly oversized), ripped jeans, and maroon Doc Marten Mary-Janes. I smelled like teen spirit, drank pennyroyal tea, and made no apologies for teenage angst. I secretly coveted my grandfather's cardigans. It was a dark couple years when my mother's photo albums also surreptitiously stopped recording my image.
So when I began to notice the re-emergence of Grunge in today's fashions I thought, "Oh God. No. Not again." I imagine it's how my mother felt when I came home with a pair of bell bottoms early in 2000.
Thankfully, there is no reason to fear this trend. Neo-Grunge is fitted and feminine. It seems designers are taking cues from the hipsters who have been sporting thrift store plaids for a while. Loeffler Randall has taken plaid in a very lady-like direction with bibbed frocks while Charlotte Ronson has recreated the classic shirt as a belted tunic. Celebrities like Lindsay Lohan, Jessica Alba, and Kirsten Dunst have all embraced the cooler-than-five-minutes-from-now look.
I enjoy it mixed tastefully with more classic pieces, creating an eclectic, non-slave-to-the-trends style. Like this girl, who flaunts her ability to mix and match new styles (plaid/schoolgirl blazer/oxford shoes) to create a purely individual fashion intelligence.
Following are some of my favorite Neo-Grunge pieces:
1. Jovovich-Hawk adds a refined ruffle to update its plaid shirt ($242). And, with ankle boots and leggings, their bibbed Darla dress ($225: use code "toutie" for 10% off) is a stylish addition to this season's wardrobe (although I worry that come next season it'll be impossibly dated).
2. Loeffler Randall is not only creating shoes that my heart skip a beat, but they also made this dress that incorporates its Grunge influence well enough to outlive the trend and become a staple of your closet. Paired with some simple, classic heels, this frock ($385 : use code "apologies" for 25% off) is deliciously adorable.
3. Generra's dress ($245) is more understated but allows cute pairings with boots, a long cardigan, a cashmere scarf, or some chunky accessories.
4. Charlotte Ronson, always a favorite of celebrities and fashionistas, takes the plaid flannel to a tunic and belts it ($202). It's a perfect compliment to skinny jeans and would look amazing under a schoolgirl-inspired blazer. (Waisted shirts under blazers highlight your figure while shaving pounds away.)
5. Urban Outfitters has made a more budget friendly plaid shirt. Since this trend may, well, be a trend, it's smart to buy inexpensive pieces and keeping your investment wardrobe to garments less subject to designer whims. And shoot, at $48, this shirt is a great way to do so.
6. Another great way to inject some Neo-Grunge to your fresh and clean wardrobe (without sacrificing hygeine) is through a simple accessory. For instance, a plaid scarf. I plan on buying one to pair with a casual black dress, opaque black tights, and a pair of oxford heels. Prices can range to suitanybudget, so you might want to get a couple.
Just in time for the holidays, practically the entire collection of Vera Wang’s Simply Vera is now on sale at Kohl’s.Everything from hosiery to outerwear has been marked down to almost half price. Although some of Vera’s pieces are a little too bedazzled for us, we have warmed up to her cozy outerwear (okay, and maybe a shiny skirt or two...).At such a great discount, these will make great holiday gifts.Here are some of our top picks:
This flashy Tie-Waist Brocade Skirt (was $68, now $34) was made for partying. Pair it with a strapless top and some flirty heels for the perfect New Years outfit, or tone it down with a demure black turtleneck sweater and tights for the annual office soiree.
One of our favorite pieces from this collection is the Ginger Orange Single-Breasted Coat (was $158, now $95). The color is so original and surprisingly versatile. It can be ornamented with a glitzy brooch or a colorful patterned scarf to brighten up the winter drear.
The outerwear accessories are also a steal, like this colorful Chunky Ribbed Knit Scarf (was $35, now $18). So go ahead and have yourself a merry little shopping spree. At these prices, it’s almost mandatory.
Why: Victoria Beckham was recently more covered up than usual in a stylishly conservative Fair Isle sweater by Alexander McQueen. This trend pops up every winter, and I have never really taken to it. The sweaters just always seemed so dowdy to me. But thanks to an injection of crisp new colors and playful shapes, the Fair Isle is back in action. So here are a few of my new seasonal favorites:
1. Mrs. Beckham opted for a fitted version of the classic sweater, but you may choose to oversize it and pair with some leggings or skinny jeans. Try the button-down cardigan ($178) from French Connection as a cozy option. If different colors are more your forte, there are plenty of palettes to choose from, ranging from deep purples to metro grays.
2. Instead of a sweater, you might choose to procure a handbag that sports the noticeable knit. Blake Lively was spotted with the Stella McCartney bag ($1,195) but Gap makes an adorable, budget friendly version ($14.99) as well.
3. And for those of us who want to stick to the cold weather basics, hats, scarves, and mittens come in fresh new patterns and colors this season that spice up the Fair Isle look without losing that classic appeal.
