Saturday, March 30, 2013

Polyvore Features The Closet by Christie as "Brilliant Blogger" again!

Polyvore Features The Closet by Christie as "Brilliant Blogger" again!

Polyvore Features The Closet by Christie as "Brilliant Blogger" again! by theclosetbychristie featuring flat shoes

It's another BIG week for The Closet by Christie blog! I was featured by Polyvore as a "Brilliant Blogger of the Week" again! 

Click here to check out the feature

Friday, March 29, 2013

Trends For Less: Polka Dot & Hot Pink

Trends For Less: Polka Dot & Hot Pink

Trends For Less: Polka Dot & Hot Pink by theclosetbychristie featuring summer handbags

This week's edition of Trends For Less features hot pink and polka dots! These are perfect trends to spice up your spring office wardrobe. Dots and brights look great together, but be careful- it can be difficult to style. It's all in the silhouette for this look! When playing with tricky trends, always choose classic silhouettes to bring the look back down to earth. 

In the above set, I featured a few main pieces from Target. I've found that this store is everyone's guilty pleasure! Everyone loves it but no one talks about it. Target stocks up on all of the trends and the prices are so affordable. I love Target for trying out new trends that I might not be sure about. You still have fun taking risks but you're not breaking the bank to wear the outfit once (if it turns out to be too big of a risk). 

In the above set, I paired a hot pink Merona button-up tied waist top and black and white Merona polka dot skirt with a black Merona floppy hat. I love this silhouette because it's simple- it lets the trends speak! And the floppy hat adds an extra sophistication to the look, which helps tone down the bold print and color. I accessorized with hot pink bow flats and a hot pink flower clutch. For jewelry, I added a pearl bracelet and pearlized Kate Spade flower studs.

What are your favorite items to buy from Target

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Spring 2013 Color: Monaco Blue

Spring 2013 Color: Monaco Blue

Spring 2013 Color: Monaco Blue by theclosetbychristie featuring j crew

Monaco Blue is another one of the ten colors featured by Pantone on the Spring 2013 Color Report. I love this color because it's so classic and regal. It can make anyone look sophisticated. It also compliments any cool skin tone, which if you have pale skin you will understand- that is kind of difficult to come by.

In the above set, I styled a look featuring the color Monaco Blue. Every item in this set is from J.Crew. I paired a Monaco Blue eyelet pencil skirt with a white peplum top and navy fitted blazer. I love this outfit because it's so spring! Eyelet is a hot trend for the season, but you would normally expect to see it in white. I love that it's in a nontraditional color! I accessorized with a Monaco Blue mini-hobo handbag and leopard print pointed-toe flat. For jewelry, I chose a gold plated glass stone necklace and translucent stone bracelet.

What do you think of Monaco Blue? How would you style it?

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

How-To Style Guide: Another Hint of Neon

Another Hint of Neon

Another Hint of Neon by theclosetbychristie featuring pointy-toe pumps

A few weeks ago, I wrote the A Hint of Neon post. We went over why every woman should have a neon piece in her closet and how all ages can enjoy the trend. Today I've decided to expand on the topic a bit and show women how to wear this trend, as bright colors can be intimidating to many individuals, particularly when we're talking about work attire. Here's my How-To Neon Style Guide!

1 Choose an Accessory to "Pop:" While neon can be fun for a younger person to wear loudly, it may not work for a thirty, forty, fifty-something. The key is to choose an accessory, like a shoe or jewelry, for the "pop" of color. It's a way of having fun with the trend without it becoming too much. In the above look, I used a neon yellow Kate Spade heel, decorative bangle, and studs for my accent pieces.

2 Pair it with Neutrals: So, you've mustered up the strength to try a "pop" of color but what can you wear it with? I recommend sticking with neutral colors. This creates a more subdued look and gives the color a chance to really "pop." In the above set, I styled with navy blue and heather gray. These are your typical neutral "business" colors. By keeping the rest of this look strictly business, it implies professional despite the bold neon accents.

3 Control The Emphasis: If you're someone that embraces bold, you may want to try a main neon piece- such as a top, jacket, or jeans. I personally love a neon collared button-up; it adds a modern twist to a classic silhouette. This is the best opportunity to control what parts of your body you are emphasizing and really dress for your body type. If you have long, gorgeous legs- then try a bright colored skinny jean for your color "pop." If you wear all neutrals with that, it will draw the eyes to your gorgeous legs.

If you follow the tips above, you can never go wrong while wearing the neon trend! What do you think of these how-to tips? Would you give neon a chance?

Monday, March 25, 2013

How-To Style Guide: Leather Anything

Geometric Leather Skirt


Leather anything is the new hot trend! Everywhere I look, I'm seeing unexpected products in leather; jeggings, pencil skirts, skater skirts, peplum tops, and the list goes on! This trend is hot but it can be difficult to style. Here is my How-To Style Guide!

In the above set, I featured a Fendi geometric leather pencil skirt. This was a difficult item to style because it has such an unusual look. It's also different because previously leather was considered a material for the colder months; now it's seasonless! That adds an even bigger question mark of how to make this work during warmer weather. Below are things to consider when wearing a leather statement piece:

1) Keep It Balanced: Pair a leather piece with elegant, feminine pieces. This will tone down the harshness of the leather so it doesn't look like too much.

2) Keep It Simple: What can you wear with leather? Simplicity is key here. If you want to wear a leather skirt, keep the top simple and neutral. 

3) Avoid Leather on Leather: You heard it- whatever you do, don't pair a leather top or jacket with a leather skirt. Just don't do it. You can get away with another leather accessory, but keep the key pieces leather-free.

I paired it with a white TOPSHOP floral crochet blouse and mango fitted blazer with flower brooch. I accessorized with black Manolo Blahnik lace heels and a mango Valentino bow clutch. I love the leather and lace look! As I advised above, pairing a main leather piece with feminine pieces- such as the lace heels, bow clutch, floral blouse and puffed sleeve fitted blazer- lessens the roughness of the leather. I accessorized with bronze jewelry- ornate flower studs, detailed bangle, and breastplate necklace. 

What do you think of unexpected leather? Are you into leather for Spring?


Friday, March 22, 2013

Trends For Less: Yellow And Linen

Trends For Less: Yellow And Linen

Trends For Less: Yellow And Linen by theclosetbychristie featuring a polka dot dress

Are you a fashionista at heart but feel trapped with a budget? Fear not! Here's my weekly edition of Trends For Less. This is proof that anyone can enjoy fashion without breaking the bank.

In the above set, I featured the color palette yellow and linen. Linen is one of the ten featured colors on Pantone's Spring 2013 Color Report. The above look is truly a glimpse into my real world closet. My absolute favorite trends for less store is Kohl's. They have the best sales, decent quality products, and great styles. Some of the many amazing brands include Elle, LC Lauren Conrad, Vera Wang, Jennifer Lopez, and Dana Buchman. I'm pretty much in the store on a weekly basis and each time I find something new. The majority of my closet is made up of LC Lauren Conrad (love her!), but I also tend to gravitate towards the Elle line. 

In the look above, I started out with a yellow Elle polka-dot ruffle shirtdress. This is many trends rolled up into one item, but it works! It's so cute and the ribbon tied at the waist is flattering to most body types. I accessorized with a Mango linen blazer, Relic floral crossbody bag, and linen LC Lauren Conrad flats. I'm especially crazy about that blazer! The contrasting colors and straight lines gives it a really crisp look. For jewelry, I used gold LC Lauren Conrad hair barrettes and gold J.Crew knot earrings

What's your favorite store to get your trends for less?

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Spring 2013 Color: Poppy Red

Spring 2013 Color: Poppy Red

Spring 2013 Color: Poppy Red by theclosetbychristie featuring french connection

Poppy Red is one of the ten colors featured by Pantone on the Spring 2013 Color Report. I absolutely love this color! I've even been seeing images of red poppy flowers on t-shirts and a Coach purse. Red is the color of attraction; it is a psychological fact that people appear more attractive to others when wearing red. Knowing this, I always try to wear red when I want to impress someone. Now, this color can be difficult to style for the warmer weather. Color palettes that red is often included on contains darker colors; such as brown, red, and rust for autumn or red, black, and white for winter.

In the above set, I styled a look that demonstrates how to style poppy red for spring. My color palette includes taupe, ivory, and blush, in addition to poppy red. I featured a taupe French Connection draped dress. The silhouette of this dress is gorgeous; the tied bow at the waist cinches and creates a flattering shape. The draped fabric makes it appear so rich and elegant. I then added a poppy red belted trench coat and red and ivory striped French Connection wide brimmed floppy hat. Bright coats, particularly bright trench coats, is a huge trend that was featured during fashion week. I accessorized with ivory and red French Connection contrasting peep-toe heels and a blush J.Crew mini bag. For jewelry, I chose red anchor studs and gold-toned multi-color bangle set.

Do you like the color poppy red? What colors would you style it with?

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Black & White Tweed

Black & White Tweed

Black & White Tweed by theclosetbychristie featuring black handbags

Black and white is timeless. It's a color palette that will never be out of style simply because they are contrasting, or complementary, colors. In the art world, this means that they are complete opposites. Black is the absence of color, while white is the presence of all color. The opposition is pleasing to the eye and creates an often elegant, sophisticated look. Not to mention, black and white was all over the the runways during Fashion Week last month.

In the above set, I featured an all black and white color palette. I paired a black Burberry London pencil skirt with a black Stella McCartney embellished collar top. I love this pairing because the black on black makes it appear like a dress. Both pieces have a nice modern twist; the top has the jeweled collar and the pencil skirt has a bow at the waist. I accessorized with an Oscar de la Renta tweed blazercheckered satin heels, and black satchel. The blazer breaks up the all black outfit. The heels really add an extra something to the outfit because they are so fun! Printed heels are everywhere now. 

TIP: If you want to try out a patterned heel but aren't too daring, go with a black and white heel. It's less bold and you get the same effect.

I chose the jewelry from one of my favorite stores, White House Black Market. It's fitting because their entire brand is based on a classic, white and black color palette. I chose silver crystal hoop earrings and a pearl and onyx bracelet. I actually own a pair of earrings and necklace from White House Black Market that's similar to the hoops and I love them! They are so elegant and really dress up any outfit. 

What do you think black and white? Classic or boring?

Monday, March 18, 2013

Neutrally Chic: An All Neutral Color Palette

Neutrally Chic

Neutrally Chic by theclosetbychristie featuring a linen skirt

Neutral colors are what I call an eternal-trend; they'll never be out of style! Who doesn't love a good neutral? Black, grey, and navy shades can seem gloomy. While white, nude, and blush hues seem pure. A combination of the opposing neutrals (ex. black and white) will have a contrasting effect, which often gives a very classic and sophisticated look. A white, grey, and silver color palette can give off a luxurious look. It's all about the palette and how it's styled. I love neutrals because they:
     1) Match with everything
     2) Flatter most body types
     3) Work with most skin tones

In the above set, I styled a look with an all neutral color palette. I paired a black Michael Kors ballet neck sweater with a linen J.Crew cinched-waist mini skirt. This silhouette is very flattering with the cinched-waist and slightly exposed shoulders. The cream blazer adds a crisp, sophistication to the look. Plus, white and cream blazers are very on trend now. I accessorized with a mustard Michael Kors tote and taupe Nine West low-wedge sandals. For jewelry, I added a rope and metal braided necklace. I LOVE this and actually own something similar. It's such a nice nature-inspired statement necklace. It's the perfect thing to add some pizzazz to a classic top.

What do you think of an all neutral color palette? What's your favorite neutral color?

Saturday, March 16, 2013

The Closet by Christie Featured as "Brilliant Blogger"

Polyvore Features The Closet by Christie as "Brilliant Blogger"

Polyvore Features The Closet by Christie as "Brilliant Blogger" by theclosetbychristie on Polyvore


This was a BIG week for The Closet by Christie blog! I was featured by Polyvore as a "Brilliant Blogger of the Week!" 

Click here to check out the feature

Friday, March 15, 2013

'Designer' Trends For Less: 'I Bought It At Nordstrom'

'Designer' Trends For Less: 'I Bought It At Nordstrom'

'Designer' Trends For Less: 'I Bought It At Nordstrom' by theclosetbychristie featuring colorful dresses

Hello, Friday! So here we are again- another edition of Friday's Trends For Less! This week I chose everything from Nordstrom, to show the quality and value in department store shopping. I love the customer service at Nordstrom above all other equivalent stores. Sometimes that extra smile can go a long way for me! Department store shopping can be really fun because there's such a variation in price and style. They have high quality products for reasonable prices, while they also have designer products to splurge on. You may end up spending a few extra bucks but for the right item, it's worth it!

In the above set, I had fun with spring colors! My color palette consists of three primary colors in classic hues; green, yellow, and orange. I featured a green TOPSHOP seamed waist dress with yellow peep-toe flats. I accessorized with a gold collar 'lacy' necklace and orange oval stretch bracelet. Lastly, I splurged on a Kate Spade floral crossbody bag. Lately I've been loving the Kate Spade vibe- her designs are so bold and fun! I particularly love her accessories. This crossbody bag is a must-have for spring! The characteristics of this bag- bright colors, floral photorealism, and crossbody style- are very on trend.

Do you shop department stores? What's your favorite department store find?

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Spring 2013 Color: Lemon Zest

Spring 2013 Color: Lemon Zest

Spring 2013 Color: Lemon Zest by theclosetbychristie featuring yellow tops

Do you love color? Pantone introduced the Spring 2013 color report, which features the popular colors of the season. One of the ten featured colors for this spring is Lemon Zest! This color is so versatile because it works well with many color palettes and its bright hue is gorgeous on most skin tones. Yellow is associated with happy, cheerful, and sunshine so it's the perfect color to get fashionista's excited about the approaching warm months.

In the above set, I featured a lemon zest collared blouse. I love this top because it's a classic style with a modern kick (the bright color!). You'll be sure to attract some attention in this top!  I paired it with a tribal print pencil skirt. This is a more difficult item to style because of the reds and oranges with the yellow. These colors are often associated with fire. My recommendation is to NOT style with black when using these colors. I offset the "fire association" by adding accessories in coral, blush, and white. It also helps that the skirt has brown, white, and grey. 

I accessorized this look with a bright coral boyfriend blazer and white pointed toe heel. For the jewelry, I used a blush pyramid stone bangle with gold accents and gold leaf earrings. The bangle contributes to the color palette, while the nature-inspired earrings match the style of the tribal print skirt.

So, are you loving this new Lemon Zest color trend? What colors would you style it with?

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Fashion Week Trend: Bright Coats

Fashion Week Trend: Bright Coats

Fashion Week Trend: Bright Coats by theclosetbychristie featuring a grey dress

New York, London, Milan, Paris. Trending during Fashion Week everywhere: bright coats! I have always had a love for bright colored coats. I'm currently on year two with a gorgeous Guess bright red coat. In the many years before that, I adored a bright pink Delia's peacoat. So you can imagine I'm glad the rest of the world has finally caught up! :) For Spring 2013, I'm loving the colored trench coats.

In the above set, I featured an orchid Ted Baker trench coat. I absolutely love this color and it's the perfect shade for this spring! It's bright, but not painfully so. The rest of my color palette is pastels; periwinkle and lavender. The midi-dress has a loose fitting periwinkle top with a lavender pleated flowy bottom. I accessorized with a powder blue ALDO crossbody and pale pink J.Crew classic ballet flats. I then added a BCBG Max Azria natural stone statement necklace and French Connection wood mix bangle set. I love how the natural jewelry looks with this pastel color palette.

What was your favorite Fashion Week trend? Would you wear a bright coat?

Monday, March 11, 2013

A Hint of Neon

A Hint of Neon



Neon was one of the hottest trends last summer. Now's the time to dig out your favorite neon pieces from the attic or the back of your closet, because this spring it's all about a hint of neon. Adding an accent neon hue is a sure way to revitalize your look for the sunny months! The neon trend proved to be fun for the younger set, but was more challenging for the thirty-somethings and up. This new hint of neon trend is much more versatile because it's:

1 Easier to style
2 Translates to any age
3 Truly fits into any woman's closet

In the above set, I featured a neon green J.Crew crossbody as my "pop of color" item. I personally own an identical version of this bag in neon emerald from Target. I'm constantly getting compliments on it! It really looks great with any outfit! In this set, I paired the neon bag with a white J.Crew peplum top and white J.Crew carnation pencil skirt. I really love this pairing because white is so chic! White on white is huge right now and it looks fantastic with the neon pop. I also love the skirt because the carnations are bright teal and green, so it ties in the neon pop bag. I accessorized with pale blue J.Crew slingback ballet flats (have I mentioned I love J.Crew?). I then added the green flower J.Crew bracelet, Kate Spade pearl flower studs, and large pearl necklace.

What is your favorite neon piece? What's your favorite piece to use as a color pop item?


Friday, March 8, 2013

Trends For Less: Peplum Top with Pencil Skirt

Trends For Less: Peplum Top with Pencil Skirt

Trends For Less: Peplum Top with Pencil Skirt by theclosetbychristie featuring a flower pearl necklace

Here's another edition of Trends For Less. This week I'm featuring a white peplum TOPSHOP top paired with a white Mango pencil skirt. This look is inspired by the Christian Dior Haute Couture dress Charlize Theron wore to the Oscar's last week. The white on white is so sophisticated, while the peplum silhouette is modern. I love it!

I accessorized with a dark turquoise J.Crew cardigan, pale blue ALDO crossbody, and silver metallic White House Black Market snake-print flats (on sale!). I finished my look off with White House Black Market jewelry (have I mentioned I'm obsessed with their jewelry?); glass pearl flower brooch necklace and gray faceted bauble earrings. I splurged a bit on the necklace, but it was so gorgeous that I just could not resist! And it's an accessory, so it can be worn over and over without it being noticeable. This look came in at a grand total of just $347!

TIP: Now, I absolutely love White House Black Market but they tend to be expensive. I often will stalk their website and wait for items to go on sale. They have great sales and I just order it online to guarantee availability.

Did you like Charlize Theron's Oscar look

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Black & Champagne Printed Pencil Skirt

Black & Champagne 

Black & Champagne by theclosetbychristie featuring patent shoes

Printed pencil skirts are a must-have in your Spring work wardrobe! I personally own one from New York & Company and I always get compliments on it. 

The above set features a champagne and black floral printed pencil skirt. I love this skirt because it looks like it was painted on with watercolor. I also really like the champagne and black color palette because it's classic, but a little softer than your typical black and white. I paired it with a champagne cap-sleeved bow blouse and fitted black blazer. Next, I accessorized with a classic pair of black pointed-toe heels and a J.Crew color block handbag. Lastly, I added the black drop earrings and black and gold bracelet.

Are you into the printed pencil skirt trend? What's your favorite print?

Tuesday, March 5, 2013

Ankle Strap Flats

Ankle Strap Flats

Ankle Strap Flats by theclosetbychristie featuring a rose print dress

Flats have always been a major staple in my closet. I love style, but I really appreciate comfort. A good pair of flats give you the best of both worlds. I always say there's no reason that you can't be both stylish and comfortable! The latest flat trend is ankle strap flats

As with any trend, there's always different styles and ways of wearing the look. At first- I admit- I wasn't too crazy about this trend. I'm only 5'0", so I tend to not wear any type of shoe with an ankle strap. A tight ankle strap will actually cut off the silhouette of your leg and make you appear shorter than you are. I don't need to look any shorter than I am, so I prefer to elongate my leg with a pointed-toe shoe. But as with any trend, you have to pick and choose what will work for you. The key to wearing this trend for me is to choose a strap that's a little loose. If it's loose, it will dangle a bit and won't have the shortening effect. 

In the above set, I featured a nude ballet flat with a gold jeweled ankle strap. I really love this particular shoe because the ankle strap doubles as jewelry! It will also dangle like a bracelet does, so it won't cut off your leg silhouette. What a great flattering shoe! These flats will look amazing with a dress, skirt, cropped jeans, or shorts; anything that shows off that ankle. 

I paired the flats with a nude floral photorealism belted dress. I LOVE this dress because it's a classic silhouette that actually looks like it was painted on with acrylics. It's like wearing canvas art! I accessorized with a canary yellow cardigan to bring out the yellow floral accents in the dress. The nude envelope clutch has gold accents and matches the flats perfectly. Lastly, I added a gold floral stud and emerald stone ring. I like the touch the ring adds because it doesn't actually match anything here. Everything else in my look matches well, so this offsets that a bit so it's not too much.

What do you think of ankle strap flats? Would you wear them?

Monday, March 4, 2013

Trend Watch: Jacquard Fabric

Jacquard Dress

Jacquard Dress by theclosetbychristie featuring gold jewelry

So, what exactly is jacquard? All of a sudden I'm seeing these great dresses pop-up on Polyvore called jacquard. What is this, I asked myself. Low and behold, I used the power of Google to find some answers and here is what I found:

jacquard \'ja-kard\ noun, a fabric of intricate variegated weave or pattern
definition by Merriam-Webster Dictionary

Ok, got it. So, this is the fabric! It took me an extra step to get there because, Dictionary, what is variegated? Once I looked that up, it all clicked. Variegated is "having discrete markings of different colors" (thank you again to Merriam-Webster Dictionary). Now that we know what jacquard is, I'm placing it on my Trend Watch list. I predict this to be the next big fabric! When you start seeing jacquard everywhere, remember you heard it here first!

In the above set, the featured item is the blue and white jacquard dress. I really love this dress! The silhouette is flattering; it has a built-in belt, so you get that emphasized waist look. I also really like the pleated skater skirt. The pattern is gorgeous! I paired the dress with a navy boyfriend blazer. The color, the white outline, and the shape of the collar all give it that collegiate/prep school look. Next, I added a navy bow peep-toe heel and vintage looking mahogany crossbody messenger bag. I then accessorized with gold heart studs and handmade gold and bronze bangles (from Kenya). In this set, I have opposing styles; the blazer and bag have an androgynous feel, whereas the studs and heels are very feminine. 

What do you think of jacquard? Do you think it will be the next big thing? What's your Trend Watch prediction?