MIKOUX Statement Scarf: Styled 5 Ways!

MIKOUX Scarf: Styled 5 Ways! by theclosetbychristie on polyvore.com

Accessories allow for so much creativity! A single accessory can be worn in a million different ways and can really transform the look of an outfit. Let's use a statement scarf as an example. This can be styled with a variety of outfits, but can also be used as a scarf, a belt, and even a shawl. Each look has a completely unique style, therefore, transforming the scarf so it looks different each time.

In the above sets, I featured a MIKOUX scarf and showed how versatile it is by styling it 5 different ways. The luxury silk scarf line is designed by up-and-coming fashion designers, Davina and Nico Steiner, who are inspired by both European and Asian culture and styles. Each silk scarf is made exclusively in Italy for the finest quality. These scarves are unique because of the intricate patterns and colors. The scarf I have is "La Vita e' Bella," which is Italian for Life is Beautiful. When open, you can see the abstract stiletto pattern and images of blue vespas, which are motorized scooters that Italians drive. I really love this pattern because of the detailing and bright colors. It can be worn to dress-up a basic tee, or add some extra boldness to any look.

What is your favorite way to wear a statement scarf?

Click Here To See The MIKOUX Luxury Scarf Line!

How-To Style Guide: Printed Shorts

Wheat Print Shorts by theclosetbychristie featuring studded jewelry

This summer is all about printed shorts! I've seen all different styles and patterns- leopard, floral, chevron, tribal, stripes, polka dots. No matter what you're into, there's a pair just for you! I'm into this trend because it's a lot of fun! Since there's such a wide array of prints, there's many different ways to style this trend and there's really no wrong way to do it. What works for most is to pair it with a neutral top or pull a color from the pattern to match. 

In the above set, I featured a pair of Tory Burch wheat pattern tailored shorts. These are perfect for the office because the color is subdued and it has that photorealism appeal, which comes across as more elegant. Photorealism has given older women a chance to experiment more with patterns and prints because it's less bold and more age appropriate than standard prints. I pulled the yellow out of the shorts and paired them with a yellow H&M button-up collared blouse.

I accessorized using the color beige- a J.Crew blazer, Tory Burch flats, and a straw/metallic Tory Burch clutch. This color looks so soft when combined with the pale yellow and it's the color I immediately think of when "wheat" is mentioned. For jewelry, I used a crystal and neon J.Crew chevron bracelet and Tory Burch gold plated studs.

What's your favorite print for shorts? How do you style it?

Trends For Less: Floral Blazer

Trends For Less: Floral Blazer by theclosetbychristie featuring satin shorts

Here we are again- another edition of "Trends For Less!" Today I'm featuring a Floral Blazer, one of my favorite Spring trends. This is a modern take on a classic silhouette. Blazers instantly sophisticate any look. It looks great over a blouse, but you can even pair it with a simple tee to dress it up. The options are endless, however, a floral blazer is a bit bolder and more of a styling challenge. The key is to keep the rest of the look simple (but don't mistake simple for plain!). 

In the above look, I featured a Mossimo floral blazer from Target. This is so affordable, so it's an easy purchase to validate if this is a fashion risk for you. I love this blazer because the colors are neutral- navy and white- with teal accents. I paired this blazer with a teal Mango collarless blouse and navy Kate Young for Target tailored shorts. I like that this is a monochromatic color palette. 

I accessorized with a powder blue Forever 21 quilted purse and bunny flats. Animal flats are an emerging trend and I have been seeing them all over Polyvore! It's particularly popular in children's wear, but it really can work for anyone. Pairing it with a more sophisticated look makes them look more mature and age appropriate for a 20-something woman. For jewelry, I used items from White House Black Market; a blue charm bracelet and blue crystal bauble earrings.

Do you own a floral blazer? What's your favorite way to style it?

Straw Handbags For Summer 2013

Floral Dresses & Straw Totes by theclosetbychristie featuring amrita singh jewelry

Straw handbags have gone from trend to staple over the past few years. This summer is no different; straw handbags are a must-have for the warmer months! Primarily used as a beach tote in the past, straw handbags now come in many different shapes, sizes, colors, and styles. Embrace this bag for any occasion, even work!

In the above set, I featured a look with a natural Tory Burch straw tote with beige leather straps and detailing. Straw can have a cheap look to it, however, this bag has a very elegant and rich appearance. The leather and gold detailing contributes to the gorgeous style of this bag. I paired it with a floral watercolor belted dress and a mango blazer. I accessorized with light mango J.Crew snakeskin heels and black chandelier earrings.

Do you like straw handbags? What is your favorite kind?

How-To Style Guide: Dolled Up Denim

Dolled Up Denim by theclosetbychristie featuring j crew

Ladies and Gentlemen, the 90's are back! Denim anything is a huge trend this season; from dresses to jackets to purses. The denim item that seems to be catching on the most is the denim button-up top. I'm noticing these tops everywhere- but for those of us who spend the majority of our week in work clothes, how can we make this trend work as a professional piece? Here's how!

When working with denim tops, I really like to stick with a very light or very dark colored denim. I find it easier to pair with different color palettes when it's one extreme or another. In the above set, I featured a light denim sleeveless button-up top. This top is amazing for many different reasons- 1 it's sleeveless, which creates a more pristine, professional silhouette, 2 the color denim is so light that it looks pale blue instead of denim, 3 it's so affordable (only $18 from Tilly's). All of these characteristics make it the perfect denim top to dress-up for the office. 

I paired the denim top with a white J.Crew blue floral pencil skirt and blue peplum fitted cardigan. Pencil skirts and cardigans are classic work-wear pieces, so it creates that professional silhouette. I accessorized with seafoam Kate Spade wedge sandals and a turquoise Michael Kors satchel tote. White House Black Market's current accent color is lagoon. For jewelry, I chose from their collection; blue charm bracelet and beaded hoop earrings. 

What do you think of denim for the workplace? How would you style it?

Striped and Floral Mixed Print Tank

Mixed Print Tank & Lace Shorts by theclosetbychristie featuring lace shorts

The fashion world, currently, is all about breaking rules and creating trends around old fashion faux pas. Things the fashion police would have had you committed for years ago is now considered cutting edge and trendy. A perfect example of this is mixing prints. Last season, it was all about pairing two separate printed pieces together. I exemplified this in my Trends For Less: Mixed Prints post. Now I'm starting to see mixed prints on a single piece!

In the above set, I featured a striped and floral mixed print tank. I love this tank because you can dress it up or dress it down and it has a nice, preppy look to it. It's also very trendy because of the horizontal stripes and photorealism (see previous post: Fashion Meets Art: Photorealism) floral print. I paired the tank with navy Madewell lace shorts and a navy boyfriend blazer. I really like this look because it's very in-style and still professional. 

I accessorized with a bright red Brahmin snakeskin handbag and white Christian Louboutin pointed-toe python heels. Between the snakeskin and lace, there's a lot of texture in this look! For jewelry, I used lagoon and crystal White House Black Market triple-drop earrings and multi-strand blue beaded bracelet set.

What do you think about mixed print pieces?

Trends For Less: Lovin' Mint

Trends For Less: Lovin' Mint by theclosetbychristie featuring mint green shoes

Happy Friday! On this week's edition of Trends For Less, I'm featuring the gorgeous pastel shade of mint. This is one of my favorite colors right now! It's beautiful and goes with so many different color palettes. More often than not, I see mint paired with nude. However, don't feel that limited- mint also looks great with navy, grey, black, and even coral. Don't be afraid to be bold!

In the above set, I paired a navy with mint floral crop top with beige high-waisted tailored shorts. Tailored shorts are a fabulous way to dress professionally during the warm summer months. There's definitely a style of shorts that can work for any body type. This particular style works well on me. I chose a navy TOPSHOP blazer to go with this look because it keeps the outfit professional looking. It also adds a darker hue to my color palette, which is otherwise very light. I accessorized with a mint leather Gap envelope clutch and mint pointed-toe bow flats. For jewelry, I used a mint bangle and White House Black Market goldtone pearl studs.

What's your favorite color palette to add mint to?

Trend Watch: Honeycomb Print

Trend Watch: Honeycomb Print by theclosetbychristie featuring flower jewelry

A completely new print on the scene this season is Honeycomb, inspired by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen's Spring 2013 collection. This pattern is so innovative and fresh! It really takes a creative eye to see something in nature, a beehive, and say 'that would make a great fashion print.' Most of the Alexander McQueen brand is avant-garde, often over-the-top or artistic fashion, and this collection is no different. Many of the models walked down the runway wearing wide-brimmed beekeeper hats that likely wouldn't be worn in the real world.

In the above set, I featured a nude Alexander McQueen fitted honeycomb dress. I kept a pastel color palette to soften the look, as the honeycomb pattern can be very bold, and I wanted to keep this as a ready-to-wear look for the office. I paired the dress with a mint classic-style blazer, color block handbag in mint, cream, & nude, and cream caged metal-cap heels. For jewelry, I used a Piperlime floral statement necklace in natural colors, ocean-colored threaded gold bangle, and white Kate Spade pyramid studs. 

Do you like the honeycomb print? How would you style it?

2013 Emmy Awards Style

Last Friday I was busy gearing up for the 2013 Emmy Awards Gala, making sure the look I styled was how I imagined it and everything was in place. In anticipation, I posted the Trends For Less: Gala Edition post to give you a preview of the finished look! I went back and forth on a few different jewelry combinations and took a vote on Polyvore. In the end, I settled on the above look!

Above is a photo of me in front of the step-and-repeat, wearing a white Calvin Klein sleeveless peplum dress from Lord and Taylor. Wearing this dress was a real bold choice for me, as I have a relatively fair skin tone. I got an airbrush tan at Soleil Tans so the dress would really pop. Taking a chance on the dress really paid off because I loved it and I received some compliments saying the white was a great choice. I accessorized with a mint chain-strap clutch that I received from a friend as a birthday gift and my favorite nude Cole Haan pointed-toe heels that I already owned. For jewelry it was an obvious decision for me to go with a White House Black Market piece (since I love their jewelry!)- I ended up with a gold bib statement necklace and gold pearl & crystal bracelet.

The Great Debate: Snakeskin

Snake-Effect Leather Skirt by theclosetbychristie featuring rebecca taylor tops

It's the great debate of the season; to wear snake skin or not? I've been skimming over some blogs in preparation of this post to see where people stand on this topic and the vast majority are unsure about it. It looks great on models but is this really something we, aka ordinary people, want to spend our money on? Can we pull off this look? I'll say my favorite word- 'yes!' When it comes to fashion, there's rarely a trend I'll say no-way to. The truth of the matter here is it's all about how you style it. Have no fear- it's just another fabric to really have some fun with!

In the above set, I featured a black snake-effect leather pencil skirt. I really love this skirt because it adds a modern quality to a classic silhouette. It gives the outfit some edge! As for styling this item, especially for the office, you don't want to overdo the edginess by pairing it with similar style items (i.e. motorcycle jacket, anything with studs, etc). In my look, I kept everything else very romantic/feminine to balance it. 

I paired the skirt with a watercolor printed loose-fitting blouse and bright blue fitted blazer. This color can be bold and edgy, but the elegant style kept it in check. I accessorized with a nude J.Crew pointed-toe bow heel and black Chanel vintage quilted leather clutch. For jewelry, I chose a J.Crew translucent stone bracelet and Kate Spade daisy studs.

Would you wear snake-skin? How would you style it?

Trends For Less: Gala Edition

Trends For Less: Gala Edition by theclosetbychristie featuring pave jewelry

For me everyday is a fashion show, every event is a runway. I love to play with my wardrobe; style my favorite top ten different ways so it looks different every time I wear it. And of course, like any true stylista, I love to add to my always growing real life closet. Whenever a big event approaches- a wedding, a date, a holiday- I always think 'what will I wear?' This weekend's event is no different. I will be attending the NY Emmy Awards Gala again this weekend and after several trips to the mall and scouring my favorite stores' websites, I have found THE dress- THE look.

In the above set, I featured my real life look that I styled for myself to wear to the NY Emmy Awards Gala. Note: Some of the images (the dress and bag) above are in fact, not the actual item that I'm mentioning. This is simply because I just couldn't find the correct image online. I did my very best to depict these items as closely as possible. My main piece is a white Calvin Klein sleeveless peplum dress from Lord and Taylor. I absolutely love this dress and went to great lengths to find it in my size! At first I had my heart set on a mint peplum dress that I imagined but when I laid eyes on this dress, I saw pure beauty. Not to mention the right peplum dress flatters well- can't go wrong! 

I accessorized with my favorite nude Cole Haan pointed toe heels from Nordstrom and nude Jennifer Lopez chain quilted purse from Kohls. Both of these items I already own. These are great for an event like this because Cole Haan shoes have Nike Air technology for utmost comfort and the bag, although small, fits all the essentials. For jewelry, I went to my favorite store- White House Black Market- because they have THE most gorgeous jewelry and accessories. I chose a gold bib necklace (on sale!) and a goldtone pearlized crystal bracelet.

What do you think of this look? I'll be sure to post a picture early next week!

Trend Watch: Drawstring Shoulder Bags

ModCloth Flats & Tailored Shorts by theclosetbychristie featuring a bangle bracelet

The latest trend that I have been noticing everywhere is the drawstring shoulder bag! Top designers- such as Marc Jacobs, Coach, and Brahmin- are all taking on this style and I think it's fabulous. The cool aspect of this bag is that it has been designed to look elegant, whereas, the word 'drawstring' doesn't necessarily have that connotation. Personally, when I hear 'drawstring' I immediately think of a gym bag, so it's amazing to see it designed in such a different way. Very innovative!

In the above set, I featured a cream Coach Legacy pebbled leather drawstring shoulder bag. I love this particular bag because it's in a neutral color and the tan shoulder strap is unique. You don't often see a bag with a different color shoulder strap! For the outfit, I chose a tan Saint Laurent ruffle blouse, tweed tailored shorts, and a bright coral DKNY blazer. A blouse tucked into tailored shorts is my favorite look for the warmer weather. It's so chic! I accessorized with red Modcloth pointed-toe bow-back flats, coral Charlotte Russe woven bead stud earrings, and coral Vince Camuto stone bracelet. 

What do you think of the new drawstring shoulder bag trend; chic or no way?

It's All About the Contrast

Missoni Checked Dress by theclosetbychristie featuring a leather bracelet

It's all about contrast for this Spring! Whether it be opposing patterns like leather and lace or colors like black and white, it's all #trending this season. When playing with contrasts, you can have many different outcomes. You could end up with fierce, elegant, fun, or- a total mess. Style this trend strategically!

In the above set, I featured a black and orange Missoni checked dress. Anything Missoni catches my attention because their style is so unique and beautiful. This dress in particular is so intricate and interesting. I love the contrasting patterns and how the black overlays the orange fabric. Orange can be such an obnoxious color, but they really toned it down with the overlay. I paired it with a tan cropped leather jacket.  

I accessorized with a Michael Kors yellow leather-trimmed straw tote, Tory Burch straw and metallic clutch, and Saint Laurent metal-cap heel. I love how the straw bags look with this outfit; it really makes it a spring look. I'm really into these shoes! I love the metal-cap shoe trend and the color-block look adds to our contrast theme. For jewelry, I used black flower studs and a Tory Burch leather clover cuff.

Do you like the contrast trend? What's your favorite way to style it?

Far East Influence for Spring

Cherry Blossom & Rose Gold by theclosetbychristie featuring a floral print skirt

The runways of Fashion Week were splashed with culture and took us on a trip to the Far East for another spring trend. From kimonos to karate jackets to cherry blossoms, it's all about Asian Inspired styles. You don't have to be as fierce as the models when trying out this trend! Think colorful prints, silk, sharp angles, kimono silhouettes. These Asian styles are sophisticated and traditional with a modern twist.

In the above set, I featured a coral cherry blossom pencil skirt. I fell in love with this skirt because it's definitely an oriental pattern, but without being too obvious. It's the perfect piece to incorporate this trend into your real wardrobe. I paired it with a pink TOPSHOP sleeveless crochet top and blush Dorothy Perkins blazer. I pulled these colors out of the blossoms on the skirt to accentuate that pattern. It also gives off a monochrome look. I accessorized with rust Jimmy Choo patent-leather pumps and a brown crossbody bag to add some 'nature-like' colors to my palette. 

For jewelry, I first added an Oscar de la Renta rose statement necklace. I love this because it really stands out on the pink top and gives the look more flavor. It certainly does its job as a statement necklace! Lastly, I incorporated some rose gold jewelry; Lord & Taylor knot earrings, cocktail ring, and Juicy Couture watch. I'm in love with rose gold jewelry right now! The look is so romantic and feminine. 

What's your favorite Asian style? How do you incorporate this trend into your everyday look?

Trends For Less: Nude Lace

Trends For Less: Nude Lace by theclosetbychristie featuring a lace skirt

#TGIF! So, we've made it through another work week, which means it's time to enjoy an edition of Trends For Less! This week I'm featuring nude lace. Nude is a very popular color right now, however, it can be difficult to wear since it can blend in with your skin and make you appear to be, well- nude! The key is to find just the right shade for your skin tone; always a shade lighter or darker than your skin. Another strategy is to choose a silhouette with some volume, or something that isn't skin-tight. That way, even if you're not wearing the perfect shade of nude, it's still pretty obvious that you're wearing something.

In the above set, I featured a nude lace skater skirt paired with a nude TOPSHOP lace top. I love this because the nude lace on nude lace makes it appear like a dress. I added a cream White House Black Market flower tie-belt. I personally own the black version of this belt and it was well worth every penny! It completely transforms the look of every outfit I pair it with and it's really flattering. Investing in a fun accessory like this can save you some money since it can make an old top look new again.

I accessorized with a white Dorothy Perkins cardigan, nude Ann Klein metal-cap heels, and green bow clutch. I can't quite explain it, but I'm really into the metal-cap heels and flats. It's just a look I love! For jewelry, I kept it simple with Dorothy Perkins pastel cluster studs.

How would you style nude lace? Are you into this trend?

Trend Watch: White on White

Trend Watch: White on White by theclosetbychristie featuring dkny tops

White on White was once a fashion no-no, but today we live in a fashion world where almost anything goes! Throw out that old rule book because this season, White on White is a budding trend that creates a very elegant, sophisticated look.

My favorite way to style this trend is to pair a white peplum top with a white pencil skirt. I featured that style in a previous post (Trends For Less: Peplum Top with Pencil Skirt) that was inspired by the Christian Dior gown Charlize Theron wore to the Oscar's. That gorgeous look seems to have sparked this new trend!

In the above set, I featured a white DKNY peplum top with a white pencil skirt. This creates a beautiful, flattering silhouette. I truly believe that every woman needs to have at least one peplum top in her closet because of its flattering effect. It creates a perfect waist and draws the eyes right to it. I accessorized with a silver Armani Jeans belted blazer, silver Jimmy Choo pointed-toe heels, and a cobalt Yves Saint Laurent leather handbag. These colors- silver and cobalt blue- go perfectly with a White on White look and adds to the elegance. For jewelry, I used cobalt as an accent. I chose a peacock bib statement necklace, gold-toned bangle set, and square stud earrings.

Are you into the White on White trend? How would you style it? 

How-To Style Guide: Shorts at the Office

Shorts at the Office by theclosetbychristie featuring a chloé

Shorts were #trending during Fashion Week for Spring 2013! The really big styles are tailored shorts and Bermuda shorts. Many women cringe when hearing the word shorts because it has the connotation of short. But it doesn't have to be like that! Today there's a pair of shorts out there for everyone and every body type. You just have to know your body and what works for you. If you're unsure of what flatters your body, check out Bradley Bayou's book The Science of Sexy. It's a great guide to help you get to know the do's and don'ts for your body.

Tailored shorts are a perfect fit for me! It gives me an older look and I feel comfortable and confident in them. That's a good reason to say 'yes' to any trend! In the above set, I featured a pair of dark-beige pleated tailored shorts. This matches my personal preferences and it's also a great choice for the office. Yes, I said the office! When paired with the right complimenting pieces, you can definitely pull this off in a professional environment. I recommend wearing sheer beige stockings with them. 

In the look above, I paired the tailored shorts with a neon ruffle blouse and white Chloe Rose blazer. The blazer plays a major role in keeping this look professional. It adds that typical 'office-style' silhouette. I accessorized with nude contrast heels and a cream Coach pebbled leather drawstring shoulder bag. For jewelry, I chose a nude Kate Spade leather watch, gold clover bangle, and neon studs. The mostly neutral color palette also adds to the elegance of this look and keeps it appropriate as office attire.

What's your favorite style shorts? Would you wear shorts to work?

Wearing Tricky Trends at the Office

How-To Work Style: Tricky Trends by theclosetbychristie featuring burberries

There's so many fun, current trends; neon, sheer, leather, mixing patterns. If you work full-time like me, then you know there's not enough hours over the weekend to squeeze in all of these fun looks! These are called tricky trends because they are tough to style even as an everyday look. But there's no reason why you can't wear these trends to work! Proceed with caution and put on your styling cap- you can do this! Here's how!

In the above set, I featured a Simone Rocha neon embroidered skirt as my tricky trend. This is a particularly difficult item to style because it's highlighter yellow (in my opinion- THE most challenging neon color to work with) and it's a main piece- meaning it's not an accessory. #style-warning, must wear with confidence! 

The key to wearing this type of trend is to stick with a neutral color palette and classic silhouettes. In my set above, I chose items that are very stereotypical office-wear, such as the white Burberry London bow-detail collared blouse and navy French Connection blazer. A collared top and blazer, such as these, are generally where your mind may first go when "business attire" is mentioned. My accessories- navy peep-toe bow heel, cobalt Givenchy envelope clutch, neon stud earrings, and mint stripe bangle- are a little bolder, but we all know I like to push the limits. Overall, it works.

What's your favorite tricky trend to wear to the office?