Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

As we approach the weekend it's only right that I cap off this week's theme, "grown-up girly", with a simple "how to".  This is a look that's easy to pull off and is both casual and chic, not to mention suitable for a number of different occasions.  

The Cure: Refined Recreation

For me, this is a look that is built off of the shoe! Find a pair of your girliest pumps and go from there.  My go to line of girly goodness is Butter and this double bow, open toe pump is perfection.  Since the shoe is a neutral, I'd anchor the look with a pop of color, in this case the shorts, top it with a silk tee that has some kind of simple graphic or a bit of texture and then amp up the playful side of the look with accessories!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

In keeping with the idea of a grown up girly look I stumbled upon the cutest pair of flats!  These Miu Miu ballerinas are a baby pink patent with grosgrain bow and Swarworvski embellishment are the perfect combo of girly and grown up. They also come with a very grown-up price, $650.

Miu Miu, $650

Lucky for us, Libby Edelman has a pair that captures the cute and the chic with a price that isn't so steep!

The "Alexis" comes in the same baby pink patent, but with a chiffon like bow and rhinestone accent. Fun, flirty, and totally affordable at just $86!

Libby Edelman, $86

Grown Up Girly

Do you ever get nostalgic for looks you used to wear when you were younger, looks that just aren't age appropriate anymore? Let's not kid ourselves, some of the things we used to wear were uber-cute, and you can get that girlhood look all grown-up.

This sprint color will of course play an important role and this is a look that incorporates it freely, when thinking about your old tee and shorts stand by make it more sophisticated in richer fabrics and silhouettes. Eyelet dresses is curve hugging cuts and flats with bows also add an air to this polished playground look.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

There are so many things I love about Spring, the warmer weather, the scent of flowers blooming in the air, an overall feeling of renewal, and of course new clothes!  Some of this years trends are a perfect way to say hello to Spring.  How quickly can you put a springy look together?

The Cure: Spring Fling

Maxi skirts are still very much on trend, go for a pleated style in a pastel shade to really show your springy love.  Top with an embellished tank (no need for a necklace) and add a spring staple with a wedge.  If you're feeling adventurous compliment the look with a nature inspired bangle and you are set for Spring!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Wanted: Chunky heeled leather platform sandal, with adjustable ankle strap and decorative stitching.  On my search for the perfect platform do you know what I found? This gorgeous sandal from Chloe.  My two favorite parts about this sandal...the studs on the toe and stitching up the heel, my least favorite part...the price, guess I should add in my ad that only shoes below $200 need apply.

Chloe, $695

Luckily enough I found another pair that meets my needs.  The Payton from Kork-Ease fits the bill with a thick chunky heel and wooden platform.  I lose the studs, but gain more decorative stitching and woven details for a bonus! Double bonus, only $174, a match made in Heaven!

Kork-Ease, $174

Nature Made

Spring is only days away and we've barely scratched the surface of fashionable possibilities for the season. Prints have had quite a presence on the runway, from mad and bold to soft and flowery, with so many options to choose from you can easily pick the one that fits your style.  Nature inspired prints are this weeks focus and they are positively precious.

There is more that just flowery fullness here, but nature-scapes including jungles, forests, landscapes, and horizons.  With so much going on in one of these prints, choose a fabric that is light and airy so the print doesn't weigh you down, but choose a shoe that's a little heavy to keep you grounded.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Color is coming on strong this season, with everything from super saturated colored denim, to the long lasting color-blocking trend.  Experimenting with such bold, bright, hues can be intimidating, but there are simple ways to introduce them to your wardrobe.

The Cure : Closet...meet Color!

As per my usual advice when trying anything new or trending, start small and adjust to find your comfort level.  Find one piece in a bright color you love. A blazer is a great place to start, as a layering piece it can easily be removed if you start to think that the look just isn't for you.  If you are feeling slightly bolder, add a statement necklace in a contrasting color, and once you are completely cool with the look, color block with a pair of colored denim.  Just make sure to keep a few things neutral, you don't need to reveal an entire rainbow of color in one look!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Have you been looking for that perfect summer stunner sandal? Look no further because Jimmy Choo has the perfect sandal for you! Platform, check, strappy, check, ridiculously beautiful, check, totally affordable...well ok so maybe it's not so perfect but you have to admit that this $750 may be worth money.

Jimmy Choo, $750

Of course you can laugh and admit that $750 is absurd for a pair of shoes and I may just have to agree with you.  Which is why I bring you the Tifara from Pour La Victoire.  Instead of a buckle it has a zipper and one less criss cross than the Jimmy Choo, but it is by farm just as stunning for a summer sandal.  At only $199 you could by 3 pairs before paying as much as the Jimmy Choos. Platform, check, strappy, check, ridiculously beautiful, check, totally affordable...check!

Pour la Victoire, $199

High on High-Waists

Want to grow 6 inches overnight?  It's easy to do with the right cuts of clothing! Welcome to the age of high-waisted everything, pants, skirts, even shorts, and when paired with the right proportions you can look longer and leaner!

Proportion is key in the high-waisted world.  This is a waistline that's meant to be seen, so tuck those shirts in or chose a cropped look that hits just at the waistline.  Volume is important to keep in mind too, if you choose a wide-leg pant, your top should be slim.  A high-wasted pencil skirt should accompany a billowy blouse.  And when it comes to shoes, the taller the heel the better!

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

It's Casual Friday!!! Yay!!! Today is the day where you can finally let your hair down and relax a little while you work.  You can still dress to impress and be ready to hit happy hour right after work by combining a few key pieces!

The Cure: Dressed Down Duds

Pull out that femme tweed jacket, the one with Chanel like charm...too much you think? It's so easy to dress down.  Layer a silk embellished camisole under it and pair those pieces with your cuffed boyfriend jeans.  Finish with a soft shaded wedge and you're done! Once work is over, lose the blazer and you're ready for a night out!

Under Construction...Complete!

Our Fells Point location has re-opened with our BRAND NEW expanded space!!! Not only are we carrying the cutest in Spring shoes, jewelry and handbags...but now clothes as well!  Come check us out!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

I'm not going to lie, I love me some gladiator sandals and I can't wait to rock a new pair!  Moschino Cheap and Chic has a glorious two tone leather sandal strappy enough to make a statement. They truly are chic, but the $495 price is not cheap.

Moschino, $495

How about Cheaper and Chic...does that exist? It does when you consider a less expensive version by Gentle Souls.  While the price is less these are definitely not "cheap" sandals.  The modified gladiator pattern adds an aire of femininity while special cushioned pods create contours of comfort. At $148 you'll be glad you made this choice!

Gentle Souls, $148

Avant Garde Glam

The romantic look of fashion isn't a reflection of the past this season, but of the future with it's more modern approach.  How is this being acheived?  According to InStyle,

"Take classic elements like ruffles, florals, lace, and peplums and apply them to shapes that are lean, geometric, and exaggerated.  It's a gutsy yet glorious idea.  The result is femininity that replaces dainty with drama."

photos courtesy of InStyle

Drama is definite and this is not a look for the faint of heart.  Even for the most daring of divas, one statement piece is all you need.  By combining so many elements into one, there is no need for added accessorizing.   Stick to neutrals with shoes and depending on how wild your wear, the simpler the better.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

It's date night, or maybe just a low key night out and you are not feeling the love for denim this evening.  You're thinking you want to wear something a little extra special, but still keep things casual.  In the moment a dress feels too much, pants feel too office like, you need something that is just right...

The Cure: One Piece Wonder

One piece can do all the work for you! Take for example this fab skirt that combines two trends, you've got  a great bold Aztec print and sequins for that high gloss shine. This is a great piece because you can dress it up and down!  Dressed down for a casual night out, top it with a chambray button down, nude heels, and simple accessories.  By keeping everything else low key, the skirt can stand on it's own as that little bit of extra special, but not stick out like a sore thumb.  

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Menswear influences have not only touched clothing, but shoes as well this season as the driving loafer is on the up and up.  Soft leather or suede with a mocassin stitched round toe create a cool, casual, and comfortable vibe for your feet. This rediscovered classic has numerous designers backing it from Manolo Blahnik to Prada, to Bottega Venetta, to Brunello Cucinelli, but big names means big prices, you could be looking anywhere from $450 to $830.

Brunello, Manolo, Prada, Bottega

I do have one more big name that just might surprise and excite you.  Frye has their own version of the driving loafer and it is the epitome of cool, casual, and comfortable!  The Reagan Campus Driver is made with a buttery soft leather and is a timeless must have.  Fear not, you can drive away with a pair of these for only $148!!! Just remember to buckle up!

Frye, $148

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Shine On!

All of the sparkly goodness from last night's Oscar awards reminded me of how much fun a little (or a lot) of shine can be! Alas, such things are not so ready-to-wear...or are they?!?  Perhaps not to the extent of being red carpet ready but designers from Chanel, Armani, Theory, and Reed Krakoff have exhibited a subtler sequin Spring look this season.

According to InStyle magazine the sea seems to be a major influence with an abundance of iridescent and opalescent fabrics, so take your cues from that, choosy pearly colors and simple, flowing lines.  Stick to the "less is more" mantra, one shiny piece is enough.  Most importantly,remember that while shimmer is acceptable 24/7, what you wear, where is still important.

Sale!!!

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

Well we are now in that weird part of the season where focus is shifting...fall/winter is going on sale and spring/summer is making its grand entrance...so what do you wear? You are so excited to show off your special new finds but the weather isn't cooperating enough yet.  Time to transition.

The Cure: Transition Teasers

You don't have to fully reveal all of your fabulous spring finds just because every fashion outlet is putting all trends on blast, allow your wardrobe to heat up in line with temperatures!  One thing you should not be without this season is a frilly and feminine full dress.  Great for shifting seasons and moving day to night! Layer up with a blazer, individualize with accessories and go for a great neutral spring shoe!  Transition triumph!

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

What Summer shoe collection would be complete without a fabulous new wedge and of course there is one that has already caught my eye! Mixed materials of leather, cork and metallics, this leg lengthening number is off the charts. With the signature snipped peep toe and adjustable ankle strap this Guiseppe Zanotti wedge is bold yet barely there.  Coming in at $695 it is a definite must-have!

Guiseppe Zanotti, $695

Must-have if you plan on going broke this season. If mixed materials and summer statements are what you're after take a look at this stunner from Bacio 61.  Varying shades of beige leather are set off by cork sprinkled with metallic, complete with peep toe and adjustable ankle strap.  The mix of colors and textures makes this a wedge to be wished for.  Wish no more and make it yours for just $176!

Bacio 61, $176

Popping Pastels

InStyle Magazine just came out with their massive March issue, in it is their coverage of Spring trends, which I love! First on their list is Pastels, claiming "Spring color doesn't go soft even when it's time to get pretty".  This season's softer side of color still packs a potent punch.  Sure there are lilacs, mint greens, powder blues, and pale pinks, but each shade is a bit more saturated.

How to pull it off you wonder? According to InStyle,

"Because these shades are intense, choose clothes with clean lines, and balance solid on solid. Avoid neutrals as a base but rely on them for accessories, especially shoes. To add power to this glory, pair pastels with...more pastels!"

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

I bet you are excited to go shopping with all of these new Spring trends on the rise.  Let me caution you slightly, what you see the on runway is so much more carefully conceptualized than what you may find in stores, so while you may be ready to take the plunge into new trends it may be better to just get your feet wet.  Case in point...the athletic trend, I'm pretty sure that neoprene is not office appropriate, so how can you try your hand at this fit fashion wear?

The Cure: Simply Stated Sport

Many fashion editors are advising a "less is more" mantra when it comes to such trends like athletic wear. You do not want to look like you are coming from the gym, you want to embrace the street chic fashionista that you are so choose just one piece to help illustrate this look.  Personally, I would start with a great pair of dark skinny jeans, a failsafe basic and then venture to the world of runway with a mesh top.  Notice this top is not neon (another tip, don't try to wear all new trends at once).  The mesh provides an athletic feel, but the neckline and fitted silhouette provide subtle sophistication.  Simple, but it makes a statement. In keeping with generally neutral shades, do the same with your shoe, but amp up style.  If you want to test the waters a little more, add one bold accessory to complete the look.

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Lacing is making a transition from boots to heels this season as this feature is climbing the fashion ladder.  These Manolo's would make even Carrie Bradshaw drool.  The satin fabric sandal with lace up vamp and leather cut-outs is like a corset for you foot, and is certainly sexy! They can be all yours for $885, no longer drooling are you?

Manolo Blahnik, $885

Gentle Souls has a lace up vamp, cut-out leather sandal that can give the MBs a run for their money.  With a slightly smaller heel this shoe comes with advanced comfort technology, designed to make your shoes comfortable and current.  At $187 they are more than drool worthy!

Gentle Souls, $187

Get in the Game

This Spring designers want you suit up in a different sense.  Alexander Wang, Rag & Bone, and Narsisco Rodriguez are just a few taking their design cues from the court with exaggerated athletic stylings.

Mesh and neoprene fabrics, racing stripe details, cargo pockets, and sophisticated track pants raced down the runway. But don't be fooled, these aren't just luxe gym clothes ladies, this is locker-room chic taken to the next level. Put's a new spin on the growing athletic wear trend. What will you be sporting this Spring?

Shoe Love!!!

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

While you may think you need to possess some serious swagger in order to pull off the Island Fever trend I mentioned earlier this week, I have to tell you, you think wrong.  Bold prints are going to be everywhere this season, but that doesn't mean you should wear them everywhere.  How can you pull it off?

The Cure: Fiery Florals

A casual outing is probably best for this type of ensemble. But whether you're going on a date or making a trip to the mall, this is a great way to try a big, bold, floral print without going overboard.  Choose one piece of your ensemble to wear a print.  Most may choose a blouse, covered by a sweater or blazer for a subdued look, others may make it the blazer, and yet others may choose the up and coming print pant.  Next, highlight one of the colors in the print with another item of clothing, and finish off the outfit with neutrals.  In my case, my print is the blazer, complemented with the blouse, and white skinny jeans.  Pair with a great  shoe that spotlights the season and any accessories you with to add.

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

There is one shoe that should be on everyone's Spring/Summer wishlist...a cross-band wedge! This timeless warm weather classic can literally go with just about every ensemble you can imagine.  I found a beautiful cross-band platform wedge by Marni, with buckle accents and an adjustable ankle.  It's clean and simple and without a doubt a go to shoe. It will only put you in the hole $655.

Marni, $655

Of course it's easy to dig your way out with the Harwich by Clarks.  While wedges are normally comfortable by design, you know with a name like Clarks, comfort is going to be first rate.  This wedge is very similar to the Marni with it's cross-band straps and adjustable buckle ankle strap.  I only see too real differences, a cork wedge (which oozes summer style) and the price...$112. These are sure to be a fast favorite!

Clarks, $112

Island Fever

With all of the new trends walking their way down the runway, one very special one caught my eye, probably because I have a little bit of island fever, but if I can't go to the islands, why not bring them to me!
Stella McCartney highlighted a retro Hawaiian feel this spring, combine that with clean sporty lines and neoprene fabrics and you evoke a version of modern nostalgia.

Hawaiian prints, color-blocking, sporty minis, bright colors and exotic florals all awaken that island feel.  Keep in mind this is not a look that is anything close to mainstream, and don't think that the Hawaiian shirt in your closet can pass for this specific style.  Pick and choose pieces carefully to pull off this period style.

Fashion Rx: Your weekly dose of what to wear!

If you're anything like me than you're already thinking about transitioning your wardrobe to shorter sleeves, shorter dresses, and well just about anything shorter in length.  It might not be warm enough to loose all that length but that doesn't mean you should skimp on style.  Loosing a little goes a long way, so how do you transition and stay on trend?

The Cure: The Short and Long of it...

A short-sleeved striped maxi dress is a great way to loose a little length and still dress for the weather.  A light weight jacket provides a layer of warmth if needed.  Add a statement pendant to add interest and a great casual leather loafer to nod to nautical stylings.

First-Class Flats

While strutting your stuff and showing your glam gams may be all you can think about when it comes to Spring/Summer, don't forget sometimes your feet need as much R&R as you do.  Give them a break in any one of these pairs of fabulous and flirty flats!

"You can do anything you want, but don't step on my blue suede shoes"

"Chain Chain Chain" no way you could be a fool with flats!

"Chain Chain Chain" no way you could be a fool with flats!

Must have moccasins!

Bold buckles bring out simple style savvy

Bold buckles bring out simple style savvy

Fantasy Fashion Becomes Reality

Spring, snakeskin, and slingbacks all seem to go together, and the combination couldn't look more lovely than they do with the Casadei Python-Embossed sling-back pump.  This leg lengthening look in a neutral nude python is barely there brilliant and sensational for Spring. Only $820...only...

Casadei

Well what about Guiseppe Zanotti's, open-toed, snakeskin embossed platform pump? This one has a slightly hidden cork platform, and it's only $695...only...

Guiseppe Zanotti

Ok ok I know what you're thinking, what is she going to throw at us next?!? How about Sam Edelman's Evelyn? The peep toe cleverly conceals a slight platform of this sexy shoe with a sling-back and skinny heel. The price is oh so nice at just $118!!!

Sam Edelman