Fashion

Vogue.coms 5 Days, 5 Looks, One Girl

Selby Drummond, wearing Michael Kors pants, Alexander Wang vest, via Vogue

I was wandering the blogosphere the other day when a blogger introduced me to Vogue’s 5 Days, 5 Looks, One Girl. (I now can’t remember which blog it was — so sorry!) [Edit: It was Genny's blog! Thanks Genny!]

I’d never seen this series before, which in a way is good: It opened up a treasure trove of new-to-me features that stretch back to 2009. It’s like how I felt when I first discovered Dan Savage’s Savage Love, and his archives, albeit focused on a decidedly different subject matter. (Warning: not for the faint at heart.)

Vogue.coms 5 Days, 5 Looks, One Girl

Sylvana Ward Durrett, sporting an original blend of layered jewelry, via Vogue

Anyway, the 5 Days series features a single Vogue staffer’s work outfits, complete with descriptions, styling philosophies, and tidbits about the history of the items.

Vogue.coms 5 Days, 5 Looks, One Girl

Chioma Nnadi wearing J.Crew pants, Alice Ritter sweater, and Robert Clergerie sandals, via Vogue

No, most of us don’t have designer friends sending us their pieces to wear, or the means to wear Gucci head-to-toe (or, in many cases, the desire to).

But aside from some grating comments here and there — such as Sylvana’s pronouncement that “every Vogue girl knows, one MUST have color in their wardrobe” — I love this series because (1) it’s introduced me to designers I’ve never heard of, but now admire — particularly jewelry designers, and (2) the unexpected ways these women style and combine their pieces is beautiful and inspirational. It’s motivating me to shop my closet, and make what I already own “new” through inspired combinations. Check out the archives.

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I, like much of the world, never knew about Reiss (a British fashion brand) until Kate Middleton started wearing the label in some high profile situations. Like in her engagement pictures, or when meeting Michelle Obama (fans after that dress crashed Reiss’s website twice).

The brand is pricey, but not unattainably so — you can splurge on a dress for $300 or a pair of pants for $180.

I drooled when I saw these images from Reiss’s fall line. The looks are polished, sophisticated, but still fun. Who says you have to look boring at work?

Wear Reiss to Work This Fall; Look Like a Princess
Wear Reiss to Work This Fall; Look Like a Princess
Wear Reiss to Work This Fall; Look Like a Princess
Wear Reiss to Work This Fall; Look Like a Princess
Wear Reiss to Work This Fall; Look Like a Princess
Wear Reiss to Work This Fall; Look Like a Princess
Wear Reiss to Work This Fall; Look Like a Princess
Wear Reiss to Work This Fall; Look Like a Princess
Wear Reiss to Work This Fall; Look Like a Princess
Wear Reiss to Work This Fall; Look Like a Princess
Wear Reiss to Work This Fall; Look Like a Princess

The outerwear is especially stunning. How I want that ankle-length grey coat! According to those in the know, these fall items are appearing in a steady stream on Reiss’s website and in stores from now until October.

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I am all about fall. My birthday’s in the fall, school starts in the fall (I always loved going back to school), fall weather is crisp and clean, and the best holidays are right around the corner.

Fall fashions are also, without fail, my favorites.

I took a peak at J.Crew’s new fall 2011 items, and there were a few items in particular that I would love to don on a cool early October morning.

Perhaps the prices will miraculously drop 50% by then, with options remaining in my size? A girl can dream.

My Favorite J.Crew Fall 2011 Items

Bonnie Dress, $168

My Favorite J.Crew Fall 2011 Items

Memo Dress, $188

My Favorite J.Crew Fall 2011 Items

Mona Leather Pumps, $198. This shade would punch up a variety of outfits.

My Favorite J.Crew Fall 2011 Items

Stone Storm Necklace, $78

And P.S. The Gatsby inspiration in jewelry I posted about? J.Crew’s on the trendwagon as well. Vogue reported awhile back that Daisy Buchanan from the Great Gatsby, along with Bonnie from Bonnie and Clyde, are J.Crew’s fall muses. So Banana Republic’s 1960s will go pump-to-pump with J.Crew’s 1920s this upcoming season.

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I’m happy to present the first post in a new series where I ask super stylish bloggers to put together dream work looks — and explain why these pieces make sense for them.

Blogger Lookbook: Paloma of Paper Garland

I asked Paloma to inaugurate this series because I love the classic style that oozes through her blog, Paper Garland. I’m so excited she said yes! Here’s the scoop on her ideal outfit, in her own words.

Job Description

I work in Regulatory Affairs for a major healthcare company. I am a part of the team that handles international government affairs within the department, and this basically means that I work with international colleagues to ensure that our products comply with their countries’ ever-changing government regulations, and to assist them with the registration process. On any given day I could be drafting documents, answering government questions on a particular product, or handling administrative tasks. My responsibilities change daily!

Why I Chose These Pieces

Our workplace is classified as “business casual,” which I know means something different from office to office! In my office, it really means that for a woman, a collared shirt is a bit too formal and a tank top is too informal. Most of us wear a combination of slacks, daytime blouses, and flats to work daily and the occasional dress or pencil skirt will sneak in from time to time.

I chose these lovely pieces because I think they represent the chicest, most stylish take on business casual that would be appropriate in my own office. I would describe my personal style as “trendy meets tomboy” and I think this outfit captures me perfectly! Although most of workday is spent working from my desk, I do have a couple of meetings each week with other departments within the company. This look is polished enough for meetings but still casual, and on trend too!

Tory Burch Pumps ($275). Tory Burch makes some of the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn, and I’m sure this adorable pump would be no exception. I love the retro feel of the chunky heel paired with Tory’s modern monogram. Cognac leather is my favorite because it can help tone down an outfit that might feel too dressy.

Kate Spade Tote ($475). Every girl needs a classic black tote – for work and beyond! This Kate Spade version is clean and simple, with just the right amount of detail. Bonus: black leather and buckles will never go out of style. Promise.

Pleated Olive Capris ($40). I have a mild obsession with high-waisted paints these days. These pleated olive capris are not only in my all-time favorite clothing color, olive green, but the hip detail would look great with a black belt and paired with a flowy blouse!

Tiny Pearl Necklace ($46). I wear this necklace to the office almost everyday. A full strand of pearls would definitely be too formal for my workplace, and I think this Dogeared charm strikes the perfect balance between elegant and trendy.

Pussybow Short Sleeve Blouse ($31). My favorite work outfits are those that mix traditionally feminine elements with menswear inspired pieces. I would love to wear this oversized-bow blouse with high-waisted capris, a blazer, or even suspenders to balance it out.

Thanks Paloma!

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There’s a New Decade in Town

by Emma / July 25, 2011 / 1 comment

Move over, Mad Men and the 1960s — looks like Baz Luhrmann’s upcoming remake of The Great Gatsby (starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Carey Mulligan) is inspiring fashion designers to look to the 1920s for inspiration. Or at least that’s the claim from the New York Times.

(I guess both Banana Republic and I missed the memo.)

For now, the Times is pointing to jewelry designs as evidence of the trend. It will be interesting to see how 1920s style is channeled into work wear. Fashions from the 1960s — when ever more women were joining the workforce — translate well in office-appropriate attire. But the 1920s? Will we see fringed skirt suits? Feather headdresses?

Anyway. Here are some pieces from jewelry makers cited by the Times. They are beautiful.

Theres a New Decade in Town

Actually from Jene DeSpain’s “Roaring 10s Collection.” Rockefeller Collar with Amethyst Swarovski, $298.

Theres a New Decade in Town

Hespera Necklace, by Gemma Redux. $444.

Are those prices too steep for you? (They are for me.) As always, a search on Etsy delivers — just search vintage items for “1920s jewelry” and you’ll see some more affordable options.

Theres a New Decade in Town

1920s Antique Art Deco Necklace from agvintagejewelry, $42.

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In August, Banana Republic will introduce this Mad Men inspired capsule collection from Mad Men costume designer Janie Bryant.

Banana Republics Mad Men Inspired Fall 2011 Line
Banana Republics Mad Men Inspired Fall 2011 Line
Banana Republics Mad Men Inspired Fall 2011 Line
Banana Republics Mad Men Inspired Fall 2011 Line
Banana Republics Mad Men Inspired Fall 2011 Line
Banana Republics Mad Men Inspired Fall 2011 Line
Banana Republics Mad Men Inspired Fall 2011 Line
Banana Republics Mad Men Inspired Fall 2011 Line
Banana Republics Mad Men Inspired Fall 2011 Line
Banana Republics Mad Men Inspired Fall 2011 Line

I adore the dresses and skirts, but I’m over cheetah print — especially for work. I’d probably overlook the multicolored pearl necklace sitting on a table, but it looks great as it’s featured in some of the looks. What do you think?

[found via BusinessChic]

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Travelteq Bags

by Emma / July 14, 2011 / 1 comment

I thought I’d share with you these gorgeous, buttery, polished bags that would be perfect for any on-the-go woman. I lust after these bags in vain, though — the price tags are steep.

On a related note, wouldn’t it be great to win the lottery? I have daydreams about this sometimes, even though I’ve never purchased a lottery ticket. These dreams entail starting my own company, boating in the Mediterranean, and never again having to do my own laundry. Perfection.

Travelteq Bags
Travelteq Bags
Trash Original, €395

Travelteq Bags
Travelteq Bags
Trash Canvas, €525

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What Goes with Orange

by Emma / July 13, 2011 / 5 comments

The hottest color this summer is my absolute favorite shade. (My perennial favorite nail polish is a similar color — O.P.I.’s Cajun Shrimp.) Being slightly color blind, at first glance I always think this color is red. I call it “tomato red.” But then everyone tells me I’m wrong, and I realize… it’s actually just “tomato orange.”

This color is seriously everywhere in fashion right now, and you may be looking for ways to wear it. That said, you’re probably reluctant to take color advice from someone who’s colorblind. But, I submit to you that even if I see more red than orange in this hue, I can still tell what looks good with it. Sure, you could go with safe neutrals — cream, tan, chocolate. I’d stay away from black. If you’re feeling more adventurous, try the colorblocking trend with these daring — but harmonious — color combos: Navy and mint green.

What Goes with Orange

1. $98 at J.Crew; 2. $88 at Anthropologie; 3. $85 at ASOS; 4. $118 at Saks; 5. $129 at Nordstrom.

What Goes with Orange

1. $158 at Orla Kiely; 2. $220 at Matches; 3. $10 at Fred Flare; 4. $88 at Pret-a-Beaute; 5. $60 at Delia’s.

*Note: I’m not recommending you wear head-to-toe orange with navy, or mint green. I’m just showing that there are options.

By the way, how’s your summer reading coming along? On my list of four, I’ve tackled… one: A Visit from the Goon Squad. It was really, really good. I highly doubt I’ll get to War and Peace this summer (I keep pushing it off…), but I still plan on reading Bossypants and Freedom. Read any good ones that you recommend?

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To Broach the Brooch

by Emma / July 11, 2011 / 4 comments

A great way to schmancy up a work (or any) outfit is to add a brooch — use one to fasten a scarf, pin one to your lapel, or affix one to the waist of your sheath dress. Michelle Obama loves the look.

To Broach the Brooch
Photo credits: 1, 2, 3.

(On the other hand, duplication of Anne Hathaway’s eye makeup is not advised.)

Etsy, as always, is a great source of inexpensive handmade and vintage costume brooches. Here are a few of my favorites:

To Broach the Brooch
From left to right, top to bottom: 1. $24; 2. $20; 3. $26; 4. $7; 5. $5; 6. $24; 7. $6; 8. $15; 9. $28.

I’m going to try to work brooches into my wedding. I’m going for a vintage-y, 1960s Paris theme, so I’m thinking I’ll get some for my bridesmaids to wear. And they can double as wedding party gifts.

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Dress Sale

by Emma / June 24, 2011 / 2 comments

It’s that time of year for summer sales… now you can nab the stuff you’ve had your eye on, but were unwilling to shell out full price for. There are some really fun work dresses on sale right now at Bloomingdale’s. Here are my favorites:

Dress Sale

Theory "Kabilla" Belted Dress. Originally $295, now $123.90.

Dress Sale

Elie Tahari "Lori" Twist Neck Dress. Originally $268, now $160.80.

Dress Sale

Anne Klein New York Stretch Tie-Dyed Silk Sheath Dress. Originally $395, now $138.25.

Dress Sale

Jones New York Collection V-Neck System Dress. Originally $159, now $89.04.

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