color me dior

[Images courtesy of elle.com; Christian Dior RTW Spring 2011]

Christian Dior has built an empire on flowy fabrics and bold colors.  His Spring 2011 line has me counting the days until the weather is warm enough to sport one of his dreamy dresses! Spring fashion will be marked by bold and bright colors- like flowers in bloom, your closet should open up to a variety of new color and prints.  Dior's line looks to be inspired by the Pacific... Hawaiian prints, flowy skirts, flowers and sheer materials- perfect attire for a vacation in the tropics.  But why not bring the Pacific mood to your closet? It is sure to make a big impact across the fashion world this Spring!

top five

Happy New Year! I am officially back from my mini-vacation, and ready to dive into 2011 with style.  There are sure to be some new and awesome trends hitting store fronts this year... but there are some overarching themes that we should definitely keep in our wardrobes into the new year!

Here are my top 5 awesome style trends from 2010:

1.  Lacy Luxury

While some designers decided to make underware outerware (thank heaven THAT trend didn't stick), we still have added a heavy amount of lace and sheer fabric to our closets.  A chic lace skirt paired with a dress shirt, or a sheer top with some jeans for a night out give us some options that are both chic and classy!

[NYmag.com; Lace at Catherine Holstein, Verrier, and Diane von Furstenberg]

2.  Atten-tion!

With subtle olive and khaki tones, military-inspired pieces have become a necessity in any closet.  Cargo pants, jackets and shirts offer both style and versatility, while offering a nice change up to jeans.

[Vogue Military Issue, 2010]

3.  Like a red rag to a bull...

Remember True Romance? That speaks to the overarching color of 2010: Red.  Whether it was on your lips, your nails or your dress, this color was red-hot on the runway, at all the award shows, and on the streets.  This trend will continue through the winter and into spring, adding a pop of color to any outfit.

[Penelope Cruz, photo courtesy of stylesthatworkforyou.blogspot.com]

4.  Rawr!

One of my favorites, animal print was BIG for 2010.  Dressed down with denim, or up with silk or velvet, many new designers jumped at the opportunity to feature primal prints.  A must have for any chic closet!

[Roberto Cavalli: Milan Fashion Week 2010]

5.  Flower Power

Florals look great on pretty much everyone, and I cannot wait for this trend to hit center stage once again this spring.  Look for them not only in blouses and tanks, but also in headbands and jewelry to add the perfect amount of whimsical fantasy to your outfit.

[NYMag.com; Tuleh, Tracy Rose, and Peter Som]

Agree with my top five? What are your favorite trends from 2010?

blazers of glory

[Images courtesy of jcrew.com]

Blazers. Quite possibly my favorite trend this winter season.  Preppy and professional, it is sure to add a classy element to any outfit.  Wear it with an embellished T, collared shirt, or worn out band tshirt... any of these outfits is sure to draw looks.  Influenced by both the boyfriend jeans and boyfriend tees trends, this look made its debut on the Spring 2010 catwalk.   But why let it stay in the spring? Mix it with some sweaters and knits to add a cozy look.

I have been a huge fan of the blazer this winter.... go out and grab yourself one from one of my favorite stores of all time: J Crew!  Look for one that is oversized, where you can roll up the sleeves for ultimate comfort and style.

lets get cozy

[Alexander Wang Spring 2010]

[Jean Paul Gaultier, Winter 2010 Holiday Collection]

This ski-bunny inspired winter trend has me wanting a brand new pair of cozy, knee-high socks.  One of the best parts of this trend is that you can pair it with a variety of different outfits.  Skirts? Check.  Shorts? Check.  Under some jeans to stay warm on the chilly morning shopping runs? Check!

My favorite way to wear these are with a skirt and some killer boots, especially the kind with the holiday inspired prints.  Who can turn down a great pair of Christmas socks?

How will you wear your knee-highs this season?

weekenders

I don't know about you, but this weekend couldn't come any sooner.  I've got some big events on the lineup, and my excitement has had me thinking about my outfits for each occasion since Tuesday!  It is looking as if northern California is finally going to get a taste of some fall weather (a short siesta from the sun will be nice), and the kickoff for Thanksgiving week is sure to have lots of people out and about, hitting the town.

I've compiled a few ideas for the weekend, and have decided on a solid favorite.  I'm going to ride on the idea that leather pants are making a comeback, and curse anybody who tries to call me Sandy! I first realized that these iconic pants were making a comeback after a catchy couple of H&M ads, and noticed the cozy sweater meets biker chic trend was going to be a hit.  The soft accents of a cable or knit sweater paired with some basic colors and a rockin' pair of leatherettes makes for a new look that is sure to turn heads.  My advice: save this look for the evening.  Leather goes best in the dark- and you won't have to suffer the effects of being stuck in the sun in leather pants!

What do you guys think? Is leather pants the new skinny jean.... or not?

one for the boys

Calvin Klein has finally released the long anticipated Spring 2011 line... and he has created the most relaxed look for men the runway has seen in awhile.  While his women's line follows closely to mens ware inspired looks, it's Calvin Klein's men's line that has us begging for more.  Relaxed denims and light shirts give an airy feel for a laid back springtime feel.  Light colored jeans and khakis will be a big hit this coming spring, so get your guy to follow CK's footsteps and get himself in line for a relaxed and comfortable style.  But remember to keep it classy: collared shirts are very trendy both this winter and spring- they can class up any pair of jeans, any day of the week.  We owe you one CK!

Calvin Klein Spring 2011 Presentation

Photos by Betty Sze for Models.com

model inspiration

Emma Watson's appearance on the David Letterman last night made me realize how much of a breakout star she has become.  Her work as an actress in Harry Potter, as well as her modeling gigs, have made her one of the most successful teenagers worldwide.  I am also completely obsessed with her new look: the short hairdo is flawlessly pulled off!

[Emma Watson at the London Premier of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows Part 1, photo courtesy of celebsalon.sheknows.com]

Studying art at Brown, she has become somewhat of a fashion devotee- noting her passion for fashion as an art.  She partnered with Burbery in 2008 to become the face of their 2009 Autumn/Winter campaign.  She has also appeared in Burbery's 2010 Spring/Summer campaign.

[Emma Watson for Burbery, Photo courtesy of stylefrizz.com]

She has become one of my fashion muses- investing her most recent energy in People Tree, a fair trade brand.  The Times described the brand as "very clever," inspired by French and London trends.  Upon the release of the People Tree Spring 2010 line, Emma noted, "Fashion is a great way to empower people and give them skills, rather than give cash to charity, you can help people by buying clothes they make and supporting things they take pride in."  This actress turned model/humanitarian has me itching to get in line for some of the awesome People Tree pieces this fall.

[Emma Watson for People Tree Fall 2010, Photos courtesy of millionlooks.com]

I LOVE People Tree's red plaid shirt- that trend is one that has hit this Fall with force.  It can easily be paired with some jeans, or a mini with high socks and my favorite Tommy Hilfiger boots.  Emma has become an fashion inspiration to many- from her iconic trench-coat Burbery look (I have to get my hands on that tan trench), to her involvement with People Tree.  We're rooting for you Emma!