Spring Fling

Around this time of year, we start feeling a little depressed because it almost seems like winter will never end. Mother nature will sometimes tease us with one sunny day over 40 degrees, but then crush our hopes and dreams with another week of below freezing temperatures. I know it's hard to believe that spring is just around the corner, but it will come sooner than you think. If you are one of those people that feels defeated over the seemingly never-ending winter weather, here are some ways to make your winter wardrobe have a fling with spring and brighten up your mood at the same time.

1) Booties: Hopefully the worst of the snow storms are over and we won't need to trek through multiple feet of snow in order to get from place to place, so swap out your tall boots and snow boots for some ankle booties. These are perfect for making the transition from winter to spring flawless and, your feet will be covered, dry, and warm in a pair of shoes you can wear not only now, but also throughout springtime.

Steve Madden

Zara

ASOS

Cut-outs, pastel colors, and brights are a great way to segway your bootie-game into spring while giving you a subtle reminder that better weather is on its way!

2) Color: During the winter we tend to gravitate toward all black everything, especially toward the end, we focus more on bundling up than dressing up. Give yourself a mood booster by incorporating a few pops of spring colors into your end of winter outfits. You don't have to pull out your spring clothes quite yet, but adding a lighter scarf, colored bag, or a spring inspired manicure can be just the right amount of color you need.

Essie

Kate Spade

Forever 21

Adding a small amount of color in the form of an accessory can help you beat the winter blues and remind you that spring isn't so far off in the distance. You can also try a spring blouse with a neutral cardigan over it to balance out the pop of color.

3) Denim: Spring is the perfect time of year for denim, a great way to get out of your winter rut is to opt for lighter shades of denim, like grey, and pairing it with a dark colored top. Try to avoid colored bottoms like mint, coral, etc. because they come off as too spring-y. The look we are striving for is a twist of winter and spring.

Madewell

Revolve Clothing

Guess

Keep your black leggings in your drawer and put on a pair of jeans, this change will make you feel refreshed and help you connect to the season you have been long awaiting. Any medium to light wash, or even white will be a great way to brighten your mood, and give you the perfect mix of spring without looking too out of season.

Although there might currently be snow everywhere you look, winter's days are numbered. Spring is around the corner and you can be welcoming it with open arms. Give yourself a preview by mixing your spring and winter clothes and accessories together. Not only will you look great, but you will feel less weighed down by the dreary, snowy winter, and have something to look forward to in the weeks to come.

Winter Clearance Shopping Tips

Since spring lines are hitting stores, more and more winter items are going on clearance, making you feel obligated to buy, buy buy. However; as someone who has wasted so much money buying something just because of it's "can't beat" price, I want to share some tips on how to shop winter clearance in order to buy something that you will actually wear not only now, but also next fall/winter as well.
1) Use Filters: When shopping online, using filters is extremely helpful. First of all, it will narrow the number of items you are scrolling through, which will be much less overwhelming. The most important filter is of course, size. What's the point in shopping pages and pages of products when every item that catches you eye is never in your size? Its depressing, honestly, and will most likely drive you to purchase something you won't even wear just to cheer yourself up. Before you even look at anything, make sure you filter for your correct size. Another filter that is important, especially if you are on a budget, is price. Just because something is on clearance does not mean that it is cheap. Select a price range that you are comfortable with and start shopping. You don't want to fall in love with something you can't afford. If you use these filters plus whichever others you'd like to narrow your search, and nothing catches your eye, it's easier to walk away or even use your money towards some new spring clothes!
2) Continuing Trends: "If I buy this now, can I still wear it next year?" A question many of us have asked, and now that fashion week has come and gone we can determine what will still be relevant next year. Trends like plaid, knitwear, fur accents, and neutral palettes will definitely be around for another season. Below is a couple looks from the fall/winter 2015 runways highlighting these continuing trends to give you some inspiration on what styles to purchase if you can find them on clearance this year.

Topshop

Marc by Marc Jacobs

3) Basics and Essentials: When you find a basic piece that is good quality at a marked down price, buy it! You can never go wrong with something as versatile as a basic sweater or layering piece, especially one that you got on clearance. Other essential pieces that are smart to buy on clearance are outwear and shoes. Waiting to purchase an essential piece is pretty risky because you might not find what you are looking for at the end of the season. However, if you come across some boots at a great price, and you've been wanting to replace your current pair then its a sign that you should definitely go for it! The same goes with outerwear, you can find a nice jacket on clearance and wear it for many years in the future. 

No matter what you might find it is important to be sure what you are purchasing now will be worth the money. You don't want to be looking through your fall clothes this September and ask yourself what you were thinking, you want to be happy that you bought those pieces and proud of yourself for finding them at a discounted price. Most important, if you truly love something and you know you will wear it because it's just so you then you should definitely buy it. Don't let fashion trends or anyone make you feel like you can't buy something that you just adore. Let me know if you found these tips helpful, and feel free to add any other tips that work for you! Also, check out my new Pinterest page.

50 Shades of Grey...Literally!

To honor the opening weekend of the much anticipated film, 50 Shades of Grey, I want to talk about one of my favorite neutral colors, which is indeed grey. It just so happens that one of the top neutrals of the season is also grey. Of course, black will always be my number 1, but there is so much more flexibility when it comes to grey, because of the numerous different shades it offers. There are so many options from extremely light to very dark, you can even mix and match. Choosing grey is surely going to make a chic statement as any piece in your outfit.

1) Grey as a top: A perfect neutral to wear with a colored bottom or any bottom for that matter. Grey can be worn on top as a t-shirt, sweater, or jacket, and no matter which one you wear it will allow you to pair it with virtually anything, even more grey! To channel this season's hot military inspired trend pair a grey top with olive green pants and combat boots or an olive jacket. It also does not matter which shade of grey strikes your fancy because they will all look fantastic with everything.

Zara

Nasty Gal

Topshop

2) Grey as a bottom: Whether its denim, a skirt, a trouser, or leggings, the possibilities are incredible. From your most casual days, to just another day at the office, grey on the bottom is a great option. Once again the shade is not important because the right piece will look amazing no matter what your surroundings. For work, perhaps a light grey trouser, or a charcoal pencil skirt with a burgundy top. For the weekend, some grey denim with any sweater will be a perfect combination.

Loft

rag & bone

Banana Republic

3) Grey accessories: Of course style is nothing without accessories. Grey boots, scarves, bags, and hats are perfect for this time of year, even grey nail polish is a great way to incorporate this incredibly versatile color into your outfits. The fact that this color will go with anything means that throwing it on as an accessory is the easiest way to rock the trend.

DSW

Charming Charlie

Nordstrom

Grey is such a perfect choice for any occasion, and any piece of your outfit. You can even try it head to toe as a suit for work, or mix a few different shades together for a monochromatic look. Whatever your preference may be, grey is just so classic and chic that you will be looking incredible wherever you go, after all, grey has 50 shades...

Street Style Stars of 2015

Kim Kardashian, Miranda Kerr, Victoria Beckham, and Kylie Jenner are all household names when it comes to their street style and being fashion's "it" girls. They never fail to look flawless whether they are hitting the gym, Starbucks, or lunch with friends. If you're looking to these ladies for fashion inspiration, then keep up the good work; however, you should expand your horizons because there are so many more ladies out there with outstanding street style. The women below have been incredible this red carpet season as well as having impeccable taste on the street. Thus far, their fashion sense has been pretty underrated (compared to the above mentioned), but I am predicting big things for these ladies in 2015. Keep a look out for them this year and be inspired!

1) Emma Stone: This year, Emma Stone has taken some risks on the red carpet and SLAYED. She is going to be looked at during the upcoming events for what's in store next, and I guarantee that many of Hollywood's finest will be taking their inspiration from her. Not only is Emma perfection on the red carpet, but her everyday style is incredible as well. She always looks amazing and her daily looks are ones that can be easily recreated by anyone.

She is so well put-together on and off duty. Her style is so relate-able because she really knows how to use basics as building blocks and keep her looks simple but still chic.


2) Felicity Jones: Felicity is gaining recognition for being one of the red carpet's "must see" looks. So far, she has made a huge impact on the carpet and is like the Lupita Nyongo of 2015. When it comes to street style Felicity has great taste and is so classically chic.

3) Emilia Clarke: Of course Emilia Clarke is my favorite Game of Thrones character, and discovering that she is super fashionable is just an added bonus to her awesomeness. Her off-duty style is impeccable and so inspirational for anyone looking to revamp their current wardrobe. She just looks so laid back, but amazingly put together at the same time.

Her red carpet style is something to watch for in the future as well. She is just an all around stunning person on and off screen.

What is most alluring about these ladies' styles is that you can spot what their wearing and easily recreate it yourself on your own budget. Their styles are so inspirational and realistic. Search these names the next time you want to look at what celebrities are wearing, for your shopping inspiration and you will not be disappointed.

Winter Coat Guide

Growing up, I always hated wearing a coat. In my opinion, it was something extra that was just going to be in the way when I took it off, I would have to carry it around with me and not to mention I would look and feel like a giant marshmallow. Thinking back to those days, I can't believe that I used to wait outside for the bus in below freezing temperatures in nothing but a sweatshirt. Nowadays, my stubbornness has worn off and I embrace the function and fashion of a good winter coat. Here is a guide of what is essential, optional, and currently trending in the world of winter outerwear.

1) Puffer Coat: Puffer's are great for the day to day grind. They are casual, warm, and comfortable. These can be long, short, bright, or dark, anything that you prefer. I personally opt for a thin, packable down style in a short length because I don't like feeling super puffy. Make sure whatever you choose can stand up to the elements of winter. After all, the purpose of a coat is first and foremost to keep you warm, feeling and looking fabulous is just an added bonus than can be achieved by choosing something that is well fitted to your frame.

Bloomingdale's

I strongly recommend making an investment in a good winter coat because its something you will need for years and years to come. The puffer is a style that will always be relevant so you don't have to worry that it will become obsolete in the future. Bundle yourself up in gloves, a scarf, and hat and tackle any storm that comes your way.
2) Pea coat (mid/short length): Pea coats are ESSENTIAL! Length and color are purely up to you, but you definitely need one of these in your life if you don't have one already. They are so incredibly versatile and can take you from day to night in a flash. No matter what you have on underneath, a pea coat can make you look dressier in an instant, even if it's laundry day...

Macy's

If a puffer isn't your thing, then a pea coat is definitely a must because of its comfort, warmth, and style. This type of coat is another that will never go out of style no matter how many years you own it, so save up and invest!
3) Dressy/Statement Coat: This isn't 100% essential because a pea coat can serve the same purpose, but if you have some extra money to spend, then why not? If you have a lot of dress-up functions to attend during the winter then you might want something really dressy to wear over your fancy outfit. A dressy or statement coat can be anything from a faux fur coat to a long pea coat made specifically to be worn over a dress or even a printed style would be amazing. You can spend less on this type of coat if you are only going to get a few wears out of it.

Go Jane

Nasty Gal

Neiman Marcus

 4) Trendy for 2015- Cape & Wrap Coats: I don't have a lot to say about these other than the fact that they are fabulous! If you already have the essentials and want to try something new and trendy then you should definitely go for it. I can picture wearing each of these styles on a snow day in the city, walking around, shopping, having lunch, and just looking incredibly fashionable while doing it all.

Forever 21

BooHoo

asos

No matter what your taste or style, we can't escape the need for a winter coat. Find what suits you and invest in something that will last you years. Try a new trend or a make a statement, but most importantly stay warm!

Winter Basics

More often than not, having nothing to wear effects the lives of many women. While our closets and drawers are stuffed full of clothes, we cannot find a single thing to wear in the morning, especially when we are in a hurry. Everything always seems to just not fit right or is something we feel we just wore, whatever the reason, this is a conflict that must be resolved.
Going through my own closet, I've noticed that I am really lacking basics. It seems almost everything I buy has some sort of pattern or design, that will be noticeable if I wore them multiple times within a couple of weeks. Investing in basics will help cut down on the "I have nothing to wear" moments because of their immense versatility. Basics are like building blocks for your wardrobe, look for pieces that can be layered, dressed up, dressed down, or just thrown on on the way out the door.
The first piece I recommend investing in for winter is a pull over sweater in a neutral tone. This piece will go with anything and will look really chic paired with any statement colors or textures. Choose a neckline and fit that suits you best, anything from a drapey style to a form fitting v-neck will do. You can layer a button down under a sweater or throw an embellished or printed scarf over it to give it life. Also, if solid colors really aren't your thing, opt for a color-blocked style or even stripes, just make sure the colors remain neutral so that it will go with virtually anything.

Ann Taylor

Piperlime

Old Navy

Pull over sweaters are so versatile and essential to all wardrobes. The countless ways to style pieces such as these will allow you to get numerous wears out of them and they will definitely be worth every penny you spent.
For your bottom half, a must have basic is a black pant. I'm sure almost everyone owns black bottoms of some sort, but it is still an essential item. You can find many different styles of black pants, from leggings, to ponte, to denim, anything you choose will be able to transform into your style. Rather than choosing a plain black, try something different, maybe some leather detailed leggings, or black ponte pants with a white or grey stripe down the leg. These subtle details will make your basic look not so basic, but still allow you to pair your bottoms with any top or any accessory. Whether its a night out with friends, a day at work, or a first date, you can do no wrong in a black pant.

Francesca's

BCBG

Zara

No matter your style investing in basics is so important. Next time you feel that you don't have anything to wear, check for basic pieces and try to build from them. If you feel you don't have enough basics in your wardrobe, now is the time to invest. Spend your money wisely this winter and it will help you save money in the future, a few of these versatile pieces will take you a long way and you will have a great beginning to a fabulous winter wardrobe!

Holiday Party Dressing

About three weeks ago I was asked to start planning our office holiday party. I was really excited and thought that I was finally going to be doing something I enjoyed and looked forward to. After I picked a gorgeous venue and created amazing e-vites, the lack of enthusiasm about the party really put a damper on planning. I didn't blame anyone for not being excited, I didn't really want to attend myself. The party has no-w come and gone, and as it turns out that despite everyone's negativity, it was a huge success and they all enjoyed themselves.
It's that time of year, when you'll be attending numerous holiday events, whether you want to or not, it seems almost unavoidable. Make your holiday party obligations worthwhile with the most fabulous ensemble that will make you feel great and will give you something to look forward to. especially if you're not interested in the party itself.
This season, sequined dresses are always a hit, but one in a metallic or pastel will be a breath of fresh air in a room full of reds and greens. Dare to try something new and different. A blush or nude dress with your choice of how much sparkle will look so spectacular this time of year. Pair your sparkly dress with a faux fur vest or coat or accessorize with a furry or feather bag. Mixing sparkle with faux fur will combine different textures and make your evening wear more luxurious. Below is some inspiration for your upcoming holiday parties.
 

ASOS

Express

Tobi

If you are not excited about wearing yet another dress this holiday season, change things up by wearing a chic jumpsuit. These are a major trend right now and are so versatile, they can be easily dressed up for the fanciest and most sophisticated parties. Trade your little black dress for a black jumpsuit and dress it up with the right statement accessories. If you're feeling a little more adventurous, opt for jewel tones like reds or sapphires.

BCBGMaxAzria

White House Black Market

Anthropologie

Whether you choose to go with a dress or a jumpsuit, you will definitely be the most fashionable person at the party. Remember to accessorize based on the amount of sparkle in the piece you chose. If the dress is covered in sequins, keep shoes neutral, if there is little to no sparkle, add some with an embellished clutch or shoes. Whatever you decide, you'll at least have something to be excited about if you're not looking forward to the party, and then who knows, you may have a great time after all.

Layering Necessity

It's Monday morning and you think you're all ready for work, you grab your purse and catch a glimpse of your outfit in the mirror. You pause, something is missing. You're wearing a cute printed blouse and you know that a cardigan will just cover it up, but without a layering piece your outfit just falls flat. The solution you may be looking for is a vest. Vests are perfect for layering and they will give your outfit the extra dimension it might be lacking without covering up too much of your top half.
For more "dressed up" looks, faux fur is a great option. It will add a chic element to your outfit. It also is a pretty effortless way to elevate your most basic look and give it a more luxurious touch. Another great thing about faux fur is that it will add a different texture to your ensemble, there are also many different color and texture options. You can choose more natural looking faux fur of blacks, browns, whites, and greys, or you can opt for reds, blues, greens, or even a print. Choose one that you love and wear it the next time you go to work, out to dinner, or to a holiday party, you will definitely be making a statement of luxury no matter where you are.

Nordstrom

Tobi

Macy's

 
Another type of vest that makes a great layering piece this time of year is a puffer vest. Puffer vests have been around for a long time, but styling them with a little more effort, rather than throwing it on on your way out the door will give this layering piece a more elevated look. Put together a cozy outfit with jeans, boots, and chunky cable knit sweater, and you'll look like you're ready for a nice casual, relaxing day. Add a printed puffer and you'll look just as cozy but even more chic. Adding a layer to any outfit will give it more depth and make you look instantly more stylish. A solid puffer over a printed flannel top will also look fabulous. Add a statement necklace or a scarf to pull everything together. Below are some examples of puffer vests that will be more than just an afterthought in your wardrobe. Wear them open or closed, they will be the perfect accent to your already cozy outfit.

Juicy Couture

Old Navy

J. Crew

The best part about vests is that you can find one that will suit virtually any budget! For more inspiration on how to style a vest follow me on Poylvore @sararamani