The Skirt

 

 Leading Fashion Trends for Centuries…

Like all true girly girls do, I have a genuine love of dresses.  I wear them nearly everyday and I’m constantly on the hunt for more.  Lately though, I’ve been on a skirt kick.  Almost as easy to wear as the dress and certainly just as feminine, the skirt is a great wardrobe staple.  This is just a quick post to highlight some of the skirts that have caught my eye – with this amazing styling, who could help but be inspired?

The featured skirt above is a colorblocked sweater skirt by Girls from Savoy from Anthropologie.  The A-Line shape is easy to wear and the color combination is really eye-catching.  This skirt comes in grey too.   

I’m in love with this textured pink pencil skirt by Moulinette Soeurs from Anthropologie. 

The styling in this photo demonstrates its amazing versatility.  Who would think to pair a structured pink skirt with a casual green gingham shirt?  It’s a great staple piece that can be worn conservatively for the office or for a fun lunch with the girls.    

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I just tried this Eva Franco skirt on and it’s really flattering!  The wide band cinches at the waist, keeping the tummy in place and the structured pleats add dimension to the pretty pattern design.

 

Inspired by a fabulous jacket style, the Trenchcoat skirt by Cartonnier can be sporty or professional as Anthro demonstrated well.  I adore both of these looks.  The sash is removable for yet another take.

 

Another charmer by Eva Franco at Anthropologie. This bold pattern compliments the pencil frame magnificently.  I love the gathered detail at the waist, accented with the simple belt.  Superb.

    

    

Rebecca Taylor is one of my all-time favorite designers.  Her subtle feminine style has so much charm and sensibility. 

This multi-grey shaded flannel skirt has a fun patchwork design that is accented by a contrasting blue trim.  The A-Line shape also features a saucy 7'” back slit. 

 

Now after all of this skirt talk…I think I’ll do a little shopping.  MAYBE one of these?? 

The Royal Visit – A Fashion Recap

O Canada

Who could help but be captivated by Princess Catherine’s regal beauty?  During the royal couple’s recent whirlwind tour of North America, the Duchess of Cambridge did not disappoint.  All eyes were on every last detail of her wardrobe and she handled it with incredible grace, fitting of a Princess.  Certainly, she is a stunning beauty made better by her seemingly charming, and sweet personality.  What strikes me most about her style is that she always wears simple, elegant pieces that are modern and age appropriate and the way she carries herself makes it all look effortless.  Following are my top 10 favorites from her visit to Canada and the United States:

#1 – Reiss (above).  Although we’ve seen the Reiss Nanette dress before when Kate wore it for the official engagement portraits, it seemed completely new at this event.  This time, Kate honored the Canadian flag by accenting the delicate white dress with a pretty red maple leaf fascinator, red pumps and a diamond maple-leaf brooch lent to her by the queen.   The hat was designed by Sylvia Fletcher at Lock and Co.

#2 – Diane von Furstenberg

It’s no secret that Diane von Furstenberg is my favorite designer.  I proudly have several of her dresses hanging in my closet, including one from this collection and in this pretty shade of green. 

Kate wore the chic “Maja” silk dress for a reception held at British Consul-General Barbara Hay's L.A. residence.  She paired the dress with a leopard purse also from DVF.

 

 

 

 

 

 

#3 - Issa

One of Kate’s favorites is Issa, a designer she wears often.  I must say this is my favorite of her Issa dresses.  I love the brilliant purple color, the deep v-neck and the subtle, yet charming gathering at the waist.  This dress was worn at a Canada Day concert, held to commemorate the nation's 144th birthday. 

Nice touch adding the Queen’s maple leaf brooch again, Kate.  Note: The Queen wore this brooch on her first trip to Canada in 1951.  Isn’t that wonderful? 

 

 

#4 – Erdem Moralioglu

Before this tour, I had not been aware of designer Erdem Moralioglu, but I sure am now.  Kate wore two intricate dresses from the designer and I fell in love with them. 

This striking dress in a navy blue lace features sheer sleeves, scallop detail and a shift scoop-back.  It is from the designers spring 2011 collection.

She paired the dress with her favorite nude L.K. Bennett shoes, that she wore throughout the trip.  Clearly she is a reasonable packer too! 

 

 

#5 – Malene Birger

For her visit to Yellowknife, the capital of the Northwest Territories, Kate debuted a new designer – Malene Birger.

The cream linen three-quarter sleeve “Bullet” dress was worn with her favorite L.K. Bennett Sledge2 pumps, a clutch and Kiki McDonough Citrine drop earrings.

Malene Birger is also a new designer for me, but I was impressed so did a little digging.  An award-winning Danish designer (I’m Danish too!), the line is inspired from the classic styles of the 50’s and 60’s and is elegant, feminine and easy to wear.

                                                    

                                                                                                         

 

#6 – Roland Mouret/Smythe

I love that Kate can make a very business-like outfit look so modern and chic.  Proof that office attire doesn’t need to be boring.  Here she’s ready to board the plane headed for Canada, wearing a dark navy Roland Mouret "Manon" dress and a Smythe one button jacket.  She carried a Mulberry Polly Push Lock bag in Midnight.

 

 

 

#7 – Alexander McQueen

Kate attended her first Hollywood red carpet event with the BAFTA gala and wore a floor length pleated lilac chiffon gown by Alexander McQueen.

Her accessories were equally as charming – she wore earrings lent to her by Queen Elizabeth, and Jimmy Choo clutch and sandals.

 

 

 

 

  

#8 – Smythe/J Brand

Kate has perfected casual chic with this outfit.  On a visit to Slave Lake, Alberta, she paired her structured Smythe jacket (remember she wore it above with the Roland Mouret dress) with a romantic ruffled blouse and her J Brand “811” skinny jeans.  Adding the wide brown belt and L.K. Bennett wedges were the final touches that made this outfit perfection.   

 

 

 

 

     

#9 – Alice Temperley

I couldn’t help but include this outfit in the mix of favorites because she looks so darn cute in her ten-gallon hat!

To help kick off the Calgary Stampede parade, Kate chose another romantic top to pair with her cowboy hat and boots and a big belt buckle.  The pretty white lace blouse was designed by top Brit designer Alice Temperley.

 

      

#10 – Jenny Packham

Finally, I just loved the delicate hand-painted floral design on this Jenny Packham dress. 

The “De Gournay” chinoiserie silk dress was worn to the Foundation Polo Challenge held at the Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club, benefitting the royals' charity.

It was a fun couple of weeks peering in on the daily activities of the Royals during their visit and waiting to see what the Princess would wear next.  I heard often that she didn’t travel with a stylist (although I’m sure she had a little help from a stylist before she left)and that she packed over 40 dresses to choose from.  She clearly has an amazing sense of style and impressive attention to detail.  She also loves a good wardrobe repeat, which I think makes everyone love her.  During this trip she wore her J Brand jeans 3 times, her Smythe jacket twice, the Queens brooch twice and her L.K. Bennett nude pumps at least 5 times.    

What do I think is her best fashion statement – the beautiful smile she ALWAYS has on her face.  Nothing makes a girl more stylish than that.  

Swimsuit Style

One Piece or Two?

It’s usually around the 4th of July that I start thinking about spending time in the sun and enjoying a swim.  And then, inevitably, I’m disappointed with my swimsuit selection and start the search…you know, when they are all picked over at the stores.  I will say, I was thrilled to find a cute navy & white striped one-piece (I think my bikini days are over) at Target the other day, adorned with an cute red rose in the top center.  Adorable and perfect to show my Independence Day spirit. 

 

I found a few other patriotic selections that I had to share.  The triangle bikini from Thayer above can be found exclusively at Shopbop.   

The bandeau top to the left is from Lucky Brand at Everything But Water.  The top ties at the back.

 

 

 

 

 

Everything But Water is a great place to find swimwear.  You can choose from a series of collections each season and mix and match styles/pieces to expand your choices. 

I love this white convertible style bandeau top with halter tie from Carmen Marc Valvo.  Sexy and functional.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Another cute halter style from Everything But Water, I love this delicate print from Lucky Brand.  The sweet factory collection includes this cute skirted bottom for a little more coverage. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I also was impressed with the Salt Swimwear collection. 

The Lola style features multi-string detail at the top and sides creating a cool negative space effect.  Another surprising touch – the strings drape down the back!

This suit was featured in Surfing Magazine Swim 2011.

 

 

 

 

 

Diane von Furstenberg has created a number of stunning swimsuits this season, including this reversible print bikini.  The other side is a peach color trimmed with this pattern (inset).  When investing in a swimsuit, its nice to get 2-in-1 to make it an even better investment.  This great suit can be found at Shopbop. 

 

How cute is this bikini from Swim Systems?  I found this at Everything But Water and really fell for the adorable details.  The black & white graphic pattern is interesting, but not over done and the red trim adds a perfect touch.  I love the top trim with a little tuxedo effect.  Such a flattering piece.

 

 

 

 

 

  

I adore the retro feel of the metro bikini from Pret-a-Surf.  It features a halter top with seam details at underwire cups.  The halter straps tie behind the neck.  Best part – the bottom features ruched overlay at the front and contrast tie at exposed back zip.

Pret-a-Surf is a high-end line of swimwear, rash guards, and board shorts for the fashionable woman who wants to maintain her style while she plays with the boys.

 

Swimspot is a fantastic site to find unique high-end suits.  I love the Opening-Day peekaboo tankini.  This suit has an uptown feel with charming detail and sexy silhouette.  It’s a wearable piece, well suited for a cocktail party or a dip in the pool.   

 

 

 

The berry colored boot camp collection by Next at Swimspot was such a fave of mine that I had to feature three of the pieces to show it’s versatility.  The racer back tankini at top is my favorite.  I also love the halter style top and bike shorts.  This style is perfect for the active girl that wants to jog or play volleyball at the beach…or take a swim.  The last suit is a two piece that provides the coverage of a one.  Great looking suit.  

 

 

This suit would be flattering on any body type.  From Tommy Bahama, it can be found at Everything But Water.  The ruched design adds style, helps conceal any imperfections and provides great tummy control.  

 

 

 

 

 

This pretty pink suit from Lauren also provides great tummy control, while offering a delicate design with ruffle detail.  Great feminine design.      

From Everything But Water.

 

 

 

 

         

 

 

 

The Heavenly one-piece suit from O’Neill has a great striped design and vibrant blue color.  It ties at the back of the neck and it features tie detail at the hips. 

This piece will be featured in the September issue of Coastal Living Magazine.

 

 

     

Last but not least is this ultra sexy suit from Luxe by Lisa at Swimspot.  The Socialite Maillot one piece is refined, elegant and sexy.  The posh black suit has intricate floret detailing and underwire for added support and a low v-back.  It’s a classic, timeless style. 

Wishing all a delightful Independence Day…hope you get a chance to enjoy America’s fine bodies of water with a pretty new swimsuit.

I’ve got the Blues

Blue Blooded

This week, a dream of mine came true.  I accepted a position with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan as Director, Executive Communications and Press Secretary to CEO Daniel J. Loepp.  I’ve had the pleasure of working with BCBSM as a vendor partner for six years and couldn’t be happier to be starting this new chapter as an official member of the Blues family. 

In honor of my exciting news and my new company, I am dedicating this post to the color blue - my favorite color. 

I adore this strapless “Obelisk” dress.  The pattern is fun and flirty and the A-line skirt falling just above the knee is flattered further by the inverted front pleat and side pockets.  It’s the perfect summer dress, with a structure that makes it a great transition piece for the office too.  The best part – the unexpected bamboo buckle at the waist.

I first discovered Milly (designed by Michelle Smith) while working for Jacobson’s Stores in 2001.  We were one of the first stores to buy her line when she was starting out.  I had the pleasure of managing press for her debut at our stores and a personal appearance in Florida.  I’ve always been drawn to her youthful take on classic silhouettes and the feminine touches that make her pieces stand out. 

 

Another charmer from Milly is this apron style “Betriz” day dress.  It’s so easy to wear with it’s simplicity, yet wonderful attention to detail.  The dress features a unique double breasted button detail and ties to flatter the waist.

This piece is sophisticated and charming and perfect for a summer barbeque or night out with the girls.  

 

 

 

 

 

Anthropologie never disappoints by offering pretty, whimsical dresses for any occasion.  I am so enamored with this brilliant blue cotton dress, swimming with colorful butterflies.  I think I must have this just to see the sweet smile it will put on my niece Lilly’s face. 

What makes this dress special is it’s pencil shape and black sash at the waist - the features make the dress really versatile.

 

 

  

 

This is my favorite shade of blue and mixed with this pretty floral pattern it is so eye-catching. 

Found at Anthropologie, the “Vokko Dress” boasts an oversized Finnish anemones design.  The strapless silhouette has a unique slouch-pocketed, breezy style with a keyhole closure in the back. 

So cute.

 

 

 

     

Over at Anthropologie’s BHLDN there is no end to pretty, unique dresses. 

How great is this little navy tuxedo bib style dress?  I love it’s endless ruffles which add romantic interest and would flatter any figure.  The racerback style is perfect for the girl that wants to highlight great shoulders and arms.

As a wedding party dress, this playful piece is perfect for the young bride who wants to have a little more fun with her maids.

 

 

   

I’m usually not a fan of the maxi dress, but this one looks so fresh and comfortable. 

The “Elizabete Hostess Dress” is perfect in navy blue and accented with a thin brown belt.  I like the rounded neckline and fitted band waist.  The back also has interesting detail with a large keyhole opening. 

This is another timeless piece that would be a staple for any women’s closet. 

 

 

 

I’m totally wowed by this feminine take on the shirt dress by Derek Lam.  With it’s flirty bow and neckline detail, this silk navy dress is both girly and modern.  It’s so hard to find cute dresses with sleeves these days too – this one is just the right length to allow the full sleeve to flatter. 

Great dress.  

 

 

 

Ruche is one of my favorite places to find cute, inexpensive pieces.  I was thrilled to find this adorable mod blue dress with vertical cream stripes.  The lace trimmed sweetheart neckline adds interest at the top and the two laced trimmed pockets bring great detail below the waist.  It’s A-line skirt and matching blue belt complete the look. 

 

 

Jumping away from my love of dresses…who can resist the pretty pattern mixing in this top? 

The “Blue Pansy Sweater” by Markus Lupfer is made of merino wool, has a crew neck and features a beautiful blue floral pattern in the body, along the length of the sleeve and cuffs and is trimmed with cool striped panels along the outside of the sleeves. 

The attention to detail makes this garment so interesting to look at and is also finely constructed.  Worth the investment. 

 

     

Last but not least, I admit to being obsessed with this jacket.  In fact, I can’t be sure I haven’t talked about it in a post before – but if so, it deserves another nod. 

Smythe is known for their exquisitely tailored jackets and I have admired them for years.  I tried this one on during a recent trip to New York and fell in love.  As I said, this is my favorite shade of blue so it has that going for it…but it also has such great shape.  It’s the coolest feminine take on equestrian chic – the sleeves feature perforated tan patches on the elbows.  I love the way Saks styled the jacket here with a great J Brand skinny jean and tan booty.  I really must figure out how to make this jacket mine – I’ve already got the jeans! 

Royal Wedding Style Review

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge

At long last, the Royal Wedding arrived on April 29 and the world watched as Kate Middleton married her Prince and became Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.  I was so excited to watch this real-life fairytale come to life with my two favorite girls – my twin sister Wendie and her 5-year-old daughter Lilly.  The day before the wedding, Lilly called me and asked if I would come over and watch the wedding with her, assuring me that she would be getting up REALLY early to watch.  ;o)  Lilly and I wore tiaras and Wendie wore a fancy hat for the festivities.  We had such a special time together and created a memory that we will never forget.

I was so excited when Kate first stepped out of the vintage car to reveal her breathtaking Alexander McQueen dress, designed by Sarah Burton.  Sarah put together the dress by hand.  The bodice is made of ivory satin and narrows at the waist.  Individual flowers were hand cut from lace and hand-engineered onto the ivory silk tulle dress to create the design, which features rose, thistle, daffodil, and shamrocks on it, a nod to national flowers of England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.

Kate’s Cartier ‘Halo’ tiara was made in 1936 and it was lent to her by Queen Elizabeth II.

 

The veil is made of layers of ivory silk tulle.  It is trimmed with hand-embroidered flowers, sewn on by the Royal School of Needlework at Hampton Court Palace.

It was reported that Kate wished for her dress to combine tradition and modernity and I think she got her wish.  The shape and feminine detail on this gown were absolutely made for her classic beauty and style. 

 

 

 

Kate's sister, Philippa “Pippa” Middleton, carried her train and escorted the young bridesmaids throughout the ceremony. 

Pippa (the spitting image of her big sister) wore an ivory satin gown, also designed by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen. 

The dress incorporated the same lace trim and button detail as the bridal gown.

 

 

 

Prince William wore an official British Army uniform for his nuptials and looked dashing.  Harry (I admit I’m a little sweet on him) looked handsome in his uniform too.  I loved watching their brotherly banter during the ceremony.  

 

 

I couldn’t resist sharing this adorable picture of little bridesmaid, Grace van Cutsem’s (Prince William’s goddaughter) sour face as the couple shared their first kiss.  While the world was cheering, this one was not quite as thrilled.  I’m sure she was reacting to the thunderous crowd, but its pretty darn funny.  (*Thanks to Emily Moran for showing me this one) 

 

Royal Wedding guests also gave us lots of wows!

Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece is a regal beauty that is always on the best-dressed list.  I thought she looked amazing in this pale blue Philip Treacy hat adorned with beautiful flowers. 

I was disappointed that I couldn’t find a full photo of her dress because it was so pretty. 

 

 

 

Spain’s Princess Letizia looked lovely in her pale pink, embellished dress with seven-eighth sleeves  paired with gloves and a matching cloche-like hat with flowers and a veil. 

This look received a lot of mixed reviews, but I loved it and think her makeup was well suited as well.

 

 

 

Always a beacon of style, Victoria Beckham didn’t disappoint wearing a dress of her own design.  The classic silhouette was flattering on her cute baby bump. 

The classic mini pillbox hat by Philip Treacy was the perfect topper with her sleek ponytail.  I loved its whimsical detail which added a little flair to the otherwise serious look. 

I will say that the 7-inch Louboutins were a little much though.  These days heel heights are getting just a touch too high.  Sure, they look fierce for photos, but when a gal can’t walk swiftly in her shoes, it loses the appeal. 

 

 

 

 

Princess Anne’s daughter, Zara Phillips, looked a little futuristic in her gunmetal grey dress by Paul Costelloe and circular black topper by Philip Treacy.  

As the next royal to get married, I imagine we will see an edgier, more modern look with her wedding gown.

 

 

 

 

Prince Edwards wife – Sophie, Countess of Wessex demonstrated her classic beauty in this fantastic Jane Taylor rosette spray hat, complementing her pretty blonde hair.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

She paired the hat with a beige Bruce Oldfield dress and coat  that was accented with beautiful embroidery. 

 

 

Lady Frederick Windsor – a.k.a. Sophie Winkleman - looked smashing in a navy Armani Prive, diamond-patterned suit on the arm of her husband, Lord Freddie Windsor (son of the Duke and Duchess of Kent).

Philip Treacy shines again on Lady Windsor with this sculpted straw hat featuring festive twirls at the top.

 

 

 

 

Bring on the color!  While most Royal Wedding guests chose to don subtle hues, a few stylish ladies stood out in the crowd with vibrant color. 

Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden was one of them in this gorgeous coral Elie Saab. 

Her husband, Prince Daniel, always looks dapper with his “Clark Kent” style specs too.

 

 

 

 

Oh how I love Joss Stone!  The British singer, who performed at Princess Diana's memorial concert in 2007, makes a bright and bold statement outside Westminster Abbey.

Her fresh, head-to-toe pink from High Street store Hobbs was delightful and the peep-toe shoes and straw cream hat with subtle pink flowers framed her face perfectly. 

This picture doesn’t show it, but she also had free-spirited hair styled with a few tousled locks falling from the hat.  She looks young and fresh, while still being appropriately elegant for her age. 

 

 

 

Miriam Clegg, wife of Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, was stunning in a black netted suit by Miguel Palacio. 

The Spanish beauty added colorful drama to her suit with a Carmen Miranda red rose head wrap.  Her swept-back raven hair was the perfect contrast for the splash of color. 

Absolutely one of my favorites.

 

 

 

Here we have a colorful hit and a colorful miss with sisters Santa Montefiore and Tara Palmer-Tomkinson.  No doubt they turned a few heads with their vibrant and dramatic entrance at Westminster Abbey, although likely because folks needed a second to take it all in.

Montefiore (left) looked chic in a purple sheath dress and fur stole with a multi-color Stephen Jones fascinator.   Her sister on the other hand, was a little bit TOO head-to-toe blue in her Deborah Milner dress and Philip Treacy hat.  The dress was amazing on her, but the matching blue hat, shoes, gloves and clutch made her look like she was performing for the Blue Man Group.  Sans the gloves, it would have been perfect.

 

How cute are the Spencer sisters – Ladies Amelia, Eliza and Kitty?  They are William and Harry's first cousins and daughters of Charles, Earl of Spencer.  They all are wearing cute hats and Kitty looked great in a sexy Victoria Beckham dress.  

 

William and Harry’s other cousins didn't fare quite as well…oh dear girls, what were you thinking?  Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice of York looked matronly in their dresses and the hats didn’t help.

Eugenie wore a peacock-hued Vivienne Westwood that had a cute poufy skirt, but an unflattering busy top.

 

 

 

 

Beatrice chose a blush Valentino Couture coat that while too old for her, would have been ok with a less outrageous hat.  Philip Treacy didn’t win on this one.  Yikes!

 

 

 

Harry’s 7-year on-again/off-again girlfriend, Chelsy Davy, was disappointing in this teal green Alberta Ferretti.  The jacket was ill-fitting and the skirt was too tight, bunching up as she walked.

However, I did like the sweet Victoria Grant fascinator and her swept back hair. 

 

 

 

 

 

Kate looked equally as stunning when she appeared in her second dress of the day and ready to have fun at the reception.  The dress, also a McQueen/Burton creation, was a white satin strapless evening gown with a circle skirt and diamante detailing around the waist.  She finished the look with a simple white fuzzy shrug.  Once again, she looked regal and elegant.

  

 

Pippa looked amazing in her reception dress too – a sexy/chic emerald-green custom made dress by Temperley London.

Alice Temperley was quoted as feeling honored to have been asked to design a dress for Pippa and that she was a delight to work with as she knows just what she likes. 

The dress was designed especially for her with a fantastic open back and a full skirt for dancing in. 

 

 

 

What a beautiful wedding day the young Royals had.  An experience we all will remember.  They are a joy to watch – and I hope they will now get the chance to settle into a little less attention.  I love the shot below of Kate and William departing the Palace for a private weekend.  She is wearing a simple blue dress, sharp jacket and wedge platforms.  He is cheery in his chinos, sportcoat and brown loafers.  Enjoy married life, Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.  Thanks for letting the world share.