Tag Archives: Vintage

Blogger Style, Bohemian, Confessions of a Stylist, Fashion, Gypsy Soul, Summer

Stylists- The Rebels of Fashion

June 18, 2016 Liberata Leave a comment

My mom loves to tell me stories of my sometimes (very) questionable fashion choices when I was little. Apparently, I was very adamant about dressing myself, even if I was the only one to ever really appreciate my efforts. Now obviously I wasn’t turning to the latest issue of Vogue for inspiration- I could barely read. But what I DO remember were more sentimental influences. Like late nights with my Grandmother, sorting through and trying on every piece of her insane collection of costume jewelry while she set her hair. She died when I was in 3rd grade, but I still remember this glamorous air about her. And her love for Elizabeth Taylor. And how she always drank Pepsi from a Coke glass. As I grew older, seeing pictures of her in her earlier years confirmed what I had already known- she was the definition of iconic old school beauty.

But an even bigger influence would be my hippie Dad, who marched to his own fashion beat- just like he did everything else in life. While he had a great job, he never flaunted it. It was always a running joke that the only things he splurged on were cheese and booze. And me. Then again, being Italian, that was understandable. But what people didn’t notice was that while he may not have necessarily splurged on the other things, he did hunt for them. Like furniture- our house was always full of antiques. Beautiful, vintage sets that were full of history and rich with character. Just like him. And clothes…well, I don’t think my Dad ever really wore a shirt until the early 90’s. Instead his look consisted of low slung jeans, usually bell-bottoms, and a belt to keep them in place. But again, what people didn’t see were the details. Like the star shaped buttons along the fly. Or the almost too perfectly placed tears. Or the buttery soft feel of the leather. He was the closest thing to Roger Daltrey many had ever seen, right down to the eyes. And his casual hippie swag fashion was the perfect touch. Many that knew him would laugh at the idea that he cared about fashion, given his bohemian energy.

But I realize now, after seeing how I now find most of the pieces I need for shoots, that he did care. A lot. Meaning, he cared enough to search for things that spoke only to him. Those unique and personalized touches that would eventually make him such an enigma. In other words, he was never interested in mass produced items, and instead searched for things of quality in unexpected places. On another interesting note, I’d like to point out that looking back on his “wardrobe”, the amount of clothing this guy had would probably give my current collection a run for the money.

And that’s saying something.

So much like any proven stylist, it was never about the labels when he wore something, but rather how he wore it. Or why. It was how he made his look so uniquely him. His perfectly frayed jeans would be just another genuine extension of his personality- carefree.

So its no surprise that in our household, fashion was never about rules- it was about wearing whatever you wanted, however you wanted. And never because someone told you to. And I would grow up being no different. Because no one ever discouraged my creativity. Or deterred me from taking my many, many, many risks. And that in itself would help establish and foster one of the biggest passions in my life.

Because now I’m the one that hunts. The one that thrives on being an individual. And expressing myself without the concern of others opinions. I’m the one that loves customizing looks in ways that will make me, and the people I style, unique. I’m the one that encourages others to take risks. And to rebel against the fashion rules many of you grew up with.

But most importantly, I’m the one that pays attention to details. The one that appreciates every little thing. That values the history and character in unique finds, while carefully blending them with a modern edge.

And you can thank my Dad’s star studded jeans for that.

…

To my Cream Soda Daddy,

Happy Father’s Day- there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think of you, and thank you for always allowing me to be me. Your confidence remains my biggest motivation, and your encouragement my greatest motivation.

I love you always,

The Rootbeer Float Kid

X

#BombshellCode, Beauty, Blogger Style, Bohemian, Fall Fashion, Fashion, Gypsy Soul, Prolific Quarterly, Spring 2016, Street Style, Trend Report, Winter Fashion

Its The Little Things…

March 23, 2016 Liberata Leave a comment

With another wave of Fashion Week’s coming to an end, I found myself really questioning what it is exactly that inspires and motivates designers. What separates their collection? What makes a look personal? Legendary? Iconic?? Because when you really think about fashion, like art, it’s really just another form of expression. So ultimately, what we’re seeing in a collection is a reflection of the designer themselves.

And out of all the fall collections this season, it was Chanel that struck me the most. Karl had once again outdone himself with a collection that gave a glamorous nod to the old school salon days. But it wasn’t just the clothes that had me in awe- it was everything. It was every minor little detail that would make one have to re-watch the entire show just to take it all in. It was the kind of accessorizing genius that made fashion feel fun and exciting again. But more importantly, there was an unexpected playful energy to the collection that was surprising for a historically drab time of year.

Chanel Fall/Winter RTW 2016

Also like art, runway fashion is typically exaggerated. Go big, or go home. With everything. And with that, trends are noted, trend reports are created, “Lust Lists” are made, and more muted versions will eventually trickle into our every day fashion lives come Fall. But that doesn’t mean that’s where the individuality and creativity stops.

No, darling, instead its just the opposite- its where the magic really starts to happen.

Which brings me to my original point of this post- that the presence of one’s style cannot be measured simply in the outfit itself. Anyone is capable of throwing on a LBD and pulling of “chic” for a night. That’s why its the safety net of fashion. Simple. Effortless. Classic. Standard issue.

Okay, great. But what does it actually say about someone? Exactly- not much at all. And that’s fine if you’re someone who prefers to blend. I’m not here to tell anyone how to live their life. But I WILL say never have I ever admired someone for their ability to pull off basic.

But “admire” might be too harsh of a word. Instead, its the ones that put the effort into the details that inspire me. Its the personal twists in accessories that make me see less of the clothes, and more of the person wearing them. It’s the small and tedious things many might just simply lack the patience or imagination for, that another will go all out with just because its who they are. Because its within those details that lie the true personality of someone. Its those interesting little twists that say so much about who someone is, or how they feel, without saying a single word. In other words- in a world full of LBD’s, it’s the small things that play a big role in making you so largely unique.

And isn’t that what we’re all striving for?

For my SATC fans, we know the show was famous for its [sometimes questionable] fashion. But you may remember there were a few pieces that made it through the entire run of the show because they represented the characters so well. Most memorable was Carrie’s necklace- it was such a huge part of her identity, it even became part of the storyline in the series finale.

Now fast forward to today, where the word “basic” is now an insult. Yet its amusing that we do so much talking to express who we are, and yet so little in letting it shine visually. And the best part about accessories? They can be as expensive, or as cheap as you’d like them to be. The price of unique finds is usually based on how much time you’re willing to spend finding them. For instance, if you’re someone who loves to comb antique and second hand stores (me, me, me!!), then you already know the gems that are waiting for you, often at ridiculously low prices. I’m talking cheaper than Forever 21 here. No, really. But what you save in the money department, you will spend in time. At the same time, if you’re someone who loves shopping (Again- me, me, me!!), this isn’t a problem. Though you’ll probably want to go on these adventures alone, or risk being annoyed by the inevitable whining from your boyfriend. But if you’re going for vintage one-of-a-kind pieces, this is the only way to go. Even flea markets have proven to be beneficial hunting grounds. And you can use going to one as an excuse to load up on fresh local produce- even if you only use the aforementioned fresh local produce to make organic mojitos. I wont tell.

Just be sure to make on for me….

Now its important to note, combing vintage stores is only good for collecting. You cant just go on a mission one day to find a particular piece and expect it to be hanging out at the antique store down the road. Accessories aren’t ice cream- it doesn’t work like that. Instead, these adventures are for “building”. They’re for days when you have some time to kill, an open mind, and you can simply look with no pressure for items that speak to you. And only you. I cant explain it other than, you’ll know it when you see it. Some of my favorite finds were completely unexpected, yet once they came into life, they made me question how I could have ever been “me” without them.

But accessorizing isn’t just about the actual accessories, but rather in how one uses them. Which brings me to my next point- literally anything can be an accessory when you’re creative enough. Think of how boring fashion would be if we only used things as they were originally intended? One example of this I think we can all remember would be Lady Gaga’s meat dress. Though I’m still not sure what the final verdict was on her daring choice (Did we love it…? Hate it…? Eat it…??). The point is, she took something conventional, and made it unconventional. She turned heads and made a major statement using something many of see every day. And while you don’t have to go as far as using actual food (please don’t use food) you can add major impact in other ways.

Example: A few days ago I was styling a shoot. I had the sudden idea for a particular look, but didn’t have the wardrobe with me to support it. Knowing that there was a secondhand store right below us, I ran down with my “I’ll know it when I see it” mentality. Within 5 minutes I discovered a silk scarf, and 5 minutes after that it was tied effortlessly around my model’s torso as a top. Going off pure instinct, it was the perfect addition to an outfit that was already a huge risk- and it all paid off beautifully. It became one of my favorite looks for the day, mostly because I know without a fact that look is 100% unique, born from a idea that was in my mind at the time- and there’s a lot of pride in that.

But every day can be like that if you’re willing to put forth the effort. There’s no photoshoot required for you to treat the entire world like its your personal runway. Because IT IS. And I need you to pay really close attention to this one- you don’t need to be a model to dress like one. You got that? You don’t have to be Lady Gaga to make a statement. You can do it every day, all day, in every unique way you can think of, and for any reason you feel like.

Like button-downs. Basic, boring button-downs. Someone woke up one day, looked at a button-down, and thought “What if I put this on backwards…?”. And so they tried it.

And it worked.

Then someone else took their button-down and thought “What if I tied the arms and turned this into a tube top…?”.

And that worked.

And so on…

You get my point here? Like the Field of Dreams of fashion, you just gotta build it.

So next time you feel like you have “nothing to wear”, or you’re bored with whats in your closet, just stop. Step back. And really take a look at what you have. There is nothing more exciting to me than the challenge of being able to create virtually any look I’d like with just a few well thought out pieces. Or wearing something in a way I never thought of before. Or pairing one piece with something totally unexpected. But that’s the trick- you have to care. You have to make the effort. You have to be willing to take chances. And you have to be willing to get it wrong sometimes. Because there really is no wrong when it comes to style, as long as you feel good about you.

Because at the end of the day, that’s all it should ever really be about anyways.

X

Blogger Style, Fall Fashion, Fashion, Street Style, Trend Report, Winter Fashion

All That Glitters

November 13, 2015 Liberata Leave a comment

First off, you should all know this now- I am a sequin whore. And it makes sense with gold being my favorite color. Which also might explain why I’m so obsessed with accessories. And gowns. And have absolutely zero fear of standing out in a crowd. I adore shine. Glitz. Glamour.

“The next day I was in The Village looking for the perfect $7 dress to go with my $300 shoes…”

This quote from Sex & the City summarizes my style perfectly. And it has very little to do with price. Instead, its about the hunt. The desire to find something unique and personal to define…..ME. MY style. Because ideally that’s exactly what fashion should be about. Different and special to each individual. Sure, we have trend reports and fashion weeks to help set the stage for us, but ultimately its up to YOU to put your own spin on things. To take trends and incorporate them into your already existing style. Not to follow the masses. That would make you….a basic bitch. Unless, of course, your goal is to blend in?

No darling. Trends come and go. But style? That’s forever.

And so with that, comes the time of year fashionistas defy limits (if they ever really set any). Because with colder temps comes maximum opportunity to play with and layer pretty much anything. Chunky cable-knit sweaters would be ridiculous in the summer- but a barely there dress works fine in December…. with the right accessories.

Which brings me to my point. Accessories are life to the fashion-obsessed. They are the signature tools that uniquely define, and therefore separate us. And signature is key. They should be bold. Eye-catching. Different. Strategically placed creative spins on classic theories. Or classic spins on modern theories. That’s the creative beauty of the whole thing- anything goes.

SATC is probably one of the most widely known ways things were worn in ways that were considered [at the time] different.

For example, remember the giant, oversized flowers? Exactly. Or when she wore the dramatic ballgown skirt to dinner with The Russian. Or paired one with a Dior tee in the 2nd movie. The odd crown-like headband while trying on wedding dresses? From leather gloves, to fur coats, to headwear, Patricia Field knew how to add a totally unexpected pop to any outfit while maintaining balance.

If you aren’t excited yet by the ideas already running through your head, you’re doing it wrong.

Either way, here are some of my favorite looks I plan to capitalize on over the next few months. With trends already heavy with 70’s swag, we have every reason to cash in on anything that shines. Think over-embellished. Plunging necklines. Come hither boots. Bold prints. And with Christmas and New Years just around the corner, you literally will have zero reason not to shine exactly like the diamond you are…

1. SEQUINS

If you’re a girl that likes to be seen, much like myself, then this is for you. You might not be the first one on the dance floor- but you know how to make an entrance. You like to look, and FEEL, glam. And with the holidays approaching fast, you’re free to wear them anytime, day or night. The key here is balance. For daytime, stick to one adorned piece- a mini skirt, top or blazer. Any color works. But if you’re going to go sequined, go all the way and choose something in a jewel tone. SO. PRETTY! Now for night- anything goes. Free People has a STUNNING collection of dresses available right now. Starting at $98, they are the epitome of perfection. And with their iconic soft neutral hues, low necklines and backless cuts, it will be hard to find a reason NOT to wear them.

Below are a few notable pieces that I’ve personally scored, for ALL budgets:

Balmain for H&M, $199

Forever 21, $38.50

(wear it backwards for a plunging neckline instead)

Free People, Tarnished Gold Tunic ($298) and Sexy In Sequins Slip ($98)

And with mini dresses comes maximum accessories. Any of these pieces can be dressed up or down by adding things as simple as a leather jacket. Or a blazer. Wear thigh high boots. Or add a simple heel. A thicker heel will make it more daytime appropriate. Heading to the office? Throw a pencil skirt on over it. You will literally have zero excuses not to work one of these gorgeous numbers into your daily wardrobe.

2. ITS ALL IN THE DETAILS

Did you ever find yourself looking enviously at women from the past, perfectly put together from head to toe, dripping with lux and class? It was a common standard to be perfectly groomed. From driving gloves to hats, they made a basic trip to the grocery store look like a glamorous adventure. Today, we’re lucky if women put on pants. No, really.

Well this is your chance. Thanks to the rebirth of vintage, nothing is off limits when it comes to accessorizing. Recently I set out to on a mission for such pieces. And for this kind of mission, vintage truly is best. And fortunately for me, I have a gem of a store literally right down the street. A darling shop by the name of Retro Rosie’s, they wont take a thing made after 1975. The owner combs other shops, homes and yard sales to salvage the best of the best. I’m talking items like prom dresses from the 50’s. Shift dresses from the 60’s. Bell bottomed Levi’s from the 70’s. And statement jewelry from literally every era. Bags… shoes… hats… its ALL there under one glorious roof. This place is my nirvana. When I visit, I literally spend hours transforming myself into every generation. Last hull scored me my best finds yet, scoring several sets of white leather gloves, shag wraps and some costume jewelry.

I imagined the gloves had been worn by some fierce glamazon at Studio 54, holding a glass of champagne while dancing with Andy Warhol. Probably not…. but still. I bought them in 3 lengths, planning to wear them all scrunched a bit. Add a few cuffs on top for some extra drama. But I’ll warn you- these are not for those who cannot be without their cell ph0nes for long spurts of time. Touchscreens and glove-covered fingers just don’t agree.

As for the brooches, we’ve discussed this cant-live-without fall accessory for some time now in other posts. But I wanted to add that the beauty of these pieces is you can usually find vast amounts, in varying sizes and colors, for next to nothing. I paid about $8 a piece, picking ones that reflected my personality.

Lastly- SHAG COATS. If there was ever a heaven for these pieces, vintage shops would be it. But they are also the hardest piece to find. Mainly because they get scooped up so quickly. Sure, you can buy a new one online for practically nothing. And you may have to. But if you have the patience, go for authentic. I promise the quality and overall look with be worth it. And you probably wont pay much more for it. I would also advise checking local thrift stores. Same thing- they go fast, but it will broaden the possibilities.

Above I showed you some of the different pieces I’ve collected over the last few weeks. And today I want to try something different. Something more personal. Something that I do everyday with my wardrobe. So I selected a few of the aforementioned pieces, and styled them multiple ways, for multiple occasions. And the best part? Every look was under $500. 1 was even under $50 (thank you H&M!).

The first two pieces were scored at H&M. Available now.

Top $9.99, Skirt $14.99, Vintage Belt/Gloves/Clutch

There’s so much to love about the versatility of both pieces. Wear together for a show-stopping effect, or tone it down with a solid tank or leather pencil skirt.

Next was the ultimate score. The possibilities are endless with this stunner. And considering the dress was just under $40, you’ll have plenty of cash left over to discover them…

It starts off simple enough. One bold number, flipped backwards so the plunge is in the front. A set of vintage gloves ($10), my favorite Chanel cuff ($350) and a vintage clutch is all a girl needs to turn [more than] a few heads.

But I didn’t stop there….

Remember the H&M shirt? Mmmhmmmm….

Perfection.

Now lets edge things up a bit, shall we?

Swap the gloves for a fitted lather jacket. This particular one is vegan leather, from American Eagle (no longer available).

Oh, but you’re fancy, huh? I got you covered too…

My personal favorite look, and the one I’ll most likely rock first-

And for even more style inspiration on both casual and killer ways to rock sequins this season, visit HERE.

So go ahead, dolls…. Whether your look is classic, rebel or bombshell, dare to stand out this fall in the most beautiful way a girl can. AND do it without sacrificing your rent. And don’t forget to show me how you’ll be rocking this trend- tag me in your pictures on Instagram (@LiberataDolce).

Beauty, Blogger Style, Fashion, Street Style

Winter Trend Report- 70’s Disco Chic

October 4, 2015 Liberata Leave a comment

…

Get Your Chic On.

Once again, this vintage look shows zero signs of going away. Instead, this season its more amped. Think less Flower Child twirling in a field, and more late night NYC at the disco.

Think Bianca Jagger.

A regular at Studio 54 (she even celebrated her 30th birthday there, riding in on a white horse), this rocker wifey became the fashion icon of 70’s disco style. Those who haven’t already turned to her for inspiration need to start doing their homework. Now.

Liquid gold replaces delicate lace. Textures are bigger (and warmer) with shag coats and sequence. Bold red lips (tips and tricks on this here) will take center stage in your makeup routine. Gold – including Rose Gold – will dominate accessories. Throw out your skinnies to make room for flares. BIG flares. And jewel tones take over while neutrals take a back seat.

I would include fur, but I HATE that shit. We at LiberataDolce.com will never support, nor endorse animal cruelty. And I would encourage you to do the same.

#BombshellCode

But lets get back to what we DO support:

Like plunging necklines. Remember Amy Adams in American Hustle? Her wardrobe in that movie was literally everything. And this is where girls packing a small bust win. Not that girls with anything over a B cant pull it off. But there is a very fine line between 70s chic and just straight up street. Fashion tape will be required, regardless of size.

We’re also very big fans of bold prints. And jewel tones. On everything. Be brave and mix them. No really- go ahead. After all, the entire point of the 70’s was to make a statement. And YOUR statement should be “I’m a fierce bitch”. Because you are.

And now for my personal favorite- the shag coat. I literally die when I look at mine, wishing for temps frosty enough to wear them again. White is a simple, no-fail way to pull it off, but I encourage you to look for ones with color/prints. I even scored one last year with jeweled shoulders. You can view it HERE.

We also believe in breaking free of fashion ruts (I’m talking about YOU skinny jeans) and breathing life into old favorites (hello flares!). And Free People is your go-to for these. Their Super Flares are so on point, you’ll want to live in them. AND their long enough to wear with a heel.

Lastly- we will ALWAYS support a red pout. While hard to pull off during the summer, I literally sleep in my MAC Russian Red during the Fall/Winter. Red lips scream glamour. Boss. Confidence.

And I already know what you’re thinking- it leaves you looking washed out. Wrong. The wrong shade of red leaves you looking washed out. So head to your nearest MAC counter and let them show you the light. Or red, in this case. As mentioned before, head over to my Beauty page (click here) for tips on the perfect application.

But above all, we believe in the ability of putting your own spin on things. Trends come and go, but who YOU are should be reflected in WHAT you wear. That, my dear, is what we call “Style”. Because Bianca didn’t become an icon by copying outfits she saw on Instagram. She became an icon by following her [fabulous] instinct and wearing what felt right to her. No stylist. No social media. And she OWNED it.

So take these tips, and put your own spin on it. Create your signature Winter look, whatever it may be. Just make sure you do it with lots of gold. And LOTS of attitude. 😉

Now go forth- and be fabulous, you sexy thing.

#BombshellCode

X

“I said ‘Hey babe, take a walk on the wild side'”- Lou Reed

Beauty, Blogger Style, Fashion, Street Style

Berries, Brooches and Boots…. Oh My.

September 7, 2015 Liberata Leave a comment

My favorite season is literally right around the corner.

Fall.

The season of perfectly pieced together layers. The season of messy updo’s and berry-stained lips. The season of sweaters, scarves, skies-the-limit thigh high boots, your favorite vintage leather jacket, your… I cant.

Because this year, I get to celebrate the arrival of Fall with the success of reaching yet another career milestone- my very own store.

Well, it’s not exactly “MINE”. But its mine in the sense that I am now responsible for every single aspect of its success. No biggie. I mean, come on, you’ve read a little bit about the men I’ve dated. You’ve gotten a taste of my fashion sense. Obviously, it takes a LOT to shake my confidence.

And that’s good.

Because with my new role comes the complete freedom to push work day fashion to the absolute limit. To boldly express myself the best way I know how. The universal language of fearless style that simply says- “I’m a Boss“.

(Honestly, can I get an Amen??)

We all know the proper term for dressing like a professional:

Business Casual

Gag.

Now take whatever outfit you have pictured in your head and throw it away. And don’t ever bring it up again.

Because if the Fall/Winter 2015-16 runways showed us anything, its that business is ANYTHING but basic. Of course, there are always going to be the familiar and iconic seasonal hints of warmer tones (berries/nudes), layered buttery soft textures (leather/fur), and slightly heavier accessories. But this year its more detailed than ever.

Its edgy. Its polished.

Its heaven.

So with that, I decided to share my own personal challenge of the moment. The challenge of building a wardrobe not only for a new career, but for a new season. A visual guide of staples so chic, you’ll wonder how your closet (or you, for that matter) ever survived without them.

Bring it.

In a previous post (See Post Here) I talked about Fashion Week’s most coveted Fall looks. And sure enough, those trends are everything they promised they would be. But we need to break it down even more. Because you’re not just a Fashionista- you’re a Boss. A tiger. A strong independent female who calls the shots. In all areas of her life. In heels. You’re trying to run the world AND look fierce.

#1: LEATHER

Leather leggings are everything this season. I prefer styles that feature more of a motocross look to them- zippers, textured prints, etc. It gives them a slightly more interesting look, and are way more forgiving to anyone who doesn’t have perfect mile long twig-like legs (and honestly, who really does?).

But that’s not only way we’ll see leather this Fall. Fashionistas rejoice- it is now 100% acceptable (and encouraged- by me) to be worn to worn. But keeping it classy is key. I don’t care where you work- looking like you’re heading to a Stones concert probably wont be appreciated. Unless, of course, you’re actually going to a Stones concert. So the trick here is simply a looser fit. That instantly keeps leather more chic, less BDSM.

So maybe leather pants aren’t your thing? Maybe you saw that episode of Friends where Ross tried them on- and it scarred you for life. And that’s okay. I still have plenty of other leather options to help keep you on point this season.

Like skirts. Yes darling, you read that correctly.

Leather. Skirts.

And I cant lie- this is probably one of my favorite fall accessories. And the styles are limitless. Fringed, short, long, adorned, plain, asymmetrical- anything goes. And as long as you’re keeping your proportions (and hemlines) in check, you’ll be able to rock any of these looks to work AND keep it classy-

And of course, I saved my favorite leather piece for last- the always classic, always chic, always perfect leather jacket. The only trick here is to keep it fitted. Don’t be afraid of color either. But black, camel and white all scream 70’s chic while keeping things classy. Collar or no collar- its up to you. Studded or plain Jane? Either is fine.

#2: Blanket Scarves

I’ll be honest. I was one of the first to rock these last winter. And I had a lot of very mixed reactions. Men, of course, were confused- “Why is it so… big??”. I remember one particular date where the guy told me it was “weird”. I’m sure he also found it weird when he never heard from me again. But most people were just curious. And with so many different way to wear them, I cant really blame them. But the best part about these babies is right in the name itself- they literally become blankets if needed. And who doesn’t love that? Plus, if you’re stuck in a blanket scarf styling rut, simply head to YouTube. There are plenty of videos from stylists showing you ingenious new ways to wear them. Here are some of my favorite classic looks for blanket scarf beginners-

#3: Monochrome- Black/White

Okay, seriously. Is there anything more classic than head to toe black? There is now- White. Remember the old rule of never wearing white after Labor Day? Good news- you can now file that in the same place where it says you cant mix gold and silver. Who even came up with these “rules” in the first place?? To me, an all-white look is a symbol of strength. Class. Status. Confidence. Even dignity. No one dares wear white, let alone ALL white, unless they plan to be seen. And heard. The same can be said for black. An all black ensemble screams utter sophistication. Luxury. Power. Regardless of your preference, these two monochromatic looks both deliver the same message- “Look, but don’t you dare touch”.

#4: Grunge Tee’s

You heard me. The chance to mix your inner child and outer boss. Just please- keep it appropriate. In other words, feel free to declare your love for My Little Pony or Guns N Roses. Avoid political messages or personal beliefs. While I’m all for making a statement, one that could potentially offend a co-worker (or anyone, really) is just ignorant. Spread love, not hate- #BombshellCode. So use your imagination. Tap into your creativity. Or musical inspiration. And have FUN with this trend. Jus be sure to balance it out by keeping the rest of your outfit more structured and tailored. This is the key to pulling this one off. Its the perfect combination of quirky and chic by adding that unexpected element of playfulness. And who knows- maybe you’ll catch the eye of another secret Aerosmith fan. 😉

#5: Accessories

My favorite. There is no better investment simply for the fact that accessories are the details that can make or break any outfit. At the same time, they can completely change any outfit. The addition, or removal, can take an outfit from day to night, or vice versa. And chances are, they’re worth holding on to. Because unlike a lot of other trend pieces, accessories CAN be recycled. Often through multiple seasons even. Take the Bohemian movement for example. Many thought it would be over with by the end of summer. As we were preparing to pack our feather cuffs away next to our Coachella ticket stubs, Fall 15/16 came along and breathed life right back into it. Albeit slightly darker. So fear not, gypsy souls. Many of your summer favorites can transition into your fall wardrobe.

#6: Thigh-high Boots

Thigh high lovers- this one’s for you. This season we’ll be shattering sex pot records. Fashion week unveiled boots so high, sometimes it was hard to tell just where they ended.

And I couldn’t be happier.

Wear over leggings, or alone with a dress leaving just a peek of thigh. Avoid looking too disco queen when it comes to material. Flat out leather is best. Anything shiny needs to be kept strictly for outside of the office.

#7: Brooches

Another trend I touched on in a previous post, this is probably my favorite for the season. Its a chance to mix old with new. A chance to personalize each outfit with details NO ONE else will have. And its a chance to comb every vintage store in your area. As if you needed one… But seriously, theres finally a trend out right now that I can honestly say I haven’t tried before. And even better- you can go absolutely crazy with it. That’s the whole point! So grab every brooch you can find. And then plan on needing at least 20 more. And pin them wherever you see fit. Shirts, collars, cuffs- even your hair. The more dramatic and personalized, the better.

And there you have it darlings. A general overview of how I’m preparing for both my new adventure and Fall. And whileits important to pay homage to trends, and embrace them while we can, its even more important to remember that trends come and go. They should be treated as an enhancement to your personal style. Because style is forever. In other words, the most successful fashionistas are ones that take trends, and tweak them to make them their own.

WE wear the clothes- the clothes do not wear us.

#BombshellCode

So have fun. Mix it up. And be fabulous.

But be YOU.

Because the best thing you could ever put on is your confidence.