Get the Look: Beach Bound

It's time to pull out your massive collection of sunnies and sandals because summer is officially here. What better way to spend the first glorious weekends of this hot season than at the beach?   Whether you're hopping on the Jitney that's en route to the Hamptons or flying to Malibu, a beachy weekend calls for an "out of this world" wardrobe. Though fighting against sand sand sweat is never fun, looking like a Jersey Shore cast member is a trendsetter's worst nightmare. This summer, how about we all keep it cool and classy? If you're in need of some inspiration, check out these sunshine-approved outfit ideas.

Isn't it every fashionista's dream to rock that totally retro beach look a la Sophia Loren, Brigitte Bardot and Elizabeth Taylor? Channel your favorite seaside style maven with a high-waisted bikini. This black            look from Topshop is effortlessly glam. Update this classic look with a printed kaftan--Missoni's mini version of the go-to coverup keeps this ensemble fun and youthful. As much as I love to color block, stick to neutral or black accessories. The black tote and sandals tie this outfit together and allows all the attention to be on that ah-may-zing kaftan. Last but not least, throw on some fabulous sunnies and a floppy hat-- the perfect finishing touches. Though a summer glow is the ultimate accessory this season, make sure to slather sunblock before you hit the sand. I just picked up some Kiehl's sunscreen for my upcoming getaway, which proves that there are glamorous ways to save your skin!

Missoni Mare short kaftan / Topshop swim suit / Zara shoes / French Connection beach tote / Charlotte Russe floppy hat / STELLA McCARTNEY / Kiehl's kiehl s / Bamboo Bath Sheet (Beach Towel) Various Colors

From attending a casual picnic to window shopping in East Hampton, every fashion-forward traveler needs that fuss-free ensemble. By far, playsuits are the easiest way to look funky and put together at the same time. This pick's silhouette is basic; however, the acid wash pattern is super edgy. Accessorize this cool girl look with a mix statement and staple pieces. While the fedora and wayfarers are timeless picks, the mirrored cross body and cutout sandals scream personal style.

Topshop denim romper jumpsuit / Sole Society gladiator sandals / Street Level black leather handbag / 2b straw hat / Ray-Ban sports eyewear

It's no surprise that a maxi dress is a must for any trendsetter. The glam of an evening gown mixed with the ease of a standard sundress? Um, yes please! Sporting a maxi in a solid hue offers the sophisticated vibe that a printed dress lacks. So does this mean maxi dress ensemble must be boring? Absolutely not! Whether you add fun accessories, paint on a powerful pout or do both, pump up the glamour with this classic piece.

Maxi dress, $130 / Ankle strap high heel sandals / Kate Spade handbag / Karen Walker / Lancôme long wearing lipstick

Though we all claim we're stowing our knits away for the season, we can't help but crave a cozy sweater on  those cold summer nights. Don't be ashamed-- it's completely normal! Remedy those yearning by pairing a chunky knit with a pair of slouchy boyfriend jeans. While everyone's dying to wear bright colors this season, I'm personally obsessed with this neutral outfit-- perfect for a casual camp fire!

Helmut Lang boatneck sweater / Topshop vintage jeans / Diane Von Furstenberg platform wedge shoes / Rose Pierre bib statement necklace / Tom Ford lipstick

What are you going to wear this summer? Sound off below!

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Brand to Love: LINE Knitwear

Whether you want to stay warm during harsh winter days or keep it chic on cool summer nights, stylish knitwear is an essential for every trendsetter's wardrobe. If you're on a quest to find a brand that's both luxurious and cozy, look no further. Enter LINE Knitwear. Over the past 13 years, LINE has turned into a go-to brand for celebrities like Cameron Diaz, Drew Barrymore and Katie Holmes. Um, major.

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It all began when cofounders John Muscat and Jennifer Wells met during their college years.

"Jenn and I participated in one of the largest AIDS fundraiser shows in Canada," says Muscat. "Jenn was one of the designers and I worked on the organizational team."

After noticing a gap in the luxury knitwear market, LINE quickly became a reality.

"We had the foundation of a very solid friendship that we developed in university that was based on a lot of respect, trust and time," adds Muscat.

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From tanks to dresses, the brains behind LINE created everything your trendy little heart could desire. I'm personally obsessed with the label's coral and cobalt knit tank as well as the lush black and white sweater. Classic and funky at the same time.

I know what you're thinking-- where can you snag a piece of this ah-may-zing brand? Sold at over 800 boutiques, department stores and e-commerce sites, the options are basically endless. So what are you waiting for? Grab a piece of LINE now!
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Spring 2013 Trend Report: All About the Applique

Honestly, fashion would be boring if designers didn't mix it up with different silhouettes, color palettes, fabrics and, most importantly, applique. Appli-what? Since what seems like the beginning of time, designers have been attaching trinkets and excess pieces of fabric to their perfectly crafted threads. This season, it seems as if the applique craze is bigger than ever. From delicate jewels to punky fripperies, there is no better way to spice up an outfit.

Marchesa

Prada

Dires Van Noten

Chanel

Dolce & Gabbana

Oscar de la Renta

One of the many reasons I love this phenomenon is because anything goes. From clothes to accessories, an appliqued piece gives depth and dimension to any look. Plus, you have the freedom to style your applique however you see fit. Whether you mix and match these picks for an "out-of-this-world" look or counteract the trend's extravagance with sleek extras, your ensemble is sure to be a homerun. But, like any other trend, it's absolutely crucial that you put your brave face on. You're supposed to wear this trend, not the other way around.

Lanvin lace cocktail dress, $1,740 / Maiyet keyhole dress / 3.1 Phillip Lim flower print dress / Mango rose print dress / Valentino leather top / Dolce & Gabbana lace top / Temperley London silk shirt / Cotton pants, $255 / Charlotte Olympia high heel platform shoes / Alexander McQueen lace handbag

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Spring 2013 Trend Report: The Moto Jacket

It seems as if biker jackets are no longer restricted to the members of Hell's Angels or the T-Birds. Though this trend is nothing new, the moto jacket has recently received an intense makeover. This season, good girl meets bad girl with tough coats in vibrant hues. As luxe as a moto jacket may sound, this sought-after piece is available at a plethora of different price points. Translation? There's a biker chic pick for everyone.

3.1 Phillip Lim

Mulberry

Pierre Balmain

Rag & Bone

Anna Sui

Like most trends this spring season, anything goes when rocking a moto jacket.  Whether you mix this fad with bright colors, crazy prints or a subdued neutral ensemble, the key to this phenomenon is expressing your personal style. If your jacket isn't too bright, I suggest sporting a monochromatic look-- adding different textures to the mix creates an ensemble that's waiting to be shot by Bill Cunningham. According to Rag & Bone, Etro and J. Mendel, this trend isn't just a sartorial summer romance. If you want to rock this trend once that coveted tan from the Hamptons, invest in a neutral moto jacket.

Topshop blue denim jacket / Opening Ceremony real leather jacket / Madewell lightweight jacket / Forever 21 metallic jacket / Rag & Bone biker jacket / Reiss biker jacket

Will you sport this trend? Sound off below! 

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