Thursday 18 February 2016

Trending: Alekka, Your Virtual Dose of Wanderlust

The winter weather is all fun and games until you slip on some black ice and tumble face first into a massive pile of yellow-tinged snow. Gross. Understandably, the next thought that crosses your mind is, "When can I take a vacation?" While jet setting of to Mykonos or the Maldives would be ideal, there are so many things holding you back: fares, your shrinking number of PTO days and that less-than-perfect bikini bod.  But instead of spending the chilly season completely miserable, why not invest in a few stylish, travel-inspired pieces? Not only is retail therapy the answer to (almost) every life woe, picking up a few pieces is cheaper than a roundtrip hotel. Enter Alekka, the travel-inspired e-commerce site that boasts emerging brands, industry favorites and unique pieces crafted by worldly artisans. Regardless of their origins, the carefully curated batch is geared to satisfy your wanderlust.

Alekka by Nico Guilis

And, for your viewing pleasure, Alekka recently teamed up with photographer Nico Guilis of Find Your California for a lookbook that promotes new pieces available on the site and captures both titles' aesthetic: the cool, ethereal (yet slightly edgy) jetsetter everyone secretly wants to be. If you're not already sold on shopping Alekka, feast your eyes on these four Trendologist-approved picks.

Looking for an extra pretty set of earrings to cure your winter blues? These stamped brass and hand enamel ones, which are from Spain, will look stunning with a navy tea-length dress or jeans and a T-shirt. Barcelona Enamel Earrings, $80, alekka.com.

Handmade and painted in Crete, Greece, this printed tray is the perfect catch-all tray for your vanity table or desk. Plus, it'll give your home an offbeat, bazaar vibe. Medium Grecian Jewelry Bowl, $48, alekka.com.


Whether you pair it with a neutral ensemble or power-clash with other vibrant prints, this airy scarf -- which was made in India but found in Ibiza -- is bound to make a statement. Vintage Scarf, $125, alekka.com.


If prints aren't your style jam, the website offers sleek edgy options, too. For example, this 14K gold ring was made in New York and offers an urban, cool girl flair. Mirlo Thorn Ring, $495, alekka.com.

Like what you see? Enjoy 15 percent off any order with the code 15foryou.

xx

Tuesday 16 February 2016

Red Carpet Review: 2016 Grammy Awards

Jennifer Lopez's plunging Versace number. Lady Gaga's egg-tastic entrance.  Lil' Kim's purple pasties. Let's be honest: the looks that flock the Grammys red carpet tend to be more kitschy than chic. However, instead of LED-lined gowns, this year's crop of dresses played it a little safe.  But that doesn't mean that the whole night was a total snooze-fest. Adele's silky voice made viewers everywhere sob -- don't deny it, you totally wept -- and Lady Gaga performed a heartwarming tribute in honor of the late David Bowie. And on the red carpet, there were some looks that were completely swoon-worthy. Too busy watching The Bachelor last night to keep up with the Grammys? Read on for the best looks from the music event of the year.

Florence Welch in Gucci: Quirky, embellished and colorful. A better description of Florence Welch's red carpet style or Alessandro Michele's reign at Gucci? In this case, it's both. There are so many incredible brand-celebrity partnerships out there -- Alicia Vikander with Louis Vuitton and Jennifer Lawrence with Christian Dior, to name a few -- but there hasn't been one more perfect than the union of the Florence and the Machine front-woman and Gucci. This whimsical, long-sleeved look wouldn't look good on everyone. In fact, it would probably merit a place on the "worst dressed list" for most celebrities. However, this dress perfectly captures Welch's free spirit and adds a feminine touch to her bohemian aesthetic. Here, the pretty pink hue complements her fiery red locks while the subtle v-neck offers a slight sex appeal to a borderline matronly ensemble. Chunky rings and a wavy half-up do perfectly finish this look. 
Selena Gomez in Calvin Klein Collection: As of late, the pop singer has sung about her inability to keep her hands to herself. But in this midnight blue number from Calvin Klein Collection, we can't imagine why she'd want to put her hands anywhere else. Gomez always looks great on the red carpet, and her style has recently become more sophisticated,  but there's no denying that she looked particularly sultry at last night's affair. The metallic blue hue offers something different to the red carpet while the cut-outs and plunging neckline flatter her figure. And any red carpet moment that involves the use of extra large hoop earrings is Trendologist-approved. The two things we'd change? Lifting those straps up just a smidge and switching her locks form big curls to a sleek ponytail. Regardless, brava. 
Adele in Givenchy: While it's a sad day to see that Adele has graduated from cat-eye liner and a perfectly coiffed bee-hive, her new look isn't half bad. Okay -- understatement of the year -- it's amazing. The dress itself isn't anything special, though the silhouette is particularly flattering on the songstress's slimmed frame and the subtle peekaboos right below the shoulder acts as a small way to jazz up a simple LBD. Here, the wow-factor is solely the hair and makeup. Not only is the slightly tousled lob totally on trend, it also suggests an older, more mature version of Adele. Instead of the full face we've become so accustomed to for the Brit, he natural pout and soft liner perfectly juxtapose her bold brow. But somethings never change, like her claw-like nails and ability to make listeners burst out into tears after a heart-melting appearance singing "All I Ask."
Ellie Goulding in Stella McCartney: Think of the singer's pretty in pink number as a gown mohawk. Though shown in a gorgeous color, the front is pretty minimalist and quite dull for such a notoriously crazy red carpet. The back, however, boasts a racerback that is dripping in gem embellishments and completely ups the sartorial ante. Given the extravagance, the diamond choker could've been a bit much for the look. But it's the Grammys! If not, when? On the contrary, the necklace offers a cool '90s attitude and makes this an ensemble something we would expect on the supermodel likes of Naomi Campbell or Kate Moss way back when. When it comes to the beauty regime, Goulding did not disappoint either. The nonchalantly swept hair is a breath of fresh air on a carpet filled with perfectly-maintained updos and beachy waves. Plus, that pink lip is the perfect mix between girly and barely there. 
Bella Hadid in Alexandre Vauthier Haute Couture: Luckily, this year's red carpet boasted very few black gowns. But when a LBD or two did make an appearance, you can bet that they were far from boring. Take Bella Hadid, for example, who rocked a covetable number from Alexandre Vauthier's haute couture collection. While the high slit, cut-outs and plunging neckline veer into a more sultry territory, the long-sleeves creates a more modest element that makes this more of a fashion girl hit versus what a typical 20-something would wear. With very few Bulgari gems and a simple strappy sandal, Hadid kept the focus on the dress (and rightfully so). On the beauty front, the model opted for a subtly vampy aesthetic: dark nails, slicked back hair and a subtly smokey eye. Morticia Addams would be so proud. 
Which looks did you love from the 2016 Grammy Awards? Sounds off below.
Photo courtesy of  The Huffington Post and MTV
xx

Friday 12 February 2016

A Fashion Girl's Guide to Dressing for Valentine's Day

Once upon a time, sometime when you were in elementary school, Valentine's Day used to include distributing kitschy cards to everyone in your class and overloading on pink and red garb. If you were really lucky, Sweetheart candies were thrown into the mix. Now, it's a little different. The only person you receive a Valentine from is your mother, significant other or bitter single best friend. And unless you're starring in a Hallmark Channel movie, you wouldn't be caught dead wearing those standard hues on the big day. But rest assured, dear reader: there is a way to look festive and deniably fashion-forward. Regardless of your relationship status, check out these pieces that will up the ante of your Valentine's Day ensemble.


Event #1 : Sexy Date Night

Although a romantic dinner wtih your partner may sound cliché, consider February 14 the perfect excuse to go to that swanky restaurant you've been dying to try. But just because your plans veer towards basic territory doesn't mean your outfit needs to. Stay far away from that crimson bodycon dress and update your date night look with an airy silhouette that still shows just the right amount of skin. This lace-trimmed pick from Vetements teeters between edgy and romantic, plus your partner is going to love that plunging neckline. A strappy sandal would be a perfect addition, but let's not forget it's February. And in February -- especially this weekend for those Northeasterners -- it's going to be epcially cold. So, as a pretty great plan B, opt for a pair of thigh-high boots and a duster coat: the mix of clashing lengths will add an extra oomph to this outfit. A funky crossbody -- like this one from Rochas -- and a sweep of a smokey eye will have your beau totally smitten.


Vetements Dress, $1,215, matchesfashion.com

Rochas Bag, $879.50, farfetch.com


Gianvito Rossi Over-the-Knee Boots, $1,675, net-a-porter.com
Takashi Duster Coat, $330, topshop.com
Urban Decay Naked Smoky Palette, $54, sephora.com

Event #2: Single Ladies Dinner

Who needs a man when you have your squad of fabulous single ladies? Exactly. A girl's night out is the perfect way to stop sulking about that Tinder date gone so, so wrong, not to mention you can wear exactly what you what without fearing that a guy won't find your crazy clothes sexy. So why not completely push the envelope almost to the point of no return? Who knows -- you may very well be in a relationship next year and your risky threads will not fly. COS's silky jumpsuit screams "independent woman" (without looking too flashy) and will look great with a pair of ladylike pumps. Sure, a onesies and BB pumps are fun, but why don't you really make a statement with a fun (faux) fur coat? A neutral pick is always classic, but a colorful one from British brand Shrimps is cheeky enough for your ladies' night. In order to tie in the classic with the zany, opt for a neutral-hued clutch that's a little bit of both (just like this one from Charlotte Olympia) On the beauty front, add a red lip: it'll give your ensemble a subtly festive kick and, since you're most likley in a smooch-free zone, you won't have to worry about getting it all over your dinner guests.

Silk Jumpsuit, on sale for $90, cosstores.com
Manolo Blahnik Suede BB Pumps, $595, barneys.com

Kylie Coat, approximately $826, shrimps.co.uk
Charlottle Olympia Clutch, $1,165, net-a-porter.com


Matte Revolution Lipstick in 'Walk of Shame,' $32, charlottetilbury.com


Event #3: Cozy Night in with Your Beau

Hitting up the hottest restaurants and bars is tempting; however, there's nothing quite like "Netflix and chilling" with your significant other. But let's not forget that it's still Valentine's Day, which means that styling an outfit from your expansive collection of sweats is a no-go. The key to sporting an ensemble that's casual enough for your man (but fashion-forward enough for you) is adding jeans. Paired with culottes, this subtle tie-neck blouse from Mango  (which is a light enough shade of pink to look style saavy than festive) would is man-averse. But with a pair of relaxed boyfriend jeans? It's cool, unassuming and definitely boy toy-approved. And these vintage Levi's are especially great because they offer that "borrowed from the boys" flair without adding an imaginary bulk to your frame. Since you'll most likely be strolling around in a pair of socks -- or even barefoot -- be sure to accessorize with a few stacked rings to keep this look fashion girl-friendly. And let's not forget that it's Valentine's Day. If you're hanging around the house with your partner, a seductive pair of bra and panties is a necessity. This mesh set from Cosabella is the cool girl's take on lacy lingerie, plus it will slip nicely under your ensemble.


http://shop.mango.com/US/p0/women/clothing/shirts/tie-neck-blouse/?id=51039065_84&n=1&s=prendas.blusas&ident=0__0_1455298270396&ts=1455298270396&p=76&page=5
Tie-Neck Blouse, on sale for $29.99, mango.com
Vintage Levi Boyfriend Jeans, $150, theline.com


http://www.catbirdnyc.com/collections/stacking-rings/mignon-memory-ring-yellow-gold.html
Mignon Memory Ring, $48 each, catbirdnyc.com


Cosabella Soire Mesh Underwired Bra, $65 (matching briefs for $25), net-a-porter.com

Event #4: Cozy Night in with Yourself

Regardless of your relationship status, we can all agree that Valentine's Day tends to pack on unnecessary pressure. Some people love it, others hate it. If you find yourself rolling your eyes with each bouquet of roses you see on February 14, it wouldn't be that shocking if your plans were chilling in your jammies and catching up on The People v. OJ Simpson. Because, after all, your priorities are clearly in check. Instead of throwing on your ratty college sweats, try your luck with some luxe loungewear. Trust us, you'll need something to enjoy when you're scrolling through dozens of nauseatingly romantic Instagrams. Between the ladylike pattern and silk-satin blend, this pair of jammies from Olivia von Halle has glamour written all over it. Sticker shock aside, be honest: you've been longing for a pretty pair of hostess pajamas. Paired with some slick metallic slippers? Sartorial bliss.  Hiding from the sappiness parade that is Valentine's Day doesn't require fancy gems or a killer purse, but you may find it useful to invest in some beauty extras. This Origins charcoal mask enchances your complexion, plus it's the perfect sidekick for some much-needed "me time." And, when you're ready to hit the hay, a silky eye mask will ensure you end Valentine's Day in style.

Olivia von Halle Silk-Satin Pajamas, $525, net-a-porter.com
Patricia Green Coco Slippers, $109.95, nordstrom.com

Origins Clear Improvements Active Charcoal Mask, $25, birchbox.com

Slip Silk Eye Mask, $40, net-a-porter.com


What will you be wearing on Valentine's Day? Sound off below.
xx

Tuesday 2 February 2016

Red Carpet Review: 5 Best Looks from the 2016 SAG Awards

With only 20-something years under its belt, the Screen Actor Guild (or SAG) Awards have a reputation for being the most ho-hum awards show of them all. The ceremony doesn't even begin to discuss the behind the scenes efforts of each highly-acclaimed movie, plus it's on TBS -- and this year, it aired on a Saturday night. While the event itself was one merry after school special -- cheers, Queen Latifah and Uzo Aduba for you motivational acceptance speeches -- the red carpet was far from flat. From jumpsuits, to sultry beadwork to even a frock from Alessandro Michele's reinvented Gucci,  there was a decent dosage of fashion moments. Here, we break down the five best looks from Saturday's 2016 SAG Awards.


Brie Larson in Atelier Versace: Can we say "shipwrecked chic?" While the sailor knots, high slit and tied waistline on this gown easily resemble deteriorating Greek goddess garb, the look was actually cool and event-appropriate. As a major frontrunner in this year's Oscar race, it would be too frilly to sport a full-skirted gown. Instead, this look was youthful, fun and solidifies her position as the season's resident fashion girl. And for that obviously necessary cool girl flair that bright orange back strap -- not pictured-- adds a jolt of energy to her look. Paired with a neatly parted bun and drop earrings, the final results looked more Hollywood starlet than Kylie Jenner territory. 
Kiernan Shipka in Erdem: What were you doing when you were 16 years-old? Studying up for your driver's test? Or maybe you were going ga-ga for that senior... you know, the all-star lacrosse golden boy who wasn't even aware of your existence? But regardless, you most likely weren't already a red carpet darling like this Mad Men star. In award seasons of yore, Shipka has been noted for wearing girly tea-length frocks; however, the stylish teen upped the ante on Saturday with this gown by British designer Erdem. Between the floor-length hemline and the gloomy color palette, this was more adult than her previous looks without sacrificing her youthful aesthetic. Plus, a thin chain shoulder bag instead of a clutch? That has cool girl written all over it. 
Kristen Wiig in Roland Mouret: Once upon a time, the red carpet was strictly filled with debutante-worthy, full-skirted gowns in girly pastels. But now? We are (on occasion) graced with slimmer silhouettes or, if we're really lucky, an offbeat pantsuit. Rejoice, dear reader: the evening's jumpsuit kudos belonged to this former Saturday Night Live star. Without sounding completely stereotypical, and suggesting that funny woman can't be stylish, it's rare to see many of them drift away from the confines of a column dress. A quirky asymmetrical design, this partially embellished outfit fits the Bridesmaid star like a glove: it covered Wiig in all the right places and those pants were cropped to perfection. And, for a finishing touch, the ensemble was accessorized with chunky, rock-n-roll gems.
Rooney Mara in Valentino: In the world of red carpet glamour, consider Rooney Mara the quiet, goth girl that everyone (not-so) secretly wants to be. This plush Valentino dress completely embraces that high school-esque stereotype. "What's so great about this?" you're probably thinking right about now. "Haven't we all seen a black dress with a plunging neck?" You're right. In theory, this isn't anything special; however, this number fits Mara's almost ballerina-like stature perfectly and though minimal accessories with such a plain dress can be risky, it actually works here. And, on the beauty front, that slick ponytail is perfect for such a sexy silhouette.

Claire Danes in Stella McCartney: During her reign in Homeland, the award winning actress has made fashion risks a plenty: army-inspired Marc Jacobs, tactile Valentino and Miuccia Prada's paillette overload. In a turn of events, Danes opted for a simple, blue number from Stella McCartney on Saturday. Is anything about this look that's reinventing the wheel? Not particularly; however, the two-toned element creates an illusion of a trim (yet athletic) frame. Though a less costumey bracelet would've modernized this number, the long waves breathed some life into her otherwise unassumingly stylish getup.
 

Which looks from the 2016 Screen Actors Guild Awards did you love? Sound off below

Photos courtesy of Glamour.com and UsMagazine.com

xx