Fall 2013: Trendy Tartan

Let's play a quick round of word association, shall we? When you think of the word "plaid," there's a good chance "lumberjack," "school girl," or "blasé hipster" comes to mind. This fall, designers are gifting us with a new word to associate with plaid: chic. Um, what? The notoriously macho pattern is revitalized with sleek, feminine, and ultra-sexy silhouettes as well as unexpected fabrics (and by unexpected fabrics, I obviously mean no flannel). It seems as if the sartorial table has turned, as tartan is no longer something you throw on when you're craving a lazy day ensemble. Instead, plaid is for tastemakers who want to make a statement.

Stella McCartney

                                                          Céline

Fausto Puglisi

Moschino

Saint Laurent

Whether you're ready to rock head-to-toe tartan or prefer starting of small with a punch of plaid, this trend has something for every style savant. Though a red/black combo is the most universal color palette for plaid, put your brave face on and  spice up your wardrobe with tartan in a creamy grey or shocking yellow. If you're easing into this trend, couple some printed shoes or a plaid bag with a monochromatic ensemble in a neutral hue-- black, white, grey, or cream are fabulous options. Though tops and skirts in this zesty pattern are on trend, life's too short not to embrace this trend to the fullest. If my inspirational words failed to persuade you, sporting a completely plaid ensemble prevents an embarrassing "naughty schoolgirl" moment. Perhaps I'm a little too obsessed with Céline's fall collection, but my favorite way to sport this trend is with this jaw-dropping plaid jacket. Two amazing trends in one outfit? So major. 

Moschino dress / Harvey Faircloth dress / Elizabeth and James metallic silver shirt / Roksanda Ilincic tweed coat / Alaïa skirt / Lightweight cotton pants / Alice + Olivia alice olivia skirt / Cole Haan pumps / Joie shoes / Marc by Marc Jacobs plaid purse / Comme des Garçons plaid handbag

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Red Carpet Review: 2013 Emmy Awards

Okay, so maybe nobody took my style advice--thanks a lot, ladies. Le sigh, maybe next time. Though Heidi Klum sported that structural Versace Atelier instead of Emilia Clarke, I must say that this red carpet was well-stocked with jaw-dropping ensembles. But for every amazing outfit was a cringe-worthy dress. Behold, my best and worst dressed lists.

The Worst

Cat Deeley in Armani: Well, this is just tragic. Though it's difficult to sport an entirely sequined dress, the thought-provoking silhouette and sexual cutouts made this ensemble horrid.  By the looks of this, Deeley also isn't happy about this. I rest my case.

Claire Danes in Armani Prive: As much as I adore this collection, this couture frock is simply not Emmys appropriate. It looks like Danes A) is extremely malnourished, B) is a five year-old playing in her mother's clothes, C) had one too many cocktails, or D) all the above. As sexy as deep v-necks can be, this just looks sloppy! All in all, this dress just looks too big on her.

January Jones in Givenchy: Is this some sort of joke? While there isn't anything necessarily wrong with this dress, the whole getup is so dreadfully plain. Where are all the accessories? Why is this something I feel like a grandmother should wear? I'm so confused.

Julianne Hough in Jenny Packham: Though I love the beachy waves, this dress is just atrocious. The dropped shoulders is so Grecian chic, but I think someone forgot to line Hough's dress. As much as I love the real runway looks, it's imperative to make alterations for the red carpet. Or perhaps she was trying to make Ryan Seacrest jealous...

Sarah Silverman in [insert weird response to Ryan Seacrest here]: I'm sorry, are we going to a cocktail party? Though this ensemble would be perfect for happy hour, it's not event-appropriate. And that hot pink lip? This is just too much.

Lily Rabe in Vionnet: As much as I love sartorial drama,  this ensemble has left me cringing. First of all, I just can't stand ruching. Period. Also, there's something extremely tasteless about the dual-toned color scheme--it looks like they had to add extra fabric.  Last but not least, the dark lip and nails are just way too shocking. Make it stop!

Amanda Peet in Erdem: As much as I love Erdem, this look...there are no words. I mean, she just looks sad, confused, and a little tasteless. I simply can't.

Lena Heady in Alessandra Rich: This look would've been great if the Game of Thrones star chose a different pair of shoes. I adore the sexy slit and the sheer is more elegant than Peet's Erdem disaster; however, I can't look past those shoes.

Aubrey Plaza in Marios Schwab: Is funeral chic a thing now? The tan dress with black lace overlay is quite terrible, plus I don't know what to think of the sequin embellishments. Perhaps this frock would've looked better on someone else; however, it's just too much dress for her petite frame.

Lena Dunham in Prada: This is just upsetting. Horrid floral print aside, this gown is simply not flattering on the Girls genius. The long hemline plus full skirt is a recipe for disaster. In fact, it adds a couple pounds. Hopefully, Dunham will hire a new stylist-- ahem, my Lanvin idea would've been perfect!

The Best

Julia Louis Dreyfus in Monique Lhuillier: Perfection on the red carpet, the Veep star shined. The neutral hue works lovely with her dark, luxurious locks. Since this dress's beading is so intricate, Louis Dreyfus smartly opted for minimal accessories. Age-appropriate and sophisticated, the Emmy winner may be my favorite look.

Michelle Dockery in Prada: Without a doubt, this is the best use of red on the red carpet--yes, this includes the carpet itself. Dramatic in the most minimal way possible, the gown resurrects the feminine aesthetic. I just adore the dramatic skirt and fabulous halter tie, not to mention the dual tone is pure genius. Dockery finishes this supreme look with an embellished clutch. So maj!

Allison Williams in Ralph Lauren: Though I still stand by my Valentino couture pick, the Girls star looks absolutely radiant in this cobalt blue number. For a finishing touch , the traditional shape is juxtaposed with thick, minimalist jewels. The result? A perfectly clean getup.

Julie Bowen in Zac Posen: Leave it to Zac Posen to create something so structured, gorgeous, and glamorous that  the Modern Family actress could not resist. Since the design is a little over-the-top, Bowen oped for simple jewels and a girly clutch. The modern updo allows this amazing dress to take center stage; however, Bowen's confidence prevents a classic "the dress is wearing her" moment.

Kerry Washington in Marchesa: She may not have won the Emmy, but she definitely beat Claire Danes on the red carpet. Never afraid to take a risk, Washington tried her luck with flower power. Luckily, it paid off. A far cry from her other structured looks, Washington looks absolutely gorgeous. The nude color palette is absolutely beautiful on her and I love the soft curls. Brava!

Rose Byrne in Calvin Klein Collection: Sweet Francisco Costa, this is pure perfection. The summery coral offers the ideal dash of feminine flare to this otherwise modern ensemble.Take note, everyone: this is how you show some skin. Byrne finished this look with simple jewels and totally retro locks. This tasteful number only reestablishes my love for the actress's style.

Morgan Saylor in Honor: Black, white, and chic all over, the Homeland star absolutely nailed it. The geometric color-blocking, as well as Saylor's long locks, gives this gown a youthful twist. To make a lasting impact, the red lip and sleek clutch do the trick!

Kiernan Shipka in Delpozo: Can we just take a moment to reflect on how glorious this look is? I mean, leave it to the Mad Men star to sport a dress from the hottest brand of the moment. The floral applique is unapologetically girly while the graphic top is super eye-catching. Since Shipka is the sartorial "Queen Bee," she knows to keep this look clean with minimal jewels, simple heels, and a sleek ponytail. Why is she so perfect?

Taylor Schilling in Thakoon: Orange, white-- the starlet looks great in every color. Though a column dress with a halter neckline is nothing new, the silt and side cutouts make this dress sartorially superior. And the gold gems? How elegant! Can't wait to see what Schilling wears when Orange is the New Black wins every awards next year...too far?

Which outfits did you love? Which ones did you hate? Sound off below!

All photos courtesy of The Huffington Post.

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Predictions for the 2013 Emmys: What The Hottest Stars Should Wear?

The Emmys are here, the Emmys are here! In few hours, our favorite television stars will glide down the red carpet and hopefully snag some of those treasured statuettes. Fashion nerds, however, will be glued to the television for one reason only: the clothes. We long to see what fresh runway picks our favorite leading ladies will wear. Though we won't know until they step out of their stretch limos, I'm revealing my predictions for the 2013 Emmys. Because a girl's got to dream, right?

Lena Dunham in Lanvin AW 2013 : As the self-titled voice of our generation, don't expect the Girls writer and star to wear a standard gown--how mainstream. This Lanvin number is quirky enough to bolster Dunham's aesthetic while landing her a spot on all the best dressed lists.

Claire Danes in Roberto Cavalli AW 2013: No stranger to fuss-free threads, the Homeland star rarely wears black on the red carpet. Between the comfortable silhouette and the thoughtful details, Danes would look absolutely stunning in this dress.

Michelle Dockery in Armani Pive Fall Couture 2013: I mean, could this be anymore perfect? Whether or not the Downtown Abbey star ditches the fuzzy collar, it's almost as if this dress was made for Dockery.

Elizabeth Moss in Marchesa Resort 2014: The Mad Men star never fails to  find dresses that perfectly juxtapose ladylike chic with fashion-forward glamour. In true Moss form, this proper shape is perfectly paired with a whimsical tulle skirt.

Emilia Clarke in Atelier Versace Fall Couture 2013: Never afraid to turn heads, this structured frock is both contemporary and undeniably sexy, With a sleek ponytail, there's no doubt that the Game of Thrones star could absolutely rock this.

January Jones in Zuhair Murad Fall Couture 2013: It's no surprise that this starlet adores structural, semi-sexy frocks.With a curve-hugging silhouette and thought-provoking bodice, this pick fits the sartorial bill.

Ginnifer Goodwin in Naeem Khan AW 2013: A true style trailblazer, The embellished neckline would look just fabulous with Goodwin's sharp jawline and pixie cut. Though the silhouette is more serene than her previous choices, the defiant slit adds the necessary drama.

Kerry Washington in Elie Saab Fall Couture 2013: After a string of colorful dresses, this pastel number offers a new, eye-pleasing look. The gown is feminine while the semi-sheer bodice makes this a best dressed contender.

Sofia Vergara in Zuhair Murad Fall Couture 2013: No stranger to this sultry silhouette, the Modern Family funny-woman would be a vision in this couture design. As per usual, she would probably wear her hair down and accessorize with some standouts earrings.

Christina Hendricks in Marchesa AW 2013: Everyone knows that the Mad Men star loves an uber glamorous ensemble. Not only would this Marchesa  frock hug her sought-after curves to a T, the red embellishments would be the perfect match for her fiery mane.

Valentino Fall Couture 2013: With a little bit of lining, this intricate couture piece would look just lovely on the Girls actress. The pale color scheme would contrast her dark locks beautifully, don't you think?

Julia Louis-Dreyfus in Cushnie et Ochs AW 2013: Good bye conservative veep suits, hello Cushnie. Age-appropriate and contemporary, this dress perfectly dances on the line between structured and feminine. Love!

Julie Bowen in Giorgio Armani AW 2013: Since the Emmy winner is always eager to try new styles, this Armani number would be perfect for her. The dress's skirt is sophisticated while the defiant neckline screams, "Come hither."  In this hypothetical situation, she would nix the hat for the red carpet.

Zooey Deschanel in Monique Lhuillier AW 2013: The notorious quirky girl would definitely ace the Emmys in this feminine number.  Just imagine: a retro bun, her trademark winged liner, and some nail art.

Tina Fey in Zac Posen AW 2013: Unfortunately, this is last year Fey will be representing Liz Lemon at the Emmy awards. Translation? She needs to really own it on the red carpet. Not only would the red look amazing on the Queen of Comedy, the silhouette is classic Fey.

What do you think your favorite stars are going to wear on the red carpet? Sound off below!
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Fall 2013 Trend: Oversized Coats

So long spring, hello fall. After months of sherbet hues and spicy ruffles, it's officially time for autumn-approved trends. As always, I'm here to give you the low-down on what to wear this chilly season. Get ready, fashionistas: the fall trends guide has arrived.

A necessity for when the temperatures drop, sporting a heavy jacket is always a fall must. With an oversized shape, coats are more of a statement piece this season. Masculinity meets femininity, as sharp lapels and closures are doused in dreamy pastels.  This boys versus girls fad sends a very clear message: contrary to popular belief, you can have it all-- sartorially, that is.

Louis Vuitton

Céline

Prada

Carven

Rochas

Unlike some of spring's best trends--ruffles, tie-dye, and the list goes on-- this trend is for the drama-free minimalist of the fashion world. But just because this string of coats calls for streamlined silhouettes doesn't mean your outfits have to be boring.  For a night on the town, pair your statement jacket with black skinnies, black booties, and a black top. Craving a ladylike outfit? This trend will be office-appropriate with a pencil skirt and modest heels or stylish loafers. And if you're seriously itching for an "off the charts" ensemble, take a note from Louis Vuitton's fall collection and combine clashing prints. But instead of striving to create a loud getup, focus on luxe patterns. As for the accessories, pair this look with structured pieces: a sleek choker, retro handbag, and a classic pair of cat-eye sunnies are some great options. But beware tastemakers: you're probably going to get a lot of compliments on your classic ensemble. After the twentieth compliment you receive, realize that I told you so, smile, and say "thank you."

Burberry oversized wool coat / STELLA McCARTNEY coat / Mango coat / Little Remix Coatcard wool jacket, $265

So what do you think of this trend? I'm dying to know!
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All runways photos courtesy of Style.com

Tracy Reese Spring 2014 RTW

Every now and then, somewhere in between run-throughs and deadlines, we tend so get so caught up in the business of the industry that we forget one key belief: fashion is fun. At the end of the day, what we wear is the perfect way to express ourselves when we don't want to do so with words. That chiffon dress can make us smile on a bad day. That perfectly structured peplum top makes us feel put-together when we're internally off our A-game. Luckily, fashion month features collections that revitalize this one belief. For a New York minute, we can appreciate wearable art and, as a result, smile. Tracy Reese's spring collection does just that. Though I couldn't attend the show, I was fortunate enough to receive information and images from the brand's press office, and I am thrilled to share this amazing collection with you. 

Unlike other runway shows that boasted crisp, minimalist looks, Tracy Reese's new looks are all about loud colors, funky prints, and breezy silhouettes. Working with dainty applique, Chantilly lace, and a Crayola box of different hues, this collection is all about unleashing your inner girly girl.

But how should we define "girly girl?" With so many female role models, the answer isn't as clear as we'd hope. Lucky for us, Tracy Reese recognized this problem and created pieces that are perfect for every definition of femininity. If you're a contemporary temptress, the curve-hugging striped dress is so major. Or maybe you're more of a tomboy. In that case, you'll love Tracy Reese's selection of crisp trousers, menswear-inspired suspenders, and ensembles with clashing prints. Attention all frills fanatics: this collection also has a healthy dose of flouncy skirts, ladylike hemlines, and cute crop tops. Can we say perfection in a runway show? Absolutely.

Loving what you're reading? You're not the only one. Check out my favorite looks from this collection.

A sartorial, Grecian goddess, this frock opened the show. Obsessed.

So smitten with this black raffia lace skirt.

The classic bomber jacket gets a fun makeover. I adore the printed sleeves.

A vision in sunny yellow, this is a fun way to rock a monochromatic ensemble.

Though mixing prints is a bona fide way to snag some street style attention, the mute color palette makes this fad 100 percent wearable.

Masculine meets feminine? Yes please!

This look perfectly blends minimalism with ladylike glamour.

So, trendsetters, tell me: what kind of "girly girl" are you?

Photos courtesy of Laforce + Stevens

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