Fall 2013 Trend: Subtle Leopard

As every fashion groupie knows, sporting something leopard is the ultimate way to create a show-stopping ensemble. Style icons such as Kate Moss and Mrs. Robinson are notorious for rocking this trend, while modern trendsetters like Alexa Chung and Adele Excharopoulos incorporate dashes of leopard into their everyday outfits. This fall, the sartorial tables have turned. While you can still wear this fierce print to make a statement, wearing leopard as a versatile neutral is so on trend. Whether you pair this print with another pattern or embrace the power of layering, this alternative way to unleash your animalistic instincts is one of the hottest trends.

Thakoon

Emanuel Ungaro

Diane Von Furstenberg 

DKNY

Burberry Prorsum 

Before you embrace this trend with open arms, it's imperative to kick any sartorial jitters to the curb. Though this trend looks at leopard through a subtle lens, you must be completely confident to wear this print as a neutral. Kapeesh? The key to rocking this trend is investing in threads with muted color palettes. Any piece that's too vibrant will overpower the rest of your look. As easy as throwing on a pair of leopard heels or tossing all your necessities into a printed clutch may be, this fad is all about polished, office-appropriate silhouettes. Spice up your average nine-to-five ensemble with a structured pencil skirt, silky blouse, or an understated tee. If you're looking for an after-hours alternative, take a note from DKNY's fall collection and opt for a cozy sweater dress. And now, the million dollar question: how does a budding fashionista (or fashionisto) turn this vibrant pattern into a low-octane ingredient to any stellar outfit? Layer, ladies and gent! Sporting a solid blazer or coat will tone down the overall look. Also, don't be afraid to add some edgy patterns and textures. Whether you incorporate some tough leather, soft knits, or a zany rubber fabric, this crazy pattern will definitely take a backseat. I know what you're thinking: leopard never looked so chic!

L Agence long sleeve shirt / Equipment long sleeve shirt / Uniqlo t shirt, $21 / Marc Jacobs skirt / Giambattista Valli below knee pencil skirt / Dolce Gabbana slit skirt, $875 / Diane Von Furstenberg clothing / Therapy leopard midi skirt, $28 / Burberry slip on shoes / J.Crew j crew shoes / Steve Madden steve-madden shoes / Flat shoes

How much are you loving this trend? Sound off below!

xx

Yay or Nay?

A few weeks ago, I wrote a post about patterned tights. Remember? Yes? No? Anyways,  I wore my houndstooth tights a couple of days ago and- wait for it- broke my own rules. I paired these tights with a orange leather skirt and- wait for it, again- a leopard coat. I was a bit hesitant before I left my room; however, I think it worked oddly well.

There are two reasons I really like this combination. First of all, the two prints are tiny enough that they are not overbearing. Second, the tights and jacket are very similar in color. The similar color scheme allows the print to act like a neutral.

Here's my point: Rules are made to be broken, especially in fashion.

xx

Here's to You, Mrs. Robinson...

So me and two of my friends have been on a movie marathon frenzy lately. Every Saturday for two, almost three, weeks have been filled with movies, laughs, and the inevitable trip to the diner. This past Saturday, we all cozied up together and watched The Graduate. None of us have ever seen it, but we were curious and felt it was quite necessary. I really did like it!! The era, the concept, the famous "Mrs. Robinson" song by Simon & Garfunkel- so fabulous and so revolutionary!! My favorite part of the movie you ask? Mrs. Robinson. This movie actually made me want to become a cougar in my future. She was completely in control: she knew what she wanted and she so went for it! Although she seemed to be self- conscious when her daughter got in Ben's life, it is obvious that her "I am the shit" attitude exudes confidence. Love her. AND HER STYLE (here's the tie-in, folks) was awesome! She dresses magnificently. I don't want to annoy anyone with all of the occasions she dressed magnificently, so just see the movie. IT WAS JUST AWESOME! As I frequently reflect on her style, I realized that her style is not far off from things many people wear today. Black, fur coats, more black- TIMELESS CLASSICS. She's sexy, glamorous, and classy. Isn't that what we all want? ...I think so...

I gathered some pieces from my closet that I though best portrayed this cinematic legend. Yves Saint Laurent, Aqua, Victoria's Secret...anyone can become the next Mrs. Robinson! Just look for a young, sexy boy to seduce...

xx