Spring 2015 Trend: Check Mate

After a winter filled with debilitating blizzards, slick roads and slushy aftermath, there is light at the end of the tunnel. With spring just around the corner, scheming an outfit that consists of more than an oversized sweater, pair of jeans and clunky snow boots won't be easy. For instant outfit inspiration, take a look at the Trendologist's picks for top spring 2015 trends.

"Florals for spring? Groundbreaking." As the overstated, yet accurate, line from The Devil Wears Prada decrees, taking a sartorial lesson from the hyacinths and peonies that bombard your deli corners is passé. A print that's equally springtime-inspired, yet significantly less cliché, is gingham, which happened to run rampant on the spring runways. Far from Mary-Ann's traditional ensemble, designers' takes on this pattern offered more gravitas (and no coconut cream pie). Always at the fashion vanguard, Joseph Altuzarra showcased a polished alternative to this usually casual motif. The New York designer's collection of ladylike power suits in an array of colors is completely office-friendly. Equally feminine and sophisticated is Oscar de la Renta's heap of statement jackets that debuted at the late designer's farewell show. Paired with a delicate lace top and glamazon earrings, de la Renta's version of this trend exudes a "Lady Who Lunches" attitude. But not every example of gingham this season must adhere to prim and proper standards. Styled with a wide belt and off-the-shoulder sweater, Michael Kors's full skirts are the perfect way to give this feminine print an offbeat twist. And what about Bottega Veneta's peachy shirtdress? With the right accessories, this gingham-clad getup is perfect for almost any occasion. If you haven't gotten over your style rut from this year's harsh winter, remedy your wardrobe with a fetching matching top and shorts a la Diane von Furstenberg's spring show. Rid this ensemble of any Gilligan's Island connotations with a pair of platform sandals.

Altuzarra Look 3

Oscar de la Renta  Look 11 

Michael Kors 48

Bottega Veneta Look 34

Diane Von Furstenberg Look 27

1. Chloé 2. Altuzarra  3. Intermix 4. Michael Kors  5. No.21  6. Dolce & Gabbana 7. Sam & Lavi



Repeat after me: I will not dress like a farmer, I will not dress like a farmer. Though top designers deem the cheery print worthy of our spring wardrobes, gingham tends to veer into barnyard territory. Free yourself from any Old MacDonald connotations by matching this print with modern, or ultra girly, silhouettes. While a checkered cropped shirt or pinafore dress may read campy, Michael Kors's mint halter dress is a forward-thinking replacement. Chloé's ruffled iteration is risky, but will add dimension (and a smile) to your look. Now that selecting au courant checkered pieces is a slice of sartorial cake, how does one style this notoriously finicky print? Play off the pattern's color. A cobalt overcoat will look striking with baby blue and white gingham; however, the look's monochromatism will surprisingly appease the farm girl fad. But if your closet is lacking vibrant statement pieces, opt for crisp white pieces to score an effortlessly chic outfit. Not ready to take the plunge on this trend? Ease into this phenomenon with a sweet gingham bikini.

What do you think of this trend? Sound off below!

All runway photos courtesy of Style.com

xx

In Memory: The 10 Best Oscar de la Renta Gowns

On Monday evening, the fashion world lost a top innovator. Though many could argue that at 82 years-old, and fighting a  battle with cancer, death is imminent. However, Oscar de la Renta's designs were so timeless, it  almost felt as if he was immortal.  But instead of mourning the loss of one of America's most talented designers, why don't we take a look back on de la Renta's sartorial career with fondness? As the unofficial king of eveningwear, it's only natural to take a look back at some of de la Renta's best gowns.

Fall 2010, Look 48: Not only is the beading and appliqué exceptional, this dress has instantaneous red carpet appeal and landed Cameron Diaz on several best dressed lists at the 2010 Academy Awards. 

Spring 2011, Look 59: Perfect for a modern-day Babe Paley, the print and silhouette of this gown are simply timeless. Plus, the tasseled earrings and ladylike shoes pay tribute to the designer's beautiful collection of accessories.

Spring 2012, Look 2: Classic de la Renta, this voluptuous skirt speaks to his frills-filled aesthetic while the lace bodice plays upon his Dominican roots. Does this number look familiar? Nicki Minaj wore this dress to the 2011 American Music Awards.

Spring 2013, Look 55: This gown looks like something you would see in Rear Window, but it doesn't feel outdated. Instead, this dress it's timeless.

Pre-Fall 2013, Look 56: Most fashionistas tend to avoid wearing yellow at all costs; however, this  gown makes the sunny hue almost impossible to resist. With silver embroidery and a modest neckline, this look is one of those outfits girls dreamed of wearing when playing princesses years ago.

Fall 2013, Look 46: Though the designer was never one to send something sultry, this embroidered dress offers a certain sex appeal that is rarely seen in his empire. But, true to de la Renta form, the thick embroidery makes this look far from scandalous.

Resort 2014, Look 25 : Leave to to Oscar to show us just how utterly glamourous a voluminous silhouette can be. After all, column dresses aren't the only way to make a splash on the red carpet.

Fall 2014, Look 41: While a typical de la Renta gown tends to glide down a red carpet or catwalk, this fringed number offers a youthful, spunkier take on his treasured pieces. Timeless, yet it's a look that dares you not to smile.

Resort 2015, Look 35: Though a floral gown from the acclaimed designer isn't anything we haven't seen before, the dramatic pink bow offers an unapologetic "wow" factor. 

Spring 2015, Look 46: For his very last collection, de la Renta played with bright hues, gingham, and floral dresses.  Though more subtle than his finale looks, this blue and silver number is effortlessly glamorous. Plus, only de la Renta knew how to make a usually kitschy hem sophisticated.

What are some of your favorite Oscar de la Renta moments? Sound off below.

All runway photos courtesy of Style.com.

xx

Runway Report: Pre-Fall 2012

You'll never believe it, but I can be pretty busy sometimes. Between the Twelve Days of Trendy-  that was a blast- and my British holiday, I've barely had any time to blog. But don't worry, I know you were really worried, I'm here and ready to keep you updated. First up: Pre Fall 2012. Although I sometimes find this series of runway shows to be a little superfluous since Fall 2012 is so soon, there are so many collections that I was obsessed with. I don't know how long this recap will be, Pre-Fall 2012 was that great,  so I apologize in advance.

Oscar de la Renta

In my mind, Oscar de la Renta can literally do know wrong. From his ladylike day wear to his show-stopping evening gowns , this collection is so feminine and chic. The vast array of colors throughout this collection is absolutely stunning. Though some silhouettes are very similar, the different colors make each look special. I also love how de la Renta always incorporates jewels into each look. Each collection doesn't just showcase some new clothes; instead, Oscar de la Renta offers a mature and glamourous lifestyle through his collection.   (Photo Cred)

Alice+Olivia

This might have been my favorite collection of the whole preseason. I'm serious when I say that I loved every single look. From the oversized trousers to fun party dresses, every look is youthful and  fashion-forward. Throughout the collection, there's a mix of a feminine flare and versatility. To make the collection a little more edgy, the sassy berets and red lips are the perfect finishing touches. What made this collection so fabulous, at least for me, is Stacey Bendet's use of different colors, textures, and silhouettes. Since every look is truly unique, the collection feels more like a sneak-peak into a super glam girl's closet.  And can we talk about that finale?  The jeweled bodice plus the flowing silhouette equals perfection.  (Photo Cred)


Diane von Furstenberg 

In my mind, this collection is the perfect juxtaposition between Jackie O's style and a rocker chick in London during the 1960's. That subtle struggle between good versus evil truly made me love this collection. Honestly, if this collection was purely one or the other, I wouldn't have liked it as much; however, this conflict makes it  something special. (Photo Cred)

Zero & Maria Cornejo

Not only does this color experiment with different prints and  textures, but the execution of these pieces are awesome. Many of the pieces serve as a blank canvas to me,  therefore they are extremely versatile. The silhouettes are rather primitive; however,  each ensemble is executed magnificently. Execution is more important than innovation in my mind.   (Photo Cred)

Rag&Bone 

I'm usually not a fan of sports-inspired collections; however, I'm such a Rag & Bone fan. Unlike most sports-inspired collections, this collection is promising because of its versatile pieces. The cozy sweater, for example, would look awesome with skinny jeans, a maxi skirt, or even a bodycon skirt and chunky tights.The red leather skirt would also look fabulous with a chunky sweater or a slim-fitted shirt. I always need options and Rag&Bone gives me options!  (Photo Cred)

Temperley London

I love this Temperley London collection because it's like feminine overload.  From the narrow silhouettes to the use of sequins and brocade-inspired pieces, this collection did not disappoint. I feel as if femininity is now a fashion taboo: we're now encouraged to dress androgynously, which I don't love. However , this collection shows us that we should be unapologetically feminine.   (Photo Cred)

Thakoon Addition

This collection is so cool because a lot of the pieces are quite weird. For example, the initially awkward silhouettes are definitely an acquired taste; however, they evolve into very chic and versatile pieces. Additionally all of the prints are borderline abrasive, but I kind of like it. However, I like my fashion like I like my people: weird. I love collections with stories and oddities. But that's what fashion should do: it should make you think. As a whole, the collection is definitely off-beat, youthful, and thought-provoking.   (Photo Cred)

3.1 Phillip Lim

I like this collection because it covers two different sides of the spectrum. The straight silhouettes and impeccable execution gives this look a very serious vibe. On the other hand, the funky comic tops prove that fashion is supposed to be fun. I love juxtaposition and some comedy in fashion.  Best of both worlds, right?  (Photo Cred)

Theyskens' Theory 

Reminiscent of his past, this collection depicts another  Olivier Theyskens designing peak. This collection strays away from clean-cut casual attire and explores a more gothic side of Theory. I love the long hemlines, quirky patterns, and layers overload. Also, there's something quite grungy going on here, and I like it.  (Photo Cred)

Michael Kors 

Honestly, I think this is the first time I've ever become addicted to Kors. Don't get me wrong, Michael Kors is such a fabulous American designers; however, I've never really felt that strong connection with one of his collections. Until now. With a saloon- vibe, this collection is a combination of all-American and progressive minimalism.  Should we talk about that detailing? Phenomenal. I love all of Kors' fur accents: it may not be very logical when it comes to pre-fall, but I'm a fan! Additionally, I love how Kors plays with hemlines and color throughout this collection. Well done!  (Photo Cred)

Ports 1961

Although this collection is super small,  it's definitely one of my favorites. If there are two things I love in life, it's definitely long-sleeved dresses and prints. There's a retro je ne sais quoi about this collection that I'm in love with; however, there's also something progressive about this collection. All of these pieces offer an effortlessly chic canvas to accessorize. The long dresses, for example, would look great as is or piled on with fur, necklaces, or even a moto-vest.  Obsessed.   (Photo Cred)

Burberry Prorsum

As much as I love my fur, feathers, and all around glamour, every now and then I love me some classic collections. Burberry Prorsum, for example, is the epitome of fashion-forward and classic glamour. In this collection, Christopher Bailey did a phenomenal job making classic fabrics and silhouettes exciting. The rich colors and textures truly added something special to each look. Like that fur jacket? Breathtaking. From fur trim to dainty florals, Bailey successful made this collection a hit.  In addition, the reoccurring bow belt adds femininity to these very traditional looks. Also, it gives the collection an additional consistency. I would also like to add that the men's ensembles are also spectacular.  (Photo Cred)

J. Mendel 

This collection is awesome because there are so many details.  From the creatively bunched bodices to the skirts with the sheared detailing, each evening gown is something to go ga-ga over. Throughout the collection, there's this awesome play between different textures, ultimately creating a super luxe feel. According to Giles Mendel, this collection is all about "unapologetic luxury," which I think is so right-on.  The emphasis on leather, evening wear, and fur precisely hits Giles' inspiration right on the head. (Photo Cred)

Jason Wu

I think it's in my DNA to love everything and anything Jason Wu creates. Fortunately, this collection is no exception. I love Wu's ability to constantly make classic pieces innovative. Sort of like this Burberry Prorsum collection, but different. Unlike Burberry Prorsum, each of Wu's collections are both cohesive and versatile. Anyways, now about the fashion. The everyday apparel is so awesome. I love how Wu incorporated red houndstooth into the collection. In general, I love the edgy contrast between the simple silhouettes and the geometric lines and colors. While his casual wear is stunning, this collection's evening dresses are phenomenal. I'm so smiten with that beautiful cobalt blue dress with the beyond incredible neckline. Fash-gasm, my new fashion word. (Photo Cred)

xx

If you want to look at some more Pre Fall 2012 collection, check out style.com

Twelve Days of Trendy: Bringin' Home the Bling

Okay, ladies, let's be honest: who doesn't want some fabulous jewels for the holidays? Just what I expected: nobody. For the holidays- well all the time, for me- it's all about statement jewels. By now you guys should know how much I love my statement jewels. For the grand finale of The Twelve Days of Trendy- I can't believe it's over- let's look at some lust-worthy jewels that should be number one on our lists! After all, we need to look at some dream pieces.

Kate Spade Pearl Scallop Bib Necklace ($278): This necklace is literally breath-taking. The pearls are so classic; however, those details are undeniably glam.  How awesome would this look with an all black ensemble. (Photo Cred)

Coralia Leets' Large Teardrop Post Earrings ($423): These are phenomenal. The Peruvian Opal with the gold plating is absolutely gorgeous. I love these earrings because they could be dressed up or down. How sick would these look with a leather jacket, jeans, and moto boots?  (Photo Cred)

Wink&Flip Spike Necklace ($48): Ahh something more affordable!  I'm obsessed with this necklace. Those spikes are super cool and versatile. Something like this would be the perfect thing to wear with jeans and a tee.   (Photo Cred)

Oscar de la Renta Coin Portrait Cuff ($355): How gorgeous is this? The detailing on the cuff is literally to die for. Pairing it with a gorgeous floral dress would be so Roman Holiday. (Photo Cred)

Well, ladies and gent, The Twelve Days of Trendy are officially over. It's been a blast, but now we must go back to talking about the wonderful world of fashion. Don't worry, there are plenty of fun blogposts coming up:

• Pre-Fall 2012
• London Style
• Fashionistas to Watch in 2012 
• Red Carpet Predictions

And more! 

Happy Holidays!

xx

Twelve Days of Trendy: Delightful Dolls

Whoever said that we're too old for toys was seriously disturbed. If you're shopping for the fashionista who has everything, why not get them a designer doll? Designer doll? Yes, designer doll. Some of our favorite fashion geniuses created collectable Barbies. Um, these are necessary.

(Photo Cred)

Oscar de la Renta Barbie: Is it weird that I'm jealous of a Barbie doll's outfit? Nope? Didn't think so. I love, love, LOVE that outfit. And those earrings? Absolutely divine! 

(Photo Cred)

2004 Badgley Mischka Barbie: This doll is looking tres chic in that sparkly,white number. Fabulous. 

(Photo Cred)

2000 Givenchy Barbie: Umm...can we say glamourous?

While most of these fantastic finds have been unavailable for a while, finding them online makes this present even more special!  

xx

The Style Files: You're By My Side and It Helps to Be Crazy

One time, I went to this O.A.R concert with two of my friends, and it was absolutely awesome. Fast forward two-ish years later, and you'll find me EXTREMELY thrilled to get the new O.A.R CD for my birthday. I've been listening to it everywhere I go, so I highly recommend it. And by recommend it, I mean pushing it in your face and forcing you to listen. I love this song, "Taking on the World Today," because it makes me feel like I can do anything on the most stressful days (aka today aka I'm sorry is this blog isn't my personal best). So listen and enjoy.

Style-Spiration: Anne Hathaway

This summer, my friends and I have been on the world's biggest "let's-go-see-a-good-movie" phase. Ever since the beginning of the summer, I've really wanted to see One Day, starring Anne Hathaway and that guy from Across the Universe. So obviously, I stalked the premiere pictures. And obviously, Anne Hathaway had on a fab dress, just sit tight for the weekly! This got me to thinking about Anne's style. While I could just attribute this to the styling, aka Rachel Zoe, I really do think that there's something about Hathaway that makes haute couture look, dare I say it...oh I dare, effortless. So in honor of that effortless je ne sais quoi and the movie, One Day, this style-spiration is dedicated to her! 

At  the Valentine's Day premiere in Marchesa I'm sure I've blogged about this before, but hey I'm gonna blog about it again. This is STUNNING. Usually I would think the dramatic blue and black would be a tad boring; however, the details on the Marchesa dress literally makes it for me. Obsessed. Even still, there's something so relaxed about this look. Maybe it's Anne's awkward stance or maybe it's because I think that bracelet is a bit much, but I don't see Anne Hathaway as a style icon. Instead, I look at her and think, "she's just one of the girls." I suppose this is a weird style-spiration theme, but we're rolling with it. (Photo Cred)

Chillin' at the 2009 MET Ball in Marc Jacobs. I think the reason I admire this is because, in my humble opinion, it's so wrong. The hair scares me, the shoes are hideous, and that dress is not a typical MET Ball ensemble.Hathaway, however, hold her head up high and is proud of her ensemble. This may sound like the exact opposite of my opening argument- I frequently think of these style-spirations as an argumentative piece- but I'm getting somwhere. (Photo Cred)

At the 79th Annual Oscars in Valentino. I'm obsessed with this dress. While the lace and the oversized bow could come off as a little granny, the stacked bracelets makes this look youthful. And of course her hair and make are divine, which makes this a classy look; however, I can't get over those bracelets. They're a little chunky and funky, which makes this so appropriately refreshing for the Academy awards. (Photo Cred)

The reason Anne Hathaway is a admirable style-spiration because she humanizes fashion. I know whenever I open up a magazine or see awesome red carpet looks,  I feel like pressure is on; however, I rarely get that from Anne Hathaway. Sure she can be perfectly styled, but there's something about her that keeps it casual. And yes, sometimes she gets it wrong, but she keeps trying. This is getting weird...onto the weekly.

The Weekly

• Emma Roberts at a Westward by Emily and Meritt for Kate Spade party (Kate Spade): I really like this look because it's rather quirky. Let me break it down for you: the dress is youthful but very classy, the shoes are a perfect wow factor to the dress, the jewels define feminine fun, and the hair and makeup is divine. But then there's that huge clutch. Hmmm. While I would question and hate this, I kind of like the odd bag because it gives this look character and personal style. Stylists and press people can perfectly style a look from head-to-toe, but it's not truly expressing yourself if you don't have something unique to you. Okay so take that well-worded description and apply that to all of Anne's looks from the previous section
• Jessica Chastain at The Help premiere (Oscar de la Renta): Although this look is very been-there-done-that, I'm such a sucker for an eggplant and turquoise color combination. Even though the earrings are very eye-catching, I like how this look was styled so you focused on the fabulous De la Renta details. That ruching on the dress creates some fabulous movements. Also,  minimal jewels was the way to go with this look. She looks wonderful!
• Anne Hathaway (surprise) at the One Day premiere (McQueen): Stunning. The hem on this beautiful McQueen dress is classy, flattering, and all around chic. I like there's a detail overload on the bodice, ultimately directing our attention to her face. And with that nice hair and quasi-theatrical makeup, it's a smart move. I don't think she needed the silver, I hate mixing metals, bracelets, but the shoes make this look more cohesive. Good job, Miss Hathaway.

xx

The Sun is On My Side and Takes Me For a Ride

So let's talk resort.

I've always had this pre-conceived notion of resort being extremely French-Rivera, Pucci- esque, and all-around summertime glam. And thus far, I like what I'm seeing. From Elie Tahari, we got a sophisticated version of the Sex and the City 2 wardrobe. And, quite obviously, I loved Rachel Zoe's collection even though most of the models looked just like her... And Oscar, I love that man: he always knows how to create the most beautiful pieces.  I know this blog post won't be too pragmatic but I figured, since I wanted to blog a lot this summer and am finally home from a night out at a reasonable hour, Resort 2012 is so blog-worthy. So here are a few looks that I thought were beautiful and inspiring. 

Oscar de la Renta is a genius. I'm obsessed with this blush pink and silver combination. The florals and the short sleeves are so tea party resort. And deep down, who doesn't want a tea party? In love. (Photo Cred)

How perfect would this mini be for a rooftop cocktail party in the Meat Packing District? So perfect, is the correct answer. I've always been in love with jewel tones and this is obviously no exception. The ruffles at the bottom and the fitted top is so feminine and beautious. Ja'dore! (Photo Cred)

If you don't understand my love for fabulous furs by now,  maybe my love for this look will act as a slight reminder. LOVE FUR. A major look for this summer season is pairing neutrals with neons. I haven't tried it myself (maybe tomorrow, if I have neons...I'll blog about it), but I think this can be the epitome of summer chic if done correctly. I'm in love with these booties and I also love this look since it's not what I typically think of as resort. Even still, this Tahari look is fab. (Photo Cred)

Rachel Zoe Resort 2012. Absolutely in love with this dress. The deep blue reminds me of a chic pool party and that sexy silt makes it so resort/summer appropriate. Get me some fun bangles and wedges and I'm feeling a fabulous look! (Photo Cred)

My beyond fabulous friend invited me to the Hamptons next weekend and I've obviously already started planning my look for the vacation. Essentially, this: flowy, white, and luxe. This Tahari look is literally the epitome of what I'm looking for. Bravo (Photo Cred)


I don't think, and probably will never think, that resort is the equivalent to casual. 
For starters, I hated MaxMara's collection. It looked way too much like...you guessed it...boring minimalism. I thought this was resort, not typical Calvin Klein! While one could argue that these looks can act as "clean slates for fun summer accessories," I love interesting pieces.

Ew. (Photo Cred)

I think what really makes a resort collection a success is purely the silhouettes. Sure, prints are fun (remember Louis Vuitton's Resort 2011 Collection? I do. And it was awesome); however, the shape of the dress makes the difference between a "cute outfit" and a "knockout look."  The humidity of the summer usually makes me really frustrated when it comes to dressing up: I always feel gross and then I consequently lose the motivation to dress my chicest. I hate to admit it, but it's true. Wearing an incredible silhouette solves half of the problem!  I'll definitely be keeping tabs on the rest of resort, but for now, I really want to go shopping! 

xx