Summer 2014 Trend: Summer Slides

Unless you've been living under a rock for the past few months, you know that the once squirm-worthy Birkenstocks are this summer's must-have shoe. Megawatt brands such as Givenchy, Céline, and Giambattista Valli have been jumping on the podiatric bandwagon, and let's not forget how many celebrities and tastemakers have been spotted sporting this comfortable shoe. But what's a style savant to do if she (or he) can't stop thinking of this ugly chic trend as purely ugly? Become a trend slave and wear the kicks regardless? Instead, feast your eyes upon this season's other major footwear trend: the slide. Yes, they're also making a major comeback. Though pulling out those sporty pool slides you'd wear after swimming a few laps or during a shower in your college dorm offers a blast from the past, there are so many incredible market finds that are begging to be worn that you are bound to find the perfect shoe. While Miuccia Prada mixed unapologetically flashy gems with a sportier silhouette, Tibi's Amy Smilovic added funky embellishments to a minimalist silhouette. J.W. Anderson offered a refreshing twist on this classic silhouette with a square fold-over. Whether you love Chloé's spring or pre-fall take on this trend, one thing is for sure: Clare Waight Keller's magic touch includes a dash of metal hardware. And if you're not wanting to splurge on a new pair of the au courant sandal, it's okay to take a sartorial trip down memory lane by giving your trust pool slides from many moons ago a second life-- Rita Ora made ordinary extraordinary with striped socks. Birkenstocks, meet your match.

Prada SS 2014, Look 12

Tibi SS 2014, Look 1

J.W. Anderson SS 2014, Look 8

Chloé Pre-Fall, Look 23

Rita Ora

Whether you're hitting the beach or heading out to your favorite summer hot-spot for drinks, think of these kicks as essentials to every summer outfit. Since these shoes have such a simple silhouette, they are extremely versatile. I love the juxtaposition of this minimalist shoe with a dainty slip dress-- the combination screams effortlessly chic. Feeling a little sporty? Try a pair of tailored shorts with a lightweight sweater. For a borrowed from the boys look, try these shoes with a pair of cozy linen pants. Something tells me you're going to get a lot of mileage out of these kicks.

1. Marc Jacobs 2. Common Projects 3. Asos 4. Chloé 5. Tibi 6. Newbark

Will you invest in summer slides this season? Sound off below! 

xx

Spring 2014 Trend: Slits of Skin

After months of being hidden in loads of layers, it's finally time to show some skin. The sun is out and it's about time we soak up some Vitamin D. Lucky for us, the industry's leading designers have allowed spring to be one revealing season. And equally lucky for us, we don't have to have the perfect abs to flaunt the latest trend. Though Barbara Bui took the ab fab fad to the extreme with thin bandeaus, the minds behind Salvatore Ferragamo layered their cropped top underneath some semi-sheer shirts. Gaia Trussardi gave this phenomenon a 90's twist with baggy leather pants navel-baring tops. But don't worry trendsetters, you can highlight your cleavage, as seen in Proenza Schouler's spring collection, or prove that your hips don't lie in one of Alexander Wang's slashed tops. And let's not forget Joseph Altuzarra's array of sexy slit skirts. Translation? You can have your cake and eat it too.

Barbara Bui, Look 10

Salvatore Ferragamo,  Look 11

Trussardi, Look 31

Proenza Schouler, Look 19

Alexander Wang, Look 14

Altuzarra, Look 3

Whether you're highlighting your cleavage, showing off your abs, or letting your legs take center stage, you must feel comfortable when rocking this trend. An exposed ensemble sans confidence is a major faux pas. In order to wear this trend on a day to day basis, it's important to not show too much skin. Leaving something to the imagination never goes out of style. If you're wearing a cropped top, try pairing it with a high-waisted trouser. Showing some leg? Complement your sexy skirt with a cozy sweater. But just because you are subduing the rest of your outfit doesn't mean you should hold back on your makeup and accessories. Paint that fire engine red lacquer on your pout and sport those strappy sandals, if your outfit permits.

Diane Von Furstenberg chiffon dress / The Row white sweater / T By Alexander Wang raglan shirt, $260 / Lace top, $66 / Altuzarra white skirt / Lanvin black pants

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

xx

Spring 2014 Trend: Extravagant Embellishments

If this season proves anything, the days of minimalism have taken a brief hiatus. With a multitude of zesty prints to choose from, spring is all about being bold. While punhcy beading and outrageous embellishments are nothing new on the catwalk-- just look at Elie Saab's collections every season-- designers have been finding a new way to intertwine these fripperies into "of the moment" looks. Classic brands such as Louis Vuitton and Prada added some gems in unexpected ways: while Marc Jacobs tapped into logomania and showgirl style for his Vuitton swan song, Miuccia Prada added some sparkle to her sporty looks. At the same time, more contemporary brands utilized embellishments as well. The creative minds at Marni and Collette Dinnigan created impressive head-to-toe looks-- the craftsmanship is unreal. With sexy cutouts, Sharon Wauchob gives this trend a very adult twist. With a few modernized tweaks, this trend is perfect for the most au courant fashionistas.

Louis Vuitton, Look 5

Prada, Look 11

Marni, Look 33

Collette Dinnigan, Look 32

Sharon Wauchob, Look 23 

As this season's premier runway looks prove, there is no single way to wear this trend. You can channel your inner tomboy like Vuitton, emulate Wauchob's laid back sex appeal, go unapologetically feminine  a la Dinnigan-- the choice is seriously yours! Be warned: this ensemble will make heads turn. If you're not ready to make a sartorial splash, opt for an embellished accessory-- the ideal low-risk way to rock this trend. But, as with any trend, there are a few key rules you must follow.  Firstly, make  your embellished piece the focal point of your outfit. Why pit gem against prints, fringe, and metallics? The end result will be a kitschy ensemble... so not chic! If you're not sporting an entirely bedazzled ensemble, pair your trendy piece with a pair of boyfriend jeans or anything in a neutral hue or a shade that matches your glitzy apparel. To avoid a complete "Viva Las Vegas" moment,  rock a sleek ponytail or a neat blow out. Above all things, be very careful with your embellished pieces. Since gems are notorious for falling off after a few wears, make sure you have extra jewels as back up!

Roksanda Ilincic embellished dress / J Crew embellished shirt / Burberry red jacket, $4,700 / River Island pink jacket, $91 / Topshop skirt / Antik Batik crystal flat shoes / Stella mccartney handbag

Is this a trend you'll be wearing? Sound off below! 

Runway photos courtesy of Style.com

xx

Spring 2014 Trend: The Reinvented Button Down

Blouses, button-downs, oxford shirts: whatever you call them, it's no secret that this wardrobe staple is noting new. In fact, everyone wears them: teachers, lawyers, off-duty models, you name it. So why is this passé top suddenly a coveted trend this spring? The industry's leading visionaries have changed the way we see this shirt. While Raf Simons morphed the button-down into sporty shirt dresses, Alexander Wang produced a skin-baring variation at his eponymous runway show. Alternatively, other designers revitalized this classic with some offbeat styling tactics. Joseph Altuzarra gave his take a saucy twist with an unbuttoned shirt and high-slit skirt and Olivier Rousteing matched his oxford with a gutsy pair of overalls. And when all else fails, designers turned to ladylike embellishments a la No.21's Alessandra Dell'Acqua did. I know what you're thinking: time to give your trusty oxford shirt a second look.

No. 21, Look 11

Christian Dior, Look 11

Altuzarra, Look 22

Alexander Wang, Look 12

Balmain, Look 29

The best part about this trend is that you don't have to invest in entirely new pieces. With a few quirky style techniques, you can add your everyday button down into a sartorially superior ensemble. Whether you want to pair this piece with a tomboyish pair of overalls or a sultry skirt, the key is juxtapose this traditional top with unconventional pieces. For an ultra laid back look, style your top with a pair of slouchy pants or a sporty pleated skirt.  As for the overall look, it's entirely up to you! Slick your hair back, add a red lip, or throw on the accessories--this look is ultra versatile. But if you're dying to purchase a shirt dress or one of Alexander Wang's jumpsuits, now is a better time than any! These refreshing pieces are an effortless outfit: you only need a to add few accessories. The choice is yours!

Equipment silk dress / Richard Nicoll long sleeve shirt dress / Halston Heritage dress / Gap shirt dress / STELLA McCARTNEY white top / Alexander Wang cotton jumpsuit / Lucas Nascimento navy skirt / Current Elliott denim jumpsuit / Helmut by Helmut Lang black romper

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

xx

Spring 2014 Trend: Hawaiian Florals

As anyone from the east coast will tell you, this has been one harsh winter. But rest assured, style savants, a warmer season is on its way. Need some proof? Spring's array of Hawaiian florals. This refreshing take on this motif is no surprise: resort collections from Jason Wu, Prada, and Fausto Puglisi hinted that we would be saying aloha soon. A few months later, and we were introduced to a multitude of different island flowers. While Marc Jacobs sent gothic prints down the runway and Marni's Consuelo Castiglioni welcomed an androgynous alternative, contemporary brands such as MSGM and Fausto Puglisi utilized a bright color palette. With crisp leather accessories and tailored silhouettes, Michael Kors taught his disciples that this print isn't just for island girls. So sorry beach dwellers, tastemakers are taking this pattern for a spin.

MSGM Look 25

Marc Jacobs Look 14

Michael Kors Look 38

Fausto Puglisi Look 26

Marni Look 5 

Just because this trend screams beachy chic doesn't mean you have to pair this print with puka shells, khakis, and an umbrella-clad frozen beverage. Instead, make a splash by sporting island florals from head to toe. To some, this ensemble may be a little "in your face"; however,  if you're going to make a statement, why not go all out? For those tamer trendsetters, compliment your printed top with equally vibrant separates, preferably in a hue that's featured in your beach blanket- ready piece. Update this look with some beaded accessories or unleash your inner island child with some very au courant birkenstocks. As for your beauty ritual? Rock a dewy complexion and slicked back locks.

Zara floral print dress / J Crew print top / River Island black and white top, $41 / Emma Cook green romper, $425 / Topshop patterned skirt / Superga floral sneaker / French Connection Hawaiian Cotton Shorts / Grey and Peach Floral Bomber Jacket, $58

Will you rock this trend any time soon? Sound off below! 

xx

Spring 2014 Trend: Heavy Metals

Though the polar vortex has many believing that we will spend the rest of our lives in fur and oversized,  pastel jackets, spring is quickly approaching. As the temperature rises, and the layers of clothes begin to decrease, you can always count on The Trendologist to give you this season's chicest style advice. Fashionistas, the spring trend round up has landed.

Metallics as a trend? Groundbreaking. Though the glitzy hues are a no brainer for some-- red carpet sirens, prom queens, and Vegas showgirls, for example-- the lustrous colors have been manipulated to make any style savant swoon. While Dries Van Noten inserted hints of gold into his avant garde ruffles, Proenza Schouler's Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough ended their spring show with a sea of tinsel-infused pleats. While Hedi Slimane gave Saint Laurent's glossy gold a Studio 54 aesthetic, you can always rely on Stefano and Domenico unapologetically Italiano looks at Dolce and Gabbana. And who could forget Joseph Altuzarra's sultry high-slit and sporadic fringe? Game changer at NYFW. With so many looks and techniques to choose from, each designer proves that metallic doesn't need to be saved for a special occasion. This spring, it can be worn effortlessly at any given moment.

Dolce & Gabbana Look 27

Saint Laurent Look 38

Altuzarra Look 30

Dries Van Noten Look 50

Proenza Schouler Look 22

Admit it: no matter how fabulous you are, it's your first instinct to embrace this trend with a pair of gold strappy sandals or a structured silver clutch, right? Step away from the accessories, trendsetters. The latest collections force all style trailblazers out of their comfort zone with gilded apparel. As easy as it is to find a metallic bodycon skirt and call it a day, 'tis the season to focus on thoughtful details and looser silhouettes. Sartorially speaking, a boxy or flared bronze skirt trumps a tight silver dress. Give your tinsel a daytime-approved twist with softer fabrics. The juxtaposition between unabashedly glamorous and low maintenance is still gold (pun intended).

But if the focus of your ensemble is your metallic clothes, how are you supposed to accessorize? Since looking like a shiny penny (literally) is out of the question, opt for neutral shoes and purses. And unless you're going to paint the town red, keep a fresh face with minimal make up.

No21 top, $490 / J Crew vintage shirt / Yves Saint Laurent motorcycle jacket / MARC BY MARC JACOBS short skirt / Sass & Bide skinny jeans / Monki silver metallic skirt, $49

So what do you think of this trend? I'm dying to know!
xx

All runways photos courtesy of Style.com

xx

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

xx

Tibi Spring 2014 RTW

Fashion month is the most wonderful (and craziest) time of the year, and one thing is for sure: Tibi always delivers. To be blunt, I have a (not-so) secret love for the brand. Over the past few seasons, I've loved watching designer Amy Smilovic turn Tibi into a leading American brand as well as a must-see during New York Fashion Week. I was so fortunate to be invited back to see what Smilovic and her team have schemed up for spring. My thoughts on the collection can be summed up to this:

It was pure perfection.

After covering shows for other publications and updating my Pinterest board like a madwoman, I know exactly what I'm craving for this spring: simple, high-octane glamour. Luckily, the spring shows thus far are all about clean silhouettes and versatile neutrals.

At the vanguard of the minimalist movement, Tibi's spring collection introduces refreshing shapes and thoughtful details to the trend. In addition to the quintessential sleek blazer, cropped top, and pair of trousers look, Smilovic includes easy culottes and effortless playsuits.  It's pieces like these that I can't help but get goosebumps for: they make such a strong statement without being too loud.

Though the collection mainly consists of modern neutrals, Smilovic also showcases natural greens, soothing floral prints, and even a bright orange number. To keep these pieces feeling contemporary, the brand pairs the jaunty hues with clean shapes. 

What sets this collection apart from other contemporary brands is Smilovic's attention to detail. Leather tops, deconstructed hats, embellished skirts, and fringe backs are just some of the ways Tibi's collection reigns superior. The brand continues to raise the sartorial bar by incorporating these details in a crisp, calculated manner. 

Whether you're craving the streamlined ensemble or lusting over the adorned outfits, this whole collection feels very natural. It's not over-the-top or forced, it just makes sense. Perfectly modern and versatile, this collection is filled with outfits that you can wear again and again, making a chic statement each time.

Want a closer look at this collection? Check out some of the looks I'm head over heels in love with.

In a sea of "le sportif," this embellished number stands out.

Your classic spring ensemble gets a rebellious makeover with this on-the-pulse number.

Sheer stripes were all the rage on Tibi's catwalk.

Not to sound dramatic, but these nude culottes are everything.

I can already see myself living in this outfit.

What's black, white, and chic all over?

Goodbye "little black dress," hello "little black playsuit."

A vision in white, this ensemble is effortless and undeniably fabulous.

Want to check out more of my fashion week adventures? Don't forget to follow me on Instagram!


Photos courtesy of Style.com and yours truly.