Fall 2015 Trend: Victor, Victorian

You can just sense it: the nippy cold weather, the crunchy leaves underneath your feet and the lingering aroma of pumpkin spice lattes. Yes, it's fall. And while a new, chillier season may mean strictly whipping out the cozy sweaters for some, the dawn of autumn means something different for fashion's flock. Consider it the sartorial new year: out with the old trends and in with the new. To break down the hottest trends of the season, welcome to The Trendologist's fall guide. Each week, a new trend will be highlighted with shop-able must-haves. 

Back in high school, she who donned all black and dramatic lipstick was known as "that weird emo outcast." In 2015? Thanks to several top designers -- and a sleek, Victorian twist -- your standard gothic girl has gotten a very chic makeover. She was everywhere on the fall runways. At Marc Jacobs, ominous hues were swapped out for warmer colors. But don't think this was a full departure from brooding style: the full skirts, nipped coats and vampy lip provided a sunny way for this trend to shine. Insider favorite Joseph Altuzarra brought this trend to the 21st century by juxtaposing sheer, high-necked lace tops with up-to-there slits, knee-high laced boots and loads of sequins. Looking for something more traditional? Turn to Ricardo Tisci's collection at Givenchy, where models cascaded down the runway in vampy velvets, brocades and faces adorned with gloomy jewels. The result? A juxtaposition between dark, ladylike chic and punk. Equally classic -- but with an undeniably softer, feminine touch -- was Alberta Ferretti's iteration of the trend: some looks were prim with fitted layers and other ethereal with touches of delicate lace and Elizabethan-worthy collars.With romantic ruching and sugar-coated shades, Alexander McQueen's variation of this trend blends salacious Victorian lady in waiting with the likes of an eery doll. Whether modern or traditional, but never too literal, there's an option for everyone on the sartorial spectrum.

Marc Jacobs, Look 43

Altuzarra, Look 4

Givenchy, Look 9

Alberta Ferretti, Look 48

Alexander McQueen, Look 27

1. Alex Monroe 2. Givenchy 3. Dorothy Perkins 4. Gianvito Rossi 5. Marc Jacobs 6. Alexander McQueen

It doesn't take a brain surgeon to realize that with one false (sartorial) move, this trend can veer into costumey territory. But with three factors in mind -- fit, material and color palette -- you can easily keep your outfit's Victorian inspiration forward-thinking. Instead of reaching for your closest body-con dress or baggy garb opt for a happy medium: ideal Victorian-inspired apparel should fit snug at the waist and a tad voluminous elsewhere. If you're looking for some reference, think back to Kirsten Dunst in Marie Antoinette as a loose inspiration -- but preferably without the heightened hair and corset.  Translation: shop for tailored coats and fitted, full-skirted dresses. While it's easy to think that the only way to go Victorian this fall is by investing in tons of black apparel, select a few pieces in other subtle neutral colors. For example, a maroon or navy dress is a great alternative to a creepy long-sleeved noir dress. Lastly, to give your trendy items a sophisticated twist with tactile fabrics. Forget polyester: wools, silks and lace will have your threads looking ultra-feminine and polished. But what about those mid-century-esque accessories? Use them sparingly and with modern pieces. Just like in Altuzarra's collection, a pair of lace-up booties will look super sexy with a high-slit skirt and a dainty cameo necklace can be styled with a cozy sweater for a fall-friendly ensemble.

Will you participate in this trend? Sound off below! 

Runway images courtesy of VogueRunway.com

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5 Favorite Trends from Pre-Fall 2015

To the untrained fashion follower, resort and pre-fall collections experience middle child syndrome. Unlike ready-to-wear or couture collections (let's take a brief moment of silence to reflect upon the sheer beauty that was Valentino's Sala Bianca 945 collection, shall we?), the intermediate seasons tend to be overlooked. Besides Chanel's Austrian runway and Dior's Tokyo show, pre-fall and resort shows rarely require big-ticket venues and an A-List front row. Not only do these collections have the longest shelf-life, they oftentimes provide shoppers with the most wearable pieces. Stretching over several weeks, not to mention an entire holiday season, keeping up with the latest pre-fall shows is no easy feat. For a condensed review of the créme de la créme, check out these five must-shop pre-fall trends.

Bold Monochrome

Preen by Thorton Bregazzi, Look 23

Monochromatic dressing is not an earth-shattering revelation: goths and stereotypical city dwellers have been sporting this look for years. However, giving this classic styling strategy a jolt of life with high-octane hues is perfect for pre-fall. Yes, these looks may highlight one color; however, each designer's take on this trend offers a different feel from the next. With a flouncy peplum and a silky texture, Preen's variation  is unapologetically girly and au courant at the same time. At Gucci, Frida Giannini presented a strong competitor for the modernized Carmen Sandiego's ensemble with a belted jacket and flared trousers. It was an utter throwback at Tomas Maier with a leather newsboy-inspired cap and a cinched sueded trenchcoat-- talk about blast from the past! If you're craving a relaxed, colorful outfit, look no further than Lemaire's combination of oversized jackets and baggy pants. With a more muted color palette than the rest of the trend's pack, The Row's earthy green getup offers an effortless, new-aged vibe.

Unconventional Checks

Derek Lam, Look 2

Every few seasons, tartan makes a comeback. This time, however, plaid's quirky cousin (the windowpane check) is back with a vengeance. Designers are at all marks on the spectrum with polished palettes and mismatched ensembles. With contrasting color palettes, Derek Lam offered a quirky mod vibe with his double-barred checks. Proenza Schouler's Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough revitalized an otherwise tired version of this print with lengthy fringe and boxy figures. At Christian Dior, Raf Simons smartly paired wide checks with short, A-line dresses and dainty jackets. The end result? Something that's as traditional for any Londoner yet progressive enough for a Tokyo townie. Ever so preppy, Tory Burch mixed clean windowpanes with touchable stripes and autumnal tones. But of course leave classic elegance to Lanvin's Alber Elbaz, who played it cool with a cinched silhouette in an undeniably chic black and white combination. 

Micro Mini Dresses

Valentino, Look 7

Over the past few seasons, the runways have run rampant with 60's and 70's inspired apparel and accessories: wide-legged pants, a-lined skirts, and up-to-there boots are just a few examples. In keeping with the industry's retro vibes, and adding a flirty flare to the pre-fall collections, micro mini dresses are exactly what your wardrobe has been craving. Between the high-octane color palettes and op-art patterns, Giulietta's slew of mini dresses perfectly encompass that groovy spirit. Meshing feminine florals with celestial prints, Valentino's shortened hemlines rejigger patterns that are also projected on red carpet-worthy silhouettes. Leaving little to the imagination was Francisco Costa's array of sexy baby-dolls at Calvin Klein. While Calvin's collection showcased pretty pastels that would've been visionary on a young Brigitte Bardot, Fausto Puglisi's ultra-minis come in vibrant hues with warrioress embellishments. On a less sultry note is Erdem's balloon-esque shape. But don't write this look off as a childish dress: the semi-sheer fabric offer a tongue-in-cheek element to an otherwise innocent frock.

Touchable Coats

Stella McCartney, Look 14

On a chilly morning of after a long day, nothing feels better than wrapping yourself in a heavy fabric. A heavy coat has always acted as a sartorial hug; however, pre-fall's array of coats are extra covetable. With fuzzy exterior, these picks bring huggable to the next level. And thanks to a slew of different variations, there's a textured coat out there to satisfy every style savant. Available in a vest, Stella McCartney's shaggy coat is begging to be worn. With McCartney's passion for environmentally-friendly goods, it'll be hard to find someone who has any objections. Equally as cozy (not to mention zany) are the bevy of furs in brooding neutrals from Sonia Rykiel. Chloé's Clare Waight Keller joined the texturized bandwagon with a combination of neutrals and patchwork picks. From a simple shearling collar to a full-on shag coat, Burberry Prorsum's picks range from zero to 100 in a single collection. If you're looking for a cozy coat that is free of any Penny Lane associations, Balenciaga's  teddy trench offers a polished take on this trend. 

Thought-Provoking Tweed 

Thakoon, Look 11

Over the years, tweed has received a nasty reputation of  being strictly suitable for grandmothers worldwide or stiffy trophy wives. Gone are the days when "tweed" and "hip"belong in two separate sentences. With the help of some smart styling, as displayed by the latest pre-fall collections, tweed is cooler than ever. Take Thakoon's selection of tweeds, for example, which are paired with androgynous clogs. The ultimate way to bid any pre-historic connotations ado. With an unmistakable penchant for the textile, wide-leg trousers and airy maxi-dresses spiced up Chanel's classic tweed. Conversely, Maiyet's tweed was instantly revived with the looks' accompanying mismatched prints. To give an old fashioned a contemporary twist, the geniuses at DSquared2 coupled tweed with leather. Not a typical match made in heaven, but consider us sold. Tweed is usually associated with fitted jackets and skirts; however, Fendi defied all expectations by opting for a beautifully voluminous coat.

Which pre-fall trends are you obsessed with? Sound off below.
All runway photos courtesy of Style.com

xx

Suggested Post: The Trendologist-Approved Guide Winter Ready Nails

Unless you live on a sunny beach year-round-- consider everyone else on the planet extremely jealous-- you know what havoc winter can wreak on your beauty regime. Dry skin, split ends galore and chapped lips are just a few seasonal travesties. And deny it all you want, but your hands, nails and cuticles also endure collateral damage. Scoff if you must, but polished nails and moisturized mits read as professional and responsible to onlookers. After all, don't you think your potential employer or business partner would comment on your chipped nails and snakeskin-esque hands after a boardroom foray? Thanks to Julep's brilliant guide to "winter-izing" your nails, consider one of this season's ice cold dilemmas handled.

Courtesy of Julep

While each step of Julep's guide acts as vital ingredients fuss-to free nails, moisturizing is the skincare gift that keeps on giving. Start by lathering your hands with a penetrating lotion such as La Mer's The Hand Treatment ($80) for an A-List experience or an economical Hand Salve by Kiehl's ($15). Venture a step further than slabbing lotion onto your palms (though that is undoubtedly necessary) by introducing cuticle cream into your daily routine. Burt's Bees variation ($6) is perfect for the beauty maven who's perpetually searching eco-friendly picks while Julep's Hand and Cuticle Stick ($22) is a blessing for the woman on-the-go. The final step? Add some moody lacquer to your moisturized nails. Julep's Joanne and Ilsa hues create striking color contrasts against a snowy wonderland, while Shari will be perfect for when winter melts into spring.

What are some of your beauty tricks for winter? Sound off below!

xx

Fall 2014 Trend: Chunky Knits

As temperatures plummet, wind chill skyrockets, and the number of layers multiply, chunky knits for these next freezing months seems like a no brainer. However, if the fall runway shows are any indication, this wintry style is just as stylish as it is practical. But, unlike a typical sweater and jean ensemble, these collections are anything but ordinary. At Christophe Lemaire, layers of scarves, sweaters, and cardigans in earthy tones were effortlessly piled over semi-flared denim. However, it was the unexpected knit leg warmers that exude a "wear me now" air. On the contrary, The Row's Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen created what appears to be the coziest, most textured look of the season. And most fashion fanatics will tip their hats off to any designer for creating a look that has both runway and lounge appeal. Though Michael Kors is known for being a king of American fashion, his take on this trend possesses an indescribable European nonchalance. Cool girls everywhere should be pairing their knits with masculine trousers. But don't write this trend off as effortless and mildly disheveled. Adam Lippes paired sleeveless sweaters with an otherwise ladylike look. And leave it to the Francisco Costa to utilize textures and send several knit, yet utterly minimalist, dresses down the catwalk at Calvin Klein. Whichever sartorial path you choose, this season's knits revitalize an otherwise wintry staple.

Christophe Lemaire Look 2

The Row Look2

Michael Kors Look 24

Adam Lippes Look 17

Calvin Klein Look 16

As easy as it may be to pair your sweater with a pair of skinny jeans and riding boots, amp up your winter wardrobe by styling your knits with more fashion-forward pieces. A basic sweater will instantly receive a chic upgrade when combined with a pleated skirt or wide-leg trouser. Though the pair of Uggs you secretly have lurking in the back of your closet seem like a great way to combat the imminent polar vortex, opt for a pair of a slim, up-to-there boot or sensible stacked heel. For an insanely stylish twist of this trend, focus on finding voluminous or extremely textured pieces in subdued hues, not vibrant brights.

1. 3.1 Phillip Lim 2. Bickley + Mitchell 3. Chloé  4. Hobbs 5. H&M 6. Maison Martin Margiela Line 1

What are you going to wear your knits with this winter? Sound off below! 

xx

Fall 2014 Trend: Shear(ling) Madness

Though this summer was more tame than its heatwave-worthy predecessors, a notable shift from flouncy dresses to loads of layers is underway. And if last year's Polar Vortex is any indication of the season to come, we are in for a long, frigid winter. How will any style savant stay warm and au courant this season? Luckily, fall's biggest trends are (somewhat) blizzard friendly.

Welcome to the Fall 2014 trend guide. As always, each week highlights  a major trend for Fall/Winter 2014 and how you can get the look. So let's get started, shall we?

Admit it: the biggest trends are not always practical for the every day. However, some of the industry's hottest designers have given us just what we instinctively want for winter: a warm and cozy coat. Luckily, the basic necessity get a little dramatic this season with loads of shearling.

While some brands such as Altuzarra took a minimalist approach to this trend, the majority was in favor of maximalism. Miuccia Prada's sheeny fabrics and vivid color palettes act as the poster child for this phenomenon- the perfect blend between a wearable coat and a high-octane piece. If you're truly looking to make a sartorial splash, Akris's Creative Director Albert Kriemler brought this trend to the next level with an unapologetically textured coat. Looking for lots of shearling with a subdued color palette? Sacai's thick, textured lapel completely fits the bill. And calling all cool girls: Coach's collection of cropped, shearling-clad jackets are sure to be your staple this season. Streamlined, ostentatious, or something in between, there's at least one to swoon over.

Altuzarra Look 26

Prada Look 11

Akris Look 5

Sacai Look 34

Coach Look 7

The million dollar question: how do you rock this trend without looking like a glorified yetti? While adding a shearling bag to any ensemble may the easiest way to embrace this phenomenon, it would be a major mistake not to experiment with one of the market's crazy coats. From a subtle collar to courageous fuzz, there are so many options on the market that you are bond to fall in love with at least one piece. But just because you're amplifying your look's texture doesn't mean you can't also play with volume. A wide leg trouser with a frills-filled coat or pleated skirt with a lined bomber are great choices. However, if you have a penchant for accessories, there are some amazing bags and shoes to choose from as well. Instead of bringing your outdoorsy spirit to the sartorial limelight, opt for textured,minimalist pieces--a crisp tote or streamlined booties are ideal.

1. Chloé 2. Loeffler Randall 3. Acne Studios 4. Altuzarra 5. Miu Miu 6. Opening Ceremony 7. Jeffrey Campbell 8. MSGM 9. Wendee Ou

Are you ready to rock some shearling this winter? Sound off below!

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The 6 Chicest Trends for the Summer

Smell that Hawaiian Tropic sunscreen? Though the sunny season doesn't officially begin for a few weeks, it's essentially unanimous that we are all in the summer state of mind. But what about our outfits? Between the torturous weather and time spent scheming up ways to score that perfect tan, it sometimes feels as if our style choices take a backseat for a few months. What a tragedy! I'm so excited to participate in Raise.com's Closet Swap campaign by sharing my favorite must-have trends for this summer.

1. Thierry Lasry 2. Ray-Ban  3. Oliver Peoples 4. Etnia  5. Les Specs 6. Illesteva

You're never fully dressed without a killer pair of sunnies; however, summer is the perfect time to debut some brilliant new shades. This year, allow the ocean to look extra blue through your colored lenses. As the perfect foil to winter's dark glasses, a tinted lens is the perfect way to keep even the most classic outfits creative and quirky. But rest assured, style trailblazers, this funky alternative doesn't mean you must rock Woodstock-approved round glasses or colorful frames. In fact, some of the most versatile styles couple the daring lenses with a more traditional rim, such as Illesteva's collection. For an effortlessly chic look, pair these sunnies with boyfriend jeans and a white linen blouse.

1. Moschino Cheap and Chic  2. T By Alexander Wang 3. Marni 4. Joseph 5. Topshop

Whether you're vacationing by the beach or trudging through the concrete jungle, one fact remains: summer's heat and humidity are usually never on our side, sartorially. From frizzy hair to sweat-stained outfits, it's fair to say that summer isn't the most glamorous time of the year. For an easy and chic ensemble that won't make you want to jump out of your skin, try sporting a shift dress. These shapeless dresses are perfect for the overheated season because they are available in a multitude of fabrics, colors, and patterns. What could be better than that? Oh right, if they don't cling to your body after walking a few minutes outside. Check! Since summer is all about fun hues and prints, feel free to reach out of your comfort zone-- I'm loving Marni's array of patterned day dresses. A versatile necessity in your closet, the shift dress would look great with everything from strappy sandals to espadrilles. The perfect day-to-night piece? Agreed!

1. Tommy Hilfiger 2. Cole Haan 3. Rupert Sanderson 4. Salvatore Ferragamo 5. Loeffler Randall
6. MICHAEL Michael Kors 7. Pour La Victoire 8. Tabitha Simmons 

After months of wearing five-inch heels, the idea of resorting to flat sandals for the summer is both a dream and a nightmare. The thought of a comfortable shoe is always attractive; however, your slew of dresses and skirts don't look quite as on-point as they do with a little heel. Fashionistas, meet the city sandal: the perfect compromise. With a small, chunky heel, the city sandal gives you a little bit of height while still keeping in touch with the summer's effortlessly chic vibe. The ideal pair of shoes will transition perfectly from work to after hours. Available in a plethora of heights, colors, and strap lines, investing in a pair of these kicks is a no-brainer!

1. Halston Heritage  2. Mansur Gavriel 3. Vivienne Westwood  4. Nancy Gonzalez 5. Etienne Aigner
6. Anya Hindmarch  7. Mango

Unless you've been living under a rock, you know that the fashion world is obsessed with Mansur Gavriel's collection of soft leather purses. While Rachel Mansur and Floriana Gavriel's heap of tote bags are just delectable, their ultra chic bucket bag is literally everything. But the design duo are not alone in the bucket bag revolution: a number of luxe designers and affordable fast-fashion outlets have been all over this trend as well. The drawstring closure is reminiscent of a backpack that you'd bring to day camp many moons ago while the bag's silhouette is perfect for stashing your sunscreen, flip-flops, and favorite beach read. Translation? An undeniable must-have!

1. Lisa Marie Fernandez 2. Dolce and Gabbana 3. Norma Kamali 4. Mara Hoffman
5. Marysia 6. Melissa Odabash

No summer trend is complete without discussing swimwear. While there's always a bevy of maillots and bikinis to choose from, the market's assortment of bandeau bikinis have heads turning. With a number of prints and intricate details, there's a bandeau bikini that's perfect for you. Marysia's scalloped details are unapologetically girly while Lisa Marie Fernandez's experimentation with neoprene definitely paid off. Plus, this season has loads of potent prints: mosaics, tribal, and florals-- oh my! And let's not forget one very important thing: no awkward tan lines.

1. Givenchy 2. Vince 3. Saint Laurent 4. Vans 5. Sam Edelman 6. Aldo 

While city sandals are the perfect alternative to wearing sandals at work, the sunny season is in desperate need of a pair of "off duty" kicks. Sporty and completely versatile, the slip-on sneaker is ideal for that woodsy hike or beachside picnic. Though a solid pair is the practical choice, keep an eye out for the array of printed shoes-- they are the ultimate way to add a spring to your step. But how are you supposed to rock this trend? Juxtapose this boyish shoe with a pleated skirt or crocheted dress. Want to play it safe? Distressed jeans a light sweater will also do the trick.

Want all these trends but are on a budget? Turn those unused gift cards into instant cash with Raise.com, the premier place to buy and sell gift cards. Absolutely major.

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