The Candian Tux

It's no secret that I've been obsessed with the denim-on-denim trend lately. Just yesterday, I paired this trend with a gingham shirt to create what I like to call, "Canadian Farmer." Though this trend definitely has mixed reactions among the chic elite, I'm here to give you my style rules for sporting a rampant array of denim.

1. Be fearless:. Seriously. This trend is simply not for you if you don't like to stand out. Sure, some people give you weird looks; however, I doubt they're as cool  as you.
2. Mix up your denim colors: From colored jeans to your trusty black skinnies, there are so many different types of denim. The key to rocking this trend numerous times is  to mix a bevy of different pieces together. You can pair your jean jacket and black skinnies together one day and your chambray and orange skinnies the next. It's the same trend, but two completely different looks.
3. Break up monochromatic denim with a different fabric: As much as I love the trend, you should never pay homage to Britney and Justin's major denim faux pas. But what are you supposed to do if you find yourself wearing the same colored denim in one ensemble? Cry yourself to sleep? Absolutely not! Instead, add a soft sweater underneath your jean top. Crisis averted, ladies and gent.
4. Invest in thought-provoking silhouettes: If your'e really smitten with this trend, expand your closet! Pick up a denim playsuit or a denim dress with amazing cutouts (see below, please). 
5. Finish your ensemble with stellar accessories: As with any outfit, your denim-on-denim ensemble needs some statement pieces. Incorporating spikes and skull accessories is the perfect way to toughen up your outfit. If you don't want to add a stack of bracelets or an awesome scarf, please add a colorful lip. Otherwise, you won't look stylish-- you'll just look confused.

The Candian Tux by kmulvey featuring marc jacobs

Tshirt dress, $40 / Marc by Marc Jacobs marc jacob / Madewell / Denim coat / dVb Victoria Beckham skinny leg jeans, $310 / High waisted shorts / Dieppa Restrepo wood heels / RVCA denim bag / Vintage jewelry / C. Wonder cuff bangle bracelet / Cuff bangle bracelet / Alexander McQueen

xx

The 2012 Emmys

As an avid television nerd, The Emmys is not just another award ceremony- each year, it is an event. It should be no surprise then to hear how I spent my Sunday night: glutten-free nachos in my mouth, my fellow T.V. groupie by my side, and E!'s Live from the Red Carpet on my television. Besides yet another year of Modern Family victory, I was disappointed with the whole awards. Jimmy Kimmel's self-obsessed hosting job made me sad, but it was the red carpet fashion that truly broke my heart. Sure, there were many great looks, but the bad were truly terrible. But why take my word for it? See for yourself.

The Best 

Lauren Parsekian in Kaufman Franco: The epitome of sleek style. Between the slimming silhouette and perfectly blown out hair, this ensemble is everything. Maybe a little too casual for the Emmys, but I adore it. (Photo)

Padma Lakshmi in Monique Lhuillier: Fortunately, Lakshmi put a halt to the unbridled gang of tragic neon dresses. The silhouette is flawless while the color is fresh, but not bright enough to give you a migraine. Although I wish she added large earrings, her minimalist take on this ensemble allows us to focus on the gown's execution.  (Photo)

Emilia Clarke in Chanel: The Game of Thrones' star ditches the HBO hit's dark color palette and trades it in for something so girly and perfect, you want to cry. While the dress' shape looks like something from Mad Men, the atypical hem gives this pick some sex appeal. From the clean hair to the simple drop earrings, the starlet's ensemble is flawless. Clarke prevents a cookie-cutter outfit with nude shoes, which allow fashion's peanut gallery to focus on the intricacy of the dress. I think this is my favorite of the night. (Photo)

Lucy Liu  in Atelier Versace: Though the former Charlie's Angel star isn't usually on  my style radar, I can tell you one thing: she knows how to make each fashion opportunity count. The variety of materials give this simple silhouette so much more depth than, say, a plethora of uniform paillettes. It's fun, yet classy.  Not to mention that this fit is flattering beyond belief. The simple studs and slicked back hair completed a perfect red carpet look.  (Photo)

Ariel Winter in Katharine Kidd: If this proves anything, it's that the young starlet is nothing like her nerdy onscreen persona. This dress is hot. I'm not quite sure what the print is supposed to be, but I love how innovative and youthful it is. Winter shows off the mullet top- business in the front, party in the back- with a regal updo. Simple jewels and a hint of a poppy lip makes it official: Ariel Winter is the new girl to watch on the red carpet. (Photo)

Emily VanCamp in J.Mendel: Confession time: I'm so jealous of Emily VanCamp: she is the star of one of my favorite shows, dating one of the prettiest boys on the silver screen, and got to wear this fantastic J.Mendel. The muted shade works perfectly with the Canadian star's feminine complexion while the ruffled detail is balanced by the dress' simple bottom. My personal favorite part of this whole look is the hair- sophistication and casual at the same time. Ugh, why can we all be this lucky? (Photo)

Jane Krakowski in Kaufman Franco: I'm not going to lie, I may have an emotional breakdown during the series finale of 30 Rock. Not only is the show comedic gold, the stars' red carpet fashions get better each season. Just think how awesome the casts' ensembles would be next year. My favorite of the primetime dream team's styles was Jane Krakowski's metallic dream. The funny lady added a dash of Jenna Maroney's diva persona to this ensemble, giving us this mega major outfit. This silhouette is so flattering and masks any sort of "muffin top"  the 30 Rock star may have. Since this dress is so sparkly, Krakowski kept the hair, makeup, and jewels simple. Brava!  (Photo)

 Morena Baccarin in Basil Soda: In a sea of cleavage-busting bodices, Baccarin proves that you can show off what your mama gave you whilst keeping it classy. The dress' plunging neckline is provocative and alluring; however, it's not uncomfortable. Basil Soda keeps this dress feminine with a soft color and delicate ruffles. Phenomenal. (Photo)

Allison Williams in Oscar de la Renta: Thankfully, one of the ladies from HBO's Girls was dressed to impress. Williams is a true vision in emerald. The architectural lines are both super slimming and chic.  For a clean finishing touch, her pulled back hair perfectly juxtaposes the geometric gown.(Photo)

Ginnifer Goodwin in Monique Lhuillier: After careful consideration, I've decided that I'm a fan of this dress Sure it's quirky, but would we ever expect Goodwin to wear something conventional? Exactly. Time and time again, Goodwin chooses a dress that only fashion people would appreciate. And we really appreciate it this time. For one thing, the hi-low hemline is my everything.  Another thing that I love about Goodwin's premium tastemaker status  is her use of accessories. The urchin-esque earrings perfectly contrast the dress' whimsy applique. Looks like someone's getting ready for another season of Once Upon a Time. (Photo)

Jon Hamm in Giorgio Armani: If push came to shove, I would  take one for the team and become Mrs. Jon Hamm. It'd be rough, because he's totally unattractive. But on the real, he looks more delicious than usual in this tux. Not only is the suit perfectly tailored, the bow tie is perfectly proportional to the rest of his ensemble. (Photo)

The Worst

Claire Danes in Lanvin: This may be the most disappointing look of the night because I love usually Lanvin's designs and  Claire's style eye. While Danes did stay on trend with this sunny hue, the silhouette is off.  The pregnant star would've been better off with an empire waist or a dress that truly showed off her child-bearing curves.  For shame, Alber and Claire, for shame. (Photo)

January Jones in Zac Posen: I love the dress, but what's going on with this hair? January, my darling, what is this? If you hair had a little more volume, everything would be fantastic. (Photo)

Lena Dunham:Oh how the mighty have fallen. And her new do' is the least of this look's problems. The granny-chic lace plus the lack of jewels equals Dunham accidentally wearing her nana's dress. I don't even want to talk about this anymore, that's how traumatized I am. Ladies and gent, let's take this time to reflect on the good 'ol days when she knew how to dress for her body.(Photo)

Glenn  Close in Bibhu Mohapatra: My lovely Glenn, you know what you did. Will I forgive you for this? Maybe. (Photo)

 Hayden Panettiere in Marchesa: Oh Georgia Chapman, what did you do?  I usually swoon over Marchesa's collections; however, this selection was like a knife to my heart. It looks as if Panettiere was wearing a stellar column dress and then someone decided to saran wrap the ensemble out of pure jealousy.(Photo)

Heidi Klum in Alexandre Vauthier: In theory, this dress is exactly what a glamourous siren would wear. Unfortunately,  I had a very rude awakening last night. The double slit was just too much for the Emmys. Honestly, Heidi should've saved this dress until she had to awkwardly bump into Seal at the Grammys. Additionally, the hair is unimpressive. Where's the sleek ponytail to complete this ultra-slutty look?  I think Heidi's stylist was a little confused.(Photo)

Kristen Wiig in Balenciaga: To quote Bridesmaids, "What is happening?"  I know Wiig is no longer on Saturday Night Live; however, she doesn't have a right to dress down. Honestly, this dress looks like a teenager's"fall ball" outfit. The comedian's dark hair is to die for, but this dress... no thank you.(Photo)

Ashley Judd in Carolina Herrera: Poor Ashley: she was rejected from the Hollywood Bowl's production of Hairspray and didn't have time to change out of her outfit. If the dress wasn't horrid enough, Judd's defiant hair is nauseating. In her  Emmy-nominated miniseries, Missing, Judd's onscreen sun is kidnapped-- why didn't anyone keep this out of Judd's sight?(Photo)

Lena Headey in Giorgio Armani: In what world is this ensemble okay? If Florence Welch isn't wearing a this...situation, nobody can. The sheer details is extremely eery, especially paired with the delicate dress. Ned Stark would not approve. (Photo)

What did you think of the red carpet fashion? I'm dying to know.

xx

Josie Natori S/S 2013

Without a doubt, New York Fashion Week is the greatest time of the year. Racing from show to show is a hassle, but  it's a stressful joy. How is that even possible? Go to NYFW and then we can chat. I attended Josie Natori's Spring 2013 presentation on Monday and let me tell you something: it was spectacular.

THE CLOTHES 

From bright maxi dresses to sequined trousers, Josie Natori's collection makes island fever chic. Taking inspiration from the Philippines, her native country, Natori offers everything you could possibly want in a show. Uber glam bottoms? Check. Boho-chic tops? Paired with the uber glam bottoms, obviously. Unfussy, white dresses were perfectly juxtaposed with standout jewelry (we'll talk about that in a jiff). Last but not least, vibrant island dresses closed the presentation. I know what you must be thinking, "This is a lot of different concepts for one collection." Hate to break it to you, but you're totally wrong. The presentation made a logical progression. Detailled whites were followed by colorful, detailled frocks. These dresses smoothly transitioned into punchy prints, which ultimately led to the grand finale. And like an ocean wave, it felt natural.

Another thing I loved about this collection was that Natori truly gave us "Ready-to-Wear" apparel. Not only is this collection wearable, but I genuinely want to wear these clothes. I want to wear the printed minidresses to an internship or meeting. I want to wear those disco-chic pants to a dance party (naturally). I want to wear printed asymmetrical maxidress to one of my Montauk getaways. And I want  to wear that white shirtdress to my favorite cafe. In my opinion, there's nothing better than liking, wanting, and styling a piece at first glance.

THE JEWELS

As an accessories buff, I always find myself swooning over the latest handbags, sunglasses, and jewels. Especially jewels. I cannot be more serious when I say that a life without statement jewelry is no life at all. This collection's array of necklaces and bracelets are must haves for the spring season. The Polynesian silhouettes will definitely give your ensemble the attention it deserves while the neutral colors are versatile enough to be worn with anything.  I also loved how these edgy necklaces were paired with feminine fabrics and patterns. If this isn't NYFW gold, I don't know what is.

THE SHOES

Just because I'm in a full-fledged love affair with jewels doesn't mean I don't appreciate a good shoe. Like any Carrie Bradshaw groupie, I gush over a nice heel. If the presentation taught me anything about shoes, it's that chunky sandals are in. As an avid wedge fanatic, I was so happy see a slew of wooden wedges at the presentation. The colorful details gave these kicks a necessary springtime twist.

THE BEAUTY

I'm such a sucker for amazing hair and makeup. Additionally, I'm a sucker for Asian-inspired trends. When somebody combines the two, you know I'll love it. Electric blue eyeliner upheld Natori's Asian inspiration while giving onlookers a beauty trend to lust over. It looks like I'm going to have to make a run to Sephora and get some bright eyeliner... want to join me? Not to mention the blue perfectly popped against the white ensembles. For a finishing touch, a bouquet of flowers gently rested on each model. While this may've looked cheesy with other collections, I think the wearable clothes with the avant garde headpieces was brilliant.

If I haven't made it clear enough, this collection is one of my favorites this season! In addition to Natori's fantastic show, I also covered Sammi Sweetheart's workout collection for Her Campus.

xx

Style Guide: New York Fashion Week

New York Fashion Week Style Guide by kmulvey featuring vintage sunglasses

Oasis maxi dress, $88 / Boyfriend blazer / Kitten heels / American Apparel vintage sunglasses / NARS Cosmetics red lip stick / Smythson Mara Croc-Stamped Small Manuscript Book

It's the most wonderful time of the year, my friends: New York Fashion Week. The city stops for a week to take in the innovative designs that strut down the runway. Heaven on Earth? I think so!  I'm so excited to be heading to NYFW tomorrow and thought I'd share some style ideas for the treasured event. This season, I'm going for "understated glam". What exactly does that mean? You'll find out soon enough! To copy this look, sport crisp silhouettes in dark hues. Let the record show that "darker hues" doesn't mean black and only black. For example, that bordeaux shirtdress is fantastic. Once you have the clean base down, make the outfit your own with some awesome accessories: fun shoes, stacked bracelets, or even a punchy pout. But do me a favor and don't forget to document the show: bring your camera, iPhone, and super chic notebook!

Happy Fashion Games everyone, may the odds be ever in your favor.

xx

The Indie Lee Clothing Plan

Every now and then, you're in desperate need of a new wardrobe. Whether your clothes no longer fit or you loathe your apparel, it's time to evolve. Don't fret, ladies and gent, everyone experiences this. Take my good friend and skincare guru, Indie Lee, for example. With the help of some fashionable friends, we had a chic extermination. Gone are the striped suits from her days as an account as well as the dresses that were worn a few too many times. As a result, we were left with a desolated closet. To some, this is horrifying; however, I think it's a blessing in disguise. Without remnants from your style past, you're truly able to reinvent yourself.

To help Indie with her fashion makeover, she has assigned me to curate "The Indie Lee Clothing Plan" Pinterest board. If you follow me on Pinterest, you know I'm crazy about pinning the hautest trends so I'm beyond excited for this new project. Follow the board for updates- I cannot wait for the final product

xx

8.30 What's Trendy?

Although I've been super busy with packing for Boston, I couldn't leave my chic committee hanging.

1. Alanis Morissette 

So apparently Alanis Morissette is making a comeback? A couple days ago, I woke up to the musical powerhouse singing "You Learn" on Good Morning America. Days later, the anthem is still stuck in my head. Let's throw on our cargo pants and crops tops for a "Jagged Little Pill" sing-a-long, shall we?

2. Liquid Lipstick

(Photo)
A few weeks ago, I was given a slew of fantastic beauty supplies. Perfume? Check. Glitter eyeliner? But of course. Liquid lipstick? Yes...wait, what? Well my delicious tastemakers, liquid lipstick is exactly what it sounds like. You put on this magical necessity as if you're applying lip gloss; however, your luscious lips are given a pop of color that only a lipstick can supply. So genius. I'm also pleased to report that this color stays on for hours.

3. Kate Hudson's Laid-back Gucci Look

(Photo)
Leave it to Kate Hudson, Hollywood's resident "Queen of Cool," to give a monochromatic Gucci  suit a boho-chic vibe at the 2012 Venice Film Festival. Though I'd nix the dainty necklace and tailor those pants , Hudson has the rest of the look down perfectly. To mix up the white-on-white ensemble, Kate adds the simple tan tank. With a pair of aves in hand, the nonchalant ensemble lives on. For the grand finale, Hudson comes equipped with her infamous relaxed waves and fresh makeup. This look is not perfect; however, I truly admire Kate for never losing sight of her aesthetic.

4. Nicole Richie's Texture Extravaganza

(Photo)
What does one wear to The Sunset Strip Music Festival, you ask?  Take a page from Nicole Richie's book and create a polished, yet funky, look with clashing textures. The fashion guru paired a soft Mulger top with an edgy leather Winter Kate skirt. Mixing and matching fabrics is a must for the upcoming season. Not only will your wardrobe suddenly have an array of options, but your outfits will have an added depth. On a completely different note, I also adore that colorful clutch!

5. Long, Long Trailer

(Photo)
I'm such a sucker for old school movies. Recently, I aided my nostalgia with Long, Long Trailer. But seriously, how could you resist Lucy's infectious comedy and Desi's adorable accent?  Not to mention  Lucy's ensembles are the epitome of 1950's glam. Polka dots, fabulous hats, calf-friendly hems...need I say more? Additionally, I'd like to call everyone's attention to the fact that this movie makes the seemingly impossible possible: apparently, trailers are glam!

xx

Summer Lovin'

Believe it or not, summer's not over just yet. Before you pull out your cardigans and amazing booties, do me (and yourself) a favor -- embrace the last few days of this season!  I know what you're thinking: dressing for the summer is so draining. Recharge your fashion batteries and check out my top end-of-summer picks for that necessary dose of summer style-spiration.

Summer Lovin' by kmulvey featuring a silk dress

Edun silk dress / Miu Miu bikini swimwear / J.Crew bikini swimsuit / Cole Haan shoes / Salvatore Ferragamo silk scarve / Karen Walker Eyewear sunglasses / Sun hat / NARS Cosmetics lip stick / Ikat Beach Towel

In my opinion, summer is all about rocking unapologetically feminine pieces. From pastel bikinis with girly fripperies to soft, whimsical patterns, the options are endless! With a slew of towels, sunnies, and "out-of-this-world" silk scarves to choose from, don't forget to accessorize!  But what if you're a risk-taker and need a splash of edge? I hear you, style mavens. Juxtapose your ladylike attire with minimalist sandals or a punchy red lip. Now that you have the look down, it's time to bask in the sun!

xx