Style Guide: Baby It's Cold Outside

Call me an eager beaver, but I'm already listening to Christmas music- U2's remedition of "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)" is quite spectacular! For some, this festive season does have it's drawbacks. For example, it gets cold. Very cold. I'm all for comfy clothes; however,  the weather be an excuse for sporting some horrific threads. If you truly must sport a pair of leggings this holiday season, please "wow" onlookers with some amazing outerwear? Since I've taken the time to give you a style guide for winter accessories, you really have no excuse.

When in doubt, stick with neutrals: Though I'm such a sucker for the rampant collection of cherry reds and emerald greens that bombard the freshly-plowed streets, set yourself apart from the rest and wear subdued hues. Trust me, you'll look super chic. If you really feel the need to add a splash of color, add a deep lip or a colorful hat.

Texture, texture, texture: If you haven't noticed yet, winter is all about texture. Whether you sport a faux-fur jacket (in a neutral, of course) or some intricate gloves, a textured piece will add depth to your ensemble. Plus, it can be a great conversation starter.

Don't neglect your socks: Gone are the days of rocking a pair of flats without the risk of frostbite. Though you may have to tug on your trusty boots, remember that your socks should be sartorially superior as well. Eventually, you will have to take off your shoes and nothing's more of a buzz-kill than standard white socks.  My top picks? Madewell, J.Crew and Topshop.

Style Guide: Baby It's Cold Outside by kmulvey featuring madewell

Mauro Grifoni jacket, $960 / Madewell slouchy socks / sunghee bang / Barneys New York long cashmere glove / Ted Baker / Leather glove / Madewell / Beret hat / Pom beanie / Lancôme

What will you be wearing this chilly season? Buddle up, my loves!

XX

The 2012 American Music Awards

By now, you should know that I simply can't resist a red carpet review. Though time has been a little tight lately, there is no way I can ignore what happened at the American Music Awards on Sunday. From home-run ensembles to horrific getups, Justin Bieber's rampant winning streak and Taylor Swift's questionable musical genre shift were the last things on my mind. Behold: my best and worst dressed lists.

The Worst.

Cyndi Lauper: I know that girls just want to have fun; however, this is just terrible. Though Lauper is notorious for her unapologetic style, she's just too old to be dressing like this. Please put on some normal pants and take off that plaid throw -- you just look silly. (Photo)

PSY:  While I'm a sucker for "Gangham Style," I truly loathe this ensemble. The shimmery pants, alien sunnies, untied bow tie and awkward jacket are just too much to handle. No more, PSY, no more.(Photo)

Hayden Panettiere in Armani: I'm all for a metallic mini, but there's something very primitive about this pick. Thirteen-year-old me would love this dress, which is ultimately the issue. Not only does the frock beg to be worn to a Bar Mitzvah, the rest of the styling is quite basic as well. Although I am mildly concerned with the Nashville star's tiny frame, I just want her to sartorially grow up. (Photo)

Christina Aguilera in Pamela Roland: The songstress has never been one to watch on the red carpet; however, there's something about the dress' ombre effect that I truly hate. Though the silhouette complements the star's curvy shape, the slit is tasteless and the hair is too modern for this ensemble. Maybe next time, X-Tina.(Photo)

Phoebe Price: This ensemble is so bad, I'm personally offended. Not only is this dress way too sparkly, I'm seriously questioning her accessory choice. From the headpiece to the oversized earrings, this ensemble is undeniably trashy. Can someone ban her from all red carpets? (Photo)

 Brad Goreski: Oh no, say it ain't so! This ensemble is absolutely dreadful. I'm all for taking fashion risks; however, this is trashy. Are we at a cocktail event or a rodeo? I'm confused, and a little nauseous after looking at this ensemble. Please, make it stop! (Photo)

Carly Rae Jepsen in Gomez Garcia: Though I am shamelessly addicted to her poppy jams, this look has to go. While I'm so smitten with the relaxed updo, I loathe this ensemble. A halter and an excess amount of sparkle? When did we teleport back to 2003? Anyone?  Miss Jepsen, please stop pretending that you're a teeny-bopper: we all know that you're much older than you appear. (Photo)

The Best.

 Elisha Cuthbert in Georges Chakra: Talk about Golden Girl! I love how the metallic hue spices up the otherwise boring silhouette. For a sophisticated take, Cuthbert adds dangling earrings and a tight updo. Simplistic, chic and all-around gorgeous. (Photo)

Kerry Washington in Stella McCartney: Without a doubt, this pick is definitely a fashion favorite. While mainstream media may not enjoy this look, every style snob goes ga-ga for anything Stella McCartney. I love the contrast between her dark complexion and her lively ensemble. Major fashion kudos go to Miss Washington.  (Photo)

Jennifer Morrison in Abed Mahfouz: Though this ensemble may be a little too sophisticated for the American Music Awards, I'm so smitten. The high slit, deep v-neck and extravagant sleeves add some sex appeal to the silhouette. Morrison's relaxed updo loosens up the whole look. Brava! (Photo)

Gennifer Goodwin in Oscar de la Renta: As always, Goodwin sports a dress that is so obscure and fashion forward, style groupies instantly have a fash-gasm. The pale pink hue creates a striking contrast against the actress' light skin and dark locks. Between the thought-provoking silhouette and the glitzy details, this dress is sartorial heaven.  I love how the Once Upon a Time star pairs the de la Renta piece with small, but sparkly, accessories. (Photo)

 Gwen Stefani in Balmain: Though some of you may criticize the blazer's unflattering silhouette, I think this ensemble is genius. Stefani brilliantly combines her punk-rocker past with her sophisticated present. The blazer's eye-popping details are perfectly juxtaposed by that revealing v-neck!  Sporting her iconic red lip, the No Doubt front woman breaks her typical beauty regime with volume-infused hair. (Photo)

Zendaya in Alice+ Olivia: Disney Channel star or not, this look is absolutely supreme. The red carpet newcomer committed to a retro look with a 1950's do and that adorable A+O dress. For a contemporary twist, she adds an electric pink pout. Amazing. (Photo)

The Nicki.

Well I can't say I'm particularly happy about this.  First  of all, I'd love to have a little chat with Minaj's stylist. And by "have a little chat," I really mean yell at said stylist. Julie Bowen and Paula Patton rocked this Monique Lhuillier number. This is unacceptable. That being said, I kind of love this dress on Minaj. The in-your-face hue complements her zany personal style (as well as her lipstick, hair, jewels... basically everything that is Minaj). Agree or disagree, you have to admit that she looks better than she usually does.(Photo)

What looks are on your best (and worst) dressed lists? I'm dying to know! 

xx

Shopping Alert: Madison Maxey's Trunk Show

I don't just like blazers, I adore them. In my opinion, the sacred piece can do wonders for your ensemble. While most style mavens think of a blazer as a finishing touch to an already polished outfit, I can assure you that the treasured item has a lot more mileage. My tweed boyfriend blazer, which I will thank my mother for coercing me into buying it, always supplies an urban twist. But the versatility doesn't stop there: blazers can also exude fearless glamour.

This week, I had the pleasure of meeting Madison Maxey, a designer who is on her way to becoming "The Blazer Queen." Perhaps I should copyright that before more people catch on, yes? With bold collars and a bevy of different fabrics to choose from, Maxey gives you the power to design your dream blazer. 

I know, how could it get any better? 

This Sunday, Madison Maxey is hosting a trunk show that's sure to make you drool. Whether you're starting your holiday shopping early or planning to snag seven blazers for yourself, you must go.

Champagne, exclusive collar fabrics and possibly a free blazer -- how can you resist?

Since I'm still in Boston, I expect all my stylish New Yorkers to attend, shop until they drop and report back!

xx

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