A Diva State of Mind

While the weather would suggest spring isn’t coming soon, it’s right around the corner! That means it’s time to get our wardrobes ready. Below are some of the season’s hottest trends. Remember, the key to trends is to pick a few you like and incorporate them into your current wardrobe. If you love prints, add a new printed top, skirt or pant to your closet and wear it with pieces you already own. If you’re a fan of black & white, mix a black & white skirt with your favorite colorful top. Incorporate trends in a way that are modern and reflect your individual style.

Black & White

We were first introduced to this trend in the fall and it doesn’t look like it is leaving us this spring season. Black & white is a great trend because these are colors you already have in your wardrobe. In order to shy away from the uniform look (black pants and white blouse), have some fun by wearing various patterns (stripes, floral, polka dot, ruffles) and apparel options (skirts, blazers, tops).

Marc Jacobs, Anthony Vaccarello, Oscar de la Renta, Chanel

Actress Jeanna Dewan-Tatum, Emmanuelle Alt in leather pants, H&M

Prints

Paul & Joe, Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti, Ralph Lauren

Cushnie et Ochs, Cushnie et Ochs,Jason Wu, Hervé Léger by Max Azria

Pastels

When I think of pastels, for some reason I think of Easter.  But it looks like pastels will be around for longer than a holiday.  This is one trend that you can easily incorporate into your wardrobe because it’s offered in a variety of options including blazers, jeans, cardigans and dresses. Want to effortlessly incorporate two trends into one look? Wear a pastel blazer or cardigan over your favorite printed top or dress.

Source: http://beautifour.wordpress.com

Roberto Cavalli, Jason Wu, Jason Wu, Oscar de la Renta

Solange Knowles, LaLa Anthony, Rihanna

Gladiator Sandals

Source: http://www.trendnstylez.com

What do you think of this season’s trends? What trends are you excited about wearing? What are some other trends not listed above you plan on wearing this season?

Last Thursday, I attended the CapFabb & Macy’s Impulse Collection launch party at the Macy’s Metro Center location.  The Impulse Collection includes MICHAEL Michael Kors, RACHEL Rachel Roy, Else, Bar III and more.  Guests enjoyed desserts, free manicures and a fashion presentation of this year’s spring trends.

Free Manicures

Else Jeans

Rachel Rachel Roy Jumpsuit & Jacket

Bar III

Rachel Rachel Roy pants & Bar III jacket

Head to toe Rachel Rachel Roy

Else polka dot jeans

Bar III printed short suit

Else jeans, Rachel Rachel Roy blazer

Bar III maxi dress (diva must have!) and jacket

Rachel Rachel Roy jumpsuit & Michael Michael Kors belt

Print handkerchief pants

Bar III Top and Else Jeans

Major trends to expect this spring season: pastels, prints (and combining prints together), shades of blue, printed jeans & pants, leather (faux leather) and bright colors.

I really like the offerings and the way the pieces were styled together. I want to go back and check out the collection when it is less crowded in that area of the store.  I think the Else printed jeans, jumpsuit and navy handkerchief pants need to be added to my wardrobe!

Based on the pictures, will you be checking out the new Impulse Collection at Macy’s?

I know it’s really hard to talk about Spring while it’s 30 degrees outside, but you know the fashion world is always a ahead of the current season.

It’s no secret women’s fashion includes florals, but what about men’s fashion?

According to LuxuriousPROTOTYPE.com, one men’s Spring 2013 trend we can expect to see is Print and Patterns/Arty Abstractions: abstract art, florals , abstract lines and digital prints.  We don’t often see florals in men’s fashion choices but it looks like things are changing in 2013.

Christian Louboutin recently released the Rantus Orlato Tapestry High Top Sneaker in an all over floral tapestry design.   This design definitely screams vintage and is one design I wouldn’t expect to see in menswear.

If you’re a guy that may be on the fence about florals but is interested in trying the trend, a shoe like this is a great subtle way to incorporate the trend into your wardrobe.  Fellas, pair the shoes with a pair of dark denim jeans, blazer and/or blazer, white t-shirt or button up for a clean, casual look.

Floral trend on the Spring 2013 runway:

Bottega Venetta | Calvin Klein | Canali | Gucci

The sneakers retail for $725. For more information, check out the Christian Louboutin online store here.

Guys, what do you think about the floral trend? Are you going to try it this year?

Source: LuxuriousPROTOTYPE & Danchiz

If you follow me on twitter, you may have noticed that I have been giving you a sneak peek at this fall’s trends.  These trends are also the ones I’ve seen the most at local retailers meaning you’ll have an easy incorporating these trends into your current wardrobe.

Burgundy

This is THE COLOR of the season! From pants, tops and skirts to nail polish, you’ll see burgundy everywhere. If you’re wondering “what do I wear this color with?” the answer is everything. Treat burgundy as a neutral and pair it with rich colors like orange, mustard yellow, and navy this fall season.  Two retailers I’ve seen offer great pieces in this color are Banana Republic and The Limited.

Source: The Limited

Leather

Leather is always in for fall, but this year you will to see leather pieces in other forms than just a motorcycle jacket.  Leather (and faux leather) skirts and pants are making a comeback this year. The good thing about leather is that no matter what form, it is always in style and can be worn for so many different occasions. You can purchase a leather skirt today and still wear it two years from now.  If you don’t want to make a huge investment in a real leather skirt or pants, check your local thrift store and consignment shop or eBay online for real leather for less. Also shop faux leather options.  I’m in search of a pair of leather skinny pants!

Source: Polyvore

Black & White

Expect to see a lot of black & white combinations.  Black & white is classic and will look great combined with a pop of color. Want to incorporate black & white with other fall trends? Wear a black & white dress with burgundy shoes or pair a black & white top with bright color pants.

Source: Glamour

Printed Pants

Many would expect to see printed pants (and jeans) in the spring only, but expect to see them this fall season.  This fall they’ll look great with leather jackets, fur vests and silk tops.

Source: Style Nugget

Color Pants

Color pants and denim were extremely popular during the spring and summer season and the trend is here to stay for fall. Instead of pastel, you’ll see rich deeper shades like hunter green, cobalt, burgundy, mustard yellow and orange.  For the fall/winter season, pair your color pants with boots and sweaters (both solids and prints).  The great thing about color pants in the fall is that you can transition them to spring.

Source: Downtown Magazine NYC

Reptile Print

While reptile will show up in apparel, expect to see a lot of accessories in this print including clutches, handbags and shoes.  Remember, reptile print can be treated as a neutral so don’t be afraid to wear this print with another print in your outfit. For example, reptile printed shoe with a striped blouse. Want reptile clutches for less? Check Target!

Source: Instagram @DivaStateMind

Winter White

Does winter white every really go out of style? Talk about classic, especially an all winter white look like the ones below. Go for an elegant monochromatic look or break up your white and pair it with other trends like color pants, leather and fur this fall.

Source: Polyvore

Curve Conscious

Sheath (especially color block) and peplum dresses are the two styles that fit the name “curve conscious” perfectly.  These dresses create volume in the right places for those with a boyish frame and tastefully highlight the curves of women who have them.  These style dresses are feminine but sexy, great at creating a waist.  These styles are ones you can easily wear in the boardroom and to happy hour all in the same day!

Source: Style and Cheek & Spoiled Pretty

Expect to see fall favorites sequins/embellishment and fur; they don’t ever really need to be listed on a trend report because they are always in!

As we transition from one season to the next, now is the perfect to hire a personal stylist to help you make sure your wardrobe is ready for the fall season.  Click HERE for a list of services available and to schedule an appointment. I’d love to help make sure you step out looking your best this fall season!

Ladies, how would you feel if your man started wearing tights? Yes, tights like the ones we wear during the winter season to keep your legs warm?

Fashion sites have been buzzing about a new trend in men’s accessories: mantyhose.  According to New York Mag, 2 to 3 percent of annuals sales for hosiery retailer Emilio Cavallini are by men.  With the trend rising over the past three years and to cater to demand, Cavallini decided to create unisex tights that allow for greater breathability:

“When we started our online shop we noticed that a lot of tights sized medium-large were being purchased by men.  So I did a search on the Internet and discovered there is a cult following for mantyhose.”

According to Clutch Magazine, the retailer claims that men are wearing the pantyhose the same way women do; underneath clothing for an extra layer of protection from the cold or underneath shorts; this looks has been seen on Italian men.  Have men not heard of long johns?

It’s one thing for men and women to wear matching hats or shirt, but matching tights? Absolutely not; this is a hot mess!  Just like men wearing skinny jeans, these should be off limits for men too!

What do you think of mantyhose?

Spring is right around the corner which can only mean one thing. It’s time for the Spring 2012 Trend Report!

As usual, there are more trends than we can all keep up with so this is a list of the most popular trends I think can be easily applicable to all of us. These are trends we can easily incorporate into our wardrobe.

1. Neon & Bright Colors

Hands down, this is the most popular trend of the season.  We were introduced to bright colors last season. This season, neon has been added to the mix. I know for some it’s hard to incorporate the latest trends into your work wardrobe.  If you have to wear a suit everyday, brighten it up with a bright blouse (fuschia, orange, cobalt) or wear your favorite bright shirt with your dark denim jeans on casual Friday.  Another option is to wear a bright pencil skirt with a neutral color top. If you’re not a fan of wearing bright colors, but still want to try this trend, incorporate neon and bright color accessories and beauty products into your look.

2. Pastel Colors

If bold colors are too much for you, the pastel color trend may be more up your alley.  Pastel colors are soft, delicate and create a a real sense of femininity. Accessories and beauty products also come in pastel colors.  Mint is the most popular pastel color you will see this season.

3. Peplum

A chic style of the past has returned! This peplum style is very flattering as it creates a narrow waist, hides the tummy if that is a problem area and balances a woman who is larger on top.  For slimmer frames, the peplum accentuates your hips by adding volume. For both body types, this style dress helps create the desired hourglass shape.

4. Floral

Floral print is a Spring trend that isn’t ever going out of style.  It’s chic, ladylike and very feminine.  Typically women wear floral dresses during the warm months, but switch things up this season by wearing a floral printed skirt or jacket.  You’ll definitely be a show stopper!

5. Tribal Print

This was a MAJOR trend for the Michael Kors and Donna Karan Spring 2012 collections.  You can wear this trend in everything; dresses, shoes, accessories.   If you don’t currently have tribal print in your wardrobe and want to add it this season, Forever 21 is notorious for having tribal printed tops, dresses and clutches like the one below.

6. Metallic

Metallic is a great option for evening looks, but that shouldn’t keep you from wearing metallic during the day, via tops and beauty products like nail polish! Like many of the other trends of the season, the metallic trend comes in a variety of accessories too.

If you need help updating your wardrobe for the new Spring season or need assistance with creating new looks with your current wardrobe, contact me!  You can schedule a consultation and appointment at keri@adivastateofmind.com or (301) 836-1451.

In response to this week’s post, What Should I Wear With A Fur Vest, blogger Jennifer of Comme Coco commented “I’m dying to wear a fur vest soon but I can’t find the perfect one. I want one I can wear with black and every one I find is brown based.”

While there is absolutely nothing wrong with wearing a brown vest with black, after all they are both neutrals, trying to find a black or black/grey vest can be challenging but not impossible! Below are some vests (other than brown) to wear with black this Fall/Winter season.

More LOFT…

Along with the stores listed above, others include Kohls, QVC, JC Penny, New York & Company, H&M, Victoria’s Secret and Fabulous Furs.

If you have style questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me at Keri@adivastateofmind.com

When we think of trends, the first thing we usually think of is apparel; printed skirts or tops, bright pants or jackets. But let’s not forget, the season’s trends carry over to accessories as well.

A must have for EVERY diva is a bright bag. Clutch, satchel, tote, it doesn’t matter! A bright bag will definitely add some flair to any outfit. Bright bags are also a great option for those of you who are more conservative in your apparel color choices but still want to integrate the bright color trend in your wardrobe.  Bright bags can be found at any store and at various price points, making this an easy trend to incorporate. We are all searching for a new bag for the Spring season, so why not make it a bright one?!

More Marc by Marc Jacobs…

Day Dresses by Ann Taylor
Sandals by Badgley Mischka

I can’t wait to pull out my bright yellow Nine West bag I purchased years ago. It’s one of my favorites!

As we all know we are in a recession and money is tight for many of us (well money was tight for a lot of us before the recession, especially if you just got out of college).  At the same time, being in our mid-twenties, many of us strive to stay fashion forward and on top of the trends.  But how do you do that without spending a lot of money???

Well I know I have a shopping problem (yes I’ll admit it). And it doesn’t help that I work at a retail store with a great discount!  But most of us don’t work in a retail store, so what can we do to stay fashion forward without going broke??

1.  Research the sales – Many stores are having sales because inventory isn’t moving as fast as they thought they would due to the recession. Many stores take an additional % off current sale prices.  Always compare sales at different retailers to make sure you’re getting a great deal.

2. Search for Coupons – You could save sooo much $$ if you had coupons. The store I currently work for sends coupons out every month; when one ends, another one begins.  Along with researching sales, sign up to receive email alerts from retailers and search for coupons in the mail.  You will receive great savings by doing so!

3. Check out new online “personal shopping sites” – I know many of us are starting our first jobs and are looking for more “grown up” attire to wear to work. Usually that equates to higher end clothing.  Companies such as Ideeli and William B + Friends will sell designer products at DEEP discounted prices. We’re talking 70-85% off the original price.  So if you ever want that designer bag or blouse, check out these websites.  Other sites like Shop It To Me, will send you alerts when your favorite designers have sales at certain retailers such as Nordstrom.

4. Save $$ for shopping – This is some advice I need to follow because like many females, I can sometimes get carried away.  To have a handle on your spending habits, I would suggest you create a budget for shopping.  Set aside an amount you will use for shopping and DO NOT spend over this amount.  That means you shouldn’t transfer $$ from one account to another just because you think you have to have those pair of boots!

5.  Purchase alternatives – Many retailers are not spending the money on expensive pieces like leather.  Instead, they are opting for faux leather which gives the illusion of being real, but at a less expensive price.  It reduces the cost for retailers and it gives you the opportunity to be fashionable without spending a lot of money.  In the case of the leather, I like to call it “recession proof.” Check out Express.com for the “recession proof” leather jackets ranging from $98 – $118.  Please keep in mind, last year’s real leather jackets were $300!!!  Check out The 80′s Are Back blog post for more information on alternatives this season.

6.  Invest only in essentials – Trends come and go in less than a year so if you are going to make an investment,  only invest in staple pieces.   Don’t spend a lot of $$ on trends.  Please check out the What’s In Your Closet? blog post for the male and women wardrobe essentials. 

7.  Get a part-time job in retail - Another way to save money on your favorite brands is to get a part-time job working at your favorite store(s).  Associates receive great discounts on clothes!! (Believe me, I know lol!)

Follow these tips and you too can become the fashionista you want to be! I’m continuously working to reach my fashionista potential, one shopping trip at a time!

Picture by http://media.photobucket.com/image/fashionista/natrinac/fashionista2.png