Lace...Uptown vs. Downtown

I talked about chambray with eyelet on Monday.  So, you had to know that, I would love it with lace even more!  It's a great way to keep the lace from feeling too precious...although the color on this dress does that same trick.  The rosy brown shade is an amazing neutral base for just about anything.  I like keeping the accessories in similar, tonal shades, and then popping it with the blue of the shirt, and a bright shoe (blue works!).  But, you could also dress it down a little more with a classic riding boot ...or keep it tonal with a brown bootie.

And, perhaps what I love most about this outfit, is the ability of the massive bag to tote along substitute accessories.  You know, for a night out on the town.  I believe you kids refer to it as date night. :-)

For me, it would be a great way to transition from shopping downtown...to amazing dinner and drinks uptown with friends!  Here's to scheduling that fabulous day sometime in the next dozen years!

Lace dress/Chambray: Madewell.  Wedges/Bracelet/Necklace: J. Crew
Pumps: Banana Republic.  Bag: Gucci.  Clutch: Very Jane
Sunglasses: RayBan

Tuesday's Chambray: Wear to Work

Today's chambray, as a staple piece, shows how easily it transitions into work appropriate.  Granted, I work in fashion, so the rules are a bit more lax than most places.  With that said, the lighter weight and subtle pin dot on this shirt give it the necessary refinement for, just about, any professional environment.  And I love it paired with a classic pencil skirt.  In the above, I've added an edgier necklace and printed snakeskin pumps.  The pop of neon, and the canvas shoe, keep it summery and fresh.

Bag/Shoes: J.Crew.  Necklace: Madewell

A favorite look with a pencil skirt is to leave the bottom two buttons on the shirt undone, and tuck them into the skirt for a wrap effect...a modern take on a classic.

Here, I've switched out the jewelry and shoes, for a more classic feel.  Makes the look more transitional for Fall.  The bag is versatile enough for both!

Bag/Necklace: J.Crew.  Shoes: Gucci

Shirt/Belt/Bracelet: J.Crew.  Skirt: H&M.  Sunglasses: Valentino

Today's Chambray: Eyelet

A few posts back, I detailed my love and adoration for jeans, in all their forms.  You can revisit here.  At that time, I made brief mention of utilizing denim (and chambray) as a great way to top an outfit.  Of course, I promised that we'd chronicle the many looks you can create with chambray on top so...here we are!  Shown above is a wish list outfit for yours truly.  The chambray is a perfect color, going into fall.  The gorgeous beading gives you the option to skip jewelry, although I'm thinking that this, as an add on, will truly portray my personal style.  And the leather shorts, although just about the most impractical thing I could add to my own wardrobe, are amazing!  Although, I could easily substitute with this.

In the spirit of chambray's versatility, I am going to be focusing on different looks all this week.  They are all go-to outfits for me, both in the summer, and transitioning into Fall.

I love denim and eyelet in Summer!  The rolled long sleeves and heftier material balance the lightweight, mini length of the skirt.  I love the added pop of white in the necklace.  And, I practically live in a tan, vachetta wedge in the summer...lengthens the leg (especially in these ultra mini lengths!)  Add a fantastic bag and a aviators, and you're set!

Shirt/skirt/necklace/shoes/ring: J.Crew.  Bag: Theory.  Sunglasses: RayBan

Check back for more chambray looks all this week!

Maternity leave...but definitely not mine!

I cannot believe that I didn't mention this in my praise-heavy review of J.Crew's new collection yesterday!  Although I will never again have a need, nor would these styles have been able to contain my 75 lb. weight gain during pregnancy, J.Crew is offering two styles of pant in maternity sizing!  The Pixie pant and, the iconic, Minnie pant!  I don't recall there being much, in the way of cool clothing, during my first pregnancy.  And, as aforementioned, my massive weight gain (in addition to record-setting temps) limited my fashion to mu mu style maxi dresses.  I was slightly smaller during my second pregnancy (despite carrying twins), and was able to squeeze into some decent styles of denim from Citizens, Gap etc.  And, thankfully, was able to maintain my personal style with J.Crew tops in larger sizes.  But the Minnie, in maternity...that is groundbreaking!  I always struggled with finding a nicer pant, that didn't add more bulk.  These will fit the bill for all you preggers, and preggers-to-be, out there!  Looking forward to what other styles J.Crew will bring in to keep all the expectant mothers out there chic and timeless...

J.Crew...Like For Ever

I had been planning to venture to J.Crew since Tuesday, when I knew the new August concept was hitting the store.  I finally made it in today and, I have to say, I entered the store with mixed emotions.  It was a far darker palette than I've seen in J. Crew in a long time.  In fact, there was so much black, I started to panic a little.  I don't really wear a ton of black.  Not sure if it's the many years I spent working for Banana Republic, or the years I lived in the city, or just the fact that I live in New Jersey and it just seems so cliche...but I don't find myself seeking out black as a wardrobe option.  I tend toward the lighter neutrals, with bright pops of color.  That said, I kept an open mind.  And then, J.Crew pulled me back in...with camo.  Anyone who knows me, knows that I have an affinity for anything camouflage.  It will remain a mystery forever how I didn't end up married to a hunter.  A story for another day, I guess.  I am immediately drawn to anything and everything camo!  And the skinny military chino in the above pic did not disappoint.  I love everything about this outfit...the silhouette of the pant, the slouch of the sweater, and the sexy ankle straps on the shoes.  Amazing in every way!  It's a must have outfit for Fall!  Also loved the great shrunken military jacket, shown on the left...perfect shade of green!

And then this happened...pure genius!  The color block on the anorak...gorgeous!  The subtle heart print on in timeless black and white.  The perfectly weathered (and fitting!) toothpick jean.  The stunning crystal necklace...a million and one uses!  And, again, that ankle strap!  Never one for silver shoes (I'm a gold girl, through and through), these shoes have changed my tune!  Again, outfit perfection!

My beloved camo, in a quilted vest!  Layered with a denim jacket, anything but basic slim chinos, and that gorgeous oxblood shoe!  I need this in my life!

You may recognize the emblem embroidered hat from my last concept post.  It has hit online, and shall be ordered immediately!  Although I have never been much of a baseball hat girl, it was such a statement piece throughout the new collection.  I will definitely be jumping on this bandwagon...saves on time in the morning, for sure!  There was an amazing leopard print as well, that I'm slightly annoyed that I missed a photo op of.  The cropped jacket was beautiful in person.  And the color block dress will be a constant wardrobe go-to.

And, as if they didn't get me with every other piece of fabulous, the new jewelry collection is flawless!  This burgundy mixed media necklace is stunning!

And, just because I love myself some family fab, this quartet was adorable!  Notice the gorgeous, beaded baseball cap on Mom.  And the color of the Crewcuts dress is lovely!  Camo tie on chambray?  For me...sold!

I said it last year...the smoking slipper trend is not going away.  This studded Darby hits it out of the park!  With all the caps, I felt a baseball reference was apropos!

I tell my clients all the time...if you have the opportunity (and the cash!), purchase a Chanel jacket.  It is one of the most timeless pieces of clothing you can own.  They, very literally, do not go out of style.  If you cannot, however, buy this amazing tweed!  Actually, even if you do own the Chanel, this color is stunning in person...and every bit as timeless.  Buy it as well!  Adore it with the stripe!

There are no words for this necklace...and the picture does it little justice.  It is a show stopper!  It was a sample piece, and I will be counting the seconds until it hits the store!  AMAZE!

And please excuse the pic on this perfect tunic...I ran out of time to try on, and didn't see one displayed.  It is amazing!  The neckline is slightly ballet...the cut is slouchy, without being too boxy...and leather patch pockets...are you serious??  I grabbed one for a client traveling to chillier climates this week, but am secretly hoping she will not fall in love with it.  Mine, all mine!

I know the new catalog has made its way to many, and there are a ton of pieces already available online.  I can tell you, firsthand, every piece of August is a knockout!  I have a feeling there will be a ton of sell through, and very quickly, on this collection.  Grab it while it's hot!

Sale-ing into Summer...

So, I am clearly fashion addicted.  I love to shop!  But, unlike the unadulterated spending of  my youth, I have truly learned the value of a good deal.  Trust me, there are always items that can't wait...and things that will sell out before there is any chance of a markdown.  Those must be scooped up immediately!  And then, there are the highly coveted designer items that we budget and save for...because they will never see a sale!  And, very rarely (and, it seems, especially in the summer), some of our very favorite pieces are available without breaking the bank.  July is the month to revisit all of our favorite shops and websites because, chances are, most of our wish list pieces are a steal!  I refrain from referring to the above as a "top" 20 list...because there are just too many amazing deals out there!  I will say that, of the many fantastic sale items out there, these are just 20 of my favorites!  I don't even want give a total number of what I'm sale stalking at the moment.  It will seem like a sickness!  The only down side to prices like these...they sell out quickly (immediately!).  So, if it's an item that you love unconditionally, act fast...it may not be there tomorrow!

Happy (Budget) Spending!

Paint the town...

Oh Reed, you do make it difficult to stay on budget when you offer this stunner at the most amazing price ever!!!  I have been coveting a red bag forever, and am dreaming of monogramming KMV on that beautiful luggage tag...beyond gorgeous!  Of course, this is my favorite...but there are dozens of amazing bags at outrageous prices!  They have such a classic silhouette, but with a modern edge.  You must check out the website immediately...I'm sure they'll clear out quickly!  

Happy shopping!

Sweet 16...

I don't think there is any one person in the universe that doesn't love (and need) an amazing pair of jeans.  I, personally, live in them!  And, if I'm not wearing one of my favorite pairs (and I think you get the gist of my preferred style in the pic above), I'm wearing a denim or chambray top to balance a print or colored bottom.  But denim shirts are a whole other topic, for another day!  There are, very literally, millions of jeans out there!  And I definitely have my favorite designers, many of whom are highlighted above.  I mean, the Gucci flared (#9), are near perfection!  And I would get daily wear from the Current/Elliot cuffed boyfriend (#13).  But, at $625 and $238 resepectively, I need some filler denim to keep these pretties looking fab!  That said, I am a huge fan of Abercrombie & Fitch jeans (#2, #11)!  They just happen to fit me really well.  I love to buy the skinny & super skinny in one size up, for a slouchy feel.  And the price points are always great, ranging from $49-$118.  You may notice that one of these things is not like the others...because, really, these tartan See by Chloe for Madewell (#12) are amazing!!!  And would, clearly, look great with a chambray shirt!  So, without a doubt, everybody needs jeans!  I suggest you get out there,and start trying.  And, if you find a pair that you feel fantastic in, buy two pairs!  Or three, or four, or...

Never fully dressed...

Exhaustion Regime by kmvstyle featuring a matte finish foundation

Well, Friends, it is no secret...I'm pretty shallow when it comes to showing my face in public.  It's a rarity to find me out and about without, at least one, piece of statement jewelry.  Barring gym days...then it's all black Lycra...everybody looks good in Lululemon (true story!).  That said, even on gym days, I have some combination of makeup on.  I mean, it's a natural look (not sporting falsies!), but I wouldn't be caught dead in public without concealer and bronzer!  These days, though, I have been feeling (and looking!) pretty tired.  Every single item pictured is used at least once throughout the day.  Sadly, many get visited several times throughout my travels...looking at you Age Rewind, Burt's Bees and, of course, my beloved Dunkin!  That said, even on my most exhausted day, I feel put together.  Thanks to these remedies (that I promise don't take more than a few minutes to slap on!), I feel like a total human being leaving the house.  A pretty one, even!  And, isn't that the goal?!

Snow White

Admittedly, I'm feeling a real urge to "purify" my life these days.  There are many, many reasons to support this need...but it is truly manifesting itself everywhere!  It started with a desperate need to refinish every piece of furniture that I own in a beautiful weathered white.  This massive project has not yet begun, but the paint search has begun!  And, naturally, looking at hundreds of paint chip cards has got me noticing everything in the fairest shade!  I finally caved, and purchased the necklace pictured...you know, to ease the anxiety of cleansing color palettes everywhere!  It helped that it was at a fantastic price!  Although it may not seem the most practical to bathe all of your surroundings in white (especially with kids!), there is no setting more serene and beautiful to look at.  I'll just have to start stockpiling the Scotch Guard!

The perfect white necklace.  Gorgeous on neutrals.  A perfect pop on brights.

It does not get more luxe than this stunning bag...yes please!

Although not a Prada original, this piece is beautiful...and definitely on my wish list.  Of course, the black text is available as well.  But I adore the white on white!

Love baroque...love white baroque...love this mirror!

Sheer white curtains...so romantic!  Save for the aspect of absolutely no privacy, nothing prettier to look at than these gorgeous sheers!

It would be even more difficult to get up in the morning, if I had to leave this dreamy bed.

This lovely settee doesn't seat nearly enough people to ever make it into my living room.  Perhaps in my fantasy closet someday...a girl can dream!

These limited pieces listed don't even begin to scratch the surface on all of the gorgeous items available in every shade of white imaginable.  Let's cleanse!

Here I am...

Guest Poly by Dan by kmvstyle featuring buckle belts


So, I'm back...but experiencing absurd technical difficulties.  Aaaagh!  So, we are going to reflect on some men's style...with a guest poly from my favorite guy ever, Dan!  It's a well known fact that every man looks great in a suit and tie.  Which, I'm guessing, is the reason behind the popularity of the song of that name.  Well, that paired with the annoying inability to remove the tune from your brain stem!  Sorry J.T.!
Suits are fairly easy, for the most part.  The real challenge is the well-dressed down man...the casual, about town, guy.  Looking at the carefully curated collection above, it seems like a breeze!  Start at the base...with a phenomenal pair of shoes.  Accessory additions of a beautiful watch, a weathered belt, and amazing sunglasses pull together the simplicity of a soft chambray, and complete your favorite pair of jeans!  So, with this guide, go forth and accessorize, young Gents!  You, too, can look as great as this guy!

Sandy Beaches...

Sandy Beaches... by kmvstyle featuring handle bags

I'm off to a much-needed week on the beach.  I may pop in here and there...if fashpiration strikes.  But I'm really looking forward to some vacation downtime.  My duffle is packed full with beach-casual relaxed pieces that will translate easily from boardwalk to dinner.  Each and every item pictured is an absolute necessity for relaxation.  I am looking forward to soaking up the sun, fun in the sand and unwinding.
Aaaaah...summer!

Stars and Stripes...

Happy 4th of July! by kmvstyle featuring madewell

Tomorrow, I will be enjoying a fun-filled day with the family.  Wishing everyone sunny weather, fun with friends and family, and lots of fireworks!  God bless America!
Happy 4th of July!

Orange you glad...

An Orange A Day by kmvstyle featuring crossbody handbags

I didn't say neon?  It's no secret that I have a love affair with neon...but, for some, it's too much.  Too blindingly bright...too attention grabbing.  For those looking for a great pop of color, without the need for sunglasses, orange is perfection.  Although certainly available in neon shades, there is an orange hue for everyone.  It is widely expressed to be the most universally flattering color, as well.  That means it looks good on every skin tone, every hair color, everyone...even you, naysayers.  And, if you're not ready for the head to toe look, there are scores of amazing accessories...I'm telling you, it works well with almost every color!  But, if your still not buying orange as the color you need in your life, paint it on your toes.  Your feet will be prettier in an instant...promise!  Truth be told, there was a time (not so long ago) that I didn't really pay the color any mind.  It has always been my sister's favorite color, and I can recall refusing to wear any shade of it in her wedding.  As luck would have it, I was the Maid of Honor, and could get away with a champagne gown (and did).  It's only been a few years that I've truly experimented with orange in my wardrobe, and there is, truly, no turning back!  On a recent Fall pre-shop, I was reminded of just how well it plays with khaki...

The hue is borderline neon on this amazing Comptoir des Cotonniers frock...it is so stunning!  And fantastic with a classic khaki trench (from the same designer).  I even love that they took it one step further, and matched the shoes to the dress...AMAZE against a tan!

These are the shoes!  They would also add a great punch to a jeans and tee look!

The easy answer to polishing this look is this J.Crew stunner!

But, just for fun, this amazing tortoise and turquoise would really take it up a notch!  Also from J.Crew because, let's face it, their jewelry collection is unmatched!  Especially for the price point!  They make the outfit...this one in particular...or just about any!

Above, I featured a great Ted Baker dress in the tangerine hue.  However, while out and about, I came across the same dress in a neutral, champagne shade.  It still has the amazing color pop in the embroidery, but would make a great option for any of my wallflowers!  It was featured in the Ted Baker shop at Bloomingdale's, and I know there is a sale this weekend.  Might be time to shop some new frocks...

P.S. No necklace required here...just a stack of gold bracelets, and a strappy, nude heel.  Gorgeous!

Stella McCartney revisited...a vision for Fall

I have cause to revisit an event that I attended several months back.  I was in the company of a favorite client, and her pre-order items have begun coming in.  I was honored to attend the Stella McCartney Fall event at Neiman Marcus Short Hills...and a stunning event, it was.  There was not one gorgeous detail overlooked...by Neiman's or Stella.  Although I adored every article of clothing that was beautifully showcased by models parading about the space, it was meeting two fashion icons that truly thrilled me.  For anyone who doesn't know, the man pictured above is the illustrious Ken Downing, V.P. and Fashion Director for Neiman Marcus.  As a stylist and fashion lover, I've followed Mr. Downing's career for some time now.  His philosophy of cultivating confidence, and empowering women, through fashion is completely in sync with my own.  The sole reason that I got into this business is just that...to make women (and a few men!) feel beautiful!  It was a real treat to meet Ken, and share in some of that passion.

Above, is the inimitable Stella McCartney herself.  And this picture is a perfect depiction of that passion that we all share...for making women feel beautiful.  Stella is an amazing, charismatic designer, with an eye for beauty and detail in every creation.  She was genuine and inspiring, and the time she spent talking to each and every attendee truly made the event special.  Again, it was an honor to be in her presence!

The above pictured are two of the looks from her pre Fall line.  The feather print brocade is so rich, and the bell sleeve is total perfection.  And the studded snakeskin (faux) clutch is amazing!

The lace detail on this floor length gown is one that ran through the entire line...absolutely gorgeous...as are the brilliant shades of red and coral of the gown.  And, the tortoise clutch...no words!  

I was enticed to revisit this amazing event, because some of my client's flagged pieces have begun to arrive.  She was unable to stop in for a fitting, so I did so for her.  And, these pants.  Are AMAZING!  Again, the lace detail is there, and is show stopping!  The fit is just perfection...and they will literally be worn forever!  Forever.  Period.  They are an investment piece, don't get me wrong.  But, one that will certainly pay over time.  Gorgeous!

This is the feather print from earlier, so pardon my paste-like legs (evidently, I could a little more sun...or bronzer...maybe even tights!  Yikes!)  It is such a pretty silhouette, and the bell sleeve truly is fantastic!  Although I'm sporting a fantastic pair of bordeaux Louboutins, I could just as easily envision this with tights and and a great pair of boots.  The color is amazing!

So, in closing, the Stella McCartney Fall line is stunning...no question!  And I know my client will love these first additions to her Fall wardrobe.  For anyone whose budget does not include couture (most of us!), there is still a great vision to emulate with these pieces.  Brocade prints, rich jewel tones, lace details and tortoise accents will all be prevalent themes throughout Fall...and, in every price point.  In the months to come, and as more brands begin to release their versions of fall, I'll be highlighting various pieces that reflect these themes in all budgets.  Get ready for gorgeous!