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!

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!

Cats and Dogs...

It's raining again... by kmvstyle featuring a belted trench coat


So, I'm feeling a little uninspired at the moment...because it is pouring...again.  I am, however, determined to be productive.  This is a topic typically reserved for Spring or early Fall.  But, with the soggy Summer we've been having... paired with daily storm clouds predicted for the next week... I think it's a topic worth brushing up on.  It's quite simple, really....rain gear.  The only way to appear polished in a torrential downpour is simple.  Stay dry.  A belted trench is your new best friend.  I prefer traditional tan, with the color accent on my wellies (necessity #2), and umbrella (#3!).  That said, nothing brightens a day more than sunny yellow on a dreary day!  I happen to own a wide array of  wellies in varying shades of blue and green (might have been slightly obsessive about getting the perfect pair for a time), but I may need to set my sights on the gold Union Jacks above...and brushing up on my faux British accent!  Too cute!  So, should these June showers hold on a few days longer than we'd all like, no worries!  Grab a belted trench in your favorite shade, pull on some Hunters (they even look great with shorts!), and head out to puddle jump...just don't forget your umbrella!

Black & White & Pink all over...

Black & White & Pink all over by kmvstyle featuring flat shoes


So, here we are...back in the heat!  We visited with the fantastic fashion of Fall for a bit, but we're back!  In the stifling heat of July, and August, and September, and sometimes even October (crazy Northeast weather!), it can be a challenge to look polished.  Black and white (with neon pink and gold accents) will always save the day...or outfit!  My general rule is, if you're wearing primarily black & white (like a breezy, chevron maxi dress), bring in color with an amazing neon cross body bag (the Tory Burch above is a great color pop for now, and always)...and keep accessories minimal with gold bangles and some gold Havianas (not pictured).  On the flip side, sometimes you're ready to go for it with a fabulous pink ensemble (nothing accents a tan better!).  This is the time for those black & white graphic accessories...love the tribal Zara sandal!  And, again, a little gold shine goes a long way...especially if your tan starts to fade from too many hours at the office.  You can always cheat it a little with some Jergen's Natural Glow...or a well-planned sick day!  Your secret is safe with me!

Transitional Style

Pre-Fall by kmvstyle featuring leather ballet flats

As temps soared near the triple digits here today, what better reason to start dreaming of Fall?  There are so many great basics to have in your wardrobe that are practically season less...particularly in the fickle Northeast weather! And, it's certainly not helping that most of my favorite stores are rolling out early Fall items already!  Pictured above are just a few of my favorites...I'm not re-inventing fashion here.  Most of these pieces would fall into just about any one's requirements for a base wardrobe.  That said, these are my personal preferences but, as I tell any of my clients, you can make each piece your own in the way that you style it!  No matter the season, I require at least three pairs of jeans that look great!  These days, I prefer more of a boyfriend style, with some rips and tears for character. I usually buy my favorite style of skinny jeans a couple sizes bigger, so that the legs still have a great cut and don't add bulk.  I'd like to say that I only have one Breton style stripe tee, however, the sad fact is that I probably own closer to twenty!  No matter, they add instant chic to a pair of ripped up jeans.  Finish it with a great statement necklace, a pair of nude ballet flats and a classic military jacket to ward off an impending chill (albeit a sudden change in weather or a frigid movie theater).  Either way, the look is totally polished!  Another must have for any wardrobe is the customary white tee...I know, groundbreaking.  But, in all seriousness, a great one is hard to find.  So, when you find the one that speaks to you, buy three...you will wear them out quickly!  A fantastic black skirt is always a necessity.  I would venture to say that most people favor a pencil, but I prefer a skirt with some edge.  The Stella McCartney pictured above fits the bill, and can be paired with a black tank, heels and some great jewelry for a night out, or a chambray shirt and some flip flops (not pictured...blasphemous!) for running errands about town.  Some unlikely summer additions are a cozy cashmere sweater (for breezy night walks on the beach), a lightweight scarf (which can add color or texture without a lot of bulk and, for me, a required leopard print) and Hunter wellies (mine have seen more wear this soggy Spring than ever before!).  Classic monogram jewelry adds a personal touch...aviators add style...and, let's face it, is there anyone that doesn't covet a Celine bag??  The leather motorcycle jacket and riding boots (unless you're an equestrian) are quintessential Fall items..but who says you can't start shopping for your favorites now.  You never know when a great pre-season sale will strike!  So,  double check your wardrobe for the basics, and get stocking!