Category: ‘how to wear’

How To Wear Clogs Without Looking Like A Dowdy Milkmaid

Thanks to Alexa Chung, mainly, clogs have somehow made their way into the fashion zeitgeist again. They’re popping up already this spring, and trust us, we’ve been seeing a lot of clogs for fall and winter coming out–they’re here to stay, albeit for a few seasons. Don’t be scared–we’re here to help. There are a lot of great options available online that won’t make you look silly, and we are here to help you get the trend right–without looking like a Danish milkmaid:

We suggest going with an updated clog like this Steven by Steve Madden ‘Barc’ Peep Toe Clog ($99). The clog trend looks best with casual day dresses like this Banana Republic silk striped drape dress ($110) which has cool draping and details. To make the dress office appropriate, trhow a Gap cardigan over it in a soft neutral color to temper the look ($49.50). To dress the look up a little, try this Aqua Beaded Stretch Bracelet ($38). Of course, if you’re going to try the open toe clogs, make sure you get a pedicure with a rich red color like this Essie Wicked Nail Polish ($8).

We love the light brown suede on this Steven by Steve Madden ‘Barc’ Peep Toe Clog ($99) and the double row studs. It’s a clog, but still sexy.

This Banana Republic silk striped drape dress ($110) will be your go-to for spring and summer. You can wear to work with a cardigan, or without for a date.

You can’t have enough cardigans, and this heather brown Gap Cardigan ($49.50) is a nice change from basic black or white.

Lucite is a big spring fashion trend, and this Aqua Beaded Stretch Bracelet ($38) will add something special matches everything in your closet.

We like the idea of wearing a dark and rich nail polish with these clogs, and this Essie Wicked Nail Polish ($8) is a beautiful deep red.

Learn how to tackle the latest trends in our other how to wear posts, then check out our guide the best spring fashion trends and the best maxi dresses.

March 16th, 2010 4:08 pm

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How To Wear Neon Without Looking Like A Teenager From The ’80s

Neon gets a bad rap. When I think of the color, I immediately envision a horrible ’80s outfit. But this spring, there are a lot of work appropriate neon options–check out spring’s friendliest neon accessories–and we think it’s time to embrace the color, in small doses of course.

Get the look right by anchoring the bright color with neutrals like khaki or white. Try to stay away from pairing neon with black because it looks too harsh, and you can run the risk of looking like a club raver. Adding on other neon accessories like a bangle or a scarf is okay, but don’t go overboard.

I love the tiny ruffles on this J. Crew Cotton silk streamers cami ($110.00). The neon pink color is bright, but not overbearing like highlighter yellow or green.

Wearing neon with white makes the color pop even more, and this denim Lauren by Ralph Lauren Gelsey Skirt ($69.50) will do exactly that.

A structured blazer over the top is a good choice, and this Old Navy One Button Khaki Blazer ($39.50) will anchor the bright color, and it will add shape to the top.

Wearing another neon piece like these Alexis Bittar Lucite Bangles ($55 each) is okay because they are not overwhelming.

The color of your shoes should be neutral like these Franco Sarto “Hydra” Knotted High Heel Sandals ($89.00). The leather knot detail on the shoe makes them stand out.

Get more fashion advice in our other how to wear posts, then check out the best spring fashion trends, or our favorite rain boots.

March 10th, 2010 5:00 pm

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Categories:
blazers
bracelets
fashion
how to wear
jewelry
neon
shirts
shoes
skirts

How To Wear Ruffles Without Looking Like George Washington

Ruffles are a quick way to add texture and femininity to any outfit, but they can be tricky. When placed in the wrong areas, ruffles can add on volume–in a bad way. And if you wear too many ruffles at once, you look you’re dressed in a Colonial Willamsburg costume.

To pull of a ruffled top, stick with a lower neckline. This will open up the torso and prevent that stuffy George Washington look. To add shape, go for a skinny belt in a metallic color that won’t get lost in the ruffles. Keep the bottom pieces simple with a pencil skirt and a suede platform pump.

Whether you’re busty and want to downplay your chest, or smaller and want to add some volume, this Newport News Ruffled Top ($39) works for both figures. The ruffles are apparent but not overwhelming, and the length of the top makes it perfect for belting or tucking in.

A black pencil skirt should be a staple for all women, and this MICHAEL Michael Kors Black Pencil Skirt ($69.50) is a go-to option that pairs perfectly with ruffles. The simple silhouette balances out the look, and the curved seaming near the waist has a slimming effect. This skirt also has some spandex, so can actually move in it.

Wearing a skinny belt is a perfect way to add color and shine to an outfit, and this Tahari Bronze Snake Print Skinny Belt ($25.99) will give the ruffled top some shape.

We usually don’t suggest wearing more than one ruffled piece at a time, but the ruffle details on this Penny Loves Kenny Kelsey Pump ($59.90) are subtle and architectural, and will not clash with the top. The platform and heel add height, but you won’t feel like you are wearing stilts.

Need more help getting dressed? See our other How To Wear posts, then check out our buying guide to Spanx and the top five dresses that flatter all figures.

March 1st, 2010 5:00 pm

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fashion
how to wear
ruffles

How To Wear A Puffy Vest Without Looking Like A Crossing Guard

Down vests have gotten a bad reputation: worn by ski instructors, forest rangers, and even crossing guards, it’s clearly not always seen as fashionable. But done right, it will not only keep you warm, but actually look cool, too. The key to getting the look right is to pair the vest with unexpected, simple pieces like a jersey dress and a long boyfriend cardigan. Black thigh high boots and sweater tights will keep you warm without adding bulk, and a statement necklace dresses up the look.

See below to figure out how each piece in the look works.

The vertical seaming and nipped waist on this M.Julian Puffy Down Vest ($23.95) adds some sophistication, and makes the vest wearable for many occasions.

We love the coral color on this Old Navy Roll-Sleeve Jersey Boyfriend Cardigan (16.50), and the light weight jersey material is perfect for layering.

Tribal and ethnic prints are in for spring, and this Spiegel Colorful Beaded Necklace ($24) is an easy and affordable way to introduce the trend into your wardrobe.

(more…)

February 19th, 2010 10:00 am

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Categories:
fashion
how to wear
outerwear

How To Stay Cozy Without Looking Like A Marshmallow

Wherever you are, if you are getting hit with a blizzard right now, this post is for you. Here we have put together the chicest, most cozy ensemble–fit enough for an Alaskan winter–but chic enough for New York City streets.

Here’s how to get this look, and make it the warmest it can be with some strategic accessories. (more…)

February 10th, 2010 2:00 pm

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how to wear
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winter fashion

How To Wear: Mixed Prints (Without Looking Crazy)

There’s nothing quite as precarious in the fashion world as attempting to mix prints and patterns. Obviously, some fashion-forward gals simply have it in their blood; it’s like second nature to simply mix a floral with a polka dot with a stripe with a graphic print. The rest go the safe route and choose pairing a print with something simple, like black. Well, those from the latter group, take notes on the following.

We’ll show you how to rock the mixed print look without looking like you got dressed in the dark. (more…)

February 10th, 2010 9:00 am

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Categories:
how to wear
skirts
what to wear with

How To Wear A Strong Blazer (Without Resembling A Line Backer)

One of the season’s most audacious looks is the strong shoulder blazer. Victoria Beckham, Kate Moss, and Rihanna have all donned the signature Balmain Strong Shoulder Blazer from the Fall 2009 collection, but now, the style has trickled down to tops (case in point: Silence and Noise Strong Shirt Blouse), dresses (loving this Elizabeth and James T-Shirt Dress), and sweaters.

Here’s a quick tutorial on how to wear this ensemble without looking like you competed in last night’s Superbowl. (more…)

February 8th, 2010 3:00 pm

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Categories:
fall fashion
how to wear
what to wear with

How To Wear Cropped Sweaters (Without Looking Like An Early ’90s Throwback)

The 2000s may have earned the nickname the “naughts,” “aughts,” and “uh-ohs,” but the decade did bring with it the long-fit tee–shirts that hide your tummy and the like. Nonetheless, the last few seasons brought the return of the dreaded crop top and now we have cropped everything, from blazers to tees and sweaters. However, there is a way (and a fashionable one at that) to wear a cropped sweater (to the office even) without looking like a throwback to the belly-baring trend of yesteryear.

Cropped Sweater Look

Here’s how to get a preppy, proper look from something that could otherwise be awful (hint: don’t wear it with low-rise jeans).

Start with a loose cropped sweater like this knit Quiksilver Salinas Cardigan in coral ($23).

Wear a traditional button up underneath, such as this Loft white rolled sleeve button down shirt ($39).

Wear wide leg, high waist trousers ($29) on the bottom to balance the shrunken sweater.

Finish the look with a long, multi-strand necklace ($136) and heels to elongate the look.

Like this look? Try out some of these other sweaters or these popular trends. We also have great advice on what to wear to special events and recommendations on how to dress stylishly.

January 26th, 2010 3:30 pm

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Categories:
fashion
how to wear
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How To Wear: Bold Prints At The Office (Without Looking Wild)

Spring trends are, naturally, all about reviving color and putting aside the monochrome grays and blacks of the winter. This year, designers have set out a number of (almost frighteningly) bold prints and floral-inspired hues for Spring 2010 that are gracing everything from handbags and shoes to tunics and tops. Some seem wearable, others just make me want to cower into a corner until next fall.

Nonetheless, there is a way to wear a bold and colorful print, like this aqua tie dye top, and get noticed for it in the right way.

Look

Always keep the rest of the outfit simple with clean, classic lines and neutral accents. Let the bright print be the centerpiece of the outfit and the rest, like a streamlined cardigan and polished khaki pants, will fall into place. With a sleeveless, summery top, you can still cover up with a sweater from 9 to 5, and then flaunt bare skin after dark. Finally, give the look a final touch with a great pair of modern sandals.

Embellished Tie Dye Top

Robbi & Nikki Embellished Tie Dye Top ($165)

Ann Taylor Marisa Pleated Cropped Pants with Belt ($50)

Banana Republic Italian Merino Cardigan ($35)

Tory Burch Caged Sandal

Tory Burch ‘Liv’ Caged Leather Sandal ($325)

Have a fashion predicament? See all of our how to wear it posts, with advice on boyfriend blazers, statement necklaces, lace tights, and more.

January 20th, 2010 10:00 am

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Categories:
how to wear
pants
shirts

How to Wear: A Statement Necklace Without Making the Wrong Statement

Statement jewelry has been experiencing an incredible resurgence, but nothing more so than the statement necklace. Celebrities like Eva Mendes and Anne Hathaway have shown how one dazzling piece of jewelry can really make a simple outfit spectacular. And believe it or not, statement necklaces are budget-friendly. They’re bold enough to stand on their own, so you can save some cash on other accessories. Start with an affordable piece like this one from The Limited.

statement necklace look

Then, let the necklace do its thing. It’s supposed to make a statement, so dress simply so all the attention is on your necklace. A classic, unfussy sheath dress, leg-lengthening nude pumps and a smart, chic tote paired with your necklace makes the perfect, versatile look you can wear to work and beyond.

Tough Chain Statement Necklace, $39.50

Classic Sheath Dress, $130

Johnston & Murphy Julia Pump, $99

Tommy Hilfiger Reade Tote, $168

Shop more great statement necklaces, plus sheath dresses and oversize totes in our buying guides.

January 5th, 2010 2:00 pm

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how to wear
statement necklace
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How to Wear: A Boyfriend Blazer Without Looking Like a Frump

If you love the hip look of a slightly slouchy boyfriend blazer, but aren’t exactly sure how to pull it off, here’s a quick lesson. Start with a boyfriend blazer that’s a little slouchy, but has some shape at the waist.

over-the-knee boots look

Then choose pieces that will play up your feminine assets. Wear leggings or skinny jeans to show of your great legs, a draped tunic,, over-the-knee boots for a little oomph and a pretty satchel or shoulder bag. You’ll look cool and casual: pack this stuff in your overnight bag when you go away this week for the holidays–you’ll get a lot of mileage out of it all.

Halogen Wool Boyfriend jacket, $128

Juicy Couture Medallion-Print tunic, $138

Ann Taylor Loft leggings, $26.50

Dolce Vita over-the-knee boots, $295

Marc by Marc Jacobs Nylon Drawstring satchel, $328

Check out more blazers we love, plus over-the-knee boots and designer handbags in our buying guides.

December 22nd, 2009 3:30 pm

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Categories:
boyfriend blazer
how to wear
what to wear with

How to Wear: Sequin Cardigans Without Blinding Anyone

Maybe it’s the holiday season, or maybe it’s just because everyone can use a little extra dazzle, but it’s official: sequins are hot right now. We’ll admit, we love a little flash (without going overboard, of course) so we encourage you to give this glitzy trend a try. To pull it off, start with a sequin cardigan in a neutral color–think black, cream, gold or silver.

sequin cardigan look

Then dress the cardigan down with polished pieces that fit you perfectly, but are relatively simple. Black or dark denim skinny jeans, a casual tee or tank top, ballet flats and a small shoulder bag will ensure your cardigan is the star. If the occasion requires something a little dressier than jeans, swap them out for a tailored skirt that hits above the knee.