Posts Tagged ‘American Apparel’
Trending: Rainbow Brights
Tuesday, March 8th, 2011
Spring always gives Chicago a positive, energy-infused attitude adjustment. What better way to commemorate this long-awaited mood swing than with a full spectrum of rainbow brights? This season, add life back into your wardrobe with playful hues, like tangerine, hot pink, electric blue, sunshine yellow and–my favorite–neon green.
There may be many bold colors to choose from, but there’s even more ways to incorporate them into your look. Instead of the predictable graphic prints of seasons past, try one of spring’s biggest trends: colorblocking. Mix high-impact separates in different hues to wow on the street. If that sounds too loud for your taste, just incorporate color with small accents like a skinny belt, cross-body bag and nail polish. Minimal classics and monochromatic whites are an immaculate backdrop for pops of color. Or, for the disco queens out there, embrace the 70’s revival with glittery, silky fabrics paired with gold accessories.
Whichever style resonates with you, don’t be intimated by vibrant hues. They have the innate power to bring excitement, life and playfulness into your look. To do just that, check out some of our favorite fashion pick-me-ups below (clockwise from left):
1. Lavin Summer 2011 satin gown in poppy
2. American Apparel “Manilla” nail polish ($6; American Apparel)
3. Nixon “Marmalade Marble Vega” watch ($60; Nixon)
4. Jil Sander long pleated skirt ($895; Neiman Marcus)
5. Rebecca Minkoff “Grape Studded Rockette” bag ($150; Gavin; 1939 Central Street, Evanston)
6. Issa halter gown ($714; shopbop.com)
7. Rag & Bone cobalt denim legging ($185; Intermix)
8. Logan blue metallic platform sandals ($160; Topshop)
9. Petit Bateau yellow raincoat ($144; Penelope’s, 1913 W Division Street)
10. Asos lime belt ($14, asos.com)
By Maia McGinley
Images courtesy of Lavin, American Apparel, Nixon, Neiman Marcus, Gavin, shopbop.com, Intermix, Topshop, Penelope’s and asos.com
Tags: American Apparel, asos.com, Chicago Boutiques, GAVIN, Intermix, Issa, Jil Sander, Lavin, Neiman Marcus, Nixon, Penelope's, Petit Bateau, Rag & Bone, Rebecca Minkoff, shopbop.com, Summer 2011 Trends, Topshop, Trends
Posted in StyleBlog | No Comments »
Winter White Out
Tuesday, November 30th, 2010
Wearing white after Labor Day is an unnecessary fashion faux pas, and the season’s winter whites is living proof of that. When winter strikes and sunlit afternoons fade into four o’clock sunsets, this trend brings light back into our lives. We all know black is the typical city garb, but it can also translate to bleak and predictable. White throws a fashion curve ball at that predictability! Bundle up in some alternatives by opting for a piece like a faux fur white shearling coat instead of a somber North Face puffy coat. Or, try monochromatic layers in a mish-mosh of textures such as a white fur vest, white cotton tank, white shorts and white tights like we saw at Erin Wasson X RVCA. Be the center of attention at your holiday party and replace your LBD with the LWD–a fashion-forward substitute. If any look ever feels too overly white, tone it down with black tights or ground the look with gray or brown accents. By embracing the season’s winter whites, your winter doesn’t have to be so dreary after all.
Clockwise from left:
1. A look from the Fall 2010 Erin Wasson X RVCA collection
2. “Nathalie” silk pant ($139; Club Monaco)
3. Talula cashmere blend sweater dress ($80; Aritzia, 835 N Michigan Avenue)
4. J Brand vintage white skinny cord ($160; Intermix)
5. La Rock “Joplin” Rabbit Vest ($378; Neiman Marcus)
6. 3-D Flower Mesh Jumper ($84; American Apparel)
7. Mackage “Macy” Coat with shearling sleeves ($895; Perchance, 3512 N Southport Avenue)
8. Haute Hippie sequined silk-chiffon wrap mini skirt ($395; net-a-porter.com)
Images courtesy of Erin Wasson X RVCA, Perchance, Intermix, Club Monaco, Neiman Marcus, net-a-porter.com, Aritzia and American Apparel
Tags: American Apparel, Aritzia, Club Monaco, Erin Wasson X RVCA, Haute Hippie, Intermix, J Brand, La Rock, Mackage, Neiman Marcus, net-a-porter.com, Perchance, Talula
Posted in StyleBlog | No Comments »
The Fall Maxi
Thursday, November 18th, 2010
Eureka! Finally a modest trend surfaces! The maxi dress is essential in warmer months, and now its effortless, comfortable style can continue into the cooler seasons as well. A plethora of floor-grazing skirts and dresses have emerged, and the new looks pack more versatility and variety than the average summer frock. The styles range from cotton tanks, stretch tees and long-sleeved jersey, and the options get more dynamic from there. Interesting prints or dressier fabrics, like silk and chiffon, are just as wearable. Regardless, the simple, forgiving silhouette is as flattering as a pair of jeans.
The maxi is an appropriate option for any occasion, be it a black tie affair or trip to the grocery store. Wear it like a blank canvas: Dress it up with statement jewelry and sky-high ankle boots for date night; add a cardigan, belt and flats for casual Friday; or mix in motorcycle boots and a slouchy knit hat for an afternoon shopping in Bucktown. Even summer styles can transition into fall and winter. Pair airy styles with heavier layers, such as a fur vest, tights and lace-up boots, for an on-trend approach. Or, throw a chunky sweater over a summer maxi dress for a completely new look.
No matter what maxi you choose–skirt or dress, new or old–this fall staple is a starting point for any style-worthy look.
From left to right:
1. Chiffon full-length skirt ($58; American Apparel)
2. Classic long-sleeve dress with pocket ($106; Alexander Wang)
3. Knitted long skirt with pleated waist ($80; Zara)
4. “Read Across” maxi dress ($198; Free People)
5. Ralph Lauren “Lenorah” dress ($12,000; Ralph Lauren)
6. A.L.C. long “Veronica” dress ($440; shopbop.com)
Images courtesy of American Apparel, Alexander Wang, Zara, Free People, Ralph Lauren and shopbop.com
Tags: Alexander Wang, American Apparel, Free People, Ralph Lauren, shopbop.com, Zara
Posted in StyleBlog | No Comments »
8 Summer Styling Tips
Tuesday, June 1st, 2010
When summer rolls around, we naturally wear less clothing. That doesn’t mean warm weather prohibits cool styling techniques just because we’re working with less garb. The season’s array of trends—like bold prints, neutral to neon palettes, and stand-out accessories—can be worn in endless ways. Even with sticky temps, you can look smashing and be comfortable in the summer sun. Here’s eight ways to work some of Spring/Summer 2010’s biggest trends into your wardrobe, without skimping on style.
1. White Out. There are few things—if any—that are as chic as an all white ensemble. Always eye-catching, this look can be captured with a white sundress for day or gown for night, head-to-toe white separates (don’t forget the floppy hat!), or even a white bathing suit. This summer, let’s experience a white out. (Pucci gown from Summer ’10.)
2. Flower Power. We all know floral prints are huge for S/S ’10. Instead of dresses, skirts, blouses, etc., try incorporating flowers on items that are a little less predictable. A floral bag, belts, shoes, and even sunglasses are subtle ways to introduce these flirty blossoms to your wardrobe. (Rebecca Taylor floral portfolio clutch; $295)
3. Boots Are Made for Walkin’. And that doesn’t mean only in the winter. Summer boots are the alternative to wearable flats this season. Whether you go with an ankle style or a knee-high, boots give an extra dose of style to jean shorts, flouncy skirts, and whimsical sundresses. (Mea Shadow peep-toe bootie; $195; City Soles; 1566 W Damen Avenue)
4. Try a New Silhouette. A-line, skinny, boyfriend…been there, done that. This season, the fashionably adventurous are experimenting with new, interesting silhouettes. The harem pant, bodysuits (see #6), jumpsuits, cropped tees, and more are back, bringing with them their ability to deliver fresh ways to look incredibly on-mark. (Karen Millen jersey jumpsuit with harem pant, drapery pockets, and tapered legs; $350)
5. Get Knitted. No longer just for dainty doilies and grandma’s shawl, crochet has entered the fashion frontier. It shed its homely image for a look that’s organically chic. This knitwear has a lovely simplicity despite its complexity and detail, and now it’s being crafted into figure-flattering garments. (Crochet dress; $80; Topshop)
6. Power Suit. Another throwback to the ‘80s, the bodysuit is reclaiming its place in the limelight. Its form-fitting silhouette is the perfect complement to oversized shapes, like slouchy pants and boyfriend blazers. The styles are extensive, including lace tanks, turtlenecks (big for fall!), long-sleeve boatnecks, and more. (American Apparel v-neck bodysuit; $36)
7. Body Paint. Our lips, eyes and nails are like built-in accessories. Make good use of them! This season brought us subtle and dramatic palettes, like soft beiges and vibrant neons, that can create endless beauty possibilities. Try new applications, like dramatic teal eyes, hot pink nails or fuchsia lips. (Make Up For Ever in Aqua Cream; $22; Sephora)
8. Mix the Hard and Soft. Every girl has a rebel side and a soft side. This season is the time to embrace them both. Such a fashion mixture is a dynamic, interesting way to play with your own style. Soft pieces, such as floral prints and flowy dresses, combined with harder items, like leather vests and biker boots, is never a dull ensemble. (Photography by Chicago Looks)
By Meghan Turner
Images courtesy of Pucci, Rebecca Taylor, City Soles, Karen Millen, Topshop, American Apparel, Sephora, and Chicago Looks
Tags: American Apparel, Chicago Looks, City Soles, Karen Millen, Make Up For Ever, Mea Shadow, Pucci, Rebecca Taylor, Sephora, Spring 2010, Style Tips, Topshop, Trends
Posted in Features | No Comments »
Trending: Slouchy Pants
Tuesday, May 25th, 2010
From left to right: American Apparel “Micro-mesh Jumper Pant” ($40); H&M paisley harem trouser ($30); Topshop “Draped Pocket Hareem Trousers” ($80); Rachel Comey Rust Pants ($340; P. 45; 1643 N Damen Avenue); Tsumori Chisato printed trousers ($1,010; Opening Ceremony); and Lia Kes pant ($270; Tangerine,1719 N Damen Avenue)
Move over skinny jeans. There’s a new silhouette in town: the slouchy pant. I first discovered the relaxed, voluminous fit on my last trip to Europe and felt like I unearthed a buried treasure. The liberating trend proves that bold femininity doesn’t always translate into curve-revealing garments. What makes a look truly alluring, after all, is confidence, not over-the-top sex appeal. This season’s slouchy pant conveys just that in a way that’s undeniably cool and perfectly disheveled—never stuffy.
Circa 1985, MC Hammer brought the baggy harem pant to the masses. Flash forward to 2010, there’s an abundance of slouchy styles to explore once again. Solid colors and moderate cuts are the more conservative way to wear this daring trouser. Topshop and Lia Kes have super wearable neutrals, while Rachel Comey’s vibrant burnt orange pant bridges the gap between an everyday style and a strategically worn statement-maker. For a dramatic approach, try a printed fabric, or a fearless mesh à la American Apparel. For those stand out summer events, push the envelope even further with Tsumori Chisato’s psychedelic print or H&M’s paisley.
When rockin’ these styles, keep your waistband visible and your ensemble balanced. Do this by pairing them with tucked-in slim tops that show off your waistline and avoid an overly baggy look. A silk blouse works for the office and a basic tee will get you through any occasion. For more street credibility, attempt a cutting-edge lace bodysuit or cotton crop top. Though this pant can be an intimidating look to pull off, trust me, it’s never been so easy to look cool and chic at the same time.
Images courtesy of American Apparel, H&M, Topshop, Rachel Comey, Opening Ceremony, and Lia Kes
Tags: American Apparel, Chicago Boutiques, H&M, harem pants, Lia Kes, Opening Ceremony, P.45, Rachel Comey, Spring 2010 Trends, Tangerine boutique, Topshop, Tsumori Chisato
Posted in StyleBlog | No Comments »
Style Before Design
Monday, May 10th, 2010
On Earth Day this year, the Chicago’s fashionable swarmed Crimson Lounge for a runway show with a twist. Instead of showcasing individual designers, it focused on the stylists. Hosted by Vyne, a Chicago-based events organization and publication, and the Chicago Fashion Foundation, Style Wars was no predictable walk down the runway but rather a showcase of avant-garde fashion through the minds of Chicago’s top stylists. Each stylist was responsible for creating five high fashion looks. The first personally represented the stylist. The second piece was only black and white. The third communicated a global issue (the winning look from this category will be featured in Vyne’s May issue). The fourth was inspired by Stephen Meisel’s editorial “Make Love Not War” in Italian Vogue, and the final concept was derived from the color crimson in honor of the event sponsor.
As the show began, I was in awe of the stylists’ originality and creativity. Models with big hair and black lips presented what was more like walking art than functional fashion. Two of my favorite looks were from the winner, Christina Demos. Her on-trend mix of black and white, including an American Apparel piano scarf, piano tights, Chanel wedge boots, and twirling striped umbrella, was circus-like and mesmerizing. The other favorite was her global issue composition. She dressed her model in a tutu of Red Eye newspapers, a Wet Seal “will work for shoes” t-shirt, Balmain booties, a Marlboro cigarette necklace, and soup can bangles. In case you didn’t get the homeless reference, a mini shopping cart dangled ridiculously from her hand. Ruben Lopez and CT Hedden were both named a runner-up. Ruben’s formal approach included feather laden wedding gowns, ballroom gloves and opulent millinery. CT’s outfits, like the Alexander McQueen dress and Chanel clogs, were simple but wearable.
Although the event was under organized and unpolished (no appetizers as promised and ill-informed presenters) the stylist’s creations stole the show. Too often Chicago gets overlooked as a worthy player in the fashion industry because it’s play-it-safe, conservative rep. The stylists’ creations proved Midwesterners can go well beyond the stereotypical spoon-fed fashion.
Images courtesy of Vyne
Tags: Alexander McQueen, American Apparel, Chanel, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Foundation, Chicago Runway Shows, Chicago Stylists, Christina Demos, Crimson Lounge, CT Hedden, Ruben Lopez, STYLE WARS, Vyne magazine, Wet Seal
Posted in StyleBlog | No Comments »
Style Admirer Spring Picks: Cali Style
Thursday, April 29th, 2010
There’s something so enchanting about California. I don’t know if it’s the salty air, dry heat, or balmy winds, but a recent trip gave birth to my new look for spring. From the surfers in Malibu to the hippies in Topanga canyon, fashion inspirations ran rampant. Driving up the Pacific Coast Highway—the top down and Jimi Hendrix streaming out the speakers—I daydreamed about a fresh spring and summer wardrobe. When I got back to Chicago, I went hunting for my new must-have items, all reminiscent of SoCal ‘70s boho/surf culture. Though I can’t bring Cali home with me, I can steal its carefree style. Spring and summer in Chicago are all about relaxing and having fun while looking effortlessly cool. With these items, that couldn’t be easier.
1. Free People “Vintage Empress Headpiece” ($118; Free People). A bold statement piece with a gypsy vibe.
2. Topshop “Nibbled Tee” ($32; Topshop). I wanted an edgy crop top, so I went with this distressed, bleached style.
3. Oliver Peoples “Josselyn” sunglasses ($400; Oliver Peoples). What’s not to love about these oversized shades?
4. Gara Danielle turquoise ring ($225; Intermix). The way this ring blends glamour and boho is stunning.
5. Miss Robertson “Saber-Jute” sandal ($110; Lori’s Shoes; 824 West Armitage Avenue). Edgy neutral sandals are a perfect summer staple that can dress down otherwise fancy frocks.
6. Carolyn Hedaya lace romper ($229; Mulberry & Me; 2019 W Division Street). I thought crochet lace on a romper would scream hippie, but it actually feels quite modern.
7. Current/Elliot hi-waisted denim shorts ($185; Saks Fifth Avenue). For pairing with my new crop top!
8. Essie nail polish in Turquoise and Caicos ($8; Essie). This soft green hue takes a refreshing step away from pink and nude shades.
9. Antik Batik “Bongo Bag” ($320; shopbop.com). This looks like a vintage find. It’s practical yet adds an instant cool factor.
10. Nightcap lace bell bottoms ($197; shopthetrendboutique.com). These invoke images of Jane Birkin, and they’re perfect for a summer festival.
11. American Apparel wool floppy hat ($40; American Apparel). A chic alternative to the fedora that’ll protect me from the summer sun.
12. Jeffrey Campell “Charli-C” clog ($125; Nordstrom). A great neutral throwback from the ‘70s boho culture, and being a Chanel S/S 2010 replica doesn’t hurt either.
Images courtesy of Lori’s Shoes, Free People, shopthetrendboutique.com, shopbop.com, American Apparel, Saks Fifth Avenue, Topshop, Carolyn Hedaya, Nordstrom, Essie, Oliver Peoples, and Intermix
Tags: American Apparel, Antik Batik, Carolyn Hedaya, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Shopping, Current/Elliot, Essie, Free People, Gara Danielle, Intermix, Jeffrey Cambell, Lori's Shoes, Miss Robertson, Mulberry & Me, Nightcap, Nordstrom, Oliver Peoples, Saks Fifth Avenue, shopbop.com, shopthetrendboutique.com, Topshop, Trends
Posted in StyleBlog | 1 Comment »
Modern Marble
Friday, October 16th, 2009
For many women, spotting a pair of tie-dyed jeans sparks thoughts of “What would I ever wear with those?” or “I can’t pull those off.” These two style restraints motivated us to create several looks that prove marble jeans are way easier to wear than you think. And when both pairs are priced under $25, why not experiment a little?
The first outfit is designed around what’s already in your closet. A long, black cardigan ($98; J.Crew) and basic white tee ($18; American Apparel) break up the drama of the tie-dye print ($23; Forever 21). A flat bootie, especially one with hardware ($68; Urban Outfitters), gives this outfit a little more edge. Grab your favorite black tote and you’re ready to go!
Second is the party outfit. Perfect for the holidays or Saturday night, the sparkle on this gold tank ($250; Calypso St. Barth, 50 E Oak Street) glows against the jean’s deep wash, and its loose fit and delicate detail soften the pant’s hard edge. Metallic accessories are a must-have for fall, and this bag ($38; Francesca’s Collections) will pick up the undertones in the sequined top and glamorize any other outfit. Finally, let your wild side show with Graffiti 4725’s sexy leopard booties ($348; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue).
For the third ensemble, we went tie-dye crazy. This look creates a daring yet girly outfit for running around the city or a casual night out. The multi-color tee ($88; Three Dots) grabs attention while contrasting and complementing the white marble jean ($20; Forever 21). So much print requires solid accessories, so we added a pink cable beret ($5; Kmart) and purple suede boots ($345; City Soles; 3432 N Southport Avenue).
Last but not least, the third outfit combines a wispy, floral blouse ($49; Victoria’s Secret) with the jean’s rock ‘n roll vibe. An unexpected pairing, the voluminous top balances the pant’s tight fit, and the soft pink and white wash are a surprisingly harmonious fusion. To keep with this look’s ethereal feel, we added Monserat De Lucca’s brown tote with a subtle graphic print ($276; Tula; 3738 N Southport Avenue) and Faryl Robin’s brown suede booties with ladylike laces ($285; City Soles; 3432 N Southport Avenue).
Now there’s no reason to fear the tie-dye jean.
By Meghan Turner
Images courtesy of Forever 21, J.Crew, American Apparel, Urban Outfitters, Calypso St. Barth, Francesca’s Collections, Lori’s Shoes, Three Dots, City Soles, Kmart, Victoria’s Secret and Tula.
Tags: American Apparel, Calypso St. Barts, Chicagao Boutiques, Chicago Shopping, City Soles, Forever 21, Francesca's Collections, J.Crew, KMart, Lori's Shoes, Three Dots, Trends, Tula, Urban Outfitters, Victoria's Secret
Posted in Features | No Comments »
Connect With Us
