Posts Tagged ‘Bloomingdales’
Where the Wild Things Are
Thursday, January 6th, 2011
There’s a “certain something” about animal prints. They’re sexy, statement-making and maintain their place on today’s fiercest catwalks. Designers like Dolce & Gabbana and Roberto Cavalli, both of whom are notorious for their use of animal-inspired collections, never disappoint when it comes to using these feminine, exotic prints in their collections. Such options include leopard, cheetah, reptile and even birds of paradise–all symbolizing the timelessness fashion can possess. From Grace Kelly to Kate Moss, the animal trend is a favorite of style icons who embrace their wilder side. Despite the pattern, these classic prints add a retro yet playful approach to any outfit.
Leopard and snake prints are fan favorites for their chameleon-like wearability. For those who prefer a pop of color, peacock prints create an energetic, flirty look. Regardless, pair your animal print with a neutral, solid counterpart, or take a walk on the wild side and pair it with a tamed, contrasting print. Additionally, printed accessories are a subtle way to add flare to your outfit while still being refined and chic.
Not only are the animal-inspired fashions endless for Winter 2010 and Spring 2011, they’re so much fun to wear. And isn’t that the ultimate fashion bonus?
Clockwise from left:
1. Runway look from Dolce & Gabbana’s Spring ’11 collection
2. Akira Black Label zebra-print dress ($77; Akira)
3. Zebra tights ($18; Topshop)
4. Patterson J. Kincaid “African Cheetah Salvador” tank dress ($76; Bloomingdales)
5. Foley+Corrina bag is snake-embossed leather bag ($495; SHE Boutique)
6. Chelsea Flower leopard blouse ($190; Tula; 3738 N Southport Avenue)
7. Ash Impuls leopard-print flats ($150; shopbop.com)
By Courtney Cunniff
Images courtesy of Dolce & Gabbana, Akira, Topshop, Bloomingdales, SHE Boutique, Tula and shopbop.com
Tags: Akira, Ash Impulse, Bloomingdales, Chelsea Flower, Chicago Shopping, Dolce & Gabbana, Foley + Corinna, Patterson J. Kincaid, She Boutique, shopbop.com, Topshop, Tula
Posted in StyleBlog | 2 Comments »
Transitioning Into Fall
Sunday, August 29th, 2010
With sunny skies and temperatures in the high 80’s, it’s hard to believe fall is upon us. The evidence is in every store and boutique I set foot in, each one packed with a new season of fashion I can’t wait to wear. Neutral palettes, utilitarian garb, bold patterns and statement accessories are here to stay even as the weather changes. While I break out my leather jacket and knee-high boots at fall’s first chill, there are trends from Spring/Summer 2010 I am holding onto for as long as possible. Cut-out wedges, Lucite accessories and short shorts are a few that make the cut, as they transition so effortlessly into fall.
These pieces are on my fall “keep list” because they take just a little adjusting to make them fit for next season. After all, isn’t summer worth holding onto as long as possible here in Chicago?
1. Theory “Iselin” leather shorts ($315; Bloomingdales). Leather shorts were big for summer, and lucky for us the heavy fabric can be easily paired with colored and textured tights for crisp nights.
2. Plastic Island tunic ($127; plasticisland.com). What I paired with denim cutoffs and flip flops for summer is now the ideal knit with leggings and combat boots.
3. Jeffrey Campbell “Mary Roks” ($120; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue). Open-toed wedges aren’t just for warm weather. Rock these with tights to keep them relevant.
4. Solid ripstop field jacket ($98; J.Crew). Use this lightweight jacket as a layering piece over a chunky sweater.
5. Frozen Flash necklace ($58; Anthropologie). Lucite accessories aren’t only summer staples; extend your purchase by incorporating them into fall’s day and night looks.
6. Alice + Olivia painted floral print top ($187; Cusp). A lightweight floral tank with a vibrant fall palette—a feminine accompaniment with a leather bomber.
By Leslie Garry
Images courtesy of Bloomingdales, plasticisland.com, Lori’s Shoes, J.Crew, Anthropologie and Cusp
Tags: Alice + Olivia, Anthropologie, Bloomingdales, Cusp, Fall 2010 Trends, J.Crew, Jeffrey Campbell, Lori's Shoes, plasticisland.com, Theory
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Trending: Jumpsuits
Thursday, June 10th, 2010
No longer just for the flower child, the jumpsuit again made its way onto the must-have list. The all-in-one outfit appeared on the fashion scene during the ‘60s and became a staple for women taking on male dominated trades, Studio 54 and Woodstock. With a little help from designers like Halson, the jumpsuit quickly grew into a sartorial symbol of the empowered woman—much like the ‘80s power suit that followed. The jumpsuit adapted over time, but this time around, it’s more fluid, versatile and feminine to allow different style interpretations.
Starting last year, this onsie’s comeback gives younger generations the opportunity to experience the liberating, fashion-forward trend. Options range from utilitarian to ladylike and are found in a multitude of fabrics (jersey, silk, cotton, et al), lengths (shorts vs pants) and cuts (sleeves vs sleeveless vs strapless). Regardless of the style, the playsuit—as they’re appropriately called overseas—is whimsical, confident, ageless and practical. It’s a wearable look that requires little styling and minimal fuss. Whether you wear it to work or on the dance floor (disco ball optional!) you’ll feel as empowered as those before you.
1. Floral jumpsuit ($148; Free People). Completely fitting for the farmers’ market, or a night on the town.
2. Crinkle drawstring romper ($49; Arden B.). Kill two trends with one piece neon pink shorts style.
3. Dolce Vita “Berkley” Romper ($235; Urban Outfitters). An elegant silk jumpsuit is an unexpected choice for a casual summer wedding.
4. Jully Kang ruched tube jumpsuit ($120; Veruca Salt; 521 N Kingsbury Street). The print is incredibly bold, and the style is more current than a maxi dress.
5. Marc by Marc Jacobs “Wythe” sateen jumpsuit ($248; Bloomingdale’s). The classic-shaped top and modern harem bottom makes this style an interesting mix of feminine and masculine.
Images courtesy of Free People, Arden B., Urban Outfitters, Veruca Salt, and Bloomingdale’s
Tags: Arden B., Bloomingdales, Chicago Boutiques, Dolce Vita, Free People, Halston, Jully Kang, Jumpsuits, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Trends, Urban Outfitters, Veruca Salt
Posted in StyleBlog | 1 Comment »
Trend Watch: Infinity Scarves
Thursday, January 21st, 2010
No longer considered drab outerwear, the scarf is now a must-have accessory that’s as essential as an attention-grabbing statement necklace and classic pair of riding boots. To make the trend even more interesting, this season brought us an alternate way to don these cozy and oh-so-stylish accents: the infinity scarf. We love seeing Chicago fashionistas wearing scarves as oversized collars, and the infinity scarf makes that look so much easier to achieve. Simply throw it on, loop it, and you’re set! Gone are the days of fussing over a scarf that won’t stay in place.
Clockwise from upper left:
Ombré dying is having a moment, and these blue and gray infinity scarves ($17; New York & Company) have the originality and a subtle quirkiness that we adore about ombré.
The “Cloe” scarf by Nepali by TDM Design ($81; Bloomingdale’s) adds a gorgeous pop of color to your outfit and helps poverty-stricken women in Nepal.
A classic knit is always an excellent way to go. The taupe infinity scarf by Bop Basics ($68; shopbop.com) is effortlessly chic and extremely versatile.
Turquoise has an innate summertime feel, so the turquoise jersey infinity scarf ($25; The Limited) is just what we need to expel our wintertime blues.
By Meghan Turner
Images courtesy of New York & Company, Bloomingdale’s, shopbop.com, and The Limited
Tags: Bloomingdales, Bop Basics, Infinity Scarf, Nepali by TDM Design, New York & Company, Ombre, Scarf, Scarves, shopbop.com, The Limited
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Purple Craze
Thursday, December 17th, 2009
Purple has always been my favorite color, so I was particularly excited when Pantone named “Purple Heart” a color trend for fall. I seem to make lots of purple-y purchases—from my iPhone case to my throw pillows to my cardigan—and this season’s color report gives me more spending ammo. To feed my craving of all things plum, lavender, grape, and every shade in between, I went hunting for some great purple pieces for fall.
If you’re a fashionista living in Chicago, a stylish winter coat is as essential as what’s under it. Esprit’s wool coat ($180; esprit.com) in “Passion Shade” has classic lines and interesting details that make it stand-out outerwear—plus, you won’t fret about how your black coat doesn’t match your brown boots.
Tights are an effortless way to jazz up any dress, skirt, shorts, and even a cropped pant. These “Twilight” opaque tights by Hue ($12.50; Bloomingdale’s) will be an unexpected accent to a LBD or a fashion-forward statement when paired with wool shorts and booties.
I know, I know. Skirts are often left hung in our closets as we get further into winter, but purple skirts are such a fantastic combo of sophistication and whimsy. KYUMI’s silk skirt ($165; revolveclothing.com) is one such example that’s also a transitional piece for spring and summer.
Sparkles are meant to draw the eye, and when those sparkles are a gorgeous shade like this Coach sequin bag in “Amethyst” ($198; Coach), it’s sure to grab lots of attention. Along with its shimmer, this bag’s silver chain strap makes it the quintessential party bag.
Minimalist and futuristic designs are making it big this season, and, based on what we saw on the spring runways, that won’t change next season either. Elizabeth and James’ “Masquerade” silk sheath dress ($345; Bloomingdale’s) has both trends covered. Its two-toned, graphic bodice and tulip skirt creates a flattering figure all around.
I immediately fell in love with Velvet Angels’ “Rue B Peep Toe Pumps” ($206.50; shopbop.com). The platform gives it a sexy shape for night, while its peep-toe and tassel detail make it totally work-appropriate as well.
Chicago’s own Foxglove Accessories uses old stamps to create unique jewelry that not only makes an interesting accessory but also a great conversation piece. This ring ($35; etsy.com) is made with sterling silver, resin and a purple 1920s Danish stamp. I doubt you own anything like it!
For an everyday bag to work for me, it must hold ballet flats, files, a notepad, a wallet, a compact, a slew of lipsticks, and much more. That’s not an easy feat, but I think this Kate Spade purple croc satchel ($347; Kate Spade; 56 E Oak Street) can handle the load. It has a polished, sensible look that’s completely professional but not too serious.
When a color trend happens to be your favorite color, a girl can easily get carried away. As I work on controlling my purple craze this season, I can’t help but enjoy this trend while it lasts.
By Meghan Turner
Images courtesy of Esprit, Bloomingdale’s, revolveclothing.com, Coach, shopbop.com, Foxglove Accessories, and Kate Spade
Tags: Bloomingdales, Chicago Shopping, Coach, Elizabeth and James, Esprit, Foxglove Accessories, Hue, Kate Spade, KYUMI, Pantone, Purple, revolveclothing.com, shopbop.com, Trends, Velvet Angels
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Rural Influence
Monday, November 30th, 2009
Clockwise from upper left: Bomber jacket ($50; American Eagle Outfitters), ballet flats ($30; Gap), button-up top with ruffle detail (Beta Boutique; 2016 W Concord Place), wool coat by Don Luce ($140; Veruca Salt; 1921 North Damen Avenue), tulip skirt by Pink ($295; Bloomingdale’s), down vest ($79; Eddie Bauer), scarf with fringe detail ($35; Ann Taylor)
City life and rural life are like oil and water, but sometimes the two find common ground. Right now, it’s fashion. Well, parts of fashion, that is. Rugged plaids are making their way to the glamorous metropolis and bringing along their coziness and versatility. Here in Chicago, choosing between fashion and warmth can be a daily gamble, but this trend supplies style and comfort that easily adapts to any winter wardrobe. Here are some easy-to-wear plaid items, with style for the pickin’.
By Meghan Turner
Images courtesy of American Eagle Outfitters, Gap, Beta Boutique, Veruca Salt, Bloomingdale’s, Eddie Bauer and Ann Taylor
Tags: American Eagle Outfitters, Ann Taylor, Beta Boutique, Bloomingdales, Chicago Shopping, Eddie Bauer, Gap, Plaid, Trends, Veruca Salt
Posted in StyleBlog | 2 Comments »
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