Posts Tagged ‘Free People’
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
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Lolla Style #1: Music Inspiration
Tuesday, July 20th, 2010
There’s no better place than Chicago during the first weekend in August. Since I missed Coachella earlier this summer, I’ll definitely be at Lollapalooza—blanket and camera in tow. The three-day festival melds my passions for music and style, and because one often inspires the other, my Lolla looks nod to the musicians I can’t wait to see. While I want my get-ups to seem effortlessly superb, there’s still a decent amount of planning to stylishly battle the heat and humidity.
FRIDAY
Shown above
Though I’m not a die-hard fan of her music, I do admire Gaga’s humor and artistry. The lady sure knows how to fly her freak flag, so I’ll honor her opening day performance with skin-tight Lycra and quirky pieces.
1. Quontom cutout dress ($90; Topshop). Edgy cut outs are cool and hot.
2. Dolce Vita “Indy” shoes ($36; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue). While sky-high heels are more Gaga’s style, they just aren’t practical for Lolla.
3. “Chain Mail Perfection” body jewelry ($300; Litter San Francisco). Fashion-forward enough to make Gaga herself jealous, this embellishment is bound to be a conversation piece.
4. Paloma vintage sunglasses ($173; Akira; 1849 W North Avenue). An interesting, modern approach that rivals Gaga’s standout eyewear collection.
SATURDAY
I’ll revisit my youth Saturday night. Memories of pre-mainstream Green Day and Social Distortion have inspired me to rock elements of punk and alternative from the early 90’s. Who knew I’d regret dumping my old Doc Martens?
1. Urban renewal cutoff shorts ($28; Urban Outfitters). Denim shorts are a festival must-have—hands down.
2. Vintage Doc Martens ($128; Free People). Comfortable boots to trek Grant Park.
3. Plaid “Dakota Gilet” ($68; AllSaints). The cut-off sleeves are edgy and airy.
4. “Yes please” cutoff tank ($64; The Trend Boutique). Nothing says “punk” like pairing stripes with plaid.
5. “Diego” bucket bag ($825; Alexander Wang). This gorgeous cross-body bag keeps hands free and luggage minimal.
6. Ray Ban wayfarer sunglasses ($170; Sunglass Hut). You can’t go wrong with this classic.
7. Low Luv knuckle ring ($80; Saks Fifth Avenue). Positively badass.
SUNDAY
If I survive this music marathon, the carefree, barefoot hippie within will shine through on Sunday. What better way to come off an intense weekend than to lounge in the grass swaying to tunes? Wolfmother (hauntingly reminiscent of Led Zeppelin) evokes a laid-back vibe that carries me back in time when peace, love and music ruled the earth.
1. Shady Brady hat ($70; Alcala’s; 1733 W Chicago Avenue). Be weary of UV rays by shading your face from the summer sun.
2. Nightcap Clothing “Penelope” dress ($275; Shopbop). Beat the heat with an airy white dress.
3. Vintage bottle necklace ($578; Free People). A perfect addition to the part boho, part rock ensemble.
4. Zara Terez holster bag ($125; p.45; 1643 N Damen Avenue). The most practical festival bag yet; it’s just big enough for all your necessities.
5. Hudson buckle boot ($345; Niche; 1566 N Damen Avenue). Add a masculine touch to an otherwise feminine outfit.
Images courtesy of Topshop, Lori’s Shoes, Litter San Francisco, Akira, Urban Outfitters, Free People, AllSaints, The Trend Boutique, Alexander Wang, Sunglasses Hut, Saks Fifth Avenue, Alcala’s, shopbop.com, P.45, and Niche
Tags: Akira, Alcala's, Alexander Wang, AllSaints, Chicago Festival Style, Chicago Shopping, Doc Martens, Dolce Vita, Free People, Litter San Francisco, Lollapalooza Style, Lori's Shoes, Low Luv, Niche, Nightcap Clothing, P.45, Paloma, Quontom, Ray Ban, Saks Fifth Avenue, Shady Brady, shopbop.com, Street Style, Sunglasses Hut, The Trend Boutique, Topshop, Urban Outfitters, Zara Terez
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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
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Wear Short Shorts
Wednesday, May 12th, 2010
What do you wear when it heats up? Yes, cute frocks and skirts are the common choices, but they lack a little….je ne sais quoi. Enter: shorts. With so many styles, fabrics and patterns to choose from this season, they’re made to be worn in unexpected ways. Shorts have a new-found chameleon-like versatility that makes them a staple for day and night.
With the onslaught of choices, you can stretch your imagination far and wide when selecting your new shorts and creating outfits around them. Try a sweatpant version with funky heels or a short with an unconventional animal print and a contrasting patterned top. As always, there’s a plethora of denim to choose from, but update your jean shorts by opting for high-waisted short shorts or a looser boyfriend cut. Some unexpected styles, like biker shorts, pleated versions, and skorts, are reemerging on the scene as well. Don a lacey biker short with an oversized denim shirt, or channel Chloé with a leather pair and nude silk blouse. Drapey skorts and balloon shorts are comfy and romantic, and paper bag shapes balance body con tops. A silky, lingerie-inspired tap short can soften the masculinity of structural pairings, like a boyfriend blazer. For a bold, party-perfect short, rock a metallic style that screams individuality.
Regardless of your budget, body type or personal style, there’s shorts out there with your name all over them. Approach this season as an opportunity to reinvent how you wear this summer staple.
1. Elise Overland leather shorts ($736; forwardforward.com)
2. What Goes Around Comes Around boyfriend shorts ($183; piperlime.com)
3. Beholic bloomer bamboo shorts ($148; Free People)
4. Topshop lace cycling shorts ($20; Topshop)
5. Alexander Wang striped apron skort ($425; Barneys)
6. Kimchi silky lace tap shorts ($28; Urban Outfitters)
7. Rift Valley shorts with giraffe print ($98; Anthropologie)
8. Cheap Monday high-waisted shorts ($55; Penelope’s; 1913 W Division Street)
9. 3.1 Philip Lim lamé harem shorts ($380; net-a-porter.com)
10. Monrow vintage long shorts ($88; Intermix)
11. Thakoon sequin crepe shorts ($1,349; theoutnet.com)
Images courtesy of forwardforward.com, piperlime.com, Free People, Topshop, Barneys, Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Penelope’s, net-a-porter.com, Intermix, and theoutnet.com
Tags: 3.1 Philip Lim, Alexander Wang, and theoutnet.com, Anthropologie, Barneys, Beholic, Cheap Monday, Chicago Shopping, Elise Overland, forwardforward.com, Free People, Intermix, Kimchi, Monrow, net-a-porter.com, Penelope's, piperlime.com, Rift Valley, Shorts, Thakoon, Topshop, Trends, Urban Outfitters, What Goes Around Comes Around
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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
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Fashion to Ring in the New Year
Tuesday, December 29th, 2009
The holiday season is drawing to a close, but there’s one final celebration to tackle: New Year’s Eve. As we say goodbye to all the good and bad of this decade, we also say hello to a dazzling new outfit to commemorate the evening’s festivities. We see good things happening in 2010, so what better way to ring in the New Year than with an ensemble worthy of 2009’s best-dressed list? Check out these five looks that will have you counting down to the stroke of midnight in style.
Romancing the Stone
This jewel-embellished ensemble is fun yet romantic and sure to impress your New Year’s Eve date. The jeweled dress ($348; BCBG Max Azria) exudes a flirtatious energy with its sweetheart bodice and draped, bubble skirt. It’s not everyday you can get this blinged out, so continue the stone detail with a crystal and satin clutch ($148; J.Crew) and minimal jewelry, like this rock crystal bracelet by Chicago designer Erin Gallagher ($180). The gray Promiscuous pump ($76; zappos.com) won’t compete with your carefully planned embellishments.
Flower Power
The red taffeta dress has a rose front and sweetheart neckline ($55; Arden B.) to bring out your inner girly girl. For this number, we went with a nature-inspired theme by adding a sequin floral clutch by Marciano ($150; Nordstrom) and an 18k gold and Swarovski crystal bird ring by Kenneth Jay Lane ($106; shopbop.com). To give this glamorous hippie look an edge, pair it with these black Zigi Soho heels ($60; DSW).
Uber Chic
For that refined New Year’s gala, we were inspired by Angelina Jolie’s simplistic yet mind-blowing elegance at the ‘09 Oscars. This LBD ($148; French Connection) is an all-round glamorous piece, with its long-sleeve, asymmetrical cut and figure-flattering pleats—topped off with a shoulder bow. Keep with a predominately black palette by throwing on the black satin “Gia” pump with bow detail ($140; Lord & Taylor) and a black satin bag, like this La Regale pleated clutch ($42; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue). If Angie’s 115-carat emerald teardrop earrings by Lorraine Schwartz aren’t in your budget, these green Cubic Zirconia drop earrings ($60; Noir Jewelry) are lighter on the pocketbook and the earlobes.
Rainbow Bright
Sometimes a girl needs some color to cure the winter blues, and this 80′s-inspired look is designed for just that. The metallic blue strapless dress ($129; Bebe) truly makes a statement when paired with a mini quilted bag in “Fragola Pink” ($128; Nordstrom) and the “Deep V” ankle bootie in black ($118; Free People). A colorful bib necklace ($74; Art Effect; 934 W Armitage Ave) completes the look, so you’re ready to rock out to those infamous late-night 80’s tunes.
Party Girl
You can always rely on the sparkle of a sequin dress to ring in the New Year. This one by Ya ($72; Veruca Salt; 1921 N Damen Avenue) is a sultry and dazzling piece that can be styled a number of ways. We gave it a rocker chic vibe with these faux snakeskin pumps by Kelsi Dagger ($65; Nordstrom) and an oversized metallic clutch by BCBGeneration ($58; Macy’s). Finish off this rebal glam outfit with a spiked ring ($85; Noir Jewelry) that says “bring it on 2010.”
The final moments of 2009 are upon us, so toast another year passed and a new year ahead with an eye-catching outfit that wows the party crowd. To all you fashionable Chicagoans, have a stylish New Year!
By Danielle Parker
Images courtesy of BCBG Max Azria, J.Crew, Erin Gallagher, zappos.com, Arden B., Nordstrom, shopbop.com, DSW, French Connection, Lord & Taylor, Lori’s Shoes, Lorraine Schwartz, Noir Jewelry, Bebe, Free People, Art Effect, Veruca Salt, and Macy’s
Tags: Arden B., Art Effect, BCBG Max Azria, Bebe, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Shopping, DSW, Erin Gallagher, Free People, French Connection, J.Crew, Kenneth Jay Lane, La Regale, Lord & Taylor, Lori's Shoes, Lorraine Schwartz, Macy's, Marciano, Noir Jewelry, Nordstrom, Promiscuous, shopbop.com, Swarovski, Swarovski crystal, Trends, Veruca Salt, zappos.com, Zigi Soho
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Trending: Combat Boots
Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009
From left to right: “Studded Vintage Combat Boot” by Free People; “All Combat Boot” by Jeffrey Campbell; “Triumph 1914 Boots” by Dr. Marten’s; and “Refugee Combat Boot” by Joie
It’s coming. It always does. No matter how hard you wish it away, winter is around the corner. To help you brave the icy temps, step out in a pair of fierce combat boots. Even though they may seem a bit too tough for everyday wear, they can actually suit many a styles. These boots will keep you warm while adding a stylish edge to your winter outfits.
The knee-length Joie “Refugee Combat Boot” ($535; Cusp) is made from a distressed leather that gives a flirty sweater or floral dress a rustic spin. For a touch of bling, try the handmade “Studded Vintage Combat Boot” ($388; Free People) with a skinny jean and a chunky knit cardigan. The Jeffrey Campbell “All Combat Boot” ($285; Singer22) looks playful and polished paired with black leggings and a red and black plaid shirt dress. Try lacing this boot halfway for a more relaxed look. Finally, Dr. Marten’s “Triumph 1914 Boots” ($150; Macy’s) with plaid lining has an authentic, down-and-dirty look that adds an unexpected twist to a wool mini skirt, fitted turtleneck and textured tights.
Sometimes grunge can be chic.
By Danielle Parker
Images courtesy of Cusp, Free People, Singer22 and Macy’s
Tags: Accessories, Chicago Shopping, Combat Boots, Dr. Marten’s, Free People, Jeffrey Campbell, Joie, Macy's, Shoes, Trends
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