Posts Tagged ‘J.Crew’
Making a Statement
Monday, July 26th, 2010
For those channeling their inner rockstar, or merely accentuating an otherwise mundane outfit, look no further than the statement necklace. With this single accessory, transform even a plain t-shirt and jeans into a daringly chic ensemble.
When hunting for your new collar-wear, seek out pieces that incorporate mixed metals, twisted chains and faceted crystals. Be bold with your selection because the most stand-out designs are dazzling yet tough, and shamelessly costume-inspired. By fusing tough grunge and glitzy bling, the right statement necklace is perfectly rebellious and glamorous, melding eye-catching details like daggers, tangles, rhinestones and heavy metal.
Try pairing one of these necklaces with an innocent floral frock for an edgy look or update an old LBD with some lust-worthy sparkle.
1. FENTON/FALLON for J.Crew rhinestone “Jaws” necklace ($135; J.Crew).
2. Lee Angel chunky bead and crystal necklace ($385; Intermix)
3. “Twisted Metal and Crystals” necklace ($98; Madewell)
4. Fallon “Victoria Ball Swag” necklace ($275; Barneys CO-OP)
5. ”Flat Spikes on Chain” necklace ($32; Topshop)
6. Fool’s gold choker necklace ($250; Luv Aj)
*DYI Tip: Can’t find the perfect statement necklace? Make your own by twisting individual necklaces. Mix, match and layer each strand until it’s just right.
By Leslie Garry
Images courtesy of J.Crew, Intermix, Madewell, Barneys CO-OP, Topshop and Luv Aj
Tags: Accessories, Barneys CO-OP, Fallon, FENTON/FALLON, Intermix, J.Crew, Lee Angel, Luv Aj, Madewell, Statement Necklaces, Topshop
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A Vest-ed Interest
Tuesday, July 6th, 2010
While I can forgo most of the wardrobe memories that come with it, I’m thrilled I re-discovered my treasured denim vest in an old box marked “Junior High.” Luckily, I learned one of the golden rules of fashion: never discard denim. Eventually, once dormant jean styles pop back on the scene, much like the recent resurgence of the work shirt, the wide leg pant, and the vest.
Denim vests are both a layering piece and a jolt of excitement to a mundane outfit. Taking inspiration from motorcycle gangs, 80’s rock bands, and New Kids On The Block, this season’s denim vests toughen up girly dresses and add dimension to basic tanks and tees. Much like the leather jacket, this topper complements almost any outfit and looks especially fresh when paired with stripes, flowered prints and high-waisted pants. Boxy cuts with cut-off sleeves exude a badass vibe, but lighter, fitted vests are more feminine and conservative when buttoned, or, in some cases, worn solo.
Though my treasured acid-washed vest remained intact after all these years (minus the N.K.O.T.B buttons, of course), there are hundreds of new styles to choose from this season in case you mistakenly discarded yours.
Clockwise from upper left:
1. Studded Denim Vest ($248; Juicy Couture). Both chic and tough to contrast a feminine dress.
2. Denim “Waterfall Waistcoat” ($80; Topshop). A modern cut in a light fabric is summer-ready.
3. “Leah” Vest ($180; True Religion). White and ragged feels fresh but edgy.
4. Colcci denim vest ($53; New’d, 1917 W Division Street). For a less boxy look, this preppy style offsets a loose or wide leg pant.
5. Distressed vest ($40; American Eagle Outfitters). A fitted, medium-hued style is figure-flattering and timeless.
6. Denim vest ($88; J.Crew). With a light wash and a classic cut, you can’t go wrong.
Images courtesy of Juicy Couture, Topshop, True Religion, J.Crew, American Eagle Outfitters, and New’d
Tags: American Eagle Outfitters, Colcci, Denim Vets, J.Crew, Juicy Couture, New'd, Topshop, Trends, True Religion
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Anchor’s Away: Nautical Style
Thursday, July 1st, 2010
This season calls for yet another revival of the ever-classic nautical trend. Evoking thoughts of tried and true Americana and the French Rivera, this preppy yet classic look is a casual counterpoint of the LBD—eternally in style. This 4th of July weekend, get on board by updating your summer wardrobe with Breton stripes, flashes of gold, wicker accessories, and boat-inspired kicks.
While yachting might be out of the budget, keep this season’s nautical look afloat by taking it to the street. The summer’s maritime-inspired pieces create a fresh approach to sea-worthy style and prove to be a wise investment, as elements of this timeless trend return season after season. Set sail with a mix of patriotic colors, clean lines, and metallic touches for added flare—a suitable combo for the office, summer strolls, and, of course, a yacht.
Clockwise from upper left:
1. Cape-stripe swimsuit ($112; J. Crew). The essential suit for summer afternoons on land or sea. Pair with a crisp white oxford for a chic cover-up.
2. Platinum Sperry Top-sider boat shoe ($85; Nordstrom). A metallic edge on a classic style.
3. Rag & Bone red skinny jean ($175; Barneys). A pop of primary color adds a vibrant flare to a sleek cut.
4. Twisted chain collar necklace ($38; Lori’s Shoes). A statement chain necklace that makes knots a chic embellishment.
5. Kain Label pocket tee ($88; Saks Fifth Avenue). A super-soft tee with preppy stripes can be dressed up or down.
6. Slouchy tote ($350; Tory Burch). A straw tote with a timeless shape suits the beach and work.
By Leslie Garry
Images courtesy of J.Crew, Nordstrom, Barneys, Tory Burch, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Lori’s Shoes
Tags: Barneys, Breton Stripes, J.Crew, Kain, Lori’s Shoes, Nautical, Nordstrom, Rag and Bone, Saks Fifth Avenue, Sperry, Tory Burch, Trends
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Style Admirer Spring Picks: City Girl
Monday, May 24th, 2010
I was raised a suburban girl, but I was born to live in the city. From the shopping to the nightlife, Chicago has as many places to see as Sarah Jessica Parker has Manolos. These places—boutiques, festivals, parties, fashion shows, and more—beg for my attention, and I’m more than willing to oblige. Whether I’m heading to work or a wine bar, I’m a city girl on the go, so it’s important that my wardrobe keeps up with wherever the day and night takes me. Incorporating a sense of urban sophistication, comfortable silhouettes, and au courant trends, my spring must-haves are built around a day planner brimming with meetings, parties and, of course, shopping. Here’s how I’m able to look great all day without an unnecessary wardrobe change.
Clockwise from upper left:
1. Racerback tank in “Imperia Beige” ($50; Banana Republic). A basic that’s essential for summer layering.
2. White fitted button-up shirt ($44; Gap). A true classic that’s polished enough for day and easily accessorized for night.
3. Aviators by Gucci ($275; Nordstrom). Aviators add a slight edge to an otherwise understated outfit.
4. “Christine” black pump by Calvin Klein ($98; zappos.com). The cutout designs adds interest to a timeless heel.
5. Ankle Cigarette Jean by BDG ($40; Urban Outfitters). This skinny jean goes with everything, and the price is just right.
6. “Kali Tank” by Zamrie ($78; Zamrie; 1213 W Diversey Avenue, by appointment only). The hand-painted print on this silk top is breathtaking.
7. Fold-over bag by Marc by Marc Jacobs ($466; farfetch.com). When going from work to play, this bag has the storage room to carry everything I need.
8. Scalloped zipper cardigan in black ($98; J.Crew). This ladylike cardigan adds the finishing touch to a sundress or tank.
9. “Spring Break Scarf” ($18; Francesca’s Collections). This scarf adds a touch of color and is perfect for those breezy Chicago days.
10. Leather “Bailey” jacket by Cynthia Steffe ($525; Perchance; 3512 N. Southport Avenue). This lightweight yet luxurious jacket is my alternative to the omnipresent blazer.
By Danielle Parker
Images courtesy of Banana Republic, Gap, Nordstrom, zappos.com, Urban Outfitters, Zamrie, farfetch.com, J.Crew, Francesca’s Collections, and Perchance
Tags: Banana Republic, BDG, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Designers, Chicago Shopping, Cynthia Steffe, farfetch.com, Francesca’s Collections, Gap, Gucci, J.Crew, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Nordstrom, Perchance, Spring trends, Urban Outfitters, ZAMRIE, zappos.com
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Style Admirer Spring Picks: Neutrals
Tuesday, May 18th, 2010
One of the most popular color palettes this season is, well, no color at all. Neutral hues dominated the spring runways (cue Chloé and Celine) and demanded attention despite their subtle nature. When worn from head-to-toe, they have an edge that’s still soft, effortless and sophisticated—quite the striking combo. For this reason, a nude palette tops my list of spring trends.
Whenever I go shopping, I gravitate toward classic pieces with a fresh twist. The timelessness of taupe, white, gray and tan, combined with interesting shapes and cuts, is just that. From menswear to bohemian, neutral pieces come from a variety of inspirations, but they always create looks that are impossibly chic and effortlessly cool. Here are some neutral garbs that’ll have you in the buff too.
1. House of Harlow “Sunburst” ring ($50; revolveclothing.com). This cocktail ring beacons attention without being too flashy or overpowering.
2. A look from 3.1 Phillip Lim’s Summer 2010 collection. Proof that head-to-toe neutrals are totally chic yet cool.
3. Gap straw fedora ($17; Gap). With so many fedoras out there, I love the simplicity of this two-toned style.
4. Paloma Barceló “Marina” espadrille ($195; net-a-porter.com). The straw and suede materials on this wedge give it rich texture.
5. Pitaya pleated shorts ($26; Pitaya; 1463 N Milwaukee Avenue). Shorts are the quintessential summer staple, and I love the breeziness of this style.
6. No. 6 silk romper ($318; Steven Alan). The lightness of this romper can be anchored with an edgy belt.
7. T by Alexander Wang tank dress ($105; Alexander Wang). The T line is my favorite for tees, but this dress—worn with a fedora, classic belt and gladiator sandals—is a summer go-to.
8. Stella McCartney silk slub “Hibari” jacket, lace “Ruma” top, and silk slub “Shiro” trouser ($1,895; $1,435; and $955, respectively. All by Stella McCartney). This look is the epitome of understated glamour.
9. See by Chloé single-breasted blazer ($515; farfetch.com). A white blazer can be worn over everything. My favorite combo for summer is with jean or silk shorts. You can really mix it up.
10. J.Crew belt in “glazed hazelnut” ($35; J.Crew). The color of this belt is an unexpected substitute for a brown shade.
11. Tylie “Madison” bag ($398; shebang; 1616 N Damen Avenue). A bag has to get me through the day, and I can fit anything is this one.
12. Maybelline Express Finish in “Sheer Satin” ($3.50; Target). With just a hint of pink, this polish is classic and totally on trend this season.
By Meghan Turner
Images courtesy of revolveclothing.com, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Gap, net-a-porter.com, Pitaya, Steven Alan, Alexander Wang, Stella McCartney, farfetch.com, J.Crew, shebang, and Target
Tags: 3.1 Phillip Lim, Alexander Wang, Céline, farfetch.com, Gap, House of Harlow, J.Crew, Mabelline, net-a-porter.com, Paloma Barceló, Pitaya, revolveclothing.com, See by Chloé, shebang, Stella McCartney, Steven Alan, T by Alexander Wang, Target, Tylie
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Eternal Trend: The Trench Coat
Monday, March 8th, 2010
Fashion is fleeting and ever evolving, but there are some staples that remain in vogue season after season. The trench coat is one of those. A classic go-to for spring and fall, this jacket was invented during WWI to keep soldiers warm and dry, and now we wear it for the same reasons—but mostly for its undeniable style, of course. Even in its timelessness, the trench has been reconstructed in a variety of ways this season. From ruching to ruffles, the designs may not be totally traditional in form, but they’re no less fabulous. Whether you’re looking for your first trench, an upgrade, or a new style for your collection, spring 2010 is bringing us loads of options that pack wearability and flair, with all the chic connotations the trench implies.
Clockwise from upper left:
1. Classic trench in khaki from Banana Republic ($198)
2. Gray linen-blend trench coat from Old Navy ($50)
3. Mike & Chris “Marlton” trench with detachable hood ($341; Fix; 1101 W Fulton Street)
4. White trench with full skirt by Contrarian ($538; SHE Boutique)
5. Purple “Duchesse Silk Knotted Epaulette” trench coat by Burberry ($2,795)
6. “Ink Trench Coat” by ASOS ($111)
7. J.Crew‘s “Icon Trench” in light khaki ($298)
By Meghan Turner
Images courtesy of Banana Republic, Old Navy, Fix Boutique, SHE Boutique, Burberry, ASOS, and J.Crew
Tags: ASOS, Banana Republic, Burberry, Contrarian, Fix Boutique, J.Crew, Mike & Chris, Old Navy, She Boutique, trench coat, Trends
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The Limited-Edition J.Crew Collection
Tuesday, February 9th, 2010
Jenna Lyons, J.Crew’s creative director, took the brand from predictable prep to interest-grabbing fashion worthy of a trip to the cash register. Given the new-found success of the brand in the past few seasons, J.Crew has taken another step to lure us with its distinct Lyons-meets-Crew aesthetic: the J.Crew Collection. This higher-end, limited-edition collection is updated seasonally, and for spring, it features detail-oriented clothing and accessories–including jewelry, bags and shoes–that could very easily woo you into depleting your savings. The newest collection was designed around whimsical pastels, sparkle accents and simple silhouettes that tell a captivating story of pretty spring fashion. Take a peak online or in-store to see more of the J.Crew Collection.
By Danielle Parker
Images courtesy of J.Crew
Tags: J.Crew, J.Crew Collection, J.Crew Spring Collection, Jenna Lyons, Spring 2010
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Where the Wild Things Are
Friday, January 15th, 2010
It’s no secret that bold prints are one of the season’s biggest trends. From geometrics to florals, the variety is extensive, but today it’s the leopard print that’s driving us wild! Such patterns can be an intimidating addition to your wardrobe, but when done right, you can look impeccably fearless and chic. To harness your inner tigress, we went on the prowl for some statement-making leopard prints that are as fierce as they are easy-to-wear. Take a look at these pieces and discover how surprisingly simple it is to master this trend!
1. Throwing on an amazing winter coat is one of the easiest ways to add serious style in mere seconds. Rebecca Taylor’s “Runway Ruffle Coat” ($495) is discretely dramatic, with its dark hues and girly ruffles.
2. What fashionista doesn’t want a handbag that attracts a little attention? This leopard bag by Karen Millen ($199) has a sassy print and edgy hardware, but it won’t overwhelm your look.
3. We love tights and cherish the opportunity to go all out with this accessory. Pair these leopard tights ($20; Dillards) with a LBD and neutral heels for a polished look with lots of attitude.
4. A pencil skirt is one item every woman needs in her closet. Step away from the classic black and venture into new territory with this “Ocelot Pencil Skirt” by MICHAEL Michael Kors ($80; zappos.com).
5. Hello, Lover! Giuseppe Zanotti’s leopard slingback pumps ($635; Saks Fifth Avenue) have us dizzy with delight. At first glance, you may think you’ll only wear these with a few cocktail dresses, but this heel is totally versatile. Try a casual twist by pairing them with skinnies and a fitted tee or boyfriend chinos and an oversized sweater.
6. We have a pretty deep affinity for belts, whether they’re barely noticeable or outfit-completing accents. This one ($40; J.Crew) will play up neutrals or add an interesting contrast to other prints.
7. The thought of these gloves ($150; Tory Burch) with a solid-colored wool coat is truly exciting. It’s one of the little ways you can add an unexpected edge to your outerwear.
8. Shorts in fresh prints will be a major player this spring, and these cuffed ones by Peter Som ($680; Saks Fifth Avenue) boast the neutral hues necessary to create a bevy of looks. Pair these shorts with a simple tank or even a vibrant floral top.
9. If you ask us, this is the perfect leopard flat ($40; Steve Madden)—no bows, frills, etc. Just a classic, delicate shape in an intriguing print.
If wearing leopard prints, remember to use discretion when pulling your look together. These prints can hold their own, so don’t layer these pieces with competing garments and accessories and other animal prints. Sometimes too much of a good thing isn’t always a good thing.
By Meghan Turner
Images courtesy of Rebecca Taylor, Karen Millen, Dillards, zappos.com, Saks Fifth Avenue, J.Crew, Tory Burch, and Steve Madden
Tags: Dillards, Giuseppe Zanotti, J.Crew, Karen Millen, Leopard Prints, Michael Michael Kors, Rebecca Taylor, Saks Fifth Avenue, Steve Madden, Tory Burch, Trends, zappos.com
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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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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
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