Posts Tagged ‘Topshop’
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
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On Point
Tuesday, February 15th, 2011
I never thought I’d support a revival of the pointy-toe shoe, but after years of round shapes and months of clunky boots, this classic style couldn’t be more refreshing. Unlike most footwear trends that rotate out of the closet after a season or two, the right pair of pumps are an investment that will reemerge for decades. Why? They’re timeless, versatile and loved by woman of all ages.
Basically, pointy-toe pumps equip us shoe collectors with all the practical reasons to justify coming home with another box of Manolos. Pointy toes transition from season to season, and more importantly for modern ladies, from day to night. There’re an array of styles–from d’Orsay stilettos to unconventional straps to kitten heels–that suit every occasion and taste. Whether your style is classic, edgy, glam or preppy, and you’re headed to work, date or cocktail reception, you’ll delight in all the pointy styles available for spring.
Practicality aside, though, there’s another reason these shoes are a must have: attitude. Ladylike yet fierce, these heels have a way of saying, “I’m sweet and classy, but get the hell out of my way.” Ranging from conservative ‘50s styles to full-out mod, pointy toes can tone down or amp up a look with their leg-lengthening silhouette, eye-catching embellishments, austere cuts and slew of delicious colors.
Simply choose one (or two, or three…) of the hundreds styles and pair it with cocktail dresses, pencil skirts, tapered trousers, boyfriend jeans, miniskirts, et al. One can’t deny the resurgence of this timeless trend is one chic, fashionably versatile move that allows us to accent just about any outfit with pointy toes. This spring, I think you’ll all join me by saying, “Welcome back, pointy-toe pumps!”
Clockwise from upper left:
1. Schutz lavender suede pump ($214; shopbop.com). The chicest pump for spring. Understated enough for work, pretty enough for tea and fierce enough for drinks.
2. Kate Spade “Licorice” pump ($285; Shirise; 341 Park Avenue, Glencoe, IL). Basic, black and just plain sexy.
3. Valentino studded lace ankle wrap pump ($995; Neiman Marcus). Edgy and fearless. This shoe is not what you would expect from a comfortable and surprisingly versatile shoe.
4. Blue pointed pump ($90; Zara). There’s a reason Elvis wrote a song about blue suede shoes. Colorful, fun and a perfect pick-me-up to cure the winter doldrums.
5. Giuseppe Zanotti red patent leather “V” strap pump ($550; Saks Fifth Avenue). Va-va-voom! Femme fatale at its best.
6. Christian Louboutin “Pigalili 120 mm” ($3,545; Christian Louboutin). The power to stop ‘em dead in their tracks. Literally.
7. Messeca “Jesenia” pump ($110; Pump Shoes and Accessories; 1659 W Division Street). Add some swing to your swagger with these show-stoppers.
8. Topshop “Glitz Bow Point Court Shoe” ($125; Topshop). Conservative for the office, but fashion-forward for the weekend.
By Maia McGinley
Images courtesy of shopbop.com, Kate Spade, Neiman Marcus, Zara, Saks Fifth Avenue, Christian Louboutin, Pump Shoes and Accessories, and Topshop
Tags: Accessories, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Fashion, Christian Louboutin, Giuseppe Zanotti, Heels, Kate Spade, Messeca, Neiman Marcus, Pump Shoes and Accessories, Saks Fifth Avenue, Schultz, Shoes, shopbop.com, Topshop, Trends, Valentino, Zara
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Closely Knitted
Thursday, January 20th, 2011
Year after year, knitwear is a necessary wardrobe staple. This year, though, bulky textures and bold styles separate the au courant styles from the outdated. Such new approaches to sweater dressing–including cropped hems, oversized shapes and unexpected cuts–put a spin on the otherwise conventional look.
Nothing is more practical, or fashion-forward, right now than a giant sweater. Thankfully, some of the most popular styles are blanketed looks and menswear-inspired cardigans, commonly referred to as the grandpa or boyfriend sweater for their relaxed look. There’s also a rainbow of hues to keep things interesting, including pastels that inject a shot of color into the gloomy winter months.
Give the vast variety of styles out there, the chunky knit’s functionality is endless. Plus, it’s so easy to wear. Try layering a boyfriend cardigan with slim, feminine pieces, or leave it open and belted. Cropped sweaters are best worn during the winter with maxi lengths and high-waists. Finally, chunky knits and slim pants are a guaranteed winning combo, with they’re urban yet sophisticated feel.
Check out some of our favorite knits for Winter 2010:
1. Aleksandr Manamis belted, backless sweater ($630; Sofia Vintage; 72 E Oak Street)
2. See by Chloe cardigan ($460; lagarconne.com)
3. Wilfred gradient sweater ($115; Aritzia; 835 N Michigan Avenue)
4. Coral knitted top ($65, Topshop)
5. Chunky cable turtleneck sweater ($248; Intermix)
By Maia McGinley
Images courtesy of Sofia Vintage, lagarconne.com, Aritzia, Topshop and Intermix
Tags: Aleksandr Manamis, Aritzia, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Shopping, Intermix, lagarconne.com, See by Chloé, Sofia Vintage, Topshop, Wilfred
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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
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Winter Wonderland
Sunday, December 12th, 2010
The weather isn’t quite so frightful when the season brings cozy fashion perks. With nods to afternoons spent nestled in a log cabin sipping cocoa by a crackling fire, we can keep warm in Nordic-inspired knitwear, patterns and accessories. This rustic trend takes us from casual to party-ready while maintaining a down-to-earth sensibility that’s necessary during Chicago’s lake effect snow storms. We look forward to the prospect of trading in our overdone metallics and getting back to basics with country-chic pieces, including chunky cardigan sweaters, weekend bags and cable-knit accessories. Whether you’re on the slopes in Aspen or the streets of Chicago, mix and match nomad wear for a look that embodies cozy sophistication.
Cure a case of cabin fever with the items below (from left):
1. Kensie “Nomad” shawl cardigan ($78; Nordstrom)
2. Chunky knit scarf ($60; Topshop)
3. K.Amato wood and gold leaf ring ($30. K.Amato; 1229 W Diversey Avenue)
4. Steven Alan plaid dress ($248)
5. “Everest Overnight” bag ($395; Rag & Bone)
6. Minnetonka fringe moccasins ($88; J.Crew)
7. Hue tweed cable-knit socks ($14; Bare Necessities)
8. Patterned beret ($36; Penelope’s; 1913 W Division Street)
9. Staring at Stars faux fur vest ($98; Urban Outfitters)
By Leslie Garry
Images courtesy of Kensie, Topshop, K.Amato, Steven Alan, Rag & Bone, J.Crew, Penelope’s and Urban Outfitters
Tags: Chicago Fashion, Chicago Shopping, Hue, J.Crew, K.Amato, Kensie, Nordstrom, Penelope's, Rag & Bone, Staring at Stars, Steven Alan, Topshop, Trends, Urban Outfitters
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Naughty Meets Nice
Monday, October 11th, 2010
I must admit that with the arrival of fall, my inner vixen comes out. I trade in my innocent floral frocks for a decidedly darker look. In past seasons, I’ve craved tough leather jackets and motorcycle boots, and that’s still the case for Fall 2010. However, I decided to take a softer, yet still sexy approach. Enter my new favorite fabric pairing: leather and lace.
The coupling of these two unlikely fabrics creates a fashion juxtaposition that’s hard to resist. Soft, supple leathers meet delicate lace for a combination that makes a downtown ensemble that’s distinctly ladylike too. To keep the look current, stick with black leather and white or cream laces. Looking to sharpen your edge? Pair with a strong red lip and layered silver chains, nothing is chicer.
Channel your inner vamp with the below items (clockwise from upper left):
1. CCSkye “Nika Lace Leather Pouchette” ($308; shopbop.com). From the shape to the print, this on-trend bag is perfectly girly.
2. Lace tee ($110; J. Crew). A dressed up fabric in a laid-back cut.
3. Christian Louboutin “Lace Crepe-de-Chine” pump ($725; Bergdorf Goodman). The ultimate feminine pump: sexy and ladylike.
4. Diane von Furstenberg tiered leather skirt ($625; Cusp). Flirty and romantic with an edge.
5. Dolce Vita leather lace-up boots ($212; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue). This boot’s laces give it a throwback vibe, but the buckle and shape make it au courant.
6. Leather biker jacket ($310; Topshop) A tough jacket to contrast delicate laces.
By Leslie Garry
Images courtesy of shopbop.com, J.Crew, Bergdorf Goodman, Cusp, Lori’s Shoes and Topshop
Tags: Bergdorf Goodman, CCSkye, Christian Loutboutin, Cusp, Diane Von Furstenberg, Dolce Vita, J.Crew, Lace, Leather, Lori's Shoes, shopbop.com, Topshop, Trends
Posted in StyleBlog | 2 Comments »
Topshop to Open in Chicago
Monday, September 27th, 2010
Admittedly so, Chicago lives in the shadow of NYC fashion. However, its growth is evident. The proof of this lies in news like Topshop’s announcement that it will open a store right here in the Second City. Opening in “early autumn” next year on Michigan Avenue, according to Crain’s Chicago Business via a Topshop rep, this will be the second US location to date (the first in NYC’s Soho), with locations being scouted in other major cities such as Miami, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and San Francisco.
Following the opening of Zara on Michigan Avenue last year, Topshop promises to be a worthy competitor with its uber trendy garb. However, boasting a higher price point than its two cheaper neighbors Forever 21 and H&M, Chicago’s savvy shoppers may ask: Why pay more? For me, I pay for the fashion-forward designs and conceptual approach of Topshop’s often unconventional collections even if the quality leaves much to be desired. After all, trends are fleeting, right? While I don’t like throwing money down the drain, it’s not like Topshop built its reputation on selling classic clothing built for repeat seasons. That said, there’s no doubt I’ll take advantage of my soon-to-be unlimited access to Chicago’s Topshop—even if the selection’s censored for us “conservative” Midwesterns.
By Meghan Turner
Image courtesy of Topshop
Tags: Chicago Shopping, Forever 21, H&M, Michigan Avenue Shopping, Topshop, Zara
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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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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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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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