Infinite Chic

Can't Forget About Canvas...

Want to know what the classic springtime staple is? Canvas. Period. Today I'm going to bust the myth that canvas is only for boat shoes...although there are some super cute shoes for boating these days (more of a fashion statement than actually useful of course.) Either way, no matter what you're matching with, whether it be that cute sundress you're wearing to a BBQ or some cropped pants at the beach, canvas shoes are the way to go.

Want to be a little girly? Go with an espadrille, they are perfect for creating a casual look into a flirty, summery one. On the left is an espadrille by Guess, because of the black and white it makes them a little more formal (well, as formal as an espadrille can be...) as opposed to the shoe on the right. The bright espadrille on the right is Betseyville (of course!) I think these shoes would really spice up an outfit, they're very fun and flashy, and I do not think that is a bad thing.

Ah yes, the boat shoe is looking a little more updated, is it not? On the left is a small wedge by Sperry Top-sider, the best of the best in boat shoes. This style shows that this casual style shoe is not only ridiculously comfortable, but stylin' too. Speaking of canvas shoes, how could I not mention the company that put them on the map!? Keds have been marketing their simple canvas shoe since 1916. When I wore my Keds back east this past summer, my grandma pulled out an aged but similar style of the shoe I was wearing. They are definitely an All-American shoe, and still pull off being adorable and having a very simple, casual style. The wedge on the right is a little different from the normal sneaker model, but, as you can clearly see, has the same principle of being a simple design with the classic canvas material.

And now, my favorite canvas shoe: flats. I was just having a conversation with a friend today about how versatile flats are, they work with everything from casual outings to nights on the town. It's a beautiful thing to give your feet some rest from being tortured in heels sometimes, not to mention flats are adorable these days and a lot of the time I opt for them over heels anyway. The shoes on the left are by Delia*s and are a little dressier than the flats on the left simply because they don't have the rubber sole. I love the color, love the bows, basically love everything about these shoes. In fact, I think they will be my next purchase. I love that they are canvas but still kind of dressy because of the type of shoe they are, how they are designed and how that works with the fabric. I can personally say that the shoes on the right are the most comfortable shoes that I own. It's probably because they are Naturalizer and thats their specialty. These shoes are more casual, but still are simple, bright and fun. Casual is not always a bad thing, especially in this case. All of these shoes make me want to pull out my shorts and dresses and head to a BBQ or the beach. C'mon summer weather...Seattle can't wait anymore!

Ch Ch Chanel

There is just something timeless about Chanel. Ever since Coco Chanel brought ready to wear into the picture back in early 1900's the fashion world has never been the same. Coco changed the face of haute couture forever and was the only person in her field to be named in TIME Magazine's 100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century. Over her fashion career she spanned over almost every possible area of design from clothes to jewelry to accessories to perfume. Not to mention she pioneered one of the most well known brand names in history.

I love the signature quilted Chanel look of the clutch on the left. It's a very simple design, but as we've seen throughout history, Chanel's strong designs have the staying power to last almost a century so far. Another signature item, the rhinestone C earrings are seen so many places its ridiculous. No matter how conformist I sound, I'm loving them.

In 1921, the incredibly popular Chanel No. 5 was created and it changed the world. Every women wanted to small like Chanel and it had enough poise to make it into the Museum of Modern Art in New York in 1959 because of it's art deco inspired bottle. On the right, a relatively new addition to the Chanel family is Chanel Chance. This is personally my favorite scent because it's not to fruity or girly, but leaves an impression.

And last but not least...the famous Chanel suit. Introduced in 1923, this ensemble has to be the one outfit that has lasted longer in style than any other piece. The suit on the left is your classic tweed and silk blend suit that put Chanel on the map. On the right is Karl Lagerfeld, current designer for Chanel, interpretation of the classic with a little twist. Either way, every girl needs to own one within their lifetime, if only to be a part of the magic that has engulfed the last fashionable century. In the words of Coco Chanel herself; "a girl should be two things: classy and fabulous." Thanks to her, we can be both of these!

Looking Forward to a Bright Future

With the sunshine comes all the colors we've had stored away in the back of our dresser drawers all winter. It is time for a changing of the guard! For all of you who aren't quite ready to take the leap into bright exuberant outfits, start at the bottom and work your way up. Besides, shoe shopping should be considered therapeutic right?

As well all know, bows are my weakness, in addition to that these Stuart Weitzman pumps are irresistible. They are guaranteed to be that spice you need to add for spring, plus the deep shade of blue will stand out against almost anything. On the right, if you're not ready to break out the summer heels, try these cute Anne Klein flats. The orangy color is not as blaring as a construction cone, but will definitely make an impression.

I've become obsessed with the simple, elegant fashions of Kate Spade. The shoes on the left are a perfect example of how your shoes do not have to be decadent in order to make a statement. Speaking of the more decadent side, the bright yellow Charles David sandals on the right are perfect if you want to live life on the edge, or at least wear the shoes that go along with the life. Very flashy and very fun, these shoes scream spring fling.

When you're out shopping for bright shoes, you can almost always count on BCBG to come through with some super chic choices. The pink peep toes on the left are a classic style with a twist because of the bright shade of pink. I love the style, it is like showing a little skin, but keeping the rest to the imagination. On the right, the floral cutout print is what makes these shoes different from other brights. The aqua color is one that you might not see a lot, so it is kinda fun to wear something new and different. Don't be afraid to add some pizzaz to your somewhat colorless, winter-influenced, wardrobe. Shoes are the easiest place to start and fun to experiment with.

Be daring. Go bright. Buy shoes.

It's Not Old, It's Vintage

...and it happens to be VERY in. Especially if it looks anything like Old Hollywood Glamour. This genre of fashion, hairstyles, great shoes and ladylike attitudes has spanned over so many generations it's too hard to count. Old Hollywood is something that will NEVER go out. Channeling Old Hollywood is not something new, but it can definitely be seen in today's popular culture. Magazines with themed photo shoots, period films from the era and fashion ALL over the red carpet.

Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly, the silver screened sirens of the Old Hollywood era, made an impact SO huge that people today rely on their put together looks for their own fashion advice. Audrey Hepburn, left, brought the black into the picture. With her little black dress, and cropped black pants, she showed us that black is for ALL occasions, casual and formal. Grace Kelly always has the poise and elegant manner of the perfect lady and she definitely dressed the part.

Former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy, on the left, brought on a fashion mania when she stepped onto the scene in the 60's. With her cute pillbox hat and signature pink suit, she showed us that it IS possible to be a lady and look professional and FABULOUS at the same time. Last but not least, Marilyn Monroe, sex bomb of Old Hollywood. Not only was she beautiful, but striking and sexy as well. She brought out the fierce, (to quote Tyra Banks,) in women's fashion with daring clothing and her unforgettable platinum blonde hair that would be mimicked for generations to come.

Vanity Fair seems to have picked up on this Old Hollywood fashion craze. In the March 2008 issue they showcased what they called the "The 10 Fresh Faces of 2008." Included in this bunch of Chanel clad ladies was Amy Adams, Ellen Page, America Ferrera and Zoe Saldana, as well as many others. The issue is titled "The Hollywood Issue" and all of the women on the cover are dressed in Chanel, the collection inspired by our leading ladies from Old Hollywood. On the right we have the lovely Katherine Heigl featured in the January 2008 issue and inside there is an AMAZING spread of Old Hollywood inspired fashion, nobody does it better than Heigl.

But these ladies definitely come close...giving Heigl a run for her money are (from left to right) Reese Witherspoon, Amy Adams and Keira Knightly. All three of these dresses are perfect examples of Old Hollywood in popular culture today. I alsboultely love how Knightly's dress makes her look so elegant and creates curves for her! Adams' dress is my favorite and I think it's because of how the bodice is done in contrast to the skirt. Witherspoon's dress is beautiful as well, and looks the most classic out of the three.

As you can see, leading ladies all over the place are channeling this trend. Scarlett Johansson, who is great at pulling off her platinum locks, shows off her Old Hollywood glamour in the latest Louis Vuitton campaign. On the right, Vanity Fair strikes again with a photo shoot capturing Hayden Panettiere's playful side as a cute pinup girl, all of the shots from that spread are adorable. In my opinion, Old Hollywood is the way to go, it's classy, elegant and ladylike and most likely will never go out of style!

Pretty in Pastels

Looking for a stunning new Easter dress? What better way to celebrate the spring holiday then with pastels? I know what you're thinking, "pastels remind me of Easter eggs." What is wrong with that? You might as well wear something reminiscent of the holiday that is being celebrated. And by the way...I love dyeing Easter eggs. Anyway, I've found some fabulous dresses that will change your mind about pastels FOREVER.

For instance, these BCBG frocks are seriously blowing my mine right now. Especially the one on the right with the flower applique. The springy yellow color does a lot to brighten up my day, I don't know how you feel about it. After seeing these Im PRAYING for the spring showers to end and the sunshine to come out! The one on the left is very unique with the beading and ruching on the bodice. I am also in love with the robin's egg blue that comes out every march in many amazing new designs.

Pink is back! Everyone knows you can't do Easter without baby pink! It makes the color come out in your cheeks and looks good on everyones skin type fair OR dark. The pleated dress on the left is by Calvin Klein, and may I say, I LOVE the pleats, they really make the dress. Good ol' Calvin sure know how to bring the girly back onto the runways. This dress is simple and subtly sexy, a perfect combination for Easter. The dress on the right is adorable too, the deep baby blue color is a perfect choice for the whimsical design. It is by Maggy London and is made out of chiffon with a beaded waistline. I picked this piece because of, once again, its simplicity. There really is not much to the design, a gathered bodice and skirt divided by a waistband with a very simple pearl design on it, but with the perfect fit it is stunning!

...and Betsey is back! My personal favorite, the fabulous Betsey Johnson, really came through in the pastel department, and let me just say that her dresses would be MY top choice for a cute, girly, Easter dress. The dress on the left is a really simple design, but the sheer overlay really adds some pizzaz to the piece. I love the color palette she chose for all of the designs in this collection and this one is no exception. The dress on the right is super girly, with the lacy tiers and coordinating pastels. I love that with a string of pearls to complete the look, you would feel like a princess!

Looking for something a little bit different this Easter? Something that doesn't even resemble the traditional flouncy dress with hat and matching purse get-up we all remember from childhood? Betsey has added a little different flair to the previous pastel designs. The dress on the left is a little more simple, but yet again, sexy in a subtle way. I love the gathered bottom and the bow-like, (there I go again with bows,) bust-line. The dress on the right is one of my all time Betsey favorites, I love that it is sparkly, with the sequins sewn everywhere, but it covers more than your typical spaghetti strap dress.

Easter is just around the corner...why not spend a typical pastel holiday with something traditional with a twist?

Floral Fanatic

Looking for something to spice up your wardrobe like all of this sunshine we've been having? Have I found the perfect thing for you. Try something floral. Everything out in the stores today is getting into the spring spirit, and it's about time you joined the bandwagon.

Accessories are a great way to add a little flair to a humdrum outfit, and I've found a few that corresspond with our floral theme. Whether you're wearing a cute linen sundress or jeans and a flowy neutral top (or anything neutral for that matter) a cute bag like the Elaine Turner tote on the right is the perfect way to turn it into a fabulous outfit. Also, add a pair of these cute Juicy earrings on the left, it doesn't matter which one you pick because it is purely a spring inspired collection! I personally LOVE the daisies and pansies, but all of them are adorable!

A floral skirt is something everyone should have in their wardrobe, most people already do. It might be that skirt you bought last year for a friends spring or summer wedding or one you bought on sale in the winter that you completely forgot about up until this moment. If neither of these situations apply to you...get out there a get yourself one! You can find them in almost any price range and all of them are fun and springy. I really like the Karen Kane skirt on the left because I've fallen in love with black and yellow together (even with its connotations to bumblebees) there is something sophisticated and fun about it. The skirt on the right is made by Necessary Objects and the embellishments make it different from all the other skirts out there. I really like the color choice on that one as well, its bright, exciting and fabulous. The models are right on these photos because of their cute bright shoes...another great accessory to the floral skirt.

If you're willing to get a little more out there with your floral accessories, or if you're looking to match the cute Juicy earrings you just bought, check these out. On the right is the matching Juicy bracelet to the spring earrings collection. It is definitely a little more clunky that I would like to wear, but with the right outfit and attitude I fully believe it has potential and I love the colors and flowers. On the left is a necklace by Miriam Haskell, the complete opposite of the Juicy collection. Her beaded necklace is neutral and absolutely stunning. It makes a statement without being in your face. Subtle and beautiful, this necklace could be the perfect accessory to a girly-casual-yet-dressed-up look. It will help you look like you don't have to try to draw attention and you know it. Confidence is the new sexy.

So lets recap:
1. Buy something floral
2. Get some stylish new jewelry
3. Be confident
4. Make a statement
...Looks like we have our spring checklist! But for now...I'm checking out.

Snazzy Sneaks

WELCOME TO MARCH! Can you believe it? Spring is just around the corner (something like three weeks away officially..) Another great springtime classic is cute sneakers. Whether you’re running in the warm sunny weather or just looking for something versatile to where with your new cute capris, fun tennis shoes are a must-have for spring. There are many shapes and styles of sneakers these days, everything from flats to shocks and mesh to canvas. There is a little something for everyone.

Looking for something classic? Converse All Stars are your answer. My favorite when you are going casual with a pair of worn in jeans and a cute t-shirt. Definitely a wear-all kind of shoe, whether looking for cute or comfy, these shoes fall in every category. Not to mention, they come in every color and pattern imaginable.

Like All Stars, Vans come in every color made on the planet but they have more variety when it comes to prints and patters. For instance, on the right there is the Valentines Day slip on they came out with this year. I really like the polka dots, mainly because they are so fun and bright! Perfect for stepping out into the sunshine in the spring. The classic Vans slip on goes with just about anything and can work with so many different looks its amazing. Sometimes it is fun to brighten up an outfit with a fun new print.

I think that I will wear Keds until I'm old and grey they are so versatile and cute. My grandma wears them and they still look amazing on her. Not only have they been around forever, but they are still alive and kicking with super cute patterns and different influences. For instance, the flamingo patterned ones on the left, they are fluorescent pink and have flamingos on them but still look fabulous. I am in love with the patchwork slip ons on the right, actually more like obsessed. They will look good with almost anything and are most likely as comfortable as all Keds are.

First a disclaimer: I LOVE LACOSTE. I definitely think that Lacoste is everything that embodies a spring themed brand name, lets think about it. Polos, golf gear, cute tennis shoes and everything inbetween. I own a pair of plain white lacoste sneakers and LOVE them, especially at this time of year. In fact mine kind of resemble the ones on the right. Simple, match everything and comfortable. What more could you ask for? The slip ons on the left are very cute too, they could be great for a quick walk through the neighborhood, an outdoor outing in the sunshine, a tennis date or just wearing out and about. Our friend Mr. Alligator speaks spring fluently obviously.

Looking for something a little more sporty? Puma has got you completely covered. Their athletic shoes and casual sneakers tend to cross over into each others categories so you basically end up with a cute sneaker you can do anything in. The shoe on the right is my favorite and I might need to add it to my ever growing shoe collection because they are not only adorable but useful in almost any athletic situation as well. The shoe on the left is an example of the more classic puma look that they have been successful with for years.

So basically the sunshine should inspire you to get out there and find the pair of new cute sneakers that are calling your name. You can make up the excuse why you need them on the way over to the store :)

Step into the Sunshine

So, now that spring is just around the corner it is time to break out that box you've had in the back of your closet all winter. Out of that box comes a world of color, lightweight fabrics and lace that have been hiding from the dreary grayscale of winter. However, I think spring is my absolute favorite time of year because of the clothing options it gives you. For instance, living in Seattle some days are chilly and some days are gloriously warm, so a nice variety is acceptable. My first purchase of the spring season (only if I'm shopping on a sunny day mind you) is a fabulous sundress and some cute open toed shoes. The sun just inspires me...although sometimes buying a contrasting cardigan is just the thing to deal with WA weather.

The Classic: Eyelet For Everyone

Eyelet is definitely my favorite for sundress season. It is lightweight, comfortable and breezy, but at the same time chic and classy. These two dresses fall into two different price zones, the left one being BCBG and the right being Roxy, but both will do the trick for a romantic spring look. Both could be paired with a cute pastel or bright cardigan and some sandals to show off your pedicure, or look a little more rustic with some couture western boots and a jean jacket. No matter what style I think this look is the simplest to pull off and ALWAYS looks classy.

The Trendsetter: Dare to be Different

Be different and skip straight to bright colors the second the sun shows it's face. When everyone else is still slowly transitioning from their greys and blacks of winter to a colorful sunny world, jump right in. I love the coral color on the left in the ABS Allen Schwartz dress. It's such a fun contrast to Seattle winter wear and I like that it shows a little leg with its length, because it is definitely important for your legs to see the sunlight before swimsuit season (thank goodness we still have time.) The dress on the right is definitely what I would call Spring or Kelly Green. It is made by Juicy and is lightweight linen, perfect for sunny, warm days. I love the bright colors of spring, it is like the light at the end of the tunnel, the thing you look forward to all winter and the thing that gets you through til the sunshine.

The Hopeless Romantic: A Chance to be Girly Again

There is something to be said about being girly, I think it is the way to go, especially in the spring when you can wear modest and flattering dresses and look incredibly sexy without baring it all. Not to mention, summer is coming closer and closer and bikinis definitely take care of the "bare it all" look. These two dresses, both by Calvin Klein, are the perfect example of the girly look. Both are in light pastel colors and the cut on both is very flattering on almost anybody. The only thing missing is your trusty string of pearls. This look is both classic and sexy and I wish more girls realized that showing a lot of skin is not the only way to have sex appeal. I also love the pleats and the other girly embellishments on these designs (we all know I'm obsessed with bows!)

Choose your look carefully, but with any of these categories you should be home free. Step into the sunshine with flair and look fabulous, you owe it to yourself after this long long winter.

Leaving on a Jet Plane

I took last week off from school and work to jet over to the East Coast (apologies for not writing in the last week, I was too preoccupied being relaxed.) It was a refreshing taste of relaxation before returning to the busy world of everyday life. Airports are one of my favorite places to be, not only because it has to be one of the safest places on the planet but also to check out the styling bags everybody travels with. This trip was exceptionally colorful in the types of bags people were carrying, maybe it's because they do it differently on the other side of the country. No matter what it is, I've decided that my luggage needs a makeover.

When it comes to duffels, Betsey and Coach do it best. These cute pieces really make packing for a trip fun. The Coach is the classic print and the brown and tan match everything, but if you're looking for something frivolous and fun the Betsey Johnson rolling duffel in lipstick red really makes you stand out among the hustle and bustle of travel life.

Suitcases galore! For the more classical style suitcase with a little flair check out these pieces. Not to mention they'll match the duffels above that you're considering purchasing. Why shouldn't travel be as fun as the vacation that awaits at the end of the plane ride? I am a firm believer in the fact that one cannot have TOO MANY cute things!

I couldn't talk about fashionable luggage and NOT talk about the master: Louis Vuitton. The bag on the left is the classic keep-all from Vuitton and I definitely saw at least three travelers carrying them in the airport this weekend. The Betsey Johnson bag on the right is part of her new line and is a very fun accessory to the humdrum plane ride. Both bags are more of a carry-on, because you cannot just have fabulous checked luggage, your carry-on must be equally fabulous AND extra points if your entire matching set is fabulous. HAPPY TRAVELS!

True to Your Heart

As Valentines Day approaches, we see more and more heart jewelry advertised. My guess, they're trying to create a need for expensive Valentine's jewelry so that the girlies will want it and the guys will therefore have to buy it. It is a tricky system, but nevertheless has continued to work for decades. I'm guilty, I own some pretty amazing heart jewelry that I wear almost as often as I get dressed. Despite the Hallmark atmosphere of this holiday I am definitely a firm believer in jewelry as gifts and there are some pretty fun pieces of Valentine's Day jewelry that people shouldn't have to live without.

For instance, I'm sure we're all hoping we get a little blue box on the special day, after all it's everything a girl should wish for. It's definitely the best of the best when it comes to Valentine's Day jewelry and they know it as displayed in their tagline of "Nothing gets to the heart of the matter like a gift from Tiffany." Personally, my favorite is the heart collection designed by Elsa Peretti. It's just the classic and simple heart cutout pendant that is signature Tiffany. But there's something to be said about the classics.

If you're looking for some more fun not-so-serious heart jewelry Juicy Couture has some fun Valentine's Day treats. The Sweet Shoppe charm bracelet is a treat in itself with it's cute Sweetheart candy inspired charms with messages written on the hearts. It definitely screams Valentines Day, but I bet with some outfit coordination you could pull it off year round. I have to admit, I'm also sucked in by the cute, pink heart boxes that everything comes in :)

Looking for something glitzy and stunning? I really liked this white gold and diamond heart pendant from Zales, it's sure to take a girls breath away. I think what appealed to me most was that the diamonds only wrap around part of the heart because it is different from your typical diamond studded heart pendant. It definitely captures the spirit of Valentine's Day mixed with the fact that diamonds are a girls best friend!

Good luck on your Valentine's Day wishes...I hope they all come true!