MET GALA

This year’s Metropolitan Museum of Art’s annual Costume Institute Gala took place on Monday, May 6, 2013 in New York, NY. This year’s envelope pushing theme was “PUNK: Chaos to Couture.” Beautypress expert hairstylist Anthony Campbell styled Jessica Biel’s hair for the grand event. “We wanted make it look like the sides were almost shaved and the rest of the hair pin straight almost like a sheet of hair and the top slicked,” explains Anthony Campbell. Jessica Biel’s “barely there” make-up is stunning. Nude is one of spring’s biggest trends, from nails to lips and eyes nude adds mystery and depth to the face without actually looking like you’re wearing any make-up. Photo credit: The Wall Group.

Nicole Richie was literally show stopping. Richie’s matte velvet burgundy lips amplified her silver-gray hair. Beautypress expert Beau Nelson was Nicole Richie’s make-up artist of the evening. With Nicole Richie you see her eyes were kept simple to allow her lips and hair to speak for themselves. This fashionista has caught our attention for all the right reasons, once again. Photo credit: The Wall Group Redken’s Creative Consultant Guido Paulu conceptualized the hairstyles for the 50 living and breathing punks who lined the Met’s staircase as guests entered the gala. These punks set the tone for what was sure to be an unforgettably cool time. “Punk was everywhere when I was in my teens and it’s always been a source of inspiration for me. So when I was asked to style the Gala and create the headpieces for the exhibition, it was an era, and a style, that I already felt close to. I’ve always put a little punk in my work... whether it’s an energy, a feeling, or an actual element of the look.” -Guido, Redken Creative Consultant Photo credit: Kevin Tachman It’s safe to say punk chic is here to stay. Wine stained lips, glowing bronzed skin, leather garments with spikes and studs are for everywhere in between street wear and red carpet ready.

Check out the exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY.

Photo credit: Beautypress

Greening up your routine is definitely not a new idea, but there are many ways that you can jump on the bandwagon!

Skincare
There is a variety of skincare items on the market that are natural and free of harsh chemicals. This is especially great for those with sensitive or easily irritated skin. There are loads of soothing ingredients in these skincare items like green tea, aloe vera, and chamomile that can really calm erupted skin. If you have acne/oily problems look for ingredients like witch hazel or tea tree oil which can really help too!

Makeup
Makeup usually has some of the most pore clogging ingredients that can do more harm than good. If you have sensitive skin you can choose from a variety of cosmetic brands with products that feature soothing minerals and allow your skin to breathe. They also tend to look more natural on the face which is always a plus if you aim for the "no makeup" makeup look.

Haircare
Some of the greatest hair care treatments can be made right from your kitchen using simple ingredients that create extraordinary effects.

Fortunately, there are now plenty of green hair care products that offer ready formulas, saving you both time and clean-up in the kitchen. If you suffer from dry/damaged hair look for conditioners that have ingredients like coconut oil, olive oil, honey, and other moisturizing things that can perk up your tresses. If you are struggling with limp hair, look for shampoos that have peppermint oil which can really bump up the volume and make your scalp tingle.

Source credit: beautypress.com Photo credit: David Castagneto

Lord & Taylor announces the exclusive launch of the first ever collection from Dmitry Sholokhov, winner of "Project Runway's" Season 10. The collection of eight cocktail and evening dresses is exclusive to the retailer and will be available March 30. The collection offers versatile dresses for the contemporary woman and features details that have become signature to Dmitry's design aesthetic, such as peplum and cut out styles with strategic darting. The dresses are available in key spring colors including gold, ivory, blush, teal, classic black in satin crepe, stretch knit and embroidered lace. The entire collection retails for $259-$329 and will be available in select Lord & Taylor stores, including the Fifth Avenue Flagship, and on lordandtaylor.com.

Lord & Taylor will host Dmitry for the launch of the collection at its Fifth Avenue flagship store on Thursday, April 4 from 6-8 pm. Dmitry will meet with customers and sign sketches of the collection.  Shop the collection at Lord & Taylor.

Image source: MyLifetime.com

It's bright, a bit neon, and will definitely draw some attention. So what are you waiting for? Introduce a shot of citrine to your spring 2013 style. Just a touch goes a long way. A bag or shoe with a citrine heel or color block is all you need to brighten up a look. Here are a few of my suggestions. A few years ago I bought a Rebecca Minkoff bag on Gilt Groupe that I thought was a soft yellow and gold. When I opened it, it was citrine and gold. I was ready to return it. What was I supposed to wear with a  neon yellow green and gold bag?  Everything.  I still have the bag and love it. Try citrine with navy, gold, camel, white, plum, fuchsia or grey.

The Citrine Shoes

1. Sole Society MARGIE stud pump in Citrine Cuban Sand $49.99. Very Valentino rock stud.

2. GoMax Ashland 21 Taupe and Neon Slingbacks $46.00.  Cap Toe Vegan leather pumps. Neon patent cap toe matches the neon heel. So cute. Available at LULU'S.

3. Dadallina Sandals $160.00. Retro block heel style with a modern twist. These sandals from Joan & David feature T-straps, a cutout design and neon accents. Available at Lord & Taylor.

4. The OUTNET Burak Uyan Leather and python sandals $399 (orginally $1005). These sky-high sandals combine classic python with a punch of neon.

The Citrine Handbags

1. Marcela Open Tote by Elliot Lucca. On my spring wish list. It's a great value for the size and style of the bag. Special online price of $188 (regularly $248).

Measures 14 L x 5.5 W x 16 H, with zippered closure and interior pockets. Available in black, white, chilli, and python prints.

2. Mini Bag in Bitter Citrus $148 at JCrew. This is your go to bag for traveling, bike rides, picnics, anytime you need a cross body bag to hold your essentials. Adjustable shoulder strap.

3. Coach Madison Leather Tote in Kiwi $298. I have one in Cognac and use it all the time. It fits comfortably on my shoulder has room for my iPad and so much more. Top zip, interior pockets and zip compartment. Chain accents on strap.

4. Linen Lola Tote in Natural/Citrine by DVF $345. This Diane Von Furstenberg tote can go from the city to the beach. I love the seriousness of the taupe linen paired with citrine and black leather accents. Front flap pocket with logo detail.

Red lips are the epitome of glamour. Red is a celebration of love and sensuality. It's a color every woman can embrace. With the right knowledge you can find the right shade.

1. Determine your skin tone: porcelain, fair, medium, or dark.  You might fall somewhere in between, go with the dominant tone.

2. Is your skin tone warm or cool or neutral?  One quick way to find out is the white paper test. Pull your hair back. Hold up a plain white piece of paper next to your face and look into a mirror. If your skin appears more yellow next to the paper, you have a warm skin tone. If your face looks bluish, you have a cool skin tone, if you have a mix you probably have a neutral skin tone. There are four possible choices. Cool (pink, red or bluish undertones) Warm (yellow or golden undertones) Neutral (a mix of warm and cool undertones) Olive is considered a n neutral because it has a mix of warm and cool undertones. Pick a lip color that compliments your skin tone and undertone.  Try on shades before you buy them. If you're not sure what works best for you ask a qualified make up artist or hair colorist. Both have to match color to their client's skin tone.

Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture SPF 15 contains hydrospheres and natural extracts for comfort and hydration.

AVON Totally Kissable Lipstick in Red Embrace with fruit enzymes and natural oils for fuller, softer lips.

Revlon Ravish Me Red is great if don't want to spend a lot but still want a lasting, moisturizing lipstick. Ravish Me Red has orange undertones and would work on porcelain and fair skin tones.

MAC Lipstick in Ruby Woo has undertones of blue and compliments most skin tones.

Smashbox Lipstick in Legendary a true red packed with vitamins C and E and shea butter.

NARS Lipstick in Heat Wave a semi matte orange red. I love a red with an orange undertone and think it looks great on fair skin.

Clinique Long Lasting Lipstick in Dubonnet available at most department stores. I am a big fan of Clinique's Long Lasting lip collection. It lives up to its name. It's creamy and light but packed with staying power. The color looks fresh for hours. Dubonnet is a light-medium brick red color that's bold without being loud.

How to wear RED Lipstick. A strong color like Red really should be the focal point of your makeup. If you do a red lip avoid a dark smokey eye or bold colored shadows. My favorite way to wear red lipstick is with a neutral matte eyeshadow like beige or champagne, liquid black liner on my upper eyelid, mascara, and a poppy pink or coral blush. Exfoliate your lips, apply a non greasy lip balm, cover your lips with a thin layer of foundation, apply   lipstick with a lip brush and line your lips, fill in, blot, and pucker up!

Submission for IFB "What Makes You Totally Kissable" project and AVON Totally Kissable Lipstick.

One of the exciting things about fashion is waiting to see which colors make the it list each year. Pantone LLC announced the 2013 color of the year, EMERALD 17-5641. Emerald green represents positive energy, prosperity, balance and harmony. Like the gemstone, the color Emerald is sophisticated and luxurious. This hue has been the color of growth, healing, and renewal in many cultures. This lush, classically elegant, color looks equally beautiful in fashion as in does in the home.

Alexander McQueen Dylan Tote and Rebecca Minkoff Dylan Tote at Nordstrom, Carolee Lux Jade and Turquoise Bracelet at Saks Fifth Avenue, Pantone Universe at Sephora, Duo Date Clutch at Lulu*s, and Bond New York Musk Emerald Shooting Star at Saks Fifth Avenue.

How will you be wearing Emerald this year?

Herve Leger is best know for the body-con, bandage dress that shook the fashion world in the 1980's. The sensuous, body sculpting silhouette continues to look fresh and modern today.

In 2007 the brand was reinvented by Max and Lubov Azria as the Herve Leger by Max Azria collection. While still keeping true to the original vision, Herve Leger by Max Azria has infused the collection with new shapes, colors, and textures to reflect the Azria spirit.

The Pre-Fall 2013 collection was inspired by a mix of pop culture from the South West, a bit of rock and roll elements and artistic sensibility.  Expect to see a vibrant color palette of violets and blues complimented with soft neutrals and black.

Ruffle bandage details, studded trim bandages, shadow ombre, hand beading, and engineered jacquard patterns help create sexy, wearable art. New silhouettes include elongated shapes and bustier tops. The Fall 2013 collection can be worn now through fall and long after. There is an evident newness and a variety of silhouette and print updates that will appeal to women of all ages.

I love the long sleeve dresses in bold western surfer style prints (shown left). The perfect balance of cover up with a head-turning pop of leg. 

Visit Herve Leger to see more of the pre-fall 2013 collection.

I fell for this clutch the first time I saw it on Anthropologie.com back in November. As a painter and lover of all things abstract, I wanted it but didn't want to pay $128. On Sunday I went shopping at for a friend's housewarming gift at Anthropolgie. There it was! The canvas and leather clutch with a painting by Canadian artist, Claire Desjardins. It was on sale for $49.99.

I hesitated because I really didn't plan on shopping for myself. As I continued to look around I saw a giant sign - Extra 30% off all SALE items. Since one of my 2013 resolutions is never to pay full price, I bought it for $34.00.

It's bold and fun. Inside there's a side zip compartment and two pockets that can fit a cell phone or business card case. There's a strap of canvas on the inside with the artist's signature.  So glad I waited!

Music is a big part of my life. I listen to it when I write, walk, and when I paint. I use it to set the tone of my perfect environment. It inspires me to create. My taste in music is like my taste in food – eclectic. I’m more interested in the mood of the music than the actual genre. I could listen to Blue October one day and Billie Holiday the next.

When I was contacted to do a review for Sol Republic I was thrilled. I’ve wanted to replace my current iPhone earplugs with something more secure and a lot better in the sound department. Sol Republic has both On-Ear and In-Ear styles to choose from that come in a variety of models and colors.

I reviewed the Tracks HD On-Ear headphones. The package included a Purple interchangeable FlexTech Headband, V10 Sound Engine Speakers with extra wide SonicSoft Ear Cushions, music/phone control button located on the matching cord and a carrying case. The purple headset came with a matching purple cord. I like the added pop of color.

I decided to use them with my iPhone during my 60 minute morning walk. The windy, chilly weather added an extra challenge. The Sol Republic earphones were soft, snug, easy to adjust, and stayed in place even when I ran for a song or two. The extra wide ear cushions kept my ears warm and shielded out the sound of the wind.

I noticed a difference in the sound immediately. There was a greater bass response and cleaner, sharper vocals. A much deeper, richer, sound resonated, enhancing my listening experience. After a while, I forgot I was working out and got lost in the music. The Sol Republic headphones produced a high quality, full sound that let me escape with my favorite music. They are compatible with recent generations of apple devices which means I can watch movies and TV on my iPad too! Have you seen American Horror Story on FX?  It's my new guilty pleasure.

For more information Visit Sol Republic today and get free shipping on your new pair of headphones.

We all know her, the woman who who never goes to a party without a clutch or evening bag that's just as fabulous as her outfit. I've put together a few head-turning bags to give or get this holiday season.

1. Marabou Feather Clutch. This luxe feather clutch (with shoulder chain) has a pave studded closure and is filled with Hollywood glamour. Available at Ann Taylor for $135.

2. Overture by Judith Leiber - Concave Side Rectangle Clutch. Just one great bag from the JL Overture collection. It features iridescent metallic leather with a snake print, a signature bow push lock in multicolor leather. The citrine-quartz color of the push lock is so striking. An investment piece you'll use again and again. Available at Lord & Taylor for $395.

3. Baubled Envelope Pouch - this small sparkle pouch comes in three colors (purple, navy and gold) each featuring a different adornment and contrasting lining. The purple (shown left) comes with a vibrant teal lining. I LOVE the sweetness of this little bag. It's only $28 and available at Anthropologie.

4. Orange Crush on You Clutch as seen in LUCKY. Vegan leather purse with pewter beads, black and white rhinestones over a fold-over front flap. Comes with adjustable strap. You can pre-order yours today at Lulu's and it will ship out by Dec. 20th. Only $40 at LuLu*s.

5. Sondra Roberts Beaded Minaudiere Box Clutch. A multicolor mix of shimmery beads and sparkling crystals cover an oval box clutch giving it appeal. Drop-in chain strap. The variety of colors make it versatile. Find it at NORDSTROM for $228.

6. Z Spoke Zac Posen Leather & Cork Clutch. An unexpected mix of textures in an unconventional shape. Black leather with gold cork looks effortlessly cool for day or evening. Available at Bloomingdales for $250.

1. The Fragrance Sampler A 12-piece collection of Sephora’s most popular scents and a stylish beauty bag. This set includes a voucher to fill in and submit at any Sephora store for a full sized bottle of your favorite fragrance from the set. Available at Sephora $50. Available for him too.

2. Stay Gorgeous from Head to Toe by LushUSA. This pretty kit comes with two fragrant floral bath bombs, gentle mimosa and sea salt showers, lemony flutter cuticle butter, Vanilla Dee-lite lotion, and Gorgeous facial moisturizer.  Available at LushUSA for $39.

3. Deco Daze Clutch Brush Set. I love this Art Deco style clutch with matching brushes. It takes makeup application to the next level. A must have for any beauty lover. Clutch comes with long gold chain. SEPHORA COLLECTION Deco Daze Clutch Brush Set $58.

4. Ciaté 'Mini Mani' Set A diary style box filled with a daily dose of mini nail treats, as behind each door lies a very colorful surprise. 17 of Ciaté's bestselling mini Paint Pots. - 4 mini Caviar blends. - 3 exclusive Paint Pot glitter shades. Ciate Mini Mani at Nordstrom $58 (a $168 value).

5. Deep Steep Rosemary Mint All-Natural Bath Set. One of my favorite bath time indulgences. Now you can get this 3 piece set that includes bubble bath, body wash, and tingly, minty moisturizer under $30 at FragranceNet. Available in a variety of fragrant combinations.

6. Karl Lagerfeld for Shu Uemura - prestigious Bordeaux palette from the the Mon Shu Girl collection. This limited edition set includes five shadows and a blush. Rich colors selected by Karl Lagerfeld made in the high quality Shu Uemura is known for.  Available at Shu Uemura for $65.

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. What does this have to do with fashion? As fashion bloggers I believe we need to be aware of the messages we are sending to young girls about the importance of fashion. I’ve been writing for Style Envy for ten years. I also have a daughter in elementary school. My daughter knows how much I enjoy fashion and writing about it. My daughter also knows it is not the most important thing in my life. I think of it as a fun, creative way to express myself.

I am already noticing, and hearing about, young girls becoming aware of who is wearing what and earning elevated status by looking a certain way and wearing certain brands. Many brands worn by adult women are increasingly becoming wardrobe staples for elementary school girls. Let your children know that they are not the clothes they wear. Someone is not a cool person because they are wearing the latest trends nor is someone uncool because they are not. Teach them what to do if they are being bullied or see someone being bullied.

Bullying comes in many forms; physical, verbal, cyber, and social. Social bullying is harder to identify because it’s more subtle and many times happens behind the victims back. Social Bullying involves hurting someone’s reputation or relationships.

It can be anything from telling other children not to be friends with someone, leaving someone out on purpose, spreading rumors about someone or embarrassing someone in public. Social bullying can appear like a child is “joking around” only the recipient doesn’t feel that way.

As a child from a single parent household, I would have to wear the same top or pants to school several times a week. My mother made sure they were washed and pressed but in the minds of my classmates they were “dirty” because I had worn them several days earlier. Nora, who was a well-dressed girl from a wealthy family took a vested interest in what I was wearing. She would announce to the class that she was sick of seeing me wear my blue floral blouse, a blouse I really liked until that moment. She would later tell me she was only “joking” around. In reality she had set the stage for others to feel it was okay to judge me based on what I was or was not wearing. She never directly called me names or hit me but she did manage to make me feel like a social outcast among my classmates. When I was in my teens I developed a strong personal style, doing most of my shopping in thrift stores and Greenwich Village, NY. I was bullied again, this time for looking different. Through it all, I stayed true to myself. These experiences have taught me to take the impact of social bullying very seriously.

When my daughter told me a classmate told her that her boots were not the “real” designer brand, I sat down with her and pointed out all the wonderful qualities she has. Her boots will never be one of them, no matter what brand they are.

So many women have told me that they just don't have time in the morning to put on makeup. Some women wake up gorgeous and others feel comfortable au naturel. However, as we age our skin loses brightness, elasticity, even our facial features can change a bit. As you change throughout the years, your skincare and makeup essentials will change too. When I was a teenager I loved bold, sparkly shadows in colors like Blue Roses (a bright fuchsia-blue) and White Lightening (a frosted white with a blue tint). I have come to accept that those days are over, unless it’s Halloween.

I didn’t start wearing foundation or concealer until well into my thirties. I never liked how it felt on my skin. I never liked how it looked on anyone. When I was a little girl I remember my great aunt coming to visit and leaning down to kiss me. Her skin looked spackled and painted. The foundation, several shades lighter than her skin, settled into her lines making her look pale and old. Her face smelled like powder and stale perfume. I’ve since overcome my fear of foundation and have found the right products for me. 

Half the battle is figuring out what your skin needs, which colors/products work best for you, and how to enhance your best features. When you’ve got that down, the rest is easy. Product choice is very personal and depends on your brand preference and budget.  Here's how to create a natural day look you can do in 10-minutes or less.

Start with a strong silhouette as your canvas. This leather sheath dress with split neck detail is a modern, go-to piece you can dress up or down. Next define your personal style with a few bold or delicate accessories. I love pieces with interesting shapes or design elements. I styled this leather dress by adding an ankle boot with a futuristic vibe.

A leather dress is a bold statement and your shoes should be equal in impact. I selected the Gianvito Rossi Winged Pumps. They have an extended back and sides that frame your feet and mimic the neck opening in the dress. Made of soft, buttery, suede.

The Federica Rettore Zebu Horn Cuff is made of Zebu horn with 22.35ct of pink Kunzite and 1ct brown diamond, set in 18K rose gold. Stunning, and on my fantasy wishlist.

This geometric evening bag caught my eye in the October 2012 issue of Lucky Magazine. Kotur "Pearse" Gold and Black Minaudiere, available at shirise.com. It looks like it should be in an art museum.

You can find a leather or faux leather dress that fits your budget and create a look all your own.

I finally made an appointment with my colorist yesterday. I was holding out longer than usual because I liked the way the summer sun brightened the hair around my face. Under the salon lights my hair color looked much lighter, especially my ends which were almost brassy. I intended on having a touch up until my stylist suggested a Balayage (or hair painting).  Balayage is a French coloring technique that was developed in the 1970’s. The color is applied by hand, using a brush, instead of the usual foils. My main color is a warm chestnut reddish brown, with weeks of sun exposure it looked more like a bright new penny. The stylist applied the main color to my root area and used a paintbrush and a backing board to apply the rest of the color in sections throughout my hair. Why is Balayage better than highlights? My hair was already light enough. Using the Balayage technique to paint the darker, richer color on some areas of my hair created a natural low-light effect. Balayage can also be used to create a highlight effect. It added dimension to my overall color. It’s a low maintenance way of getting a natural depth to your hair. I am a big advocate of low maintenance when it comes to certain things like hair and nails. It’s also economical.  You don't get such a solid demarcation line during the regrowth phase and can wait longer between appointments. Fashion models and celebrities like Sarah Jessica Parker, Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, Erin Wasson and Gisele Bundchen are just some of the women embracing this look. Next time you’re due for a color touch up ask your stylist about the Balayage effect.

Fall has always been my favorite season. I remember when I was a little girl, the new school year brought promises of new clothes. I would look through magazines and come up with my versions of the styles I loved. My mother and I would go shopping together. When we got home, I would put all my new clothes out on the bed and create as many outfits as I could. It was so exciting! New clothes, never worn, waiting to be given a life and a history. We didn't have lots of money but I was determined to make the most of what I did have.  I learned from a very early age that you could make a few pieces go a long way with a little creative styling.

This Fall is all about opulence done in varying degrees. From jewel tones to jewel collars, brocade pants to leather dresses, a little bit of indulgence is all you need to update your look.  The silhouettes are strong while still keeping their femininity.  Keeping up with the latest fashion trends can  become overwhelming and costly. Always be true to yourself and your lifestyle. First do an inventory of the existing pieces you have in your closet. Pull out what you love and wear often.  Pick out 3-4 seasonal trends that will work with some of the clothing and accessories you already have.  I love cashmere sweaters.  I have a few.  I can easily wear a pair of winter white or leather pants with any of them, even dress one up with a jeweled collar.

Fall 2012 Style Essentials

The Collar The Peplum (on a skirt, jacket, or dress)

Lace Dresses

Leather - pants, skirts

Red red wine - anything in Chianti or Oxblood

Pointed Toe Pumps (with Prints) Brocade (skirt, dress or jacket)

Top Handle Bags - ladylike and structured

Winter White- looks amazing with a Chianti wool coat and printed pumps.

Cobalt - this color shows no signs of slowing down.

Brooches - Vintage or Vintage inspired with lots of sparkle. My Italian grandmother always wore one on the fur collar of her navy wool coat.

Mirrored Prints - seen mostly on skirts and dresses.

Jewel Tones - rich greens, teals, blues, and...Chianti.

Ankle Boots

Dark Florals

Equestrian

Embellishments

IFB (Independent Fashion Bloggers) and Uncommon came up with a fun challenge for fashion bloggers. "Channel your favorite FW 2012 trend into a phone case." I love art/design,photography, and fashion, so I couldn't resist.

My inspiration came from my love of old Hollywood glamour. pencil skirts, pumps, perfectly side-swept waves and crimson lips, mixed with a little bit of attitude and edge.

My favorite fall 2012 trends are leather, lace, and anything in wine (Chianti, oxblood, burgundy, - whatever designers are calling it today).  I love the idea of wearing leather in an unexpected color like Chianti with a softer trend like lace. Mixing textures creates a visual depth and richness. Combine a retro glamour piece like a lace pencil skirt or dress with a leather jacket, platform ankle boots, and a bold cuff. A bejeweled brooch with a retro vibe provides the perfect finishing touch to leather or lace.

I had a blast putting together my inspiration board for the Get Inspired-Be Uncommon contest at ifb. I played several roles; blogger, stylist, art director, and photographer. I had a very clear concept in mind and wanted to execute it using only images that I created and had the rights too. My phone case idea is to combine three textural elements to create a minaudiere or small clutch design. The phone case becomes an accessory. In this “case” I used my favorite fall 2012 trends - a faux Leather jacket in the color chianti as the base of the bag. A lace overlay pencil skirt - as the top flap of the bag and a vintage brooch as a clasp. The brooch provides an element of glamour, dimension, and sparkle. The placement and color of the leather, lace, and brooch design can be mixed on each case to create different looks.

I'm wearing the lace dress from the inspiration board. You can find it at H&M stores for $49.99, lace pencil skirt $39.99.
My inspiration - Laced with Wine & Leather.

With chic clothing, shoes, & accessories, Lulu*s is THE global destination for trendsetters.

Block shaped heels, color blocking, and rich jewel tones are big trends for Fall 2012. I found two great double blocked pumps in the color of the moment - Red Wine! The Delaney Haircalf Stacked Platform Pump in Oxblood (I rather call it "Merlot") is available at Ann Taylor for $228. The AVA Block Heel Pump available at Sole Society for $59.  AVA is made of suede with genuine leather piping. Shown in Chili Red with a Chianti colored heel.  I LOVE these!

The Lace Dress is a fall 2012 essential. The good news is that if you buy one in a neutral color and a classic silhouette, you can wear it forever. I love a simple cut. The pattern of the lace has enough of a design element to stand alone. I found two very similar dresses at Bloomingdale at two very different prices. Oh, and the less expensive one is hand washable too. Wear it with black pumps or throw on a cropped black blazer and black platform ankle boots and tights. You can even introduce a bold colored suede pump. These dresses are just the right length to wear with ballet flats too.

Robert Rodriquez Dress - Elbow Sleeve Lace Shift - $395.00 (with detachable nude slip).

Karen Kane Scallop Hem Lace Dress - with boat neck (one of my favorite necklines) and elbow sleeves. $108.00.

Vintage inspired bracelets, brooches, and collars are a great way to add glamour to your fall 2012 style.
Here are four bracelets finds from $10 - $180.

Little Miss Dollop -Vintage 50's Pink, Purple, and Blue Rhinestone Bracelet Designed by Husar D. This is a hinged clamper, with clustered multicolored rhinestones A great piece to add to your collection. $54. Find it on Etsy, of course.
Forever21 - Rhinestone flower star bracelet. A stretchy bracelet featuring star charms with rhinestone flower patterns. Etched trim. Antiqued finish. $10.80. Why not wear two? Find it at Forever21.
Marni - A balance of glamour and nature. Swarovski crystal- embellished jute and leather bracelet with wood disks. $180, (originally $327) Find it at The Outnet.
JCrew -JCrew -Crystal marquis bracelet.Ornate faceted crystals and stones with a vintage vibe. $115  Part of JCrew's new fall jewelry collection. Find it at JCrew.

Updating your look can be as simple as adding a few new accessories to your wardrobe. Of course a new bag and a pair of shoes can do wonders for your look but so can a few new pieces of jewelry, a scarf, or a pair of sunglasses. You don’t have to make a major investment to add a breath of freshness to your style. Before you go accessory shopping, determine the types of accessories that define your individual style. I’ve created a list of questions to answer to help you target a few key pieces that truly represent YOU.

• Which part of your body do you admire most or want to draw attention to?  (Don't forget your hair. Hair accessories can instantly change your look. Think loose tousled hair vs. smooth, straight and pulled back with a headband.
• What colors, textures, and fabrics do you love?
• Do you prefer gold or silver?
• Which gemstones work best with your skin tone and hair color?
• What is your overall style? Are you trendy, classic and timeless, retro, contemporary chic, casual and sporty, glamorous, edgy? or a combination?
• Are trends important to you? If you answered YES, determine which trend you must-have this season.
• Do you want something you can wear again and again? or would you rather buy a super-trendy item that will turn some heads today but might end up in the trash tomorrow?
• What is your budget?

I like my hands and wrists so I love a bold ring, interesting cuff or gemstone bracelet. I’ll never wear both on the same hand. Leather gloves are also one of my favorite accessories for fall/winter. Coach makes gorgeous gloves lined with cashmere. You can also find leather gloves at most department stores and sample sale sites such as Gilt Groupe, Ideeli, Hautelook, and Rue La La.

I love a single gold chain with a gemstone pendant that falls in the indentation at the enter of my collar bones. Open link necklaces that give me the option of wearing them long or doubled up are a versatile addition to my accessory collection. I prefer light, delicate earrings with a strong focal point. They can be small or large but they must be light. Etsy is a great place to find unique accessories and support independent designers. I found a beautiful blue, hand-painted silk scarf by Gilbea, a talented designer from Pamplona, Spain. I can wear it with almost anything and it's a one-of-a-kind piece for under $60.

When shopping for accessories (or anything fashion related), the most important thing is to know what you love and why you love it.

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