"I have close to four hundred blogs on my Google Reader."

[gender.female]

[location.canada]

Any current fashion cravings?

"For fall, I've fallen in love with rich, 70's jewel tones. I really like amber and rust paired with nubby knits. I am also loving the ‘return’ of neutrals. I'm usually more of a brights kind of girl, but I like the refined direction a lot of stores and design houses are going in.”

What are your wardrobe staples?

"You will always find me in either a dress (most likely patterned and thrifted) or a skirt/shirt combination. A couple of staples in my wardrobe right now are a Urban Renewal (from Urban Outfitters) trench coat that I got on sale the end of last spring. Since moving to the city (and giving up my car...aka walking everywhere) I have been in love with wedges and flat shoes. I've got orange suede wedges from H&M in heavy rotation, and a pair of lace-less black and white oxfords that I am wearing with everything! Oh, and I have a thing for old leather belts; I've got several.”

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

"My biggest source of inspiration is other bloggers! I have close to four hundred blogs on my Google Reader and I'm always looking for more amazing dressers. The internet is an infinite source of well executed (and well documented) outfits, and I usually come away feeling really inspired after reading all my favourites. Magazines have also been a source of inspiration, my favourite (and I've read a lot) is hands down Lula Magazine. It is the perfect amount of sweet whimsy and coy sassiness. I love it and cherish each issue I own.”

Best compliment ever received on your style?

"Any time someone comments on my blog or an outfit in real life, it is a huge compliment. My favourite compliment so far would probably be Hannah from Hannah and Landon telling me she ‘really liked my dress’ when I was in NYC during the spring for Chictopia's Fashion Week event! I adore her blog and her style (she's in my top five), so it was quite surprising to hear that she liked something I was wearing!”

Worst thing you've ever worn?

"It's a tossup between tight, stretch beige flare trousers and a pair of unfortunate pink capris. Both were extremely unflattering and to this day I am puzzled as to why my fourteen year old self thought they were a good idea. They weren't.”

Anything Else?

"My website is Style is Style."

For the style conscious lady, skirts are perfect for experimenting with different looks above the waist. Opting for a timeless oxford shirt in ivory like our beautiful nista’s opening outfit is a great choice. The pleating adds a peppery, unconventional edge to this classic work wear blouse; whereas tucking it in exudes a trim and dapper vibe. Covering her crown is a charming wide brim straw hat, which provides an extra edge to her ensemble. Beneath the belt, the enchanting floral print skirt in indigo, lilac, and bone is ever versatile and always in season. Naturally, where would any outfit be without some killer footwear and a fab purse? This lovely nista does not disappoint. Her scarlet peep toe cutout wedges reveal just enough skin, making these sexy shoes daytime appropriate. Plus, a chic cognac bag is sure to store all her must have career basics and is effortlessly translatable to evening.

Wearing pants is sure to be an afterthought upon viewing our gorgeous nista’s next ensemble. Her sapphire A-line skirt gives way to a vintage vibe via a polka dot design throughout the garment, plus the mustard rope belt is ideal for a minimalist aesthetic. Pairing this leg exposing garment with a black and white horizontal stripped shirt toughens up this whimsical look as the cream lace cardigan works great as a top layer. To complete this garb, her feet get a treat with those ebony strappy pumps –always a style staple in any fashionista’s wardrobe. Plus, those adorable ruffle socks prove they can be as cool as their over the knee counterparts.

The classic appeal of a skirt comes to life in our nista’s final look. This plaid A line number is the embodiment of effortless sophistication while her hunter green cardigan offers a chic understated look. Layering with a white chunky scarf keep her stylish yet warm on chilly mornings. Slipping on one of fashion’s favorite garments –sable tights, along with black lace up ankle boots, ideal for stomping around the streets or hustling off to work, not only keeps our nista cool, but the monochromatic vibe adds mucho length to her legs.

Thanks to Wangari from ----->Queen of my Playground for recommending this fab stylista!

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"I'm sitting in my Property Law class wearing them right now!"

[gender.female]

[location.australia]

What was your most recent fashion related purchase?

"My latest purchase is a stunning full length, backless vintage sparkly gown. It’s the most amazing vintage piece I have ever laid my hands upon. I spotted it last week but it was a bit pricey. I went back the next week and luckily for me it was half price! I was so grateful that nobody snatched it up yet. I can’t wait to take photos and share it on my blog! Along with the dress, I also picked up a vintage black felt wide brim hat for $9.00. When I saw it, I knew I had to have it. It's right on trend and didn’t cost me a fortune. The kind of things I find in thrift stores never cease to amaze me. Fashion truly does repeat itself, but not always in the most obvious way.”

Best compliment received on your style?

"The best style compliment I have ever received was on my birthday this year. I'm a self taught sewer, so I made my own birthday dress inspired by Alexis Mabille's two toned dresses in her Haute Couture 2010 show. Everyone loved the dress. Receiving compliments for something you actually made yourself is always just a little bit more special. I feel incredibly special when friends see the clothes I have made and ask me to make them things too or dress them!”

If you could only wear one pair of shoes next year, what would they be?

"It must be my new pair of vintage Justin Ropers! Living in Australia, top quality vintage cowboy boots are hard to come by, so when I snapped these up on eBay for $11.00, I was thrilled! I absolutely love them. In fact, I'm sitting in my Property Law class wearing them right now!”

What is the most common fashion mistake in your city?

"When I roam around town, it becomes quite apparent that everyone likes to dress the same. I see the same shirt from the same shop on four different people within ten minutes. Not being brave enough to step outside the square (and possibly face a few strange stares) is the biggest mistake.”

What advice would you give to someone wanting to be more fashionable?

"Don’t buy clothes simply based on the brand! I always hear people say something to the effect of 'oh but its [insert high end fashion label here].' That to me means nothing if it looks hideous! Buy for your shape and style and forget the label. It’s very easy these days to spend very little money on items that are quality.”

Anything Else?

"I run my own online vintage store, LADYMAPLE VINTAGE featuring beautiful one of vintage pieces. I’m always collecting. At the moment, all the vintage from my store is sourced locally. However, next year I will be making my way to Canada and Paris to collect many wonderful items!"

You can visit me here:

La Petite Fembot:
La Petite Fembot
Lookbook.nu La Petite Fembot
Facebook.com La Petite Fembot

LadyMaple Vintage:
eBay LadyMaple Vintage
Facebook LadyMaple Vintage.

Want to stand out in the style crowd? Then vintage attire is sure to satisfy your sartorial appetite. Since fashion is cyclical, it’s easy to get your hands on cool clothes from the past just like today’s fabulous nista.

Pretty in pink, our nista is wearing a sheer vintage dress that creates maximum flirt factor. The delicate ivory polka dots add a dose of attitude and texture to this fanciful look and the mock belt gives mucho definition to the waist. Pairing this elegant garment from yesteryear with a modern black suede ankle boot and pewter socks makes for the perfect classic-meets-current combo. Take a little inspiration from this nista, it’s best to balance retro inspired apparel with chic, up to date pieces like her dazzling footwear. The collection of cream pearl necklaces and matching shank buttons keep it clean and sleek, while the puffed sleeves are perfect for evoking a whimsical, old-fashioned vibe.

In her second wardrobe selection, our lovely nista wraps herself in vintage goodness with this voluminous purple dress nipped in slightly at the waist. The never ending, soft, circular detailing transports this seasoned get-up into more refined and urbane territory. Below the waist, her suede ebony side zip booties and accompanying charcoal socks change the character of this outfit in a flash. Finally, this retro inspired look is nothing without her braided headband and oversized circular rings in salmon and silver. It’s the perfect finishing touch, while not detracting from the main focus -her stellar retro ensemble.

If the idea of slipping into a pair of hand me down jeans or used saddles shoes leaves a sour taste in your sartorial palette, opt for pieces with vintage inspired details, like a delightful paisley dress or even a chic highwaisted skirt.

Do you like to wear vintage pieces?

Where are some great places to get retro inspired clothes in your area?

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"I fear I'll become addicted!"

[gender.female]

[location.united states]

What is your most memorable fashion moment?

"My memorable fashion moments are often times when I have to get dressed in a quickie and put together a fashion master piece, so comfortable and so chic, that I could've never created it the night before! I’m always so impressed at my ability to do that!"

Does your interest in fashion extend to other areas of your life?

"If you are asking do I desire someday to be in the fashion industry –a designer, a model, etc … definitely not! I just love clothes and shopping! I love to have clothes in excess, I hate being that person who looks in their closet and can never find anything to wear! Following trends is just a hobby of mine, obviously not a very healthy one; I fear I'll become addicted!"

What do you do when your clothes don’t fit?

"I love it when I’m swimming in my tops; I guess it gives an illusion that I’m slimmer than I really am! My favorite thing to do with big clothing is to cinch it up with a belt, for a more put together look or to let it hang loose, which creates a more care free and cool look! I almost never buy bottoms where the waist lines are big, but I love loose fitted pants like sweats and harems."

What things do you look for when buying quality items?

"I can’t always tell off the bat whether the materials or clothing that I purchase are of good quality, but after a wash or so it becomes obvious. I wish I could say the more expensive an article, the better the quality, but that’s not true in all cases!! However an article that is flimsy as oppose to sturdy is probably not worth getting, chances are it will shrink or look old after just one wash! Clothing with loose threads is also a sign of cheaply manufactured products. I’m not against non quality articles; honestly I buy quality and non quality. Recognizing when a product is not of quality and applying the gentle care that it needs in order to sustain it is key to buying non quality clothing!"

Favorite type of shoe?

"My favorite type of shoes I would have to say are shoes with thick heels, thick platforms, and wedges [whether boots, sandals, sling backs, peep toes, etc]. I find them to be more manageable and comfortable since I’m an amateur when it comes to walking in heels. Shoes with thick platforms are just the absolute BEST, because they give an illusion that the shoes are really high, but in reality the in-step is not so steep and so you often get sexy but comfortable!"

Two great ways to flaunt your legs this fall

Think you can only show your gams on warmer days? Think again. Don’t shove those cute summer dresses into the back of your closet just yet. Autumn is the perfect time of year to highlight your lower limbs. In the second installment of our Transitioning to Fall series, we turn our attention to leg wear options for the upcoming season. From textured tights to form fitting leggings and highly saturated stockings, fall hosiery offers a multitude of ways to express your stylish side.

How to wear tights

For our beautiful nista’s first sartorial selection, her textured ebony lace tights are the highlight of this stunning ensemble; while the upper portion of the look –a two tiered solid black skirt, checkered peacock blue blouse, and chunky floral necklace, are relatively simple pieces. As this nista proves, basic is best when pairing garments with textured tights. Opt for a flirty monochromatic dress in burgundy or an unadorned ivory silk blouse with your ornate hosiery. As always, keep your size in mind while venturing into textured stocking territory. Petite nistas, lean toward tinier patterns that compliment a smaller frame; while bigger patterns aptly compliment larger nistas.

If textured tights are not your thing, try an explosion of color. While donning a neutral shirt or skirt, spice up your outfit with hues traditionally associated with the season –plum, orange, mustard, and olive. On the other hand, go for caramel, sable, or charcoal stems when sporting color on top.

How to wear leggings

Let’s focus on our glamorous nista’s second look, in which she sports another fall leg wear staple –leggings. A casual item back on the style radar, these hip huggers present a smorgasbord of sartorial options. However, balance is key to making it work. As this nista so fashionably proves with her olive cardigan, skin-tight leggings look best with long and loose tops that cover the derrière; so save the snug shirts for another ensemble. Of course, no chic outfit is complete without a killer shoe; today’s nista does not disappoint in this arena. Tucking her leggings into a comfy pair of chestnut lace up booties provides a relaxed yet modish vibe, perfect for the busy stylista on the go. Instead of boots, you can team your body-hugging trousers with some charming flats or even a simple pump.

Will you wear tights this fall?

Are leggings apart of your wardrobe this season?

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"Dress for yourself."

[gender.female]

[location.france]

How did you learn to walk in high heels?

"I learned to walk in high heels alone and by watching my mother because she wears high heels all the time!!!”

Favorite fashion rule you love to break?

"My favorite fashion rule that I love to break is maybe to wear a spring bonnet in the summer or to wear a long shirt like a dress with a belt, I guess."

Who are your style icons?

"My style icons are Grace Jones -her style is very timeless; the Olsen sisters, because they mix vintage clothes very well; Agyness Deyn, Kate Moss, and Erin Wasson because these three models have her own style –cool and chic; and I like Kanye West’s style too."

Can you describe your personal style in five words or less?

"My personal style in five words: cool, comfortable, chic, original, and creative. I think the most important thing in fashion is to make your own thing and to create your own personal style (if you want to cut a shirt or a tee, do it). Fashion is feelings, emotions, and personality. Dress for yourself."

Anything else?

"I have a blog: dominique-ernest.blogspot.com there is
fashion, music, my style (what I wear)... go and see!!"

XX Dominique

Today’s marvelous nista introduces the concept of casual chic, an effortless approach to fashion that brilliantly integrates several items –all at various price points, into one show stopping ensemble. Its cool and urbane nature is perfect for a quick weekend brunch or even a fun day of shopping with the girlfriends.

The foundation of this relaxed yet sophisticated look is her comfy white cotton Yves Saint Laurent T-shirt and form fitting sky blue denim jeans; two universal wardrobe basics perfect for evoking the casual mood. Layering the ensemble with a hooded ivory jacket further contributes to the nonchalant tone. By contrasting those relatively affordable pieces with a luxurious black leather handbag and accompanying knee high boots, she add the elegance necessary to fully evoke the casual chic persona.

What items do you wear to create a casual chic look?

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"I personally think the little black dress is overrated!"

[gender.female]

[location.united states]

What's the number one thing a woman should have in her closet?

"A dress that reflects her personality. Not necessarily black. I personally think the little black dress is overrated."

What is your personal style philosophy?

"I honestly don't consider myself stylish. How I dress, do my hair and makeup, and what not is more of a reflection of my way of thinking and current artistic endeavors. I do have a vivid mind, so I like to experiment with fabrics, materials, paint etc...but then again, I do think style is dressing as you feel fits your personality best. So maybe I am stylish after all!"

What one item takes up the most room in your closet?

"Dresses. I have so many dresses..and jackets…and shoes…and vintage bags."

Would you rather dress up or down?

"I rather dress up than down, will never be a label whore, and damn it have fun with it!"

Anything Else?

"I just wrapped up my new fall 2010 jewelry collection, which won't be in stores for a few months, but we are taking inquiries and will keep you informed when it becomes available to the public. Until then have fun with our reworked vintage one of a kind, and original designs on http://www.rue107. Thank you so much for the support!"

Today’s adorable nista offers a great lesson on the many ways to wear a belt. No longer a tool used solely to keep pants in place, modern belts offer a punch of versatility and originality –in addition to loads of style. Every fashion plate must invest in a collection of belts. From thick to thin or luscious leather to sweet satin, a belt is the finishing touch to many an outfit. Can’t dish out the dough to boost your belting wardrobe? No problem, besides being an affordable outlet, thrift stores are a great resource to find everything from retro to contemporary styles.

Cinch the waist

Using a belt to cinch in the waist is a classic way to incorporate this versatile accessory into your everyday apparel. It not only draws the eye to your midsection, but offers an instant slimming effect by highlighting the trimmest part of your figure. Let’s turn our attention to Ms. Nista’s first ensemble. Wearing a daring look, perfect for a night on the town, she grabs a neutral belt to execute this fashion technique perfectly. Her pencil thin cincher is doing double duty, not only perfectly nipping the waist, but also tightly securing her barely there wing tipped floral vest. The lower half of the outfit consists of a leopard print corseted pencil skirt accented by burgundy pumps. Now I know what you’re thinking, “She’s wearing TWO different patterns.” In a previous post I commented on the ways to effectively don prints. However, if you insist on being a fashion rebel, take a cue from our stylish lady and balance out the divergent fabrics with some skin. The key is to not wear print from HEAD TO TOE. Showing your shapely legs or amazing arms is crucial to making this look work. Finally, the pillbox hat with shades of tan, plum, and burgundy add a charming and delightful finishing touch to this winning ensemble.

Bring up the waist

Going for a long and lean look? Hiking up your belt is an ideal way to make your fabulous legs seem a mile long. Donning a pair of plum pants held up by a bright and delicate apple belt, our fearless fashionista’s second ensemble provides the illusion of a high natural waist. Her shirt –a vertical black and white stripe confection, also adds to the ensemble’s overall lengthening effect. When selecting the precise blouse to compliment your lofty attire, choose a piece that is effortlessly tucked in. A form fitting body suit or shirt made of a smooth fabric like silk is best.


Alter fit

Transforming a large garment, into a modish outfit is easy with the help of a stylish belt. For her final outfit, our nista takes an oversized red and mustard V-neck geometric print dress with mucho potential, grabs a chocolate belt and –voila; instant retro chic! Again, the position of the belt, in this case on her hips, aids in elongating the body and slimming the silhouette. She tops this sartorial selection off with a pair of cute ivory boots, a gang of gold chains, and a delightful black hat.

How do you use belts to enhance your wardrobe?

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Some days, I have several outfit changes just because my mood changes....

[gender.female]

[location.united states]

Where do you reside?

"I live in the U.S., in a small city in Michigan. I'm originally from Ohio but go to school for graphic design and photography here in Michigan."

When did your unique style start to develop?

"My style started to develop a little over 2 years ago when I first started thrifting. My sister and I used to go several times a week and after a while the things I started looking for began to change. I used to go the thrift store looking for a pair of "black pants" or a "white sweater" and over time I realized all the gems I was missing out on were unique pieces that were slightly quirky and a bit outrageous. I started buying items like these and realized how much they inspire me. My style further evolved when I started to see the way I dress as another form of self-expression. Some days, I have several outfit changes just because my mood changes throughout the day. Some days certain colors and proportions just feel right!

This turning point in my style occurred right about the time I began to start taking my photography seriously and developing my own style of art. I think often times my whole style aesthetic, taste in photography, and graphic design work all resemble each other in the sense of being slightly quirky and using similar color choices."

Fashion rule you love to break?

"A fashion rule I love to break is buying and wearing clothes that aren't my size. Often times I love purchasing things a size or two too big and being able to swim in it. Overblown proportions are something that people often miss out on because they are usually so caught up on fit. While the fit is important, there's a whole other realm of possibilities that come with clothes that aren't the correct size. I generally think this is more effective if something large is worm with some article of clothing that is fitted and retains some shape.

Another fashion rule that I tend to break is combining a mass amount of colors and prints into one look. Sometimes I'm not really concerned if they technically "go together" but it's more based on the mood I'm trying to convey. Some days I'm feeling a bit wacky and energized and wearing lots of prints/colors portrays that well visually."

Do you enjoy the looks and attention that come with standing out in the crowd?

"It's always a love-hate relationship between the attention I receive when it comes to my attire. In bigger cities, I don't get much attention but my school is located in a small city in Michigan that isn't exactly known for its extreme class, so the stares come in hoards. I enjoy it because it's a sign that I differ from the average Jane walking around in the supermarket; yet at the same time I wish I wasn't the only one in this area who seems to care about their clothing style in a more creative fashion. It's nice though, I get a lot of smiles and compliments which can boost your day a bit."

Can you recall the least amount of money you spent on something that was really a true gem?

"Most of my clothes I get from Goodwill, which means there are quitea few gems I've found that I bought for basically nothing. Probably the latest gem I've purchased was a silk floral dress from a vintagestore owned by a friend. I ended up only paying $6 for it because Iknow the owner; otherwise it would have been a little out of my poorcollege student budget. The dress just fits so beautifully on thefigure. It drapes and hangs in all the right places. Plus, anytime I wear it, it makes me excited for spring."

Anything Else?

I hope new readers will check out my blog http://11.acesaura.com/ and be on the look out for a new site of mine where I'll incorporatemy own poetry and photography. It should be up within the next monthor so. I'm extremely excited about it! I'm quite a fan of written language and I'm pumped to share mine with the world for the first time. I'll just leave you with a quote by my favorite photographer that makes me think. It's said in the context of photography but can be applied to all other applications of art and style:

“To say a photographer has a vision is to say the photographer has something unique to say to about the world. Why do some photographers have something unique to say, when so many others just shoot pictures that are general and lacking vision? Most people would say it has to do with talent. Maybe. But maybe not. Maybe it has nothing to do with talent. Maybe it has to do with the ability to express one’s feelings. The person who presents a strong vision has figured out a way to express his or her feelings, while others are struggling to do that. Talent, then, becomes not so much artistic talent, though that may be a good part of it, but rather emotional talent.”- Rodney Smith.

This charming nista exemplifies how a few simple modifications can provide instant drama to any outfit.

In her first look she pairs a basic black shirt and skinny cuffed jeans – two articles of clothing leaning more towards the common rather than colorful side, with a floor length sheer sable cape. The elongated garment adds a quick punch of panache to her overall persona; while her delicious two toned wedges and classic belt further compliment the ensemble.

For our nista’s second sartorial selection she dons a traditional black blazer with unique and fashionable flair. The gold studs on the jacket’s trim immediately catch your eye. Teamed with a white t-shirt and the proverbial denim jeans, she comfortably transforms fundamental wardrobe staples into a head turning masterpiece.

How do you add drama to your outfits?

How do you deal with the attention received from your daily attire?

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