Showing posts with label socks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label socks. Show all posts

9.29.2010

"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!







9.28.2010

"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?






9.27.2010

"Too many shoes? I'm not sure I understand the question..."

[gender.female]
[location.united states]


What’s your advice for someone trying to define their style?


"It's tempting to want to define things because that makes it easy to categorize, but I don't think it's necessary to ‘define’ your style. I wear lots of things that don't necessarily fit into a certain definition (rock chic, femme, etc.), so my advice is to wear whatever you like whenever you like! Having said that, it is helpful to have a clear idea of the type of clothing you tend to be drawn to, so I usually advise people to find images of items they like and look for common themes. Are you attracted to a certain silhouette or color or print? Figure that out and keep those things in mind when shopping or getting dressed.”


Tell us about an ensemble you regret wearing.

"Hmm...I don't really regret wearing any one specific outfit (jams shorts and push-down socks were in style then, okay?), but I usually regret dressing to suit someone else's expectation of the way I should look, or trying to make myself feel better by dressing up--that almost never works.”

Do you ever go out without accessories?

"No! I always wear earrings. I mean always –and a watch. I think the earring thing is due to my mom --she'll change her earrings just to go to bed! The watch is a control issue; I always need to know what time it is, even when I'm running late (approximately 70% of the time).”

What is your personal style philosophy?

"I dress to suit my mood and I always want to feel like what I'm wearing complements and expresses who I am --even if ‘who I am’ evolves and changes regularly. That's my personal style philosophy, too: dress how you feel and you'll always look great!”


How many pairs of shoes do you own?

" I probably own about seventy pairs, including boots and sandals. Too many shoes? I'm not sure I understand the question....”

Anything Else?

"I'm the editor of Style Sample Magazine a magazine by, for, and about fashion bloggers--you should check it out! There's always lots of great information online and in the magazine--fashion, shopping, designers, photography, illustration, blogging advice--I'd love for you to visit!”



Today we will explore one of the signature color combinations in all of fashion –black and white. Earlier we discussed wearing this duo separately here and here, now it’s time to turn our attention to the myriad of style possibilities unleashed as these two classic hues merge.

In her first look, our lovely nista takes this ultra hot color combo to the next level. Sporting an elegant cream mini dress with contrasting ebony over the knee socks, she’s sure to register on the style radar. Forget those thigh high boots; as this nista shows, towering socks are where it’s at. She rounds out this contrasting color outfit with several chic, multihued accessories. The voluminous coffee shawl draped around her décolleté makes a dramatic sartorial statement, while those adorable cognac ankle strap heels leave an especially memorable impression. Finalizing this get up, the super trendy striped belt effortlessly cinches her waist and the espresso clutch is just right for a romantic evening with the beau.

Our beautiful nista’s second pick proves exclusively wearing this opposing color couple above the waist still gives oodles of panache. Her vertical striped black and white tank is a great addition to any wardrobe. Wear it for an understated look on a muggy day like this nista or vogue it out in fabulous layers on a crisp autumn morning. Merging the banded shirt with a dazzling high waisted flower-patterned skirt is sure to make any woman feel extra glamorous. Completing this ensemble, we spy strappy black heels –fashionable for any occasion and a sensational oversized belt, which looks right day or night.

In her final ensemble, this nista demonstrates black and white make a powerful visual statement. Sporting a cropped ivory blazer equip with exaggerated shoulders reminiscent of another era, she tempers it with an urbane pair of sable pencil pants. Continuing the theme of contrast echoed throughout this look, the slim fitting trousers beautifully offset her inflated upper sleeves; as the slender two-tone belt not only adds definition to her figure, but also reinforces the devastatingly sharp color scheme. Topping everything off with a pair of snakeskin stilettos, this winning combination will seamlessly take her from the desk to dinner.


Do you enjoy pairing black and white?
What are your favorite color combinations?







9.20.2010

"There is a thin line between inspiration and duplication."

[gender.female]
[location.united states]


What’s different about your style?

"My creativity with my clothing, I play around a lot with them. I’m very experimental and sometimes daring. I have a lot of D.I.Y. pieces. I love vintage pieces. I can go from girly to punk rock. My style is non-structural. There really isn’t a word I can find to describe my style, but just like the song says, I’m Every Woman, it’s All In Me.”

Do you let others borrow your clothing?


"Yes, but only a chosen few, such as my sister and cousin. Most friends have disappointed me by not returning them or not giving them back in the condition they were loaned.”

Favorite way to wear a scarf?

"I actually have three ways that I like to wear my scarves: the classic loop, the belted look, and the side bow.”


Do you enjoy shopping in your own closet?

"I do, but wish I’d do it more often. Sometimes I buy stuff that I don’t even remember until I go back and realize it was there all along; a pleasant surprise! Yet, as a business owner, I’m always on the go, so I usually find it easier to run to the mall and grab something. Sick right? I know.”


Someone copies your look. How do you respond?

"Well, I believe that there is a thin line between inspiration and duplication. I put myself out there to inspire others just like I’ve been inspired. I don’t mind being copied or the source of one’s inspiration, but I do feel you should add your own flair to it!”


No longer content with simply rounding out an ensemble; now more than ever, shoes are creating a bold standalone statement –one stylish step at a time. As today’s gorgeous nista illustrates, it’s time to toss dull footwear in the closet; instead slip on an eye popping impact shoe. Treat your feet to a pewter ankle boot wrapped in a gang of flashy zippers, chunky wedges with a slew of syrupy bows, or a cute peep toe covered in sequins galore.

For this nista’s first wardrobe pick, that skyscraping heel with a charming peep toe and sleek cutouts along the arch provide an enticing and sensual flair. As well, the feisty animal print makes a dramatic impression. All dedicated nistas understand, items with accents like zebra or leopard fundamentally do not match with anything, thus the style possibilities are endless. Pairing the stilettos with a simple hip hugging black pencil skirt and multicolored tie up sleeveless blouse is the perfect way to top off this stellar look.

In a previous interview, a stylista laments about not being able to make the oh so trendy socks with stilettos look work for her. Well, today’s nista effortlessly pulls the fad off with towering coffee hued heels and pale ankle socks. The darkness of her strappy shoes beautifully contrasts against those light toe warmers; providing an instant highlight to her feet. As our nista demonstrates, this stellar tootsie combo is versatile; she teams it up with a cute floral patterned skirt, simple black tank top, and slender coffee belt in one instance, then slips on a romantic pleated snowy dress and chic ebony belt in another.


How do you like to wear statement shoes?




9.08.2010

"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?




8.23.2010

"How can anything look good & fashionable if it doesn't fit well?"

[gender.female]
[location.germany]


What clothing stores would you like to see in your town?

"I wish I had a TopShop in town. I hate ordering online because I like to see how clothes fit me. Some things look different on different people.”


Can fashion be affordable?

"Yes, I think fashion can be affordable. If you keep your eyes open, you can find very cool pieces at H&M or Zara. That is what I do most of the time. Another good tip: Shops of young designers. They sell very fashionable clothes for little money. If you are in Munich, Germany, I suggest Machima."


Is fit important when it comes to fashion?

"Of course it is. How can anything look good and fashionable if it doesn't fit well?"


Talk about your first-ever "aha" fashion moment?

"I tried to find it but I can't remember. But I recall my last one. I'm so into shoes… so when I saw these creamy plateau boots at Zara that was really an "AHA" moment for me."

This lovely nista exemplifies the importance of fit in making an ensemble work. Donning a stunning gold buckled belt with chain detailing to cinch in the waist turns an otherwise oversized garment into a svelte and slinky summer must have. The pewter knee highs matched with her short chocolate tresses add a coquettish flair. In a daring move, she topped the outfit off with a charming grey wedge bootie wrapped in suede –a fabric customarily worn during the more blistery months. However, her elegance and confidence make it work!

The second outfit with its bold and vibrant floral pattern exudes a lighthearted and playful flair; the perfect look for those easy breezy summer days. In a quandary over what to wear when it’s warm? Slip on a dress. As this nista demonstrates, it’s effortless and elegant. Missed your pedicure appointment? Don’t fret. Grab a pair of cute wedge booties, like the ones above and casual observers will be none the wiser.

Check her out at