Fashion Pulse Daily » Fashion Pulse Stylist

What to Wear: Thanksgiving at Your Boyfriend’s

FashionPulseAlana — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 12:12:35 +0000

[Image from FreeWallpapers.com]

So, you’ve scored the invite to celebrate Thanksgiving this year with your boyfriend and his family. With the excitement and anxiety that comes with the invite also comes the dilemma of what to wear. You want to look classic, feel comfortable, and exude confidence all the while wowing them. At FPD, we solved the dilemma of getting dressed by offering a few options to help you look your best, so you can focus on baking the most delicious pumpkin pie they’ve ever tasted!

[Shoshanna Turtleneck Sweater Dress $375, Funktional Knit Dress with Silk Back $125, Ella Moss Evie Sweater Dress $242 all via Shopbop.com]

The Dress

You can truly wear a dress to almost any event. Sheath dresses are timeless and reliable. Remember to steer clear of of ones too short and too tight! Save that for the club, not the “meet the parents” moment. For fall, we favor a sweater dress or a shirtdress with tights. Determine whether or not the affair is normally casual or more formal to decipher between heels, wedges, flats, or flat boots.

[DVF Panel Marta Skirt $147, Rachel Roy Lurex Striped Pencil Skirt $208.60 McQ Alexander McQueen Contour Skirt $325 all via Shopbop.com]

The Skirt

Much like a dress, a skirt can say formal, but not over-the-top. With so many pencil varieties and mid-length skirts, it’s easy to find a look that showcases the best you. Again, avoid the mini! Mini skirts scream wild, party girl.

[Look 1: Hacking Jacket in Herringbone $198, Suzette Blouse $128, High-Waisted Skinny Jean $125, Marceau Hobo $278, Mona Suede Pumps $198, Look 2: Honeycomb Cable Sweater $79.50, Stretch Perfect Shirt $69.50, Cafe Capri in Wool $118, Look 3: Double Cloth Chesapeake Coat $398, Merino Turtleneck Sweater $69.50, Matchstick Jean in Overdyed Denim Black $79.99, Biennial Satchel $348, Darby Glitter Loafers $215, All 3 looks via JCrew.com]

The Pants

If you’re more casual, there are certainly plenty of pants options. We recommend avoiding jeans, unless they are a darker wash. Basic black never fails, but dress pants come in all colors now from camel to red to tweed. Nonetheless, dress your pants up with a blazer, a nice sweater, or a pretty blouse. Remember, we all tend to overeat on this holiday, so make sure your ensemble leaves enough room to be forgiving.

[Nadine Structured Bag, $42.95, HandbagHeaven.com; Mineral Deposit Necklace, $64.99, ModCloth.com]

The Accessories

Having one or two gorgeous accessories can transform an outfit (like the J.Crew purses or pumps above), plus offer a conversation starter! A necklace or a structured bag can absolutely pull an outfit together. Word of caution: don’t overdo it! This is not the time to be super trendy; let your personality be the focal point, but of course, don’t be afraid of a stylish accessory being a conversation starter.

A key thing to remember: When you feel good about yourself, it shows.

-Alana Quagliariello

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New York Fashion Week: Nicole Miller Spring 2011

fashionpulse — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 02:33:27 +0000

[Images via Elle.com]

Nicole Miller’s Spring 2011 Collection was in two words, effortlessly elegant, just as we expected. While the broad-shouldered jackets gave her collection an exciting edge, the silk and chiffon fabrics in delicate neutrals created an airiness that was so quintessentially “Nicole.” The subtle details made each garment feel sexy and chic, while pleats, sequins, and dangling strips of fabric were used in fresh, innovative ways, and gradient hues enhanced the artfully arranged fabrications. The layering and draping of the flowing material was truly breathtaking, giving the collection a majestic charm.

-Claire Schmidt

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Outfit of the Day: Favorite Girl! (Post From Felicia Sullivan)

fashionpulse — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 08:18:40 +0000

From my fabulous friend Felicia Sullivan comes this wonderful post and photo she took of me last week after the Tiffany 2010 Collection Preview. Some people just ‘get me,’ no explanation necessary — Felicia is one of those people. Plus, she has an incredible blog that you should check out if you haven’t already!

There are few that truly embody the word kind. These are the sort who don’t have an agenda, who are generous with their heart and friendship. A rare breed, but worthy saving once captured. My dear friend, Julia DiNardo, is that person. Designer of the epic squirrel tee, proprietor of a fab fashion blog, and collector of whiplash-inducing accessories, Julia is one of the more selfless and genuine people I’m privileged to know.

Julia’s fashion sense, which is eclectic and quirky with a little classic vintage thrown in for good measure, always awes me. After a Tiffany event this week, I couldn’t help but ask her to pop, drop, and roll for the camera. Because she is that magical.

Dress: Norma Kamali for Wal-Mart (yes!!)
Shoes: Calvin Klein
Left Hand, ring: Sorrelli
Right Hand, ring: vintage, from my fabulous Aunt Bunny
Bag: Magnes Sisters Dry Martini Clutch
Necklace: vintage, also from the aforementioned Aunt Bunny

FPD Flats to Go Picks

fashionpulse — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 08:14:37 +0000

Functional, versatile footwear is on the rise — shoes that in an instant can be pulled from your handbag to give you relief from those 4.5 inch stilettos are all the rage these days. We tested a handful of them, and here are our top picks:

[Picture via Flocdesigns.com]

Pocketflops are the fabulous new foldable flip flop designed out of recycled tire rubber, and organic cotton, making them an ecofriendly shoe solution for the woman on the go.We love that they fold in half, and when you wear them, you can’t feel, or see, that they fold downward (you can trust us, we tested them!)

[Pictures via Fabbys.com]

Fabbys are a unique twist on the classic ballet flats that roll up to a compact size and come in a chic velvet pouch.

[Picture via Cityslips.com]

Both convenient and comfortable, CitySlips foldable ballet flats are the perfect backup shoe to carry along to any high heeled event. Not only are they functional and affordable, these shoes will definitely come in handy on those long city walks back to your apartment after a night out in strappy stilettos.

[Picture via Fitinclouds.com]

Fit in Clouds are portable flats with a thick rubber sole that provides support and comfort, so when your feet are sore, you can feel as if you are walking on clouds!

FootzyRolls (come on, don’t you love the name?) are rollable flats that have a water proof and skid proof sole, with the upper made from a PU that you can easily wipe and clean!

-Claire Schmidt

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Spring Splurge: Ferragamo Spiffy Jelly Ballet Flats, $140

fashionpulse — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 08:38:17 +0000

[Image via InStyle.com]

You may associate the brand with chic scarves, luxury-leather totes, or shoes adorned with the signature bow tie, – or with sure-to-please-daddy-on-his-birthday-ties always wrapped to induce oohs and aahs. This spring, Ferrgamo skews younger with a jelly version of their signature shoes, which are priced at a much more affordable $140. Buy them online at Bloomingdale’s and get ready for spring!

-Maria Eilersen

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Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2010: Bess, Robert Tonner, Chadwick Bell

fashionpulse — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 05:23:54 +0000

MORBID BEAUTY: BESS A/W 2010

[Image via ssense.com]

Held at the historic St. Marks theatre, the aged venue immediately evokes an essence of Bess’ A/W 2010 Collection. After complimentary absinthe, the red curtain unveils the first model who creeps across the stage to the eerie soundtrack of a Japanese lullaby. Bess’ designs are hauntingly beautiful, thematized by a rich variety of texture in the form of black lace, leather, fur and stitches. The morbid undertone recalls Tim Burton’s endearing dark characters, epitomized by embellishments of rough patchwork on fitted leather. We love the macabre aesthetic – as do other creative experts including Alexander Wang and Marc Jacobs. Check out our favorite looks below or experience the enchanting Bess fairy tale here.

MODERN ELEGANCE: ROBERT TONNER A/W 2010

Robert Tonner is a true gentleman, a trait that thoroughly resonates in his designs. The collection epitomizes elegance and was aptly previewed at the oh-so-fitting Algonquin Hotel. In fact, the talented designer claims the venue “became a part of [his] inspiration, fueled by his affinity for the space’s “vintage feeling.” The other half of his influence is drawn from the heroine of his newly finished novel, Ellowyne Wilde, who typifies the modern city woman. With their hair pulled tight into an exaggerated Audrey Hepburn-like bun, three models at a time flaunt fitted female suits, romantic ruffles and elaborately embroidered evening gowns in the glow of antique chandeliers. Below are some of our favorite looks:

WELCOME TO THE LAND OF CHADWICK BELL: F/W 2010

Carefully placed live mannequins showed off Chadwick Bell’s A/W 2010 Collection at La Venue in the Meatpacking District last night. Doused in tranquil earth tones, his designs were simple & refined. Despite the rather limited preview, the line is pregnant with aesthetic intrigue: seductively exposed backs, wooden heels and low-yet-sophisticated necklines.

- Maria Eilersen

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Fashion Pulse Stylist: Biker Chic

admin — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 12:00:57 +0000

We’ve been really into the whole biker chic motif lately, so it seemed quire apropos to feature a fashion pulse stylist write-up on the look. Let’s start with the essential biker jacket: we discovered a quilted version of the classic with this Croft & Barrow Quilted Biker Jacket ($26.99, Kohl’s). The quilted fabric adds a touch of feminity to the hardcore look. We also thought this Rampage Sleeveless Zipper Front Motorcycle Jacket, ($54, Rampage) could add a fashion-forward interpretation, as well as softening the look up with a bit of fleece opposed to leather. Layer underneath of the jacket with the Destroyed Tee ($35, AlternativeApparel.com) or the Burnout Deep V-neck w/Pocket ($38, also AlternativeApparel.com). It’s kinda like a chic update of the Rebel without a Cause James Dean jacket and white tee combo. And of course, you’ve gotta do denim: we like the dark hue and zip detailing of the Zip Ankle Skinny Jean ($12.50, Forever 21).
Top it off for a pair of shoes that look great on, or off of a Harley — these Patricia Field for Payless Conga Boot ($35, Payless) will certainly give you some height, along with a “don’t mess with me” attitude.

It’s time for the accessories that will give your biker chic aesthetic a powerful punch of personality: go for standard with the apt. 9 Motorcycle Gloves ($21.60, Kohl’s) or go fingerless in the Military Fingerless Gloves ($20, Urban Outfitters). Next, top it off with the Grace Hats Round Beret Hat ($36, Tobi.com), and/or slap on these Gold Standard Sunglasses ($11.99, Modcloth.com). Keep your possessions safe and chic in this Blackout Buckled Clutch ($29.99, ModCloth.com), and let them know you mean business by donning the Gold Heart Doorknockers , ($10, FredFlare.com) in your ears.

Now you’re equipped and ready to roll with the knockout look of biker chic!

–Julia DiNardo

Fashion Pulse Stylist: Get the Snow Goddess Look!

fashionpulse — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 10:35:47 +0000

The cold weather is here to stay, and we admit that we’re prone to resorting to Uggs and a bulky ski jacket to brave the blistering New York City winter. However, just because the weather is frightful doesn’t mean that you have to look that way too! Plus, with all of the holiday parties you’ll be sure to snag invites to, you’ll have to be prepared to look your best from the moment you walk in the door. Luckily, Fashion Pulse Stylist is here to help! We’ll tell you what to wear so you’ll look more like a snow goddess than a bundled up Eskimo!

The central feature of this look is most definitely the coat. The other pieces should be built to compliment this crucial item. A white or cream coat is chic and feminine, and will give the look a decidedly pristine finish. We love the wide collar and flair of this wool blend Kenneth Cole Reaction Coat, $159.99 (originally $280) at Bluefly.com. What better way to contrast the white coat than with Lipstick Red Leather Gloves from Mulberry (about $200)? We think the bows on the gloves are the perfect touch for this dainty look.

The fashion flair of the second half of the coat is just asking to be paired with a skirt or dress underneath. The metallic surface and tulle underlay of the Izzy Skirt, $38.50 at dELiA’s, is a great holiday look, and should be layered over a simple tank like this American Apparel Tri-Blend Racerback Tank ($19) in Athletic Grey. Next, add this Sequined Embellished Cardigan, $36, from Forever 21. The bow belt and black sequins will make you look more appealing than an actual present!

Of course you’ll need tights that will keep your legs super-warm. We recommend these Marled Sweater Crochet Tights, $18 from Urban Outfitters. For boots, there’s nothing that combines durability and style as well as Frye boots. These Elizabeth Wings Boots, $648 from TheFryeCompany.com, will keep your feet dry in any winter condition that the weather may throw at you, but still look very sophisticated. For an inexpensive shoe, check out these Etienne Aigner Venezia Boots, $178.50 at Zappos.com.

Now for your crown — ear muffs! These white and fluffy Juicy Couture Luxe Fur Earmuffs, $95, are certainly fit for a snow goddess like yourself!

–Sarah Ferguson

Fashion Pulse Stylist: Grunge-Chic

fashionpulse — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 10:26:16 +0000

What do you get when you mix Marc Jacobs’ ground-breaking grunge looks of the 1990’s with the iconic and classy style of Chanel? Grunge-chic, naturally. We’ve spotted the look on celebrity fashion icons such as Mary-Kate Olsen, Lindsay Lohan, and Rachel Bilson, who are all donning Kurt Cobain- inspired plaid flannel paired with leggings and sky-high heels. If you still love Nirvana but dream of quilted purses, or if like us, just have style ADD, then this look is perfect for you! The key to achieving this style is to successfully contrast girly pieces with edgy and grungy pieces, and of course Fashion Pulse will show you how to do it!

To begin you’ll need a basic black cami, like this Cassandra Lace Cami from dELiA’s for $19.50, and some black tights (we swear by the UO Supersoft Bamboo Tights, $18 from Urban Outfitters). Next, add a colorful high–waisted tulip skirt. The pop of color will counter all of the black that you’ll be wearing with this outfit, and the tulip shape adds femininity. American Apparel’s Polyester Micro-Fiber Tulip Skirt, for $28, is perfect for this piece.

Now for the main grunge ingredient: over the tank and the skirt, layer a long sleeved plaid flannel shirt, and roll up the sleeves. We prefer the men’s Mountain Pond plaid shirt, $80 at Abercrombie and Fitch (search “mens” then click “shirts”), or you can always just “borrow” one from your dad or boyfriend! The shirt should look over-sized and a little sloppy to juxtapose the chic aspect of the look. Fasten on a black belt, like this Fashion Focus Black Croc-Stamped Patent Wide Belt from Bluefly for $27, over the flannel to accentuate your feminine features under that baggy shirt. If you want to expose the cami, leave the flannel unbuttoned and peel back the front shirttails before putting the belt on.

Image from popsugar.com

The Midnight Suede Bowtie Bootie, $88 from Urban Outfitters is the perfect shoe for this outfit because they’ve got an adorable bow, yet still have a pretty hardcore aesthetic. Finally, to top it off, add a Blair Waldorf-like black headband like this one from Forever 21 for $2.80, and voila! You are now equipped to rock out grunge-chic!

–Sarah Ferguson

Fashion Pulse Stylist: Michelle Obama

fashionpulse — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 11:29:31 +0000

When the Obamas get to the white house in January, the change that ensues will not only be in politics. Michelle Obama has become a fashion icon and will no doubt change the image of the typical first lady from stuffy and conservative to fashionable and funky. Over the course of the campaign, we’ve seen Mrs. Obama in colorful and modern frocks by Thakoon, Narciso Rodriquez, and Moschino. However, Michelle knows that you don’t have to spend $150,000 to look great. She set her style precedent and penchant for affordable clothing by appearing on The View in a dress from WhiteHouse/Black Market that cost only $148! We’ve picked out a few looks that we think would be perfect for Michelle’s new role in the White House, in case she is seeking some Fashion Pulse Stylist advice!

For important events, we think Michelle would look fabulous in this Michael Kors Gardenia Floral dress, $1,895, from NET-A-PORTER. Purple is a great color for her, and she has already proven she can rock any print. For a classic look with a twist, we equally love this Temperley London Purdey Dress, ($1,295, also NET-A-PORTER). For inauguration day we think the perfect pick for the First Lady would be this Carolina Herrera Aubergine Pleated Dress ($2,790, Neiman Marcus).

For everyday wear, we know Michelle loves J.Crew and has been spotted in brightly colored pants and form-fitting cardies, so we think these City-fit Luxe Trousers, $69.50, in saffron yellow, paired with the Victoria Ruffle Shirt,$89.50, both from J.Crew is the perfect mix of her classy but fun style. To top it off, we would add this Abstract Flower Pin ($22.50 Express) to show off her ability to skillfully accessorize. We also think the First Lady would look chic yet approachable in this It’s-My-Party Polka Dot Skirt ($168, Anthropologie) paired with the Robert Rodriquez Cashmere Cardigan ($216, Nordstrom). No word yet on weather the First Lady-Elect will request our stylist services, but either way, we think that when it comes to fashion, she can.

–Sarah Ferguson