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classic

November 16, 2011

Jack These Jackets! Runway to Real Way Fall/Winter 2011

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[Topshop Leather Collar Wool Boyfriend Coat $340, Celine Image via Style.com]

What makes a great jacket? I found myself really asking this after we experienced a blustery blast of cold weather mixed in with some early fall flurries.

Runway presentations make the most of women’s outerwear in all colors from neutral to bright with fantastic detailing or subtle minimalism. However, when it comes down to it, a jacket needs to be functional. Maybe you demand a hood, large pockets, or a full-length zipper. Regardless of such basics, I am not willing to sacrifice style, and I doubt our readers are either.

This is why I’ve compiled my favorite “Runway to Real Way Jackets.” While extremely trendy, these jackets are still practical. There’s nothing unrealistic about incorporating any one of these into your wardrobe.

1. The Bright Jacket

Brighter shades have been popping up everywhere recently. Despite the opposing forces, bright hues work well for a fall/winter trench coat. Tip: Ground the rest of your outfit in black or other neutrals.

[Topshop Glossy Faux Fur Bomber Jacket $170, Alexander Wang Image via Style.com]

2. The Fur Bomber

Fur bombers are classic and luxe simultaneously. Again, fur took over the runways, seen everywhere from Alexander Wang to Rachel Zoe. You’ll be sure to turn heads in a glossy piece like this, but if you’re trying to be more subtle, try a faux-fur collar for starters.

[NastyGal Darcy Drape Jacket $78, Burberry Prorsum Image via Style.com]

3. The Camel Coat

Has this look ever done us wrong? I love both belted ones accentuating the waist, but I especially adore the robe-like vibe of NastyGal’s drape jacket (pictured above). Normally a structured trench, camel will always be timeless, regardless of what form it takes. It’s a celebrity must, a runway favorite, and an every day woman’s go-to. Tip: Pick the shade that best works with your skin tone.

[Topshop Collarless Boucle Blazer Jacket $140,Chanel Image via Style.com]

4. The Tweed

Chanel has always done tweed right. Now, it’s our turn to channel Karl Lagerfeld’s feminine vision and prove tweed is anything but stuffy. Topshop’s blue version of the fabrication is fun and funky, but boxy jackets like these are all about playing with proportion. Wear it open with jeans or alone with a skirt; just remember to keep everything sleek.

[Urban Outfitters Vasia by Ulla Johnson Camilla Vest $99.99,Tess Giberson Image via Style.com]

5. The Fur Vest

It’s still crazy cool, and I couldn’t be happier! I wasn’t ready to give up my fur vest just yet. Part edgy, part glam, this piece is all about attitude. Brown, black, white, grey, beige, it won’t be hard to find a vest you’ll love. Tip: Fur vests can add bulk if done incorrectly. Be aware of proper fit, watching for armhole size.

[Land’s End Women’s Essential Down Jacket $69.65, DKNY Image via Style.com]

6. The Puffer

Perhaps the most basic, but also the warmest, a puffy jacket is a winter must-have. DKNY reminds us that style and functionality can easily coexist. I LOVE the bright cherry red and quilted looks, (and especially love anything down-filled). This look will keep you warm and safe; no need to fear the elements in this one!

All that’s left to do is to pick your favorite, and  stay warm!

-Alana Quagliariello

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November 13, 2011

Celebrate the Classics with Pendleton for Eddie Bauer: Holiday 2011

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[First catalogue appearance of Pendleton Shirts, 1948]

Since the 1920’s, Eddie Bauer and Pendleton have worked together to create classic men’s shirts, perfect for the rugged outdoorsman. Today, the collaboration has broadened to include women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, accessories ,and bedding ranging in price from $69.95 to $299 (see below).

All available at EddieBauer.com, each piece has been inspired by archival items worn by Eddie and his wife, Stine. The women’s handbags are just utterly fabulous, a perfect way to add color, pattern, and texture to any ensemble. The men’s jackets and work shirts are equally as cool; exactly how we all want the men in our lives to dress on the weekends. The only thing left to want is that cozy blanket to snuggle with him!

Merry Shopping!

-Alana Quagliariello

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October 25, 2011

Welcome Back Wide Leg Pants

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[Alice + Olivia Black Wide Leg Pants, J Brand Wide Leg Trouser Jeans, and Diane von Furstenberg Rein Ann Red Wide Leg Pants all via Shopbop.com]

Just when we finally have mastered our skinnies, wide leg pants have made their comeback and resurfaced in a major way on the runways. I finally bought a pair of wide leg jeans and in wearing them, felt a renewed and revived sense of style!  In order to make your look appear effortless when transitioning to this new shape, we are offering up some of our best tips on wearing… scratch that– rocking wide leg pants.

How to Rock Your Wide Leg Pants:

1. Length– The pants should not be dragging along the ground, but ideally should not be any higher than an inch off the floor either (when wearing heels or flats). You’ll want your cute shoes to peek out, yet not be completely on display.

2. Tops– Stick to form-fitting tops or something you can tuck in. A cropped jacket adds structure. It’s best to define the waist (belts look great with wide legs!). The width and span of fabric  is on the bottom of the silhouette, and the goal is to keep it that way.

3. Shoes – Any excuse to wear heels and I’ll take it, however, not everyone feels that way. If you’re comfortable rocking flats (especially if you’re tall with super, long legs then go for it), do it, just remember our rule #1 with length-.  For this look, the only absolute NO is a pointy toed shoe. Stick to a rounded toe or open toe pumps or wedges or platforms that are slightly retro without being too literal.

[Cropped Jacket, Lace Crop Tee; both via Topshop.com]

4. Accessories – The pants are making a statement on their own, so it’s best to keep accessories minimal. This doesn’t mean you can’t pair your wide legs with a sleek clutch for night or a structured handbag for day or chunky bangle bracelets. Just don’t go into costumey, overkill mode with too much.

5. Vibe– Wide leg trousers are appropriate for the office, but can also be funky and retro. It’s up to you to decipher the mood you are going for, and what is appropriate. For a business vibe, tuck in a classic, crisp button up. For an edgier look, try a cropped jacket or a simple tee. No matter what look you are aiming for, just be confident in your stride.

[Pour La Victoire Platform Pumps, Elizabeth and James Open Toe Pumps, Sam Edelman Platform Wedges; via Shopbop.com]

[Darby Glitter Loafers, Lula Snakeskin Ballet Flats Flats via JCrew.com]

-Alana Quagliariello

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