Priyanka Chopra Deconstructed Gray Plaid Suit | Menswear Trend

The weather’s still hot but there’s one trend that’s surpassing the heat. Celebrities are seen out and about wearing a Tailored Gray Plaid Suit.

Priyanka Chopra wore the most daring look with a deconstructed jacket and cutout sleeves. Everyday girls can achieve this style with the Julea Plaid Stretch Wool Blazer or Glen Plaid Blazer.

Take a look at the latest menswear turned feminine trend option below:

 

 

2018 ESSENCE FESTIVAL – Weekend Getaway

Essence today announced the official dates for the 2018 Essence Festival® presented by Coca-Cola®, which will take place from July 5 – 8, 2018 in New Orleans, LA. Limited advance tickets for the 24th annual event’s nightly concert series will be available starting August 10 at 10:00am ET.

On the heels of a record-breaking 2017 Festival, the highly anticipated event is expected to feature a diverse, all-star roster of musicians and speakers for its nightly concert series and daytime empowerment programming respectively. The 2017 “party with a purpose” drew over 470,000 attendees and featured first-time performances by Diana Ross and Chance The Rapper, plus keynote conversations with Ava Duvernay, Mary J. Blige, the cast of the critically acclaimed film “Girls Trip” – Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett Smith, Regina Hall and Tiffany Haddish – and many more.

Festivalgoers can start planning their ‘girl’s trip’ and weekend getaways by visiting Essence Festival for a recap of the 2017 Festival, information about advance ticket sales, the latest news about the Festival and to sign up for Festival-related newsletters.

Join the Essence Festival community by following us on Twitter @essencefest #EssenceFest and become a fan of 2018 Essence Festival on Facebook for additional updates.

Sponsors of the 2018 Essence Festival® include presenting sponsor Coca-Cola® and major sponsor State Farm.

Sweat In Style With DYI – Define Your Inspiration Activewear

We all love being active and exercising, but sometimes it’s easy to make up excuses and say it’s just too hot. DYI, the company that Forbes named the next Lululemon, has your perfect solution to the scorching summer heat!

Everyone has a different way they enjoy being active so DYI- Define Your Inspiration created a line of clothing for any and all athletic endeavours. While they’re known for their leggings, they have created shorts, a skirt and tops that are perfect when it’s just too toasty outside.

The too hot for leggings DYI bottoms include:

  • Active Short: Comfort meets style in our all new summer Active Short! A sporty stretch woven fabric stretches and moves with you. Two invisible zipper pockets allows you to carry a phone hands free while you focus on your workout. Two pockets on the back side give a little style and extra interest to this perfect breathable, lightweight short. The inseam on this short is 4 inches.
  • Relax Ponte Short: LIFESTYLE short for Pre and Post workout. This short is a part of our STREET Collection- made for women who need a comfortable, but polished look this summer. This short has a fold down waist made from our famous BOND fabric. Perfectly comfortable, but can be dressed up for a night time look.
  • Active Skirt: Whether you’re on a hike, a bike or traveling this summer, our Active Skirt is a perfect addition to your Summer workout wardrobe. A lightweight woven, stretch fabric moves with you and keeps you cool during warmer months. Built in short gives coverage and comfort no matter what you plan on doing. Two invisible zipper pockets allow you to carry a phone or other items hands free.

Pair these shorts and skirt with some loose tanks including:

  • Deep Breeze Tank: Get Breezy in our Deep Breeze tank! Our lightweight, breathable tanks is the perfect layering piece to transition from spring to summer.
  • No Sweat T-Shirt: Made for your most intense sweat session. With our super soft and pliant Bond fabric for the body, and our signature power mesh on the back, a staple to have for every workout.
  • Simply Sporty Tank: The tank that is missing from your workout wardrobe. Longer length, all mesh striped back, tencel front, and easy to take on and off. What more could you ask for?
  • Take It Easy Tee: The perfect fit V neck T-shirt! Made for those days you just feel like wearing a t-shirt, but you can still look fabulous!
  • Breathe Tank: Our Breathe Tank is our most popular top this Spring! Whether you wear it loose or tied in the back, this tank will look incredible with every yoga tight in your wardrobe!
  • Balance Tank: This Active Tank is not only beautiful, but also ready for your next sweat session! Made in Tencel fabric, this tank will keep you dry through your workout, but beautiful enough for your night out. Drapes and twists in the back.

Whether you run, yoga, weight train or rock climb, DYI’s apparel is perfect for you to sweat in style!

To learn more about DYI visit www.shopdyi.com.

ABOUT DEFINE YOUR INSPIRATION

DYI I Define Your Inspiration is an activewear and lifestyle apparel brand with the perfect fusion of fashion, performance and function. What inspires you to move? Whether you’re inspired by a maximum intensity sweat session, strength training, or a rejuvenating yoga class, DYI designs apparel specifically for your state of mind. The DYI brand brings together fashionable clothing and healthy living in a unique way. It isn’t just clothing, but a mindset, a philosophy and a movement! It’s about living a happy, active and balanced life by doing things that inspire you!

Follow DYI:

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Sandy Liang FW17 Lookbook: Soft and Subversive Designs

Sandy Liang is a designer based in the Lower East Side of New York City. She started her eponymous brand with her Fall Winter 2014 collection shortly after graduating from Parsons School of Design.

Her first collection was based on her love of outerwear and Chinatown grandmas and has since grown to sell to over forty stockists internationally. Sandy draws inspiration from her personal life and is constantly self-referencing throughout her work, whether it be a childhood memory in Bayside, Queens, the coveted Gap Jeans she wore as a kid, or a movie that left an impression on her. Her woman is not a fictional woman who exists as an aspiration, but real women who she’ll see taking the subway or go grocery shopping at Whole Foods.

There is an ever present sense of humor and duality present throughout the collections – soft, yet subversive. She is playful in the way she uses materials – stainless steel nipple rings adorning a silk dress, a mink coat but with dropped shoulders and elbow patches. She makes sure not to take fashion too seriously as she feels it is there to make all of our lives a little more enjoyable and doesn’t know if it needs to be anything more than that.

STOCKISTS
Sandy Liang is sold at retailers worldwide including Net-A-Porter, Saks Fifth Avenue, ShopBop, FWRD, Forty Five Ten, Hirshleifers, Kirna Zabete, Need Supply, Shop Super Street, Totokaelo, Asthik (Ukraine), Beams (Japan), Beymen (Turkey), Boon the Shop (S Korea), Browns (GB), Filly’s Stable (Australia), Harvey Nichols (UK), Icon (Belgium), IT (HK), Lane Crawford (HK), Lane Crawford (CN), My Boon (S Korea), Plum (Lebanon), Rare Market (S Korea), Reel Shanghai (CN), Ron Herman (Japan), Stylebop (Germany), The Modern Society (GB), Tuchuzy (Australia) and more

Soft Surroundings Artist Topper | Easy Well-Made Style

Bohemian style is the concept of wearing clothing that’s free with flowing fabrics. It’s the perfect summer option because this style allows one to layer clothing and accessories.

Soft Surroundings is one of my favorite retailers.  The company specializes in soft, luxurious designs.

How does this relate to style bloggers? They have well-made affordable pieces for all age groups.  On-trend shoppers can find a Tie-Dye Jumpsuit while seasoned shoppers can purchase a Terry Pull-Over.

The company collaborated with this post; shipping an Artist Topper.  This versatile piece is lightweight with red tassels and kimono style sleeves.

The topper (in the photo below) was paired with a Felt Hat, Denim Shorts, and Ankle Booties.

Additional style ideas include wearing with High-Waisted Leggings or Jersey Dress. Visit your local Soft Surroundings for more easy, well-made style!

 

Celebrity Style Breakdown: Laila Ali High-Waisted Trousers

Laila Ali was seen on the red carpet wearing a simple, chic outfit.  Oftentimes, in the everyday world we seek to look polished but struggle with coordinating pieces.

Featured Photo from PeopleStyle.com

Her look for the T.J. Maxx, Maxx You Project Workshop can be achieved.  Laila has on a white sleeveless blouse, high-waisted pink trousers, and wrap-around belt.

She also selected neutral accessories for the shoes, earrings, and bracelet.

Purchase similar Trousers and Heels from Top Shop

Utility Peg Trousers
GLORIOUS Setback Leather Shoes

 

What I Wore: African Print Midi Flare Skirt and Accessories

I have not moved beyond the excitement centered around Essence Fest 2017.  The iconic “party with a purpose” is a must-attend experience!

When packing for such an event there are a few rules to consider.  Always plan for the weather in that region and review the itinerary in terms of walking.

I couldn’t cover the festival without packing my favorite African-Print (Ankara) midi skirt. Several people stopped and inquired about this particular piece. Here’s the secret:  it was purchased at a flea market in Alabama.

The style photo was taken in the New Orleans, Central Business District. Against my better judgement, I stood in the middle of street traffic to capture a decent shot.

Was this a little scary?  The answer is yes.  Was this mind-blowing?  The answer is definitely a strong yes!

 

PLANET FASHION PRESENTS SWIM WEEKEND MIAMI 2017

Planet Fashion, one of the nation’s leading fashion media and production companies, has announced its sizzling showcase of next season’s sexiest swimwear as part of a three-night cutting-edge fashion phenomenon featuring today’s iconic designers and some of the nation’s most buzzworthy bikini brands.

Planet Fashion Presents Swim Weekend will take place Thursday, July 20th through Saturday, July 22nd at the renowned SLS South Beach and Hyde Beach, located on Collins Avenue, with doors opening for each nightly runway show at 7:00 p.m. Industry aficionados who descend on South Florida each year for Miami’s Swim Week are already requesting front row seats for the inaugural event featuring exclusive presentations by VersaceCavalli and DSquared2, among other leading national and local Miami designers, whose latest creations will be adorning some of today’s top runway and swimwear models. The weekend will also feature an exclusive Pop-up Shop and Gifting Suite for attending celebrities, social influencers and VIPs, as well as surprise musical performances by special guest artists.

“We’re bringing back the “sexy” to swimwear,” says Celia Evans, founder and owner of Planet Fashion Media.  “Miami’s annual Swim Week has become too predictable and familiar over the years, so we wanted to create something that would turn heads and break the mould of the traditional format that has been tailored for the retail industry. Our three-night Swim Weekend is for everyone – whether you’re a serious buyer, a woman interested in the latest cutting-edge styles or someone who simply likes a fun night of fashion. Our inaugural Swim Weekend will not only showcase the world’s leading designers, but also shine a spotlight on some of our homegrown and emerging talent, who are equally loved and admired by their own followers across the country.  As with all our fashion shows around the world, each night will be full of steamy runway revelry and plenty of energy that Miami is known for in the heart of summer.”

The Opening Night on Thursday, July 20th will feature individual runway presentations by Roberto Cavalli SwimwearNash Beach and the massively popular Revel Rey by Washington based designer, Audrey Swanson.  After making her debut at Swim Week last year with her “Funk n’ Sol” Spring/Summer 2017 collection, Audrey returns to South Florida with a huge following by those who admire her custom and hand painted prints that combine fashion and art in to vibrant and unique bikini patterns inspired by her explorations to places like Bora Bora, Rangiroa and Maui.  Planet Fashion has invited Swanson to give attendees a sneak peak in to Revel Rey’s latest print innovations.

The Main Event on Friday, July 21st will feature runway presentations from VersaceDSquared2, and two of the swim industry’s brightest stars – Karma Bikinis and OMG Miami SwimwearJulienne Worring and Antje Worring founded Karma Bikinis in 2014 through their combined passions for ocean conservation. Their commitment to fair trade standards and sustainability means limited collections are released every six weeks in each design, to eliminate environmental offsets and to keep their clientele at the forefront of the latest styles.  Furthermore, the sisters formed a commitment to donate 7% of all proceeds received by Karma Bikinis towards ocean conservation efforts.  With more than half a million followers on social media, OMG Miami Swimwear is the explosive sensation from the streets of Miami Beach by Andrea Gaviria, who built the company in 2016 after struggling to find a bikini that fitted her well. After making her own swimsuit and posting it on social media with a viral effect, OMG Miami Swimwear was born with the mission of creating fashionable and feminine swimwear from conventional and innovative designs and trends.  Celebrities such as Sofía Vergara have chosen Andrea’s designs for their curvaceous form and function.

The Designer Showcase on Saturday, July 22nd will feature especially selected runway presentations by Just Bones BoardwearHot Miami StylesGabriela Pires and Art Hearts Fashion.  The brand known for “Reinventing The Boardshort” is Just Bones Boardwear, designed by Jennifer Weisman, who garnered attention on the Miami Beach runways last year, when surf style models were showcased wearing her colorful printed boardshorts. In response to retail and consumer demand, Weisman has now unveiled her line of bikinis, which are designed to complement the boardshort collection. Since its initial launch in 2011, Just Bones Boardwear has garnered a huge following, especially in the northeast, for the perfect fit provided by the boardshorts’ patented adjustable waist, suitable for kids as well as men and women.  Gabriela Pires is the luxury beachwear brand by the renowned Sports Illustrated editorial designer from Brazil.  After moving to Miami at an early age, she studied at the Istituto Marangoni of Milan, before starring in her first New York Fashion Week at the age of 21 years old.  The brand was first featured in the 2012 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition and during the same year Gabriela launched her own line of lingerie, forcing her to open a brick-and-mortar boutique for the brand in Manhattan. Today, Gabriela’s swimwear styles are a force to be reckoned with and still exemplify her hometown roots of Rio de Janeiro.

As a unique addition to the Friday and Saturday of Swim Weekend (July 21st and 22nd“Swim Pop” will present an exclusive Pop-up shop and gifting suite for invited attendees to browse, featuring an Evian Water BarLa Croix Beauty and Nail Bar, as well as apparel from designers Karma BikinisMasahua and Logophile The Labelamong many others.

Planet Fashion Presents Swim Weekend 2017 will take place July 20th—22nd at SLS South Beach, located at 1701 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, Florida, with doors opening at 7:00 p.m.  Following each nightly series of fashion shows will be the Planet Fashion After-party at Hyde Beach, the property’s luxe indoor-outdoor hotel lounge with crudo by José Andrés, serving a selection of handcrafted signature cocktails by the bar or for relaxing poolside.  Follow the conversation for regular updates by using #planetfashionswim.

Michelle Obama Cushie et Ocs Dress: ESPY Awards 2017

Last night, Michelle Obama looked stunning at The ESPY Awards 2017.  The former first lady’s known for having amazingly toned arms and the Cushie et Ocs Fall 2017 dress exemplified this statement.

Her sleek hair, tailored dress, and designer heels were the epitome of style during the event.  Michelle Obama presented the Arthur Ashe Courage Award to Timothy Shriver.

 

Stylist:  Meredith Koop

Dress:  Cushie et Ocs 

Makeup Artist:  Carl Ray

Hairstylist:  Yene Damtew

Sun Damage and Eye Health: Fashion Expert Zanna Roberts Rassi

It’s officially summertime, and the hottest accessory you can add to your wardrobe arsenal is sunwear. You may be surprised to know that while nearly 75 percent of Americans are concerned about the potential side effects of UV eye exposure, only about 21 percent say they always wear sunglasses.

Fashion expert and TV contributor, Zanna Roberts Rassi joins us with some tips to make sure our look protects our vision AND keeps us on trend.

 

Zanna Roberts Rassi is a British fashion editor, the senior fashion editor of Marie Claire US and a fashion correspondent for E! News.  She also appears on the reality television show Project Runway All Stars as a mentor to the contestants and consults for the American retail chain Target.