H&M STUDIO: MAGICAL REALISM FOR A/W 2019 COLLECTION

H&M Studio is thrilled to unveil the campaign for it’s A/W 19 collection, “Magical Realism”, infused with a dramatic mood of feminine spirituality.

Photographed by Christian MacDonald, styled by Ludivine Poiblanc, who also consulted on the collection, and modeled by Adut Akech in the endlessly energizing streets of New York, the collection comprises an arresting combination of sharp tailoring, silken dresses, and heritage knitwear.

The collection will be available at hm.com and in selected stores from September 5.

 

 

Super Affordable Fall Trends You’ll Want to Try Now

How do you flawlessly transition your wardrobe from summer favorites to fall must-haves? Let VICI keep your style in step from trendy autumn sneakers and boots to staple pieces you can layer for upcoming chilly weather. What’s sweeter than a pumpkin spice treat? Rewarding yourself with a handbag that refreshes your on-the-go attitude. Your fave brand is here to carry you all the way to the end zone for fall fashion that says “touchdown!”

Royce Tote Bag – This VICI best-seller is faux leather with iconic canvas stripes down the center. Elevate your look with this staple tote featuring a handle and removable crossbody strap for a dual look.

From Autumn to Spring Cotton Babydoll Dress – VICI’s exclusive babydoll dress will transition with you for seasons to come with an oversized silhouette in a crepey fabrication. Designed with a split neckline detailed with a sewn tie, long billowy sleeves, and a tiered skirt, it’s an effortless and figure-forgiving piece that can be bump friendly too!

Saint Slouch Boot –The Saint Slouch Boot is here just in time for the fall season. Crafted in a distressed faux suede fabrication, the slip-on boot features a rounded toe, wood stacked heel and a slouchy ankle. Grab the coveted black knee-high boots and give your fall wardrobe a boost.

Jonestown Pocketed Denim Jacket – You can’t go wrong with this year-round casual styling essential that we’ve all seen before featuring a medium wash and relaxed fit. It’s a versatile oversized jacket that will hang around your closet for seasons to come.

Extra mile wedge sneaker – Go the extra mile with a hidden wedge sole, elastic band and inner side zipper closure that makes this sneaker subtly supportive while providing chic and edgy style in camo and cheetah prints.

Aesthetic Surplice Blouse – Be in good taste with the Aesthetic Surplice Blouse that features a relaxed fit with long billowy sleeves and a surplice neckline that drapes into a rolled hemline. Subtle details include elastic sleeve hems and gathered shoulders to elevate the look.

Backyard Striped Knit Sweater – Perfect for chilly autumn nights, warm things up with this trendy and chic knit sweater. Featuring black, dusty blue, coral-red, grey and mustard horizontal stripes on a cream base, the fit includes a wide crew neckline, dropped shoulders and extra-wide long sleeves.

Travel Light Pocketed Chambray Blazer – This denim chambray tone blazer is an office layering essential that features a notched lapel and long sleeves. The relaxed boyfriend silhouette and lightweight tencel fabrication make this an ideal blazer to transition from summer to pre-fall.

Clothing Rental Programs: Save Time and Money

I shared this post on Kimberly West Styling Facebook page.  But, it’s such a game-changing piece of advice that I want to post it here on the blog!

Did you know that instead of purchasing new clothing you can rent high-quality pieces?

Some of your favorite brands allow renting options with a reasonable monthly fee and the process is simple:

1. Signup

2. Browse and select styles.

3. Return the items with a pre-paid envelope.

If you love those items, you have the option to keep them with a discounted price!

Below are clothing rental companies:

Infinite Style – Ann Taylor

NY&C Closet – New York & Company

American Eagle Style Drop – Americaneagle.com

Trunk Club – Nordstrom

Rent The Runway

Additional plus-size rental programs:

Stitch Fix

Gwynnie Bee

Stylogic

Plvsh Style

Wantable

I strongly encourage clothing rental services for busy women, last-minute social events, or even to save money!  How often do we wear a dress on multiple occasions?  Also, do we really want an unorganized closet filled with miscellaneous pieces?

Eliminate the hassle of never having anything to wear by subscribing to one of the programs on this list.

Let us know what you think about clothing rental programs in the comment box.  Give us your opinion!

Click Here:  Fashion Consultant and Personal Shopper

 

Gabrielle Union I’m Perfect Collection X New York and Company: Let’s Change The World By Living Our Truth

Gabrielle Union launched a hot collection for the modern woman with New York and Company!  The statement pieces have a street-style vibe and a bold color palette.

Trendsetters can shop for wrap sweaters, faux leather jogger pants, and strapless maxi dresses.

Gabrielle went the extra mile to design a collection for all body-types; sizes ranging between xxsmall to xxlarge.

The I’m Perfect Collection, true to its name can be mixed and matched to give a high-fashion look!

 

Fall Fashion Staples: Lightweight Sweaters, Edgy Accessories, and Intimates

Here are some Fashion Staples to jumpstart your wardrobe for the new season!

Mer-Sea

Add a pop of color to your wardrobe with Mer-Sea! This stylish, soft, and lightweight sweater is perfect to pull over your favorite pair of jeans. ‘Mer’ means ‘sea’ in French and together phonetically they sound exactly as we feel—thankful. Merci!

Montelle Intimates

This Fall, Montelle Intimates is introducing a new sophisticated shade Almond Spice, that is flattering on a variety of skin tones. Those looking for vivid, luxe colors will be inspired by the jeweled pantone of Dark Orchid and the elegance of Midnight Blue that create a great seasonal transition into the fall season.

MotoChic

This brand combines leading-edge design with high-performance materials to meet the needs of Stylish Women on the Move. A San Francisco-based lifestyle brand combines leading-edge design with innovative materials to create Stylish Gear for Women on the Move. They believe you shouldn’t have to choose between fashion and function. MotoChic answers the need for high quality, design-conscious clothing and accessories for women with fast-paced lifestyles.

Lusome

Lusomé is a beautifully designed sleepwear brand using the most innovative moisture management technology possible for naturally blended fabrics. Lusomé with Xirotex™ provides women with revolutionary moisture management in luxuriously soft fabrics expertly engineered for ultimate comfort. With a commitment to quality, performance, beauty, and grace, Lusomé empowers females to manage night sweat issues with beautiful designs to compliment women of nearly every shape and size.

Erin Tracy Bridal and Fine Jewellry Launches Her Newest Line STACKED

Revamp your jewelry collection with Erin Tracy Bridal and Fine Jewellry’s latest line of ethically-sourced, high quality, and dazzling fine jewels. The new collection, Stacked, is handcrafted using a spectacular combination of turquoise, diamonds, pearls, sapphires, acrylic, and various types of gold. Defining versatility and elegance, these new pieces are delicate on their own, yet impactful when worn together.

You can easily mix, match, layer, and stack to create your own perfectly curated look. Pair a diamond stud with gold dangle earrings, stack multiple sapphire rings on one finger, or keep it simple with just one gold initial necklace— it’s up to you. No matter what combination you choose, the Stacked collection is guaranteed to revive your fall look.

Boasting a wide selection of meticulously designed, handmade jewelry, Erin Tracy Bridal, and Fine Jewellry continues to create timeless, elegant, and one-of-a-kind pieces. Coupling modernity with pure elemental form, Erin Tracy’s designs appeal to everyone— no matter your budget or aesthetic.

As a leader in design and destination for high-quality pieces, it is no surprise that Erin Tracy’s award-winning designs have been recognized in various high-profile publications such as The Globe and Mail, Fashion Magazine, Wedding Bells, Flare, Elle Canada to name a few. Whether your style is classic and minimal, or edgy and bold, Erin Tracy’s Stacked collection is one you won’t want to miss!

 

 

Kelly Rowland Street Style: Photo of The Day

Kelly Rowland shared a noteworthy Instagramable photo on social media.  She’s seen wearing a red leather jacket, crop top, and frayed, ankle jeans.

This entire look was hot and don’t forget about the eye-catching gold accessories to compliment the outfit.

Grab a similar Red Leather Jacket on Amazon.

Wedding Attire 101: What to Wear To A Wedding

Weddings are a $50 billion annual industry, with the average American couple spending more than $35,000 on their special day.

It can be easy to let that price tag intimidate you when you open your invitation. But of all the things you have to worry about — like finding a perfect gift for the newlyweds — your wedding attire doesn’t have to be one of them.

Here are the “I Do’s” and “I Don’t’s” of Wedding Attire

Before you proceed, there are a couple of rules you should keep in mind, especially if you’re a lady.

No. 1: Avoid white, off-white, or ivory. After all, you don’t want to detract attention away from the bride.

No. 2: Black is actually permissible now. Traditionally, the color used to be reserved for funerals and mourning, but Glamour Magazine reports that it’s become more socially acceptable because of how flattering and versatile it is. Some weddings are even specified as black-tie affairs now.

If you’re not sure what the dress code is, ask the bride to see one of her wedding programs to get a better idea of what to expect. It’s also helpful to note the setting and time of the wedding, that way you can stay comfortable and fashionable at the same time.

For the Ladies

There are a few guidelines to follow once you know the time and location of the wedding. For instance, avoid black and sequins if the wedding is during the day, as this will make you appear overdressed.

Additionally, remember that the wedding will be attended by guests of all ages, not just your own. This means you should probably save that low-cut, high-hemmed, revealing, or form-fitting dress for the bachelorette party — especially if the wedding is taking place in a church or other modest setting.

Moreover, you want to accessorize properly. Ditch the tote bag in favor of a clutch, cross-body, or mini bag. All you’ll need is your keys, phone, ID, credit card, and lipstick. And as for the shoes, you want them to balance the formality of your outfit, not over- or underdo it.

Lastly, if a dress just feels a bit too feminine for you, you’re allowed to wear pants. Just be sure they’re not denim; stick with a pair of elegant slacks, or find a comfortable pantsuit.

For the Gentlemen

Although wedding attire for men is significantly less diverse, it’s still possible to screw it up. However, feel free to personalize your look with a pocket square, cufflinks, or tastefully patterned tie.

Rule number one: No shorts. Ever. Not even in the summertime. Remember it’s a wedding and not a Saturday frat party before the game.

Your safest bet will be a suit and tie, but remember to stay away from black. Navy is a better alternative if you’re drawn to the darker, neutral shades. And if the dress code is “black tie,” stick with a tuxedo and black bowtie.

Before We Part…

No matter what you decide to wear, make sure your wedding attire is properly tailored for the occasion. The last thing you need is a wardrobe malfunction on the dance floor.

Keep the theme of the wedding in mind as well. Some couples like to get creative over their shared interests, so this might allow you some extra freedom with your outfit. And if all else fails, it can’t hurt to run your idea by the bride and groom for approval beforehand.

Feeling lost? Let the Kim West Styling agency give you some pointers. Visit her page at Style Life Fashion to arrange a virtual consultation.

Collaborative Post

AUGUST FAB FINDS CHECKLIST: Hair Clips, Denim Jumpsuit, Satin Skirt, and Leopard Accessories

August is the last official month for the summer but that doesn’t mean the hottest trends are ending.  The photos below are items that stand out and definitely eye-catching.

Enjoy shopping and don’t forget to put the upcoming Labor Day sales on your calendar!

Leopard Accessories

 


 

Denim Jumpsuit

 

 

 

Hair Clips

 

 

 

Satin Skirt

 

 

 

Double Breasted Blazer

 

 

Talk of Alabama Fashion Segment: Makeup Techniques, Shapewear, and Much More

On July 2, 2019, I hosted a television segment on Talk of Alabama:  ABC 3340 discussing simple fashion tips to elevate anyone’s everyday style.

I was excited to serve as the Fashion/Style Expert and shared makeup techniques, shapewear basics, color placement, and classic accessories.

Why talk about everyday style tips?  Because it’s easy for women to wear the same hairstyle or favorite jacket for several years. Refreshing your overall look can uplift your mindset and self-esteem.

MAKEUP
During the segment, I discussed how to cut down on the early morning routine with the use of face palettes from companies such as Makeup Geek.  Face palettes remove the need for various products and keep the bathroom area organized.  They’re easy to store in your cosmetics bag as well.

The most important makeup tip shared on-air was wearing a bright-colored lipstick to elevate the face during an early morning routine!

SHAPEWEAR
Owning shapewear basics such as a bodysuit or camisole will make those fitted shift dresses, align skirts, or slim-fit slacks lay smoothly and camouflage problem areas.

COMPLEMENTARY COLORS
When shopping, purchase items that are in complementary colors according to your skin tone, eyes, and hair color.  The IBKUL Mock Neck Summer dress is the perfect addition to anyone’s seasonal wardrobe.

This dress has rich colors and the sleeveless design can be dressed up with wedge sandals or dressed down with a denim jacket.

ACCESSORIES
Accessories are like icing on a cake!  Wearing the right accessories can elevate any look; it’s suggested to start with classic pieces such as stud earrings, tortoiseshell sunglasses, leather belt or black handbag.

From there, you can incorporate trendier items for a fun look.  The pieces shown on-air included a straw handbag and hat, pearls, hoop earrings, tote bag, and aviator sunglasses.

Need help with your overall look, then click here:  Fashion Consultant and  Personal Shopper