super-BASICS-bowl

Who are the “basics?” They’re the key players in a good wardrobe. They always make you look good, are fiercely loyal and set the stage to create a winning outfit. You can always expand with trendy additions and seasonal pieces, but make sure to have a killer starting lineup.

What’s the profile? Look for classic silhouettes that fit well and opt for natural fabrics like cotton, silk and wool. Neutral colors offer the most bang for your buck, although a cherry red pump can be a smart offensive play. Invest in well-made basics and get most out of their contract.

Where to recruit? The best places to for team-building are: Banana Republic, Club Monaco, Ann Taylor, Gap, and J.Crew. For shoes and handbags, cheer for Endless.com; for jewelry, root for Nordstrom. You will find well-made essentials with an updated, modern twist and the price can’t be beat!

The Basics starting lineup:
Feminine blouse
Tunic
White button down shirt
T-shirt
V-neck sweater
Structured blazer
Dark rinse denim (1 for pumps, 1 for flats)
Black trousers
Flat front chinos
Pencil skirt
LBD (little black dress)
Trench coat
Short leather jacket
Ballet flats
Black pumps (try patent)
Tall boots
Wrap dress
Large satchel
Clutch
Pashmina
Gold hoops
Diamond studs (faux is fine)
Cocktail ring

There’s no arguing the fundamentals. Consider it a win if someone calls you BASIC--at least one of you is super.

stylingstage suggests:

Ruffled Georgette blouse Ann Taylor:

Matty M printed tunic Nordstrom:

Slim stretch white shirt J.Crew:

Basic tee w/ ruffle Ann Taylor:

V-neck Cashmere sweater J.Crew:

Structured Perfect Blazer Gap:

Paige Premium Skyline Drive denim Nordstrom:

215 Martin classic black trousers Banana Republic:

Scout flat front chinos Gap:

Tropical Wool Perfect pencil skirt Ann Taylor:

LBD White House Black Market:

Calvin Klein belted trench coat Nordstrom:

Kenna-T leather moto jacket Nordstrom:

Corso Como Franco ballet flats Endless.com:

Joan and David classic black pumps Endless.com

Harrington tall boots Nine West:

Printed Contrast wrap dress BCBG:

Hype Janice satchel Endless.com:

Rampage Glazed Leather clutch Endless.com:

Tissue-Weight Cashmere pashmina Nordstrom:

 Lauren Large Hoops Nordstrom:

Nadri Square-cut diamond studs Nordstrom:

Sea Mist Cocktail ring Banana Republic:

Made in the Shade(s)

"The only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize." Clairee Belcher in Steel Magnolias

Shades are the ultimate accessory: they're comfortable, safe and cool. They create a sense of privacy in a world today where little is found. No one will judge you; in fact, a good pair will keep people “wondering.” The best kinds have 100% UV protection, but there’s no need to spend a bundle.

Shades are the window to your style soul. If you’re a glamour girl, go dark and oversized. If you’re the cool kid on the block, opt for slim-rimmed aviators. If you’re a trendsetter, go geometric with ombré detail. And if you’re the retro type, black Wayfarers are the answer.

Consider the face-to-shade equation to maximize your look. Square face: looks best in oval or cat-eyed; Circle face: looks best in rectangular; Heart-shaped face: looks best in rounded, oversized. Oval face: any shape will do.

Keep the future bright: eat your spinach, call your mother and wear your shades.

stylingstage suggests:

Marc by Marc Jacobs Oversized Bloomingdales:

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Thandie Ombré Banana Republic:

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ran Ban Wayfarer Sunglass Hut:
 
 

 

Cole Haan Rectangular Endless.com:
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Michael Michael Kors Aviators Nordstrom:
 

Oval Angle Fossil.com

Kate Spade Tierney Cat-eyed Overstock.com

Spring is in the Wear

The snow is on the ground, the days are short and you've given up on that sun-kissed glow.  But no need to fret.  You can still dream of the trends to embrace this next season:

New print: Ikat Call. It's trendy, but nonetheless looks great if done right. Wear only one piece in this print and balance with neutrals.  Rock the print in a day dress or top. Meow.

New look: Embellishment Du jour: Ruffles, lace and beading are served today on leggings, handbags, dresses and tops. Indulge in the details and skip the dessert.

New shoes: Short Western Boot and Clog Hoedown. Super comfy kicks that work with anything short: skirts, dresses, slim ankle pants or walking shorts.  Yee-haw!

New shape: Loosen Up. Jumpsuits and harem pants are still holding on. And the blouncy top will prevail as will the rise of pleated pants.  Call it a spring break from muffin-top-syndrome.

New color: Neutral Mission. Headquarters calls the shots (white, khaki, navy, black), but the satellites are making the grade: shades of beige, mauve, rose and army green are promoted to clothes, shoes and accessories.

New bag: Crossbody. Long straps are back, but not attached to a bulky bag. This time, long and slim is a good thing. Wear it "crossed over your body," but don't let it rest on your bum.


So much to do, so little time. Spring is really in the air--I mean, wear.
stylingstage suggests:

Embellished Neck Dress BCBG

Alexis Renee Ikat Top singer22.com

MIA 2 Desperado Boot Endless.com

Loose Ensemble Forever 21

Twist Detail Top BR Monogram

Embroidered Crossbody Nordstrom

Reason to Resort

“Resort” wear represents off-season looks traditionally geared towards jet setters who enjoy their winters (and summers) at fabulous resorts. Many do not live such a lifestyle, so designers are tapping into the rest of us who want in on the fun, but need to resort on home turf. Oh goody.

Doable resort looks for 2010:

Jean-ology is the new study. This American classic is reinvented in leggings, shirts, overalls, and baggy shorts. Give these looks a try, but don't even think about a full length romper.

Utility chic is not an oxymoron. Neutrals like olive green, khaki, and white give a nod to the military look and have a cool vibe. Wear things that are slightly loose, but repeat this mantra: bulk is bad.

Definitely go Dutch. Clogs are the newest it shoe and everyone from Chanel to your local boutique will be sporting these cool kicks.

So if you’re not off to St. Bart’s, you still have a reason to resort. Just keep the mojitos to a minimum. Happy new year.

stylingstage suggests:

That's a Wrap

Invented by Diane Von Furstenberg in 1976, the iconic wrap dress is one of the most essential pieces in a woman's wardrobe.  The appeal of the wrap dress is the transforming ability to flatter every figure and work for every age.  It's not an of-the-moment silhouette, but just like a true lady, it remains a classic.

The dress effortlessly creates a custom-sized waist, defines a bust, and offers a swirly-twirl at the end--all of this is done without a single button, zipper or clasp.  It's feminine without being too "girly" and can be worn in basic black or a jazzed up leopard print.  Look for matte jersey which can be worn year-round, but silk, cotton or any other classic material works just as well.  The wrap dress looks killer with a tall pump or a short bootie.  Accessorize according to your mood, but the dress itself is the headliner.  The concept of the wrap is also applied to tops and coats.  It's one of the smartest inventions ever.

Every stylish gal should own one.  And that's a Wrap.

stylingstage suggests:

Diane Von Furstenberg Rizer Wrap Dress: Nordstrom

Mirror Dash Wrap Dress: Urban Outfitters

Tie-Front Wrap Dress: Old Navy

Lily Print Wrap Dress: Nordstrom

French Connection Wrap Dress: Zappos.com

Flutter Sleeve Wrap Dress: Topshop.com

BCBG Kimono Faux Wrap Dress: Dillards

Lynn Ritchie Graphic Faux Wrap Dress: Bloomingdales