Transition your Wardrobe from Winter to Spring with Ease

Posted on April 25, 2012 by Jennifer & Natalie

Those few weeks in-between seasons can be the toughest to dress for. You’re always too hot or too cold. Add in your office temperature, which will probably be the exact opposite of the temperature outside, and your outfit will feel doomed before you even put it on. We’ve got a few pieces we think will make this transition a little easier.

Of course lightweight scarves are a no-brainer this time of year. Check out our post a month ago on Layering With Scarves for ideas.

For comfort on top go for layers. Cardigans will be your best friend this time of year. We especially love short sleeve styles. They give you an extra layer of warmth that isn’t to heavy if the temps rise midday. You can easily style a cardigan over a bold print or simple cami to work it into your wardrobe. For everyday layering, select a classic style like this Caslon® V-Neck Elbow Sleeve Cardigan. We found it at Nordstrom in 13 different colors! To get that pop of color everyone wants this time of year, a colorblocked cardigan is the way to go. We love the mix of pink and orange on the hem of this style from Lauren Hansen.

We would say it’s safe to pack away the heavier wool and fully lined pants, though you probably don’t need to pull out capris just yet. Summer weight wool is perfect for this time of year. This pair of black trousers from Banana Republic is a nice option for the office. They are made of a light weight wool and elastine blend, sit at the waist with a classic mid rise, and are a straight leg. The perfect pair of black trousers can make your wardrobe transition.

For days with a nip in the year you may want to pair your slacks with a trench. Check out Our Favorite Trench Styles of the Season in this past post.

Shoes are also tricky. You’re ready to pull out the open toes, but then your feet are freezing. Try a peep toe pump instead. You can show off your pedicure without exposing your entire foot. Nine West Flute Peep Toe Pumps look great for spring with light canvas and tan piping. These can easily be worn with trousers, skirts, and dresses all season long. We also really like these Movit Pumps to wear with those black pants.

Never underestimate what a pop of color can do to your wardrobe. Even a long sleeve blouse can instantly feel summery with a bold print. This yellow stripe is versatile enough to be worn with jeans on the weekend and grey trousers during the work week. Floral poppies from DVF provide the ultimate spring palette. Always have a lightweight jacket on hand to layer on top this time of year.Either of these shirts can be paired with a jacket, for warmth or extra formality. Choose a grey or tan jacket for optimal versatility. For more ideas, read our post on Layering with a Jacket.

It only takes a few strategic layering pieces and the right basics to transition your pieces between seasons. Don’t be afraid to embrace color to help with the transition. We’d love to hear your ideas as well!

For more tips to help you style your summer, check out Natalie’s bestselling book, Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style. It is available in Paperback, Kindle and Abridged Ebook Format.

5 ways to Revamp your Look for 2012

Posted on December 28, 2011 by Jennifer & Natalie

As we head into the New Year and you’re planning out your New Year’s resolutions, are you considering your image? We’re not talking about weight loss or major transitions. We have 5 quick and fun ways to revamp your look for 2012. Try 1 or give all 5 a go. A New Year is a great time to try out a new you.

1- Try a New Hairstyle!

A new color, highlights, or cut will give you a fresh perspective. Just like Emma Watson put her Hogwarts school days behind her with a swift pixie.

2- Add Color!

It’s so easy to get stuck in a rut of wearing all black. Especially for city dwellers. Give your wardrobe a kick start with some fresh hues for 2012. Even layering in a cardigan, like this tangerine example from Nordstrom, can give your wardrobe an added punch. It’s supposed to be a THE color for the coming year.

3- Add Pattern!
DVF Spring 2012 RTW
As long as you are adding color, why not play with some bold patterns. This is going beyond a tweed pant or houndstooth jacket. How about paisley, brocade, or animal print! These two graphic patterns were on the DVF runway for Spring.

4- New Makeup Routine!
Makeup trend to try in your thirties Tired of the applying the same old eyeshadow and lipstick? It’s time to switch things up. Ginnifer Goodwin tried out these teal accents for the Costume Institute Gala at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

5- Wear Heels!

We know it can be tough when you are on your feet all day. But a great pair of heels instantly makes you feel and LOOK taller and thinner! Who doesn’t want that for the New Year? If Kelly Rippa can run in them, along with a few hundred other ladies, what’s an 8 hour day?

However you decide to usher in the New Year, these quick changes could give you the motivational boost you need to land those other resolutions. Happy New Year!

Runway photos courtesy of Style.com.

Over 40 Red Carpet Stunners

Posted on May 7, 2009 by Natalie

My previous post showcased some of the best and worst fashions at the Met Institute Gala. But I don’t want you mistaken into thinking that looking fabulous on the red carpet is only the domain of the 40 and under crowd. Not at all! As an image consultant, many of my clients are over 40 and all have the potential, latent or apparent to look amazing once armed with the tools. So many of my clients have had a complete 180 degree transformation after a 5 hour marathon consulting session –not just externally but internally as well. Because we all know it’s that inner confidence, poise, self assuredness and dare that truly makes a woman a knockout.

The more ‘seasoned’ women who graced the carpet of the Met Gala are proof positive. First Iman. If I’m not mistaken she is in her early 60’s and the woman does not look a day over 40. She is radiant, statuesque and downright gorgeous. Honestly it is my belief that age is just a number anyway, and I personally live by that principle. Iman is proof that rocking the carpet has everything to do with confidence, grace, inner and outer beauty and knowing what works for your body. She ‘glows’ and by ANY standard is an image of beauty. Truly an inspiration.

The definitely over 60 and still iconic and beautiful Diane Von Furstenberg is another perfect example of this point. Here she is literally outshining Eva Longoria Parker (a stunner in her own right) by the ease and subtle magnetism she projects from her look. Her dress is simple yet elegant and perfect for her. She embodies feminine allure, no, she owns it. Go Ms Diane!

There are more examples from the Met Gala, but let’s segue for a second back to the original point about 40+ woman looking fab. We have to look no further than the First Lady to prove this point –whose style, by the way, is being refined and tweaked with every new appearance. At Tuesday’s Time 100 awards where she was a recipient she looks sublime. One of her best yet in my opinion. The sleek long black Azzedine Alaia dress appropriately corseted to highlight her waist and the wide set spaghetti straps to anchor her strong shoulders and balance her hips—talk about a slam dunk? And the perfectly coiffed hair and impeccable makeup. My oh my. Mrs Obama continues to raise the bar.

The Image Diva, www.ElanImageManagement.com

Image Consulting, wardrobe plannning, personal shopper, Fashion Styling

Sale @ DVF.com

Posted on May 4, 2009 by Natalie

Readers,

Check out the sale items at www.dvf.com (and of course you know that stands for Diane Von Furstenburg!). Like the Peyton Wrap Dress in Black:a classic black wrap dress with short sleeves in a clean and crisp poplin. Perfect silhouette to create that hour glass figure. And for those days when you don’t need to even think about what to wear. Just add accessories and go! On sale for $262.

v:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
o:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
w:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
.shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);}

Normal
0

false
false
false

EN-US
X-NONE
X-NONE

MicrosoftInternetExplorer4

/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:”Table Normal”;
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:”";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:”Calibri”,”sans-serif”;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:”Times New Roman”;
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}

This is also cute. The Alondra dress in navy and white chevron print with hip pockets:

v:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
o:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
w:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);}
.shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);}

Normal
0

false
false
false

EN-US
X-NONE
X-NONE

MicrosoftInternetExplorer4

Now $297

Grab the designer steals when they’re on sale!

The Image Diva, Elan Image Management

Be a Savvy Bargain Shopper: Part 1

Posted on January 5, 2009 by Natalie

Dear Readers,

In these tough economic times it helps to have some guidance on the type of clothing items that make sense to invest in for the long haul versus those that can be bargain bought. Additionally, where can you find bargains period! Read on for three fashion saving tips for the savvy shopper.

Get your labels for less online. I typically advise my clients not to get stuck on designer labels, just for the sake of the label. Buy what fits and flatters your figure and proportions. But if you’ll really hell bent on nabbing a Diane Von Furstenburg wrap dress then at least try to get it at a bargain. There are many online sites dedicated o letting you know when your favorite items go on sale. One I use is shopittome.com. Another is Hautelook.com. Some sites like bluefly.com have designer labels at 40% off or more everyday! Great for looking for that special cocktail dress you always wanted. For designer bags you can rent them at bagborrowsteal.com or buy ‘gently’ carried ones. Prada or Gucci anyone?
Skimp on some accessories. What other things can you skimp on? Accessories including jewelry, scarves, some belts and hair accessories. It is often a waste of money to buy an expensive accessories ‘set’ to complete a trendy look. When the look is out of fashion can you still get mileage from that accessory? I am a big proponent of the importance of accessories in polishing off a look, but you really need to examine which accessories to splurge on. Good bets are shoes and handbags and fine or vintage jewelry. All the cool funky stuff is great but don’t blow your budget on these.
Consider consignment shopping. Even more creative though is checking out your local upscale consignment store. There are amazing designer garments and accessories to be found, many that have never been worn or only ‘gently’ worn, that you can buy at a FRACTION of the original cost. There is a great consignment boutique in the DC metro area (Second Chance Boutique) that I recently worked with that stocked labels from Chanel, Christian Loubatin, Bagley Mischa, Dolce & Gabanna, Lanvin, St Johns and new break out designer Maria Pinto (Michelle Obama’s fav) among many others. Love labels but feeling the credit crunch? Run, don’t walk to your local consignment boutique, for a great score.

More tips to come!

The Image Diva, Elan Image Management

A Stylist’s View: Fall Fashions I’m lovin…

Posted on September 6, 2008 by Natalie

Dear Readers,

Fall fashion is in full swing even as Bryant Park is all astir with Spring 2009 fashions from uber designers for NY fashion week! I can’t focus on Spring right now because I’m getting excited about some of the new fall trends and looks. What is interesting though is that many of the Spring/Summer 2008 trends have carried over into fall! Florals, ruffles, prints, and bold color all are en vogue. I’m thrilled with the explosion of color in fall fashion as it is so aligned with my own personal love of color year round. Who says grey, black and brown are de rigeur for this time of year? Purple, pink and plaid are very much on trend this season.

I’ll save my trend report for another time but I wanted to share a few of my favorite ‘accessible’ fashions of the season (and by accessible I mean affordable to the average Jane.)

Color

Love bold color? This season is for you! From emerald greens, to saturated purples, to sapphire blues, to toasty oranges there is a bold color choice for every taste. Like this emerald green wrap blouse from Ms Von Furstenberg. A lady can never have too many wrap blouses and as I tell my clients, this design flatters almost every body type. The slight balloon in the sleeve and large cuff is an updated twist. And in a color like this, buying it is a no brainer.

DVF Green wrap blouse @ Nordstrom for $198

One of my personal favorites is this fit and flare, paprika suede skirt from Boston Proper. This is so me, especially paired with those brown boots? Don’t be surprised if you see me rocking this skirt some time soon!

Paprika Suede skirt @ Bostonproper.com @ $99

Purple is the reining color of the season and so befitting this regal hue isn’t it. Purple is unconventional, fashionable, and still conservative for work. I really love this color for a cocktail dress or a after work social. This twist front design is very figure flattering and the deep V neck adds allure. Really nice!

Jones NY Twist front dress @ Nordstrom @ $125

This belted ‘trench style’ taffeta dress from OC by Oleg Cassini is classic and oh so chic. Puff sleeves echo the waist detail with belted cuffs. Crisp, polished and pulled together. The deep navy is a great hue and very apropo for after hour business events.

Oleg Cassini taffeta dress @ Nordstrom @ $158

Print

Diane Von Furstenberg is a master craftswoman when it comes to print and this season she does not disappoint. I am loving this Finola dress– the silhouette, the muted tones and of course the graphic print itself. The dress, in yummy chiffon, is detailed with pintucked pleats to create a streamlined silhouette through the body. The waist is cinched and the skirt full creating the illusion of a perfect hourglass figure. rAs an added bonus, a scallop lace-trimmed slip peeks out from the hem. Gorg!!

DVF Finola dress @ Nordstrom @ $375

I’m lovin the new A line print dresses as well. This one from Nicole Miller is so easy to wear–pair with black tights and black boots or pumps and you’re set! The A line is forgiving on most figures as is the ivory and black graphic print. And the bateau neckline gives small shoulders added breadth. I also love the contrast border at the hem and sleeve. You might see me in this dress too

Nicole Miller print dress @ Bloomingdales @ $275

I’ve got to put a plug in for coats. Happy to see the fab color choices this season,. Even more jazzed about the menswear inspired tweeds and prints. I love this Ellen Tracy wrap coat in a brown herringbone with leather piping. The updated design comes with a brown leather sash and amazingly large wing collars. Awesome for the woman who wants to commit to her style savvy baby!

Ellen Tracy Wrap coat @ Bloomingdales @ $325

Long cardigans

A look I always wear in fall is the long tunic cardigan, skinny jeans/leggings and boots. With my 6 foot frame its a look that is a slam dunk for me every time. So how happy am I that it is a big trend for fall! More options, a variety of colors and cool silhouettes. An added twist this season is the skinny belt at the waist. Someone say, ‘Oh yeah!’ Check out this ombre patterned cape (fashionable coined the ‘ruana’ for its dolman sleeve cape/tunic design). Ideal for the tall slender gal like me, this look is banging from head to toe. The cinched waist is an update to keep on trend this season. Love it!

Ombre Ruana @ Bloomingdales @ $85

Check out this funky take on the hoodie by Free People. Two wooden buttons secure the front flap and its cut long so you can pair with fitted jeans. I love the short capped dolman-style sleeves and a kangaroo pocket. A great casual look that is sharp and edgy too!

Free People Tunic hoodie @ Nordstrom @ $118

If you want to splurge on a tunic cardigan this one might be it. With variegated striping and woolly trim detail on the cuffs this cardigan is sophisticated and dramatic.

M Missoni Stripe Cardigan @ Nordstrom @ $745

The Image Diva, Elan Image Management

The Long and Short of the Maxi

Posted on May 27, 2008 by Natalie

Dear Readers,

The maxi dress is en vogue but the jury is out on whether this dress trend has legs (pun intended). The style has been fully embraced by expectant celebs including Angelina Jolie, Gwen Stephanie and Jessica Alba which makes sense as it is an easy breezy summer style that pretty much covers and camouflages the body. One feature in the trend this season is that the maxis are usually in some type of print fabric whether floral, ikat or abstract which makes it all the better to camouflage a baby bump. But this benefit is the exact reason why I don’t think the trend will be popular by the majority of women. It simply isn’t cute enough, sexy enough or chic enough to draw throngs of shoppers. And unless you are of average height or taller and on the slim side, this design in a dress is quite unflattering.

I visited my local Bebe store lately and they were pushing the print maxi dress hard—it was prominently displayed in the store front and in the front real estate in the store. What was interesting is that as soon as I stepped in, a saleswoman pretty much pounced on me and said, ‘wow you’re so tall you’ll look great in one of these dresses.” I quickly dismissed the idea saying I really wasn’t lovin it and she still prodded, ‘what about this one or that one..’ until she pretty much pointed at every maxi dress in the window after my repeated protests that it was just not a style I liked. I must admit, it really got annoying. Here are a couple of the ones I saw and picture this dress on the average size 10-12 woman.

My guess is that sales of the dresses are poor so they see a 6 foot, seemingly slim woman and they try to pawn it off knowing that it won’t flatter the average Jill. So I get it. But as much as I do like dresses, even long ones (and of course gowns!), and I totally rock a bohemian vibe when the mood strikes, I cannot get on board with this fashion trend. If it is anything, it is bohemian and I’ll go so far as saying it is effortless. But maybe it’s the fact that it can easily look like more schlepy bohemian than sexy bohemian that bugs me. Or maybe it is seeing all the pregnant celebs in the dress—and while they look great—they’re pregnant, so minimizing any weight gain or a growing belly is always the order of the day. I am not dressing with this goal in mine and neither are my non-pregnant peers. I mean its summer and I don’t want to hide my legs I want to show them off! Why would I wear a floor sweeping dress during the day when I’m trying to be chic and pulled together as I go about my business of the day. It’s just not an intuitive choice nor really practical quite frankly. And unless it looks more like a gown than a day dress, (like this selection below) it really doesn’t quite work for evening wear.

Cyrus in a Roberto Cavalli dress that straddles evening gown and maxi dress

So my prediction? They will be grabbed by the trendy fashionistas (who must have EVERY trend of course), those who are pregnant or soon to be pregnant and completely ignored by the rest. Pregnant or not though, the best way to wear this look is the way the celebs do—with great accessories (bangles or earrings) and cute sandals so that you underscore the bohemian energy. And it won’t hurt to cinch the waist if you’re not pregnant to enhance your silhoutte like this ensemble from Bebe.

Here are some great maxi dress looks from the A listers.

Jolie in Nicole Miller and Richie in Diane Von Furstenburg

The Image Diva, Elan Image Management

Your New Spring Fling? Summer Dresses

Posted on May 22, 2008 by Natalie

Dear Readers,

Designers seemed to have been struck by Cupid’s arrow as they looked for their muse’s for Spring 2008 fashions. Romance is in the air and it’s a full force gale! Perusing this season’s fashion you can’t help but yearn to bring out the lovely lady in you. “Feel like a Woman. Wear a dress”. So says designer of all things feline, Diane Von Furstenberg, and I could not agree more.

Flowers are a big theme this spring which jives with the romantic tone of the season. Large or small, bold or muted, in trim or as print, flowers are blossoming on every dress. Another big trend: citrusy bright colors. Did anyone see Victoria Beckham at the Project Runway Bryant park showing? She embraced her bold orange dress wholeheartedly and the result was authentic and ‘fierce’. She ‘worked it out’ with cool coordinating shoes to boot! Citrusy hues rule this season: tangerine, lemon yellow, cantaloupe, granny apple green. The infusion of such saturated color is invigorating on the wearer and are meant to be unabashedly bold and prominent. No shrinking violets please! Fashion tip: Don’t pair a spring bright with dark stockings—you will look like a ‘hot mess’ if you do.

The easy breezy loveliness of chiffon coupled with designs that use bows, ruffles or frill is another take on the feminine trend that is really hot this season. What woman does not want to radiate the ethereal mysteriousness that those design elements convey? Very Cate Blanchett in ‘Lord Of The Rings.’

This season is an exciting time to be a woman with designs that celebrate exuberance, flourish, romance, color and most of all the feminine spirit. Wohoo! Bring it on! In this spirit, it is hands down about the dress. So put a spring in your step with these lovely dresses of the season.

This season if you go floral you’ve got to bloom like you mean it. No shrinking violets here! Flowers on dresses this season are lavish and bold, like these pretty, print, floral dresses from Dolce & Gabbana and Shoshanna.

D&G dress @ Neiman Marcus

Shoshana belted dress @ Neiman marcus

In both, the flowers take center stage so keep accessories to a minimum but your make-up dramatic to compete for the attention. Want a more demure take on the trend? Then this ‘pretty in pink’ floral lace trim dress by Lilly Pulitzer hits the mark.

Lily Pulitzer Bestsy lace trim dress @ Neiman Marcus

But honestly, why go demure when there are so many bold, colorful and statement making pieces to choose from?

Bright, ‘citrusy’ colors are everywhere this spring. This lemon yellow satin bodice dress with an olive-green African wax print full skirted bottom from emerging DC designer L~Shandi is oh so girlie and on trend. The fab find packs many trends in one power punch: citrus hue, cinched waist, full skirt, puff sleeve, and ethnic/global. And so pretty, with just the right dose of sass to get your flirt on. You gotta love it!

L~Shandi satin/wax print dress @ www.Caramelfashion.com

This vibrant tangerine orange shirtdress from Kay Unger is another winner as is this hot pink number from Tadashi.

Kay Unger shirtdress @ Neiman Marcus

Tadashi Silk dance dress @ Bloomindales

Or this stunning purple silk dress from Ralph Lauren.

Ralph Lauren Black Label Nicolette Dress @ Ralph Lauen.com

Did you say you want bright? Then look no further than this very bright canary yellow ruffled dress from Tracey Reese. This hue is sure to stop traffic or lure a swarm of birds.

Tracey Reese scalloped slip dress @ eluxury.com

Bold, Dramatic, Daring are key words associated with this trend. The bright color trend is for the woman who commands attention and who is willing to commit to the color all the way.

Romance sure is in the air this spring. Accents such as bows, ruffles, lace and fabrics like floaty chiffon imbue this sentiment. This gorgeous silk chiffon ruffled gown in a floral print by Michael Kors is the epitome of this trend—all feminine, airy and romantic.

Michael Kors silk Monet floral Tiered gown @ Neiman Marcus

This classy LBD from Dior with its strategic bow at the neckline is a classic interpretation of the trend.

Dior Chiffon Bow dress @ Saks

For a more ethereal romantic appeal, this grey mini halter dress from Derek Lam has it all—the bow, ruffles, chiffon—so subtle yet so alluring. You gotta feel it and revel in it.

Derek lam bow front mini @ net-a-porter.com

Also subtly sexy are sheer, flowy looks that are so cool (as in temperature) yet hot (as in sexy). Sheer fabrics are mysterious and can be alluring without being overtly sexy, like this ‘light as air’ silk mini from Roberto Cavalli in muted lilac. So soft, so carefree, so feminine.

Roberto Cavalli Lilac print mini @ Saks

The simple shift dresses that was so popular in the fall is still a strong trend this spring. Want to be a rebel with a cause? This militant inspired shift from Marc by Marc Jacobs is a creative twist on the trend. Part trench with it’s double breasted and belted front, this shift rocks a serious yet playful vibe. And because it is a mini it is still a head turner.

Marc Jacobs double breasted shift @ net-a-porter.com

For a more conventional shift, look to DKNY’s magenta shift with floral appliqué at the hem.

DKNY sleeveless shift @ Neiman Marcus

This season it really is all about the dress and the woman in all her glory. With all the variety in design, fabric, color and accents, every fashionista is sure to blossom in her favorite designs.

The Image Diva, Elan Image Management

Spring Must have Accessories: Statement making shades, head turning scarves and white totes

Posted on May 3, 2008 by Natalie

Dear Readers,

Temps are rising, the sun is shining and you’re out and about taking care of business (shopping of course!) Every fashionista knows that if she buys one new thing at this time of the year it HAS to be statement making sunglasses. I am really loving the retro trend this season, with frames in bold unconventional hues like hot pink and turquoise like this fab pair from Balenciaga in a combo of red/fuschia/clear with very round frames.

Or this oversized turquoise pair from Pucci with really jazzy arms in a fun print design.

Retro is also making an appearance in frame shape in a major way. Oliver Peoples’s Holis frames are an ode to decades past and has a very vintage feel with its tortoise shell angular frame.

Groovy. Very big square frames are also fashionable this season so go ahead and frame your face in this fabulous pair from Michael Kors.

Or see the world through rose colored lenses (literally) with rose colored glass shades from Thakoon. Change your outlook and rock the retro trend using Holly Golightly as your muse. Don these RayBan Wayfarers inspired from Audrey’s character in Breakfast at Tiffany’s and don’t let anyone ever put you ‘in a cage’.

So you are rocking the shades, and want to up the ante a notch. Volia! I present to you, the silk headscarf. ‘Gossip Girl’ has done for the headscarf what ‘Sex and the City’ did for Manolo Blahnik’s shoes. They are going to be very popular this season and are a great way to nail the luxe bohemian vibe. Use a traditional scarf as a headband or try this oblong print version from Lady D (Diane Von Furstenberg, my dear) or this starburst design from Missoni.

For a less dramatic look, this headband from Tasha does the job. Want a more formal look? Tasha’s satin rosette headband is perfect.

Bright, bold handbags are really in fashion, especially in a tote. Celebs have been spotted with colorful bags big enough to hold a pet, they are so gigantic! But to mix it up, I am really feeling the white/cream bag. With all the color abounding in dresses, jackets, and tops, neutral bags are the perfect counterpoint. A white bag has a nautical, ‘clean’ feel but it also looks very classy like this white pebbled patent leather tote from Fendi or this elegant Italian handcrafted tote in Cream from Bottega Veneta.

With your cool new shades, printed headscarf and fab white tote you’re ready to greet the world girl!

New York Fashion Week in Full Force

Posted on February 11, 2008 by Natalie

Dear Readers,

Looking at some of the highlights from NY fashion week this past week, you may forget that designers were showcasing their fall collections. There are bright color galore, minis, ruffles, bold prints, cinched waists etc. continuing many of the trends we are already seeing for spring. I’m excited about the fashion trends to hit the stores at the end of summer. Here are some of my favorite, ‘runway to real world’ looks from People.com’s coverage of the famous week.

Issac Mizrahi’s bright coral cinched waist mini is gorgeous–the detail in the long bell sleeves, the neckline–a look that can easily be rocked in spring and summer. Wonder if Target will have a knock off version?

Phillip Lim does not disappoint with this grey number–a great look for the office. Looks like grey will still be the new black for fall. I’m not complaining! Love that blue/gold tiered necklace paired with the outfit that balances the high collar of the turtleneck and draws the eyes down–a very slimming strategy ladies!

Michael Kors’ very practical print dress topped with a lilac coat with fur collar is a look that can go straight from the runway to the real world.

This cute jumper from Tibi is SO girly it is bordering on high school (or Gossip Girl). But what a pretty look, from the metallic sheen in the jumper to the high collar bowed neck blouse and (yet again) the cinched waist. Its’ adorable!! And if worn appropriately and on the right body does not have to be an option just for the Gen Y crowd. But I would admit it’s a look best reserved for those on the slimmer end of the spectrum.

J. Mendel’s evening gown is to die for. This is a stunning dress for any fancy affair and you don’t have to be a celebrity walking the red carpet to work this look. Got a gala or black tie? This elegant gown sashay’s right in! Great for the woman who has a great collar bone she wants to show off, figure flattering because of the broad shoulder effect created by the wide set neckline and semi puffed sleeve coupled with the diagonal line of the flower embelishment on the left shoulder (her left) which creates curves. I LOVE this dress. I want this dress! I would look amazing in this dress (OK that is getting a bit over the top but I just see me wearing this dress–Come on, I can dream).

Readers you know I love me some Diane Von Furstenburg. But she has raised her game with this hot, alluring, ultra feminine evening dress in a bold and busy black and white print. Look closely. The print has slimming effects in strategic places–at the deep sweethaert neckline, on the sides of the torso where the pattern visually creates the illusion of a tinier waist, near the tummy/hip area where the pattern changes to a bias/diagonal direction which can distract from any …er bulges in that region. This is a knock out dress. Its genius!! Glamour at its finest. And I expect nothing less from Ms. Von Furstenberg.

Looks like we’ll have a fabulous fashion year in 2008!

Natalie Jobity, Elan Image Management

Flaunting It with The Image Diva

A Style, Image & Fashion Blog: so you can look Fabulous for all your occasions

Category Archives: Diane Von Furstenberg

Transition your Wardrobe from Winter to Spring with Ease

5 ways to Revamp your Look for 2012

Over 40 Red Carpet Stunners

Sale @ DVF.com

Be a Savvy Bargain Shopper: Part 1

A Stylist’s View: Fall Fashions I’m lovin…

The Long and Short of the Maxi

Your New Spring Fling? Summer Dresses

Spring Must have Accessories: Statement making shades, head turning scarves and white totes

New York Fashion Week in Full Force