V-Style

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Product Review - Nude Audio Move L

I love easy. I love quality. And I love style. And most of all, I love being introduced to a solid product, like MOVE by NudeAudio. The introduction came to me via e-mail. They sent me their press release, and I asked for a sample. I was not disappointed. NudeAudio is a speaker that plays music from up to 30 feet away from your smart phone, tablet or computer via bluetooth 3.0 technology. The battery life is about 8 hours and your product comes with four different country specific plugs for when that battery needs recharging. A fantastic perk for how much time I spend in London and Europe. Beyond the product facts, it is extremely easy to use, simple, subtle, stylish, and, most importantly, the music sounds great. It weighs about five pounds and measures nine inches wide, so although far lighter and smaller than a 1992 boombox, I won't be throwing it my purse. I plan to use it as my main room's music source, and bringing it to the beach when need be. Although to be honest, I don't think I have ever taken music to the beach, or to a picnic. I think it's a bit rude to other beach and park patrons. What if they don't want to hear my Hans Zimmerman jams, and MS MR?

The one thing I am not loving is that if you want to send a text message while your NudeAudio is playing music from your iphone, you hear the phone "pressing" the buttons through the speaker. That clicking with the music is not attractive. 

A little background on the company... NudeAudio is a new-generation audio brand that came to be this past summer. Their operations are in Hong Kong, but their design team is in San Fransisco with all the other  powerhouse tech creatives. Their products come in small ($29.99 - $49.99) medium ($69.99), and large ($99). I have the large one.

My product reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I never accept payment for product reviews although I am given the sample to keep. If I am sent something that is unimpressive or boring I don’t write about it.

How To Mix Patterns

top: Zara, skirt: Anthropologie, shoes: J.Crew, bracelet: J.Crew, studs: Bloomingdale's, rings: Ariella

Mixing Patterns can be very tricky. It's a hard thing to teach. First things first. Something between the two patterns needs to be similar. Color is the easiest. If they are both pink, as shown between my skirt and the wild heels, they will mix better. It is also a great idea if the have similar fabric in common. Now, my skirt pictured is not similar in fabric as my shoe, BUT my blouse is similar in fabric and texture as my shoe. It creates that balance. Balance is truly all you need to think about while dressing. Another key thing to think about is diversity. You don't want to mix two patterns that are similar. Two pink floral patterns is generally not going to be a good idea. Instead, mix floral with stripes. Or in my case, a barely discernible farming scene on a skirt with artistically floral shoes.

The last thing I would like to point out is the choice I made to put both patterns at the bottom of my outfit. Generally, I don't recommend this as it can become "bottom heavy" and disconnect from the blouse. You never want to look like the bottom half and the top half are part of two different outfits. My outfit pictured works because I have played with the gradation of pinks throughout the whole outfit, and, as I mentioned before, tied in the cotton of the shirt with the cotton based fabric of the shoe. Also, the band at the waist buffers between the blouse and the skirt and pulls in the cream color of the shoe. Balance!

Photo Credit: Robin Dayley/Dayley Photography

Make-up: Antonella Annibale

Location: Claire de Lune Coffee Lounge

Sarah Jessica Parker Designs Shoes

Sarah Jessica Parker may have disappointed me when she designed Bitten for Steve & Barry's, but I am  pleased to report she has picked up her game for her new fashion line designed exclusively for Nordstrom. Catering to her Carrie Bradshaw image, the SJP collection has a focus on luxury shoes. One heeled goodie even holds the moniker, Carrie, although the feminine pump seems a bit simple for Carrie's taste. In fact most of the heels are quite simple. Some are simply boring, while others are more fresh with smooth lines, feminine feels and the occasional bold color. If they turn out to be comfortable, I have a feeling some of these will become a staple in many women's wardrobe, including myself. I plan on trying om the slim Avio sandal in blue and the Stella Sandal in red when they hits stores Feb 28th. I am also looking forward to slipping into the navy trench coat, and checking out the handbags.

The SJP collection is priced between $195 to just under $500 and will be available in 25 Norstrom locations as well as a special Manhattan pop-up location at 372 West Broadway in Soho New York, and online. 

Client Favorite: Sabrinas Ballet Flats

There comes a shoe in every woman's life that becomes more than a shoe. It becomes a friend. I'd like to introduce you to your new friend, Sabrina. Sabrinas shoes are made entirely in Spain (how is that country in trouble when they make such wonderful shoes?!) and are freakishly comfortable, especially their London flat. It comes in brown, pink, baby blue, grey leopard, and black. I personally own the brown, the grey leopard, and I just ordered a second pair of the black. It might seem a little excessive, but they are the most comfortable ballet flat that has ever graced my feet. They feel like slippers. Usually when I come home, I take my shoes off right away, with these I don't. A stylish ballet flat that feels like house slippers is a solid win. Especially now that they are on sale. My client yesterday especially enjoyed that fact. She also enjoyed that back of the shoe. At first she thought it stick into the back of her heel. I almost hyperventilated in my excitement. "No! They won't! Feel how soft it is! It just a flap of softness." 

Stylish Navy Flats & Navy Heels

SoftWalk $99.95

You know how I feel about black. It does not excite me, and I use it sparingly with my clients. In some cases I eliminate black from their wardrobe entirely. In these cases, all those myths about the basic black purse, dress, heels, flats and pants fly out the window. No black? What are you to do without black? You go navy. Navy is a far more fun dark neutral than black. The only problem is... navy can be a difficult color to get ahold of. Fortunately, there are a few more options these days, although it is still pulling out a dragon's teeth to find one. That certain east coast woman is throwing up her arms in agreement.

Despite it's perceived rarity I was able to find some delightful choices for us. I am looking forward to pairing the black and navy shoe above with my navy and black blazer by DKNY.

MICHAEL Micahel Kors $98.95

Me Too $89.95

J.Crew $238

Toms $47.95

Charles David $98.95

Ugg $109.95

Sam Edelman $89.95

Vince Camuto $59.90

Can A Big Poufy Skirt Work Outside Of A Wedding?

skirt: ANTHROPOLOGIE, top: JOIE, heels: J.CREW, bracelet: VINCE CAMUTO, ring: ARIELLA COLLECTION, necklace: ANTHROPOLOGIE

The flounce of a long poufy skirt is a highly romantic and, may I add fun, characteristic in an outfit. When thinking of a voluminous hem, a wedding  gown or old fashioned frock comes to mind, but you can do a lengthy flounce without the bridal or Victorian nod. To modernize a floor length flounce, start with separates, instead of a dress. My skirt is from Anthropologie, which is a consistent resource for whimsical pieces such as the poufy maxi.

Once you have your skirt, pair it with a sexy and/or simple top. I prefer your shirt to have some volume to it to balance out the bottom mass. I know I usually say, if you have a lot of volume on the bottom of your outfit, go lean on top, and vice versa; but when it comes to skirts, I have a different opinion. A tight tank or tee is fine, but it can make the skirt seem even bigger than it is in reality. By blousing your shirt, or selecting a top with sleeves, you create a more seamless look with the flowing of volumes. As for shoes, you can wear just about anything, from a simple heeled sandal to crazy booties, it just depends on how funky you want to get. After all, you aren't wearing a a skirt like this to play it safe.... Following the photo shoot, dressed in this blue patchwork maxi skirt, Robin Dayley and I went to dinner, had drinks at my place, and then I met up with some of my favorite stylish ladies at Nunu's. Every where I went, my skirt was the topic of many a conversation. 

Photo Credit: Robin Dayley/Dayley Photography

Make-up: Antonella Annibale

Location: Claire de Lune Coffee Lounge

How To Avoid The Dry Cleaner

Maybe you are busy, maybe you prefer the control, or maybe you just don't like paying for the dry cleaner. No matter your reason, listed below are ways to avoid the dry cleaner, lengthen the life of your clothes, and avoid washing mishaps. 

Hand Washing

 

The video above is a great example of how to wash a sweater, but I recommend slightly cooler than warm water to prevent shrinkage. In the video, she uses a gentle shampoo and a gentle conditioner. For sweaters that are not wool, do not use shampoo. Instead, I recommend Mrs. Meyer's All Purpose Cleaner or Seventh Generation laundry detergent. They are gentle, yet effective for smells and stains. If a stain occurs, do not scrub, simply put your chosen soap directly onto the stain and rub lightly with the tips of your fingers or thumbs before doing the usual hand washing moves of squeezing and soaking.

 

Dry Clean

 

A lot of dry clean only items can actually just be hand washed, simply follow the instructions for hand washing above. After some time, dry cleaning the items that do indeed say Dry Clean Only is a good idea to keep it fresh. After all, we are not professional cleaners.

 

Items that should not be submerged in water (aka dry clean items that should not be hand washed) are coats, jackets and highly embellished pieces like a sequined dress.

 

Using Machines

 

If any of your clothing's tags recommend machine washing, go right ahead and follow the instructions, but turn your clothes inside out. Unless otherwise instructed, use cold water, delicate cycle, and hang dry to avoid shrinkage. If there is a stain, treat the stain by hand before machine washing. 

 

Preventing Washing & Dry Cleaners

 

Cleaning a garment shortens it's life. It is best to prevent washing with these tips...

 

1) Take a clean spray bottle of any size and fill it with half rubbing alcohol and half water. Spritz the inside of a garment where it gets its wear like the armpits of a dress or cardigan, and the seat of a skirt or pant. This kills bacteria causing smells. (Do not over spray. The garment should not be wet afterward. 1-2 spritz is enough.)

 

2) Never use perfume to cover a smell. If you must use something, use a body spray. It is less harsh, less concentrated, but still has alcohol. Febreeze can also work if it is used sparingly. When using either item, do not spray directly onto the garment, spray into the air and then move the garment into the area of space that was just sprayed. Don't do this to silk.

 

3) Never leave clothing on the floor or in a pile at the end of the day if you don't plan on washing it. When you take off a garment, spritz it if needed, and hang it immediately. Sweaters should not be hung, so after you spritz it, lay it down on a table, bed or couch to air out a bit before folding it and putting it back on the shelf or in the drawer it belongs in.

 

Shoes

 

Before wearing your new leather boots or shoes, spray them with protector spray. I use KIWI Boot Protector from Target. If a stain does occur, I use Bon Ami house hold cleaner and a rag to remove the scuff. If you have suede shoes, I recommend Scotchgard's Suede & Nubuck Protector.

Best Dressed At The 71rst Golden Globes 2014

This year of quality films has been met with equally inspiring attire at the 71rst Golden Globes Awards. Color, swaths of materials, volume, sparkle, whimsy, and structure burst across the stage and carpet providing diversity and glamour. I feel more fabulous having witnessed it, despite my watching it from my couch in panties and a robe. 

Every time I put together a list of best dressed, I never declare a number, I simply select every outfit that bursts with best-ness. This year includes the opening looks of the lovely bad ass hosts, Tina Fey and Amy Poehler. Love.

I adored Amy Adam's transition of the plunging vee from the fashion of American Hustle to the Golden Globes. I don't believe anyone has worn a plunging vee better, and the combination of the two shades of red are dynamite. Very sexy.

It is freakishly rare for me to declare a black dress, let alone a flat black garment a best, but tonight Emma Roberts has proved, when done right, a black dress can be amazing. The hour glass silhouette, the booming turquoise earrings, and pulsing neckline are perfection.

Lupita Nyong'o in Ralph Lauren confirms a cape is always a good idea. I adore the drama combined with the sleek and flattering silhouette. Fabulous.

More in line with my black frock beliefs, Lily Rabe looks stunning in this layered sheer frock with sun burst detailing and cinched waist. The full skirt and t-shirt sleeves are just plain delicious.  

Although, this shade of beige, off white, or whatever is not the best  for Michelle Dockery's skin tone, the dress is perfect glamour. 

I cannot stand her music, but Taylor Swift is incredibly lovely in her style choices. She wins again in this Carolina Herrera pink gown with black bust. Gorgeous. 

Diane Keaton is awesome. Her consistent manipulation of men's wear constantly demands fashion nods. In this instance, I'd like to acknowledge the perfect show of sleeve hem, the endless legs, and use of a thicker tie. With all the skinny ties out there, it is nice to see a thick tie look modern and romantic.

This look was a bit difficult to select as Kaley Cuoco's hair and clutch really ruin the dress, but the fact remains, the frock rocks. 

Oxblood Colored Boots, Blazer, Purse and More

Liebskind $258

The brilliant, bright terror of Christmas red is not a chic cup 'o tea. You know the shade. It's like the blood of a shallow wound. Sure, it looks cheerful on a metallic inanimate ornament hanging from a fir tree, but it is cause for concern on a human being.  This Christmas, wear red, but not that one. Try the red of the year, or as I like to call it the most amazing red that finally (finally!) is easily available for sale. Oxblood, wine, bordeaux, pinot noir and sometimes burgundy. It's that deep dark red that has more brown in it than purple, and even flatters those that have red undertones in their skin. Pair your oxblood with cream, light pink, black, and greys. It generally looks amazing with neutrals. Try to avoid pairing it with whites and brights. It creates too much contrast.

Aquatalia $698

 

 Trouvé $88, now $65.66

J.Crew $89.50

Amanda Uprichard $188

Last Minute Online Gift Ideas For Women

Rose Gold Bracelet by Kate Spade $49.30

I make it no secret that Nordstrom is my favorite retailer, but right now I just adore them. If you order by 3pm on Dec 23rd, you will get your delivery by Christmas Eve, for free. This is amazing for the person who has not finished their shopping, and hates malls or hasn't the time to shop. The whole time issue is probably the reason you don't have your gifts yet anyhow. 

Southwestern Fringe Scarf $12 

Two by Vince Camuto Leggings $49

These leggings flatter most every woman. The band at the waist never squeezes, instead it rest lovingly on the waist while holding in your belly. The fabric in general actually holds you in and is thick enough to hide any skin imperfections like cellulite. Lastly, it runs big with xs fitting a size 4-6, and a small fitting 8-10, so whoever receives it will be complimented by the sizing. They come in brown, grey and black.

Lucite Earrings and Necklace by Alexis Bittar $150

This earring and necklace set comes in a box for an easy yet lovely gift idea.

Pink Cross Body Bag by T-Shirt & Jeans $24

This cheap chic bag is a great gift for a girlfriend, younger woman, or someone you know doesn't mind a bit of fake leather on their arm. I adore the multiple zip pockets on this bag as well as the multiple straps, one for the wrist and one for the shoulder. The efficiency is divine.

Fashionable Warm Coats

Preparing my clients, and myself, for winter travels involves thick leggings, fabulous boots, and, of course, charming outerwear. The most important piece is the cold weather coat. The only thing more depressing than cold weather, is a dull black coat.

Now, that my clients are all settled and I am off to London, I have selected my favorite fashionable winter cover-ups for this season. They were chosen for their comfort, their warmth, versatility and, of course, style quotient. 

My first is Sachi for both their blue hooded coat and their brown. Made from wool and fox fur, they are elegant and bold. Although the blue is unique, their cognac shade of a brown is a unicorn in itself. It is so difficult to find a rich golden brown coat. When it comes to brown coats, you often get a sea of espresso colored dreariness. Sachi gives me the happy brown I have been seeking for ages. I also love that they make their coats through size 24.

Sachi $360, now $239

This flannel covered down anorak by Metro is so fresh. I pair this with grey boots and lighter colored garments, which are such refreshing shades after the abundance of black that floods the winter streets. I also adore the waist emphasize you can create by tightening the internal ties. 

Metro $198, now $132

My next favorites are J.Crew goodies that impress with their utility, color and sleek silhouettes. As a note, the deep red color looks best on fair skin colors and blonds, while the gossamer peach colored jacket below will look best on darker skin tones and hair.

J.Crew $365

J.Crew $350

Fashionable Holiday Gifts For Men

I know it can be  difficult to shop for a man, especially when it comes to clothing and fashion. You know he needs shoes, shirts and more, but you feel a little inept. To help or inspire you, here are some gift ideas for the men in your life that they will love. This list is based off pieces that have received rave reviews from my male clients. 

    Shoe horn

This engravelable shoe horn is the perfect gift for the man without, or the man with a cheesy plastic shoes horn he probably got for free. 

    Ben Sherman Sneakers

This is absolutely my clients and I's favorite pair of grown up sneakers. Done with the Vans and athletic shoes of his past, a man needs a lean and stylish sneaker to go with this straight leg jeans and other leaner legged casual bottoms.     

    Tie Bar

For the man that wears a tie, a tie bar is a utilitarian accessory that packs a lot of style. I like J.Crew's tie bars for their quality and modernity.

    No Show Socks

Not a lot of men have discovered the greatness of no show socks. It's not a sexy gift, but it sure is useful.

   

    John Varvatos Long Sleeve Tee

This is a simple and yummy tee that can work by itself or for layering. The deep red color adds a subtle punch most men don't have. If you worry the man you are shopping for has too much red in his skin for this red top, not a problem. The red is dark enough to prevent a blush enhancement.

    Timberland Boot Company

I've had three males clients recently scoff at the brand as I handed over the shoe box. Tsk, tsk, I say. These days, Timberland's fine leathers have been designed with pure awesome in mind. This almost dress shoe works wonderfully with jeans, other five pockets pants, khakis, and chinos. Tell the receiver of this gift to skip the slacks with this one. My clients love this shoe for it's comfort and it's casual, yet business casual appropriate style.

How To Wear Navy and Black Together

hat: BAILEY, blazer: DKNY, blouse: EQUIPMENT, pants: JOE'S, heels: J.Crew, watch: RAKANI, ring: ALEXIS BITTAR 

Pairing navy and black is divine. You only run into an issue when you use a navy so dark it looks black, and/or you don't balance the two colors throughout your outfit. For example, a navy top and black pants with black shoes, looks ill matched. It does not look intentional. The quickest way to an intentional look is with a garment that already combines navy and black and go from there. Pictured here, I have built my outfit around my navy blazer with black sleeves. The next step is to continually alternate the color, generally avoiding placing the same color next to itself. For instance, the body of the blazer is navy, so I chose black pants, instead of navy pants. Since I didn't have navy shoes to continue the alternating color pattern, I chose an unexpected ox blood heel for a pop. Although a seemingly unusual choice, the ox blood pairs well individually with both black and navy. Same goes for the choice of mint colored top. It pairs well individually with black, navy, and the ox blood.

With so many complicated color ways going, I wanted my accessories to touch back on the black and navy focus. I also wanted to keep it simple in general. I skipped all jewelry with the exception of a black ring, and a black Rakani watch that was recently sent to me. Constructed of black steel and swarovski crystals, this striking watch was the perfect embellishment. I also feel incredibly unique while wearing it. The giant gold watch has been so prominent the last few years, I have been itching for something different. This watch is the most interesting piece I have seen in ages.

To finish the outfit, I knew I needed more navy, a color that is still relatively hard to find. Thankfully, a quick jaunt into Black Cat hat shop in Los Gatos lead to this navy fedora. It took me awhile to decide to buy it because I am not a hat person. My hair is nothing to write home about, but it takes a certain person to wear hats. Finally, I decided I am that person. If you decide you want to be a hat person, make sure you don't mind hat hair as a trip to the movies, a crowded venue or sit down restaurant inevitable requires you to take your hat off.

The  Fashionably Late by Rakani watch was gifted to me via Brand Backer.

How To Select A Unique Wedding Dress

There is nothing more ordinary than a generic wedding dress. It's as bad as jeans and a t-shirt in the sense that anyone can wear a random strapless white dress. Obviously you can look great in the stereotype, but when I style a bride, I am always pushing for breaking boundaries. I recently put a client in a turquoise Jenny Packham gown with a black overlay for her wedding. Recently spotted on Kate Midleton, the dress is considered an unusual choice for a wedding with its lack of white, but before England's Queen Victoria married Prince Albert, wearing a dress of color was standard wedding attire. Remember this as you start dress hunting.  Unless you adore a white dress, let's explore all dress colors and options. The idea is to take advantage of the event. This is one of the only parties in your life that is tailored completely to you and your gentleman. There are no are rules you need to abide and all your guests are willing to do anything you ask. If your suggested attire is cowboy inspired, than that's what they will do.

If wearing a bold colored dress is too outlandish, V-Style's photo team went to The White Flower Bridal Boutique in San Diego to show you other ways to have a stand out wedding gown.

    Hats

Skip the traditional veil, and grab a hat. In our shoot we had the pleasure of borrowing millinery from Jill Courtemanche. Jill Courtemanche brings a contemporary approach to her hats while incorporating traditional techniques and craftsmanship. As pictured, the toppers bring verve and whimsy to our bridal looks.

   Exotic necklace

An interesting necklace will wake up any dress.

    Feathers

Whether they are on your head or on your dress, feathers on a bridal look is absolutely delicious. I adore the feathers dancing on the skirt of the chiffon dress by Pronovias our model wears on the black and white couch.

    A Shade Away

Silver, gold, cream, nude, and blush are just shades away from the traditional white.

    Pouf

I have seen so many mermaid tails and ball gown flares, I am ready for some pouf! Be ridiculous in a fun and flouncy gown that can't be missed. 

Photo Credit: Robin Dayley/Dayley Photography