Dress In Style

Dash for the Sun!

Fashion Tutor — Fri, 17 May 2013 11:14:31 +0000

It’s been a long winter. One in which we’ve all become a little bit more acquainted with our coats than we’d probably like. They might be stylish but, as the old adage goes, too much of a good thing is never good. The skies have remained determinedly grey and cloud-covered, however, and a chilly wind has persisted, hindering our attempts to shed the things. Hot toddies have remained in hand and comfort has been sought in the warmth of a favourite scarf (often bright in colour to offset the all-surrounding gloom that the UK has seemed to remain shrouded in).

And yet, might it be? Is that a glimmer of hope? It seems that, yes: the sun is about to break through at last.

So Warehouse’s new campaign promises. The London-based fashion company has just released their video for Dash for the Sun, aiming to lift the mood of modern woman with its ‘essence of excitement’ and wish away the lingering wet weather (or snowy white weather, for some poor souls). In an act of climactic defiance as well as jubilation, Warehouse’s models jump for joy, energetically shedding all those excess layers of clothing in this ‘tongue-in-cheek film’ of explosive vêtements.

In a literal bound, it seems a ‘girl about town’ can go from shuffling depressed through city streets to revealing her true, brighter, more summery self. A self whose fabulousness has laid dormant and suppressed for so long; a self that is all about dresses and shorts.

Although the items being promoted also include the High Rise and the Supersoft Skinny (£42 and £40) – ideal if you’re not yet ready to reveal the sun-deprived skin of your lower limbs in urban surroundings – it is bare legs and beautiful arms which are indeed what it’s all about in the Dash For The Sun campaign. Cross Stitch Shorts (£38) can be teamed with an Arizona Bandau Top (£36), or you can go for more traditional Turn Up Shorts (£26) in that combination. If you want to go further and really embrace the return of the ol’ golden orb in the sky, then you might want to don the Bright Chevron Playsuit (£40).

Nevertheless, here at Dress In Style, we know what the real key piece is: the dress. And the Totem Embroidered Skater Dress (£55) is an ideal item for your summer wardrobe. Forget the LBD, the Little White Dress is what this season is about.

Further, on purchases of £50 or more, Warehouse is offering a ‘Dash For The Sun kit’, created in conjunction with Dermatologica, label.m, DHC, nailgirls, and Burt’s Bees. Move over Boots, this CoolBrands fashion company is claiming summer as its own.

Warehouse is a label that ‘fits your life’, and in the modern world that life is pretty fast-paced. Dash For The Sun positively embraces that energy. It’s time to spring out of the winter gear. Now is the moment. Summer is here, and the fashion is hot. As for the chaps: sorry, girls only.

Top 5 Spring / Summer Trends for 2013

Jen Wallace — Wed, 01 May 2013 17:02:07 +0000

Among the all the fabulous trends we’ve been seeing for summer, five fun trends are emerging and at at their centre is colour. You’ve seen the colour trend report for SS13, and now it’s time to see how you can work those colours into wider trends…

Metallic Dream

Shiny metallics were seen all over the runways for spring and summer and in unexpected hues like this tender shoots green, which is a hot colour this SS13.

Burberry Prorsum S/S 2013 {image via Soul Lovely Fashion}

60s Natural Neutrals

Khaki, nude, copper tone, natural, nude and olive are way on trend this summer. Pair them with neon or metallics and a swinging 60s silhouette and sheer materials for a super modern look. Featuring a neutral linen, this outfit is another example of a must-wear colour this summer.

Marc Jacobs {image via Popsugar}

Iridescent Jewels

Big, bold saturated colours are super hot now. Colours like Monaco blue, emerald green, amethyst purple and poppy red are spot on. Pair these jewel tones together with iridescent material to dazzle passers-by.

Burberry Prorsum S/S 2013 {image via Pinterest}

Oriental Neon

Not since the 80s have we seen this much neon. Don’t worry, you don’t have to wear mall bangs and shoulder pads too–this neon trend is tasteful. Pair with pastels and oriental cuts for a modern and fresh take.

Ossam S/S 2013 {image via Wardrobe Resurrection}

Sorbet Pastels

You will find plenty of colours that seem more like what you would see in the sweet or ice-cream shop. Choose from nectarine orange, cotton candy, African violet and greyed jade.

See by Chloe RTW S/S 2013 {image via Vogue. UK}

Ways To Wear: A Purple Dress

Kari Radjewski — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 09:22:54 +0000

You heard it here first: plum purple is Spring 2013’s colour! Push your LBD to the back of your closet, because this year – a dress in this deep beautiful gem tone will be your new fancy. If you are thinking, “what kinds of good will a purple dress do me?” we have you covered. Day or night, work or pleasure, there are endless ways to wear the new neutral. We have chosen seven accessories to kill the current ‘it’ colour and have created numerous styling combinations. Here are a few suggestions we have to play purple perfectly:

Purple Pairings

Jules B. Necklace / Dior Scarf / Orla Kiely Jumper / Vince Biker Jacket / Debenham’s Sandals

Saint Laurent Paris Pumps / Sole Society Heels

MaxMara Short Sleeve Dress / Zolando Cocktail Dress / Merona Wrap Dress

Create colour blocking combos: We bet you never thought to pair purple with a bright ruby red, or marigold yellow? You can see here how wonderfully the contrasting shades complement each other. Remember when mixing and matching, the best combinations are those opposite of each other on the colour palette. Play around with your wardrobe to see which pair you love most.

Mix in prints: Then mix in another one. By adding patterns to a solid colour, you instantly create an interesting outfit. If you so dare, get trendy by mixing two prints. A leopard print literally matches with everything and for the other, ensure it incorporates shades from the purple family.

Make a statement with jewellery: This is about the simplest way to turn up the fancy factor of an outfit. An otherwise basic dress turns into a va-va-voom going out dress with statement jewels. Whether you prefer earrings, a necklace or stack of bracelets, whatever your cheeky charms may be, they will surely keep you festive and fashion-forward.

Keep it simple: You cannot go wrong styling with go-to wardrobe essentials. Don’t over-think the outfit; instead, revert to neutrals like a black coat and nude pumps to let the dress be the drama!

Load up with layers: Perhaps it is still a big frigid to bare shoulders and arms, so layering will be quite functional; however, use warming up to your advantage. Choose a piece to cover-up with that is not just practical, but says something about your style. An edgy biker jacket or serious cardigan sets the tone for your personal style.

Not only does it sound easy to be beautiful in purple, but it is! These are just a handful of styling ideas that surely do not stop here. We could keep playing dress-up all day!

What other outfit combinations can you make with the featured fashions? How would you wear a perfect plum dress? Which styling option is your favourite for this perfectly purple party dress?

Feminine, Flirty, Fun! Five Glitter Dresses for Any Occasion!

Kari Radjewski — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 14:48:57 +0000

There is something undeniably special about a dress covered in glitter. With a but of shiney dust, we instantaneously feel glamorous and glitzy. There’s no doubt about it, embellishment takes an ordinary dress above and beyond!

Regardless of personal taste or style requirements of your occasion, a sparkly frock makes a lady feel ultra-feminine, -flirty and –fun! We’ve selected five of our favourite glitter dresses that go will make you look fabulous no matter your event!

Lady-like, La Garçonne: Even the most mature women can play with girly, whimsical sparkle. Our tip for the sophisticated ladies is to keep things sweet with a bit of simple shine throughout the chiffon frills of this midi dress.

Day, The Outnet: We love this floral shift dress for a garden party, tea or simply a casual café lunch on a warm and sunny day. It can be dressed up or down, but no matter what, the glitter will keep you looking like the perfect princess you are!

Party, Motel Rocks: This is the ultimate party dress! The hard rock, edgy glitter dress is figure flattering and will make you shine in a crowd of guests.

Sexy, Oasis: For a modest dose of sparkle, go for this sexy midi dress with shine-blocked sleeves. It takes the LBD up an eye-catching notch; perfect for a cocktail party or wedding celebration.

Formal, Harrod’s: This blush pink, floor-length gown is romantic, elegant and interesting. Thanks to the subtle pattern on this embellished dress, we can prove that a touch of glitter makes all the difference.

Which glitter dress is most your style? How do you wear glitter?

Style Forecast: Hottest Colours for Spring / Summer 2013

Kari Radjewski — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 15:16:39 +0000

With winter items moved to the sale section, we have noticed store fronts beaming their warm weather clothing for the upcoming spring months. Though the weather is not fully compromising with the flirty frocks, we are ready to prepare for rising temperatures. The question is, what colours will invade this year’s prelude to summer wardrobe?

Photo via Pantone

Thanks to Pantone, we can make accurate style file predictions for upcoming seasons. As for spring / summer 2013, it seems citrus shades and a barrage of floral tones will be what is hot! Perhaps this just seem like an obscure colour palette, not exactly letting you know how to translate the hues into your day-to-day dressings. But that is why we are here!

Handbag & Dress, Flannels Fashion / Earrings, Circle and Square / Scarf, Harvey Nichols / Pumps, Mango

Necklace & Tank, Witchery / Studs, Zappos / Clutch, Boticca

From the blush pink of Pantone’s Linen to Lemon Zest and Tender Shoots, here is a selection of items all following the spring colour report. Perhaps you already have some of these shades in your current wardrobe? If not, and you are on the hunt for similar hues, we suggest you incorporate more than one (even all) of the colours in a pretty print as seen in the centred scarf. Otherwise, you can stick to a Grayed Jade, or Poppy Red. Find clothing or accessories that work with your current wardrobe and are easy to build into outfits. A few simple pieces can keep you looking fashion-forward all season-long!

Interested to see who was wearing what at the 2013 Oscars? Check out the best and worst dressed here.

Geek Chic: Nerd Style Fashion Trend

Kari Radjewski — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 14:56:17 +0000

Let’s face it – Nerds have a serious reputation for a style intuition that is nothing short of… poor. But maybe we have been judging them wrong all along? Could it be that nerds are fashion trend setters, and we should actually be paying attention to how and what they wear?!

Stereotypically thought to dress in boring button-ups, thick-framed glasses, pleated skirts and clunky clog-like shoes, they have escaped being objects of our fashion affection. Sure they have a taste all their own, but when just a bit refined, dorky dud elements can absolutely be turned trendy and chic.

Darling Office Dweeb

Vilagallo Blazer, D&G Tote and Chanel Loafers from Far Fetch / Skirt from J. Crew / Tights from ModCloth

Plaid. It is a staple style for nerds around the world. Tailor it, contrast the lapel and immediately the cheesy checkers become a seriously sophisticated blazer. The other geeky glam element in the featured ensemble would be the smart, lady-like loafers down below. Typically you think of this shoe being heavy and hokey, but given a makeover it turns posh and put-together. You simply cannot go wrong when it comes to a patent leather pump with gold chain embellishment.

Two subtle dorky innuendos are appropriate enough for the workplace. Pair a vibrant pencil-skirt to pop colour from the plaid jacket, then complete the look with a structured tote. Mixing basic pieces with those that follow a certain cliché creates an outfit, not a costume.

Cheeky Geeky Daytime

Blouse from Moda Operandi / Glasses from River Isand / Jeans from Hollister / Socks from Gap / Oxfords from Asos

For a more casual, relaxed occasion it is much easier to stretch nerdy chic the extra distance. The above look is the geek typecast from head to toe. Lately, thick rimmed glasses are the hit accessory, even if your eyes are a perfect 20/20. People are wearing pairs regardless of need. Once you have found frames that fit, button-up a stark white oxford, leaving out the pocket protector! On bottom, slip into your favourite skinny jeans and slightly cuff them so you can show off an interesting pair of printed socks like the featured floral. Make sure only the top of your foot is showing, not all the way up your leg. Finally, lace-up this season’s go-to flat, your new oxfords and admire your nerdy chic ensemble in the mirror.

Conveniently, most of these items you probably already own. And if you decide to buy some plaid, loafers, a pair of oxford shoes or (faux) glasses, each can be worn over and again, styled with a million other outfit options. The key is to incorporate dorky details with basics to maintain fashion appeal.

Do you think nerdy chic can be fashionable? Are you willing to give it a try? How would you wear this type of outfit? Share your thoughts!!

5 Exciting Fashion Collaborations for Spring 2013

Rochelle Sampy — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 11:40:01 +0000

Every year, we can experience fantastic fashion collaborations between celebrities, stores and fashion designers. Whether the celebrity is looking to enter the world of fashion, strengthen their position in the field or the designer is looking to re-brand their product, these collaborations are something to look forward to. Here are our top 5 fashion collaborations to look forward to for spring 2013:

Print trousers from Ann Taylor

Kate Hudson and Ann Taylor

Making her first venture into fashion design, actress Kate Hudson collaborates with the Ann Taylor fashion label to design a limited edition capsule collection. This collection will focus on Kate’s ‘chic red carpet style, recreated and brought to life for everyday occasions’. The campaign started in February but Kate will return as an ambassador for it during spring/summer 2013. And her support for the brand does not stop here as Kate has also joined the Advisory Council for the company’s ANNpower Vital Voices Initiative, which supports the empowerment of women.

Polo shirt from John Varvatos

John Varvatos with Jimmy Page and Gary Clark

Celebrity heavyweights Jimmy Page and Gary Clark have teamed up with fashion label John Varvatos for their spring 2013 campaign. The Led Zeppelin guitarist and American music talent will be known as the ‘Master’ and the ‘Young Guitar-Slinger’ as part of this campaign. Varvatos has said that Jimmy Page has been a style icon of his since 1970 and he is proud to call the guitarist his friend. Clark is also a friend as well as being an amazing songwriter and singer.

River Island with Georgia Hardinge

Designer Georgia Hardinge will make her début high street collaboration with retailer River Island as part of a Design Forum initiative in spring/summer 2013. For this first high street partnership, Georgia got her inspiration, for this collection, from Swiss surrealist painter and sculptor, H.R. Giger. Her collection includes stunning statement pieces such as a printed maxi skirt with matching top and a structured neoprene hip dress. This architectural collection was launched through a short film as produced by Alex Turvey at the Fash/On Film event at London Fashion Week in February 2013. This début 14-piece collection will be available in stores from early April.

Decadent Hampton watch collection from Baume & Mercier

Baume & Mercier with Emmanuelle Chriqui

We move from clothing to watches as Swiss watchmaker Baume & Mercier enters into a partnership with actress Emmanuelle Chriqui. The actress has been a fan of the brand for years and so welcomed the opportunity to work with the watchmakers on their new quartz Linea 27 mm series. This new collection features luxurious, hand-woven leather straps in colours such as orange, white and beige in order to keep with the brand’s ‘seaside living’ theme.

Knitwear for men from Uniqlo

Uniqlo with Celia Birtwell

This collection between British textile designer Celia Birtwell and retailer Uniqlo will combine classic British culture with modern Japanese style. This capsule range will include jeggings, pyjama trousers and tote bags among others.

History of the Little Black Dress

Jen Wallace — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 11:57:51 +0000

The initials LBD stands for one of the greatest inventions of all time–or at least in the 20th Century. No, it has nothing to do with advanced medicine, energy delivery systems or rocket science. LBD, as every woman knows, stands for Little Black Dress.

Jerry Gilden 50s Cocktail LBD. Image via Pinterest.

“One is never over or under dressed in a little black dress.” Karl Lagerfield for Chanel

The Birth of the LBD

Chanel’s LBD dress from 1926. Image via refinery29.

The LBD has a relatively short history in view of the whole of mankind, but in terms of modern fashion, it’s been around for a very long time. It was that most famous of famous designers, Coco Chanel, who first created the LBD in the 1920s. Chanel’s creations, which first appeared in Vogue in 1926, were deceptively simple drop-waist sheath dresses in black. The design quickly became “the” dress for 20s flappers.

Prior to this period, black clothing was a symbol of mourning (made popular during the Victorian era) and most women would not have worn black in their daily dress or for evening wear. Chanel, inspired by the peasant widows of WWI, elevated the black dress into something chic and elegant. She also promoted it as the one dress that every woman should own for its versatility and practicality–it is wearable for some many different occasions. It was this economy that led to its staying power–the Great Depression made economy a necessity for many and the austerity of the LBD was appropriate.

Dior’s “New Look”. Image via safehaventalk.

The New Look and Hollywood Glamour

The LBD had a new life under the Dior’s post WWII “New Look” and under the influence of glamorous Hollywood. Gone were the days of the utilitarian necessity of the Depression era LBD–Dior and Hollywood restored its glamourous roots and made the LBD the dress of choice for Hollywood divas and temptresses. Stars like Rita Hayworth and Ava Gardner epitomized the LBD wearing femme fatale.

Rita Hayworth in a LBD. Image via Grace & Beauty.

The LBD became the costume of the evening and less appropriate to wear black as a day dress. Dior’s New Look version was nipped in at the waist and featured a fitted bodice. His first skirts were full, but narrowed in later collections.

Breakfast At Tiffany’s, Audrey Hepburn and Givenchy

Audrey Hepburn in Givenchy in Breakfast At Tiffany’s. Image via Divine Antheia.

When one thinks of the LBD, Audrey Hepburn comes to mind. She and Givenchy made the LBD of the 60s a cultural icon. His Breakfast at Tiffany’s design is easily one of the most iconic dresses of all time (with only Marilyn Monroe’s’ white Seven Year Itch dress being more well known) and easily the most famous little black dress.

It was this design that cemented the LBD as fashion royalty and as the style that would forever denote polished sophistication and one that would never go out of style.

The Little Black Dress of Today.

Keyhole Dress at Anthropologie | Ted Baker Dress at Nordstrom | Ladder Dress at Mod Cloth | Bonded Dress at Dorothy Perkins | Rachel Roy Dress at Neiman Marcus

What to Wear: Looking Lovely on Valentine’s Day

Kari Radjewski — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 16:07:10 +0000

Well, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Red and pink doilies, hearts and lovely greetings decorate shop windows and prices of chocolate, teddy bears and roses are wayyy up! The city is ready for the sappiest day of the year, but are you? Have you decided what to wear on your big night out with your handsome lover?!

{Cake Journal}

Depending whether you two are a dapper duo or a simple, casual couple, here are a couple outfit ideas to keep you looking fashionable, festive and good enough to eat!

DAPPER DUO

Necklace from Les Pommetres / Dress from The Corner

Clutch from Lulu Guinness / Tights from Style Bop

Pumps from Far Fetch

Perhaps you have that dream boyfriend who explains your upcoming Valentine’s Day date is a secret, but “dress fancy”. Your mind is racing wondering what the heck he is planning while simultaneously manipulating your calendar to squeeze in time to go shopping. Who knows what may happen this night and you want to be wearing a memorable outfit, just in case!

Based on previous surprises, like the impulsive weekend getaway to the Canaries, new diamond earrings for no reason, or just last week when you came home to a hot cooked meal and fine wine waiting for you on the table, you’re in for a real treat.

The outfit to the left is a perfect comprimise for looking sexy, situation appropriate while maintaining loyalty to the lovey-dovey Valentine’s theme. Colour block pink and red hues to tribute the psuedo-holiday, in addition to a shiney smooch embellishment to the clutch, you are right on point.

CASUAL COUPLE

Hat from All Saints / Jumper and Shirt from Chic Nova /

Jeans from My Wardrobe / Wedges from Wallis Fashion

You and beau are cool cats who prefer to take it easy and enjoy eachother’s company on February the 14^th. Perhaps you are going ice skating or planning to order take-away and cuddle at home. Regardless, you need something to wear that is comfortable, yet akin to day filled with love and lust.

This outfit incorporates a thematic heart as well as a crimson red cardigan to note the sensual sentiments of Valentine’s Day. Sticking with style, the floral denim, slouched beanie and wedge booties show personality and taste. Dress chic, comfortably and still express love, joy and excitement while spending time with your significant other, regardless of how casual your plans may be.

Now that you have your outfit planned, time to resume wondering what he’s buying you and start thinking about what kind of gift to buy for your beau. Priorities, right? Ha!

What do you plan to do with your lover this Valentine’s Day? How do you style yourself fashionably and festively? Are you part of a Dapper Duo or Casual Couple?

Trend Report: Top 10 Pieces in Emerald Green for Pantone’s Colour of the Year

Melissa Carpenter — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 12:57:07 +0000

Pantone’s official pick for colour of the year has been announced and is turning other favourites green with envy. No surprise really, when you consider Pantone’s colour of the year 2013 is emerald green!

Described as “lively,” “radiant,” and “lush” this gorgeous jewel tone is nothing short of refreshing and revitalizing, bringing even the most glamazon fashionistas back to natural roots. Representing heritage and energising trends alike, emerald is gender neutral and juicy to the last minute detail. Designers have made it available in every garment, accessory, shoe and jewellery piece for the choosing, allowing you to work the hue into your lifestyle however you choose. It could be just the pick-me-up your life needs to achieve the balance and harmony all those resolutions set out to provide. Go green in more ways than one this year with a little help from the fashion world’s newest obsession.

Where seasonal shades come and go, the best part about emerald is that you can wear it all year long– and not just because Pantone says so. Green works for autumn and winter holidays, and for spring and summer just as well. Emerald isn’t just some shade of the season, it’s truly a shade for every season. Few colours carry the same sense of clarity and rejuvenation, so you can count on adding in a few pops to old looks to breathe new life and style into your wardrobe.

Whether you’re looking to jump feet first into the emerald invasion or sprinkle your essentials with just a fresh burst of sparkle, we’ve rounded up your best bets for looking vivacious in verde, no matter the occasion. Available in a full-range of price points and designer brands, this is one green everyone can get their hands on. Scoop up any of these pieces to instantly revitalise and look like a million bucks.

Emerald City Leather Jacket from Free People

Edge up your basics for a night out with coloured leather.

Halston Heritage Envious Emerald Evening Gown

Stun in emerald evening wear.

Basics Frill Sleeves Top from Great Plains

Pair a casual top with your tried and true skinny jeans for weekend errands.

Emerald Green Satin Skirt from Stylebop

Work the trend into office attire with a classic pencil skirt.

MEK Denim Straight Leg Jeans

Be bold, and swap out classic blue trousers for a gleaming green pair.

One Teaspoon Emerald Green Harem Trousers from Free People

Keep your street style sensibilities with the green in unique silhouettes.

Trina Turk Emerald Cloche Hat

Brighten up an everyday look with a splash of colour near your face.

Bauble Bar Green Kempner Bracelet

Slip a hint of the hue onto your wrists for some yummy arm candy.

Jessica Simpson Waleo Platform Pumps

Elevate your style by stepping into a pair of pumps that double for work and play.

American Apparel Large Leather Carry-All Pouch

Tote all your envy-inducing essentials in a statement bag that says it all.