crop top...

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One trend that has come back this summer has been the 90's crop top- but with its own twist of course. Unfortunately this is a tricky look to pull off and not flattering at all. I'm not in the tip top shape I want to be (but I'm working on it!) so belly-baring tops are off the table for me. The twist to wearing a crop top this summer is to pair it with a high waisted pant in order to allow more women to pull this look off and look good doing it- the idea isn't to try and bare a lot of skin. Less is more!

Where top crops tend to be flowy, this look doesn't tend to look good with my body type, they stop right at the widest part of my body- my hips and cover up my more narrow waist. On the end, I look wider and boxy: not flattering.

But with the crop top below, I just loved the pattern and decided I'd wear it with a pair of jean shorts as a beach cover-up. Then, I got the idea of belting it with a high-waisted skirt to keep it modest but also work with my body's curves.

The Outfit

• Crop top- American Eagle (SJ, July '11)
• Skirt- American Apparel (Halifax, April '07)
• Belt: Eddie Bauer (Moncton, August '06)
• Necklace: Banana Republic (Freeport, Nov '10)
• Hat: Gap (Moncton, July '11)
• Scarf around hat: Coach (Toronto, Sept '08)
• Espadrilles: Steve Madden- The Urban Shoe Myth (SJ, June '11)

Sometimes we have to remember that all trends aren't going to flatter all body types (I know I've stayed clear of a few myself)- or you can transform or modify them to make them your own! The most important thing is knowing what you feel comfortable it and knowing what looks good on you! Just like it's never truly one size fits all, it's never should be one look suits all.

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3 things: colours for fall 2011...

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I know, I know using the word fall makes me a bit of a Debbie Downer! But I have to admit, fall is my favourite season, most anticipated to shop for (September's Vogue isnt that thick for nothin'!). And while we're still hitting the beach and flipping burgers on the grill, some fall lines will be hitting stores by later this month or early the next. Although it might be a little early to start talking clothing trends and what to wear, I'd like to share my 3 favourite colour trends for fall (and I thought I'd have a little fun demonstrating with paint swatches)!

1. Champagne

Very understated but elegant when you add a little sheen,

this colour will be fun to sport in a silk top or layer with darker hues.

2. Plum

A colour fit for royality, this hue looks good on everyone!

3. Lemon

Wear it bright or slightly subdued,

here's a way to keep the sunshine alive into the cooler weather.

Hope you all have a great weekend!

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inspiration board...

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How do we keep up on the revolving door of style trends? Mind you, I've always had a system for how to get the scoop on what's coming up and what's already in when it comes to fashion: I usually look to those who have already done the research for me in the trend forcasting. Often these sources are fashion-based websites and newsletters such as Refinery29, WhoWhatWear, and now also the Glitter Guide.

I also have my handy stack of fashion magazines (which I am finally signing up for subscriptions with). I often comb through these like catalogs with my coloured sharpies, making notes within and using my Post-It tabs to mark the pages worth consulting (sounds a little like what I did throughout my university career.. but replace the stack of magazines with a 25lb combo pile of binders and text books).

But sometimes keeping all this info along with what I surf on my favourite style blogs, catch mention of on twitter, see on the street/in-store, and view during conferences via livestream on is hard to keep harnessed into my brain! I'm sure we can all agree on that one?

For a while now, I've been meaning to start an inspiration board to keep track of it all and on Sunday I finally started this project with those magazines seen above, a pair of scissors, a few boxes of push-pins, and a cork bulleton board (to be hung over my desk). And voila! I've got a new way to keep track of trends and all things fashion-related that I'm crushing on:

Getting the process started

A think this shall be a great system to help generate blog post topics for both my blog here and Brunswick Square Shopaholic as well as prioritize my shopping. What do you do to keep up with the fast flow of fashion and trending?

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summer shoes...

Giving up shopping for lent has been a tough venture, but I'm still hanging in strong 13 days in. Naturally, just because I cannot shop, doesn't mean my wish list has stopped growing...

In the last year or two, I remember flipping through a copy of Harper's Bazaar to see that espadrilles were being delcared "out" in the world of fashion. But we're all aware of how cyclic fashion really is. Re-invent the wheel: make it a edgier, colour it a new hue, give it a new angle. I remember being more or less indifferent to the passing of the woven wedge sandal at the time,  but like some styles, this is one that grew on me this time around. Partically with my developed interest in chunky shoes, platforms, and wedges.

Friday afternoon, I made a visit to The Urban Shoe Myth to scope out Shelley's latest selection. I fell in love with these Steve Madden espadrilles, now officially on my list of must-haves following my shopping fast!

From what I can see online, in-store, and in magazines, espadrilles didn't make it far out of reach before they came back in full force! I forsee them being a huge summer trend and I'm wanting to wear those Steve Maddens despite the fact that the ground is still frozen! Most popular footwear labels have been adding the woven wedge espadrilles to their spring/summer lines. Sam Edelman, Nine West, and Dolce Vita are just a few to embrace the traditionally Spanish shoe that dates back to at least the 16th century. Mind you, the originated as a flat shoe with a rope sole and canvas covering over the feet, worn by men and women. Here's a few picks of the modern, bohemian wedge version that I am loving:

Espadrilles by MaritimeShopaholic

What is the shoe type that you look forward to wearing this summer?

to the max...

One thing that is on my list of must-haves for this summer is the maxi dress. I've admired other bloggers who have fashionably styled elogated skirts and dresses, but never thought it was a look I could neccessarily pull off. Sometimes I find it can take some trends a little longer to grow on me or I warm up to them once I figure out how to incorporate them into my own look. Here's some of the pieces and looks I'm coveting right now:    

Yumi swallow print maxi dress

Diane von Furstenberg dress

All Saints maxi dress

Joseph M blue floral dress

TopShop long chiffon dress

Michael Kors gathered skirt

Preen tulle maxi skirt

Rag & Bone maxi skirt

Click here for prices and links to online shops

I'd love to pair any of the above pieces with a jean jacket for that casual-cool look. However, I won't be adding any maxis to my closet until my shopping freeze thaws...in 32 days!

So what's your opinion on the maxi dress or maxi skirt? Is it a style you plan to incorporate into your wardrobe? Is it not for you? Or perhaps you already have a couple hanging in your closet?

P.S. Happy St. Patty's Day!

five foreshadows for spring

Despite the fact that we're buried under abour 3 feet of snow, and I was stranded in my house today due to the fact that I couldn't get the car beyond the driveway...I can't stop mesmerizing about spring fashion. Perhaps it's just me longing for those days in the foreseeable future that I don't have to wear about 8 layers or cover my outfit with a parka. Maybe it's just excitement at the chance to sort through my closet...in preparation of "out with the old, in with the new" spring cleaning.

Here are 5 trends I'm forecasting for this spring:

No. 1

Warm Pinks

(corals, peaches)

1. Modcloth Dianthus Fields Dress

2. LuLu*s Crazy Love Coral Dress

3. Shopbop Diane von Furstenburg

4. Shopbop Halston Heritage

No. 2

Florals

(ever-so classic)

1. Free People Kite & Butterfly Tunic

2. Free People Parisian Bouquets Halter Dress

3. Free People Wisteria & Lattice Dress

4. DEPT floral skirt

No. 3

Lace

(a touch of feminine)

1. Shopbop Tibi lace shorts

2. Free People short sleeve lace tunic

3. Alexander Wang lace shirt

4. Free People lovely lace dress

No. 4

Wide-Leg Trousers

(menswear-inspired)

1. ASOS tailored extreme wide leg wool trousers

2. ASOS tailored pinstripe braces wide leg trousers

3. Free People drippy wide leg pant

4. ASOS tailored tab side wide leg

No. 5

Platforms & Wedges

(sky-high sophistication)

1. Dolce Vita Sancia

2. L.A.M.B. Crepe

3. Steve Madden Scandall

4. Steve Madden Sunnset

So what styles and trends are you looking forward to this spring?

This Friday I had intended to host another giveaway...but we've just had to post-pone it until next week. I promise, this one's worth waiting for! Can't wait to reveal it to you all!

warm & chic: how smart girls dress...

Each morning I typically wake up early and check my emails as well as my Facebook & Twitter feeds via my Blackberry while still lounging in bed (one of my many favourite things about finally switching to a smart phone). Last week, I spotted the following tweet from local radio personality Steph Downey:

I thought to myself, lying in my warm cozy bed, that Steph and her co-host (Jay DeLong) of K100's morning show must be on location somewhere...and chilly! I tweeted Steph, asking where they were stationed and joked that I was assuming they didn't just shut the heat off on them...well, apparently I was mistaken!

Well turns out the heat was indeed off because it was being worked on! Steph joked about me writing a post on how to pull off long johns in style...when suddenly I got a great idea for a blog post while making my morning coffee.

I asked Steph to send me a picture of her current office attire. When I've seen Steph out and about in public or at any particular event, she always looks quite stylish, very well coiffed and shows that she knows what works for her.

Given her usual sense of style, I had a guess that, even if sporting a parka and long johns, she'd be able to make the look work for her.

(Steph appologizes for the poor lighting and photo quality...you can't possibly blame the model so we'll just point the finger at Jay on this one.)

Steph's cute and cozy outfit inspired a post on how to make practical stylish (there is a time and place for long johns ladies!). When it comes to putting together any outfit, my number one criteria above all else is comfort. In New Brunswick and many parts of Canada, warmth is a big essential component of that this time of year. I often see girls quite under dressed for the weather. They not only look uncomfortable, but a tad bit foolish too!

The key to keeping looking great and staying warm around here is layers (and a beautiful coat paired with a cute hat and mitts when the weather is getting a little hairy). So, to help illustrate the point of how to be warm and chic, I asked a few of my favourite Canadian style bloggers to participate in this post!

Carolina of Closet Full of Nothing

Vancouver, BC

Carolina layers one of the season's biggest trends, a faux fur vest, over a red blouse (both from H&M) and coordinates it with a pair of leather gloves (Moschino) she scored from Winners. Pairing a faux fur vest with a pair of camper boots is a great way to stay warm.

Melissa of Miss Melissa

Vancouver, BC

Melissa layers it on thick with a tee (Gap), cardigan (Jacob), and beautiful vintage blazer. Tucking your jeans into your boots is a great way to keep those toes toasty!

Louise of Fifth Sparrow

Brandon, Manitoba

Louise makes this floral dress (BB Dakota) seasonally appropriate by adding a blazer (RW & Co.), ribbed tights (Smart Set), and equestrian boots she got from her sister! 

Kate of O My Heart

Fredericton, New Brunswick

I finally learned how to work ribbed "sweater" tights (without looking like long johns) when I saw Kate rock them in this look! She borrowed this warm plaid shirt from her boyfriend and belted it over a lovely skirt (Lush). To top off this lumberjack chic look, she incorporated a pair of wedge booties (Sam Edelman): the same colour, but a much more feminine replacement for a pair of work boots.

Nicole of Le Mode Du Jour

(Photograph by Patrick Leung)

Vancouver, BC

Nicole didn't just rely on her cup of tea that day to keep her warm as she walked about. She made these on-trend faux leather shorts (Forever 21) work in late November by donning a pair of patterened tights (Urban Outfitters) underneath and pulling on a pair of boots (Zara). She piled on a loose-fitting sweater (LYNNsteven) and faux fur collar (H&M) over her base layer (a top from Obakki) to stay warm in the chilly air.

So the biggest in-style ways to stay warm, but still look chic in cooler weather would be through elements such as tights, boots, faux fur, sweaters, blazers, and layers, layers, layers! But, of course, when it gets pretty messy or really chilly (or you have no heat!), a parka and a pair of long johns is never a bad idea. Being warm is always in style!

Holiday Look Book

Surrounding this time of the year, there is always a party to go to, holiday dinners, friends gathering together. Most of us love an opportunity to dress up and look our best. During the Holidays, there are multiple occasions that you are going to want to look fabulous and chic. I've pulled 30 of my favourite looks and trends to showcase for Holiday-wear. Just some of my personal favs I'd like to share!

In my opinion, this in one of the best times of the year: holiday cheer, the parties, get-togethers, goodies and egg nog with close friends and family. My favourite trend right now for the Holidays is the lady-like look, with feminine silhouettes, as well as glitter and metallics, rich hues, cozy neutrals, and hints of texture to boot.

 1.   Aryn K sequin dress- Piperlime, $89; (similar dress- Je Suis Prest Boutique) 

 2.   LA Made drape dress- Piperlime, $44.99

 3.   BB Dakota dress- ModCloth, $109.99; instore at Je Suis Prest Boutique
 4.   Kensie matte jersey dress- Kensie online store, $58; Je Suis Prest Boutique
 5.   Kensie ruffled lace dress- Kensie online store, $118

6.   Beckoning Bistro top- ModCloth, $67.99

 7.   Elizabeth and James beaded Tokyo top- Piperlime, $375

 8.   Marc by Marc Jacobs Pandora sweater- Piperlime, $268

 9.   It's in the Zag top- ModCloth, $39.99

10.  Monrow pintuck chiffon top- Piperlime, $106.99

11.  Free People Serena's sleeveless vest- Piperlime, $98
12.  Juicy Couture faux fur vest- Piperlime, $159
13.  MM Couture leather jacket- Piperlime, $237
14.  Free People Napoleon cardigan- Piperlime, $148
15.  Tulle faux fur jacket- Piperlime, $75

16.  RW & Co. corduroy leggings- instore at RW & Co.
17.  Joe's Jeans riding pant- Piperlime, $76
18.  Striking Gold Skirt- ModCloth, $44.99
19.  J Brand velveteen leggings- Piperlime, $178
20.  Vince mixed media legging- Piperlime, $97

21.  Steve Madden Caryssa platform pumps- Piperlime, $129
22.  Calvin Klein Colette animal print pumps- Piperlime, $109.99
23.  Badgely Mischka Fuller pumps- Piperlime, $149.99
24.  L.A.M.B Plum wedges- Piperlime, $275
25.  Nine West Exposure- Piperlime, $89

26.  ESquared silver statement necklace- ESquared Jewels, $50
27.  Dressed Up to Dazzle earrings- ModCloth, $19.99
28.  Esquared floral necklace- ESquared Jewels
29.  Forever 21 Spiraling bead and rhinestone bracelet- Forever 21 online; $7.80
30.  Esquared floral necklace- ESquared Jewels

Add some festivity to your ensemble through rich textures that have a luxurious appeal to them: satin, suede, sequins, fur, feathers, lace. I chose to display mostly skinny pants/leggings/jeggings for bottoms, because they tend to be of a stretchy, comfortable material that is great for being in relax mode but not sacrificing style. They are paired easily with billowy blouses, loose sweaters and lovely tunics. Comfortable pieces in soft neutrals are great for dinners, family gatherings, and gift exchanges.

For nights out and parties, I would suggest going for glam, chic look- an opportunity to wear a dress in a metallic sheen, a deep jewel tone, or a sport a new LBD. Accessorize and add a statement piece of jewelry (my favourite is a fabulous, bold necklace). Throw on coloured tights (if your dress is a neutral colour) or patterned hosiery and a finish the look with a fabulous pair of heels.

For outerwear, I've followed some of the major trend-lines: add instant glamour to an outfit with sequin details or some faux fur that will also keep you warm this time of year! A leather jacket is an easy way to add an "effortless cool" feel to an outfit that is casual or dressy.

For jewelry, I chose items that have shine, glitter, or a some other wow factor to them. It's the holidays- everything is either lit up or decorated to catch the eye!

These are just 30 items I might suggest- just a few ideas to try for mixing and matching with your current wardrobe! What are your favourite looks for the Holidays?

TTFF (7): Hold on, for one more day...

Fall Fashion: Top Trends (Post #7)

Wait!...You can still get some wear out of your favourite shorts yet! Pair them with tights or pantyhose to make them fall-appropriate! Again, not a new trend, but one that is being more highly promoted as of recent. A great alternative to a skirt or dress to still show off a funky coloured pair of tights and incorporate a pair of boots or booties!

This look can be paired with denim shorts or dress shorts, as demonstrated below by 2 very fashionable ladies I know...

Kate of O My Heart!

Kiera of Je Suis Prest Boutique

Kate is from Fredericton, and the writer of one of my favourite style blogs. Kiera is my favourite store owner: her uptown boutique in Saint John is practically my closet! What are your throughts on tights with boots- would you rock 'em?