Transition In Style...

Hey folks...


I figured I'd continue equipping you with advice to aid in your transition from Summer to Fall. In my last post I gave you fall shoe ideas and of course although I love love love shoes, we have to have some fabulous frocks to compliment your newest Loubou's!


There are so many great trends this season, far too many to mention in one post, but I don't want to leave you empty-handed. That being said, I want to highlight one trend for Fall that continues to re-emerge.




I've always loved fashion, its in my blood. My mother was the ultimate fashionista, I was in awe of her fabness growing up. I digress, anyway, I say all that to say that I've noticed that certain trends are timeless, and that's what she taught me to gravitate towards, especially when spending a significant amount of money for an item (a bit of advice that has served me well).

The trend up for discussion today is Military inspired fashion. To be honest, I haven't always been the biggest fan of military inspired clothing but over the years as the look has become more feminine. I'll just say I've gained a greater appreciation for the look.

This little number, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent, isn't quite military inspired but I love the idea of pairing something so glam and feminine with a military inspired piece which is almost its polar opposite. I recommend a military jacket in army green. It should be super easy to find since green is a big trend this season! Pair it with a jacket similar to the one below for a cute, edgy look.

I love this jacket by Aryn K. because it has a rough edge but maintians its femininity. This jacket is a good candidate for playing with length. Most of us think our shirt shouldn't be longer than our jacket, but that's not necessarily always a good philosphy. You could pair this with a flowy dress to contrast its strong presence or a tunic and leggings. Whatever you choose, try something different. The tapering along the waist is a life saver for those of us who weren't born with the perfect hourglass figure! And the buttons dwon the middle create a very long and lean appearance. I really like this jacket in black but if black isn't your thing, I'm sure there will be many more equally adorable colors to choose from.




If you read my last post, you know I love all things GLAM! This post is no different. I think my heart skipped a beat when I found this jacket by Ali Ro! It is the perfect mix of bad girl tough and flirty! This jacket speaks for itself, I would keep the rest of my outfit simple and monotone. You don't want to overdue it or appear to be trying to hard. I can hear Rihanna's Rock Star playing in the background!

So this by far is my fav jacket in this post! It's a tad bit more pricey than the other items but golly! Isn't she a beauty! But then again Burberry Prorsum rarely disapoints! This jacket would look great with pumps or boots but whatever you choose, keep them simple and structured and earthtoned. With the seasons changing, we put more emphasis on outerwear because as they say, first impressions are lasting impressions. No matter how flawless your outfit may be, if your jacket isnt just as fab, its almost an effort wasted. After all, everyone deserves a glimpse at beauty. its almost our civic duty to brighten the commuter's day by wearing a coat that is just to die for! Tee hee!

I thought I'd step it up a bit and give you a couple ensembles. The look below is super adorable and fun. I think of this look as more "date night". For those dates when you want to look pretty without being overtly sexy, cool and put together. The Rag and Bone blazer has just enough character to be cool and unique while the AG Adriano Goldschmied slim sateen pants and cut well enough to show that girlish figure! I said "without being overtly sexy" but this is a date, we can flaunt a little bit! you can pair this look with hoops or a long necklace and neutral pumps and a clutch and voila... masterpiece!

 

This next look is a traditionally military look  but its one with a girly glam edge. This look is for the woman who ins't quite into the hard lines that is military fashion. We have to have options right?! I heart this Milly Boyfriend dress! It's super flattering, extremely versatile, and that bit of sheen definitely does a great job of softening the look of the dress! This dress is the perfect tranistion piece . To make this look more military inspired, I'd add a studded belt like the Linea Pelle one below. And don't forget the Steve Madden Clovurr lace up bootie below. Cute and affordable, what could be better!

So folks obviously you have noticed a theme, military inspired looks are typically not flowing with color. I know this post may have given you earth tone overload, but these are just options. You can and should always infuse your own style into any option I provide. After all, this is your look, you have to own it and you should alter it to suit your  desires. So, if you want to add color and maybe more feminine pieces please be my guest! 

Over and out, roger that, and smooches! 

Until next time,

Sol Addict

Re-Up for Fall--Loubou Style

Bonjour mes amie...

Unfortunately, Summer is coming to an end. This is a semi-depressing time of year for me because of the impending the cold weather. The only thing that really gives me any source of comfort is knowing that I will soon have some great shoe options! I am, at my core, a shoe girl! Finding a great pair of shoes is like coming in on a cold wintry day, brewing some tea and relaxing in the bath with great book (Chick lit is my poison). Yes, finding a great pair of shoes is that great of an experience for me! Honestly, every girl has something they gravitate towards, some of my friends are bag girls, others are coat/jacket girls, some are strictly clothing girls. Whatever you fancy I know you appreciate fine craftmanship. That being said, I have chosen to feature one of the finest craftsman around--Christian Louboutin. So, get out your pen and pad and take note of the luxe looks for Fall! I call them my Fall Loubou Line-Up!


Here are my Fall favs in no particular order:
All pics courtesy of Barneys.com




I love this Lina bootie, it retails around $1500 but is so versatile, I think its worth it! The neutrality of the print makes it so easy to pair with mutliple colors.






I am so in love with this Miss Fast Plato ($995) bootie right now! I've seen a few celebs rocking them out and about. The deep v is super sexy without trying too hard. I love the rich plum color which is also very easily paired with a complimenting color. I'd think rich browns, stick with earth tones unless you're more on the adventurous side! I'd stay away from being too matchy with these.






Ok, so here it is again! I told you I am "so in love"! This Miss Fast Plato ($1095)bootie in leopard is so my style! The great thing about this print is leopard can either be dressed up or down, made to be very racy and edgy or casually cool. Depending on your desired look, you can either pair these with your fav simple LBD (little black dress) or maybe for an event that requires a more casual look try a white blouse (button down maybe) and a pair of skinny jeans, The point is this shoe speaks for itself, it doesn't require any bells and whistles. Be careful not to overaccesorize with this shoe.




I really like this Lady Derby ($995) shoe, it's demure without being boring. It has that ode to granny but also has the sexiness that is a peep toe. It's the perfect combination. If you're one of those girls who has 50 million pairs of black shoes, you may want to add these to your collection. Or if you're like me and have no black shoes (trust me I've tried to buy them, there is something wrong with me! LOL! ) these are the perfect shoes to pave the way! I love these because they too are verstile and can easily go from office to party with no effort on your part.





I saved this shoe for last because it was the source of heartache for me. No worries, I have recently gotten over it. I saw this Clou Noeud Spikes ($1195) shoe one day, fell in love and instantly started searching for it. Unfortunately it was sold out everywhere I went! I was so heartbroken and decided maybe it just wasn't meant to be and then one day as I was surfing the celeb blogs I noticed EVERYONE had these shoes! My heart broke all over again! I was the last one to know about these I guess. These aren't necessarily Fall shoes but because of my fondness for them they had to be included. That isn't to say they can't be worn during Fall, throw on some tights if its a little chilly and voila!


There you have it! Looking at my picks they are a little risque! The Miss Fast Plato does come in black if you prefer. But, if this isn't quite your style, stay tuned for my next post...


In the meantime, go out and start at least scouting for your starting five fall shoe favs!

Until next time...

Be kind, Be original, and please please please be Sol-ful

Sol Addict

New Obsessions--MVP's

Hey fab followers!

So...last weekend I had the most awesome time at a fab semi-local resort. Think lounging by the pool all day then going to the most posh spa for crazy relaxation..that's kinda an oxymoron isn't it--crazy relaxation! Whatev, you get it!Anyway, while getting my massage, my masseuse moves to my shoulder and asks "You have problems with this shoulder, no?" She was so right on! She asks a couple questions and finally she tells me what I've known for so long, my purse is too heavy! So of course I've heard all warnings about heavy purses but I mean seriously, I need everything in my bag! Anyway, so I've decided to abide by my masseuse's warning and get a smaller bag...this is a bittersweet moment. Bittersweet because I have been a big bag girl for so long, sweet because I've made the best new discovery...SHOULDER BAGS!

So I'm a tad late with the subject , but better late than never--right! I am so in love with this style of bag! There are so many options, which I love--hobo, duffel, messenger, clutch, flap, I mean seriously, can it get any better??

I was scrolling through the Saks website (saksfifthavenue.com) as I do when I have a free moment as I was scrolling I came across my most valuable players (MVP's)..check the merchandise below...

Gucci--Leather 1973 Mini Shoulder Bag

Gucci: Vintage Medium Boston Bag in black

Gucci: Vintage Medium Boston Bag in tan

Marc Jacobs: Fantastical Tale KC Flap Bag

MCM Mini Shoulder Clutch

This is my absolute fav! An ode to old times, I am so glad its back!

All this beauty in one place has proven to much for me! I'm signing off, but please take a moment to embrace my new love, whatever your price point, there's something for you out there!

Have fun,

Sol Addict

Call of the Wild--NSW??

Hey fashionistas! It's been a while, I know, blame it on the man! LOL! No really, A girl has to work right--at least for now--tee hee!

Anyway, I have a people poll of sorts for all you corporate fashionistas:

Is animal print suitable for work? Or is it a no-no? (cue Tarzan theme music)

This internal struggle started last night as I lay in bed falling asleep, doing what I do every night as I fall asleep-- think about my frock for the next day. I have the cutest leopard peep toes and with my skinny leopard belt and black sheath dress, what could be cuter??? No really what? Anyway, I was just about to fall asleep satisfied that I had completed my nightly mission, when I started to think, can you really wear animal print to work? Is that appropriate? Are people going to be whispering about you at the water cooler? Well actually I don't have a water cooler in my office but I digress! I was at a crossroads, not knowing what I should do. I thought to myself, there are plenty of work clothes that come in animal print..right? There has to be??? It was getting late so I decided to take the chance and just do it!

I think it worked out well, even my boss's boss said "Oooh cute shoes! Betsey Johnson?" I was super impressed with her knowledge of edgy, girly designers to say the least. So this is my conclusion, yes animal print is suitable for work when done in moderation. I personally will not be walking around in animal print dresses (but then again you never know!) but I think when it comes to accessories, its a go. Then again, maybe you work in an atmosphere that is a little more tolerating, then I say hey do whatever flutters your heart! So there you have it, I have spoken!

So next time you're in bed, thinking about your ensemble (we all know you do it), think about adding some animal print to spice up your look!

I've got to run but remember: live, love and shop until your heart is content!

Sol Addict

Allow Me to Re-Introduce You to Your New Fall/Winter Accessory...

Greeting all you Gourgeous Girlies!!!

So Fall is here eh and Winter is coming...it's time to get reacquainted with one of your better accessories, and the best thing about these accessories is they are totally free, they require a little maintenance but free none-the-less. Ladies, meet your legs! I mean honestly, what did you think I was gonna say???

But no really, the designers have not disappointed this season! There are so many fabulous options, whether you desire beautifully-hued tights or uniquely decorated leggings, they are all within your grasp! I for one must tell you I am so excited! I would wear leggings and tights everyday if I could! Tights are just the best accessory, they allow you to add some umph to the most basic outfit, transforming it into an ensemble! Imagine with me for a moment, let's say it's a cold crisp day, you are in the mood for a simple but well tailored black dress, instead of reaching for those trusty black tights and black pumps, how about grabbing those blue tights (that you purchased and never wear because you can't figure out exactly how to wear them), now instead of those trusty black pumps, try your black booties...and voila! A great show stopping ensemble that can go from day to night with a mere handbag switch-a-roo! For day, pair it with a slouchy hobo, for night try a jeweled clutch.

And don't get me started on leggings! I am totally obsessed! Leggings have been everywhere for a while now, but is time or are they so much better this season, from tye dye to tuxedo. I just can't get enough! Leggings are a fab alternative to those J brand jeans you would typically wear. I say that because leggings can be dressed up or down, they can be worn Bohemian or Chic, Funky or Mod. Leggings allow you to be whoever you wish to be when you put them on. And with all the great blazers that are out this season, how could you not absolutely love this ensemble?! That's a rhetorical questions by the way (wink!)

So ladies, hopefully you can now understand why my heart flutters at the mere mention of tights and leggings! They range in color, design, cut, and price! They are our answer to being effortlessly chic...and if that's not enough to make you love them then I'm all out of words--and that's rare!

Here are a few of my favorite things (like the song!) but no really, here are some of my faves, they range from everyday to "it girl"! Watch, Look, and LOVE:

all leggings courtesy of neimanmarcus.com





all tights courtesy of blommingdales.com


Tah Tah Lovelies!

....and remember, if nothing else, always be original, kind, and sol-ful!

*Sol Addict*

VPL...Excusable or and BIG NO-NO???

Greetings ladies and gents...



I'm gonna have to ask the fellas to sign off as I would hope that this is not an issue that applies to you (fingers crossed)!

VPL or for those of you less familiar with fashion lingo--Visible Panty Line. This is a topic that puts people at odds. It's one of those topics where there is no absolutely middle ground, either you could care less about your VPL or anyone else's or the mere thought of it. Imagine something with me...imagine seeing a woman who at first sight looks tres chic, nails polished, not a hair out of place, make-up flawless, and then it happens, she walks by and you can't help but be stopped in your tracks by the sight of the outline of her undergarment! EEK!


I wonder if you can guess, which end of the spectrum I fall on? (chuckle)


I will be the first to admit that I was once one of those women I just described, well maybe not as polished at the aforementioned woman, but let's just say I was a free spirit! I did not care one bit about my VPL no matter how many times Stacy and Clinton reprimanded some unsuspecting horribly dressed woman on TLC's What Not to Wear. Then one day something happened, what it was I have no clue, but I woke up a changed woman! And from that day forward, I have loathed VPLs. If you're reading this, I think you'd agree that clothing is an art form to be adored and admired and much like you wouldn't go to an art gallery and scribble on one of the masterpieces, you should never ruin the flow of your garment with a VPL. Now ladies, I'm all for being original and creating your own fashion personality but a VPL has nothing to do with originality.


For all of you that think I'm making a big deal of this VPL issue, do me a favor, go get your favorite pair of pants or better yet your favorite little black dress or as Beyonce would call it your "freakum dress". Got it? Ok now put it on, keeping on your normal undergarments. Now, go to the mirror and turn around...tell the truth do you have VPL? Is it totally noticeable? If it is...and i know it is,do me a favor, go change your undergarment, we won't get to graphic, but pick something that will not create those lines on your bum...hopefully you know what kind of undergarment I'm referring to. OK, got it? Now with your new undergarment, put the dress on again and turn around...no VPL!!! Admit it to yourself, it looks better! You are on FIRE! No VPL allows people to notice your outfit not your panty line! Take a minute, admire how your smooth your silhouette is, no lumps and bumps, just a beautiful, fluid, polished look that will have you turning heads for all the right reasons!!!!

Alright ladies, I've given you the knowledge, now you must go out in to the world and apply what you learned! :-)


Originality, Kindness, and Sol


Sol Addict

When is the Right Time to Hang Up Your Peep Toes???

Ladies...my humblest apologies for being away so long! The trials and tribulations of adulthood have been holding me hostage! Alas!!!! I am free--for a while at least!

So let's get back to the matter at hand...peep toes...when do you pack your beloveds away. The answer to this question changes depending on who you ask. Of course we all wear them in Summer, but as the temperature starts to cool and the leaves begin to acquire their Autumn hues, the peep toe debate begins to rear its head.

I think we've all seen women don their peep toes in the Winter months. How do you feel about that? Do you give them a pass if it's New Year's Eve and they are off in their best shimmery and sequined mini dresses? Well, I'll speak for myself, I do--I give them all (including myself) a pass! But what about before New Year's Eve? What about when its just a normal Winter day? What are the pre-requisites for peep-toeing??? Some think when its too cold to be out bare legged its too cold for peep toes, but we've all seen women in peep toes with tights---that's super cute--if done right.

Ok, ladies, I've thought about it, I've toiled over it, I've looked at the woman in the mirror and I have come to the decision that peep toes can be worn at any time of year unless there is snow or ice on the ground--those of you in warmer more fab climates have really dodged a bullet! So there you have it, if there's snow or ice on the ground and your feet will at one time or another hit the aforementioned ground, I'd have to say no peep toes.

Until the next time my lovelies...be original, be kind, and please be sol-ful!

XOXO,

Sol Addict

P.S. It's great to be back! I missed you all so!!!

photo: Guiseppe Zanotti Printed-Heel Ornament Platform @ Neiman Marcus