Ask Bedazzles: Fall Staples

Hi Readers! I've been putting off this questions since the weather in LA has been so hot! But since it's already November let's go ahead and dive right into Fall Fashion. I'm so excited to start this section off with such a fabulous request:

Hi Nikki! I absolutely love your blog! I was wondering if you could give me some wardrobe ideas. I recently just moved from Florida to North Carolina and I am really excited about getting a change in seasons and cooler weather. I could use some new trendy and wearable clothes to add to my closet for Fall. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks!
Ashley, North Carolina

This is a fantastic question. Every girl should have a few key fall staples that they can rotate in and out of their Fall/Winter wardrobe. I also have scoped out some great trendy (and affordable!) finds that you can add to clothes you already have to shake it up a bit.

A Long Sleeve Tee
Seen everywhere from BCBG Max Azria to Proenza Schouler (above) on the Fall 2010 runway this is sure to be one staple you already have hiding in your dresser. The new way to wear your LST this year? Pair it with your cutest dress, throw on some opaque tights or thigh highs and you've transformed a fun summery outfit into a perfect fall look. My favorite is the Mossimo long sleeve tees from Target. I like them because they are just thick enough without being too heavy. You can try the Tissue Tees if you need something lighter.

Opaque Tights
This is another key item for the cooler (or freezing!) months ahead. A good black pair is great under dresses and skirts but I love them under dressed up shorts. The above photo are pairs of Hue tights from Macy's - a fabulous brand that you can grab for under $15.00. But my go to tights brand? Simply Vera from Kohl's. I can usually grab them for 6 bucks a pair and they last me at least a few seasons (the purple ones are my fav!) Plus they really stay opaque and not see through like some brands. Try a brighter choice with a black dress for a burst of color and staying on trend.

Any Kind of Boot
Boots, Boots, Boots! I cannot say enough about how much I have fallen in love with them recently. I wasn't always a boot lover - but now I am hooked. I don't care what kind or what height you buy (my personal fav - the ankle boot) - just make sure you have a few pairs in your closet. Boots are also another item that you can splurge a little extra on because most are made to last. But if you are searching for a great option check out Target's newest riding boot - the Kaden. It comes in three basic colors (tan, gray, black) and goes perfect with just about anything from tucked in skinny jeans to dresses. Plus I love zipper detail on the back.

Hope that answered your question Ashley! Basics are always key to any wardrobe Winter or Summer. But these pieces can help make Spring pieces last further into the Fall months. Happy shopping!

1st image via Fashion Gone Rogue, 2nd image via Style.com, 3rd image via Macys, 4th image via DSW

Mulberry for Target: Perfect Fall Handbag Additions

Here's another edition of my Budget Fashion from Examiner (click the link to view the article) - this time the Mulberry for Target collection is featured. Chic handbags at easy-on-the-wallet prices!


image via Nitrolicious

Things Are Fall-ing Into Place

Hi loveys! Sorry that it has been few and far blog posts lately... I went on a mini vacay and then had a week full of exciting things going on which was amazing and distracting all at the same time! Does it always seem to you that with the change of seasons also comes changes within our lives? It may sound silly but I can't help making this connection. I noticed that with the start of summer I got a new job, starting remembering why I love to write and honestly felt a shift in my universe. These past few weeks leading up to the beginning of fall I have been amazingly exposed - to myself. I think each person has issues or things in our lives that we are aware of but that we don't deal with. We just push it aside, refile to the back of our brains or just pretend that we have forgotten about it all together. All the while it's bubbling up inside us just dying to get to the surface.

Over the past 30 days I have really been struggling with several of these issues and finally decided to lay them all out on the table. I holed myself up in our apartment, stopped returning phone calls or venturing out to spend times with friends. I really needed this time to re-evaluate my life, the direction I was going and what was best for my family (although only consisting of the hubs and Jacky - our dog - they're still the two most important things in my life!) I can't tell you how satisfying it is to work through something and come out on the other side. What began as a huge struggle for me - ended so perfectly with a mini-vacay to visit relatives in Georgia. I was able to solidify so many of those issues and get a grasp on them rather than letting them float aimlessly around my world. I finally have wrestled these inner beasts and come out of the darkness with a clear head and much better attitude. Making these major decisions are never easy - but it was what I felt was necessary for my life. I now know that I can venture back into my marriage, my work, friendships and everyday life knowing that I'm at peace with where I am and in a better state of mind.

In light of this awareness there have been so many things unfolding in my life and I can't wait to share all the goodness that has been happening.. but I can't let you know all the details just yet. I can tell you that I am so excited about the direction my path and this blog is going! I have been flooded with emails and messages lately from users both On Sugar and from Facebook who have been so amazingly supportive and I cannot thank you enough for your words! It's so encouraging to hear the comments you give and ideas you have as well! One of these messages has actually turned into an exciting part of the blog that I can now launch! :)

I have always been interested in styling and as of late it's just been family members, friends and a few photo shoots here and there. Recently I received a message a few weeks ago from someone who was asking me for some clothing options for the upcoming cooler months. I always get requests or messages like this and I thought - Why not start an "Ask Bedazzles" section. So ta-da! A brilliant idea is born. I have inserted a page above with an email address where you can send any and all questions to me that can be featured on this blog! Have an amazing date night dress but need some killer accessories? Send me the photo and I'll throw some ideas your way. Do you need help packing for an upcoming trip? Let me know and I will be sure to pick out some travel essentials for you. The possibilities are endless! I am so excited to have yet another connection with my readers and to share some of my ideas! So be on the lookout for an upcoming post where I will answer my first question!

Have a wonderful day! xoxo

image via Sarah.Wandering

Monique Lhuillier Spring 2011 RTW

While I so enjoy being casual in comfy jeans and cozy sweaters - there is nothing I love more than an evening wear line. Evening wear always reminds me of when my parents would go out to fabulous parties or work events, getting dressed up in glamorous pieces. Monique Lhuillier's Spring 2011 line was just that - glamorous shimmery evening wear. Flirty dresses and tailored pants kept this line extremely feminine. Of course there were her signature gowns - always a fav. Although a color palette of metallic reds, pinks, golds and creams were mainly used, Lhuillier also added quite a few prints throughout the collection. There were few surprise elements thrown in like a bright green gown and a blue ruffled floor length dress. I'd love throw a few pieces in my closet for that imaginary ball I might go to someday (Cinderella style of course!) Here are a few pieces:

  
Never underestimate a tailored pant look for your next date night. Just keep your top feminine and simple. Love the glitter bodice on the second look.

  
Two of the lines shorter sexy dresses. Cutouts will still be seen through Spring which is a fantastic play on showing more skin. Can I have that feathered cape on the gold look please?

  
One of the gorgeous cherry blossom prints used through out the collection. I love the stunning blue color of this dress and the ombre effect from top to bottom. Dying!

all images via WWD

Steal Her Look For Less: Rachel Bilson in Leather Shorts

Recently, I have been chosen as an LA Budget Fashion Examiner for the LA edition of Examiner. Click here to read my article on Rachel's outfit and get her amazing look at a fraction of the price.


image via Zimbio

Marc Jacobs Spring 2011 RTW

There are no words other than Marc Jacobs is a genius. No - Beyond genius. Whatever is beyond genius - that's what he is. His over the top, 70's allure, Studio 54 reminiscent collection was absolute magnetism. It simply just drew you in. First off - Marc is no stranger to fabulous presentation. This year his runway was a complete golden circle with a huge bronzed drum in the middle. The collection consisted of  flared trousers, suit jackets, sheer tops and dresses all in the most amazing color palette. After the F/W collection was so dreamy with light airy colors (nudes, dusty pinks, greys) Marc said "we decided to go sunny" This collection is 100% pure glamour and fun! The styling was also right on point with big hair, floppy hats, rose colored glasses and huge flowers around the models shoulders, necks and in their hair. Here are a few of the amazing looks from Monday night's show:

I'm having a total Rachel Zoe moment here - gold sequin jacket, cream trousers, cognac platforms. In the words of Mrs. Zoe herself - OOC for sure.

Ladies - you better be prepared to show a little skin this Spring - sheer is definitely in. I love the briefs underneath - and the colors! Breathtaking combination

I'm having a total Jodie Foster in Taxi Driver flashback (need a reminder - click hereto see the ladies at WhoWhatWear channel Iris) Fabulous colors (love that top) and I need that flower belt - perhaps I could figure out a DIY. Marc also featured several floppy hats in the collection - this chocolate brown one is Divine.

Yes please - love this whole ensamble! And those shoes....

I feel like Marc used not only the feel of the 70's for inspiration but also actual designers from that era as well - this looks similar to something that Missoni might have put out. This whole entire color palette is so complimentary and fits together like a puzzle - it's just the right amount of everything.

 
These two dresses were made from similar material just different colors and silhouettes. They both have a retro feeling with a modern touch - perhaps those massive flowers? So elegant.

Check out the video below for the full show. What do you think of the collection? Will you be wearing 70's inspired this spring? I'm not usually one for wearing a trouser - but I kind of feel like I need to find those purple ones ASAP.

all images via Zimbio

Lela Rose Spring 2011 RTW

Lela Rose put out an absolutely amazing collection on Sunday. I fell in love with her designs a few years ago when I first heard about her inexpensive shoe line for Payless. We met. We fell in love. And I adore her designs from a far when seeing them at Bergdorf or Neiman as I am not quite up there in the money department. But someday I can buy Lela Rose until my heart is content. And when you see this collection - you will see how one can be obsessed with her designs. I adored her Fall/Winter collection in February with designs based off of pictures from the Hubble Telescope. This year Rose said she wanted to marry Old World (history) with New World (ideas) using Lima as her inspiration - A city that "is two societies.... coming together." Rose used a bold color palette with splashes of brightness and her usual tailored dresses were replaced with flowing full skirts, loose fitting separates, and cotton jackets. Gorgeous textured side braids and coral lips topped off the already fabulous looks. Even though fall is just arriving - I am already so pumped about next Spring.

This teal dress is a fantastic play on the cutout trend - it's super sexy and classy. Instead of traditional cutouts, Rose used lace - and it's a great choice. Also - I couldn't resist choosing this sunny cute frock - I even love the little peek-a-boo on the shoulder.

o.m.g. This orange dress is killing it. How gorgeous is that color? And the massive tribal inspired necklace is a perfect addition. The unkemptness of the full ruffle skirt with a loose fitting tank is devine. I like when opposite styles come together like this pairing of a tank with a couture skirt - one of my favorite styling techniques!

Layered tribal necklaces - check. hot pink dress - check. A fantastic mix between boho/girly - check! I love this long maxi too - looks like long dresses will still be in for another season! The embellishments keep the style in between casual maxi and evening wear.

images via Zimbio

Vivienne Tam Spring 2011 RTW

Best known for her cute little cocktail dresses with embellishments, patterns, metallics and a little flair Vivienne Tam is a force within the fashion world. Her designs are often a fusion of Asian and American cultures while using NYC as inspiration for melding it all together. You also might recognize this little beauty she created with HP for the Sex and The City 2 movie. For her runway show this past Saturday, Tam decided to go in a while different direction. Straying from those gorg tailored short dresses she has been doing for the past few seasons, she did a line that featured a lot of casual chic seperates. With vibes of 60's/70's boho Tam said her inspiration was "a girl who has traveled the Silk Road in China." WWD called the line "a bit hippieish" and Style.com thought a few pieces "did shout out their places of origin too loudly" however I simply had nothing but love for the collection. Flowy airy designs in cooling fabrics like cotton are perfect for spring weather. One of my newest obsessions - crochet - was also quite visible in the collection. While I can appreciate a designers craft, I love seeing them go in a different direction and trying new ideas. These "worn in" looks provided a global aesthic and a relaxed feeling (with not a heel in site!) Let's take a look at some of Tam's looks:

This is one of the more popular looks from her collection. I loooooove this color palette and the design of the tunic. Prediction: Crochet will be an upcoming trend. This look is perfect mix between relaxation and boho glam. ♥

I'd love to wear this look while shopping along Abbott Kinney in Venice. Easy and breezy this dress would be perfect for a hot summer day. Add a statement necklace and messy waves and you are set.

More crochet　and a　blue gingham bow belt keep this look from being too sweet.

I have died and gone to boho heaven. I have to have these shorts. Paired with one of fall's biggest trends, a denim shirt and colorful rainbow crochet sandals this look is 100% beach approved. Check out that multicolored tote!

So this look might be wild - but I am so glad it's here to stay. These printed pants are right on trend and when paired with a simple tank and light sweater the look reaches a level of perfection. (and more crochet around her shoulders!)

I think part of being drawn into  this collection was due to the fact that the models looked amazing. Tam definitely got her "well traveled" look with messy locks and neutral faces. Using a sock to dab on matte bronzer the makeup artists also added a nude lip. As far as the hair went - it was boho waves all the way. Obsessed! Read more about the beauty looks here

What do you think about this line? Are you loving the hippie-chic vibe that I felt or are you tired of these looks? Love to know your thoughts! Happy Tuesday! xoxo

bottom image via Stylelist; all other images via Zimbio

Jason Wu Spring 2011 RTW

It's hard to believe that Jason Wu has only been on the fashion forefront for 4 years. But since the first line launched in 2006 he has gained so much momentum and made a major name for himself. A large part of that is due to the fact that he is an absolutely amazing designer and so much more sophisticated beyond his 27 years. But he definitely got a major break when Michelle Obama bought several of his pieces when she was introduced to Wu by famed Vogue editor-at large Andre Leon Talley. Now his designs are worn by the likes of stars like Kerry Washington, Diane Kruger and Camilla Belle. Wu consistently brings fresh air to the fashion world with each collection he shows. This past winter we saw gorgeous dresses on a pink carpet. This year Wu went all over the map with ladylike trousers and suits, shirts with bow collars, beautiful dresses and lots and lots of COLOR! (yay!) Also I saw many a corsage - which I LOVED! This collection is TDF - no doubt about it. I don't even have to explain the photos speak for themselves:

 
Two of the gorgeous menswear inspired looks. I am totally obsessed with those girly bows.

 
Look at these corsages! ahhh! And I love the pops of color in both these looks. That blue dress is definitely made for a woman. And check out his shoes on the second model - nice bright colors against the black. Yes please!

 
So happy that nude trends will be continuing into the spring months. But I'm leaning more towards this flouncy navy dress. Gorg!

 
These are two of the fancier gowns from the collection. I could see this black dress as potential awards season material or for a fabulous premiere. I love the ruffly girly details. Jason Wu definitely knows how to make a girl feel feminine and fabulous.

Thoughts on this beautiful collection? Do you love the color? Does it make you excited?! To see more colorful desings (lots of pinks - of course!) and the video from this runway show - click here to watch. Love the music too!

images via WWD

BCBG MAX AZRIA Spring 2011 RTW

One word can bascially sum up the premise of the BCBG Max Azria show from Friday morning - LWD (Little White Dress). The models came out to beautiful music in very flowy dresses drenched in colors of white, nude and dusty pale silver. Some of the dresses had simple little details, while others had pieces of tulle, cross body designs or the faintest hint of a print. After 21 looks in, I was beginning to think the whole spring line would be all neutrals. But the genius that Max Azria is had a different plan. Later on in the show, the music got darker with a slower tempo and the dresses began to change. The colors got deeper with pops of mustard, coral and black, while details became more present like black lace and intricate patterns. However the silouhettes stayed the same. Flowy, thin pieces were a major change from the body conscious black/neon combos that Mr. Azria designed for 2010's spring line. I'm kind of loving them! But I will definitely need to start hitting the gym now! It seems that Spring is bringing more and more sheer trends with these clingy fabrics! Here's a look at some of the dresses below:

One of the gorgeous LWD with more detail - love the pockets!

Another LWD that's more on the simple side. I love the draping, the tulle lining and the pockets! Perfection

This was the first major pop of color (after the mustards) that came out. I love this look if nothing more than where the color stripe is located as well as where the dress itself was strategically placed in the show.

Love this dress! The coral color would look so gorg with a sun kissed tan. I love the pockets, the tulle, the draped panels. Ah-mazing.

This look came out during the dark guitar playing with the other dark colors. Love the shape and pops of sheer fabric.

Details on this dress are beautiful. The sheer top shell gives this look a little kick from the ordinary Little Black Dress.

You can watch the full runway show above to get the full effect. As you can see Mr. Azria thinks only of dresses with a jumpsuit here and there for Spring's look. And I, for one, am totally ok with that. What are you thoughts? Leave them below in the comments section! I would love to know :)

top image via Getty Images; all other images via Zimbio

Fashion's Night Out: Not Just NYC Anymore!

 

The beginning of fashion week also marks one of the biggest parties of the Fashion World - Fashion's Night Out. Put on by CFDA, this event is usually held at different locations all over NYC (of course!). It's a fun night merrying the celebration of fashion and shopping together. There's music, shopping, makeovers/tutorials, drinks and food from the hours of 6pm - 10pm. This year marks an exciting year for FNO. Why? Because FNO is going global! Now fashion lovers all over the US and the world no longer have to admire this party from photos and video - we actually get to experience it! With this year being the first that LA is participating in there are so many options of place to go to - Beverly Hills, Culver City, Hollywood, Santa Monica... the list goes on. I will be headed to Venice and Abbot Kinney Road tonight where I am sure to find a fantastic mix of fashion lovers and boehmien hipsters. I cannot wait! I'll be taking lots of photos, drinking lots of drinks and enjoying a night out with my husband (and perhaps buying a few items...) I know I have readers in lots of areas so let's check out a few cities where you can attend this fabulous event:

Raleigh: Unfortunately there is only one option for my hometown - but it's ensured to be a fun one! Sak's Fifth Avenue at Triangle Town Center has promised an exciting night with a Rock-n-Roll theme including a preformance by an amazing blues rock band. Click here to get more info from N&O
San Diego: My BFFs who live here better go out tonight and have a cocktail for me! Drive down to Friar's Road to get your fashion fix.
Charleston: A city that I love! If you live close by head over to Cynthia Rowley off King Street downtown for fun and makeovers by Trish McEvoy
Miami: home to Magic City and my friend Tasha! Click over onto Daily Candyfor the full lowdown on which stores will be participating and what fun things they have to offer (including an afterparty! After all.. it is Miami
Washington D.C.: Two fabulous friends live in this area and I hope they take advantage of the many stores (Betsey Johnson, Neiman Marcus & Ralph Lauren just to name a few) staying open late tonight. M Street and Wisconsin Street is place to be in D.C.!
Lexington:I couldn't forget the bluegrass state! The amazing organization Lexington Fashion Collaborative is dedicated to pursing the growing Lexington fashion scene. If you haven't heard of them - check out their facebook page. They have teamed up with many boutiques in the area who will be a part of FNO and they have promised a killer afterparty at Baker's - come one, come fashionable! Click here to view more info and to get a list of places to visit.

You can view the full list of global participants at Fashion's Night Out website here. If you do head out tonight for FNO - send me some photos of you having fun! I know I will be sharing mine a little later! If you aren't sure if you should go - Yes, you should! Grab some girlfriends, your wallet and your highest pair of heels. Tonight is about celebration, champagne, fashion and fun. Whatever you do tonight - have fun! xoxo

image via Lady Lux

Christian Siriano Spring 2011 RTW

Christian Siriano is such an incredible talent and one of our generation's most amazing creative minds. To think that someone who is 24 and made a name for themselves off the show Project Runway can make such sophisticated designs is beyond me. I was really impressed with his Fall/Winter collection from last season (read post here) with it's pallete of blacks, grays and silvers.  And his show this year did not disappoint either. Christian said he was inspired by different cultures that were a factor in not only this RTW line but his shoe collection for Payless as well. Instead of keeping with dark colors he brightened up his RTW line with pops of blues and reds in between the whites and mettallics. I personally loved the collection which showcased bright prints and Siriano's famous eveningwear and cocktail dresses. Let's check out some gorg looks:

Loving this design! The simple silouhette, jeweled belt and tulle screams "Wear me" Perfect for an art gallery opening or a premiere.

The collar on this sleeveless blouse is amazing. I'd wear it with dark Skinnys and some black pumps. The print is so fantastic that you won't need too much else!

Short and Glittery? I am totally sold.

This would be a fantastic party dress. Love the color and the jeweled belt. Plus this sweetheart shape looks good on so many body types. I Want!

Love Love Love! One of the gorgeous finale gowns. This is one area where Siriano knows exactly what he's doing. Faaaabulous.

I also loved the hair and makeup on the models. They have a sun-kissed glow. And their hair already has a signature name after a giraffe print in the collection "The Tribal Bun" Read more on how you can recreate this look here

I just choose a handful of pieces that I love but you can watch the runway show here and view photos of the entire collection over at The Huffington Post. What are your thoughts? Do love this travel inspired collection as much as I do?? I would love to hear your thoughts! Look for more posts later on! xoxo

first and sixth image via Getty Images; other photos via Zimbio