Recently I’ve seen a lot of “ombre” or gradient shading in clothing and accessories. This is a kind of tie dye trend, but upscale (ombre , en francais, means shaded). The mix of colors reminds me of a rainbow, hence the Kermit the Frog “Rainbow Connection” reference.
The first sight of this trend, for me, was by Prada. I love the patent shades of their Vernice Sfumata clutch. L.A.M.B. offers a rich green Manchester ombre tote. The wallet friendly Caprice tote is a fraternal twin of Gwen’s Manchester tote. Another side of the spectrum is Fendi’s pastel doctor bag….what a sherbet- like treat. And YSL‘s Raspail red and canvas tote reminds me of my favorite painter pants (from 5th grade).
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One of this year’s trends is the resurgence of animal prints and skins, in both fashion and home. These luxuries are not for everyone , however ; either for ethical or financial reasons. But, alas, we all have an opportunity to participate in this trend. “It takes a village to raise a trend. ”
Alligator and crocodile have always been considered luxuries (there are only a few differences b/w the two including their snout shape and what water they live in) . Expensive bags and accessories are readily available. The red Coach crocodile bag is rich looking , even in pictures (this will take a $7000 bite out of you). I am absolutely coveting the Zagalini puffy croc satchel. If I win the lottery this week (because I don’t have an extra $11,800) - this bag is mine. (more…)
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Start with a heaping helping of pure yellow gold, add a dollop of copper and a pinch of silver (to bring out the rosy glow), heat mixture till melted, stirring well. Let cool.
Viola…Rose gold!
The metallic trend is holding strong well into Spring but the gears are switching to put the emphasis on one hue in particular. Rose gold is the trend setting alloy and the metal of the moment.
The blushing beauty of the group can be found from bijoux to bags, bangles and baubles, down to ballet flats.
Homecoming Ring by Rebecca Taylor & Family Values Ring by Tracy Reese
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Remember those black & white Tarzan and Jane movies from the 1930’s and 40’s?
“Our gal Jane”- civilized explorer
They all began with a beautiful Jane dressed to a tee in full on adventure apparel- usually a stylish khaki pant suit paired with a cute little matching explorer hat. She was the “smart girl” stylishly camouflaged in a foreign land…
Jane-just a few days later… My how she’s changed!
…and then by the end of the movie she’s swinging on a vine, swathed in animal skins, bone necklace around her neck- at one with the jungle and animals around her!
That’s how I can best describe the next trend coming our way this Spring–
Explorer Turned Native
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I think seeing my favorite documentary “Grey Gardens” might have inspired my new obsession for gray accessories. Since, as Edie would say ” I think this is the best costume for the day”.
“Little Edie” Beale, my “gray” fashion icon
While writing this post, my pal Julie gave me the most beautiful gray and black leopard print scarf and glove set - a very happy coincidence!
Although I am dressing vibrantly this winter, I look forward to toting fabulous gray bags and shoes.
Designers have incorporated every shade of gray in their collections, this season. But since my budget does not allow for designer bags and shoes, my primary focus is on budget accessories.
I believe that as trends ‘come and go’ , you can certainly save your money for classic pieces , by spending less on the accouterments. Of course the YSL flannel tote, Balenciaga’s leather tote, Marc Jacobs multi pocket hob0, and Prada’s duffle like satchel are examples of soon - to -be classics. But each will lighten your wallet by $1300- $2400 .
I am truly impressed with Todd Oldham’s late winter collection for Old Navy. I will absolutely buy the gray bolwer bag (canvas with suede trim) and tote for my spring outings. And I must have his suede wedge mary janes in “urban dwelling grey”. Any of these will cost you under $30 - my kind of splurge. I’m going to say a little prayer - “please let them be as cute in person, as they are on the website”. Amen.
Target and Banana Republic have some great grey patent leather styles. This CL by Laundry PVC bag , with great D-ring handles, is under $20 at Target.com and BR wide patent belt is $68. Michael Kors has a pair of patent spectator heels that are perfect for a night out.
I regularly cruise the Anthropologie website , in search of new items and great sale prices. This week I fell in love with a pair of shoes and sheer white tights. The sling backs are called “Smoke and Fire” (grey with coral accents) that list for $340 .The Hue tights are by Tracy Reese ; for $28 these are a more realistic purchase.
But falling in love doesn’t have to be realistic…so I can still dream of these shoes…and a romance with Daniel Craig , while we’re at it !
Speigel groups “hot” trends together in their catalog, which I find quite helpful in my search for something new. This season they have sumptuous suede totes and boots - all for under $90 each. I think the booties and belted bag look very 60s and mod - definitely a classic look.
**Buyers beware…I do not encourage you to pair the suede tote with a mauve lace dress. Yuk!**
If you’re not into the girlie patent leather or polka dots, then you should like these more masculine styles. Newport News catalog (also the home town of many color mavens) offers the cutest gray flannel cap. Armani Exchange has a tailored utilitarian gray canvas bag…perfect for roaming the streets of any city.
I conider make up another accessory essential. I’ve seen gray eyeshadow as the newest addition to YSL Touche Eclat Eyeshadow pens. Magazines are filled with sophisticated models , all with blunt bobs, wearing these delightful shades on their lids.
OPI has a new shade of pale matte gray polish named “Birthday Babe”. This is a welcome addition to salon choices….it’s nice to have a gray shade that isn’t glittery.
It seems that the only thing gray NOT in fashion this season …is gray hair. Guess I need to visit my hairdresser soon.
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