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Elise Ford / January 30, 2012 9:00 am
Thanks to fashion mavens like Kate Moss, Rachel Bilson and the Olsen twins rain boots, in particular, Hunter Wellington Rain Boots have become immensely popular. The trend has turned up season after season making galoshes a go-to item for all wet weather conditions.
With the emergence of sophisticated styles, glam galoshes are the silver lining to any dull weather day!
To keep your look streamline and frump-free always team your rubber boots with slim bottoms. From leggings to jeggings to tights, slim cords or skinny jeans there are several ways to intermix rain boots with your everyday pieces.
When it comes to selecting your perfect wellies don’t be afraid of color – a vibrant pair can boost any neutral palette. Or tone down a busy outfit with a basic colored boot – stick with navy, black, camel or any other muted shade to balance out your look.
These five pairs of galoshes will keep you chic though rain or sleet:
1. KORS Michael Kors Stormy, $125
Toughen up with these biker inspired rain boots complete with hardware detailing. You’ll be able to skip through any storm in style.
2. Hunter Original Short Glossy Rain Boots, $115
I love the idea of a classic, casual ensemble coupled with these fire engine red boots. This shorter style is playful and unique guaranteeing to keep you dry in any foul weather.
3. Lucky Brand Orinda, $70
Equestrian rain boots in forest green are insanely versatile. Worn with leggings and an oversized knit sweater you’ll achieve that cozy no-fuss look. Or pair a floral frock teamed with a cool leather satchel to add a touch of frill (and English style) to this utilitarian shoe.
4. Hunter Original Rain Boots, $125
While Hunter Wellington Rain Boots are all the rage, this graphite glossy pair is a standout on the streets with their uncommon color. Transition these boots into winter by inserting the Hunter Socks guaranteeing to keep your toes extra toasty warm.
5. Hunter Regent, $105
The Regent boot is a spin on the classic Hunter with a slanted leg opening making these boots one-of-a-kind. Chocolate brown is an unexpected hue but like graphite literally goes with everything.
–Elise Ford
Image Layout: Elise Ford
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Elise Ford / January 2, 2012 9:00 am
There’s nothing worse than hitting a major style slump! If you’re feeling uninspired with your current duds, a fast fix, guaranteed to get you back on track, is statement jewelry. Unlike barely-there trinkets, bold bling possesses the power to upgrade any cookie cutter outfit into an extraordinary ensemble.
It’s simple to covey a certain mood or signature style with statement jewels. Inject new life into your Levi’s and white tank with chandelier earrings for evening or channel the ‘70s with a set of stacked bangles. However you choose to don your jewels remember statement pieces shouldn’t be saved just for black tie affairs. Break out the embellished bibs and dazzle for day!
1. Noir Jewelry BW Masai Choker (Black/White), $83
I’m absolutely crazy for this layered chain necklace. A multi-chain necklace is an excellent statement piece because it has a bit more visual depth than a normal chain. With an unexpected arrangement of beads this piece is versatile for any occasion.
2. Justine Simmons Jewelry Clear Crystal and Black Enamel Drop Earrings, $29.95
Whether your ears are pierced or not don’t overlook these crystal and black enamel clip-ons for a gorgeous and sophisticated appearance. For a striking and bold look, pair them with a bright blouse in one of your favorite jewel tone hues!
3. ABS Jewelry Abs Black Diamond And Pave Ring – Black, $76
When wearing a dress with an adorned neckline add your own glitz with a spectacular cocktail ring. This ABS piece isn’t your ordinary sparkler; the black diamond stone nestled in an intricate band adds a certain flair to this fashion accessory.
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Elise Ford / December 19, 2011 9:00 am
How do you make 2012 your most stylish year ever? Start off on the right stiletto with fabulous accessories to complement your stroke of midnight ensemble. You can have your champagne and sequin clutch, too!
Think of adding velvet, sequins, lace and jewels so the evening isn’t wasted on just a little black dress. Get creative and channel your inner Elizabeth Taylor adorning yourself in layers of gems or rev up that Marilyn Monroe spirit highlighting your gams with provocative pumps and fishnet tights.
Take advantage of this celebratory night and dress to the nines!
1. Kenneth Jay Lane Green and Periwinkle Crystal Drop Earrings, $95
These earrings are affordable for such a luxe look! Sweep hair back into a perky pony to showcase these stunners; you’ll exude a youthful elegance.
2. Kate Spade New York Glitter Little Gia Pouch, $75
No need to lug around a colossal carryall! Make life easy by packing only the essentials into this posh pouch. This gold number works wonders with any NYE look.
3. MICHAEL Michael Kors Berkley T-Strap, $98
Velvet has made a comeback looking more modern than ever! I love the juxtaposition of this fabric with the silhouette of these shoes. Pair them with tuxedo pants for a festive, up-to-date feel.
4. Giambattista Valli Tights, Textured Fishnet Tights, $15
Tights are a staple piece for this season adding warmth and dimension to any outfit. Both sultry and sensible, these Giambattista Valli tights will do just the trick to spicing up a basic LBD.
5. Tinley Road Statet Knot Pendant Necklace, $48
Are you a lover of the roaring ‘20s? This knot pendant craves to be draped over a flapper inspired frock. Don’t fret; the look isn’t too literal and will feel contemporary for 2012.
—Elise Ford
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Elise Ford / November 7, 2011 9:00 am
Zac Posen, Dolce & Gabbana and Lavin shined a new light on habitually subdued fall flavors. Presenting an array of decadent designs, several of these high-end fashion houses kicked summer’s brights to the curb to make way for spectacular magenta, emerald, ruby and sapphire jeweled hues.
Not just for the rich and famous, these gemstone palettes easily transcend into affordable and simple-to-style everyday options.
By color blocking with two delicious hues, you’ll look luxe bedecked in head-to-toe color. If subtle is your style, select one focal piece and pair it with neutrals that are equally suitable for office or an evening out.
Daytime denim sparkles with a brilliant jewel-tone top, perfect for that laid-back glam. Add a new twist on this trend by sporting jewel tone trousers such as casual cords teamed with a sleek white tee. You’ve now created a hint of edge perfect for day!
1. A classic bow tie blouse gets an update in this burnt orange hue. Take things easy pairing this classic number with faded jeans. Ark & Co Tie-neck Secretary Blouse, $49
2. Porcelain princesses will appear royalty draped in this cozy emerald toggle topper. Kenneth Cole New York Hooded Buckle Tab Coat, $130
3. If you’re an olive skin tone gal you can embrace marigold – it’s your hidden gem – giving you that extra glow during fall and winter. Cinching your waist while flaunting a fraction of your décolletage is done with class in this flouncy silk shirt. Theme Beaded Shoulder Blouse, $59
4. This jersey dress, gathered at the waist, will highlight your figure and keep you toasty and snug this season. Tinley Road Knot Front Mini Dress, $49
5. Take this trend and apply your own creative spin – this is what personal style is all about! These raspberry stretch cords rock when worn with cutout booties, a neutral tee, and layers of jewelry. KUT from the Kloth Skinny Corduroy Jeans, $65
Runway Image: ellegirl.elle.com; Celebrity image: teenvogue.com
– Elise Ford
Image Layout: Elise Ford
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Elise Ford / October 24, 2011 9:00 am
Building a beautiful wardrobe on a budget is no easy endeavor.
Purchasing up a storm and accumulating a colossal wardrobe seems fabulous, but can quickly spiral into a financial nightmare. The secret to affordable style is to scour for the highest quality pieces at the price you can afford. Buying key clothing articles that can intermix with other pieces, transitioning from season to season, is the smartest way to shop.
Invest in the nude heel. It’s sensible and sophisticated yet often overlooked for the latest “it” ankle boot or embellished platform pump. Nude colored heels are the most figure-flattering footwear option available for any woman. Some pumps or booties can interrupt the line of your leg whereas nude heels add the appearance of long, lean limbs.
Not only will your gorgeous gams grow to new heights strutting in a nude heel (hey, a girl can dream!), but you will never be without a classic, sexy shoe option. Nude heels are considered a basic for any women’s wardrobe and are versatile for both the office or a night on the town.
Cover your basic bases first by purchasing a pair of knockout nude heels and forgo spending the dough for those one-time-wear Jimmy Choo sling-backs.
1. Super strappy sandals make a subtle statement worn with anything from cocktail attire to tailored shorts and a feminine blouse. The zipper detail on the back of this shoe is an unexpected, sexy closure.
Chinese Laundry Ivie Sandal, $39.99
2. Sling-back pumps are a fantastic way to show off shapely legs. Team these with a full skirt for a ’50s vibe.
Steven by Steve Madden Mistyk Pump, $59.97
3. Not too shiny, these patent leather pumps are the perfect nude shade for us porcelain princesses. With an added 1” platform, comfort is guaranteed while striding in these stilettos.
Vince Camuto Renees Pump, $69
4. Sleek when worn with skinny jeans and a beaded tank, these stilettos were made for an evening out.
Jessica Simpson Shoes, Endo Sandal, $55.30
5. Nude heels aren’t all created equally so search for the shade that complements your skin tone. These classic pumps are the perfect match for darker skin tones.
Steve Madden Russhh Pump, $49.99
-Elise Ford
Image Layout: Elise Ford
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Elise Ford / October 3, 2011 10:00 am
The cape, a sweet marriage between the poncho and coat, is the coveted cover-up for fall. This unanticipated craze captures the coziness of a poncho, adds a pinch of structure and becomes one lavish detail. Capes aren’t just the trademarks of costumed crime fighters; these days this shape has metamorphosed into an avaunt-garde fashion statement.
Lets face it: trends are tricky and only suit a small percentage of us. Who wants to sacrifice comfort for style? No need to compromise the two! The cape offers easy luxury that works for all ages and sizes.
Presented at ADAM, Alexander Wang and Rebecca Minkoff, it is clear that capes are front-runners for fall. Finally there is a style not set-aside for size 2’s. Take note from these designers by selecting unconventional cuts and capes with added flare.
Drape yourself in a cape for the ultimate sumptuous yet simplistic experience.
1. Are you looking for a casual option? Try this shearling toggle cape for those blustery days. Make your cape the focal point of your outfit by teaming well-fitted basics with this trend, ensuring an immensely smart style.
Hive & Honey Shearling Toggle Cape, $119
2. Go mad for plaid with this Calhoun Cape by BB Dakota. Don’t be afraid of this statement number. The pattern is classic and subtle enough to work with virtually everything in your wardrobe.
BB Dakota Calhoun Cape, $130
3. This dressy cape by Via Spiga includes an asymmetrical zipper and high collar keeping you toasty even in wicked weather. Pair with black skinny jeans and knee high boots to balance out the fullness of this coat. A killer leopard handbag and oversized sunnies complete this city-slicker look.
Via Spiga Asymmetrical Cape,$138
4. Frumpy is not an option in this structured cape. Double breasted buttons, a large tie belt and black piping pull together a finished, standout look.
ECI Belted Cape, $88
5. Swap out hoodie sweatshirts and say hello to your new best friend, The Halogen Wool Blend Cape. Now there’s no excuse to leave the house looking lousy because this cape provides the same comfort and ease as your favorite worn-out oversized garments. Make this look totally of-the-moment be daring with leather leggings and suede booties and turn this conservative camel cape into rocker chic with tough extras.
Halogen Wool Blend Cape, $60
Runway Image: style.com; Celebrity image: ellefemalefactor
-Elise Ford
Image Layout: Elise Ford
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Elise Ford / September 6, 2011 9:00 am
Are you feeling like you need a bit of structure in your life?
Get in the right frame of mind for fall by saying “so long” to shapeless sacks and “hello” to the new bag on the block – the boxy satchel.
This sought-after silhouette is ridiculously stylish yet practical for day and evening happenings. Seen all over the runway for fall, this ladylike handbag still means serious business. Typically adorned with hardware, multiple compartments and optional cross body strap ensures all of your valuables remain unscathed.
Who doesn’t want to look like they’ve got it all together? Boxy bags will be that standout accessory that are equally fabulous as well as functional.
1. Who says no white after Labor Day? This creamy carryall makes any ensemble effortlessly elegant. Aldo Schissel Schissel Handheld Bag Ice, $110
2. Never feel like you have enough room in your handbag to fit everything you need? This structured number is ideal for toting around all of your essentials plus extras. The oversized lock and key exudes an added luxe feel, too. Melie Bianco Madison, $65
3. Chocolate brown is a classic color that looks better with each wear. The clean lines and simple detailing make this satchel withstand the test of time. Hinge Crossbody Bag in Mahogany, $138
4.This would be my quintessential weekend warrior bag! The large front pocket is easy to access, eliminating endless digging for keys and cash. Melie Bianco Buckle Flap, $89
—Elise Ford
Runway Images: style.com
Image Layout: Elise Ford
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Elise Ford / July 25, 2011 10:00 am
Craving fall fashion yet? Here at Second City Style, we’re seeing spots! An iconic print of the ‘40s is in vogue once again – polka dots. This classic motif was spotted allover the runway at Diane Von Furstenberg, Marc Jacobs and Lanvin just to name a few. My new mantra is don dots; dismiss stripes and plaids!
For just a fraction of the price you, too, can emulate the must-have-pattern for the upcoming season. Dive in and rock a bold polka dot dress for a retro, pin-up style, or work the trend with your staple pieces: pair a polka dot blouse with jeans, flats and a chic jacket for daytime.
If you’re a dare-devil, mix dots with prints such as leopard or floral for an eclectic vibe. Keep in mind your stature when selecting your polka dots: petite ladies should stick with smaller spots whereas taller gals can pull off substantial dots. I am already scouring shops for the perfect sheer blouse in this symmetrical print!
1. Sweet and sexy, these sheer tights are speckled to perfection! Sporting a subtle touch of this fall’s trend, comes off flawless whether edgy, classic, corporate or casual. The Limited Sheer Dot Tight, $12
2. Pitch your basic tee and make this your new go-to blouse! A simple style that flatters all shapes; team this top with denim and a pair of killer boots. I love streamlined pieces that easily intermix with the rest of my wardrobe. Old Navy Women’s Ruffle-Trim Gauze Shirts, $27
3. This dress is tres magnifique, selected by the one and only stylist to the stars, Rachel Zoe! As cocktail attire or a daytime frock – think bold red lips and a sweeping chignon – you’ll be oh so chic in this flirty look! MM Couture Polka Dot Dress, $88
4. Even bohemian girls can pull off the dot! This skirt serves as a wonderfully blank canvas complimenting any top. For a laid back look, try a loose blouse, lace up shoes, and top it off with an of-the-moment fedora. Madewell Scribble Dot Skirt, $68
5. What is there not to love about this ethereal, Grecian spotted number? This is how a polka dot can feel modern and exciting! An empire sash creates an instant focal point. Topped with a draped bodice starkly juxtaposed by a strong geometrical shoulder, this is one unique piece. Jessica Simpson Sleeveless One Shoulder Polka Dot Printed Cocktail Dress, $138
6. Tailored men shorts get the ultimate feminine twist with these pretty polka dots. Upscale your shorts collection with patterns and pleats with this surprisingly wearable style. J. Crew Ink-Dot Chino Short, $65
—Elise Ford
Runway Image: runwaydaily.com
Image Layout: Elise Ford
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Kate Michalowski / July 5, 2011 9:00 am
One of the easiest ways to look fabulous on a budget is to go vintage (read: thrift). If, when you read that, your first thought was “Who has the time to sift through someone else’s old stuff?” I have the answer for you! I found the most amazing blog for thrifting – the writer does all the work for you! She has the most fabulous items and sells on the cheap. Not to mention the styling and beautiful photography – there’s no way you won’t be inspired to create something magical! Did I mention she is incredibly, effortlessly beautiful and hilarious to boot? Come on – not fair!
1. Hellloooo Panama chic! I love the breeziness of this outfit – the dress, the scarf, and the hat lend themselves perfectly to that boho vibe that is perfectly on trend this summer.
Calypso St. Barth Blue & Tie Dye Summer Dress, $19.99 and Ginger Couture Italian Purple Silk Large Scarf Wrap, $9.99
2. Black cigarette pants with a simple metallic tank are perfect to transition from work to night, and at these prices, why wouldn’t you scoop them up immediately?
Kensie Black Streatch Boot Cut Cigarette Length Pants, $9.99 and Theory Soft Black Tank Top With Sequin Metallic Top, $9.99
3. I am dreaming of so many iterations of this classic black and white check trench. It looks perfect as pictured over a slinky black dress, but I can also picture it undone with a bright orange or pink pop of color underneath.
Linda Allard Oversized Black & White Silk Check Trench, $14.99
4. Now this last look is not for the faint-hearted. You have to own this one and rock every inch of it down to the mock turtleneck and keyhole back! This fitted Roberto Cavalli is sexy in a very 70s kind of way. The uniquely bold pattern will really help you stand out in a crowd of LBDs.
Roberto Cavalli Sexy Stretch Long Sleeve Short Dress, $39.99
Shopping vintage further proves the point that I’m always harping on – you do not have to be a zillionaire to look fabulous! Lucky for us, we have baubles, bangles and beads and other vintage sites to keep us in the know with incredible pieces on a pauper’s budget. Check them out for more amazing outfits and styling ideas.
—Kate Michalowski
Image Layout: Molly Murphy
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Kate Michalowski / June 13, 2011 9:00 am
Although I didn’t make it Coachella this year, I quickly secured my tickets for Lollapalooza and Pitchfork to make up for it. Plus, there are a million street fests in Chicago each summer, so the opportunities to display effortless style are endless. I’m already planning my summer festival outfits with a little help from these celebs.
Diane Kruger kept it basic and elegant with perfectly composed summer essentials: a racerback tank, crinkled maxi skirt (Diane wore the Zara skirt, but I also love this chiffon rendition), gold studded belt, espadrilles, turquoise necklace, bracelets and a summer fedora. I absolutely adore the simplicity of this ensemble.
Vanessa Hudgens beat the heat by taking the “barely there” route. She showed off her rockin’ bod in a triangle bikini top and breezy palazzo pants. For this unfussy boho look, it’s all about the accessories: big sunglasses, a floppy hat and the right jewelry. The key here with the jewelry is to pile on several necklaces and finish off with a few bracelets. She has a lot going on, and I love that it’s not all matchy-matchy. She chose feathers, turquoise, what appears to be some sort of pouch necklace, a stack of colorful bracelets, and a unique gold arm band. ”Important” note: I sported a silver arm band to my 8th grade dance – you could say I was ahead of the times. She was smart to choose comfy flat sandals for a day of dancing and being on her feet.
A lace crop top makes Isabel Lucas’ 80s dress feel fresh and current. (I’m certain my mom had one in every color, including blue denim). The fact that she’s barefoot and has very few accessories but somehow remains fashion-forward is really quite a feat (pun intended).
Never did I ever think an American flag sleeveless shirt and cutoffs would make my best dressed list! This could have gone all wrong in a 4th of July trashy way, but my girl Kate Bosworth chose the right proportions and accessories to pull off this ultra cool look.
Sienna Miller is one of my go-to style icons, and she is really in her element in this scene. The funky hat, the romper, and the slouchy boots hit all the right notes. Since it can be a pain to carry a purse at concerts, I love the idea of a belt with a pocket. And are you kidding me with that adorable safety pin closure?! Love that punch of whimsy.
Spotted: Alessandra Ambrosio in the same wide-brimmed floppy hat as Vanessa! It’s a “Who Wore it Better” throwdown. I like the look so much, I decided to share another version with you. In this environment, you can get away with things that you might not otherwise explore. Exhibit A: see-through white top with a black bra. The fringe on the bottom of her shirt works unexpectedly with the black crochet vest. Ask any of my friends and they’ll tell you how gaga I am over the Native American trend happening right now, so you can imagine my delight at Alessandra’s chevron beaded earrings and dream catcher necklace. Forever21 has a lot of cool pairs – and at prices between $2.80 and $10, I’ve stocked my jewelry box with about 20 of them. Although you can barely see them peeking out from under her top, a pair of short denim cutoffs are to festival fashion what beer is to festival fare.
One thing I really love about music fest style is that you don’t have to have the paycheck of a celebrity to look like a natural in the scene. Anyone can look amazing in a designer dress for a red carpet event with a full crew of stylists and hair and make-up people. It’s when you can put together a winning look with easy, everyday basics spruced up with practical accessories that really impresses me. This is the one time where you cannot easily distinguish the celebrities from the other amazingly fashionable festival goers, so I raise my beer in a plastic cup to all of you!
Diane Kruger: American Apparel Chiffon Double-Layered Full Length Skirt, $58
Vanessa Hudgens: River Island Tribal Printed Palazzo Pant, $43.08
Isabel Lucas: Gone to the Grasslands Dress, $54.99
Kate Bosworth: UNIF American Flag Fringe Tee , $79
Sienna Miller: Kimchi Blue Henley Romper, $59
Alessandra Ambrosio: BB Dakota Stevens Black Sweater Wrap, $73
—Kate Michalowski
Image Layout: Jillian Jaslowski
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