Get It Now: Good Morning, Winter Sunshine

We have officially reached the dull, gray days of winter in the northern half of the globe (and if you’re reading this from someplace warm and sunny, I’m jealous). And while it might seem easy to hibernate in black, gray and maybe some navy if you’re feeling adventurous, adding some tropical brights and rich jewel tones can be a good way to wake yourself up in the morning.

It’s impossible not to smile when you look down at a pair of bright yellow pumps, and these Brian Atwoods are gloriously goldenrod, not that juvenile school-bus yellow shade that’s sadly more typical for yellow accessories.

Nothing punctuates an all black outfit quite like a deep red, so try swapping your trusty black boots for a pair of red booties like these Rock and Republic numbers. As an added bonus, they would look fabulous with gray, deep blues and even winter whites and ivories as well.

Hot pink also looks fantastic with all the classic winter neutrals, and while this magenta ruffled silk blouse from Etro may be a splurge, it will brighten both your winter and summer ensembles for years to come.

Nothing is easier to wear than blue jeans, so trying something a bit brighter like this cobalt denim pair from Asos is an obvious way to add some life to a cold-weather look.

Last but not least, there’s something about vibrant grass green that just says spring, so carrying a bag in that hue is a daily reminder that winter will indeed be over soon. We like this kelly green shoulder bag from Marc by Marc Jacobs.

1. Brian Atwood Maniac Pumps, $755

2. Rock and Republic Danica Red Booties, $292.49

3. Etro Ruffled Sleeveless Blouse in Magenta, $2,160

4. ASOS Cobalt Blue Skinny Jeans #4, $36.71

5.  Marc by Marc Jacobs Fresh Grass Shoulder Bag, $395

—Jacqueline Zenn

Image Layout: Kristine Horton

Get It Now: New Year’s Style Resolutions

There’s something about the New Year that inspires everyone to think about making positive changes – and personal style is no exception. Here are a couple solutions to common style issues.

Brightening Up – Adding a brilliant blue scarf is a great way to liven up a basic black, gray, or brown outfit, and something cashmere like this Jil Sander scarf is as warm as it is luxurious, making it a perfect winter treat.

Reducing The Black – While we all love basic black, sometimes it gets a little somber. That’s when you start mixing in other neutrals, such as these gray velvet jeans by Mother Denim with just enough texture to keep things interesting (but they’ll still look fabulous with black).

Investing In Quality – H&M and Zara can be great for a quick trendy fix, but at a certain point a lady needs some refinement in her wardrobe. Finding the perfect black blazer that goes with everything is one way to upgrade your look, and this impeccably cut Theyskens’ Theory jacket definitely fits the bill.

The finishing Touches – Accessories are another way to step it up, and putting on some sparkle in the form of a statement necklace, earrings, or bracelet is a key way to take a day ensemble into evening. For instance, a bib necklace like this one by Kate Spade is the ideal addition to a basic tee or dress.

Signature Pieces – Personal style is what distinguishes a fashionista from a truly stylish lady, and the satisfaction of finding your own signature pieces is a feeling that’s hard to describe – but you know it when it happens. Personally, I love the edgy-ness that biker boots lend to most outfits, so a pair like these Jimmy Choos is an essential component.

What are your fashion-related New Year’s resolutions?

1. Jil Sander Cashmere Blend Scarf, $280
2. Mother Denim ‘The Curfew’ Velvet Bell-Bottom, $202
3. Theyskens’ Theory Black Blazer, $595
4. Kate Spade New York On The Avenue Bib Necklace, now $239.99
5. Jimmy Choo Textured-Leather Biker Boots, $1195

—Jacqueline Zenn

Image Layout: Amy Newling

Get It Now: From Day to Night (and Back Again)

Tis the season for holiday parties. While it is most definitely fun to put together a fabulously festive ensemble for each party, many of us have to attend events right after work, making it difficult to make the transition from our office wardrobes to our party clothes. Fortunately, this can be an easy problem to solve with the help of a few key pieces.

Sequin pieces are hot right now, and it is simple to slip a sequined tank underneath a blazer or cardigan, and lose the top layer when it is time for cocktail hour. Something with texture and a more subtle shine like this Michael Kors snake print tank works better for a day to night outfit than a flashier piece.

Another quick and sparkly way to liven up your look is to throw on a pair of glittery heels, like these pale pink Betsy Johnson pumps (they also come in black, but the blush hue is much more unexpected for winter – we like to make a statement). Swap out your handbag for a sleek clutch or add some bold lipstick, and a basic black dress or suit is ready for evening.

A necklace or a pair of earrings that makes a major statement is yet another option. For instance, this Elie Tahari layered necklace is a showstopper on its own, making it an easy choice. These Loren Hope spiked earrings also have a dangerous chic about them that would liven up just about any look.

It is a little more complicated to make a quick change, but this metallic bronze leather skirt by Marc Jacobs plus a simple neutral or jewel-toned top would be perfect for a party. Swap out your day time skirt and you’re ready to go.

Overall, the formula is clear – just add something bright, metallic, or glittery, and your office look is ready for a party.

1. Elie Tahari Sand Dune Chiffon And Gold Chain ‘Sandy Mamba’ Layered Necklace, $150.39

2. Marc By Marc Jacobs Limelight Metallic-Leather Mini Skirt, $400

3. Loren Hope Spike Rhinestone Earrings, $58

4. Betsy Johnson Dizzyy – Blush Glitter, $121.49

5. Michael Kors Anaconda Sequin Tank Top, $79.50

—Jaqueline Zenn

Image Layout: Amy Newling

Get It Now: Bon Voyage! Packing For Your Winter Vacation

Traveling from a cold climate to somewhere warm for a wintertime vacation can be quite fabulous – after all, it is always glamorous to escape the cold for say, a tropical island or a desert resort. That said, getting yourself and your wardrobe in shape can be no easy feat; not only will you want to make sure you look your best in outfits that are somewhat skimpier than your typical winter ensembles, you’ll likely need to edit your wardrobe down to the essentials in order to fit it all into your suitcase.

A simple dress that you can wear for day, night, or even as a bathing suit cover-up is key. For example, the Marc by Marc Jacobs Chelsea Waterfall layered jersey dress is basic but special, and the streamlined silhouette looks to be universally flattering.

Sandals that can go from the beach to the cocktail lounge are also useful, like these strappy Jeffrey Campbell sandals that come in a spicy red or cool turquoise.

Bold accessories are the number one way to make your vacation outfits feel special and different from your everyday choices. A pair of colorful earrings like these chandeliers from ASOS would match nearly everything and take up barely any room in your suitcase; a lightweight printed scarf like this airy wool number from J.Crew would be an excellent option as well.

One-pieces are just as chic as bikinis these days, and much kinder to winter-pale complexions and post-holiday figures. This black one-shoulder one-piece by Badgley Mischka has a sleek shape complete with an ornate beaded detail for a touch of exoticism.

Last but not least, a bright or exotic tote can tie everything together. Something like this Carlos Falchi tote, which comes in a variety of luscious shades, will hold all your essentials pool-side.  It can also be stuffed with souvenirs while sight-seeing and even serve as a carry-on bag for the true packing minimalists among us.

1. Marc by Marc Jacobs Chelse Waterfall Layered Dress, $268
2. Jeffrey Campbell Roman 2, Now $94.95
3. ASOS Chandelier Earrings, $32.35
4. J.Crew Airy Wool Scarf, $59.50
5. Badgley Mischka Tangier One-Shoulder Beaded One-Piece, $145
6. Carlos Falchi Matte Microfiber Medium Tote, $220

—Jacqueline Zenn

Get It Now: Shades of Sparkle

For many women, it is a fashion “don’t” to mix different shades of metal. If your earrings are silver, your necklace, bracelets, and even the hardware on your purse, belt, and shoes needs to coordinate. The one exception might be an engagement ring or wedding ring (after all, you’re not vowing to love one metal and only one metal till death do you part). However, one of the most fun trends to follow this winter is to mix your metals, and the key to avoid a fashion disaster is to make it look deliberate.

A stack of bracelets or a bold cocktail ring is a simple way to integrate various metals; these pavé bangles by Nadri or this twisted cocktail ring by Lagos would both fit the bill. Incorporating subtle mixed metal touches like these allow you to mix and match shades for the rest of your jewelry, just make sure the pieces have a similar depth – bright shiny bling looks off paired with darker oxidized pieces, for example.

For the holidays, there is nothing quite as fun as glittering shoes, and these Enzo Angiolini pumps would be as versatile as they are striking, since they’d partner well with so many other accessories, including other metallics, rich jewel tones, and eye-catching brights. Fans of animal prints might prefer these Fendi platforms with similar colors that features snakeskin instead of glitter.

Those who consider this an investment-worthy trend might consider this Oscar de la Renta pencil skirt; while it is a splurge it would work well at holiday cocktail parties for years or even decades to come.  Just add a classic black, white or bright red top.

All of these pieces feature at least two different metallic shades, but there’s another way to combine hues, like the way that this Coach satchel reflects gold, bronze, or silver depending on the way that light hits it. Talk about a bag that would go with everything! It’s a perfect example of this adaptable trend.

1. Nadri Micro Pave’ Bangle, $158 Per Bangle
2. Lagos “Tresse Knot” Dome Ring, $550
3. Oscar De La Renta Metallic Embroidered Pencil Skirt, $1,350
4. Fendi Metallic Snakeskin Slingback Platform Pumps, $995
5. Enzo Angiolini ‘Sully’ Platform Pump (Nordstrom Exclusive), $88.95
6. Coach Kristin Metallic Leather Flap Satchel, $428

—Jacqueline Zenn

Image Layout: Amy Newling

Get It Now: It’s In The Jeans

Until this spring, colored denim was considered the province of soccer moms and probably best left in our memories of the late eighties and early nineties, when matching your jeans to your denim jacket to your scrunchie was actually a good idea. However, fashion has come full-circle and a rainbow of colored denim is available this fall. Here’s how to wear it without triggering painful style memories.

There are two main ways to rock the colored denim – you can keep it neutral and pair your bold jeans with black, white, and various shades of gray, or you can play into another key trend by color-blocking your denim with another bright hue (note: this second option can be considered advanced fashion and should be attempted only by the confident).

Red jeans are perhaps the hottest hue this coming season and a great way to integrate colored denim into your wardrobe since bright red works with so many shades. Start with a form-fitting pair like Joe’s Chelsea skinny jeans, or mix it up with flares like these by J Brand. Add a simple black tee and either or a bold necklace or animal print belt, throw on some black booties, and you’re ready to go. This gray and black skinny calf hair belt or the Love Me-Knot mesh necklace from J.Crew would both work well.

One way to ease yourself into color-blocking is add a bright scarf, like this cobalt blue fringed piece from Madewell (a bright magenta would also be a good selection). The truly bold can try making a statement with a pattern, like this Marc by Marc Jacobs jungle print silk top.

Of course, red isn’t the only popular hue for denim this fall – variations on these looks with royal blue or purple, or a bright kelly green would be equally excellent. However, we suggest that you leave matching jackets in the closet of the past, where they belong.

1. Joe’s Chelsea Skinny Jeans, $158
2. J Brand Mid Rise Flare Leg Stretch Jeans, $167
3. J.Crew Skinny Calf Hair Belt, $60
4. J.Crew Love Me-Knot Mesh Necklace, $69
5. Madewell Sunset Horizon Scarf, $39.50
6. Marc by Marc Jacobs Jungle Silk Top, $278

—Jacqueline Zenn

Get It Now: Stylin’ In The Rain

Summer storms are welcome when the mercury tops 90 degrees – nothing helps to break the heat like a fast and furious downpour. However, dealing with inclement weather in a sundress and strappy sandals is unpleasant at best, and a potential wardrobe malfunction at worst. Here are our picks for stylish ways to deal with summertime rain showers.

A great trench is a classic piece that you will get plenty of use out of, and while we do love the timeless look of Burberry, these alternatives have a modern flair that makes them standouts. This Cole Haan trench has an iridescent finish that’s flattering and unusual, and the ruffle trim on this Tahari satin trench frames the face and helps to keep the rain away from whatever fabulous ensemble is hidden underneath.

So a lightweight trench will cover most of your outfit, however, delicate sandals are the most likely to suffer rain damage. That’s when it is time to pull out the rain boots, and today’s many options hardly resemble the clompy rubber galoshes of years past. These black patent wedge rain boots by Hunter are so chic you may be tempted to wear them when the sun is shining.

Unfortunately, sudden showers are a fact of life in the summer, so what do you do when you don’t have your trench and boots handy? Keep a colorful umbrella in your purse or at your desk, of course. The Tory Burch Foundation Umbrella keeps you dry and the proceeds go towards a good cause (the Tory Burch Foundation provides economic opportunities to women and their families throughout the United States).

Another alternative is a rain hat like this black patent number by Eric Javits that hardly resembles the plastic-y styles favored by little old ladies. It’s easy to fold up and stick in your bag, and the simple shape will work for many different looks and faces. And given the occasional surprise thunderstorm that’s just part of summer, it could be a style-saver.

1. Cole Haan Packable Iridescent Coat, $455

2. Tahari Ruffle Trim Satin Trench, $168

3. Eric Javits Patent Rain Hat, $125

4. Hunter Wedge Rain Boots, $175

5. Tory Burch Foundation Umbrella, $58

—Jacqueline Zenn

 Image Layout: Molly Murphy

Get It Now: Wedding Style. What To Wear When You’re A Guest

One of the perils of wedding season is deciding what to wear to various types of ceremonies and celebrations held in places which may or may not have a dress code, or invitations that suggest you dress “festively” or in “summertime pastels.”

And of course, there are all the cultural and social rules – don’t wear white, don’t wear anything too flashy or sexy, and you may want to cover your shoulders in a church or avoid thin high heels for an outdoor or beach ceremony. However, sometimes limitations lead to fabulous ensembles, so here are some options for different kinds of weddings.

Beach: In addition to the shoe restrictions mentioned above (we don’t want your fabulous stilettos to sink into the sand, of course!), typically seaside ceremonies are the casual sort. Maxidresses and embellished flat sandals or wedges are the perfect option, like this deep coral print dress from Tory Burch.

Backyard BBQ: Like beach weddings, these tend to be fairly casual, so a sweet sundress like this bright red ruffled racer-back frock by LC for Kohls topped off with a bright clutch would fit the bill.

Cathedral: A big church wedding usually doesn’t call for hats (unless you’re British aristocracy), but you’ll want to wear something appropriate for the occasion. Strapless or otherwise bare dresses can be paired with an embellished cardigan, or find something with sleeves that’s still sleek and sexy, like this navy number by Badgley Mischka.

Quirky: We all have those wild friends who plan weddings that are far from traditional – the bride wears purple, the cake is vegan and Elvis might even be involved. In this case, feel free to go for broke with statement jewelry, feathers or even fringe, like this swingy little black dress from Aidan Mattox.

Black Tie: There’s nothing as fabulous as getting all dressed up for a black tie event – except when you have nothing to wear! A simple column gown like this floor-length gray silk chiffon dress from J.Crew is a life-saver at times like these, if you invest in that’s black or a flattering jewel tone you can change it up with jewelry and accessories, making it ideal for many seasons and occasions.

1. Tory Burch Coral Dress, $428
2. LC Lauren Conrad Ruffle Racerback Dress, now $45
3. Badgley Mischka Slit-Shoulder Cocktail Dress, $450
4. Aidan Mattox Fringed Cocktail Dress, $330
5. J.Crew Arabelle Long Dress in Silk Chiffon, $350

—Jacqueline Zenn

Image Layout: Jillian Jaslowski

Get It Now: The Intersection of Fashion and Technology

Geeks are not often considered fashionable, and style mavens are usually not regarded as tech-savvy.  In fact, until recently, a fashionable techie had a dearth of options when it came to chic cases for all her electronics. However, designers have jumped on the tech bandwagon, most notably in the form of iPad cases and laptop sleeves.

For instance, your laptop would be well-protected in this leaf-print Marc Jacobs nylon case. Marc Jacobs also makes a number of solid color options – we like this royal blue case.

For your iPad, if you want to go ultra-luxe, there’s nothing more plush than this fuchsia Nancy Gonzalez crocodile Ipad case (we think Steve Jobs would approve).  Dolce & Gabanna also make a leopard print option for those of us who love our animal prints.

If you have a Blackberry, this luggage-hued leather Michael Kors case would keep it safe and it coordinates with Michael Kors bags in the same shade. For iPhone users, Kate Spade makes some seriously fabulous cases – we particularly like the black and white polka dots on this Kate Spade cover.

As you can see, gadgetophiles aren’t limited to basic black or gray options – plenty of designers understand that we want our laptops, tablets and phones to be just as stylish as the rest of our ensembles.

1. Marc by Marc Jacobs Leaf-Print Laptop Case, now $50

2. Marc by Marc Jacobs ‘Resistance’ Laptop Sleeve, $98\

3. Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile iPad Case, now $900

4. Dolce&Gabbana Leopard Print iPad 1 Case, $275

5. MICHAEL Michael Kors Jet Set BlackBerry Case, now $50

6. Kate Spade New York Rigid iPhone 4 Cover, $40

—Jacqueline Zenn

Image Layout: Molly Murphy

Get It Now: Romping Into Summer

Rompers and jumpsuits might be the most difficult types of apparel for a grown woman to pull off. The right ones can make you look slim, stylish, and put-together, but a bad romper can make you seem like you’re wearing an adult onesie.

The easiest way to pull off this look is to go with sleek solid colors, like this black tuxedo-style jumpsuit or the silk tank jumpsuit. Just add wedges and some bold jewelry and you’re all set. Simple one-pieces like the aforementioned silk tank style can also gone from day to night with ease, just add fancier footwear and up the bling factor on your accessories a bit.

Other neutral shades have a similar effect; for instance, this sandy-hue halterneck jumpsuit could be spectacular with some turquoise or coral jewelry and metallic sandals. It’s a great alternative to the now-ubiquitous maxi-dresses as well.

Shorter romper styles can be difficult and best left to the petite and/or leggy types. However, this BCBG generation romper could work with gladiators and a slouchy bag for day, and possibly dressed up with heels and layered necklaces or bangles for night.  The rich blue shade is flattering on many skin tones.

Last but not least, this printed number could work for the fashionably fearless. While a print silk jersey jumpsuit in shades of black, ivory and pinky-beige could be a little too seventies-inspired for most, it can make quite a statement.

1. ASOS Tailored Tux Halter Wide Leg Jumpsuit, $102.02

2. Kookai Silk Tank Top Jumpsuit, $169.88

3. Lisa Jayne Dann Halterneck Jumpsuit, $199.42

4. BCBGeneration Short Romper, $98

5. Cynara Printed Silk-Jersey Jumpsuit, $485

–Jaqueline Zenn

Image Layout: Jillian Jaslowski