By now, you’re probably on New Year’s resolution overload. Everywhere you look you see ads, magazines, and busses telling you how to be the “new you in the new year.” The pressure is on and many of us crack.

Don’t get me wrong, having a goal and trying to stick to it is quite a feat in itself because you’re hopeful, while some drown in self-deprecation . However, what’s the point of aiming for an end result when: 1. It will make you miserable in the process 2. You’re not 100 percent committed to it 3. It just won’t last? Isn’t the point of having a resolution in the first place because you want to improve who you are to be happier and healthier?

My motto for resolutions: Think big, start small and stick with it. Here are 5 resolutions that you may have already broken and what you can do to fix it—it’s never too late! [continue reading…]

Thakoon Panichgul became a fashion favorite under the guidance of Anna Wintour herself. Known for draped dresses in his signature pretty prints, as seen on Michelle Obama, Thakoon switched things up for fall with textures galore and some animal inspiration, as did many other designers.

The designer played with draping and structure in several looks to create nicely proportioned silhouettes. Among my favorite pieces were the two-tone velvet blazer over a ruffled top and slouchy jersey pant, the skinny trouser, and fur-trimmed everything (Check out the wild tiger-print dress!). I wouldn’t mind being the literal black sheep of the fashion set in that Mongolian stole.

I wonder if Anna or Mrs. Obama will pick up some of these looks. In any case, I’ve pulled some (affordable) pieces you can wear to capture this style now, while the snow and cold air lingers for a few more weeks. Fear not, you can bring most of these pieces into spring. [continue reading…]

Diane von Furstenberg was not short of sheen, shine and sparkle at her Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear show last week. As expected, she showcased new vibrant DVF-esque patterns, but used her magic touch to amp up the glam, transforming classic pieces into extravagant, yet fun, looks with eye-catching embellishments. Walk into the room in one of these pieces and heads will turn, guaranteed.

The models embodied glamour and sophistication in what would be simple pieces if Ms. von Furstenberg didn’t adorn it all with puffs of ruffles, chiffon rosettes and trim, velvet and metallic patches, crochet embroidery, and, of course, endless sequins. I’m usually not a fan of floral or paillette appliqué, but DVF does it well, always.

Textured accents stole the show and here’s how you can steal the embellished look before next fall. [continue reading…]

Happy Birthday A New Mode!

One year… I almost can’t believe it. It all started about a year and a half ago. Eric and I were on the phone and I was telling him how badly I wanted to start my own site. I had been talking about it for a while and Eric gave me the courage and motivation to stop talking and start doing. Once the seed was planted, we started brainstorming on ways to create a site that would bring something new and different to a world so heavily saturated with blogs. Exactly one year ago, I told you about our vision for ANM and from then until now, we’ve worked tirelessly to make the site everything we promised it would be. [continue reading…]

Your steam pipes are clanking and your thermostat is set on “BRRR, it’s too cold to even think about going outside.” It’s that time of the year when you just want to cozy up and wait out the cold in your PJs with a cup of hot chocolate ‘til spring brings warmer days.

While we are fans of winter fashion here, we don’t discriminate when you’re all about indoor, at-home activities, especially when winter’s frightful weather is looming. For those spending more time at home, there are ways to warm up your pad without raising the thermostat. Some key accessories can brighten up a room and make it cozier for stylish winter hibernation.

And when you’re ready to socialize again, you can show off your well-accessorized digs to friends who simply haven’t discovered the art of relaxation through a little decoration.

Here are our top picks to cozy up in your casa de comfort: [continue reading…]

Your stylish self can’t live in bubble coats and Uggs all winter (if you even dare to wear). It’s time to incorporate some romance into your life with lace-adorned pieces. Even celebs like Madonna and a couple of our favorite Gossip Girls have weathered New York City’s frigid winter in fabulous lace ensembles.

You don’t have the freeze in your favorite lingerie-like pieces until spring comes along—there are several ways to wear lace this winter Although, you will be a seeing a lot more of this flirty, fun look when the days warm up. Take a tip from Madge and daughter Lourdes (both in Dolce & Gabbana) and pair a body-hugging lace dress with long evening gloves or a full, lace skirt with a leather jacket and military boots for Lourdes’ rocker-chic look.

The texture and pattern of the delicate fabric makes a bold statement, so no need for robust colors or major accessories when it comes to this modern romantic look.

Pray for sunny spring days in your finest frill. Lace isn’t just for Grandma anymore. Here are some of our picks: [continue reading…]