Spring releases a fun and exuberant vibe into the air and no shade will get you in the swing or spring like yellow. I’ll admit that I only recently became a yellow-proponent; it really coincided with my new-found sense of color adventurousness. There is something unexpected about yellow for some reason.  It’s definitely not a shade you will run into all that often while walking down the street, but that’s what makes it fun, so why not go for it!

Yellow can be anything from classy to whimsical, feminine to funky, and everything in between. Just look at the celebrities pictured above- all of whom are sporting shades of yellow interpreted differently for styles that range from ultra-femme like Lauren Conrad wearing a Plastic Island coat, to boho like Molly Sims in Calvin Klein, to sexy, like Leighton Meester, who teamed a yellow ruffled Nina Ricci dress with killer lace up booties by Derek Lam.

So what are the do’s and don’ts of wearing yellow? Well first I would advise against pairing yellow, especially bright yellow, with black, that’s just way too bumble bee. There are some exceptions, but overall this is a rule.Yellow will always work with jeans- any wash, really. Yellow, especially neon, also looks amazing when set against nude and neutral shades.

Read on for some yellow pieces guaranteed to spruce up your wardrobe! [continue reading…]

When we rang in 2010 three months ago, the first thing on my mind – besides my looming New Year’s resolutions – was the fact that with the dawn of a new decade arrived the dawn of a new vintage one, too: the 1990s.

Many of us were toddlers of the 80’s, meaning our formative years were spent playing Skip It and sipping Hi-C boxes in the last decade of the millennium. Some of our most personal childhood memories are marked by this decade – not to mention the television shows we grew up watching that influenced the style and slang of our generation.

I admit it: vintage of the 90s is hard to love. The most memorable styles haven’t made a return to mainstream trends, at least by today’s standards. 90s style was varied: Girls rocked anything from baggy Mickey Mouse shirts and stonewash denim (think TLC) to full-body cat suits and fanny packs (think House Party or Boyz in the Hood) to schoolgirl skirts, knee highs and Mary Janes (think Clueless).

But like any era, the few standout pieces are gems, and definitely deserving of a place in your 2010 wardrobe. Here are a few of my favorite 90s TV show or movie-inspired vintage pieces that I promise you’ll learn to love (or laugh at!) all over again. [continue reading…]

Major shopping sites can be majorly overwhelming. Sure there are tons of amazing pieces, but it can take forever to click through page after page of merchandise in order to find what you want, I mean, who has that kind of time?

This is one reason I favor small e-boutiques when I need something fabulous. My newest go to is IM-HM.com (I Am High Maintenance), a small online boutique with a well-edited selection of pieces from premium designers such as Twenty8Twelve, Sass & Bide, Crispin & Basilio, Richard Nicoll, Joe’s Jeans and more.

While the selection is small, it’s still diverse and features everything from basic staples to avant-garde wow-inducers and I honestly love, and would wear, each and every item. Having a targeted selection also makes for a much more enjoyable, much less overwhelming and time-consuming shopping experience.

I could go on and on, but the proof is really in the pudding, or rather, the merchandise.

Read on for my top 10 favorite pieces and for an exclusive discount code for ANM readers. [continue reading…]

Hats are often the forgotten accessory and even though they can have such a big impact on your look. While notas significant now as they were way back when,  hats are still  key components to any wardrobe. What’s amazing to me is how persevering hats are and the fact that the same styles have been reinterpreted from one generation to the next. I mean, something like the fedora is associated with anything from middle-class working men in the early 1900’s to gangsters and detectives of the 40’s to Michael Jackson to modern day hipsters.

Hats allow you to go in all sorts of directions with your look and the same outfit can go from sweet and sophisticated to rebellious and edgy with the simple switch of hat. Top off your look with a cute cloche when you want to summon the roaring 20’s, with a beret for a dose of Parisian-chic, with a slouchy beanie for laid-back look, and so on. Use a hat to tone down an amped up style or add that little something extra to a subdued one. The point is, hats can help take your look in whichever direction you chose- just check out the celebs pictured above for hat-inspiration galore!

Now that we’ve learned what hats can do, let’s check out some of the must-have styles. [continue reading…]

While I, like many, love wearing black, in the past year I have found love on the other end of the spectrum with beautiful nude and neutral shades. And here’s a little fun fact: Neutrals actually have the same slim-down effect as their dark counterparts and going light head-to-toe can smooth out any rough patches and can make you appear longer and leaner.

In addition to being figure-friendly, neutral shades are also high versatile and have an ethereal quality that can’t help but make you feel pretty. As is the case with black, there are countless ways to wear your neutrals.

You can keep clean and simple by forgoing the accessories like Kate Bosworth, who let her blush-colored Calvin Klein dress stand alone,  or use your nude backdrop as a foundation for fun jewelry pieces, like Nicole Richie who accesorized her chic L’Wren Scott sheath with piles of fun pieces from her House of Harlow line.

Take the monochrome route with nudes head-to-toe (a major trend for Fall 2010, fyi) or contrast these soft shades with darks or brights.  I personally love juxtaposing soft neutrals with tough pieces (think biker boots, bomber jackets, boyfriend blazers, chunky knits patterned tights and so on), like Taylor Momsen who teamed an ethereal slip-dress with a pair of Giuseppe Zanotti biker boots. The most imortant thing to remember is to stay true to your personal style and wear your nudes in a way that makes you feel comfortable and confident.

As we transition from winter to spring, I think it’s time that we all brighten up with some stunning neutral shades. [continue reading…]

When it comes to looking great, the little things can have the biggest impact. It’s not always about what you wear, it’s what you wear underneath. Oftentimes, an exposed bra strap, a bunched up cardigan, a strapless bra that won’t stay up, or an exposed panty-line can be the difference between looking sleek verse sloppy.

I am all about the functional undergarments these days- from shape-wear to customizable bras- these things do matter and can greatly impact the way your clothes look. On the red carpet, the right underpinnings are almost as important as the right dress (something that anyone who watches the Rachel Zoe Project is familiar with).

Read on for my most essential underpinnings. [continue reading…]

Alexander Wang is known for his downtown, edgy-chic aesthetic and his pieces always have an undone, accidental-kind-of-cool quality to them. For Fall 2010, the master did it again with a collection that had everyone raving and wishing everything was available right now.

While he worked the sports-inspired angle for Spring 2010, this time around he reinterpreted the goth trend, giving it an androgynous, corporate-cool flavor, something only he could pull off. There were deconstructed suits, a plethora of pinstriped pieces, avant-garde lbds, crop-tops, cut-outs, sheer fabrics, lace flourishes, cutting-edge silhouettes, backpacks criss-crossed in front creating a bondage-feel, and innovative mixing-and-matching. High-hemlined skirts and dresses were teamed  with thigh-high socks (which, as you know, I’m a huge fan of), adding a whopping dose of rebellious sex-appeal to this season’s more grown-up sensibility.

The actual collection won’t be available for many agonizing months but you can still incorporate some of the trends and styles seen on the runway into your look right now. [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…]

When I think of Tibi, I generally think of light fabrics, frilly accents, and vibrant patterns, what I’m used to seeing at Bloomingdales or Saks. I was in for a nice surprise when I checked out the Tibi Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear show at New York Fashion Week. Designer Amy Smilovic, played with soft and hard looks, combining delicate fabrics and feminine prints with artillery detail and military influence. She did the same with colors, mixing navy, grey, and olive green, with warmer tones like rose and burgundy. I loved that Smilovic incorporated edgier detail, like leather and studs, in a delicate way that kept the softness and femininity of the brand.

My favorite looks? The leather artillery pouch, the cropped silk pant with draping bow, and the endless layering over cotton tees (Tres chic and economical!) All looks I can see on front row attendee and ‘City’ girl, Olivia Palermo.

While the styles shown at Fashion Week are for the upcoming fall and winter seasons—grr, like seven months away—us online editors get a little antsy and like to use these flash-forward trends ASAP. So, we’re giving you Tibi-inspired runway styles you can wear right now. [continue reading…]

The countdown to spring has officially begun. When you can’t take another day of wearing thick socks and boots, go ahead…pull out your favorite warm weather shoes. Luckily, these days, practically every shoe is transitional with the help of hosiery. However, there are styles that are particularly agreeable for the in-between season.

A peep-toe bootie is the epitome of easy transitional footwear. A cross between a shoe and a boot, they can be worn with or without opaques in the cold weather. Its sister, the cutout bootie, is another chic and of-the-moment option. Spring will be all about the cage shoe so feel free to sport them a few months early. Wedges are also back in a big way. Embrace them while you can as they’re both stylish and comfy.

Come spring, shed the tights and let the shoes enjoy the weather. [continue reading…]

I first learned of Leigh Lezark last September during fashion week. The first time I saw her i just had to ask ‘who is that girl?’ Obviously she was someone: she sat front row at everything, she had a flock of photogs following her, her sense of style was just on a whole other level, and she just radiated attitude in that cool, not bitchy, sort of way. To my delight, I learned that Leigh wasn’t just another famous for being famous socialite, but actually one-third of the popular New York City-based DJ trio the Misshapes, and, due to her unique looks, now a model as well.

Over the past few months, Leigh has emerged as fashion’s newest darling. She’s edgy, daring, rebellious, and goes against the grain without being too outrageous. While she does have a tough-as-nails aesthetic, her style still has a sexy, feminine sensibility. Leigh has quickly become one of my top sources for style inspiration.

Read on for 5 tips to bring a little Leigh into your wardrobe!

[continue reading…]

I love everything about Valentine’s Day.

No, I don’t love it because I have a boyfriend who wines and dines me on the 14th (although, that would be nice, wouldn’t it?) I love it because it gives me an excuse to buy myself something pretty and shiny and new in honor of this Hallmark holiday. How could you not love that?

Except, since I’m a vintage lover, I don’t often buy myself something new, per say – I lean more toward the pretty and shiny! Sure, vintage is technically old, but that also means it’s unique and one-of-a-kind. What’s the best gift you can give yourself? Something that no one else has!

So no matter what your relationship status is this Valentine’s Day, it’s important to remember that V-day is a day of love – especially for yourself! In preparation for my own day of self indulgence, I checked out some of my favorite online vintage sellers  to see what sweet and shiny pieces they had for sale. What I found: five different options perfect for five different engagements. Date or not, I’ve got something worth buying for a little love this Valentine’s Day.

Read on for my top 5 sweet vintage finds! [continue reading…]

Stripes have been going strong as the pattern du jour for a while now, unjustly leaving polka dots in their stripey shadows for far too long! I for one an totally feeling the polka dots- they have an old-school sort of charm and can bring a fun, 50’s flavor to your wardrobe without looking dated. While this pattern has been around for a while,  adding a polka-dotted piece to your look still manages to add an unexpected twist.

Stand out in a polka dot dress like Olivia Wilde (wearing TopShop), give a retro polka dot top a modern spin like Cameron Diaz (pictured in a top by Michael Kors and Seven jeans), or toughen up a pretty polka dotted blouse with second skin pants like Lauren Conrad and Lindsay Lohan (both in Rebecca Minkoff). From sophisticated and refined to daring and bold, who knew dots could be so versatile?

Polka dots are instant eye-catchers, so whether your dots are big or small, wear them with confidence! Read on for my favorite polka dotted pieces! [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…]

It’s January, a time to start anew and get used to cruel, nasty, unrelenting weather because it’s here and isn’t going anywhere for a while. I never used to bother with cold-weather boots. Instead, I would brave nasty temperatures in my regular boots which would ultimately ruin the boots and be forced to trudge around with cold feet.

Cold weather boots are obviously highly important- they’ll keep your tootsies warm, will prevent you from slipping and sliding on those snowy days, and are highly durable. While cold weather boots used to be hideous, these days there are tons of really cute and fashionable styles.

Read on for boots that will keep you warm, dry, and stylish come rain, sleet, or snow! [continue reading…]

Handbags are very personal items for women. It does more than just hold our belongings. It’s a symbol of identity, status and style so it’s important you find something that accurately reflects who you are. Why else do women spend a small fortune on an accessory?

To ring in the new decade, treat yourself to a fabulous new piece of arm candy. Pick something that conveys who you want to be in 2010. Aiming to be a better multi-tasker? There’s a convertible bag out there with your name on it. Trying to toughen up? Think hardware. Need motivation to use that gym membership? A chic new nylon tote should do the trick. Dying for a promotion at work? A gorgeous structured bag screams power and “I’m so on top of it!”

And for you high-achieving gals who want it all, there’s only one way…get all these bags! [continue reading…]

Accessories make the outfit. How many times have you heard that one? Well, learn it and make it your fashion M.O. this season. When you can’t splurge on a new wardrobe every season (and who can these days?), the right accessories can freshen up your look and stretch your closet.

So shake things up. If you live in your flat riding boots, try a suede over-the-knee boot. Trade in your usual black tights for a bright or patterned pair. I’m loving jewel tones to punch up basic black or a demure Swiss dot pattern to accent your finest party-wear. And you should know my theory on jewelry by now…it wakes up any tired look!

Any of these seemingly small additions will instantly revamp your look in a big way. The point is this: people are more likely to remember a fantastic bib necklace or cage platform than another little black dress.

Read on to see my favorite wardrobe-transforming accessories!

[continue reading…]

Holiday party season is in full swing, a time to slip into those sexy cocktail frocks and dress to impress. It doesn’t matter how stunning the dress is or how high-end the label is, if it doesn’t work well with your shape, it ain’t worth a thing.

Dressing for your body type is the most essential tool when it comes to looking, and feeling, absolutely amazing. I’ll take a dress from Forever 21 that fits me to perfection over an ill-fitting super pricey piece from Bergdorf that emphasizes my problem areas any day of the week.

While there are some general slimdown secrets that work for all, nothing beats knowing exactly what works for your figure.

Read on to find out which dress style will work for your body type! [continue reading…]

Sequins were once reserved for very special occasions only and would seldom be allowed out unless it was New Years Eve or a birthday. A little while ago things stated to change and sequins started to make a comeback. However, there were still restrictions that forced the sexy sequined pieces to remain in hiding during daylight hours.

These days, there are no fashion rules anymore (and even if there were, we’d ignore them!) and anything goes, including wearing your sequined pieces- gasp during the day. As I’ve already mentioned, being a true fashion maven is all about taking risks and going where others are too afraid to venture. The idea of wearing sequins during the day can seem scary, but with the right pieces and the right styling, it can look killer.

On the runways, we saw sequins paired with comfy layers, a really unexpected contrast that creates a more undone-glam style and offsets the party spirit of sparkly sequins. We also saw sequins emblazoned on basic styles like tees and soft cardigans, a fabulous way to update basic styles and sequined dresses that were more muted, allowing them to be glammed up or toned down.

In these tough times, it’s important to invest in pieces that are versatile and special and sequins most certainly fit the bill. There are tons of options out there and I’ve sifted through them all to bring you a list of the absolute best wear-anywhere sequined pieces.

Read on to see what made the cut! [continue reading…]

A confession? I am head-over-heels obsessed with PH8 (pronounced “Fate”), the new and improved version of Bebe Sport that brings a fresh, edgy, fashion-forward sensibility to sportswear. When I first heard that Bebe Sport was changing things up, I didn’t think much of it (workout-wear was never really my thing), until I actually saw the lookbook which changed everything! [continue reading…]

Winter is a very blah and dreary time. We’ve already discussed cozy accessories, but another winter essential is the cozy knit, a staple that will keep you feeling warm and looking chic no matter how miserable the weather gets.

Oversized knits have that very cool laissez-faire feel which I absolutely adore (especially when worn over a sexy cocktail dress, definitely my favorite pairing). Plus, when you invest in a cozy knit, you get a litte more wear and tear out of your favorite, but maybe not so winter-friendly- jackets. And of course, there’s the obvious fact that they help hide that extra heft which can creep on during this time of year.

Read on to check out some of my favorites! [continue reading…]

Remember those artsy girls in high school – the ones who won “most unique dresser” senior year because they shopped at Goodwill and Salvation Army stores for cheap, chic, and cool threads while everyone else stuck to the mall? Sorry to say it – but I was one of them!

I have always had the patience to sort through the racks at my local thrift stores for awesome finds, but you may not – and I understand! Vintage shopping is a daunting task that can require a ton of time and energy behind it. You admire the girls who can “pull it off,” but may think that you just don’t have the same creativity to find and wear vintage like they do. But the truth is: You do! [continue reading…]

It can be tough to look fashionable during the brutal winter months- a time when we are forced to live inside heavy coats. As soon as the cold hits, I immediately reach for my cozy accessories (I have a whole drawer full!). In addition to providing added warmth, these key pieces can also up the chic-quotient of even the simplest styles. Cozy accessories also have a longer shelf-life than  heavy coats and chunky knits, cozy accessories and are ideal for those transitional months before and after winter when it’s chilly, but still far from unbearably freezing.

Read on for a fabulous selection of winter accessories! [continue reading…]

From cute and casual to sexy and standout, Whitney Port’s personal style has undergone quite the makeover since we first met her on The Hills in 2006 as Lauren’s soft-spoken but super supportive Teen Vogue sidekick. Back then, Whitney’s style was very California-casual, ultra-femme, and very sweet.

In the time since, Whitney has grown up, toughened up, and abandoned sunny CA. for the harsher NYC. As she evolved, so did her sense of style. These days, Whitney likes to keep it edgy, bold, and sexy, but in that accidental I-didn’t-even-try sort of way.

Whitney loves to mix-and-match, from contrasting prints to disproportionate silhouettes to soft and feminine pieces teamed with high-voltage sexy ones.

No matter what she wears, she exudes confidence through and through and absolutely owns it. Both her attitude and absolute panache make this girl well worth drawing inspiration from.

Read on to learn how to get the city-chic styles pictured above! [continue reading…]

For lack of stating the obvious: The headband craze is everywhere, thanks to the success of certain racy, teen television show set on the Upper East Side. But among the giant frou-frou headpieces and bows, bows, bows, are some pretty glam headbands for those of us no longer in high school (think Nicole Richie, Sienna Miller, Mary Kate Olsen).

As a headband lover myself, here are some of my wish list accessories: [continue reading…]

From day to night, the red carpet to real life, the black jumpsuit is proving itself to be a major must-have. A black jumpsuit is a fresh alternative to your go-to LBD (especially in the winter) and is also massively versatile.

I don’t even know where to begin when it comes to all the ways you can wear this slip-it-on-and-you’re-done piece. Wear it with loads of accessories, a few key pieces, or none at all. Try it with pumps, flats, or even a pair of converse kicks. Top it off with a blazer, bomber jacket, or cardigan for day and on its own for a night out. Just look at the ladies pictured above- all are wearing jumpsuits and all rocked it totally differently to showcase their personal styles.

In addition to being versatile, a black jumpsuit it is also extremely flattering, especially when worn with black platforms, and creates the illusion of a long and lean silhouette. What more can a girl ask for?

No matter what, the black jumpsuit definitely eliminates the whole ‘closet full of clothes and nothing to wear’ predicament from your life which is why we’ve deemed it a worthy investment.

Read on for my top picks! [continue reading…]

A few months ago, I started a post about clogs but faced some serious hesitation as to whether or not to actually run it. I really should have taken my own advice, but instead I allowed the fear that all of you would think I had lost my mind for endorsing such a silly style take over and I held off. Then Mr. Karl Lagerfeld had to go and show clogs during the Chanel Spring 2010 presentation and now this silly little style is gaining crazy momentum and is being hailed as the hottest spring trend.

As much as I worship Karl, I didn’t need his seal of approval because I honestly love clogs and could not be happier that they are making a comeback (even though I’d wear them even if they maintained their passe status!). Clogs are a great substitute for flip-flops in the fall and winter and can serve as your slip it on and wear-then-with-anything-go-tos. Rock your clogs with bare feet when it’s warm and with tights or funky socks when it’s cold.

If you share my sentiments and can’t wait to clomp around in a pair of clogs, then read on for the styles I’m currently crushing on! [continue reading…]

I used to be little Ms. Neutral with my clothes. Black, white, and beige were the only shades I would touch, a common problem amongst women especially here in NYC where black will always be the new black. In time, I branched out and dipped my toes into some other colorful pools (as evidenced by my affinity for shade to crave posts) which has added a much needed burst of fun into my wardrobe.

Electric purple is one of the first bold colors I dared to try- it was an electric purple dress that I wore to a cocktail party for a new handbag line. I went up to the unbelieveably hot bartender to order a drink and he smiled and told me he noticed me the second I walked in the room. I asked why and he said: “I love it when girls wear that kind of purple. It’s just really bold and sexy.” No arguments here.

Purple was also a major trend on the Fall runways. We saw a whole range of purples from pastel to neon on everything in between, but my focus is definitely on the striking, electric shade. Like bold blue, electric purple is ultra flattering on all complexions and is just so inherently sexy. There is also no wrong way to wear this color. You can go the extra mile and team it with some other stand-out pieces, make your purple piece really pop by pairing it with black (just look at how a purple cardi took Mary-Kate’s LBD to a whole new level!), or temper it by wearing it with soft and subtle neutrals, which may be your best best for daytime.

Read on for my top electric purple pics! [continue reading…]