Runway to Real Life: 3.1 Phillip Lim

Runway to Real Life: 3.1 Phillip Lim by hbiggs [click through for outfit details]

Whatever the weather (umm hello, 90 degrees), my mind is on Fall fashion! Runway looks usually feel so unattainable to me, like works of art that I love looking at but could never recreate. So I wanted to try a new series where I take inspiration from the runway and make it accessible for real life (because lets face it, we aren’t all models or street-style stars)… This 3.1 Phillip Lim look from Fall 2013 isn’t too over the top so it’s a great place to start. For the work look, I balanced the bold pant with a classic white blouse and a dark knit. On the weekend, I swapped the blouse for a chambray and added ankle booties to keep it effortlessly chic. What do you think? Can you see yourself rocking a bold pant and layers for work or weekend?

New York Fashion Week: Roundup

Choosing top collections from the Fashion Week lineups is no easy task, so despite my best efforts I am sure there are designers and looks that I truly love that aren’t on the following list… Please tell me in the comments who your favorites were from NYFW. So without further ado….

3.1 Phillip Lim

This collection teaches us the true art of layering in the winter… An expert mix of colors and fabrics.

BCBG Max Azria

Love the rorschach-esque patterns, the fluid fabrics, and the leather legs.

Christian Siriano

Inspired by Russia… Siriano’s collection represents the luxe lady that I hope to someday be.

Jason Wu

The makeup and the shoes are to die for… As always, Wu expertly blends feminine and dark elements.

Karen Walker

Cool moss green combined to form unexpected color palettes… This collection looks effortlessly chic.

Marc by Marc Jacobs

This collection is reminiscent of the late 70s, with rich colors and the styling is absolutely perfect.

Milly

Graphic, sporty… This collection pushes the envelope, while remaining very wearable.

Prabal Gurung

Perfect mix of hard and soft with a nod to military… beautifully done.

Proenza Schouler

I’m a sucker for black and white everything, and it is done flawlessly here. Interesting cuts and fabrics, and can I please wear that white dress for my nonexistent wedding?

Theysken’s Theory

Love the fabrics and how well they are cut… Another perfect example of effortless chic.

More fashion week updates to come… Have a wonderful weekend!

1 Piece 3 Ways: Calvin Klein Metallic Sheath

As promised, here are three ways to wear the Calvin Klein Collection metallic sheath I am dying over…

Look 1: Toughen up this classic shift dress with black leather and snake skin.

3.1 Phillip Lim jacket, Alexander Wang booties, Pieces belt, Sadee Says earrings

Look 2: Go trendy with a statement necklace, a winter-white peplum coat and HELLO, oxblood heels

Ports 1961 coat, Lanvin necklace, H&M Pumps (only $48!), Kate Spade stud earrings

Look 3: Add sparkly heels and a belted coat (LOVE this color!) for ultimate ladylike glam.

L.K. Bennet coat, H&M Pumps (only $40!), Eddie Borgo cuff, Kimberly McDonald studs

What do you think? How would you style this metallic beauty?

Currently Craving: Cocoon Coats

J. Crew, Jil Sander Fall 2012, 3.1 Phillip Lim Fall 2012, Lover, DKNY Fall 2012, Rebecca Taylor, Acne, and image c/o Stockholm Streetstyle

It’s officially cold in New York… And as unfortunate as this may be, it also means coats are making their way back into my closet. (Last year, I brought in an armoire to my petite dorm room simply to accommodate my coat collection.) I mean, lets face it, how bored would I get wearing the same coat every day when the temperatures drop? I think this is implied, but… so bored. Anyway, right now I am loving the cocoon coat because it looks effortlessly chic over anything! Oh this old coat? I just threw it on, and look fabulous. Oh, and speaking of old coats – if you live in the New York area, donate yours here!

One Blouse for Work and Play

For the second installment of the transition from office to evening challenge, I chose this amazing blouse by Etro. Go with the natural tones for daytime, by choosing a classic nude pencil skirt and pumps. Chic black studs and a roomy leather bag in a contrasting hue pull the look together. For cocktail hour, ditch the conservative skirt in favor of skinny, black leather pants (or jeans if having leather plastered to your thighs isn’t your thing… It isn’t for everyone). Roll up the sleeves of the blouse to reveal a sick metal cuff, and step in to a killer pair of black pumps. Add small jolts of color with a bright red clutch and lipstick (the hue of the season), and voila! You are ready for a night on the town… Where would you wear this blouse, and how would you style it?

Chic Travels

My recent travels got me thinking about what to wear when you are setting off on an airplane. Comfort is obviously key, but that doesn’t have to mean sweatpants, leggings, or other articles of loungewear. These pieces are much better left at home. (Please, please leave these at home!) I wasn’t able to get any shots of my own travel attire, but I’ve recreated looks above inspired by my own.

The first outfit combines comfy trouser pants with a basic tank top. Comfy trousers look put together and modern without the feeling of being constricted during a long flight. I always get chilly on airplanes, so I recommend layering with a cardigan or a scarf, which can easily be removed and stowed upon arrival (if your destination happens to be tropical or warm like mine.) Another unfortunate effect of flying for me is that my feet swell, so I typically go with sandals to allow for this unlucky expansion.

The second outfit I love for travel is designed around the very breezy and trendy maxi skirt. Pair a cotton maxi skirt with a boxy sweater and a scarf for optimal comfort. This will look wrinkle-free and chic throughout the trip. I added a fun floral corset top underneath for a totally new outfit upon arrival. For both travel looks, I did minimal jewelry because airport security is so strict now, and it would be hell taking off an arm party at every security check-point. I also added a big, roomy satchel where you can store your magazines, books, iPod, etc. for the flight. Let me know what your go-to travel style is in the comments. And stay tuned for some shots from my trip to St. Thomas!