Tuesday, December 30, 2008

We've Moved!

Hello all,

First, thank you for your continued support. We, at always in style, are working hard to design a blog and site that you enjoy. Please keep the comments coming. They help us determine what to publish and what to toss.

Second, we're moving servers. From now on, you can find us at: www.alwaysinstyle.com/community. We have big plans in store for the new year, so check back often.

Happy Holidays!

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Statement Pieces




The Chain Gang






Geometric Pendants




The Bibs




The Chain Gang (from left to right): Mackenzie multi-layer chain necklace, $78 available at Marciano. Asst link necklace, $6.80 available at Forever 21. Geometric Necklaces (from left to right): Gerald Yosca square necklace with stones, $280 available at Marissa Collections. Alexis Bittar geometric necklace, $119 available at Intermix. Vanessa Montiel necklace, $390 available at Fragments. The Bibs (from left to right): Facet bib necklace, $38, available at Arden B. Early hawthorn necklace, $38 available at Anthropologie. House of harlow 1960 black resin triangle necklace, $125 available at Kitson.



While show stopping necklaces are not a new trend, I find them particularly relevant with the holidays on the horizon. Clasp one on to reinvent an old cocktail dress or use it to add some serious visual impact to a simple frock. An added bonus? The spring runways were littered with huge neck pieces so you can wear these baubles well into the warm weather.

Wrist Watch

From top to bottom: Roberto Cavalli jeweled Plexiglas cuff, $550, available at eluxury. Erickson Beamon gold leaf cuff, $525, available at net-a-porter. Fred Flare gold studded biker cuff, $6, available at fredflare.

Lately, I've been obsessing about how to wear the pretty floral dresses that are out this season. The problem, at least for me, is that I'm petite so when I wear printed frocks I tend to look overly juvenile. Seeking a solution to this predicament, I've been on a hunt for aggressive jewelry. Combining my flowery garment with one of these chunky pieces of arm candy and a pair of mile-high booties should keep me from looking like I belong in the 4th grade.

Tune in tomorrow to check out bold neck pieces.

Monday, December 8, 2008

Trends Report: Velvet Underground

Winter 2008 Fashion Trends

Velvet has become such a winter staple that calling it a trend feels wrong. The sumptuous fabric is so cozy and glamorous there’s no need to sacrifice style for comfort. The ultra-feminine vibe means that it pairs well with another popular trend this season: winter florals. A velvet blazer in a flattering silhouette gussies up your denim or pulls together a wrap dress in a snap.

If your coloring is Bright or Deep, look for a rich jewel tone, while Lights and Cools look great in icy pastels. Warm? Look for a shade with a golden undertone like olive or pumpkin. Those who are Muted will look smashing in a heather grey or mauve rose. Not sure what we mean by all of this? Complete your Color Profile to find out!

The best bit of advice we could give is less is more; one piece is better than a whole outfit – Austin Powers is hilarious but a style icon? Not so much.

If you want to dip your toe in the trend try a headband a la Blair Waldorf or the Olsen twins for an affordable modern update.

Stella McCartney
Velvet Clutch
KirnaZabete.com
Wolford
Velvet Leggings
BareNecessities.com

J. Crew
Velvet École Jacket
J.Crew

Street Beat: Pretty In Pink

Trendy Swedish Beauty

One look at her glowing peaches and cream complexion and we were totally captivated by Johanna Öst’s photos. The artist, who hails from Vallentuna, Sweden, lists among her interests Barbie, fashion, folklore, and the 18th century. But did you really need us to tell you that? We adore how she perfectly embodies all of her stylish inspirations and more – the soft flushed cheeks, romantic curls, and perfect cupid bow lips – it’s all so dreamily Jane Austen.

We’re pretty sure the whole look would bring Mr. Darcy to his knees.


Photos courtesy: Johanni

Paula Dorf
Cake Mascara
PaulaDorf.com
Lipstick Queen
Sinner Matte Lipstick

LipstickQueen.com
Warren-Tricomi
Hot Set Spray
Dermstore.com

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Trends Report: Beauty Boo-Boos & Blunders Be Gone!

Mistakes happen, but don’t let a minor beauty boo boo wreck an otherwise pulled-together look. Here are some common offenders and how to handle them with style. Be sure to login daily for new tips and tricks to keep you at the top of your game.

Hair
Too much product equals limp, greasy-looking hair. Apply conditioner to the ends and only where damage is most prevalent. This mild tweak will add volume and prolong the time between washings.

Foundation
Avoid blotchy, uneven skin simply by waiting a few minutes after using moisturizer and before applying your foundation. You can also blot your face gently with a tissue to remove excess product.

Fragrance
Avoid spritzing perfume on your clothing, which doesn’t mix well with fabric fibers. Apply to pulse points and avoid rubbing in, which breaks down a fragrance’s structure and changes its scent.

Face
Over-plucked brows are all-too-common yet easily prevented. Instead of using a magnifying mirror, use a larger mirror, preferably near a window for the best light. Step back every few minutes to check symmetry.

Body
Even the most diligent sunscreen users often forget to apply in overlooked areas like the neck, back of the hands, even lips. These areas are among the first to show signs of aging, so don’t forget them.






Glycolix Elite
Sunscreen
DermStore.com


Thicker Fuller Hair
Weightless Conditioner
Folica.com

Aveeno

Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer
DrugStore.com

Monday, December 1, 2008

Street Beat: Pensare Ancore – Preppy Bohemian Style

Preppy Bohemian Style

We think it’s pretty obvious why blogger Caroline Dengel is our muse this week: she has the uncanny ability to channel fashion icons from every era without looking the least bit dated. Borrowing the best from each decade she has a look that is uniquely her own. We were particularly struck by these photos that marry a decidedly bohemian yet preppy style – a pinch of Jane Austen with a dash of Serena Van der Woodsen cooks up a most inspirational dish.

The 17-year-old art and design student from Ohio has big dreams that include a highly-coveted Fashion Director position – we say she has a running head start on Anna Wintour’s post.

photos courtesy: Caroline








Arden B
Wool Blazer

Arden B

Gap
Ruffle-Neck Shift Dress

Gap

Steven
Haute Brown Knee High Boot

Amazon.com