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Observations in Fashion

Great Style Guide for 2019

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If you are looking to update your wardrobe with some easy and classic styles then take a peek at what’s worth the investment in 2019.

~Invest in trousers. You already have a selection of jeans at your fingertips so you don’t need another pair. Instead look for trousers made in wrinkle resistant fabrics with just a touch of lycra. They are so easy to dress up or down but the best thing is that a great pair of trousers will separate you from everyone else who is still clinging to their skinny jeans.

BOSS Tocanes Modern Check Wool Ankle Trousers $278
Italian GoWeave Crop Trouser by Everlane $115

~Add dressier flats to your wardrobe. Sneakers are a huge welcomed trend that make so much sense that my only question is why did it take so long? This year add loafers, oxfords, and mules to your wardrobe. They are a little more dressed up and almost as comfortable as your sneaks.

Iona Snake Flat by LK Bennet Originally $295 On Sale $118
Mr. Evans Wingtips by Angela Scott $475
Blue Mules in Denim by Tods $695

~Black is back. For so long we have turned our backs on the color black and for a good reason—we OD’d on it and couldn’t bring ourselves to buy another black pair of pants, or dress, or coat. But here’s the thing. Black goes with everything, is seasonless, travels well, and can easily be cleaned up. 

Rib Trim Turtleneck by Inhabit Originally $398 On Sale $158
Doris Black Bell Sleeve Dress by LK Bennet $415

~Give menswear fabrics a try. Prints aren’t for everyone but plaids and checks are. I have always been a huge fan of menswear patterns. And now, because they are back in style, there is a good selection of patterns. Be careful when choosing clothing with a plaid. The repeat of the pattern should not be big or loud as it can widen your frame. I prefer slim cut trousers in a glen plaid.

Campbell Brown Tweed Pants by LK Bennet Originally $295 On Sale $206.50
Houndstooth Wool Coat by Kate Spade $798
If you are not a fan of the pink faux collar simply remove it.

Great style comes across as a wink not a thud. It looks different on everyone and takes chances. But those chances are subtle ones not the kind to cause critics to clutch their pearls.

Eat well, laugh a lot, and be chic!

Packing in One Carryon For Istanbul in the Winter Months

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Istanbul has always ranked high on my Places to Travel list. It originally piqued my interest long ago after first reading about its remarkable and complex history. But it is not just its history that makes Istanbul a great travel destination. It also has superb museums, extraordinary historical sights (the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque just to name a few), and exceptional cuisine. In addition Istanbul boasts the largest covered Bazaar in the world! 

Before I take off for uncharted territories I do a little research not just on topics like best places to eat and best places to stay (I will get back to you on that) or whether or not I need a visa (I do). But I also research interesting facts. Here are a few.

~Istanbul is the only city in the world to be situated in two continents, Europe and Asia.

~During the time of the Ottoman Empire it had more than 1,400 public toilets while the rest of Europe had none.

~Tulips originally came from Istanbul and then were shipped to the Netherlands.

~Istanbul has the third oldest subway in the world after London and New York.

Why Istanbul in winter? Because it’s off-season which means it is a great time to travel—shorter lines to get into historical sites, seats available at popular restaurants, incredible deals on hotels  but most importantly no crowds. However, traveling in the winter means colder temperatures which means packing heavier pieces that will take up more room in my carryon.

In addition to traveling to Istanbul I will be visiting New York so I will need clothing for a two weeks trip.

No problem, I’ve got this! 

January averages around a high of 48F and low of 38F in Istanbul and 39F to 27F in New York.  Here is my packing list for a 14-day trip.

~Heavy Coat

~Lightweight knee length down coat or jacket. This is an essential layering piece that takes up very little room in your luggage. 

~2 cardigans

~5 easy knit tops (combination of long and short sleeve tees)

~2 pullover sweaters

~4 pants

~1 knit tube skirt

~Large travel cashmere scarf

~Medium sized cashmere scarf

~2 silk scarves

~hat

~gloves

~Ankle boots with vibram soles (excellent for walking)

~Waterproof knee high boots

~oxfords

~tights

~underwear (7) & bras (2) socks (7)

~umbrella (always be prepared)

I’ll wear my heavies pieces on the flight and easily pack everything else in my carryon.

More later!

Eat well, laugh a lot, and travel chic!

An Easy and Stress-Free Way to Dress For the Holidays

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If there was ever a time to dress up it’s the holidays. 

However, finding something special to wear for a holiday party can add anxiety to your already stressful holiday season.

 There are several options for you that will cost you $0 and other options that are simple and affordable.

~Embrace Black. I know, black seems boring but think of a black dress as a blank canvas where you can create a dazzling masterpiece. If you don’t already own a LBD then a pair of black pants and simple black top will do. Keep in mind you don’t need to restrict yourself to the color black. Now that you have your blank canvas you can begin to accessorize with jewelry, colorful shoes, and luxe wraps.

Pic-Purple Pants/ Black Turtleneck? 2 Crystal Necklaces/Silver Shoes

~Layer your jewelry. Don’t be afraid to wear more jewelry than you normally would. If there was ever a time of year to add extra bling this is it! And you may already have what you need in your jewelry box. Think about layering your necklaces to create a statement piece.

I will leave a link to our “How to Make a Statement with your Jewelry” video in the description bar below. Have a look at it

~Wear Red. Here is the single most effortless tip yet. Paint your nails red and add red lipstick to your makeup routine. If you normally do not wear lipstick at all then you might be a bit shocked with bright red lips. Try instead wearing a red top with your black pants or skirt.

~Metallic shoes will make pull a holiday look together. No dressy metallic shoes? No problem! Take a pair of clip on earrings. Place a piece of moleskin behind the earring clip (this is to protect your feet from any abrasion). Clip the earring onto your shoes, add jewelry and a wrap and you are ready for your holiday soiree!

Eat well, laugh a lot, and be chic!

Happy Holidays Everyone!!