SHOE PORN THURSDAY: Peter Pilotto

Posted on March 3, 2016 by Trends & Tribulations

Bright colors and whimsical designs that tug on our heartstrings make those of us in the northern hemisphere yearn for the lazy summer days and carefree nights. The design duo behind the Peter Pilotto label, made of Peter Pilotto and Christopher de Vos, capture this feeling beautifully in their new footwear offering, composed of vibrant hues and groovy (yep, groovy has been called) patterns. Check out these blue and yellow leather and suede sandals below that are both playful and flirty. Wear ’em with a loose-fitting, super short sundress to show off your stems whether on a resort getaway or in the heat of the summer.

Peter Pilotto Cage Leather & Suede Sandals, $1,124

What do you think of these sandals? How would you style them?

stay gorgeous,

Your Go-To Guide for Spring & Summer 2016 Beauty Trends

Posted on February 22, 2016 by Trends & Tribulations

Hottest Make-Up Trends for Spring/Summer 2016

We love runways! The glitz, the glam, the excitement, the everything. I’ve been working as a stylist for many years now and I still get chills whenever I go backstage with my models or when I style any of my celebrity clients (you’ve got to look good when you are in sitting in the first row). And, runways are the start of all new trends we later adore, which is an additional reason absolutely love ‘em.

Another interesting aspect of runway shows is that, while clothes are the focus of every catwalk, we can also spot the ever-evolving makeup changes presented on the runway as part of the collection. Most designers say they rarely think about makeup as a separate things to the clothes, but rather tend to make it an accessory to it in order to make the whole look be cohesive, aesthetically appealing, and to the point. Still, us who are on the other side, tend to single out things about the whole presentation and then play it up in ways they are most fitting for us.

It’s wonderful that the makeup palette is seemingly broader than ever, so there is so much for everyone! I am singling out some of my favorite makeup trends for the upcoming spring and summer and I hope you’ll love them as much as I am loving them. Enjoy!

Color me blue

via cosmopolitan UK

Blue is currently trending and it’s not going anywhere in 2016 either. Although, this time around things are getting a bit bandit-like; Chanel introduced the look. It’s perfect for both a daytime look, with a hint of blue eyeshadow, and a nighttime look, with a blue smoky eye.

Doll-like vibes

from left, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Moschino

For all the girls who are channeling their inner Lolita, this makeup trend is everything! No, we are not talking red, heart-shaped lips… things are more subtle this time around. This Lolita is a free-spirited doll who decided to go bohemian on her style. The exaggerated lash look was first introduced by Louis Vuitton and it was well received. If you are daring, this is the look for your spring.

Contour me, please

via MarieClaire

With contouring being the absolute hit in 2015 (thank you Kim K!), and multiple sister-techniques emerging I am absolutely positive 2016 is going to be major when it comes to this makeup trend. Contouring, strobing, tontouring… you name it – they are all going to make your face look slimmer and your nose more defined. Although the techniques do take a lot of time, the results are simply amazing.

Femininity re-born

via all-fashion-trends

Plenty designers have turned to more feminine vibes by channeling the simplicity of hairstyles, colors and makeup techniques. Marchesa, DKNY, Oscar de la Renta, Zac Posen, Carolina Herera… they are all relying on the rich texture of reds, pinks and purples on the lips while staying faithful to the simplicity of eye makeup for contrast. A little bit of liquid liner on the eyes or a hint of glitter are what’s going to be our major love in the summer of 2016.

Take me back to the ‘70’s

via BeautySupport

It’s getting hot! DVF made it all about curls and tropical makeup, paying tribute to the first time Diane went out and let her hair curly. Clean, healthy skin and pops of metallic blue and shimmery green on the eyes channel the easygoing and fun vibes of a summer holiday vacation. Simply adorable!

So, which of these do you think will be your favorite vibe the upcoming summer? Share in the comments section below!

xo

SHOE PORN THURSDAY: Miu Miu

Posted on October 29, 2015 by Trends & Tribulations

Miu Miu’s glitter-emblazoned pumps made headlines after their retro-inspired runway debut for Fall/Winter 2015-16 at Paris Fashion Week. Their block heel is on-trend for this season, and the baby blue details and cartoon-sized button add the perfect eccentricity to what could very easily become blah. Pair these heels with a pair of flared, dark denim trousers & a fitted turtleneck, or with a shift dress and a contrasting, candy-colored jacket.

Miu Miu Glittered Patent-Leather Pumps, $755

What do you think of these glittery pumps?

xo, beauties

Trending Now: The Boho Look

Posted on October 26, 2015 by Trends & Tribulations

Boho chic is once again one of the leading fashion styles of the season. Drawing influences from unconventional bohemian lifestyle on the one hand, and hippie subculture on the other, this fabulous trend has to be your choice for this autumn. However, if you are not quite sure how to achieve this kind of look, we are here to help you. Here is an essential style guide with some useful tips concerning this fashion style.

Style Roots

Boho chic is once again one of the leading fashion styles of the season. Drawing influences from unconventional bohemian lifestyle on the one hand, and hippie subculture on the other, this fabulous trend has to be your choice for this autumn. However, if you are not quite sure how to achieve this kind of look, we are here to help you. Here is an essential style guide with some useful tips concerning this fashion style.

Fashion Inspirations

This amazing style is a throwback to the 1970’s, being an inspiring combination of characteristic shapes and fabrics embodied in flared jeans, bell sleeves, culottes, fringes, suede dresses and many others. Even though it was fairly popular back in the 70’s, it actually reached its peak in 2005. Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, and Mary Kate & Ashley Olsen largely contributed to the popularization of this specific style. They introduced oversized tunics and dresses, peasant blouses, maxi skirts, and fringed jackets, and we have those lovely ladies to thank for bringing this trend into the mainstream. This season, many designers recognized the beauty in this style, and chose to incorporate it into their collections. Stella McCartney’s larger than life flared pants, Alexander McQueen’s extraordinary boho floral dresses, Asian-influences at Marchesa, and Marc Jacobs’ woven hobo bags with fringes are true representatives of this free-spirited style.

Ethnic Influences

Wearing bohemian clothes means connecting with nature as well as with other cultures which influenced this style. It is present everywhere, from runway to high street fashion, which is why it became so trendy and available to everyone. The most prominent elements of this style are related to ethnicity, because designers are drawing their inspiration from the distant cultures of Africa and Asia. In this way, they are creating unique pieces of clothing that are indeed a form of art, but which can be combined with basics such as jeans or classic trousers. If ethnic wear is your cup of tea, the possibilities are infinite. There is a wonderful variety of Salwar suits for true fans of Indian ethnic wear. You can choose them in accordance with your favorite colors, and be sure that gorgeous embroidery will blow you away. Of course, jewelry is unavoidable when it comes to this style, and the rule is – go big or go home!

Layering jewelry is key to achieving a boho look. Image via Pinterest

How To Achieve the Boho Look?

Vintage accessories and flowy clothes are a basis for this look.

Beauty:

To achieve the look with your make-up, choose natural make-up and relaxed, beach waves for hair.

Clothing:

When it comes to fabrics, with the bohemian style, anything goes – there is everything from cotton, leather, suede, linen, and (faux) fur pieces. Make sure that you have chosen items in natural colors, such as beige or white, so you could pair them up with other patterned items.

Patterns & Prints:

A wide range of patterns is allowed, from floral to more abstract and ethnic-inspired ones. Lace dresses, as well as crocheted blouses and tops are an absolute must-have when it comes to boho look. Accessorize yourself with fringes and beads and you are halfway there.

Bohemian Color Palette:

via TheChicFashionista

Boho style is all about comfort, which is why it is characterized by oversized clothes, often worn in layers. A great option would be to try combining skinny jeans with a flowy, floral blouse and a fringed vest for a gorgeous & easy look.

As you can see, this fashion style is beyond inspirational and it allows for playful exploration with clothes and patterns. This is exactly why many people would agree that boho is a state of mind, and not just a trend in fashion that will pass sooner or later. No matter how you perceive it, boho chic is a style that is worthwhile, simply because it survived and remained popular throughout many decades of confronting with different trends in fashion.

About the Guest Blogger:

Peter is a fashion stylist and a writer for HighStyleLife magazine located in Brisbane, Australia. After graduating from Australian Institute Of Creative Design, he worked as a style assistant for many local fashion events. Combining all his skills and experience along with his complete love for fashion, he is planning to launch independent styling company.

xo, darlings

SHOE PORN THURSDAY: DSquared2

Posted on September 17, 2015 by Trends & Tribulations

DSquared2 is one of those super awesome labels that just exude a certain cool attitude, with a unique IDGAF kind of feel. And these skeleton heel ankle boots are totally in on it (and kind of perfect for the Halloween season…). The outsides of the boots have a shoelace-inspired lace-up closure that reminds me of equal parts Frankenstein and football, which isn’t an easy feat to pull off.

Wear them with anything and everything during any months ending in -ber.

DSquared2 Skeleton Heel Ankle Boots, $1930

What do you think of these boots? What would you wear them with?

Stay beautiful,

SHOE PORN THURSDAY: Gucci

Posted on September 10, 2015 by Trends & Tribulations

While many people adore Gucci for their iconic bags, for me, Gucci has always sold me with their classic, yet very on-trend designs. I’m currently obsessed with these Gucci Glitter Pumps, featuring a chunky 2″ heel. The balance of board-room style loafers with the sparkly glitter exterior is serious enough for work, while adding on a stylish and fun whimsy.

Gucci Glitter Pumps, $650, via MyTheresa

Pair ’em with a pair of cropped trousers for work, or a ’70’s inspired mini skirt (preferably this adorable Emilio Pucci ZigZag Leather Mini Skirt….) for a chic weekend look.

What do you think of these Gucci loafers? What would you wear them with?

Can Flip-Flops Be High Fashion?

Posted on September 7, 2015 by Trends & Tribulations

Charlotte Olympia Teams Up With Havaianas To Create Fashionable Flip-Flops

What is it about the (unofficial) national sandals of Brazil that designers and fashion insiders alike love so much? This upcoming collab is one of my favorites: Charlotte Olympia teams up with Havaianas to create perhaps the most fashionable flip-flop ever. The Spring/Summer 2016 collection will debut this upcoming February after a preview at Milan Fashion Week this September.

The collection will include 3 flip flop styles and a beach towel. The best part? You can snag a pair for only about $40, rather than the usual high price tag for Charlotte Olympia shoes. The collection is inspired by her signature kitty motifs, retro pin-up style, and, of course, her quirky, tongue-in-cheek attitude.

The designer, Charlotte Dellal, is daughter to Brazilian model Andrea Dellal, which may have contributed to one of the reasons for the collab.

Brazilian model Andrea Dellal with designer daughter Charlotte Dellal, via StreetPeeper

What do you think of Havaianas? Will you be shopping this collection?

SHOE PORN THURSDAY: Francesco Russo

Posted on September 3, 2015 by Trends & Tribulations

Animal prints have never really been my thing. I blame all of the zebra prints I saw growing up that made adults look larger than life (such an unforgiving print, sigh…). However, in the last few years, snakeskin and crocodile prints have been quickly crept into my life and I can’t pretend I’m not absolutely obsessed. On that note, leopard print has also quickly become a guilty pleasure of mine. I love, love, love leopard print & Louboutin red mixed together, along with deep, ruby reds and burgundies. Of course, you can’t go wrong with leopard print and black, and, as our dear fashion icon Kate Moss has shown us over the years, it always looks badass.

Francesco Russo fur detail leopard print sandals, $1,635.00

Enter, these Francesco Russo fur detail leopard print sandals, shown above. With an adorable fur mohawk on the heel, these are a perfect sandal to transition into the fall with. Match ’em with a pair of baggy athletic harem pants, and maybe this adorable Salvatore Ferragamo Sofia satchel (if you really want to go above and beyond).

What do you think of these leopard print sandals? Do you wear animal prints?

SHOE PORN THURSDAY: Saint Laurent

Posted on August 20, 2015 by Trends & Tribulations

Hedi Slimane has been creating some controversy as designer of fashion house Saint Laurent, which instigated The Independent to write this article, which, in turn, caused New York Magazine‘s fashion component, The Cut, to write this refutation. If you’d rather look at pretty pictures than read all those big words, stay here, and check out Saint Laurent’s ‘babies’ Mid-Calf Boots, Americana-style. These silver-toned mid-calf boots are certainly appropriate for at least three occasions: Fashion Week, the 4th of July, and Texas (totally joking, ya’ll!). Pair ’em with some red or blue daisy dukes, or a sleek all-black ensemble.

Saint Laurent ‘Babies’ mid-calf boots, ~~was $1,995.00~~ now $997.50

What do you think of these Saint Laurent ‘Babies’ boots? What would you wear them with?

Ultimate Fashion Bloggers Reveal Their Secret Tips

Posted on August 27, 2014 by Trends & Tribulations

Fashion Union, a shopping destination for chic apparel and accessories, recently approached me with a couple questions about blogging. With questions on topics from designing a website to finding inspiration, the answers bloggers gave are very helpful to fashion bloggers that are not only starting out, but also to many who have been at it for years. Read on for answers, and be sure to check out the fantastic blogs featured!

What tips do you find to be most helpful? Also, if you have any other questions to add, feel free to send me a message or post a comment!