Velvet

Velvet Is Back, And It's Here To Stay!

Pauline Montupet on Nov 5, 2009 8:17 AM PST

When I hear the word velvet I think of three things- red velvet cake, the '90s and Stevie Nicks (not necessarily in that order!). Lately though it seems that velvet has entered my fashion vocabulary in a way that isn't making me cringe -- it's fashion forward, colorful, and surprisingly cool. This fall, the fuzzy fabric goes way beyond the basic little velvet blazer or velveteen rabbit bow headband. Marc Jacobs origami-folded bright yellow velvet into '80s space-age bustiers and dresses. Ralph Lauren gave us neutral toned draped jodhpur pants and Miuccia Prada incorporated hints of velvet into tweed skirts and jackets. If you must go the blazer route, try a different shape like Surface to Air's 'Bleys' jacket or go for a slouchy version like Gryphon's smoking jacket. Alexander Wang peppered his runway show with black velvet, in a super rock and roll way; try the cool oversized vest for a totally unexpected velvet touch. Still scared of all the heavy fabric and shine? You can still stick to a touch of velvet with a cute pair of ballet flats. For more ideas for wearing velvet, check out the slideshow.

Tags : fashion , shopping , style , trends , velvet

Style Notes: Summer Music Festival Outfit Ideas!

kate napleton on May 29, 2009 10:24 PM PDT

To me, the sweet smell of summer is synonymous with outdoor concerts and festivals. My hometown of Chicago never disappoints with a positively booked calendar from mid-May until late September. So, next question, obviously: what should I wear? I've gotten this down to somewhat of a science. First, make sure you choose fabrics that breathe and will not leave weird tan lines. Second, try dancing. Are you comfortable, or are you readjusting? If you find yourself pulling at your clothes, move on to something more simple. Third, are you comfortable? Then go! I love to go with a cotton jersey or linen dress, or mid or Bermuda length jean shorts with a cute sleeveless top, like this Free People Rebecca tunic. I'm definitely picking up the Dolce Vita Camden dress for this summer - comfortable and classic! Check out my slideshow for some great summer concert style ideas!

Tags : velvet , summertime , summer trends , summer trend

New York Fashion Week Runway: Diane von Furstenberg Takes Us ...

Anna Yu on Feb 23, 2009 5:21 AM PST

The fashion world may be collective slump in this economy, but trust Diane von Furstenberg to bring a dash of optimism, texture and color while others fall back on dark and somber colors. DvF's trademark prints were in full force from a luxurious velvet leopard-print dress to chunky coats and cardigans all layered over solid or printed leggings. The loose silhouettes make way for layering and mixing prints with endless possibilities. And don't forget the pom-pom covered knit hats, embroidery and sequin details! Beauty trends to take note are neutral colored eye shadows, sheer pink lips and loose hair. One thing's for sure, Diane von Furstenberg sure knows how to keep the discerning fashionista in style and comfort whether dancing the night away at Studio 54 or traveling off to faraway lands.

Colors: black, white, camel, maroon, grey, royal blue
Celebs: Diana Ross, Molly Sims, Julia Stiles, Katharine McPhee

Tags : velvet , prints , new york fashion week , leopard

Buzzworthy Deals From American Apparel, Macy's, Barneys, And ...

Lisanne Silverman on Feb 5, 2009 11:36 AM PST

All AE jeans are under $30! You basically have no excuse NOT to stock up- these babies last forever, and what's more, you can try out all of those tricky styles- like boyfriend and skinny crop- without too much guilt.

Take 10% off all American Apparel men's and women's intimates now through Valentine's Day, and say "I love you" the hipster way. Who needs so much silk and lace anyway. Use code VDAY09.

Wear red when you go to Macy's and you'll save an extra 20%. Or shop at home (in red pajamas, preferably) and enter code WEARREAD to save 15%. National Wear Red Day is this Friday! Shop now through February 8th and help the American Heart Association fight cardiovascular diseases.

Barneys has tons of designer markdowns- they go fast so shop now!

Shop the Tobi winter sale and save up to 80%! Lots of tops and tees from James Perse, Velvet, and Splendid are around $20.

Tags : women's apparel , wear red day , velvet , valentine's day gifts

Home How To: Decorating Without A Bail-Out Package!

Anna Yu on Jan 20, 2009 3:24 PM PST

Many of us have resolved to spend less in 2009 and I like to think that all the post-holiday sales are working in our favor. Whether it's scoring that perfect wool coat for 75% off at your favorite department store or marching from sample sale to sample sale to find brag-worthy items to show your friends, being smart with your money is very "in." Many times though, we forget about shopping for our home for whatever reason, but it doesn't mean it's no less important. Besides, wouldn't you want a home just as stylish as the contents of your closet? While this "recessionista" trend is in, there's no need to exclusively shop from the ever ubiquitous Swedish home furnishing store (you know the one I'm talking about). You can still get high quality goods at a huge discount if you know where to look! Get 4 martini or white wine glasses for less than $15 at Macy's or upgrade that bare bulb in your living room with a chic chandelier inspired by nature. To see more home bargains you'll be proud to show off, click the slideshow.

Tags : velvet , sale , rug , pottery barn

Look Luxe In A Tux Like Anne Hathaway

Sabrina Newman on Jan 16, 2009 5:19 AM PST

The tuxedo trend marches on this season stronger than ever. This style definitely isn't fail-proof and there is a strong risk of looking like you're dressed up as a man for Halloween! At the New York premiere for her new flick Bride Wars, the gorgeous Anne Hathaway showed fashion lovers everywhere how to get it right and we would be remiss not to take note! The stunning star looked sexy and sleek wearing a form-fitting Band of Outsiders suit given a playful edge with metallic Christian Louboutin pumps and tassel earrings from Tiffany & Co. This look can easily transition from the office to the bar and exudes that perfect mix of sexiness and sophistication.

Check out my SLIDESHOW to get the look!

Tags : velvet , tiffany & co , style steal , nicole miller