An Under Appreciated Essential- Leopard Flats

The other day, I was in a restaurant and I looked around to see if anyone was wearing something cute. This one woman's outfit caught my eye. She was wearing a chiffon tiered dress (I know this sounds weird, but trust me, it looked put together) and simple leopard flats. That's when I thought to myself, why be boring and only wear the safe, plain black flat when you could add personality and character to an outfit with a pair of leopard flats? You could wear them with virtually everything from a dress to black leggings, blue jeans or even an American Apparel skirt. I looked around for some reasonable, cute flats and here are my favorites:

These ones are from DSW. Also the gathering on the back of the shoe makes them blister free:) and comfy. They may not be the best quality, but they're cute, and for 40$ they're a cheap and a basic addition to any wardrobe.

These Ann Taylor flats are my favorite. The patent leather trim and the rounded square toe make these flats very sophisticated while the contrasting leopard print gives them a fun look. I like the way the dark spots pop off the lighter calfhair background too. Also these are $160, the use you could get out of these incredibly comfy and stylish flats makes them definitely worth it.

These flats, unlike the other ones, are patent leather rather than animal hair. Also, these are stretchy with an elasticized top line and can adjust to your foot better. These are basically the exact opposite of the Ann Taylor flats so it really depends on your style and wardrobe. They are on sale for $175 at Zappos, by Elie Tahari.

These shoes are fun, elegant and the interesting way to wear flats with an everyday outfit.

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P.S. Thank you, random leopard flat woman, for giving me this idea:)

LNA Clothing

LnA was founded in Los Angeles by partners Lauren Alexander and April Leight. The brand is known for it's flattering, wearable and colorful tee shirts. Also, LnA includes leggings, tights, basic skirts, tee shirt dresses, and even rompers. The majority of the clothing is made out of super soft cotton, mesh, lace, nylon, and spandex are all incorporated into some pieces.Not only are there hundreds of cuts and styles, but the clothing comes in every color from maroon to turquoise to neon to basic black or heather grey. It's impossible not to find the perfect tee shirt. LnAs inaugural Spring/Summer 2007 Boyfriend Tee Collection debuted to rave reviews, resulting in press, popularity and a devoted following of Hollywoods elite. "We wanted to design the perfect basic, the new staple for every womans wardrobe. Our goal was to create the new lifestyle t-shirt that mastered fit, versatility, and color range," said Alexander. Some of the stylish celebrities who loyally wear LnA are: Kate Moss, Charlize Theron, Heidi Klum, Hilary Duff, Megan Fox, Lindsay Lohan, Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen, David Beckham and Nicole Richie.

Here are some looks from LnA's most recent lookbook:

Bloomingdales, Saks, ASOS, and Urban Outfitters are just some of the retail stores that carry LnA. So if your in need of a great, basic tee shirt, or a summery, unique side tailed tank, or even a comfy tee shirt dress, go buy some LnA clothing. Every piece is a basic staple for anyones wardrobe.

P.S. Follow LnA on twitter! or become a fan on facebook!

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Upcoming Fall Fashion- Alexa Chung for Madewell

Alexa Chung, the model/television presenter, has partnered with Madewell to create an affordable, vintagey and preppy collection. The pieces are very "Alexa-inspired" from the Peter Pan collars, to the flowy ankle length skirts, and slim trousers. Most of the clothes consist of earthy tones with some brighter reds and oranges appearing. Thick leather belts and chunky, stacked heels contrast the delicate apparel. Stylish clogs and roughly cut suede booties are also included. Fitted cordouroy dresses, overalls, and even short, velvet dresses are also all intertwined into Alexa's collection. Many similar items can retail for over $200 at Barneys, Neimans, and Saks but the point of the relaxed collection is to be budget-friendly. Madewell, the fairly unknown sibling to JCrew, had a rough start about 3 years ago, so partnering with Alexa was smart marketing/design choice. Considering she's, young, hip and fashion forward, this chic, attractive line will only benefit Madewell.

The three-quarter sleeves add subtle detail as does the slight gathering at the waist to this burnt orange velvet dress. The differently colored Peter Pan collar adds another earthy tone to the dress. This will be great with leather boots, tights or chunky heels (all in the collection!) for fall. (Prices aren't available yet.)

Here is a dark charcoal fitted corduroy dress. It's layered with a 3/4 sleeve tee and the thick scarf. This cut is flirty and sleek while the colors are darker and tougher. In the background the brown/beige coat with the red skirt looks wintery, but the exposed legs level the outfit out so the model doesn't look drowned in clothing. The wedges/ any sandal with socks seem to be a very popular trend, as displayed at Fashion week. I'm guessing its again because of the summer sandal turned winter by the thick socks. I guess the style could go either way, but in my opinion, it ties in perfectly with this collection.

The mustard, cropped trousers on the model (far left) are toned down by the black men's style loafers and the velvet top. Although this look is a little avant garde for me, someone with the guts and style could pull it off. The second look, (midleft) is more simple, including a black double breasted coat and tan leather booties. The third look, again is a more mature, refined look, but the blue dress shirt tucked in to the white, flowy long skirt is very feminine and elegant. The tights under the gladiator sandals work for this look because of the blue opacity which matches the shirt. The last look (far right) is the loose fitting dress. the knee length makes it very appropriate and wearable. The blue tights add color while the chunky tan clogs look natural and add height.

In the meantime, if you'd like to see what Madewell already carries, you can always go to Madewell.com and check it out.

Cue the Hues with Alexa's chic and affordable fall collection.

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Summer Shopping- Closet Couture #4

Considering swimsuits are worn all day almost everyday on vacation, at the pool, or beach, having cute, flattering ones are must for summer. All though some people may be more comfortable in bathing suits, everyone can find one that flatters and suits them. Now depending on what skin tone you are, what colors suit you and what shape of swimsuit you prefer there's an imaginable amount of places to buy them. Anything from a bandeau top, to a triangle bikini, to a monokini (harder to pull off), or a simple, but cute, one piece. Anthropology carries, artistic, VERY pricey swimsuits. Mosaic prints, to embroidered, to gathered and even metal decorations are specific to Anthro. Forever 21 has more generic bright suits, colorful leopard prints, stripes and polka dots, with some nautical and floral bikini's. They don't carry one pieces, and they're monokinis, in my opinion, are different and they require a very refined taste. Urban Outfitters carries high waisted, retro bottoms which require a certain body type. Ruffles, gingham, halters, and keyholes are all common. One website that does have a huge selection with extremely affordable prices is ASOS.COM. For example, a twisted bandeau costs $20 and a plain triangle top with a double strap $7 dollars. Victoria Secret also has very cute bikini's except and they're reasonable, but considering ASOS sells virtually the same styles, why not pay less?

Here are my four favorite suits:

*TIP: Brighter colors and white give you an automatic tan!

This is a fairly simple bikini but for $22, the little tie in front makes it cute and girly while the black gives it a sophisticated look. This is one of the super cheap suits from ASOS.COM. The bottoms, being so basic can easily be mixed with other bikini tops too, so this suit is wearable, stylish, and perfectly basic.

Here are the two separate pieces from another ASOS.COM suit. I really like the gold U ring in the center of the top. It's like a modern spin on the classic nautical bikini with navy stripes. The whole set costs $40 dollars but some retail stores sell a single piece for over $40 so this is totally reasonably priced. I especially like the contrasts of the pinky coral color and the dark navy. There is also a removable strap so this suit can be worn in multiple ways.

For people who like one pieces, I really like this one because of it's bright color and the way it's gathered is flattering and gives it more character. The subtle twist at the top creates a girly, princess neckline. I like how the strap is removable because bandeau is a totally different look from the widely strapped halter. The wide strap is more retro and reserved while the bandeau is fun and beachy. Although it's expensive, $125 at Victoria's Secret, this one piece is a basic staple for any swimsuit collection and it's wearable with anything from being tucked into shorts, to a translucent cover up, to a summer dress.

This one is also from Victoria's Secret, for $50 all together, This bedazzled suit is very unique, fresh, and glamourous at the same time. The combination of sequins and beads works perfectly and it also doesn't look tacky. The brownish/gold, white and peach/pink color combination is very summery and would really compliment tanner skin. This suit is the most different, interesting out of all, but I still think it's really cute and anyone whose used to more simple ones should take a risk with this sparkly suit.

I love all of these suits and they're all different styles so hopefully they attract different people and their personal tastes.

Now that I'm done with the Summer Shopping, I'll have to think of something else!

Any suggestions?

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Summer Shopping- Closet Couture #3

Even though during the summer I always go barefoot, shoes are the more creative side to any summer outfit. They can either tear the outfit apart or pull it all together. In the summertime, I notice sandals, espadrilles and nude heels are all fresh, beachy and simple. I feel like those three words almost define summer, let alone the appropriate shoes to wear. White, nude and bright colors are all obviously a good start. As for heels, peep toes are a girly, retro shoe that not only look perfect all summer but can last all year. Strappy sandals are unique, hip and versatile, especially neutral ones. Espadrilles are the hip, obvious summer shoe, and they look perfect with anything from skinny jeans to sundresses.

These wedges are 4 inches high with a 1 inch platform. I personally like the white more and think the cork gives them a relaxed feel. The pink, though, is brighter, more fun and would look great with a more muted floral or patterned dress. The little wrapped piece of canvas in the middle of the straps give the three straps more of a bow look. I like the way the straps go over the wedge. They also come in black but I feel like the color black and the idea of espadrilles clash. The espadrille is the iconic summer shoe and black is a much more fall/winter color and that's why I only displayed pink and white. I recently bought a pair of these and after walking in them I can say that they're extremely comfortable, well-made and because of the chunky wedge, they are easy to walk in. For only $60 at Nordstrom's BP, these espadrilles are a steal.

These suede, peep toe heels are perfect for any Barbeque, party or dinner. The stacked wooden heel is 4 1/2 and the elastic ankle strap is comfortable and makes heels much more stable to walk in. Nude literally goes with every color imaginable. All though these are very summery, they can be made more wearable with a black or navy dress. These would look great with any white, pastel or patterned dress. They could even work with a skirt and a blouse. The only thing is that they bottom/dress can't be too short because the heel elongates your leg which makes everything look shorter. These are Pelle Moda's Issa Sandal and they're available in many different colors as well. The one place that i've noticed sells them in the most sizes and colors is Zappos. Although they sell for $158, these shoes are worth it. They're wearable with anything, anytime and will last you a while.

These are just some of the generic, but stylish sandals that Forever 21 sells. All though they aren't the best quality, the fact that these summery sandals are between $15-20 makes up for the fake leather and grade of the shoes. The ones on the far left are strappy gold sandals which have a grecian look to them. The gold makes these cheap shoes look rich while the diagonal and horizontal straps make the shoe unique. These would look great with cut-offs, a cover-up and a swimsuit, or a dress. The middle sandals are very similar to the left ones except the burnt color gives them a rougher, less feminine look. These would look better with a chiffon blouse or a floral tank; something girly to balance out the toughness of the shoes. The ones to the far right are a lighter colored leather and the braids are a delicate detail. The gold studs at the end of each strap are like the perfect accessory to an outfit. They give the shoe some shine. All of these strappy sandals include a zipper placket in the back so they're easy to put on/take off. These are simple, CHEAP, must-have sandals.

Ideas, Ideas:)

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Summer Shopping- Closet Couture #2

The top to any outfit is generally the heart and the most noticeable piece. Tops in the summertime can be loose and flowy or tight and fitted. They can be tucked in or left out, cropped or tunic-style, and also translucent, solid, thick or thin. Since they're are an unimaginable amount of cuts, patterns and materials, I'll only post up a couple tops that I think have some special element and would all look great. I normally seem to go for bright colors, pastels, and florals for summer but "nautical" is also a chic, classic summer trend. Any navy and white (or red), striped or boatneck tops are fresh, quintessential images of summer fashion.

This top looks like an eyelet, semi-cropped blouse, but it's actually made out of t-shirt material. It has the look of a more stylized top, while it is really a light weight tee with a cut out "lace/eyelet" pattern and a keyhole in the upper back. This would look cute with a pair of cut-offs (light or dark) and a bright swimsuit under, or a neutral tank top and jeans... It's really versatile and it also comes in white. For $20 at ASOS.COM, it's totally affordable, different and soft.

Although this top is pricey, $98 at Bloomingdales (click here), the Patterson J. Kincaid Floral Tunic is light, feminine, and elegant. With small, fabric covered, buttons going down half of the tunic and a long, thin ties, it's details are refined but they also give the top more character. The colors are a summery pastels mixed with slightly bolder accents. I especially like the abstract floral pattern because it's more one of a kind than the average floral. I think this would look really good loosely tucked into jeans or a tan skirt. It's made out of polyester, but it feels more like a thin silk, or a rough crepe.

This side-tailed tank top's muted colors are clean and easy to ware. I love the cut.. it's different and bohemian. The little flowers blend in so many colors that the top is basically wearable with any bottoms.. It would also work with a solid or lace bandeau or a bikini top under it. It's sold for $42 at ASOS.COM.

Not only is this Urban Renewal Top nautical and simple, but the open back with the knit cotton bows make the top more interesting and unique. The rich red color pairs well with denim or white. All though the back is exposed, this t-shirt could also work with pants, and boots in the winter so it's really a top you could wear all year. The crew neck gives it a preppy look while the bowed open back is a fun, young idea. I think a Panama hat would be a summery, vintagey addition to the top and a pair of high tops would give the girly top a rougher look. This soft, knit top only cost $29 at Urban Outfitters.

Obviously there are a million good tops out there so these are just some I specifically liked...

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Summer Shopping- Closet Couture

Considering its the beginning of July, I thought the most safe, obvious thing to post was Summer fashion and where are good places to buy simple, cute and affordable things. This post'll focus on bottoms. Anything from classic denim, to floral, to simply white or patterned.

The Floral printed denim short is a fun, bright twist on plain cut-offs. Anything from a plain white Tank Top to a blouse or a v-neck would work but staying away from patterns is probably a good idea with these or else the outfit would go from chic to hectic. They sell shorts like this for anywhere from $75-150 at LF, Urban Outfitters and Anthropology. I like dark wash more and considering these are only $19 at Forever 21 (www.forever21.com) they might not be the best quality, but they're so cheap that it's worth it.

This is the classic skirt from American Apparel. It comes in seersucker, gingham, stripes and solids (denim, too.) Because it's versatile and fresh, its basically wearable with any kind of top. It comes in different shades of denim or red, black or indigo stripes. Red, Navy, Black and Pink Seersucker are chic and summery patterns which would all work with a t-shirt, tank top, or even crop top. The Full Woven Skirt form American Apparel (direct link) costs $38 which isn't too bad considering the use you'll get out of such a simple skirt.

Here is another type of denim short. It's high waisted and it also has the braided accents. I think the light wash on these shorts work well because it makes them look more subtle and more wearable. The wash almost resembles white which means they can be worn with almost any color. They also don't have any zippers or buttons in the front (one on the back), which would detract attention from the braids. They look somewhat vintage which also gives them a unique, cool look. I think these shorts are different and feminine and for $58 at Urban Outfitters, they aren't unaffordable either.

Lastly:

Because the look of jeans are good all year round, comfortable, cotton leggings, which have been acid washed, are cute, and perfect for a summer day or night. They come in a greyish black wash from American Apparel for $32 (Acid Wash Leggings). All though they are much more expensive than the regular leggings, they are better quality and much more interesting than normal leggings. I bought a pair recently and I noticed they don't pill in the wash or anything either. These are a must-have and they specifically look good with a side tailed tank top or a simple tee shirt.

Hopefully, these give someone ideas of some basics for summer. Between the casual shorts and the tougher looking leggings, all of these pieces are very different from each other but would all be smart choices for the rest of your summer.

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Dior 2011 Resort Collection.

The bright saturated colors, the retro cuts, white capris, ruffles, bows, tiers, and scalloped edges are just a few of the words that could describe this bubbly, feminine and (most importantly) insanely gorgeous collection. Some of my personal favorites from the 2011 Dior Resort Collection include:

The first thing that comes to mind when I look at this dress it's timeless cut. The fitted silhouette is perfectly cinched with a metallic ribbon. The way the ribbon straps tie in the bow works so well. This dress is the perfect Red Carpet dress while also being the dress everyone would envy at a black tie event.

This is cherry red jumper remind me of something worn at the Golden Globes 60 years ago. It's so iconic of Hollywood. It basically screams glamourous. The Loose, chiffon layers over the tight princess cut bustier are so elegant while the sparkle of the bedazzled torso is a guaranteed eye magnet.

I feel like this gown could be some grecian goddesses outfit. The many layers of chiffon contrast the thicker, gathered, bejeweled torso. It's simply beautiful and whimsical. That's that.

These are so brilliantly designed.

Props to Dior

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