Ask Fashion Kitty

Dear Fashion Kitty, Accessorizing a Maxi Dress

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 15:13:55 PDT

I got this bohemian looking dress and I'm not sure how to accessorize it. Its long, maxi dress in green and has flowers on top and bottom of it. I am 5'4 so I think I'm going to wear heels with it, so I don't drown in the dress:)

And the other question I have is I got these adorable pink cheetah pep toe shoes, but I don't really know what to wear them with. I wore it once with an all black outfit, but would like some more funky ideas.

For the maxi dress I would accessorize with caution. The dress is long and has a lot of detailing with the flower appliques. I would go with a fun floppy sun hat, super-small stud earrings, and a fun ring. For the shoes, if you need to add height -- do it with a wedge and if you don't, go for a nice flat sandal.

On to the shoes ...You don't have to wear all black but I wouldn't really introduce a lot of color. The first thing that popped into my mind was a pair of acid was skinny jeans, a loose white v-neck tee, and a fun belt. The outfit has a little something going on, but it still lets the shoe be the star.

Dear Fashion Kitty, Tie Dye jeans

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 10:32:30 PDT

Fashion Kitty! I am dying for a pair of budget friendly skinny tie dye jeans. Please help me! (and my wallet lol)

You are in luck! I found an awesome pair at Chickdowntown for only $65. If those don't float your boat, I also found a pair at ASOS that are black tie dye. And if you hate both of those you know there is alwatys the DIY option. I tie dyed myself a pair of pants years ago with some RIT dye and they turned out fantastic.

Tory Burch- Celebrate Summer Contest

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 18:08:43 PDT

Click here to enter!

Dear Fashion Kitty, Black Ankle Boots for Under $100

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 17:43:21 PDT

I was looking at these jeans I found on Nasty Gal and I fell in love with the boots in the picture. Is there any pair similar for possibly under $100?

First of all, I love Nasty Gal!! Such an awesome site. Also, hot shoes. One more thing ... yes I can find you a similar pair for under $100.

- These boots by Type Z are almost identical (in my opinion) and are less than $70!!!

- If you wanted some with a little shine, try these from Betsey Johnson. They are only $65.

Dear Fashion Kitty, Find Me Similiar Dresses

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:14:18 PDT

I really like this two dresses and have some ideas for them. Can you help me to find something similar?

Here are some similar options for you ... You of course need belts for both looks, but I am sure you can handle that part :)

Dear Fashion Kitty, What To Wear with Bootcut Jeans?

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 13:09:39 PDT

What kind of shoes look good with bootcut jeans? Obvs not sneakers. I think flats look kind of weird, and I've heard that heels looks too "nineties?" Also, what do you think of jeans that have ripped at the bottom hem? A few of my jeans are ripping at the hem, and I'm thinking of just replacing those that are. A good idea, or is it not a big deal?

You can pretty much wear any kind of shoe with bootcut jeans (obvious choice being boots.) Sneakers are no ideal, unless you want to look like a complete dork ;) Personally I am a huge fan of wearing heels with bootcut jeans. In fact, whoever told you that look was too "nineties" is a fool. Wearing bootcut jeans with pointy toe heels creates a really slimming look. There are really no set rules on what type of shoes to wear, just use your best judgment because all bootcut jeans and shoes for that matter, are not created equal.

As for your ripped bottom hem question, I say rock it. I kinda like how it looks but I am also a little trashy. Of course if a pair of your "dress up" jeans that you wear to work, etc ... I would definitely consider taking them to get repaired or better yet, make sure they are properly tailored so they don't drag the floor.

Dear Fashion Kitty, How To Get Serena's Gossip Girl Look

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 13:01:23 PDT

I am a huge fan of Gossip Girl! I am just obsessed with the clothes they wear. I love Blair and Jenny's style, but my favorite has to be Serena's. I can't seem to figure out how she does her makeup though. I also have brown hair similar to Blair's so would the makeup still look good? I also am having a really big problem on getting accessories like the type she wears. Also since I live in really hot weather and can't wear boots 90% of the year, what other shoes would be good to wear? I'm also in high-school so I can't wear super tall heels every day.

Can you help me?

Dang girl, you loaded up on the Serena questions!!! Let me see what I can do for you ...

1.) Make-up: Serena loves to play up her eyes and goes simpler with the rest of her makeup. To re-create her look; go with a smokey eye, a light pink blush, and a pinkish/nude lip gloss. And yes, even though you have brown hair you can still pull off this simple but stunning look.

2.) Accessories: Serena likes necklaces a lot; both statement and simple. The jewelry she wears is a bit on the expensive side, probably more than the typical high school girl is willing to spend. I would check out second hand and vintage stores to find cool Serena-esque jewelry. Look for gold, layered chains, and natural elements like feathers.

3.) Shoes: Serena wear boots the majority of the time but she also wears pumps too. If I were you, I would look for pointy toe kitten heels to get the look. You can also look into shorter, flat boots (like Minnetonka) because those tend to work well during the summer.

For more of Serena's fashions, check out my list on ThisNext.

Awesome Shopping Spot: Army Surplus Store

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 17:58:17 PDT

Last August I said to myself ‘combat boots are going to be hot like fire come next year.’ Since then I have slowly but surely become obsessed. I have been bidding on vintage Dr. Marten boots on ebay (only to lose every time) and hunting online for cool combat boots (only to find boots that are more than I want to spend.) Well yesterday when I was at work it hit me … go to that army surplus store on Venice Blvd.

So today I stopped in, not knowing what to expect. What I got was shopping awesomeness! I found tons of combat boots, studded belts, fierce looking hats (hello, army print and fur trapper hat), and all sorts of random pieces of greatness.

I managed to control myself and walked out with what I walked in for (the boots.) For under $50 I got a pair of black leather, steel toe combat boots. I am looking forward to breaking them in and wearing them with everything.

Chickdowntown /Ask Fashion Kitty Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 11:31:31 PDT

Chickdowntown.com has become one of my favorite shopping websites. Their look books are FAR better than Shopbop.com's and I love the brands they carry, which is why I wanted to run a fun little contest with them.

Starting today if you leave a comment (on this post) you will be entered to win a bag from Moyna Handbags ... My favorite Monya handbag to exact, the star fold over clutch. Heck, I am feeling so inspired by the clutch that I am going to put a look together for it:

I paired this bangin' clutch with an Alexander Wang tank (my fav) and topped it with a J.A.K. Plaid shirt over it. I would definitely roll the sleeves on the shirt up and throw on a dangerous looking cuff, like the one above from Burberry. And what FashionKitty outfit is complete without skinny jeans and some tough looking boots?! The jeans pictured are PRPS and the boots are from Joie.

Contest ends on July 24th. The winner will be announced here so make sure you check back!!!

Oh and FYI ... You can also find Chickdowntown on http://twitter.com/chickdowntown and on http://www.facebook.com/pages/

Dear Fashion Kitty, How Do I Wear Keds Skimmers?

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 17:07:58 PDT

I recently purchased a pair of shoes that kind of look like those Keds skimmer wedges, but unfortunately I don't have a picture. They're black with white trim and a little bow at the front. I'm not really a jeans kind of girl, and so far I've paired them with navy/dark grey shorts with blousy white tops but can you suggest other ways to build an outfit around them? Especially with dresses and skirts please!

You know me I like to go a bit rock and roll with my looks, which is exactly what I did here. I think the casual edge of the shoes needs to be played up with some casual rocker elements like denim and comfty tee shirts. If you are into the more girly look, try pairing up your shoes with shorter plaid skirts or short dresses with fuller skirts.

New Looks for ME!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 14:39:16 PDT

I spend so much time styling for others so I decided to take out some time to style myself a few outfits ...

Oxford Obsessed

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 11:21:36 PDT

(photo from Style.com)

This may come as a shock to you all but lately I have been embracing flats. More specifically, I have become obsessed with oxford shoes. Every since I laid eyes on the glitter Louboutin oxfords, I haven't been able to stop thinking about oxfords. I am a woman obsessed. Here are my favorites.

See more of my Oxford Obsession list at ThisNext.

Dear Fashion Kitty, New Wardrobe for New Confidence

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 21:39:20 PDT

I’ve decided to really turn my entire wardrobe around this year. I used to be into just jeans and a t-shirt every day, with a juicy jacket over that. And this year I’ve really gained a lot of confidence and so I want to show that in my wardrobe. I’m relatively short compared to the rest of my classmates, even though I’m 5’6. So could you put together a few looks that show the newer, more confident me? I’m up for anything.

Three cheers for confidence and goodbye to that boring Juicy ridden uniform that you were sporting. I created three fun outfits for you that are reserved for the confident only ;) Enjoy!

Dear Fashion Kitty, Help Me Find Giesele's Top

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 11:08:21 PDT

I need to know where I can find a top similar to this one worn by Gisele. Although its freezing cold here in Oz, I want one ready to wear as soon as the sun comes back out!

Damn that Giesele for making the simplest of tops look completely gorgeous! Anyways ... Here a couple of options for you:

1.) T by Alexander Wang Sleeveless Tee, $74. This is my personal favorite and I kind of want one in every color.

2.) Chloe tank on sale at YOOX. This one is a little dressier but it has a similar look about it.

3.) LaRok Dreamboat Tunic, on sale for $74. Definitely like the shape of this one and it comes already layered!

Dear Fashion Kitty,

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:15:47 PDT

It's my 25th birthday on July 19th, and I'll be spending it in London. I've purchased a cute LBD for the occasion and a pair of red satin peep toe heels. London tends to get chilly after the sun sets and I know we'll be out late. What sort of jacket/cover up could I pair with this? I still want it to look cute and fun. I love the look of the red shoes and the black dress together....but stuck with the other accessories!

Cute dress! Love the idea of pairing red heels with it. Honestly, the first thing I thought of after reading your email was that you need to pair this with a slim fitting white blazer. You will look so fashion-forward and Paris-chic. Add a blinged out clutch, stunning makeup, and you are good to go.

Dear Fashion Kitty, How Do I Wear a Tuxedo Shirt?

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 10:57:07 PDT

I got this very cute long sleeve, white tuxedo-like shirt, fitted, has no collar and has nice details on the chest area. The shape is very flattering and I would like to wear it for work and play. I just don’t want to look like a limo driver or a waiter. I work at a casual but conservative office. I guess accessories would be a good way to spice the shirt up but I do not know how to do it because I am afraid that necklaces will cover the detailing and earrings will compete with it. Please help.

In this case you need to let the shirt be the main focus. I really wouldn't distract from it too much with jewelry and accessories. If I were you I would concentrate on pairing your top with a nice fitting pair of jeans or walking shorts and then focus on the shoes! Here are a few outfits you to try out:

Outfit #1- This one can be worn to the office ... A nice pair of knee length, navy blue walking shorts and red ballet flats. This look is simple and effective for the office. Just enough going on, but not too much. If you want to add accessories, go for a ring and a great looking tote bag.

Outfit #2- This next look is a great weekend look. It can work for going shopping or grabbing some lunch with the girls. Just pair the tuxedo top with a pair of bootcut jeans, some pointy toe kitten heels, and a headband. Simple but kinda cute too.

Outfit #3- This last look is for play. Throw on some leggings (plain or some funkier ones), high heels, a clutch, and you are good to go.

Dear Fashion Kitty, Can I Wear the High Waist Trend?

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 21:08:15 PDT

I'm 21 and I've got a style that's a mix between a 50's house wife, bra-burning flower child and a stressed out college student. I've been dying to try the whole high waist trend but, I can't seem to figure it out! I think it's because I'm really top heavy, like 34 DD top heavy and I've got a pretty curvy bottom half too. Basically, it looks like to trying to shove Kim Kardashian into Urkle's pants, redonk. Please help me figure this out! Please!!!!

Ugh! It pains me to answer questions like this, but sometimes I just have to ... Honey, step away from the high waist pants. Kim Kardashian and Steve Urkle are not a nice pairing. In fact, the first thing I thought out when I read your email was Jessica Simpson. You know, when she got that royal media beat down for wearing high waist jeans. I honestly think if she had stepped away from the pants that the whole "Jessica Simpson is fat thing" never would have happened. Unfortunately, trends aren't for everyone. Wear pants that flatter your body and pick another trend to have fun with.

Dear Fashion Kitty, Kristen Storm's Purple Top

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 17:26:17 PDT

I am totally obsessed with Kirsten Storm's Look on GH! They make her too adorable! I was wondering where I could find this adorable shirt or something similar to it. It's perfect for the summer!

You are in luck! Not only did I find that top, I found it on sale :) The top is by Rebecca Taylor and is on sale for $148, originally $275.

Dear Fashion Kitty, I Need a Cute Watch

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 16:31:38 PDT

I've been looking for a nice watch for a while now and I was wondering, do you have any suggestions for really cute watches at an affordable price???

I have been toying around with the idea of getting myself a watch too. I actually found a bunch of cute ones for around $60 at Nordstrom Rack (they even had the Betsey Johnson one that is on my list below.) So if you are nearby a Nordstrom Rack, I suggest trying there first.

I also thought it would be fun to compile a list of my favorite watches. This list has all different styles and prices ranging from $20-$350 (everyone's version of an affordable watch is different considering some people spend thousands on a watch.)

See more of my Top Watches of the Moment (July 2009) list at ThisNext.

Dear Fashion Kitty, Where Can I Find Vintage Jewelry Online?

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 14:47:57 PDT

Can you recommend any websites for moderately-priced vintage gold jewelry? More specifically, I'm looking for vintage signet rings, and gold bracelets.

I find that Etsy is a nice spot to find vintage products at a great price. I will never forget that mink stole that I got for $40, perfect condition and beautiful too!

The site Verde Rocks has tons of pieces that are made from vintage jewelry. The prices are fair and there are some really rad pieces too.

One of my favorite online vintage shops is Nasty Gal. They don't have a ton of jewelry but when they do have pieces, they are super-cool.

I also find this list of online vintage shops and sellers incredibly useful. Hope you can find it useful too.

Dear Fashion Kitty, Shoes from 'New in Town'

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 14:29:05 PDT

Could you please tell me who makes these shoes? I thought they were D & G but I can't find them. I tried Chanel, but no luck. These are from the movie "New In Town" and I'm in love with them, but I need your help I'm stumped.

Honey, that makes two of that are stumped. I attempted to answer this question back in May and the closest I could find were shoes from D&G. Readers, can you help a fellow reader out? If you can identify these shoes, please leave it in the comments section.

Dear Fashion Kitty, Help Me Find Lipstick Jungle Fashions

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 13:26:17 PDT

I have been watching the Lipstick Jungle series on DVD and I absolutely love the wardrobe for Victory (Lindsey Price). In the Lyin, the Bitch, & the Wardrobe do you know the designer of that amazing white coat with the Bird on the shoulder and a bow on the back of the coat? Where could I find something like this?

Also, her bug ring she had on in another episode...it was either a bee or dragonfly?

Without some pictures I can't really give you an accurate answer but I will do my best based on description. Also keep in mind that since the show is older, the pieces you are looking for are likely sold out.

Coat: For an off the rack version of what you described, I found this tree print jacquard coat by Mcginn. It has the white, it has the bow, and a little touch of nature. It is on sale for $341 at Revolve.

Or you can go more DIY and get a white coat with a bow, like this one from A.B.S and some pretty nature inspired appliques from a trim or fabric store. Personally, I think DIY is more fun and its pretty simple too.

Ring: Bee rings are pretty hot right now, so you shouldn't have too much trouble finding one. Kenneth Jay Lane makes some good ones (he makes a bee ring and a dragonfly, actually.) There are also some cute ones at Tiffy & Co. too ... if you have Tiffany money that is.

Dear Fashion Kitty, Help Me Find a Backless Dress

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 09:41:48 PDT

I am looking for a very elegant but sexy backless dress and was wondering if you knew of any online websites that I could look at to find one, but I don't have a lot of money to spend.

Also I love the dress that Lauren Messiah is wearing in the photo on thisnext.com the black backless with the bow in the front, although its not what I'm looking for were could I get one of those as well?

Well ... I will answer your second question first because that's the easy one ;) I am Lauren Messiah and what I am wearing in that photo is actually a bow front, strapless top from Betsey Johnson. The top is about a year old, but you can get a similar one at Charlotte Russe for $23 or this one from Nanette Lepore for $124.

Now, onto the dress. I really like the Eda Backless Dress by Markus Lupfer. It is on sale for $124 and even has a bow! Another option is the Boulee Backless Dress, which is on sale for $135 at Revolve Clothing.com

Dear Fashion Kitty, Style My Salmon Colored Shorts

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 09:33:38 PDT

I own a pair of bright salmon colored shorts that I love, the only problem is I can't seem to find many different outfits for them. I wear them with a white shirt often but I would really like some more options. I don't wear tight shirts and I like to be "casual cute." Do you have any suggestions on what shirts would like good with my shorts?

Also if I were to buy more colorful shorts what colors would you suggest?

Salmon colored shorts. Innnnteresting but totally doable. I was totally inspired by this look from Marc by Marc Jacobs. I think pairing salmon with navy and playing up the orange hue with a brighter shade of orange is genius.

I also styled up this little look for you. I paired the shorts with a plaid top, which can grab whatever shade of salmon shorts that you have. Balance out the look with a navy cardigan and add some fun accessories. Bam, bam ... You've got yourself a stylish and casual outfit.

As for other shorts. Of course, buy what you love but right now I am loving shorts in: navy, plaid, and floral prints.

Dear Fashion Kitty, I Need Your Opinion

noreply@blogger.com (Lauren Messiah) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 22:54:20 PDT

What is your opinion of the Longchamp Tote? Originally, I thought it was too plain and I didn't like how so many people seem to have one. But I guess after seeing it so often, it started growing on me. I like large, simple bags, that can go with most everyday outfits. They are somewhat pricey for a casual tote, so I thought I'd ask what your thoughts were on it before making the splurge.

I dig the bag. Its not me and I probably wouldn't ever carry one but its classic -- it works.

For me when it comes to a classic tote, I prefer the LL Bean tote. Its a little more casual, but for me it does the job and for dirt cheap.

Anyways, I say do it. You have the official FashionKitty seal of approval.