globe-lifestyle

How to Wear Velvet

2011-01-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

You don't have to be in the holiday spirit to wear velvet. Dozens of designers -- think Anna Sui, Alexander Wang, Zac Posen, Nanette Lepore and Ralph Lauren to name a few -- sent the supersoft, luxe fabric down their runways.

"Velvet really speaks to luxury and it is just classically understated," Gregg Andrews, fashion director at Nordstrom, tells StyleList. "It has this amazing plush texture to it, yet it's not ostentatious. It has this lovely subtle sheen, but it doesn't draw a whole lot of attention to itself."

Stylist Bridgette Raes, author of "Style Rx: Dressing the Body You Have to Create the Body You Want," agrees, saying velvet is dressy, but still looks warm and winter appropriate.

"The beauty of velvet is there really is something for everyone," she tells StyleList. "It's all in how you style it, the colors you choose and the silhouettes in which you choose to wear your velvet."

Andrews says some people used to associate velvet with being very old-school, "a little bit Grandma."

"But now, because it stretches, you can get great body-conscious cocktail dresses in velvet," he says. "You can get all of these panne velvets and these crushed velvets that look really boho and have almost a hippie chic to them because they're very soft, they're very fluid. Velvet can be very sensual because of its tactile nature. ... Velvet is not always a heavy upholstery fabric."

So how do you make velvet look new and not like it belongs to Granny? We asked our experts to offer tips on what to wear the fabric with, how to accessorize it and how to make it look chic, not cheap.

Invest in a jacket: "Every woman should have a great velvet jacket in her wardrobe," Andrews says. "She can wear it almost like a tuxedo jacket with a ruffled blouse or very crisp white shirt. But she can also take a velvet blazer and team it with jeans. ... When you take velvet and you team it with denim or you team it with a menswear-inspired fabric like a tweed, it's that high-low unexpected mix that makes it look really new."

Beware of velvet pants: "Velvet pants are lovely, but you need to be careful about the friction caused between the legs when walking," Raes says. "It can ruin the nap of the velvet."

Beyond black: "Velvet is fantastic in rich gem tones," Raes says. "This winter, with all the reds, plums and pinks, velvet is a perfect fabric for those classic brights."

"This year, we saw a lot of steely gray velvet that looked really beautiful," Andrews says. "When it's in that gray tone, it almost has a metallic-like quality to it. Gray looked exceptionally new and really fresh. I can't recall seeing gray velvet before. (Also look for) navy-blue velvet, velvet in a berry tone, in a wine or cranberry shade."

Accessorize it: "I think velvet has a dressier, more refined look, so I love dressier, more vintage looking accessories," Raes says. "Imagine a great string of pearls, some vintage Art Deco jewelry, big rings, marcasite and strands of long necklaces."

"Velvet is rich and it makes a pretty strong statement on its own," Andrews says. "So, a simple string of pearls, a simple pendant on a chain. Keep the accessories simple."

Pair it with other fabrics: "We're talking about a contrast, whether you're wearing velvet in a new high-low way or you're wearing it in a more traditional sense, where you're teaming velvet with satin," Andrews says. "Or you're teaming it with something very delicate like lace, or transparent like an organza or a chiffon. You're contrasting that thick, plush texture against something else, and that's really what makes velvet work, whether you're going to go more traditional or wear it in a new, more contemporary way."

"I think silky, sinewy fabrics are pretty when worn with velvet, but velvet also looks great with jeans or tailored clothing," Raes says. "Picture a tuxedo pant with a velvet blazer or a velvet skirt with a silky top, for example. Additionally, a great stand-alone velvet blazer can really elevate the look of a pair of jeans and a basic button-down shirt."

Look luxe, not cheap: "What makes velvet rich is the pile -- it's the depth of that pile and how thick and how plush it is," Andrews says. "It's also how it feels to your hand. It should be very silky-smooth. You don't want the backing of the fabric to feel stiff or coarse."

"There is extremely expensive velvet and extremely cheap velvet," Raes says. "Usually, very expensive velvet is made from cotton and very cheap velvet is made from rayon, along with varying qualities in between the two. This is not to say that you can only wear cotton velvet, but really look at your velvet, and if it looks cheap, then it will look cheap on your body, no matter what you do to it. ... What you wear with your velvet is equally crucial. The worst thing you can do is choose a cheap velvet, in a cheap color, and then partner it with cheap accessories. You're better off wearing something else."

Formal affairs: "A velvet suit, whether it's a pantsuit or a skirt suit, is going to be very dressy and is going to be in the same genre as a tuxedo for a woman," Andrews says. "If you're going to do that, you need to keep your underpinning, your accessories, really simple and let it just be about this beautiful fabric that you're dressed in head to toe. ... Let all that beautiful velvet be the focal point."

Baby steps: "If a woman is thinking about velvet, she should think about velvet accessories if she's not ready to commit to a velvet blazer or a velvet top," Andrews says. "We are seeing velvet shoes, some stretch velvet boots -- even a velvet scarf is a great way to add a touch of luxury to an outfit without going over the top."

HKNB Heidi Klum for New Balance Womens Project Runway T-Shaped Top With Inserts

2010-12-16T07:04:00.000-08:00

HKNB Heidi Klum for New Balance Womens Project Runway T-Shaped Top With Inserts

Stylist T-shaped charmeuse insert

This graphic top is a "Project Runway" winning design. It's lightweight and flowy and catches the eye with a T-shaped charmeuse insert.

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Dolce Vita Womens Ryan Sweater Poncho

2010-12-16T07:01:00.000-08:00

Dolce Vita Womens Ryan Sweater Poncho

Stylist Womens Ryan Sweater Poncho

A mud cloth printed sweater poncho. the ryan is reversible and has a one-button closure. available in a black, creme print. one size fits all.

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Lady Gaga's meat dress tops Time's fashion statement list

2010-12-16T06:54:00.000-08:00

London, Dec 16 (IANS) Pop singer Lady Gaga's infamous meat dress has been named number one fashion statement of 2010 by Time magazine.

The singer had created a frenzy when she donned the dress made from hide and cuts of meat with a matching head piece and purse.

Singer M.I.A.'s psychedelic burqa that she wore for an awards function came second followed by tennis star Venus William's corset-style red-trimmed dress in French open on third position.

Singer Prince's tunic, which had an image of a man who looked very much like him and singer Rihanna's catsuit that she wore to a German music-award festival in March wrapped up the top five.

Britney Spears' see-through dress came sixth, while producer Rita Wilson's crystal-chandelier dress has got seventh spot.

'Gossip Girl' star Taylor Momsen's rhinestone necklace that spelled out the word slave along with a dog collar attached to it is on number eight.

Spanish-American actress Charo's hair extensions and Heidi Klum's tight black-and-white dress came ninth and tenth, respectively.

True Grit Mens Pebble Sueded Jacket

2010-12-16T06:45:00.000-08:00

True Grit Mens Pebble Sueded Jacket

Stylist jacket For Man

Rugged on the outside while velvet soft on the inside. this jacket is a full button front with two pockets. machine washable makes for easy care.

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Natalia Vodianova relaunches Etam in the UK

2010-11-29T10:00:00.001-08:00

Fashion news 2010: Natalia Vodianova relaunches Etam in the UK: Supermodel socialite Natalia Vodianova is on modelling and design duty for Etam's UK comeback.

After a five year absence from the British high street, French clothing label Etam is set to launch online in the UK in December.

The site will focus on lingerie and loungewear and will sell the highly popular 'Natalia Pour Etam' range designed by supermodel socialite Natalia Vodianova.

This will be the fourth collection Vodianova has produced for the brand alongside her role as the face of Etam.

Etam's disappearance from the UK went almost unnoticed in April 2005, when the label failed to keep up with the high street boom and closed all stores. The business remained bouyant in Europe however, and is ready to try its luck here again, with a much needed injection of glamour from Vodianova.

"Etam's lingerie has been completely revamped and is now a leading part of the brand" a spokesperson told us. "Whereas before Etam was the go-to place for reliable basics, it now has a completely new product range in terms of higher quality and style, and will be the only affordable sexy, sophisticated French lingerie brand in the UK."

Campaign pictures of Etam's autumn/winter collection appropriately titled 'An International Love Story', feature ex Calvin Klein underwear model Vodianova looking natural and sexy on a white fur rug, wearing bras that start from £20. The images from Vodianova's own collection show her posing against a simple grey backdrop wearing a black lace body-stocking and brightly coloured bra. Pieces from this collection start from £29.

Looks suppermodel Natalia Vodianova 2010

Fashion trend 2011 with duffle coats

2010-11-29T09:56:00.000-08:00

Fashion trend 2011 with duffle coats: With the UK snow forecast, it's time wrap up warm in a duffle coat.

There was time when duffle coats were synonymous with Paddington Bear and small children. Not anymore.

When super-stylish actress Kate Bosworth is pictured covering up in a digital-print duffle by hip New York label Proenza Schouler, you should take note. Add to the mix sightings of a duffle-clad Sienna Miller, Rihanna and Taylor Swift looking cute as a button in a Topshop version, and it's a full-on micro-trend.

Duffle coats have been keeping Brits warm since 1890, when a manufacturer of outdoor clothing turned to duffle - a coarse, woollen fabric originating from Antwerp in Belgium - to market a new breed of coat. The British Royal Navy then issued their version during World War I, resulting in large quantities of army-surplus in the Fifties.

This season however, French designers have got in on the act, as Chloé, Carven and Paul & Joe offer their interpretations.

The great British high street has also come up trumps with styles to suit every pocket. Head to Topshop and you might struggle to choose between a caped, tartan-print or three-quarter-length duffle coat. The khaki style with a faux-fur trimmed hood by Whistles is also worth a look, and if you want a twist on this season's camel coat, Aubin & Wills' grown-up duffle is punctuated with red toggles

7 For All Mankind Mens Nylon Mix Zip Up Sweater

2010-11-29T09:52:00.000-08:00

7 For All Mankind Mens Nylon Mix Zip Up Sweater

Product Features
50% merino wool/ 50% acrylic front panel 100% nylon
Nylon front lining
New branded silver logo plate
Made in China

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Fahsion news 2010: Elie Saab exhibition at Harrods

2010-11-29T09:49:00.000-08:00

Fahsion news 2010: Elie Saab exhibition at Harrods: London department store Harrods is hosting an exhibition of twelve red carpet gowns by the Lebanese couturier Elie Saab.

If your Christmas shopping trail sends you around the luxury enclave that is London's Knightsbridge, be sure to pop in to Harrods for the ultimate fashion treat.

The department store is hosting an exhibition of 12 dresses by the Lebanese 'couturier to the stars', Elie Saab. And the gowns on display are no ordinary designer frocks; they have been worn by the likes of Beyoncé, Gwyneth Paltrow, Penelope Cruz and Diane Kruger.

Remember when Halle Berry made history in 2002 by becoming the first African-American woman to win Best Actress at the Oscars? The sheer, embroidered haute couture gown she wore to collect her award was created by Saab and features in the exhibition. So does the long black dress with sleeves which red carpet veteran Helen Mirren chose for the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year.

The Elie Saab showcase will run at Harrods until December 22, in the store's Luxury Collections Display Lobby, on the first floor. There is no entry fee.

Fashion news 2010: Natalie Portman- She Wears It Well

2010-11-29T09:46:00.000-08:00

Fashion news 2010: Natalie Portman- She Wears It Well: While camel is the colour we're officially meant to be falling all over this season, on the streets a royal blue tsunami is gathering momentum. You may have noticed this yourselves. Something about an engagement?

Whether or not the ever-immaculate Hollywood star Natalie Portman was taking her lead from Kate Middleton when she pulled on her coat this week, I do like the cut of her jib.

There's something not just cheering but absolutely luxurious about a winter wool coat in a rich colour. And royal blue or Yves Klein blue is perfect for a brunette or a dark blonde. (On a platinum blonde I'm more inclined to think doors-to-manual).

This just-under-knee length is great if you're a frequent dress wearer. Portman's bare legs are a good call too. Black opaque tights wouldn't be particularly flattering with this length (though hell knows we love 'em and if you haven't tried Falke's 100 denier I urge you to immediately). But if you don't dare to bare go for a sheer denier.

Worn with a modern take on the court shoe this is a look that says modern princess - whether you get to be one in real life or not.

Guess Women's Blarney Platform Sandal

2010-11-29T09:42:00.000-08:00

Guess Women's Blarney Platform Sandal

You'll be stepping out with style in this smokin' hot shoe. The upper is an architectural marvel, with mesh encircled by straps and buckles. A peep-toe showcases your pedicure while a zipper on the back of the shaft allows you to get in and out with ease. The platform and stiletto give you a fierce boost, as if you needed it with all the other awesomeness going on.
Product Description
# Back-zip closure ensures effortless on and off. # Mesh upper with leather straps and buckle accents. # Peep toe. # Fabric lining keeps you comfortable when you hit the floor. # Lightly cushioned man-made footbed. # Wrapped platform and heel. # 4 3/4" heel. # 1" platform. # 7.00" shaft height. # 10.25" circumference. # 13.00 oz.

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Product Features
Leather and mesh
Manmade sole
Shaft measures approximately 9 1/2" from arch
Heel measures approximately 4 3/4"
Platform measures approximately 1"
Boot opening measures approximately 10 1/2" around
Imported
1" platform, 4-3/4" heel
7" shaft, 5" diameter
Crisscross leather straps with buckle details
Leather and mesh fabric upper

Fossil Avery Top

2010-11-29T09:19:00.000-08:00

Fossil Avery Top

The relaxed Avery Shirt features our ever-versatile tabbed sleeves, a comfortable boyfriend fit, and two front patch pockets all in our famous, irresistibly vintage wash. Material: 100% cottonDetails: Long sleeve, roll tab sleevesCare Instructions: Machine wash cold inside out with like colors, gentle cycle only, only non-chlorine bleach when needed, tumble dry low, cool iron when neededOrigin: ImportedView Size Guide.

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Fossil Sweater - Logan (Color: Black)

2008-09-24T23:10:00.000-07:00

Product Description
95% Cotton / 5% Spandex Machine wash cold Imported

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BGSD Men's One Button Lambskin Leather Blazer - Regular, Tall, Big, Big & Tall

2008-09-24T23:00:00.000-07:00

This flight jacket made to the same unyielding standards as the authentic G-1 military version. Soft lamb touch supple nappa is sewn with a dual entry pockets, plus ribbed cuffs and hem to snug in warmth. * Faux shearling collar * Interior pocket * Imprinted U.S map lining * 100% leather * Available in Brown * Available in Regular, Tall, Big, Big & Tall sizes

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Charter Club Cashmere Split-Neck Polo Sweater

2008-09-24T22:56:00.000-07:00

Product Features

a. Available only@macys!
b. Cashmere
3. Dry clean
4. Imported

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BGSD Men's Classic Three-Button Lambskin Leather Blazer - Regular, Tall, Big, Big & Tall

2008-08-24T20:25:00.000-07:00

Leather Blazer :BGSD Men's Classic Three-Button Lambskin Leather Blazer - Regular, Tall, Big, Big & Tall
by Luxury Lane

Smooth soft lambskin with traditional three-button front. Chest pocket. Side flat patch pockets. Interior pockets. Fully lined. Available in Black, Brown, and Cognac.

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Product Features

a. Premium lambskin leather
b. Men's three-button leather blazer
c. Chest pocket
d. Side flat patch pockets
e. Interior pockets

INC International Concepts? Core Bottlerack Blazer

2008-08-24T20:22:00.000-07:00

Core Bottlerack Blazer :INC International Concepts? Core Bottlerack Blazer
by INC International Concepts

A great outer layer for spring. This blazer adds the right amount of refinement to your casual wardrobe.

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Product Features

a. Available only@macys!
b. Cotton; sleeve lining: polyester
c. Machine wash
d. Imported

JM Collection Tummy Control Slimming Pant

2008-08-24T20:18:00.000-07:00

Slimming Pant :JM Collection Tummy Control Slimming Pant
by JM Collection

A sleek and contemporary pant with flattering and slimming attributes.

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Product Features

a. Polyester/rayon/spandex
b. Machine washable
c. Imported

Calvin Klein Jeans Hooded Elbow-Sleeve Jacket

2008-08-24T20:14:00.000-07:00

jacket :Calvin Klein Jeans Hooded Elbow-Sleeve Jacket
by Calvin Klein

A lightweight poplin jacket perfect for the changing weather from Calvin Klein Jeans.

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Product Features

a. Cotton; lining: polyester mesh
b. Machine washable
c. Imported

Charter Club Three-Quarter-Sleeve Silvertone-Button Jacket

2008-08-24T20:08:00.000-07:00

jacket :Charter Club Three-Quarter-Sleeve Silvertone-Button Jacket
by Charter Club

Bold, shimmering splendor. Add a little glamour to your look with this stylish three-quarter-sleeve jacket from Charter Club.

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Product Features

a. Available only@macys!
b. Cotton/nylon/spandex
c. Machine washable
d. Imported

FEMININE RUCHED DRESS

2008-08-08T07:30:00.000-07:00

Dress :FEMININE RUCHED DRESS
by Barrie Pace

Soft silk chiffon in a feminine style with ruched cap sleeves, bodice and waist. Removable pin with matching stones flowy skirt with cascading detail. Back zip; fully lined. Mid-calf length: Misses 28 1/2, Petites 26 (from waist to cascade detail). Semi-fitted; imported. Dry clean. Royal (misses only), rouge (misses only), spice, orchid, coffee, black, ruby, wild rose, yellow or aqua.

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Baby Be Mine Maternity Belly Band 3 Pack in Black, White and Stone Available in 3 Sizes

2008-08-08T07:05:00.000-07:00

Belly Band :Baby Be Mine Maternity Belly Band 3 Pack in Black, White and Stone Available in 3 Sizes
by Baby Be Mine

Size 1 fits pre pregnancy size 0-4 Size 2 fits pre pregnancy size 6-12 Size 3 fits pre pregnancy size 14-18 3 Pack Special! Black, White and Stone for only $58.99! Baby Be Mine Maternity is now a celebrated winner of an "iParenting Media Award" 2007. Now introducing 4 new sizes! The Baby Be Mine Maternity belly band is a favorite maternity accessory. Soft and easy to wear, it solves so many pregnancy wardrobe issues. You can wear your pre pregnancy clothes longer and can get back into pre pregnancy clothes sooner. Conceal those unsightly elastic waistbands and expandable panels on maternity pants and skirts. Double your wardrobe and save $$$$$. You do not have to worry about the inbetween stage when nothing fits - your regular clothes are too small and your maternity clothes are too big. Keep your tummy under wraps as it becomes beautifully round - cover any gaps between your tops and bottoms. Add length to tops. Cover undone buttons on pants and skirts. Make your maternity clothing more comfortable instantly - just fold your waistband under your belly and cover with the belly band. Wear the Baby Be Mine maternity belly band during breastfeeding to cover your tummy to feel less exposed.

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Product Features

a. Baby Be Mine is notably an iParenting Media Award Winner 2007!
b. Wear your favorite pre pregnancy cloths longer.
c. Conceal unsightly ugly elastic waistbands and cover gaps between tops and bottoms
d. Wear throughout your entire 9 months and beyond
e. 3 Pack Special! Black, White and Stone for only $58.99! Retail $65.97

DKNY Jeans Stretch Ludlow Jean, Masquerade Blast Wash

2008-08-08T06:36:00.000-07:00

Jeans Stretch :DKNY Jeans Stretch Ludlow Jean, Masquerade Blast Wash
By DKNY

A sleek, sexy stretch jean in a whiskered, very blasted wash. Low front rise with higher back rise for coverage. Slim-leg fit. Slight boot-cut leg with approximate 18 inch opening. Five-pocket styling with decorative two-tone stitching at back pockets. Available approximate inseams: 32" (R), 34" (L).

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Blow Me Old School Cartridge T-shirt

2008-08-08T06:15:00.000-07:00

T-shirt :Blow Me Old School Cartridge T-shirt
By Emo

These hilarious t-shirts are made of a 100% fully machine washable cotton/poly blend for a cool and comfortable fit every time. They feature insanely funny phrases and pictures. Shocking and bold, stand out at the bar, school or just lounge around the house.

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Shirred-waist knit dress

2008-08-08T06:08:00.000-07:00

Beige Shorts :Brand New American Eagle Ladies Beige Shorts
By American Eagle

a. Brand New American Eagle Ladies Beige Shorts
b. NEW 2008 DESIGN
c. 100% Cotton - High Quality Fabric
d. 100% Authentic guaranteed and machine washable
e. comfortable shorts for hot summer!

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