Modish Muse

Obsession Du Jour: Cropped Leather Jackets

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 02:34:00 +0000

There is something so retro bohemian about a worn-in-had-it-forever black leather jacket. Remember the one you had in high school, it was actually a make shift pillow from time to time...that's what made it classic, ultra cool and extremely desirable!

Modern jackets have the same lived in appeal with updated glamour that takes it to another level. Cropped and fitted make the current leather jacket a must-have item for your fall wardrobe. Shades of black, gray and tan give a bit of rocker's edge to feminine looks. Tone down a dress for partying, layer over a tunic with jeans or add contrast to an all black look. Get in touch with your inner rocker, boho or biker babe with one of this season's most coveted looks!

Take a cue...xoLAS

Cropped Leather Jackets: Obsession Du Jour

Heavy Metal: Metallic Shoes

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 16:40:00 +0000

Shades of silver, gold and bronze meld together to create an of-the-moment look for footwear this season. Rather than slipping into shoes the shade of nude opt for an on trend look in metallic.

Mix metals with blacks, grays, jewel tones, pastels and other metallics for fashion forward looks. Jeans get a throwback to the 60s with oxfords and platform pumps. Add a new wave modern appeal to your outfit by mixing with matte black tights or jodpur pants. Designed to update your day look with jeans and shut down your night with your LBD!

Take a cue...xoLAS

Mad For Maddalena Marconi

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 19:18:00 +0000

Known for their use of precious stones and unique designs Maddalena Marconi is the epitome of one-of-a-kind glamour.

Beginning in Bologna in 1980 the original draft being belts and jewelry but thanks to refinement they've added handbags.

A small company with larger than life ideas ensuring high quality and unique designs that will shut down your look from lunch with friends to a big night on the town!

MY PICKS:

LARGE LEATHER BAGS $660.00

SMALL FABRIC BAGS $450.00

SMALL FABRIC BAGS $295.00

CLUTCHES $325.00

LARGE LEATHER BAGS $530.00

MEDIUM FABRIC BAGS $360.00

CLUTCHES $350.00

Luxe Looks: Tuxedo Jacket

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 19:42:00 +0000

Bold shoulders. Cropped. Boyfriend Style. Fitted. Modern. Vintage. Regardless the style...you will be luxe in this season's must-have: the tuxedo jacket.

Inspired by the 80s, designers have taken to the runway with their own version of the dinner jacket. Notably, Balmain inspired the luxe look for the street style most of us will purchase this season. Modern cuts are fitted or cropped, whilst the oversized boyfriend style is still mingling about with mini dresses.

Favorite looks are cropped tuxedo jackets with distressed tunics and wide bell bottoms. Also loving long maxi dresses given proportion with a fitted version. Investing is optional...thrift and vintage shops are loaded with retro jackets...just be sure to dig. As I always say, the best way to make off-the-rack look couture is investing in a superb tailor!

Take a cue...xoLAS

Balmain

photo courtesy: Style.com

Balmain

photo courtesy: Style.com

Purple Reigns: Runway To REALway

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 01:55:00 +0000

From violet to lilac to eggplant, shades of the royal color purple covered the runway for fall. Mixed with modern pallets such as yellow, orange and silver gives purple a new feel and an unexpected look. Traditionally mixed with black, purple is always elegant and effortlessly chic. Reign in purple by trying a hint of an opposite color for more fun!

Take a cue...xoLAS

Runway to REALway: Purple Reigns

Tried & True: Trench Coat

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 17:05:00 +0000

Nothing makes me melt more than a great coat. Vintage. Modern. Fur. Leather. Wool...Addicted!

When thinking of a seasonal jacket to recommend I immediately suggest a classic trench with modern styling. Created by Burberry in 1901, the trench coat has remained a staple in every fashionable woman's closet. Modern detailing gives the trench effortless sophistication whilst still satisfying my craving for a chic coat.

When you think of a trench don't just think bland and boring. Shimmer, bold colors, ruffle lapels and shortened hems are all new ways to make the trench fun. Tried and true the trench can definitely spice up an otherwise boring outfit!

Take a cue...xoLAS

Trench Coat: Tried & True

Shimmer & Shine: Ways To Wear Sequins

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 23:45:00 +0000

Obsessed with everything and anything glamour...j'adore sequins and shimmer! Vintage or modern. Full on in a dress or just a hint with a dazzling clutch. Own this look for fall.

My favorite pairings are oversized sequin tunics with wide bell bottom jeans or sexy sequin mini dresses under an oversized boyfriend blazer...AMAHZING!

Take a cue...xoLAS

Ways To Wear Sequins: Shimmer & Shine

Statement-Making Chic: Brian Atwood

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 21:22:00 +0000

Former model turned designer, Brian Atwood can simply do no wrong in the eyes of fashion. Fashion forward chic designs infused with inspirations from art and on-trend details. From his shootie (shoe + boot = shootie) to the perfect slouch boots...I D.I.E.

Take a cue...xolaura

make an entrance as you walk you away....beauty is in the details

slip on with a feminine dress, tights & an arm load of bangles

HIDDEN PLATFORM ANKLE BOOTS $755.00

gray suede is so luxe and so unexpected rather than grabbing black or brown

dark denim, camel cropped jacket & distressed white tee & loads of silver

SUEDE PLATFORM ANKLE BOOTS $745.00

the perfect slouch wear with an oversized distressed tee,

skinny jeans or leggings & a studded vest

MATRIX LEATHER BOOTS $1170.00

sticking to the rock n roll theme that is so spot on this season

the caged shootie is the perfect mix for LBD's or sequin slouch tops & wide bells

LOLA SUEDE LEATHER PUMPS $650

on another level this peep toe bootie adds the perfect mix of glamour

and attitude to black skinnies (skinny jeans), rolled trousers & your favorite boyfriend blazer

PATENT PLATFORM ANKLE BOOTS $745.00

Brian Atwood: Statement-Making Chic

Transitional Wardrobe: Rework Your Summer Look

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 13:25:00 +0000

Every year the temperature is sweltering and yet I'm tired of the same summer looks. I look for new and effortless ways to incorporate early fall into my summer wardrobe. Scarfs, cardigans and fitted jackets are just a few ways to re-mix what you already have in your closet to add a bit of fall flare to to an otherwise blah outfit. Plus a little extra cover for air conditioner freeze out never hurt either! Take a cue...xolaura

A long trench adds a different balance

and the mix prints add an interesting element

A white fitted blazer over a sheer tank

says summer with fall in the rear view

Mix a heavier suede jacket with lighter

than air fabrics such as silk

A simple cardigan over a strapless

dress is effortless yet fabulous

Pair short shorts with long sleeves

such as blouses, tunics or even a structured blazer

Wear a longer sleeve that is in a fresh

summer shade & pair with super cute dark booties

A fitted tuxedo blazer is a modern way

to add a jacket to your summer dress

Everyone should have a denim jacket: it's the easiest way

to add a layer. Lace up boots & the darker color also lean toward fall

Sheer cardigans are always in style and

don't be afraid to pair your darks such as navy & black...very chic!

Tone down your bright whites with a

neutral cropped jacket & scarf

Another must have: the cropped leather jacket

Vintage or modern, the perfect rocker way to add a bit of edge

to a flirty dress

The boyfriend blazer is the perfect re-mix

to an LBD...especially in white!

Try ankle boots or shooties (shoes + booties = shooties)

with your flirty boho dresses

Rework Your Summer Look: Transitional Wardrobe

Denim Du Jour: Jean Jacket

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 17:09:00 +0000

Modern or vintage. Fitted or boyfriend slouch. The denim jacket is a must have for every wardrobe. A dressed down alternative to a blazer. Add a bit of punk rock to a cocktail dress or balance off skinny leather leggings or a maxi dress. Choose a vintage wash and the style will never fade. xolaura

runway perfect proportions

couture to shorts the denim jacket

makes an unexpected topper and adds definition

boy meets girl

this shot some how reminds me of an 80's music

video...timeless

mixed elements of floral and

laced rocker boots

waist created under a long billowy tunic

balances off the leggings...the look is chic yet comfortable

undercover: the denim jacket gives a bit of

of cover, makes the look proportional & the scarf is just

an added touch of interest

street style made easy

ultra feminine dress gets a tougher edge

the perfect accessory to the maxi

just ran out the door

LBD's perfect compliment and the nude

shoes add length to legs by blending into the skin tone

effortless glamour: one can never have too many

items of interest

on safari

denim on denim: works when the materials

are different shades

Jean Jacket: Denim Du Jour

Runway Report: Romantic Ruffles

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 20:53:00 +0000

Lately I've been attracted to feminine details, frilly skirts and ruffled tops. Ruffles have been spotted everywhere this season from handbags & shoes to dresses & tops. Simplify the trend into your wardrobe by adding one piece and mixing it with your classics to add a touch of chic elegance. Thinking of my own closet and current selections whilst scanning a few muses that have embraced their inner romance...xo laura

Romantic Ruffles: Runway Report

Bellissimo: Denim With Major Flare

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 02:04:00 +0000

Leg lengthening, thigh slimming, waist whittling and all out attitude. Bell bottoms are the epitome of modernized Hollywood glamour.

Dark or light. Destroyed or dressy.

Paired with a simple tee, fitted sweat top or a structured blazer find your flare with killer pumps or major platforms.

Muses add a bit of kick their step & height to their stride - xo laura

Denim With Major Flare: Bellissimo

Spot On: Luxe Big Cat Prints

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 14:49:00 +0000

Full on in a dress or just a touch with a chic bag or shoe this season's animal print is spot on!

Taking a cue from this month's Vogue muses are reworking the timeless pattern into modern fashion. There is just something about animal print done right, though it's been done several times before, it seems to just give a classic piece such as an LBD a bit of roar! - xo laura

Luxe Big Cat Prints: Spot On

Long On Style: Maxi Dress

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 21:51:00 +0000

Typically if you cringe thinking of yourself in a floor length dress, otherwise known as the maxi, take a cue from these muses which are anything but lacking in elegant style.

Insisting that fit is key to pulling off one of these voluminous gowns. The wearer must allow the dress to gently grace against the body or else one will undeniably add pounds and become right tent-like.

Belted. Tied. Layered. Altered.

Make it fit for you!

Make off-the-rack seem couture by investing in an exceptional tailor.

xo - laura

Maxi Dress: Long On Style

Livin' In My Shoes: Room With A View

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 21:44:00 +0000

One of my favorite all time lines is from an old episode of Sex & the City in which Carrie is once again pondering her life as a fashionably dressed starving author:

I've spent $40,000 on shoes and I have no place to live? I will literally be the old woman who lived in her shoe.

Enjoy the view: photos courtesy Style.com

My picks: Fall 2009 Collections

the perfect wedge

YSL

the perfect wedge in blue

YSL

pop of color

Balenciaga

lucite & mesh

if you didn't get these last season

take your second chance

Stella McCartney

for the love of red

Prada

undress

Dior

strapped

Dior

studded perfection

Dior

curve appeal

Dior

Room With A View: Livin' In My Shoes

Cold Shoulder: Asymmetrical Dressing

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 22:02:00 +0000

Tout your inner goddess in a one shoulder or asymmetrically cut neckline or hemline this season. Spring showcased a single strapped shoulder whilst the look for fall is a bit more one sided.

A few of my favorite muses baring the trend...xox laura

metallic runway

nude at night

bronzed

classically chic

girl next door goes glam

shades of gray

matte jewels

roses & ruffles

sideways greek

blanc a la perfection

smoldering shadow

california twist

touch of lace

bloody mary

hint of shimmer

nude & Choo

bold bandage

opposites attract

right angle

red vanilla

tonal fan

grace

Asymmetrical Dressing: Cold Shoulder

Footwear Fetish: Gladiators

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 21:38:00 +0000

Casual or Dressy.

Stiletto, Wedge or Flat.

Muted tones or bold colors.

Look I love & can't get enough...gladiators - xox laura

Gladiators: Footwear Fetish

Look at the stars, look how they shine for you.....Yellow

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 22:44:00 +0000

Just a touch or full on yellow has made a grand entrance into the fashion world amongst some of my favorite muses. Casual or dressed up they all certainly shine in one of this season's hottest shades...Yellow - xoxo laura

muted brightness

mixed with black tights & jacket gives

a subtle toned down appeal

lovely lapels

short & sweet

street style

this is a great way to incorporate yellow into

your wardrobe - because most people will push a

fashion trend with an awesome jacket

just a pop

don't want to wear yellow....carry the color

spot on

mad for mod

color wheel

definitely taking a cue from mix & mix guides

use the opposite sides/ends of a color wheel to know

complimentary colors

cutaway cutout

pop of color

shimmery sophistication

shades of gray

I love the mixture of a bright color

against warmer neutral shades

simple & sassy

anyone could wear this look...chic

cascading canary

the shoes have it

the dress is great...but the shoes really play

up the undertones of tan in the dress

at any age

classically chic

one of my favorite looks...this is how I would

wear yellow mixed with suiting & killer pumps

wrapped in yellow

yellow bells

delicate & demure

Yellow....Look at the stars, look how they shine for you

Wardrobe Essential: Black Suit

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:07:00 +0000

Most stylists advise clients to have essential pieces in their wardrobe. These pieces should transcend time, trends and travel. A classic black suit is often top of the list right along side a crisp white shirt and diamond earrings - essentials.

Though fashionable on their own...the wearer must make them stylish - xoxo laura

exposed

expressive tee, elbow gloves & gold toe pumps

mixed suiting with harem pants

statement jewelry & booties

elegantly classic

cropped metallic

truly owns her style

exaggerated shoulders

youthful sophistication

a basic tux relaxed with full wavy hair

platform pumps & lower set trousers

the perfect fit

one thing to replicate from Jennifer's style

she knows how clothes should lay on the body

skinny redux

bold bodice

twisted layers

at ease

make it your own - own your style

Black Suit: Wardrobe Essential

Covet and Crave: Red Lips

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 22:12:00 +0000

Every year red lips make a scene on the runway only to return the following year with a twist. Fall 09 sought inspiration from the 1940's with a modern flux from the 1980's. Described as uptown-downtown the pout is not so severe and the rest of the face is naturally dramatic.

Being a simple and natural pallet that covets flesh tone colors for the eyes and lips; but craving something more dramatic for an upcoming party. Perhaps this year's take on the red lip is just the inspiration I need....xoxo laura

backstage drama

naturally bold

blanc en red

one of my favorite looks...

subtle eyes & bold lips

radiant red...

her skin is just glowing and the

lip has more copper undertones

uptown chic

total glam...dramatic eyes, hair & lips

simple sophistication

new look...

a totally different approach for Lauren

this may be a bit overdone

sultry siren

MK's look here got a bit of mixed reviews...but

I love the mixture of smoldering copper eyes with the red lip

rosy & red

even with jeans

red kitten

I love the cat eyeliner, glowing skin & red lip

(this may be a favorite look too & normally I

don't like her look...perplexing)

raven in red

blonde & brick

classic

never one to disappoint the trademark

red lipped - Gwen

dressed up in red

pop of color

Red Lips: Covet and Crave

Demure Deception: Lace Dress

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 13:42:00 +0000

Lace has a demure and peculiar way of being delusionally seductive leaving the admirer wondering if their eyes are being deceived. Vintage or modern lace has crept back into the fashion world and these muses prove there is no deception at it's alluring powers and sexiness...

xoxo laura

champagne in the morning

this modern dress gets a vintage feel with the puff hem

and sleeves mixed with mary jane pumps

flesh tone pumps lengthen legs

siren lips...unstoppable

the perfect cut....

Liv's broad shoulders look so delicate and feminine

against the cut away sleeves

an eclectic mix of vintage and

modern couture

boy meets girl

need a bit of confidence cover...grab your boyfriend blazer

tranquil in asymmetry

my favorite look...it is so delicate, feminine and effortless

paper doll

this reminds me a bit of a cut out dress...but her loose hair

and lack of jewelry just speak simple sophistication

nude in the dark

to further accentuate her curves Eva add a belt

& the lower cut neck line keep everything proportional

blue lady

lace doesn't have to black & nude...runways

featured orange, navy and green

just keep accessories minimal

illusion accomplished

perfectly cut for her boyish figure

gives her curves...you never knew she had

Lace Dress: Demure Deception

Style Watch: Summer Scarves

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 23:03:00 +0000

Tied on with jeans, dresses or shorts scarves make a huge statement even in the summer. A pop of color, contrasting pattern or monochromatic match is often all that is needed to polish off and otherwise simple outfit - xoxo laura

Summer Scarves: Style Watch

Perfect Pairings: Party Looks

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 18:21:00 +0000

Some snaps are just so perfect they don't dare deserve to be cropped. Never scrimp on your party look....believe me there will be always be a well suited gal. And you should always strive to be 'that girl' - xox laura

leather tulip

night & gray

boy meets girl

luxe leather

blank slate

asymmetry and clunky shoes

pop of color

the long and short of it

monochrome & matte

all about the accessories

cinched

opposites attract

neutral & nude

contrasted & coordinated

in step

Party Looks: Perfect Pairings

J'adore: Denim Dresses

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 20:40:00 +0000

Denim will always be fashionable no matter what the season. This season it's all about denim dresses. Distressed to dark to gray these muses are making stylish statements with the latest denim craze - xoxo laura

adds a pop of color with electric blue

statement bag, nude shoes and a horn buckle belt

make this a perfect day dress

the acid wash with white tux jacket are a

great combination of vintage and modern

denim plays dress up with black patent leather

but she kept it grounded with her peep toe mary jane's

the shady side

denim doesn't mean blue...make mine gray

femme fatal...i love the high neck, ruffles and

unexpected beige pumps

layered and twisted

patches and pockets

bold bodice with nude...love the dress it's very figure flattering

wish she'd taken it a step further and added some bold cuffs

very girl next door...attainable chic

all about the accessories

Denim Dresses: J'adore

Obsession du jour: Nude Dress

noreply@blogger.com (Laura) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 14:19:00 +0000

Monochromatic, bold gold and edgy black give nude dresses a statement that surpasses the LBD this season. From flesh tone to a hint a peach the nude dress is all about giving a subtle cue of illusion and seeping sex appeal - xoxo laura

mad for monochromatic

legs for days

I like how the crisp white breaks up the flesh tone top & leggings

making a bold gold statement

sand and earth
By using earth tones of pumpkin and chocolate she modernized her pastel pallet

draped in nude

this is one of my favorites

the perfect fit, statement necklace, subtle black & sleek hair

in a word: elegant

boyfriend in the nude

I love the mixture of an oversized blazer with the draped hem that leads to chunky shoes

the perfect assemblage of vintage with modern

the python & pastel

never one to disappoint

Agnes adds her own signature style of rocker edge to a rather glam dress

Nude Dress: Obsession du jour