Suz on Style

Suz on Polka Dots

2012-09-21T08:36:00.000-07:00

Not only are polka dots one of this seasons hottest trends, they are my most favorite pattern! (Ok, ok, so it might be a tie with plaid...) The polka dot trend is extremely wearable and comes in all price points. Freshen up your look with a polka dot tee, shoe, sweater or accessory. Those of you who are a bit more daring, try a polka dot pair of jeans, a blazer or a skirt.

Here are my nominations for best polka dots 2012.

In the category of best polka dot t-shirt, the nominees are:

1. Gap Seamed Dot Tee

2. Urban Outfitters BDG Scoopneck Tee

Look familiar????

And the winner is: Urban Outfitters BDG Scoopneck Tee. The picture of Swift and Kennedy (how creeptastic is their relationship???) sealed the deal.

In the category of best polka dot sweater, the nominees are:

1. JCrew Factory Polka Dot Cardigan

2. Old Navy Dot Sweater

3. Gap Dot Pullover

And the winner is: The Old Navy Dot Sweater. For the price (under $25) you can not go wrong! Wear it with your colored skinnies and you've got a cute, trendy look.

In the category of best polka dot shoe, the nominees are:

1. Old Navy Polka Dot Flat

2. Gap Calf Hair Loafers

3. JCrew Mila Dot-Print Ballet Flat

4. Kate Spade (the queen of dots) Hailey Too

5. Madewell Sidewalk Skimmer in Polka Dot

And the winner is...JCrew Mila Dot-Print Ballet Flat. How cute are they????

In the category of best polka dot accessory, the nominees are:

1. Kate Spade Le Pavilion Iphone Case

2. Old Navy Polka Dot Scarf

3. Marc Jacobs Polka Dot Umbrella

4. Ann Taylor Polite Pearlized Enamel Bangel

5. Hue Polka Dot Tights

And the winner is: It's a tie between either the Kate Spade Le Pavilion Iphone case and the Hue Polka Dot Tights. Both have a great cost-per-use ratio and both look chic and on trend.

Tell me, do you agree with the winners???

Go out there and get yourself some dots!

'Til next time,
Stay Stylish!

Suz on "Plus Size" Model, Robyn Lawley

2012-09-20T10:08:00.001-07:00

A long overdue HELLO to you Suz on Style readers!!!! I have many, many fun blog post ideas so keep checking back to be part of the fun. First up, Ralph Lauren (AKA: the silver fox, and the creator of American prep) announced that the face of their new ad campaign is Robyn Lawley. Robin is a 23 year old Australian model who, at 6 ft 2 in, wears a size 12. Size 12 is the "average" size of the American woman. While, I would not call Ms. Lawley "plus-sized," I do applaud RL for breaking with tradition and using a more voluptuous model for their campaign. You be the judge...tell me, do you think Robyn Lawley is "plus-sized???"

You can watch her interview on Good Morning America here.

Suz on Style's Handbag Bonanza

2011-10-27T18:23:00.000-07:00

Hello Suz on Style readers! I apologize for the style delay. But, enough about me...let's talk handbags. Welcome to.....

Suz on Style's Handbag Bonanza!!!

Hold on to you totes, clutches and satchels, were blowing the zippers and clasps off the hottest fall handbag fashions.

The Pippa.

That's right. The "Pippa." Does anyone not love her? In fact, she is such a popular fashion plate, British designer Modalu renamed the famed satchel Pippa carries on an almost daily basis to the "Pippa." You can order it at http://www.modalu.com/

She also has the exact same bag in a snakeskin version.

In true fashion, designers on this side of the pond are also trying to cash in on the popular bag design. Both J.Crew and Kate Spade have shockingly similar bags at shocking prices to boot! If you want the "it" bag for work, it's the "Pippa."

This version from J.Crew is called the Biennial Satchel and is $348.00. Kate Spade's version is called the Grove Court Lainey. It is $425.

The Cross-Body Saddle.

That's right. The Saddle Bag is back bitches! (And I'm not talking about the kind on your thighs.) Every major handbag designer has put out a cross body saddle bag. My favorite is the budget friendly version from Fossil. You know Fossil, the watch designer? Fossil has come out with a great line of handbags called, "Vintage Re-Issue." You can check them out at www.fossil.com. They are also carried at Nordstroms, Macy's and Piperlime. There are other great saddle bag options at J.Crew, Ralph Lauren and Coach, just to name a few. Gidde-up!

Fossil Vintage Re-Issue Crossbody and Coach Madison Crossbody

J.Crew Rigby Saddle bag, Rebecca Minkoff Crossbody and See by Chole Crossbody.

The Envelope.

That's right. Envelopes are not just for mailing letters to your Grandmother anymore. Envelopes are going to be your new go-to bag for evening, day and everything in-between. Envelopes are most often thought of as clutches; however, this season plenty of designers are showing them as shoulder bags as well. I love the J.Crew envelope shoulder bag in leather. The envelope shape is structured and yet lady like. Envelope yourself in this beautiful design.

Oh look! Pippa carries an envelope clutch, too!

These beautiful envelopes are from J.Crew, French Connection, BCBG and Tory Burch.

The Fold-Over.

That's right. The fold-over. (Not to be confused with the comb-over.) The fold-over is another cross-body bag with a fold-over top for a sleeker look when worn cross-body. The fold-over design usually comes with a second carrying option. Either as a regular shoulder bag or a tote. I have yet to find a handbag design house this season that does not have a fold-over option. It's like a two-in-one bag. Double your pleasure. I love the designs from Tory Burch in this category. There are also some great options from Fossil again and Coach.

Dang it, that Pippa is stylish! Check her out in a fold-over style from Prada.

Tory Burch, Coach and Fossil.

Now, go out there and buy yourself a new handbag. You deserve it!

Til next time,

Stay Stylish!

Suz on Stripes

2011-05-19T08:30:00.000-07:00

My perrenial favorite summer trend? The Nautical trend. Maybe it's because I generally tend to gravitate towards the "preppy" look, but I seriously can not get enough of the navy and white (with pops of red?) for summer.
It's a super versatile look and anyone no matter your age, size, gender canwork it.
Here is a sampling of some of my favorite nautical inspired pieces out this season (there may be a couple of these in my own closet).

These pieces make me want to take up sailing.
Feeling inpsired yet? If not, look to your favorite celebs for their takes on the nautical look.

All you need is a pair of jeans or shorts and a striped shirt, ala Cameron Diaz. Or a fun striped dress like J.Lo. Just wear a crisp blue blazer with jeans or shorts and you're ready for a day at the yacht club ala Pippa Middleton.

Ahoy!

'Til Next Time,

Stay Stylish!

Suz on Fingers and Toes

2011-04-09T08:56:00.000-07:00

Ever feel overwhelmed when you stand in front of the rows and rows of colors at the nail salon or in the drugstore aisle? Suz to the rescue! Read on for the hottest trends in nail colors for spring 2011!

1. Metallic Blues

My personal opinion is that this is a bit much for the fingers and would be better placed on the toes. But, hey, if you love bold colors on your digits, then go for it!

This color is called, "Slushied." It's from the Glee collection by OPI for Sephora. You Gleeks out there will appreciate that name!

This is, "Midnight Express," by Nars. I love the rich blue hue in this color.

This shade from essie is called, "Coat Azure." Love it.

The last blue color here is also from OPI. It's called, "Austintacious," and is from the Texas Collection.

2. Hot Pink

This color is also from the OPI Texas Collection and is called, "Do You Think I'm Tex-y." I love this color. It would make a great finger or toe color, especially for a hot night on the town.

This shade from Nars is called, "Schiap."

Revlon carries a similar product. This shade is called, "Bubble Gum," and is from their new "scented perfume" collection. I'm not sure how I feel about "scented" nail polish, but the color is cute.

3. Gun Metal

Love your OPI "Lincoln Park After Dark" but want something more updated? Try a gun metal color. You'll get the dark look, but it will have more grey/browns and be metallic. Instantly updated!

This color by Chanel is called, "Black Velvet." When you wear it you have to listen to the song, "Black Velvet" by Alannah Myles from 1988.

Dior offers up this selection called, "Avenue Montaigne Gris." Avenue Montaigne is a nod to the street in Paris where the Dior boutique is located.

This polish is again from the OPI Texas Collection and is called, "Suzi Loves Cowboys." With a name like that, how could I NOT include this color in the post????

4. Pastel Pink

This shade from essie is called, "French Affair." Oui Oui!

This polish is called, "Pink Boa," from Dior.

5. Pastel Purple

This color from Nars is called, "Pokerface." I love the pastel purple trend. I think it's a fun, springy color.

This great color from essie is called, "Nice is Nice." Indeed.

5. Pearl

These are the most demure and conservative colors of the group. These colors would be the most appropriate for a conservative work environment.

This color from essie is called, "Kisses and Bises." Bises is a french term meaning, 'kiss on the cheek.'

Chanel offers this shade called, "Pearl Drop."

Now that you know the top 5 Spring 2011 nail color trends, get out there and paint your nails red! (Er, one of the 5 colors listed on this post.)

'Til Next Time,

Stay Stylish!

Suz on Color

2011-04-01T08:49:00.000-07:00

Where has all the color gone? It's springtime, people! (Or at least that is what the calendar says...) Remember the days when springtime meant breaking out of the grey, black and brown rut of winter dressing and embracing color? What says spring more than the happy hues of yellows, pinks, greens, and blues? Alas, when you enter your favorite stores, staring back at you is dull, muted, melancholy colors. Even more, the colors that are being shown right now are very difficult for us fair-skinned beauties to pull off without looking dead.

Here are some examples:

This look is from J.Crew. Does this look like "spring" to you?

What about this one?

Blah! Boring! Where's the color, J.Crew??

Maybe it's just J.Crew you ask? Think again...

This is a "Look We Love" from Ann Taylor Loft. I don't love it. I think it's boring... It's all brown. Where's the look of spring tulips and daffodils? Where is the outfit that makes you want to run through a spring meadow in all your feminine freshness?

This look from Banana Republic is an "Outfit We Love." I think it's fine. I doesn't really say, "Happy Spring," or "Goodbye Winter" to me....but maybe since I live in Chicago I need color and spring more than the average woman. To be fair...there is some color out there. But, it is not as prevelant as I would like. Case in point, J.Crew recently unveiled their Fall 2011 collection. It is jam packed with color. Color, color and more color. The hues are a undoubtedly geared toward fall/winter and not spring/summer, but it's colorwonderful all the same. Where's the color this spring? Obviously, the muted tones are a big trend along with the 'all-white' trend, but I am a sucker for color. Shopping this spring is about as depressing as the Chicago weather -- all grey, brown and melancholy. So come on, let's put a little color back into our lives!

'Til Next Time, Stay Stylish!

Suz on Animal Hats

2011-02-06T09:07:00.001-08:00

Seriously, what is going on with this new trend wherein you wear an animal on your head and call it a hat??? Don't be confused, I'm not talking about wearing an animal print hat. No, I am talking about wearing a hat shaped like say, a panda bear. Sure, it's super cute when you are under the age of 4, but grown adults wearing animal hats? I say it's a don't.

Super cute and age appropriate. Super weird. It doesn't even look cold out!

Do you think Pink has some bamboo in her grocery bag to feed that panda hat?

Oh, Khloe...I really don't mean to always make an example out of you, it's just that you make such horrible fashion choices. Seriously, what did you think when you left the house in these hats? Were you thinking, "I look GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRreat!?!?!?"

Paris couldn't make it as a real Playboy bunny so this was the next best thing...

Vanessa, you look like you just killed that poor animal and decided to wear the skin as a warning to all the other animals not to mess with you.

Don't all these hats look vaguely reminiscent of this:

Friends, if this is the look you are going for, then wear an animal on your head. Otherwise, stick to a regular hat.

'Til Next Time,

Stay Stylish!

Suz on Pajama Jeans

2010-12-28T14:10:00.000-08:00

Do you love stylish, sexy jeans? Do you love soft, comfy pajama bottoms? Now get the best of both worlds with pajama jeans!

Pajama Jeans???? Really???? Have you seen them?

(Wow! Look at how ugly my bottom looks!)

The ads state: "They're so comfortable you'll want to sleep in them!" Sleeping in these atrocious pants is the only thing you'll want to do in them. This new 2-in-1 product makes me sad. :( That is how your butt will also look if you wear these pants. Sad. :(

Two-in-one products never work as well as the solo products. Case in point: two-in-one shampoo and conditioner or the lovely sweatshirt/mock turtleneck combos.

If you want to look like an idiot wearing elastic waist banded, stretch "dormi-soft" fabric "jeans" then spend $39.95 on a pair of pajama jeans.

Here's my biggest pet peeve with these "jeans." These "jeans" are for the person who is too lazy or uncomfortable to wear actual jeans when going out of the house, so these pajama jeans seem like the perfect solution, except that you actually then look like you are wearing pajama jeans, not jeans! Don't be fooled, you will not look like you are wearing jeans when you step out of the house in your pajama jeans. Just look at this photo:

(I can't show you my whole waist band -- it's too ugly.)

Does this person look like she's actually wearing jeans? No, she looks like an idiot. Plus, unless you are under the age of 60 there is no reason to wear an elastic waist banded pair of "jeans." Further, if you know you shouldn't be going out of the house in pajamas, then why would you think it was OK to leave the house in pajama jeans? The name "pajama" should clue you in that these are NOT JEANS, they are PAJAMAS!

(Perfect for sleeping alone, spending time with your multiple cats and playing with your troll doll collection.)

These pajama jeans are atrocious. Please do NOT spend your $39.95 on these ugly pants. Instead, go buy a real pair of sweatpants. They'll be cheaper and won't make your butt look this fugly.

(EWWWW!)

'Til next time,
Stay Stylish!

Suz's Favorite Holiday Bling

2010-12-09T10:49:00.000-08:00

It's the time of year when you can sparkle all day and night long. Why not wear your baubles during the day? It's the Holidays! Let your sparkle shine on.

Here are my favorite sparkly accessories for this season:

These earrings add just the right amount of bling to your outfit. Especially if you are already wearing something else sparkly. They are from Banana Republic and cost $29.50.

This beautiful statement necklace is from Hive and Honey. It's available on Piperlime.com for $68.00.

This bling-er-ific necklace is from Urban Outfitters and would be the perfect addition to your accessories collection. This piece costs $34.00

This fun, bold, cuff bracelet will jazz-up any ensemble. Ann Taylor sells this bracelet for $88.00.

This similar option is from Monet and is sure to add pizazz to your day for $45.00.

Every lady needs a big, gaudy, statement ring. Fact.

These are both from Forever 21 and are only $5.80/ea!

If you're not bold enough to wear something quite as blingy, try one of these more subtle, yet still sparkly options:

This necklace is from Monet for $30.00. It looks like a small disco ball in person. I liked this one so much I almost purchased it for a friend of mine -- then I remembered we agreed we were no longer exchanging gifts.

These earrings are a classic with just enough bling to make them 'holiday-worthy.' They are also from Monet and retail for $24.00.

It's the holidays...go ahead and put a little sparkle, a little shine, a little shimmer and a whole lot of fun back into your accessories and your day!

'Til Next Time,
Stay Stylish!

Suz on Holiday Parties

2010-11-19T08:58:00.000-08:00

SUZ ON HOLIDAY PARTIES

Ahh, it's finally here, the holiday season. Can you hear the sleigh bells ringing? Who cares about sleigh bells?!?!?! I want to hear the delightful 'clinky clinky' sound of toasting my champagne flute!

Wondering what to wear this year? Well, don't worry your stylish little head about it anymore. Suz is here with the perfect holiday party look for this holiday season 2010. (And I'm not talking about festive Christmas sweaters.)

There is only one thing you need to remember about holiday dressing this year: Sequins. Yes, that's right. SEQUINS! They are everywhere.

There are three main sequins pieces out right now. They come in all price points.

1.) Sequin tanks

Top left: Urban Outfitters, $39.00

Top Middle: Forever 21, $17.80

Middle: J.Crew, $69.50

MiddleLeft: Ann Taylor Loft: $69.50

Middle Right: Forever 21, $17.80

Bottom left: Forever 21, $19.80

2.) Sequin jackets/cardis

Left: Forever 21, $24.80

Middle: J.Crew, $128.00

Bottom left: Urban Outfitters, $79.00

Bottom Right: Forever 21, $24.80

3.) Sequin skirts

Top left: J.Crew, $385.00

Top middle: Gap, $49.50

Bottom left: J.Crew, $128

Bottom right: Forever 21, $17.80

How to ROCK this look?? Well, clearly you do NOT want to wear a sequin skirt with a sequin top and a sequin blazer/cardi. The trick is to pick one of the three and then build your look around that piece.

We'll start with the tank. I'll use my personal favorite, the J.Crew tank as an example.

First, decide whether you want to wear a skirt with tights, jeans or black pants. If you chose skirt, I would recommend a short black skirt with a higher waist. Being a Suz on Style maven I'm sure you ran out and bought the perfect skirt from Loft when I recommended buying it in August, right??? Remember this one from the post, "Suz on Shopping?" I'm sure you all own it in black as recommended. Oh, you don't? Well, that's OK. I have other similar options for you.

Left: Forever 21, $17.80

Middle: Old Navy, $25.00

Then pair it with either a black cardigan or black blazer. Top it off with tights and boots, flats or booties and you are ready to rock.

Top left: Forever 21, $24.80

Top middle: Gap, $98.00

Bottom left: J.Crew, $69.50

Bottom right: Loft, $49.50

You can also wear it with skinny jeans or black pants.

Left: Gap, $69.50

Right: Gap, $59.50

For the sequin blazer/cardi, my favorite is the Urban Outfitters cardi.

I would wear this with a plain tank or tee underneath and either wear it with skinny jeans, black skirt (see above) or black pants.

Left: Gap, $12.50

Right: Gap, $39.50

For the sequin skirt, my favorite is the Gap option.

Pair the skirt with a plain tank or tee and a blazer or cardi. You could also wear a warm wooly sweater.

If you are on a budget this season all you really need is to purchase one item. With these prices beginning at $17.80, you can't go wrong! You could buy the Forever 21 sequin tank for $17.80, the Old Navy skirt for $25.00 and the Forever 21 blazer for $24.80 and you would have the whole look for $67.60.

Dressing for the holidays should be fun. Put a little sparkle back in your wardrobe and buy some sequins this season!

'Til Next Time,

Stay Stylish!

Suz on Style Tips

2010-11-02T11:43:00.000-07:00

Many offices (including mine) have Casual Fridays. You would think it would be easy for the average person to figure out what is appropriate attire for Casual Friday and what is not. Unfortunately, many people take this to the extreme and wear wildly inappropriate clothing.

Here are Suz on Style Tips for Casual Friday:

1.) No jeans with holes, tears, or rips.

These are stylish, yes, but not appropriate for the office. Instead, opt for a pair with no holes, tears or rips in a dark wash. Stay away for jeggings (leggings made to look like jeans -- see previous post for rules on leggings) or very tight styles. A trouser style jean in a dark wash is a great choice. I recommend these from Loft.

2.) No sweatpants, yoga pants, pallazzo pants or any sort of pant that would be comfortable enough to wear to bed. It's the office people, not a couch!

Sorry, Britney! You are not office appropriate. Or any sort of appropriate in this outfit.

3.) No message tees. Message tees will make you seem juvenile when you are trying to portray that you are a serious employee. Opt instead for a smart sweater or blazer. I recommend this boyfriend blazer from The Gap for $98.00.

4.) No tennis shoes. Tennis shoes are inherently too casual. They are made for the gym, the street and the tennis court -- not the office. Instead, opt for flats, boots, brogues, or heels. I recommend sparkle flats (see previous post) to give your outfit that little bit of pizazz it needs.

5.) No flip-flops, tank-tops, shorts, mini-skirts, slippers, mid-section baring tops, cut-off jean shorts, sweatshirts, or cleavage-baring shirts. Basically, anything that shows too much leg, arm, stomach, boob or foot is not appropriate.

Now, here's a Suz on Style recommended Casual Friday outfit:

Start with a great pair of trouser jeans. Pair it with a feminine blouse and a boyfriend blazer. Add your sparkle flats and a fun scarf or necklace to top off the look. Change into some killer heels and viola!, you are ready for happy hour. Your perfect casual Friday look courtesy of Suz on Style. Your welcome.

'Til Next Time,

Stay Stylish!

Jeans: Loft

Top: J.Crew

Blazer: Gap

Flats: Banana Republic

Scarf: Banana Republic

Necklace: J.Crew

Suz on Style Tips

2010-10-06T12:12:00.000-07:00

Leggings. Love them or hate them, they are a huge trend right now. Here are my top 5 tips for rocking leggings.

Suz on Style's Tips for Wearing Leggings

Rule Number One: Leggings are not pants!! Let me repeat, LEGGINGS ARE NOT PANTS! Therefore, you must make sure to cover your rear-end. Sure, you can go alot shorter then you would if wearing tights or bare legged...but you still must cover your bum.

Lindsay! Put on some pants!!!

Rule Number Two: No capri leggings. Capri leggings will cut the look of your calf in half right at the meatiest part. This will make your legs look chunky and disrupt the long, lean line of your body.

Sorry Khole, but this is not a good look!

Rule Number Three: Make sure the fabric of your leggings is thick enough so when you bend and move you are not exposing any skin. Some of the cheaper leggings can be so thin that when you stretch the fabric at all it becomes almost see-through. That, combined with not covering your bum, could be a huge problem.

Rule Number Four: Stick to neutral shades. I know, I know...the pink, purple, leopard, zebra, metallic colored leggings are so cute. Maybe. Ask yourself, would I wear pink or leopard print pants? Probably not. So, do not wear them in leggings. Neutral shades = black, grey, brown, navy blue.

(Do not wear these!)

Rule Number Five: Only wear leggings with two kinds of shoes. Boots or flats. If you wear leggings with high heels, in my opinion, you will look like a street walker (especially if you are additionally violating either rule number one or rule number four). You run the risk of looking like you just came from pilates class or the gym if you wear your leggings with athletic shoes. Therefore, in my opinion, you can't go wrong with ballet flats (see sparkle flats post below) or boots.

(Look! Our bums are covered!)

Following the rules, and looking great!

'Til Next Time,
Stay Stylish!

Suz on Style Trend Alert!

2010-09-23T08:55:00.000-07:00

Red Alert! There is a massive shoe-trend and you would be remiss if you did not partake. Every woman can wear this trend and it is available in all price points. It's not only a fun trend, it can be worn with almost anything.

What is the trend you ask?

SPARKLE FLATS!

They are super cute and even the big shoe designers are showing them this fall. This includes the godmother of cute flats, Tory Burch, and the master of all shoes, Jimmy Choo. You can also find them for as cheap as $12.99. Read on and find your favorite pair.

Jimmy Choo: (left) These retail for $365.00 and can be found at Nordstroms.

Tory Burch: (below) This Tory Burch pair features the iconic Tory Burch emblem on the toe and retails for $235.00. They can be found at Nordstroms as well.

J.Crew offers this pair for $125.00.

This pair from Banana Republic (right) are $79.00.

Ann Taylor Loft (left) and Bandolino (right) offer extremely similar options for $59.50 and $69.00 respectively.

Steve Madden offers this pair that looks remarkably like the Jimmy Choos for only $59.00.

Lastly, Mossimo for Target (right) has an option for just $12.99!

With prices like these, how can you afford NOT to own a pair??

'Til Next Time,

Stay Stylish!

Suz on Style For Less

2010-09-20T14:06:00.000-07:00

The Challenge: Create a complete head-to-toe, on-trend look for under $100.00.
Challenge Accepted!
In fact, it is so easy, I can do it with pieces all from one store -- Old Navy. Plus, I'll even have money left over for accessories.

The Look: Western.

Pants: Leggings. They are cheap, on-trend and comfortable. $8.00.

Shirt: Plaid Shirt. The red print of this shirt is super cute. $22.50.

Boots: Slouchy cowboy boots. Faux leather. $39.50.

Total spent so far: $70.00.

For the remaining $30 there are some options:

Option One: faux fur. Only the diehard fashionistas

will probably feel comfortable in this trend, but for the price, why not give it a try?! Faux fur vest: $29.50.

Option Two: Accessories

Scarf: $12.50 and ring $10.00.

The great thing about all of these pieces is they are all extremely versatile. The leggings are a must-have in every girls wardrobe. The plaid shirt can be worn with jeans or under sweaters. The boots are a great option with skirts or jeans. Even the faux fur vest could be worn over almost anything. Have fun with the trends -- just don't spend a fortune on them...they won't be en vogue for long. Save the money for your investment pieces.

'Til Next Time,

Stay Stylish!

Suz on Stylish Gifts

2010-09-16T10:16:00.000-07:00

Do you ever need a gift for a friend, but have no idea what to get them? Suz has two words for you: Erin. Gallagher.
Erin Gallagher specializes in design-your-own jewelry. There are several options for the stones and the chains. If you design in the store, you can even pick the actual stone that will be used on your item.
A friend of mine recently turned 30 and we designed a necklace for her from Erin Gallagher. We chose the 'Ginger' necklace with blue topaz and aquamarine stones with the 'silver sattelite' chain (left). It was the perfect gift. She loved it and it was more thoughtful than the usual gift because we were able to design the necklace ourselves. The staff was extremely helpful and friendly and the prices are definitely reasonable for the product you recieve.

They also have beautiful pieces designed by the staff at Erin Gallagher. My favorites are the 'Catherine' (below, right), the Emma (below, middle) and the 'Sophie' (below, left).

EG also has a whole line of jewelry for brides and bridesmaids and will host jewelry parties for you and your friends.

Erin Gallagher is located in Lincoln Park at 1013 W Webster near the corner of Sheffield and Webster. They have a great website where you can shop and design your own at http://www.egjewelry.com/.

'Til Next Time,

Stay Stylish!

Suz on Fashion and the Law

2010-09-10T08:07:00.000-07:00

My two worlds are literally colliding and I couldn't be happier. Fordham Law School is launching it's "Fashion Law Institute" this fall. It is the first law school to offer a fashion law institute and is the first law school to offer courses in fashion law for it's law students.

The Fashion Law Institute was created in conjunction with the Council of Fashion Designers of America and it's President, Diane Von Furstenberg (i.e. the godmother of the wrap dress). While there are no 'majors' in law school, students at Fordham will be able to take classes focusing on aspects of the law that affect the fashion industry including, fashion law and finance, fashion ethics, fashion retail law and fashion law practicum.

You lawyers out there...are you ready for the best part? Not only will the Institute offer public seminar series for design and legal professionals, as well as a Summer Intensive course open to degree and non-degree students, but the institute will also be holding an annual symposium and other seminars and events offering....wait for it....wait for it..... Continuing Legal Education credits!

An opportunity to gain CLE credits while learning about fashion law in NYC?!?! Where do I sign up?

For more information check out: http://law.fordham.edu/fashion-law-institute/fashionlaw.htm

Photos: Left, Susan Scafidi, Fashion Law Institute Director; Right, Diane Von Furstenberg

'Til Next Time,

Stay Stylish!

Suz on Reese's Style for Less

2010-09-07T13:09:00.000-07:00

I love Reese Witherspoon's casual chic style. She always looks comfortable, cute and classic. Here are some of my favorite recent Reese looks and how you can wear them for less.

This first look is great for summer. It also is showcasing the shorts trend. If you have great legs, show them off! These shorts from J.Crew are on sale for $29.99. Pair it with a plain navy long sleeved tee with a white tank-top underneath and, Viola!, you are wearing Reese's outfit.This long sleeved tank is also from J.Crew and retails for $24.50 or 2 for $35.

This next look (left) is also fairly easy to replicate. I love the nod to Reese's southern upbringing with her fun cowboy boots. All you need here is a fun, cotton skirt, a tank or tee shirt, a long cardigan and some cowboy boots. The skirt (below) is from J.Crew and is on sale for $39.99. The boots are from a great brand, Frye. They make high-quality leather boots that will last a lifetime. These are the "Billy Vintage" and retail for $268. You can find them on piperlime.com. The long cardigan is from Ann Taylor loft and comes in seven fun colors for $49.50. Loftonline.com.

This third look I really love. It's the perfect hot, stylish, casual summer day look. I think I did a great job finding an almost identical skirt. This skirt is from a website called, GoJane.com, and retails for $19.60! Steal. The tank top is from J.Crew and is $18 or two for $30. The sandals are from Michael Antonio and are available on Piperlime.com for $29.99. The panama hat is from J.Crew (again) and retails for $58.

The fourth and final look is a great way casual way to wear stripes. I have a couple options both from J.Crew for the top. The first is $118 and is a classic from a company called, Saint James (sold on jcrew.com). The second shirt is also from J.Crew and retails for $42.50. Finally, pair it with a great pair of skinny jeans (I recommend the 'always skinny' from Gap for $69.50) and a cute pair of pointy-toed black flats (these are from Nine West and retail for $69) and you're rockin' Reese's look!

'Til next time,

Stay Stylish!

Suz on Suggestions from Readers

2010-09-02T11:50:00.000-07:00

Thank you to blog reader, Melissa, for your suggestions on more posts regarding, 'what to pack.' Melissa asked whether there were cheap options for easy travel dresses and whether there are any business suits available that will not wrinkle. Great questions, Melissa!

Dresses:

When shopping for a dress to either travel in or pack, you want to make sure the fabric is either a jersey blend or has some spandex in it. Jersey can be literally thrown in a ball in your suitcase and will come out looking wrinkle free. For winter, a wool sweater dress is another good option.

This dress (left) is from Banana Republic and retails for $98.00. I would not classify this as a 'cheap' option. However, the cost-per-use ratio of a dress like this is very low. (Cost-per-use ratio means the cost divided by the total number of times you wear the piece of clothing. If you spend $20 on a dress and only wear it two times then it cost you $10/wear. If you spend $100 on a great dress that you really love and you wear it 10 times, then it cost you the same amount as the $20 dress or $10/wear.) The reason this dress is a great option lies in it's versatility. You can where it almost anytime of year to almost any occasion. You can dress it up for a night out with fun, statement jewelry (see photo, left) and yet it would be completely appropriate for the office with more conservative jewelry and shoes. For winter you can wear this with tights and boots, booties, flats or heels. This dress is great for traveling because it can take you from day to night and anywhere in between. The wrap shape of this dress is flattering on almost all body types. This dress is a viscose/spandex blend. Viscose is a new fabric and is used to make rayon.

The next option is from Old Navy (right) and retails for $29.50. A much cheaper option. The fabric is cotton jersey -- perfect for travel. I would recommend pairing this dress with leggings, boots and a statement necklace for fall. You might also want to try cinching the waist with a belt.

The next two options (left) are both from J.Crew.

The black dress is currently on sale for $99.99 marked down from $198. This dress is a matte jersey fabric -- perfect for travel. Again, a bit expensive. I would again have to state that the cost-per-wear ratio for this dress will be low. This dress is another example of a dress that can easily take you from brunch to late-night dancing. The faux wrap style of this dress is ultra-flattering on almost any body type. It also cinches at the waist, showing off your most slender part making you appear thinner.

This "shadow" colored dress is currently on sale for $75 marked down from $90. This dress is a viscose jersey fabric. Again, a great option for travel. I would not recommend this dress for anyone with a fuller chest or broad shoulders. The ruffles around the bust and shoulders will add volume, making you appear larger than you are. This is a great option for women who are looking for some enhancement in that area.

Suits

Finding suits that are immune to wrinkling is practically impossible. I would recommend looking for fabrics that include a percentage of spandex. Other than that, ask your hotel for a steamer. :)

J.Crew has an entire line of "Stretch Wool" suiting.

Here are some tips on finding the perfect suit:
1. If you are at all busty, make sure the jacket has 2 or 3 buttons. A one button jacket is only suitable for those ladies with a less substantial bosom. If you are busty and you wear a one button jacket it will appear when you button the jacket that you are spilling out of the top.

2. A perfect fitting jacket sleeve will hit directly at the base thumb knuckle. A perfect fitting pant length is for the pant to cover the top of your shoe but not the toe. A perfect fitting skirt will hit just above or at the knee.

3. When buying a suit, if there is an option for both the skirt and the pants, buy them both. This will allow you to mix-and-match and you will have so many more options. Also, break the pieces up and wear them with different separates to create new outfits.

4. When buying a jacket make sure to try it on with a sweater underneath. You want to make sure it will fit over all your tops and not be too snug.

Thank you Melissa for the post suggestions and for reading!!

'Til next time,

Stay Stylish!

Suz on Self-Promotion

2010-09-02T11:45:00.001-07:00

Check out my article in Chicago Lawyer Magazine's September issue!!

http://www.chicagolawyermagazine.com/Articles/2010/09/01/win-your-suit.aspx

Suz On Singles

2010-08-31T14:45:00.000-07:00

Check out Chicago Magazine's July Top Singles Issue featuring blog follower, Christine Nielsen. Want to see more? You know you do....

http://www.chicagomag.com/Chicago-Magazine/July-2010/Singles-2010-Christine-Nielsen/

By the way....love the outfit Christine! Suz on Style gives it 5 stillettos.

'Til Next Time,
Stay Stylish!

Suz on Sushi

2010-08-31T13:56:00.000-07:00

Coast Sushi.

If you've never been, you must try it. MUST! It's my favorite spot for sushi, wine drinking and catching up with friends.

Let me break it down for you:

The Sushi -- Suz's Favorite Rolls

Sunrise -- delicious tuna with mango and mint

Popper -- another delicious roll with jalapeno and tempura

White Dragon -- shrimp with a delicious sauce (I'm not sure what's in it -- Secret Sauce!)

Crab Cake Appetizer -- served on sticks with a mango salsa

Crunchy, spicy tuna roll

Super white tuna ginger roll -- delicious tuna with ginger and tobiko on top

It's a BYOB

Sure there's a "rule" that you can only have one bottle for every two people...but seriously, I don't think they've ever enforced that rule on us. Maybe we are sneaky? Yea...about as sneaky Blago trying to sell Obama's senate seat.

The Atmosphere

It's always happening in there. Sure, that can be a 'con' becuase you can NEVER get a reservation for anytime other than 5:30 or 10:30p.m., but you can always come in and wait for a table. Bonus -- while you wait you can drink. The decor is Asian modern, not old-school Asian with strange Buddhas and arm waving cat statutes everywhere. It is always packed and the people there are ready to have a good time. It's infectious.

Coast Sushi

www.coastsushibar.com

2045 North Damen Avenue

Chicago, IL 60647-4526

(773) 235-5775

'Til Next Time,

Stay Stylish!

Suz on Set

2010-08-19T09:58:00.000-07:00

As you may already know, Gossip Girl was one of my favorite TV show. The plots have seemed to go awry since the kids left prepschool for college, however it is still a fantastic show to watch for the fashions.
For a sneak peak at the fashion for this upcoming season, InStyle.com has a post online in the "What's Right Now" section. I suggest you check it out.

http://news.instyle.com/2010/08/18/gossip-girls-get-citrus-colored-chic/

'Til Next Time,
Stay Stylish

Suz on Shopping

2010-08-19T08:30:00.001-07:00

I am obsessed with the adorable high-waisted short skirts popping-up everywhere for Fall. Currently, my favorite look is this one from Club Monaco. As CM is across the street from my house, I thought I would take a pic of the look displayed in their window on my way to work this morning.

I love the juxtaposition of the black and gold sparkly skirt with the striped nautical t-shirt and the anorak jacket.
The skirt retails for $198 (I think) and the t-shirt is $39.

I love this look, however, I realize it may be something that only you brave fashionistas out there will try and pull off.

Here is how Suz On Style would style this outfit for us regular people:

I would purchase the t-shirt. It's only $39 and you can wear it with jeans, skirts, suits -- just about anything. And the striped nautical look is so hot right now.

For the skirt, I would recommend purchasing this similar style in black from Ann Taylor Loft to save on price. Plus, the fact that this skirt is not sequined means it will be more versatile for day and night. Don't worry, it comes in black -- I promise. Plus, it's on sale right now for $29.99.

I would wear a boyfriend long cardigan over the t-shirt. Again, Loft has a great example out this season in a bevy of colors. This sweater is $49.50. You can also pair this skirt with just about any top. Just be careful not to show too much boob. This skirt is very short and will show a lot of leg. If you then also show a lot of boob, you will end up looking a little bit too Pammy Anderson.

Depending on wear you are taking this outfit, you could wear tights and booties, flats, gladiator sandals, boots, over-the-knee-boots or brogues.

It's your perfect fall look. You're welcome.

'Til Next Time,
Stay Stylish!

Suz On Suits

2010-08-19T08:19:00.000-07:00

As an attorney by trade, it is crucial that I wear a suit or at least a suit jacket/blazer for court appearances. Unfortunately, I also live in Chicago where the heat and humidity in the summer can be sweltering. Suz’s solution: Wear separates! Mix and match you jackets/blazers with skirts and wear a lightweight tank, cami or shell underneath. This will allow you to take the blazer/jacket off before/after court so your skin can breathe. Here are a couple of my favorite outfits as describe above from my own closet:

Blazer: Forever 21

Skirt: Ann Taylor Loft

Tank: J.Crew

Necklace: Ann Taylor

Blazer: Forever 21

Tank: Banana Republic

Skirt: Ann Taylor Loft

Necklace: Forever 21

'Til Next Time

Stay Stylish!

Suz On Shopping

2010-07-30T08:41:00.001-07:00

Lately, I have been feeling the shopping itch. I have been trying to curb the itch for new fall clothes by buying things for my apartment. I think if one more box arrives at the apartment my boyfriend is going to take one of them and start living in it on the corner. So, in lieu of actually purchasing anything for fall yet since it is still way too hot here in Chicago, I will blog about my fall obsessions 2010. But Suz, you might ask, you already did a post about the hot trends for fall. Yes, that is correct. This blog, however, is about the things I am actually contemplating purchasing.

1. Brogues.

My very stylish friend, Melissa and I started talking about these cute shoes a month of so ago and now I can’t get them out of my head. I think they are a great summer-into-fall piece. You can wear them now with cute shorts or a skirt and then in the fall with jeans or tights. My favs are the Camden Leather Brogues from JCrew.

2. Plaid Schoolboy Shirts.

Again, I love the herringbone plaid shirt from JCrew. The print is classic and the updated cut is made to look less boxy then the ones we wore in '94.

3. Over the knee boots.

My favorite is from Joie. But they are very expensive at $545. There are cute, less expensive options at Nine West and Ann Taylor Loft. This pair is from Loft. These will look great with a cute skirt or a fun sweater dress.

4. Cropped Leather Jacket in fall hues. Belfast for JCrew (I know, I am a JCrew-aholic) would be my dream jacket. However, it is over $1,200.00.

This cheaper option at Urban Outfitters is 'only' $250. Plus, the fact that it is a "Members Only" ups the hipster quotient.

5. Updated anorak jacket.

You can find these almost anywhere. Ann Taylor loft has an army green one on sale right now for $39.99. JCrew has many ranging in price from $98-$148. Urban Outfitters also has a few options for around $78.

This one is from JCrew and is the Solid Ripstop Field Jacket. Pair it with a sparkly top or skirt for an updated look.

Til next time,

Stay Stylish!