The Latest Scoop from StyleBakery.com

What skirt lengths are appropriate for the office?

Tue, 21 May 2013 10:30:58 -0500

Q. I've recently lost a lot of weight and don't feel like I know appropriate dress lengths anymore. What is acceptable to wear to work? Is a couple of inches above the knee ok? Could you show me where a skirt/dress should hit with a picture?

A. Congrats on your weight loss and your newfound confidence! The basic rule for dress and skirt length for the office is to keep your hem at or just above the knee -- about 2 inches above the knee at the shortest length. Of course, all office dress codes are different; a conservative office might require skirts to be knee length or longer, while a casual or creative office might permit skirts that are shorter than a couple inches above the knee. If you're unsure of what is permitted at work, take a look at some of your superiors to see what skirt lengths they tend to wear.

Below are 5 skirts of different lengths, starting on the left from below the knee and gradually moving upward to several inches above the knee (mid-thigh) at the right. Consider this a sliding scale from conservative to casual/creative offices. If your office falls somewhere in the middle (as most do), then your safest skirt length is 2 inches above the knee or longer.

If your office does allow shorter skirts, you should still always strive to look professional. Be sure to do a test before leaving your house where you sit and bend over to ensure that your skirt doesn't ride up too high. Also, you should balance a shorter length skirt with conservative shoes and top at the office. A tank top, miniskirt and strappy heels is never ok, even in the most casual office.

conservative

casual / creative

Christopher Blue - Parker Pencil Skirt in Soho Wash (Soho Wash) - Apparel $150.00 - 6pm.com

DKNYC Lace Pencil Skirt $99.00 - Nordstrom

MICHAEL Michael Kors - Wave Shibori Pencil Skirt (Vintage Cadet) - Apparel $89.50 - Zappos

Heather Pencil Skirt $132.00 - shopbop.com

Current/elliott The Pencil Skirt $138.00 - shopbop.com

China Glaze Tranzitions are way too much fun for nails

Tue, 21 May 2013 06:41:08 -0500

I am always slightly envious of my friends who shell out money to get cool nail art done on their manicures. I do my own manicures and I'm not THAT good. So I am a happy nail enthusiast when a company makes nail design (even in the most simplistic styles) easier for me -- China Glaze did just that with their Tranzitions polishes. These cool polishes appear to be a regular polish in one pretty shade, but when you swipe a top coat over them they change to a totally different color. Imagine the possibilities. Like, two days into your manicure you can completely change the color without repainting them entirely. Or, you can do fun things like "tranzition" just the tips, add stripes, or paint polka dots. I think they're pretty much brilliant!

You can buy China Glaze Tranzitions for $4.99 at ulta.com.

Image: FashionPolish.com

Today's online sample sales: Elizabeth and James, Ali Ro, Nicole Miller and more

Tue, 21 May 2013 01:10:40 -0500

don't miss: Elizabeth and James at HauteLook, Ali Ro at Gilt, Nicole Miller at MyHabit

RueLaLa (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)

Beach Prep 101: Find Your Summer-Perfect Towel, Plan a Baby Shower: From Party Favors to Decor, exhale mind body spa, From the Reserve: Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & More, From the Reserve: Louis Vuitton & More for Men, Tibi, Born Women, Born Men, L*Space, TOYWATCH, LeSportsac, Kitchen Assistants, Check: Gadgets for Every Task, Hot Spot: Istanbul & Cappadocia, Comfortably Cool: Percale Sheets & Duvets, A Warm Welcome: Mats for the Front Door, Stovetop Power Players: Cookware Essentials, Ready in Five: Girls' Easy-On Dresses & Shoes, ALEX Toys, Z.E.N. Cleanse: Redeem Online, The Shoe It List: 6 Styles for Every Closet

ideeli (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
catherine malandrino, donna ricco, invicta, la rochelle, nyla

HauteLook (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)

RED Valentino & BOSS Green, Elizabeth and James, Spring Knits Featuring Line & Cullen, Foley + Corinna, Joelle Hawkens & More, adidas SLVR Men's Apparel, Emporio Armani Underwear, Matisse, ISO Beauty, Elizabeth and James Eyewear, Marc Bouwer Dresses, N' Luxe Jewelry Blowout, Phyto Hair Care, Mia, Nearly Nude, Summer Finds: Sandals and Pumps, Bottoms Out Swim, Paulinie, Squirtini Bikini, Bold & Bright: Jelly Beans Shoes, Maker's Mark Sterling Dipped Rocks Set Of 4, Calvin Klein Footwear

BeyondTheRack (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)
Tip Top Style, Shades of Summer, Bright Lights, Papi, Breezy Nights, AZI Denim, Ugg, Alexander McQueen, Tribal Sportswear

MyHabit (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
DDF Skin Care, Nicole Miller, Berge Handbags, Juma Scarves, Higher Ground: Summer Wedges, Sweet Pea, Taara Jewelry, Tata Harper Natural Skincare

Gilt (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
Estate Watches, Blush Lingerie, Ali Ro, NuFace, Fine Jewelry by Stephen Webster, Theyskens' Theory, Citrus Punch, Summer's Best Shoes, Balmain Sunglasses, Central Park West

Audrey Brooke Haleen Wedges

Tue, 21 May 2013 01:00:21 -0500

There's nothing we love more than a pair of comfortable wedges. Designed by Audrey Brooke, these definitely fit the bill. They're available in four neutral colors, includes this pair-with-anything nude. Accented by gold hardware, they're emblematic of chic off-duty style and will add significant height to your frame, too.

$59.95 at dsw.com

Who wore it best? Carolina Herrera's printed Spring 2013 gown

Tue, 21 May 2013 01:00:00 -0500

Carolina Herrera's Spring 2013 collection was full of abstract prints and one of her more colorful gowns has already been worn by two celebs. Ali Larter selected the standout belted one shoulder piece when she attended the LA Art Show opening night premiere party back in January. An Edie Parker pearlescent clutch completed the look. Earlier this month, Kylie Minogue also opted for the subtly ruffled gown at the EIF Women's Cancer Research Fund's An Unforgettable Evening 2013. The singer switched out the runway's light blue belt for a striking orange one.

We love the delicate, flowing nature of this gown and think Ali made the right call by keeping that light blue belt. Do you agree or do you like Kylie's take on the Spring 2013 look?

Ali Larter photo via Starpulse.com, Kylie Minogue photo via Styleite.com

Today's online sample sales: French Connection, AG Jeans, Marni and more

Mon, 20 May 2013 01:14:30 -0500

don't miss: French Connection at ideeli, AG Jeans at HauteLook, Marni at MyHabit

RueLaLa (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)

Dresses. Everywhere., Franco Sarto, XCVI, Calyx Flowers: Redeem Online, Elliott Lucca, The Country Kitchen: Rustic Furniture & Decor, MPG, The Self-Sufficient Bath: Easy Storage & Towels, Razor Rides Kids' Scooters, Skates, & More, The Preppy Playroom: Kids' Colorful Decor, Prepster in Training: Kids' Clothing & Accessories, Rest Easy: Neutral-Hued Bedroom Furniture - 3PM ET, Let the Breeze In: Ethereal Curtains & Rods - 3PM ET, Light & Airy: The Summer Bedding Turnover - 3PM ET

ideeli (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
darling, french connection, kitchenaid, marc new york, pharmaskincare, red carpet style

HauteLook (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)

AG Jeans, B Brian Atwood, Trina Turk, Trina Turk Swimwear, Laura Geller Beauty, AG Jeans Men, Valentino Sunglasses, Chan Luu, New Balance Performance, Burberry Fragrances, Stella & Jamie, Three Dots, Angel Dear, I Heart Kenneth Jay Lane, Kenneth Jay Lane Watches, Stuart Weitzman Kids, Never Ordinary Vintage Market Decor, Spa Towels by NineSpace, Bed|Stu Men's Shoes, Go Max, Charles Jourdan Shoes, Storage Solutions: Kitchen Carts, Spring Finds: Sandals & More, Charles Jourdan Handbags, Truly Me By Hannah Banana, Vicomte A., Urban Expressions

BeyondTheRack (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)
Time to Impress, Summer Shades, Weekend Wedges, Ready. Set. Summer, Point Zero, Coffee Talk, Kipling, Two Lips, Slim Me Shapewear, Top Prints

MyHabit (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
Cargo Cosmetics, Anti-Aging Skincare, Marni Summer Preview, Giorgio Armani Sunglasses, Hare & Hart Handbags, Charles By Charles David, Statement Jewelry From Sparkling Sage, Holmes & Yang, Sanaa Hyder Travel Bags, Oscar De La Renta Handbags, Tod's Shoes, Designer Belts, Repetto

Gilt (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
DL 1961, Luxe Bedding Featuring Frette, Cut25, Privileged Jewelry, Escada, L.A.M.B., The Letter, Prada Shoes, Handbags & Apparel, Pour La Victoire Handbags

Under $100: colorful summery bags for day and night

Mon, 20 May 2013 01:00:58 -0500

Jessica Simpson - Cinch It Small Bucket (Lemon) - Bags and Luggage $78.00 - Zappos

Steven by Steve Madden 'Antigua' Shopper $78.00 - Nordstrom

Bcaicos $98.00 - Steve Madden

Rafe Playa Ikat Jute Shopper Bag $95.00 - Neiman Marcus

Expressions NYC Faux Leather Envelope Clutch $44.00 - Nordstrom

Bensimon Multicolor Shoulder Bag $90.00 - Nordstrom

Maison scotch Ikat Embroidered Summer Clutch $75.00 - shopbop.com

Beaded Ikat Clutch $49.00 - Arden B

IIIBeCa by Joy Gryson 'Church Street' Envelope Crossbody Bag $98.00 - Nordstrom

Ann Taylor Cap Sleeve Lace Dress

Mon, 20 May 2013 01:00:09 -0500

The fact that it's dress season only encourages us to cram our wardrobes full of pretty pieces as the weather continues to heat up. On the radar right now is this essential lace dress that's guaranteed to brighten up any day with its juicy guava hue. Coupled with a flattering fit and gorgeous all-over lace that's somehow appropriate day and night, this detailed dress is one of the season's best.

$158 at anntaylor.com

Beauty crush: Jennifer Lawrence's tousled beach hair at Cannes Film Festival

Mon, 20 May 2013 01:00:00 -0500

With a very successful award season under her belt, it seems to been Jennifer Lawrence's hair that has been taking center stage lately. After cutting her long hair to a shoulder-length bob (the J. Lob if you will) about a month ago, the new look has given the actress a chance to show that fun "trip while getting an Oscar" side that we all seem to love about her.

This weekend took J. Lob to the French Riviera both literally and figuratively with her tousled beachy waves at the premiere of "Jimmy P: Psychotherapy of a Plains Indian" at Cannes Film Festival. J. Law's bright lip color and bronzed cheeks finished off this perfectly polished beach look that we're totally stealing for upcoming summer parties.

Red carpet: Glamour rules over in Cannes

Mon, 20 May 2013 01:00:00 -0500

The 66th Annual Cannes International Film Festival kicked off late last week and several stars have already brought quite a bit of glamour to the famed red carpet. Sweeping trains, exceptional embellishments and statement jewelry all made notable appearances at the various premieres. Christian Dior, Chanel and Zuhair Murad have been well-represented at the festival, but at least one celeb opted for a lesser-known designer. Here's an overview of some of the standout gowns from Cannes so far.

Nicole Kidman stunned in this colorful Christian Dior Spring 2013 Couture embroidered gown at the premiere of The Great Gatsby. The fashion house was also behind her bright coral pumps. It was a white Roberto Cavalli creation with gold neckline for Cindy Crawford at the premiere. She polished off her look with Chopard jewelry. Model Cara Delevingne attended the festival's showing of The Great Gatsby in a black lace Burberry gown. She completed her look with Chopard jewels.

There were also a lot of stars at the Jimmy P. (Psychotherapy of a Plains Indian) premiere. Jennifer Lawrence embraced the black and white trend with this Christian Dior Fall 2013 gown accented by Chopard gems along with a Charlotte Olympia clutch. Cheryl Cole represented L'Oréal in grand fashion at the festival decked out in this burgundy Zuhair Murad embellished gown. A slightly undone braided hairstyle wrapped up her look. Doutzen Kroes was hard to miss at the premiere in a white hot Calvin Klein Collection gown with open back. She capped off her look with coordinating Calvin Klein sandals.

Emma Watson helped unveil her film, The Bling Ring, over in Cannes outfitted in Chanel. Her sleek Spring 2013 Couture gown featured a black bodice and white silk skirt. Sanchita was the source of Freida Pinto's dazzling silver gown at the premiere of Jeune et Jolie. The actress accessorized with a clutch by Swarovski and a pair of Jimmy Choo Lance sandals. Eva Longoria made an appearance at the Le Passé premiere in a dramatic embellished Zuhair Murad Spring 2013 Couture gown. Damiani diamond earrings and Casadei Blade sandals rounded out the look.

Picking a favorite from this impressive group is definitely a challenge, but we were blown away by both Nicole's Christian Dior and Freida's sparkling Sanchita design. Which star gets your vote for best dressed?

Current obsession: cutout brogues

Mon, 20 May 2013 01:00:00 -0500

These cut out brogues by British label J Shoes are the ultimate every day shoe for summer. Add a menswear-inspired detail to a dress or pair them with stylish shorts.

J Shoes Imogene Cutout Brogues - $150.00 at Anthropologie

This Week's Online Sample Sales

Sun, 19 May 2013 11:02:47 -0500

May 20 - May 24

the ultimate guide to the best members-only online sample sales
(not a member? use the links below for instant free membership!)

Monday

don't miss: French Connection at ideeli, AG Jeans at HauteLook, Marni at MyHabit

RueLaLa (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)

ideeli (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
darling, french connection, kitchenaid, marc new york, pharmaskincare, red carpet style

HauteLook (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)

BeyondTheRack (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)
Time to Impress, Summer Shades, Weekend Wedges, Ready. Set. Summer, Point Zero, Coffee Talk, Kipling, Two Lips, Slim Me Shapewear, Top Prints

Gilt (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
DL 1961, Luxe Bedding Featuring Frette, Cut25, Privileged Jewelry, Escada, L.A.M.B., The Letter, Prada Shoes, Handbags & Apparel, Pour La Victoire Handbags

Tuesday

don't miss: Elizabeth and James at HauteLook, Ali Ro at Gilt, Nicole Miller at MyHabit

RueLaLa (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)

ideeli (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
catherine malandrino, donna ricco, invicta, la rochelle, nyla

HauteLook (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)

BeyondTheRack (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)
Tip Top Style, Shades of Summer, Bright Lights, Papi, Breezy Nights, AZI Denim, Ugg, Alexander McQueen, Tribal Sportswear

MyHabit (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
DDF Skin Care, Nicole Miller, Berge Handbags, Juma Scarves, Higher Ground: Summer Wedges, Sweet Pea, Taara Jewelry, Tata Harper Natural Skincare

Wednesday

don't miss: Sam Edelman at HauteLook, DDF at MyHabit, Kate Spade at Gilt

RueLaLa (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)

vineyard vines Women, vineyard vines Men, Yummie Tummie by Heather Thomson, The Fashion Rush, Birkenstock Women, Men, & Kids, mophie, Hello, Statement-Maker: Distinct Jewelry & Watches, Heys USA, Ben's Garden, Yoana Baraschi, Check-In Time: Hotel-Inspired Sheets & Duvet Covers, The Kids' Summer Uniform: Shorts & Tees, Pretty Little Kitchen Linens: Tea Towels & Aprons, Educational Insights, 3 Marthas Baby Gifts, Wild Horse Winery & Vineyards, Lilly Pulitzer Gifts- 3PM ET

ideeli (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
betsey johnson, bleulab, dress the part, samsonite

HauteLook (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)

Sam Edelman, Hurley, Love Stitch, Sergio Rossi, Original Penguin, Winter Kate, PUMA Women's Activewear, Designer Estate Watches, Judith Ripka, Lauren Moshi, Sam Edelman Handbags, Original Penguin Footwear, Original Penguin Hats, Vintage Flair, Gallery Chandeliers, Jessica Simpson Luggage, Father's Day Fragrances, Nickel Skincare For Men, Bathtime To Bedtime, Gee Wawa, Pink & Pepper, Brights by Olivia Welles, Cloud B, Mia Belle Baby, Baby Aspen Gifts, Fuji Camera, Balenciaga, Balmain & More: Luxury Sunglasses, SPY Sunglasses

BeyondTheRack (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)
Jessica Simpson, Havaianas, Everyday Intimates, Wow Couture, Emilie M, Make an Entrance, Miz Mooz, Designer Luggage, Sweet On Summer, Boker and Laila

MyHabit (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
DDF Skincare, Addiction Nouvelle Lingerie, Coralia Leets Jewelry, Lloyd Shoes of Germany, Claudia Ciuti, Belle & Bloom Handbags, Valentino Scarves, Tart Collections, Mandarina Duck Luggage, Ronen Chen, Gregory Parkinson

Gilt (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
Kate Spade New York: Shoes, Apparel, Sunglasses, Wallets, Jewelry and more, Jack Spade

Thursday

don't miss: STAY TUNED

RueLaLa (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)

10 Ways to Wear: The Maxi, Miraclesuit & Magicsuit by Miraclesuit Swimwear, Hickey Freeman, Argento Vivo, Arche, Kick It: Men's Sneakers, Boat Shoes, & More, She's Got Good Jeans: Women's Denim, Luxe Little Extras: Featuring Versace for Men, Omaha Steaks: Redeem Online, Sofitel New York - New York, NY, Geox Kids, Big Buddha, Man vs. Mountain: Hiking Gear & Clothing, The Gracious Houseguest: Gifts to Say Thanks, Make Up the Beds: Linens for Milder Nights, Madame Alexander, Add Some Fun: Kids' Decor Under $100, Bellino Fine Linens, Kosta Boda & Orrefors: Glassblown Art by Price, Summer-House Prep: What to Have on Hand, From Italy with Love: TOD's, Gucci, FENDI, & More - 3PM Day Part

ideeli (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
andrew stevens, lily, lucky and coco, ryu

HauteLook (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)

PUMA Shoes & Accessories, LORAC, StriVectin, PUMA Men's Shoes, American Vintage, Eva Franco, Perfect Metals By Rivka Friedman, PUMA Womens Activewear, Shop The Trend: Wedge Sneakers, Our Top 30 Rug Picks For The Season, PUMA Mens Apparel, PUMA Kids' Shoes, Steve Madden Handbags, Double Zero, Cult Of Individuality, Storage Solutions: Media & TV Stands, Wilouby Gifts, More For Less: Jewelry Sets, Dirty Dolls, C'est Chouette, L'amour & Angel Shoes, Lucky Bums: Camp Essentials, Great Gift: Akribos Men's Watch, AudioSnax X-1 Bluetooth Speaker, Cloud B

BeyondTheRack (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)
stay tuned...

MyHabit (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
stay tuned...

Gilt (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
stay tuned...

Friday

don't miss: STAY TUNED

RueLaLa (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)

Robert Graham Men, Robert Graham Women, From the Reserve: Watches by Rolex & Cartier, Bold & Bright: Women's Style by Color, C&C California, Mark + James by Badgley Mischka, Sanita, Swim Laps: Women's Competitive Swimsuits, S'mores, Please: Kids' Camping Gear, Restock & Re-Do: Indoor/Outdoor Rugs Under $300 - 3PM ET, Restock & Re-Do: Sheet Sets Under $100 - 3PM ET, Restock & Re-Do: Duvet Sets Under $100 - 3PM ET, Restock & Re-Do: Lighting Under $250 - 3PM ET, Restock & Re-Do: Furniture Under $500 - 3PM ET

ideeli (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
stay tuned...

HauteLook (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)
stay tuned...

BeyondTheRack (boutiques open at 11:00 am EST)
stay tuned...

MyHabit (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
stay tuned...

Gilt (boutiques open at 12:00 pm EST)
stay tuned...

Best of the week: StyleBakery's top 10 features, week ending May 17

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:05:37 -0500

1. Under $100: 18 chic sandals to shop now - Treat yourself to a new pair of sandals (or two).

2. Under $100: 10 casual dresses you'll live in all summer long - One-piece dressing at its finest.

3. Under $100: 10 spring dresses to wear to work - There's nothing easier than slipping on a chic summer dress on a hot morning.

4. Spring outfit: chambray shirt + printed pants - Make this your spring uniform.

5. Snag this trend for less: tribal-inspired statement necklaces - Our finds are all under $60.

6. The 6 hottest pedicure colors this season - Hello sandal season, we've missed you!

7. Victoria Beckham really loves her Chloé platform wedges - Check out our cheap chic lookalike!

8. Copy Maria Menounos' half and half hairstyle - We're digging the 80s flashback.

9. 5 mascaras under $10: get eye-catching lashes without breaking the bank - Great lashes for less.

10. 5 moisturizers under $20 - Save your skin and your wallet.

Kate Spade Saturday Wanderer Sunnies

Fri, 17 May 2013 01:00:51 -0500

Achieve instant It Girl status by simply slipping on these fabulous sunnies from the ever-burgeoning Kate Spade Saturday collection. Available in four colors, including this sleek and sexy rose gold.

$60 at saturday.com