Second City Style Fashion Blog - Style, Luxury, Beauty & Shopping

Fall ’09 Trend: Adding That Extra Twinkling Touch To Any Outfit

 

Mary-Kate Olsen and Carrie Underwood in colorful-striped, sequined dresses

Victoria Beckham and Mischa Barton in sequin leggings
 

When walking into a room we all want to be noticed; all eyes looking at us and all the mouths of the room moving, wording out our names. I hope that it is not because you are dragging toilet paper attached to your shoe, but rather for your radiantly shining apparel. From shoes to baggy blazers, sequins have left Broadway and entered celebrity wardrobes like those of Mary-Kate Olsen, Fergie, Mischa Barton and Carrie Underwood.

This oversized-glittered ornament literally lights up the room; reflecting radiance, it enforces recognition of your presence. Now that you have the room’s attention do not ruin it by tripping, instead use this confidence-booster to your advantage. Allow the glistens to help exemplify your equally immaculate persona and vivacity. Dress it down with a simpler accenting piece, like a headband or a pair of sequined sneakers, or go dramatic with a pair of sequin leggings or oversized, sequined blazer.

Do it yourself:

If you could have cut shapes out in your kindergarten class, then you most definitely can create your own looks with this bedazzled material. Go to a local fabric store, like Hancock Fabrics, and grab however many yards you need of a sequined fabric. For instance, to make a vest, lay the fabric out and mentally outline the cut of a vest, or lay a vest that you own next to it, and start snipping as if you were in kindergarten. Just remember the two circles for arm slots and now you are up-to-date with this trend! A beginner’s task could be creating a headband. At the fabric store, grab an elastic-sequined trim, cut off however much you need and sew the ends together. How much easier could it get?

Challenge your mind to new possibilities. With this affordable, stylish fabric, you can experiment as much as your creative heart desires!

Rag & Bone Soiree Sequin Vest, $335

Velvet Sabella Sequin Leggings, $174

 

Gryphon Sequin Smoking Jacket, $690

Bop Bijoux Sequin Headband, $48

 
DV by Dolce Vita ‘Fire’ Pump, $89.95

Dolce&Gabbana Sequin Stripe Ballerina Flat, $495
 

Forever 21 Sequined Sneaker, $10.80

Check this out: Hancock Fabrics American Knit Sequin Fabric, comes in the colors: Teal, Red, Royal, Silver, Crystal Blue, Purple and Gold for $4.19 a yard.

Photo Source: Time Inc., Team Sugar

-Heather Youkhana

Our Sacred Stylish Treasure: Leather

Since reintroduced to this magical material of leather that we kept in the back of our closets for far too long, our hearts began to pulsate once again. We can now take a deep breath with ease, possibly sucking in some of the dust it collected hung in the back for so long.

It is like getting a new paintbrush that will revivify your old collection with a creative, innovative edge. Beginning to create new works of art, every stroke we make with its bristles will result in perfection. Leather is our new brush, and with it we can create the masterpiece we fashion-lovers are more familiar with: outfits.

From the alluring, fitted jackets and electric pants—like those of Grease’s Sandy Olsson—to the rugged, buckled boots and the immensely detailed shoulder bags, leather has sensationalized trend-setting celebrity closets. It seems as if there is no wrong way to drape yourself in this material, whether it is the combination of boots, pants and jackets, like Rihanna and Lindsay Lohan, or simply choosing one piece for accenting, like Ashley Olsen and Kirsten Dunst. 

As soon as you slip your arms through a leather jacket and stand in front of the mirror, you feel yourself becoming edgy and daring, without even saying a word. You suddenly toughen up, pull your shoulders back, and know you are making a bold statement. It is the magic of leather that keeps us fashionistas forever noticeable. So, with using this new stylistic paintbrush revamp your wardrobe with attitude and pizazz.

Photos: People, justjared

—Heather Youkhana

Trends: Tie-dye for Spring 2010

Flora Nikrooz’s silk charmeuse robe and nightgown. WWD Photo

Natori's robe and gown. WWD Photo

The groovy, organic mix of colors were seen almost every foot walked in the streets back in the ‘60s; push forward to spring of 2010 and this trend will continue to live on exhibiting peace, love and happiness but in a more private sense. Intimates have been ignored for far too long as being a simple outfit to throw on while dreaming off, who knows, possibly of a cuter outfit; however, this spring will exemplify tunics, bras, robes, nightgowns and more in this more playfully innocent light. Lines like Cosabella, Donna Karan, Flora Nikrooz and Natori have begun to involve the unrefined flow of colors to their lines.

Time to Think Out of the Box!

There is no need for anyone to spend boat-loads of money on trends, when in reality we can make them ourselves. Who doesn’t love the feeling of wearing one of your own genius creations? It is like transforming into a fashion designer with each and every project you take on, so start to challenge your concealed talent! 

Tie-dye apparel, accessories and intimates will still be praised this upcoming spring so now is the time to start making pieces to complete the harmonious outfits. Take a visit to any low-priced store, like Wal-Mart or Target, and purchase anything that’s white and you think will come in handy. It could range from a scarf, purse or headband, to an over-sized t-shirt, sundress, or elastic bra. While you are there get a tie-dye kit and combine any colors your heart desires, remember this is your creation! If you would like to go a step further, you can buy a pack of iron-on transparencies—found at stores like Target or Office Max—and print out a black peace sign from your computer, iron it onto your shirt and then tie-dye. Another addition before you put this creation down, is to cut the bottom of the article of clothing into fringes and knot the ends of each. If not that, go to any fabric store, purchase a fringe trim and sew it onto the clothing or accessory. These steps can be done on anything you could imagine! Just go out, get your supplies and apply these simple guidelines. 

— Heather Youkhana
Source: WWD

For tie-dye inspiration pieces shop Shop Bop and Nordstrom

Celebrity Style. Fall 2009 Denim Trends

 

Who has the time to find a lion to claw and destroy their jeans? Well, revise your schedule and make time! This trend is rapidly making its way into celebrities closets’ like Audrina Patridge, Taylor Momsen and Megan Fox. This pair of jeans with a baggy tank top can fulfill a day’s work of errands, but for a night out slip on a dramatic pair of heels and fitted blazer.
Forever 21 Frayed Front Skinny Jean, $24.80

 
Apparently I should have not gotten mad at my mom when she accidentally bleached my jeans, but rather have thanked her for keeping me up-to-date with this fall’s trends. Celebrities like Victoria Beckham, Nicole Richie, Gwen Stefani and Fergie have been rocking this splattered-bleach look, accompanied by some discrete rips throughout. To dress this pair of jeans up, wear a fitted blazer as Beckham did, or to conquer an edgy look, throw on a leather vest with a dramatic belt and a pair of heeled boots. For causal-wear you can sport a comfortable, fitted sweater finished off with combat boots.
J Brand Bleached Ripped Jeans, $220

Combine jeans with leggings and you get jeggings! This oh, so comfortable gear allows you to go out looking chic, but feeling like you are in a pair of pajama pants. I don’t see any negatives in that! Fashionistas Beyonce, Whitney Port and Kate Bosworth all support this magic trick and with resembling the classic, skinny jeans, jeggings can be worn with virtually anything!
Rich & Skinny ‘Legacy’ Stretch Denim Leggings, $145

 

A casually sexy, but most of all COMFORTABLE trend is the boyfriend-jeans. You can rely on this look for any laid-back activities you have planned for the day. Celebrities like Katie Holmes, Sarah Jessica Parker, Reese Witherspoon and Jessica Alba are fans of the unfitted jeans. Tucking a baggy t-shirt into a belt captures the goal of simplicity, but don’t forget to accent with accessories!
Forever 21 Frayed Boyfriend Jean, $26.90

 

The high-waist, boyfriend-inspired cut-offs have captivated celebrities like Shenae Grimes, Jennifer Aniston and Pink. Topping them with an oversized sweater or cardigan makes for a cozy look; however, tucking in a bold, printed t-shirt with a pair of black opaque tights that make its way into knee-length, flat boots also does the trick.
Urban Outfitters Renewal Destroyed Denim Shorts, $28

 

The classic, skinny jean has made its way into our closets and we are forever grateful. We can fully rely on this style to never let us down because it completes any outfit. Blake Lively, Sienna Miller and Kim Kardashian are among the many to agree. Go casual or dressy, with this type of jeans the sky is the limit!
A’Gaci Short Basic Skinny, $22.50

 
At some point in time we have all fantasized of riding a motorcycle and portraying that rebellious persona. Well now is our time to play dress-up and turn our fantasies into realities! The motorcycle jeans are the new craze of this fall’s denim-wear. Rihanna, Cameron Diaz and Renee Zellweger all play into this seditious role with the rugged jeans. Get into full character and top this motorcycle trend with a fitted, leather jacket or vest.
Vintage1 Jeans Pratts Motostreet Motocycle Skinny Jeans in Bondage, $198

 —Heather Youkhana

Photo sources: splendicity, hipgiirlie, denimtherapy, justfred

Fall '09 Trends: Fringe Benefits

  

Channel your inner cowgirl and saddle up to one of the season's hottest trends with long layers of fringe. Over the years, these tassels of fabric have gotten quite the bad rap. But today's edgy, updated versions would make anyone forget any former images of hippies, pro wrestlers, or rodeo clowns. Fringe has become the new accent to project a style that's equal parts rock and glam. The loose threads on a swingy top or flapper-inspired dress beg for a sexy romp or shimmy. Fringed jewelry drips down the skin decadently, and a sturdy leather bag with trailing tassels is the ultimate statement in chic. If you want to keep your tassels on your toes—fringed boots, heels, and booties are the definition of 'made for walkin'. Fringed items demand movement to show themselves off so twist and turn the day away and surely heads will follow. The only thing required to rock out this ruffled look is a playful attitude and the ability to have fun. Enjoy!

1. Mink Pink Fringe Benefits Vest $112.50

2. Alice + Olivia Francesca Feather Fringe Dress, $465

3. Alexandra Neel Milkshake Suede Booties with Fringe, $890

4. Tory Burch Tory Flapper Hobo, $465

5. Christian Louboutin Deva 120 Suede Fringed Boots, $1,095

6. ATOS LOMBARDINI, $132

7. Free People Oasis Blue Linen-cotton Fringe Detail Top, $69

8. MICHAEL Michael Kors Black Pebble Leather Fringe Gloves, $89

9. Landver Fringe Necklace, $90

10. Thayer Fringe Top, $130.90

11. DSQUARED2, $450

12. Bop Basics Fringe Scarf, $58

-Alia Rajput

Image Layout: Minette Higden

Fashion Trends. 'Purple Reigns!'

 

As sad we all are to see the summer palette of breezy pastels and punchy neons leave us for another year, it's almost just as thrilling to usher in the fall-friendly spectrum of jewel tones. And this year, one hue seems to stand a cut above the rest—purple! The color once associated with the royalty, purple has already nabbed its status as the must have nail color for fall. Now apparel and accessories have caught on as purples have begun showing up in coveted collections in all of it's regal splendor. Choose any shade to fit your fancy—a tuxedo-themed top in vibrant grape, a luxe berry-colored scarf, or a gorgeous leather skirt in a deeply rich plum. Sweeten up any autumn ensemble with a violet satin bag or show stopping orchid and fuschia heels. Indulge freely in the possibility of purple, both on its own or paired with neutrals for a vibrant jolt of color. As you can see, there are more than enough choices to outfit anyone fit for a queen. 

1. Charlotte Olympia Maxine Sandals, $825

2. Marc Jacobs Rad Satin Bag, Was $595 Now $285.60

3. 7 For All Mankind Echo Needle Heel Boots, $475

4. Burberry Check Print Wool & Leather Gloves, $175

5. DANNIJO Ora Necklace, $370

6. bebe Snake Buckle Belt, $39

7. Cara Accessories Cameo & Chain Ribbon Pin, $38

8. T-Bags Embroidered Jersey Halter Top, $220

9. Alice + Olivia Oversized Collar Coat, $495

10. Diane von Furstenberg Tenin Tiered Dress, $425

11. ADAM Bias Cut Cowl Neck Top in Freesia, $110

12. Members Only Faux Fur Vest, $148

13. Akris Leather A-Line Skirt, $1,750

-Alia Rajput

Image Layout: Minette Higden

Celebrity Trends. The Bold and The Blue-tiful.

I scoped this Tetris dress on Fashion Week Daily's Chic Report and I thought, "My, everyone's wearing prints these days, even when they're inspired by early 90's video games!"

And it's true, poppy prints are just the right way to dress up an outfit, without having to fawn over accessories or the right shoes.  And it's true, while futuristic space age sheen in definitely in style for Fall, so is dark floral, neon patterns and brushstroke designs. 

Recently, I spied The Coveted's head style blogger Jennina Tamm Jacob interviewed for the blog of our favorite designer mix and match clothing store Shopbop and obsessed over her bluish water scenic patterned shift dress. But it wasn't until I saw massive prints on the likes celeb fashionistas from Charlize Theron to Jessica Alba  that I thought, "Wow, this really IS in trend." And I wasn't wrong.

But I digress. I got caught up in prints, but forgot to mention the bruises.  And we're not talking black eyes here.  Black and blues are the poppy prints of choice for fall and more than one celeb wore them in the same week. Check it out.

Diane Kruger

The actress is a magnificent blue print wonder in a bold Balanciaga patterned dress, polka dot tights and black Manolo Blahnik peeptoes. 

Kristen Bell

She's black and blue, but this actress looks far from bruised.  A beautiful printed strapless Oscar de La Renta frock with patterned blue florals and ankle strap Jimmy Choos.  

Ali Larter

Another blue floral frock and this one just as exquisite. And we quite like the effect of the punchy print and the romantic ribbon-laced sandals. 

Source: Fashion Week Daily, Shopbop, People StyleWatch

Photos: People

--Simona Kogan

Fall Accessories. Put A Ring On It.

One of the easiest ways to provide a quick punch of panache to any fall item that's borderline blah is with a bold and funky cocktail ring. Virtually impossible to go out of style, a cocktail ring makes a bold statement with just a sweep of the finger. The options are virtually limitless when choosing some finger candy, with styles ranging from retro to modern, gaudy to subdued, or romantic to rock . And with the price tag dangling from most of these styles, you can afford to stock up on one for every day of the week, every mood, or even every digit. Few rules go along with sporting this type of bling, so pile them on at your leisure. And if anyone makes fun of you for your hardware-heavy hands, they can also serve nicely as makeshift brass knuckles. Just be careful not to damage the ring.

Shopping Guide:

1. Large Amethyst Cabachon Ring, $75

2. Forever 21 Rhinestone Shell Ring, $5.80

3. Blu Bijoux Turquoise Concentric Ovals Cocktail Ring, $20

4. Marni Studded bone ring, $295

5. KARA by Kara Ross Onyx Pyramid Ring, $285

6. Rachel Leigh Gumball Ring, $68

7. Mars and Valentine Amaranth Glass Flower Ring, $198

8. Kenneth Jay Lane Hammered Ring, $36

9. Mesi Jilly Shell & Silver Onyx Ring, $900

10. Monica Vinader Aqua stone ring, $225

11. Betsey Johnson Two Spiders Ring, $55

12. Kenneth Jay Lane Lapis Dream Cocktail Ring, $165

13. Bebe Round Metal Ring, $24

14. Juicy Couture Geo Ring, $88

Image Layout: Minette Higden
-Alia Rajput

Fall Accessories. Off The Cuff!

Anyone who's ever wanted to delve beyond their normal comfort zone of style needs to invest in a solid, statement-making cuff. This serious chunk of arm candy can lend itself to just about any look, making it no surprise that it continues to reign as one of the season's hottest accessories. Channel your inner goddess with a an airy entanglement of delicate metal; Summon an old Hollywood siren with elaborate, jewel-encrusted styles that sparkle at every angle; or find the rock star within by donning a thick leather shape anchored with tough hardware. A perfectly placed cuff can dress up an otherwise casual ensemble, or provide an extra dose of pizzazz for a glamorous night out. Try a few of these bold picks on for size and you may find the edge of your comfort zone is farther than you once thought.

Shopping Guide:

1. Monica Vinader Medina cuff, $1,065

2. Style Naturale Gold Branch Stretch Cuff, $160

3. Kenneth Jay Lane Feather Cuff, $440

4. Forever 21, Rhinestone Magnetic Bracelet, $14.80

5. Kate Spade 'les fleurs' cuff bracelet, $125

6. Nordstrom Wide Cuff Bracelet, $58

7. Goldtone Snake Cuff Bracelet, $175

8. Firefly Cuff, $245

9. Kate Spade 'disco' link bracelet, $225

10. Alice + Olivia Leather Cuff, $58

11. Roberto Cavalli Studded leather cuff, $735

Image Layout: Minette Higden

-Alia Rajput

Celebrity Trends. Stripe Show.

Black and white stripes are striking and still in style, as proved by the celebs that have been strutting them to Fashion Week and fabulous events. Wide, small, tight, and tall—yet still figure flattering! Mix them with textures, wear them as accessories, and flaunt them in a dress. 

Just make sure you keep it all in line, like the celebs below:

Shenae Grimes

Shenae Grimes looks princess chic in this striped balloon dress and ankle strap Mary-Janes. Who knew a 90210 babe could look so sweet.

Ivana Trump

At a Dior show from Fashion Weeks past, Ivana wears hers around her neck in fur that look classic but not overdone.  The perfect accent to her stone-colored suit.

Diane von Furstenberg

At the Alexander Wang show from his spring collection showcased in NY, the wrap dress queen wraps hers around an all-black ensemble for a classic DVF look


Pooja Kumar

The Celestino line by Sergio Guadarrama is known for his head-turning gowns and actress Pooja Kumar made him proud in her modern take on an Indian-inspired dress with wide stripes and pink at the edges.

Mena Suvari

To tone down stripes that are too statement making, layer them under a tough leather vest like Mena Suvari at the G Star show for NY Fashion Week Spring '10.

Alexa Chung

Alexa Chung loves Luella and her stripes following in the footsteps of Mena Suvari by layering hers under a cute romper with flats at Luella's Spring '10 show in London.

Gabrielle Union

Horizontal stripes can be flattering? Yes they can if you wear them like Gabriella Union at the Tracey Reese show this past September.


Kelly Osbourne

I'm pleased that big stripes look wonderful on Kelly Osbourne because I'm not so sure most can pull them off in a gown without looking wide. She looks splendid.

Photos: Wireimage, People

--Simona Kogan