“Oh my God!” cried the pretty little fashionista.

“What’s wrong?” someone replied.

“Something’s wrong with my vision. I see dots. Dots everywhere. Spots and dots all over the place.” she said while rubbing her eyes.

“Oh…” the by-stander so humbly and politely smiled while reassuring her. “It’s not you. It’s fashion. You’re not seeing dots. They exist. It’s all an explosion, going on for the past decades, but it used to be quite big this summer. As I see it (and you obviously) it seems to never go away. Not even in winter. Polka Dots. You gotta love them, right?”

The one print everyone loves, from kindergarten to rocking chair and pipe (borrowed that one from Alex Turner), Polka Dots are that trend that will never go away because it has it all: class, elegance, retro vintage twist, preppy style, it’s super feminine and playful. It mixes with any look and adds a bit of all, or one of the above to your style. Besides, the dots that made our fashionista crazy come in tons of sizes & colors, as if to quench our spots thirst, that’s been going on since before Marilyn Monroe days. It does not make it go away, it makes it worse, obliging us to drape ourselves in polka dots every season now. For what it’s worth, this has led to us mastering the art of mismatched prints, among which Polka Dots reign. After Louis Vuitton teamed up with Kusama, in 2012, and Selfridges turned into some fairly tale gone mad world in the most exquisite, beautiful and loud way possible (trust me, you have never seen so many polka dots in one place. It was as if a convention of the dots was taking place), I thought “that’s it, this should quiet us down on the polka dots thing for sometime.” I mean if you keep having deserts all your life, you’re bound to reach that point when you hate cake. That’s exactly what did not happen with the polka dots. 2013 Spring and Summer came, and the dots were there. You may have missed them, but I guarantee they were there. We’re just taking this splashed spots print for granted now, and I seriously see nothing wrong with our ignorance. Not when they’ve been resting on our clothes since forever. Do I sound like I hate them? Probably. But I don’t. I like them. Some I like less. Some I love. Time to come clean now!!! So… there’s rarely a trend out there that I do not love or embrace (sure I get bored with it just as quick, but at least I’m hooked on it in the worst kinda way at the beginning), yet when it comes to these little innocent dots I get very complicated. It is just fashion after all, yet I turn into the worst picky bitch out there, who finds it impossible to find the perfect dots in a sea of dots. Much like finding the perfect man. ”He does not exist!!! scream all the happy women, as do all the ones draped in dots, looking fabulous as they all ask me the same question: “Exactly what polka dots are yo hoping to find. What’s wrong with these?” Nothing.

And while I did find the perfect lucky man… I can’t, for the life of me, see what the fuss is all about with the polka dots. Can’t find that one polka dot to make me completely happy printed.

Anyway, moving on from the stupid metaphor, I’m not even gonna make more of a full out of myself and ask how much of a likeness you take in this trend (I am aware the whole world adores dots), what I’m gonna do is tell you, which polka dots look the best. Not that anyone gives a crap, but whatev.

There are 2 Polka Dots Styles that just melt my heart:

1. Eva Mendes style. She’s the epitome of retro-chic and mixing vintage style with luxurious pieces in the most feminine sexy & effortless way possible. This retro chic polka dots style is definitely my favorite. Tiny spots are always resting on the most flirtatious and flowy fabrics, usually in nudes, black or navy, looking exquisite on retro style over-the-knee-length, nipped-at-the-waist dresses, loose skirts, shirts & blouses. It’s very Sophia Loren 60s style. Such outfits look absolutely fantastic with classic heels (although even brogues or ballet flats will do), wavy hairstyles, cat-eye sunglasses, and maybe a trench or a boyfriend blazer on top. 2. Alexa Chung style. There was a time when she was obsessed with polka dots and did them in so many ways, yet all had one thing in common – she was always a bit edgy in her choices. While her looks were kinda retro as well (same chiffon dresses or shirts in tiny dots and black and white) she always added something to break the classic line, and balance the look making it super rocknroll meets sophisticated chick. A leather jacket, red lips, some cool bag, boyfriend blazers, tennis shoes, flats & messy hair, always did the trick. They do say opposites attract. So she mixed them and looked fantastic. I’m always going on about effing all rules and what others think, so when it comes to polka dots, I may have some silly guidelines I feel obliged to live by, but you… you go wild. Mix them. With anything. Go for massive dots if you feel like it. Go for neon colors, for crazy shades. Truth is, polka dots do look fantastic the more you experiment with them, so what the hell, right?

Let’s see what the world would look like if we all had dots: I am telling you, we’d all feel like in a musical, where every Dot had a name and was a character. And Dancing with the Stars would turn into Dancing With The Dots.

What?! A dose of dots will do this to you.

Boys… it’s been a long time since we’ve talked about you. Here, that is. When it comes to 2013 – 2014 Autumn & Winter there are a few things men have got to do, fashion wise: boots, coats & layers. Basically nothing’s new and it’s no rocket science that in the cold season human nature requires you to wear thicker clothes such as the ones above. Yet… it’s not what you wear, but HOW you wear it that counts. 

All men are fashion wise somewhere in between a business-casual-cool style. What this season does though, is challenge men to be edgier, to experiment more with fashion & looks, and not be boring. How to do this? Focus on some details: funky socks, rolled up jeans, trousers in boots, printed scarves, hats/beanies, a few bling (earrings, rings, necklaces. Keep it simple boys!), and layering jackets. 

For example if you love your leather jacket a little too much to part from it until next spring, wear it over some T-shirt or shirt, and top it all with your coat. A cool beanie, some shades and Chelsea or motorcycle boots, or even tennis shoes, depending on your look – will do the trick. You a business lad? Tired of donning the same boring grey suit every day, from behind that boring grey desk? Ding! Ding! Pay attention: thanks to Mad Man series, all those 50′s, 60′s men styles are back. I’ve got one word for you: DAPPER style! 

You can wear a 3 piece suit, cause vests are really cool, and you can wear it in so many ways it’s fucking great! Channel your inner gangster persona with a classic look, go edgy/rocknroll with some grungy details (a denim shirt underneath, leather, cool boots). Or you may choose to emulate those Italian boys from Fashion Week. You know, those wearing plaid, printed or colored blazers, funky combinations (parka coat with a suit, bomber jacket with some luxurious 3 ensemble). 

What to wear to work?
I think the key element to a guy’s great style this season is BOOTS! As long as they’re higher than the ankles, and can keep your trousers fashionably tucked in, or rolled… they are a staple this winter. Any color, any style, vintage or brand new, with or without laces – you need to have at least a pair. Nothing is more irresistible than a guy feeling and looking cool in his shoes (literally) while keeping warm from the blizzard cold with his hands in his coat’s pockets and collar popped up. 

Coats men should wear… Jackets will always be in from denim to leather to military, and they always build a very cool casual style. 

Jackets styles… Also, a big hit and massive trend in men’s fashion is the beard. Scruffy looks are IN (so hot!), whether you like them or not, the question is though, how scruffy is too scruffy? 

Until you think about that one… have a look… 

Never thought I’d say this but I’m pretty ready to trade in my mini skirt hems for longer ones, like over-the-knees, half-calves ones. Am I really getting that old? Or am I just a fashion victim? Unhappy with either possibilities, but forced to pick one, I’m gonna go with the latter, just cause my spirit hasn’t aged a day since I was 20. Fashion has this power over me to just throw out the window my delusional self assertion of being a mature consistent coherent woman. While in life I try to keep myself maniac-free, inhibiting my getting-bored-too-soon impulses (or my ADD), when it comes to fashion I’m the exact opposite. Does this make me mad? Well no. Other things do, but that’s another story. It actually makes me quite sane, style wise, cause fashion is an inconsistent bitch who one day is praising mini skirts and the next is all about longer hems. So I, therefore, am only in tune with its brilliant inconsistencies.

But just when you thought you can’t get this little bitch all figured out, I dawns on you: it’s a cycle. It’s all a stylish un-harmful karma of what goes around comes around. Only in fashion, old and new/past and present live well side by side with the help of reinvention.According to the world of sartorialists, in 2013 – 2014 Autumn & Winter this is what it’s all about. The return of the past with 2 major trends: PUNK & 40s/50s skirts style. Dita Von Teese’s burlesque stubbornness was bound to have a major impact at some point, right?

FULL MIDI SKIRTS are massive this season, urging us all to channel our fairytale-meets-Grace-Kelly persona. These skirts that look like beautiful explosions resting on our lower body scream exaggerated beauty. Whether in toned down hues or bold neon shades, prints or patterns these full shapes make us all look like retro dolls in a very modern sophisticated way. But how easy is pulling off a full skirt look? I say pretty NOT easy at all. First of all there’s the unlikeness one might take in this very style (I was guilty as charged, but not anymore as I so egocentrically professed in the beginning), which, when resolved, forces you to face a bigger problem: HOW TO STYLE a FULL MIDI Skirt? And avoid looking frumpy or swallowed up into a big ball of fabric.

The one thing that comes to our rescue is none other than good ol’ BALACE, that I, more often than not, tell it to go fuck itself. So apparently the key to nailing this retro chic housewife look is keeping your top as tiny and fitted as you can, and your shoes as posh as possible. Sexy heels, pointed toes, sandals and pumps – it’s your time to shine! When donning the full midi skirt you may want to to keep it classy all the way and pair it with one of those tiny sweaters. Or, you may just as well make use of today’s debauchery and wear a plain damn hot bustier. Or cropped top.  Can’t believe I’m actually gonna say this again, but you know what? To hell with balance on this one too, I mean the way this hot mess of a skirt looks with a slightly oversized shirt tucked in, or with anything a few sizes up (T-shirt, sweatshirt, blouse) is pretty irresistible. Why is that, I wonder? I think it all has to do with the nipped waist. Basically as long as you make sure to show off your waist I’m sure you can pull off any top, be it fitted or not. If however you’re not such a Dita Von Teese kinda gal (I know I’m not. Love her. Adore her style, it’s just not for me.) why not mix this retro skirt style with the other big trend of the season? PUNK, and its versions. Leather jackets, graphic tees, boots, tennis shoes etc… It does look amazing! Or… if a ball of fabric, though exquisitely made, is still too much for you, but you adore the midi style, you can still do a version of the full skirt. PLEATED MIDI Skirt is the way to go. Remember those 70s & 80s dresses and skirts our moms used to wear? That’s the one. My mom looked just fabulous in hers.

Something about that longer hem, flowy fabric just brushing off your calves as you make your way through the crowd of the town, on your way to work, or some posh new place to meet with your girls. A trench coat or long fur coat on top (like Carrie Bradshaw used to wear on her dates with Mr. Big) & some super hot heels will complete this fab look. What do you think ladies? Let’s think about it over the weekend xoxo

After what was supposed to be a lazy weekend, another working week kicks in, and this only means, more stress at the office, crispy cold mornings, long days and the ever present question: “What to wear to work today.” It’s autumn, so this means 2 things: coats & layers. No cold season will ever be complete without the Coat Trend talk. Ever.

And it seems to me, no other season has been so hooked up and crazy packed with coats, as the 2013 – 2014 Autumn & Winter. All is in, and fashion took a seat back to style. There is no coat design to not wear this time around, it’s all a matter of styling & reinventing them. So it comes as no surprise that alongside those (still in) military coats, black elegant or grungy styles, some new and quite surprising coats made their way in.

The pink coat, which we discussed a while ago (click here for more) & The CAMEL COAT. Reminiscent of those 1970′s and ’80′s, this coat is the definition of classic elegance, and luxurious refinement in a very understated yet rich way. It sort of inspires us to think of those rich beautiful celebrities all covered up in expensive wool & cashmere while making their way through a crowd of paparazzi.

The past of the Camel Coat: 

One of the most iconic camel coats was designed in 1981 by Maxmara (above) and ever-since it has remained its most sold and famous piece. So no wonder this year is its comeback. The return of the camel coat is just this – a fabulous comeback of the classic style, which, true, might’ve never really left the rails, yet it hasn’t held the spotlight either in quite sometime.

2013 Autumn celebrates this nude/brownish version of the coat in every possible style. Man inspired designs, oversized, super tailored, structured, slouchy, broad shoulders, plunging necklines, very long or short, fitted or not, double breasted, trench inspired, blazer inspired - ALL is IN. Yet I think no other coat style embodies the camel coat’s elegance and refinement quite as the belted style does. A bit oversized, collar popped, sleeves rolled up, calves length, perfect for crispy mornings, and able to cover up any outfit with the most effortless classy sophistication possible. The CAMEL COAT looks amazing over blazers, suits, silky tops, or even jumpers, denim shirts, dresses. It goes with any style from laid back to sporty, to casual, to business.

Though styling it with any color used to be sort of tricky, today more and more fashionsiats seem to not give a crap whether camel looks good or not with say… red, or green, or prints, or all colors in one outfit. Much to our surprise the-camel-and-the-anything combination looks not good, but fabulous. So in case you’re off to buy a new coat and have no idea what to get – I think, gifting yourself with a camel coat is a massive style investment. Time only testifies to it never going out of fashion and women with a penchant for dressing up only prove how versatile and tremendously elegant, refined and classy such a coat is.

To get some inspiration… let’s scroll through these pics  

This cool jacket – once only an aviator’s attire – has slowly but surely crawled into our lives, nipped, tucked and completely reinvented as if to make up for all the lost time when it was hanging forgotten in retired pilots’ wardrobes. It was probably in one of these wardrobes that some quirky fashionsta/designer rediscovered it and thought ‘what if?’

So now, the BOMBER JACKET so luxuriously and fashionably hangs off sexy backs of 18 year olds, channeling Rihanna or Miley Cyrus, and 30 something editors, stylists, buyers or simple pretty socialites. No longer belonging only to aviators, The BOMBER JACKET might actually be that one thing to replace the staples we’ve grown tired of. Or it could just come in handy on those days when even the coolest leather jacket appears so boring. It does give a slight effortless sporty edge, in a very un-fashionable fashion to its sartorialist wearers.

This amazing jacket has completely slipped my mind when, a few weeks ago, I was bitching about the ubiquity of the leather jacket and the lack of other options, hence my post on blazers, which, will of course remain classic staples, but on the edgy side… what have we got? Ding! Ding! It’s the BOMBER! It’s first major comeback on the runway was almost 2 years ago, when it was also the Varsity Jacket, its twin, that made a style splash. The Varsity (click here for more) is the Letterman Jacket, an attire of high-school & college students. It’s made out of 2 fabrics (cotton on the back, and leather on sleeves), unlike the Bomber which is made of one, and though fitted at the writs, neck and waist, its collar is fold-able, unlike the bomber’s which, due to aviators profession had to be as simple as possible. Enough Wikipedia info… moving on to how the Bomber became so cool. Step by step it caught up with 1st celebs, then off duty models, then bloggers, then retail chains and now everyone else. Who’s to blame for the BOMBER Jacket Trend? Aside from us (the gurus of street fashion and style, pulling it off everyday on buses and tubes in the most eclectic and coolest fashion mixes ever) I would give some credits to designers as well.

Today the Bomber Jacket is all grown up and a far cry from its initial restricted lines and fabrics. What it kept intact was its cinched wrists, waist and neck design, but its fabric play and experimentation is a heaven for all fashion lovers. From luxurious expensive silky textures to leather, lace, sheer fabrics, simple jersey, or anything actually – this jacket can transform into anything. It can be a classy-edgy blazer. A leather jacket. A sporty outwear. A cardigan. The best ones are those eclectic styles, that have the cut of the sporty bomber jacket, but the fabric of some posh thing, more expensive than your monthly rent. It’s those ones that go best with heels, skirts, sexy strappy stiletto sandals, red lips or even cocktail dresses. Also the printed ones, or the different fabrics insertions some have, make the Bomber Jacket the IT jacket of 2013 fall. It can be worn underneath a thicker jacket, thus acting like a blazer or cardigan at the office, giving extra personality to your outfit, or it can be made of thick fabric and can be your urban-luxe jacket for freezing autumn and winter days. Contrary to belief it does go with ANYTHING and gives a bit of quirkiness to any style. Mixing and clashing styles and clothes is today’s thing so no wonder the BOMBER JACKET in printed luxurious silk looks great with cutoffs and sneakers, and the cotton or jersey style is fabulous against Louboutins, sequined tops, and expensive skirts.

For a bit of glamour and urban vibe mix this jacket with red lips, and cool accessories. In other words, be a girly girl in a man inspired jacket. Confusion is sexy! Truth is, the Bomber is a great jacket alternative. Having come a long way from the strict fashions of aviators, the bomber might just be our new staple, that we so desperately run to when leather becomes too much (read boring). Besides, its millions of styles and designs makes it incredibly easy for us to play and experiment with infinite bomber looks.

More street style…  Fashion sometimes means getting bored of something too soon and replacing it with God knows what old thing or funky weird item, so I’m thinking owning at least one bomber jacket (in cotton of silk) might just be a late fall investment. Hey, you could probably pull it off next Spring as well, and if worse comes to worse and it becomes dated in 6 months, relax… it’ll probably make a new comeback in say… 5 years?

What do you think?

Yeah we’re one month away from the winter holidays, but nothing tops being prepared and chilling over hot chocolates while the rest of the world goes mad over the same dilemma “What gifts to get friends and family for Christmas?”… I know I sound very unrealistic, so feel free to roll your eyes all you want, after all, what’s a Christmas without the panic & the frenzy of last minute shopping, right? Though I’m  clearly aware of the chaos that awaits I somehow always end up being a demented last minute frenetic holiday shopper, instead of learning my lesson once and for all, and prepaired in advance.

(Much like my trying to cut on sweets, you know? Damn right they’re bad for me, but no way in hell I can say ‘no’ to a delicious cake if it’s right in front of me. After I put it there. To test myself. Moral of the story: knowing the outcome does not necessarily mean changing something.) Yet it does imply our awareness, hence the hope that someday good will prevail, and we will not leave Christmas shopping for last minute. Promise?

Assuming we’re all in the same boat here, welcome to the next predicament: What To Buy? Even an add on Craiglist saying: In desperate need of Gift Ideas would not get us very far. Yet it’d get us one step closer to the victory of Christmas Shopping. Relax though, no need to resort to this. Unless you want to of course. Then it’s totally fine.

So let’s get down to business. I’ve always thought the best gift ideas are those involving accessories, pretty little fun things, that everyone (read especially young girls with a penchant for fashion, beauty & styling) loves and can never have too many. No wonder when I came across Claire’s Accessories I was literally teleported to this beauty &  accessories heaven I would’ve killed for in my high-school years (okay uni as well. hell, make that even late 20′s, as I confess I’m a total girly girl).

Tons, and I mean tons of amazing gift packages, Christmas gift ideas for both prepaired & last minute shoppers. From simple feminine cute accessories to BFFs charms, backpacks, fluffy pink slippers you never wanna take off, to more versatile grown-up-Christmas-gifts such as that posh golden boyfriend watch, makeup kits or nail polishes.

Here are a few gift ideas from Claire’s to get you thinking, as well as some street style for inspo… Claire’s Accessories Ear Cuffs, Earrings, Headbands, Watch:  You in the mood for some fun sweet Christmas gift to make your girlfriends laugh and have a good time? Claire’s got some great Christmas costume items that can give that razzmatazz to any outfit you’ll be wearing at your Christmas or New Year’s Eve party. No winter holidays will ever be complete without the glam & beauty that go with any Christmas look. From simple hair doughnut buns to big dramatic eyelashes – you’ve got it all at Claire’s. Make up looks for inspiration: Claire’s hair accessories & hair some hair inspiration: Claire’s nailart & some nail inspo: And if you think you’re throwing money down the drain for some silly sweet things that’ll only last one holiday… think again. Most of these gift ideas, thought bought under the Christmas excuse, can be damn well worn on a daily basis, throughout the whole year. Well maybe not the reindeer ears, but you know wheat I mean.

And if this ain’t so… no need to panic or break a bank. These pretty little gift ideas come in very affordable, so getting a fun one-holiday-affair-thing will be just that. A great gift to don one night at a Christmas party, while making a style & beauty statement.

Get the look here:

Claire’s Accessories shop | Facebook | Twitter

Aside from all the sartorial implications that come with 2013 (and the year prior and after it most likely) as being a borrowed-from-the-boys-looks phase in fashion, this post makes me think of 2 things. (a question and a personal statement).

note: scroll down if not in the mood for blogger-ramblings  

(1). I can’t help but wonder – as I jump to a more philosophical approach and question triggered by all the men’s fashion talk I’ve recently had – In 2013, is it still a man’s world? This once-so-true-phrase seems to have a tangent with today’s topic, only in regards to the word use, cause any associations and acquiescence to fashion is kinda irrelevant and actually quite inappropriate. Let’s face it: the world of fashion is dominated by women. Yet I can’t shake this question off. Do we, as women always feel the need to borrow from men, while bettering our craft at whatever it is we’re trying to top? 

(2). Since my post on men’s hairstyle has brought so much traffic (btw thank you all. truly appreciate it), and with it the inherent good and bad comments, it made me actually wonder for a second over a few details. Men actually do care about fashion but unlike women tend to fear labeling a bit too much. They’re certainly quite vocal & outspoken in their opinions yet not that kind on other people’s. Here I was thinking there was this thing called freedom of speech & blogs are personal insights,opinions, ideas free of the mandatory like or dislike. Hmmm. Silly me.

When a blogger says (as a form of speech perhaps. just sayin’) ‘all men should wear this & that’… hold on boys. Why the fucking drama? How come it’s OK for you to call me a retard and not for me to say ‘all men should get this cut’? Oh… wait. Perhaps the mind limitations have stopped a few from extrapolating this to ‘I think (as in my opinion) all men bla bla bla’. Or perhaps you feel objectified? Aww.

So much drama & controversy over this tiny 3 letter word ‘ALL’. We profess our love for all sorts of things these days, and I certainly do so on my blog, that’s the whole point of it: it’s real and personal, regardless if it has 0 or 1 mil hits. I’m no expert nor have I claimed to be, not in women’s fashion (this blog’s focus) much less in men’s, the reason for men posts being none other than my interest in a certain trend, social movement or my male friends asking me to write something for them. So, yes I can be wrong. Hell I am wrong probably more often than not, but as you hold the right to call a stranger by all sorts of names, I too hold the right to voice my ideas. Bloody hell!

For a Friday afternoon this has gotten way too serious, and while the sartorial/philosophical rambling from (1) could actually mean something if lingered upon more than a few lines and a few minutes, and I already killed (2) I say let’s fucking move on.  Be it a man’s or a woman’s world, or both in equal, when it comes to fashion, it doesn’t really matter. Dipping a bit into menswear can certainly have fantastic style outcomes for us ladies. From boyfriend blazers or jeans to oversized tops it was only a matter of time until we started walking in their shoes. Actually men-inspired shoes, to be more precise.

Today we talk OXFORDS. You know those professional laid back chic intellectual looking shoes original from Scotland & Ireland? Those too we borrowed from our lads if not for the chicness and bohemian sophistication in that very nonchalant basic way they exude, than for their comfort. Though it’s been said long long time ago, they were anything but comfortable.  Today they come in infinite styles & textures (leather, fabric, plastic) with 2013 fall’s biggest hit being the 2 toned oxford shoes. I know they’re anything but fresh when it comes to trends, but they’re always in a time loop it seems. Besides, they’re a great season transition shoe and why not possible to pull off even in the cold season with thick over-the-knee-socks or tights. However you look at this style, truth is, it’s the best cluster of masculine, feminine, chic, laid back, basic, put together & casual and does really work with everything: skirts, dresses, trousers, jeans for either work or not. A massive hit in 2013 Spring & Summer, Oxford Shoes still hold the shoe spotlight for this fall. And though we might be heading fast into winter, we’ll probably be wearing these next Summer as well, and I think throughout winter too. They may not be as hot as pumps, but they do look as smart & office-appropriate, only easier to walk into.

Let’s get more street style inspo. OXFORDS! Coco Chanel did it (the men-inspired looks that is) and ever since then, this craze/trend comes and goes, much like all trends for that matter, so why not make the best of it and walk the crap out of these oxfords. Because we can walk in men’s shoes, and sometimes, just sometimes with a little more chicness and style than our male piers.

and now let the drama begin. come on boys, I dare you.

Seriously? Besides the fact that they make you feel as if you’re still in the comfort of your warm puffy cozy bed, when in fact you’re out in the blizzard cold, and they can always make  and never break an outfit, hence their instant ‘I-can-turn-any-outfit-into-a-stylish-one-ASAP’ trait – I really see no point in taking this discussion further, as in trying to convince anyone of how much they’d actually need a scarf. Because… wait. I don’t have to. Scarves are the one thing everyone is wearing and resorting to, if not for sartorial reasons hidden behind these fluffy massive winter accessories, then for the need to stay warm. From fashion ignorants to fashion lovers the SCARF is around each and everyone’s neck. This winter, more than ever I feel there’s such a back to accessories phase in fashion, that we just gotta make the best of it. And with this particular time in fashion, when all is IN, it’d be a waste to not splurge on so many scarf styles out there. Which brings me to my question: In 2014 Winter, is there a SCARVES TREND to keep an eye on and guide our style choices?

• BLANKET scarves
• TUBE scarves.
• TARTAN scarves
• FUR scarves
• KNITTED thick scarves
• TOO LONG wipe-the-floor-with scarves
• SILK scarves

Well… all styles, except maybe for those long thin ones that used to be a hit back in the day. In terms of color it’s a heaven, from basic hues to prints, patterns and bright shades you can wear a scarf to mix in with your stylish outfit, but not make a stand, or you can make it the star of your look and spice up an otherwise plain outfit. How to wear scarves? More like is there a secret to wrapping & tying up a great scarf around your neck? I’ve always been a tad jealous of those women who so nonchalantly seem to just wrap a massive scarf around their neck, without ever having to think about it or check themselves in the mirror, but pulling it off big time. I always feel like this simple fashion task is the hardest of them all, hence my love and choice for fur scarves and tube ones. Yes they do look fabulous, but truth is it’s easier to pull a tube scarf over your head and look sophisticated or throw on a fur one, without having to worry about how to wrap these cozy accessories around your neck and have the same effect. If you’re going for blanket size scarves, they will look incredibly effortless sophisticated because however you choose to wear them you’ll probably nail that chic-bundled look.

If knitted long scarves are your cup of tea, leaving them sweep the floor/pavement is one way to go about the effortlessness or you can wrap them around your neck 100 times. No wind or rain will ever touch you.  Silky scarves – I always felt were for the warm season, when, truth is you don’t even need them. I for one, never saw  what the fuss was with them. Yeah style wise they look amazing, but so does the sight of a statement necklace or bare neck. I guess it’s the style statement that pushes some to go for silky scarves in blizzard cold. I do agree some patterns, prints and colors on these luxurious silky accessories are to die for… More SCARVES looks… Do you wear scarves? What’s your fave style?

I know you’re tempted to say ”both. doh.” but just think about it. If you had to choose one of the 2… which would it be? One with laces the other without. Both styles are courtesy of the 90′s comeback & grungy/dark/Nirvana-meets-Guns’Roses-looks. Add some punk in there, it is back in fashion anyway, and you pretty much summed up the biggest trends since 2012.

These heel-less ankle boots, however similar they look and translate into similar styles, making your outfit appear effortless, grungy, rocknroll or punk, you know what they say – the Devil is always in the details, and for small style variations on this 90′s theme each boot comes with its own spin on the look. Combat boots are a little above the ankle, lace-ups, more fitted around your foot, can be worn with laces tied up (super fitted, sort of punk style) or laces un-tied and left disheveled as if you had no time to properly put them on (sort of 90′s grunge look). Some have buckles & studs for extra drama, some come in vintage looking styles as if you’ve worn them for decades but cost you a week’s rent. They look fantastic with skinny jeans, leggings, tights & cutoffs, skirts, dresses, coats, jackets. If a laid back model off duty style is what you’re going for, they seem to be the best option. Moto Boots, on the other hand, are, since their 2012 comeback, still going strong be it summer or winter, and are perhaps a more tamed version of the punk grungy shoe style. They don’t have laces & they’re not fitted around you’re ankles. They usually have a zipper on the side or they’re loose enough for your foot to slide in. Yes they look as masculine & harsh as their siblings, but something about them makes them less heavy. Maybe the buckles or studs they usually come adorned with, or their shorter length (right around the ankle), but they seem more grungy-girly, rather than badass rocknroll.

Or maybe their ubiquity for the past year tamed them a little bit. I mean, it’s the same as the leather jackets. Since every girl and woman out there is wearing these biker boots all the time, (having nothing in common with the grunge trend, their boot option being none other than a passion for fashion), well there goes these boots’ initial rocnkroll statement. Right out the window. Let the boot battle begin – Combat VS Moto Boots looks: 

Combat Boots: Motorcycle/Biker Boots (click here for more styles and tips): I guess this is what happens with certain staples that used to belong only to a certain niche or style… if everyone is doing them, they’re bound to change their meaning and (don’t get me wrong) their fashion strength. I think we need something new asap.

Which brings me to the combats. Their sort of new comeback in fashion makes them somewhat new to the moto boot, right? Or not?Clearly they do have tons in common with the biker boots, and the style you get with either of them is basically the same, but which ones do you like best? I swear the more I think about it the more I’m confused. I used to adore biker boots, and would pick them over any other flat style shoe, but now… I’m not so sure. The idea of channeling an off duty model (in my distorted reality that is) is so appealing I might just consider the combat boots for now.

So,  if you had to choose one boot style, which would it be: with or without laces?

… the BLACK DRESS or even the little black dress going by the name of LBD will forever be that one piece us girls resort to when in a fashion predicament. But have you noticed how every time we choose a black dress for any event or even for work, or weekend getaways, as a last-minute-what-the-hell-am-I-gonna-wear-style-compromise you always end up looking & feeling your best.

So what’s the secret? I dare say it’s the elegance of the color (or non color), which compliments any skin tone, works for any occasion, is styled easily, blends in perfectly with any clothing or accessory item, hairstyle or makeup. The cuts & designs of a black dress are infinite and I don’t want to make this post just about the LBD, which we’ve talked about last summer, when it still was a massive hit, contrary to the boiling degrees we’ve survived. No way, this post will be about ALL black dresses.

From red-carpet styles, to office appropriate, to party little dresses, beach styles, flirty dresses, retro style, uber elegant or uber hot – the BLACK DRESS is for everywhere & everyone. And we might be surprised how a black dress initially purchased for say office can look good anywhere, or how a knee long chiffon LBD can go from office (blazer, tights, boots and pumps) to summer days (gladiator sandals) or going out (hot heels and red lips). We’ve all got at least one, and with the winter holidays almost here and the list of parties, dinners & lunches we’ll be attending, safe to say such a dress is quite the staple. Retail chains, magazines, blogs will be packed with all these ‘What to Wear’ options for NYE/Christmas party, and I promise you all of them will mention the black dress as one option.

I’m a bit curious as to the styles that will be hot this season. Although the classic Black Dress & LBD versions will forever remain intact, I think there’s gonna be an explosion of long silky & chiffon (maxi) dresses, slip on styles & leather. Each season I fall for at least 1 type of dress and I always always choose it/or would chose it in black. A few years ago I was obsessed with knee-length strapless bodycon black dresses, then it was the LBD (literally little, as in mini), last summer I was rocking my black maxi dress like there was no tomorrow, and NOW I’m on the look-out for a perfect leather LBD (long sleeves, and half V-cut back). Oh… and I predict 2 more looks I’ll be crazy about: 1. the slip on black dress (think those 90′s lingerie dresses Kate Moss used to wear as she was holding Johnny Depp’s hand on the red carpet), and 2. a black maxi dress with pointy stiletto ankle boots, and a blazer or leather jacket on top. In my mind it looks fabulous, will have to give it a try though. And these are just a handful of styles. I know for a fact one of my friends adores the retro/princessy styles, and another one loves the classic cuts appropriate for office-to-cocktail hours.

Let’s have a look at some black dresses styles and get inspired. Christmas & NYE are just around the corner… and so is Santa although there’s only so much he can do with these lists getting bigger and bigger by the hour, as one of you lovelies said. Nothing wrong with wishing though, right?  However you put it, the LBD will always make us look chic, sophisticated, a bit edgy yet always classy and ooze that effortless vibe as if we don’t give a crap what we wear, just pulled this black dress off  some rack, and look fabulous in it.

What’s your fave BLACK DRESS STYLE?

Hopefully I haven’t bored you yet with my Men Fashion & Style posts, as I confess writing about the men in our lives does tend to be a welcoming distraction and variety from the sartorial choices we make for ourselves.

Yes, we may not all be fashion connoisseurs but hell we love all that is fashion inspiring, be it menswear, music, art et all, and sometimes we do enjoy scrolling through some eye candy, cause god knows when the day should come that our BFs and husbands ask for our fashion advice we have to be prepaired.

Anyway… today, courtesy of a male reader who asked me to do a post on men’s eyewear, I thought, ‘Yeah. Why not! Or better yet, definitely!’ If not for the aforementioned reasons, than as a mirror of all that’s happening out there menswear wise. So many men of all ages, professions and styles are wearing glasses. Whether it’s a medical choice or a style statement more and more lads are choosing to hide behind the coolest frames and lenses.

Back in the day, when I was a teen everyone hated these accessories, and having to wear prescription glasses made you a nerd or just uncool. Today, it’s sort of the opposite.

Retro vintage thick dark frames have made a massive comeback since the 50′s and 60′s. Why is that I wonder? Perhaps since women’s fashion for the past 2 or 3 seasons is inspired by these decades, menswear follow these cyclic trends. Or maybe they started it. Regardless… they’re here, alongside other retro inspired bits, such as the undercut, the double breasted blazers, the denim on denim (although this is a more recent comeback. think 90′s).Being a far cry from a menswear stylist I confess I have no clue as to what type of eyewear fits what type of face, and frankly I wouldn’t jump to throwing advice at y’all cause 1. unless you have a perfect face (let’s face it, nobody does) the best way to find the perfect frames for you is to try on as many styles as possible and see which works best, with your face shape, your haircut, and your look, and 2. at the end of the day it’s all a matter of taste.

Personally I’d recommend thick frames for everyone. Sure in different shapes, colors and styles: round, square, oval, horn-rimmed, tortoiseshell, retro, vintage, two-tone styles, colored. The choices are limitless. Bottom line is, if you love it, and it looks good, rock it! Thick retro frames chosen to fit your face shape tend to be more versatile. Sure a bit hipster style, but… they do go well with anything from a suit, an office look, cardigans, sweaters, shirts, T-shirts, jeans, blazers, leather jackets, coats etc. Colored more funky styles are for those of you who love to make a statement, who have a penchant for style, for different looks and are not afraid to experiment. Simple thin or transparent frames are more classic, a bit more business style. Or think those posters advertising expensive men’s eyewear. Whatever your choice is, be it prescription or style based it all comes down to what you love and what best works for you. With today’s options you can definitely find the perfect glasses to fit both your face shape as your style: bohemian, intellectual, young professional, banker, hipster… think those boys from street style pics snapped at Fashion Weeks. :) And… since we’re talking glasses, we might as well throw in a few shades. Cause, you know we’re all wearing sunglasses regardless of season, so a bit of inspiration never hurt anyone. So boys, do you wear or like to to wear eyeglasses & sunglasses? What’s your style?

This is not about you, or your style, or your how you operate in the most fashionable way day-by-day. Nope. This is about your phone. That little gadget we pin our eyes onto so many times has become the one thing we cannot go a day without. Hell an hour. It’s an accessory. The IT thing everyone has, and everyone with a penchant for fashion and funky accessories personalizes courtesy of the millions of iphone cases out there. Did the iphone just become the doll of our generation? We dress it up, bling it up, change its clothes so many times, we might as well consider it an extension of our own style. When 2 years ago at Fashion Week every single person was showcasing (read flaunting) their iphones in the most funky fun posh cases ever  - it was clear: the iphone case is the trend! It started once this phone became our addiction and now we just found the perfect way to give this little thang more oompf. Last week over a talk I had with one of my friends about all these accessories for gadgets it hit me: the phone case is actually a thing of our generation.

Then I remembered all those posts I did of Fashion Week street style where every single blogger, fashionista, photographer, editor or designer was spotted carrying alongside designer bags, rings, bracelets, show invites and the rest – their iphones – all dressed up in the best clothes cases for the event. Wait… is she talking to a tiny little animal? No. It’s her phone’s case. Duh. From basic simple ones, that now just seem boring to the most colored, funky funny styles ever, phone cases are a dime a dozen. Printed, glittery, sparkled, textured, with funny texts, animal faces & bodies, insects, eyes, noses – just to make you love your phone more. Like that was ever possible. These pretty little things meant to protect our phones have also made designers like Marc Jacobs or Diane Von Furstenberg make a few styles themselves. And the best part about them in general, be it designer or corner-shop case – they are fucking affordable as if to feed our thirst for opulence or fun all the time. So what if I already have 20, I could use 200 more. Right? I could coordinate it to my nails one day, to my lipstick another, to my shoes or my mood, why not?

Enough talk… Christmas is almost here, and I think we could gift our phones with a new holiday case, right? So let’s have a look at some of the most funky and fabulous iphone cases… :) 

Cynthia Rowley phone case

Dsquared phone case

DVF phone case

Forever21 phone case

H&M phone case

Marc Jacobs phone case

Moschino phone case

I’m so curious what you ladies feel about the puffer jackets, which apparently seem to be making quite a comeback this cold season. What? I thought, fashion wise, I’d seen it all. Obviously I was wrong, cause the Michelin Man look is more IN that not.

When it comes to these puffers, my mind goes straight to my fashionably challenged, but otherwise happy childhood, when style wise, it was a nightmare. And I blame this on my mom, who, bless her, thought these horrendous coats were pretty cool. Or perhaps she didn’t give a damn, cause all she wanted was for me to not catch a cold. Fair enough. So there I was, for years and years and years, and more years in a row looking like a freaking marshmallow, that had more layers than a stupid cake and onion altogether. T-shirt, sweatshirt, sweater, the all present puffer, and as if that was not enough, a beanie, a scarf, mittens and some huge boots to balance off my top heavy layered body. Thank God for those, otherwise I’d have just flipped over. Don’t even get me started on the sound these jackets make. It was a why-don’t-I-blow-a-horn to let everyone know I’m coming, minutes before I was even in sight. Oh wait. I don’t have to. My jacket does that for me. Childhood fashion trauma. Now that’s something I never wanna relive.

Frankly I can see how on some people’s puffers look great, and I can also understand why we’d wanna resort to these, when the weather is kinda forcing us to. Which makes me wonder, has the fashion lot given in to comfort over style? A little bit. Some posh faces slash editors slash rich socialites donned these puffer coats at New York Fashion Week, but never without their skinny trousers, dresses, heels and all that glamour and drama. So this off-the-ski-slopes-look is a bit reinvented and adapted to style, but if you ask me (please keep in mind my trauma, which hence makes me biased) a puffer jacket would just make me look like an elephant in a china shop.

Remember that Seinfeld episode when George was wearing his huge puffer jacket and destroyed a whole store by just standing there. Exactly. Now, being anything but clam and subtle I’d literally crush everything in my way, while, due to my height, I’d be looking like a giant chicken, with skinny legs and massive body that’s on the edge on flipping over. Heels are out of discussion at this point. So I’ll just stick to my numerous layers and a coat. Thank you. Unless I’m skiing or something, but since that’s the one thing I can’t do, and I’ll never again be caught dead in the mountains (trauma #2. at this point you’re free to think the obvious: ”she’s pretty fucked up”), the outcome of the puffer for me, is pretty clear.

But, if there’s one thing fashion has taught me, it’s to never say never, so let’s be unbiased here for a sec and look at the bright side of the ugly puffer coat. In climates that can get freezing it’s the only thing that’ll actually keep you warm. It is comfy and snugly, to the point you might end up looking like you’re covered in your duvet and still lying in bed, but that’s another story. 2014 comes with a tiny help fashion wise. It offers a variety of styles, cuts and designs for the puffer look: waist cinged, long, short, massive, or less massive, colored, printed etc, etc, etc.

I realize one can look even great in a puffer, I have a friend that’s obsessed with these, so I know the other side of the story too. She wears them with anything, like I wear a coat. It does look good, if massive bodies and skinny legs is what you’re going for. Sorry pal. What I still don’t know, is if she wears them out of both style and comfort reasons equally, or just the latter? That is the question. Okay, promise to behave from now on. I would kinda sorta wear a puffer jacket for warmth reasons alone, if I found one that’s at least a bit flattering. I’d probably go for a black one either short or thigh-length, not too massive, fur trimmed, with skinny jeans (not cause I’d wanna emulate that giant chicken, but because larger pants would have people mistake me for a homeless demented woman) and less layers. I could even do a cropped top in ‘-’ degrees. Ha! … … … … (wait. I’m giving the puffer a thought right now.)Or, I’d go over the top (that’s not at all impossible with a jacket that resembles a duvet) with a bright colored waist short puffer, like a bright red one, layered over a chunky knitted longer sweater. P.S. I just had an epiphany: could the puffer coat have made its comeback courtesy of celebs being spotted in them right before stripping off for red carpet event to get photographed in their revealing dresses? Or, cause it’s this jacket they choose to wear when running errands in cold temperatures and hiding from the paparazzi? Well… they’re obviously wearing them for style reasons. Some more street style pics for inspo. Eventually I can see what the fuss is with the puffer coats. They do not look that bad. Or as bad as I recall, but there’s still a ‘but’ for me.

Or maybe I’ve been just too traumatized.

Hardly a new trend, the ripped jeans look is gaining more and more spotlight due to this thing in fashion we like to call effortlessness. Could we blame those off duty models for this one? I mean they do own this can’t-be-bothered-style and loose sophistication.

Some old ripped T-shirt paired with a sequined skirt and unlaced boots in between shows. Or those ripped boyfriend jeans that make her look like a rockstar doll. Yep. I think these girls are to blame for our constant chase to look posh yet unprepared.

Who the hell would not want to emulate an off duty model’s look? Well, lots of people actually, but then again, lots would do, hence loads of trends that were born from the streets courtesy of models & fashionsistas. Or, if ever at a loss for that who’s-to-blame-for this-trend, we’ve always got those 90′s with their grungy rock/punk styles. The ripped jeans thing? Yeah. It’s reminiscent of this decade as well. For some reason though I can’t seem to shake off the why behind this ripped jeans trend, and the more I linger on it, the more I find culprits. My new one: today’s cluster of styles, and the clashing of looks all into one eclectic mix. The triumph of personal style over fashion, be it made up of vintage mixed with high street or even high end brands. There’s something incredibly refreshing about knowing there is no wrong way in nailing it today style wise. Sure there are some rules, but even those we can break with the right attitude. And a fuck off.

Somewhere on the way we probably just got tired of having to look all prepped up, polished and uber feminine, at all times and costs, as if striving for perfection, which doesn’t even exist. And if it did, it’s fucking boring. So we came up with this gimmick: why don’t we get a little bit from those rocknroll years, a bit from today’s glam, a bit from here, a bit from there and see what happens.

We loosen up, that’s what happens and we finally nail the much coveted effortlessness. Amen to that! And to top off all this ripping, as a testimony to our incredible style originality, a new (sorta) trend was born - the Shredded Jeans! 

Subtility out the window, and we’ve got girls showing off legs in oversized rolled up jeans that are literally all shredded apart, held together by the side seams.

They look best with hot heels and a tucked in white shirt, but honestly now… if you wear them with sexy stilettos any top will look fabulous: cropped, oversized, vintage, printed, plain, tee, sweater, coat, jacket, bustier and so on. Flat shoes look OK with boyfriend shredded jeans, if you’re going for a laid back androgynous style: oxfords, ballet flats, or my all time fave, sneakers. Make sure you add a cool watch and spice it up with accessories to give a bit of chicness and femininity. Boots are probably a no-no with shredded oversized jeans, unless they’re heeled ankle boots, they’d probably look great with a coat & a beanie. If oversized shredded jeans are too much for you, you’ll always have the kinda skinny ripped styles. Bored of your skinnies? Rip those fuckers apart and put your DIY skills into practice.

When it comes to skinnier jeans styles that are subtly ripped one thing’s certain: they look fantastic with any shoe type, from uber high heels to motorcycle boots or tennis shoes. Yeah, this trend is been around since forever, but I see no reason why it needs to go. Ripped or even shredded jeans for both girls and boys look cool. Sophisticated & effortless, as if we’re all trying to emulate rock stars. Or hobos.

OK, I know what you must be thinking right now : this girl’s got an obsession with jeans. Not gonna deny it, cause obviously alongside my fashion & food cravings, what 2014 does for me, is bring out a somewhat consistency in obsessions. It kicked in with the jeans trend (the ripped shit we talked yesterday), who know though what’ll be next. But today no classic blue denim talk (cause we did that here & here). Au contraire. Today I dare thee to a debate:

Are white jeans cool again? And if so, should we be wearing them in winter?

First of all, I know what y’all are gonna say: when were they out of style in the 1st place? Point taken. Yet, they were more of  a niche look for those summer gals emulating cruise slash luxe sailor slash rich holiday in the Mediterranean styles. You know, with the white bottoms and some bright flowery top. Or black for a bit of fashion drama by the sea.  When and who decided to take this look out of its summery context right into… WINTER?

White denims are stubbornly sticking around for 2014 winter and I so-unoriginally predict spring & summer 2014. In many ways it does seem as if 2013 was just a teaser for lots of trends.

So, I dare ask – in this white denim in winter thang – where do you stand?

I, (not that anyone gives a crap, but just to humor my massive narcissistic ego I’m gonna tell you anyway) was skeptical at first, until I saw a friend of mine pulling off this style without looking like a rich infatuated socialite unaware of the fact that it is winter outside. Not summer.

This friend of mine looked cool. And slightly edgy/grungy. And then it hit me: can we pull off the white denim trend in winter and not look ridiculous?

She, alongside tones of other girls & posh fashionistats out there are holding a massive YES sign to all my born-out-of-white-winter-insecurities questions.

White does tend to appear brighter than any damn color in winter, but I’m sorta liking this trend, which I have yet to try. To the HOW screaming in my mind I have one word. (actually more.) If you love wearing them in summer (my case) nail the look in winter with black shoes. Black ankle boots, black wedges or sneakers and a dark colored coat, black blazer or leather jacket  look best (read fabulous) with white jeans in winter. As for the top, I love the coziness of an oversized soft black sweater, or the crispy feel of a dark colored shirt tucked in. But, white does go with anything so do not shy away from colors.

And now let’s get some street style inspiration.  I’m so curious what you think about this trend: winter & summer? Or just summer?

This post has to start off with a sigh… which translates into our love for silk scarves. More precisely Russian silk scarves which have made a massive comeback in the past years.

Ever since Dolce & Gabbana showed their SS collections packed with Russian motives on printed mini dresses, and models wearing printed silky scarves of both Russian & Italian inspiration wrapped around their heads – the fashion world was hooked on Russian inspired everything. This was topped by Keira Knightely’s Anna Karenina film, and Russian fashionistas turning heads at Fashion Weeks all the world. Read Miroslava Duma, the definition of fabulous street style. She was always spotted with these Russian silk scarves wrapped around her head in the most traditional, yet incredibly fresh way possible.

The “From Russia with love – Trend” was born. 

Ever since this boom, women, girls and men alike cannot get enough of the Russian silk scarf trend. It embodies luxury, richness, quality and high fashion in the most versatile possible way. Personally I’ve always adored these scarves as they reminded me of my mom when I was a kid and how she just wrapped one around her head on a windy chilly day and looked incredible. She was nailing the cool and effortless thing way before it was ever a thing. What is it about Russian Silk Scarves that we love so much? When I met this brand – LUXYRA, an online fashion boutique designing and selling silk scarves from Russia – it just hit me.

It’s the rare mixture of yesterday’s old & traditional with today’s fashion, class but sophistication. 

Luxyra makes these silky sleek soft scarves, for both men & women in a factory dating from 1795 (talk about tradition, vintage vibe and old timeless values that sometimes go hand in hand with fashion and style).

These Russian silk scarves are made from high quality sheep wool & silk, with handmade fringes that are literally the icing on the cake. Together with the logo, that looks fabulous embroidered on a corner, these scarves are like the best reinvention of what Russian women used to wear in the 1700′s. They hold on to the vintage’ness yet can be so easily adapted to today’s occasions & styles.  Which brings me to my next question:

How To Style Russian Silk Scarves? Their vibrant rich colors and patterns resemble some old Russian painting forgotten in some countryside house’s attic, now resting on rich luxurious fabrics wrapped around some beautiful fashionsta’s neck or head.

One may think due to their explosion of colors & rich flowery prints you can only wear them with basic clothes, clen cut, solid colored ones, but I beg to differ on this one. If fashion has taught us anything it’s that rules can sometimes be set aside and personal style brought to the spotlight. A rich printed extravagant colored Russian scarf can look so sophisticated with a printed coat, a statement top, leather jackets, dresses, and… it can go from morning to evening as the best statement accessory. Plus, it’s timeless, and goes in any season, from chilly winter days to hot summer days, when it can be your best accessory, wrapped around your head as you head to the beach or worn on your bare shoulders when you go out for dinner by the sea.

For a more quirky yet traditional style, wear it as a head scarf tied in front. With posh heels and a great personal style it will look so eclectic. One thing I also love about Luxyra’s Russian silk scarves is that they come in so many colors, some classic toned down, some super vibrant and rich, to accommodate all styles, tastes & ages. The brown’ish tones are more subtle, and can easily go with anything.

And then there are the deep tones: pinks, reds, blues, separate or altogether in this brilliant explosion of colors and patters. While all are fabulous, it’s these ones I love most. Need some fashion inspo? Here are some street style pics of how girls are wearing their Russian silk scarves. My Luxyra scarf will arrive soon and I’ll post some pics of how I’ve styled mine as well. 

Get the look & shop here: LUXYRA | Twitter | Facebook 

Between eyeballing the latest fad in town & that illegally delicious cake, we’re left with a ton of frustration, so if by the end you decide to jump on the latest trend wagon or dis it altogether, that cake is already digesting in your stomach and you’re licking off your fingers in a state of both guilt and satisfaction.

(with the promise to kick start a healthy meal & workout plan, come Monday).

Nobody can make a wise decision on an empty stomach.

Truth is, some trends out there can apply to all, and SOME of them only apply to a bunch of people, who are usually aliens and live on air. Such is the case of crop tops, which seem to deliberately refuse to leave the spotlight in Spring Summer 2014. Perhaps that’s a good thing. By the end of this trend more and more women will have toned stomachs.

Frankly I have no fucking idea how all these street style fashionistats pull it off. Most of them are either editors or established bloggers who presumably have little to no time to even piss in peace let alone hit the gym. How do they do it? Back in the ’90′s when this trend was huge and I was tiny it was a piece of cake. Wearing something longer than my belly button was a blaspheme. Blizzard cold or sweaty hot I had a flat stomach to show. And I did. But it was against all earthly & physical laws, cause I ate & drank crap, with hardly ever any exercise.

When my body aligned itself to the humans’ laws I couldn’t care less, cause crop tops were a thang of the past. Until (as of last year or so) they were not anymore.

And somewhere between reminiscing on those ’90′s that I loved so much, and hitting the age which requires a healthy lifestyle (sans le hangovers) here I am, tons of years later – embracing the crop tops trend. With the inherent gulp and a massive fright I’m trying to conceal under a long top, of course. At the end of the day we all need a push for a healthy lifestyle. I’ve just decided mine was CROP TOPS.As I keep day dreaming about flat abs, mountains of chocolate and fancy crop tops, (what? In my universe they coexist.) I can’t help but wonder: 

How in the name of God did they make such a huge comeback? Did I not have enough of them on the 1st round?

Errr. Apparently no. They’re comeback is due to fashion being cyclic, to Rihanna, Cara Delevingne, Miley Cyrus et all (who were infants or not even born in the 90′s, so are picking on our leftovers), and last but not least to the whole fitness body culture that’s happening today.

More and more women are taking up sports, lifting weights, doing pilates, staying hours in the gym and eating healthy. I hope we do realize youth is not meant to last a lifetime, but I suppose in the hope of prolonging  it, we’ve given birth to this svelte ripped body obsession. Before you stand up and applaud this as today’s major movement, think again. It was born in the ’80′s.

The 90′s had the heroin look (think Kate Moss) and an obsession for boobs, which was a nightmare for most girls. Take my word. Growing up as a enormously tall skinny teenager came with the Kate Moss’ish perks but the flat chest downside. Which, as years and carbs went by, grew in size (alongside everything else), but hey! that’s the one perk of putting on weight and I’ll take it, thank you.

According to the crop tops invasion, today the world is focused on toned abs and flawless stomachs. Hmm. And I thought we were all ass-obsessed. With the Kardashian thing and all. That would have been so much easier. Although, the more thought I give to this tremendously shallow topic, the more I acquiesce to the fact that what is IN today are ripped toned healthy bodies, be it skinny or curvy.

So, does that mean all women wear crop tops in 2014 SS? YES. What? YES. Do you need me to repeat that? YES. YES. YES. 

Listen to this. In 2014 crop tops are more a display of midriffs – above the belly button around your ribs – which is thought to be the most ripped and skinniest part of a woman’s body. So it’s more of a retro look: high waisted anything (jeans, cutoffs, shorts, skirts, trousers etc.) and a crop top that leaves just an inch of your skin for display. Sure if you want to show kilometers of stomach go ahead. Rub it in our faces, why don’t you? You know what they say: if you’ve got it, flaunt it. Another crop top look perfect for normal people is the boxy or larger top that ends around your belly button, right where it meets the top of your trousers and skirts. And now for some fashion inspiration slash sports motivation let’s check out some crop tops styles & how to wear them. ;) Cause we’ve just established we’re all aliens and can pull off this look without contemplating starvation, but with a massive burger shoved up our faces, there is only 1 downside to this trend: we can’t wear crop tops to the office.

Even if I had tried stalking the sun slash weather report and I could not have asked for a warmer day such as today. Sun shining. Birds singing. Everyone smiling. Colors looking brighter. City noise sounding like music. Okay, I may be slightly loosing it, but hell don’t take me off my unicorn just yet. My fantasy world is bound to crumble soon. It is winter still and the working week just kicked off, so no worries on stress crawling its way into our lives come tomorrow.

Before the weekend I was telling you (and showing you here) about some great stuff I got from Persunmall, among which a pair of leather leggings. I was a bit worried on how I’d style them, and whether or not it’s a look we could pull off at the office, and you know what? (being optimistic and shit. Yeah feel free to hate me right now, it is still Monday – illegal day to be all bubbly and smiling), I think we can! Say what? (well it does depend a bit on our working domain, but if you can pull off casual-meets-personal-style at the office, then why not). Persunmall Leather Leggings. One word. Okay two. LOVE them! If leggings with an oomph & edge is your thing these are amazing. And a bit cheeky. They’re normal leather leggings up to the knees, and from the thighs up. In between they’ve got a dark lace/stocking texture, a bit sheer as if to mock leather socks over the knees. Simply brilliant and wicked. 

I did wear them with a pair of black stockings underneath cause they’re not very long for me, so I had to tuck them in my boots every now and then. (and it was a bit of a too-risque look for daytime). But wearing black stockings underneath masked this slight inconvenience. In spring, though they’d look fab with sandals, so they can come up to my knees if they feel like it, I would not mind their length. And sans le stockings… dayum! So hot! Think night out. 

The fabric feels great, the size fits perfectly and they are the best & easiest item to spice up a look. Any plain long top paired with these is perfect for going out or for a party. A blazer on top and you can take them anywhere actually. Great quality and wow factor. Seriously. For a day out, packed with meetings and running a few work related errands I balanced off their cheekiness with a white shirt and a classic office blazer. I wore heeled ankle boots, but really any type of shoe works. Especially biker boots

Thank God my brother forgot his scarf at my place, cause I took the liberty to wear it and I loved it. 

So yeah I was a bit scared of these leather leggings, of how too sexy, too vulgar, too inappropriate they might look, with the ever sounding question in my mind “Where the hell am I gonna wear them?”. But I’m extremely happy I got them, cause they just might be the best thing ever. You know how we all need that one item in our closet, that’s got a bit of TOO MUCH, of that wild razzmatazz, or takes us out of our comfort zone, or saves our asses on those occasions we wanna look smart but still have a bit of edge and not blend in. These are my fave thing right now. I can’t wait to style them with just about everything I can think of, and see how many looks and wears I can get out of them. They’re cool, easy to wear, edgy & sophisticated.

Plus, they’ve got tons of other great stuff, so if these are not your thing, don’t worry, plenty of fish in the sea in their store. Not to mention loads of great tops to pair them with. 

Get the look here: Persunmall Sexy Leather Stitching Lace Leggings 

Ha! I guess it’s out with the old, in with the new for 2014 Spring/Summer. New being small & tiny fitted sweaters, the opposite of what we’ve been doing for the past year. Hey, I’m not shouting a trend yet, just thinking a lot about the what if behind this look, courtesy of quite a few ladies who ditched their BF’s tops for a more feminine, sexy slash girly take on sweaters.

Think 1950′s (slight obsession alert!) or even late 90′s. Hmm. Not bad. Not bad at all. I must confess the hobo look was getting redundant. Okay, truth is I’m kinda of angry and frustrated right now. Just when I got the hang of, and mastering of the oversized look, BAM! gotta give it up. Well, I don’t have to, but you know what I mean.

Cause let me tell you something, wearing your husband’s sweaters is NOT an easy job. He’s humongous. You’re tiny… Before you know it people might mistake you for a walking sweater. No body, no face. Just a sartorial choice itself.

And now fashion is telling me to dis this art aside? And YOU WONDER WHY I’M ANGRY?

Okay I’m joking. Caps are off. Role-playing the Devil’s advocate is fun.

Actually I couldn’t be happier about the TINY SWEATERS, cause personally (as much as I do like oversized sweaters, which are perfect for fat-days & freezing-winters) I adore tiny fitted sweaters. And I never thought I’d see the day they made a comeback. So I’m quite happy they’re trying to breakthrough again. There’s just something so very cute and feminine about a small sweater with rolled up fitted sleeves, that hugs the body and hems up to the waist – I think it’s irresistible. Pairing it with a skirt (be it full, midi, maxi, pencil or mini) is just fucking great! I think the secret lies in the simplicity of the look. It’s a what-you-see-is-what-you-get kinda situation. Yeah you can splurge on accessories, or go for a bold color or funky print top, but the effect is the same. SIMPLE silhouette.

Perfect for office, for dates, for dinners, for smarter meets casual occasions, the tiny sweater can adapt in spring or chilly summer days/evenings to a more relaxed look. Think cutoffs, flirty mini dresses, shorts.Or go for a sophisticated look with heeled pumps and ripped jeans. Perfect! A long trench coat over will give a bit of boho Parisian vibe to it all. A leather jacket is very loose and rock style. A blazer is office appropriate.

Shoes wise… of course anything goes. What I love most about the TINY SWEATER look is the fact that it’s bulk free. YES! I also love them in bold colors and crazy prints, as they can make any pair or jeans, shorts or plain skirt look sophisticated. Hot heels and a cool leather jacket on will give you extra chicness.

Let’s see some street style inspiration! :) What do you think? Should they come back or not?

Aside from the imminent inner cry and panic I’m getting right now (talk about feeling old), this trend is pretty darn great. In a casual meets cool kinda way. Plus a slap in the face from reality. You know you’re practically ancient when you’ve witnessed & done the trend second time around.

But… maybe, just maybe practice makes perfect you know. Besides, no trend has ever come back without a slight reinvention, so there you have it. If the 90′s had me wearing plaid flannel shirts tied around my waist for less of a style purpose and more for a comfort meets practicality reason, usually with sneakers or Doc Martens, today I can wear just about any long sleeve top (or jacket for that matter) tied around my waist with any type of shoes. Heels please! Oh and skirts & dresses work too. Okay I may have to refrain my style wilderness and not wrap a plaid shirt around some posh cocktail dress, but a jersey one par example does sound pretty great actually.

Could it be that with age comes wisdom? Or maybe a dose of je m’en fiche‘ism you know, which actually is the icing on a cake when it comes to personal style. 2014 definitely comes with the latter for me. I’m still as crazy as fuck, and based on my selfies sorta immature.

Although, apparently we live more in the 90′s than in 2014, I’m still surprised the SHIRT AROUND THE WAIST trend made it. For me, it’s clearly a what? situation. Not complaining a bit though. Back in the day it was done cause we were all kids you know. I never saw my mom tying up long sleeve tops around her hips. 14, 15, 16, 20 year old kids/teens living in the times of Beverly Hills 90210, Kurt Cobain and Seattle grungy fashion/music/art scene. The times of Liv Tyler, Alicia Silverstone, Winona Ryder, Johnny Depp & Kate Moss, supermodels…

Everyone was rockroll and depressive, rebels without a cause, who tied up flannel old shirts around our ripped jeans or cutoffs because it was cool to be uncool. It was practical. Why carry them, or pack them in backpacks (which too made a comeback go figure) when wrapping them around ourselves was so much easier.

Back then it was mostly a case of PLAID & FLANNEL around our bums, rather than jackets or any long sleeve. Rarely done for style’s sake, a red or brightly patterned in checks flannel popped fantastic against jeans and a plain tee. 2014 is apparently in tears over this grungy incredibly cool decade, that everyone from kids to close-to-40-year-old-fashionstas are doing or repeating it. My mom still refuses to.

It started off from bloggers (that’s what I think anyway) who’ve seen it on off duty models, no older than 19, who’ve seen this on pop stars their age, who were styled by those who’ve been there and done this trend 1st time around.

Now every woman who loves fashion and works in a domain that allows her to dress to her moods is practically an unstable fashion maniac who’s effing all the rules, Do’s and Don’t's that come with age, job description, or God knows what other idiotic criteria. It’s a time for us to feel liberated and dress the same way as our kids. Is that OK, I wonder?

Why not, really. I think it’s incredibly 2014ISH to be any age and have the balls to wear whatever the fuck you please. From crop tops to minis to sneakers, baseball caps. It’s fashion. It’s fun. It’s a form of expression, that does not come with an age limit. So yes, today’s girls and women alike wear shirts tied around their waists, cause it looks great.

10 years later and it still has the practicality too. In hiding my bum and keeping me warm this time. (age kicking in). What Is Different In The Shirt Around The Waist Trend Today? 

1. It can be any top with long sleeves, although the plaid flannels still capture the whole style better. Having said that you can get the negligent effortless casual look with any type of shirt (NOT a crispy white tuxedo style though) from plaid to denim to even leather jackets or bombers.
2. Use it as an accessory. A pop of color against a plain or monochromatic outfit. Keep the top simple (color or print wise) and go crazy, if you can’t help yourself, with trousers, skirts, shorts and shoes.
3. Shoes wise, ANYTHING goes, not just sneakers or Doc Martens. Flats, boots, and incredibly sexy heels.

A look at some great street style pics for inspiration. :) Perhaps it’s our hunger for fashion gone wild, hardly ever wrong for that matter, or maybe we just didn’t get enough of this style from back in the day. Or maybe we’re just a tad oh-so-wise (yes I am avoiding the other age implying word) and have to let this one go. It’s the 2014 hipster kids’ turn now.

Still, that don’t mean we can’t join in. 30′s are the new 20′s right? Does that card still work by the way? Hello… Anyone…