My love affair with leather began long before my bumper sticker and continues long after. Gone is the 1980s, and 1990s, and 2000s and with the decades, ... Read More »]]>

When I was 18, I put a bumpersticker on my car from a leather boy shop in Boston. Sporting discreet little handcuffs, it read: “It’s Better in Leather.” This really spiffed up my uber-dorky VW Dasher! My feeling of cool was cut short when, unsurprisingly, my parents removed it. I was hugely annoyed at their bourgeois mentality but soon realized that suburban New England was not ready for me…or my pretentious leather.

My love affair with leather began long before my bumper sticker and continues long after. Gone is the 1980s, and 1990s, and 2000s and with the decades, my Ramones jacket and cowboy boots with duct tape. So instead I now enjoy a little leather jewelry. Eschewing the ubiquitous Chan Luu beaded leather bracelets, here are some of my current favorites which sport a little of that old leather-loving style.
Leave it to the French to put the S for Style into S & M – this serious chunker from Givenchy sports bi-color metals and softened spikes:

Silver and Gold Studded Bracelet by Givenchy

For you natural types, check out this leafy choker by Natalie Brown. Resplendent with ferns and a dreamy aura to boot, it’s just the thing with a slouchy, off-the-shoulder tunic.

Natalie Brown fern shaped neck piece

A little more discreet but still sporting a rocker fleur-de-lis motif are these shabby-chic beauties from Early Jewelry.

Black Leather earrings by Early Jewelry

Why should “chicks” have all the fun? Here’s a truly guy’s style wrap bracelet with a birdie skull from LostApostle jewelry on Etsy.

Bronze and Leather Raven Skull Bracelet

Need something a little less hardcore and a little more fun? Check out this knotted orange leather ring by byboe jewelry. I like the ring cuz it’s cool, but especially because I’m fortunate to counts its designer, Annika Salame, as one of my students!

Orange Leather Knot Ring by byboe

Let’s end on a happy note: this bib necklace by tomgirl jewelry is piled with colorful leather leaves and just makes me want to smile.

TomGirl Necklace

My bumper sticker was right: it IS better in leather!

PS: If you’re a DIYer, you may want to peek into this cool book by Lark Books and make your own leather lovelies!

Leather Jewelry

The LOFT is making it easy to run off to a holiday getaway in oh-so-chic Alpine Lodge inspired attire. Prepare to get comfortable and stylish in incredibly cozy sweaters—or layers of the season’s easy knits in Loft’s favorite wintry neutrals. Expect to see cowl neck sweaters, faux fur pieces, cute peep-toe heels of all sorts as well as boots, sophisticated fit pants, skirts, and blouses. All of the apparel and faux fur accessories will make you ... Read More »]]>

At a stunning rooftop venue in Chelsea NYC, the LOFT threw a fabulous cocktail party to give an insider’s preview to their Holiday 2011 collection.

The LOFT is making it easy to run off to a holiday getaway in oh-so-chic Alpine Lodge inspired attire. Prepare to get comfortable and stylish in incredibly cozy sweaters—or layers of the season’s easy knits in Loft’s favorite wintry neutrals. Expect to see cowl neck sweaters, faux fur pieces, cute peep-toe heels of all sorts as well as boots, sophisticated fit pants, skirts, and blouses. All of the apparel and faux fur accessories will make you want to curl up next to a fireplace on a nice winter evening!

When transitioning from day to night time looks, The Loft has you covered with pretty sparkles and faux fur accents. You will look glamorous and sophisticated when going out for a night on the town and for all of the holiday parties you will be attending. To accentuate the styles, the LOFT added Pops of Color to brighten up any look. Mix and match these colors all you want—each color looks great together.

Let’s not forget the accessories. The LOFT is bringing back 70s-inspired shapes that look utterly modern in the season’s freshest jewel tones. The merchandising of the holiday “bling” was eye-candy and certainly what I will be asking for this Christmas to top off my alpine lodge inspired outfits.

Available at LOFT stores nationwide and online at LOFT.com

Blaire Brown started a purse business at the age of 16, designing and creating purses to sell online at www.fashionflamingopurse.etsy.com. It first started out as a hobby, and then it flourished in her hometown so she decided to pursue fashion as a career in college. Recently she graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology and is continuing  to chase her dreams of running her own business in the Big Apple. Throughout the 5 years of being in business, her purses have been recognized by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Next In Fashion blog, and other publications

’70s Glam

The 1970s is the latest period to come roaring back into fashion. Look out for bohemian and sophisticated glamour, including high waist bands and the return of the blouse. Also, dig out those bell bottoms and Capri pants, which will be on trend this summer.

Embellishments

In 2011, embellishments will be more important than ever, with that customized look giving an edge to any outfit. In particular, tassels can add that touch of retro glamour to bags and other accessories.

There’s a homemade feel to ... Read More »]]>

We review the women’s clothing trends to look out for in Spring Summer 2011.

’70s Glam

The 1970s is the latest period to come roaring back into fashion. Look out for bohemian and sophisticated glamour, including high waist bands and the return of the blouse. Also, dig out those bell bottoms and Capri pants, which will be on trend this summer.

Embellishments

In 2011, embellishments will be more important than ever, with that customized look giving an edge to any outfit. In particular, tassels can add that touch of retro glamour to bags and other accessories.

There’s a homemade feel to fashion right now and nowhere is this more apparent than in the crochet and lace dresses that will be floating around in Spring and Summer. Again, part of the 70s revival we are experiencing.

Biker & Punk Chic

Following on from the 1970s explosion, expect punk rock to be a popular look, along with those classic elements of biker chic, denim and leather.

Floral and patterned

Strong floral prints and bright patterns are set to be huge this summer, with a 60s feel to the figure hugging dresses and below the knee skirts that are found in most 2011 collections.

Footwear

Following their shock inclusion in the 2010 collection of many designers, including Chanel and Louis Vuitton, demand for wooden shoes shows no sign of slowing down and this is likely to be an essential part of that Boho-look for Spring-Summer ‘11.

Controversial as they may be, Kitten heels are also set to come back this Spring, as part of the ongoing 1950/60’s renaissance. If you’ve never come across them before, these are short, slender heels that usually curve inwards to give more stability than a stiletto. These dainty, pointed shoes are more comfortable than a stiletto and, particularly in sandal form, are a good investment for the warmer weather. You can also glam them up a bit with bows or other accessories, for a timeless, feminine look.

They don’t do much for most girls, neither lengthening nor defining the calf, but kitten heels will be essential part of your wardrobe this summer.

Visit www.very.co.uk and check out the latest trends online. You can browse their latest dress, skirts, tops and much much more.

Sponsored article

Everyone loves a little vintage vibe in his or her wardrobes; it simplifies the essence of an era gone by. In the past we have seen an assortment of looks that have taken inspiration from the 20s and 30s, however, this season seems to be set on re-inventing the 1970s.

However, this year there are several variations of the 70’s trend, ranging in style from a 70’s boho look to a more sophisticated 70’s style.

If you are someone that oozes a certain air of defiance then the 70’s trend is certainly the one for you, this is mainly due to ... Read More »]]>

Everyone loves a little vintage vibe in his or her wardrobes; it simplifies the essence of an era gone by. In the past we have seen an assortment of looks that have taken inspiration from the 20s and 30s, however, this season seems to be set on re-inventing the 1970s.

However, this year there are several variations of the 70’s trend, ranging in style from a 70’s boho look to a more sophisticated 70’s style.

If you are someone that oozes a certain air of defiance then the 70’s trend is certainly the one for you, this is mainly due to the boldness of the clothes but the accessories also play a major part in this. Accessories include exotic jewels, uber high heeled platforms, a statement floppy felt hat and of course some stylishly chic arm candy.

To work the 70’s day time look, opt for high waisted wide-leg trousers and neat bow blouse, tie the look together with a cute belt, cinched in at the waist, a pair of super platforms and of course that statement bag. Invest in a bag that has been created in a soft silk or satin fabric, this will add that ultra glam finish to your outfit.

For an evening look opt for high sheen fabrics that ooze a certain disco edge. Ruffled necklines, a tuxedo style blazer or a long slinky gown are just a few key items you should have in your wardrobe.

When choosing a handbag to accompany the evening outfit, look for one in a metallic fabric. Smart high quality bags such as this season’s leather satchel are perfect for the day but for an evening out you want something that is a little more elegant. A great investment is a small clutch with a long shoulder strap; as such a piece won’t overpower a chic gown or maxi dress. Visit http://www.very.co.uk/ to browse their fantastic range of dresses online.

Sponsored article

While attending the Illinois Institute of Art and pursing a major in advertising, Donaldo ... Read More »]]>

Men, if you are looking for an updated, trendy twist and cutting-edge version of the shirt,  check out Killian Gui.   The woven cotton shirts come in a variety of styles and colors.  Some have white collars, gingham prints, stripes, color blocks, and button down collars.   The Killian Gui shirts can be worn casually or for business by simply adding your favorite tie or bow tie.  The force behind the Killian Gui brand is emerging Chicago talent, 23-year-old Donaldo Smith.

While attending the Illinois Institute of Art and pursing a major in advertising, Donaldo landed an internship with Rocawear clothing company (one of the founders of Rocawear is music mogul, Jay Z).  That internship allowed him to travel to the Magic trade show in Las Vegas, where he was exposed to the fashion industry.   Upon returning to Chicago, Donaldo quickly changed his major to fashion merchandising.

Donaldo credits mentors Greg McGowan,  Marsha Brenner and Lara Miller for helping him develop as a designer.  His advice to up-and-coming designers is to be creative, and to have passion and determination.

Donaldo Smith’s philosophy:  “It’s better to be over dressed than under dressed.  There is nothing wrong with being the best dressed person in the room.   Also, men should feel comfortable in their clothes. . . And never let the fashion trends dictate their personal style.”  When asked to describe the Killian Gui clothing line, he said: “Killian Gui is a contemporary menswear line that blends formal business attire with comfortable casual wear.”  He says Chicago embraces and cultivates the local fashion community, and wishes people would stop the comparison to other fashion cities.

Keep up with Killian Gui on Facebook, Twitter and on the Killian Gui website.  Prices range between $150- $210 for the  Killian Gui collection.

In five years, Donaldo Smith hopes to grow his Killian Gui brand into a major contender in the contemporary menswear market through product placement in high-end boutiques across the country.

A. Finney is the founder and head designer at Andrea and Me and Me Too. Her firm designs funky women’s handbags, fashion jewelry, and home decor. Having worked in the legal industry for the past 20 years, she says her passion has always been to create beautiful accessories. She started her business in 1999, and in 2001 she won in the accessories design category at the Black Fashion Museum for her belts called Waist Accents. She uses a lot of vibrant colors to make statements with her accessories and art designs. Their motto is they make designs for women with “way too much attitude.” A. Finney can be reached at: www.andreaandmetoo.net or at
allthingsbeautiful@andreaandmetoo.net.