Tips and Tricks to Wearing Denim Leggings May 17th, 2010 By

Not only is the denim legging trend super popular this season, but they will also carry you into summer!  Light and easy to wear, these beautiful bottoms will keep you covered without overheating.  Here are my 3 tips for wearing denim leggings:

1. Pair with a tunic or longer tank.
Many pairs of denim leggings, like the Medium Mineral Leggings from Joe’s Jeans, don’t have back pockets. For girls like me, this runs the risk of making your backside look bigger than it is.  If that’s a look you’d like to avoid, wear your jeggings with tunics or tops that hit you mid-tush.  This will keep your look clean and cover up anything you may not want to be seen.

2. Go with a good length.
Because denim leggings are meant to hit at your ankles, just like your full-length leggings do, make sure you don’t get a pair that’s too long. You can hem them (you should make friends with a good tailor), but your best bet is to look for a pair that already hits you directly at your ankle.  For most girls of average height, this could prove tricky — check out Citizens of Humanity.


3. Get a little wild!

The best part about jeggings is that they’re essentially a blank canvas.  There are a million different ways to wear them, but we suggest a wild pair of shoes such as bright red pumps or something in animal print.

Have any tips you’d add to the list? Share them in the comments… and go get yourself a new pair of jeans!

- Denim Debutante

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3 Ways to Wear White May 12th, 2010 By

I’m suddenly having a moment where I’m obsessed with shopping for white clothing and accessories.  When worn correctly, the crisp shade in all its variations is so feminine.  Here are 3 crave worthy items that will fit effortlessly into your spring/summer wardrobe:

1. Sam Edelman Cory Shoes (White Snake), $129
These menswear inspired oxfords with their off-white hue and snakeskin texture are just right for the warmer seasons. 

Sam Edelman Cory Shoes

2. Kate Spade Darien Cross-Body, $195
We love this bag so much (as seen here), and a cross-body is a practical and fun way to make it through the hustle and bustle of summer. 

Kate Spade Darien Cross-Body

3. James Perse Drawstring Shirt Dress, $225
No wardrobe is complete without a classic white button down.  What makes this particular version so appealing is its versatility.  Wear alone as a great day dress or to the beach as a cover-up.  If that idea makes you feel like you’re half-dressed, then rock this frock with jeans or leggings around town.

James Perse Drawstring Shirt Dress

- Nikki Duckworth for beso

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Derby Days: Run for the Roses April 27th, 2010 By

The Kentucky Derby is May 1, and in celebration of the Throroughbred horse race I’ve put together some of my favorite spring looks inspired by the event and this season’s florals.

1a. Jessica Simpson Gemstone Floppy Hat, $58
1b. Ryu French Rose Dress, $93.99
1c. Modern Vintage Georgie Platforms, $275

2a. Nordstrom Grey Straw Hat, $38
2b. Stella McCartney Spring Dress, $1,195
2c. Pour la Victoire Dierda Platforms, $275

3a. Forever21 Floral Bloom Headband, $3.80
3b. BB Dakota This Time Tomorrow Dress, $54.99
3c. Elizabeth and James Raffia Platform Clogs, $350

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3 Ways to Go Green for Earth Day April 16th, 2010 By

With Earth Day just around the corner, I’ve been in the mood to go green.  Consciously selecting eco-friendly products lets me know that I’m doing my part to save our planet.  Every little bit counts, and here are 3 easy ways to go green for Earth Day!

1.  Seek out eco-friendly clothing like The Battalion and Gypsy05.

The Battalion Fringe Ladderback Top

The Battalion Fringe Ladderback Top

2. Get yourself a pair of TOMS shoes.  They’re made from recycled materials and for every shoe purchased, a pair is donated to a child in need. 

TOMS Shoes

TOMS Shoes

3.  Look for eco-friendly beauty products like those from Aveda, Tom’s of Maine, Josie Maran, and Origins.

Origins Beauty Products

Origins Beauty Products

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3 Ways to Wear Shorts Right Now April 10th, 2010 By

Here in Los Angeles, the weather has somewhat been unpredictable with cold rainy skies one day and warm sunny days the next. Store windows are taunting those of us who just can’t wait for summer with their fantastic colorful displays of airy fabrics and chic shorts just like the ones we saw coming down the runways during Fashion Week 2010

I don’t know about you, but I think shorts are swiftly proving to be a wardrobe staple. They can equally be dressed up or down for night or day and in this case, can be worn in warmer or colder weather. If you’re like me and you’ve got a pair of shorts you’ve been dying to wear but can’t wait for Mother Nature to come around, here are three easy ways to wear your favorite pair of shorts right now:

Shorts Worn With Leggings, Opaque Tights, Tall Boots and Booties

Black shorts paired with opaque tights and tall boots; grey shorts paired with leggings and booties

How To Wear Shorts In Colder Weather: Layer Away
The key to wearing shorts in colder weather is to layer, layer, layer! Start with a pair of leggings or opaque tights under your favorite shorts. Next,throw on a base layer such as basic long sleeve jersey knit in fun print like stripes. You are now ready to layer away! Find a long loose tee and put it on over your long sleeve and wrap a belt around your waist to show off those curves.

Diane Von Furstenberg Raimer Cuffed Satin Shorts

Diane Von Furstenberg Raimer Cuffed Satin Shorts,$225

How To Wear Shorts At Work
If your place of employment doesn’t enforce a strict dress code policy, a pair of satin shorts like these Diane von Furstenberg Raimer cuffed satin shorts worn with black opaque tights underneath make a perfect alternative to a skirt or trouser pants. To keep your ensemble work-appropriate, tuck a nice blouse into your shorts and pull on a cropped vest like this G-Star Princeton Gilet vest. Or, polish off your outfit with a structured blazer. Boots will work just fine for business wear, but for that extra edge pump it up with suede peep toe booties.

Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel, $30

Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel, $30

Dare To Go Bare(legged)
Sexy legs deserve to be seen so if you’re the fearless type that can bear the cold weather with your superhuman abilities, by all means, ditch the leggings and tights altogether and show off those legs, girl! But not before reaching for a bottle of self tanner of course! For a natural glow, try Clarins self tanning instant gel. Though it is known to have a funny odor (most tanners have a smell due to a chemical called dihydroxyaceton, aka DHA or glycerone), this self tanner gives your skin a natural day-at-beach radiance.

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How to Wear: Denim Leggings April 9th, 2010 By

Left, Hudson Jeans Collin Jeggings and right, Paige Denim Verdugo Jeggings

Left, Hudson Jeans Collin Jeggings and right, Paige Denim Verdugo Jeggings

Denim leggings are the new comfortable-yet-sexy item that we’re craving right now.  With all the comfort of stretchy leggings, jeggings (as this jeans-leggings hybrid is also called) offer the classic, versatile styling of skinny jeans.  The first step to pulling off this trend is picking the right denim legging for you.  Dark styles that slim and lengthen are my favorite.  The Hudson Jeans jeggings, top left, and Paige Denim jeggings, top right, are a great pick for all body types.

Once you’ve found your perfect pair of jeggings, how will you wear them?  Here are three ways to incorporate denim leggings into your wardrobe:

The Sophisticate
The sophisticated look is all about dressing up the jeggings, like you would dress up jeans.  Add a pair of sleek pumps and a tailored blazer over a long top.  Platform heels are a great choice.

Vince Roll Sleeve Shrunken Blazer, $445

Vince Roll Sleeve Shrunken Blazer, $445

Jessica Simpson Michaela Platform Pump, starting at $53.76

Jessica Simpson Michaela Platform Pump, starting at $55

The Casual Classic
The casual classic look is very Audrey Hepburn, swapping in black denim leggings for black cigarette pants.  Add a long, nautical striped top and a pair of cute ballet flats, like Tory Burch’s Reva or Steve Madden’s Heavenly Flat.

BCBGMAXAZRIA Long Strip Tee, $68

BCBGMAXAZRIA Long Strip Tee, $68

Madden Girl Heavenly Patent Flat, $39.95

Madden Girl Heavenly Patent Flat, $39.95

The Girl Out on the Town
For a night out, add to the sexiness of the sleek silhouette of denim leggings with a sparkly top and our favorite hot shoe, the OTK boot.  On a tight budget?  Check out this sequin tunic from a.n.a., it’s just $24.99!  If you want less shimmer, try the Zoa Sequin Panel Tunic.  The sequin design is limited to one shoulder/sleeve.  It would look great with some silver bangles or a cuff bracelet.

MICHAEL Michael Kors Sequined Tunic, $89.99

Michael Kors Sequin Tunic

Colin Stuart Over The Knee Boot, on sale for $149

Over The Knee Boots

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How to Wear: Biker Jackets April 6th, 2010 By

With the leather jacket’s recent comeback, everyone has been clamoring for that edgy look.   But how do you wear it?  Here I’ve highlighted three ways you can rock the style to fit your personality.

Rezrekshn Leather Motorcycle Jacket

Rezrekshn Leather Motorcycle Jacket

1. The Traditional Way
Biker jackets look great with anything, but they certainly go hand in hand with a pair of jeans. From simple classic Levi’s, to the new class of edgy, ripped, broken-in and acid-washed designer denim, the leather biker jacket and jeans are as classic as PB & J.

beso pick: Rezrekshn leather motorcycle jacket, $159 at Victoria’s Secret

Pencey Silk Bomber Jacket

Pencey Silk Bomber Jacket

2. The Romantic Way
A floral dress or ruffled mini brings a slight air of romance to a biker jacket. The key is to pair a rough and rugged biker jacket with a super flirty look for a great balance between soft and hard. It’s the sexy look that will keep ‘em guessing!  Try a silk jacket with a bomber fit.

beso pick: Pencey silk bomber jacket in black, $399 at The Trend Boutique

Doma Leather Moto Biker Jacket

Doma Leather Moto Biker Jacket

3. The Rockstar Way
Wanna channel your inner rockstar? Pair a biker jacket with ripped leggings or skinny jeans, biker boots, your favorite tee, chunky jewelry and bedhead (see Taylor Momsen from Gossip Girl). This style looks like you didn’t try too hard, and the look is rockin’!

beso pick: Doma leather moto biker jacket in black, $649 at The Trend Boutique

- Ehmonie from What’s Haute

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3 Ways to Fight Aging Right Now March 13th, 2010 By

Sunscreen – We all know that prolonged sun exposure can rapidly accelerate the skin’s aging process. One of the best means of defense is a skin system with products that offer great SPF protection. Many sunscreen products now come with the added benefits of anti-aging ingredients or additional coverage.

Anti-Aging products with sunscreen

Anti-Aging Products with Sunscreen

1. Neutrogena Age Shield Face Sunblock SPF 90, $10.99 at Target
Boasts an amazing price tag and a sheer (read: no icky white streaks), fragrance-free moisturizing formula that combats skin-aging free radicals.

2. Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20,$42 at Nordstrom
Your makeup can now do double duty! This tinted moisturizer shields skin from harmful UVB and UVA rays and hides flaws with lightweight, natural coverage all in one shot.

3. Shiseido Daytime Protective Cream SPF15, $221.95 at Cosmetic America
If you’ve got a little more change to spare, then try this luxe solution that promises to accentuate the positive (resilience and radiance) while reducing the negative (wrinkles, sagging, cellular damage and dryness).

Eye Cream - Don’t let pesky crows feet, dark circles, or wrinkles add years to your appearance. Fight back with a few key products specially formulated for this delicate area.

Anti-aging Eye Creams

Anti-Aging Eye Creams

1. Burt’s Bees Naturally Ageless Eye Cream, $24.97 at Overstock.com
This emulsion is packed with natural ingredients like pomegranate and magnolia extract to aid in de-stressing tired looking eyes.

2. Olay Professional Pro-X Eye Restoration Complex, $41.99 at Dermadoctor.com
The OlayPro-X line has won rave reviews and been proven to soften the skin, diminish the look of fine lines and lighten dark circles.

3. Estee Lauder Re-Nutriv Ultimate Lifting Eye Cream, $99 at BeautyEncounter.com
Your “no surgery required” eye lift solution helps strengthen the skin for a more firm appearance.

Face SerumA little face firming serum now may be the way to prevent a nip/tuck situation later. Preserve your skin’s elasticity and suppleness with potent serums that lift, firm and hydrate.

Face saving anti-aging serums

Anti-Aging Serums

1. Avon Liiv Botanicals Vitalizing Face Serum, $17 at Avon
A budget friendly serum that guarantees visible improvements after just one application!

2. Sea Chi Organics Re-Hydrating Facial Serum, $69 at Nimli.com
Offers an organic solution to combat dryness and wrinkling around the neck, eyes and mouth.

3. La Mer Lifting Face Serum, $440 at Nordstrom
Restore and renew while you sleep! The La Mer brand has been a favorite among the celebrity set for years.

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3 Ways to Update Your Wardrobe Right Now February 17th, 2010 By

-Ehmonie from Handbag du Jour

New York Fashion Week marks the start of the new fashion season, and while designers are showing their fall wares, stores are starting to sell their spring lines. You might be wondering what you need to snag for spring but so you don’t have to break the bank, check out the top three key pieces you can buy to update your wardrobe right now!

Banana Republic Womens Black Tall Lightweight Wool Blazer

Banana Republic Womens Black Tall Lightweight Wool Blazer

1. Structured blazer
The strong shoulder trend is dying down just a bit, but a structured, boyfriend-style blazer with a bit of shoulder detail is the perfect accent to a dress, blouse and skirt, pants…you name it! The Banana Republic Womens Black Tall Lightweight Wool Blazer provides a chic fit and can be dressed up or down as you please.

Prada Cervo Lux Patterned Print Bowler Bag

Prada Cervo Lux Patterned Print Bowler Bag

2. Exotic print bag
A statement bag is a must for any season, and exotic print bags never go out of style. The Prada Cervo Lux Patterned Print Bowler Bag is a blend of neutral brown and gold tones that complement any spring looks. Sling it on your arm and go.

Citizens of Humanity 'Slick' Skinny Stretch Denim Leggings - Dust Wash

Citizens of Humanity 'Slick' Skinny Stretch Denim Leggings - Dust Wash

3. Denim leggings
Denim is always in, and jeggings are the newest form of them. Jean leggings blend the look of skinny jeans with the comfort of leggings, and they’re a stylish alternative to pants. The Citizens of Humanity ‘Slick’ Skinny Stretch Denim Leggings (Dust Wash) are the perfect pick. Pair with any top…they’re just like jeans!

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3 Ways to Shop beso.com February 9th, 2010 By

- Ehmonie from Handbag du Jour

As a new contributor to beso, I’m finding my way around the site much like you are! beso offers such a wide variety of fashion items so you may be thinking ‘Where do I begin?’  Here are 3 ways that I found to shop beso:

Rebecca Minkoff Linear Stud Flame Tote

Rebecca Minkoff Linear Stud Flame Tote

I started with searching brands. As a handbag-a-holic, I’m always searching to see what’s new from my favorite handbag designers so I began my ‘brands’ search with Rebecca Minkoff. From the homepage, I typed in the brand name in the main search box, then found a slew of hot Rebecca Minkoff bags, like the Rebecca Minkoff Linear Stud Flame Tote. You can further refine by store on the left hand side.

If you have a particular store you love, it’s probably available on beso!  On the homepage, click on ‘View All’ on the right hand side under ‘Featured Stores and Brands.’  This will take you to an alphabetical list of your favorite online shops.  I chose ‘Neiman Marcus,’ and then further refined to ‘Bags’ where I discovered the Valentino Rouches Napa Tote. Pretty cute, huh?

Valentino Rouches Napa Tote

Valentino Rouches Napa Tote

Finally, on beso, you can search previous blog posts for inspiration. Beso’s editors and bloggers cover everything in the fashion spectrum, from hot handbags, to footwear and hair accessories, to apparel and undergarments. And if you see something you like, sign up for a beso account so you can save your favorite stores and brands!

This ends your introduction to shopping beso. Don’t forget to check back often to see my hot finds and share yours with me too! Happy shopping!

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3 Ways to Pull a Simple Black Dress Together December 18th, 2009 By

Chan Luu Gold Leaf Earrings

Chan Luu Gold Leaf Earrings

How do you make a simple black dress look fresh and on trend?  It’s all about the accessories.  A plain black dress is a blank canvas that you can accessorize to fit any trend.  There is a reason that the little black dress is an essential.  It’s timeless.

How should you accessorize right now?

Here are 3 ways:

Balmain Red Buckle Boots

Balmain Red Buckle Boots

An amazing pair of shoes.  Very bright, embellished shoes need to be paired with something simple and dark-colored that won’t compete with them.  An LBD is the perfect companion for a pair of purple or red boots and black tights.  These Balmain boots are the perfect example.  With shoes this hot, you can get away with a simpler dress.

MICHAEL Michael Kors Studded Belt

MICHAEL Michael Kors Studded Belt

A fabulous belt.  There are so many different kinds of belts available, and each can give your dress a very different look. Go with a skinny belt for a romantic, understated look.  Try a bright color or animal print for a little more impact.  To really emphasize your waist, wear a wide belt, like this studded belt from Michael Kors.

Kenneth Jay Lane Necklace

Kenneth Jay Lane Necklace

Jewelry.  A statement necklace and/or bracelets will work better with a simple dress than something that is over-embellished.  A necklace like this Kenneth Jay Lane one can be paired with some plain silver bangles. A bib necklace like this one from The Limited should be worn without other jewelry.  You can also choose to pair some long earrings with bracelets.  We like the gold leaf earrings, above, from Chan Luu.  They’d be the perfect boho-chic companion to a skinny gold belt.

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3 Ways to Wear: Brooches October 30th, 2009 By

Adriana Orsini Flower Brooch

Adriana Orsini Flower Brooch

Think brooches are old-fashioned?  Think again!  What we love right now: a brooch as an accent on a dress.  Try a modern flower brooch, like one from Adriana Orsini. Strategically placed, they can show off the style of the dress or highlight your best asset.  Lindsay Price, Tina Fey and Chloe Sevigny used brooches to liven up the gowns they wore to the Primetime Emmy Awards.

Try it:

On the shoulder/near the neckline of your dress like Lindsay Price: Lindsay’s placement of the brooch shows that you can turn an ordinary dress into something spectacular.  The placement of the brooch near her neckline draws your eye to her face and neck, a universally flattering spot on any figure.

On one hip like Chloe Sevigny: Chloe’s brooch shows off her small waist. This is a great choice for anyone looking to emphasize a tiny waist, with a glittering brooch drawing the eye to all the right places.

On the back of the dress like Tina Fey: Tina’s brooch highlights the open back style of her gown.  Wear one to make sure you look just as gorgeous going as coming.

Dresses with draping look best with brooches, skip the skin-tight sheaths.  Don’t have a dress that would work? You can find dresses made with brooches, too!

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