Get This Look: Jessica Szohr March 26th, 2010 By

Jessica_Szohr

Jessica Szohr (Janet Mayer/PR Photos)

At a recent Jill Stuart fashion show in New York City, Gossip Girl star Jessica Szohr rocked an effortlessly sexy look, perfect for a hot date or a night out with the girls. She layered a trench coat over a white mini cutout dress, then finished off with two standout accessories – a black clutch and red hot peep-toe stilettos for a burst of color. With her side-swept bangs and smoky eye makeup, Jessica was the epitome of that last minute, thrown-together look so many women hope to achieve. It’s easier than you think to steal Jessica’s sassy style as long as you own a few key pieces from her wardrobe!

Jessica’s mini dress with sheer black cutouts is by designer Jill Stuart, but you can opt for a simpler and far more affordable one like this New York & Company frock. Its sleek silhouette and sweetheart neckline are flattering, while subtle metallic accents give it a boost of glamour.

New York & Company White Strapless Mini Dress

New York & Company White Strapless Mini Dress, $89.95

Banana Republic’s nylon trench ($130) is the perfect shade of brown – they call it root beer float! Like Jessica’s, this trench is classic and lightweight, ideal for layering over a dress at night or pairing with a more casual weekend outfit.

Banana Republic Nylon Trench

Banana Republic Nylon Trench, $130

Take a cue from Jess by pairing your outfit with a basic black clutch. This super affordable version by Converse ($16.99) features zippers, braided straps, and several compartments, combining function and fashion!

Converse One Star Foldover Clutch

Converse One Star Foldover Clutch, $16.99

Finally, Jessica’s look just isn’t complete without those stilettos! A pair of lipstick-red heels, like these flirty Nine West peep toe platforms ($49.47), offer the perfect finishing touch.

Nine West Women's Liatris Peep Toe Platform

Nine West Liatris Peep Toe Platform, $49.47

 

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How to Wear: Puffer Jackets December 2nd, 2009 By

Juicy Couture Puffer Jacket

Juicy Couture Puffer Jacket

Puffer jackets are perfect for winter’s cold weather, but you don’t have to look like the Michelin Man just to keep warm.

Picking the right puffer jacket, not too fluffy, and pairing it with the right outfit are key to looking snow-bunny chic.

A defined waist, whether from a belt or the shape of the coat itself, will help you to look svelte.  Petite women should be wary of long puffer coats as they can overpower a smaller frame.  Your other garments should be streamlined and slimming under your coat. Wear your puffer over leggings, skinny jeans or a pencil skirt. Avoid A-line skirts and anything that adds volume. Wear a dark puffer coat for a more slimming effect.

Fur trim, like the faux-fur on the Juicy Couture jacket above, will keep your neck warm and coats lined with shearling or fur are extra toasty.

Juicy Couture and Burberry offer some gorgeous belted puffers. For a more wallet-friendly option, check out Victoria’s Secret and Target.

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Top 5: Oversized Houndstooth October 28th, 2009 By

Alexander McQueen Houndstooth Dress

Alexander McQueen Houndstooth Dress

This fall many designers take the classic houndstooth pattern and make it modern. Here are our top 5 picks for the best use of oversized houndstooth:

The Alexander McQueen houndstooth dress is amazing.  The silhouette is ultrafeminine and the houndstooth pattern varies in size to give your curves extra oomph while slimming your waist.  The high ruffled tie collar and ultrafine merino wool fabric keep the dress winter appropriate while the sleeveless design lets you show some skin. It is a little out of my price range at over $1500, but if you can afford it the dress is definitely money well spent.

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Jessica Simpson dress

This Jessica Simpson houndstooth dress is a steal at $118.  Paired with black tights and a pair of red cut-out booties or sandals, you’ll look like you spent a whole lot more.

From left, Michael Kors, Via Spiga and Hilary Radley

From left, Michael Kors, Via Spiga and Hilary Radley

Houndstooth is a classic pattern for coats and these three styles make it modern.  This Michael Kors houndstooth coat is less than $200 at Zappos.com.  The Via Spiga Carso coat, $150, and the Hilary Radley houndstooth coat, $300, are both on sale at Bluefly.

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