5 Star General May 26th, 2010 By

If you happened to catch a glimpse of the fall 2010 RTW shows, you noticed there was a continuance of the ever-present military theme.  Balmain, Rag & Bone, MaxMara and L.A.M.B. all featured military-inspired jackets, skinny cargos, and combat boots — each with their own twist.

Last week I waxed poetic about my early teen years — gingham babydoll dresses paired with combat boots.  Well, it seems this trend has finally come full circle, because I can’t think of anything better to pair with this season’s feminine florals and girly gingham pieces.  Even better, they will take you right into fall.  Now that’s what I call being well-prepared.  Earn your stars with these 5 fabulous pieces:

1.  Combat Boots
Comfortable and chic, these are already making a strong showing.  I like Jeffrey Campbell’s All Combat Boots for $285.

2. Rag & Bone O’hara Jacket, $520 
I love the dressed-down look of this army jacket.

3. Burberry Brit Drawstring Shirtdress, $495
With feminine details like puffy sleeves and a drawstring waist, this shirtdress is at once slimming and chic.

4. 7 For All Mankind Leather Bomber,  $349
100% Italian leather with crinkle effect, bomber jackets are taking off.

5. Old Navy Twill Tie-Belt Jacket, $44.50 $35.99 (19% off)
Style for less less than fifty bucks is what we call an all-American dream.

> shop more military styles at beso

Tags: , , , , ,
Discuss: 1 Comment

How to Wear: Combat Boots March 30th, 2010 By

Combat boots aren’t just for the military anymore. The footwear trend emerged a couple years ago and won’t be retiring anytime soon. As a welcome alternative to sky-high stilettos (painful!) and ballet flats (boring!), combat boots instantly add edge to any outfit.  Here are four ways you can rock this trend:

1. Go grunge!
The grungy look so popular in the early ’90s is what combat boots were made for. Comb your closet (or find an excuse to go shopping) for a pair of acid wash jeans. Complete the look with a tank top and an oversized plaid shirt in a bold pattern, like this chic interpretation of a plaid button-down from Victoria’s Secret. Jeffrey Campbell’s allover studded combat boots give the outfit more of that messy, undone ’90s vibe!

Jeffrey Campbell All Stud Combat Boot, $275

Jeffrey Campbell All Stud Combat Boot, $275

2. Go trendy!
With a pair of combat boots like these Miss Me Lara Croft Boots, featuring metal hardware, buckles and straps, keep the rest of your ensemble simple for a very current look. Basic pieces, like a pair of slim black leggings and the perfect white V-neck tee, are ideal for these knee-high shoes. For a slightly dressier feel, throw on a blazer such as this Robert Rodriguez relaxed slit-back blazer in a deep blue shade.

Miss Me Lara Croft Combat Boots, $44.99

3. Go girly!
For all the girly-girls with an inner tomboy, combat boots offer the perfect counterbalance to your feminine dresses.  Try pairing your boots with  a cute floral frock- Nordstrom’s Frenchie dress is a great option – and and a cropped denim vest. The shoes offset the girliness of the outfit.

4. Go glam!
Who knew that combat boots could be glam? Envision Dr. Martens metallic gold combat boots paired with a black dress for a night out! Slip on a gown like BCBG Max Azria dress for a look that’s both sexy and casual. Accessorize with chunky gold jewelry like cuff bracelets or statement rings to finish off the outfit.

Dr. Martens Combat Boots, $79

 

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Discuss: 59 Comments

Top 5: What’s Haute for Spring January 28th, 2010 By

- Ehmonie from Handbag du Jour

Last spring was all about leggings, jeggins, strong shoulders and studded everything.  Balmain was one designer that ruled the spring runways with edgy, distressed, punk looks and many others followed suit.  Wondering what’s haute for this spring?  Well, this year’s trends are a blend of feminine and masculine.  Expect to see much softer looks, with a much more understated bit of edge.  We’ve compiled a list of the top five items that are an absolute must-have for your spring wardrobe:

 

Love Quotes Scarf

Love Quotes Scarf

1. Scarves
A gauzy scarf is the perfect alternative to jewelry, and it does double-duty by keeping you warm.  Infinity scarves ruled the winter; now pick up a gauze scarf for spring.  Solid colors are great, but a print takes your look up a couple of notches.  Wear it hanging long, or slouchily wrapped around your neck for a boho look.  Wondering what print to pick?  Don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be a perfect match with the rest of your wardrobe.

3printedtights

Comic Strip Tights

2. Printed Tights
Leggings are still spilling over from last year, but this year’s choice of legwear is printed tights.  Worn with skirts and dresses, these tights are like artwork for your legs.  Choose from floral prints and stripes, to newsprint, pop art and color blocks.  Mix print tights with contrasting print dresses and skirts to take a fashion risk that will definitely pay off.

 

Combat Boots

Combat Boots

3. Combat Boots
Yes, the Dr. Martens-style combat boot is making a huge comeback.  But this time, it’s much more ladylike.  The new wave of combat boots boast interesting details like buckled shafts, stud details, and even chunky heels while maintaining feminine sensibilities.  Choose from basic black to lighter colors to usher in the springtime.

 

Statement Bags

Statement Bags

4. Statement Bags
One thing that never goes out of style is the statement back.  This spring, tear yourself away from black and buy a bag full of color.  A vibrant pop of color injects your look with personality and pizzazz.  And a bright leather satchel is just the bag to take you easily from work to play.

 

 

1nailpolish

Nail Polish


5. Nail Polish
Last spring, Chanel ushered in green nail polish and fashionistas took notice.  This year, the colorful nail polish trend continues.  While fall was all about deep purples and vampy reds, spring is the time to shine your nails with light pastels and fun, funky bright colors.  Metallic nails are big — glitter your hands up with some silver or gold.  Also new to the scene, matte polishes in beiges and taupes.

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Discuss: 2 Comments