The Difference Between Panama and Fedora Hats July 2nd, 2010 By

I love the fact that hats are so in!  It’s the easiest and most chic way to protect your face from the sun, slyly avoid a bad hair day, and accessorize any outfit.  This season try a Panama or fedora hat as your summer accessory.  They are the go-to topper that can take you from the beach to lounging at a club.  Here are some celebs sporting the look this summer:

Stacy Keibler in a fedora while on the beach in Mexico

Hilary Duff in fitted fedora in NYC

A quick look at tradition: 

What makes a true Panama hat?  Panama Hat: (noun) A natural-colored, hand-plaited hat made from leaves of the jipijapa plant of South and Central America.

What characterizes a fedora? Fedora: (noun) A man’s soft, felt hat with the crown creased lengthwise and a somewhat curved brim. Origin: France, after Fédora(1882), a play by Sardou – the hat style was worn by one of the characters. 

Hats today:

In 2010 however, there are a million styles of these hats.  This classic J. Crew Panama Hat is my favorite.  It reminds me of the 1920s and The Great Gatsby. I can only be so grateful that fashion reinvents itself, and this once strictly-menswear hat is now perfectly acceptable atop my little head with my favorite black string bikini.  

 
 

J.Crew Panama Hat

 

But I couldn’t pass up this super-affordable (it’s on sale!) and oh-so-sweet fedora style from American Eagle Outfitters. With a white tee and a pair of cuffed boyfriend jeans, this is perfect for every day.  Will you be sporting one this summer?

Natural Fedora with Ribbon by American Eagle Outfitters

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Accessory Style File: Romantic Hair Accessories February 6th, 2010 By

Cara Accessories Special Fluttering Floral Bow Headband

Cara Accessories Floral Bow Headband

Let your inner romantic shine with pretty feather headbands, rhinestone barrettes and flower hair clips. Hair accessories are a quick and chic way to freshen up your look days after leaving the salon. It doesn’t matter if you have long, short or curly hair, there are cute accessories that will complement your hairstyle. Instantly transform your bad hair days with some of my favorite hair accessories listed below:

Noble Lady Crystal Hair Comb

Noble Lady Hair Comb

1.  Noble Lady Delicate Crystal Blossom Hair Comb,$7.95 at Amazon

The Noble Lady Crystal Blosson hair comb is great for both long and short hair. The cluster of pink crystals adds a little sparkle which most women love.

2.  Jennifer Behr Crystal Wing Headband, $98.00 at Saks Fifth Avenue

Jennifer Behr Crystal Wing Headwrap

Jennifer Behr Crystal Wing Headwrap

The Swarovski crystal wing and satin band creates a very polished and elegant look. It makes a plain ponytail more sophisticated and is perfect for those special occasions.

3.  Willowbee Purple Swarovski Calla Lily Alligator Hair Clip, $20.99 at Amazon

Willowbee Swarovski Lily Hair Clip

Willowbee Swarovski Lily Hair Clip

There is so much detail in the Willowbee Calla Lily hair clip. It’s made of polished metal and Swarovski crystal.

4. Polka Dot Feather Flower Hair Clip, $8.00 at Hot Topic

Polka Dot Feather Flower Hair Clip

Polka Dot Feather Flower Hair Clip

The polka dot feather flower hair clip can be dressed up or down. It adds a twist to this simple shoulder length hairstyle.

Show off your individuality by replacing your statement necklace with a romantic hair accessory. With so many styles to choose from, you can find one for any occasion. Just the other day I discovered an L.A. based label, Gloria & Beatrice, that has an exclusive collection of ‘GEAUX NOLA‘ headbands in honor of the New Orleans Saints making it to the Super Bowl!

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The Wide Belt: A Frugalista’s Saving Grace September 20th, 2009 By

Banana Republic Wide Belt, $60

Banana Republic Wide Belt, $60

Now that fall is practically here and winter is right around the corner, I’ve been looking for affordable ways to keep my wardrobe fresh.  One of my sneaky little secrets to saving money has always been to select a few choice accessories while desperately trying to avoid the beckoning calls from the dress department.

I’ve already got the scarf and the clutch, but the belt is another story.  Gone are the days of sack dresses — this season is all about definition.  I’ll be wearing my belt over cardigans, Oxford shirts, and possibly even over those shapeless dresses from a few seasons back. The new belt I’ve got my eye on is a dark brown equestrian style from Banana Republic.  It’s simple and classic, so I’ll be able to use it for many years to come.  I’ll be picking mine up just as soon as you can say, “pay day!”

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