Pre-Spring Outfits and Projects

As we wait for the dawn of spring and prepare for the year ahead, our thoughts turn to inspiring fashion and weekend projects.  Remember all those New Year's Resolutions? Time to get things into action! Take up a new hobby.  We have rediscovered quilting and knitting.  One fabric designer we adore is UK-based Kaffe Fassett http://www.kaffefassett.com/Home.html.  His fabrics and patterns transform quilting.  With a stunning palette and contemporary aesthetic, Kaffe is a superstar in the quilting world.  He has written multiple books and teaches quilting classes worldwide.  Pictured below is a quilt we made from his book, "Caravan Quilts".

Kaffe Fasset Quilt and Fabrics.  Sweatshirts by LOGO

Another great way to channel your crafty side is to knit! Debbie Bliss has great how-to books.
Check out this amazing entrelac cashmere throw.

Cashmere E'ntrelac Throw 

Crafting can also help you gain a new perspective on your wardrobe.  Examine the beautiful combinations in your quilting fabric.  Sometimes if you look closely you can discover color combinations that before seemed impossible! Mix up your clothes, play with color and form.  All is new this year.  Remember, there are no rules in fashion and when it's right, it's right! Just have fun! One designer that embraces mixing and matching is Elle Magazine Fashion Editor, Lori Goldstein. See our other posts on LORI:
http://ladylawyerslifestyle.blogspot.com/2014/05/office-style-with-lori-goldstein.html
Update your pre-Spring wardrobe with soft, flowing pieces that can transition all the way into fall.
We love the gorgeous colors and sophisticated silhouettes from LOGO by Lori Goldstein, available on QVC.com.  Embrace the new and unique.  Dye your hair, try a new hobby, watch the sunset! Get out of the Winter dull-drums and see Spring around the corner :)

Jacket by LOGO by Lori Golstein, Blouse by James Perse, Jewelry by Heidi Daus, Bag by Nahuli Ollin Candy Wrapper Bags, Shoes by Madewell, Jeans by Kardashian Kollection, Belt by Ralph Lauren.

Paper Doll Quilt! 

Pink Hair Don't Care! Color and Highlights by Moi using ION at Sally's Beauty Supply. 

Altuzarra has Arrived!!!

At long last, our Altuzarra pieces have arrived!! (http://altuzarra.com/) After anticipating this line for months and months, we were counting down the days until the launch on September 14. (http://www.target.com/c/altuzarra-for-target-brand-shop/-/N-556tx#?lnk=snav_rd_altuzarra&orginalSearchTerm=altuzzara)  This was on par with the launch of Isabel Marant pour H & M.  Joseph Aluzarra is an incredibly talented young designer.  Only barely in his 30s, he is already taking the fashion world by storm.  With a respectable pedigree, he boasts internships at Marc Jacobs, apprenticed with Prorenza Schouler and Rochas, and has worked as first assistant to Givency's Riccardo Tici.  He launched his fashion brand, Altuzarra, in New York in 2008.  Mr. Altuzarra is the 2014 CFDA Womensware Designer of the Year.  This collection for Target, was designed with the working woman in mind.  It reflects classic tailoring with a sexy and mysterious twist.  The black trench coat is an amazing anchor piece for your wardrobe.  As the finishing touch to any outfit, the trench is incredibly flattering and versatile.  It is dressy enough to wear to the opera, but perfectly appropriate for your daily trek to the office.  I absolutely adore the python print.  The print is not a garish snake print.  It is masterfully created and as sophisticated as any you will see on couture runways.  It is especially striking with the black trench, or layered with the python pencil skirt.  In this collection, Altuzarra is not afraid to go for a sexy and edgy look with thigh-high slits.  I think many offices are fine with this look, but if you are on the shy side you can save these pieces for nights out.  Altuzarra has interestingly offered a look for any event.  The fashion sweatshirts are very tom-girl chic.  They can be paired with jeans for casual day or dressed up with a skirt for work.  I really love them.  The red peasant dress is fabulous.  It is the perfect color of red, not too orange or too blue.  Truly glorious, this is the red from Chris de Brugh's song "Lady in Red". :) It will make you look amazing..that's all I can say.  The dress is very comfortable and easy to wear.  Overall, my sister and I are thrilled with this collection. Joseph Altuzarra, thank you for this! A true gift to fashionistas everywhere! 

Striking the Angelina Jolie Pose in this sexy black dress with crane embroidery.  Shoes by Madewell

Classic Black Trench and Python blouse. 

The Python long-sleeved tee looks great under my Vintage Chanel Jacket 

Lady in Red

Rachel Rocks the Green Python Sweatshirt with her Ted Baker Jeans and Cameo Jewels by AMEDEO NYC

Nautical Summer Style

Pictured below is your fantasy summer life:

Courtesy RalphLauren.com

Pictured below is your real summer life:

You wish you were partying in the Hamptons or setting sail in the blue waters of Capri...but you can't do that...you've got a big assignment from the boss.  It's hot outside and the air conditioning is blasting in your office. No worries, the spirit of summer glamour will follow you wherever you go when you dress in the season's elegant red, white, and blue styles.  Incorporate nautical pieces into your office summer style. Always opt for lighter, sheer fabrics.  Accessorize your basic office attire with nautical-inspired jewelry from Roberto Faraone Mennella, Brighton Collectibles, or Heidi Daus. Without any doubt, you can count on Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, J. Crew, and Tommy Hilfiger for more great Nautical office outfits!! Go Sailing into Summer!

Here are some great Nautical inspired looks:

Nautical Look from Bridget Bardot

Channel Bridget in a boat-neck striped top.  Office Appropriate.

Fun Brighton Beach towel!

Maritime Cardigan from Madewell. 

"Bikini Line" bracelet from Roberto Faraone Mennella

Vicky Tiel Red, White, and Blue Wrap Dress! 

Vicky Tiel Wrap Dress in Sky Blue with Noda Bracelet and "Alice" Necklace by Roberto Faraone Mennella

Vicky Tiel 50th Anniversary

Vicky Tiel is legendary and influential in the fashion world.  Starting her couture fashion house in Paris at the age of 20, she is the longest working woman couturier in Paris.  Celebrate her 50th Anniversary this month!!

I love her dresses.  Nothing makes me feel more feminine, confident, and stylish.
Every time I go out in a Vicky Tiel, I get nothing but compliments.  I especially love her
iconic wrap dress: http://contributors.luckymag.com/post/the-wrap-dress-a-fashion-essential

Learn more about her life and career in her fabulous book: "It's All About the Dress"
http://www.amazon.com/Its-All-About-Dress-Learned/dp/B00BJYL8QQ/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1400705311&sr=8-5&keywords=all+about+the+dress

She sells in Neiman Marcus, HSN, and through her own website.

Vicky is also a Huffington Post blogger, providing savvy insights on fashion and life!
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/vicky-tiel/

Congrats to Vicky on her amazing career!

Dress by Vicky Tiel, Scarf by Ted Baker, Jewelry by Roberto Faraone Mennella and Amedeo NYC

Dress by Vicky Tiel and Shoes by Madewell