Must Have Items

Celebrity Style Trends – How to Wear Sequins!

by Kirsten on November 9, 2010

Sequins are a really fun way to brighten up an outfit and give it a bit of life. It’s easy to go overboard, so one simple sequined item as part of your full outift is a perfect way to try out this trend. Below are a bunch of celebrities showing off their sequins; what do you think?

It’s as simple as adding a sequined vest over a tee with some jeans, or perhaps a blazer! For a night out that requires a more dressy attire, think about a sequined mini or even a sequined dress!

Continue on below for some great options to add to your wardrobe. I am planning on picking up a vest or jacket, and am loving the Steve Madden skirt! Adorable and so fun!

Blake Lively in Emilio Pucci Sequined Blazer

Beyonce in Sequined Mini Skirt

Kim Kardashian in 7 For All Mankind Sequined Blazer

Jessica Lowndes in Sequined Mini Skirt

Cheryl Cole in Les Chiffoniers single-breasted silver sequin jacket

Eva Mendes in Sequined Dress

Mary-Kate Olsen in Sequined Dress

Rachel Bilson in D&G Sequined Blazer

Click the image to buy the MM Couture Sequin Detail Sweater Vest (a Rachel Zoe favorite!) for only $62!!

Click the image to buy this Steve Madden sequined skirt for only $60!

Click the image to buy the Banana Republic Sequin Twist-Neck Tank for only $98!!

Click on the image to pick up the Calvin Klein Drape Front Sequined Blazer for only $153!!

Click the image to buy the Single Dress - Sheer Sleeve Sequin Dress for $234

Click the image to buy the Michael Michael Kors Seqined Vest for only $62.65!

Love, K.

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Winter Fashion Trend Alert – Fair Isle Sweaters and More!

by Kirsten on November 5, 2010

It must be the Norwegian in me that loves the Fair Isle prints for the winter and fall seasons. Growing up in a Scandinavian family, visiting the countries, and loving the culture, I always made sure to come back with a few sweaters for the cooler months of the year. And although the fair isle pattern comes from a small island north of Scotland, it definitely carries a Scandinavian vibe as well. So it’s not that I am saying I loved this look from the beginning and you should too, but…. ok, I am.

We may be used to seeing this look in all the rugged little ski towns, but it’s big in the fashion world right now, and a definite must for your winter wardrobe! Check out the various photos (and celebs wearing the look) below, with some great options that you can pick up right now! (I absolutely love the leg warmers and the leggings!)

Victoria Beckham in Fair Isle Sweater

Rihanna in Yigal Azrouel Fair Isle Open Knit Sweater

Hilary Duff in Yigal Azrouel Fair Isle Sweater

Diane Kruger in Fair Isle Sweater

Kate Hudson in Fair Isle Sweater

Jennifer Lopez in Fair Isle Cardigan

Old Navy Womens Fair Isle Tie-Belt Wrap Cardigans

Free People Fireside Pullover Sweater

Gryphon Fair Isle Leggings

Marc by Marc Jacobs Buzzy Fair Isle Sweater Leg Warmers

Joie Cleopatra Fair Isle Vest

Old Navy Womens Fair Isle Knit Scarves

Fair Isle

Love, K.

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New Fashion Obsession – Embellished Shoulder Detail

by Kirsten on November 2, 2010

Lately I have been seeing a lot of people wearing great outfits incorporating embellished shoulders. This shoulder detail is a really fun way to change up your look, and I happened to completely fall in love with Kourtney Kardashian’s sweater that she was just seen in last week.

* Photos from officialkourtneyk.celebuzz.com

She happens to be wearing her favorite piece from their K-Dash for QVC collection, K-DASH by Kardashian Sweater with Chain Shoulder Detail, which you can pick up by simply clicking on the link!

Here are a few other images (some w/ links to purchase) of people going for this trend, just love it!

Cheryl Cole in Alice + Olivia (sold out)

Kim Kardashian in Camilla and Marc

camilla and marc Stone Cold Turtleneck Sweater

Taylor Swift

Similar – Monrow Studded Crew Neck Sweatshirt

More ideas for purchase:

Madewell Birkin Antique Metallic Sequin Tee

Elizabeth and James Beaded Lizzy Tee

Love, K.

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Must-Have Item: Printed, Patterned, Textured and Colored Tights

by Kirsten on October 28, 2010

I am absolutely ready for the fall and winter seasons. Something about the cold weather, and the fashion fantasies it creates in my mind, makes me want to go out and get a whole new wardrobe. Unfortunately, it’s just not possible. Sigh.

Thankfully, there are a ton of smaller, less expensive items that will not only spruce up my closet, but it will absolutely add some life to your own! Simple and yet chic, printed and patterned tights are a must-have this year.

Check out these celebrities wearing tights: Blake Lively, Ashley Olsen, Rachel Bilson, Leighton Meester, Megan Fox, and Victoria Beckham. Do a quick search online, and you will see how many others are going for this look too!

Blake Lively

Ashley Olsen

Rachel Bilson

Leighton Meester and Blake Lively @ Gossip Girl Set

Megan Fox

Victoria Beckham

Leighton Meester

Aren’t they amazing! I feel like I need a dozen pairs…

So, what do you think? Is this a trend you’re willing to test out? Have you already? Leave your thoughts below!

Here are some really cute options available now – and what great prices!

Old Navy Basic Tights in Aristocrat Purple – $6.50

Gap Pointelle chevron tights – $14.50 or 2 or more $11/each

Piperlime Milly Hue Aspirin Dot Tight – $24.00

See by Chloe Ribbed cotton-blend tights – $20 (Regularly $85!)

ASOS Emilio Cavallini Tattoo Style Print Tights $28.45

ASOS Black Wild Flower Tights $13.79

ASOS Falke Vittoria Tights – $17.24 (Regularly $29.31)

Love, K.

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Palladium Boots – Stylish Combat Boots

by Kirsten on October 26, 2010

It’s no secret that the celeb world is loving the combat look right now. We have seen them on the likes of Jessica Alba, Nicki Hilton, Kate Moss, Rachel Bilson, Rihanna, Sienna Miller, Alessandra Ambrosio and many more! Take a quick look at the photos below.

Combat boots can be worn in every season – paired with skinny jeans, leggings, a skirt and tights during the cooler months, or worn with skirts and shorts during the warmer months! Whether your look is more vintage, classic, rocker, or a combination, combat boots have their place in any of these styles. The key is finding a pair that fits you well, is comfortable, and stylish!

When Palladium Boots sent me a pair of their Pallabrouse Baggy in khaki/putty, I was really excited. They are an ideal combat boot – not only are ridiculously cute and comforable, but they also can be worn two different ways!

Palladium Boots have been around quite a long time, check out this great history:

Palladium was founded in 1920 to make tires for the fledgling aviation industry. Tires were made by layering canvas bands underneath vulcanized rubber. Palladium’s expertise was so advanced that soon the majority of Europe’s aircraft were using Palladium tires.

After World War II, with aircraft manufacturing screeching to a halt, the demand for tires decreased dramatically. Palladium decided to open a plant in Pont De Cheruy, France, to start producing footwear that was as hard wearing as their tires. In 1947 the legendary Pampa boot was born, and the functionality, comfort and durability were so outstanding that the French Foreign Legion adopted it for their use. The Foreign Legion put the boot to the test in the harsh desert conditions of North Africa, and throughout the rugged terrain of the Atlas Mountains.

Today, the original design, classic lines and time tested utility are as relevant as they have ever been. Combining over 60 years of authenticity with modern manufacturing, premium materials and cutting edge styling, Palladium boots are ready to help you explore your street, your city, or the world.

Over the years, combat boots have always held their ground, and at this point in time, are back with a vengeance! As women, we tend to select highly uncomfortable shoes over sacrificing style – and yet with Palladium Boots, you can have both – style and comfort!

The Pallabrouse Baggy, which happened to be worn by Ellen Degeneres on the runway of NY Fashion Week 2010, comes in an array of colors and materials. Here is an example of the two different ways you can wear them.

Check out a quick video of me showing the two ways you can wear the boots! Forgive me as I have a bit of the sniffles as I am battling a bit of a cold… yuck!

I definitely suggest picking up a pair of your own Palladium Combat Boots! You will love them! You can also pick them up here!

In addition, here are some great shots from their lookbook highlighting the Baggy boot!

Love, K.

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Travel Fashion Guide – Must Have Boots for Travel

by Kirsten on September 14, 2010

We all know I am a huge fan of multi-functional items. Particularly when it comes to clothing and accessories. If I can find something great that can be used in a variety of ways, we can be sure that it will make it into my suitcase, or carry-on for that matter. If you have been following me for a while, you know that I don’t check my bags, and that I can travel for a couple weeks at a time with just one carry-on and my personal item. It is possible, despite how scary it sounds.

One of the best ways to assure that you can bring a lot (with not a lot of space to store it in), is to choose items that can be used in multiple ways. When I saw these boots by Fratelli Rossetti, you can bet that I was swooning with envy. In addition to being absolutely gorgeous, they are dual purpose. Pretty much you get two shoes for the price of one!

With a simple unclick of the stirrups, you get two classic styles. And with the quality of Fratelli Rossetti, you know you can keep these babies around for life. Although they don’t come cheap, you can expect superb quality, long-lasting wear, and a completely timeless style. I wouldn’t think twice about purchasing them!

Buy a pair of the Fratelli Rossetti Multi-Function boots from Zappos.com!

Fratelli Rossetti is an Italian brand known for their luxurious leathers. For over 60 years Fratelli Rossetti has created luxury shoes with obsessive control over the quality of materials, details, and design. Can it be any more obvious in this boot? I think not.

Love, K.

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Leather Jackets – Why They Are So Great for Traveling

by Kirsten on May 14, 2010

What is the best jacket to wear while traveling? Look no further. Leather jackets have long been a staple to everyone’s wardrobes, but in the recent past, they have become beautifully chic, available in a wide array of colors, cuts, and styles. Until this last year, it was not a part of my wardrobe, but I can now say that I am a proud owner of one of the best jackets I have ever owned. Before you choke on the prices, remember these are items meant to last forever. Leather wears really well and you can use it for years to come. It is well worth spending a little extra to get something gorgeous and well-made.

I particularly love the butter softness of a quality leather, the supple texture makes you never want to take it off. When wearing it you feel like a million bucks, and it truly is a fashion item that every person must own. If you find one that is high-quality and a more classic cut, you are making a great investment for years to come.

When traveling, packing a jacket is a huge pain in the ass. They take up a ton of space, and the thinner jackets will often not be warm enough in certain locations. The great thing about leather is that you can get a very thin fitting jacket, and yet it provides enough warmth for really cold nights, and yet breathes for more warmer temperatures as well.

So, for the question, what jacket should I bring on vacation? This will help answer your question!

Find the best leather jackets for travel in all price ranges after the jump!

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Best Jeans for Travel – Review

by Kirsten on May 10, 2010

Traveling in jeans can be a bit of a conundrum. Jeans happen to be one of my favorite clothing items, bar none. In fact, I have so many pairs, it is slightly embarrassing. (Well, not to me, but to others who may not share the same obsession). Denim can be really fashionable as well as really comfortable, although I have found that pairing the two together can be extremely difficult, so difficult that most of my pairs of jeans rarely are worn when I am en route to my destination. There are a few reasons for this; the jeans are too tight without having enough give to be seated for long periods of time, the jeans may be too stiff to allow for any flexibility, or the jeans are not the right look for my outfit. I only bring a couple pairs of jeans on each trip (should the weather permit long pants), and it is an excrutiating task to pick which jeans are the lucky few. I love to travel in my boyfriend jeans, but they are not always the jeans I want to have on the remainder of my trip, particularly because they cannot be dressed up very easily. Functional and fashionable is key, which is why I find a pair of skinny jeans to be exactly the type of jean I want to have with me through my various travels and experiences. Red Engine Jeans does the job with ease.

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Cute Camera Bags – Feminine, Stylish and Fashionable

by Kirsten on April 26, 2010

We knew it wouldn’t be long after I purchased my new DSLR that I would need to find a cute camera bag to tote this sucker around. Many thanks to reader Vicky, who asked about my recommendations for a cute camera bag, prompting me to provide readers with some great suggestions on this very topic. There is a total lack of stylish camera bags readily available, but you can find them if you do a bit of research and searching. I am in the process of finding a great one to use for my Nikon and plan to do a full review of it once I make a final selection. In the meantime, here is my list of favorite DSLR bags that both are functional and chic (in a variety of price ranges).

The “Lunch Box” from Acme out of San Francisco – $39.99 (awesome price!)

more stylish DSLR bags after the jump!

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Four Types of Shoes You Must Have for a Summer Vacation

by Kirsten on April 21, 2010

One of the hardest parts about packing lightly is fitting your shoes in your bag without taking up too much space. Honestly, I would love to have a separate bag just for my shoes, but that isn’t smart for a variety of reasons, nor do you end up using most of them. Although every woman varies in her favorite shoes to bring along, I have my top four picks. This post will answer the question – what shoes do I bring on a summer vacation?

These picks will help you avoid bringing too many different pairs on your next trip. Each time I pack shoes, I always bring way more than I need and have come to learn that having these four types – are plenty. Remember to pick colors that can work with many outfits. Metallics are great for this, as are simple solid colors.

Cute Sandals
Sandals are a must for your trip unless you are planning on visiting a cold destination, or perhaps it’s their rainy time of year. The best part about sandals is the lack of space they take. I usually can fit a couple pairs without concern. (I also make sure to bring a few flip flops for the beach, some that I don’t care if they get wet/dirty/sandy). Here are a two pairs of sandals that I love. The first is the ever popular variation of a gladiator sandal, and the second is a great jewel tone with some fun embellishments.

View the four must have shoe suggestions after the jump, complete with links!