Style Advice

Weekend Holiday Vacation Essentials – Courtesy of Shopbop.com!

by Kirsten on June 27, 2011

When this popped into my inbox, I knew I had to share it with all of you. Many of us love to take advantage of a quick weekend holiday or vacation, and this is a perfect time to look at some packing and clothing recommendations!

Here are Shopbop’s suggestions (and I know I am not the only one that is a huge fan of theirs)!

Just looking at this list makes me realize I need to pick up a few summer essentials. Some new day dresses, printed shorts, and more sandals!

How about you? What new items do you need in your summer vacation wardrobe? Tell us in the comments below!

Love, K.

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Celebrity Style Trends: Flared and Bell Bottom Jeans

by Kirsten on May 26, 2011

I can’t begin to express how happy I am that flared and bell bottom jeans are making a comeback. I still remember the first pair of designer jeans that I bought; the Seven for All Mankind Flares. They were fabulous, and I loved the way they fit my body perfectly. With skinny jeans being all the rage the last few years, I had put a stop on buying flares, bootcuts, and bell bottom style pants. It was a sad day in my house.

But, not anymore! Check out the various celebrities below sporting the flared jeans look. Can we all agree that they look fabulous? Yes. Is it just for girls with perfect bodies and long legs? Absolutely not. But more on that below.

Zoe Saldana in Black Orchid

Buy the Black Orchid Black Beauty Bell Flare in Dust Devil from BoutiqueToYou.com!

Nicky Hilton in Paige Premium Denim

Buy the Paige Premium Denim Laurel Canyon Flares from PaigeUSA.com
(Nicky is seen in the Laurel Canyon in Driftwood from 2009)

Annalynne McCord in J Brand

Buy the J Brand Bette Wide Leg Trouser Jeans in Wonderama from BoutiqueToYou.com or Singer22.com!
(Also seen on Cheryl Cole (below), Alessandra Ambrosio, January Jones, Zoe Saldana, Emmanuelle Chiriqui and Katie Holmes)

Kourtney Kardashian in J Brand

Buy the J Brand Love Story Low-Rise Bell Bottom Jeans from BoutiqueToYou.com!
(Kourtney is seen in the Hummingbird wash, no longer available)

Jessica Alba in Mama by J Brand (maternity)

Buy the Mama J J Brand Lovestory Maternity Jean in Indigo from Shopbop.com!

Jessica Simpson in Jessica Simpson

Buy the Jessica Simpson Collection Distressed 22 Inch Flares in Soleil Broken Twill Denim from Macys!

Sarah Jessica Parker in Paige Premium Denim

Buy the Paige Denim Bentley Wide Leg Jeans in Mischief from Shopbop.com!

Cheryl Cole in J Brand

Buy the J Brand Bette Wide Leg Trouser Jeans in Wonderama from BoutiqueToYou.com or Singer22.com!
(Also seen on Annalynne McCord (above), Alessandra Ambrosio, January Jones, Zoe Saldana, Emmanuelle Chiriqui and Katie Holmes)

Nicole Richie in Current/Elliott

Buy the Current/Elliott The Bell Jean in Fuel/Fray from Tobi.com!

As you can see there are a variety of women sporting this look. Very petite to very tall. Although fuller figured women weren’t in this selection, the key is to find a cut that fits your body best, and a length that doesn’t have to be hemmed too much. (It loses the integrity of the cut and the features placed at the bottom of the leg). Best to look for jeans that may come in petite or tall versions if you tend to be on one end of the spectrum or the other.

Have questions? Need help selecting a style for you? Shoot me an email! kirsten [at] travelingfashionista [dot] com!

Love, K.

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Rachel Zoe Report – Passport to Paris: Packing Tips for a Cold Weather Vacation

by Kirsten on January 7, 2011

It wasn’t that long ago that I posted about Rachel Zoe’s resort picks for a warm weather vacation, so when I came upon her newest travel fashion suggestion, I just couldn’t resist!

Ask Rachel: Passport to Paris – Packing Tips for a Cold Weather Vacay

Hey RZ! What should I pack for a 10 day vacay in Paris and London in February? – submitted by @vintagefinder, via Twitter

Carole,
Paris or London at any time of year is a dream, but since you are visiting in February, you must prepare to bundle up—in style! My advice is that you bring plenty of cozy clothes and accessories without over-stuffing your suitcase…are you ready to make a packing list?

Starting with the inner-layers and working out, take with you 1. pair of sturdy leggings 2. fashion-forward jeans 3. long sleeve tee 4. chunky knit sweater and 5. long outerwear option—my vote is a trench coat! You will quickly find that dressing for cold weather is all about layering your look.

After you have your base ensemble down, the next step is to excessorize. I recommend you do that with a 6. thick scarf 7. leather gloves and 8. trapper hat. For convenience, be sure to carry a 9. cross-body satchel to safely secure your belongings, which should include a 10. passport cover and 11. cool camera!

Finally, in terms of footwear, bring a pair of 12. riding boots that you can walk around the city comfortably in while still looking très chic! xoRZ

* Above – Kain long sleeve tee, Helmut Lang Leggings, Pentax Camera

Love, K.

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Celebrity Style Trends: Silk Shirts and Blouses

by Kirsten on December 27, 2010

Being the tactile person I am, I absolutely love clothing that feels good to the touch. So when I saw a variety of celebrities finding ways to work silk shirts into their wardrobes, I was excited to say the least!

Silk shirts have a timeless, classy appeal to them, easily able to be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Choosing a basic color will assure that you can wear it with a plethora of outfits – simply update your accessories and you’ll have a new look every time.

Although owning a silk shirt can feel a bit daunting, I have compiled some great advice at the bottom of this article as to how to find the best fit and how to care for silk shirts and blouses to assure they last a long time.

Here are some of my favorite looks of celebrities in silk shirts:

Alexa Chung in Silk Shirt

Cameron Diaz in Silk Shirt

Leighton Meester in Helmut Lang Silk Shirt

Lauren Conrad in Myne Silk Shirt

Mila Kunis in Silk Shirt

Olivia Palermo in Silk Shirt

Ready to pick one up for yourself? Me too! Here are some great options at a variety of price-points:

Bebe Skinny Silk Shirt – $69

Madewell Silk Bromley Blouse – $98

Equipment Hard Feelings Satin Blouse – $198

Express Military Silk Blouse – $34.95

How to find the best fit for silk shirts and blouses:

Look for a shirt or blouse that is flowy and loose, but not overly baggy. The end of your sleeves should hit right at your wrist without extra material bagging or poofing. Some shirts are designed to be more oversized and loose, so if you don’t like the look on your body, find a style that has more of a tailored look to it. Some silk shirts carry a bit of spandex to help create a more fitted shape but still allow movement.

How to care for your silk shirt:

Always follow the tag’s instructions. Rarely can you wash a silk shirt as you do other clothing items. If it says you can handwash, use a gentle detergent. Darker colors have an increased risk of fading when you wash, so make sure to follow the instructions on the tag exactly as suggested. Should you get a stain there are a few ways to treat them. If the stain is oil based try a bit of cornstarch first, this will help lift the oil. If it is a water-based stain, use something like Tide to Go or Oxyclean (just make sure to follow the directions, especially when it tells you how to treat silk fibers).

How to make your silk shirt or blouse last a long time:

As opposite as this may sound, it is a good idea to launder your shirt after every use. Our bodies carry a lot of natural oils that over time can leave behind marks and stains. Store it on a padded hanger to avoid any mis-shaping or snags.

Happy shopping!

Love, K.

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Rachel Zoe Report – Resort Picks for a Hot Holiday!

by Kirsten on December 17, 2010

I happened to come across this great question to Rachel Zoe – celeb stylist. It is such a great fit for the time of year, and well, what this site is all about! Enjoy!!

Ask Rachel: Time To Get Away – Resort Picks For A Hot Holiday

Rachel,

I am escaping to Hawaii with my boyfriend for the holiday, but am perplexed about what to pack…resort wear bemuses me! What would you bring? I want to look stylish and easygoing at the same time. Thank you! — Madison, via Submit a Question.

Madison,

A girl after my own heart, I love nothing more than to end the year with a much-deserved warm weather getaway! Let’s discuss some beach-appropriate essentials for you to pack…

In general, when shopping for resort vacation wear, I suggest setting your sights on vibrant and airy apparel that can be worn year after year. Something like All Saints’ Night Florals Karin Maxi Dress is a perfect starting point—it is floral, silky and day-to-night appropriate.

The next step is to pick out a few travel-inspired accessories to enrich your look. Do not be afraid to go over-the-top…you’re vacationing! Some of my current favorite jet set add-ons are Banana Republic’s Ariel Statement Necklace, Diane von Furstenberg’s Opal Wedges, MayaBags’ Plaid Bag—so ideal for the plane!—and Eugenia Kim’s Honey Straw Hat. Thoughts?

Of course, beauty essentials are a must too! Think out of the box with Chanel’s exotic blue Riva polish, Model Co’s Tan Extender and Oribe’s Dry Texturizing Spray.

Saving the best for last, you can’t go to Hawaii (or any other beachy destination) without a swimsuit! JETS by Jessika Allen’s Haven Floral-Print Bikini is a dream, but if you are more comfortable in a one-piece, try Mara Hoffman’s equally stylish Halter One-Piece. Aloha! xoRZ

*Above – DVF Wedges, All Saints Maxi Dress, and Banana Republic’s Ariel Statement Necklace

Love, K.

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Celebrity Style Trends: Oxford Shoes

by Kirsten on December 10, 2010

Oxford shoes happen to be on my Christmas list this year, so I thought I would share the inspiration behind this choice. I absolutely adore this look on the various celebrities that have been seen wearing this trend, and I love how easily it can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Worn with shorts, skirts, cropped pants, skinny jeans, or leggings, it is a look that every woman can pull off.

Check out some of the various celebrities wearing oxford shoes, and below are some great options for purchase in all price ranges! Enjoy! Want more celebrity style? Check it out here!

Blake Lively in Rag & Bone Oxford Shoes

Taylor Swift in Steve Madden Oxford Shoes

Olivia Palermo in silver Oxford shoes

Katy Perry in Blue Oxford Shoes

Rihanna in Miu Miu Oxford Shoes

Jessica Biel in Stuart Weitzman Manoman Cut-Out Oxford Shoes

Whitney Port in Modern Vintage Oxford Shoes

Modern Vintage Women’s Dash Oxford – Buy Here!

Sienna Miller in Rupert Sanderson Oxford Shoes

Here are some great options for you to purchase:

Matt Bernson Women’s Matinee Oxford – $154

STEVEN by Steve Madden Women’s Melanee Oxford – $74.25

Miss Sixty Women’s Marlene Oxford – $140

Miz Mooz Women’s Histeric Oxford – $89.95

Pour La Victoire – Radley – $228

Spring – Bramer – $39.99

DKNYC – Judith – $67.50

KORS Michael Kors – Yazmin – $250

DKNY – Cadence – $100

Steve Madden – Trouser – $69.95

Frye – Erin Oxford – $168

Women’s Brogues

Love, K.

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Holiday Gift Guide – Must-Have Wardrobe Items: Basics and Cashmere

by Kirsten on December 8, 2010

Moving right along with holiday gift suggestions for women, today features must-have wardrobe basics. Every closet and wardrobe should have a strong set of basics to base their outfits off of. They are simple, easy to find, and if you choose quality items, they can last a long time!

Cashmere Basics

Nothing feels as luxurious against your skin than cashmere. It’s lightweight and yet keeps you warm and cozy in all types of weather. Cashmere is an investment that you will keep for years to come should you choose items that are simple and easily updated with current accessories and jewelry. Here are some of my favorite choices that every woman should own:

Armand Basi – Onda cashmere sweater

Add this luxurious cashmere layer to sleek black pants and a cropped statement topper. Blue cashmere sweater with deep V-neck and button-fastening detail. Armand Basi sweater has cap sleeves, ribbed hem and simply slips on. 100% cashmere.

Buy here on SALE for $81 (Regularly $260) at The Outnet!

Cashmere Cardigan in Many Colors

Get your hands on our cashmere cardigan. Luxe in an irresistibly soft and beautiful knit. So wearable in a classic silhouette. This will become your go-to favorite for so many outfits. Whether it be work, at home, or for a night out, it has its place in every style.

Buy here for $98 from Gap!

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Splendid Basic Tees

Splendid continues to be one of the best brands for basics. Their quality is amazing, and they carry a wide array of colors and styles. Known for the softest fabrics and most color absorbing yarns in the world, Splendid created the ultimate t-shirt. Here are my choices for closet must-haves:

Light Jersey V-Neck

Light, soft and drapey short sleeve v-neck tee. Luxurious for everyday! Get a few basic colors: black, white, grey, navy – whatever looks best on your skin tone!

Buy here on SALE for $36.90 at Zappos!

Thermal Henleys

A classic long sleeve, thermal Henley with snap neckline. Non-thermal fabric trims sleeves from wrists to mid-lower arm. Curved hemline hits upper thigh. A perfect long sleeve option.

Buy here for $68 from Splendid!

Splendid Tanks

The must-have tank for the all seasons in comfortable Supima Cotton. Comes long past hip-length. Scoop one up in every color to layer with wraps, tops and dresses!

Buy here on SALE for $24.60 from 6pm!

Love, K.

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Holiday Gift Guide – Must-Have Wardrobe Items: Jackets and Coats

by Kirsten on December 7, 2010

In continuing with my tradition of supplying some amazing holiday gifts for the loved women in your life, here are some closet and wardrobe staples that every woman must have. Not only are they staples, but they will be items they will use and enjoy for years to come. Today features jackets and coats!

If you don’t have these items in your own wardrobe, why not pick yourself up a little holiday present?! You deserve it!

Classic Trench Coat by All Saints

Not everyone can afford the amazing Burberry trench that I believe every woman must one day own, but this classic trench does the job just as beautifully, and for a fraction of the price. Iconic and friendly for everyday use, it makes every woman look like a star. (Get another less expensive, but equally fabulous version here)

Buy here on SALE for $337.50 at All Saints

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Military Style Jacket by Aryn K

Military-infused fashion can be seen everywhere this year. A great way to get the look is with this sweater-knit jacket styled with military-inspired accents for a cute, cozy look. This is a great alternative to a heavy wool, and is much easier on the bank! Also check out these alternatives from Zappos!

Buy here on SALE for only $39.97 from Nordstrom

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Leather Jacket from muubaa

Nothing compares to the iconic style of a black leather jacket. Growing in popularity over the last few years, the asymmetrical design (in part thanks to the amazing designer, Rick Owens), has become the go-to choice for every designer out there. I own a similar jacket and absolutely adore it. Leather doesn’t come cheap, and it shouldn’t. It will last you forever and can be dressed up or dressed down accordingly. This happens to be an amazing price for the quality. muubaa is She is sure to be a stand-out in this style! *Purchase before 12/12 and use coupon code GIFT40 for $40 off!*

Buy here for $348 from Boutique to You!

Love, K.

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Traveling Fashionista Holiday Gift Guide – Denim and Jeans

by Kirsten on December 2, 2010

Holiday shopping can be extremely stressful if you are not sure what to get someone, particularly when you want to give an amazing gift that will be used for years to come. No worries, I am here to help! I’m always up to date on the latest styles and must-have items for women – heck, I do a pretty good job for men too! Starting today, you will get a variety of holiday gifting ideas, covering all facets of life!

Today features the must-have jeans for women. Each recommended item has a brief description, picture, and link of where to purchase. My favorite denim blogger believes that every woman should have six pairs of jeans: a pair of skinnies, leggings, bootcut, flares, trousers, and a straight leg. I can’t agree more, and here are some amazing choices:

J brand 910 Skinny

Celeb favorite, almost a jean legging, these ultra skinnies have a perfect body-hugging fit and a sexy low rise. J Brand is known to be the skinny of all skinnies.

Buy here for $165 at Singer22

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J Brand Curvy Cigarette Leg

Carries more room around the thigh and a contoured waistband to reduce gaping at the waist. Perfect for elongating the leg and for curvier figures. I have this exact pair, and they are amazing for women with women who carry more around the hips!

Buy here for $159 at Shopbop

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J Brand 901 Legging

Ultra lightweight denim legging with an amazing stretch for the perfect fit. A closet staple! The ultimate in sexy, style and comfort!

Buy here for $162 at M.Fredric

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James Jean Twiggy Skinny Cargo

One of the hottest items of the season, the Twiggy is a 5-pocket legging jean that is fits to perfection! These cargo jeggings are a must have, and loved by celebs. Fits all figures amazingly.

Buy here for $152 at Zappos

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J Brand Houlihan

These have a huge cult following, and have been seen on almost every celeb. Super-sexy with zippered ankles, they will be sure to become a favorite item in your wardrobe.

Buy here for $230 from Singer22

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Anlo Cassie Legging

Super soft and lightweight, these leggings will quickly become a favorite. The stretch material make them comfortable, flexible, and forgiving! Great dark blue rinse.

Buy here for $120 at Nordstrom

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James Jean Twiggy

A personal fave, this denim masterpiece has angled back pockets, higher back waistband, and fit focused wash detailing, resulting in a jean that makes you feel longer, leaner and generally runway ready. You will love the way these jeans make your butt look!

Buy on SALE for $62.52 at 6pm

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Hudson Signature Stretch Bootcut

This flap pocket jean has an unrivaled fit and flattering style that looks amazing on everyone. My go-to jean for comfort and style. Wear with flats or heels, it flatters every body type.

Buy here for $187 from Zappos

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J Brand Lovestory Flare/Bell Bottom

Lightweight Denim inspired by the likes of Jane Birkin, Ali McGraw and all the fantastic ladies of the 70s. Slim fit through the knee and wider feminine waistband give these jeans dramatic curves. Wear with platform, wedge, or pointed-toe shoes.

Buy here for $178 from Singer22

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7 For All Mankind Trouser

A perfect jean to wear to work and yet also an amazing jean for a night out. With trouser pockets and a sexy and sophisticated low-rise that features a front tab button closure, slant front pockets and flap back pockets.

Buy here for $178 from Zappos

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Citizens of Humanity Ingrid Flare

The flare is a classic fit and style that can be worn with such flexibility and style variations. Citizens of Humanity has created the perfect flare with five pocket styling, simple lines, and their signature stitch. A closet staple for all women.

Buy here for $150 from Shopbop

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Henry and Belle Ideal Straight Leg

Straight leg fits are ideal for something between a skinny and a bootcut. The Ideal Straight sits low on the hip and has a straight leg. Figure flattering X-fit lycra. Seen on Jessica Alba and Katherine Heigl. Ideal for all body types, and a pair that I have been dying to try!

Buy here for $148 from NationalJeanCompany

Love, K.

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Guest Post: Traveling to Italy – Where to Stay and What to Pack

by Kirsten on November 16, 2010

I’d like all of you to give a warm welcome to Amy H.! She has been a wonderful reader of Traveling Fashionista and just came back from her honeymoon to Italy. Prior to her trip, we went back and forth planning her packing list and preparing her for the trip of a lifetime. Being fashionable was important to Amy, so read on to hear about her amazing adventure – from her outfits to the hotels and everything in between!

My husband and I recently returned from our two week honeymoon in Rome, Florence, Venice and Cinque Terre in Italy. I had the pleasure of working with Kirsten before my trip to design a packing list that would allow me to take everything I needed in a carry-on size bag and still feel fashionable sightseeing!

We flew into Rome and checked into our first hotel, Hotel Raffaello, where we would stay for two nights. This hotel was in a great location—easy walking distance to most tourist sites—had friendly staff and a nice breakfast. We also stayed at Hotel Raffaello two more nights at the end of the trip. While we were waiting for our room to be ready we decided to go visit the Colosseum since it was within walking distance. Actually, we found everything in Rome to be within walking distance if you are comfortable walking—and have good shoes. My airplane (and first day sightseeing) outfit was skinny black pants tucked into black riding boots, a tank top under a Patagonia white travel oxford shirt (with lots of pockets for your money and passport) and a black blazer. We also visited the Roman Forum and Pantheon on this leg of the trip and got started on the massive amounts of food we would eat during this trip—gelato, pizza, and spaghetti carbonara! I recommend packing pants with some stretch in them for Italy!

After two days in Rome we took the train (we had First Class Eurail Passes for the honeymoon) to Florence. We stayed at Hotel Davanzati which was my favorite hotel from the entire trip—and the #1 hotel in Florence on TripAdvisor.com. The hotel was within walking distance of the train station as well as everything you’d want to see in Florence. The hotel had a nice breakfast with made-to-order coffee (cappuccino for me please!), excellent staff, modern rooms, and a candlelit happy hour every night in the lobby with free Prosecco, Chianti, snacks and music. While in Florence we visited the Accademia (home of The David), the Uffizi Gallery, and climbed the Duomo (Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore) for a spectacular view of Tuscany. One of the best meals we had in Italy was at a restaurant recommended by our hotel called Frescobaldi, owned by a wine family in the region. We had a parmesan and truffle fondue that was amazing and requested a wine pairing with every course.

Florence is known for its leather goods. I happily purchased leather gloves for myself and family, and splurged on a brown leather jacket for myself (though the price for the quality was a steal compared to what you’d get here). It seemed that all the women in Italy and Florence especially had a leather jacket. And as Kirsten says, it’s the most versatile jacket for travel! My jacket quickly became part of my rotating wardrobe for the trip. When we went to dinner at places like Frescobaldi I wore either a black dress with tights or leggings or black pants with a silver sparkly shirt and a blazer. For shoes I’d wear heels or my tall boots. I took heels that were already broken in, and only wore them for short walks!

To be continued….

Look for Part 2 tomorrow! Thanks so much Amy for such a great post!

Here are some pics of Amy on her trip. Not only does she look completely fashionable, but all of her outfits were comfortable too. A perfect example of how you can plan your packing to accomplish both necessities; chic and comfortable!