SPRING 2018 READY TO WEAR

SPRING 2018 READY TO WEAR

Raul Lopez wants to make the ladies feel like bosses. His first full women’s ready-to-wear collection for Spring 2018 only came with 18 looks, but there was certainly enough to prove that, with a bit more streamlining, this is a market in which he might really thrive. The young designer currently operates within the creatively driven underground realm of fashion. His designs—for both men and women—are delightfully humorous and avant-garde, but look closely. Once picked apart, certain pieces could fly off the shelves at somewhere like, say, Opening Ceremony or Maryam Nassir Zadeh. With his debut this season, he was smart to carry over his cheeky, deconstructed office-wear vibes from his main men’s offering.

 As he explained it, he “was focused on the type of woman who is in touch with her hypermasculine side, one on a power trip and one who is looking for revenge on any man that has ever tried to make her feel ashamed.” He adds, “She is complex—she loves a night out on Dyckman Street [in New York’s Inwood area], but also lives for an elegant and classy moment.”

This is where Lopez could find balance, somewhere between the style of the wild club-kid posse he has long been a part of and the strong femininity and ladylike aesthetic he’s clearly drawn to. Certain pieces in the new collection were well conceived under the pretense of this dichotomy. There was the camel-colored overcoat that was cinched at the waist and elbows and embroidered with the Wu-Tang Clan’s lyrics, “Cash rules everything around me.” There were cool, sophisticated cuffed jeans and a dark denim skirt with gold buttons layered over them. A gray long blazer embellished with oblong metal hardware at the shoulder and hip was also strong. Like he did with his men’s collection shown earlier this summer, Lopez also played with ideas of suiting—two standouts included a crisp white button-down shirt stitched with “Luar” in cursive and a striking, shapeless dress made from pinstripe jackets and trousers that hung beautifully off of a model’s shoulders. It would also be a shame not to mention the skirt designed with khaki trousers that seemed to insinuate a dude’s “bulge” at the front.

Lopez has incredible potential and, if he can strike the right chord with women who want that business-in-the-front, party-in-the-back kind of style (on top of the DJs, rappers, hip-hop stars, vogue-ers, and artists he’s already won over), he’ll have it made in the shade. As he noted after the show, “Every aspect of my life has been influenced by strong and controversial women and paying homage to them was long overdue.” 

How to wear Pretty Pastels

How to wear Pretty Pastels

WEARING PASTELS

It’s true what they say; all things old become new again and isn’t that true for the timeless, ever-so feminine and beautifully classic pastel trend. Pastels always find their way onto our radar at this time of year. Pale, romantic and pretty pastels are a simple yet playful colour palette to keep in your closet. Soft and gentle, pastels can give you the ultimate feminine look. Pastels are a reoccurring feature in summer fashion so it's no great surprise that they are back on the high street again. However, this year sees even paler tones.

Look for colours such as pale yellow, blush pink, icy blue, or light lavender, it's both pretty and appropriate for the season. Feminine and pristine this trend is probably one of the most suited to summer as it looks beautiful combined with subtle ditsy floral prints. This trend will ensure that you look cool, girly and stylish. 

Here are just a few fashion tips to help you wear this popular trend:

I am a massive fan of casual dresses which come up in pastel hues for that luxe carefree look. If you’re looking for the ideal way to look sweet and pretty, then aim for a solid pastel dress. A delicate pastel piece can be used in a variety of ways and is unbelievably versatile. Add a tan bag for the perfect finishing touch.


One of the easiest ways to wear pastels is wearing prints, if you prefer not to go for an all-over print choose one pastel printed item such as a skirt and team this with a neutral coloured top with no print! 

You can separate an all over pastel outfit by keeping neutral shades in your accessories. Turn to tan or grey in particular with belts, shoes, handbags and hats. These break up the colour and help you avoid looking washed out.


Pastels can be mixed with darker colours such as navy and grey. These muted tones are a great slimming technique if you’re worried pastels highlight problem areas.  

Wearing pastel coloured pants would be the most timeless option. It can easily be worn with a neutral top; white, grey, black, etc. All depending on the chosen colour! try wearing your trousers with pumps of the same colour but in a darker shade. 

Choose one colour and stick with it throughout your outfit. Pastel coloured clothing itself looks good without too many finishes – the simpler your pastel tone clothing, the better.

You can never go wrong with denim, and pairing your pastel top with a pair of jeans, it adds a touch of sweetness and modernity to the look. A darker wash will give it a more formal look, so if you want something fresher, a lighter wash like chambray will do the trick.

Wear Pastels as Accessories, Wear a neutral outfit-it makes pale accessories really pop.  Choose a statement necklace or a light-coloured handbag. Cream and beige tones are the most versatile of all the pastel shades. They go with any other pastel or neutral shade. 

Yet another way to tackle the pastel trend is to colourblock.  Wear Pastels with Other Pales but Make sure all your pieces are in the same colour family and Make sure that pastel tones you pick do not look like a continuation of your skin.

The most important rule of pastel shades is not to overdo it with all the sweetness. Instead, try to tone it down by accessorising your pastel clothes with pieces in black, white or other neutral tones. Beige and grey shades will also help you balance things out.  

Here are a few chic pastel pieces that will ensure you are on trend this season.

ASOS UK Cord Jacket in Pastel Blue

ASOS UK - Pastel Stripe Rib ruffle bodysuit top

ASOS UK Pimkie Pastel Pink Ripped Detail Skinny Jeans

Zeagoo Women's Loose Ruffle Sleeveless Chiffon Pastel Blouse

AX PARIS Bodycon Midi Dress Pink

DOLCIS BEATRIX Sandal Pastel Pink

CALL IT SPRING Mateare Sandals Blue

For a little more inspiration, take a look at how these fashion bloggers are styling their pastel colour this season.

Elle fanning pastel fashion

Kristina Bazan - Paris Fashion Week street style

I hope these style tips on wearing pastel colours has given you some inspiration! Till' next time xo





WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Editors notes:  This post was originally posted in August 2012 and has been updated

Fall Fashion Trends - Tips For women

Fall Fashion Trends - Tips For women

Keeping up with the latest fashion trends isn’t as easy as you may think. Lots of times the fashion seen on the run way does not translate well to the average person’s wardrobe and the style may very well be lost in the process. Struggle no longer ladies! Here I break down the latest high fashion trends seen in this season’s Paris fashion week, to a much more wearable alternative. These are the Fall/Winter 2017 fashion trends to copy! Happy styling!

The Color Of Fall 2017: Red.
The 2017 red is not the commonly assumed Fall maroon. A brighter, cherry red is what is trending. This is most easily worn as an outer layer. A pea coat, rain coat, or puff coat/vest would be ideal. It also dresses well in combinations; a red sweater with red shoes or a red pant with red nails.

 

A Secret Weapon: Metallics.
Metallic fabric alone can be daunting and I wouldn’t blame you if you turned around and ran the other way. This winter, give it another look in the form of a detailed purse, ballet flat, or mini skirt. Pair your metallic pieces with monochromatic outfits, such as the always bold, all-black ensemble.

The Always Loved Distressed And Messy Look.
This trend became popular last fall and winter when artist Kanye West began his fashion line. The simplicity and the undone look attracts many people to his everyday, wearable style. This year many more designers followed in his footprints. This is seen in the unfinished hem on denim jeans, jackets, and button up tops. Pair these frayed jeans with an oversized, broken-in knit sweater.

For When You Have Your Beyonce Days, Choose Leather.
Leather has come back in full force and this will be no different for the fall and winter. Choose a leather paneled legging to give you longer looking legs with a mix of texture to catch the eye. You can also pair a leather skirt with a pair of leather booties in the evening. If all else fails, go for the leather jacket.

Stay Extremely Warm And Stylish This Fall And Winter With Shearling Detail.
Most commonly seen worn as a coat, shearling detailing will keep you warm while avoiding the dreaded outfit ruiner that a jacket can tend to be. Shearling coats can be dressed down with a pair of jeans, but can be worn in the evening over a black dress. Also keep an eye out for shearling skirts that will definitely be trending.

White Shirt Outfit Ideas - Tips For Ladies

White Shirt Outfit Ideas - Tips For Ladies

WHITE SHIRT OUTFIT IDEAS

Let’s start with some basic style tips to go with your white shirts:

    If you have a beautiful new skirt that you want to show off then a white shirt will always be the best option.
    Add a sleek suit to your white shirt for a professional look.

    For a lively look, pair it with bright prints.

    They are excellent for layering under or over your outfits.

    Use accessories like hats or neck bows to give the same shirt a different look.

    For date night, pair it with neat denim jeans to keep things simple but classy.

    Don’t forget heels if you’re wearing the white shirt as a dress.

  Use different shades of white for a hot and casual look.

 If you find white shirts too sheer, opt for tank tops as inner wear with them.

With a Shirt Dress for a Bolder Look

Nothing beats simplicity especially if it comes with this type of shirt dress that brings sexiness into your fashion statement. 

 With Leather Pants for School

Pair your button up white shirt with a pair of serious leather pants and a leather bag to bring out the supermodel in you!

Classy Casual Outfit For Guys - Tips For Men

Classy Casual Outfit For Guys - Tips For Men

Men like to keep their dress code very casual, because it is one of the most comfortable dress code, providing an instant relaxed style but also practicality and a “being cool” sense if styled properly. By a little styling you can enhance your dressing style. We are going to show you some amazing casual dress ideas for men for this season.

Mostly men have a couple of jeans and shirts in their wardrobe. Very few like to add formal clothes to their closet. If you don’t own some cool T-shirts you are definitely lacking behind in the fashion sense. To be well dresses, you need to own few pair of jeans and shirts that are very casual and stylish.

You can easily afford these and wear them on regular basis. Casual dresses are very cheaper than formal ones. Therefore purchasing them wouldn’t be any problem for you all. Only a little advice on how to dress well in casual clothes can change your personality and style. A good dressing style can grab everyone’s attention wherever you go. The trick to dress up well is not that difficult. By adding new styles, colors and looks can be a bonus point for you.There are a lot more options for you to wear.  Such as cardigans, t-shirts, collared shirts, sport clothes, Polo’s etc. Carrying accessories is also must. Now lets begin with some  simple casual dress tips for men

Jeans with White Tee Shirt: Boys/men mostly prefer clothes in monochromatic tones and this styling idea is another go at the same tone. White has always been a favorite among men but to make it a little stylish wear it in fashion with regular patched denim and grey ankle high boots. Dark and light colors are must to have in your wardrobe. Denim jeans is must. You can pair any kind of outfit with it.Roll over your trouser

Beanies and T-shirts : Purchase some T-shirts of different styles and colors. You can find some interesting designs at the shops and online too. Replace them with your old typical branded shirts. Graphic shirts are a regular purchase item for men as they come into daily wear but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a stylish look about you. invest in some beanies for the winter season usually a dark toned one and pair it up beautifully with your regular jeans. Facial hair can add extra dapper look.

Collared shirts : A university student or just going out on  a lunch date? both occasions call for a little formal attire but now formal has strayed into some fashion sense and who doesn’t like to wear collared shirts? They are the most stylish shirts you can wear casually. Whether you wear it with jeans or pants. Try to come out of the old designs and colors, rather go for new patterns and styles. Jazz up a simple collared shirt with suede oxfords and rolled up skinnies.

Polo shirts with Bermudas : When you hear the word summers and you like to dress up in a decent way then  I am sure you all own Polo shorts. we already shared some great ideas how to wear polo shirts for sharp look. They are very casual and useful for all the men in every kind of weather. Go for dark and bright colors, as they enhance the beauty. Pair your polo shirts with Beige Bermudas for a day out with friends at the beach. You can wear plimsols or just open sandals.

Curvy Girl Fashion Outfits - Tips For Ladies

Curvy Girl Fashion Outfits - Tips For Ladies

With the rise of full-figured models, there has been a sudden surge of appreciation for the curvier aspects of feminine beauty. Curves are to be embraced, celebrated, and accessorized—not hidden!

From mini dresses to chic tunics, Pink Lily has cute outfits for curvy women that follow the most up-to-date runway fashion trends. The outfits we offer show you how this season’s trends, colors, and styles can flatter your body and express your personality.

Dress for Your Body

 While many styles for curvy girls were once shapeless, clothing designers are now working to create cuts that flatter the variety of curvy shapes. Learn about which cuts and embellishments are the best styles for a curvy figure with Pink Lily!

Pear Shape

If you have a pear or triangle shaped body, try to find a way to visually extend your neck and shoulders with a scoop, v-neck, or sweetheart line. Since your bust is smaller, highlight it with extra details like pleats or ruffles. Accentuate your waist with belts and empire silhouettes, and choose pencil skirts, A-line dresses, and wrap around styles.

Hourglass

An hourglass body generally has shoulders and hips that are the same size. The best styles for this curvy figure are ruffles and soft drapes, as well as open collars and asymmetrical cuts. Fit and flare shapes will fit the hourglass body well and fitted tops ensure that the upper body is accentuated.

Oval Shape

When you have an oval shape, you need to elongate your body with a low neckline. Choose cowl, scoop, or v-neck cuts to flatter your upper body. Do the same for your waist with ‘peak' empire waistlines, princess seams, and faux wrap dresses. Balance your lower body with dropped waist pants or skirts with high slits.

Rectangle

Rectangle bodies require you to create a waist and accentuate your chest. Use the sweetheart, asymmetric, jewel, and cowl necklines to highlight your femininity. You can also embellish your top with curve defining bodices and ruched and frilled tops. Wear belts to fabricate a waist and add slightly flared leg pants to create the illusion of a curved shape.

Bold Patterns and Colors Stripes and floral designs were all heavily represented on the runways this year, so embracing this year’s celebration of bold colors and fun patterns is essential for every fashion-obsessed woman. 

When adding to your collection of cute outfits for curvy women, find pieces that create contrast between dark colors and bright patterns to create an eye-drawing outfit that will earn compliments every time.

Stay cool with Pink Lily’s What I Live For Damask Mini, where contemporary styling meets classic beauty, with a nod to the sophisticated tea parties of yesteryear. The neon pink damask pattern paired on a black background evokes a sophisticated outfit that looks amazing on the curvy woman. Since this mini dress accentuates the waist and minimizes the chest with a patterned bottom and a plain top, this dress is one of the best styles for a curvy figure.

Accessorize the scoop neck with a statement necklace to draw attention to your face and add a couple of bracelets to complete the look. Slip into your favorite wedges and you’ll be ready for a night out with the girls, or opt for flats to fabricate a look that’s perfect for a casual lunch date.

Cut and Shape

 Cut and shape are important parts of a piece that ensure your clothing hugs you in all the right places. The mini dress is cut in a way that accentuates your legs, balancing your body and making you look taller. This is definitely one of the best styles for the curvy figure! This style of dress lends itself to more casual events, like summer barbecues and strolls on the beach.

In addition to its flattering cut, the Count on Me Mini plays with this season’s love of bright pastels. The shallow pockets add an adorable detail to this dress and embellishes a simple cut without adding bulk. Both the top and bottom pieces are unlined to keep you cool throughout the day.

Add a fashionable floppy hat in coral or straw for sunny summer days and delicate gold jewelry to subtly highlight the outfit. Pair this dress with all of your favorite summer shoes—from gladiator sandals to height-enhancing wedges. As the weather cools, add a pair of leggings and booties for additional warmth and keep rocking your mini.

For more formal events, a longer skirt or dress—like the maxi dress—is also one of the best styles for a curvy figure. A dress with an A-line waist that skims your figure, instead of hugging it, lengthens your torso and balances the upper and lower body.

Our Holdin On to Something Maxi is appropriate for both dressy and casual events—it fulfills all of the requirements for the perfect curvy piece! Flowy and fabulous, the soft drape flows over your curves without squeezing, ensuring your comfort and elegance. Wearing your maxi with wedges or heels will keep the hemline pristine and lengthen your legs. A few bangles and subtle earrings embellish your look while keeping your silhouette clean and curvy.

Warm and Cozy Maxis

 At Pink Lily, we firmly believe that the maxi dress can be worn even after the summer solstice. To let all maxi lovers wear their favorite dress well into the autumn season, we offer a maxi with a three-quarter length sleeve for cooler days and evenings.

The Over My Head Maxi has a classic chevron pattern and soft colors that complement any shape. It can also be worn to any event, making it one of the best styles for a curvy figure. For an extra sizzle, wear a wide belt to highlight your waist and separate your upper and lower body. Adding a thin cardigan or wrap around sweater will supply the extra warmth you need without adding bulk to your outfit. Wearing fleece-lined ankle leggings under this dress is another way to stay warm without compromising style or elegance.

Autumn Tops

 As we move into fall and winter weather, shirts and pants are essential to stay warm. Instead of boring basic tops, add interest to your wardrobe with a stylish tunic. Tunics are somewhere between a dress and a shirt, meaning they have the same versatility as dresses and look great on any curvy shape.

A charcoal side button tunic from Pink Lily has a modern asymmetrical cut to emphasize the waist and balance the hips and shoulders. Pair this tunic with leggings and heeled boots for an elegant ensemble or wear it with skinny jeans and booties for a casual look. Grab a black quilted clutch and some delicate, colorful jewelry to accessorize.

How To Dress Modestly In Hot Weather - Tips For Women

How To Dress Modestly In Hot Weather - Tips For Women

HOW TO DRESS MODESTLY

Any woman who has experienced the struggle to dress both cute and modestly in sweltering temperatures and overwhelming humidity may vehemently disagree. As much I love summer, I know that struggle is all too real. So I’ve teamed up with a few of my modest fashion blogger friends to share 20 life-changing tips for dressing modestly and stylishly this summer. Read on for the goodness!

Invest in a chambray button down (or two). This versatile, lightweight shirt will be your summer wardrobe savior. Chambray is a breathable, lightweight fabric that will keep your skin cool and your outfit looking summer ready! The best part: There are endless ways you can style. You can knot it in the front and wear it with a flowy skirt like I did above (it’s a fun way to extend the wear of your holiday skirts), you can drape it over a cotton dress, or you can tuck it into your favorite white jeans and go!

-Go easy on the layers. If you’re like me, you love your scarves, jackets and sweaters. But when those hot temps are ruthless, it’s time to keep it simple. Add color and texture with your shoes, jewelry and hair accessories and if you’re questioning whether to add that last piece of clothing you know will perfect your outfit, don’t. Nowadays there are so many modest shops, and summer months are a good time to invest in pieces/outfits that don’t require added clothing for modesty.

-A lot of times we think about what clothes we wear when it comes to staying cool. However, your lotion can affect your body temperature as well. I’ve found if I slather on a heavy body cream or body oil, this seems to add a layer and makes me (ahem please excuse this unladylike term) sweat! Find a lightweight breathable lotion to moisturize during the hot months.

-Wearing bermuda shorts and T-shirt dresses. Bermuda shorts are the perfect length and T-shirt dresses are casual and lightweight for an everyday look.

  -Wear a cute graphic t-shirt
    Wear a lightweight, breezy midi skirt
Pair them together and you’ll be able to withstand the summer heat while looking cute and modest without all of the heavy layers.

-Try choosing light weight clothing. It’s amazing that apparel out there today is looser, longer, and more modest than it has been in years. Not only does this clothing allow you to breathe, they look great, feel comfortable and are quite trendy.”

-I chose to wear a floral chiffon maxi dress. This dress is breathable and loose fitting. For modesty purposes, all I had to do was put a shirt sleeve top underneath, but you can also put on a light cardigan.

3 WAYS, 3 DAYS

3 WAYS, 3 DAYS

A blazer is a great fill-in for any occasion and every man has at least one in his wardrobe. They are perfect for situations in which a suit is too formal and you want to have a little sprinkling of your personality and individuality.

You all know how much I adore colours and fortunately this James Harper blazer has arrived just in time for Spring/Summer with its vibrant colour. The blazer is the perfect transitional wardrobe piece moving seasons from Winter to Spring. It is time to hang up those winter coats, wave goodbye to winter and don a blazer in a bright colour. This colour is sure to catch more than a few eyes on the streets, and it’s flattering shape works with just about anything I can throw at it.

 I am super excited about this colourful blazer, and it’s refreshing style that within 3 days, I wore it 3 different ways! It is perfect for summer with its slim lapel, double vents and the spot print lining is super fun when unbuttoned. Men like to purchase pieces that ensure versatility and value for money and this blazer works just as well outside the office as it does inside.

Day 1 – Blazer and Jeans

This great blazer and a humble pair of jeans created a great combination. The cut of the bright coloured blazer paired with the casual style of jeans created a sharp and chic yet relaxed vibe. Obviously the simplest of my 3 days, 3 ways, this look is totally easy for any man to achieve. By pairing the blazer with a plain shirt you will make the look more casual (remember to unbutton your top button) and your trusty white canvas kicks will make this a failsafe style that you can repeatedly rely on. If you don’t feel like being neither casual or dressy but quite neutral , opt for a polo shirt. It is another failsafe item that every gent has in their wardrobe. The great thing about this look is it is so versatile and can take you from afternoon meetings to drinks and spontaneous dancing with friends. Throw on this blazer during the day and it will keep you looking sharp through to when happy hour starts and beyond.

Day 2- Blazer Short Combo

On day 2 the sun begun to poke out of the clouds and I paired the blazer with a pair of shorts, also by James Harper, a white tee and some simple white canvas shoes, perfect look for sunnie afternoons.I opted to have the koi fish embroidery added to the jacket to customise it and make it a little special. The embroidery pattern is custom made (lovely touch) and hand stitched to the blazer. Embroidery has popped up everywhere thanks to the big fashion houses embracing embellishments and embroidery. I adore it’s unique eclectic vibe and it is wonderful to see menswear is getting in on the trend. Obviously you do not need to opt for the embroidery and the great thing is if you do, you can always remove it so you will have the blazer for seasons to come.

Day 3- Blazer for work

By day 3 I was totally mad for this blazer! The great thing about a statement blazer is you really do not need to buy a whole new wardrobe to match it. Dress to impress at the office by combining the blazer with pieces in your existing corporate wardrobe. You will be surprised how this great colour matches what you gents would already have in your wardrobe, such as navy’s and grey. The trick is to make a statement without being too over-the-top and keeping your ensemble work-friendly. When in doubt start with a light or dark base and work from there to create outfit harmony. To create a polished look for work I combined the blazer with a plain shirt with minimal details and pair of suit pants, topping it off with a pocket square. The pocket square helps break up the solidity of the blazer. If you do not know how to wear a pocket square, please revert to WHAT’S IN YOUR POCKET.

Stand out in the crowd by styling the blazer with a pair of shorts, a navy shirt and some white kicks. Totally on-point for afternoons out with friends. You could always combine them with some brown suede shoes that would convert this to a classic look for a more formal occasion, such as the polo, or nine-to-five.

My friends at James Harper have kindly offered you 10% off at their online store by using the code GFASH10.

Whether you need a blazer for work or just a fancy occasion, I hope I have inspired you to think outside the grey, navy or black box.