Update for Spring: Knee High Gladiator Boots

Posted on April 11, 2013 by Alicia Devins

Not everyone wants to splurge every season on a brand new updated wardrobe. Sometimes all you have to do is add in some fresh pieces that will make old clothing look new. Accessories are less expensive than clothing so you can buy a few pieces that are current and wear them for multiple seasons.

If you are looking for a mini makeover, a super-hot update to your spring 2013 is a gladiator boot. Shown at multiple Spring 2013 collections, this fun and sassy shoe is super fun and eye-catching. While they may look intimidating, they are actually pretty easy to wear. Here are three ways we think this spring trend 2013 looks fashionable.

1-With a slit a la Anne Hathaway at the Les Miserables premiere. She paired Tom Fords super sexy thigh high boots with a long dress with slit so just a leg peeked through. The look was intense but still kept her covered up so she didn’t like too provocative.

2- With a knee length skirt. Most designers at Spring 2013 Fashion Week showed their sandals with skirts that skimmed the tops of the knees. A short skirt went a little too risqué, so this was a good choice for the runway because it made the look much more wearable. Check out Altuzarra’s country chic look below.

3- With an oversized or sporty ensemble. A loose dress or shirt balances the look of these boots by mixing covered with exposed. Alexander Wang’s styling was spot on when he put the girls in super sporty looks that weren’t revealing. The oversized dresses also kept the girls from looking too bare which wouldn’t be a good look for day.

The key to wearing these sexy shoes is to stay covered up. A short or bare dress is too revealing and will make the boots go from sexy and classy to trashy. You want to look like a modern Greek goddess – not a 50 Shades of Grey bondage girl. Try them in a nude or tan tone if the black cutout ones seem a little bit too intense for you, and be sure to have tanned legs (spray on is great!) so you don’t get a checkerboard effect.

If you need help styling a new trend you want to try, contact us at NYIC. We offer makeovers and styling sessions for all kinds of women and styles.

Women’s Fashion Week: Spring Trends 2013 Recap

Posted on March 8, 2013 by Alicia Devins

The weather is starting to warm up and Spring is showing its colors. Fall Fashion Week has just ended in New York, London, Milan and Paris (post soon to come), but we wanted to take a look back at Spring 2013 Fashion Week and let you know what latest trends you should be wearing NOW! Here are our Top 6 Trends for Spring.

Black and White–Ease from the dark shade of Fall/Winter 2012 into more…black! And white, that is. One of the simplest yet boldest looks for Spring 2013 is black and white. This spring trend isn’t just found in outfit combos, but in single patterned pieces as well. American designers led the trend with Michael Kors, Philip Lim, Marc Jacobs, Alexander Wang and Narciso Rodriguez all showing the bold, contrasting look. The combination of dark and light is a fresh take on spring’s commonly white palette and it looked took a new spin on the often bright color blocking used during spring.

Sheer Touches– One of the most consistent 2013 fashion trends seen in almost all of the shows was a classic one for spring – sheers. Designers made it different during fashion week by showing sheer fabrics as an accent or panel, rather than doing an entire see-through piece. Reed Krakoff and Preen by Thornton Bregazzi used paneled accents for a little sexy touch while Akris and Giambattista Valli used wispy silks to add length to otherwise short dresses. Prabal Gurung went with the layered look by adding capes, tails and long sheer tops over pants and skirts. The pieces had a light an airy feel that got us excited for warmer weather.

All Ruffled Up– While they didn’t dominate entire collections, ruffles definitely had a place in many 2013 fashion shows. Oversized and full of flounce, large ruffles adorned shoulders, necklines and high cut slits at Gucci, Chloe and Balenciaga. From bold and voluminous, to smaller feminine accents like in Givenchy’s baby blue sheath and Gareth Pugh’s bold red cape, these pieces were made with a light, airy feel that is synonymous with spring clothing.

The Far East– Taking cues from Japanese kimonos, different designers used Asian influence in different ways. Dries Van Noten adapted muted Asian prints into a few of his grunge looks while Emilio Pucci used both the fabrics and silhouettes of traditional silk robes throughout his entire collection. Both the shiny textiles and vibrant patterns were a staple at shows like Etro, Aquilano Rimondi and Prada. From embroidered dragons to obi style belts, traditional Japanese attire definitely made quite a debut.

Colored Skins– Many designers took leather, a commonly black textile, and adapted it for spring in bright and powerful shades. A luscious cranberry leather jacket at Marni and blush leather coat at Miu Miu made us all swoon for feminine shades while the mustard yellow ensemble at Mulberry took unconventional colored leather to a whole new level. Texture also came into play at Hermes with their aqua blue crocodile print leather shorts and shirt. A subcategory of bright color blocked leather pieces added a more youthful touch at both the Proenza Schouler and Fendi shows.

Be Professional– Many designers put something out there for the chic career women and made the ensembles perfect for spring and summer. Short suits were a consistent theme in many of the shows and the looks had a large range in color, print and silhouette. Designers stepped away from the classic black and grey hues of colder months and gave us some fresh and fun office wear. Marissa Webb did a youthful take on tweed by accenting it with teal stripes, and Michael Kors’ classic American style gave us a great rugby look perfect for any prep. Tory Burch put out pieces in bright and fun prints and even the classic slouchy knitwear designers at Helmut Lang created something both professional and spring appropriate with a paisley printed short suit ensemble.

We saw lots of creativity and inspiration at the 2013 Spring Fashion Weeks, but these six stood out to us at the top trends for spring. Intense runway looks don’t mean that you can’t rock them your own way! Wear all black and white separates (which you probably already own, by the way) for an look that will always match, or layer sheer clothing over a basic outfit to create layers appropriate for spring fashion. A ruffled blouse or skirt should be worn with slim pants or a top so you don’t get overwhelmed, or pair a kimono style to with slim black pants for your next ladies night. We love the colored leather trend, but if you are not feeling bold try adding it into your look with a purple or blue leather bag. If you work in a casual office, a short suit is the perfect way to go from work to cocktails or dinner. Wear it with a light blouse so you can button up during the day and remove your jacket at night. Pretty much any look you like can be adapted to your own personal style. Spring is the perfect time for a wardrobe makeover, so pack up those heavy coats and get ready for some freshness.

Men’s Fashion Spring 2013 Trends

Posted on March 8, 2013 by Alicia Devins

If you are wearing socks, stop! Sockless loafers, sneakers and boat shoes were seen at the majority of fashion shows during the men’s presentations at Spring 2013 Fashion Week. Menswear designers went for bold looks with super bright colors and powerful prints mixed in with your classic black and grey suits. Here are the top 5 men’s trends for spring.

Bathed in Blue—Blue became the new black at the men’s fashion shows. From sapphire and cerulean to chambray denim suits, we saw the bold hue in every shade it comes in. Bottega Veneta paired a light blue denim suit with a bag and sunglasses to keep it fresh for spring, while Hermes kept their pieces in darker shades that could transition into fall. The bright sapphire blue at Roberto Cavalli was not designed for the shy guy, but at Giorgio Armani he kept his men’s suits more casual and loosely fitted in an easy to wear denim blue.

Fatigues— This is one men’s trend that you may already have in your closet. Army fatigues! Designers for men’s fashion week used them in both classic and new ways. Valentino gave a crisp short trench jacket a fresh print and Kenzo abstracted army green shades into an interesting leopard print. Dries Van Noten went hunter chic by pairing an army print shirt and jacket with bright orange slacks, creating a contrast that bewildered the eye. Commes de Garcon went super classic with light army print shirts and pants accompanied by long grey jackets to keep the look light.

Bright and Colorful—Suits came with a powerful punch at many shows. From bright purple to neon yellow and every shade in between, these pieces stood out as a new spring staple. John Galliano’s oversized red and orange madras print was a bold look with the pattern adorning the jacket, pants and shirt of a single ensemble. Mugler went a little bit softer with a seafoam blue suit with sheen, and Hermes put out a muted lime suit that paired nicely with a grey shirt. At Salvatore Ferragamo they went all out and created entire ensembles using a mix of punch colored jackets, pants and accessories.

Shine On—Super bright and super shiny, colored metallics were a fun new trend at mens fashion weeks. Versace and Lanvin used classic metallic shades with their copper and silver suits, while Burberry Prorsum went full-fledged by doing neon pinks, blues, purples and greens. Roberto Cavalli kept the colors a little more chic by pairing a shiny blue blazer with a light blue suit.

Doubled Up—While a good suit is always in style, unique silhouettes and applications can make them unique and fashion forward. We saw tons of double breasted blazers accompanying slim slacks done is traditional greys and blacks. Blamain and Bottega Veneta’s black and grey double breasted suits looked sleek and polished. Gucci added a little interest with a grey patterned suit adorned with wooden buttons and Canali wen all out mobster inspired with a striped suit topped off with a fedora hat.

All Stripes–Designers went classic American prep with red, white and blue striped clothing. Jean Paul Gaultier made it modern by finishing his looks with a turban which also lent to a creative contrast. Marni mixed different colored stripes in separates and classic preppy American designer Tommy Hilfiger put out bold suits with oversized striped patterns. Dolce and Gabbana’s horizontal striped blazer was shown with grey slacks and dark loafers for an interesting contrast that read Italian businessman on the bottom and mariner on the top.

While men’s fashion can seem a bit bold and tough to wear, they key is to take certain looks or colors and incorporate a little bit of it into your outfit. Instead of a sapphire blue suit, try a navy one with brown loafers and a neutral button up. Neon suits aren’t work appropriate, but a neon tie can be fun and add interest to an after work event. Wear a metallic silver blazer with black pants and a shirt to a holiday party, or buy a pair of striped pants that will be the perfect nautical print for a casual beach house event. Army can be worn almost any way, but make sure to mix it with polished pieces so you don’t look like your 13 year old self. Confidence is the best accessory, so whatever trend you decide to try just make sure you feel good in it and you will look good no matter what.

The Trends: New York Fashion Week 2013

Posted on February 21, 2013 by Alicia Devins

Now that Fashion Week is over, style editors have a chance to sit back, breathe and examine each collection to decide on the trendiest of all trends for the coming season.

Lucky for you, we’re doing all the work. So, you get to enjoy the trends and highlights of Fashion Week on us! We’re examining the trends that we saw from runway to runway and focusing on the ones that can be worn in your day-to-day life, because face it, not all the runway looks can be replicated in the office or out with friends.

Here are our favorite trends from New York Fashion Week 2013 and how to wear them in your regular life:

1. Military Bottoms: These are not your usual skinny army cargo pants. These have some room for movement and are made with a lighter textile. Rebecca Taylor and Rag & Bone both showed the new military-esque pants.

2. Folk for Days: Floral-patterned embroidery was seen on the models of Prabal Gurung and Suno. The bright tone of this aesthetic is a welcomed change from this winter’s darker hues. Well, almost. Most of the floral patchwork was sewn atop of black dresses or dark green suits making the contrast between the colors a splendid site.

3. Overexposed Prints: These tech-created prints look like sunspots, bleach stains and bits of overexposed in a photograph. The sun-kissed looks were seen all over from Creatures of Comfort to Rachel Comey. This fun take on print-making makes wearing a dress with a peek-a-boo ray of sunshine feel warm and perfect for the spring and summer seasons.

4. Quilt-Making: Quilting was seen on everything from skirts to coats this season. It reminds me of those classic Chanel bags, but less pronounced. On the 2013 runways, leather dresses and skirts were a quilting favorite. The new quilting is more subtle and was best utilized by Elizabeth and James, Theyskens’ Theory and DKNY.

5. Sexy Sweatpants: This must sound crazy. How, how can sweatpants be any kind of sexy? Well, they can when the pants are leather. Everyone needs a break from skinny pants and leather sweats are a great new shape for pants. Not to mention, they look awesome with booties. Who did it best? J Brand, Christian Siriano and Charlotte Ronson all featured a look reminiscent of a bad girl in gym class. Don’t knock it before you try it!

Which of these trends are you eager to try and which are you going to skip? See you after London Fashion Week and Milan Fashion Week when we have more fashion week trends to show you.

Fall Trends: Hair and Make-Up Edition

Posted on September 4, 2012 by NYIC Image Consultant

Fall is quickly approaching. With the cooler weather comes fresh hair and make-up trends. If you are itching for a change in your beauty routine, read on for style advice on whats hot for fall and what trends are slipping away with summer.

Lips:

Say good-bye to neon. Hot pink matte lips are being replaced with dark wine colored lips for fall (Merlot? Yes, please!). As your summer tan fades away, a dramatic berry colored lip color will add a nice contrast to your paler complexion. Remember not to over do your eyes if you are wearing a bold burgundy lip or you risk looking too vampy.

Eyes:

We agree, Anna Hathaway made an amazing cat woman this summer, but the dramatic cat eye liner and shadow is definitely out for fall. Instead, try a softer more romantic version. It is still best to use a liquid liner for this retro-style eye. Rather than a heavy line on both the top and the bottom of the eye, simply line the top lid and create a small, romantic wing at the corner. Forget the shadow but load up on the mascara to complete the look.

Nails:

Forget the mundane pastels and neons of late. This fall, nail trends are not just about painting your nails one color but making artful designs. Think of your nails as a blank canvas for your creativity and edge to shine through. Polka dots, tribal designs, flowers, houndstooth, anything goes.

Hair:

Shaved sides are out. Although, Rhianna and Cassie pulled off this punk rocker look well, we are ready for a new do. If you are itching for a change (or just want to chop some of your locks off), try a vintage or flapper inspired bob instead.

Hair color:

If you loved the brown to blond faded ombre look of spring and summer, don’t fret, ombre hair is hanging around for at least one more season. However, fall trends show the traditional dark brown to light blond being replaced by multiple tones of pinks and blues.

Fashion and Art: Noteworthy Collaborations

Posted on August 16, 2012 by nyic intern

It comes as no surprise that more and more designers are collaborating with famous artists to create new collections (or fashion designers are looking to art for inspiration). Fashion and art are both creative expressions of oneself and ideas. However, when the two merge, there is the potential for originality and creativity to go out the window.

There is no denying that fashion and art have a very close relationship. The mere fact that the MET puts fashion designers and their “pieces” on display alongside some of the world’s most famous artwork is a testament to this (we still can’t stop thinking about the Alexander McQueen exhibit last year!).

If you saw the Schiaparelli and Prada exhibit at the MET this summer, you might remember Schiaparelli and Prada’s conversation on the issue of whether or not fashion is art. Schiaparelli has always maintained that fashion is art, but Prada, in her true rebellious style, disagrees and insists that fashion is not art.

Here we take a look at two of the most recent fashion designer/artist collaborations and how their collections measure up.

Louis Vuitton and Yayoi Kusama. Kusama is a Japanese contemporary artist well known for her dense use of polka dots. Kusama currently has an exhibit at the Whitney Museum of American Art. Louis Vuitton is not only sponsoring Kusama’s exhibit but has collaborated with her on a new line. The collection, which partially launched on July 21st, is centered around the artists signature bold spots, which cover every item from shoes to dresses to handbags. While the clothing line might be a little too bold for most of us to wear (mustard yellow and bright red are not the most universally flattering colors), the 5th Ave window display is definitely a sight to see.

To take this line from the runway to the real world, we suggest accessories. We love the hand bags which are bound to spice up any outfit. We are also eyeing the chic black flats with the black and white polka dot bow. Keep your eye out, the second part of the Louis Vuitton-Kusama collection will be unveiled at Selfridges on August 24. Although, we are sure it won’t be hard to miss.

Christian Dior and Anselm Reyle. Reyle is a contemporary German artist known for his abstract paintings. Dior and Reyle collaborated on a line of accessories this past spring. It is hard not to miss the overwhelming camouflage theme throughout the line. If you take a look at Reyle’s “foil painting,” one of his most famous works, it almost mirrors that bright camouflage design found on all of the Dior pieces. This collection fits nicely into the neon and tribal trends of late, however, it appears Reyle has merely used his signature design and printed it onto Dior’s signature Miss Dior handbags and shoes. The same goes for the make-up that is also part of the Dior-Reyle collection.

Ambush Makeover For A Friend – A Do Or A Don’t?

Posted on July 11, 2012 by NYIC Image Consultant

Have you ever thought about changing a female co-workers image? If so, don’t, and we repeat DON’T, suprise her with a Today Show style ambush makeover. She will feel humiliated and hurt.

Instead, talk to this person first to ensure they are on board. Then, and ONLY then, seek out a professional but PRIVATE image consultation.

In the world of fashion and beauty, we share stories with other image consultants. Recently, we heard about a company that drove an employee across the country (from Ohio!) for a “meeting in NYC”. Unbeknownst to her, she was meeting a stylist for a complete image overhaul. Let’s call her Betty.

Betty cried (not tears of joy) but went along with it anyway. She was already hundreds of miles from home and probably felt the pressure. With a fake smile plastered on her face, she sat through a hair makeover and color, a make-up tutorial and tried on dress after dress in Bloomingdales.

After an 8 hour day of altering her look, Betty went back to Ohio only to quit her job and return all the clothes her boss and personal shopper had purchased in NYC. She wasn’t ready for a change or willing to budge from her comfort zone.

With that being said, there are certain styles that should NEVER be tried in the professional world. Unfortunatly, Betty was sporting most of them.

If you are trying to determine whether or not your co-worker needs an image update, check this list for our top 3 cringe-worthy styles. But remember, sometimes the soft approach is a better remedy for bad fashion than a surprise beauty and wardrobe trip:

Business in the front, party in the back hair (A.K.A. mullets)

There should be no party going on with your hair if you want to be taken seriously. To change a mullet hairstyle into a more polished do, cut off the length in the back and go with a shorter, choppier style with bangs. This will look more professional but still keeps things fun.

Moo Moo dresses

Do not hide under shapeless dresses. They look sloppy and are unflattering. Clothing does not have to be skin tight but a little tailoring goes a long way in making you look better and feel more confident. Wrap dresses (we love Diane Von Furstenburg‘s signature wrap dress) and dresses with rouching are great alternative styles that will accentuate your shape while concealing flaws.

Purple eyeliner

Colored eye make-up can make you look like a clown if not put on properly. If you must have purple on your eyes, we suggest laying off the bold hued pencil and opting for a soft lilac shadow instead. Also, head to your local department store’s make-up counter for a free tutorial on how to apply eye make-up.

The Extra Spiffy T-Shirt Makeover

Posted on May 2, 2012 by NYIC Image Consultant

Jerry from Extra Spiffy

Normally, we blog about style tips and image makeovers. This time around, we’re going a bit more casual. T-shirts have slowly crept their way into becoming a fashion staple for city folk and every designer has a bold graphic t-shirt in their line. As summer approaches, we couldn’t ignore the t-shirts anymore. Besides, a good graphic tee works well to add color to any casual look.

We were lucky enough to convince super graphic designer Jerry Hayes from the label Extra Spiffy to select some of his favorite graphic shirts right now. Take a look at his picks and let us know how you wear your tees:

“Even though I’m pretty diverse and picking favorites is tough for me, I managed to find four picks. One from a new company I found that had a nice design, two from companies I’m a fan of, and last but not least, an in-home favorite of mine.”

1) So this new company called DTA (Don’t Trust Anyone) had a great design, “Like A Fish Tee” based on a cool phrase, “Drown your sorrows.” This design could have gone wrong, but they used just the right amount of detail. Also, the typography was done well. I favor the white tee, it’s clean.

2) Next we have the “Emblem Tee,” by HUF. The small chest print is subtle and the back design reads, “WORLDWIDE DIRTBAG CREW” and reminds me of 7’ dudes named Tiny. I’m a fan of HUF’s work, plus they use a capital H on their hats and apparel, which I’m proud to wear because my last name starts with the same letter.

3) So, ONLY NY is similar to Supreme (another apparel company) in my opinion, which may be why I like them. This brand is extremely innovative and is a good reference of what I’d like to do with my company in the future. The tee I picked from them is the “Service Tee,” because it’s so simple but has such strong elements. The circle and rectangle shape contrast well along with the blue and red color topped off with their fresh logo in white. Also, the back displays a past year, which gives me a nostalgic feeling.

4) As far as my pick from my catalog, I’m torn. It’s between the “Geronimo Jump Tee” and the “BKLYN 718 Tee,” but I’m going with the “BKLYN 718 Tee” because that’s my backyard. The design came about using a familiar font that will probably be displayed heavily in our catalog. Once I was happy with the kerning, I added the knock out on the 718 for a retro look. I like it a lot and it’s getting really good feedback so far. We also just dropped it in a Tank top as well so check ‘em out.

Spring/Summer 2012 Menswear Trends

Posted on April 25, 2012 by NYIC Image Consultant

Alex Woodhall

Regular contributor at the UK-based men’s online fashion blogs FashionBeans.com and wardrobewarrior.co.uk, Alex Woodhall is one stylishly busy writer. He took some time out of his schedule to create a guest blog post for us devoted to his picks for this summer’s best menswear trends. We want our male readers to look divinely fashionable this season, so pay attention to Alex’s wardrobe makeover tips for the styles of the season.

Here’s what Alex had to say:

As summer draws ever nearer, it’s around that time where your spring summer wardrobe begins to make an appearance; shorts are reinstated having been shelved. and lighter fabrics fleet-foot their way to the front of the queue. Today I’m going to introduce some of the major trends hitting menswear this spring summer season.

1) Prints

It may seem a little loud at first glance and impossible to pull off at the second look, but prints are by far one of the biggest menswear trends of the season. Shirts, trousers and even blazers have been given the print treatment as polka dots, paisley, camouflage and the like look to entrench themselves into the male wardrobe for the coming season.

The easiest way to wear print successfully is to anchor it with a neutral: for example Pair paisley trousers with a plain shirt and blazer or trench to avoid clashes. Similarly if you wanted to rock a polka-dot top, neutralize the pattern with some plain trousers in a safe color like grey or navy.

2) Double-Print

The alternative to playing it safe with an anchoring neutral, is to brave double prints. This is definitely not one for the novice and requires a lot of confidence in yourself and your look. Essentially you don’t need to worry about clashing prints but should be aware of complimenting colors, you can make the look easier to pull off by opting for smaller prints such rather than ‘go big or go home’ tribal inspired patterns, like those seen at Burberry Prorsum SS12.

I’d also fully recommend easing yourself into the trend with some accessories. A bold scarf, bag, tie or even pocket square is an easy, subtle way to incorporate a variety of prints into your outfit.

3) Double-Breasted

Make yours a double this season with tailoring reminiscent of the power-dressing 80s. Forget wide shoulders and unflattering flares, a modern DB should be slim cut and with softer shoulders. The beauty of double-breasted is that, yes it is currently trending but it is also timelessly stylish and will always look sharp. Accessorize with a pocket square and possibly a lapel pin for the authentic sartorial effort.

4) Blue

Yes blue, the color which adorned the walls of the bedroom and clothes of your new-born-self. It may rouse up the debate prints do but blue has potential to be as loud or toned down as you want it to be and can be used to create some great outfits.

An all blue outfit created through tonal shades is the best way to rock this trend and when combined with tailoring it creates a really sharp look. GQ dressed Ewan McGregor in a couple of all blue outfits in their January issue showing you how to rock this trend in the best way.

Tell us, which of these wardrobe makeover trends will you be trying here in New York City? If you have any questions, you can always tweet us at @NewYorkImage or follow Alex at @AlexWoodhall.

Until next time!

Nail Art Style Beauty Advice for Spring and Summer 2012

Posted on April 12, 2012 by NYIC Image Consultant

Thank goodness those boring French Manicures are over and done with! The Stepford Wives look reigned supreme for so long, we didn’t think anything would ever surpass it. Now, nail art has evolved with cooler and edgier colors. We love any style makeover that goes from from dull to electric!

Take a look at some of our favorite new nail makeover tips as you wave goodbye to the old.

COLOR ME NEON

Bursts of neon are everywhere this spring and neon nail art is a fantastic way to add a brightly colored splash to your summer look.

Pop princess Katy Perry knows neon polish is a great pop accent

REMAIN NEUTRAL

Taupe, grey, or beige looks charming this season and goes well with a day or night look.

Katherine Heigl's neutral hues compliment any look

PATTERNING

This is better be left for the professionals manicurists, but patterned nails are way too adorable not to try! Ask your manicurist for something simple, like stripes, to start with.

Solange Knowles loves a funky patterned nail print

GREEN SPACES

Maybe the spring smell of freshly cut grass has gone to everyone’s heads because green is so in. Go for a wild, shimmery green or a lighter, minty green for a fresh nail look.

Lauren Conrad has gone green

OMBRE ALL OVER

Ombre is simply beautiful. Either in dark tones or light tones, this is definitely statement nail art for the fashion risk-taker!

Models at Jen Kao SS2012 made ombre nails a hit

New York Image Style Report

New York Image Consultant

Category Archives: Image Makeover