Tag Archives: Style Tips

Foolproof Outfit Combo: Crop Top + Full Skirt + Heels

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Some outfit combinations are “foolproof” – i.e. the styling has been tried and tested time and again the look simply works.  I love this kind of outfit, even though the combo itself is nothing new, because you know it’s going to look good, and you can still put your own spin on it with the details.  I’m going to start posting these foolproof combos on a regular basis, and decided to start with a current fave.  The crop top/full skirt combo popped up a while back, and I’ve LOVED it ever since first spotting the look.  In fact, I remember styling a very similar look for myself as a pre-teen in the late 90’s, for my middle school graduation party!!  It was a giant midi length tutu skirt (in black) with a baby pink cropped tank and cardigan.  I remember my mother did not like the outfit, but I thought it was awesome, and definitely unique in my small suburban town.  Anyway, the look has been going strong, but I wouldn’t say it’s played out just yet.  Midi skirts and crop tops are still trending, and I’m not surprised because it’s easy to make these pieces work for you.  The key with a big, full midi skirt is to make sure it sits high on your waist at the narrowest part (typically above your belly button).  That way the skirt ensures waist emphasis and flares out from there, creating a nice curvaceous line for your lower body.  Equally as important, your crop top will not actually bare that much skin, because the skirt has you covered 😉 You don’t want more than a few inches of skin peeking out, and certainly not your belly button…Noooo low slung skirts with drop tops okay?!?  That’s not the modern (or decent) way to rock this silhouette. I always recommend topping off this look with heels (unless you’re super tall) because otherwise the midi skirt can stunt you, and of course heels are the more sexy, feminine choice.  Avoid an oversized bag with this look and stick to something ladylike and demure, like a mini bag or a minaudière.

Get The Look

Crop Top (bralette): VS Pink / Midi Skirt: H&M / Heels: Izabella Rue by ShoeDazzle / Bag: ALDO / Sunglasses: Toyshades / Earrings: Forever 21 / Necklaces: Vintage

Photography by Jessica Kircher  

Trend To Try: Sporty Chic

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Working as a professional stylist, I live eat breath fashion, so of course I keep on top of trends.  I do not believe style should be defined by trends, but I do think it’s important to know what’s “in”, whether you’re going to try it or not.  I think the best way to embrace a trend is to make it your own, rather than wearing it the way you see everyone else wearing it.  Athletic inspired style is one of those looks that’s been trending for a while, and it’s especially popular now in the spring season.  I like the cute but relaxed feel of a sporty ensemble, and think it’s a down-to-earth, relatable look.  Here I styled a slouchy athletic tee with a leather trim skater skirt.  For many people, this outfit might have been great with “fashion sneakers”, but that’s one component of the look you would NOT see me wearing.  As previously mentioned, I’m super short, and sneakers do nothing for me…I will literally only wear them if I’m running or hiking and have no choice.  So instead, I went for some fun wedge sandals that have a bit of a sporty vibe.  That’s what I mean about making an outfit your own – do what works for you and your body!

Get The Look 

Top & Skirt: Banana Republic /  Shoes: GX by Gwen Stefani / Bag: Kate Spade / Necklaces: BaubleBar & JewelMint

Photography by Jessica Kircher

How To Layer Your Maxi Dress For Cool Weather

Posted in Fashion & Style, Outfit Inspiration by

The transition from winter to spring has begun, but the temperatures aren’t quite rising yet.  I felt like getting creative with a strapless maxi, so I styled it here for colder weather.  I just bought this dress on sale at Macy’s.  It’s by Denim & Supply, and the fabric is really soft and flowing.  The print is more wintery, but the top of the dress is low-cut and strapless which isn’t ideal for January, even here in So Cal.  Rather than going the obvious route and adding a jacket, I styled it first with a sweater (for cooler temperatures) and then a simple tee (for milder temperatures).

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First I layered the dress with a chunky sweater then added a statement pendant to anchor the look.  My feet kept warm and cozy with fleece socks and moto boots.  These are my current fave boots (by Dolce Vita), I’ve been wearing them all winter!  For truly cold weather, you could make this work by adding thick tights and topping off with a long (calf-length) coat.

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For warmer climates, a tee shirt works wonders!  It’s the perfect bit of something extra if you don’t want bare arms.  I liked the idea of pairing navy with black and red, so I opted for this cute v-neck tee with a pocket (adds a little interest to boot).  However this shirt is actually quite long and slouchy, so I “cropped” it by ruching it up and securing the back.  (Use a hairband to secure then tuck in the tail and it will stay put all day.)  The fit is much more flattering when the tee nips in at your natural waist.  It would not have looked good if I wore the shirt loose, trust me.  In this case I accessorized with shimmering jewel earrings and some fabulous wedge sandals.  I love these wedges by Joe’s Jeans…they’re super cozy and sturdy!

ALSO, I’m in love with Lime Crime’s velvetine lipstick in “cashmere” which I wore for this shoot.  If you like nude and/or matte lips you will adore this color so seriously BUY IT NOW!!