Polo and Fashion at the Beach!

Dear Fashionistas,

Polo and fashion do compliment each other and quite well if we at Fashionista Chicago may say so ourselves.  

Last Saturday, October 1st, Chicago went international by hosting the Beach Polo World Cup. The two day event was held at North Avenue Beach, which was transformed into a polo field that offered spectators a front row seat. Grey Goose offered complimentary cocktails and Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar, and Fogo de Chao, kept all the fashionable spectators full with their tasty offerings.

Among the horses, the polo players and fans, a super chic fashion show was presented with ease through the sand and wind. This hip show featured f/w 2011 clothing for men and women from Cityblue Apparel and Denim located in Old Town. The models were styled by none other than Mallory Ulaszek, owner of City Blue.  Two fashion forward local designers were also presenting their collection including , C/FAN Designs and jules. (modern unique jewelry), alongside national brands such as L.A.M.B., AIKO, and Joie. 

If you missed the fashion show, all you had to do was look around and realized that the spectators demanded the attention with their Über fashion sense wearing floppy hats (one of fall’s biggest trends) and touches of fur (another trend) from the glamourous eras before.

Polo may be considered the game of royalty, but Chicago definitely reigned in style!!! Even Miss Illinois USA came out for all the fun, fashion and action.

Mary Lee

Contributor Style Journalist for Fashionista Chicago

EMBRACE YOUR WINTER BLUES IN NAVY

Dear Fashionistas,

Surrendering to winter doesn't mean you have to give up stylish ensemb's.  This time of the year we like to be comfortable but still have a flair for chic-ness.  While patterned tights are still hot with skirts,  I am more passionate for comfortable stylish pants.  Flair pants and wide-leg trousers are abundant this spring and I am giving it a "Siskel and Ebert" two-thumbs up.  Skinnies are still in style too, but when it comes to flattering most any size or shape, the wide leg goes without saying.  Not only is it classic, but the way the fabric flows and keeps it's shape is flattering and feminine.  (Unlike its counterpart-skinnies that show every curve, crease and bulge.)  Umm, no thanks skinny.

Darlings, we know transitioning to spring is rough.  Especially since we can expect snow flurries everyday this month.  However,  slowly moving into wearing brighter colors can make us feel refreshed. Try our subtle friend navy to get you started and you'll find  it is the key shade for a seamless transition to spring a'la style and grace.  Navy is the silent coveted color of the chicest of chic and I got you covered with two outfits to get you going.  Both comfy and stylish.

Get The Look:

1. Akira's navy one shoulder ruffle sleeve is a buzz with the hip Chicago scene for it's asymmetrical appearance and the multi-layered ruffle neckline. Feminine with a kick of coolness.  I love to pair this with dark blue wash, boot-cut jean from Denim Lounge.
2. Denim Lounge carries a number of denim brands in all shapes and sizes including Andrew Marc, Seven, J Brand, Rich and Skinny, Citizens of Humanity and Joie.  The pair featured above with Akira's ruffle sleeve blouse is AG Leo Angel Bootcut Jean. A classic wash, long and lean with an inseam of '34 inches.  If they are too long, don't be afraid to get them altered at your local dry cleaners.
3. Complete the look with Forever21 navy stripped peeped toe shoes.  Pleated front with a knot gives it an upscale look. These are super comfortable because of the platform and padded insole.

Get The Look:


4. Krista K embraces navy with this navy and white short sleeve stripe top by Velvet.  Featuring a cowl neckline with ruching detail at shoulder.   You can pair this shirt with white jeans or navy pants.  As you see above, I prefer these incredible navy pants by Rebecca Taylor.
5. NET-A-PORTER carries these awesome navy stretch wool pants.  Embossed anchor brass buttons give it a nautical flair.  Pair them with the stripe shirt above for an easy chic weekend outing.
6. Lastly, complete this look with this fabulouso leather satchel by Rebecca Minkoff at Nordstrom.  The glossy navy contrast is patent leather which makes this satchel an easy accessory to pair with just about anything.  Jeans, white pants,  navy trousers, linen or a flouncy dress, this bag is the "go with everything" bag of the season.  




If you have any questions or comments, be sure to write in the comment below.


Ta Ta,
Nicki