Modern Makeover For The Trench

Dear Fashionistas,

Have no fear, spring is in the near....well, future.  However, I don't think once spring chimes in it is going to leap to a balmy 75 degrees. So when your ready to shed your "puffy" go a little lighter with a stylish trench.

Keep the bold colors at bay and go for a neutral color for longevity.  If you want to add a pop of color, throw a silk scarf around your neck and carry a leather clutch to match. Voilà!

Fave 1: British luxury fashion house Burberry founded in 1856 by Thomas Burberry has always been the destination for their signature chic plaid clothing and fashion accessories.  But, if you're not a plaid fan, you can thank the new chief creative director Christopher Baily.  Responsible for re-branding the company, and taking the fashion house to new heights, we can now purchase stylish trenches without the plaid. My pick, is the grey wool trench with the frilled hem. A classic trench while redefining femininity is worth the investment.  Check out Burberry in Chicago at 633 N. Michigan Avenue.

Fave 2; New British phenomenon on the scene is Ted Baker. Ted Baker is one of the fastest-growing leading lifestyle brands in the UK.  He is known for his attention to detail shirting for men and quirky sense of humor.  Grown since 1987 from a menswear haberdasher to designing a wide range of collections including: Menswear, Womenswear, Global, Endurance, Accessories, Fragrance, Skinwear, Footwear, Eyewear and Watches. Ted Baker has become a global brand and is opening stores in the United States including Chicago at 1009 N. State Street which opened in December of 2010.  Check out the store and snag this super cute full-skirt double breasted trench in rose pink. Another classic with a kick of sass!

Fave 3: American darling, Kate Spade from Missouri has captured our hearts with her handbags in the early 90's.  She expanded her line to stationery, personal organizers, address books, shoes, beauty products, perfume, raincoats, pajamas, and eyewear. In 1998, she opened her first store in SoHo and in 2003 Chicago, at the location of 56 East Oak Street! This year, everyone who's anyone seems to be talking about her 2011 collection!  The collection is filled with bright colors and whimsical flair.  I happened to spot a trench that is elegant with a bit of fun.  The coat features sunburst pleating and playful bow detailing in back. Includes flap pockets, shoulder epaulettes and polka-dot print faille lining for a final whimsical touch.

Ta Ta,

Nicki

BIG BOLD BRIGHT BAGS

Dear Fashionistas,


Big Bold Bright Bags are all the rage this spring.  With these bright vivid colors offered in stores now, they will surely help us snap out of the dull drum's of winter. But buyer beware: though retailers are showing vibrant colors in head-to-toe fashion, I would advise to wear sparingly.  Just a splash will do my darlings.


Blue and green tote by TOD'S: Located at 121 East Oak Street 
TOD'S fine Italian made handbags are known for their impeccable taste, enviable quality and understated luxury. 


Yellow Washington Mews Maryanne Tote by Kate Spade: Located at 56 East Oak Street
Kate spade, known for her chic handbags and accessories, offers this supple marbled yellow patent leather tote that is finished with a chic metal strap.  


Red Shoulder Bag by Jill Sander:  Located at 48 East Oak Street
Jill Sander is known for her minimalist aesthetics of the 90's. This German designer has made her way into showing more pops of color thanks to the new appointed creative director Raf Simons. This bold shoulder bag is made out of strong resistant deer leather.

All bags look great with jeans, a flouncy short skirt, a long dress or a tailored black suit.

I hope you like my bags for spring.  What are your favorites?  Send me a picture and I will post it!

Ta Ta,

Nicki

I JUST LOVE SHOE NAKED

Dear Fashionistas,

I am still obsessed with "naked" color shoes this year!  Is it wrong to love a shoe that gives the magical appearance of legs as long as a giraffe?  I think not.  The color blends with your natural color of skin (on some skin tones) to give the look of elongating your leg.

The color also allows your colorful ensemb to "pop"!  If you want to wear a really vibrant dress and make it stand out, nude shoes polish it off.  Or wear nude shoes instead of black so that the focus is on your dress and not your shoes.  Nude is also a classic shoe that will never go out of style so you don't have to feel a bit of remorse if you are buying designer.  Your safe!

I have picked a few sandals that I just adore.  I know it is a bit early for spring in Chicago, but why not get your sandals now? When it is warm enough, you are ready to step into spring with style.

I apologize for shopping most of the shoes at Nordstrom but the shoe department just can't be beat.

1. BP Kenna Sandal at Nordstrom. I love the satin straps.  The description suggested pairing it with evening wear but even a pair of great flair jeans with a simple flutter top would be divine. Or to show off your elongated legs, wear a day dress to scroll along Rush Street. 

2. Kate Spade at Nordstrom. This lavish strappy sandal with the satin bloom oozes femininity. I want to wear it with cute fitted white shorts or skirt with a pinkish color tank or even a neat black tank with a twist.

3. Glint Kathryn Sandal at Nordstrom.  Enjoy these leather shoes with the braided cut-out shape to give it a modern flair. The heel is approximately "4.  Wear these with absolutely everything.

4. Ivanka Trump at Nordstrom.  Ivanka Trump has a newly created shoe collection with an incredible price range. I am crazy about Ivanka shoes!  These flats are on my list to buy for hanging at the beach this summer.

5. Burberry at Bloomingdales. Remember jelly shoes?  Hated them! But check out these modern cute T-Strap Jellies from Burberry.  Cute heart accessory attached for a bit of fun.

6. Lanvin at Barneys New York. Barneys on Oak Street has an amazing shoe collection also.  In love with these satin flower and grosgrain trim sandal.  I guess I like the accessories attached to the shoes this year.  It adds a bit of pizzaz and in this case, a feminine touch.  

Ta Ta,

Nicki