Luxe Leather

As far as outerwear goes, the leather jacket is often overlooked for more 'practical' options... But what piece of clothing is more iconic than the leather jacket? Think James Dean, the T-Birds in Grease, Harrison Ford in Indiana Jones, Joan Jett, and pretty much any 80's punk band. You might not be immortalized in the leather jacket hall of fame, but who says you can't look like you should be? So put away that peacoat and check out these luxe leather alternatives. From military-inspired bomber jackets and sexy motorcycle versions, to femme three-quarter length sleeves and sophisticated looks with waist ties, there is sure to be one for you.
I alove the dusty beige color of this Mike and Chris Lightweight Leather Jacket. The tab collar and shoulder flap give it an aviator-eque vibe. And the supple lambskin leather looks perfectly worn-in. (As a proper leather jacket should...)









If you have a soft spot for that edgy zippered look (like I do), you will love this Goldsign Astor Leather Bomber Jacket. And the fun cropped look is great if you are on the slim side... Not so much? Look for a hip length option, like this Mackage Bo Moto Jacket instead.









Those looking for a less hardware-laden option will enjoy this slouchy Vince Leather Flight Jacket. It oozes subtle sophistication with its exaggerated collar and low front pockets.










Girlie girls can totally rock the leather look in this prim and proper A Common Thread Three Quarter Sleeve Leather Jacket. Pair it with a sexy pencil skirt for work or straight leg jeans for a casual weekend look.









For more luxurious leather jackets, click below...

Denim Guide: Wide Leg

I hate to do repeats... but this wide leg denim trend is not going away. Nor would I want it to. Unlike skinny jeans, which let's be honest, aren't the most flattering, the right proportioned wide leg jean can make heavier figures more balanced, add curves to those lacking and look adorable on everyone in between. So check out my old picks, and some new ones below...
J Brand's Kat Wide Leg Jean is a true fashion forward pick... And you must must must pair them with heels. Otherwise you will be swimming in all that fabric (and risk looking about four feet tall.)











The slimmer cut of this AG Mona Trouser Jean looks great on curvy gals. The wide leg balances out a fuller top half and the super dark lightweight denim is incredibly flattering. Style note: Look for jeans with clean lines and monochromatic instead of contrast stitching. Contrast stitching breaks the body into sections, which is not a good idea if you are trying for a long lean look.






Craving more curves? Then anything that brings attention to the waist is your best bet. Try Anlo's High Waist Trousers to add shape to your frame. And make sure you tuck in your top to bring attention to the tab detailing on the waistband.








For a more budget friendly option, try J.Crew's Trouser Jean in antique blue denim. At $135 it may not be dirt cheap, but it can serve double duty: dressed up or dressed down.



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Purple Haze

Amethyst, eggplant, lavendar, lilac, and heliotrope... All fabulous shades of my favorite color. And this season there is no shortage of purple options, from shoes and handbags to skirts, pants and jewelry... So check out my favorites:
Statement color coats are a great way to spice up your wardrobe. And this French Connection Wanna Coat is surprisingly versatile...




I know purple leather may sound like a strange choice at first, but I love this Miu Miu Vitello Large Tote. Wear it with black to make it pop, or try your skills at some fashion forward mix and matching.




Black and navy may be the new hot color combo, but I like black and purple just as well... This Miranda Bennett Bicolor Silk Tunic is perfect for going out or for layering under more appropriate work attire.








For more purple fashions, click below...

Parkas and Puffer Coats: The Rundown

Not the most fashion forward pieces of clothing, parkas and down coats have, until now, usually been reserved for frigid temps and outdoor activities. But this season, designers are making much more stylish alternatives for cold weather comfort. So save that North Face for a snowball fight and try one of these fashionable alternatives for casual day wear.

I love the huge shawl collar on this Add Down Puffer Wrap Jacket. And the super-cinched waist keeps the volume in check, making it more flattering than your average parka.











Cute and sporty, this hooded Juicy Couture Bomber Jacket is sure to keep you warm on your way to class. But for a more luxe look, try their Quilted Puffer Coat with faux fur trim.










Take a style tip or two from the lovely Stella McCartney and throw on a slouchy parka instead of a pufffer coat. This LaROK 'Sheen' Parka has a cozy detachable liner for when things get really chilly.










For more of Dylan's shopping tips, click here...
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The Chain Gang

Not into the punk studs and zippers adorning anything and everything this season? Look to chains for a simple, but edgy look. Large, masculine links make great statement pieces, while small dainty chains add a dash of subtle sophistication.
These stunning Prada Patent Pumps may seem to scream for attention, but the square toe keeps things professional. Pair them with simple separates to keep the shoes the center of attention. And for a more casual take on this look, try Prada's Patent Ballerina Flat.

No one does mix and match chains better than Bing Bang. And this luxe Short Mixed Chain Necklace is delicate enough to wear every day. Looking for something with a little more heft? Try Louis Vuitton's Vegas Chain Necklace.











Only try this Ya-Ya Chain Trim Dress if your closet if more fashion forward than classic. Small pewter chains create a striped pattern on this simple sheath dress and end in a raw hem.








A simple black clutch gets a makeover with a solitary silver chain in this Michael Kors ID Clutch. Use it to cut the sweetness in an otherwise saccharine dress or pair it with professional gear for added edge.






For more chain friendly fashion, click below...

Inspired by: Chanel

Just like Ralph Lauren evokes images of rugged jeans and preppy basics, Chanel has its own iconic imagery. And while piles of pearls and bouclé suits may not be popular this season, simple black and cream has never looked more fab. So for that certain je ne sais quoi, (without the price tag) try out these simple separates.

For a uptown take on this color combo, check out Goldenbeu's Silvia Stamped Croc Bag. It will look just as chic on the arm of your grandma as it will on you. Classic looks like cream and black transcend ideas about dress and age.










Elegant and lady-like, this Milly Collarless Two-Tone Coat has a vintage vibe. Pair it with a cocktail dress for an evening out on the town or layer it over jeans to polish up your everyday look.











Out of all the trendy cap-toe shoes this season, these Betsey Johnson 'Whitfield' Pumps are my favorite by far. A hidden platform gives you added height and the criss-cross straps are welcome change from the classic mary jane.

To see what else is in Dylan's shopping bags, click here...

Unzipped

Riding on the coattails of the 80's revival this season are punk mainstays like studs, leather jackets, and decorative zippers. But unlike the eighties, when you rocked out in skinny zippered black jeans, this updated look is more subdued and simple... (Although the zippered jeans are adorable, so if you can work it. Go for it.)

The vintage-y shawl collar on this Mara Hoffman Coat looks completely modern when paired with an exposed zipper. So instead of buying another black pea coat this season, invest in this statement-making piece.










I love the zippered neckline of this Diane von Furstenberg Janis Top. And the delicate draping of the blouse keeps things feminine...












Tough girl zippers also make an appearance on the shoulders of this Diane von Furstenberg Hendrix Dress. Diane apparently had a thing for zippers this season... She also has a similar look in long sleeves.








For more sexy zippered looks, click below...