Review: The Rachel Zoe Collection

Yes, I know I am late to the game on this one. Rachel Zoe's new collection launched weeks ago, and I've perused it many times since then. Honestly, I love Rachel Zoe. I think her style is iconic and she isn't afraid to buck trends. She makes trends. She wears wide leg jeans and she's as short as I am. So here's my 2 cents on her new collection. Not that Rachel Zoe would care at all what I think, but...Rachel, if you ever see this, I love your work. :)

All images courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue website. Check them out to view The Rachel Zoe Collection and purchase online!

Favorite Shoe: Audrey Stretch Suede Platform Ankle Boots

$395, Saks Fifth Avenue

These shoes are edgy and simple at the same time. There's actually a picture of them paired with the Julie Skinny Jean if you scroll down. The suede material is so fall-appropriate and versatile. The platform is a heck-of-a-lot better than a stiletto and works with both skinny and flare jeans, which is important for this year. Flares and skinnies are competing for the spotlight this season for the first time in what seems like forever. They would look amazing with literally all of the pieces in Rachel's Collection, and make the invisible foot look possible (I'll explain...).

Favorite Look #1: The Charlie Houndstooth Jacket and Pants

Jacket, $375; Pants, $275; Natalie Blouse, $295 (shown with Audrey Ankle Boots) Saks Fifth Avenue

Menswear. Flared silhouette. Sex Appeal. This look is great to me because it captures so much of Zoe's style and yet lends itself to pretty much any occasion. This would be so chic for work or a night out. The houndstooth patten is an echo of British and equestrian, but it gets a modern facelift with the added height of the platforms and the tie-neck blouse. I especially like the way they chose to style this model with minimal accessories and very clean hair and makeup. The suit speaks for itself, and although it is borrowed from the boys it is still very feminine and sexy to me. This is why I love Rachel Zoe.

Favorite Look #2: Marie One-Sleeve Caftan Top with Julie Skinny Jeans

Marie Top, $250; Julie Skinny Jeans, $175 (shown with Audrey Ankle Boots)

I think that one of the great things about Zoe is her ability to mix proportions in such a flattering way. The rule is always "skinny on top, loose on bottom" or vice versa. I don't think I've ever seen Rachel Zoe wear anything skin-tight or overly clingy, and this shows up in her collection, of course. She knows how to drape and flatter a woman's body without letting her appear big. Some say wearing loose clothing adds pounds, but when Zoe styles it, the looks are slimming. This Caftan top is a perfect example. Paired with sleek, dark skinny jeans it doesn't swallow the model or hide her form. It drapes so nicely and the one-shoulder cut is sexy without being too revealing. I love this look for going to a nice dinner, a party, or even shopping. I think it embodies one of the mot classic and flattering looks that you can make with a flattering skinny jean.

Favorite Look #3: Frankie Peasant Blouse and Anjelica Wool Crepe Pants

Frankie Blouse, $295; Anjelica Pants, $375 (shown with Audrey Ankle Boots)

I have always wanted a pair of camel colored, high-waisted trousers like these. I have somehow never felt that they'd be flattering on someone like myself, but after seeing this look, I have hope. Zoe has styled a more casual, peasant-style blouse with some Hepburn-esque wool trousers and it looks stunning. It also showcases her traditional "invisible foot" look, which I find to be incredibly flattering. Zoe is often seen wearing long-line flares and wide-leg pants that skim the ground while she wears high, platform shoes. This gives the illusion of long, thin legs and it works on everyone! I've recently purchased a few pairs of pants like this and let me tell you, it will do wonders for your shape. Zoe has clearly found a silhouette that works and I highly recommend it. I am also loving the peasant style. That was popular a few years ago and I'm glad it's back :) It's flattering, comfortable, and very chic.

These are just a few of the looks available in the Rachel Zoe Collection. I'm really excited that she finally released her own stuff! I hope you check out the rest of the collection and find inspiration there.

Deals-Of-The-Month!

Oh bargain shopping, how I both loathe and love you for emptying my bank account one tiny purchase at a time and still putting a smile on my face. August was a month filled with scores for me, and I couldn't help but share my top bargains for the month with you here.

1. The $16 Joe's Jeans

Yes, it's true. I picked these up on final clearance at work. The employee discount helped out a little bit, but even so, these were a STEAL. This is a pair of Joe's "The Jegging" which usually retail from $158 and up. At TJ Maxx they were originally $59.99, and then got marked down and down and down until...voila, $16! I love these jeggings because not only are they super comfy and stretchy, they have five functional pockets so they look like skinnies. They have a 29" inseam so although they would be crops for the average gal, they are skinnies or cuffed crops on me. The wash is fabulous - vintage dark with great details. These pants were a tiny investment and I am literally wearing them all the time. Can't wait to tuck them into boots this fall!

2. The $10 Coach Heels

You have my permission to pick yourself back up off the floor and keep reading. This pair of Coach "Kyla" wedge heels were sitting at Goodwill with a special price of $10 (you know, so much more $$$ than the usual shoes there). I almost fainted when I saw they were my size. My hands shook as I put them on and realized they fit. Deal. Of. The. Century. Not only are these heels worth a TON more than $10, they are almost brand new. They have never been broken in or worn outside. So score one for me, thrift stores, and bargain hunters everywhere.

What is the best bargain you've scored recently?

Fall 2011 Wardrobe Updates

It's August, which means it's still generally hot around here (minus a few cooler days lately which have been glorious!). But September is just around the corner and that means I've started scoping out the pieces I want to add to my wardrobe this fall. September issues have been flying off of magazine stands (or into your mailbox) giving advice on the pieces you need this season, and I have definitely been intrigued. There are some trends I'm not really ever going to be into (like...argyle). But others I am certainly willing to branch out of my comfort zone and try, particularly if I can score them at steep discounts. So today I took a trip to Goodwill with a $20 limit to see what I could dig out of the racks to update my wardrobe for fall. Here are 3 key pieces that will serve as the foundation for 3 major trends that are going on this fall. Observe.

1. Menswear

This lightweight striped button-down by Gap is a perfect essential for a fall wardrobe. We've all heard the buzz about menswear taking over fashion (blazer, suiting, oxfords, boyfriend jeans, ties, etc.) and this button down is certainly borrowed from the boys but with a feminine flair. The lightness of the fabric moves with you and skims your curves without bulkifying your frame. In this neutral palette, it would go easily with some cool military cargos, dark wash skinnies, or tucked into a high-waisted skirt. It would look great over a tank top while it's still a tad warm, or layered under a sweater, trench coat, or leather jacket when the temperature drops. Besides, it's really soft and comfy so what other reason do you need for going out and finding one?

2. Nautical Inspired

The nautical inspired trends have been on off and around the runways for several seasons now. I feel like Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren throw a bit into their collections nearly every year - and for good reason: the chic striped shirt has never gone out of style. Every girl should be in possession of one of those Audrey Hepburn-esque, big, striped tee shirts to throw on with a pair of skinny jeans and ballet flats. This fall, nautical can make a comeback in your closet when restyled in a modern way. I never get tired of that iconic stripes & skinnies look, but why not try mixing it up by adding some chunky wedge heels or boots, a pair of high-waisted flares, a trench coat and some gold bangles? Why not dress up your striped tee by pairing it with a classic pencil skirt in a coordinating color, accenting with sparkly jewelry, a peacoat, tights and peep-toes? I challenge you to go buy one striped tee shirt and see how you can style it this fall.

Striped tee shirt by Old Navy, via Goodill

3. Trouser Jeans

So maybe trouser jeans are not a trend in and of themselves. But this fall I've noticed the silhouettes are a mix of skinny and every variation of flares. Yes, those flares you tossed out of your closet several seasons ago when you were told that they, along with bootcut jeans, were a thing of your chic-less past and that with the advent of the skinny jeans, their services were no longer needed. Yet here we are watching flares walk down runways and into department stores all over again. "Everything is retro", my Dad always said. He was right. So I used to detest flares and all their hybrids. But I saw this pair of denim trouser-flare-thingies at Goodwill and decided that for $3.39 I could probably afford to go for it and see what happened.

Denim trouser-flares by Merona, via Goodwill

Ironically, despite my lack of height, these jeans are the perfect length to wear with short heels! I was so excited! I've always shied away from these kinds of flares due to my petite frame, but these jeans were surprisingly cute and comfortable. In fact, they looked excellent with my striped tee and some wedges! This fall I plan on wearing my leather riding jacket and ankle booties with these. Or a long, chunky sweater with ballet flats. They're a little high-waisted which means I have a chance at another fall trend that still scares me a little.

In conclusion, I would like to point out that the above three pieces cost me pennies over $10. And that, my dears, is why you should never fear thrifting.

Especially after you see the COACH shoes I picked up in my next blog...cheers!

A Light n' Easy Summer Makeup Look!

Warning: photo-heavy blog ahead! Sorry, but it seemed necessary (or at least fun?). Anyways, I've been thinking about this blog for a while now simply because I use this makeup routine almost every day and I am loving it! I'm a fan of natural-looking makeup most all of the time, but particularly during the summer when you want to look happy and sun-kissed, not caked in foundation. So my latest summer beauty trick? Watering down my foundation and applying it with a sponge. Observe.

Step 1: Moisturize!

I love this Aveeno moisturizer because it smells like plants and it really makes my skin feel fresh! Perfect for summer. Plus it's available on the cheap in any drugstore.

Step 2a: Choose foundation

I like this one by Covergirl for sensitive skin because it's available in so many colors (like extra pale for me!) and it goes on smoothly - no caking.

Step 2b: Apply water to your foundation sponge (with fingers or faucet)

Diluting the foundation with water not only feels GREAT on your skin, but it helps it go on smoothly and evenly, giving it a very light texture, almost like a tinted moisturizer!

Step 3: Apply cover-up if needed

Step 4: Apply pressed or loose powder to face

I like this cheap one from Kmart by Jordana (made in USA). It goes on smooth and has great coverage. Here's a photo of the face after the first 4 steps:

Step 5: Bronze and Go!

I love a light bronzer for summer. I used Urban Decay Baked Blushing Powder/Bronzer. It goes on very shimmery and light - even works on the chest for definition! Best of all it'll work on all skin shades from milky white to a rich cocoa color. It has a nearly sheer color that blends to the skin. Love it!

So that's my easy, sun-kissed summer beauty look! It takes about 5 minutes or less and works for every day. It's my personal favorite. The cooling power of water really does wonders for the skin!

What do you think? Do you like light makeup looks in summer or do you keep your makeup routine pretty much the same year-round? Have you ever diluted foundation with water or something else?

Haze.

Today is supposed to be the hottest day of the year so far for my city. Heat index of 115? Yuck. Thankfully I worked at the crack of dawn today and was home before lunch so I could beat the heat! So in lieu of laying out, shopping, or otherwise potentially sweat-inducing activities, I decided I needed to reinvent some basics that have been sitting in my closet for a while and gotten very little use. My black racerback maxi dress was a great piece to buy, and I just had a feeling I'd get SO much use out of it! But I've only worn it twice, and I figured I just needed some new ways to style it other than the dress + sandals + jewelry route. So here's what I came up with for today. Maybe I'll wear it out to dinner later if it cools off a bit - otherwise I might just wear a bikini (I kid, I kid :P).

Black racerback maxi, Forever21; Cropped denim jacket, Banana Republic Petites; Gray Striped Tee, Mossimo for Target; Leather belt, Vintage; Shoes, Target.

Here's my thinking. Layers are always great in the fall, and they lend an extra bit of oomph to an otherwise basic outfit. I decided to apply the same principle here, despite the soaring temps. The gray stripes make my dress feel less monochromatic and it's different from just throwing on a scarf (which I am also a fan of!). The denim jacket is too hot to wear while outside, but I'm always cold indoors, so I usually throw a jacket in my purse or car when I'm out. The denim is better to me than a cotton cardigan because the new texture gives the outfit an edgier feel. I find that mixing materials can often improve the look of a basic outfit. After all, here I'm just wearing blacks, gray/white, navy blue denim and a touch of brown. All of those colors are neutral; but if you throw in the denim jacket and the leather belt, it instantly gets a vintage touch and an intentionally roughed-up look without being too obvious. This outfit would also be great in the fall with some ankle boots or moccasins. Clearly I am looking forward to cooler weather.

P.S. This is also a good outfit on a blah day because it gives you a bit of shape but is still forgiving. The cropped jacket and belt show off the waistline while the tee shirt skims over the torso. And let's be honest...no matter what size you are, we ALL have those days! :)

Nail Art Idea: Polka Dots/Checks

When I was little, there was a song on the Disney Channel called "Polka Dots, Checks & Stripes". I have no idea what the point of it was, other than to honor a young girl's ridiculous fashion choices (her name was Sue, I believe?), but I got the song stuck in my head as I looked at my nail art brush today. And then I got an idea.

Light pink polish: Wet n' Wild; Black nail art: L.A. Colors Art Deco

Right hand was done asymmetrically from the right one, just for kicks!

This fun idea is asymmetrical, which I think makes it more interesting. I've been seeing a lot of plaid manicures lately in magazines, and I thought I'd mix it up a bit by trying a spin-off. I didn't like the idea of plaid on every fingernail, so I decided to intersperse it with polka dots - one of my favorite patterns! The black atop light pink polish gave it a girly-meets-edgy look that I rather like. Especially since my toes are hot hot pink with black french tips. Should have taken a pic of that too, oh well! At any rate, I like this spin-off and I will definitely try some other color variations next time!

What do you think?

What Inspires You?

Today I was thinking about what I should blog about next, and then I realized that I have a confession to make. You see, lately I have been completely un-inspired by fashion. It's freaking me out! Typical me can walk into my closet and instantly see the outfit that fits my current mood. But lately I've been staring at the hangers full of jeans, dresses, cardigans, and shirts, and wondering what in the world feels like "me". I am not a fan of this feeling. I don't think my husband is either. Every time we've gone out lately it's been roadblocked by one of my outfit crises. I'm always looking for the right shoes, those earrings I love, jeans that flatter my [insert any body part here], or something like that. I have more pairs of jeans than I can wear and yet I'v felt like none of them will work lately. Has this ever happened to you?

So, I'm trying to find a way to reclaim my sense of inspiration. I don't know what made it go away. Could be the fact that I've been busy with other things, maybe I'm not in touch with myself, or I could just have a closet full of crappy clothes (I kid, I kid!). But regardless, I need my mojo back! So I'm making a list of things that usually get me going, and I'm very interested to hear some of yours...

1. Coffee.

Yes, it really does inspire me. It's bold, smells delish, and puts me in a better mood. I know, it's sad.

2. People I meet.

And I meet a LOT of people on a given day, in my line of work. When I pay attention, I often notice a subtle detail of their outfit that inspires me or interests me.

3. Music.

A song can instantly change my mood or give me a mental image of who I want to be on a given day.

4. Being practical.

That's right, out of practicality, some of the most interesting fashion forms are born. I mean just look at where belts are in today's world! Sometimes a watch, cardigan, pair of cargos, socks, bra, or otherwise "functional" article of clothing can really make an outfit pop.

5. Hippies.

I think that's pretty self-explanatory. But seriously, I mean it. Freedom and fun mixed with effortless nuances...yes.

6. Fun.

The picture below is one of my favorites in terms of a fun outfit and something very unique. I love the different kinds of polk dots, acid washed jeans, and ballet flats. Why? Because it's fun, and I like being fun.

It's not small wonder my style changes daily with all of this inspiration!

Maybe old pictures ^^ inspire me too...

What inspires your style?

Summer Inspiration: The J.Crew Catalog

This weekend I spent a much-needed day at the beach with my husband. While we were there, I found inspiration in lots of unlikely places – from the street style to the absent-minded shoppers. But one thing in particular struck my fancy and ironically coincided with the fashion urges I’ve felt lately: The J.Crew summer catalog that I picked up while shopping. The tale of the pants I found on sale and begged to have will no doubt go down in the history of our marriage, but let me say for now that due to unforeseen circumstances, the aforementioned pants that had been left at J.Crew last night were purchased this morning by yours truly (my half-grumpy, half-smiling husband waiting in the car as I paid!) I did pick up a catalog last night, and as I thumbed through it, I was drawn to the light fabrics, neutral palette, and print-mixing that I discovered within. Most of all, I was intrigued to see how the stylist worked her magic on the military inspired cargo pant trend that seems to still be in force this season. I picked up my first pair almost a year ago at LOFT, and have enjoyed the slim but slouchy fit and comfortable fabric. I pair them with anything. Then I got some cargo jeggings (see previous posts) and some Joe’s cargo pants. Now I have acquired a hybrid that reminds me of cargos, genie pants and trousers all rolled into one. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you The Canteen Pant by J.Crew.

As a side note, it is currently available online for a clearance price of $29.99, but I was able to snag them for $20 in-store. The pant comes in green, pewter, copper and white. I opted for pewter since I already have the olive green color in so many things, and pewter is a great all-season neutral for me.

Let me start by saying these pants are to-die-for comfortable. The cotton is sooo soft. J.Crew claims the style is flattering on everyone, and I totally buy it. I’m petite, but the slouchy look still gives me some shape and is slimming too! The waist is so interesting to me because it has a zipper and clasp (like trousers) and a drawstring (like track sweats), in addition to the already elastic waistband. I’m actually a fan of the combo! I’m a big believer in both drawstrings AND elastic waistbands. If it’s not comfortable why bother? Anyways, these pants go great for the beach, work (if you work where I do), the mall, or even a fun night out. Here I've assembled an ideal casual look with The Canteen Pant.

Weekend Off

The Canteen Pant, J.Crew; Oversized Striped Tee, Mossimo; Sandals, NY&C; Shades, Forever21; Necklace, handmade in Africa; Earrings, vintage; Tribal ring, Forever21.

Pairing these pants with a lightweight tee, strappy sandals, and basic jewelry or relaxed but more put-together (and I daresay comfortable!) than the old jeans plus tee shirt routine. Wear it to the grocery store, running errands, or to a weekend get-together.

What do you think of these comfortable-chic pants?

My Poolside Essentials

One of my favorite things about this summer so far has been the time spent poolside! Since there's a pool at my apartment, I'm out there at least every other day after I get off work. Since it's so hot here already, it's the perfect way to unwind and cool off! In honor of hot weather, sunny days, fruity drinks, and everything summer, I decided to post about my poolside essentials and why they are so important to me!

1. SPF

As a fair-skinned person, it is absolutely necessary that I wear some serious sun protection. I use baby sunscreen with SPF 50 and I haven't gotten burned yet this year! A friend gave me this tip: if you're prone to breakouts or itchy red bumps after applying sunscreen, then try the baby version. It's usually designed for sensitive skin and it's hypoallergenic. I love it! Honestly it really saddens me to see girls blowing off sunscreen. Please care about your skin - it's the only skin you'll get! Skin cancer is very common in women who regularly tan, so please don't do it. If you're outside at all, wear sunscreen. Above all, check yourself regularly for any moles or bumps that could become cancerous and see your Dermatologist. Rant over :)

2. Something Fun to Read.

Glamour magazine, Victoria's Secret catalogs - what can I say? I love a good girly magazine. If it's not too hot to lay by the pool, bring something fun to read or just look at. It always makes me feel especially pampered and makes a long day end so much better.

3. A Sweet Drink.

Lemonade at the pool is like the quintessential summer idea to me. I bring mine in a thermos and sip it to stay cool & hydrated, and enjoy the summer flavor.

4. Earbuds + iPhone.

I don't care who you are, listening to some Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Ke$sha, Nicki Minaj, or any other diva will get your summer blood pumping and make you feel sexy. Guaranteed:) Oh, and a little online shopping on your mobile doesn't hurt either.

5. Fun Shades.

Sexy, sun-protecting, chic. Need I say more?

6. A Cute Pool Bag.

Ok, maybe not necessary to you, but I adore toting my cute, pink, paisley bag around the pool. It's just fun.

What are your poolside essentials? Do you have a bag you pack with the same stuff or does it vary? How do you feel about sun safety?

Do you even go to the pool?

How to Style: Cargo Jeggings

I bought a pair of cargo jeggings.

Oddly enough, this trend had never appealed to me until a few weeks ago when I got sucked in. I found a pair of American Eagle Cargo Jeggings and decided to try them on. I was instantly addicted to the soft fabric and utilitarian feel they had. I felt like when I was wearing them I was a tough, practical girl who was ready for anything from exploring outdoors to sight-seeing in a foreign city. Obviously my imagination was getting away with me. I bought them without having a clue what I had in my closet to wear them with. I'm honestly still trying different combinations, but I settled on this outfit to share this morning. It's a great mixture of tough, tribal and bohemian. See what I mean...

Cargo Jeggings, American Eagle; Handkerchief Tank, Collective Concepts; Scarf, World Market; Nude Peep-Toe Sandals, Dana Buchman; Shades, Merona; Earrings, Earthbound Trading Co.

I feel like the drapey, soft tank top offsets the tight and trendy jeggings. It's a great way to make the look more feminine (sometimes a plain tee can come off looking too masculine with cargos, unless of course that's the look you're going for!)I added the tribal scarf and wooden earrings to play into my inner explorer; I'm fascinated by the colors and textures of other cultures! I bought the nude heels last week and I'm in love! They work well with this look because nude is an all-around go-to color for any outfit, and paired with a basic palette and the trendy jeans, it dresses the outfit up and gives it a more age-appropriate vibe. Sometimes if you go had-over-heels for a trend (like wearing a band tee, cargo jeggings and chucks) it can come across as a teenage clothing catalog. Celebs can rock cargo jeggings and so can you, it just requires a little pulling it together!

Most surprising about cargo jeggings is the fact that I was sure they'd make my thighs look fatter...but they don't! So if that's something you're afraid of, I dare you to try on a pair, you might be surprised! This pair I'm wearing is on sale right now at ae.com

Click the link to check 'em out!

White Tee Commandments

Summer is officially here, and I feel like it's been ages since I updated this blog! A lot has happened over the past few months, as in, I graduated college and got married, so I've been a little preoccupied;) However, since I no longer have an excuse to neglect my blog, I'll be updating more frequently over the summer and hopefully re-vamping a few things.

It's only fitting that my first post of the summer would involve what is perhaps the most common and best-loved warm-weather wardrobe staple: the white tee shirt [tank top, blouse, etc.]

But as with any type of fashion, there are ways to wear the look, and ways to ruin the look. With a white tee, it's hard to go wrong, but it is not impossible! Follow these "white tee commandments" to make sure you get a lot of mileage out of this wardrobe staple and look hot while doing it!

1. Look for lightweight, sheer, or flowy fabrics.

The reason being that white is not as kind to the body as darker colors. While black tends to mask any body flaws and make its wearer appear instantly slimmer, white has the opposite effect. It makes bulges appear bigger and highlights flaws in your silhouette,since it's a light-reflecting, rather than absorbing, color. So be mindful when you are trying on and purchasing white tees. If it's too tight, skip it. If your white tees from last year are too snug in the tummy, toss them. It will only make your tummy look larger and make you lose confidence. Avoid the tiny fits and opt for something in a gauze-like fabric, with a longer hemline, or heck, just go a size up! One of the best ways to wear a cotton white tee is to buy it oversized. Check out a great example below by Lanston. Love it!

Lanston oversized Scoop Tee $74 at shopbop.

2. Please wear a nude bra.

Hot pink bras are sexy under white tees...at the pool or a rock concert. But please, ladies, do not show your undergarments to the world while you're at the mall, a restaurant, or heaven forbid at work. The best bra to wear under a white tee is one that's invisible (but do not go bra-less...at that point you might as well be topless). If you are pale, that means a nude or pale pink bra. If you have medium skin, try a dark nude or beige. If you're dark-skinned, try a rich cocoa or light brown color that blends to your skin tone. That will keep your look natural and people won't be distracted by your chest! Also note: don't wear a white bra with a white top; it actually makes the bra even MORE visible underneath! Not chic!

Just because one of the Olsen twins can do it doesn't mean you should!

3. Use your blank canvas as an opportunity to accessorize!

When you wear a plain white tee, it's an ideal time to pile on those accessories! A lightweight scarf worn with a white tee and rolled up boyfriend jeans will really make an outfit pop while keeping it comfortably casual. Add big earrings, bangles, or a statement necklace and your outfit instantly becomes more glam. Summer is the perfect time to give your go-to black club top some time off and replace it with your white tee. Pair your tee with a sexy mini skirt or some skin-tight jeans, heels, and some fun jewelry, and you have a new outfit for your next night out that's a lot cooler to wear! Odette Yustman gives a great example of this at the bottom!

Odette Yustman makes this white tee look so fancy!

Photo reposted from Glamour.com.

So tell me, what are your favorite ways to wear a white tee shirt?

<3

Review: Eco Yoga Denim Leggings

As an employee of the great TJ Maxx, I have opportunity to see a lot of little-known brands that wind up in the store. One of these brands has quickly become my favorite, and I wish to share it with you. Unless you live in Malibu, it might be hard to find. But I recommend checking your local TJX or Marshals, as they seem to come in fairly regularly.

One Saturday morning, as I rested sleepily over a cup of Dunkin Donuts coffee at the customer service desk (home away from home), a super nice lady who shops at our store regularly came up to get a cart. We spoke briefly, and I noticed she had on a pair of what looked to be the comfiest denim leggings! Now aside from the obvious hats off to anyone who is over 60 and can actually look good in denim leggings (I have a new role model in this lady), I immediately had to know what brand they were. She responded without a single hesitation by pulling down her waistband and letting me read it...um, ok. But anyways, the brand name was eco yoga by eco malibu clothing. Lucky for me, the pants were from our store! Eco malibu is an organic, sustainable clothing line specializing in yoga and related lifestyle apparel. In our store, we carried yoga shorts, pants, leggings, cardigans, and tee shirts. All are made from organic cotton or recyclable materials, making it an excellent green choice.

Needless to say, I stocked up on as many pairs as I could find. I currently own two pairs of the indigo denim-look leggings (pictured below), one pair of the gray mineral denim-look leggings, and a gorgeous burnout cardigan in pale green and cream. I have loved everything I've seen by this brand. The leggings are by far the comfiest, softest, and most flattering pair I own. They're cut with ample spandex for movement and have functional back pockets. The color is amazing, and really looks like denim, though it feels like softest cotton. Best of all, the fabric is organic and odor resistant. I highly recommend this product. My biggest gripe is that I can't locate a retailer that carries this brand regularly. Ideeli.com has had a sale on this brand, and it's turned up in TJ Maxx. I would love for the east coast to learn more about this amazing brand. It's clothing you can feel good about. The leggings retail for around $72, as printed on the tag. You can snag them for less, though, through sales on Ideeli and at retailers like TJ Maxx.

Chain strap tank, Cynthia Steffe; Leggings, eco yoga; shoes, Target

T-shirt, Alternative Apparel; leggings, eco yoga; sandals, Reef

For more information about eco malibu clothing, please visit their website at:

http://www.ecomalibuclothing.com/

Broaden Your Horizons for Spring

Err....hemlines? As a self-proclaimed skinny jeans enthusiast (no, devotee?), I was opposed to the wide-leg jean trend that was in a few seasons ago. I didn't think they were flattering the way most people wore them. But thankfully, with the comeback of bohemian silhouettes that have been gracing runways the past two or three seasons, I see a great opportunity to add to your spring/summer wardrobe.

Even I will acknowledge that in the heat of the sun, skinny jeans are not always the most comfortable thing to wear. That's where I think wide-leg pants will come in. Note: PANTS. I am still not a fan of wide-leg denim. I think it generally tends to swallow the figure in too-thick fabric, whereas as wide-leg pants in a lighter fabric like a cotton, cotton/cashmere blend, linen, or silk is much more flowy and flattering on real bodies. I, for one, am very short, so this look is a challenge for me to pull off. But because the super oversized look is now in vogue (can I get an amen?), I think this could work. Below are some fabulous shots of these styles. Then I'll give you the low-down on how to make this look work for you in real life...

Wide-leg pants by l'Miusa on yesstyle.com

Wide-leg pants by Nabi on yesstyle.com

Nightcap Linen Flare pants in Oatmeal at The Trend Boutique

Nightcap Linen Flare pants in Charcoal at The Trend Boutique

Drapey Wideleg Pants by Free People

These are my picks for flattering and versatile spring/summer pants. Here's how I will wear them:

1. With leather wedges or gladiator sandals. This adds a bit of toughness to an otherwise feminine/flowy pair of pants. Plus, if you're short, the wedges really help them not to drag the ground!

2. With basic tank tops and patterned scarves. The easiest way to do this look is to wear a fitted, long tank top in a solid color, then add a pretty boho scarf on top. It's effortless and girly.

3. With an oversized or asymmetrical long-sleeved tee. If it's still cool outside, you can get a great casual look with a comfy long-sleeved tee and some ankle boots or closed-toe flats. Add tribal jewelry like bangles, beads, and huge earrings to add interest.

4. With a long flowy tank, sandals, summer fedora, and messenger bag. This look is great for vacations or a day at the park.

5. With a plain tee tucked in and a neat belt. See the first picture I posted. Great ideas there!

I will update with pictures as I test the waters here. I found a pair of Qi wideleg pants last night on sale at work for $7, and I'm currently putting together looks with them. I had to buy them about 3 sizes too big, so I'm trying to alter them myself. So far they're super comfy and in a great neutral color. Stayed tuned loves!