Over Accessorizing: When Does Good Go Bad?

Bad

Good

    As the accessory industry is at an all time high, consumers are spending more than ever on accessories. Whether it's that aggressive clutch, glamorous pair of earrings or innocent hairpiece, we want it. The question is, when is enough enough? Can one overdose in accessories? All earrings point to yes! There is a threshold. Too much shows a lack of character. Pick and choose your accessories carefully. We can't be good at everything all the time; we can't wear all our accessories all the time. Be confident in the few items you select, it will communicate a decisive nature. Hey, there's nothing more attractive than a woman who knows what she wants. 

       

Idol.

My Idol. You could learn a lot from this.

(Photo: Schuman, 2011).

LGFASHION WEEK - Life is your Runway.

Last night I was blessed with the oppourtunity to volunteer at Toronto's LG Fashion Week. There were three runway shows: Lauren Bagliore (airy, black and white, sultry), David Dixon (80's aroma, punches of yellow, lace and detail), and Denis Gagnon (innocent, sexy, floral and silk). The compilation of artists left the audience with a dynamic feeling. Some of the garments celebrated structure while others admired the freedom of flow. What was the most stimulating were the off the runway looks. Beautiful headpieces and lethal pumps flooded through the audience. It provided me with reason to believe that there is no purpose in saving clothes. Now is the time to wear that special piece; life is your runway. 

Short skirt and a long jacket.

Like people, coats come in all different shapes and sizes. Some big, some small; some soft, some rough. This season requires a long, structured coat. It presents a sense of sophistication that can accompany any outfit. It supplies sufficient warmth, while still emitting style; a necessary item for any woman who craves function and fashion. When deciding on a colour go for neutrals. The coat is bold enough ladies, it doesn't need no "here I am" colour to add more umph. 

Loafer Lover.

               Is it me or are loafers IT? Everywhere I turn I feel overwhelmed with loaf-psychosis. I cannot seem to get them out of my mind. Whether they're in my window shop view or turn up in my day dreams, I want em. They are the perfect addition to your fall wardrobe. You can dress them up, or preferably, dress them down, either way they make a simple, clean statement. A statement that projects professional, funky style. And yes I realize the term "loafers" might not be the most flattering choice of words but do not let that stop you. You would hate to be missing out on a great part of loaf, I mean life. 

Heroic Beauty.

The bittersweet reality has arrived -- fall is burgeoning upon us. Sorry to say it. In spite of the obvious drag, there is a silver lining. Fall trends are slowing starting to spill our way. Lanvin's Fall/Winter line has inspired me to be eager for the cold weather (and that's a lot coming from a Winnipeg girl). This upcoming season takes us to a mysterious place. Waves of dark colours, sultry lines and sharp hats are on the runway. The garments deliver a sense of mystic heroism that not only captures my curiosity, but makes me too want to be like these enchanting beauties.

Speaking Socks.

When the word "socks" comes to mind generally unflattering words follow including dirty, sloppy and ew. As fashion continues to influence so many domains in our lives socks too are not avoided. Socks and stylish can now be used in the same sentence. It’s true, I swear! No longer are socks just there. They can be something. They can say something. Whether it be small increments of lace, colour or crochet, little details go a long way. Now keep in mind more detailed socks will increase your cost. So make a safe place for your socks at home because you certainly would not want one running away on you.

Desert Strorm

       

There is nothing sexier than a woman who's covered up. Yes, I said it. Of course, that does depend on a few critical properties including fit, colour and confidence. Victoria Beckham’s Fall 2011 Collection embraces less revealing styles while still arousing her audience. A slight presence of Middle Eastern Desert Wear is transmitted through her headscarf pieces, billowing skirts and earth tone colours. If I ever get caught up in a desert storm, well I'd sure like to find myself wearing one of these outfits.

Guest Dress Stress

       
        A wedding day is certainly one of the most notable events in a person’s life. Not only is the ceremonial aspect momentous, so is the attire. As a society we tend to focus all of the "dress stress" on the bride. While the bride is under a great deal, let us not forget the "guest dress stress". As a guest one is required to provide an appropriate, tailored, well groomed outfit. Finding the suitable ensenble is challenging. The irritating part is that no one seems to sympathize with the "guest dress stress". It as if it ceases to exist. Television show after television show of bride’s freaking out about their dress. One day I would just like to witness a show revolved around the taxing activity of a guest finding a dress.

Straight up.

The Bandeau: Summer's best friend. Straight up, this garment is a worthy buy. Much like any other bra, its primary function is support. Secondarily, and still imperatively, this is an object of chic fashion for the real-woman lifestyle. While the Bandeau comes from the lingerie family, its parallel lines resemble the breed of a bathing suit. This resemblance brings feelings of fun and friskiness. But no need to save this piece for the beach for it can accompany nearly any summer setup.

I do.

The veil worn by Kate Middleton at the Royal Wedding was supreme. Its sheer nature produced just enough colour to give a mild sense of suspicion while still providing plenty of room for glow. The dichotomy between revealing and hiding one’s self is truly the essence of a veils elegance. But why confine this apparel to only a wedding or funeral? Take the veil outside of its comfort zone. Let’s make it acceptable for other activities such as dances, social events and cocktail parties. Now if worn casually a veil of a smaller size and reserved colour is suggested. Moral of the story: let your veils down ladies.

Lookin Fresh in the Nude

If you want to look fresh this summer tap into Joe Fresh's compilation of nude polishes. Minimal, affordable, and still graceful. Summer gets referenced to as the season with colours notable for their overwhelming vibrancy and hue. Despite this truth, it is certainly a time to push the tones of nude. So ladies when summer breaches, get in the nude. No pun intended.

No Colouring Outside the Lines.

One colour, two colour, three colour, four. Gucci, Chanel and a splash of Dior.

Colour blocking is looking more chic than ever this spring. Sporting an array of colours may seem overwhelming to some, but the reality is, if you do it right you look simple yet striking. Not only is dressing in a compatible set of colours easy on the eyes, it will make you feel confident. There is something empowering about wearing an ensemble of matte, bold colours. It symbolizes that you know what you want and no colour can stop you.

My Neck, My Scarf.

To scarf or not to scarf? To scarf, obviously. It's no surprise that you see more than half the female population wear scarves. They're stylish, cozy and affordable. It is rare to find such a versatile garment that looks attractive on nearly everyone. It is an item that can be worn on a woman of any size, height and style. If I am to run for Prime Minister one day, I’d scratch the pins and hand out scarves.

Preppy ain't perfect.

Each season carries new ideas, new trends and new looks. This year, more than ever, the “All American” composition is ideal for spring. Red, white and blue baby.  Preppy is coming back, at least for a little while.  It’s time to put away some of those faded, oversized shirts and bring out the constructive components of your wardrobe. In order to balance out spring’s unpredictable mess, I recommend clean cuts, bold patterns and an array of colours. Lastly, one must mix and match patterns, colours, and textures. Dressing preppy doesn’t mean dressing perfect.

The lost ones.

 

Is it me or is the clearance clothing bin slightly depressing? I cannot help but sympathize with the innocent, mangled clothes that lay at the bottom of the bin. How did they end up there? Will anyone ever take them home? Are they doomed to an eternity of loneliness, florescent lights and tight conditions? Sure there are some items that are hopeless, but there most certainly are some gems. My point is, the next time you walk by the clearance bin just take a look. If not for me, do it for the homeless garments that lay hungry for touch at the bottom of the bin.

Fresh Coat: San Tan-Tonio

This week's Fresh Coat is entitled, "San Tan-tonio," obtained from OPI's Spring/Summer 2011 Edition. This polish articulates a look that encompasses a sophisticated beachy lifestyle. It won't be the hot topic of your dinner conversation but it will still make an impression. Due to the maturity of the coat I recommend this polish for a younger crowd. A more aged hand does not carry the expression as well. Lastly, it is important to note that this polish can not only be worn in spring and summer but can be cycled throughout the year.

Set Me Free.

As I aimlessly walked down the streets of downtown Toronto I felt an escalation of vulnerability. I was not certain where I was, nor where I was going. Once I had gathered my bearings, all I could dream about were compass accessories. What a brilliant way to intertwine utility and style. With an accent of aged metal and a vintage touch, what woman wouldn’t want this addition to her wardrobe? Due to the significance of such a resourceful piece, ideally, it would look best with a very simple, monochromatic ensemble. There is simply nothing more urbane than a well dressed woman who exercises her accessories as more than solely a fashion guide.

Modern Cowgirl.

This Arizona inspired ensemble, featured in US Vogue’s 2011 February Ed., created a spark in my style circuitry. It has been ages since I recalled the positive qualities about the cowgirl look. Due to some frightening memories of the past, including tacky pop music videos and middle aged women from the South; many women have crossed off the addition of a cowgirl flare. This is a mistake. Conservative incorporation of suede, leather and camel tones is exactly what spring needs. Believe me, I am not suggesting any physical farm labour of any kind, but subtle pops of the cowgirl ruggedness certainly adds a modest sex appeal.

BIG.

Mmmm... pink. A hat with this much attitude deserves recognition. The sheer size of this hat is remarkable and refreshing. There is nothing more passive aggressive then a hat who's circumference is reaching moderately dangerous. It takes a woman’s outfit from eh... to ah. In addition, I am always smitten by a rich red body of hair with a vibrant pink backdrop. Red and pink get a bad rap together, but with the help of some better press people would realize the beauty of their pairing, Mark Jacobs certainly did.

Flow me

Spring and trench coats go hand and hand. Dozens of trenches get manufactured each year and get buried in the "never been worn cemetery." This Phillip Lim coat is not one of them. Its sweet semi transparent colour and strong black perimeter play beautifully together. The casual t-shirt style neckline takes the trench to a different level. It brings it down to earth making it truly ready-to-wear. It's simple, it's sleek, it's spring......soon.

Shoestruck

I knew Marc Jacobs was an extraordinary designer, but I had no idea he could defy the laws of gravity. He has genetically modified this shoe to make it only more lovable. The green and red patent gives the dramatic architecture an innocent flare.  While toe embellishments can come off quite tacky, this embellishment knows that it’s a little tawdry and embraces it. Purchasing this shoe is doubtful, but I'd definitely consider blogging about.

The thigh-high leg adornment from La Dama's collection is a beauty. Whether it is leather, feather or jeweled, it is a striking addition to an over the knee outfit. Fun and sultry, yet mimics the classic garter belts worn during the medieval ages. So ladies, if you’re looking for a knight in shining armor to come around this might be the way to go.

Fresh Coat: Ski teal we drop.

Fresh Coat of the week is OPI's, "Ski teal we drop." This nail lacquer in not only inviting for women but will grab a fellow’s attention as well. The polish carries more ambiguity than most. It speaks with professionalism yet has an undertone of punk quality.  Appropriate for a night out or a formal presentation. The colour pops, but not in an overwhelming "look at me" kind of way. Results may vary depending on nail length, size, and duration from last manicure.

Take a good look at the green pants on the far left. In theory, the thought of oversized, lightweight, flowing pants sounds... far from flattering. Despite theoretical restrictions, these pants are certainly flattering. The epic green and delicate pleats make this bottom garment a jaw dropper. Impressive work yet again Mr. Kors.

pastel pusher

Nylon Magazine previews an elegant, refreshing, spring look. Pushing pastels, long lines and fluid textures; this outfit prepares one for the warm breezy weather to come. In addition, her bold pink and white Marc Jacobs jewels say, "I know I'm wearing pastels, but that doesn't mean I'm not pushy."